Kids Day canceled because of spike in cases

The 35th Annual City and County Youth Day organized by Shannon “Duck” Sims has been canceled due to the state’s rising number of active COVID-19 cases.

In last week's press conference at Chickasaw Arena, Governor Asa Hutchinson reported that 57 percent of the new cases are confirmed as the coronavirus Delta variant. The variant is reportedly twice as transmissible and doubles the chances of being hospitalized. Hutchinson also included that from June 7 to July 9, the state’s active case leaped from 1,594 to 6,600.

As of July 16, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 9,750 active cases across the state, with 44 within Mississippi County.

“Our board members believe it is in the best interest of the public to not have the picnic gathering. Safety is always our first priority,” Sims said.

However, the program will still deliver backpacks and supplies to schools throughout the county at their request. Anyone looking for these supplies can contact the program at 870-623-3179.