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.
Thursday, Feb. 27
Hip Hop Farmers film set
The screening of Hip Hop Farmers at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff will Feb. 27 from 3-4 p.m. at the S.J. Parker 1890 Extension Complex auditorium (2300 L.A. “Prexy” Davis Drive). Hip Hop Farmers video series encourages minority youth to consider agricultural careers and highlights the broad services of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Following the screening, the filmmakers and cast will speak with the public. Snacks will be provided. The project is the brainchild of James Bunch, a UAPB agriculture alumnus who went on to have a 35-year career with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), according to a news release.
Black History event set in Dumas
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
A Black History forum entitled “Who is the Real Target?” will be held at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Dumas Community Center, 18 Belmont Drive, in Dumas. The event opens with a reception. Dale Charles, former state president of the NAACP will be the keynote speaker. The forum will be moderated by the Rev. Arthur L. Hunt Jr., and other panel members. “The forum format is to reveal in open discussion about what’s happening in Dumas, Desha, the Delta as it relates to things that are unjust and need to be called out. It’s about who is the real target,” Hunt said in a news release. Registration is not required. If you wish to be on the program or confirm attendance, send email to: allofdumasunited@gmail.com.
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. Feb. 27. To reserve a timeslot, veterans should call (501) 370-3829 before 4 p.m. Feb. 26, 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.
GOP to meet
The Jefferson County Republican Committee will meet at 6 p.m. Feb. 27 at Larry’s Pizza, 7401 Dollarway Road, in White Hall, according to a news release.
UAPB sets African American Read-In
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Department of English, Humanities & Foreign Languages will present the 40th annual African American Read-In with Dramatic Readings at 11 a.m. Feb. 27 in the auditorium of John Brown Watson Library at UAPB. The event will feature original spoken word, poetry, and literature pieces from African American writers/dramatists. The community is invited to attend, according to a news release. For the UAPB read-in Feb. 27, register free at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/mydgk38 and join the local participants and more than 1 million readers in the 40th National African American Read-In. Participants interested presenting at the UAPB event can send selections to Kevin Sanders, UAPB School of Arts & Sciences, Interim EFHL chair, by Feb. 14, at sandersk@uapb.edu or (870) 575-8617. For details, also contact Sanders or Tasha Strong at strongr@uapb.edu, (870) 575-8624.
Through Thursday, Feb. 27
Brian Kelly exhibit open at UAM
An exhibition of prints from Marais Press, a printmaking studio led by Professor and Master Printer Brian Kelly at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, can be viewed at the University of Arkansas at Monticello through Feb. 27. The exhibition is open in the Glassblock Gallery in the Fred J. Taylor Library and Technology Center at UAM. On Feb. 27 at 1 p.m. Kelly will give a presentation on his art and life in the UAM Visual and Performing Arts Center. The exhibition and presentation are free and open to the public, according to a news release.
Saturday, March 1
Zeta Phi Beta to honor retired educators
Epsilon Zeta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. will honor 12 retired educators during their 36th Retired Educators Banquet at 7 p.m. March 1 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The honorees are recognized for providing their students with a wealth of knowledge necessary for them to pursue their endeavors in life, according to a news release. The honorees and years of service are: W. Andranette Anderson-Gragg (19 years), Tessie Bullock (27 years), Bonita Corbin (48 years), Taffany Davis (28 years), Bettye Fields (41 years), Carson Fields (46 years), Lisa Hayes-Wesley (24 years), Frankie Hemphill (53 years), Napoleon Hilson (36 years), Ferdinanda Shepherd (32 years), Lois Shorter (37 years) and Kathy Tatum (39 years). Banquet tickets may be purchased from members of the chapter or by calling Genevia Thomas at (870) 489-1262. The event is semi formal and the deadline to buy tickets is Feb 26.
Beginning Saturday, March 1
Red Cross seeks volunteers
The American Red Cross Volunteer Recruitment Roadshow will make two stops in Greater Arkansas: March 1 — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.,Walmart Supercenter, 5501 S. Olive St., Pine Bluff; and March 5 — American Red Cross of Greater Arkansas, 2610 S. Shackleford Road, Ste B., Little Rock. Volunteers are on the front line providing essential services such as emergency shelter, food and emotional support, according to a news release. The roadshow informs the community about Red Cross resources and volunteer opportunities. Visitors will meet people and learn how their time and talents can help those in need. Interested volunteers may complete a short application on-site and receive a free gift, while supplies last. Details: redcross.org.
Blues by Budweiser concerts set
The 2025 Blues by Budweiser concert series will be held at RJ’s Grill & Bar, 128 S. Main St. The doors open at 7 p.m. and concerts begin at 8 p.m. Port City Blues Society members are admitted free. There is a $5 cover charge for non-members, according to a news release. The line-up includes: March 1 — Jerry McCoy and the Groove Diggers; April 5 — Fonky Donkey; May 3 — The Arkadelics; June 7 — Chad Marshall Band; July 12 — Tina Cossey Band; Aug. 2 — Kent Burnside Band; Sept. 6 — Big Al & The Heavy Weights; Oct. 4 — Garry Burnside Band; Nov. 1 — Charlotte Taylor & Gypsy Rain.
Sunday, March 2
Stuttgart ministry hosts service
Victors’ Empowerment Center in Stuttgart will host the first Sunday night Elevation Service at 6 p.m. Sunday. The guest speaker will be Patrick Lockett, pastor and apostle at New Community Church of Pine Bluff. The apostle, Victor Johnson, and executive pastor, Anita Johnson, are leaders of Victors’ Empowerment Center.
Beginning Sunday, March 2
Art league announces events
The Pine Bluff Art League will present several upcoming events. East Wing Circulating Exhibition – The art league is hosting an ongoing exhibition depicting Landscapes & Abstracts in the East wing of the Donald Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave., until March 31. The art league monthly meeting will be held from 2-4 p.m. Sunday at the Reynolds center. Artist and writer Monica McGee “MoKasso” will present a hands-on painting party. Members and the public may bring their supplies or use league-provided materials. The art league will hold a new solo photography exhibition titled “The Art of Nature” by Glenda Reeves at the Reynolds center starting with a free opening reception from 5-6:30 p.m. March 6. The reception is open to the community. The exhibition will remain on view through April 30.
Old St. James plans programs
Old St. James Missionary Baptist Church, 4512 S. Ohio St., will host several upcoming events. College & Greek Sunday will be held at 10 a.m. March 2 featuring the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Vesper Choir. Old St. James Women’s Ministry will also host Paint & Pray at 2 p.m. March 8 and the cost is $15. The Rev. David Smith is pastor at Old St. James.
Monday, March 3
UAM sets College Preview Day
The University of Arkansas at Monticello Office of Admissions will host Weevil Welcome: College Preview Day on March 3, beginning at 9 a.m. on UAM’s Monticello campus. Registration will be held in the Gibson University Center. Check-in will begin at 8:30 a.m., and the program will run until noon. Prospective high school juniors and seniors who are interested in attending UAM’s Monticello campus, the UAM College of Technology-Crossett or the UAM College of Technology-McGehee are invited to attend the free event to learn about programs of study, financial aid, new scholarship opportunities, residence life, student organizations and more. Parents are also welcome to attend. Students should register for Weevil Welcome through the Admissions Events webpage. Details: the UAM Office of Admissions at admissionsoffice@uamont.edu or 870-460-1026.
Beginning Monday, March 3
Gould church sets revival
Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church at Gould will host spring revival at 7 p.m. March 3-5. The Monday night guest speaker will be the Rev. Brandon Dyer, pastor of Christ Temple Baptist Church, Ruston, La. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the speaker will be the Rev. Joshua Pickett, pastor of Grace and Mercy Baptist Church at Pine Bluff. Everyone is invited to attend. The Rev. Phillip Puckett is the pastor of Mount Moriah.
Tuesday, March 4
Affordable housing seminar set
The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) will present the Introduction to Affordable Housing for Local Governments and Rural Leaders. The session will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 4 at The Generator, 435 S. Main St. This session is designed to equip elected officials, community leaders and organizations with the knowledge and tools to develop and support affordable housing development initiatives, according to a news release. Seating is limited. To register, visit https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/976ae19f6c0f41938eb05d26d06086a6 . Details: India Turner at iturner@lisc.org.
Beginning Tuesday, March 4
Annie JR. to be performed
The Southeast Arkansas Concert Association will host the performance of Annie JR. beginning with the premiere night fundraiser for the University of Arkansas at Monticello Fine Arts Center on March 4. A reception will be held at the chancellor’s home at 6 p.m. and the show starts 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. 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.
Wednesday, March 5
Chamber slates March luncheon
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 5 at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Business Incubator, 615 S. Main St. The guest speaker will be Adam Head, president/CEO of CARTI Cancer Center, according to the Chamber newsletter. Lunch, catered by Chick-fil-A, is $15 and must be paid for in advance. To RSVP, call the Chamber at (870) 535-0110.
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.
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.
Beginning Saturday, March 8
UAM sets free workshop for artists
Artist INC Express, a hands-on career development workshop for artists, will be held at the University of Arkansas at Monticello. The sessions are scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 8 and noon to 5 p.m. March 9 in the Gibson University Center Caucus Room. The workshop is free and lunch and supplies will be provided. Artists 18 or older and live within a 75-minute radius of Monticello are eligible to attend. Space is limited and artists must register by 5 p.m. March 6. The event is organized by the Mid-America Arts Alliance, in partnership with Arkansas Arts Council, according to a news release. Details: https://www.maaa.org/event/artist-inc-express-monticello-in-person/ or artistservices@maaa.org.
Through Tuesday, March 11
Synergy grant applications available
Synergy Forum Inc. is accepting grant applications for their 2025 grant cycle. Registered non-profit organizations are eligible to apply. These include IRS 501(c)(3) public charities, public schools, government agencies, and the hospital in Jefferson County, according to a news release. Synergy grants fund projects for the benefit of residents in Jefferson County in the areas of the arts, education and social services. Synergy grant applications should be requested by March 11 and completed and submitted by April 3. For grant applications and details, email Amy Hunt at synergyforumgrants@gmail.com.
Wednesday, March 12
UAPB fellowship, line dancing set
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff/AM&N National Alumni Association Inc. will host “Can We Talk?” Student and Alumni Fellowship and Line Dancing from 6-8 p.m. March 12 at the UAPB Stem Building. “This event is a unique opportunity for alumni to engage with current students, share valuable insights, and celebrate our Golden Lion legacy together,” according to a news release. RSVP by March 10 to ensure your place is reserved. For registration or other details visit https://www.facebook.com/uapbalumniassn/ or contact Joy Matthews, (501) 891-2226 or jnrm84@gmail.com.
Thursday, March 13
Agency sets ombudsman training
Area Agency on Aging of Southeast Arkansas will host volunteer ombudsman training from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 13 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave. A volunteer ombudsman is an advocate for residents in nursing homes. After training, candidates will become certified ombudsmen. Details: Brenda Brown or Lauren Bland, at (870) 543-6300.
Through Friday, March 14
UAMS career program seeks locals
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is accepting applications for the 2025 session of the Arkansas Delta Health Careers Opportunity Program Academy, an initiative that supports students in the Delta and South Arkansas as they pursue careers in health care. The program is open to rising high school seniors. Applicants must be enrolled at a school in Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Calhoun, Chicot, Cleveland, Columbia, Crittenden, Dallas, Desha, Drew, Jefferson, Lee, Lincoln, Monroe, Ouachita, Phillips, Sevier, St. Francis and Union. The deadline to submit applications is March 14, according to a news release. For details, parents and students may attend one of HCOP Academy’s virtual informational sessions at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 25 and March 4 and 11. To sign up for a session or to apply for the academy, visit partnerships.uams.edu.
AGFC seeks interns
College students looking for hands-on experience in conservation have until March 15 to submit an application for a summer internship with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Internships are available for a broad range of academic majors, including forestry, wildlife management, fisheries management, environmental interpretation, environmental science, biological research and law enforcement, according to a news release. The deadline to apply is March 15. Details: www.agfc.com/jobs. Attach a current resume, one page cover letter and official college transcript to your application.
Foundation takes scholarship forms
Pine Bluff Area Community Foundation is accepting applications for scholarships for students in Jefferson County from Saturday through March 15. These scholarships are for area students pursuing higher education at two- or four-year colleges or universities, vocational schools or technical training programs. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria, according to a news release. To see the available scholarships and to begin the application process, students may visit www.arcf.org/scholarships. For details, visit the website or contact Lawrence Fikes at pinebluffarea@arcf.org or (870) 850-7934. The deadline to apply is March 15.
Friday, March 21
Sigma Gamma Rho offers scholarships
The Alpha Chi Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. extended the deadline for its scholarship applications to March 21. The sorority is offering a scholarship to to one graduating student at Friendship, Pine Bluff High and Watson Chapel high schools. Applications are available at the counselor’s office at school. Applications must be postmarked by March 21. For details, email Mary Harvey-Evans at alphachisigma1945@gmail.com.
ARTx3 plans Kicks and Culture Sneaker Ball
The community is invited to celebrate the intersection of art, culture, and community with the Kicks and Culture Sneaker Ball fundraiser from 6-9 p.m. March 21 at the Loft Gallery in The ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St. The ball celebrates urban sneaker culture. It features a pop-up exhibition by artist Aneesah showing mixed-media works featuring the footwear. The program is for ages 14 and older, according to the news release. Tickets are $10 for ARTx3 members and students, and $15 for nonmembers. Tickets and event details are available at artx3.org/all-events/sneaker-ball. Donations to the sneaker ball fund may also be made at artx3.org/donate. For more information, contact Shakeelah Rahmaan at srahmaan@artx3.org, or call (870) 536-3375.
Beginning Thursday, March 27
Progressive Women set fundraiser
The Progressive Women’s Association of White Hall will hold its annual spring Rummage Sale Scholarship Fundraiser from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. March 27-29 at the White Hall Community Center, 9801 Dollarway Road. Until then, they are accepting donated items from the public, which can be dropped off at the White Hall Museum, 9009 Dollarway Road. Each year, the spring sale signals the start of the PWA’s scholarship fundraising season, which includes a second rummage sale in the fall, a scholarship auction, and usually a raffle for handmade items. All the proceeds from these sales go into the PWA’s Scholarship Fund.
Through Thursday, March 27
Heritage grants available
Community-based non-profit groups interested in supporting the mission of Arkansas Heritage are encouraged to apply for Arkansas Heritage Grants. The spring deadline for submitting a proposal is March 27. For additional information and access to the online applications, visit ArkansasHeritage.com. The grants are designed to help groups promote awareness and enjoyment of Arkansas’ heritage; increase community-based non-profit groups’ ability to create heritage-related programs, especially in places where they would otherwise not occur; foster cooperative efforts among organizations, businesses and government to increase the size and scope of events; and create ongoing components to existing heritage-related celebrations, according to a news release. Details: Debra Fithen, grants manager for Arkansas Heritage, at debra.fithen@arkansas.gov.
Saturday, March 29
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 will honor outstanding women who deserve recognition for their efforts and influence. Details: Mar’Tavius Proctor, (870) 730-2185 or mproctor@cityofpinebluff-ar.gov.
Through Monday, March 31
Nominations open for historic places
Preserve Arkansas is seeking nominations for the 2025 list of Arkansas’s Most Endangered Historic Places. The nomination deadline is March 31. Preserve Arkansas accepts nominations year-round, but those submitted after March 31 will be considered for the following year’s list, according to a news release. Nomination information, program guidelines, and an online nomination form may be found at PreserveArkansas.org. Details: (501) 372-4757 or info@preservearkansas.org.
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.
Through Tuesday, April 1
Black Hall of Fame grants available
Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation, in partnership with Arkansas Community Foundation, is providing funding opportunities for nonprofits that serve African American or underserved populations in Arkansas. Eligible nonprofits with programs focused on education, health and wellness, youth development, strengthening families and economic development are encouraged to apply, according to a news release. Only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, hospitals, public schools, and government agencies are eligible to apply now through April 1 at www.arcf.org/ABHOF. Organizations that do not qualify for tax-exempt status are not eligible.
Wednesday, April 2
Chamber to honor women
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will host the International Women’s Day Event from 5:30-7:30 p.m. April 2 in the Kline Family Foundation Gallery at ARTSpace on Main. The evening will feature hors d’oeuvres catered by Pine Bluff Country Club, beverages provided by MK Distributors Inc., and live music. Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased by calling the Chamber at (870)535-0110 or emailing Jennifer Kline at Jennifer@jeffersoncountyalliance.com.
Through Friday, April 4
Trucking group offers scholarships
For the ninth year, the Arkansas Trucking Association plans to award scholarships of up to $7,500 to students interested in pursuing careers as medium- and heavy-duty truck technicians. Applications will be accepted through April 4 for students beginning coursework in August 2025 or January 2026. ATA plans to name the 2025 recipients in May. Details: Sarah Newman at sarahnewman@arkansastrucking.com. Find the application at https://www.arkansastrucking.com/scholarship/.
Saturday, April 5
Garden show set for White Hall
Delta Blooms & Bees Master Gardener Home & Garden Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 5 at White Hall Community Center, 9801 Dollarway Road. Admission is free. There will be guest speakers, a plant sale, plant diagnosis, vendors and drawings for prizes. Proceeds will benefit area youth and community education programs. Jefferson County Master Gardeners will present the show, according to https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHallCC/
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. In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, 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. To host a free booth or become a sponsor, visit https://arfoster.care/kids-fest .
Saturday, April 12
White Hall plans Easter Egg Hunt
White Hall Chamber of Commerce will host an Easter Egg Hunt at 10 a.m. April 12 in White Hall City Park. It will be fun for all ages, according to https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHallChamber/ The event will include games, prizes, bike giveaways, pictures with the Easter Bunny, and candy. The event is free.
Beginning Tuesday, April 15
WH school district sets art show
The White Hall School District Art Department will present: “The Earth without ART is Just EH,” a student artwork showcase, at the White Hall Community Center. Opening night will be held April 15 from 5-7 p.m. Art will be on display April 16-17 during the center’s business hours and closing at 2 p.m. April 17, according to https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHallCC/ “Join us in celebrating the creativity and talent of our students! You will not want to miss this showcase,” a spokesman said.
Saturday, April 19
Sculpting event set
The ARTx3 Campus’ workshop, Sculpting with Angi Cooper — originally set for Saturday, — has been moved to April 19. The free mixed-media workshop will be held from 1-3 p.m. at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. Participants will learn how to create nature-inspired sculptures from materials such as cardboard. There is no cost to participate and all supplies are provided, according to a news release. Cooper is the ARTx3 Campus’ teaching artist-in-residence for February. To register, visit artx3.org/all-events/sculpting-with-angi-cooper or call (870) 536-3375. Details: Programs Director Shakeelah Rahmaan at srahmaan@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
Thursday, May 1
Chamber plans Business Expo 2025
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce invites participants to build their network at Business Expo 2025: America At Work, an event for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community organizations. Business Expo will be held May 1 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The Business Expo Breakfast will begin at 7:30 a.m. followed by the program at 8 a.m. Tickets are $25 each. A seated table for eight is $300, according to a news release. The trade show featuring various booths will open for the Business VIP Hour from 9-10 a.m. and then open to public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Booth fees are $250 for members and $360 for non-members. For non-profit organizations, there are limited free spots in the Community Spotlight section. For Expo questions, contact Chamber Director Jennifer Kine at jennifer@jeffersoncountyalliance.com or (870) 535-0110 or visit the Chamber’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pinebluffchamber.