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.
Underway
City opens warming center
The city of Pine Bluff opened a warming center at the Opportunity House (Old First Ward School), 1305 E. Sixth Ave. The center will operate from 6:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. until further notice. “This initiative underscores the city’s dedication to protecting vulnerable populations during extreme weather conditions,” according to a news release. The warming center will offer a heated, secure indoor space; sleeping accommodations available on a first-come, first-serve basis; and essential amenities. For details or to volunteer, contact the mayor’s office at (870) 730-2000 or email mproctor@cityofpinebluff-ar.gov.
LIHEAP applications available
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Entergy Arkansas customers who need help paying their winter utility bills can apply for up to $475 in assistance through the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The program’s regular assistance application period runs Jan. 6 through the end of March, officials said, or until funds are expended while crisis assistance applications will be accepted through April 30. An online application is available for most Entergy Arkansas customers at www.getliheap.com, but applications can also be made in person at local community-based organizations.
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 here. For questions or help with the grant portal, email scollins@arhungeralliance.org or cgiles@arhungeralliance.org.
Saturday, Jan. 11
Raven’s Nest pantry to open
Raven’s Nest Food Pantry at Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 Hill St., will open Saturday from 8-9:30 a.m. or until all the food has been given away. Food will be handed out on a first come, first-served basis. Participants must bring a picture identification. The pantry is a U.S. Department of Agriculture distribution site and equal opportunity provider, according to a news release.
Charter school topic for Wabbaseka
The town of Wabbaseka will hold a community town hall meeting to discuss a charter school in Wabbaseka. The meeting will be held at 1 p.m. Jan. 11 at the Wabbaseka Community Center and the community is invited to attend. “This is your opportunity to share your ideas, ask questions, and learn how this initiative can impact our community,” according to a news release. “Your voice matters.” Residents will hear updates, future plans, and be allowed to share their thoughts and concerns. Details: Wabbaseka Mayor Andrew Goodloe Sr., Wabbaseka City Hall, (870) 766-4262.
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 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.
Tuesday, Jan. 14
UAPB alumni group to meet
The Pine Bluff Jefferson County UAPB AM&N Alumni Chapter will meet at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 14 at the main Pine Bluff Library, 600 S. Main St. The agenda includes committee reports, the president’s report and recommendations, according to a news release. In addition to coming to the meetings the chapter would like for participants to sign up to be on one or two of the alumni committees. Details: Mary Liddell, president, PBJC UAPB/AM&N Alumni Chapter, (870) 643-2383 or pbjc.uapb.amnalumni@gmail.com.
Wednesday, Jan. 15
Pine Bluff Commercial sets church news deadline
Church news is printed in The Commercial on Friday. The deadline to submit church announcements is noon Wednesday. 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.
Thursday, Jan. 16
Women’s Connection luncheon set
The Christian Women’s Connection invites the public to its monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 16 at the Pine Bluff Country Club. The speaker will be Donna Bogema of Danbury, Texas. Her topic will be “When A Choice Becomes A Challenge.” Bogema will also demonstrate how to make quilts from T-shirts, according to a news release. “As speaker, Donna’s faith was challenged when her high school sweetheart was killed in an automobile accident, then later the challenge of a wayward son’s incarceration,” according to the release. The luncheon is $21, which includes the meal, drink, dessert, tax, and gratuity. For reservations or cancellations, call Jennifer Keahey at (870) 540-9302. All reservations must be made three days in advance. Participants will be charged for reservations that are not kept.
Friday, Jan. 17
ARTx3 features movement, agility class
The ARTx3 Campus offers the community health-driven workshop Movement and Agility, led by exercise therapist Lauren Robertson. Designed for women ages 30 and older, this functional strength-building class aims to increase strength, mobility, balance, flexibility and confidence. The workshop is from 11 a.m. to noon Jan. 17 at the ARTSpace on Main. The cost is $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers. Registration is available here or by calling (870) 536-3375. Details: public programs coordinator Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org or (870) 395-7059.
Saturday, Jan. 18
Barraque Street hosts Prayer Breakfast
Barraque Street Missionary Baptist Church, 1800 W. Pullen St., will host a Prayer Breakfast at 9 a.m. Jan. 18. Breakfast will be served from 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. The guest speaker will be Angie Gatlin, an evangelist and member of Calvary Baptist Church in North Little Rock. The worship leader is Maurice Tatum, a pastor. The Rev. Sidney Milton Sr. is pastor of Barraque Street church. The community is invited to attend.
FunDay features Chromagraphy, Bubble Rainbow Foam
The community is invited to the ARTx3 Campus’ free Second Saturday Family FunDay: Chromagraphy, Bubble Rainbow Foam. The event is from 1-3 p.m. Jan. 18, at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. Participants can enjoy a colorful time with sensory play. Using their hands, participants will mix foam in various hues and explore the world with sight, touch and scent.Details: program director Shakeelah Rahmaan at srahmaan@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
ASC sets Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Class
Ages 3-6 are invited to Come Read, Sing, Dance, and Play with Me! with Melanie Madkin from noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. “Madkin, of Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Program, aims to foster a love of the wonderful world of literacy in a quiet and nurturing environment with this monthly event,” according to the release. Patrons can register here or call (870) 536-3375. Details: public programs coordinator Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org or (870) 395-7059.
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.
Monday, Jan. 20
Kingfest Marade/Parade set
Pine Bluff Interested Citizens for Voter Registration Inc. will present the 41st PBICVR Original KingFest MLK Marade/Parade on Jan. 20. The parade starts at 2 p.m. and lineup time is 1 p.m. at Third Avenue at Walnut Street. Parade applications are available and the deadline to sign up is Jan. 17, according to a news release. The marade/parade honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through interracial cooperation and community service. The MLK Executive Committee asks groups and elected officials to participate in the marade/parade. Applications can be picked up at the PBICVR office in the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave., suite 109, or requested via email at pbicvr@aol.com. The 2025 PBICVR Original KingFest Celebration theme is “One Dream, One Voice, One Future.” Awards will be given for the Best Banner and the Lorenzo Smith Battle of the Bands. Parade entry forms can be emailed to pbicvr@aol.com or npelinorr8@hotmail.com. Details: The Rev. Jesse C. Turner, executive director, Pine Bluff Interested Citizens for Voter Registration Inc., (870) 692-8579 or (870) 730-1131.
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 .
GOP to meet
The Jefferson County Republican Committee will hold its monthly meeting at 6 p.m. Jan. 23 at Larry’s Pizza in White Hall. “We will also be holding elections for county committee executive officers. chairman, 1st vice chair, 2nd vice chair, treasurer, and secretary, additionally will vote to reauthorize and elect a fundraising chairman to be placed on the executive committee,” according to a news release.
Friday, Jan. 24
ARTx3 hosts Afternoon at Movies
The ARTx3 Campus will host Golden Hour: Afternoon at the Movies from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Jan. 24 at the ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St. This free event is for ages 50 and older. “Couples can unwind and enjoy the 1952 musical comedy ‘Singin’ in the Rain,'” according to a news release. Patrons can register at artx3.org/all-events/golden-hour-afternoon-at-the-movies or call (870) 536-3375. For more information, contact public programs coordinator Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org or (870) 395-7059.
Auditions set for ‘Prometheus Bound’
The ARTx3 Campus will host auditions for “Prometheus Bound” at 6 p.m. Jan. 24 at the Adam B. Robinson Jr. Black Box Theater, 627 S. Main St. Auditions are open to ages 18 and older. No experience is required. Performances are slated for March 13-16. This ancient Greek tale was written by Aeschylus and translated by Bryan Doerries for modern audiences. J. Tyler directs. “This innovative production reimagines the story of Prometheus imprisoned for giving humanity the spark of life — as a reflection of the social injustices faced by Black men in America. With themes of courage, resilience, and inequitable justice, this performance aims to create a poignant tribute to the ongoing struggles and triumphs of Black, Indigenous, People of Color communities,” according to the release. Interested participants may register to audition at artx3.org/all-events/prometheus-bound-auditions. Details: interim director Lindsey Collins at lcollins@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
Thursday, Jan. 30
Mental health first aid courses set
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield is continuing its free Mental Health First Aid Certification courses. The session in White Hall is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 31 at White Hall Community Center, 9801 Dollarway Road. “Participants learn how to recognize signs that someone is struggling with mental illness or addiction, how to talk with them about it, and connect them to appropriate care,” said Kerri Nettles, a mental health first aid instructor with Arkansas Blue Cross. “The struggles people are experiencing are common, and we have to get rid of the stigma, empowering them to get the care they need.” Lunch will be provided. To reserve a seat, complete the free registration or for more information visit arkansasbluecross.com/firstaid.
Friday, Jan. 31
ARTx3 presents Karaoke Night
Patrons are invited to join the ARTx3 Campus for a night of musical magic during ART WORKS Presents: Karaoke from 6-8 p.m. Jan. 31 at ART WORKS on Main, 627 S. Main St. This program is for ages 16 and older. “Participants will step into the spotlight and have a moment to shine. Seasoned performers and first-timers are welcome to belt out their favorite tunes solo and grab friends to sing their hearts out and dazzle the crowd,” according to a news release. Interim director Lindsey Collins will host the event. The cost is $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers. Details: Collins at lcollins@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
Saturday, Feb. 1
ARTx3 to hold panel on activism, outreach
The ARTx3 Campus will host a panel discussion in conjunction with the exhibition “Parking Lot Space: Artworks by Kenneth Reams,” touching on topics dealing with the arts, activism and community outreach. The panel is at 3 p.m. Feb. 1 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. It features panelists from across Arkansas, as well as from New York and Colorado. The exhibition, also opening Feb. 1, includes a collection of artwork created by incarcerated artist and Pine Bluff native Kenneth Reams, and developed and designed by ASC curator Kevin Haynie. A reception for the exhibition will follow at 5:30 p.m. There is no cost to attend and the events are open to the public, according to a news release. “Parking Lot Space” is on view from Feb. 1 to July 26 in ASC’s William H. Kennedy Jr. Gallery. Those planning to attend the panel discussion are asked to RSVP at artx3.org/all-events/kenneth-reams-panel-reception or by calling (870) 536-3375. Details: Kevin Haynie at khaynie@artx3.org or call.
Beginning Saturday, Feb. 1
Blues concert series set
The “Blues By Budweiser” concert series for 2024-2025 include: Feb. 1, Charlotte Taylor and Gypsy Rain. The series is held at RJ’s Grill & Bar, 128 S. Main St. The doors will open at 7 p.m. and the music will begin at 8 p.m. Port City Blues Society members are admitted free. Admission is $5 for others. The concert series is being sponsored by MK Distributors, according to a news release.
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.