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.
Underway
UAPB observes Founders’ Week
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff will commemorate its 151st year with the Founders’ Week Celebration from April 22-28. This year’s theme is “Lifting Our Voices with Power & Pride Since 1873.” Highlights include: April 25 — The Honors and Awards Assembly and Convocation will be held at 10 a.m. in the Kenneth L. Johnson Sr. HPER Complex. The keynote speaker will be a 2002 UAPB graduate Circuit Judge Alex Guynn. Details: visit the UAPB Founders’ Week Celebration website at https://uapbfc.wordpress.com/
Thursday, April 25
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Family agency to meet
The Family Community Development Corp., 1001 N. Palm St., will have its monthly meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday. The special guest will be Sederick Rice, president of the Pine Bluff School Board. “Come and join us and be enlightened with the latest news about Pine Bluff School District,” according to a news release.
Spring shredding event
Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Clean & Beautiful Commission will hold its Spring Shredding Event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 25 at Saracen Landing. A limit of 10 boxes of papers per person/group will be accepted. People should sort papers before bringing them. No plastic or metal will be accepted, according to a flier.
VA sets date for virtual claims clinic
The Little Rock VA Regional Office will hold a virtual claims clinic for Arkansas veterans from 4-6 p.m. April 25. To reserve a timeslot, veterans should call (501) 370-3829 before 4 p.m. April 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. VA disability compensation offers a monthly tax-free payment to veterans who got sick or injured while serving in the military and to veterans whose service made an existing condition worse, according to the release. The staff will be available to answer questions about existing VA benefits claims and how to file a new one. The main office of the Little Rock VA Regional Office is located at 2200 Fort Roots Drive in North Little Rock and open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Veteran Assist Phone Line, (501) 370-3829, is staffed Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more details, visit http://benefits.va.gov/benefits/ or call 800-827-1000.
Friday, April 26
Vince Johnson to perform Friday
Brass Note recipient and Beale Street Blues Legend, Vince Johnson & The Plantation All Stars will perform at the Catfish Friday Blues & Soul Night monthly series at 7 p.m. Friday. The performance will be held at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Business Support Incubator, 615 S. Main St. The doors open at 6 p.m. with a local food vendor selling catfish dinners through the night. This free music event is sponsored by the Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission and co-sponsored by the UAPB incubator and Delta Rhythm & Bayous Alliance, according to a news release.
Arkansans for the Arts to visit PB
Arkansans for the Arts, the only statewide arts advocacy nonprofit organization, kicks off a four-city tour of town hall meetings about the creative economy at 11 a.m. April 26 at the ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St. The event is free and includes lunch, but seating is limited, according to a news release. Jimmy Cunningham, tourism development director for the Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotions Commission, will be a featured speaker. Other speakers include Suzzette Shaw Goldmon, assistant professor of hospitality and tourism management for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff; Pam Griffin, president and chief executive officer of El Dorado Festival and Events with Murphy Arts District; and Chef Cynthia East-Malik, director of Food and Beverage at Saracen Casino Resort. Registration for the free event is required via Eventbrite or by contacting Executive Director Mariah Hatta at mariah@arkansansforthearts.org.
Saturday, April 27
Stith announces women’s conference
The Encounter 2 Women’s Conference, led by Gail Stith, will be held from 9 a.m. to noon April 27 at the Waterfront Building in Regional Park. Outdoor prayer starts at 8:30 a.m. led by Saint Mary Harris. Admission is free. Brunch and lunch will be provided by the Master’s Table. The community is invited to attend. The conference will also feature ministers and prayer warriors in a talk show style under the theme “Sisters, Can We Talk About It?” Eva McGee will be the moderator. The main speaker will be Brenda Jefferson. The guest psalmist will be Michelle Johnson. Featured speakers and topics include: Saint Mary Harris – “Hearing the Voice of God Through Prayer”; Valerie Rasberry – “This is My Story”; Dorothy Highsmith – “End Times” (Judgement Begins in the House of God); Jeanette Hence – “What Do You Do When Your Current Situation Contradicts the Promise?”; Angela Braggs – “Unapologetically Prophetic”; Barbara Deloney — “Broken, Not Finished”; and Yulonda James — “Ask Me.” Details: Gail Stith, (870) 872-3899 or prieststith@yahoo.com.
Pilgrim sets community fair
Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 Hill St., will sponsor a community health fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 27. The event will include free vaccinations and free screenings for cholesterol, blood pressure and diabetes. “Please come to our community health fair and find out information regarding resources available to you,” a spokesman said. The Rev. Kevin Crumpton is the pastor.
Water education, conservation fair set
Liberty Utilities, 1100 State St., will host a water education and conservation fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 27. There will be food trucks, demonstrations, vendors, community partners, and giveaways (while supplies last.) “Join us for an educational family day to learn about your water service, water-efficient landscaping and conservation,” according to a flier.
Delta Sigma Theta plans youth session
The Pine Bluff Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. will present Dialoguing with Delta at 10 a.m. April 27 at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Business Support Building, 615 S. Main St. Dialoguing with Delta is an annual educational activity for students from ages eight to 18. Featured presenters include Erika Evans, Torey Foote, Carla Martin, Jade Wilson and Leslie Woods, according to a news release. This year’s theme is “Elevate Your Preparation For Life Through Literacy, Friendships, and Finances.” Registration is available for individuals and groups. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/pbadwd24 .
Monday, April 29
Moss slates Humor Month event
Bob “Hubba Jubba” Moss, a local motivation lecturer and author, will present the fourth annual Celebration of National Humor Month. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 29 at the Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce, at 510 Main St. The celebration returns after a three-year absence due to covid conditions. This year’s title is: “Lunch, Leer and Learn to Love to Laff for Life,” according to a news release. The community is invited to attend. Free lunch will be followed by a review of why hearty laughs are good medicine and the greatest gestures of enthusiasm. The concluding activity will engage participants in creating hand-made mementos encouraging 24/7 positive attitudes, according to the release. Sponsors are the Chamber and Moss Cess LLC. Moss will facilitate the program. Drawings will be held for assorted prizes and Hubba Jubba’s book. Registration can be made by calling the Chamber at (870) 535-0110.
Tuesday, April 30
Quorum Court Community Chat set
A Quorum Court Community Chat will be held at 6 p.m. April 30 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave. (Suite A and B). The community is invited to attend, according to StuffinTheBluff.com. Alfred Carroll Sr., Justice of the Peace District 1 and spokesman, said he hopes this will be the first of a series of community meetings. The event will be facilitated by local author John Proctor and Kim Jones Sneed, founder and publisher of Stuff In The Bluff. Details: (870) 692-9039.
Through Tuesday, April 30
UAMS academy open to high school seniors
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is accepting applications for the inaugural summer academy of the Arkansas Delta Health Careers Opportunity Program Academy, an initiative that supports students in the Delta and South Arkansas as they pursue careers in health care. The deadline to submit applications is April 30. The academy focuses on expanding the workforce in a variety of health care disciplines. The program will begin with a residential summer academy from June 17 to July 26 at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Open to rising high school seniors, HCOP Academy will equip students with the skills they need to gain admission to and succeed in health professional programs, according to a news release. Applicants must be enrolled at a school in these counties: Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Calhoun, Chicot, Cleveland, Columbia, Crittenden, Dallas, Desha, Drew, Jefferson, Lee, Lincoln, Monroe, Ouachita, Phillips, Sevier, St. Francis and Union. To sign up for a session or to apply for the academy, visit https://uams.info/HCOP.
UAPB LIONS open to freshman
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is inviting incoming freshmen to apply for its Learning Institute and Opportunities for New Students (LIONS) Program. The LIONS Program prepares incoming freshmen for collegiate life through classes, workshops, and on-campus living. The residential program will be held July 8 through Aug. 9. The deadline to apply is April 30. For details, contact Carolyn Mills at (870) 575-8362 or millsc@uapb.edu or visit www.uapb.edu/lionsprogram or www.uapb.edu and click on the LIONS Program tab. For information about financial assistance, call (870) 575-8302 or email finaid@uapb.edu.
Wednesday, May 1
Pine Bluff Commercial sets church news deadline
Church news is printed in The Commercial on Friday. The deadline to submit church announcements is noon Wednesday. 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 should be submitted by email to Sandra Hope at shope@adgnewsroom.com or shope@adgnewsroom.com. Details: (870) 534-3400, ext. 5.
Thursday, May 2
JRMC sets health fair at expo
Jefferson Regional Medical Center will hold a health fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 2 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. It will be held at the Business Expo of the Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce, according to a flier. Health services and screenings will include cancer screening, stroke awareness, weight and body mass index, blood pressure, tobacco cessation, and glucose.
Opportunity House sets meeting
Mayor Shirley Washington will host a community meeting at 6 p.m. May 2 at the Opportunity House, former First Ward Elementary School, 1305 E. Fifth Ave. The meeting is open to the public and all are welcome to attend to learn more about the Opportunity House, meet the site operator, DePaul USA, and tour the facility. Details: mayor’s office, (870) 730-2000, ext. 7.
Chamber sets Business Expo
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold its Business Expo 2024 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center on May 2. The Business Expo Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. and the program starts at 8 a.m. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Director Austin Booth will be the Business Expo Breakfast keynote speaker. Booth will discuss outdoor recreation and its impact on Arkansas’ economy. Breakfast tickets are $25 each and a table for eight is $300 each, according to a news release. Simmons Bank is the breakfast sponsor. The Business Expo trade show at the Convention Center will open with a VIP Hour from 9-10 a.m. and opens to public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The booth fee is $250 for members and $360 non-members. “This year’s theme, ‘We’re Wild About Pine Bluff,’ celebrates the beautiful landscape of the Delta region from the piney timbers to the winding water of Bayou Bartholomew, the world’s longest bayou,” according to the release. Details: Chamber Director Jennifer Kline at jennifer@jeffersoncountyalliance.com or (870) 535-0110.
Friday, May 3
Live@5 features Billy Jeter
Local musician Billy Jeter will perform during the Live@5 concert from 5-7 p.m. May 3 at ART WORKS on Main at 627 S. Main St., part of the ARTx3 Campus. “Jeter’s music comes from a collage of influences, Mississippi Delta blues, rock ‘n’ roll, Ozark folk, Colorado bluegrass, and Grateful Dead campfire-type songs,” according to a news release. Entry is $5 for ARTx3 members and $10 for nonmembers. Payment is accepted at the door. Complimentary beer, wine, and nonalcoholic beverages are included. Sponsored by MK Distributors, this event is for guests 21 and older. Details: Shakeelah Rahmaan at srahmaan@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
ARTSpace sets Movement and Agility
The next Movement and Agility workshop with exercise therapist Lauren Robertson will be from 11 a.m. to noon May 3 in the Loft Gallery at The ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St., part of the ARTx3 Campus. “This functional strength-building class aims to increase strength, mobility, balance, flexibility, and confidence. This event is for ages 30 and older,” according to the release. The cost is $15 for ARTx3 members and $20 for nonmembers. To register, visit artx3.org/all-events/movement-and-agility-may-2024. Details: Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org, or call (870) 395-7059.
Foundation sets golf tournament
Jefferson Regional Foundation will host its fourth annual golf tournament May 3 at the Pine Bluff Country Club. To register or for sponsorship information, contact Laura Beth Shaner at (870) 541-7210 or shanerl@jrmc.org.
Beginning Friday, May 3
PB to host Junior Olympics Boxing Tournament
The 2024 Arkansas State Junior Olympics Boxing Tournament will take place in Pine Bluff on May 3-4 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. Participants, ranging in age from 8 to 16, will contend for a chance to advance to the National Tournament in Wichita, Kan., in June. The host is Pine Bluff Gloves Not Gloves boxing club. The club is a non-profit organization founded in 2004 by Coach Albert Brewer. The event is anticipated to draw hundreds of spectators. The bouts are scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. May 3 and at 3 p.m. May 4. Admission for adults will be $10, $5 for ages 8-17, and children 7 and younger can attend free. Two-day passes will be available at a reduced rate. All proceeds from the tournament will go towards supporting the Gloves Not Guns programming. The tournament is also sponsored by the Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission.
Saturday, May 4
Suicide prevention, mental health event set
A Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness Summit will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 4 at Southeast Arkansas College in the McGeorge building, 1900 S. Hazel St. The community is invited to attend the event hosted by the D’Andre Seals Suicide Prevention Outreach Project, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. Experts in the fields of suicide prevention and mental health wellness will make presentations to people age 8 to adult. This summit is free, lunch will be provided and registration is required. To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mental-health-wellness-suicide-prevention-summit-tickets-877029427627.
VFW to honor veterans
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4455, 1518 E. Harding Ave., and VFW Auxiliary will observe the VFW’s National Day of Service from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 4. Veterans are urged to register and be present to win a Quilt of Honor donated by the Pine Bluff Quilters Guild. The drawing for the quilt will be held at 1 p.m., according to a news release. Various agency representatives will attend including the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, DAV Mobile Van, Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation, Pine Bluff Arsenal, Watson Chapel JROTC, and United Way. There will also be free hair cuts for veterans, food trucks and various other vendors. Details: Odessa Lawson, (870) 550-0578 or Matthew Yarnell, (509) 675-3420.
Lightsaber Workshop set
Patrons are invited to join the ARTx3 Campus for an activity for Star Wars Day from 1-3 p.m. May 4 at The ARTSpace on Main. Under the direction of J. Tyler Lewis and Shakeelah Rahmaan, participants will engineer lightsabers using pool noodles, decorative tape, markers and lights. Patrons can make sabers in varying colors, including yellow, blue, and red and use black insulation for making the Darksaber. “May the Fourth be with you,” a spokesman said. This event is for all ages and is free. To register, visit artx3.org/all-events/lightsaber-workshop. For more information, contact Rahmaan at srahmaan@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Beginning Saturday, May 4
Technical Theater Workshop
The ARTx3 Campus will host a four-session Technical Theater Workshop with J. Tyler Lewis from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, May 4, 11, 18, and June 1, at ART WORKS on Main. This workshop is sponsored by a Kenneth Reams Arts for Justice Grant. This event is for ages 16 and older. The cost is $5 for each session and $20 for the series. To register, visit artx3.org/all-events/technical-theater-workshop. For more information, contact Lewis at jtlewis@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Blues concert series set
The Port City Blues Society will host the third “Blues By Budweiser” concert series at RJ’s Grill & Bar, 128 S. Main Street. The doors open at 7 p.m. and music begins at 8 p.m. Port City members are admitted free. There is a $5 cover charge for non-members. MK Distributors is the sponsor, according to a news release. Concerts for 2024-2025 include: May 4, Tina Cossey Band; June 1, Kent Burnside Band; July 6, Ghost Town Blues Band; Aug. 3, Amanda Fish; Sept. 7, Garry Burnside Band; Oct. 5, Dirty Red and the Soul Shakers; Nov. 2, Jerry McCoy and the Groove Diggers; Dec. 7, Fonky Donkey; Jan. 4, 2025, Trey Johnson and Jason Willmon; and Feb. 1, 2025, Charlotte Taylor and Gypsy Rain.
Friday, May 10
ART WORKS Presents: Karaoke
Patrons are invited to join the ARTx3 Campus for the ART WORKS Presents: Karaoke from 6-8 p.m. May 10 at ART WORKS on Main. “Participants will step into the spotlight and have a moment to shine. Seasoned performers and first-timers are welcome to belt out their favorite tunes solo and grab friends to sing their hearts out and dazzle the crowd,” according to the release. This event is for guests 16 and older. Entry is $5 for ARTx3 members and $10 for nonmembers. For more information, contact Lindsey Collins at lcollins@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Through Friday, May 10
Registration open for college Ag Leaders
Registration for the 2024 Arkansas Future Ag Leaders Tour is now open for college juniors and seniors. This year’s tour, from May 13-17, will give participants an overview of the agriculture industry in Arkansas, plus an opportunity to make key connections with future employers or collaborators, according to a news release. Juniors and seniors enrolled in colleges of agriculture or pursuing agriculture-related majors in Arkansas can register for one of 50 spots. There is no cost to participate. The registration deadline is May 10. Participants can register at https://uada.formstack.com/forms/aragleaders.
Saturday, May 11
UAPB’s 2024 spring graduation
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff will conduct its 2024 Spring Commencement at 10 a.m. May 11 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The processional begins at 9:45 a.m.
Ways of Watercolor Workshop set
The Ways of Watercolor: with Gary Alexander will be offered from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 11, at The ARTSpace on Main studio, part of the ARTx3 Campus. “This captivating art class explores the fluid beauty of this versatile medium. Participants will learn various techniques, discover the magic of color blending, and unlock the secrets of creating luminous works of art. Experienced and beginner artists are welcome to take a journey of expression, and creativity,” according to a news release. This workshop is for ages 18 and older. The cost is $45 for ARTx3 members and $55 for nonmembers. To register, visit artx3.org/all-events/ways-of-watercolor. Details: Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 395-7059.
FunDay sets Origami Bouquet session
Participants are invited to join the ARTx3 Campus for Second Saturday Family FunDay from 1-3 p.m. May 11 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, 701 S. Main St. Participants will create an origami bouquet just in time to celebrate Mother’s Day. This workshop is for all ages and is free. The event is sponsored by the Pine Bluff Area Community Foundation, an affiliate office of the Arkansas Community Foundation Inc. Details: Shakeelah Rahmaan at srahmaan@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Saturday, May 13
WH Sports Hall of Fame event set
The 11th annual White Hall Sports Hall of Fame program will be held at 6:30 p.m. May 13 at the White Hall Community Center. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at White Hall High School front office, according to a flier on the White Hall Community Center Facebook page.
Thursday, May 16
Young Professionals Mixer set
The ARTx3 Campus invites young professionals to Let’s Link: Young Professionals Mixer from 6:30-8:30 p.m. May 16, at The ARTSpace on Main. This event is for ages 18-35 and is free to attend. “This event connects new and younger businesses in the community to foster mentorship, networking and support for their businesses. This unique networking opportunity mimics speed dating but with business cards. Young professionals will also have the opportunity to set up information tables (limited availability) to further link and explore professional connections with a social hour and drinks,” according to the release. Registration is required at artx3.org/all-events/lets-link-may-2024. Details: J. Tyler Lewis at jtlewis@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Friday, May 17
Golden Hour: Wisdom in Bloom set
The ARTx3 Campus will host Golden Hour: Wisdom in Bloom from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 17 at the ARTSpace on Main. This event is for ages 50 and older and is free. Gardening enthusiasts and beginners are welcome to hone their gardening skills in a collaborative environment and assist in cultivating the vertical garden project surrounding the campus’s ART Yard. Attendees are invited to bring 2-liter bottles to make space- and water-saving planters to encourage this reuse greenspace shared by the community. To register, visit.artx3.org/all-events/golden-hour-wisdom-in-bloom. Details: J. Tyler Lewis at jtlewis@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Saturday, May 18
Trinity Village sets festival fundraiser
An Adopt-a-Need Spring Festival Fundraiser will be held at Trinity Village, 6400 Trinity Drive, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 18. “Adopt-A-Need was created to help our residents who don’t have outside resources, fulfill their daily needs such as soap, lotion, toothbrushes, socks, etc…So please, purchase a space, display your wares, and help us make this fundraiser a big success,” a spokesman said in a news release. For vendors to reserve space or for more details contact Pat Raley, (870) 879-3113.
Come Read, Sing, Dance, and Play set
Ages 3-6 are invited to Come Read, Sing, Dance, and Play with Me! with Melanie Madkin from 11 a.m. to noon May 18, at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas, part of the ARTx3 Campus. “Madkin, of Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Program, aims to foster a love of the wonderful world of literacy in a quiet and nurturing environment,” according to the release. This event is free but registration is requested at artx3.org/all-events/come-read-sing-dance-and-play-may-2024. Details: Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Yoga in the Loft features meditation
The ARTx3 Campus hosts Yoga in the Loft on the third Saturday of the month in The ARTSpace on Main from 1:30-3 p.m. The next session is May 18 with the theme “Meditation May.” “Participants will immerse themselves in gentle stretches, mindful breathing, and soothing meditation techniques to cultivate balance, flexibility, and mental clarity. Suitable for all levels, this class harmonizes one’s mind, body and spirit to foster tranquility and well-being,” according to the release. This event is for ages 13 and older. It is part of the ARTx3 Campus Flex Pay program with a minimum cost of $5, $15 recommended. To register, visit artx3.org/all-events/yoga-in-the-loft-may-2024. Details: Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 395-7059.
Saturday, May 25
ARTSpace hosts Game on Main
Youths are invited to Game on Main from 1-3 p.m. May 25 at The ARTSpace on Main, part of the ARTx3 Campus. This free event is for students in fifth through 12th grades. “From epic gaming sessions to hands-on experiences with 3D printing, this monthly workshop offers a unique fusion of entertainment and education,” according to the release. Teens can engage in games, tackle homework, and explore the world of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics). Details: Bethany Gere at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 395-7059.
Through Friday, May 31
Transportation, trails forms available
Applications for the Arkansas Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and the Arkansas Recreational Trails Program (RTP) are available, according to the Arkansas Highway Commission. Virtual seminars will occur on March 14 and April 2 to inform potential eligible applicants of TAP and RTP requirements and responsibilities. Project applications and registration are available at ardot.gov/TAP or ardot.gov/RTP. Applications must be submitted by 4 p.m. May 31. Also, applications may be submitted year-round for Motorized RTP projects. Details: ardot.gov/RTP.
Century Farm applications available
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the 2024 Arkansas Century Farm Program until May 31. This program recognizes Arkansas families who have owned and farmed the same land for at least 100 years. The program is voluntary and there is no cost to apply, according to a news release. Online and printable applications are available at agriculture.arkansas.gov/arkansas-department-of-agriculture-services/arkansas-century-farm-program/. Applications must be received via email at beth.moore@agriculture.arkansas.gov or postmarked by May 31 to be eligible for designation as a 2024 inductee. Details: Beth Moore, (501) 539-4027.
Friday, June 7
Gun Violence Awareness event set
The city of Pine Bluff will join cities across the nation in observing Wear Orange National Gun Violence Awareness Day. The free event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 7 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The Pine Bluff Group Violence Intervention and other local organizations will lead the event. Local residents are encouraged to wear orange to honor survivors and victims of gun violence, according to a news release. The observance will feature speakers, workshops on conflict resolution, games, interactions with law enforcement, music, additional resources for citizens, free food and refreshments, and vendors. “Please wear the color orange and bring a child, teen and/or young adult with you,” said GVI Director Kevin Crumpton Sr. “Join us as we work together to better Pine Bluff, with our voices, and through our actions.”
Through Friday, June 14
School Garden contest open
Entries are being accepted for the annual Arkansas Grown School Garden of the Year Contest, sponsored by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and the Farm Credit Associations of Arkansas. Applicants may be any school, early childhood education facility, or alternative learning environment that had a school garden in the 2023-2024 school year or is planning a garden in the 2024-2025 school year, according to a news release. Entries will be accepted through June 14 and the application can be found at cognitoforms.com/ArkansasAgriculture1/ArkansasGrownSchool GardenOfTheYearContest2024. Winners will be announced in the fall of 2024.
Saturday, July 27
GVI plans back-to-school bash
Pine Bluff Group Violence Intervention will conduct a Unity Back-to-School Bash from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 27 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. There will be free food, free games, school supplies, and entertainment. GVI and several other local organizations will lead the event, according to a news release. Sponsors are Office of Mayor Shirley M. Washington, Sixth Division Circuit Court-Juvenile Division, United Family Services, Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Pine Bluff Police Department, Super 1 Foods, Simmons Bank, Jefferson Regional Medical Center, Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church, and Pine Bluff First Assembly Church.
Underway
Covid-19 vaccines, testing available
The Arkansas Department of Health, various pharmacies and healthcare providers offer the covid-19 vaccine, tests and other information about coronavirus. Details: Call the Arkansas Department of Health at (800) 985-6030, visit the website at healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/covid-19-vaccination-plan or contact area medical professionals, according to spokesmen.
Tuesdays
Unity Christian offers free financial classes
Unity Christian Fellowship Church (UCFC), 2712 S. Bay St., invites the community to its free Small Business and Personal Financial Education classes at 7 p.m. Tuesdays. Recent subjects included “The Importance of Having a Financial Plan” and “Financial Literacy,” according to Stuff in the Bluff website. “You cannot afford to miss out on these life-changing classes. We are practicing social distancing and will have hand sanitizer wipes available,” according to the site. Anthony Armstrong is the senior pastor. Details: unitychristianfellowship@live.com or (870) 329-1182.