Category: Pine Bluff Commercial News
Fundraiser benefits food pantry
Pine Bluff Commercial
In a state grappling with the highest rates of food insecurity in the nation, Pine Bluff recently united to champion the First Ward Living Grace Pantry at its Third Annual Black Tie Fundraiser, bringing out several dignitaries, community leaders and elected officials.
First Ward Living Grace Pantry, established in February 2017 as a 501(c)(3) agency, is dedicated to nourishing families and fighting hunger across Pine Bluff, Jefferson County and surrounding communities.
The event, which included heartfelt tributes to guests of honor and Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr., highlighted critical issues facing the state, raising thousands of dollars toward the cause while celebrating those committed to service.
Isley Gooding, an anchor at KATV Channel 7 in Little Rock and the evening's master of ceremonies, expressed her excitement about being part of "such a good cause," emphasizing the critical issue of food insecurity in Arkansas.
"The USDA's economic research service reports that Arkansas again is number one in all the states with some of the highest food insecurity in the nation," Gooding stated. She elaborated on the four main problems contributing to this crisis: rising food insecurity, economic factors that make food unaffordable, the existence of food deserts in areas like Ward One in Pine Bluff due to grocery store closures, and a lack of transportation that hinders access to stores. Gooding thanked attendees for their presence, noting: "You being here tonight is helping that issue."
The event featured words of welcome from the executive director Deborah Allen. She acknowledged the immense effort put into organizing the event.
"I've been working on this for about nine months, me my team, and we are finally here," she said.
Allen also took a moment to introduce her board members, acknowledging past advice from Bill Jones, CEO of Sissy's Log Cabin, whose support has helped sustain the pantry. "You told me about six years ago, 'When you choose a board, choose someone that can help you.' It took me about five years to realize it, and I finally understand," she said.
The gathering, however, was to celebrate and honor Woods, with speakers highlighting his dedication to the community and exceptional character. Community members and leaders delivered heartfelt tributes at the event, emphasizing Woods' five-year impact in office.
Carlton Saffa, chief marketing officer of Saracen Casino, expressed deep admiration for his leadership.
"The best thing I can say about our sheriff is he's the kind of guy you hope your kid grows up to be," he said. "He's as good an ambassador as we could have for Jefferson County. I'm honored to have him as my friend, and I'm honored he's the one keeping us safe."
He also emphasized Woods' ability to make everyone comfortable and his role as a true gentleman. "There's an old saying about a true gentleman. A man who appears well in any company makes everyone comfortable. I think about Lafayette. He's the kind of guy you want to introduce people to," said Saffa.
The event also featured words of encouragement from Justice of the Peace Margarette Williams. She encouraged Woods to continue embodying the qualities of a strong leader and a person of character.
Williams extended her encouragement to everyone in attendance, urging them to be grateful for the visionary leadership of Allen and to practice active love through service.
Sharri and Bill Jones emphasized the deep connections within the community and the closeness between their family and Woods.
"There are people you can call on them anytime of the day or night about anything, and they will never tell you no," Sharri shared, expressing gratitude. She also extended appreciation to the sheriff's family, stating, "I thank you for sharing your family and your time with us, and we love you."
Bill Jones presented Woods with a cowboy hat and sunglasses. He spoke passionately about the sense of security and pride he feels living and serving in the community, largely attributing it to the presence and leadership of Woods.
Southeast Arkansas College recruitment director John Proctor delivered a powerful poem, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of those being honored. His tribute emphasized the importance of action over mere brainstorming.
The spotlight then turned to Allen and the impactful work of her food pantry. Former Pine Bluff Police Chief Ivan Whitfield elaborated on what makes her and the pantry unique, highlighting Allen's selfless commitment.
"She runs a pantry, not for praise, not for attention, out of a commitment to be the home for the struggling people in our community," he said. He further explained that Allen's purpose is pure and her impact real, especially in a world where many talk about change but few act.
"While other people are making noise, she's feeding," he said. "What makes First Ward Pantry different is the one alone, Deborah Strickland Allen."
Pulaski County Sheriff Eric Higgins commended Woods for his commitment to service.
"It's so important that you have someone who is reaching out and helping people," he said. "You have a great sheriff here who cares about people."
Higgins expressed immense pride in Woods.
"I'm proud to call him a friend. I'm proud of the work he does day in and day out because I know it is not about holding the position. It's not about power. It's not about prestige. It's not about someone honoring him," Higgins said. "It is about service, it's about helping people, and that's what you see when you see Sheriff Woods. When you see what he does, you see his heart, and that's what this is about."
Higgins further acknowledged Woods' role as a mentor among sheriffs. "Thank you for being a mentor in the sheriff community because we all look up to you and we're proud of the work you do," he said.
The event also recognized other individuals for their significant contributions. Distribution partners recognized were Trinity Annex, Christ Redeemer Church, Kingdom Builders Outreach Church and Pine Hill Baptist Church.
Those presented with the Lafayette Woods Sr. Community Award included Lloyd Franklin Jr., Santrice Kearney, Judge Earnest Brown, Heat Magazine's Andre Braswell, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. and Super 1/Brookshire's.
Woods then addressed the crowd.
"Under the steadfast leadership of Deborah Strickland Allen ... she has been a beacon of hope and source of solace for so many years in Jefferson County," he said.
Woods emphasized Allen's transformative vision, passion and commitment, noting that she "transformed this pantry from a small initiative into a private source of nourishment and care for so many families and individuals in need."
It was also highlighted that even when some doubted the pantry would last, Allen's "steadfast faith and resolve kept the mission alive," leading to "nearly eight years of continued service."
Woods was also lauded for his exceptional leadership and dedication. Pine Bluff Mayor Vivian Flowers recognized his academic and professional achievements.
"Lafayette Woods is a man of letters, academic letters," she said. "He was very proud of that, because he understands through experience and observation how important education is."
Flowers further praised Woods's commitment to his profession. "He not only does what's required, but he goes above and beyond in serving, and he doesn't just allow his name to be on a list ... he actually shows up and serves," she said.
Referring to Woods as "a protector of this county," it was revealed that he was the youngest serving sheriff in Arkansas at 37 when elected in 2018. His motto, "Service Above Self," which is enshrined in the nearly 200-year history of the sheriff's office, was particularly highlighted as a reflection of his dedication by Flowers.
"People talk often about our challenges, problems," said Flowers. "We don't need anybody to save us, because all of the dedication and the talent and the intelligence, the education, the grit, we have right here in this county, right here in this city."
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Posted on 31 Jul 2025, 17:30 - Category: Pine Bluff Commercial News
Jefferson County Sheriff graduates from FBI program
Pine Bluff Commercial
Jefferson County Sheriff graduates from FBI program
July 18, 2023 by Special to The Commercial
from the FBI National Command Course in Virginia on July 14. (Special to The Commercial/Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office)
Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. graduated from Session 5 of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Command Course in Quantico, Va.
Woods accomplished this achievement on Friday with FBI Director Christopher Wray present to award participants their certificates of completion, according to a news release.
FBI Little Rock Special Agent in Charge James A. Dawson nominated Woods for this opportunity.
Among the 50 chief executives of domestic law enforcement agencies who participated, Woods was one of only eight sheriffs from across the United States selected to attend this week long training. The NCC, first developed in 2020, was specifically designed to address the need for strategic leadership training programs for policing executives within the FBI, according to the release.
NCC focuses on agency heads with fewer than 50 sworn law enforcement officers who have not previously attended the FBI National Academy. The training covers a wide range of critical topics, such as strategic leadership, image management, officer wellness and the prevention of targeted violence.
Woods emphasized the value of continued professional development and the significance of networking with other law enforcement executives from across the nation.
"Participating in the FBI National Command Course has been an incredible opportunity for me to enhance my leadership skills and gain valuable insights from esteemed colleagues in law enforcement. The knowledge and expertise shared during this training will undoubtedly strengthen our commitment to public safety in Jefferson County, Arkansas," he said.
He is determined to leverage the training to enhance community relations, optimize departmental collaborations, and ensure that law enforcement efforts remain effective, efficient and responsive to the needs of residents, according to the release.
The sheriff also appreciates Dawson for his nomination and continuous support.
Read More...Posted on 18 Jul 2023, 11:55 - Category: Pine Bluff Commercial News
Sheriff's Office partners with AT&T for food donations
Pine Bluff Commercial
By Special to The Commercial
Posted May 22, 2020 at 12:01 AM
Members of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with AT&T’s “Believe Arkansas,” are donating food to help aid those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Believe Arkansas” is an AT&T employee initiative focused on addressing food insecurity with the most hunger-challenged populations across the state of Arkansas. The program has partnered with law enforcement agencies to provide bags of non-perishable food items (Patrol Packs) to be distributed to those facing food insecurity, according to a news release.
The Patrol Packs include items such as low sodium canned vegetables, canned tuna in water, peanut butter, canned soup, canned beans, fruit, canned chicken, canned ravioli or spaghetti, packaged meals such as mac & cheese or Hamburger Helper, and juice boxes. The Patrol Packs will be distributed each month until December to youth, seniors and others who have been impacted by the pandemic.
“We are very appreciative of our partnership with AT&T and the ability to make a difference in our local community during this difficult time,” Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. said. “We know people can’t get around like they normally would due to COVID-19 and we also know that people are not working and stores are struggling to keep shelves stocked. As the pandemic continues to affect everyday life, we will assist those in need and we want our community to know that you are not alone, we care, and we are here for you.”
Anyone who’s in need or knows someone who’s in need can email the sheriff’s office at alicia.dorn@jeffcoso.org or call 870-329-5638 to have their names added to the distribution list. The email should include the name and address so that deputies on patrol know where to deliver the Patrol Pack.
There are no exact delivery times, as deputies are still responding to emergency calls. They will make their way to locations while on their routine patrol.
Read More...Posted on 22 May 2020, 24:01 - Category: Pine Bluff Commercial News
Department heads oppose furlough during Quorum Court
Pine Bluff Commercial News
By Eplunus Colvin
Posted May 6, 2020 at 4:30 PM
An ordinance amending the budget for Jefferson County, Arkansas for a 30 percent slot reduction by way of furlough, was heavily discussed in a two-hour Quorum Court meeting Tuesday evening.
According to Justice of the Peace Ted Harden, under the furlough, employees would be able to draw unemployment and receive an additional $600 from the federal government for 14 weeks and the county would pay 50 percent of the insurance. “This is the best deal that I’ve seen,” said Harden. “I’ve looked at two or three different plans and the judge is behind this.“
According to the Chief of Staff, when doing her research on the Shared Work Program, a reserved account was needed, which Jefferson County does not have. She also stated doing a Shared Work Program would save them less money in comparison to furlough. “The revenues for March and the revenue for April are going to be down,” said Jefferson County Judge Gerald Robinson. ” Even with the businesses opening up like they are, and we are getting back to opening up everything, we know we are still at least a couple of months into having those revenues that are going to be down.“
While some of the committee agreed with the furlough, Justice Alfred Carroll said he could not support it.
“The majority of us have not heard the majority speak,” said Carroll. “We don’t have any documents to substantiate any of the numbers that we’ve heard about so that we can look at them ourselves and see what they say.“
The furlough would include every department in the county but Sixth Division Circuit Judge Earnest E. Brown Jr. said he respectfully disagreed with the Chief of Staff. “The judge said if we had any alternate ideas that the elected official had, to bring that forward,” said Brown. “The judge indicated his idea was to furlough but many other department heads who had another proposals, they could do that.“
Brown said he submitted his application Friday for the Shared Work Program and spoke with the director of the Arkansas Division of Workforce about the provisions of the program.
According to Brown, his application was approved and he provided confirming documents during the meeting.
“I am asking if a department can show that they can do a Shared Work Program or a reduction in hours, mine was reduced from 40 hours to 30 hours a week, they still would be eligible for the $600 and their unemployment through the shared work program, I’m asking for another approach,” said Brown.
The Chief of Staff questioned Brown stating the information she received from the assistant director was that the program had to apply to the entire county.
Brown stated each department could apply separately.
Robinson said the reason the furlough was chosen is because that was the best choice for the employees but he was willing to exempt Judge Brown due to his unique situation.
Under the program, Brown stated pay for his employees will be cut by 25 percent for 24 weeks and could be extended.
County Tax Collector Tony Washington said his department could not operate if his loses any staff.
“I have an automated fund that I can put two people in, the same as a furlough,” he said. “They will be no problem to the county at all. They will be nonexistent to the county budget.“ Washington explained that every office was different and he has the funds to run his office for up to five months.
County Assessor Yvonne Humphrey agreed with Washington saying this was her busiest time and she could not layoff anyone in personal property. “I agree with our judge on some things but somethings I just don’t,” said Humphrey. “You don’t personally know what goes on in each individual office.“
She goes on to say that the future is unknown but for now her job is to help the people that are employed and the citizens who elected them. “We have to kind of juggle stuff. If ya’ll don’t let us juggle stuff, we can’t do our job,” said Humphrey. “If we don’t learn how to juggle or maneuver and listen to what everybody is saying, we’re never going to come together as one.“
Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. said this dialogue should have took place early on so the committee could have had the opportunity to hear some of the alternatives and concerns. “You all know the job I do and there’s no secret the department I oversee make up the bulk of the budget,” said Woods as he explained his responsibilities as sheriff. “We employ the most people.“
Woods noted the city of Pine Bluff Work Shared Program excluded public safety and stated there was no guarantee the proposed furlough would benefit the entire county. “The city of Pine Bluff did the Share Work Program but they also made an exemption for public safety,” said Woods. “Public safety is not included. It’s not included for a reason. If you all read the newspaper, watch television, you talk to neighbors, you know why they weren’t included.“
Woods explained not excluding public safety would create foreseeable issues as he pointed out that almost every person in the room had a need for the Sheriff’s Office at one point. “If you do not make an exception for public safety then I’ll have to address what I have to do,” said Woods. “If I have to reduce the population down to 50 because that’s the only staff I have to operate, that’s what I’ll be willing to do.“
Woods addressed the committee to consider the public safety exemption when they roll out the plan.
A motion was made by Carroll to table the ordinance, which failed. The ordinance was then amended to exclude Brown and any other department that can show a plan that will match the savings of the furloughed plan by Monday, May 11.
Posted on 06 May 2020, 16:30 - Category: Pine Bluff Commercial News
JCSO Sheriff, mom sew face masks for staff
Pine Bluff Commercial News
By Shakari Briggs Pine Bluff Commercial
Posted Apr 11, 2020 at 12:01 AMUpdated Apr 12, 2020 at 6:26 AM
When Lafayette Woods, Jr., Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office sheriff, found out his staff didn’t have face masks, he leaped into action and even enlisted the help of his mother Gwendolyn Woods.
When Lafayette Woods, Jr., Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office sheriff, found out his staff didn’t have face masks, he leaped into action and even enlisted the help of his mother Gwendolyn Woods. The tag-team duo has sewn nearly 100 masks for employees at his office.
“As sheriff, I take the health and safety of our deputies as well as the administrative support staff very seriously,” said Woods. “With the ongoing spread of the coronavirus, it was particularly important for me to ensure that the necessary protections such as personal protective equipment (PPE) were in place to minimize potential exposure to the COVID-19 pandemic and protect staff against health or safety risks on the job. However, immediate access to consumer or commercial grade PPE’s were a challenge due to the demand caused by COVID-19.“
Previously, health officials urged the public not to wear face masks unless they were sick in an effort to prevent a shortage for healthcare workers or first responders deemed to need them the most as they care for those infected with COVID-19. But, newly released studies prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to suggest people to at least wear a cloth face mask to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. According to the CDC, the virus spreads through people interacting in close proximity to each other by way of speaking, coughing or sneezing.
“The CDC continues to study the spread and effects of the novel coronavirus across the United States,” the agency said. “We now know from recent studies that a significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms (“asymptomatic”) and that even those who eventually develop symptoms (“pre-symptomatic”) can transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms.“
While out conducting essential business like going grocery shopping, to a pharmacy or even areas of “significant community-based transmission,” health officials recommend Americans wear face masks excluding N95 masks--- used to protect the wearer from airborne particles and from liquid contaminating the face and set aside for healthcare and emergency personnel.
“Because of some recent information that the virus can actually be spread even when people just speak as opposed to coughing and sneezing -- the better part of valor is that when you’re out, when you can’t maintain that 6-foot distance, to wear some sort of facial covering,” said Dr. Anthony Fauci, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases director in an interview on “Fox & Friends” last week.
The City of Pine Bluff happened to be the first municipal to have a person test positive for COVID-19 in the state. Since Wed., March 11, 89 more people have tested positive for the virus in Jefferson County with at least one death reported.
“We needed some form of protection for our staff until our formal request made to the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) through the Jefferson County Office of Emergency Management could be fulfilled,” said Woods. “We didn’t wait until we received requests from staff for masks. Instead, we recognized the need and acted in a proactive manner.“
With a passion to help others, especially those in need, coupled with her stitching skills, Woods knew his mother was the perfect person to help him sew for a worthy cause.
“I love doing stuff like this,” said Gwendolyn Woods, a retired art teacher. “In fact, I recently had back surgery and I volunteer at the CASA Women’s Shelter and hadn’t been able to get up there. So, this was a good thing for me to jump at.“
After searching unsuccessfully for a face mask in stores, Tonya Harris admits she was glad to know she’d receive one from her boss.
“I felt a sense of relief,” Harris said. “I have checked the stores in our area weekly trying to purchase a mask. The COVID-19 virus is serious and being told there’s no clue when the store will get some masks can be frustrating.”
Crystal Ringo echoed the same sentiments as Harris about the colorful cotton masks they received as a gift.
“With all that is happening around the country and the world, it’s imperative that the sheriff’s office and staff be able to continue to serve our community safely,” Ringo said. “I was grateful that he and his mother thought of us. Masks are hard to come by, but because of them we have one.”
Posted on 11 Apr 2020, 24:01 - Category: Pine Bluff Commercial News
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