$400 Abandoned Homes in Pine Bluff! The City Left Behind | Ep. 1

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Would you buy an abandoned home here for $400? You can find those here: www.cosl.org/Home/PostSaleResult?county=JEFF

[@caw2165]

No

[@nonamenoname5871]

No way.

[@aqua6613]

Yup

[@brandywilliams-galette5383]

Nope

[@marih3286]

Only if I could bring a dozen Mexican workers with me. They would have the place turned around in 6 months at a price I could afford.

[@waydewynn4191]

Corruption has become a real problem in this country, and it's time for the people to stand up and say NO!

[@rdallas81]

That's is the truth

[@bentonja668]

How is a corrupt populace going to stop corruption? Where do you think the corruption comes from exactly? It comes from us.

[@bentonja668]

A corrupt populace produces corruption. It certainly doesn't put a stop to it.

[@BrendaRockwell-u9w]

Not all of us are corrupt!? Yeah, i might be one of the last girl scouts or a deluded missionary type, but i just can't seem to stop fighting on. At near 70 and getting decrepid it's some days hard. ..but life goes on and folks need to get a goal. Latch onto it and put all their effort into it's completion. Don't give in pine bluff!! Fighting the good fight here in the dumpster of the west coast...California!! Want to bug out but can't!! Soldier on! 😊❤

[@WilliamNelson-w1z]

Yep, I'm surprised that this is still up.

[@catscratch52]

I'm a 72 yr old lady, alone & surviving on a somewhat limited (poverty per US guidelines) SS income. I wish there were cities & programs that would allow for seniors, the benefits of low cost housing & other living costs. Seniors can add a great positivity to a city in need of 'tlc', pride & stability. Many of us are able to work & maintain our own homes & yards. Those of us that are not able, provide an income source for small business labor. I've never owned a home in my life. So, it's especially heartbreaking to see so many lovely HaBitAble homes decay & vandalize into complete ruin. 💔

[@wickedbunny2020]

Exactly what I've been thinking! I'm disabled and finally hit 50 so I'm a real adult now lol I just want a small modest home to leave for my grandkid cuz we all know they won't be owning crap unless some mircle happens

[@cdd4248]

I could not agree more!

[@wretchedrue7859]

That is a wonderful idea. I wonder how we could even get something like that started?

[@andreafong9952]

I think that’s what’s been missing amid the post war housing boom. I have been a fan of voluntary relocation to other areas of the country for seniors and those who are too poor to afford housing elsewhere as you suggested. The problem is that the people, at least in California, do not have the self sufficiency you have to even consider moving. I’m in your camp and am considering it myself because I am tired of trying to pay off a house that will be paid off if I live to 102!

[@Eric-dz1we]

@@catscratch52 I agree. 65 in Aug SS almost 600 lol + food stamps lol they don't call it that anymore 🤣

[@JennaLeeEquals3]

Corruption in our Gvt has GOT TO STOP. The funds collected are NEVER USED PROPERLY. They only line their OWN POCKETS!!! When will it end!!! Excellent video Sir.

[@susannaCdonovan23]

You're right. They collect taxes on gasoline in our city because they claim it will fund repairs on the roads. You won't see any roads getting repaired. Where's that money going? They should have separate bank accounts for each need but they don't do it. Every tax dollar goes into one fund, and no one allocates it to the proper channels. I call Money laundering on all of it

[@Saavycoins]

These Black's are proven to be unprogrgressive just look at Detroit and Gary. Same old unprogreessive people

[@peacebewithyou9785]

Smart lady and you did it without bringing down another race like everyone else did. Much respect to you.

[@publius9606]

@@peacebewithyou9785 Where theres smoke........deny it all ya want. Truth is truth

[@nicechock]

​@@peacebewithyou9785youd expect to woman dare do that😂. Give me a break. We all know why the white people left

[@k.chriscaldwell4141]

A friend bought a house like this in Michigan (I think). Then came the permit issues, egregious code requirements escalating renovation costs, high property taxes, tickets and fines for “code violations” (some he couldn’t fix without a permit), fraud by the city trying to get him to pay past property taxes and fines, utilities that could not be turned on without paying the prior owners’ (plural) past-due amounts, etc. He gave up.

[@missmorena1049]

Let me guess, he was yt

[@jaycosper8048]

@@missmorena1049imagine how much harder it would be if he weren’t!

[@Jaxmusicgal23]

And that’s corruption at it’s finest… If you bought a house at a tax auction, you should not have to pay any back taxes or back utilities in order for it to be yours with utilities…. Sometimes we all have to take a hit to get things back on track … the fact that the government can’t seem to understand this and wants all of their money and utilities, which are connected to the government are also complicit in this shows. They really don’t want these communities to grow again… They are more concerned with getting what’s owed them then moving forward and starting again

[@Godsforever1]

wow - that is crazy! they need to stop taking money for coding! those people get paid anyways - they'd rather have houses abandoned and deteriorating than letting people make good use of it for free

[@k.chriscaldwell4141]

I spoke to him. The pols pushed the town’s selling of the town’s taken over properties. The trap is that each of a town’s departments are independent and only sees dollars to take. So each department comes at you-buildings, code enforcement, the fire department, etc. Then the county. He even had the state sniffing around. The pols can’t, or won’t, do anything. It’s a trap.

[@wanderingsandwhimsy]

I almost did not watch this, because there are so many documentaries about Pine Bluff that are no more than poverty born, a way for people to be entertained at other's expense. I'm glad I took a chance. I'm from Pine Bluff, but moved away 25 years ago. My heart breaks at what it's become. I hope that it can rebound.

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

I totally understand what you mean and that’s why I made this documentary was because too many “only on negative“ documentaries have been done. But I do appreciate you taking a chance and I really hope something turns around soon!

[@InsightlyDigest]

@@AbandonedAtlasFoundationyou did a great job on this!! Lots of good work I hope you get more subscribers from this. You did a nice professional job on it. I’m going to watch your other videos too.

[@4rtivist]

Doesn’t turn around without reparations atp

[@Elonmpop]

Reparations will never happen. Don't be a fool. Just a democrat lie to get your vote as they destroy your city. Works every time. When will you learn.

[@Elonmpop]

Why would the democrats give you reparations, when all they have to dangle the carrot to get your vote over and over again. Don't be a fool. If they give you what you want they would have nothing to bribe you with for the next vote.

[@KiiC.]

Thank you for this. Lived here all my life until 18 and NOT A SINGLE TEACHER SPOKE ABOUT _the history_ of PINE BLUFF!! 😢I was devastated when I moved back. We just saw things and then they weren't. I greatly appreciate you and your hard work, and everyone that participated in the making of this video we so desperately in need of seeing🙏🏾💖

[@elliebellie7816]

Thanks for promoting the library. I wish more people fully understood all the resources available to them at their local library.

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Our pleasure! Love the library!

[@AnyahEMB]

Yes, I smiled at that library scene. Librarian for 38 years. ❤

[@arlitabeard7693]

They do have a good library live there in 95 to 99 moved to Redfield

[@RVLady]

@@elliebellie7816 the library is stunning.

[@joelanderson839]

Oh man this is a great documentary. Research, writing, cinematography, editing... it's a lot of work and you've put it together beautifully, well done!

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Thank you so much for the kind words! 🙏 I'm thrilled that you enjoyed the documentary-it means a lot to hear that the hard work is paying off. I'm really glad the word is getting out, and trust me, there's so much more to come. Stay tuned for what’s next, and thanks again for your amazing support! It keeps me going! 💪🎥

[@christylove5807]

​@@AbandonedAtlasFoundationyou've taken a lot of abrasive blows I'm sure. I spoke up about a community like PB. Threats from city leaders became too great. That place is plummeting rapidly. I'm sure that's similar to PB and how people just ditched it. Too much pushback. This documentary is inspiring. Both in its compilation of local information and in creating hope in those feeling the despairity felt countywide. Contributing in raising Pine Bluff's vibrations is a HUGELY compassionate act. Props!❤ Subscribed

[@craigsurette3438]

@@AbandonedAtlasFoundation The algorithm randomly put this documentary in my feed, and I liked everything about what you are doing with this, i instantly subscribed. I have been a part of several small documentary film projects, so i know what it takes to do what you have done, You do EXCELLENT work!. As someone who grew up in an impoverished "abandoned" mill town in New England, i especially thankyou for telling these people's stories

[@Lauren-i8i]

👏👏👏

[@alexmintz7786]

@@christylove5807 Murder rate 11 TIMES higher than the national average (2019). What a city! I am sure it's all the result of that awful racism that keeps murdering people of Pine Bluff. Incidentally, POCs comprise almost 80% of the population. And 97% of perpetrators. Just a coincidence.

[@kaymcdonnell6531]

I grew up in Pine Bluff during the 50’s and 60’s. It broke my heart seeing what has happened to a place that was once a little piece of heaven. I pray the people in this video will be successful in revitalizing it.

[@MompreneurDiary]

My momma and our family are from Pine Bluff before my grandfather became the principle for tye Ralph Bunch School in Benton AR during the integration era

[@jryland6]

But maybe it wasn’t a piece of heaven.

[@angelaverbowski995]

Pine bluff is named into MANY terrorizing stories; from big foot to yeti's and dogmen... Any truth to this matter?!?! Inquiring Minds Want to Know?!? 👂👂🤓👍🧐👍👍✅🧠🤯

[@jagilo9677]

Omg! My husband and I drove through Pine Bluffs AR in 1991 or so and it was absolutely beautiful!!! That place was movie pictures perfect!

[@joyful_tanya]

My dad lived there in right about that time. Maybe a year or two earlier. He taught for a couple years at UAPB. Science education.

[@chadhero37]

What part were you looking at lol. By 1992 (when i got out) it was already a major shithole

[@dustymcdust825]

I was living there in 1990 going to school at UAPB. I don’t recognize this place.

[@dustymcdust825]

@@chadhero37The only area that was decent was near the campus. My aunt was mugged at gun point coming out of the Family Dollar in broad daylight.

[@joyful_tanya]

@@dustymcdust825 I am wondering how UAPB is even functioning.

[@BAYBAY_316]

Great documentary. You have talent and glad you're telling this story. Thank you.

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Hey, thank you so much for the super thanks! I’m so glad you enjoyed it and I really do hope that Pine Bluff is on the rise back up!

[@DyslexicStyle]

​@@AbandonedAtlasFoundation I would if you can teach how to create videos for free down here. I would love that for my business.

[@luvbruthas4134]

That pastor is amazing and what he is doing. Is truly how communities should be

[@TipsySamurai97]

Pine Bluff is basically Detroit but on a smaller scale. All of the big businesses have up and left along time ago. It’s suffered greatly from de-generification, and it’s rare for a city to recover from that.

[@alexmintz7786]

Murder rate in PB is 11 TIMES higher than the national average (2019). Would you want to live there?

[@ArmaniValentino]

VERY RARE

[@jenwombatexcelsior]

@@TipsySamurai97 Flint is still grappling. This will inevitably happen to many cities, this century. Especially the way they seem to want homelessness and scarcity to rise like a wave and take us out. It wasn’t widespread enough destruction, in 2008/2009 I guess for them.

[@drroaf]

Exactly! I grew up in Pine Bluff and have been calling my hometown the Detroit of Arkansas for several years. The main reasons for the depopulation are white flight, which also has lead to intensive disinvestment.

[@TipsySamurai97]

@@drroaf True. I find it baffling that the Saracen Casino chose to be located in Pine Bluff. But none of that money will go towards the city.

[@lgannawa]

This is such a wonderful film with an important message. My heart breaks for those that have lost their beautiful babies to the violence the city has seen. Prayers to those fighting to save this town.

[@lacey.alexandria]

Born and raised in Pine Bluff (now living in White Hall). Thank you for this documentary, it's wonderful! I hope more people see it!

[@chandra2693]

My husband and I took a risk and bought and renovated a home in hopes providing a safe affordable home for its new owner. We lived in the house for four months while renovating, the locals loved what we were doing in their community. We have advocated to other about taking a chance and move to Pine Bluff and honest living. Fast forward a year and half, the mindset for change felt far gone. We had high hopes of doing much more, but reality hit after the project was done.

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Thank you for sharing your story. It’s inspiring to hear about the effort you put into the community, even though the outcome was challenging. This is exactly why I'm doing this documentary-to highlight stories like yours. I'd love to connect and learn more about your experience.

[@beyondthesea9648]

​@AbandonedAtlasFoundation Too many locals fight gentrification and would rather do nothing to improve their own community.

[@esmeraldagreen1992]

​@beyondthesea9648 That is because they they have been convinced that gentrification is bad, but it doesn't have to be.

[@mr.chalupacabra3587]

@@beyondthesea9648they want to live in poverty… they want the government to hand them everything and will fight you tooth and nail if you suggest otherwise.

[@dhope390]

😮​@@AbandonedAtlasFoundation

[@marih3286]

My Mama was born in Pine Bluff in 1926. She lived there her whole life as one of 5 kids with her parents and grandparents. Years ago I tried to look up the real estate records to see if there was still any family property to reclaim, but their house sat in what's now part the University campus. Too bad, I was going to retire there. Seniors on a small pension represent stability. We don't however want to end up crime statistics!

[@danlowe8684]

Did your grandparents speak about the flood of 1927? Must have been tough with a new baby.

[@jeremytibbs13]

​@@danlowe8684a hundred 💯

[@hayal1693]

I read about the hanging every Saturday for 6 months around , in 1936 . Ask about that . I read an ex president wife went to Arkansas there after his term. I couldn’t imagine why. Now we see the people was rode into the ground year after year. God have mercy on humanity’s confusion let justice ring in the low mindsets until their energies repent for every soul is worthy , forgiveness only stings for a few seconds. Peace ,harmony Mother Earth lift them.

[@WilliamNelson-w1z]

You'd be better off throwing a dart at a map of Alabama and move there. The cost of living is low for seniors and the winter's aren't to bad. Even Birmingham would be better than PB.

[@CBBC435]

​@@WilliamNelson-w1z I second that. Best decision I made for my retirement. I'm in southeast AL.

[@lordgiblets7585]

I used to be a delivery driver, and at one point I had the Pine Bluff route. A large part of the town smells really bad due to a paper mill to the northeast of the town. It's also my understanding there's a lot of crime in the area, and a LOT of the homes where I delivered had bars over the windows and doors... even the homes that probably should have been condemned but weren't.

[@happyshadrach3202]

Hello, and thank you for taking such an interest in Pine Buff, Arkansas. I was born there in 1959, in the Davis hospital. By the time I went to elementary school I knew I wouldn't be living there for long. The racism was incredibly frightening. The patriarchal fundamentalist Baptist Church was the most oppressive culture I've ever known. I'm a very light skinned Irish- German looking woman raised in what I understood to be an Italian family. Very racist folks. I still can hardly write this down without crying. It was really painful and caused lifelong issues in my family. We had a pretty scary secret we didn't talk about. We are members of the Quapaw Nation. My grandfather was passing as an Italian. He appears on the American Indian roles as a child. After he married my grandmother, he magically became white on the 1940s census. It was much safer to be Italian than to be Indigenous. As you can imagine, there's so much loss in this story. My 88 year old father lives with me now in Florida. He was born in Arkansas and raised in Pine Bluff. He has some amazing history and childhood memories to share if you're interested. Your video is very well done, and there's quite a story to tell down there in Arkansas. Buckle up because it's a bumpy ride. Peace love and equality, y'all ☮️💜🌎 P.S. My departure from Pine Bluff is well documented in the Pine Bluff High School Yearbook ,1977. My ambition for the future was, "To leave Pine Bluff, never to return again!"

[@pineconebliss]

Wow, i would love to learn more about the Quapaw nation... behind every "town", there is the story of the indigenous peoples who lived there beforehand.. Many blessings to you and your ancestors 🤍

[@emsnewssupkis6453]

They wish to hide the reality that if more 'minorities' move somewhere, the schools go downhill very fast. I have seen this all over the place from the West Coast to the East Coast.

[@billjue1753]

I too was born in Pine Bluff, Davis hospital, 1948. Family moved to Houston in 1953, all my schooling was in Houston. Ended up in MD. Because of jobs.

[@emsnewssupkis6453]

@@billjue1753 1954 when only 4 years old, I lived on Mt McDonald Observatory just north of Alpine, Texas.

[@alexmintz7786]

Murder rate 11 TIMES higher than the national average (2019). What a city! I am sure it's all the result of that awful racism that keeps murdering people of Pine Bluff. Incidentally, POCs comprise almost 80% of the population. And 97% of perpetrators. Just a coincidence.

[@movingforwardfco1587]

Born in Arkansas. Raised in Russellville, Arkansas. Glad someone cares. God bless you all.

[@lfrey2001]

Just moved to Arkansas from Pennsylvania. It's home for me now. I'm south of pine bluff.

[@donquijote6030]

Are you still in Arkansas?

[@Bee-n8e]

Love the pastor or youth pastor home program for the community provided affordable housing the locals of Pine Bluff and hope crime continues to decline

[@93_Premium3]

I cherish my childhood memories of Pine Bluff. I grew up there in the 90's - early 2000's. My grandmother, now retired, managed the IP Paper Mill. We lived on South Cherry Street, and I went to St. Peter's Head Start and was a member at St. Peter's Catholic Church. My babysitter, Mrs. Daisy, was truly special to me; I miss her and her tasty meals of greens, pinto beans, and cornbread, often cooled with an ice cube! Eventually, my family moved to Monticello and then Warren, but I returned to Pine Bluff around 14 - 15 and attended Jack Robey, where I often felt anxious due to the frequent fights at school. It was quite chaotic! On a brighter note, I joined the Air Force ROTC at Pine Bluff High School and was able to participate in drills during football and basketball, which was a blast from 2003 to 2005. I even remember sneaking onto the UAPB campus to enjoy the amazing parties at the HBCU! Now, I still hold a fondness for Pine Bluff, even though I live in California. My favorite place to go when I visit the gas station across the street from Walmart that serves the best fish and fried chicken gizzards.

[@joyful_tanya]

My Dad taught at UAPB in the late '80s.

[@SerenaHe-z3k]

So what has caused Pine Bluff to become what it is today in your opinion.

[@joyful_tanya]

@@SerenaHe-z3k from what I gathered from the video, once it fell below 50k residents they lost a bunch of federal and state funding. Now, I also think the industry leaving doomed it. People who are in survival mode don't have the emotional bandwidth to creative problem solve. Just as a person can spiral downward, so can a community or empire. In the terminal stages, it's incredibly corrupt. Just my opinion. I certainly wouldn't send my kid to university there with it being so unsafe. If no one sends their children there, it will cease to function as well. Just thinking out loud!

[@drroaf]

I grew up in Pine Bluff and I also live in Cali!

[@caw2165]

There are so many things that are wrong with Pine Bluff. From Blight and Decay to cultural and Political Divisions. From failed economy, to governmental greed and disregard. From apathetic governance to desperate and depressed residents (what's left of them). Pine Bluff needs a COMPLETE rebuild. Not just the buildings....the ENTIRE mindset ! Platitudes and proclamations about "... how much is being done", falls on deaf ears when the people that are being directly affected by this rolling devastation, see no REAL Forward movement.

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! It’s important to voice these issues, and your passion for Pine Bluff is evident. Let’s hope for a brighter future and real action that makes a difference!

[@Arkansas223]

I guarantee you them immigrants specifically the Mexicans/ Venezuelans will repopulate pine bluff, they can build and not scared to live in the hood 😂💯

[@MyChannel-rv3zk]

@@Arkansas223 They ARE the hood.

[@1976mcfarlane]

@@caw2165 seems like this is the same problem in so many cities. Its so sad to see.

[@1976mcfarlane]

@@Arkansas223 and the local government will ravage it again and again.. destroy anything good. That's currently happening in my state. Radical decline along with severely increasing taxes and rent prices. In the last 5 years I've seen a huge decline. It's so sad

[@camidonahue8882]

Corrupt politicians! The city council needs to do some self reflection - they also aren’t taking care of the people in the city. The people need a whole new city council for representation and management of the city. Those properties being sold at $400 is a scam. Notice the hidden fees when it came to billing the investor. I do admit the investor got carried away with buying those properties; however, he had the right intention in renovating them to livable standards and proper condition. The city council should have been flexible with the investor because he was going to renovate all of those houses. In the end it would be a win-win for both parties- those members on city council became blindsided and greedy. Be careful when it comes to these types of transactions. If it sounds too good to be true, it’s usually a scam hiding in the shadows.

[@billkaldem5099]

Government in pine bluff be reasonable with an investor? lol Why do you think crime bluff is the way it is?

[@riveneva1519]

First of all - thank you for the video. Second, watching the continuing decay of what was once a pretty nice city is heartbreaking. My parents moved to Pine Bluff around 1970, and I graduated from Pine Bluff high in 1980. Mom worked for the federal government, but her job wasn’t enough when dad lost his job in Pine Bluff in 1980, especially with the bad economy then, so we left, and I didn’t return for about 40 years. When I came back for a visit, the change was shocking. Watching this video and seeing the further decay is sad. Pine Bluff has a lot of issues to fix before positive change is going to stick. The first change has to happen in the city government. The city not giving that guy a permit for him to create a new business and hire people is an example of what’s wrong there. Pine Bluff’s city government seems to be working against any kind of revival. There is so much that the city could do to help with revival, and getting out of the way is a good first step. When I was a kid growing up in Pine Bluff it was a good place to raise a family. Sure, Pine Bluff had its issues, but it was still doing pretty good in spite of them. I wish that pastor and his people Godspeed in their efforts to revive Pine Bluff. They have a hard road ahead of them I’m afraid.

[@katydid2877]

I usually assume when improvement is blocked too many people are making money off the status quo.

[@bettiebarker1975]

Bet it's not government! Put em on NOTICE, my grandparents,aunt and uncle lived in pinebluff and Mena. My grandpa and uncle was first with hydroponic growing! I still have the newspaper article!

[@GrandmasBookBox]

@@katydid2877 And voters like it that way.

[@alexmintz7786]

The governments in the US are elected by people. So, maybe the issue is not with the government?

[@bettiebarker1975]

@alexmintz7786 unfortunately it's not government title 28,US CODE 3002 SECTION 15A THRU C STATES THE UNITED STATES IS NOT A GOVERNMENT BUT A FEDERAL CORPORATION INCLUDING THE FEDERAL JUDICIAL PROCEDURAL SECTION.. A government helps its people,a corporation offers services..

[@mov1ngforward]

I had a dear friend from Pine Bluff...she was beautiful inside and out. She left as a child in the 1950s. She's been gone since 1997 and I miss her every day. ❤

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

I’m so sorry to hear that, but thank you so much for sharing your story! Pine Bluff really does have some great people!

[@sdpikapp]

Sounds like she is better off now than being there

[@TruthinLove33]

I’m sorry your friend passed away. Sounds like you two had a treasured friendship. 🙏❤️

[@endubito]

Fantastic work! It is refreshing to see real investigative journalism in place of the usual "look how po these people is" videos.

[@MrWhiterain4u]

Watching everyone act as though they have no idea why this happened is something truly bizarre.

[@noahziegler3478]

All the back in the day videos when Pine Bluff was amazing. The citizens look different. I can't quite put my finger on it???

[@SammyHangStraightUpDeath]

@@noahziegler3478black

[@OrangeAveng3r]

@@noahziegler3478 Its the only place I've ever lived where somebody pulled a pistol on me for being "in the wrong neighborhood".

[@GeeTee2023]

Why did this happen?

[@lonerglide]

​@@OrangeAveng3rpine bluff has always been Arkansas's ghetto

[@tychi25]

This episode was really good! You did your thing with the cinematography. I really love the conversations. It's always good to hear the different perspectives. More than that, I am glad you spotlighted people who are taking action to solve problems in this city. It's ironic how many opinions there are compared to who can show you what they are doing to help. You are doing a lot just by telling this story, so keep it coming.

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Thank you so much for your kind comment! I am so glad you enjoyed it and there is so much more to come!

[@comingoutspinster-rebellik1479]

Wish I could restore this entire city! The CHARM & beautiful homes, & at it’s height, it seemed so lovely… sooo sad 😢yet, hope 🤞 💕

[@scottjohnson9225]

I do have to question the government of Pine Bluff.

[@MariaElena51185]

Duh.. Arkansas the state where the Clintons operated their mafia crimes.

[@alexmintz7786]

The governments in the US are elected by the people, FYI. So, maybe the problem isn't the government?

[@faithismespeaks6848]

@@alexmintz7786 , You mean selected, this attitude that people choose the lesser of two evils is not a choice. Face it the diversity test failed in America big time, when criminals are imported into the country and given everything for free that's where the problem is. Yes, it's the government, and voting can't fix a spiritual sickness in people's hearts. Why do you think people left in the first place, to get away from a criminal environment, now every system, and every institution is criminal. There's no place for anyone to go anymore, and diversity caused all of this, we don't need diversity anymore we need sanity.

[@jenwombatexcelsior]

@@alexmintz7786 No the problem is that government isn't regulated by the people, it's regulated by the government.

[@alexmintz7786]

@@jenwombatexcelsior you are right. but this is true only in countries where people ALLOW this to happen. "People should not fear their governments. Governments should fear their people."

[@alycan146]

The city needs a change in management. Period.

[@beeenn649]

Agreed, no more Democrats

[@beyondthesea9648]

💯

[@SpaceRanger187]

lol, ya that's the issue. The first 5 mins tells you all you need to know

[@soulblacklady]

The state needs a change in government.

[@LloydsofRochester]

@@soulblacklady True dat

[@Crazyguy_123MC]

The Knox house would be my dream house. That is one of my favorite styles of homes. I hope the owner can get help fixing it because it has the potential to be beautiful again.

[@KealstYT]

I was skeptical when I clicked, but this series is definitely going to be amazing and I hope it impacts Pine Bluff!

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

I'm glad to hear you're excited! We really hope this series makes a positive impact in Pine Bluff too!

[@nonamenoname5871]

I think the city council is a major block, and very shady

[@OzarkMountainKing]

That was my big takeaway

[@brandywilliams-galette5383]

Is

[@kristinaschmit8009]

Ya think? Vote them out ALL out. Vote different

[@brandywilliams-galette5383]

@@kristinaschmit8009 it's no one to vote for. If I were there I would vote out all ppl of my color and I'm dead serious that's why that town is ran in the ground all of them are greedy they care about no one but themselves they don't won't to see anyone with anything

[@esmeraldagreen1992]

It is impossible somehow they go from having no votes to have thousands of votes overnight (magic I guess)

[@candicehochberg1607]

We have to start with the mental health of the city. Trauma after trauma. Im.in tears. It hurts so much guys I love yall!!!!

[@josecarrillo115]

Wow!This is heartbreaking for America. My parents brought me to this country as a kid And I love it here. Washington has sold us out😢

[@jameshardin8870]

Years ago I had to go to the Bluff for a week and run the Footlocker since their manager quit. The first day there I heard people yelling “they’re shooting again”. Needless to say I couldn’t wait to get back to Texas.

[@superjeffstanton]

"Again"😂

[@QueenB1923]

They don’t shoot in Texas or something?

[@Xandorum]

This is just sad. I was born in Pine bluff, my family had lived there for generations. But in the 90's gangs began to become more prominent. My parents made the decision to move in 1997-1998, due to gang members hanging out across the street in front of our house and police becoming afraid to drive down certain neighborhoods. My entire direct family, grandpa, uncles, aunts, few cousins, all worked together to get all of us out of the place before things got worse.

[@LindseyCrews-c7v]

I would Love to See Pine Bluff...grow and flourish

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Same here!

[@JanWoods-d3p]

Forget about it ❗️😢

[@evelynbare1975]

The problem is if it's unsafe to live there, it doesn't matter how cheap it is. If it's the kind of place where the moving truck draws an audience looking at what they want to steal, then living there will be nothing but misery, sadly.

[@missmorena1049]

Darkness has fallen

[@halcyon3116]

💯

[@cornell833]

Facts 💯

[@tommybutler2454]

I love the last guy's love and enthusiasm for the little town. Whatta shame he was met witj such resietance. And whatever happened to the city administration having full disclosure and welcoming new business ??? How awful ! HE WANTS TO HELP REINVIGORATE THIS COMMUNITY !!!

[@marks814]

Like so many cities across the country, A complete change of City Government with Oversight is required. They sold one of the buildings to Finley at auction, then, hit him with a $36,000.00 Tax Bill. Is there not a Law there forbidding this type of activity? The city is like shady used car dealers. Shame on You!

[@alexmintz7786]

Governments in the US are elected by people. So... maybe the problem is not with governments? Murder rate 11 TIMES higher than the national average (2019). What a city! I am sure it's all the result of racism that keeps murdering people of Pine Bluff. Incidentally, POCs comprise almost 80% of the population. And 97% of perpetrators. Just a coincidence.

[@patriciadumatrait9594]

Yep they sound like a shady used car dealer

[@duzzitmatter8679]

For so many ppl here to deny buying even an abandoned home for such a measly amount speaks volumes about how they may think their investments should be handled. It’s not the possibility of losing a $400 investment property per se but realizing that you’re not going to be taxed fairly and that the effort of investment will not be reciprocated by the renters, the community at large and the city itself is a telltale sign of the permanence of decline of Pine Bluff. Investing in private homes for ppl to live in is an effort in futility if any kind of major industry isn’t there to support the populations that would live in those homes.

[@entercreativename]

Not only that, but even spending $1 to buy a property means that you'll have to invest additional money in even just for upkeep of the lawn potentially, let alone either demolishing it, or taking the time to just rehabilitate the home and flip it. They mentioned the economic fallout from 2007-2008 in the video, and so many people are still feeling the strain from it, just as so many people are living paycheck to paycheck. Yes, it would be great to buy a property for even $400, but it's difficult for a lot of people to get a loan to do anything more with that property after that fact. And, if you're investing in a community that is losing jobs and population on a regular basis, there's a good chance that it will take a lot more than just a few people investing in the homes in the city when jobs and industries are needed too. It's a balancing act between so many factors that, it might just have to take the city to come through and consolidate neighborhoods to allow for rezoning and new industries to start back up.

[@EMan-cu5zo]

Good chance your property will get destroyed and you will have to go through years of court and thousands in legal fees to get the person out. Not saying it would happen but by the looks of it I wouldn’t put any money into it at the moment. Even just owning the land they will tack full advantage of taxing you to bankruptcy.

[@TeagueVivolo]

This. It's really sad. If there's no pride in your community, no love of your community and it's people, safety, structures, then there's nothing to save, nothing to build up, nothing to hope for, nothing to strive for or look forward to... I mean, a huge part of my community is the free events that are put on by community organizations. These bring people and their children together and create the opportunity for bonds and friendships.

[@EMan-cu5zo]

@@TeagueVivolo the community uses the tax $ you pay them responsibly. This place didn’t.

[@someonewhoknows1891]

I’d love to see a full audit into the tax history of the city.

[@kc5061]

Incredible video. The people of Pine Bluff are the best! I love what you’re doing.

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Glad you liked it!

[@brianfuller757]

I'm with you. I've been in Pine Bluff many times pre Crime Bluff. Anyone calling it Crime Bluff is not far off but there may still be a future. Thanks for videos like this. Pine Bluff has a lot of history but needs a better future!

[@jasonm106]

Is there any way to get with people who help revitalize towns/cities and maybe start a go fund me and work on revitalizing the area?

[@davidhill2677]

In Detroit, which I got to know a little bit by doing 8000 lyft rides over 3 years. I had many interesting conversations with so many about the city. One of the mysteries I encountered was so much vacant land and fallen in houses, but no "For Sale" signs to be seen. If you get close to downtown or midtown you have to know someone who knows someone to find ways to purchase. I also learned that much of Detroit is now owned by interests in China of all places. I know this video was about Pine Bluff, but there was a comparison made to Detroit. Both cities have one thing in common. They both need a population to return to make these cities prosperous once again.

[@sallyprzybil2404]

When I was looking for a place to retire on a budget I saw online incredibly reasonably priced houses in Pine Bluff and I thought it might be a possible place to retire. Then I went to visit the city! OMG! I was shocked. The mall was closed, the main areas were frightening, there was wandering, frightening looking people wandering around, and, even though when I drove by the houses I’d seen on line I rejected Pine Bluff because I felt that this old lady just wouldn’t be safe there! I eventually did settle on a reasonably priced retirement place, but it wasn’t Pine Bluff…….and it wasn’t Arkansas at all!

[@jryland6]

I’m much older also

[@mawi1172]

Thanks for the advice. Won't waste my gas.

[@seagoingcook]

From what you've shown I think that they don't want "outsiders". They make it hard or impossible for outsiders to invest.

[@brandywilliams-galette5383]

I agree

[@marih3286]

They don't need creepy, greedy outsiders like John Finley. He's like a kid with ADD playing video games while eating candy!

[@seagoingcook]

@@marih3286 he had plans for a business that would have created jobs.

[@Cthulhu93]

So does a pimp.

[@MyChannel-rv3zk]

@@marih3286 Some "outsider" sneaking in and buying up all the property and... much later...find out it's a creepy white dude. Pine Bluff has seen a lot of this and have good reason not to trust "outsiders". They were doing fine until "outsiders" came in with greedy eyes and tore the town apart.

[@resurrectiongarage1506]

People all over Arkansas call it crime bluff for a reason

[@anniqueb8790]

People keep voting in the same regime, and are shocked when they get the same results. I no longer feel bad for them

[@bobcranberries5853]

@@anniqueb8790 I never felt bad for them.

[@loganq]

​@@anniqueb8790If a White person came in and tried to fix it, they'd say he was Racist and never vote for him.

[@LynxStarAuto]

@@anniqueb8790No, they don't vote. That's the problem.

[@DUMPTAKER]

​@@LynxStarAutoyou think you vote people into office? No

[@momentswithmitch5053]

In 2014 I was sent to crime bluff by a major insurance company to work on their office. This was definitely the scariest place I've I've ever worked which says a lot. When I was younger I worked some as a bouncer and body guard. When I was there meth production was the main industry and unemployment was second.

[@alexmintz7786]

Gosh, you had some experience... Murder rate in PB is 11 TIMES higher than the national average (2019).

[@bluedove]

Black people don't do meth. Stop lying.

[@MissBeeMarie]

It’s so sad to see my hometown like this. We had so many good memories growing up. Seeing my DHS choir teacher’s home (Glenda Knox RIP) in that condition truly saddens me. Hey, Lori.

[@Blahh992]

Very well done documentation of what most of America is going through. So sad how greedy and selfish people can destroy a community. Bless all those truly trying to help.

[@alexmintz7786]

"Greedy and selfish"? You mean those specific people that comprise 80% of the population of PB? And 97% of murder suspects? Or some other people?

[@lalac7207]

Oh and thank u for this documentary. U did your research and didnt just talk down bout pb. I appreciate that so much.

[@palebail8997]

This is a great documentary that really covers all the basics of Pine Bluff. I remember passing the Knox house every morning on the way to Trinity school. It was the perfect pink princess house and I loved it. I'm glad to see that others care about this town as much as I do.

[@tgenesis8784]

I stayed in Pine Bluff all my life and I just recently left within the last 2 years. I still have friends n families their and they seem to enjoy living there, I had a great time living there doing my time we to use joy ourselves like racing our cars at the port. Having fun just riding around the city especially riding down on university after UAPB homecoming game it was blast I really had a great time. Enjoying the restaurants we use to have cookouts with family n friends! But after awhile it became boring Pine Bluff is a eye sore they steady raising taxes with no real improvements. They promised after the casino there will be real improvements happening well that determine that was a lie. It's really nothing their no business no restaurants really no grocery stores a bunch of empty buildings and houses. The City of Pine Bluff is run by a bunch of crooked people instead of putting money in the city they are lining their pockets with the money and with all the crime it's just to much at this point.. But long story short I never move back their unless I see REAL IMPROVEMENTS. I love where I'm staying now it's so much to do and a lot of restaurants and great people more forward thinking and just more grocery stores. Maybe they will get it together one day but by then it probably will be to late for me..

[@steveayers9493]

Man, thank you for this. I really love ppl and different places around our country and world. I really enjoyed this documentary. I subscribed liked and following. Keep up the amazing work and job. 💙

[@michaeldalton8374]

If you can’t see the common theme here, not even binoculars would help. Great job on the video!

[@rdallas81]

Or a magnifying glass

[@eattherich9215]

Ineffective Republican government that only cares about itself.

[@txgal6855]

I know it’s ridiculous, like they can’t see it….sheeeesh

[@tammycenter8757]

People voting democrat and gang violence. That is the problem.

[@kole3737]

Poverty and opportunities bad government and education. If you referring to race well I can name 10 all white communities just as bad and meth riddled and torn down like pine bluff. Then I can name plenty all black communities with great neighborhoods opportunities and jobs. Like anything it boils down to Poverty not race ass

[@elninorata3891]

listening to the narrator tell the story, I began to feel like I was at a funeral and the pastor was giving a eulogy for the dearly departed.

[@missmorena1049]

He’s overlooking the truth!

[@someonewhoknows1891]

He may not know who is at the root of it.

[@muddyriverdogz]

If you are inside the US you are at a funeral. The middle class's funeral. Thansk to the corruption of financial institutions,governmnet and corporations working hand in hand to destroy.

[@hickoryhillinthebigwoods-r759]

What a great video! We moved to AR in 21, but one of the houses we looked at was close to Pine Bluff, and we decided not to move there, not because of crime, but the weather patterns. I think PB has potential and I hope it can become a beautiful city once more. The residents deserve it.

[@TOES-oo7]

Kudos to you, excellent video, probably one of the most important videos about Pine Bluff, I'm a out of state resident, a investigative journalist, and a victim of the city tearing down one of my houses without my knowledge and approval, this city has major potential, in order for this city to truly move forward, it's gonna have to completely overhaul it's infrastructure, bring more jobs here, especially for the youth, teenage unemployment here is through the roof and I honestly believe it's the main cause to the crime rates. Keep up the good work, I'm looking forward to viewing your next video!

[@Veritas419]

Deindustrialization has devastated not just the United States but the entire Western world.

[@Bawkr]

That's true. Discarded efforts. What can be recycled, repurposed should be rather than torn down.

[@aliciadupuy9228]

They keep shipping away our jobs

[@patrickfuchs3859]

What goods would you suggest the US manufacture that can be sold abroad? Closed economies don't bring in revenue, they just move $ around. The phrase is "export or die" for a reason. That's why high tech goods and green energy goods are the only way to go. Biden and the Dems want that to happen, but the GOP fights against it... While China and the EU ramp up to fill the void. The GOP is holding our nation back from the EV and green energy revolution which is going to create more jobs than the PC revolution. But no, we have to use internal combustion cars, coal for electricity, etc. How many US jobs would be created to build out the electric grid needed for EVs? Solar energy? Wind energy? Wave energy? That's where the money is, not making stuff the Chinese can make for pennies on the dollar.

[@janesawyer3495]

Well said, Veritas.

[@patrickfuchs3859]

@@Veritas419 Considering the largest economy on Earth is the USA, accounting for nearly 24% of annual global earnings and other Western nations with smaller populations taking 9 of the 15 top spots... What data supports your claim? The US has moved beyond being a manufacturing economy, which is a level lower. The US is now a service economy. The hierarchy is: hunter/gatherer, farming, raw materials manufacturing, and services at the top. Does it pay more to make a widget or to be an electrician, programmer, or healthcare professional? Manufacturing has largely left the US because other jobs pay more and it's cheaper to import from countries with lower labor costs. How would a US worker earning $20/hr + benefits ($25-$30/hr) making widgets compete with foreign labor making $2.5-$5/hr? Exporting goods is necessary to survive as a manufacturer. Who would the US export to? Our wages are too high to be able to compete. Manufacturing only works with high tech and things like jets, cars, and specialty items for US workers. If the US doesn't rapidly switch to EV production it'll lose global market share to China and the EU who are switching to EV only roads and sales, in which case the US will be steam trains vs bullet trains... No one uses steam trains today. The Green Revolution is a global phenomena similar to the PC and cell phone revolutions. Building out a power grid, making and installing solar, wind, and wave electricity generation, making and installing car chargers, etc. Over 20 years that'll be a multi-trillion dollar industry in the US. Those are the jobs America should be lobbying Congress to get moving along.

[@chrispaul1141]

I transported rail workers to this town and I always wondered its story. 'Beautiful land,' I always thought. 'Why abandoned?' I just assumed it was a small town whose residents probably moved to Little Rock. Good documentary and I'm glad it's a series. Subbed, will be watching future episodes.

[@Susan-wz7mb]

God bless you Pine Bluff!!! Keep your head up and hang in there!! Praying for your town.

[@SRC966]

I blame the city for not giving permits to this guy trying to better the city. He is just one out of how many trying to get permits. That’s ridiculous

[@jetpilot3714]

Yes. Something not right with that.

[@annahgibbus8]

Yeah his city permit was illegal? How the Hell does that happen? I hope he can recoup some of his losses, get the Hell out of there & never look back.

[@SRC966]

@@annahgibbus8 Exactly, one reason people left. Or like many I know from the pine bluff region live on the outskirts of Pinebluff in another county. You really don’t have to go through PB to get to Little Rock we bypass on US Hwy530/63.

[@SRC966]

@@annahgibbus8 That’s insane. To much red tape for anyone to come in PB to better the declined city.

[@annahgibbus8]

@@SRC966 After watching him at the town hall meeting I was so angry! It's very obvious the mayor & all the city console want to keep the town failing. I don't understand politics, but I do know that the businesses in any town keep it alive. I live in an adorable tiny town, with pretty flower pots hanging from every street light on Main Street , it's so clean, people care about there property, there's zero litter & we have the cutest 95 year old woman that walks around everyday looking for litter & her bag is empty. I kinda want to litter just to give her something to pick up. LoL 😂 I try to buy everything I need in my tiny town so the taxes go to it. I just can't understand the mentality of people who would put up with a crap town? Seems like whoever the mayor here is just like Dalton Illinois mayor Tiffany Henyard. Taking all the taxes & extra money from the feds & blowin it on herself & doing absolutely nothing for the town. Sorry to rattle on, but I always wondered why a billionaire wouldn't just buy a whole little town & fix it up? I found out billionaires know it can't be done & won't waste a penny on trying. Makes sense to me now watching this guy at the town hall meeting. The residents should be fighting angry about this & apparently just go along with the injustice blaming anything but their politicians.

[@josedanielrodriguez1126]

Thank you for the video. Would be a great project to give life to Pine Bluff again. God bless you and your family

[@NYyankeeboi]

I love those old houses. Its so sad to see them deteriorate like that....

[@english7451]

Frame homes deteriorated faster than brick houses.

[@JohnS-er7jh]

First time I heard of Pine Bluff was many years ago I bought a small backpack from a company that was located in Pine Bluff. I used it as a laptop/book bag. It was best bag I ever owned, it got misplaced and contacted the company to order another. I just couldnt' get over how friendly the people were. Then again being from NYC area, its not hard to find friendlier people outside my area. But all these years later Pine Bluff stood out, its a shame to see it now. I am sure there are many other areas affected by moving operations overseas.

[@mariahdoublem]

Thank you to those (who can afford to leave) that stay in areas that were once great. Thank you for continuing to care and continuing to do this hard work.

[@Nitro_Joe]

I’ve spent multiple nights at a time over the course of four years in Pine Bluff. I’m a homeowner in the city of St. Louis, MO. I will never stay in Pine Bluff again. I know city life and have no problem with difficult neighborhoods. Pine Bluff is a whole different problem. If I’m back in that area again, I’ll stay in White Hall.

[@fatonyalmitchell3281]

Are hotel's etc still there

[@Nitro_Joe]

@@fatonyalmitchell3281 Several. The town is home to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. It’s a decent sized HBCU. It’s also the only thing keeping the town alive. I’m certain it will be mentioned in future videos.

[@fatonyalmitchell3281]

@@Nitro_Joe I hope so Looking forward to positive Future for the Town ❤️

[@sjaakzwart6001]

As long as you cannot say why this city sucks, it will never be better.

[@cdd4248]

Excellent Point. Identifying the problem is exactly how to start.

[@tinkerbell8507]

@sjaakzwart6001, wat is volgens u de reden?

[@lettheriver]

​@@tinkerbell8507corruption of those governing the city

[@Bawkr]

Local representatives in office are the issue however are elections fixed or actually votable here?

[@jglee6721]

0.63% Asian.

[@miguelion1007]

Thanks!

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Thank you so much for your support!

[@micheleallen6366]

I lived in Pine Bluff in the late 1970s…….I worked at First South and then found a job as an elementary teacher and taught for 3 years before I moved to Little Rock. First South was the first savings and loan that went “under” and several people went to jail over that financial failure. Your documentary about Pin Bluff is really sad to see.

[@DistrustHumanz]

Go back to those refurbished houses in 5 years, and witness how the residents have treated them, and you will understand how Pine Bluff got to this point

[@lindor1695]

That is an insightful point, Destructive occupants and a corrupt government

[@pfcwar5150]

Exactly

[@evamarie6090]

Seen it happen in a depressed area in NY state, HGTV sent a crew to redo a street of homes for low-income families. They asked for volunteers to clean trash and other odd jobs, over 70 people showed up to do this for free, every single person was white. The neighborhood was not white. The first family to move in was a single mom with 7 kids~ a few months later the boyfriend was arrested for fraud.

[@hesavedawretchlikeme6902]

Exactly. Poverty and sloth is in the hearts of too many people there. Plus industrial production is absconding with reckless abandon from the USA.

[@alexmintz7786]

Murder rate 11 TIMES higher than the national average (2019). What a city! I am sure it's all the result of that awful racism that keeps murdering people of Pine Bluff. Incidentally, POCs comprise almost 80% of the population. And 97% of perpetrators. Just a coincidence.

[@Foots4]

Can't wait for episode #2!

[@williamthompson2941]

Nice one, pleased to see how many normal people can see the real problems and not merely repeat the simplistic reason offered by main stream media.

[@cdaway2024]

#1 GET RID OF THE LEADERSHIP IN PB, STARTING WITH THE MAYOR. #2 YOU CAN'T CONTROL OR CHANGE HOW PEOPLE THINK ABOUT WHERE THEY LIVE. THAT'S AN INDIVIDUAL/INSIDE JOB. #3 LEADERSHIP DOESN'T HAVE PB'S BEST INTEREST AT HEART.😏

[@TabRoss1st]

You get what you vote for Democrats😮😢

[@rdallas81]

Unfortunately, it's like that all over the US.

[@cdaway2024]

@@rdallas81 SO ARE PEOPLE SUPPOSED TO NOT CARE OR NOT DO ANYTHING BY YOU SAYING THAT? WHAT'S YOUR POINT?

[@missmorena1049]

You know it ain’t never gonna change! No solutions

[@only4u2c420]

Thank you for this. I grew up in Pine bluff when it was a much better place, but I left for college at 17. I go home every once in a while and it is sad every time I go there. Class of '91. I saw it and got out and I know many people who donated their homes to charity for a better tax write off than selling their home. I do have good memories, but after I left I saw it go downhill fast. I really enjoyed your video friend. Thank you for bringing this to light for so many others.

[@RonLaw82]

My job takes me to pine bluff quite often, and of all the places I go I think pine bluff is my least favorite. It’s just something about the people there, while im sure there are some great people in that city, most of them that I come across act as if they are the toughest person in the world and have never had a good day in their life. I’m sure that attitude is at least part of the reason that that city is the way it is

[@Timbertrussminifarm]

I bought something off of FBMP from there a few months ago (I live close to LR) & I couldn’t wait to get out of PB!!

[@JG4Germany]

In 2017, I visited UAPB. Impressed with the university and its programs. The city was in decline but great potential.

[@GardeninGrace]

I can’t wait for episode two. I just moved from Massachusetts to Arkansas, and there’s certainly quite a few towns that you could consider along with Pine Bluff if you wanted to expand.

[@mfredcourtney5876]

This city is beyond help. Sorry. I live in Arkansas and it's chronic.

[@docpretzel-yr3df]

no one wants to live there

[@roseannarios7312]

I love architecture, particularly historic buildings, so when I stumbled upon this video I just had to watch. There was/is way more going on than I could have imagined. You did an incredible job. It was informative, thought provoking, well researched, filming, production, etc... everything was fantastic. You've got a new subscriber and I can't wait to see the next episode!

[@katGrey-ls1fi]

Agreed!! We all need to stick together!! This happened in our neighborhoods, one by one! And that is, Venice, and Los Angeles!! If they can mess up huge cities, they can take down beautiful, little small ones!! Our hearts and prayers are with all of these, "real" residents!! ❤☮️🙏🏻🌈

[@UKNOBTS]

This video popped up on my feed. I was born in Pine Bluff in the mid 60's, We visited every Christmas and i have wonderful memories. I hope that the city can grow again.

[@Hebrew42Day]

I see homes like this all over north central Arkansas and it makes me sad. Homes that are over 90 years old in shambles, that should be preserved. Melbourne just recently tore one of them down.

[@WillCate]

[@armandhammer9617]

Jonesboro is increasing in crime too.

[@KB24-x7l]

I just want to thank you sir. I moved away 11 years ago but all of my family and friends still live there and I too would move back in a heartbeat if there were more opportunity and development there. Most importantly I want to thank you for stating that you never felt unsafe walking the streets of The Bluff. There's such a misconception about the violence in PB. Most folks are honest hardworking church going people who live below the poverty line and are just doing the best they can with what they have and can't afford major home upkeep. Continue speaking light to truth. You're doing amazing work.

[@moonoggin]

Why could he not get the city to give him a permit for his warehouse? This young fellow deserves to have his dream.

[@woodlandwonders6887]

He seems like he has a lot of pipe dreams. Reminds me of someone I knew who pissed away a sizeable inheritance trying to be an entrepreneur. When he died, all he left behind was unrealized dreams and a mess for his family to clean up.

[@eattherich9215]

​@@woodlandwonders6887: he seemed utterly clueless and somewhere on the spectrum of autism. Who buys over 150 homes dirt cheap with no plans? The plan to digitise people's memories, but with no facilities was also a non-starter.

[@qbanz00]

That guy kind of seemed like a jerk ..especially dumping the burned down house on someone else , not telling her what she’s really in for.

[@franciscodanconia4324]

@@qbanz00yeah they poor woman is screwed now. She’s going to be on the hook for tens of thousands in demo costs and possibly property taxes.

[@oddlazdo]

Who buys property with big ideas without looking into the permits you'll need first??

[@OzarkMountainKing]

It doesn't help that the people that live there call it Crime Bluff. I looked in Pine Bluff and was discouraged by the locals from moving there or even buying anything there. I wanted to buy a house and start my business in Pine Bluff. Literally, my realtor brought me around to some locals, and the consensus from every single person was I was either stupid or crazy if I invested in Pine Bluff. I'm from the Everglades of Florida. I know about being poor without opportunities, but I've never encountered a whole town that discouraged anyone from buying a home and starting a business in the Glades. We were happy to see anyone bring anything new to the area. I ended someplace else in Arkansas. It's OK here, no real flavor, no real character, but they didn't actively demotivate me from joining their community.

[@dannymcdaniel1652]

Yes but it's so true

[@1976mcfarlane]

@@OzarkMountainKing well if locals are telling you not to I would listen. Most likely they wish they could leave.

[@DestinationJapan95]

@@1976mcfarlanespoken like a true low IQ, wage slave minded peasant

[@stephenhancock1578]

From poor panhandle Florida, I hear you. The problem isn't the town there, it's the government, until it changes, there's no use trying to build there.

[@OzarkMountainKing]

@stephenhancock1578 I really don't think people understand that Miami, Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa are not the entire state of Florida. I know the state likes to project the image that every city is wealthy and that most people live in McMansion's, but us true Floridians know the truth. Even the transplants think the whole state is just a palm tree paradise of well-kept streets. Up in the panhandle if you get outside Panama City and other beach communities, it's much more economically challenged, the governments are corrupt, and so are the Sheriff Departments and local police. Nice to see another Flo-bro on here.

[@whoevwhatev]

Amen AMEN 🙌 My city/county toooooo 🤩 here we come!! We’re rebuilding too #GeorgiaSTRONG ✊

[@ladilondon1213]

Sounds LIKE Blytheville, Arkansas…. There has been blocks dropped to the dirt. Houses knocked down by blocks. They say when the base was taken out in the neighboring town of Goanal, AR, Blytheville started going downhill.

[@JobieCatherman-be5sw]

I spent some time in pb in 2009. We came to town to work at the tyson chicken plant. As a small town boy from out west i was shocked to see the city, the residents, and the general way of life. Felt like we were the only whites for miles and miles and we were definitely treated like we didnt belong anywhere in that town and i gladly agreed

[@abusednomoresilence]

I am sorry that happened to you. It was not right!

[@hesavedawretchlikeme6902]

There you go. There’s an underlying reason for “our turf” and you white folk are not welcome. It’s your fault that the city is like this.

[@TY00000]

YOU didn't feel like you belong. Especially since you didn't know it was a black town, unlike "out west". YOU were uncomfortable but I'd bet my life nobody did anything to you or treated you discriminantly. Cry me a River.

[@TY00000]

YOU didn't feel like you belong. Especially since you didn't know it was a black town, unlike "out west". YOU were uncomfortable but I'd bet my life nobody did anything to you or treated you discriminantly. Cry me a River.

[@billkaldem5099]

Not at all surprised

[@DopeWorld-vi2pi]

My mother's was raised in Watson and I have several relatives who still live in Pine Bluff, Fort Smith, Dumas and the surrounding areas. I really appreciate this documentary and I hope and pray that together, we can turn this city and others suffering the same blighted, economically depressed conditions. Continued blessings to everyone attempting to right this and other similarly capsized ships.

[@AnnaKellyBlogs]

I really hope that man’s missing friend turns up safe.

[@sdpikapp]

He's dead

[@Omonike88]

​@@sdpikappHow do you know??😢

[@Bawkr]

Don't believe everything you hear online. It's possible but there's also only 4 homicides here per year, at least according to official reports. Just saying, RIP if true.

[@sdpikapp]

@@Bawkr who said homicide?

[@sdpikapp]

@@Omonike88 sorry for your loss

[@imee8825]

How do I get I touch with any of the gentleman that are trying to build this community? This is a great documentary. Thank you for doing this.

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

Who are you looking and getting in touch with? Happy to help.

[@imee8825]

Bob Withers and John Fenley

[@freeassunshine1638]

THIS MY HOME,HOME TO MY FAMILY. SO MUCH RICH HISTORY HERE. THANK YOU FOR THIS DOCUMENTARY PINE BLUFF ARKANSAS - LET'S GO FORWARD !

[@AbandonedAtlasFoundation]

NO PROBLEM! IM SO GLAD YOU ENJOYED IT!

[@michaelmuncy3593]

It appears that the local government is dead set on changing the city's moniker from "Crime Bluff" to "Pine Grift". Not a great way to attract new investment.

[@Bawkr]

Worse than grift, tearing down someone's home without notice & not honoring permits that are bought and paid for = life wrecking theft.

[@CeciliaVillalobos-ls6ie]

Im 58 years old, and want to move to this city. I find the idea of communities is the answer around this Country, give a fish, or teach to fish is a favorte moto. But watching this video gave me assurance i was not alone. Thank you for this video, and I pray for this beautiful city. The area alone is like a part of country i long to live. City in country style.

[@missmorena1049]

Good luck in da Communitay

[@brittanymcooper8084]

Thank you for making this from everyone point of view.