SBBS Announces ABHF Executive Director and Associate Director

Sonny Boy Blues Society officials announced today the return of Munnie Jordan as the executive director of the annual blues celebration, and newcomer Daniel Sims as associate director. Jordan, a native of Helena-West Helena, served as festival director for the then King Biscuit Blues Festival from 1992 to 1997, when the event was owned by Main Street Helena. The Sonny Boy Blues Society (owners and producers of the Arkansas Blues and Heritage Festival) board of directors approached Jordan in June to assist with the coordination, execution, and fundraising for the annual three day festival. At the time the society approached Jordan, she was reluctant due to the scope of the festival and the limited time to logistically and financially execute such an event, but with Jordan’s passion for the festival and community, she accepted the task and has “hit the ground running.”

When asked what made her return to the festival leadership position, Jordan responded: “I watched the festival grow from a Main Street Helena creative idea into one of the largest blues festivals in the country. I have a passion for this festival and our community. It has given our community and state worldwide positive publicity and has allowed us to brand our region as the home of the blues and allow us to capitalize on our heritage.” Associate Director Daniel Sims is also a native of Helena-West Helena, and came on board with the festival in early April in an attempt to help the organization with grant-writing efforts. He took on his current position when Jordan agreed to return to the helm of the event. Sims stated: “This festival has put Helena on the map in a very meaningful way over the last 23 years. The only way that we can ensure its continued success is to come together as a community, and it is my goal to bring everyone to the table and work towards that goal.”

For more information, contact the festival at 870.816.1106 or 314.580.3764. The festival can also be reached by email at ds@bluesandheritagefest.com or mj@bluesandheritagefest.com

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