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.
Sunday, Sept. 7
Gould church observes anniversary
Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church in Gould will celebrate its 109th Anniversary along with Friends and Family Day at 2:30 p.m. Sept. 7. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Donald Manning, pastor of Thomas Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Gould, along with his congregation. Everyone is welcome to attend this celebration. The Rev. Phillip Puckett is the pastor of Mt. Moriah.
Monday, Sept. 8
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Election board will meet
The Jefferson County Board of Election Commissioners will meet at 6 p.m. Sept. 8 at the election center, 123 S. Main St. Michael Adam is chairman of the election commission. The agenda includes public comments on new business (two minutes per speaker), according to a news release. New business includes approval of a special election by candidate for the White Hall School District and Pine Bluff School District and a presentation on the state Board of Election Commissioners’ State Monitor results of the 2024 General Election.
Through Monday, Sept. 8
Divine Dancers offer scholarship
Divine Dancers of the Delta (3-D) is offering a $500 scholarship. Applicants must be currently enrolled, full-time students at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff with a grade point average of at least 2.5. The application deadline is Sept. 8. The scholarship will be awarded to one student Sept. 29, according to a news release. This scholarship reflects Beverly Blunt’s passion for helping students succeed and her commitment to supporting their academic goals through financial assistance. A Pine Bluff native, Blunt is a UAPB graduate and founder of Divine Dancers of the Delta (3-D), a non-profit organization. For an application or details, send an email to divinedancersofthedelta@gmail.com.
Tuesday, Sept. 9
TOPPS to give away food
TOPPS (Targeting Our People’s Priorities with Service), 1000 Townsend Drive, will hold its monthly food giveaway Sept. 9 starting at 10 a.m. This event will operate on a first-come, first-served basis using a drive-through method. Each household is limited to one box and proof of address is required to receive the box. Participants must be present to collect the food, according to a news release.
Future Engineers to meet
The Ivy Center for Education will present a Future Engineers Workshop from 6-7 p.m. Sept. 9 at the Generator, 435 S. Main St. Students in 7-12th grade interested in the field of engineering are encouraged to attend. The session is in partnership with the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Department of Industrial Technology, Management and Applied Engineering and the UAPB STEM Academy, according to a news release. Participants who cannot attend in person may join on Zoom using meeting ID: 856 8296 4187 and passcode: 351061. Details: Mattie Collins at mattie1908@gmail.com or Charles Colen at colenc@uapb.edu.
Wednesday, Sept. 10
Suicide prevention to be discussed
September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and the community is invited to attend a free program titled Suicide Prevention: A Community Conversation. This event will take place at 6 p.m. Sept. 10 at the UAPB Business Support Incubator, 615 S. Main St. The host is the D’Andre Seals Prevention Outreach Project (DSOP), according to a news release. Speakers include:Kymara Seals — Moderator, founder and board chair of DSOP; Bessie Lancelin — Panelist and board member of DSOP; Jane & Joseph of Little Rock — Panelists. Joseph will share his experiences and Jane will share how she supports her son. Details: D’Andre Seals Prevention Outreach Project at https://www.thedsop.org/ or follow the project on social media.
The 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 are accepted by email to Sandra Hope at shope@adgnewsroom.com. Details: (870) 534-3400, ext. 5.
Through Wednesday, Sept. 10
UAPB Season Ticket Challenge set
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff announced the Alumni Season Ticket Challenge, an initiative inviting UAPB alumni chapters nationwide to rally behind Golden Lion Athletics through friendly competition and support. This challenge — anchored in the theme “Stand Up. Show Out. Give Back.”– aims to strengthen alumni engagement while generating new revenue for UAPB Athletics, according to a news releasde from the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association. The alumni chapter that purchases the most general admission season ticket packages by Sept. 10 will receive 10 VIP Passes to the Athletic Director’s Touchdown Tent during Homecoming — complete with complimentary food, drinks, and exclusive sideline access. Chapters must purchase a minimum of 15 season ticket packages during the campaign period. Purchase a general admission season ticket package at the Alumni Season Ticket Challenge Link: https://www.ticketreturn.com/TRMobile/#/tickets/choose-tickets/choose-section?sid=19103&SeasonPassID=25 Details: Quenton Moore at mooreq@uapb.edu or follow the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association on social media.
Thursday, Sept. 11
Session explains AI for test prep
A workshop teaching how to use Generative AI for SAT and college prep will take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Pine Bluff Library, 600 S. Main St. Presented by the Pine Bluff Black Chamber of Commerce, this event is free. Featuring Audrey P. Willis, co-founder of Code Crew, this workshop is designed for families who want to see how generative AI can make the road to college less overwhelming, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. For details or to register for the Generative AI Workshop, visit https://pbbcc.glueup.com/event/ai-sat-college-prep-143460/
UAM to showcase national pianist
The University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) Division of Music will present a piano concert featuring Misha Galant, the 2025 National Federation of Music Clubs’ (NFMC) Young Artist winner at 7 p.m. Sept. 11 in the Harris Recital Hall in the music building. This event is free and open to the public, according to a news release. The concert, which will last approximately an hour, is presented in collaboration with the Southeast Arkansas Concert Association, National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC), Monticello Music Club and Pine Bluff Musical Coterie.
Beginning Thursday, Sept. 11
Gospel Music month celebrated
September is Arkansas Gospel Music Heritage Month (AGMHM) and major celebrations will be held in Pine Bluff Sept. 11-14, according to a news release. Sept. 11 at 6:30 p.m. — An All-State Choir rehearsal happens at First Assembly of God, 1002 Ridgway Road. This is an open rehearsal for all singers and musicians from throughout Arkansas who have a desire to share their talents. A run-through of the celebration’s grand finalé will be included. Sept. 13 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. — A Youth and Young Adult Extravaganza and Concert will be held at New Life Church, 2801 S. Olive St. This event will include music, games, and giveaways. Sept. 14 at 6 p.m. — The AGMHM Grand Finalé 2025 Celebration will be observed at First Assembly of God. The attire is formal. The doors open at 5:15 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, media inquiries, or to secure sponsorship opportunities, contact AGMHM Media Relations Director Shayla Donahue at (870) 718-7802 or Arkansasgospelmusic@hotmail.com. For details about AGMHM, call (870) 413-9154.
Friday, Sept. 12
City partners with youth agency
The city of Pine Bluff announces a partnership with YEAH8 Arts & Motion, a youth-centered enrichment initiative dedicated to fostering creativity, mindfulness, and academic growth. The partnership will officially launch with a ribbon cutting ceremony at noon Sept. 12 at the Chester Hynes Community Center, 2101 W. 11th Ave. YEAH8 Arts & Motion provides innovative opportunities for young people to explore science, technology, the arts, and personal development through hands on immersive programming. The community is invited to attend the ribbon cutting. Open house for YEAH8 Arts & Motion will be held from 4-6 p.m. Sept. 12. Details: Mayor’s office, (870) 730-2000 or email mproctor@cityofpinebluff-ar.gov.
UAPB alumni plan scholarship gala
The Pine Bluff/Jefferson County UAPB/AM&N Alumni Chapter’s 2025 Scholarship Gala will be held Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The center has a clear bag policy, according to the news release. The theme of the gala is Journey of Knowledge: Empowering Minds, Igniting Futures. This event will recognize some outstanding community partners while the proceeds will reward some deserving University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff students (including 2025 graduates of Jefferson County high schools), according to a news release. Tickets are $40 per person or $400 per table. Contact the following for tickets, to submit print ready ads for the souvenir booklet, payments and donations: Shannon Hendrix (870) 718-3472 or (870) 692-3099. Checks are payable to PBJC UAPB AM&N Alumni Chapter, P.O. Box 9288, Pine Bluff, AR 71611. All monies for tickets and ads are due by Aug. 15.
ARTx3 hosts Movement & Agility workshop
The ARTx3 Campus will host a Movement and Agility workshop from 11 a.m. to noon Sept. 12 in the Loft Gallery at The ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St. Designed for women 30 and older, this class aims to increase strength, mobility, balance, flexibility and confidence. Exercise therapist Lauren Robertson of Kingdom Wellness 360 instructs. The cost is $15 for ARTx3 members and $20 for nonmembers. Register by Sept. 9 at artx3.org/all-events/movement-agility-sept-2025. The program is sponsored by McFarland Eye Care. Details: Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call the center.
Saturday, Sept. 13
Pilgrim offers free food
Raven’s Nest Food Pantry in Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 Hill St., will be open Sept. 13 from 8-9:30 a.m. or until all the food has been given away. Food will be handed out 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.
St. John to give away food
St. John AME Church, 1117 W. Pullen St., will give away food boxes to those in need Sept. 13 from 9 a.m. until all food has been distributed. State ID’s are required to receive one box per family. Pickup will be in front of the church on Cherry Street. For safety reasons, recipients are asked to stay in their vehicles and open their trunks. The food is provided by the church’s Soul Food for the Mind, Body, and Spirit Feeding Ministry along with community partners, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, according to a news release.
Tinkerfest: Steam Carnival set
The ARTx3 Campus will host Tinkerfest: STEAM Carnival from 1-3 p.m. Sept. 13 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. The event is free and open to the public. “This year’s Tinkerfest is an immersive, hands-on celebration of creativity, innovation, and discovery designed for learners of all ages. Blending the excitement of a carnival with the curiosity-driven spirit of tinkering, this one-day festival invites families, students, and educators to explore the world of science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) through playful experimentation and interactive exhibits,” according to the release. This event is sponsored by the Pine Bluff Area Community Foundation and McFarland Eye Care. Details: Shakeelah Rahmaan, programs director, at srahmaan@artx3.org or call the center.
Sunday, Sept. 14
New Community honors pastor, wife
New Community Church, 321 N. Birch St., will also observe the 22nd Anniversary of the pastor/apostle and wife, Patrick and Janice Lockett, at 2:30 p.m. Sept. 14. The guest preacher will be the Rev. Lee Whitiker, pastor of Solid Rock Missionary Baptist Church.
New Jerusalem hosts Women’s Day
New Jerusalem Baptist Church, 1317 S. Texas St., will observe its Women’s Day on Sept. 14. The 11 a.m. speaker will be Juanita Harris of New Jerusalem. The 2 p.m. speaker will be Mary Adams of The First Step International Church of Dallas, Texas. The choir will be under the direction of Jasmine Wilson. Renita Terry will be the guest musician. The choir rehearsals will be Sept. 6 and Sept. 13 at 11 a.m.. The Rev. M. Kristin Wilson is the pastor of New Jerusalem Baptist Church.
Old St. James observes 140th Anniversary
Old St. James Missionary Baptist Church, 4512 S. Ohio St., will observe its 140th anniversary at 10 a.m. Sept. 14. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Clarence Holman, pastor of Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church. The Rev. David M. Smith is pastor of Old St. James.
Tuesday, Sept. 16
Feeding Brighter Futures event set
The second annual “Feeding Brighter Futures Workshop” is set for 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sept. 16 at in McGeorge Hall at Southeast Arkansas College. The event is free and open to the public, according to a news release from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Community members are invited to join and help develop solutions for promoting healthy eating in local youth programs. Details: Kimberly Haynie at hayniek@uapb.edu.
Thursday, Sept. 18
Rosenzweig display, reception set
The ARTx3 Campus will host an opening reception and awards ceremony for the 2025 Irene Rosenzweig Biennial Juried Exhibition from 5-7 p.m. Sept. 18 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. The event is free and open to the public. “The prestigious show — funded by an endowment from the notable Pine Bluff resident — is an opportunity for established and up-and-coming artists to gain recognition and earn prizes, and for the Arts & Science Center to grow its Permanent Collection,” according to the news release. The prizes awarded are best in show, first place, second place and three merit awards. Purchase awards totalling $2,000 are also available. The exhibition will be on view in the International Paper Gallery from Sept. 18 to Jan. 24, 2026. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays.
Christian Women set luncheon
The Christian Women’s Connection luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 18 at the Pine Bluff Country Club. The speaker will be Sue Bohlin of Plano, Texas, who will discuss “How To Handle the Things You Hate But Cannot Change,” according to a news release. Bohlin shares how God healed feelings of anger and poor self-image after polio. The luncheon costs $20 and includes the meal, drink, dessert, tax, and gratuity. Everyone is invited to attend. For reservations and/or cancellations, contact Jennifer Keahey at (870) 540-9302. All participants are asked to honor their reservations.
Rosenzweig exhibition opens
The Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas will host its 2025 Irene Rosenzweig Biennial Juried Exhibition featuring 35 pieces. The show opens Sept. 18 with an awards reception from 5-7 p.m. Awards will be presented at 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Details: https://www.artx3.org/exhibits/irene-rosenzweig-biennial-juried-exhibition.
Chamber plans Taste of SEA
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will present the Taste of Southeast Arkansas on Sept. 18 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The cocktail hour starts at 5:30 p.m. and tasting begins at 6:30 p.m., according to the Chamber newsletter. The event will include an open bar, dishes to taste, and live entertainment by Rodney Block Collective. The attire is Western cocktail. Tickets are $55 for Chamber members, $65 for non-members, and $500 for reserved tables. Details: The Chamber, (870) 535-0110.
Friday, Sept. 19
UAPB Lonoke farm field day set
The 2025 Agriculture Farm Field Day will be held Sept. 19 at the Pearlie S. Reed/Robert L. Cole Small Farm Outreach Wetlands and Water Management Center on the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Farm in Lonoke. The field day begins with registration at 7 a.m. and opening remarks at 8 a.m. Tours begin at 8:30 a.m. with the last tour leaving at 11 a.m. A luncheon will follow at 11:30 a.m. The event will conclude with presentations, networking and visiting vendors until the 1:30 p.m. adjournment. Tractor-pulled trailers will transport participants to different learning stations, which will feature scientists, researchers and faculty reporting on a variety of agricultural projects, according to a news release. Details: Julius Handcock, resident director of UAPB’s Lonoke and Marianna Farms, at (501) 676-1534 handcockj@uapb.edu; Obadiah Njue, assistant dean for Extension and outreach, at (870) 575-8152 or njueo@uapb.edu; or Karen Lee, Small Farm Program Extension program specialist, at (870) 575-7225 or leek@uapb.edu.
Denim, Diamonds event set
Denim, Diamonds, Boots & Bling, an evening under the stars, will be held at 6 p.m. Sept. 19 at Saracen Landing. This event will benefit the D’Andre Seals Suicide Prevention Outreach Project, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. Admission is $40 per person. Performers include Pashu’ar Grissom, Jimmy Cunningham, DJ B Nice, Rahj Cummings, Kordae McCoy and Big Mond. Food will be provided by local caterers and a cash bar will be available, according to the release. Tickets may be purchased via Cash App at $dsoutreachproject or by contacting Seals at (501) 940-3467, Kenetta Ridgell at (870) 818-7993 or Marcie Johnson at (870) 329-1970. Details: https://www.thedsop.org/ or follow the D’Andre Seals Prevention Outreach Project on Social Media.
Through Friday, Sept. 19
Program offers schools shade trees
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Shade Trees on Playgrounds (STOP) program is accepting applications from Arkansas schools through Sept. 19. Selected schools will receive up to five Arkansas-native shade trees, along with mulch, watering supplies, planting guidelines, and on-site assistance from department staff. Each planting will take place this fall during a ceremony involving students, according to a news release. Eligible applicants include any public or private Arkansas school serving grades pre-K through 12, as well as non-traditional educational facilities such as juvenile detention centers, residential childcare institutions, and long-term care facilities. Details: https://agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/urban-community-forestry/stop-program/
Saturday, Sept. 20
3 On 3 Basketball event set
A 3 On 3 Basketball Tournament is set for Sept. 20 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at New St. Hurricane Missionary Baptist Church, 3319 S. Ohio St. The deadline to register is Sept. 17. Boys ages 12 to 17 are eligible to participate. The team size is four players, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. The tournament is presented by Jefferson-Lincoln County Circuit Court, 6th Division, where Judge Earnest E. Brown Jr. is presiding. Sponsors include Pine Bluff Group Violence Intervention, Pine Bluff Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Hurricane HYPE (Helping Young People Excel) Center, New St. Hurricane Missionary Baptist Church and Simmons Bank. Register for 3 On 3 Basketball Tournament at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeWu1K2qe4ZSlzbHyP1TbiVvnkEPJ3FDZIyguP8HnUBDOtpBQ/viewform. Details: Tim Barnett at (870) 718-8968.
Thursday, Sept. 25
United Way sets Day of Caring
United Way Southeast Arkansas announced the Day of Caring 3rd Ward Cleanup will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 25 beginning at at Kingdom Builders Outreach Church, 3105 S. Apple St. Volunteers will check in at the United Way Table and receive supplies. Projects start after a welcome session and continue throughout the day, ending with a group celebration, according to a news release. For more information or to sign up, contact United Way Southeast Arkansas at (870) 534-2153 or info@pbreynoldscenter.org.
EHC groups plan food drive at fair
The Jefferson County Extension Homemakers Council are bringing back “Fill the Truck” food drive during the 86th annual Southeast Arkansas District Fair. Extension Homemakers Club members will accept healthy, non-perishable unexpired food from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 26 at Hestand Stadium Fairgrounds, 420 N. Blake St. Club members will be there to help you. By donating food or money you will be helping families in need of food security, according to a news release. The community is asked to participate. A community health fair will be held at the same time as Fill the Truck. If you are interested in being a health fair vendor, call Jefferson County family and consumer sciences agent and EHC adviser, Mary Ann Kizer, at (870) 534-1033 for a vendor application form or email mkizer@uada.edu.
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. Sept. 25. To reserve a time slot, veterans should call (501) 370-3829 before 4 p.m. Sept. 24, 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 answer questions about existing VA benefits claims and assist with filing new claims. Details: http://benefits.va.gov/benefits/ or call 800-827-1000.
Beginning Thursday, Sept. 25
ASC presents Finding Nemo Jr.
The ARTx3 Campus will present Finding Nemo Jr. at 7 p.m. Sept. 25 and Sept. 26; 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Sept. 27; and 3 p.m. Sept. 28. Performances are in the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater at the Arts & Science Center. The production is sponsored by Relyance Bank. “Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. is a charming 60-minute musical adaptation of the 2003 Pixar film with a cast of young performers. It follows clownfish Marlin (Isaiah T. Austin) on his journey across the ocean to rescue his son, Nemo (Avery Marie Martin), who’s been captured and taken to Sydney. Along the way, Marlin meets characters like Dory (Allison Caraway), Crush (Brandt Lunsford) and the Tank Gang, while both father and son learn about courage, friendship and self-discovery,” according to a synopsis. Tickets are $13 for members, $18 for nonmembers, and $10 for students when purchased in person with a student ID. Children ages 3 and younger who can sit in a parent or guardian’s lap are admitted free. Tickets may be purchased by visiting artx3.org/all-events/finding-nemo-jr, calling the center or in person. Details: Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org.
Saturday, Sept. 27
Banquet to support Sickle Cell group
The Mutual Sickle Cell Support Group Inc. will host the 2025 Sickle Cell Anemia Banquet at 6 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Guaranteed Rates Building, 2402 E. Harding Ave. The theme is “The Fight Continues with Us.” Tickets are $25 each and proceeds will support the group’s important initiatives, according to a news release. During the event, Classie Green, a retired nurse and community leader, will be honored for her contributions. From 1968 to 1978, Green was chair of the Drew County Sickle Cell Anemia Chapter in Monticello and served on the Arkansas State Board of Sickle Cell Anemia. To purchase tickets to the banquet or make a donation, contact Barbara Marbley at (870) 209-7514 or Rosie Sanders at (870) 643-0712.
OSJ conference features Vickie Winans
Old St. James Missionary Baptist Church, 4512 S. Ohio St., will present Grammy Award nominated Gospel singer Vickie Winans as the special guest artist during the Women’s Conference on Sept. 27. Registration starts at 8 a.m. The conference begins at 9 a.m. with opening speaker Latonya Scott of Old St. James followed by three classes taught by Bishop Shirley Sanders, Yolanda Campbell and Cassandra Shaw. The registration is $65 and includes the program, a bag, continental breakfast, a souvenir, lunch and conference T-shirt. The theme is “Expensive — Bought With A Price.” To register, text 2025 to (870) 397-7448, or register at the church on Sundays, call the church at (870) 534-7654 or contact spokeswoman Charlotte Allen at (870) 550-4561. The Rev. David M. Smith is the pastor of Old St. James.
Sunday, Sept. 28
Union Hopewell welcomes families, friends
Union Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church, 1121 S. Persimmon St., will celebrate its Family and Friends Day at 2:30 p.m. Sept. 28. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Keith Higgins, pastor of First Missionary Baptist Church in West Memphis, accompanied by his congregation.
Pleasant View honors pastor
Pleasant View Ministries Church, 1117 N. Palm St., will commemorate the 39th Pastoral Anniversary of the Rev. William A. Shaw Jr. at 11 a.m. Sept. 28. This service will include special guests, tributes and music. “Celebrate 39 years of faith, love and leadership with us,” says a spokesperson. Those unable to attend but desire to be a blessing to the pastor may send an offering to Shaw’s Cash App at $SHAWWA, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com.
Tuesday, Sept. 30
UAMS sets health fair in Rison
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute will host a public health fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 30 at Pioneer Village in Rison. Organized by the Cancer Institute’s Community Outreach and Engagement Office and Cleveland County community partners, the free event will feature more than 40 local health and wellness organizations providing resources, education and services, according to a news release.
Through Tuesday, Sept. 30
Wildfire suppression kits available
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for wildland fire suppression kits through Sept. 30. Through a grant from the U.S. Forest Service, the department plans to distribute 75 wildland fire suppression kits to rural volunteer fire departments across the state this year. Since 2014, more than 830 kits have been provided to enhance local wildfire response capabilities, according to a news release. Applications can be submitted at https://www.cognitoforms.com/ArkansasAgriculture1/_2025ApplicationForWildlandFireSuppressionKit. Details: Kathryn Mahan-Hooten at kathryn.mahan@agriculture.arkansas.gov.
Wednesday, Oct. 1
UAPB plans Career Summit
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Fall 2025 Career Summit is scheduled for Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the H.O. Clemmons Arena of the Kenneth L. Johnson Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) Complex. The event will feature 46 organizations representing business/industry, government agencies, graduate/professional schools, and school districts, the UAPB Office of Career Services said in a news release. The summit is open to all students currently enrolled at the UAPB and for alumni, according to the release. UAPB Career Services office encourages all attendees to bring copies of a well-prepared resume. While professional dress is preferred, it is not required. Participants are asked to not wear jeans, sweats, or mini-skirts. Details: Shirley Hampton at UAPB at (870) 575-8461.
Saturday, Oct. 4
John H. Johnson Day features Hutchinson, lawmakers
Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson will headline the 20th anniversary celebration and tribute dinner for the John H. Johnson Museum, honoring nine lawmakers who sponsored legislation establishing John H. Johnson Day as a statewide memorial holiday. Presented by the Friends of the John H. Johnson Museum, in partnership with the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, the event will be held at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center in Little Rock, from 5-8 p.m. Oct. 4. The community is invited to attend. Tickets are $40, according to a news release. The tribute will recognize Hutchinson for signing the John H. Johnson Day bill into law and the legislative sponsors of House Bill 1950, passed during the 92nd General Assembly in 2019, which officially designated Nov. 1 as John H. Johnson Day in Arkansas.
Beginning Saturday, Oct. 4
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: Oct. 4 — Garry Burnside Band; Nov. 1 — Charlotte Taylor & Gypsy Rain.
Beginning Sunday, Oct. 5
UAPB hosts Homecoming
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Homecoming celebration is set for Oct. 5-11. Highlights include: Oct. 5 — UAPB Black and Gold Sunday will be held at 10:30 a.m. at Full Counsel Church-Pine Bluff, 517 S. Cherry St. On Oct. 11 — UAPB hosts its annual parade at 9:30 a.m. on Main Street. Individuals interested in participating in the parade must complete an application by Oct. 5 at 5 p.m. On Oct. 11 — The Homecoming Football Game features the UAPB Golden Lions taking on Westgate Christian College Ravens. Kickoff is at 2:10 p.m. at Simmons Bank Field. UAPB will welcome Perry Stuckey as the parade grand marshal. For a parade application, football ticket information or homecoming daily activities, visit uapb.edu/homecoming-2025.
Beginning Thursday, Oct. 9
UAPB 1975 Class sets 50th reunion
The AM&N/University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Class of 1975 will host its 50th class reunion during UAPB’s Homecoming 2025. Reunion activities will include an invitation to the donor’s banquet on Oct. 9; recognition during the annual homecoming alumni assembly; banquet/gala on Oct. 10 from 6-9 p.m. in the STEM Building at UAPB; the annual homecoming parade and the football game. To sustain the class scholarship fund, each class member is asked to donate $1,000 to the Class of 1975 Scholarship Endowment Fund, according to a news release. The reunion registration form and donor form can be accessed via the AM&N/UAPB Class of 1975 Facebook page under “files” or members can email uapbclassof1975@swbell.net for additional information.
Friday, Oct. 10
Alumni luncheon set
The UAPB AM&N National Alumni Association will host the Alumni Luncheon at 12:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. Tickets to the luncheon are available on a first come, first served basis, according to a news release. Tickets are $85 and can only be purchased the following ways: 1 — Mail a check or money order payable to UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association to 1200 N. University, Mail Slot 4813, Pine Bluff, AR 71601. (Call the office before mailing your check to ensure that seats are still available.) 2 — Purchase online at https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/alumni-luncheon–2025. 3 — Call the alumni office at (870) 536-2309 to pay by card over the phone. The clear bag policy is still in effect at the convention center. For details, follow the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association on social media.
Saturday, Oct. 18
WH to host Founders Day
White Hall will host its 2025 White Hall Founders Day Festival on Oct. 18, according to the White Hall Chamber of Commerce’s Facebook page. The event will include vendors, food trucks, entertainers, as well as the annual parade. “Let’s make this year’s Founders Day bigger and better than ever — can’t wait to see you there,” according to the Facebook post. For details, visit https://whitehallfoundersday.com/showcase.html.
Friday, Oct. 24
NAACP to host annual banquet
The Pine Bluff Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) will host its annual Dove Freedom Fund Banquet at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at the Prince Hall Grand Lodge, 2906 E. Harding Ave. The NAACP awards will be presented at the banquet. The Pine Bluff Branch NAACP president is Ivan Whitfield. Supporters are invited to make contributions to the efforts. Sponsorships are available. All ads for the souvenir booklet must be camera-ready and emailed to 15graydon@gmail.com no later than Oct. 1, which is also the deadline for payment. Details: Event Coordinator Loretta Whitfield at (870) 489-4736 or Event Co-Chair Yvonne Denton, at (870) 550-4247. Ivan Whitfield is the NAACP branch president.
Saturday, Oct. 25
GOP sets dinner with Cotton, Westerman
The Jefferson County Republican Committee will hold the 2025 Top Of The Ticket Dinner at 6 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. Headliners will be U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton along with U.S. Congressman Bruce Westerman, with comments from elected officials, candidates and others, according to a news release. Tickets are available for $60. Tables of 10 can be reserved for $600 and tables of eight are $480, according to the release. For tickets, contact Jefferson County Republican Committee Chairman David Singer at (908) 883-2032; Mandi Martin, (870) 510-4183 or Susan Over (870) 692-1804.
Through Friday, Oct. 31
Great Arkansas Cleanup set
Keep Arkansas Beautiful has opened registration for the 2025 Great Arkansas Cleanup, Arkansas’ largest fall community improvement initiative. The campaign runs through Oct. 31. KAB asks Arkansans to do their part and help the agency reach its goal of having all 75 counties participate again this year. Volunteers, including civic groups, businesses, local governments and individuals, are encouraged to register their cleanup events at www.keeparkansasbeautiful.com to receive free supplies such as trash bags, gloves, safety vests and shirts while supplies last.
Saturday, Nov. 1
Agri Hall of Fame seeks nominees
The Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame is seeking nominations for its next class of inductees. The nomination deadline is Nov. 1. The Agriculture Hall of Fame recognizes Arkansans who have contributed significantly to the state’s largest industry while spotlighting their contributions to the state’s economic development. Since its first class was selected in 1987, a total of 198 men and women have been inducted, according to a news release. Debbie Moreland, chair of the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame, says anyone can nominate a person believed worthy of the honor. The nomination form is available at https://www.arkansasaghalloffame.org/pages/member-nomination-form/. Forms can also be requested by calling (501) 228-1609.
Through Friday, Nov. 7
AGFC offers schools grants
More than three-quarters of a million dollars is available for Arkansas schools to teach conservation education this year, thanks to a partnership between the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s Division of Rural Services to turn poaching violations into education opportunities. All wildlife and fishing fine money collected last year has been set aside by the AGFC specifically for education grants that teachers may use to increase conservation education efforts in their schools, according to a news release. Teachers and administrators have until Nov. 7 to apply for a conservation education grant at www.arkansasedc.com/rural-services/division/grants/wildlife-education-grant.
Through Saturday, Nov. 15
Brian Wolf exhibit on display
The ARTx3 Campus is hosting the 24-piece exhibition “Strange Awakening” by Brian Wolf at the Loft Gallery at The ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St. “Strange Awakening,” his latest body of work, is the culmination of self-discovery, acceptance and artistic transformation that began in 2023. “Strange Awakening” will be on view through Nov. 15 by appointment. The exhibition is sponsored by the Kline Family Foundation, according to a news release.