NAACP slates banquet
The NAACP Drew County Branch will present its annual Freedom Fund Banquet, a celebration of leadership, community service, and achievement, at 6 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Green Room of the University of Arkansas at Monticello. The doors open at 4 p.m.
The keynote speaker will be Raya Clay, a two-time Emmy Award-winning producer of Los Angeles and a Monticello native. She’s also a storyteller with more than 10 years of experience creating content that moves audiences and builds cultural impact, according to LinkedIn.
“I’ve led digital storytelling and content execution for FOX Sports, ESPN, and The SpringHill Company, publishing high-impact content across social platforms, streaming services, and mobile apps,” Clay said.
At the NAACP banquet, entertainment will be by comedian Nate Williams of Little Rock and ACT-SO winners and community youth, according to a news release.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Each year, the branch recognizes outstanding people who are making an impact locally and beyond.
The 2025 honorees are:
OUTSTANDING MALE LEADER OF THE YEAR
Quantel Williams — assistant dean of students and director of residence life at UAM; adjunct professor, ordained minister, auxiliary police officer, and Drew County NAACP member.
OUTSTANDING FEMALE LEADER OF THE YEAR
Tabitha Lee — executive director and lawyer with the Delta Justice Center; advocate for civil rights, community empowerment, and expanded access to justice.
NON-PROFIT/PUBLIC SECTOR OF THE YEAR
Delta Justice Center –Recognized for advancing equity through legal advocacy, community outreach, and policy reform across Arkansas.
YOUTH HONOREES
Drew Central High School: Justis Antwain Durden, Amari Lucas.
Monticello High School: Joseph Accelus, Anniya Smith.
YOUNG ADULT HONOREES
Gabriel Pace, Kelsey Reedy, Ja’Tiyah Johnson and Le’Aundrea M. Cameron.
PRESIDENT’S AWARD
Chosen by Branch President Clarissa Pace, the 2025 President’s Award will be presented to the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion Posts of Monticello.
Tickets to the banquet are $50 each and tables are $400. The attire is formal. For details, email naacp6042@gmail.com or visit dcnaacp6042.org/events or / https://www.facebook.com/naacpdrewcounty.
Webinars to help growers set
With high input costs and low commodity prices, the 2025 growing season left many row crop growers in the red. Amid a tough economic climate, the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is offering two online webinars to discuss topics that could help them manage operating costs for the upcoming crop year.
The free webinars are planned for 9 a.m. Oct. 28 and Nov. 4 via Zoom, according to a news release.
OCT. 28 — MANAGING ROW CROP OPERATING EXPENSES: PART 1
Register: https://bit.ly/crop-mgmt1.
Cooperative Extension Service speakers and topics include:
Tom Barber — extension weed specialist.
Travis Faske — extension plant pathologist.
Jeremy Ross — extension soybean agronomist.
Jason Kelley — extension feed grains and wheat agronomist.
Zachary Treadway — extension cotton and peanut agronomist.
Jarrod Hardke — extension rice agronomist.
NOV. 4 — MANAGING ROW CROP OPERATING EXPENSES: PART 2
Register: https://bit.ly/crop-mgmt2.
Extension specialists and topics include:
Bob Scott — extension weed specialist.
Chris Henry — professor and water management engineer.
Nick Bateman — extension rice entomologist.
Ben Thrash — extension entomologist.
Ryan Loy — extension economist.
Details: www.uaex.uada.edu.
GOP to reschedule dinner
The Jefferson County Republican Committee will reschedule its 2025 Top of The Ticket Dinner. The event had been scheduled for Oct. 25 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center featuring U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton and Congressman Bruce Westerman, according to a news release.
“This would have been an evening to remember,” said Jefferson County Republican Committee Chairman David Singer. “We were very proud to be bringing this event to the convention center to celebrate Pine Bluff’s Rich History and resilience in being a vibrant hub for positive change and civic engagement.”
Audubon School sets fest
The Audubon School, 2206 Ridgway Road, will host the third annual Fall Fest at 6 p.m. Oct. 25. The event will include a cake walk, bean bag toss, face painting, music, and refreshments, according to a flier.
United Way to kick off campaign
The United Way of Southeast Arkansas will conduct its 2025-26 Campaign Kickoff on Oct. 16, from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Pine Bluff Country Club.
“For decades, United Way has helped our most vulnerable neighbors, partnering with local agencies to create lasting change,” according to a news release.
“Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, meet community leaders, and hear how your support transforms lives. Celebrate our shared commitment to Southeast Arkansas and kick off a new campaign year of hope and impact. Mark your calendars — we can’t wait to see you there!”
The United Way director is Jason Duren. Details: (870) 534-2153.