UAPB cheerleader to join cheer staff
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff cheerleader Donovan Neal has been selected as a new staff member for the National Cheerleaders Association Summer Camp Instructor program.
Neal, a sophomore School of Education major from Texarkana, brings his passion for health and physical education with an emphasis in leisure recreation and wellness to the NCA program, according to a news release.
“We are so proud of Donovan for this outstanding achievement,” said Kimberley Davis, Ph.D., dean of the UAPB School of Education Dean. He is an active member of the UAPB campus community. As an NCA instructor, Neal will work closely with cheer teams to provide personalized coaching and foster individual and team success.
According to the NCA, summer camp instructors are carefully chosen from leading colleges and universities across the country. NCA Staff undergo rigorous background checks and hold USA Cheer Safety Certifications, ensuring the highest standards of safety and professionalism, according to the release.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The NCA, founded in 1948 by Lawrence “Herkie” Herkimer, has been a pioneer in the cheerleading industry, introducing numerous innovations such as the first cheerleading camp, spirit stick, and All-Star National Championship, according to the release. “We are thrilled to congratulate Donovan Neal on joining the NCA family,” said Frank D. Dorsey II, UAPB Dean of Student Involvement & Leadership. “His expertise and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the athletes he mentors at the NCA’s summer camps. He joins a rich legacy of UAPB Spirit Team family members who have contributed to the success of the NCA.”
The UAPB Spirit Team offers prospective athletes the opportunity to showcase their skills and join one of the most dynamic spirit squads in the region, according to the release. Calvin Burgess and Candace Hines direct the UAPB Spirit Team. For details about joining the UAPB Spirit Team, call the Office of Student Affairs at (870) 575-7702.
Dog parade, Easter Egg Hunt set
Pine Bluff Animal Control, 901 N. Haverty St., in Martin Luther King Jr. Park, will host a dog parade and Easter Egg Hunt from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 30. The event is free and the community is invited to attend. There will be activities for children, food trucks and other events, according to a flier. People may meet and greet the animals and bring a leash to walk a dog. Donations of pet food and other pet items are welcomed. Participants may also inquire about adopting a pet, according to the flier.
Ivy Center sets Black History event
The Ivy Center for Education Inc. will present a workshop on the Black History of Pine Bluff/Jefferson County from 6-7 p.m. Tuesday at the Pine Bluff Library, 600 S. Main St. The presenter will be Lori Walker-Guelache, local historian, member of the Pine Bluff School Board, and director of the Economic and Community Development Department for the city of Pine Bluff. Seventh through 12th graders, parents and community stakeholders are encouraged to attend. Those who cannot attend in person may join by Zoom. Use the Zoom ID: 856 8296 4187 and Passcode: 351061.
Details: Ivy Center President Mattie Collins at kencol1@msn.com or mattie1908@gmail.com. Follow the Ivy Center for Education on social media and visit ivycenterforeducation.com.
Federal retirees to meet
Chapter 287 of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) will meet at 11:30 a.m. Monday at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave. A representative from the Area Agency on Aging will be the speaker. Waymond Meins is the Chapter 287 president, according to a news release.
Housing board to meet
The Housing Authority of the city of Pine Bluff Board of Commissioners will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Colonial Steakhouse, 111 W. Eighth Ave., according to a news release. Details: (870) 541-0706.
McGehee School Board to meet
The McGehee School Board will meet at 5 p.m. Monday at the high school library. The agenda includes financial statement, district policies and administrator’s reports. Details: (870) 222-6957.
Arsenal announces blood drive
A blood drive will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 11 at the Pine Bluff Arsenal’s Creasy/Plainview Complex, outside Plainview Gate. Participants should look for the Bloodmobile parked outside. The blood drive is being held with Our Blood Institute. Photo ID is required. All donors will receive a T-shirt. To make an appointment, visit obi.org or call 877-340-8777, according to a news release.