Batesville’s SpringFest has once again lived up to its reputation as one of the town’s signature events. Excitement built Thursday as the midway rides were erected Downtown and the barbecue grills were lit. By Friday afternoon most of us were ready to shed our work clothes, put on our SpringFest t-shirts, grab our lawn chairs and stand in line for funnel cakes.

The crowd was welcomed by Alderman Bobbie Jean Pounders, and SpringFest beauty pageant winners were presented.

Thompson Ward, the band with Water Valley ties, started things off with a rocking performance, followed by Batesville’s engineer/country crooner Billy Grantham.

Saturday’s events began early with a 5K walk-run that benefited the Panola County Humane Society. Other civic groups took advantage of the opportunity to raise funds for their projects. The Batesville Junior Auxiliary sponsored a dunking tank and other groups sold carnival treats ranging from fried dill pickles to homemade ice cream.

Saturday performances reflected a wide range of musical styles, from the Balance Jazz Trio to Black Jack Road (with lead singer Brittany Boggan of Pope) and local country favorites Willy Waggs. The Hill Country Blues Revue warmed up the crowd prior to headliner Mark Chesnutt’s performance.

A thunderstorm Saturday afternoon sent festival-goers scrambling for shelter, but the threat from the weather was short-lived.

Whether what you desired was a ferris wheel ride, chicken-on-a-stick or some stomp-down blues, chances are you could find it at SpringFest.

The variety and quality of the entertainment at Batesville’s springtime party has made it highly anticipated and well-attended.

None of this has happened by accident. Colleen Clark and crew at the Panola Partnership, and the many volunteers who help each year, are to be commended. Their work begins months ahead of the third weekend in May. Some of them are probably still tying up loose ends today.

The City of Batesville’s financial support, $10,000 this year, helps make it possible. Fifty local businesses stepped up this year as SpringFest sponsors.

Our thanks to all who helped.