Governor appoints Sharri Jones to panel
Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders has appointed Sharri Jones of Sissy’s Log Cabin to the Arkansas 250 Commission.
This commission will coordinate Arkansas’ participation in the U.S. celebration of the 250th anniversary of its independence in 2026, according to a news release.
Jones joins 15 other commission members, including seven designated by the governor, representatives from the Arkansas House and Senate, and leaders from various state departments and organizations.
“I’m incredibly honored to be appointed to the Arkansas 250 Commission by Governor Sanders,” said Jones. “Just as Arkansas diamonds reflect our state’s natural beauty and resilience, I believe our contributions to the nation’s 250th-anniversary celebration will showcase the spirit of Arkansas, and I look forward to working with my fellow commission members to plan events and activities throughout the next year.”
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Sissy’s Log Cabin, a family-owned-and-operated jewelry store with six locations, has spent more than 50 years dedicated to community service initiatives across Arkansas. The company frequently partners with charities and organizations to help raise awareness and critical funding for various community programs.
Ivy Center plans writing event
The Ivy Center for Education Inc. will sponsor “Write for your Life,” an Essay Writing and Writing Personal Statement Workshop, from 6-7 p.m. Aug. 27 at the main Pine Bluff Library, 600 Main St. All students who attend will gain life-long essay writing skills and learn how to “tell their story” through using their words, according to a news release.
The workshop presenter is Rebecca Newby, a certified 7-12th grade English educator. She graduated from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff with a degree in English education in 2017 and from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville with a master’s degree in education in 2021. She has more than eight years of experience working in education and is passionate about the work that she does, according to the release.
All students in 7-12th grades are encouraged to attend and bring paper, a pencil or pen or laptop.
A virtual session is available via Zoom by using Meeting ID: 856 8296 4187 and Passcode: 351061. For details, interested students and parents may send an email to Ivy Center President Mattie Collins at mattie1908@gmail.com.
5 essentials for school health checklists
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidelines to help parents address key health-related concerns before school starts, according to a news release. Here are five items to focus on to prepare a child for a safe and successful school year:
1. UPDATED IMMUNIZATIONS AND HEALTH SCREENINGS
According to the CDC, keeping a child’s immunizations up to date is one of the most effective ways to protect them and their classmates from vaccine-preventable diseases. Schools often require proof of vaccination before attendance, including shots for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), polio and chickenpox. In addition to immunizations, it is important to schedule routine health screenings, such as vision, hearing and dental checks. Detecting issues early can prevent them from interfering with a child’s learning, according to the release.
2. PROMOTING HEALTHY SLEEP PATTERNS
The CDC emphasizes that adequate sleep is crucial for children’s physical health, emotional well-being and academic performance. However, many children do not get enough sleep, which can lead to difficulties with attention, behavior and learning. School-aged children typically need 9-12 hours of sleep per night, depending on their age. As the school year approaches, it is important to establish a consistent bedtime routine to help a child transition back to a school-friendly sleep schedule.
3. FOCUSING ON NUTRITION AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
A balanced diet and regular physical activity are key components of a healthy lifestyle. The CDC recommends that children eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins to support their growth and development. Breakfast is particularly important as it provides the energy needed for learning and concentration throughout the school day. Additionally, regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, building strong bones and muscles and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
4. MANAGING STRESS AND MENTAL HEALTH
The CDC acknowledges the growing importance of mental health in children’s overall well-being. The start of a new school year can be stressful, particularly if a child is facing challenges such as adapting to a new school or dealing with academic pressures. It’s important to monitor a child for signs of stress or anxiety, which can manifest as changes in behavior, sleep disturbances or physical complaints like headaches or stomach aches.
5. REINFORCING HYGIENE PRACTICES TO PREVENT ILLNESS
The CDC emphasizes the importance of teaching children proper hygiene practices to prevent the spread of illness, particularly in school settings where germs can spread quickly. Encourage regular handwashing with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the bathroom. If soap and water are not available, using hand sanitizer is a good alternative. Additionally, teach a child to avoid touching their face, particularly their eyes, nose and mouth, and to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
Details: cdc.gov/healthyschools or qualchoice.com.