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.
Through Friday, April 25
Expo breakfast ticket deadline set
The deadline to purchase tickets or a table for the 2025 Business Expo Small Business Breakfast is Friday. The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will present Business Expo 2025 on May 1 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The Chamber will host Bobby Gosser, president and chief executive officer of Baldwin & Shell Construction Co., as the keynote speaker for the Business Expo breakfast. Breakfast will be served at 7:30 a.m. May 1 and the program begins at 8 a.m. Tickets are $25 for members, $30 non-members. A seated table for eight is $300 for members, $350 non-members. Exhibits will be open for the business VIP Hour: 9-10 a.m. and the public 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Exhibitor booth fees are $250 for members, $360 non-members. Details: Chamber Director Jennifer Kline at jennifer@jeffersoncountyalliance.com or (870) 535-0110.
Beginning Friday, April 25
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Encounter 3 Women’s Conference set
Ministry leader and authorGail Stith will present The Encounter 3 Women’s Conference April 25-26. Encounter 3 is free and open to the public. On April 25, the conference will be held at First Trinity Church of God in Christ, 800 S. Catalpa St. Prayer will be led by Saint Mary Harris, an apostle, from 6-6:45 p.m. The 7 p.m. service will feature Carolyn Traylor as the guest artist and Brenda Jefferson, an apostle, as the guest speaker. The conference will feature a “Back To The Altar Choir” directed by Kimberly Clay, executive pastor at Anointed Praise & Worship Ministries. Area singers are invited to participate. Rehearsal is one hour before service. The host is the pastor of First Trinity, Aaron Withers, and the theme is “Back to the Altar,” according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. On April 26, Stith’s book signing will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center, 211 W. Third Ave. The guest artist will be Richard “88 Fingers” Turner Jr. Details: Gail Stith at (870) 872-3899 or prieststith@yahoo.com.
Saturday, April 26
JCSHOF Fan Day at Convention Center
The Jefferson County Sports Hall of Fame is hosting a free fan day for kids from noon-2 p.m. Saturday at the arena lobby of the Pine Bluff Convention Center.
Youths can receive autographs and photos from sports greats who will be inducted later that evening.
Sports Hall of Fame Banquet set
The Jefferson County Sports Hall of Fame Banquet will held at 6 p.m. April 26 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. “The HOF weekend will bring back some of Jefferson County’s greatest athletes, coaches and lifetime supporters back home to Pine Bluff,” said committee chairman Jeff Gross . “It will be a day like no other that this city has ever seen to assemble so much athletic talent in one place that dates back to the past 100 years.” Tickets are available at myevent.com/jcshof.
Dialoguing With Delta youth event April 26
Dialoguing with Delta, the annual educational activity for elementary to college age students, is happening April 26 at 10 a.m. in the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Business Building Auditorium on campus. This session is all about “Real Talk, Real Life: Addressing Issues Facing Today’s Youth,” according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. The session will be presented by the Pine Bluff Alumnae and Delta Eta chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., in collaboration with the UAPB School of Education. Registration is open for individuals and groups. Details: https://forms.gle/hYF7saamk6Nw4Mck7.
Area Quiz Bowl team to compete
High school students from across the state will showcase their intellect in the 40th anniversary of the Arkansas Governor’s Academic Competition “Arkansas Quiz Bowl 2025” April 26, beginning at 9 a.m. and livestreaming at myarpbs.org/live. The first round of matches begins at 9 a.m. and will include an area team: Class 6A – Russellville vs. Sheridan, according to a news release.
Beginning Saturday, April 26
Disaster case training set
Arkansas United Methodist, in partnership with Arkansas Community Foundation will host a disaster case management training in Pine Bluff. The two-part training will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 26 and May 3 at Lakeside United Methodist Church, 1500 S. Olive St. Participants will learn how to help victims of disasters get connected with resources, work with local disaster committees, navigate through insurance and FEMA appeals, and connect with experts who have disaster case management experience, according to a news release. Training is $10 per person. Interested participants should contact Lauren Morris at lmorris@arcf.org or at (501)-372-1116. Details: arcf.org.
Auditions open for ‘Memphis’
The ARTx3 Campus will host auditions for “Memphis” from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 26 and 2-4 p.m. April 27 in the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. Passionate singers, dancers, and actors are sought to join this high-energy show, according to the news release. “‘Memphis’ is a Tony Award-winning musical inspired by true events, set in the 1950s underground dance clubs of Memphis, Tenn. It follows a daring white radio DJ and a talented Black club singer, both striving for stardom. Together, they break cultural boundaries and spark a revolution as rock ‘n’ roll takes over,” according to the mews release. Taijee directs, with musical direction by La’Leata May, and choreography by Miles Meckling. The production is sponsored by Simmons Bank. Details and registration are available at artx3.org/all-events/memphis-auditions. For more information, contact Bethany Gere, theater and public programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Sunday, April 27
Prayer Works honors family, friends
Prayer Works Gospel Church of Pine Bluff will celebrate Family and Friends Day at 11 a.m. Sunday at Amos Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, 1307 W. 16th Ave. The speaker will be the Rev.. Robert Willis Jr., pastor of Amos Chapel. Featured vocalists will be Darnell Jordan and Irish Pickett-Frazier. Prayer Works’ pastor, the Rev. Laydell Jordan, along with the Prayer Works family, invites the community to attend.
St. John hosts Women’s Day
St. John AME Church, 1117 W. Pullen St., will host its annual Women’s Day celebration at 3 p.m. Sunday. The theme is: “Stepping into Our Season” (Isaiah 43:19 NIV.) The Rev. Cleandrea Daisy Bates Gaston will be the guest speaker. She is the author of “Living Behind the Shadow,” the life story of the niece of Daisy Gatson Bates. The Rev. Charlene N. Boone is the pastor at St. John and Charneise Turner-Mills is the Women’s Day chairman. Music will be provided by Women United for Christ. Everyone is invited to attend.
St. Andrew MBC honors pastor, wife
St. Andrew Missionary Baptist Church, 5810 W. Malcomb St., will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the pastor and wife, the Rev. Richard and Dorothy “Dot” Hart, on Sunday. The Rev. A. Dale Watkins Sr, associate pastor at St. Andrew, will deliver the 11 a.m. message. The Rev. Christopher Briggs, pastor of the Newbirth Baptist Church in Pine Bluff, will be the guest preacher for the anniversary observance at 3 p.m. The community is invited to attend.
New Jerusalem welcomes friends, family
New Jerusalem Baptist Church, 1317 S. Texas St., will observe Friends and Family Day at 11 a.m. Sunday. The theme is “Showcasing Spiritual Growth of Youth through Bible Stories,” and the scripture reference is Matthew 19:14. The community is invited to attend these services. The chairman for Friends and Family Day is Joann Johnson. The co-chairman is Shirley Watkins. The Rev. M. Kriston Wilson is the pastor of New Jerusalem.
Barraque hosts Men’s Day
Barraque Street Missionary Baptist Church, 1800 W. Pullen St., will host its annual Men’s Day at 11 a.m. Sunday. Music will be provided by a Men’s Day Choir, directed by Elder Maurice Tatum, minister of music at Barraque Street. The Rev. Sidney D. Milton Sr. is pastor of Barraque Street. The guest speaker will be Judge John Kearney, Jefferson-Lincoln County District Court Judge, Division 2. He has served four terms.
Through Sunday, April 27
UAPB observes Founders week
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff will celebrate its 152nd Founders’ Celebration April 21-27. Events include: The week includes the Black and Gold Weekend, showcasing the UAPB Golden Lions Black & Gold Spring football game at 2 p.m. on April 26. On April 27, the celebration culminates with the Annual Sunrise Service and AM&N National Alumni Association Breakfast. Details: UAPB.EDU and official UAPB social media channels.
Tuesday, April 29
DAV sets Virtual Career Fair
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and RecruitMilitary® will co-host the Central Region Veterans Career Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 29. The event is free to veterans, their spouses, active duty military personnel and members of the National Guard and Reserve. More than 35 employers actively seeking the unique talents of veterans will be on-site. In addition to employment assistance, the veterans can utilize career counseling and resume assistance, network with fellow veterans and military personnel, and get support with their Department of Veterans Affairs benefits and claims assistance — all at no cost. To register for the career fair and access free resources, visit jobs.dav.org.
Beginning Tuesday, April 29
Pleasant Grove conducts revival
Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 1801 Indiana St., invites the community to its annual Spring Three Day Revival at 6 p.m. April 29 through May 1. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Don Hawkins, pastor of Barnett Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. The Rev. Dennis W. Wilson is the pastor of Pleasant Grove. Details: Stephanie Gulley at sistergulley.pleasantgrove1801@gmail.com.
Wednesday, April 30
Commercial sets Church News Deadline
Church news is printed in The Commercial on Fridays. The deadline to submit church announcements is noon Wednesdays. 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 and announcements for church news are accepted by email to Sandra Hope at shope@adgnewsroom.com. Details: (870) 534-3400, ext. 5.
Through Wedmesday, April 30
UAM student displays exhibit
Brian Thomas’ senior art thesis exhibition, “Brian the Artist?,” will be on display from April 24-30 in the Glassblock Gallery in the Fred J. Taylor Library and Technology Center at the University of Arkansas at Monticello. The exhibition combines Thomas’ passions for fashion, food and music, exploring themes of personal and shared journeys through whimsical, vibrant designs. The Glassblock Gallery’s hours are Mondays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesdays from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 3-4:30 p.m., Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Art league hosts Reeves’ exhibit
The Pine Bluff Art League will hold a photography exhibition titled “The Art of Nature” by African American and PBAL artist Glenda Reeves at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave. The exhibition will remain on view through April 30.
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 breakfast speaker will be Bobby Gosser, president and chief executive officer of Baldwin & Shell Construction Co. The Business Expo Breakfast will begin at 7:30 a.m. May 1 followed by the program at 8 a.m. 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 for members; $30 for non-members. A seated table for eight is $300 for members; $350 for non-members, 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.
Through Thursday, May 1
Superintendents’ scholarships open
The 2025 Anthony, Gathen, Rainey and Tolbert Scholarships are available. The deadline for applying is May 1. These scholarships were created by retired former school district superintendents, Frank Anthony – Pine Bluff, Thomas Gathen – Dollarway, David Rainey — Dumas, and Andrew Tolbert — Warren. The $1,000 scholarships to be given at each school district were developed to assist students from low-income families in going to college, according to a news release. To be eligible, the student must be a graduating senior from the school district’s Class of 2025, have a minimum grade point average of 2.50, and provide a letter detailing what makes them deserve this honor and their career education choice. Applications are available at the school counselors’ offices of each district.
Friday, May 2
Live@5 features Eubanks on sax
Michael Eubanks performs a saxophone concert during May’s Live@5 concert, from 5-7 p.m. May 2 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. “Eubanks performs smooth sax and soulful, sultry vocals,” according to a news release. Entry is $10 for ARTx3 members, and $15 for nonmembers. Complimentary beer, wine, and nonalcoholic beverages are included. The event is for ages 21 and older. Live@5 is presented by MK Distributors. Additional support is provided by Simmons Bank. Details: Lindsey Collins, assistant director, at lcollins@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
‘Built For This’ worship set
Aaron and Kae Spencer of 424 Ministries will host “Built For This” (Luke 24:49) praise and worship at 7:30 p.m. May 2 at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Business Support Incubator, 615 S. Main St. Due to construction on Main Street, the entrance and parking will be in the rear of the building on State Street. The worship leader will be Alicia Rose. “We are creating an atmosphere for worship for those who desire it,” Kae Spencer said on Stuff in The Bluff.com. “If you’ve been longing for something different pertaining to worship, this is the atmosphere for you.” Details: (501) 503-1777 or admin@424ministries.org.
Saturday, May 3
Russ foundation sets Mayfest
The Carnell Russ Foundation’s annual Mayfest celebration will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 3 at the Carnell Russ Vision Center in Star City. The community is invited to attend. The foundation will honor its 2025 high school book scholarship recipients and host a financial management workshop by Orville Abrams, a certified public accountant, according to a news release.
Sunday, May 4
Moscow church hosts concert
New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Moscow will hold its spring concert (in memory of JoAnne Jones) at 6 p.m. May 4. Practice dates are April 29, 6 p.m.; May 1, 6 p.m.; and May 3, noon. “Come lend your voice in support,” a sp0kesman said. The Rev. Stanley Blair Sr. is pastor of New Hope church.
Dumas church honors leaders
Bethlehem Worship Center Church in Dumas invites the community to its 30th Pastor’s and Wife’s Anniversary Service in honor of Superintendent Timothy Jones and District Missionary Linda Jones. Service will be held at 3 p.m. May 4. The Rev. Willie Gordon of Revival Time Christian Church in Pine Bluff will present the message. “Join us as we celebrate their unwavering service to the church and wider community. All are welcome to attend,” according to a news release.
Star City church hosts free concert
Holly Springs Missionary Baptist Church in Star City will host a free concert featuring the spring tour 2025 of Joseph Habedank. The concert will be held at 6 p.m. May 4. Although admission is free, a love offering will be accepted, according to a news release. Details: JosephHabedank.com .
Pine Bluff AI Summit set
ReMix IDEAS and the Pine Bluff Black Chamber of Commerce will host an AI Summit from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 15 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. “Discover how artificial intelligence (AI) can help grow your business,” according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. “The Pine Bluff AI Summit is a must-attend event for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to enhance marketing strategies, streamline operations, and unlock new levels of efficiency and scalability.” Speakers include: David Hailey – CEO amd founder, Countifi Inc.; Don Ward – CEO amd founder, Laundris Corp.; Chris Thompson – CEO, Sober Sidekick; Jakob Michaelis – founder, Auxigen; Karen Kilroy – founder, NYX NoCode; Oginga Carr – CEO, Epiphany Consulting; and Audrey Willis – chief innovation and program officer, CodeCrew. For details or to reserve a seat, visit pbtechsummit.com.
Beginning Saturday, May 3
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: 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.
Beginning Monday, May 5
Local in Small Works display
The Arkansas Arts Council’s annual touring visual arts exhibition, Small Works on Paper, will open on May 5 at the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain in Mena. Work by area artists include Alexia Lams of Pine Bluff, according to a news release. Small Works on Paper is a juried visual art exhibition that showcases artwork no larger than 18- by-24 inches. Now in its 38th year, the exhibition showcases artwork by Arkansas artists. The artwork will be on view in the Carver Grand Hall of the Ouachita Center from May 5 through May 28. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A reception will be held at 10 a.m. May 8. Details: www.ArkansasArts.org.
Wednesday, May 7
Chamber slates luncheon
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 7 at the UAPB Business Support Incubator, 615 S. Main St. The guest speaker will be District 64 state Rep. Kenneth Ferguson of Pine Bluff. Lunch is $15 and will be catered by Grider Field Restaurant. Lunch must be paid for in advance. RSVP to the Chamber at (870) 535-0110.
Saturday, May 10
Fingerprint Glass Magnet event set
The ARTx3 Campus hosts Second Saturday Family FunDay: Fingerprint Glass Magnets from 1-3 p.m. May 10, at the Arts & Science Center, for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. The event is free and open to the public. “Perfect for Mother’s Day or another special occasion, fingerprint glass magnets are fun, one-of-a-kind gifts. Create designs using fingerprints with ink on clear glass gems,” according to the news release. This event is sponsored by the Pine Bluff Area Community Foundation and McFarland Eye Care. Details: Lindsey Collins, assistant director, at lcollins@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
ASC sets Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Class
Ages 3-6 are invited to Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Class: Come Read, Sing, Dance, and Play with Me! from noon to 1 p.m. May 10, at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. The event is free to attend. “Melanie 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. The program is sponsored by McFarland Eye Care. Participants should register by May 6 at artx3.org/all-events/literacy-may-2025 or call (870) 536-3375. Details: Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call the center.
Through Thursday, May 15
Vote for UAPB’s M4 band
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s Marching Musical Machine of the Mid-South (M4) needs the community to vote for it to perform at the 2025 HBCU Labor Day Classic Battle of the Bands in Jackson, Miss., on Aug. 31. The UAPB AM&N National Alumni Association urges the community to vote for the band daily at https://surveymars.com/q/3LE295k0n . Voting ends May 15. M4 needs everyone’s support to make it happen, according to a news release. “Help M4 secure their spot. Cast your vote and represent for the Golden Lions with pride,” according to the release.
Friday, May 16
Oasis to host Memorial event
The Oasis of Pine Bluff Assisted Living Facility, 7001 S. Hazel St., invites the community to join them in an open house and Memorial Day Celebration honoring their veterans. The celebration will be held from noon to 3 p.m. May 16. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Auxiliary will be presenting quilts to the nine veterans at The Oasis as part of the open house. There will also be food, music and fellowship. “Let’s come together to honor those who served and sacrificed,” according to a news release. Details: (870) 395-7117.
Saturday, May 17
Yoga in the Loft set
The ARTx3 Campus will host Yoga in the Loft: Meditation May from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. May 17, at the ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St. Florence Love “FloEssence” will guide participants in gentle stretches, mindful breathing, and soothing meditation techniques to cultivate balance, flexibility, and mental clarity. This event is for ages 13 and older, and is suitable for all levels. It is part of the ARTx3 Campus’ flex pay program with a minimum cost of $5; $15 is recommended. Register by May 13 at artx3.org/all-events/yoga-may-2025 or call (870) 536-3375. Details: Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call the facility.
Friday, June 6
Gun Violence Awareness set
The community is invited to the Second Annual Go Orange Day focusing on Gun Violence Awareness. The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 6 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The Jefferson-Lincoln County Circuit Court – 6th Division – in conjunction with Pine Bluff Group Violence Intervention (GVI) are presenting the program, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. Highlights include workshops, a rally with speakers, family activities and free food. Free parking will be provided. Please note that a clear bag policy will be enforced. Vendors and participants are encouraged to wear orange. Free vendor opportunities are available for small businesses and organizations. Vendor forms are available at https://files.constantcontact.com/585454b8001/0cdf682f-fff8-482e-b763-ceb07eb4adaa.pdf?rdr=true. Completed vendor forms may be returned to Rev. Eric Walden Jr. by email at ewalden@jeffersoncircuitcourt6.org. They may also be mailed or hand delivered to 301 E. Second Ave., Pine Bluff, AR (71601) by May 16. Details: Eric Walden at (870) 541-5455 or (870) 718-5123.
Thursday, June 26
Boys & Girls Club sets Heroes Banquet
Table sponsorships for the fifth annual Heroes Banquet are now being sold. The event benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson County is scheduled for 6 p.m. June 26 at First Methodist Church, 200 W. Sixth Ave. The banquet honors those who have positively impacted the community. A $600 table sponsorship will provide a reserved table for eight guests, recognition in the event program and slideshow and social media acknowledgement on the BGCJC’s platforms. An online payment may be made by requesting an invoice for submission. Checks to be mailed may be made payable to the Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson County and sent to P.O. Box 6027, Pine Bluff, AR 71611. In-person payment is available at the office at 200 W. Sixth Ave. Confirmation of sponsorship by May 15 is requested. For information on sponsorship, contact BGCJC at info@boysgirlsclubjc.org.
Friday, July 11
Branson trip set to see ‘David’
Women of Faith will charter a bus to Branson, Mo., July 11 to see the live performance of “David” on the Sight & Sound Theatre stage. Men, women, couples and children (accompanied by an adult) are encouraged to attend. This is a turnaround trip with transportation and reserved seating included in the cost of the ticket, according to a news release. For details or ticket information contact Jessie Clemmons at (870) 692-2194.