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.
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 at artx3.org/all-events/movement-agility-jan-2025 or by calling (870) 536-3375. Details: public programs coordinator Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org or (870) 395-7059.
Through Friday, Jan. 17
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
UAPB to audition for ‘The Color Purple’
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff will present “The Color Purple, The Musical” in partnership with the Arts and Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. Auditions are set from 4-7 p.m. Jan. 13-17 in Dawson-Hicks Hall, room 312, at UAPB. The production is scheduled for April 9-13, according to a news release. UAPB invites participation from UAPB students, faculty, staff, the community and surrounding areas to audition. “We encourage all interested participants to showcase their talent by performing a brief snippet of a gospel song,” according to the release. “Alternatively, those who wish to prepare a piece from the musical itself are more than welcome.” For details about the audition process or more information about UAPB’s theatre program, email UAPB Theatre Instructor Taijee Bunch at buncht@uapb.edu.
Saturday, Jan. 18
Free cervical cancer screenings set
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and Healthwise Wellness will host a free cervical cancer screening day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 18 at its medical clinic at 4014 Old Warren Road. A same-day pap smear and breast exam will be offered free. No insurance is needed, according to a news release. “Women of lower socioeconomic status have a higher incidence and are more likely to die from cervical cancer,” Healthwise Wellness Dr. Tochi Amagwula-Keeton said. “Through grant funding by the Arkansas Department of Health’s BreastCare program, we’re able to offer free pap smears to Arkansas residents who qualify.” Details: (870) 454-4354.
House of Bread to give away food
House of Bread Deliverance Church, 1501 W. Second Ave., will hold its monthly food giveaway Saturday from 11 a.m. until all food boxes are gone. Proof of address must be at least a driver’s license, identification card, or utility bills, according to a news release. All new client will fill out a new client intake form. Details: St. Mary Harris, pastor/apostle at House of Bread, (870) 872-2196.
Pilgrim reschedules giveaway
Due to the inclement weather, Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 Hill St., had to postpone the Jan. 11 food distribution. The church’s Raven’s Nest Food Pantry will give away food Jan. 18 from 8-9:30 a.m. or until all the food has been given away. Food will be given away 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 an equal opportunity provider, according to a news release.
Pleasant Grove to show ‘The Forge’
The community is invited to watch the movie, “The Forge,” from 2-4:30 p.m. Saturday at Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 1801 Indiana St. Admission is free, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. “A film directed by Alex Kendrick, ‘The Forge’ tells the story of Isaiah Wright (played by Aspen Kennedy), a 19-year-old who lives for basketball and video games,” according to a description on IMDb.com Inc. His life is changed after accepting challenges by a mentor and by the prayers of his mother and others.
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 at artx3.org/all-events/ms-madkins-literacy-class-jan-2025 or call (870) 536-3375. Details: public programs coordinator Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org or (870) 395-7059.
Sunday, Jan. 19
Ezekiel to install new pastor
Ezekiel Missionary Baptist Church in Pine Bluff will install the Rev. Robert Burton Sr. as pastor at 3 p.m. Sunday. The installation service will be held at Amos Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, 1307 W. 16th Ave. The guest speaker will be Christopher Mack Sr., pastor/apostle of Highland Ministries. The Rev. Robert Willis is pastor of Amos Chapel.
Historical Society to meet
The Jefferson County Historical Society will hold its semi-annual meeting at 2 p.m. Sunday in the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave. The speaker will be Todd R. Gold, senior director of hospitality at Saracen Casino Resort. “Gold, a former chef, is one of the most accomplished and acclaimed culinary names in Arkansas,” according to a news release. “He has a very interesting program to present on his personal journey in the culinary world, Saracen Casino Resort and its relevance to Pine Bluff.” The public is invited to attend. Entrance to the meeting is on the Third Avenue side of the Reynolds Center.
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.
Beginning Sunday, Jan. 19
Kingfest observance set
Pine Bluff Interested Citizens for Voter Registration will present the 41st Historic Original KingFest Celebration, which honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and National Mentoring Month. On Jan. 19 at 6 p.m., the Justice Sunday Church Commemorative Service will be held at First Missionary Baptist Church, 4500 Faucett Road. Mayor Vivian L. Flowers will be the keynote speaker. PEN OR PENCIL King Team alumni and a mentee will also speak: Kortne’ Newby-Dodds, a specialty registered nurse; Jade Sanders, a Pine Bluff High School senior; and William L. Fells III, a Pine Bluff City Council member. On Jan. 20, the celebration continues with the KingFest Parade/Marade at 2 p.m. beginning the lineup at Third Avenue and Walnut Street. The marade will be led by the Marching Musical Machine of the Mid-South from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. A youth educational program is scheduled following the parade and Dr. Joey J. Gardner, a PBICVR King Team alumnus, is scheduled to speak. Details: PBICVR at (870) 730-1131.
Monday, Jan. 20
Agencies to close MLK Day
Several agencies will be closed to observe Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday on Monday. Jefferson County Courthouse and related offices will be closed. Pine Bluff City Hall and related offices will be closed and the Pine Bluff City Council meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday. Area Agency on Aging of Southeast Arkansas’s office and senior centers will be closed, however Southeast Arkansas Transportation will transport patients for dialysis and chemotherapy appointments. State Capitol offices and state buildings will be closed. The Capitol building will be open to the public from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
NAACP to host MLK Breakfast
The Pine Bluff Branch of the NAACP will host a Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast at 8 a.m. Jan. 20 at Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 W. Hill St. The breakfast is free and open to the general public. The Rev. Kevin Crumpton, the host pastor, will be the guest speaker, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. Ivan Whitfield is the president of the Pine Bluff Branch of the NAACP.
City Wide Mission meets
The monthly meeting of the City Wide Mission will be held at 1 p.m. Jan. 20 at Eighth Avenue Missionary Baptist Church. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Renice Davis, pastor of Bethany Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. The Rev. Kirby Gulley is pastor of Eighth Avenue church.
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.
Art League sets workshop
The Pine Bluff Art League will host an Acrylic Pouring Workshop led by member Vickie Coleman from 9 a.m. to noon Jan. 20 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Avenue. New and experienced artists are welcome to attend the event, according to a news release. Participants will learn how to create unique pour paintings and develop new techniques. The cost is $10 for members and $20 for non-members. This workshop is for artists 15 years old and older, unless accompanied by a member. Details: Vickie Coleman at (870) 540-9975.
Beginning Monday, Jan. 20
Drew County NAACP honors MLK
Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church in Monticello will host the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration at 6 p.m. Jan. 20, presented by Drew County NAACP Branch 6042 President Clarissa Pace and the executive committee of the branch. The special guest speaker will be Tonya Floyd Chambers, a lawyer from Little Rock. The celebration’s theme is “Mission Possible,” according to a news release. Chambers is a speaker, business owner, author, political commentator, playwright and poet. Also on Jan. 20, there will be Meet the Greeks event at 10 a.m. at the Wilmar Community Center in Wilmar. Contact Stacey Smith at (870) 224-6368 for details. The Economic Development Committee will host a Beginners Investment Seminar on Jan. 25 at the Monticello Branch Library from 10 a.m. until noon. The event is open to the public.
Tuesday, Jan. 21
A&P finance panel to meet
The Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission Finance Committee Meeting will be held at noon Jan. 21 at the A&P office, 623 S. Main St. Due to the streetscape construction, the front sidewalk is challenging to maneuver. The front door will be open with a temporary entrance. Participants should park in the rear lot of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Business Support Incubator (accessible from State Street) and use the side door to the meeting room, according to a news release.
Wednesday, Jan. 22
Free small business event in PB
The Arkansas APEX Accelerator will host a free workshop on “Small Business Certifications: Increasing Your Opportunity for Success in Government Contracting” from noon to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 22 at The Generator, 435 S. Main St., in Pine Bluff. Participants should register by Jan. 21 at ecenterdirect.com/events. “Small business certifications do not guarantee the awarding of government contracts, but they do increase the possibility of being awarded one,” said Tim Hicks, procurement counselor with Arkansas APEX Accelerator. “Participants will learn about federal and state certification processes, and they’ll learn about tools they can use to benefit their overall success rate in doing business with the government.”
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. 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.
VA sets virtual claims clinic
The Little Rock VA Regional Office will hold a virtual claims clinic for Arkansas veterans from 4-6 p.m. Jan. 23. To reserve a timeslot, veterans should call (501) 370-3829 before 4 p.m. Jan. 22, according to a news release. Veterans may speak one-on-one to staff of the Little Rock VA Regional Office regarding their claims for VA benefits. Staff will also answer questions about PACT Act benefits, existing VA benefits claims and assist with filing new claims. Details: http://benefits.va.gov/benefits/ or call 800-827-1000.
Through Thursday, Jan. 23
Flowers seeks residents for committees
Mayor Vivian Flowers’ Transition Advisory Board board invites Pine Bluff residents to participate in the transition process by applying for positions on the administration’s board committees, according to a news release. The committees are tasked with addressing specific priority areas under a designated leader. Residents interested in serving on the transition committees may complete the online application on the City of Pine Bluff’s website at www.cityofpinebluff-ar.gov/boardsand-commissions. Paper applications are available at the mayor’s office on the second floor of city hall. All applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. Jan. 23. Details: Mayor’s Office, (870) 730-2000.
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.
Beginning Friday, Jan. 24
Grand Prairie plans photo contest
The 68th Grand Prairie Festival of the Arts will accept entries in the photography at the Arts Center of the Grand Prairie in Stuttgart. This juried competition is open to adults and youth, according to a news release. The center will receive entries Jan. 24 from noon to 5 p.m. and Jan. 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The reception/awards event will be held Feb. 4 from 5-6:30 p.m. and the exhibit will be open Feb. 1-28. To register and for details, visit www.grandprairiearts.com or contact the center at artscenter001@gmail.com.
Saturday, Jan. 25
Barraque Street hosts Prayer Breakfast
Barraque Street Missionary Baptist Church, 1800 W. Pullen St., will host a Prayer Breakfast on Jan. 25. Breakfast will be served from 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. with the program starting at 9 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.
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.
Wednesday, Feb. 5
Chamber’s next luncheon set
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold its next monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 5 at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Business Support Incubator, 615 S. Main St. The guest speaker will be Superintendent Keith McGee of Watson Chapel School District, according to the Chamber newsletter. Lunch will be catered by Moe’s Southwest Grill. The cost is $15 and must be paid in advance. To RSVP, call the Chamber at (870) 535-0110.
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
USDA/1890 scholars applications open
The application deadline for the U.S. Department of Agriculture/1890 National Scholars Program is March 1, said Obadiah Njue, interim dean for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences. The program awards scholarships to students attending one of 19 historically black land-grant universities. High school seniors entering their freshman year of college and rising college sophomores and juniors are eligible to apply. Scholars receive full tuition towards a bachelor’s degree, books and the cost of room and board, Njue said. During the summer months, the students will receive an internship with a USDA agency. After graduation, scholars are employed by their selected agency. Learn more and apply online at USDA 1890 National Scholars Program. Details: partnerships@usda.gov.
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.
Through Monday, March 31
LIHEAP applications available
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 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.