Bowl game benefits local United Way

The fourth annual Agent Barry Live United Bowl takes place at noon today at Arkansas High Stadium. Barrett Baber from "The Voice" will provide the halftime entertainment.

The event raises money for the United Way of Greater Texarkana, but the awareness it raises may be more important.

"I think it's probably one of the most recognized sporting events in Texarkana currently so by having our name attached to that it constantly keeps the United Way at the forefront," said Mark Bledsoe, president and CEO of United Way.

Getting the message out about the United Way's mission is easier because of the Live United Bowl.

"It's certainly easier to tell about the agencies and other programs that are being impacted by the campaign and the money raised," Bledsoe said. "It's certainly not the biggest fundraiser of the United but I still put it at or near the top simply because of the recognition it brings to the United Way. It makes people aware of what we're trying to do, the lives we're trying to impact and the programs we're trying to grow in the community."

The United Way has set a goal of $900,000 for its 2017 fundraising campaign, which is going well.

"The campaign so far seems to be slightly better than last year with early indications," Bledsoe said. "We are still lining up businesses. If there are any new businesses out there interested in starting at United Way campaign, please give us a call. We're trying to get the money back into the community and there are needs that need to be met."

The funds raised by the United Way campaign stay local.

"Their money stays here locally and the decisions on where funds are spent those decisions are made by local people. We don't want people to think United Way worldwide is deciding where funds are spent here. All those decisions are made locally," Bledsoe said. "We see the United Way as the organization that's got its arms around the entire community. There are those three different areas that we feel are important as far as advancing the common good int he community and those three building blocks are education, health and finances. We feel like if we do our job correctly looking for long-term solutions, then we can improve the overall quality of life in this region."

Tickets to the game are $10 for adults and $4 for students and are available at the gate. Rain is in the forecast.

"The weather forecast is looking better. It seems to be improving by the hour, so we hope that trend continues. Umbrellas are allowed to be brought to the game," Bledsoe said.

For more information about the United Way campaign, call 903-794-3105.