Mayor thanks community for successful parade, tree lighting celebration

Batesville Mayor Mike Bettice.

The following is a letter from Batesville Mayor Mike Bettice — 

On behalf of the City of Batesville, Batesville Main Street, Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, I would like to applaud the efforts of those who made this year’s Annual Chamber Parade and Community Tree Lighting- Winter Nights and Magical Lights Celebration a wonderful success.

It was a magical evening to kick off Batesville’s holiday season. From the overwhelming participation of businesses and organizations alike in the Batesville Chamber parade to Main Street’s Storytime with Mrs. Claus, Mayor’s Youth Council’s carriage rides, Christmas carols by the Batesville Community School choirs and community groups serving treats, there was something for everyone. Thank you to the Batesville Kiwanians and Mayor’s Youth Council for the free movie offered at the Gibson and to our businesses who accommodated the limited parking around their businesses to make it a safe environment for everyone to enjoy. A special thanks to Shannon Mullins of Miss Shannon’s Studio and Bryce Mullins who kept spirits bright by leading the crowd in a sing-along.

Many thanks to the Batesville Beautification League for transforming our downtown into a festive winter wonderland. I am grateful for the efforts of our Street, Park, and Fire Departments in the preparing and clean-up of the event and of our Police department for keeping Santa and parade goers safe. Lastly, thank you to Smitty and Connie Rozman for the gracious donation of their tree and to Bruns-Gutzwiller assisting with its placement.

I am proud of the people of our community who work tirelessly, not only during this season of giving, but all year long to make Batesville a terrific place to live, work and raise a family!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Mayor Mike Bettice