Meet the Neighbors: Michele Vachon
Originally from Metro Detroit, Michele Vachon found her way to Mississippi County through her work in environmental sustainability. Nearly a decade later, she’s built a life in Osceola—one filled with community, passion projects, and plenty of good food.
Let's get to know her a little better:
Q: Where are you from?
A: I was born and raised in Metro Detroit but spent many years in North Idaho before coming to Arkansas. My grandparents were from Paragould, and I used to visit them as a kid.
Q: What brought you to Mississippi County?
A: I was working as an environmental consultant for a start-up steel mill. After nearly two years working for their chief compliance officer, Lenore Trammel, the Big River Steel Mill was greenlit, and Lenore brought me here as an environmental manager. Now, eight years later (going on nine), Osceola is home.
Q: What do you do for fun in Mississippi County?
A: I enjoy spending time with friends and heading down to Sans Souci Landing to sit and visit with the old timers who meet up there after work to watch the barges go by. I’m also passionate about gardening—though I’m still learning southern gardening techniques! My okra thrives from June through November, and I love sharing my harvest with neighbors. When family visits, I like to take them to the Mississippi County Historical Museum and Johnny Cash’s boyhood home in Dyess.
Q: Where do you like to eat in Mississippi County?
A: For lunch, you’ll find me at Gary’s Pizza in Osceola for their hand-tossed crust or Mi Pueblo’s for their fresh jalapeño guacamole. Dinner favorites include the Sand Bar’s chicken taco salad and The Grange in Wilson for its atmosphere, gourmet coffee and ice cream.
Q: What do you love most about this area?
A: The people. They make this place special. I’ve built incredible friendships here and feel truly blessed to be part of this community.
Q: What does a typical Saturday look like?
A: Saturdays are busy! I start with a little extra sleep, then head to Copper-Gardens Wine & Beer Garden on N. Poplar Street in historic downtown Osceola. Two of my friends and I opened this spot in 2023, transforming an abandoned property into a cozy outdoor hangout for football, soccer and good company. We recently held our ribbon-cutting ceremony, and the word is spreading!
When I’m not at Copper-Gardens, I’m playing with Juniper, working in my garden or focusing on restoring the historic Osceola Times Building next door to Copper-Gardens. This project is close to my heart, and I’m aiming to turn it into apartments and a restaurant by the end of next year.