Christmas Holiday Expo At The Holiday Inn Kicks Off Christmas Shopping, Breakfast With Santa11/12/2019  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. - Santa is set to make an early appearance in Blytheville this year. The Christmas Holiday Expo At The Holidome happens the weekend before Thanksgiving at the Holidome at Holiday Inn in Blytheville on Saturday, November 17, 2018, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Expo will feature vendors from a four-state region, including Mississippi, Tennessee, Missouri and Arkansas. “The Christmas Holiday Expo is going to be a unique shopping experience for everyone involved,” said Keith Michaels, coordinator for the event and being sponsored by Discover Blytheville. “Our main room is already full with vendors, and we’ve had to open up the conference rooms across the hall for more space.” “This is going to be a posh holiday event for Christmas gift shopping with everything from Pampered Chef and Avon to Tupperware, L’Bri, Scentsy, Paparazzi, homemade and handmade gifts and more,” Michaels continued. “The florist from A-1 Flowers are decorating Holiday Inn from front to back for this event, plus we’ll have free appetizers with a chocolate fountain, fruit and cheese trays and Christmas cupcakes and candy from Grandma Betty’s Bakery Delight, and Christmas punch and spiced cider.”  “The big news is that somebody will win a diamond cluster ring, courtesy of Michael Jewelers, and valued at over $1,900,” said Michaels. “We’ll have some incredible giveaways happening throughout the day.” Entertainment will be provided Saturday morning from 9 a.m. to Noon by William King playing a selection of holiday music. Santa will make an appearance from Noon till 2 p.m. with free pictures for the kids with Soul Reflections Photography on hand, and Smooth Groove will play Christmas jazz during the afternoon from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. We’ll also have gift wrapping available, courtesy of Mailboxes & Beyond. “Everyone will be in the holiday mood, and what better way to kick it off the week before Thanksgiving with a wonderful shopping experience for everyone.” said Michaels. “Let me encourage you to wear your Ugly Christmas Sweater and enter our Ugly Christmas Sweater Contests!” The Christmas Holiday Expo is still looking for vendors, but only has space left for about 17 more. If you would like to be a vendor, booth space has been reduced to $65 because you will not be located in the main room, but across the hallway in the conference room area. Register online at www.discoverblytheville.com. Admission for the event is $2.   Mike Wolfe, Frank Fritz, and their team are excited to return to Arkansas! They plan to film episodes of the hit series American Pickers throughout your area in November. AMERICAN PICKERS is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking” on History. The hit show follows Mike and Frank, two of the most skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques. They are always excited to find sizeable, unique collections and learn the interesting stories behind them. As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, Mike and Frank are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics. Along the way, the Pickers want to meet characters with remarkable and exceptional items. The pair hopes to give historically significant objects a new lease on life, while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the way. Mike and Frank have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something they’ve never seen before. They are ready to find extraordinary items and hear fascinating tales about them. AMERICAN PICKERS is looking for leads and would love to explore your hidden treasure. If you or someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the Pickers can spend the better part of the day looking through, send us your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-OLD-RUST. facebook: @GotAPick   WIN THIS PROPANE BBQ GRILL COURTESY OF LOWES AT FESTIVAL IN THE PARK AND YOU’LL BE HELPING US RAISE MONEY FOR MEALS ON WHEELS. BE SURE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS ON SATURDAY AT FESTIVAL IN THE PARK FROM 9 A.M. TO 6 P.M. AT WALKER PARK IN BLYTHEVILLE. 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.   BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. - Festival In The Park happens Saturday, July 21, at Walker Park in Blytheville and brings a new tradition to a popular venue in the city. Festival organizer Keith Michaels says the Festival is based around raising money for local charities in Blytheville. “Festival In The Park is going to be a fun summertime event with a little something for everyone with a common theme of raising money for local charities right here in Mississippi County,” said Michaels. “The day is going to feature several events with all the money from those events going right back into three or four local charities that help people in Blytheville. Plus, it’s going to be a great venue in Walker Park in the Grove.” Taste of Blytheville will feature samples from local restaurants. “We’re trying to really put an emphasis on local businesses, talent, organizations, churches and individuals during the festival and Blytheville definitely has a great selection of local food,” said Michaels. “We’re in the process of inviting the restaurants out to set up a booth for free and hand out samples.” Armbands will be sold for $10 to sample from the Taste of Blytheville restaurants. “Blytheville has needed an event like this to showcase our food for a long time,” said Michaels. “And, if we can raise some money for local folks who work right here in our community, I think it’s great.” Restaurants who want to participate should contact Discover Blytheville on their website at www.discoverblytheville.com. “We’re trying to contact everyone and need some help spreading the word,” said Michaels. The H&R Block Talent Showcase is going to be held in the beautiful gazebo in the park and will feature local talent with a grand prize of $200. “We’re looking for local talent to come out and compete,” said Michaels. “I know we have a lot of talent in our churches and this is a great time to showcase people right here at home.” If you would like to enter, please take a video and introduce yourself and where you’re from then show us your talent. Post the video to Facebook or Twitter with #festivalinthepark. Up to 10 acts may be selected from the entries. If you don’t have access to social media, you can still enter by contacting us on our website. The contest is open to anyone in the area. “We want to encourage all ages and all talents to come out and share your talent with us,” according to Michaels. Second place prize is $100 and third place is $50. “The Discover Blytheville Great Scavenger Hunt will literally help folks discover Blytheville,” said Michaels. The scavenger hunt will send participants to local businesses and attractions where they will take a selfie and post to their Facebook page. “You can stay up to date on the details of the scavenger hunt and all the other activities by searching for Festival In The Park on Facebook and follow our event,” said Michaels. “We’ll be posting details on everything there.” Teams of four will compete for a grand prize that will include the items they’re searching for as well as a grand cash prize. You can also follow @discoverblytheville. A Car, Truck and Bike Show with Poker Run is planned for the day. “We’re inviting all the modified vehicles and classic cars and trucks to come out and join us and show off,” said Michaels. “And, from what I’m hearing, we’re going to have an excellent bike show with a Poker Run.” Car, truck and bike enthusiasts, local clubs and owners are encouraged to join us at Walker Park on Saturday, July 21. The Ironworx Gym Ultimate Tug O’ War Competition will feature teams competing for a cash prize, and, of course, ultimate bragging rights. “The challenge has been laid down,” according to Michaels. “We’re looking for area police departments, fire departments, gym rats and overall he men to compete for cash and for their pride.” Get your teams together and register by contacting Ironworx Gym or by downloading the registration forms at www.discoverblytheville.com. Kids will enjoy several activities, including pony rides, water slides, and bouncy houses. A Corn Hole Tournament is being arranged, plus there will be food vendors, and arts and crafts booths. Bring your kids in their swimsuits because the city is including admission to the pool with the purchase of an all-day armband for the water slides, bouncy house and pool for just $10. We’re also looking for a local group to sponsor a 5k Run/Walk that morning in the park. Groups interested in sponsoring the event and coordinating it should contact Discover Blytheville on the website or by phone at 870-278-2621. And, we need volunteers to help with the event. “We would like to say a big thanks to a lot of folks for helping us make this possible to the community, including our banner sponsor Southern Bancorp,” said Michaels. If you want to be a vendor at Festival In The Park or set up a retail or information booth, please visit Discover Blytheville at www.discoverblytheville.com. Booth space is free for church groups, civic clubs and charitable or non-profit organizations. Deadline to get registered is July 15, 2018. #discoverblytheville #festivalinthepark   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.
 Travis Ryan Smith Travis Smith is from Blytheville, Arkansas, but, now, he's known around the world all because of a song his grandmother wrote 30 years ago. The song is called "Fishing In The Sky." You've probably seen it by now because, at last count, his video had been seen nearly 6 million times. Basically, the song has gone viral. Plus, the song had already climbed to number 30 on the iTunes Top 100 charts Country Genre, putting Travis right behind country music artist Chris Young. Sunday morning, January 14, 2018, Travis shared the song live on Thunder Country 96.3 KHLS in Blytheville, Arkansas, on the Tommy Mac Show. The story began 30 years ago when Travis' grandmother wrote the song. Who knew 30 years later, people around the world would hear her words through her grandson's voice. Robert Smith, Travis' dad, tells the story behind the song... "My mom wrote this song: 'Fishing in the Sky' about 30 years ago and recorded it on a cassette tape. Last year when Travis and I were up here for Christmas, we listened to it. Travis has been recording some music lately; and about three weeks ago, I pitched the idea to Travis to get the lyrics and look into recording it. He remembered the song, and was genuinely interested. Today, I had the pleasure of sharing the finished product with my mom. Her reaction is priceless." #LoveWhatMatters Be sure to follow this incredible story and great song at the following social media links: Website lovewhatmatters.com/ https://www.facebook.com/lovewhatreal... https://www.instagram.com/lovewhatmat... https://twitter.com/LoveMattersMore YouTube https://www.youtube.com/lovewhatmatters  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. _______________ 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 _______________ 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 _______________ 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 _______________ 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  The DSCC baseball team clenched the 2017 East Central District Tournament May 19, and are traveling to Grand Junction, CO, May 23, to play in the JUCO World Series. 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.   It's time for the ESA/Loretta Smith Golf Tournament! The event happens at Thunder Bayou in Blytheville, Arkansas, on Saturday, May 20, 2017. Please download your registration form, fill it out and send back.   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!  Founded during the late 19th century, the town of Wilson sits along Arkansas's portion of the Great River Road. Visitors staying in or passing through town can enjoy some local flavor at the Wilson Cafe or brush up on regional history at the worthwhile Hampson Archeological Museum State Park.
 The Ritz Civic Center in Blytheville will be filled with shrieks of delight on Friday, April 21st at 6:30 PM when The Arts Council of Mississippi County presents Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre with their giant puppet musical version of Alice In Wonderland. This is a mammoth musical featuring nine-foot-tall puppets and a live actress. The lead character is played by actress and puppet builder Holli Rubin. Puppeteer and lyricist Jerry Bickel performs as the giant puppet. The production also includes shadow puppets, marionettes and hand puppets. The story begins like this: When Alice escapes her boredom of this world to venture into a dream of another world, madcap high jinks and outlandish adventures are the order of the day. Lavishly costumed characters and giant puppets whirl, dance and sing on their journey through Lewis Carroll’s land of fantasy. The heroine learns it takes self-reliance and quick thinking to tame the comic nonsense of the Queen of Hearts, the Cheshire Cat, and Wonderland’s other unpredictable residents. Bits ‘N Pieces Theatre has been creating original musical productions adapted from classic children’s literature for 38 years. Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, the company spends most of the year on national and international tour. This season’s touring production has thrilled audiences across the United States and around the world. This is the ninth year they have brought their magic to The Ritz with rave reviews every year. Previous stories have included Pinky Flamingo based on The Ugly Duckling, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Jack and the Beanstalk, Aesop’s Fable, Three Billy Goats Gruff, Rip Van Winkle and Princess Thimbelina. Alice In Wonderland is the final event of the 2016-2017 Series presented by The Arts Council of Mississippi County. This fun for all ages live show will be performed at The Ritz Theater at 306 W. Main Street in Blytheville. The program will also be presented for five school day performances free for scheduled Mississippi County area school students in K-2nd Grade at no cost to the students or schools. The school day performances are made available in part by grants from the Mississippi County Community Foundation and Kinder Morgan Foundation as well as the support of Arts Council Patrons and Sponsors. For the Friday 6:30 PM performance, adult tickets are only $10.00 in advance and $15.00 at the door, and children twelve and under are admitted free with an adult. Clearly this is a great family entertainment value. For more information, call (870) 762-1744, or visit the website www.artsmissco.org.  MEMPHIS, Tn. – All eligible blood donors are encouraged to give blood and help save lives in March, Red Cross Month. Donating is easier than ever with the Blood Donor App and RapidPass.
With the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, donors can conveniently schedule and manage donation appointments, access their donor card, track the impact of their donations and earn rewards. Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questions online at redcrossblood.org/RapidPass before coming to their appointments. “I've always thought it was the right thing to do, to donate when it was convenient for me,” said Lance Ford. “But after my triplets were born premature and needed transfusions in the neonatal intensive care unit, I decided that it was more important to seek out opportunities to donate, rather than just waiting until it was convenient to me. The Red Cross apps and notifications make it very easy to find a location near you, and they are so courteous, respectful and efficient.There is really no excuse not to donate. It's such a small thing that makes such a big difference!” March has been recognized as Red Cross Month by every U.S. president since 1943 in celebration of the Red Cross volunteers who help those in need by giving their time, money or blood. Join their ranks by making an appointment to give blood by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Upcoming blood donation opportunities for the month of March: Mississippi Leachville 3/20/2017: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m., First Baptist Church, 1502 S Main How to help Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification 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 have to 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 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Crossis 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.  The Springer Theatricals professional touring production of “Route 66” will be presented live on the stage of The Ritz Theater, 306 W. Main in Blytheville on Saturday, March 18, 2017, at 7:00 pm. It is the fourth program of the 2016-2017 Series sponsored by The Arts Council of Mississippi County. Take a dollop of “Grease” and mix in some “Pump Boys and Dinetttes” along with a generous dose of “Forever Plaid” and you’ve got the high-octane fun of “ROUTE 66”! Beginning with the sounds of 1950s Chicago and traveling along the ‘Main Street of America’ to the California coast with the surf music of the 1960s, this exciting musical revue features 34 of the greatest ‘Rock ‘n’ Road’ hits of the 20th century. Songs include “Dead Man’s Curve,” “King of the Road,” “Little Old Lady from Pasadena,” “Beep Beep,” “Six Days on the Road,” “Little GTO,” “Fun, Fun, Fun,” and many more. Get your kicks on Route 66 with this smash coast-to-coast hit musical revue.  Springer Theatricals musical Route 66 hits The Ritz in Blytheville, Saturday, March 18, 2017. “Route 66” is an off-Broadway success which offers unique musical theatre entertainment. The professional touring production will feature outstanding vocalists and instrumentalists live on stage performing these nostalgic hits from the past. Previous programs presented at The Ritz which were staged by Springer Theatricals include “A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline,” “Honky Tonk Angels,” “The Taffetas” and “Tuna Christmas,” among others. This production promises to deliver the same high quality performance as this troupe continues its’ current national tour. The evening will kick off with a Gala Meet the Artist Reception at The Ritz from 5:30-6:30 PM which is open to Arts Council Patrons, Sponsors and Advance Ticket Holders. So plan to get your tickets now and enjoy the whole evening! Advance tickets, which also provide admission to the gala reception, are available for only $20.00 each at The Ritz, and the night of the show tickets will be $25.00 at the door. Children twelve and under are admitted free with an adult. For additional information about this or any Arts Council event, please call (870) 762-1744, or visit the website www.artsmissco.org.
 Join Law Enforcement, area supporters and fans of Special Olympics, Saturday February 11th starting at 12:00pm as they plunge into the frigid waters of the pool at Hampton Inn in Blytheville. Registration begins at 11:30am. The Blytheville Polar Plunge benefits the 15,000 athletes statewide participating in Special Olympics Arkansas Sports and Health programming. Signup individually or as a team today so you too can be Freezin for a Reason this season, learn more at specialolympicsarkansas.org.There is a minimum Fundraising goal of $50.00 to plunge, participants earn prizes through fundraising. The Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics is the largest grassroots fundraiser for Special Olympics with more than 100,000 law enforcement participants around the world.  At its most basic level, the Torch Run is an actual running event where law enforcement officers and Special Olympics athletes run the “Flame of Hope” into the Opening Ceremonies of Special Olympics competitions.
The LETR is the largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics, raising an astonishing half a billion for the cause since its inception – all dollars are raised in law enforcement’s off-duty time andthe funds stay local to the communities they protect and serve. The Mission of the LETR for Special Olympics Arkansas is to raise both dollars and awareness for Special Olympics. Nearly 100 agencies and 1500 officers work year-round in Arkansas to accomplish this goal All funds raised go towardssupporting Special Olympics Arkansas' year round sports training and athletic competition. Arkansas LETR consistently ranks in the emerald level of excellence at the national torch run conference every fall, reaching over $500,000 raised each year since 2010. Polar Plunge® is a fundraiser in which individuals and teams take the plunge into various bodies of water...typically cold water to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Arkansas! Entry forms are available on our website specialolympicsarkansas.org  JONESBORO – The17th annual Delta Awards recognizing tourism achievement in Eastern Arkansas will be presented during festivities Friday evening, Feb. 17, at the Cooper Alumni Center on the campus of Arkansas State University, 2600 Alumni Boulevard.
The evening will begin with a 5:30 p.m. silent auction, followed by the dinner and awards at 7 p.m. The event is sponsored by Arkansas Delta Byways with support from the Greater Jonesboro Chamber of Commerce. Centerpieces, designed by students of the Jonesboro School of Art, will be auctioned off that evening. Arkansas Delta Byways, located on the Arkansas State University campus, is a nonprofit organization recognized by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism as the official tourism promotion association for 15 counties in Eastern Arkansas. Counties include Arkansas, Chicot, Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Cross, Desha, Drew, Greene, Lee, Mississippi, Monroe, Phillips, Poinsett and St. Francis. The annual awards event is open to the public. Tickets are $30 per person or $200 for a table of eight. For information on ticket availability, contact Gretchen Sacotnik, (870) 573-6751 or by email, gretchen.sacotnik@arkansas.gov. Categories and the finalists are: Media Support Award
Hospitality Award
Entrepreneur Award
Tourism/Promotion Support Award
Festival/Event of the Year
Boot Strap Award
Cultural Heritage Award
Outstanding Member Award, to be announced. Tourism Person of the Year, to be announced. If you live in Blytheville and need to speak to your City Councilman, here is their contact information:
-- Councilman R.L. Jones - 870-762--5532 or 501-237-7493, councilmanjones@sbcglobal.net -- Councilman John Musgraves - 870-278-6002, jratmusgraves123@yahoo.com -- Councilman Stan Parks - 870-740-0002, srparks@sbcglobal.net -- Councilman L.C. Hartsfield - 870-740-8113, LCH.BlyCouncil@gmail.com -- Councilwoman Barbara Brothers - 870-623-2144, bmacadoo16@gmail.com -- Councilman John Mayberry - 870-762-6263, councilmanmayberry@gmail.com  Blytheville, Ark (Dec. 7, 2016) ---- Mississippi County residents are invited to a holiday drop in open house to celebrate the grand opening of the new American Red Cross office in Blytheville.
According to Pam Knapp-Carver, executive director of the Red Cross serving Northeast Arkansas, the new office is located in the Mississippi County Courthouse Annex, 507 N. 5 th Street, next to the county election center. The public is invited to drop by on Tuesday, Dec. 20 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. for some light refreshments and to see the new facility. “We are opening the Blytheville office to the community that day to celebrate the holidays with us and to see we are here continuing to do the work expected of us,” she said. Red Cross officials and volunteers will be on hand to greet everyone who drops by, she added.  The Arts Council of Mississippi County is pleased to announce that two international award winning guitarists will appear in concert at The Ritz Civic Center, 306 W. Main in Historic Downtown Blytheville, AR on Friday, December 2, 2016 at 7:00 PM.
Petar & Daniel Guitar Duo explores an eclectic repertoire ranging from Spanish, Latin and Balkan to traditional classics. Their performances include original works aswell as arrangements specifically designed for duo performances. They have fused their native Serbian and Brazilian cultural heritages to reach not only traditional audiences, but to bring guitar music to that part of the general public that is not so familiar with the instruments’ repertoire and techniques. Both musicians are on faculty of Indiana University’s prestigious Jacobs School of Music. Petar Jankovicbegan his guitar studies at age eight in Serbia, where he later earned a degree in classical guitar from the renowned Belgrade Music Academy. While in Serbia, he won two gold medals, a silver medal and two bronze medals at the National Music Competition. At age 16, he delivered his first professional performance, and by age 20, the Community College of Belgrade invited him to share his expertise with beginning classical guitar students. This marked the beginning of a distinguished teaching career that has developed alongside his successful performing career. Daniel Duarte is an active performer, arranger, conductor and lecturer who has won several guitar and chamber music competitions in his native Brazil, as well as in Europe and the United States. His academic and artistic recognitions include the Presser Foundation outstanding graduate music student award that supported his dissertation research and the Joan C. Edwards Distinguished Professor of Arts award by Marshall University, among others. Tickets are available at The Ritz in Blytheville for $20.00 advanced purchase, and will be available at the door for $25.00 the night of the performance. Children twelve and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult. For more information about this or other events at The Ritz, contact The Arts Council of Mississippi County at (870)762-1744, or visit the website www.artsmissco.org. JONESBORO, ARK. (Nov. 9, 2016) ---- The American Red Cross serving Arkansas has postponed its 5K walk/run to honor veterans and active duty military members in Jonesboro, Ark. scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 12, according to Chapter Executive Director Pam Knapp-Carver.
The event had been scheduled to take place in conjunction with the Jonesboro Veterans Day Parade. Knapp-Carver explained the event has been postponed due to conflicts with military members and veterans who were participating in the parade itself. The 5K walk/run will be rescheduled sometime around Memorial Day, 2017, Knapp-Carver added. She thanked everyone who registered to participate in the event, and urges them to re-register when the event is rescheduled. |
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