​Growing up in Blytheville, Johnny Tolley has a great appreciation for his home town and his many friends there.  Johnny proves this as he invites several talented guests to join him for a great fun-filled night of family entertainment.  His programs are always presented free, with a request for donations to support the ongoing work of The Arts Council of Mississippi County. 
     After a break for Covid-19, Johnny returns to the stage of Adams/Vines Recital Hall on the campus of Arkansas Northeastern College on Saturday, April 23, 2022.  The fun begins at 7:00 PM as Johnny shares selections from his latest album “Last Call,” which is in the Top 20 for New Country Brew Radio Syndicate Stations. Guests will also hear his unique rendition of “I Go to Pieces” among others. Johnny currently appears on Miguelito’s Country Texas Tour.  Since his last visit home, Johnny was honored to perform at the Grand Ole’ Opry and received a Country Music award for “She’s Still There.”
     Sharing the stage at ANC with Johnny will be Charlie Groves, Madison Groves, Sky Shipley, the Alima Tribe Dancers featuring Tonya Harris and Erica Strand, Troy Thompson, Aaron Bowser, David Webb, David Lyttle and Brother Jim Branscum.  Johnny also expects a couple of surprise guests.   With this line up, variety is guaranteed.
     Tell all your friends, load up the wagon and head on over to ANC on Saturday, April 23rd.  For additional information call 870 740-5940 or visit the Arts Council of Mississippi County on Facebook or the website www.Artsmissco.org  . 

Jonesboro, AR— COJO Music/Warner Music Nashville country powerhouse Cody Johnson is roaring into the second half of 2021 with an impressive slate of North American tour dates and new music. The critically acclaimed country singer and songwriter will play more than 40 shows in the United States including Jonesboro, AR on Friday, October 29th .

Cody Johnson’s highly anticipated return to the stage includes two sold out shows at Nashville’s famed Ryman Auditorium. Fellow neo-traditional country mainstay, Easton Corbin, and Spotify Hot Country 2021 “Artist To Watch”, Ian Munsick, join Johnson at First National Bank Arena.

Tickets go on-sale Friday, August 27 th , and are available online at Ticketmaster.com, the Central Box Office, and by phone at 870-972-2781.

“There are few feelings more amazing than being on stage with my friends in front of all our fans,” Johnson says. “I can’t tell you how excited the whole gang is to finally be back on the road playing country music for you.” Johnson also recently released the new song “Sad Songs and Waltzes,” a retelling of Willie Nelson’s 1973 classic featuring the global icon himself.

Fresh off his 2019 No. 1 album, AIN'T NOTHIN' TO IT, Johnson released the song with more exciting news — a new, 18-track double album will be coming in the Fall. Johnson has amassed more than 2.1 billion streams of his music, racking up two New Male Artist of the Year nominations at the Academy of Country Music Awards and a New Artist of the Year nomination at the Country Music Association Awards. In addition to Johnson’s new duet with Willie Nelson, the singer recently collaborated with Reba McEntire on “Dear Rodeo,” a song that inspired the new autobiographical documentary film Dear Rodeo: The Cody Johnson Story.

For a complete list of tour dates, visit www.codyjohnsonmusic.com.

About Easton Corbin Easton Corbin’s distinctive baritone has been gracing airwaves for the past decade as his chart-topping debut single “A Little More Country Than That” established Corbin as a mainstay on the country charts. Billboard’s 2010 Top New Country Artist would go on to garner another No. 1 hit with the feel-good “Roll With It” as well as seven top 10 singles, further distinguishing himself from other male vocalists as a tried-and-true country traditionalist who weaves timeless story songs together while tipping his hat to the classic country artists who have come before him. Though 2020 marked the 10th anniversary of “A Little More Country Than That” achieving No. 1 status, Corbin showed no signs of slowing down. With the release of his infectious single “Turn Up,” he launched a year of new releases, including tune “Didn’t Miss A Beat,” which he performed on NBC’s TODAY Show. November brought Corbin’s highly anticipated EP of the same title, which included a “wide array” of songs like “Old Lovers Don’t Make Good Friends” and “Back to Me.”

About Ian Munsick Wyoming-born singer-songwriter Ian Munsick’s upbringing was a mix of working the ranch and working crowds. Incorporating elements across genres, he has now begun to establish himself as a progressive artist with an old soul. In 2017 he released a self-titled EP, winning iHeartRadio’s Rocky Mountain Song of the Year for the rootsy “Horses Are Faster” and becoming the only artist who simultaneously qualified two tracks as finalists in the NSAI/CMT songwriting competition. Munsick has since signing with Warner Music Nashville, earned more than 45 million global streams, and been named one of Spotify’s inaugural Hot Country Artists to Watch. His debut album COYOTE CRY is out now.

Direct Ticket Link: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1B005AD99A12475F

\LITTLE ROCK (6-29) – The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) reminds drivers to “know before you go” and visit IDriveArkansas.com before traveling during this Independence Day Holiday.

Extensive highway improvements continue through the state. With those improvements come work zones. To aid in your holiday travel, ARDOT has been working hard to open as many lanes as possible. Still, travelers will likely face work zones and possible delays due to increased traffic volume.

Overall travel volume for the holiday is expected to increase nearly 40% compared to last year, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). The AAA predicts that more than 43.6 million Americans will travel by automobile over the holiday weekend. 

The largest obstacle travelers may encounter going east is that the I-40 Mississippi River Bridge between West Memphis, AR and Memphis, TN is close for repairs.
If driving to northeast Arkansas, motorists may experience delays through the Interstate 40 work zone near West Memphis and the Interstate 555 work zone near Jonesboro. 
Travelers going through southwest Arkansas will encounter construction zones on Highway 82 in 
El Dorado & Magnolia and Highway 167 near Fordyce. 
Central Arkansas motorists may drive through work zones if traveling on Highway 67 between Beebe and Searcy. 
Highway 425 in Crossett will have 24-hour lane width restriction in southeast Arkansas.
To help motorists find ways around accidents and work zone backups on Interstates, ARDOT has an Alternate Routes feature on IDriveArkansas.com. It displays linkages between the Interstate corridors and secondary routes that motorists may consider when travel is delayed. You can also follow us on Twitter @myARDOT.

Below is a list of closures on Arkansas’ Primary Highway Network during the holiday weekend. Motorists are encouraged to look at IDriveArkansas.com to find closures that are on secondary and low traffic volume routes.


I-40 Crittenden West Memphis 280-285 5 miles All Lanes 24 hours
I-555 Craighead Jonesboro 39-44 5 miles One Lane Both Directions 24 hours
Hwy 19 Nevada Prescott 10-12 2 miles Alternating One Lane 24 hours
Hwy 67 White Beebe-Searcy 6-7 1 mile Alternating NB Lanes 24 hours
Hwy 67 White Beebe-Searcy 13-15 2 miles Alt. 1 Lane Both Directions 24 hours
Hwy 71 Scott Waldron 31-32 1 mile Alternating One Lane 24 hours
Route County Nearest City Mile Marker Distance Width Restrictions Time
Hwy 82 Union El Dorado 10-17 7 miles All Lanes 24 hours
Hwy 82 Columbia Magnolia 7-13 6 miles Eastbound Lanes 24 hours
Hwy 167 Calhoun Hampton 0-1 1 mile All Lanes 24 hours
Hwy 167 Calhoun Hampton 6-7 1 mile All Lanes 24 hours
Hwy 167 Calhoun Fordyce 12-18 6 miles Northbound Lanes 24 hours
Hwy 167 Calhoun Hampton 13-15 2 miles All Lanes 24 hours
Hwy 425 Ashley Crossett 0-10 10 miles All Lanes 24 hours

JONESBORO, Ar (July 1, 2021) — Independence Day is coming soon and many people plan to attend fireworks displays, a backyard picnic, or just enjoy the outdoors. The American Red Cross wants you to enjoy a fun-packed, safe holiday and offers these tips you can follow over the upcoming holiday:

FIREWORKS SAFETY
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks. If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:

Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. Always follow the instructions on the packaging. 
Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution. 
Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection. 
Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud." 
Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. 

PICNIC SAFETY

Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs. 
Wash your hands before preparing the food. 
If you are going to grill, always supervise when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited. Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.
Never grill indoors. Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.  
Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.

HEAT SAFETY 

Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees. Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water and shade.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol. 
Avoid extreme temperature changes. 
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays. 
Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat. If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like schools, libraries, theaters, malls, etc.


DOWNLOAD OUR APPS. The Red Cross app “Emergency” can help keep you and your loved ones safe with real-time alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety advice. The Red Cross First Aid app provides instant access to information on handling the most common emergencies. Download these apps for free by searching for ‘American Red Cross’ in your app store.

​New effects of pandemic leading to significant drop in nation’s blood supply
 
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 15, 2021) — The American Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage as the number of trauma cases, organ transplants and elective surgeries rise – and deplete the nation’s blood inventory. Donors of all blood types – especially type O and those giving platelets – are urged to make an appointment to give as soon as possible to prevent further impact to patients.
 
Right now, hospitals are responding to an atypically high number of traumas and emergency room visits, as well as overdoses and resulting transplants. In comparison to 2019, the Red Cross has seen demand from trauma centers climb by 10% in 2021− more than five times the growth of other facilities that provide blood transfusions.  
 
“When seconds count in emergency trauma situations, it’s the blood already on the shelves that can make the difference in lifesaving care,” said Garry Allison, Regional Donor Services Director, of Red Cross Tennessee Region. “As many people begin to enjoy travel and time with loved ones again this summer, patients are relying on the generosity of donors to help ensure they have access to the treatment they need. Please consider blood donation as a summer activity that can help save lives.”
 
Patients need the help of the American people. Schedule an appointment to give blood now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.
 
In addition to trauma needs, there is a great hospital demand for blood as people who deferred care during the height of the pandemic present with more advanced disease progression, requiring increased blood transfusions. Over the last three months, the Red Cross has distributed about 75,000 more blood products than expected to meet these needs. As a result of this shortage, some hospitals are being forced to slow the pace of elective surgeries until the blood supply stabilizes. Blood is perishable and cannot be stockpiled, so it must constantly be replenished by generous blood donors.
 
Donors are urged to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now. As a thank-you, those who come to give now through June 30 will receive a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card via email, courtesy of Amazon. (Restrictions apply. Additional information and details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Together.)  
 
In most cases, those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine can donate. However, knowing the name of the manufacturer of the vaccine they received is important in determining donation eligibility.
 
Final weeks for COVID-19 antibody testing
As more than a third of Americans have become fully vaccinated against COVID-19, the Red Cross is winding down COVID-19 antibody testing for blood, platelet and plasma donations. 
 
Through June 25, the Red Cross is testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies. Testing may show possible exposure to the virus or whether a donor has developed an immune response to vaccination. The conclusion of Red Cross antibody testing represents a new, hopeful phase as the nation continues to journey out of this pandemic.  
 
World Sickle Cell Day: June 19
June 19 is World Sickle Cell Day, an important day for the more than 100,000 individuals with sickle cell disease in the U.S. Most people with this disease are of African descent and will require regular blood transfusions to help manage their disease. Some individuals with sickle cell disease may require as many as 100 units of blood per year.
 
The Red Cross is screening all blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American donors for the sickle cell trait. This additional screening will provide Black donors with an additional health insight and help the Red Cross identify compatible blood types more quickly to help patients with sickle cell disease. Since the best blood match for a patient receiving ongoing transfusions comes from donors of the same genetic background, the Red Cross encourages people of all ethnicities to give blood and help increase the number of diverse donors so we can find the best match for all patients.
 
Donors can expect to receive antibody test and sickle cell trait screening results, if applicable, within one to two weeks through the Red Cross Blood Donor App and the online donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org.  
 
Upcoming blood donation opportunities June 15-30:
Knox County, Tennessee:
Knoxville
6/15/2021: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., East Tennessee Red Cross, 6921 Middlebrook Pike
6/29/2021: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., East Tennessee Red Cross, 6921 Middlebrook Pike
Cumberland County, Tennessee:
Crossville
6/25/2021: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Art Circle Public Library, 3 East St.
Fentress County, Tennessee:
Jamestown
6/18/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Jamestown Community Center, 629 N. Main St.
 
Blood drive safety 
The Red Cross has updated its pandemic safety protocols in alignment with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Fully vaccinated individuals, including staff and donors, no longer need to wear masks or socially distance. Unvaccinated individuals continue to be required to wear masks and socially distance. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive.  
 
Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including social distancing and face masks for donors and staff – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a face mask while at the drive, in alignment with state guidance. 
 
Don’t wait to give
Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass®. With RapidPass®, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.
 
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

​Washington – This week, Representatives Crawford, Hill, Westerman, and Womack introduced legislation to name the Blytheville/Eaker Air Force Base located in Blytheville the “National Cold War Center.” The air force base was established in 1942 as a World War II training center but became a line of defense against Soviets in 1957 when they developed their “alert mission” operations. When called upon, these airmen and women could be airborne in 15 minutes and ready strike the Soviet Union, making the base a vital Cold War facility. 
 
In September of 1991, the air force base became inactive and later, re-opened as a museum. Eaker Air Force Base provides a unique experience to its visitors and is home to the only intact, publicly accessible Alert Facility and Weapons Storage Facility in the US.
 
Upon introduction of the legislation, Rep. Crawford released the following statement.
 
“For years, Eaker Air Force Base has kept alive the memory of those who were prepared to fight against the expansion of communism and lived under constant threat of nuclear obliteration. Giving this historical military base Congressional recognition will ensure that the museum is able to continue to teach it’s visitors about the Cold War for generations to come.”
 
Rep. Hill said, “As we approach Memorial Day weekend, I am reminded of the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make every day to protect our freedom. Those who fought against communism in the Cold War were no exception. Eaker Air Force Base museum allows Arkansans and Americans to see firsthand how important military preparedness is to our nation. I am proud to work alongside my colleagues in the Arkansas delegation to rename Eaker Air Force Base and memorialize its legacy as the National Cold War Center for generations to come.”
 
Rep. Westerman said, “The Eaker Air Force Base is home to the only intact and publicly accessible Alert Facility and Weapons Storage Facility in the United States.  The work to preserve these historical articles from the Cold War will be an important resource for years to come. Designating this base and museum will help educate future generations on the history of our great nation’s fight for freedom against communism.”
 
Rep. Womack said, “Eaker Air Force Base was instrumental to U.S. defense strategy during the Cold War. It represents an important chapter in our history, and we should be preserving and honoring these security efforts for future generations. This designation affirms the fact that the museum is a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.” 
 

​LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas – Arkansans who are having trouble paying rent or utility bills due to COVID-19 can apply now for federal money to help cover costs incurred since April 2020, including Entergy Arkansas customers and others across the state.
            “Because of COVID-19, many of our customers are facing unexpected financial hardship – some due to illness, loss of jobs and other factors,” said Entergy Arkansas Vice President of Customer Service Michael Considine. “These assistance programs along with payment plans can help Entergy Arkansas customers who rent their home keep their power on while they continue to navigate these unprecedented times.”
            The Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program has allocated $173 million to be administered through the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), and state officials estimate some 56,000 households will qualify for the program. DHS established the Arkansas Rent Relief Program to distribute the available funds.
            Eligible households may receive up to 15 months of assistance for rent and/or utility costs incurred between April 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021. Covered utilities include electric, gas and water. Up to three months of future rent may be applied for at one time; utilities may be applied for monthly once the bill is received. Officials said an eligible household is defined as a renter household in which at least one or more individuals:
·       qualifies for unemployment or has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19;
·       demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and
·       has a household income at or below 80% area median income.
            Landlords and tenants may submit an application for rent relief. Utility-only applicants do not need their landlord to submit an application. Funds will be paid directly to landlords and utility service providers, including Entergy Arkansas, for past due bills. Residents of Benton, Pulaski, and Washington counties must apply through their local county government, and more information is available through DHS or online at ar.gov/rentrelief.
            Entergy Arkansas stopped all service disconnects for nonpayment in March 2020 but has resumed disconnections along with other utilities in the state per direction from the Arkansas Public Service Commission.
            “Entergy Arkansas customers who have outstanding bills should contact us online, through the Entergy app or by phone immediately to enroll in a payment plan and to avoid disconnection before it occurs,” Considine said.
            For more information about the federal program, visit https://www.entergy.com/covid-19/rental-assistance/. Other free programs are also available to help low income residential customers lower their energy usage and costs, along with bill payment assistance, and can be found online at https://www.entergy-arkansas.com/payment-options/. To enroll in a payment plan, call 1-800-ENTERGY or use the Entergy app, which can be downloaded for Apple IOS or Android at this link – www.Entergy.com/app.
 
ABOUT ENTERGY ARKANSAS
Entergy Arkansas provides electricity to approximately 715,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation, an integrated energy company engaged in electric power production, transmission and retail distribution operations. Entergy delivers electricity to 3 million utility customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. Entergy owns and operates one of the cleanest large-scale U.S. power generating fleets with approximately 30,000 megawatts of electric generating capacity, including 7,000 megawatts of nuclear power. Headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, Entergy has annual revenues of $10 billion and more than 13,000 employees. Learn more at entergy.com and follow @Entergy on social media. 

​LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is notifying the public that a positive case of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease has been identified in Arkansas. 
 
The United State Department of Agriculture Veterinary Services has confirmed that a domestic rabbit in northeast Arkansas was tested for rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV-2) with a positive test result. Additional histopathology test results are still pending.
 
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHDV-2) is highly contagious and affects both domestic and wild rabbits but does not infect humans or other animals, including dogs and cats. Many times, the only signs of the disease are a rabbit’s sudden death and perhaps bloodstained noses. Other signs include lethargy, decreased appetite, or labored breathing. 
 
Rabbits can become infected through direct contact or exposure to an infected rabbit’s urine, feces, and blood. The virus can survive for months in the environment. People can spread the virus by carrying it on their shoes or clothing, contaminated feed/hay, using unclean cages and water bowls, or petting and carrying infected rabbits.
 
Biosecurity is the best defense against RHDV-2 infection of rabbits. Avoid contact with other rabbits, their owners, kids for playdays, vehicles, equipment, and feed supplies. Change shoes before entering any of your rabbit housing; dedicate a pair of easily cleaned shoes to the rabbit shed and do not wear them outside the enclosure. Fence animals away from access to rabbitries, especially feed trays and water sources. All bedding should be sacked for disposal and secured in storage. Burning used rabbit litter may be hazardous.  
 
More information on Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease is available at https://www.agriculture.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/200614_4CP-Rabbit-Hemorrhagic-Disease-Brochure.pdf.
 
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. - The Christmas Holiday Expo At The Holiday Inn returns for its second year on Saturday, November 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Holiday Inn in Blytheville, Arkansas.

“This year, we’re starting the morning off with a very special Breakfast With Santa,” according to Keith Michaels, event coordinator. “Santa will arrive by limo, courtesy of our friends at Wilson Funeral Home,” said Michaels. Santa will arrive at 8 a.m. and have breakfast with the children until 10 a.m.

Tickets for Breakfast With Santa are $30 and include the breakfast bar for one adult and one child. Tickets are also available for additional adults and children. Tickets include the breakfast bar, a digital pic with Santa, a gift for each child and admission to the Christmas Holiday Expo, which will happen from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Get your tickets online at https://www.mainstreetmarketingandmedia.com/events

Santa will also take free pics with children from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

After your visit with Santa, enjoy holiday shopping at the Christmas Holiday Expo in the main ballroom and conference area at the Holiday Inn.

“We’ve got everything this year from Scentsy, Paparazzi, Color Street, Tupperware and Plunder Jewelry to handmade soaps, lotions and candles, dog treats and boutique clothing,” said Michaels. “Momma Macrame will be here, plus jams, jellies, custom tumblers and local honey.”

Grandma Betty’s Bakery Delights will have Christmas treats for everyone, and the band Rooster Blue will perform a Rooster Blue Christmas from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Tickets for the Christmas Holiday Expo are $5 and will enter you into our drawings for door prizes. Get your tickets on our website: https://www.mainstreetmarketingandmedia.com/events

“If you’re a business and you’d like to donate a door prize or be a sponsor with a video message on our Video Board and your logo included on our advertising on social media, please email discoverblytheville@gmail.com,” said Michaels.

There will also be a Christmas Blytheville Flea Market on Saturday, December 21, and Sunday, December 22. If you’re interested in being a vendor, please get signed up at www.discoverblytheville.com.

The Christmas Holiday Expo At The Holiday Inn happens this Saturday, November 16, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Here's the schedule for the day:

8 a.m. - 10 a.m. Breakfast With Santa
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Free Pics With Santa
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shopping with your favorite vendors
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. A Rooster Blue Christmas with the band Rooster Blue

Breakfast With Santa is just $30 and includes the Holiday Inn Breakfast Bar for one adult and one child, plus a pic with Santa and a gift. Plus, admission into the Christmas Holiday Expo.

Admission to the Christmas Holiday Expo is just $5 and includes one ticket for our door prize drawings.
​
Get tickets for both events here:https://www.mainstreetmarketingandmedia.com/events

BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. - More local charities will receive assistance thanks to Fesival In The Park set for this Saturday, July 21, at Walker Park in Blytheville from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“When we came up with Festival In The Park, the idea was to raise money for our local charities, with three specifically in mind,” according to the Festival coordinator Keith Michaels. “We wanted to really make a difference with people doing good work right here in town, and that included the Haven, the Mission and the Food Pantry.”

“As more groups have become involved, more charities have been added to the line-up for the Festival. “One example is the Ignite Program,” said Michaels. Capri Apartments will have a dunk tank raising money for Ignite at the Festival. “Plus, we really wanted to do something for Meals On Wheels, so Lowes was a great neighbor and gave us a new propane BBQ grill to giveaway, and then other businesses wanted to donate,” said Michaels. “So now, we have a great selection of raffle prizes.”

Also, the Dud Cason American Legion Post 24 is having a Fish Fry Friday night at the Legion Hall to kick the Festival off. Take out is available starting at 5:30 p.m. It’s $10.00 for all-you-can-eat catfish and trimmings from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. To go trays will include 3 pieces of fish and sides. They are doing a school supply drive for area schools and ask you to bring school supplies to drop off for kids at Blytheville, Gosnell and Armorel. You can call your to-go order in Friday afternoon at 870-278-8029.

“Of course, we are still raising money for our original three charities with the Taste of Blytheville,” said Michaels. Ticket sales are underway now and only 300 tickets are being sold. You can purchase tickets, while available, online at www.discoverblytheville.com.

“We have a ton of activities planned that day,” said Michaels. “The day will kick off at 11 a.m. with the Ironworx Gym Ultimate Tug of War. Plus, the Taste of Blytheville Tent will open at 11 a.m. At Noon, the Discover Blytheville Great Scavenger Hunt kicks off from the Seth Holifield State Farm Sound Stage, immediately followed by some jazz and blues from Smooth Groove.” Other events include the H&R Block Talent Showcase at 2 p.m. a watermelon eating contest and corn hole tournament, plus the presentation of awards for the Poker Run at 4:40 p.m. The day will include the K&A Tire & Auto Car, Truck & Bike Show with a Poker Run.

“Come out and bring the family because we’re making this a safe and fun day for the kids,” said Michaels. Parking will be on the fairgrounds with security, plus the South side of the park will be closed to traffic.You will enter the park off Ruddle Road and you will exit the park on Kentucky Avenue.  “We’ve got water slides and bouncy houses coming so make sure and bring the kids in their bathing suits. We’ll have all day armbands available for $10 and that will include admission to the pool,” said Michaels.

​

​Saturday, February 3rd at 7:00 PM, The Arts Council of Mississippi County will present “Reza: Edge of Illusion” on the stage of The Ritz Civic Center at 306 W. Main Street in Blytheville, AR.  Reza is a magician/illusionist who has taken the art of illusion to a new level, delivering his rock concert style magic show to audiences across the country and around the world.  .
     Don’t expect rabbits out of hats!  Reza grabs the audience and never lets go with his enchanting charm and amazing, cutting-edge grand illusions. You will witness his demonstrations of the impossible as he walks through a wall of solid metal, appears and vanishes instantly, and even divides a beautiful girl into five distinct sections. Reza's signature piece involves making a prediction on an old index card under lock and key long before the show, and reaching into the minds (and hearts) of a few very lucky members of the audience as his prediction comes true.

​Reza has made his presence felt in the world of illusion since a very young age. His focus on the art began at the early age of seven after being inspired by a magic show in his hometown of Brookings, South Dakota.
By the age of fourteen, Reza was landing significant gigs performing for resorts and large corporations. On his fifteenth birthday Reza left his hometown to perform a six week run in Branson, MO, the live entertain-ment capital of the world. The grueling eighteen-show-a-week schedule allowed Reza to hone his gift for entertaining.
     After Branson, one opportunity led to the next and as the doors began to open, Reza’s style took on a fresh and cutting edge.  With a largely original show and an engaging stage presence, Reza began selling out theatres as the entertainment world took notice.

​
      Fast forward to present day. The once “youth magician prodigy” is today one of the fastest rising stars in the industry, with his mind set on changing the world’s perception of magic. Reza is intriguing, engaging, and captivating as he presents his fast moving program.   A full evening of wonder and excitement awaits you.  He isn't just a magician and illusionist, he is an entertainer.
     Reza's current tour transports 15,000 lbs of lighting, sound, staging and some of the most incredible magic in existence today. Reza has garnered a world-wide buzz and loyal fan base with his passion for creating cutting-edge grand-scale illusions; such as his signature split-second appearance of a revving motorcycle.  To date, Reza has been featured on television and radio shows broadcasting in 31 countries around the World, with sold out shows from Denver to New York, and Orlando to LA.  In addition to Reza's own tour dates, he was also featured in "MASTERS OF MAGIC," playing in theatres and arenas across the country.

A full evening of wonder and excitement awaits you.  Tickets are only $20.00 Advance and $25.00 at the Door.  Children 12 and under are admitted free with an adult.   This program is a 2017-2018 Series event presented by The Arts Council of Mississippi County.  For more information about this or any of their events and activities call (870) 762-1744, or visit the website www.artsmissco.org.

Polar Plunge season is here and this is our largest fundraiser held with law enforcement across the state.  The area plunge will be held on Feb 10th at Hampton Inn in Blytheville.  

We are 5 weeks out from the big day. ​Challenge friends, co-workers, and any others to take the plunge or make a donation!  

Severe weather forces blood drive cancellations causing thousands of donations to go uncollected

MEMPHIS, Tn. (Jan. 8, 2018) — This January, National Blood Donor Month, the American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donors of all blood types to make an appointment to give now and help address a winter blood donation shortage. 

Severe winter weather has had a tremendous impact on blood donations already this year, with more than 150 blood drives forced to cancel causing over 5,500 blood and platelet donations to go uncollected. This is in addition to seasonal illnesses, such as the flu, and hectic holiday schedules collectively contributing to more than 28,000 fewer donations than what was needed in November and December. 

“Even temporary disruptions to blood and platelet donations can diminish the availability for hospital patients,” said Joe Zydlo, external communications manager, Greater Ozarks and Arkansas Red Cross Blood Services Region. “It’s the blood on the shelves that helps save lives in an emergency, and that’s why we’re asking eligible individuals to make an appointment to give blood or platelets today.”  

While serving local hospitals is the first priority, the Red Cross can move blood products to where they’re needed most. This allows generous donors throughout the country to contribute to the national blood supply and potentially help patients locally and in storm-affected areas.

While all blood types are urgently needed, there is a more critical need for the following blood and donation types right now: 
⦁ Type O negative: The blood type that can be transfused to almost everyone and is what doctors reach for in trauma situations. 
⦁ Type B negative: The blood type that can be transfused to type B Rh-positive and negative patients. 
⦁ Type AB: The plasma type that can be transfused to almost everyone and can be donated through a platelet or plasma donation, where available, or during a regular blood donation. 

How to help
Eligible donors can find a blood donation opportunity and schedule an appointment to donate by using the free Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donation appointments and completion of a RapidPass are encouraged to help speed up the donation process. RapidPass lets donors complete the pre-donation reading and answer the health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, by visiting redcrossblood.org/rapidpass from the convenience of a mobile device or computer, or through the Blood Donor App.

Who blood donations help
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood – a need that is all too real for Heather Hrouda and her family. Hrouda was 25 weeks pregnant with her fourth child when she began bleeding. An emergency cesarean section was performed, but Hrouda hemorrhaged during surgery. She received 14 units of blood and seven units of plasma before she and her newborn son, Rusher, were flown to a nearby hospital. There, she received additional transfusions, and Rusher was moved to the neonatal intensive care unit, where he also received a blood transfusion to increase his red blood cell count.

“My family and I are so thankful for all the blood donors,” said Hrouda. “It is safe to say that without their time and donations, Rusher and I would not be here today. Because of donors, I get to watch my kids grow up and become the adults they dream of being.” 

The Hroudas are just two examples of the many patients who depend on blood and platelet donors. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and patients receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease may all require blood to save their lives. The Red Cross must collect more than 13,000 blood donations every day for patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals across the country. 

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Jan. 8-31

AR

Crittenden

West Memphis
1/25/2018: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Walmart, 300 S. Service Rd.
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Cross

Hickory Ridge
1/8/2018: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m., Hickory Ridge City Hall, 135 S. Front St

Wynne
1/31/2018: 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., CrossRidge Community Hospital, 310 South Falls Blvd
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Mississippi

Blytheville
1/23/2018: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Great River Medical Center, 1520 North Division Street
1/23/2018: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., Walmart, 3700 E. State Hwy 18
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Poinsett

Lepanto
1/25/2018: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., East Poinsett High School, 502 McClellan

Marked Tree
1/26/2018: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Marked Tree High School, 406 St. Francis
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Woodruff

Mc Crory
1/9/2018: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., McCrory Branch Library, 105 East Second St.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross. 

Superintendent of Blytheville Public Schools Richard Atwill has resigned effective June 2018.

Read more here

Dyersburg, Tennessee - Dyersburg State Community College (DSCC) invites the community to attend a send-off rally Tuesday, May 23, at 8 a.m., at the E.H. Lannom, Jr. Gymnasium parking lot.

​The rally will be held for the DSCC baseball team as they travel to Grand Junction, CO, for the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) JUCO World Series May 27-June 3. The Eagles clenched the 2017 NJCAA East Central District Tournament May 19 giving the College a first-ever berth to the World Series.

The team is scheduled to play San Jacinto Saturday, May 27, at 8:30 p.m. (CST). Fans can follow the game live via video online at www.njcaatv.com or via audio online at www.theteam1340.com. More information can be found at www.dscc.edu.

Everyone is asked to arrive at 8 a.m. before the bus leaves at 8:30 a.m. The community is encouraged to bring signs and wear navy or red to show their support.

BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. - America's premiere high wire act, The Flying Wallendas, take to the skies in historic downtown Blytheville during Mayfest 2017.

Watch the Wallendas navigate their tightrope starting Friday night at 6:30 p.m. in Dixie Line Park near the world-famous Greyhound Bus Station in historic downtown Blytheville.

The Friday night show is a Private Party and VIP event. Tickets are $20 and may be purchased from the Greater Blytheville Area Chamber of Commerce. Food and beverages are included with your VIP ticket. The Wallendas perform again on Saturday at 1 p.m.

After the Flying Wallendas perform Friday night, stick around for music from Nashville recording artist Shelby Lee Lowe.
​
Lowe is a native of middle Tennessee and a graduate with a degree in Music Business from MTSU. His first full production album is scheduled for release on Banner Music Records on August 26, 2017. Lowe penned eleven of the thirteen tracks and was very involved in the production as he wanted to be assured the project reflected his live sound as well as portray his artistic vision.

Mayfest kicks off Saturday morning, May 13, at 8 a.m. with the Run For Their Lives 5K at the Bus Station at 8 a.m. Proceeds benefit The Acts of Hope Pregnancy Resource Center.

Come spend the day strolling up and down historic Main Street in downtown Blytheville enjoying the arts, crafts, food and fun! And, why not bring your dog for the annual Blytheville Humane Society Dog Show at 11 a.m. on Saturday?

All the fun kicks off Saturday on Main Street at 10 a.m. and runs till 4 p.m. Plus, you can sample some of the best pulled pork in the South from contestants in the Butts On Broadway contest, with $1,500 in prizes available.

If you would like to be a vendor or enter the Butts On Broadway contest, please visit www.mainstreetblytheville.com and download your vendor forms or call 870.763.2525. 

Wilson, AR, is a finalist in the USA Today Readers' Choice for Best Southern Small Town! You can vote once every day through 11:00 a.m. on April 24, and no registration is required. Click here to vote!