West Memphis A&P off to running start with funding for the year

22nd Annual Delta Byways Banquet to be held Feb 16

By DON WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

At the recent meeting of the West Memphis Advertising and Promotion (A& P) Commission, the re-appointment of Mike Patel and Altoria Brisbon to the commission was discussed and approved. However, the final authorization is pending approval from the city council.

One of the key decisions made during the meeting was regarding a sponsorship request from Southland Casino for their well-loved regional event, Trucktober Fest. The commission approved a sponsorship amount of $12,580, payable to West Memphis Fence. The second annual Trucktober Fest is expected to be held in the third quarter of this year.

In addition, the commission approved a budget of $50,000 for the year 2024 for DeltaArts, a prominent local arts organization. As part of this approval, DeltaArts has been granted the use of the Civic Auditorium for a period of five days. This will enable them to host various events and exhibitions, contributing to the flourishing arts scene in West Memphis. Further years and funding in the same amount will be reviewed yearly. Recognizing the vital role the Chamber of Commerce plays in promoting local businesses and tourism, the A& P Commission has committed to providing $25,000 in annual funding. The funding will be distributed quarterly to assist the chamber’s initiatives and activities. This continued financial support is expected to drive economic growth and showcase the many opportunities available in West Memphis.

Under the Small Business Assistance Program, the commission approved a

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grant of $5,000 for the establishment of an outdoor patio at the local restaurant, Blackberry Molasses. This _nancial aid will help enhance the dining experience and attract more patrons, boosting the growth of small businesses in the city.

In other news, the Delta Byways organization announced that its annual banquet will be held on February 16 at the Civic Center. This prestigious event celebrates the region’s unique cultural heritage and highlights the abundant tourist attractions available in West Memphis.

The evening is set to begin with a silent auction and social hour at 5:30 p.m., featuring unique items from around the Arkansas Delta. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m., followed by the highly anticipated awards presentation.

Arkansas Delta Byways, a nonpro_t organization based on the Arkansas State University campus, is of_cially recognized by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism as the premier tourism promotion association for Eastern Arkansas. The 15 counties we represent are Arkansas, Chicot, Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Cross, Desha, Drew, Greene, Lee, Mississippi, Monroe, Phillips, Poinsett, and St. Francis.

To attend the banquet, individual tickets are priced at $35, while a table for eight is available for $250. The deadline for online ticket reservations is Friday, Feb. 9. However, tickets can also be purchased at the banquet on the evening of the event using cash, check, credit, or debit cards.

Those wishing to contribute items for the silent auction and represent your community, please reach out to Brandy Oliver at brandy.oliver@arkansas. gov. Alternatively, you can bring your items to the venue before 5 p.m. on the night of the event.