Main Street America announced this week that Pine Bluff Downtown Development, Inc. has been recognized as one of the 862 nationally accredited Main Street programs that have worked to advance economic vitality and quality of life in the downtown and commercial district. Pine Bluff Downtown Development's performance is annually evaluated by Main Street Arkansas which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify that Downtown Development has met the rigorous national performance standards. Evaluation criteria determines the communities that are building meaningful and sustainable revitalization programs that includes standards of fostering strong public-private partnerships, supporting small and locally owned businesses and actively preserving historic places, spaces and cultural assets.

John Wall, board president, noted that "one of the goals of Pine Bluff Downtown Development is to be an accredited Main Street program under the umbrella of Main Street Arkansas. We are excited to have the distinction of being accredited by Main Street America in 2023 and to fulfill this most notable goal".

EASI Ambulance Service, FosterTowing and Midtown Tire and Auto Honor Law Enforcement, Firefighters and First Responders with Barbeque Luncheon

On Thursday, April 20, EASI, FosterTowing and Midtown Tire and Auto hosted a luncheon to thank local law enforcement, firefighters and all first responders at EASI's headquarters at 514 Fifth Avenue. Local musician Dave Sadler provided background music and Jefferson Regional employees provided an information booth. Volunteers from First United Methodist Church, the UAPB women's basketball team, and Helping Hands for the Community organization served barbeque, sides and dessert to over 200 individuals. PBDD was proud to participate for the third year by providing desserts.

The public is invited to attend ASC's Volunteer Night on Thursday, April 28 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 701 Main to celebrate and recognize the hard work and commitment of its volunteers. Drinks and light h'orderves will be served at this fun, free event. Sponsored by MK Distributors and Pine Bluff Sand & Gravel.

The City of Pine Bluff invites all ages to participate in the Step into Spring Walking Challenge on Saturday, April 29 from 10 a.m. to noon. The walk will begin at the entrance to the Saracen Landing Walking Trail. Participants will be awarded medals for completion of the following: Gold - The 3.6 mile trail in 30 minutes; Silver - The 3.6 mile trail; Bronze - 1.8 miles of the trail. For more details, call 870-730-2004.

Pine Bluff Fire & Emergency Services Junior Fire Camp

PBFD is having a Junior Fire Camp from June 12th - June 16th. A free five day camp designed for boys and girls ages 11 - 13 to experience what it is like to be a firefighter, as well as learn about fire safety.

The Junior Fire Camp will be a fun and informative introduction to the firefighting profession. Taught by PBFD firefighters the camp will feature hands on activities and interactive learning sessions. Students will learn about fire department organization, 9-1-1 dispatch, structure fire suppression tactics, truck operations, basic first and hands on only CPR, as well as tours of the local fire stations and other City entities.

2023 Registration is Available

Space is limited to the first 15 eligible applicants

Session Starts June 12th - June 16th

Time: Monday - Thursday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Location: Detective Kevin D Collins Center (Old Public Library)

#1 Convention Center Drive Pine Bluff, AR

For questions visit our website: www.pineblufffire.com

or call 870-730-2048

Contact: Lt. Larry Murray

Business EXPO 2023 Thursday, May 4 Pine Bluff Convention Center

Business Expo Breakfast featuring Carlton Saffa of Saracen Casino & Resort is from 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Tickets are $25 for an individual or a sponsored table of 8 for $300. Tickets must be purchased in advance and the deadline is April 28.

Business Expo Exhibit hall open from 9.a.m. - 10 a.m. for VIP tickets. General Public admission begins at 10 a.m. through 3: p.m. Wristbands are $5 and can be purchased at the door.

The Arts & Science Center will hold its LIVE @ 5 concert on Friday, May 5 featuring The Josh Park Band. Described as a "heavy electric blues/rock sound, the Josh's explosive solos, rich tones and the blended talents of his band will mesmerize you to no end.

Held the first Friday of each month from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Live @ 5 concert series is for guests 21 or older. Admission is $5 for ASC members and $10 for nonmembers. Includes beer, wine and nonalcoholic beverages. Sponsored by MK Distributors.

(Jefferson County Historical Society President David Trulock presents a check to Pine Bluff Grider Field Aviation Museum Board President Rickey Works)

The Pine Bluff Grider Field Aviation Museum, Inc. received a $10,000 donation from the Jefferson County Historical Society to continue restoration of the only remaining World War II barrack at Grider Field. The roof and outside walls have been restored. This is the second donation from the Jefferson County Historical Society. These funds will be used towards renovations to the inside of the structure. The museum board is currently working with Level 5 Architecture to prioritize the next steps in completing the restoration of this building. Level 5 is donating their architectural services to assist with this project.

The airplane in the picture is a restored PT-19, the same plane flown by Army Air Corps cadets during their training at what is now Grider Field Regional Airport. Over 10,000 cadets trained at the field from April 1941 through October 1944.