Holcomb chairs transportation panel
Arkansas House Speaker Brian S. Evans announced the appointment of state Rep. Mike Holcomb as chair of the House Public Transportation Committee.
Holcomb is serving his seventh term in the Arkansas House of Representatives, representing District 93, which encompasses portions of Jefferson, Cleveland, Lincoln, and Drew counties.
“This marks Rep. Holcomb’s fourth consecutive term leading the committee, underscoring his expertise and leadership in overseeing critical infrastructure and transportation matters,” according to a news release.
The transportation committee is responsible for reviewing legislation related to roads, highways, city streets, county roads, highway safety, airports, air transportation, and mass transit.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
In addition to chairing the transportation committee, Holcomb also serves on the House City, County, and Local Affairs Committee and the Joint Budget Committee for the 95th General Assembly.
Convention Center goes cashless
The Pine Bluff Convention Center will no longer accept cash payments as of Jan. 1.
“To enhance your experience and streamline transactions, we will now only be accepting major credit and debit cards for all purchases and services within the venue,” according to a news release from Barbara Dunn, executive director. “We appreciate your understanding as we transition to a fully cashless system. “This change allows us to reduce waiting times, increase security, and improve service efficiency.”
For details, contact the center’s customer service desk or see this website.
Ivy Center plans events
The Ivy Center for Education will host two meetings:
Jan. 28 — The 2025 College and Cultural Experience Tour Group will meet from 6- 7 p.m. at the Pine Bluff Main Library, 600 S. Main St. Students and parents are reminded to bring needed paperwork. For those who cannot attend in person, join the session on Zoom using Meeting ID: 856 8296 4187 and Passcode: 351061.
Jan. 30 — Students in seventh through 12th grades are encouraged to join the Ivy Center for a free ACT Boot Camp from 6-8 p.m. The focus will be on the math and English sections of the test. The workshop facilitators will be Charity Smith-Allen and team from Fetterman & Associates. The workshops will be held on Zoom only using Meeting ID: 856 8296 4187 and Passcode: 351061. Details: Ivy Center President Mattie Collins at mattie1908@gmail.com.
WC to change bus times, stops
In the Watson Chapel School District, some school bus stops and times will change starting Monday. Parents are asked to look for detailed information this week from their child’s school regarding changes.
“We appreciate your attention to these changes and cooperation as we work to ensure smooth and efficient transportation for all students,” according to a news release.
Dwarf wrestling coming to PB
The Pine Bluff Convention Center will present Extreme Dwarfanators Wrestling at 8 p.m. Saturday. The doors open at 7 p.m.
The dwarf wrestling group has been entertaining for more than 10 years, according to All Events.
“Prepare for the Ultimate Clash: Dwarfs vs. Minis. Step into a world where tiny warriors pack a mighty punch, and small-sized heroes prove that size doesn’t matter on the battlefield,” according to the website.
The event will also show Little Giants vs. Tiny Titans.
Tickets are non-refundable. Advanced general admission tickets are $25. Ringside tickets are $40. General admission pricing goes up by $5 at the door.
The convention center has a clear bag policy. All ages will be permitted to attend the event.
Details: www.dwarfanators.com or https://www.facebook.com/Dwarfanators/ or the Pine Bluff Convention Center, (870) 536-7600.
Simmons reports 4th quarter results
Simmons First National Corp. reported net income of $48.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $24.7 million in the third quarter of 2024 and $23.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2023, according to a news release.
Diluted earnings per share were $0.38 for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $0.20 in the third quarter of 2024 and $0.19 in the fourth quarter of 2023. Adjusted earnings for the fourth quarter of 2024 were $49.6 million, compared to $46.0 million in the third quarter of 2024 and $50.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2023.
Adjusted diluted earnings per share for the fourth quarter of 2024 were $0.39, compared to $0.37 in the third quarter of 2024 and $0.40 in the fourth quarter of 2023.
Area Agency sets menu
Area Agency on Aging of Southeast Arkansas offers lunch from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. weekdays at the senior centers. Next week menu includes:
Jan. 27 — Creamy chicken spaghetti, peas, Capri blend, breadstick, cake with icing, and milk.
Jan. 28 — Cheeseburger pie, creamed peas, herbed potatoes, wheat bread, pineapples, and milk.
Jan. 29 — Pinto beans with ham, spinach topped tomatoes, cornbread, lemonade pie, and milk.
Jan. 30 — Spaghetti with meat sauce, Italian mixed vegetables, tossed salad with low fat Italian dressing, brownie muffin, and milk.
Jan. 31 — Sliced turkey, sweet potatoes, cream-style corn, roll, apple crisp, milk.