McGehee board to meet
The McGehee School Board will meet Monday at 5 p.m. at the high school library. The agenda includes invoices and financial statement, personnel policy revisions, school board election resolution, student academic data or performance, and administrator’s reports, according to a news release.
City plans Hidden Figures celebration
The city of Pine Bluff will present the 2025 Hidden Figures Women’s History Month Celebration at 6 p.m. March 29 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center.
The city is accepting nominations for outstanding women who deserve recognition for their efforts and influence. To nominate an individual, visit www.tinyurl.com/HiddenFiguresPB. The nomination portal will close at 11:59 p.m. Feb. 26.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
This special event aims to highlight the achievements of women in Pine Bluff who have worked behind the scenes to create meaningful change in various sectors, including education, healthcare, business, and community service, according to a news release.
“We are excited to celebrate the remarkable women in our community who have made a lasting impact but may not always receive the spotlight they deserve,” said Mar’Tavius Proctor, special projects coordinator for the mayor’s office. “This is an opportunity to show our appreciation and tell their stories.”
Details: Mar’Tavius Proctor, (870) 730-2185 or mproctor@cityofpinebluff-ar.gov.
Kids Fest plans underway
The Jefferson County Foster Care Coalition is inviting the community to be part of Jefferson County Kids Fest 2025, a free event for families from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 5 at White Hall City Park.
This annual event raises awareness about foster care and child abuse prevention while bringing the community together for a day of activities, learning, and support.
Kids Fest is a family-friendly event held at White Hall park every April in recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month.
“Last year, we welcomed over 650 children for an unforgettable day of games, activities, and community connection — all while raising awareness for foster care and child abuse prevention. We’re looking to make this year even bigger and better, and we’d love for you to be involved,” according to a news release.
Kids Fest is hosted by the Jefferson County Foster Care Coalition in partnership with The Children’s Advocacy Center of Southeast Arkansas and Arkansas Division of Children and Family Services.
In addition to attending the event, people may also host a booth or become a sponsor.
Hosting a booth: Booths are free. Participants are asked to bring a game, giveaway, craft, or activity.
Become a sponsor: Sponsors can gain visibility for their business while making a direct impact on local families.
Candace Jordan is the executive director of Jefferson County Foster Care Coalition. Details: https://arfoster.care/kids-fest .
ACT-SO hosts fundraiser
The Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technology and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) Program of the Pine Bluff Branch of the NAACP will conduct a Double Good Popcorn fundraiser.
The fundraiser will take place Monday through Friday.
“Please consider supporting this worthwhile endeavor by purchasing popcorn from a committee member of the ACT-SO Program of the Pine Bluff Branch NAACP,” according to Stuff in The Bluff.com.
ACT-SO is an academic Olympics program designed to support the academic achievements of African-American high school students. The competition includes visual arts, performing arts, humanities, STEM, business and culinary arts.
“Your purchase of Double Good’s delicious, award winning popcorn will help support the local program and area high school students who will travel to Charlotte, N.C., in July to compete in this year’s National ACT-SO Competition,” according to the news release.
Details: Committee Chair Maryann Lee at (870) 718-5330 or mizmaryann@gmail.com or www.pbnaacpact-so.org .
‘Annie JR.’ to be performed
The Southeast Arkansas Concert Association announces the performance of “Annie JR.” in Monticello.
Southeast Arkansas talent will present “Annie JR.” on the premiere night fundraiser for the University of Arkansas at Monticello Fine Arts Center on March 4 with a reception at the chancellor’s home at 6 p.m. and the show starting at 7 p.m. at the fine arts center, according to a news release.
“Annie JR.” follows the story of an orphan named Annie living a “hard-knock life” at The New York City Municipal Orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. Annie dreams of being reunited with her parents and takes action to find them.
Tickets for the premiere night are $100 and proceeds will be used to improve the fine arts center, according to the release.
“Annie JR.” will also be performed March 6-7 at 7 p.m. and March 8 at 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 7 p.m. Ticket prices are adults $30, and military $25. For children’s prices and details, visit www.searkconcert.org or call (870) 460-1888.