Site changes for Angel Tree forms
The Salvation Army of Pine Bluff has changed the location where they’ll accept applications for Angel Tree gifts for children up to age 12.
The applications will now be accepted at the Pine Bluff Aquatic Center, 400 E. 11th Ave., from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 14-17.
This is the only opportunity to submit applications, and no exceptions will be made, according to a news release.
This program offers individuals the opportunity to purchase Christmas gifts for those less fortunate in Cleveland, Dallas, Grant, Jefferson and Lincoln counties.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Applicants will need documentation, including ID, proof of income and children’s birth certificates.
For those interested in assisting the Angel Tree program or for details, contact Kendashia Jacobs at (870) 536-6382 at the Salvation Army.
TOPPS to teach youth sewing
TOPPS, 1000 Townsend Drive, will host a sewing class for ages 8-18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 25. Lunch will be served. The course is free and each participant will take away a completed project, according to a news release.
For details or to register, call TOPPS, (870) 850-6011.
TOPPS to host food giveaway
TOPPS, 1000 Townsend Drive, will host its community food giveaway at 10 a.m. Oct. 14.
The event will be held in a drive-through format, and food boxes will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Each household may receive one box of food, and participants must present a valid ID, according to a news release.
“We are grateful to our community partners and sponsors, who make it possible for us to meet the needs of families in our area,” according to the release. “This distribution is part of our ongoing commitment to support families facing food insecurity.”
Sponsors are Canaan Christian Center, Super 1 Foods on Dollarway Road, Dollar General on University Drive, Calvary Baptist Church — Little Rock, Wal-Mart Supercenter — Pine Bluff, Arkansas Food Bank, and Pine Bluff Community Foundation.
For details about TOPPS’ (Targeting Our People’s Priorities with Service) programs and services, visit www.toppsinc.org or contact Annette Dove, TOPPS Inc. founder/director, at (870) 850-6011.
Program supports SEA reforestation
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is opening enrollment for a new cost-share program aimed at helping landowners in southeast Arkansas address forest health issues in intensively managed pine plantations.
A total of $2.2 million in cost-share funding is available.
Applications will be ranked based on several criteria.
Landowners in Ashley, Chicot, Desha, Drew and Lincoln counties will be given priority. Property owners outside the target area are also eligible to apply.
Applications will be accepted until Nov. 21, according to a news release from the Department of Agriculture.
In recent years, many pine plantations in this region have experienced a decline in forest health due to brown spot needle blight. The fungus causes distinctive brown discoloration on pine trees, which may deter landowners from replanting pine after harvest, according to the release.
The new program provides financial assistance to landowners for site preparation and reforestation of hardwood species, as well as removal of standing dead pine timber to safely implement reforestation practices.
Eligible properties include those currently forested with pine or recently harvested pine lands.
Participation in the program requires landowners to develop a long-term management plan with a registered forester.
Plans must be approved by the department, and reforestation efforts will be monitored to ensure long-term success.
For details and an application, visit https://agriculture.arkansas.gov/forests/forest-health/hardwood-reforestation-program/.
Shooting power, fiber lines illegal
Dove season is underway, now through Oct. 26 and Dec. 8 through Jan. 15.
Hunters are urged to use caution near electrical equipment, according to a news release from the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas.
“Doves often perch on power lines and fiber lines, becoming enticing targets for hunters. The risks of damaging electric and fiber-optic equipment, as well as causing potential physical injury, far outweigh the rewards of hunting,” according to the release.
Electric Cooperatives remind hunters it is illegal to shoot near or toward power lines, fiber lines, utility poles, transformers or substations.
It is a Class D felony, punishable by up to six years in prison, with fines of up to $10,000, according to the release.
Stray pellets could damage equipment, possibly interrupting electric or internet service and causing physical risks to those nearby.
Hunters should never trespass onto or hunt in the immediate area of utility property or infrastructure, as they may face civil or criminal liability for doing so.
For safety, follow these additional tips:
Familiarize yourself with the area before heading out to hunt. Take note of power lines and equipment, especially when hunting in densely wooded areas.
Observe all signs or postings that advise electrical safety, especially when scouting out a location for your tree stand.
Look up and look out for power lines, and do not come within 10 feet of an overhead line or pole when setting up or taking down a stand.
Never climb a utility pole.
Do not place dove decoys on power lines or other utility equipment. Nonelectrical attachments can pose an obstruction and serious hazard to lineworkers.
Details: www.ecark.org.