This time a of year is a busy one in the Atmore community as there is no shortage of school and community events to attend, and Saturday Oct. 1 residents will have another choice for weekend activities as the Fifth annual “Stomp the Yard” event comes to Houston Avery Park.

The event, which is coordinated by Dr. Bernard Bishop Ministries, should be another big success despite a dip in funding this year Bishop said.

“It’s been a touch economic year for most businesses. Funds have been harder to come by.”

Bishop said he initially entertained ideas of foregoing a 2011 installment of the event but changed his mind after speaking with community members.

“I was contemplating canceling this year,” he said. “But I ran into some kids in the community who were already excited, so even though funds are short, we’re going to make this happen for the community.”

“Stomp the Yard” was begun in 2007 as a way to unite Atmore residents and is supported totally by sponsorships and donations. Bishop said, while funding is still being sought, this year the event will have all of the staples people have come to anticipate.

“We will have games, great food and performances from singers and rappers,” he said.

In addition to the entertainment, this year’s event will also include speakers addressing community-wide issues.

“The department of corrections will be there with several inmates who will speak about the importance of education,” Bishop said. “The health department will also be there offering on-site HIV and STD testing with results ready in as little as 15 to 20 minutes, and we’ll have a speaker talking about teenage pregnancy and how to make good choices. She will also be talking about how to cope and be productive for young girls already pregnant or raising a child.”

All activities and performances held during “Stomp the Yard” are free to the public Bishop said, but added donations and sponsorships will be needed this year right up until the day of the event.

For more information or to make a donation or sponsorship, Bishop may be contacted at (251) 577-1430 or by mail at Dr. Bernard Bishop Ministries, 455 Kenneth RD., Atmore, AL 36502.

Dr. Bernard Bishop Ministries is a non-profit organization and all donations are tax-deductible.