LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - Too often we report the negative news, but great things are happening in your community each day.
Here's a look at a few stories that are on The Brighter Side...
Museum of Discovery making waves
The musuem has welcomed more than 100,000 people, including Arkansans and visitors from 49 states and several foreign countries. During that time, more than 1,600 membership packages have been purchased.
"We anticipated an increase in visitation and memberships, given the fact that we had been closed for nearly a year for a major renovation. But the magnitude of the increase in such a short period of time has been pretty phenomenal," said Nan Selz, executive director of the museum. "What's even better is that we keep seeing people return. There is so much to explore at the science center. It lends itself to new experiences each visit," she added.
The museum closed for renovation April 2011, and re-opened January 14. At 2010's six-month mark, attendance was nearly 60,000. Since January 2012, more than 100,000 people have visited the facility.
For hours and admission prices, click here.
Free school supplies for Malvern students
Many Malvern students need school supplies and a local humanitarian continues to coordinate help with backpacks, binders, papers, pencils, and other materials, along with an inspiring motivational message.
The 'Back to School Youth Explosion' is scheduled for Saturday, August 4, under the direction of Rev. Henry Mitchell, founder of Victory, a non-profit organization. The event is scheduled at the Malvern Elementary School, located on Moline Street. The hours are 8:30-10:30am. There's no need to come early and wait in line in the heat, event coordinators say.
Students and parents will receive a continental breakfast, free haircuts and supplies. Some of the other activities will include face painting for younger children.
"Because 70 percent of our Malvern school children fall into the poverty category, this is a huge reason to do this. We also want to motivate students to make goals and take advantage of getting the best education in the coming school year," said Mitchell, who is the pastor at Mount Willow Baptist Church.
The motivational speaker is John Hildreth from Garland County CARES. He will provide a substance abuse prevention education presentation for the students.
"Our goal is to reach out to every child in every part of our community," said Mitchell, whose Victory organization has partnered with the Malvern School District for several years. "We are excited about College of the Ouachitas providing their cosmetology students so that kids can get that fresh hair cut to start school. Walmart is another important contributor, Mitchell said."
Malvern students must be present to receive supplies.
For more information or to make a donation, contact the Malvern/Hot Spring County Chamber of Commerce at 332-2721.
Victory is a local non-profit 501c3 organization, which Mitchell originally formed to fund the Back to School Youth Explosion. It began in 2006 after he retired from Sears. He felt called to help children in the community with school supplies and a positive, uplifting message. Victory began through the support of his own business, Hank's Appliance Repair, and has greatly expanded through the help of others. Last year the program served around 900 students.