PB author to review books
Gail Stith, an author and evangelist, invites the community to a review of her latest publication March 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Pine Bluff Main Library, 600 S. Main St., according to a news release.
Her publications include “Married Twice” and “Never Had a Husband,” available Feb. 14 at Amazon and Barnes & Noble, “Untapped Power?” and “The Council.”
A local resident, Stith is also a mother, licensed counselor, college professor, theologian and conference host. The book review is presented by Prayer Garden Christian Faith Center Church of God in Christ in Pine Bluff.
Pilgrim pantry to be open Feb. 14
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 Hill St., will open its Raven’s Nest Food Pantry Feb. 14 from 8-9:30 a.m. or until all the food has been given away.
Food will be given away on a first come, first-served basis. Participants must bring a picture identification.
The pantry is a U.S. Department of Agriculture distribution site and equal opportunity provider, according to a news release.
Road program applications available
The Arkansas State Highway Commission announced the applications for the Arkansas Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and the Arkansas Recreational Trails Program (RTP) are available.
TAP and RTP provide federal grant funding to local public agencies for transportation and recreation projects. Both programs operate on a reimbursable basis, according to a news release.
Virtual seminars will occur on Feb. 12 and Feb. 24 to discuss TAP and RTP requirements and responsibilities.
This funding cannot be used for improvements to highways. These federal funds can only be used for these certain types of projects.
ELIGIBLE TAP PROJECTS
On-road and off-road trail facilities for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other non-motorized forms of transportation including sidewalks, bicycle infrastructure, pedestrian and bicycle signals, lighting and other safety-related infrastructure.
Infrastructure-related projects and systems that will provide safe routes for non-drivers.
Conversion and use of abandoned railroad corridors for trails for pedestrians, bicyclists or other non-motorized transportation users.
Any environmental mitigation activity, including pollution prevention and abatement activities.
Infrastructure-related Safe Routes to School projects.
Sidewalk improvements, traffic calming and speed reduction improvements.
Pedestrian and bicycle crossing improvements.
NON-INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS
Public awareness campaigns and outreach.
Enforcement, encouragement and evaluation programs.
Bicycle and Pedestrian education or a walking school bus program near a K-8 school.
Pedestrian/Trail Master Plans.
ELIGIBLE RTP PROJECTS
Improvement of motorized, non-motorized, and multiple-use trails.
Development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and trail linkages.
Project applications and registration for both programs, including general project guidelines, may be obtained by visiting www.ardot.gov/TAP or www.ardot.gov/RTP.
DEADLINE
Applications must be submitted by 4 p.m. April 30. Additionally, the department has an ongoing open application cycle for Motorized RTP projects. Applications may be submitted year-round and are reviewed in order of arrival.
More information can be found at www.ardot.gov/RTP.
Summit offers energy tips, bill aid
Summit Utilities is offering energy‑saving tips and outlining programs to help customers manage their winter heating costs and stay comfortable throughout the season, according to a news release.
BILLING TOOLS AND SUPPORT OPTIONS
Average Monthly Billing (AMB): Averages annual natural gas costs evenly throughout the year to smooth out seasonal bill fluctuations.
Payment Assistance Programs: Available for qualifying customers who may need additional financial support during the winter months, local programs across the state can help pay heating costs.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This federal program offers financial support for energy bills, with local organizations accepting applications.
Payment Plan: Eligible customers can spread their total balance into equal monthly payments over an agreed-upon period, giving them more time to get their account up to date.
To learn more or enroll, eligible customers can sign up through their online account, use the automated phone system, or call Customer Care at 800-992-7552.
WINTER PREPAREDNESS AND ENERGY‑SAVING TIPS
Service heating systems: Schedule inspections with a licensed technician to ensure furnaces operate safely and efficiently.
Thermostat adjustments: Maintain about 68°F when home and lower the setting while sleeping or away, health permitting, to reduce heating costs.
Use natural sunlight: Open curtains during the day to allow sunlight to heat your home and close them at night to retain warmth.
Seal air leaks: Apply weatherstripping or caulking around doors and windows to prevent drafts.
Ceiling fan settings: Set fans to spin clockwise at low speed to push warm air down and help rooms heat more evenly.
More details can be found here.