Editor’s Note: At press time, the following events and meetings were known to be still scheduled. Organizers or appropriate officials are encouraged to contact Sandra Hope at shope@pbcommercial.com or use our newsroom email pbcnews@adgnewsroom.com to make additions or changes.
Saturday, Dec. 21
Winter Wonderland set at King Center
The Pine Bluff Parks and Recreation Department will host the Winter Wonderland from 2-6 p.m. today at the Coretta Scott King Center, 624 Kiwanis Drive. “We’ve adjusted the time to make this magical event even more accessible for everyone in the community,: according to a notice on the mayor’s Facebook page. “Join us for a festive day filled with holiday cheer, activities, and memories waiting to be made. Bundle up, bring your loved ones, and let’s celebrate the season together.”
Giveaway to honor Bobby Rush
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
First Ward Living Grace Pantry, 1201 Commerce Road, will host the Bobby Rush Christmas Giveaway from 2-4 p.m. today. There will be toys for kids, food, and more on a first come first served basis. The community is invited to attend, according to a news release.
Delta food bank sets Christmas giveaway
The Delta Network Food Bank will host its annual Christmas Drive-Thru Hunger Relief Distribution from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. “We are asking that you remain in your vehicles at all times,” a spokesman said in a news release. Vehicles will line up down Eighth Avenue and drive through the north access to the convention center and receive the food available for each registered household. Motorists must follow instructions of the traffic directors. Tyson Foods will bring a truckload of chicken. Delta Network is a 501C3 tax exempt non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible. Louis Ross is the CEO of the Delta Network Inc. and Jacqueline Ross is the director. Financial donations are accepted. Checks may be payable and mailed to Delta Network Inc., P.O. Box 20278, White Hall, AR, 71612, or Cash App: $DeltaNetwork. Registration forms will be available on site. Details: (870) 536-2424.
ASC hosts “Miracle on Main”
The ARTx3 Campus will present “Miracle on Main” performances at 7 p.m. Dec. 21 in the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. This production is directed by Bethany Gere and Kayla Earnest. “Miracle on Main” is presented as a memorable television holiday special with singing, dancing, and family-friendly comedy skits. Theatergoers can celebrate all the holiday excitement with Southeast Arkansas talent during “the most wonderful time of the year.” Santa himself may stop by for a visit, according to the news release. Tickets are $20 each. To purchase, visit artx3.org/all-events/miracle-on-main or call (870) 536-3375. Tickets may also be purchased in person at ASC during business hours and before each performance. Details: Lindsey Collins, interim director, at lcollins@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
Breath of Life to provide coats
Breath of Life Church, 1313 Pine St., will host the Sandra Jones Coat Drive in the church’s fellowship hall from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday. Coats will be given out for all ages until they are gone. The effort was named for the late Sandra Jones, a member of the Breath of Life Church, Breath of Life Willing Workers, co-founder of the Unified Christian Alliance Scholarship Foundation, and a giver to the community, according to a news release.
Exodus.Life to host Santa
Exodus.Life, 316 W. Sixth Ave., will host Cookies with Santa from 1-3 p.m. Saturday. All ages are welcome to attend the free event, according to a flier. “Exodus.Life is a 501c3, non-profit organization, dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate addiction treatment services to individuals, no matter where they are in their recovery journey,” according to its website. This gathering offers an opportunity to celebrate the season with free photos with Santa and cookies, as well as candy and a time to fellowship with one another. Exodus.Life aims to bring the community together during the holiday season to create lasting memories and spread cheer to all. Exodus.Life, a faith-based agency, is committed to strengthening Jefferson county, as well as communities across South and Central Arkansas, through various outreach programs, according to the release. Attendees are encouraged to bring their families, enjoy treats, and share in the warmth of the season with their neighbors. To regsiter to attend Cookies with Santa or for details, visit https://www.exodus.life/event-details/cookies-with-santa.
United Way announces Christmas in the Bluff
United Way Southeast Arkansas will host Christmas in the Bluff, a free event created in partnership with Turning Point Youth Centers, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave. The community is invited to attend, according to a news release. There will be festive activities for all. Children will have the chance to take pictures with Santa and receive a special gift. “Enjoy engaging activities to entertain the little ones. Come together with friends and neighbors to make this holiday season unforgettable, filled with laughter, love, and the true spirit of Christmas,” according to the release.
Summit to present holiday concert
The Summit Soundz Celebration Band will present its Christmas Spectacular Concert at 6 p.m. Dec. 21 in the worship center of Summit Baptist Church, 901 Ridgway Road. The band is a volunteer group of students and adults who enjoy playing a wind band instrument. The concert is free and open to the public, according to a news release. “All of your favorite Christmas songs will be included in the concert program,” said Lewis Hinkle, director of Summit Soundz.
Sunday, Dec. 22
New Community hosts Christmas events
New Community Church, 321 N. Birch St., will hold its youth Christmas program on Dec. 22 immediately after the 11 a.m. worship service. “Come out and celebrate the birth of our Savior with us,” a spokesman said. There will also be an Ugly Sweater Contest and winners will win prizes. NCC is also collecting items to donate to nursing home residents. Interested participants may drop off items at the church on Sunday.The program is sponsored by the NCC Youth Ministry directed by the Rev. and Mrs. Roderic Goodwin. New Community’s apostle/pastor is Patrick Lockett.
Old St. James hosts youth service
Old St. James Missionary Baptist Church, 4512 S. Ohio St., will host its Youth Christmas Service at 10 a.m. Sunday. The community is invited to attend.
Monday, Dec. 23
Watson Chapel to give away food baskets
Watson Chapel School District will hold a food basket giveaway from 9 a.m. to noon Monday at the Watson Chapel Junior High School parking lot. Baskets will contain meat, sides, and canned goods and will be given on a first-come, first-served basis to families in the community, according to a flier on the district’s Facebook page. People can drive up, open the trunk, and volunteers will load the food in the vehicle. “Special thanks to Delta Network Foodbank,” the flier said.
Pine Bluff Commercial sets church news deadline
Church news is printed in The Commercial on Friday. The deadline to submit church announcements is normally noon Wednesday. Because of the holiday, this week’s deadline is Monday. Pastors, ministers or others interested in writing for the Devotional Page may also submit columns for consideration. Column writers should have connections to Southeast Arkansas. Articles should be submitted by email to Sandra Hope at shope@adgnewsroom.com. Details: (870) 534-3400, ext. 5.
Beginning Monday, Dec. 23
Christmas closings set
Several agencies have announced their closing schedules for the Christmas holiday. Pine Bluff City Hall and related offices — Closed Dec. 23 through Dec. 25. Jefferson County Courthouse and related offices — Closed Dec. 23 through Dec. 27. Area Agency on Aging for Southeast Arkansas — The senior centers will be closed Dec. 24-25. Southeast Arkansas Transportation will run for dialysis and cancer appointments Dec. 24, but will be closed Dec. 25. State offices — The state Capitol offices and all state buildings will be closed Dec. 24, and Dec. 25.
Through Tuesday, Dec. 24
Enchanted lights open
The Enchanted Land of Lights and Legends drive through holiday lights display is open at Regional Park. The community is invited to attend the display from 6-9 p.m. daily through Dec. 24. The exhibit features 1.3 miles of a lights with more than 240 displays, many which are animated, according to Explore Pine Bluff.com/events-calendar. Admission is free. Volunteers will accept donations at the end of the drive through display.
Wednesday, Dec. 25
Annual Christmas Potluck set
The 16th annual Pine Bluff Community Christmas Potluck will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Christmas Day, Dec. 25, at Opportunity House, 1305 E. Sixth Ave. The community is invited to participate. Donations may be dropped off starting at 8:30 a.m. Help is needed to make this event a success. Volunteers are especially encouraged to provide vegetable dishes, such as corn, peas, string beans, greens, potatoes, yams, and dressing. Donations of desserts, drinks, water, and toys for children will be accepted as well as monetary donations. “Please support the Pine Bluff city Christmas Potluck, Opportunity House, 6th & Ohio St. (old First Ward School). The doors will open at 8:30 a.m. to deliver food and for volunteers. I need vegetables dishes, toys, desserts, and drinks. If you can give about 30 minutes of your time that would be great,” a spokesman said. Details: (870) 643-2383 or email pbjc.uapb.amnalumni@gmail.com. Coordinators are Ryan Watley and Mary Liddell. “Let’s come together as a community to spread love, fellowship, and holiday cheer.” according to the news release.
Beginning Friday, Dec. 27
King Cotton set at PB
The King Cotton Holiday Classic will feature 14 teams in this year’s edition of the annual high school boys basketball tournament at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The tournament will be held Dec. 27-28 and Dec. 30. Half of the field will consist of Arkansas schools, with the other half coming from across the country. Parking at the Pine Bluff Convention Center will be free this year. Single day tickets are $15, while tournament passes are $35.
Monday, Dec. 30
Pine Bluff Commercial sets church news deadline
Church news is printed in The Commercial on Friday. The deadline to submit church announcements is normally noon Wednesday. Because of the holiday, this week’s deadline is Monday. Pastors, ministers or others interested in writing for the Devotional Page may also submit columns for consideration. Column writers should have connections to Southeast Arkansas. Articles should be submitted by email to Sandra Hope at shope@adgnewsroom.com. Details: (870) 534-3400, ext. 5.
Tuesday, Dec. 31
Gould church has year-end service
Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church of Gould will conduct its end-of-the year service at 7 p.m. Dec. 31. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Curtis Gibson, pastor of the Bailey Chapel United Methodist Church of Gould. The Rev. Phillip Puckett is the pastor at Mount Moriah. “Everyone is welcome to come and praise the Lord,” the pastor said.
Through Tuesday, Dec. 31
Clinic hosting free exams
To commemorate World Aids Day, Jefferson Comprehensive Care System Inc., in partnership with the Pine Bluff Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, is providing free primary care exams until the end of December. An HIV blood test will be included in the exam, according to a news release. Exams are for adults 18 and older. Appointments must be made in advance by asking for the “Delta World AIDS Day” appointment. Local clinics include: Pine Bluff Clinic, at 1101 S. Tennessee St., (870) 543-2380; Altheimer Clinic, 309 S. Edine, Altheimer, (870) 766-8411; and Redfield Clinic, 100 Evening Sunset Valley, Redfield, (501) 397-2261.
Through Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025
Area Agency collecting blankets
The Area Agency of Southeast Arkansas began its annual Share the Warmth Blanket Drive in Jefferson County. The blanket collections will continue until Jan. 4. The purpose of the drive is collect and donate blankets to individuals who are elderly, disabled or sick and shut-in to keep them warm this winter, according to a news release. Details: Carolyn Ferguson, (870) 543-6309, or Pauline Jones, (870 543-6313, at Area Agency.
Beginning Saturday, Jan. 4
Blues concert series set
The Port City Blues Society will host the third “Blues By Budweiser” concert series at RJ’s Grill & Bar, 128 S. Main St. The doors open at 7 p.m. and music begins at 8 p.m. Port City members are admitted free. There is a $5 cover charge for non-members. MK Distributors is the sponsor, according to a news release. Concerts for 2024-2025 include: Jan. 4, 2025, Trey Johnson and Jason Willmon; and Feb. 1, 2025, Charlotte Taylor and Gypsy Rain.
Wednesday, Jan. 8
PB Chamber plans luncheons, speakers
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will begin monthly chamber luncheons in 2025. The first luncheon will be held Jan. 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Business Incubator, 615 S. Main St. The featured speaker for the kick-off event is Carlton Saffa, Saracen Casino Resort chief market officer. Saffa will give an update on the casino. The lunch, catered by Leon’s Catfish, is $15 and must be paid in advance. “These luncheons are the perfect opportunity for members to network, socialize, and hear from dynamic speakers addressing today’s business challenges and opportunities,” according to a news release. Reservations are required to attend. RSVP by calling the Chamber at (870) 535-0110.
Through Friday, Jan. 10
Hunger relief grants available
Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance is offering applications for the 2025 Capacity Building Grant. Applications will be accepted through Jan. 10. This grant is designed to help local hunger relief organizations strengthen their ability to serve communities more effectively, according to a news release. This opportunity is open to food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other hunger relief programs. Grant funds can be used for items such as kitchen appliances, storage solutions, meal prep tools, and office equipment. To apply visit https://emma-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/8mbgb/a3970e7cd59c3ce5d91ec77bbc958a50/2025_Capacity_Building_Grant_Overview___General_Grant_tips__1_.pdf . For questions or help with the grant portal, email scollins@arhungeralliance.org or cgiles@arhungeralliance.org.
Saturday, Jan. 11
Reception, Coon Supper set
The 13th annual Berry Pre-Coon Supper Reception will be held at 3:30 p.m. Jan. 11 at the Berry Farm Shop in Gillett followed by the 81st Gillett Coon Supper at the Gillett School Gymnasium at 6:30 p.m. The reception tickets are $50 each and sponsorships are available. Tickets can be purchased online at https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1531/17/interior.aspx?sid=1531&gid=1&pgid=1572&cid=3494 or at the door. For more information about becoming a sponsor, contact Becky Barnes Campbell at (501) 912-7560 or Gabe Holmstrom at (479) 409-3329. Tickets to the Coon Supper may be purchased by contacting Tyler Place at (870) 830-4422.
Sunday, Jan. 19
Fells to appear on national program
William Fells III, newly elected 3rd Ward council member, will be featured in the virtual program Justice Sunday Service Around the Clock. Fells will be among guests on the program that will be streamed nationally from noon Jan. 19 until 12:05 a.m. Jan. 20, the federal MLK Day of Service. Fells was elected to the Pine Bluff City Council, becoming the youngest member to serve on the council.
Thursday, Jan. 23
PB Chamber dinner to feature Flowers
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner will be held Jan. 23 at the Pine Bluff Country Club. Cocktails will be served at 6 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m. This year’s featured speaker is Pine Bluff Mayor-Elect Vivian Flowers. “Join us as we welcome the mayor-elect and hear her vision and plans for her upcoming term in office,” according to the Chamber newsletter. “This is a unique opportunity for the business community to engage with our city’s new leadership and be part of shaping Pine Bluff’s future.” Tickets to the dinner are $60 each. Tables are $600 and seats eight people. For details, to purchase tickets or become a table sponsor, call the Chamber at (870) 535-0110 or email Jennifer Kline at jennifer@jeffersoncountyalliance.com .
Friday, Feb. 14
Alphas plan scholarship fundraiser
The Delta Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., in conjunction with the Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation, will present the Valentine’s Scholarship Fundraiser at 7:06 p.m. Feb. 14 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The community is invited to attend the gala which funds thousands of dollars in scholarships for area students. The theme is “All Black Affair.” Tickets are $40 per person. Tables are $400 each, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. Scholarship sponsorship opportunities are also available. The Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Checks or money orders should be made payable to the Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation and mailed by Feb. 10 to the Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation, P.O. Box 3159, Pine Bluff, AR 71611. Details: Arzo Knox, (501) 351-7336 or arzo.knox@hotmail.com.
Saturday, Feb. 15
WH host chili, gumbo cookoff
The Battle of the Bowls Chili & Gumbo Cookoff will be held at 6 p.m. Feb. 15 at the White Hall Community Center, 9801 Dollarway Road, in White Hall. Awards will be presented for the #1 Best Chili and #1 Best Gumbo. Tickets are $50. For a team of six and a booth it’s $500, according to a flier. All proceeds benefit the Jefferson Regional Foundation. To purchase a ticket or enter a team, contact Laura Beth Shaner at (870) 541-7210.
Through Saturday, March 1
ARTX3 hosts ‘Matters of Abstraction’ display
The ARTx3 Campus invites the community to view its new Permanent Collections exhibition “Matters of Abstraction,” featuring decades of distinct two-dimensional and three-dimensional abstract art styles. Visitors will be welcomed to a breadth of abstract works that include subjects and non-representational art. Discover various mark-making techniques that create textures on the canvas, careful color choices that provide subtle gradation, focus and repeating patterns and the use of a variety of lighting situations, according to a news release.
Beginning Thursday, March 6
Workforce youth program sets events
Be Pro Be Proud, a workforce development initiative led by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas, announced dates and locations for the 2025 Draft Day Series. Be Pro Be Proud will travel to 11 locations across Arkansas, providing career exploration and interview opportunities to high school students by matching their interests and skill sets with relevant career options, according to a news release. Area events will be held: March 6: Southeast Arkansas Education Cooperative, Monticello. April 1: Grand Prairie Center, Stuttgart. April 3: Pine Bluff Convention Center, Pine Bluff. April 8: University of Arkansas at Hope/Texarkana, Hope. April 29: El Dorado Conference Center, El Dorado. For other dates and locations or details visit AR.BeProBeProud.org.