December 9, 2024
On behalf of the City of Batesville, Batesville Main Street, Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, I would like to applaud the efforts of everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s Annual Chamber Parade and Community Tree Lighting-Jingle Bell Rock event.
It was a brisk, magical evening that marked the start of Batesville’s holiday season. The overwhelming participation of businesses and organizations in the Batesville Chamber parade to Main Street’s children’s activities to Christmas carols by the Batesville Community School choirs and community groups serving treats, created an unforgettable experience for everyone. Special thanks to the Mayor’s Youth Council and the Batesville Kiwanians for offering a free movie at Gibson Theatre and to our local businesses for accommodating limited parking to ensure a safe and welcoming environment. A big thank you to Shannon Mullins of Miss Shannon’s Studio and Bryce Mullins for spreading holiday cheer with a lively singalong.
To everyone involved with Santa’s Batesville home, it is truly heartwarming to see such a collaborative effort aimed at bringing joy to our community. The dedication and hard work put in by the Batesville Mayor’s Youth Council, along with the creativity and craftsmanship displayed by the Batesville Community Schools Bulldog Ready students with donations from local businesses, make Santa’s home a magical destination for families this holiday season.
Gratitude also goes to the Batesville Beautification League and Parks Department for their dedication to creating a picturesque setting, as well as the Street and Fire Departments for their tireless work in preparing and cleaning up after the event. A special shoutout to the Police Department for ensuring the safety of Santa and all parade-goers. Finally, we are deeply grateful to St. John’s United Church of Christ for their generous donation of the stunning 22-foot tree and to Bruns-Gutzwiller for their help in placing it.
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.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Mayor John Irrgang
