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, Aug. 21
UAPB slates resource fair
A Community Resource Fair will be held from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Aug. 21 at the W.E. O’Bryant Bell Tower at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Agencies may sign up to grow their clientele, promote their businesses, educate students and meet potential customers, according to a flier. Details: Chris Riggins at rigginsc@uapb.edu.
Pine Bluff Commercial sets church news deadline
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
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. Details: (870) 534-3400, ext. 5.
Underway
UAPB sets new student, welcome week
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff will host UPROAR: New Student Week and Welcome Week 2024. UPROAR will take place Aug. 19-24. Welcome Week starts Aug. 25 with the first day of instruction Aug. 26. UAPB WELCOME WEEK is from Aug. 25-31 and includes: Aug. 25 — a Splash Bash from 1-4 p.m. at the Pumphrey Soccer Complex and the Chancellor’s Ice Cream Social from 6-8 p.m. at the W.E. O’Bryant Bell Tower. Aug. 26 — The Do’s & Don’t Fashion Show will be held in the STEM Conference Room from 7- 10 p.m. Details: Office of Student Involvement & Leadership, (870) 575-8866 or osil@uapb.edu or UAPB.EDU.
Thursday, Aug. 22
PBS to livestream Women’s Hall of Fame
As part of its Arkansas Live initiative, Arkansas PBS will livestream the eighth annual Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 22 at myarpbs.org/arkansasliveplaylist. Honorees with southeast Arkansas ties include: Betty Dickey – Former Arkansas Supreme Court justice, teacher, attorney, and former prosecutor for Jefferson and Lincoln counties; and Jacquelyn Williams McCray, Ph.D. — retired dean/director and professor emeritus of the School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. The Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame honors women whose contributions have influenced the direction of Arkansas in their community or the state. Details: arwomenshalloffame.com or myarkansaspbs.org
VA sets virtual claims clinic
The Little Rock VA Regional Office will hold a virtual claims clinic for Arkansas veterans from 4-6 p.m. Aug. 22. To reserve a timeslot, veterans should call (501) 370-3829 before 4 p.m. Aug. 21, 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. Staff will also answer questions about PACT Act benefits, existing VA benefits claims, and assist with filing new claims.
Reception set for Glimmer display
The ARTx3 Campus invites the public to a free opening reception for the exhibition “Glimmer” by Heidi Carlsen-Rogers from 5-7 p.m. Aug. 22 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. This exhibition is sponsored by the Kline Family Foundation. “Carlsen-Rodgers’s exhibition, a set of large-scale tapestries, provides a tranquil 24-hour simulated period of what it might feel like to walk through the garden at different times of day with background colors refencing dawn, daylight, high noon, dusk, and nocturne. The whole garden is meant to be a place of remembrance when stress or anxiety takes hold. The garden plants seeds of connection, healing/wellbeing, hope and a new relationship between community and Earth,” according to the release. This exhibition will remain on view through Jan. 10, 2025. Gallery viewing is free. For more information, contact Kevin Haynie at khaynie@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
GOP meeting set
The Jefferson County Republican Committee will meet at 6 p.m. Aug. 22 at Larry’s Pizza in White Hall, according to a news release.
Friday, Aug. 23
Young professionals’ skate night set
The Jefferson County Young Professionals’ Network Business After Hours will be a 90’s Skate Night. The event will be held from 7-10 p.m. Aug. 23 at Skateland, 3214 Old Warren Road. Entry is free. There will be a live DJ, food, and networking for ages 25 and older, according to the newsletter from the Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Beginning Friday, Aug. 23
VBS begins at New Community
New Community Church, 321 N. Birch St., will conduct Vacation Bible School and all are welcome to attend. At 6 p.m. Aug. 23, the annual youth night will be held. At 11 a.m. Aug. 24, the back-to-school NCC Fun Day will be held for youths and teens featuring Bible study and activities. Rod Goodwin is the youth pastor and Patrick Lockett is the senior pastor at New Community.
Saturday, Aug. 24
Pleasant Grove to open pantry
Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church Soup kitchen and Food Pantry and First Ward Living Grace Food Pantry will host a food giveaway. The event will be held at Pleasant Grove church, 1801 Indiana St., Aug. 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or while supplies last. “Let’s feed those who are in need,” according to the flier.
Game on Main set
Youths are invited to Game on Main from 1-3 p.m. Aug. 24, at the ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St. This free, drop-in event is for students in fifth through 12th grades. The ARTx3 Campus will host a “Super Smash Brothers: Ultimate” tourney during Game on Main. Participants are invited to test their hand-eye coordination. “Teens can engage in exciting games, tackle homework, and explore the fascinating world of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics). 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.
Through Saturday, Aug. 24
Consolidated St. Marion session starts
Mount Nebo Missionary Baptist Church, 3201 W. Second Ave., will host the 152nd annual session of the Consolidated St. Marion Baptist District Association through Aug. 24. Class courses and registration are available at https://www.consolidatedstmarion.com. Onsite registration ends 30 minutes before each class.
Beginning Monday, Aug. 26
Walk Across Arkansas set
Registration begins Aug. 26 for the Cooperative Extension Service’s biannual health initiative, Walk Across Arkansas. Arkansans are encouraged to form teams in their workplaces, neighborhoods or other communities and join the effort, according to a news release. During the eight-week session, individuals will log their daily total number of minutes of physical activity — which isn’t limited to walking. Running, gardening, playing or coaching a team sport — it all counts. The registration window for the fall session is Aug. 26-Sept. 8. The eight-week session begins Sept. 9 and will conclude Nov. 3. To register, visit https://walk.uada.edu/walk/.
Tuesday, Aug. 27
Ivy Center plans writing event
The Ivy Center for Education Inc. will sponsor “Write for your Life,” an Essay Writing and Writing Personal Statement Workshop from 6-7 p.m. Aug. 27 at the main Pine Bluff Library, 600 Main St. All students who attend will gain life-long essay writing skills and learn how to “tell their story” through using their words, according to a news release. The workshop presenter is Rebecca Newby, a certified 7-12th grade English educator. All students in 7-12th grades are encouraged to attend and bring paper, a pencil or pen or laptop. A virtual session is availabe via Zoom by using Meeting ID: 856 8296 4187 and Passcode: 351061. For details, interested students and parents may send an email to Ivy Center President Mattie Collins at mattie1908@gmail.com.
Beginning Thursday, Aug. 29
Cirque Italia appears at Hestand Stadium
Cirque Italia announces a new production, a captivating story about Rafael, a farm boy swept away by a tornado who lands in the heart of the city’s chaos. The coming performances are scheduled for Aug. 29-Sept. 2 under the white and blue Big Top tent at the Hestand Stadium parking lot, 420 N. Blake St. Cirque Italia contributes to the modernization of the performing arts and the circus industry by abiding by a strict animal-free policy, according to the release. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Aug. 29; 7:30 p.m. Aug. 30; 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Aug. 31; 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. Sept. 1; and 7:30 p.m. Sept. 2. Tickets are available at cirqueitalia.com/tickets; by phone: (941) 704-8572 (text messages are accepted); on-site box office hours, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 27-28 and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 29-Sept. 2.
Through Friday, Aug. 30
Forestry Division seeks grant proposals
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division invites grant proposals for the 2024 Urban and Community Forestry Grant Assistance Program. Funding supports sustainable forestry projects across Arkansas, according to a news release. The program offers: Up to $1.4 million in Inflation Reduction Act funding for projects in economically vulnerable communities, with grants up to $500,000 per project. Up to $30,000 in non-Inflation Reduction Act funding for projects statewide, with grants up to $10,000 per project. The application deadline is Aug. 30. Successful applicants will be notified by Oct. 1. Details: https://www.agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/urban-community-forestry/
Through Saturday, Aug. 31
League hosts Water in Art exhibition
The Pine Bluff Art League will present its new “Water in Art” exhibition at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center. Members may hang water-themed works along the East wing of the center through July. Art will be displayed through Aug. 31. The PBAL seeks to engage the public through selected themed exhibitions and invites the community to enjoy a diverse selection of art by southeast Arkansas artists.
Beginning Saturday, Sept. 7
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: 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.
Thursday, Sept. 12
Wreath Making Class set
The Horticulture Department of the Jefferson County Extension Service will present a Fall Wreath Making Class as a part of its Community Engagement and Beautification How to Workshop Series. The class will be held at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 12 at the extension service, 500 Idaho St. The cost is $20 per person. All supplies will be provided. The class will be presented by County Agent Timothy Wallace of the Jefferson County Extension Service, a part of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. To sign up for the class, contact the extension office at (870) 534-1033.
Saturday, Sept. 14
Training set for National Register
The Arkansas Historic Preservation Program will hold a training on the National Register of Historic Places at 9 a.m. Sept. 14 at the Arkansas Heritage Building in the Diamond Room in Little Rock. “The National Register of Historic Places is a program of the National Park Service that is administered in Arkansas by the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program,” said Ralph Wilcox, national register and survey coordinator and deputy state historic preservation officer for the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program. Details: https://www.arkansasheritage.com/events/2024/09/14/default-calendar/national-register-training.
Thursday, Sept. 19
Taste of Southeast Arkansas set
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will present An Evening in Paris for the Taste of Southeast Arkansas. The taste will begin at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The cocktail hour starts at 5:30 p.m., according to the Chamber’s newsletter. Entertainment will be provided by the Rodney Block Collective. “The Taste provides samplings of food from chefs around the region along with beverages and good music,” according to the Chamber’s events’ list. Admission is $55 for Chamber members, $65 for non members, and $600 for a table. For tickets or details, contact the Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce at (870) 535-0110.
Beginning Friday, Sept. 20
Smoke on the Water set Sept. 20-21
Smoke on the Water Productions’ namesake barbecue competition is returning to its birthplace, Regional Park, on Sept. 20-21. The contest touts $50,000 in guaranteed prize money. The evening of Sept. 20 will mark the start of competitive barbecue smoking among the cook teams. Cook teams will compete for cash prizes paid out to 15 places in each of four categories: brisket, chicken, pork butt and ribs. Additional cash awards will be handed out to five overall winners. The general public is invited on Sept. 21. Gates will open at noon with free admission, allowing everyone to enjoy a kids’ fun zone, craft vendors, food trucks, grilling demonstrations by the pros and refreshments by Budweiser. Live music will be presented by White Hall’s Addyson Kennedy Band, then the Jon Bailey & The Heathen Revival and ending with the headliner, Tina Cossey Band. Underwritten in part by the Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission, the event’s naming sponsor is Sissy’s Log Cabin and the presenting sponsor is Saracen Casino Resort. Details: www.smokeonthewaterbbq.com.
Friday, Sept. 27
Voices for Children golf tourney set
Voices for Children will host its 20th annual golf tournament at 12:30 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Pine Bluff Country Club. Registration starts at 11 a.m., according to a flier. Sponsorship opportunities are available. All proceeds will help Voices for Children continue to provide court appointed special advocates (CASA) for all foster children in Jefferson and Lincoln counties. Details: Voices for Children, (870) 850-7105, (870) 536-5922 or vfc@vfcadvocates.org.
Through Monday, Sept. 30
LIHEAP taking applications
Starting July 1, on a first-come first served basis, residential households can apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) through the network community-based action agencies that serve the county where they live. Applications will be taken through Sept. 30 or until funds are depleted. The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas and Entergy Arkansas released statements on this program. Households can find a location to apply for LIHEAP at https://www.adeq.state.ar.us/energy/assistance/caad.aspx or https://www.adeq.state.ar.us/energy/initiatives/pdfs/LIHEAP_Flyer.pdf.
Friday, Oct. 11
Gala to feature national NAACP leader
The Pine Bluff Branch of the NAACP will present the NAACP National President and CEO Derrick Johnson as the keynote speaker during the NAACP’s annual Dove Freedom Fund Dinner. The event is scheduled for 6 p.m. Oct. 11 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center, according to a news release. “We are honored to welcome President Johnson to Pine Bluff,” said Ivan Whitfield, president of the Pine Bluff NAACP Branch. “His presence not only celebrates our branch’s on-going work, but also pays homage to the legacy of leaders like Harold Flowers and Wiley Branton Sr., whose efforts paved the way for national civil rights advancements.” The Dove Freedom Fund Dinner serves as a major fundraiser for the Pine Bluff NAACP Branch, supporting its on-going civil rights advocacy, community outreach, and youth programs. For ticket information and sponsorship opportunities to the Dove Freedom Fund Dinner, contact Michael McCray at (870) 543-0024 or mccray.michael@gmail.com.
Saturday, Oct. 19
White Hall hosts Founder’s Day
White Hall is preparing to host the 60th anniversary of White Hall Founder’s Day on Oct. 19. Entertainment will include Marybeth Byrd (The Voice/America’s Got Talent contestant) and The Gravel Yard Bluegrass Band, according to https://www.facebook.com/whitehallar/ The community is invited to participate. “It’s a work in progress, but go to https://whitehallfoundersday.com/ and register to have a booth, food truck, be in the parade or all the above. Also, the talent page will be up and running soon. Thank you for your patience,” according to the Facebook post. Participants may also register a car for this year’s Classics in the Park Car Show at Founders Day Oct. 19. To register for the car show, call Jeff Insley at (870) 718-2316. “Also if you want to drive your car in the parade be sure to let Jeff know,” according to https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHallCC/
Beginning Monday, Oct. 21
Election information, dates
Voters will decide upon the next U.S. President as well as local candidates running for city offices and school boards in the Nov. 5 General Election. OCT. 21 — Early Voting will be held at the county courthouse Oct. 21 through Nov. 4. Voting occurs Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. OCT. 29 — Deadline to receive absentee ballot applications by mail, fax, or email. NOV. 5 — Election Day — Polls will be open 7:30a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Details: Jefferson County Clerk’s Office, (870) 541-5322.
Thursday, Oct. 24
Fish fry to honor agribusinesses
The Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce will host a fish fry to honor Jefferson County agribusinesses.
The event will be held Oct. 24 at Hestand Stadium. The gates open at 5 p.m. The fish fry, catered by King Kat, is $20 for Chamber members and $25 for non-members, according to the Chamber newsletter. Details: Chamber, (870) 535-0110.
Through Sunday, Dec. 1
Fund drive for artwork set
The Pine Bluff Art League will have a drawing for artwork by Richard Stephens titled “First Snow” valued at $1,000. The drawing will be held Dec. 1 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Building. Funds generated from the fund drive will continue the funding of publicly accessible art league demonstrations, workshops and art recognition of community members in and around southeast Arkansas, according to a news release. For more on Stephens, visit raswatercolors.com/ and facebook.com/richard.stephens.545. Art collectors wishing to add this piece to their collection may purchase $5 raffle tickets by making a check to the Pine Bluff Art League. Mail the check and contact information, name, address, email, and phone number to the Pine Bluff Art League, Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Building, 211 W. Third Ave., Box 8, Pine Bluff, AR 71601.
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.