Braylock joins UAPB agri staff
Justin Braylock was recently hired by the communications office of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences (SAFHS.)
He assists with promoting the SAFHS’s mission and developing press releases that highlight students’ perspectives and experiences, according to a news release.
In 2025, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications with an emphasis in public relations.
“Justin has been a great addition to the communications team,” said Deseray McKinzy, SAFHS communications director. “With experience in writing and editing as a student with The Arkansawyer newspaper and hands-on involvement in media relations, Justin brings key skills that continue to elevate our communications publications.”
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
UAM operations still virtual
Due to winter weather resulting in unsafe travel conditions, the University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM), the UAM College of Technology-Crossett (UAM-CTC) and the UAM College of Technology-McGehee (UAM-CTM) will continue virtual learning and virtual business operations on Friday.
All three UAM campuses will resume normal on-campus classes and business operations on Feb. 2. Notices concerning the operation of each of UAM’s campuses can be obtained on the UAM website, on local TV and radio stations and through UAMAlert, according to a news release.
Chamber sets Candidate Expo
Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will present the Candidate Expo from 5-7 p.m. Feb. 10 at the New Life Church Freedom Center, 2801 S. Olive St.
Meet and speak with the candidates running for office in the upcoming elections. Find out where they stand on key issues that matter to you and the community, according to the Chamber newsletter. Details: Chamber of Commerce, (870) 535-0110.
Desperate need for blood donations
Since the winter weather began, 86 community blood drives have been canceled, resulting in the loss of more than 1,600 expected blood donations. With schools and universities remaining closed and donation opportunities still limited, Our Blood Institute is now missing an estimated 700 blood donations each day in educational drives, according to a news release.
Our Blood Institute is experiencing significant shortages of platelets and O-negative blood, both of which are critical for trauma care, cancer treatments and emergency surgeries.
“When freezing temperatures linger, the impact on the blood supply compounds quickly,” said Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Our Blood Institute. “We are incredibly grateful to the donors who stepped up earlier this month, but the reality is that even a few days of missed donations can quickly put patients at risk.”
All blood types are needed, with an urgent need for platelet donors and O-negative donors. Donation appointments remain available at Our Blood Institute donor centers for those who can safely travel.
Community members are encouraged to donate when conditions improve, and it is safe to do so to help stabilize the blood supply for patients across the region.
To thank donors who give during these challenging conditions, all donors who give Wednesday through Friday will receive a blood donor sweatshirt, while supplies last.
Anyone who is healthy and 16 years old or older can give blood. (16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds.)
Donation typically takes only about an hour, and one donation saves up to three lives. Appointments to donate can be made online at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. Walk-ins are also welcome. Photo ID is required.
Art league reschedules events
Due to inclement weather, Pine Bluff Art League events have been rescheduled.
MEETING — The art league will host its monthly meeting from 2-4 Feb. 8 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave., in room A & B. Kerry Kemp, owner and operator of Art Outfitters in Little Rock, will present a multimedia demonstration using newspaper, paint, and supplies. After the demonstration, the exhibition committee will open suggestions for art show themes for March and April. April’s meeting will be held April 12 due to the Easter holiday. Little Rock-based artist, Holly Tilley, will present. Her primary mediums are oil, acrylic and pastel. For more information, contact co-President Claudia Spainhour at (870) 718-1058.
RECEPTION — The art league will present a new exhibition with a free reception from 4-6 p.m. Feb. 12 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center. This exhibition will feature 12-by-12-inch art pieces. Members were challenged to create work under the constraint. Any medium and types of canvas were allowed. Attendees may vote on their favorites during the reception. Afterwards, the PBAL will present a People’s Choice Award. For more information, contact co-President Gerry DeLongchamp at (870) 692-5001.