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.
Underway
Early voting set at courthouse
The Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office reminds voters that early voting for Preferential Primary Election races and Nonpartisan General Election races will begin on Tuesday, rather than Monday, due to President’s Day, also known as George Washington’s Birthday and Daisy Gatson Bates Day. The election is March 3. Voters can find information about early voting and sample ballots by visiting the Arkansas Secretary of State’s website or contacting their local county clerk’s office, according to a news release. In accordance with state law, state offices and county courthouses will be closed in observance of the state holiday, so early voting locations will open to voters on Tuesday at their regularly scheduled times and will last through March 2.
Tickets available for John Legend concert
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Saracen Casino Resort will host its event center grand opening featuring “An Evening With John Legend: A Night of Songs & Stories” at 8 p.m. June 13. Tickets start at $149, plus fees, and can be purchased online at Ticketmaster beginning Friday at 10 a.m. Legend is a multiplatinum artist and producer who has garnered 13 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a Tony Award and four Emmy Awards, among others. Legend is one of only 19 people in the EGOT club.
Wednesday, Feb. 25
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. 26
ARDOT sets Dallas County meeting
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) will conduct a public involvement meeting from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at Holly Springs Baptist Church (fellowship hall) in Sparkman. The purpose is to discuss design changes for the proposed safety improvements to the Y-intersection of Arkansas 9 and Arkansas 128 in Dallas County, according to a news release. Comments will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. March 12. Submit online comment forms to ARDOT or print the form and mail it to: Environmental Division, P.O. Box 2261, Little Rock, AR 72203-2261. If you do not have internet access or for further details, contact Matt Strawn at (501) 569-2281 or by email at matt.strawn@ardot.gov.
Batesville college, UAM plan degrees
The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) and the University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) plan to announce a new partnership to award degrees. On Feb. 26, the two institutions will unveil a program allowing UACCB students to earn bachelor’s degrees in Batesville. The announcement will take place at 1 p.m. at Independence Hall at UACCB. The event is open to the public and leaders from both universities are scheduled to speak. UACCB students could pursue a Bachelor of Arts in K-6 Elementary Education degree and a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, pending pending approval from the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Higher Learning Commission, according to a news release.
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
Delta Rhythm & Bayou Blues opening
The city of Pine Bluff will celebrate the grand opening of the Delta Rhythm & Bayous — Blues and Wellness Plaza on Friday at noon at Third Avenue and Main Street (Bobby Rush Way.) The event marks the debut of Phase I in what will become the nation’s largest outdoor gallery dedicated to Delta music and culture. Highlights will include a live broadcast on Power 92 FM with host “Broadway Joe,” food trucks and live music by Port City Blues Society. Details: ExplorePineBluff.com or Jimmy Cunningham, tourism development director at (870) 534-2121 or jmmyjam@gmail.com.
‘Crime or No Crime’ topic at event
The Pine Bluff Interested Citizens for Voter Registration (PBICVR) Pastors on Patrol faith-based mentors will host an educational program on Positive Behavior Intervention Strategies (PBIS) titled “Crime or No Crime” Friday at 11:15 a.m. in the Watson Chapel High School Auditorium. Speakers will include Jefferson County Circuit Judge Jackie Harris and Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. This event is being held in collaboration with the Watson Chapel Wildcat Society Ladies and Gentlemen clubs. The program aims to educate students about gun violence, and identify criminal activity and its consequences, according to a news release.
Broadband group sets meeting
The Jefferson County Broadband Working Group has scheduled a meeting for 10-11:30 a.m. Feb. 27 at The Generator, 435 S. Main St. Goals of the stakeholder planning session are to identify priority groups for digital skills training, plan targeted outreach to underserved residents, explore the possibility of a donated and refurbished computer program, and receive updates on providers’ status, if possible. Attendees are asked to RSVP by Feb. 25 to jcbwgroup@gmail.com.
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.
Beginning Feb. 27
Lenten Fish dinners to start
The Knights of Columbus Annual Lenten Fish Fry will be held from 5-7 p.m. Fridays through March 27 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, West Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street. People can dine in for the all-you-can-eat dinner or get carry out plates. Dinners for adults are $16 and children $10 each, according to a news release.
Saturday, Feb. 28
Irby to present Heritage Celebration
Wabbaseka native and author Jason Irby will present the 11th annual Arkansas Heritage Celebration of Black History Month Legend Among Us Recognition. This annual event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS), 100 Rock St., in Little Rock. The event is free of charge and open to the general public. Four Arkansas natives will be honored as a 2026 Legend Among Us including two from Wabbaseka. Honoree Ella Irby is a mentor and instructor to the hearing-impaired community, American Sign Language students and interrupter trainees. Honoree Lemmie Battles is a Gospel recording artist and evangelist, known as “The Gospel Songbird,” according to a news release from Stuff in The Bluff.com.
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.
Monday, March 2
WH doctor’s office relocating
Dr. Mark A. Ramiro’s family practice office is moving from White Hall to 4303 S. Mulberry St. in Pine Bluff. The first day in the new clinic will be March 2. The office will no longer be at the White Hall location, according to a news release. Details: (870) 247-9499.
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.
Beginning Tuesday, March 3
Ivy Center plans events
The Ivy Center for Education announces programs: March 3 — Future Medical Professionals, “Club Scrub Workshop,” meets from 6-7 p.m. at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences UAMS South Central Medical Center, 1601 W. 40th Ave. The topic will be From Plate to Purpose — “March is National Nutrition Month” presented by Tanya Hawkins, a registered nurse and case manager at UAMS South Central, according to a news release. Students in 7-12 grades and parents are encouraged to attend in person or on Zoom using Meeting ID: 856 8296 4187 and Passcode: 351061. March 10 — Future Engineers Workshop will be held from 6-7 p.m. at The Generator, 435 S. Main St. The topic will be “Robots and Coding Activities” presented by Charles Colen, chair of the Department of Industrial Technology Management and Applied Engineering at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Students in grades 7–12 are invited to attend and learn about robotics and coding. Parents and students are encouraged to attend in person or on Zoom using Meeting ID 856 8296 4187 and Password 351061.
Wednesday, March 4
Police chief to speak to Chamber
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 4 at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Business Support Incubator, 615 S. Main St. The speaker will be Pine Bluff Police Chief Shawn Davis, according to the Chamber newsletter. Lunch will be $15 and catered by Rice First Class Catering. Lunch must be paid for in advance at the Chamber. Details: (870) 535-0110.
Thursday, March 5
Arkansas Pathways forum set
Arkansas Pathways to Self-Sufficiency will conduct a forum from 5-7:30 p.m. March 5 at Indigo Blue Coffeehouse, 212 W. Barraque St. The community is invited to participate in the conversation. The forum will be facilitated by Kymara Seals of SDR Consulting LLC, who will guide a discussion designed to give insights, identify barriers, and explore solution-driven approaches that reflect the diversity of experiences across the state, according to a news release from Tomekia Moore, executive director of Arkansas Community Action Agencies Inc. (ACAAA.) This phase of Arkansas Pathways is centered on local voices and lived experiences.
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.
Thursday, March 12
Health & Wellness fair set in WH
The 2026 Spring Community Health & Wellness Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 12 at the White Hall Community Center, 9801 Dollarway Road. The community is invited to attend. The free event is hosted by LifeTouch Health (Arkansas Hospice) and Allheart Senior Care of Arkansas. The session will focus on healthy living, disease prevention, and wellness at each stage of life, according to a flyer. There will be more than 50 vendors. Participants will include Reflection Therapy Services, Jefferson Regional Medical Center, ArchWell, Elder Estate Protection of Arkansas and Jefferson HomeCare, The Heat magazine and Diamond Line Dancers.
Friday, March 13
Faith Scholarship deadline set
March 13 is the deadline to apply for the 2026 Faith Scholarship of Sister Friends United Inc. Applicants must plan to attend the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, according to a news release. Non-traditional students interested in applying must be a minority female age 30 or older who lives in Pulaski, Saline or Jefferson county. The applicant must also have dependents. To learn more, visit https://sisterfriendsunited.com/faith-scholarship.
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 Monday, March 16
Gould church hosts revival
Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church of Gould will host its spring revival March 16-18 at 7 p.m. The theme will be “Renew, Restore, Revive” (Isaiah 57:15.) Guest ministers will be the Rev. Stanley Blair of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Moscow, speaking Monday; Apostle Patrick Lockett, pastor of New Community Church in Pine Bluff, speaking Tuesday; and the Rev. Ronald Neal of New Bethel Ministries in Winchester, speaking Wednesday. The Rev. Phillip Puckett, pastor of Mt. Moriah, is the host pastor. The public is invited.
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, March 21
1st Ward pantry sets giveaway
The First Ward Living Grace Pantry, 1201 Commerce Road, will hold a Spring Break Giveaway and special presentation to a local business from noon to 2 p.m. March 21. Families will receive free groceries and resources to help support them during the school break. The event reflects the pantry’s ongoing mission to combat food insecurity and strengthen families throughout Jefferson County, according to a news release. During the giveaway, a proclamation will be presented by state Rep. District 65, the Rev. Glenn Barnes, to Highland Pellets for their continued commitment and contributions to the Pine Bluff community, according to the release.
Saturday, March 28
Pop’s to open new site
Pop’s Barber/Beauty Shop & More will hold its grand opening at its new location from noon to 4 p.m. March 28. The community is invited to attend. There will be giveaways, food, drinks, and drawings for prizes, according to a Facebook post. The new site is on Main Street in downtown Pine Bluff.
WH plans Easter Egg Hunt
An Easter Egg Hunt will be held at 10 a.m. March 28 in White Hall City Park. The event is presented by the White Hall Chamber of Commerce, according to a Facebook post. “Join us Saturday, March 28 at 10:00 a.m. SHARP at White Hall City Park for our annual Easter Egg Hunt,” a spokesman said. There will be thousands of eggs, Easter Bunny photos, bike giveaways in each age category and free family activitiesd. “Don’t be late; the eggs are gone in seconds.”
Through Wednesday, April 1
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: https://www.arcf.org/apply/nonprofits/apply-for-black-hall-of-fame-grants/.
Through Friday, April 3
AKA offers scholarships
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. is accepting applications for the 2026 College Scholarship Program, sponsored by the Delta Omega Omega Chapter in partnership with First Sisters Outreach Inc. The program will award a minimum of $1,000 scholarships to graduating women from Pine Bluff High School, Watson Chapel High School and White Hall High School who plan to attend the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Apply early and submit all required materials by April 3. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements outlined in the 2026 scholarship guidelines and complete the application online. For more information, students and parents may contact the scholarship chairmen at akadooscholar@gmail.com or lcarlock77@gmail.com.
Through Saturday, April 4
Unified Christian Alliance offers scholarship
The Unified Christian Alliance Inc. is accepting applications for the 2026 scholarships from area high school seniors who plan to attend the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Applications can be obtained from the school counselors, according to a news release. Applications are due April 4 and guidelines must be met. For more information, contact Jennifer Lee, Unified Christian Alliance president, at jenniferlee1321@yahoo.com.
Tuesday, April 7
Alliance announces Draft Day
The Economic Development Alliance for Jefferson County has partnered with Be Pro Be Proud to bring the Draft Day Southeast Arkansas event to Jefferson County on April 7. Draft Day for Southeast Arkansas will take place at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The Alliance is calling area employers to participate in the event. Draft Day strategically matches high school students with employers based on corresponding interests, talents and needs. There are currently 115 high school seniors signed up for interviews and 17 school districts registered to participate, according to the Chamber newsletter. Visit the Company & Training Resource Guide at https://files.constantcontact.com/91329166001/4b06cd72-fd34-42f6-a54b-eedcca6c6a44.pdf?rdr=true for additional information or contact Nancy Lee McNew at nancy@jeffersoncountyalliance.com.
Beginning Thursday, April 9
Historical conference set at Monticello
The Arkansas Historical Association will hold its 85th annual conference April 9-11 at the University of Arkansas at Monticello, the UAM Trotter House, and the Monticello Country Club. A tour April 10 will take attendees to the Taylor House on the former Hollywood/Valley Plantation. More information and conference registration are available on the association’s website at www.arkansashistoricalassociation.org.
Saturday, April 11
Area Agency sets 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.
Through Monday, April 13
Synergy grant applications available
Synergy Forum Inc. began accepting grant applications Feb. 9 for its 2026 grant cycle. Registered non-profit organizations: IRS 501(c)(3) public charities, public schools, government agencies, and the hospital in Jefferson County are eligible to apply. Synergy Grants fund projects for the benefit of residents in Jefferson County in the areas of the arts, education and social services, according to a news release. Grant applications should be requested by March 12 completed and submitted on or before 5 p.m. April 13. For grant applications and details, email Amy Hunt at synergyforumgrants@gmail.com.
Beginning Friday, April 17
Home and Garden Show set
The Jefferson County Master Gardeners will present the 2026 Home & Garden Show April 17-18 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The event will bring together garden enthusiasts, homeowners, and industry professionals for a showcase of the latest trends, products, and innovations in home and garden design, according to a flyer. There will be workshops, demonstrations, vendor exhibits, and opportunities to connect with local businesses and organizations dedicated to improving homes, landscapes, and communities. For details or to sign up as a vendor, contact the Jefferson County Master Gardeners at the Jefferson County Cooperative Extension Service, (870) 534-1033.
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.
Thursday, May 7
Chamber sets Business Expo 2026
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce invites participants to build their network at Business Expo 2026: Christmas in May. Business Expo is the premier event for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community organizations, according to the Chamber’s news release. Business Expo 2026 will be held May 7 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The Business Expo Breakfast will be sponsored by Simmons Bank. Breakfast will be served at 7:30 a.m. followed by the program at 8 a.m. Tickets are $25 for members, $30 for non-members and a seated table for eight will be $300. The trade show featuring booths of area businesses and non-profits will start with the Business VIP Hour from 9-10 a.m. and will open to public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Booth fees will be $250 for members amd $360 for non-members. For Expo questions, contact Chamber director Jennifer Kline at jennifer@jeffersoncountyalliance.com or (870) 535-0110.