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@pbcommercial.com to make additions or changes.
Saturday, Feb. 7
Blues artist Keith Johnson performs
Blues artist Keith Johnson and the Big Muddy Band will play for the Midtown Blues concert series at 8 p.m. Feb. 7 at RJ’s Grill & Bar, 128 S. Main St. The doors will open at 7 p.m. Admission is free for Port City Blues Society members and $5 for others, according to a news release. Johnson will be coming to Pine Bluff fresh from the experience of playing with Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience tour.
Ms. Madkin welcomes 3- to 6-year-olds
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The ARTx3 Campus will host Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Class from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. “Created especially for children ages 3-6, this class invites young learners and their caregivers to explore stories, letters, sounds and language in a fun, welcoming environment,” according to a news release. The program is free, but registration is required or call (870) 536-3375. Details: Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Beginning Saturday, Feb. 7
UAM group sets free tax filing
The Accounting Society at the University of Arkansas at Monticello will offer Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) events on the first three Saturdays in February. These services provide the community with the opportunity to have simple tax returns completed and filed free. On Feb. 7, Feb. 14 and Feb. 21, VITA will be offered from 9 a.m. to noon in classroom 213 in the Babin Business Center on UAM’s Monticello campus. This opportunity is free and open to the public, according to a news release. Taxpayers must bring photo identification and either a Social Security card or a 1099-SSN. If filing jointly, both spouses must be present. Participants should bring all relevant tax documents, such as W-2’s. For more information about the VITA events, contact Becky Phillips, associate professor of accounting at UAM, at phillips@uamont.edu or (870) 460-1111 or contact the UAM School of Business at (870) 460-1041.
Underway
Black Hall of Fame offers grants
Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation, in partnership with Arkansas Community Foundation, is offering grants 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. Proposals will be accepted online now through April 1, according to a news release. Details are here.
Registration open for Area Agency bass tourney
The Area Agency on Aging of Southeast Arkansas (AAASEA) will host its 28th annual Reeling for Meals Bass Tournament on April 11 at Regional Park on the Arkansas River. This annual tournament raises critical funds for AAASEA’s Meals on Wheels program. Tournament winners will receive a $2,500 cash prize, with cash prizes guaranteed for the top 10 places. The entry fee is $110 per two-person team, which also includes entry into the $500 Big Bass Pot. Day-of registration will include an additional $25 fee. Details: (870) 543-6300, toll-free at 800-264-3260, or email Samantha Stichert at sstichert@aaasea.org.
Sunday, Feb. 8
Pilgrim MBC honors pastor, family
Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 Hill St., will host the appreciation program for its pastor, the Rev. Kevin L. Crumpton Sr., and family at 10 a.m. Sunday. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Thaddeus Pearson of Little Rock. The community is invited to come worship with Pilgrim as they celebrate this special day, a spokesman said.
Art league meeting set
The Pine Bluff Art League rescheduled its monthly meeting to Feb. 8 from 2-4 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave., in room A & B. Kerry Kemp, owner and operator of Art Outfitters in Little Rock, will present a multi-media demonstration using newspaper, paint, and supplies. After the demonstration, the exhibition committee will open suggestions for art show themes for March and April. For more information, contact Co-President Claudia Spainhour at (870) 718-1058.
Beginning Monday, Feb. 9
Entergy sets local bill assistance events
Entergy Arkansas will host customer care events in Pine Bluff on Feb. 10-11 and Stuttgart on Feb. 9 connecting customers with tools, resources and community partners focused on providing on-site assistance and energy savings options, according to the news release. The events are open to the public, and no appointment is required. Local events will be held: STUTTGART: Feb. 9: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Phillips Community College. PINE BLUFF:Feb. 10-11: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. Entergy staff will be available to help customers sign up for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides financial assistance to eligible households to help cover energy costs; answer billing questions; provide details about flexible payment options, energy-saving tips and information about programs designed to help customers reduce monthly energy costs. Customers interested in applying for help should bring: a driver’s license or state-issued ID, Social Security card or number, proof of all income, a copy of their most recent electric bill, and lease agreement (if living in subsidized housing or if utilities are included in rent.) Details: entergyarkansas.com or call 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749).
Tuesday, Feb. 10
TOPPS to give away food
TOPPS, 1000 Townsend Drive, will give away food at 10 a.m. Feb. 10 on a first-come, first-served basis. One box per household will be provided. Recipients must be present to receive a box and proof of ID is required, according to a news release. TOPPS (Targeting Our People’s Priorities with Service) is a nonprofit organization. Annette Howard Dove is the founder/director of TOPPS Inc. Details: (870) 850-6011.
Chamber sets Candidate Expo
Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will present the Candidate Expo from 5-7 p.m. Feb. 10 at the New Life Church Freedom Center, 2801 S. Olive St. Meet and speak with the candidates running for office in the upcoming elections. Find out where they stand on key issues that matter to you and the community, according to the Chamber newsletter. Details: Chamber of Commerce, (870) 535-0110.
WH Chamber plans luncheon
White Hall Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly luncheon at noon Feb. 10. The guest speaker will be Commander Matthew C. Mason of the Pine Bluff Arsenal. Lunch will be catered by Colton’s Steak House. Participants should RSVP by Feb. 6, according to a post on the Chamber’s Facebook page.
Wednesday, Feb. 11
ARTx3 hosts Spinning Into Love
The ARTx3 Campus will host Spinning Into Love from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 11 in the Loft Gallery of The ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St. “Spin into the vibe at Spinning into Love — a night made for good music, great energy, and even better company,” according to the release. “Join us for DJ Tay B on the decks, flowing conversations, specialty cocktails, and edible art that looks as good as it tastes — all in a space created to relax, connect, and celebrate. This event is for ages 21 and older.” The cost is $10 for ARTx3 members and $15 nonmembers. Tickets available at artx3.org/all-events/spinning-into-love-feb-2026. For more information, contact DaQuaron “DQ” Dale, arts engagement coordinator, at ddale@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
Wednesday, Feb. 11
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.
Thursday, Feb. 12
Divine 9 plans political forum
The Divine 9 and community partners will host a political candidate forum at 6 p.m. Feb. 12 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. Circuit Judge Jackie B. Harris will be the moderator. The forum will have two sessions, according to a news release. The first panel will feature candidates for prosecuting attorney, county sheriff, county clerk, city council (Ward 3 and Ward 4), and justices of the peace (JP Districts 1, 3, 5, and 9). The second panel begins at 7:30 p.m. and will feature candidates for county judge, county assessor, county coroner, circuit clerk, and justices of the peace (JP Districts 2, 4, 6, and 13).
Free ACT boot camp set
Ivy Center for Education will host a free ACT Boot Camps for 7-12th graders with facilitators Charity Smith-Allen of Fetterman & Associates on Zoom only using meeting ID: 856 8296 4187 and passcode: 351061. The workshop will be held Feb. 12 — from 6-8 p.m. Subjects to be reviewed are reading and science. Details: Mattie Collins, president, at mattie1908@gmail.com.
Art league hosts reception
Pine Bluff Art League will present a new exhibition with a free reception from 4-6 p.m. Feb. 12 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center. The event was rescheduled from Feb. 5. This exhibition will feature 12″ by 12″ art pieces. Members were challenged to create work under the constraint. Any medium and types of canvas were allowed. Attendees may vote on their favorites during the reception. Afterwards, the PBAL will present a People’s Choice Award. For more information, contact Co-President Gerry DeLongchamp at (870) 692-5001.
Friday, Feb. 13
Alphas set Scholarship Fundraiser
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. will present the 2026 Valentine’s Scholarship Fundraiser Feb. 13 at 7:06 p.m. at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The gala is being presented by the Delta Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha in conjunction with the Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation. The theme is “All Black Affair with a Touch of Gold.” General admission is $50 per person. Scholarship sponsorship opportunities are also available, according to StuffinTheBluff.com. Checks or money orders should be mailed no later than Feb. 6 to: Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation, Post Office Box 3159, Pine Bluff, AR 71611. Checks should be made to the foundation, which is a 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. For more information about the fundraiser, contact Arzo Knox at (501) 351-7336 or arzo.knox@hotmail.com.
Through Friday, Feb. 13
Area Agency sets blanket drive
Area Agency on Aging of Southeast Arkansas’ annual Share the Warmth Blanket Drive in Jefferson County is underway until Feb. 13. The purpose of the drive is obtain new blankets for individuals who are elderly and/or sick and shut-in to keep them warm this winter, according to a news release. Donors may drop off blankets to the Area Agency, 709 E. Eighth Ave., during regular business hours. For details, call Carolyn Ferguson, (870) 543-6309 or Pauline Jones at (870) 543-6313.
Saturday, Feb. 14
Pilgrim pantry to be open
Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 Hill St., will open its Raven’s Nest Food Pantry Feb. 14 from 8-9:30 a.m. or until all the food has been given away. Food will be given away 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 equal opportunity provider, according to a news release.
St. John to give away food
St. John AME Church, 1117 W. Pullen St., will provide food boxes to those in need Feb. 14 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, according to a news release.
Funday Printmaking set
The ARTx3 Campus welcomes artist Jonathan Wright for a Valentine-themed printmaking workshop during its next Saturday Family FunDay, from 1-3 p.m. Feb. 14, at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. Families and kids are invited to create their own festive prints while learning techniques from a professional artist. The event is free, and all materials are included. Details: Shakeelah Rahmaan, programs director, at srahmaan@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375. Webpage: artx3.org/all-events/family-funday-feb-2026.
Sunday, Feb. 15
St. John AME hosts Founders’ Day
St. John AME Church, 1117 W. Pullen St., invites the community to its Founders’ Day Celebration at 9:45 a.m. Feb. 15. Bishop Silvester S. Beaman, presiding bishop of the 12th Episcopal District, will be the guest preacher. “This sacred celebration honors the legacy of Richard Allen, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and lifts up the enduring witness of faith, justice, and liberation that continues to shape communities today,” according to a news release. The 2026 theme is “Help Us Shift the Atmosphere.” The Rev. Charlene N. Boone is St. John’s pastor.
Bobby Rush to perform in concert
Port City Blues Society will host a special concert appearance by three-time Grammy Award winner, Bobby Rush, and his band. This special edition of the Midtown Blues concert series will be held Feb. 15 at RJ’s Grill & Bar, at 128 S. Main St. Rush will perform in two shows. The doors will open for the first show at 5 p.m. and the second show at 8:30 p.m. Admission is $25. Tickets are being sold in advance. Call (870) 510-1910 to purchase tickets. The Port City Blues Players will open the shows followed by Rush and his band. After each show, Rush will greet and visit with concert goers, according to a news release.
Wednesday, Feb. 18
Civic meeting date changes
The Civic Auditorium Complex Commission meeting scheduled for Tuesday has been rescheduled for noon Feb. 18. This meeting will be held in person, according to a news release. Details: Pine Bluff Convention Center, (870) 536-7600.
Health agency sets open house
Arcare, 4747 Dusty Lake Drive, Suite G1, will hold an open house from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 18. The community is invited to attend, according to a flyer. Arcare is now serving the Watson Chapel community with primary care services and behavioral health. Angela Metcalf, a certified family nurse practitioner, and team are ready to assist new or existing patients, according to Facebook.
Thursday, Feb. 19
Reception set for ‘Blaque’ by Jonathan Wright
The ARTx3 Campus will host the opening reception for the exhibition “Blaque” by Jonathan Wright, from 5-7 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. The event is free and refreshments will be available. “‘Blaque’ explores how a single shade can carry grief, resilience, tradition, and transformation within the African diaspora,” according to the news release. “The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on their own heritage while confronting how stories can fade unless we choose to see them fully.” Wright is an art instructor at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Details: Matthew Howard, gallery and visitor specialist, at mhoward@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375. Exhibition webpage: artx3.org/exhibitions/jonathan-wright-blaque.
Saturday, Feb. 21
ARTx3 presents Volunteer Night
The public is invited to an event to celebrate the volunteers who make the ARTx3 Campus thrive, from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 21 at the ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St. Admission is free. The annual Volunteer Night is an evening of recognition, gratitude, and applause. The awards are the Margaret Spearman Memorial Awards, Catherine M. Bellamy Volunteer of the Year Awards, “Good Egg” Awards, and the Bellamy Awards for Performing Arts. Details: Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375. Webpage: artx3.org/all-events/volunteer-night.
Sunday, Feb. 22
New United hosts Black History event
New United Missionary Baptist Church, 5601 Cheatham St., will conduct its Black History program during worship services at 11 a.m. Feb. 22. The Rev. Woodrow Jackson Sr. is the pastor.
Thursday, Feb. 26
Christian Women’s luncheon set
The Christian Women’s Connection luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Pine Bluff Country Club. The speaker will be BJ Tassin and her topic will be “Abide and Bless — Learning to Live Where You are Planted and Blessed Beyond Boundaries.” The feature will be her husband, Scott Tassin presenting his book, “Creation Science,” a look at known scientific facts and their relationship to whether they contradict or verify each other. The couple is from Gravette, according to the news release. The luncheon is $20, which includes the meal, drink, dessert, tax, and gratuity. Everyone is invited to attend. For luncheon reservations and/or cancellations contact Jennifer Keahey at (870) 540-9302.
Local club to observe Optimist Day
The Optimist Club of Pine Bluff will celebrate Optimist Day by volunteering at the third annual Black History Knowledge Bowl at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Boys and Girls of Jefferson County’s location at First Methodist Church. Black History Knowledge Bowl is an event sponsored by the Lay Organization of St. John AME Church, according to a news release.
Friday, Feb. 27
Golden Hour Movie Day set
The ARTx3 Campus will host Golden Hour: Movie Day from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 27, at the Adam B. Robinson Jr. Black Box Theater at ART WORKS on Main, 627 S. Main St. Adults ages 50 and older are invited. Enjoy a screening of the 1944 classic comedy “Arsenic and Old Lace,” known for its sharp wit, unforgettable characters and laugh-out-loud moments, according to the release. The event is free, but registration is required by Feb. 23 at artx3.org/all-events/golden-hour-movie-day. For more information, contact Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Saturday, Feb. 28
Russ Foundation plans forum
The Carnell Russ Foundation Vision Center in Star City will hold its Community Empowerment Forum Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, according to a news release. Featured presenters will be: Earnest Sanders — a lawyer; Jamie Middleton – a grant writing and funding specialist; and Pamela Powell – a financial analyst. Leatrice Russ Glenns is Executive Director of the Carnell Russ Foundation. This forum reflects the foundation’s commitment to education, empowerment and community advancement, according to the release.
Stage Combat 101 set
The ARTx3 Campus will host Stage Combat 101 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 28 in the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater at the Arts & Science Center. “Learn how to perform convincing fights while prioritizing safety, communication, and character. No experience needed — just wear comfortable clothing and bring your energy,” according to the news release. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. Register by Feb. 24 at artx3.org/all-events/stage-combat-101. Details: Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Center to host Polar Plunge
The 2026 Pine Bluff Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics Arkansas will take place at 11 a.m. Feb. 28 at the Pine Bluff Aquatic Center, 400 E 11th Ave. Registration begins at 10 a.m., according to a flyer on Facebook. Details: brianna@specialolympicsarkansas.org.
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.
Through Monday, March 2
WH seeks award nominees
Nominations are now open for the 2026 White Hall Community Service Awards. The deadline is March 2, according to https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHallChamber/. “Do you know someone who truly makes a difference? Nominate them today. This is your chance to recognize those who go above and beyond to make our community such a special place,” according to the post. The White Hall Community Service Awards Banquet will be held at 6 p.m. March 10 at the White Hall Community Center. Submit your nominations to https://forms.gle/f3QjpsBkBdZMfcWo6. Submit one form for each nominee. You are allowed to submit multiple nominations and do not have to be a member of the chamber to make a nomination. If you have any questions, email the chamber at whitehallchamber@gmail.com.
Saturday, March 7
PB author to review books
Gail Stith, an author and evangelist, invites the community to a review of her latest publication March 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Pine Bluff Library downtown, 600 S. Main St., according to a news release. Her publications include Married Twice and Never Had a Husband, available Feb. 14. The book review is presented by Prayer Garden Christian Faith Center Church of God in Christ in Pine Bluff.
Beginning Saturday, March 7
Grand Prairie textile arts contest set
The Arts Center of the Grand Prairie in Stuttgart will conduct its 2026 Grand Prairie Festival of the Arts’ Textile Arts session March 7-8. Previously known as Decorative Arts, the session name has been updated to emphasize the collection of needle and thread arts to be exhibited, according to a news release. Adults, youth and children may register their textile arts entries online with the Arts Center of the Grand Prairie at https://www.grandprairiearts.com. An entry fee is required for each item, to be delivered to the arts center. Deliveries will be received 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 20, 21, 27, and 28. A guest judge will determine the first, second, third place winners and honorable mention, as well as select the Best of Show entry. The exhibit will be held in Salon A at the Grand Prairie Center March 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and March 8 from noon to 4 p.m. Admission is free. The March 8 event will include a short presentation by guest artist Natalie Mosher at 2:30 p.m., a Quilt of Valor ceremony at 3 p.m., and the awards presentation and reception at 3:30 p.m. Details: (870) 659-2873.
Monday, March 9
UAM sets event for high school students
The University of Arkansas at Monticello Office of Admissions will host Weevil Welcome: College Preview Day on March 9, beginning at 9 a.m. Registration will be held in the Gibson University Center on UAM’s Monticello campus. 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, the UAM College of Technology-Crossett (UAM-CTC) or the UAM College of Technology-McGehee (UAM-CTM) 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 and guests are also welcome to attend, according to the news release. Registration is requested. Details: UAM Office of Admissions at admissionsoffice@uamont.edu or (870) 460-1026.
Through Sunday, March 15
Community Foundation offers scholarships
Pine Bluff Area Community Foundation is accepting applications for scholarships for students in Jefferson County beginning Feb. 1. These scholarships are for area students pursuing higher education at two- or four year colleges or universities, vocational schools or technical training programs. The deadline to apply is March 15. For details on all the available scholarships and to begin the application process visit www.arcf.org/scholarships or contact Lawrence Fikes at pinebluffarea@arcf.org, or at (870) 850-7934.
Beginning Thursday, March 19
Progressive Women host fundraiser
The Progressive Women’s Association (PWA) of White Hall will host its spring Rummage Sale Scholarship Fundraiser at the White Hall Community Center, 9801 Dollarway Road, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. March 19-20 and 9 a.m. to noon March 21. As with all their fundraisers, 100 percent of the proceeds go to the PWA’s Scholarship Fund. The nonprofit is accepting items until March 18 for the fundraiser and asks that clean clothes be on hangers or boxed, according to a spokesman.
Saturday, April 25
Sports Hall of Fame Banquet set
The Jefferson County Sports Hall of Fame will be held April 25 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center arena. A new Legend will be inducted with 20 other athletes, four coaches and others into the Hall of Fame. The first class, inducted last year, was highlighted by six All-Time Greats. Bruce Maxwell is now the 16th Legend. Tickets for the JCSHOF induction will go on sale in February.