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.
Wednesday, Dec. 3
Chamber plans luncheon
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will conduct its December Networking Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 3 at the UAPB Small Business Incubator, 615 S. Main St. Particpants are asked to bring a toy to be donated to Voices for Children. There won’t be a speaker, but networking, according to the Chamber newsletter. Moe’s Southwest Grill will cater the luncheon. Meals are $15 per person and can be paid for by calling the Chamber at (870) 535-0110.
UAPB alumni set virtual town hall
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff/AM&N National Alumni Association will host a Virtual Alumni Town Hall Meeting, where Chancellor Anthony Graham and members the executive cabinet will share updates, answer questions, and provide space for open dialogue for topics discussed on the call. The virtual town hall will be held at 6 p.m. Dec. 3 via Zoom and alumni are invited to participate, according to a news release. To register to attend, visit here. Tanesha Thompson is president of the UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association.
Church news deadline set
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.
Underway
Clinic offers free exams
Jefferson Comprehensive Care System Inc. (JCCSI) will provide free primary care exams from now until Dec. 31. An HIV blood test will be included in the exam. The exams are being held to commemorate World AIDS Day, which was Dec. 1, in an effort to end the HIV epidemic. The program is in partnership with the Pine Bluff Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, according to a news release. The free exams will be given at the Comprehensive Care clinics in Jefferson and Pulaski counties. Details: Pine Bluff Clinic, 1101 S. Tennessee St., (870) 543-2380.
Thursday, Dec. 4
Chair calls election board meeting
The Jefferson County Board of Election Commissioners will hold a called meeting Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. at the election center, 123 S. Main St, according to Chairman Mike Adam. The board will conduct a ballot position drawing for the March 3, 2026, Preferential Primary Election, Nonpartisan General Election, annual Pine Bluff School Election, annual Watson Chapel School Election and the annual White Hall School Election.
UAM to host holiday concert
The Division of Music at the University of Arkansas at Monticello will host the annual Weevil Wonderland Holiday Concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4 in the Fine Arts Center at UAM. The concert is free and open to the public, according to a news release. The UAM Choir will perform Christmas classics under the direction of Colt Lien, instructor of music and director of choral activities at UAM. The UAM Concert Band, UAM Jazz One and the UAM Percussion Ensemble will perform modern renditions of holiday classics under the direction of Erik Richards, associate professor of music and director of bands at UAM; Kevin Bryson, assistant professor of music and director of jazz studies at UAM; and Kylan Bigby, assistant professor of percussion at UAM. Details: UAM Division of Music at (870) 460-1060.
Alphas to observe 119th Founders’ Day
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Delta Sigma Lambda Chapter will celebrate its 119th Founders’ Day at 7:06 p.m. Dec. 4 at Barraque Street Missionary Baptist Church, 1800 W. Pullen Ave. The guest speaker will be Chancellor Anthony Graham of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. The general public is welcomed to attend this free event, according to a Stuff in The Bluff.com. The celebration will also recognize Willard Starlard as the Brother of the Year for his outstanding service throughout the years. Starlard became a member of the fraternity Nov. 1, 1981, at the Beta Sigma Chapter at Southern University. Currently a member of the Delta Sigma Lambda Chapter, he serves as chapter dean of Membership and Development.
Friday, Dec. 5
White Hall presents Christmas events
The annual White Hall Community Christmas will be held Dec. 5 starting at 6 p.m. at the White Hall James “Jitters” Morgan Community Center, 9801 Dollarway Road. Santa will be there for a meet-and-greet, and there will be kids’ activities, along with hot chocolate, popcorn, and Christmas cookies. The event is free and open to the public, however people are asked to bring a new toy or nonperishable food item. The annual Stars in the Park will also begin shining at dark Dec. 5 at White Hall City Park, 101 Parkway Drive. There will be 151 three-foot lighted trees, with a loved one’s name on top, spread out across City Park, said Jeff May, White Hall Deputy Mayor and Chamber Board Member.
Through Friday, Dec. 5
Farmer grants available
Farmers and ranchers have until Dec. 5 to apply for the Producer Grant Program, according to Henry English, director of the Small Farm Program at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. The initiative is part of the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SSARE) program, according to a news release. English said producer grants are used to conduct sustainable agriculture research projects that address timely agricultural production challenges. Producers can apply for the program at https://southern.sare.org. Announcement of funded proposals will take place in late February 2026. Details: UAPB Small Farm Program, (870) 575-7225.
Saturday, Dec. 6
ASC hosts Live@5 with David Ashley
Musician David Ashley will perform as part of the monthly Live@5 concert series from 5-7 p.m. Dec. 6 in the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. Ashley performs a variety of genres, including R&B, and has performed with LTD, Bobby Rush, and more, 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. For more information, contact Shakeelah Rahmaan, programs director, at srahmaan@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Links set Pancakes with Santa
The Pine Bluff Chapter of The Links Inc. will kick off the holiday season by hosting its Pancakes with Santa on Dec. 6 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at The Audubon School, 2206 Ridgway Road. Proceeds from this fundraiser will support community service programs and scholarships. During Pancakes with Santa, both kids and adults can enjoy a pancake breakfast, pictures with Santa, holiday music, crafts, games, and more, according to a news release. Tickets are $5 for children 12 and under, $10 for everyone over 12. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door.
City sets Christmas celebration
The city of Pine Bluff invites the community to attend the Mistletoe Magic Christmas Extravaganza on Dec. 6 in downtown Pine Bluff. Festivities kick off with the annual Christmas Parade at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony featuring local vendors, food, and activities. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will also make an appearance, according to the city’s Facebook page. “Bring the whole family for a magical evening filled with holiday cheer, lights, and community spirit,” according to the post.
Blues concert to feature Fuzzy Jeffries
Port City Blues Society will host an edition of the Midtown Blues concert series at RJ’s Grill & Bar, 128 S. Main St., at 8 p.m. Dec. 6. The event will feature award winning blues artist, Fuzzy Jeffries and the Kings of Memphis. The Midtown Blues series is made possible by Midtown Tire & Auto and Explore Pine Bluff. The doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is free for Port City Blues Society members and $5 for others, according to a news release.
Downtown property group to meet
The Pine Bluff Downtown Property Owners Association Group meeting will be held at 8:30 a.m. Dec. 6 at the Hen House, 204 S. Main St. The purpose is to discuss restarting the group and what they would like to accomplish. Coffee, hot chocolate, hot cider, juice and donuts will be served. “Please come and bring your ideas,” Jan Robinson said in a news release. Details: Jan Robinson, (512) 461-3983.
Tuesday, Dec. 9
Imagination Library sets meet, greet
The Imagination Library for Jefferson County, an affiliate of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, will host a meet and greet event to celebrate the holidays and show appreciation to the community for their support. The event will be held Dec. 9 from 2-3:30 p.m. at the Donald Reynolds Community Services Building, 211 W. Third Ave. The community is invited and there will be appetizers and prizes, according to a news release. The goal of the program is to increase early literacy by putting books in every child’s hand from birth to age five at no cost to the family because of generous donors, grants, and fundraisers secured by local affiliates. YouthPartners, dba Imagination Library for Jefferson County, is a partner agency of United Way of Southeast Arkansas. For more information on enrolling your child or attending the event, contact Linda Bateman, executive director, at (870) 718-0654 or United Way, (870) 534-2153.
Friday, Dec. 12
Movement and Agility workshop set
The ARTx3 Campus will host a Movement and Agility workshop from 11 a.m. to noon Dec. 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 instructswill instruct. The cost is $15 for ARTx3 members and $20 for nonmembers. Register by Dec. 9 at artx3.org/all-events/movement-agility-dec-2025. The program is sponsored by McFarland Eye Care. For more information, contact Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org, or call (870) 536-3375.
UAM to hold fall graduation
The University of Arkansas at Monticello will hold its fall commencement exercises at 10 a.m. Dec. 12 in the Steelman Field House. The doors will open at 9 a.m. Guests are encouraged to be seated by 9:50 a.m., as the processional will begin at 9:55 a.m., according to a news release. Scheduled speakers include UAM Chancellor Peggy Doss, Kelly Eichler, chair of the Board of Trustees of the University of Arkansas System, and Michael Moore, vice president for Academic Affairs at the U of A System. During the ceremony, UAM will present academic credentials ranging from master’s degrees to technical certificates. Commencement will be livestreamed on YouTube. The link will be accessible from the university’s homepage. Security personnel will check all bags at the entrance. For additional information on commencement, visit www.uamont.edu or contact the Office of Academic Affairs at (870) 460-1033.
Beginning Friday, Dec. 12
‘Miracle on Main’ opens
The ARTx3 Campus presents “Miracle on Main” from 7-8:30 p.m. Dec. 12-13 in the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. “Step back into the glow of those unforgettable holiday TV specials — the joyful singing, the high-energy dancing, the timeless comedy bits the whole family could enjoy together,” according to the news release. “‘Miracle on Main’ brings that magic back to life with hometown talent from across Southeast Arkansas. Join us for an evening filled with festive fun, big laughs, and all your favorite holiday moments as we celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in true small-town spectacular style.” Kayla Earnest and Bethany Gere direct, with student director Isaiah T. Austin. Tickets are $20 each and available at artx3.org/all-events/miracle-on-main, by calling (870) 536-3375 or in person. For more information, contact Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call the center.
Saturday, Dec. 13
ASC presents gingerbread house session
The ARTx3 Campus will host a creative holiday activity for its next Second Saturday Family FunDay from 1-3 p.m. Dec. 13, at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. The event is free and open to the public. Visitors of all ages are invited to make and decorate gingerbread house-inspired decor from popsicle sticks and accessories. All materials are included. The monthly Second Saturday Family FunDay event is sponsored by the Pine Bluff Area Community Foundation and McFarland Eye Care. For more information, contact Shakeelah Rahmaan, programs director, at srahmaan@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Literacy class set for 3-6-year-olds
Ages 3-6 and their parents are invited to Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Class: Come Read, Sing, Dance, and Play with Me! from noon to 1 p.m. Dec. 13, at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. “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 news release. The program is free, but registration is required. Register at artx3.org/all-events/literacy-dec-2025 or call (870) 536-3375. The program is sponsored by McFarland Eye Care. For more information, contact Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call the center.
Sunday, Dec. 14
Compassionate Friends plan event
The Desha County Chapter of the Compassionate Friends will hold its 29th annual Candle Lighting Remembrance at 6 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Dumas Community Center in Dumas. The community is invited to attend. The program will honor the memories of all children who have died, but will never be forgotten, according to a news release. The event will consist of a memorial display, greetings, readings, poems, music selections and a candle lighting ceremony. “At 7 p.m. participants will light candles in memory of all our children gone too soon … that their light will always shine,” according to the release. A reception will follow the program. There is no admission fee, however donations are appreciated. Details: (870) 866-6985, (870) 377-4299, or (972) 365-1930. Brenda Norman is the co-leader and event planner.
Through Friday, Dec. 19
Leadership 2026 seeks applicants
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations and applications for the 2026 Leadership Pine Bluff program. All completed applications are due by Dec. 19 and must include a $35 registration fee. “Founded in 1981, Leadership Pine Bluff was the very first leadership program established in the state of Arkansas,” according to a news release. “Its mission is to expose business and community leaders to all sectors of the community — helping them learn, network, and develop the skills needed to take on future leadership roles in Pine Bluff and beyond.” For details, contact the Chamber at (870) 535-0110, email jennifer@jeffersoncountyalliance.ccsend.com or see the application at https://files.constantcontact.com/91329166001/9f2b5345-9617-4281-84b8-d1455cbf68c8.pdf?rdr=true
Sunday, Dec. 21
Male Chorus observes anniversary
The Southeast Arkansas Male Chorus will present its 26th Anniversary Concert at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 21 at New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, 1026 Missouri St. The worship leader will be David Maddox of New St. Hurricane Baptist Church. The theme is “Praising a Worthy God” (Psalm 150). This is also a membership drive. The chorus is also looking for “good Christian singing men,” according to a spokesman. “Hope to see you there.”
Altheimer church hosts Youth Day
New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church in Altheimer will present its Youth and Young Adult Day at 2 p.m. Dec. 21. Words of encouragement will be from the Rev. James Rice Jr., pastor of Greater Battle Chapel Baptist Church in Pine Bluff. The choir director will be Rosetta V. Lusk of New Morning Star and the guest worship leader will be the Rev. Eric Corbin, pastor of Liberty Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Pine Bluff. Choir rehearsals will be held at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 13 and Dec. 19. New Morning Star’s pastor is the Rev. Eric Walden Jr.
Through Wednesday, Dec. 31
Clinic offers free exams
Jefferson Comprehensive Care System Inc. (JCCSI) will provide free primary care exams from now until Dec. 31. An HIV blood test will be included in the exam. The exams are being held to commemorate World AIDS Day, which was Dec. 1, in an effort to end the HIV epidemic. The program is in partnership with the Pine Bluff Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, according to a news release. The free exams will be given at the Comprehensive Care clinics at these locations: Pine Bluff Clinic, 1101 S. Tennessee St., (870) 543-2380. Redfield Clinic, 100 Evening Sunset Valley, (501) 397-2261. Altheimer Clinic, 309 S. Edline St., (870) 766-8411. Arkansas Baptist College, 1724 S. Bishop St., Little Rock, (501) 737-2014. College Station Clinic, 4206 Frazier Pike, (501) 490-2440. Little Rock Clinic, 1100 N. University Ave., Suite 125, (501) 663-0055. North Little Rock Clinic, 2525 N. Willow St., Suite 1, (501) 812-0225. Open Hands Clinic, 3000 Springer Blvd., Suite B in Little Rock, (501) 244-2121. The exams are for all adults ages 18 and older. Appointments must be made in advance. Participants should call the clinics to schedule an appointment and patients must say “Delta World AIDS Day” while making an appointment.
Extension internships available
Applications are open for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s 2026 county extension agent internship. The paid, 10-week summer program offers college students an immersive, hands-on look at life as an extension agent. The internship is offered by the Cooperative Extension Service, the outreach and education arm of the Division of Agriculture. College juniors and seniors studying agriculture, horticulture or family and consumer sciences-related fields are encouraged to apply. The deadline for applications is Dec. 31, 2025, and those selected for the program will be notified by mid-January 2026. Apply online at bit.ly/apply-county-agent-internship.
Thursday, Jan. 8
ASC to feature 2026 Small Works
The Arkansas Arts Council’s annual touring visual arts exhibition, Small Works on Paper, will open Jan. 5 and will be celebrated with a free opening reception from 5-7 p.m. Jan. 8 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. The exhibition will then travel to nine other venues across Arkansas throughout the year. Participating artists in the 2026 exhibition include Shawn Penister of Pine Bluff, according to a news release.
Through Wednesday, Jan. 14
UAM displays sculpture exhibit
The Journey, a collaborative sculptural and mixed-media exhibition featuring work by artists Cindy Blair, Heather Gill and Tom Richard, professor of art at the University of Arkansas at Monticello, can be viewed in the Glassblock Gallery in the Fred J. Taylor Library and Technology Center at UAM through Jan. 14. The Journey showcases an assemblage sculpture by Blair, Gill and Richard in the downstairs gallery. The upstairs gallery features Blair’s illuminated polymer clay sculptures, which explore the interplay of light, color and form, as well as Gill’s collage works depicting birds of western North America, created during her residency in Arizona, according to a news release. The exhibition is free and open to the public. The gallery’s hours are Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 3 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 22
Chambers hosts annual dinner
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner will be held Jan. 22 at the Pine Bluff Country Club. Cocktails will be served at 6 p.m. and dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. This year’s featured speaker is Bill Jones, CEO of Sissy’s Log Cabin and a member of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, according to the Chamber newsletter. Tickets to the dinner are $60 for members and $65 for non-members. Table sponsorships are $600 for eight people. For tickets or sponsorship information, email jennifer@jeffersoncountyalliance.com or call Jennifer Kline, Chamber director, at (870) 535-0110.
Saturday, Feb. 28
Hospital foundation sets gala
Jefferson Regional Foundation will present the Winter Wonderland Ball 2026 on Feb. 28 at the White Hall Community Center. There will be live entertainment, according to a flier. Tickets are $250. For tickets and sponsorship information, contact Laura Beth Shaner at (870) 541-7210.