The History of Virginia State University
Posted on 03/07/25
by Brenda Barnes
AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.
HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.
Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:
- Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)
- Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)
- Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)
- Virginia State College (1946-1979)
- Virginia State University (1979 to present)
The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.
As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to
Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.
Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.
Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.
Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.
Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.
VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent
minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.
This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the AARP Virginia page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.
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'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( 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(int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
AARP Events for Tunica Resorts
AARP Events for Tunica Resorts
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AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25
Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT
Online Event
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AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25
Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT
Online Event
-
AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25
Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT
Online Event
Last Chance to Save!
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Mississippi
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?><?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The History of Virginia State University</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history" name="description"/> <meta content="History, of, Virginia, State, University" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/virginia/the-history-of-virginia-state-university" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-history-of-virginia-state-university-va-2025-03-07.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta property="og:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>The History of Virginia State University</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history" name="description"/> <meta content="History, of, Virginia, State, University" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/virginia/the-history-of-virginia-state-university" /> <meta 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?><?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The History of Virginia State University</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history" name="description"/> <meta content="History, of, Virginia, State, University" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/virginia/the-history-of-virginia-state-university" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-history-of-virginia-state-university-va-2025-03-07.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta property="og:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" 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"Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The History of Virginia State University</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history" name="description"/> <meta content="History, of, Virginia, State, University" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/virginia/the-history-of-virginia-state-university" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-history-of-virginia-state-university-va-2025-03-07.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta property="og:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; 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--pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>The History of Virginia State University</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history" name="description"/> <meta content="History, of, Virginia, State, University" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/virginia/the-history-of-virginia-state-university" /> <meta 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--horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Tunica Resorts, MS</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Home</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">State & Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep d-none " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The History of Virginia State University</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history" name="description"/> <meta content="History, of, Virginia, State, University" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/virginia/the-history-of-virginia-state-university" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-history-of-virginia-state-university-va-2025-03-07.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta property="og:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; 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--pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ' $scripts_for_layout = '<title>The History of Virginia State University</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history" name="description"/> <meta content="History, of, Virginia, State, University" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/virginia/the-history-of-virginia-state-university" /> <meta 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--horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }' $highlighting = '' $location = '<a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Tunica Resorts, MS</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/happenings/">News Feed</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Home</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">State & Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep d-none " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/tunica-resorts-ms/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to News Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118
Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The History of Virginia State University</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history" name="description"/> <meta content="History, of, Virginia, State, University" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/virginia/the-history-of-virginia-state-university" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-history-of-virginia-state-university-va-2025-03-07.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta property="og:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; 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--pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 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'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => 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{ "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> 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Feed', 'slug' => 'happenings' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: 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#007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} 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'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail left-bot"></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail right-bot thin-rhs"></div> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> </div> <div class="row oneColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-12"><!-- script to activate navbar --> <script type="text/javascript"> jQuery(".channelBarMain ul.left li a").click(function() { window.location = jQuery(this).attr('href'); }); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>The History of Virginia State University</title> <meta name="page_title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history" name="description"/> <meta content="History, of, Virginia, State, University" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://states.aarp.org/virginia/the-history-of-virginia-state-university" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/news/the-history-of-virginia-state-university-va-2025-03-07.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta property="og:title" content="The History of Virginia State University"/> <meta property="og:description" content="AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at VSU, presented an online event that described the rich history of HBCUs in Virginia."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/675764b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x514+0+43/resize/420x270!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Faarp-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fstates%2Fe2%2F8b%2F583d857943a99fd2eec8f3fbc954%2Fstates-default-image-800x600.png"/> /* temporary */ .RichTextArticleBody ul { padding-left: 20px; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement { margin: 40px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item img { width: auto; max-width: 100% !important; height: auto; } @media (min-width: 768px) { .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=left], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-left] .Enhancement-item > * { float: left; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 20px 20px 0; } .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement .Enhancement-item .Figure[data-alignment=right], .RichTextArticleBody .Enhancement[data-align-right] .Enhancement-item > * { float: right; max-width: 340px !important; margin: 0 0 20px 20px; } } :root { --primaryColor: #ff1e3c; --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">The History of Virginia State University</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 03/07/25 by <b>Brenda Barnes</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>AARP Virginia and Cheryl Mango, associate professor of history at Virginia State University (VSU), presented an online event that described the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. Mango, founding executive director of the National HBCU Studies Data Collection and Research Center at VSU, talked about the founding and history of the university as well as the broader impact HBCUs have in their communities.<br><br>HBCUs have played a major role in the education and economic empowerment of the African American community. These institutions have not only given Black people access to higher education but also nurtured talent, leadership, and cultural pride. Among the prominent HBCUs, VSU stands out for its rich history and determination to fight for equality in education.<br><br>Mango gave an extensive overview of the historical events that culminated in what we currently know as VSU. Located in Petersburg, Virginia, it was founded on March 6, 1882, as the first public Negro college. Additionally, it was the first state supported four-year institution of higher education for Black people. Mango pointed out that the school’s name had changed five times, significantly reflecting its progression to excellence in the field of higher education VSU is known for today. The names are listed below:<br></p><ul><li>Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (1882-1902)</li><li>Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute (1902-1923)</li><li>Virginia State College for Negroes (1923-1946)</li><li>Virginia State College (1946-1979)</li><li> Virginia State University (1979 to present)</li></ul><p>The first time the name changed was due to mission expansion of the school. The initial mission established in 1882 was to train African Americans to become teachers in response to the great need for well qualified teachers in segregated schools. In 1902, as the curriculum evolved to include a more comprehensive and diverse range of vocational and academic training,, the name was changed to Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute.<br><br>As the curriculum became known for its academic excellence and cultural contributions abounded, the name was changed again. In 1923, it was renamed to<br><br>Virginia State College for Negroes. During this era, the school became recognized as a springboard of intellectual and cultural life for many African Americans.<br><br>Virginia State College became the new name from 1946-1979. By expanding courses and degree options as well as research capabilities, it achieved university status; thus, the name was changed to Virginia State University.<br><br>Mango discussed the role of native Americans in VSUs history. VSU sits on Fleet Hill where Powhatan of the Appomattoc tribe was defeated in 1676 by Captain Henry Fleet. After slavery ended, Alfred Harris, a Black attorney who graduated from Howard University, founded VSU. At that time, Harris was a delegate that represented Dinwiddie County in the General Assembly. As Harris gained power in the Virginia Legislature, he advocated for bills to be passed for education and mental health facilities in Virginia. As a result, VSU was established for education and Central State Hospital became the world’s first asylum for Black people.<br><br>Harris stated in the bill that VSU must be a solely Black school, with board members, the presidents, students and staff all being Black. From its inception to the present time, VSU has always had a Black president. John Mercer Langston was the first president of VSU and only served one year. John Manuel Gandy was the longest serving president (1914 – 1942) who made VSU a land grant institution and gained approval to award 4-year degrees. Makola Abdullah, its current president, has been serving VSU since 2016.<br><br>Norfolk State College started out as a satellite campus of VSU in 1944. It became an independent college in 1969 and granted university status in 1979.<br><br>VSU has also fostered academic excellence, and commitment to student success can be seen in many of its alumni. William H. Lewis attended VSU in 1890 and he was a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General. Herman Branson from the class of 1936 became a notable physicist. Reginald F. Lewis founded TLC Beatrice Group in 1983. By 1992, the company had sales of over $1.8 billion annually, making it the first Black-owned business to generate a billion dollars in annual sales. The African American Museum in Baltimore is named after Lewis. Another notable graduate of VSU was Ora Brown Stokes Perry, an educator who took leadership roles in the women’s suffragist movement in the Richmond, Virginia area. She chaired the Colored Women's Section, National Defense of Virginia, and organized the National Protective League for Negro Girls. Later, she became the founder of the League of Women Voters in Virginia. She was also an advisor to Mary McLeod Bethune. Another distinguished alumnus is Samuel DeWitt Proctor, an outstanding American who wore many hats. He was known as a prominent<br><br>minister who led churches throughout Virginia and New York, as well as mentoring Martin Luther King, Jr during the Civil Rights Movement. Proctor also served as president of two other HBCUs, Virginia Union and North Carolina A&T State University.</p></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Virginia. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/virginia/" target="_blank">AARP Virginia</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://npmcdn.com/flickity@2/dist/flickity.pkgd.min.js"></script> <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.d703996ba6a992470f9f7fa2170736df.gz.js"></script> <link class="Webpack-css" rel="stylesheet" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.2cef3303b65f09149a6db29044f033cb.gz.css"> <!-- <script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> --> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); font-size: 13px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.4; font-style: italic; background: #f0efed } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement>* { font-size:14px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.47 } } .VideoEnhancement-title { padding: 20px } @media only screen and (min-width: 768px) { .VideoEnhancement-title { padding:30px } } .VideoEnhancement-player>* { position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25% } .VideoEnhancement iframe { border: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100% } [data-video-player] { display: block; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; margin: 0 auto; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="4x3"] { padding-bottom: 56.25%; } [data-video-player][data-aspect-ratio="16x9"] { padding-bottom: 56.25% } </style> --></div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-NEWSSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><pre class="cake-error"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none');"><b>Notice</b> (8)</a>: Undefined index: slug [<b>APP/Lib/Localize.php</b>, line <b>152</b>]<div id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-trace" class="cake-stack-trace" style="display: none;"><a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Code</a> <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display = (document.getElementById('cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context').style.display == 'none' ? '' : 'none')">Context</a><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-code" class="cake-code-dump" style="display: none;"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">if(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strstr</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #DD0000">'=='</span><span style="color: #007700">)) {</span></span></code> <code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> </span><span style="color: #007700">list(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) = </span><span style="color: #0000BB">explode</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #DD0000">"=="</span><span style="color: #007700">,</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">1</span><span style="color: #007700">],</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code> <span class="code-highlight"><code><span style="color: #000000"><span style="color: #0000BB"> $text </span><span style="color: #007700">= </span><span style="color: #0000BB">str_replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">0</span><span style="color: #007700">], (</span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$token</span><span style="color: #007700">]) != </span><span style="color: #0000BB">strtolower</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$keyword</span><span style="color: #007700">) ? </span><span style="color: #0000BB">self</span><span style="color: #007700">::</span><span style="color: #0000BB">replace</span><span style="color: #007700">(</span><span style="color: #0000BB">$match</span><span style="color: #007700">[</span><span style="color: #0000BB">2</span><span style="color: #007700">], </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$town</span><span style="color: #007700">, </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$callCake</span><span style="color: #007700">): </span><span style="color: #DD0000">''</span><span style="color: #007700">), </span><span style="color: #0000BB">$text</span><span style="color: #007700">);</span></span></code></span></pre><pre id="cakeErr6800a98b969f8-context" class="cake-context" style="display: none;">$text = '<!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> {ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif} {module_RHS - Tout A} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 1} {module_RHS - Join AARP Today} {module_RHS - Ad Slot 2} {module_FB - State Side Panel} {module_RHS - State Contact Us}' $town = array( '_id' => '576180480c4e268f7f8b7f42', 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'nearby' => array( (int) 0 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms' ), (int) 1 => array( 'city' => 'Robinsonville', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'robinsonville-ms' ), (int) 2 => array( 'city' => 'Tunica', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-ms' ), (int) 3 => array( 'city' => 'Hughes', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'hughes-ar' ), (int) 4 => array( 'city' => 'Lake Cormorant', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'lake-cormorant-ms' ), (int) 5 => array( 'city' => 'Brickeys', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'brickeys-ar' ), (int) 6 => array( 'city' => 'Walls', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'walls-ms' ), (int) 7 => array( 'city' => 'Arkabutla', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'arkabutla-ms' ), (int) 8 => array( 'city' => 'Proctor', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'proctor-ar' ), (int) 9 => array( 'city' => 'Heth', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'heth-ar' ), (int) 10 => array( 'city' => 'Edmondson', 'state' => 'AR', 'sef_url' => 'edmondson-ar' ), (int) 11 => array( 'city' => 'Sarah', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'sarah-ms' ), (int) 12 => array( 'city' => 'Dundee', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'dundee-ms' ), (int) 13 => array( 'city' => 'Nesbit', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'nesbit-ms' ), (int) 14 => array( 'city' => 'Horn Lake', 'state' => 'MS', 'sef_url' => 'horn-lake-ms' ) ), 'local' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 2 => 'tunica-ms', (int) 3 => 'hughes-ar', (int) 4 => 'lake-cormorant-ms', (int) 5 => 'brickeys-ar' ), 'season' => 'spring', 'aarp-events-image' => 'aarp-events', 'amusement-parks-image' => 'amusement-warm-c', 'arts-entertainment-image' => 'arts-all-bm', 'asset_version' => '240925', 'beaches-lakes-image' => 'beaches-lakes-cool-c', 'billboard1_caption' => 'Spring', 'billboard1_image_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/happenings/', 'billboard1_subtitle' => 'See the Real Possibilities', 'billboard1_thumb_title' => ' Happenings', 'billboard1_thumb_url' => '{local_happenings-image}', 'billboard1_title' => 'Get to know AARP in {local_city_c}', 'billboard2_image_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/{local_season}-fun/', 'billboard2_subtitle' => 'Explore fun and interesting things to do this {local_season} near you!', 'billboard2_thumb_title' => '{local_season_header}', 'billboard2_thumb_url' => '{local_season-image}', 'billboard2_title' => 'Time for {local_season_header}!', 'billboard3_image_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_link_url' => '/{local_sef_url}/volunteering/', 'billboard3_subtitle' => 'Make a difference!', 'billboard3_thumb_title' => 'Volunteering', 'billboard3_thumb_url' => '{local_volunteering-image}', 'billboard3_title' => 'Volunteering lifts everyone's spirits', 'bvideo_name' => '{local_full_state_c}', 'city-select-image' => 'cityselect-spring', 'coffee-image' => 'coffee-warm-m', 'coffee_radius' => '10', 'community_blogs_archive' => 'all', 'community_blogs_list' => 'caregiving,healthy-living,savings-and-planning,work-and-jobs,life-reimagined,all,{local_state}', 'connect_town_groups' => '[{ "towns": { "atlanta-ga": { "name": "Atlanta, GA", "path": "/atlanta-ga/fight-fraud/" }, "chicago-il": { "name": "Chicago, IL", "path": "/chicago-il/fight-fraud/" }, "los-angeles-ca": { "name": "Los Angeles, CA", "path": "/los-angeles-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "new-york-ny": { "name": "New York City, NY", "path": "/new-york-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "phoenix-az": { "name": "Phoenix, AZ", "path": "/phoenix-az/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP1" }, { "towns": { "baltimore-md": { "name": "Baltimore Metro, MD", "path": "/baltimore-md/fight-fraud/" }, "dallas-tx": { "name": "Dallas, TX", "path": "/dallas-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "denver-co": { "name": "Denver, CO", "path": "/denver-co/fight-fraud/" }, "detroit-mi": { "name": "Detroit, MI", "path": "/detroit-mi/fight-fraud/" }, "orlando-fl": { "name": "Central Florida, FL", "path": "/orlando-fl/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "houston-tx": { "name": "Houston, TX", "path": "/houston-tx/fight-fraud/" }, "brookhaven-ny": { "name": "Long Island, NY", "path": "/brookhaven-ny/fight-fraud/?showtowns=true" }, "san-diego-ca": { "name": "San Diego County, CA", "path": "/san-diego-ca/fight-fraud/" }, "miami-fl": { "name": "South Florida, FL", "path": "/miami-fl/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP2" }, { "towns": { "charlotte-nc": { "name": "Charlotte, NC", "path": "/charlotte-nc/aarp-events/" }, "boston-ma": { "name": "Greater Boston, MA", "path": "/boston-ma/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "indianapolis-in": { "name": "Indianapolis, IN", "path": "/indianapolis-in/aarp-events/" }, "las-vegas-nv": { "name": "Las Vegas, NV", "path": "/las-vegas-nv/aarp-events/" }, "philadelphia-pa": { "name": "Philadelphia, PA", "path": "/philadelphia-pa/aarp-events/" }, "pittsburgh-pa": { "name": "Pittsburgh, PA", "path": "/pittsburgh-pa/aarp-events/" }, "portland-or": { "name": "Portland Metro, OR", "path": "/portland-or/aarp-events/" }, "seattle-wa": { "name": "Seattle, WA", "path": "/seattle-wa/aarp-events/" }, "saint-louis-mo": { "name": "St Louis, MO", "path": "/saint-louis-mo/aarp-events/" }, "minneapolis-mn": { "name": "Twin Cities, MN", "path": "/minneapolis-mn/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP3" }, { "towns": { "new-orleans-la": { "name": "Greater New Orleans, LA", "path": "/new-orleans-la/fight-fraud/" }, "hartford-ct": { "name": "Hartford, CT", "path": "/hartford-ct/fight-fraud/" }, "little-rock-ar": { "name": "Little Rock, AR", "path": "/little-rock-ar/fight-fraud/" }, "oahu-hi": { "name": "Oahu, HI", "path": "/oahu-hi/fight-fraud/" }, "omaha-ne": { "name": "Omaham, NE", "path": "/omaha-ne/fight-fraud/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP4" }, { "towns": { "des-moines-ia": { "name": "Des Moines, IA", "path": "/des-moines-ia/aarp-events/" }, "fargo-nd": { "name": "Fargo, ND", "path": "/fargo-nd/aarp-events/" }, "allentown-pa": { "name": "Lehigh Valley, PA", "path": "/allentown-pa/aarp-events/?showtowns=true" }, "dale-city-va": { "name": "Prince William County, VA", "path": "/dale-city-va/aarp-events/" }, "worcester-ma": { "name": "Worcester County, MA", "path": "/worcester-ma/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP5" }, { "towns": { "charleston-wv": { "name": "Charleston, WV", "path": "/charleston-wv/aarp-events/" }, "helena-mt": { "name": "Lewis and Clark County, MT", "path": "/helena-mt/aarp-events/" }, "manchester-nh": { "name": "New Hampshire, NH", "path": "/manchester-nh/aarp-events/" }, "providence-ri": { "name": "Providence, RI", "path": "/providence-ri/aarp-events/" } }, "code": "CSN-LOCAL-GROUP6" }]', 'cvent_display_module' => 'false', 'cvent_widget_city' => '{local_city_state}', 'embed_video' => '<iframe width="100%" height="349" src="//players.brightcove.net/3772599298001/HkD6Qklb_default/index.html?videoId={local_embed_video_2}" allowfullscreen frameborder="0"></iframe>', 'espanol-news-header' => 'Noticias de {local_city}', 'espanol-news-image' => 'losangeles-spanish', 'events-image' => 'events-all', 'events_careversation_group_min' => '8', 'events_driversafety_group_min' => '8', 'events_index_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section 3}', 'events_tek_group_min' => '8', 'event_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/events-all-1140x655.jpg', 'event_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/event.jpg', 'event_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/event-t.jpg', 'fall-fun-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'fallfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-big-t.jpg', 'fallfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/fall-fun10.jpg', 'fallfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/fall-fun10-t.jpg', 'farmers-markets-image' => 'farmers-markets-c', 'find_it_fast_link_url' => 'jobs', 'find_it_fast_title' => 'Work & Jobs', 'gfg-image' => 'gfg-warm-c-2', 'google_disclaimer' => '<p><b>Please note:</b> These listings are provided via Google for the {local_city} community. <b>Listings here do NOT imply that an AARP member discount is offered.</b> Please see the <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/" target="_blank">AARP Membership & Benefits page</a> for a listing of businesses that do provide a member discount.</p>', 'happenings-image' => 'happenings-suburban', 'happenings-tbd-pilot-text' => '<h2><span>Discover everything you can do with AARP</span></h2> <h3><span>See fun events, local offers, and more right where you live.</span></h3>', 'happenings_default_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/aarp-default-rp-min.png', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_10up' => 'AARP in {local_community_name}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state' => 'AARP in {local_full_state}', 'happenings_gold_slug_line_state_es' => 'AARP en Misisipi', 'happenings_heading' => 'News from AARP', 'happenings_twitter_header' => 'More from {local_city}', 'hiking-image' => 'hiking-cool-c', 'hiking_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-big-t.jpg', 'hiking_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/hiking.jpg', 'hiking_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/hiking-t.jpg', 'home_events_slot1' => '{module_Cvent New Widget Section}', 'home_events_slot2' => '{module_HP - Blog - Learn More}', 'home_intro_text' => '<p> Select your community from the list below to learn about great programs, stimulating things to do, local services, discounts and more! </p>', 'hp-event-tout' => '{if_facebook_link}<div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" data-href="{local_facebook_link}" data-tabs="timeline" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"><blockquote cite="{local_facebook_link}" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="{local_facebook_link}">Facebook</a></blockquote></div></div> {endif}', 'ice_skating_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/ice-skating-all-1140x655.jpg', 'ice_skating_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/ice-skating.jpg', 'ice_skating_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/ice-skating-t.jpg', 'image_url' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/working-for-you.jpeg', 'jobs_widget_city' => '{local_city_c}', 'm2mredirect' => 'True', 'movies-image' => 'movies-all-c', 'movies_robots' => 'noindex, follow', 'name' => 'In Your Community', 'nature_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-big-t.jpg', 'nature_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/nature-center2.jpg', 'nature_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/nature-center2-t.jpg', 'nearme_map_radius' => '20', 'nearme_map_zip' => '{local_zip}', 'omniture_cookie' => '{local_city_hl}-{local_state_l}-state', 'page-title-right' => '{module_Event Snapshot Newsletter Signup}', 'parks-image' => 'parks-warm-c', 'pilot_towns_banner_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/classic/happenings-rural-240x140.jpg', 'pumpkin-picking-image' => 'fall-fun-all-1-pumpkins', 'recommendation_form_email' => 'jgunderson-palmer@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com,katherine@americantowns.com', 'recreation-image' => 'rec-cool-b', 'restaurantform_email' => 'bmazur@aarp.org,bekim@americantowns.com', 'restaurant_radius' => '10,20,30', 'season-activities' => 'Walking, microbreweries ', 'season-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'seasonal_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-big-t.jpg', 'seasonal_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/seasonal.jpg', 'seasonal_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/seasonal-t.jpg', 'season_header' => 'Spring Fun', 'season_title' => 'Spring', 'skiing_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-big-t.jpg', 'skiing_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/skiing.jpg', 'skiing_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/skiing-t.jpg', 'spring-fun-image' => 'spring-fun-warm-m', 'state_blog_header' => 'AARP State News', 'state_blog_name' => 'Mississippi', 'summer-fun-image' => 'summer-fun-warm-m', 'tas_state_link' => 'https://takeastand.aarp.org/congressional-action-chart/?state={local_full_state_c}', 'term' => 'in Tunica Resorts', 'thingstodo_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-big-t.jpg', 'thingstodo_hero_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/hero/things-to-do3.jpg', 'thingstodo_thumb' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/things-to-do3-t.jpg', 'vcc_featured_image' => 'https://s3.amazonaws.com/local-aarp/img/vcc/featured/20210430_4C9F7646-96EC-4C88-960A-997CE34788BC.jpg', 'veterans-image' => 'veterans', 'video_tout_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/video-touts/san-antonio-video.png', 'vineyards-wineries-image' => 'wineries', 'volunteer-today-button' => '<span class="media-middle"> <a href="https://www.aarp.org/volunteer/virtual/?intcmp=CSN-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLINT-20210331-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}" class="red btn" target="_blank">I WANT TO VOLUNTEER</a> </span>', 'volunteering-image' => 'volunteering-winter', 'volunteering-news-image' => 'volunteer-all-m-hands', 'volunteer_help_image' => 'volunteering-help-military-families', 'volunteer_help_link_name' => 'See Projects', 'volunteer_help_link_url' => 'https://www.createthegood.org/how-to-guides?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-VOLHTG-20140805-{local_tracking_code_town}-{local_tracking_code_state}', 'volunteer_help_subtitle' => 'Help Military Families', 'volunteer_help_title' => 'Do-It-Yourself Project Guides', 'winter-fun-image' => 'winter-fun-snow-c-ski', 'winterfun_big_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-big-t.jpg', 'winterfun_hero_image' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/hero/winter-fun2.jpg', 'winterfun_pic_nav2' => '<li><a href="/{town_sef_url}/good-for-grandkids/"><img src="https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/good-for-grandkids-big-t.jpg" title="Good for Grandkids"><span>Good for Grandkids</span></a></li>', 'winterfun_thumb' => 'https://cdn.local.aarp.org/img/template/thumbs/winter-fun2-t.jpg', 'youtube_image' => 'https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/youtube.png', 'news_link' => 'https://www.aarp.org/MS?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-BLOGMS-20140101', 'contactus_text' => 'AARP Mississippi', 'contactus_email' => 'MSAARP@aarp.org ', 'contactus_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101', 'facebook_link' => 'https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS', 'twitter_link' => 'https://twitter.com/aarpMS', 'state_contract_id' => '56011', 'state_blog_flag' => 'https://states.aarp.org/wp-content/themes/aarpstates/images/state_flags/mississippi.png', 'state_blog_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/', 'state_blog_rss' => 'https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/feed', 'warm_state' => 'yes', 'embed_video_2' => '5819665044001', '2020_election_link' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/how-to-vote-in-mississippis-2020-election-what-you-need-to-know-ms-2020-08-03.html', 'State_Label' => 'Mississippi's', 'vaccine_url' => 'https://local.aarp.org/news/the-covid19-vaccine-distribution-plan-in-mississippi-ms-2021-02-03.html', 'no_skiing' => 'y', 'state_capital' => 'jackson-ms', '2024_election_link' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/election-voting-guide', '2024_election_link_es' => 'https://states.aarp.org/mississippi/elecciones-guia-para-votar', 'advanced_directives_link' => 'https://www.caringinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/MISSISSIPPI.pdf', 'full_state' => 'Mississippi', 'county' => 'Tunica', 'geo' => array( (int) 0 => (float) -90.370796203613, (int) 1 => (float) 34.817798614502 ), 'latitude' => (float) 34.817798614502, 'longitude' => (float) -90.370796203613, 'city_state' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'city_state_search' => 'Tunica Resorts MS', 'pilot_name' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'pilot_sef_url' => '', 'community_id' => (int) 0, 'community_name' => null, 'community_state' => null, 'community_region' => null, 'brightspot_region' => null, 'title' => 'Tunica Resorts, MS', 'subtitle' => '', 'tracking_code_town' => 'TUNICARESORTS', 'tracking_code_state' => 'MS', 'ad_state' => 'ms', 'ad_city' => 'tunica-resorts', 'ad_region' => null, 'timezone' => 'America/Chicago', 'type' => 'town', 'zip' => '38664', 'sef_url' => 'tunica-resorts-ms', 'americantowns_url' => 'https://www.americantowns.com/tunica-resorts-ms/', 'alt_names' => 'Tunica Resorts', 'zipcodes' => array( (int) 0 => '38664' ), 'urls' => array( (int) 0 => 'tunica-resorts-ms', (int) 1 => 'banks-ms', (int) 2 => 'bowdre-ms', (int) 3 => 'clack-ms', (int) 4 => 'commerce-ms', (int) 5 => 'mocarter-ms', (int) 6 => 'penton-ms', (int) 7 => 'robinsonville-ms', (int) 8 => 'tunica-resort-ms' ), 'town_ids' => array( (int) 0 => '47822' ) ) $callCake = true $matches = array( (int) 0 => array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) ) $match = array( (int) 0 => '{ifnot_slug==healthy-living/map} {module_RHS - AARP Events} {endif}', (int) 1 => 'slug==healthy-living/map', (int) 2 => ' {module_RHS - AARP Events} ' ) $token = 'slug' $keyword = 'healthy-living/map'</pre><pre class="stack-trace">Localize::replace() - APP/Lib/Localize.php, line 152 Modules::render() - APP/Lib/Modules.php, line 9 include - APP/View/Elements/display.ctp, line 13 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 473 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118</pre></div></pre><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Tunica Resorts</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-cybercrime-and-fraud-prevention-tips-42125-9vn8twf4ts8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-CYBERCRIME-AND-FRAUD-PREVENTION-TIPS-42125">AARP Live: Cybercrime and Fraud Prevention Tips, 4/21/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Apr 21, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-decluttering-for-today-and-tomorrow-51925-87nw6zdbytm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-DECLUTTERING-FOR-TODAY-AND-TOMORROW-51925">AARP Live: Decluttering for Today and Tomorrow , 5/19/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-live-social-security-whats-right-for-you-61625-glnbkkyk2gm.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-LIVE-SOCIAL-SECURITY-WHATS-RIGHT-FOR-YOU-61625">AARP Live: Social Security: What’s Right For You? , 6/16/25</a></h2> <p class="time">Monday, Jun 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue"></p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/tunica-resorts-ms/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;height:360px;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Last Chance to Save!<br />New Pricing Coming in 2025.</div> <br /> <p> This is AARP's first rate increase in 15 years.<br />Don't miss out, join today and save!<br /><br /> </p> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-TUNICARESORTS-MS">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; } </style> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_93505" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_93505', size:'300x250'}); } </script> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer text-center"> <div class="fb-page" alt="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" title="Image of AARP Mississippi Facebook Page" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" data-tabs="timeline" width="" height="" data-small-header="false" data-adapt-container-width="true" data-hide-cover="false" data-show-facepile="true"> <blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS">Facebook</a></blockquote> </div> </div> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <h2>Contact AARP<br />Mississippi</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-quick-list module-spacer"> <ul class="list-unstyled"> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:MSAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">MSAARP@aarp.org </a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/mississippi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Mississippi</a></li> <li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/heres-how-to-contact-aarp-mississippi/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-TUNICARESORTS-MS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li> </ul> </div> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/facebook.png"></a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aarpMS" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img style="max-width: 48px;" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/page/icons/twitter.png"></a> </div> </div> </div></div> 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