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Batesville
November 9, 2024
Local Business

Lyon College Partners with Polk & Paddle for Innovative Brewing Education

BATESVILLE, Ark. – Lyon College has announced an exciting partnership with Polk & Paddle, the first brewery to open in Independence County since Prohibition, offering students a unique educational experience in brewing.

The collaboration was revealed on Monday, with Polk & Paddle set to open its doors this month at 146 N. 3rd St., directly across from the Independence County Library. Owned by local residents Dustin and Tham Dayberry, the establishment will feature a pub-style menu and a rotating selection of Arkansas-made beers, including ales brewed on-site by Lyon College’s brewing operations team.

The brewing program at Lyon College, initiated four years ago by Dr. Alexander Beeser, has rapidly grown in popularity. Dr. Beeser, an experienced home brewer, developed a fermentation science class that has become a cornerstone of the college’s offerings. This new partnership allows students to apply their classroom knowledge in a practical setting.

“This partnership with Polk & Paddle represents the culmination of years of hard work and innovation,” said Dr. Melissa Taverner, president of Lyon College. “We are excited to see our students apply their knowledge in a real-world setting, contributing to the growth and revitalization of our local community.”

The brewing equipment for this initiative has been funded through generous donations and will be located in the lower level of Polk & Paddle. Mac Harn, the brewing operations manager and director of Lyon College’s outdoor education and adventure program (LEAP), will oversee brewing operations and mentor a team of student interns aged 21 and older.

“Being able to merge my passions for brewing and outdoor education in this role is a dream come true,” Harn said. “I’m excited to work with Lyon College students to create something that not only tastes great but also adds value to our community.”

The Dayberrys expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting their commitment to renovating the historic property that previously housed Lyon College’s Kilted Kiln. “Bringing craft brewing to Batesville has been a long-time dream of ours, and we’re honored to work with such a respected institution to make it a reality,” they stated.

Dr. David Hutchison, vice president for advancement at Lyon College, emphasized the importance of community support for the success of this venture. “This collaboration is a testament to the power of community partnership for the greater good,” he said. “We are deeply grateful to our donors and supporters who have helped us bring this project to life.”

The beers produced at Polk & Paddle will carry the Lyon College brand and be available exclusively at the restaurant and within the surrounding entertainment district. However, due to local regulations, these beers cannot be sold for takeaway, as Independence County remains a dry county. Lyon College will not sell beer on its campus.

As Batesville embraces this new chapter, Lyon College looks forward to the positive impact of this collaboration on students and the broader community.

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