Motivational Speaker, John Cassis, to Speak at Chamber of Commerce Expo Saturday Feb 19

(Above) Motivational instructor John Cassis to Speak at Expo

First Community Bank has partnered with the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce to bring motivational instructor John Cassis to Batesville in conjunction with the chamber’s Primetime Business Expo, said Crystal Johnson, chamber president.

The event will be Saturday, Feb. 19, in Independence Hall at the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville.

One of the most requested speakers in America, Cassis combines a rare blend of humor and entertainment to show audiences how to face head on the daily pressures of life and business challenges. During a time where change is a way of life, not a choice, Cassis inspires participants to see goals in a different light and to move in new and positive directions.

“Our country has experienced economic changes in the last few years,” said Dale Cole, First Community Bank’s chairman and chief executive officer. “Fortunately displaced employees are finding new and exciting careers in fields they might not have considered before. Mr. Cassis’ presentation comes at just the right time to motivate us to launch into new and successful directions.”

Cassis received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati. After three years of professional baseball, he earned a Masters of Divinity degree from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in Boston. From 1973 to 1975, Cassis directed a youth counseling center. In 1975, he became a minister of a small church in Colorado, where the congregation grew from 80 to 2000 in five years. In 1980 as Director of Special Projects for World Relief, Cassis motivated people across the country to help feed hungry children and their families. Most recently, in 2002, he realized one of his own personal dreams and became a professional golfer.

“Batesville is poised for new and positive change,” Johnson said. “I appreciate Mr. Cole for recommending Mr. Cassis as the featured speaker. First Community’s generous sponsorship of the instructor will allow citizens to attend the presentation at a significantly reduced fee. Now is the perfect time to receive the motivational punch that John Cassis will deliver.”

The public is invited to visit the expo booths free of charge to get information about the services offered by local businesses. Many vendors also provide free food and giveaways. The fee for attending the presentation by Mr. Cassis is $10. Tickets may be purchased on January 14th at the Chamber of Commerce and at all Batesville locations of First Community Bank.