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
Enchanted lights open
The Enchanted Land of Lights and Legends drive through holiday lights display is open at Regional Park. The community is invited to attend the display from 6-9 p.m. daily through Dec. 24. The exhibit features 1.3 miles of a lights with more than 240 displays, many which are animated, according to Explore Pine Bluff.com/events-calendar. Admission is free. Volunteers will accept donations at the end of the drive through display.
Area Agency collecting blankets
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The Area Agency of Southeast Arkansas began its annual Share the Warmth Blanket Drive in Jefferson County on Friday. The blanket collections will continue until Jan. 4. The purpose of the drive is collect and donate blankets to individuals who are elderly, disabled or sick and shut-in to keep them warm this winter, according to a news release. Details: Carolyn Ferguson, (870) 543-6309, or Pauline Jones, (870 543-6313, at Area Agency.
Monday, Dec. 9
ARDOT to hold event
Members of the Arkansas State Highway Commission may gather for presentation of awards throughout the state. In Jefferson County, District 2 Service Awards will be presented at 11 a.m. Monday at the White Hall Community Center, 9801 Dollarway Road, in White Hall, accordning to a news release.
Tuesday, Dec. 10
Ivy Center plans veterinary workshop
The Ivy Center for Education will host a virtual workshop from 6-7 p.m. Tuesday. The session is designed to help aspiring medical professionals learn more about animal science and veterinary medicine. This event, which is open to 7-12th graders, will feature representatives from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, the University of Arkansas at Monticello, Arkansas State University at Jonesboro, and Tuskegee University at Tuskegee, Ala., according to a news release. Scholars may join the virtual workshop using Meeting ID: 856 8296 4187 and Passcode: 351061. Details: mattie1908@gmail.com or djharris@uams.edu.
TOPPS to give away food
TOPPS, 1000 Townsend Drive, will hold its monthly food distribution at 10 a.m. Tuesday. It’s first-come, first-served, and attendees must stay inside their vehicles and bring proof of ID. Each family will be enrolled into the Oasis system with the Arkansas Food Bank. Only one food box will be distributed per household and individuals must be present to receive the box, according to a news release. Details: Annette Howard Dove, TOPPS founder/director, (870) 850-6011.
Through Tuesday, Dec. 10
UAM student’s exhibit open
Madelyn McKeown’s senior art thesis exhibition, “Menagerie,” will be on display through Dec. 10 in the Glassblock Gallery in the Fred J. Taylor Library and Technology Center at the University of Arkansas at Monticello. “McKeown’s exhibition features works of the animal kingdom in various mediums including colored pencils, markers, pens, oil and watercolor, capturing the rich bounty that the natural world has to offer,” according to a news release. The Glassblock Gallery is free and open to the public. The gallery’s hours are Mondays from 9-11 a.m. and noon to 4 p.m.; Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon; Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 11
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. Details: (870) 534-3400, ext. 5.
Thursday, Dec. 12
Sketching Session set with artist Tanya Hollifield
The ARTx3 Campus will host a free sketching session with artist Tanya Hollifield, from 4-7 p.m. Dec. 12. It will include a break to socialize. Community members are invited to draw or observe. Participants will have the opportunity to sketch two models in fashion outfits, with assistance from Hollifield. The event is in the Adam B. Robinson Jr. Black Box Theater, 627 S. Main St. Registration is required; sign up at artx3.org/all-events/sketching-session-with-tanya-hollifield or call (870) 536-3375.
Ivy Center offers free ACT Boot Camps
The Ivy Center for Education will offer free ACT Boot Camps via Zoom, presented by Charity Smith-Allen, principal associate for education at Fetterman and Associates, and her team. Students in 7-12th grades are encouraged to attend, according to a news release. The final event will be Dec. 12 — 6-8 p.m. — Science and Reading. To participate, use the Zoom Meeting ID: 856 8296 4187 and Passcode: 351061. Interested students should email Mattie Collins, president of the Ivy Center, at mattie1908@gmail.com.
Friday, Dec. 13
UAM plans fall commencement
The University of Arkansas at Monticello will hold its fall commencement exercises Dec. 13 in the Steelman Field House at 10 a.m. The doors will open at 9 a.m.
Scheduled speakers include UAM Chancellor Peggy Doss and Donald R. Bobbitt, president of the University of Arkansas System. Commencement will be livestreamed on YouTube. The link will be accessible from the university’s homepage. A clear bag policy is in place for all guests. Details: www.uamont.edu or the Office of Academic Affairs at (870) 460-1033.
Stone Bank plans open house
Stone Bank, 7739 Sheridan Road, in White Hall, announced plans to host a Holiday Open House from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 13. Customers are invited to have cookies, snacks, apple cider, and hot chocolate, according to a news release.
Movement and Agility features Lauren Robertson
The ARTx3 Campus hosts the bi-monthly workshop Movement and Agility, led by exercise therapist Lauren Robertson. Designed for women ages 30 and older, this functional strength-building class aims to increase strength, mobility, balance, flexibility, and confidence. The next workshop is from 11 a.m. to noon Dec. 13, at The ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St. The cost is $15 for ARTx3 members and $20 for nonmembers. Register at artx3.org/all-events/movement-agility-dec-2024 or call (870) 536-3375. Details: Bethany Gere, public programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or (870) 395-7059.
Saturday, Dec. 14
Pilgrim church to open pantry
Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 Hill St., will open its Raven’s Nest Food Pantry Dec. 14, from 8-9:30 a.m. or until all the food has been given away. Food will be handed out on a first come, first-served basis. Participants must bring a picture identification. The agency is a U.S. Department of Agriculture distribution site and equal opportunity provider, according to a news release.
Read, Sing, Dance, and Play with Melanie Madkin
Ages 3-6 are invited to Come Read, Sing, Dance, and Play with Me! with Melanie Madkin from 11 a.m. to noon Dec. 14, at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. Madkin, of Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Program, aims to foster a love of the wonderful world of literacy in a quiet and nurturing environment with this monthly event, according to the release. This event is free but registration is requested at artx3.org/all-events/come-read-dec-2024 or call (870) 536-3375. Details: Bethany Gere, public programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or (870) 395-7059.
FunDay features Cookin’ for a Cause
The community is invited to the ARTx3 Campus’s free Second Saturday Family FunDay: Cookin’ for A Cause program from 1-3 p.m. Dec. 14, at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. Participants of all ages are invited to help cook for fellow community members during the season of giving. The campus is collaborating with House of Bread and Deliverance Church to aid families in need. Details: Shakeelah Rahmaan, programs director, at srahmaan@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
Yoga in the Loft set
The ARTx3 Campus will host Yoga in the Loft: Under The Mistletoe from 1:30-3 p.m. Dec. 14 at the ARTSpace on Main. Participants will immerse themselves in gentle stretches, mindful breathing, and soothing meditation techniques to cultivate balance, flexibility, and mental clarity, according to the news 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 is recommended. Register at artx3.org/all-events/yoga-dec-2024. Details: Bethany Gere, public programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 395-7059.
Southeast Arkansas Male Chorus host anniversary
The Southeast Arkansas Male Chorus will observe their 25th anniversary at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 15 at New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, 1026 Missouri St. The worship leader will be the Rev. Stoney Shaw of New Faith Missionary Baptist Church. The theme is “Exalting the name of Jesus” (Psalms 34:3.) The Rev. R.D. Howard is the pastor. The community is invited to attend this silver anniversary, according to a news release.
Tuesday, Dec. 17
Taylor Field hosts Christmas celebration
The community is invited to attend the third annual Christmas Celebration at historic Taylor Field, 1201 E. 16th Ave. (Jim Hill Way) in Pine Bluff, from 5-7 p.m. Dec. 17. This event is free to the public. The event will feature Christmas music, free popcorn and drinks for the kids, and a chance to meet Santa Claus. Also, the Pine Bluff Fire Department Santa Run Truck will be on display from 5-6 p.m. (unless emergency situations arise), according to a news release. “We hope you can stop by Taylor Field for a short time to enjoy our Christmas present to you,” said JeffGross, director of Baseball Operations at Taylor Field. “It promises to be a delightful holiday experience for the whole family.”
Thursday, Dec. 19
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. Dec. 19. To reserve a timeslot, veterans should call (501) 370-3829 before 4 p.m. Dec. 18, 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.
Women’s Connection plans luncheon
The Christian Women’s Connection invites the community to its monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 19 at the Pine Bluff Country Club. The special feature will be Lewis Hinkle, singer from Summit Church in Pine Bluff. The speaker will be Iris May, a hospice nurse, writer, speaker and a former military spouse. The Women’s Connection luncheon is $21, which includes the meal, drink, dessert, tax, and gratuity. For reservations or cancellations, call Jennifer Keahey at (870) 540-9302. All reservations must be made three days in advance and participants will be charged for reservations not kept.
Through Friday, Dec. 20
Chamber extends Leadership deadline
Now is the time to nominate outstanding individuals or apply for the Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Leadership Pine Bluff class. The deadline to apply has been extended to Dec. 20, according to the Chamber newsletter. Leadership Pine Bluff is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders by offering participants a unique opportunity to network with community leaders and peers; learn about key sectors, including education, healthcare, law enforcement, tourism, and industry; connect with top executives from local businesses and organizations; and gain insights into the economic development and future growth of the region. Details: the Chamber at (870) 535-0110.
Alphas offer scholarships
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Delta Sigma Lambda Chapter and the Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation, are offering $1,000 scholarships to 2025 graduating seniors who reside in and attend a high school in Jefferson County. The deadline to apply is Dec. 20, according to a news release. Applications are available at Jefferson County high school counselors’ offices or by contacting Scholarship Co-Chair James Word at (870) 329-4738.
Beginning Friday, Dec. 20
ASC hosts “Miracle on Main”
The ARTx3 Campus will present “Miracle on Main” performances at 7 p.m. Dec. 20 and Dec. 21 in the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. This production is directed by Bethany Gere and Kayla Earnest. “Miracle on Main” is presented as a memorable television holiday special with singing, dancing, and family-friendly comedy skits. Theatergoers can celebrate all the holiday excitement with Southeast Arkansas talent during “the most wonderful time of the year.” Santa himself may stop by for a visit, according to the news release. To purchase tickets, visit artx3.org/all-events/miracle-on-main. Details: Lindsey Collins, interim director, at lcollins@artx3.org or (870) 536-3375.
Saturday, Dec. 21
Christmas in the Bluff set
Christmas in the Bluff, a free event created in partnership with Turning Point Youth Centers, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave. The community is invited to attend, according to a news release. There will be festive activities for all. Children will have the chance to take pictures with Santa and receive a special gift. “Enjoy engaging activities to entertain the little ones. Come together with friends and neighbors to make this holiday season unforgettable, filled with laughter, love, and the true spirit of Christmas,” according to the release.
Sunday, Dec. 22
New Community hosts Christmas events
New Community Church, 321 N. Birch St., will hold its youth Christmas program on Dec. 22 immediately after the 11 a.m. worship service. “Come out and celebrate the birth of our Savior with us,” a spokesman said. There will also be an Ugly Sweater Contest and winners will win prizes. The program is sponsored by the NCC Youth Ministry with the Rev. Roderic Goodwin youth pastor and New Community’s apostle/pastor is Patrick Lockett.
Tuesday, Dec. 31
Gould church has year-end service
Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church of Gould will conduct its end-of-the year service at 7 p.m. Dec. 31. The guest speaker will be the Rev. Curtis Gibson, pastor of the Bailey Chapel United Methodist Church of Gould. The Rev. Phillip Puckett is the pastor at Mount Moriah. “Everyone is welcome to come and praise the Lord,” the pastor said.
Through Friday, Jan. 10, 2025
Hunger relief grants available
Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance is offering applications for the 2025 Capacity Building Grant. Applications will be accepted through Jan. 10. This grant is designed to help local hunger relief organizations strengthen their ability to serve communities more effectively, according to a news release. This opportunity is open to food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other hunger relief programs. Grant funds can be used for items such as kitchen appliances, storage solutions, meal prep tools, and office equipment. To apply visit https://emma-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/8mbgb/a3970e7cd59c3ce5d91ec77bbc958a50/2025_Capacity_Building_Grant_Overview___General_Grant_tips__1_.pdf . For questions or help with the grant portal, email scollins@arhungeralliance.org or cgiles@arhungeralliance.org.
Beginning Saturday, Jan. 4
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 St. 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: Jan. 4, 2025, Trey Johnson and Jason Willmon; and Feb. 1, 2025, Charlotte Taylor and Gypsy Rain.
Saturday, Jan. 11
Reception, Coon Supper set
The 13th annual Berry Pre-Coon Supper Reception will be held at 3:30 p.m. Jan. 11 at the Berry Farm Shop in Gillett followed by the 81st Gillett Coon Supper at the Gillett School Gymnasium at 6:30 p.m. The reception tickets are $50 each and sponsorships are available. Tickets can be purchased online at https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1531/17/interior.aspx?sid=1531&gid=1&pgid=1572&cid=3494 or at the door. For more information about becoming a sponsor, contact Becky Barnes Campbell at (501) 912-7560 or Gabe Holmstrom at (479) 409-3329. Tickets to the Coon Supper may be purchased by contacting Tyler Place at (870) 830-4422.
Friday, Feb. 14, 2025
Alphas plan scholarship fundraiser
The Delta Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., in conjunction with the Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation, will present the Valentine’s Scholarship Fundraiser at 7:06 p.m. Feb. 14 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The community is invited to attend the gala which funds thousands of dollars in scholarships for area students. The theme is “All Black Affair.” Tickets are $40 per person. Tables are $400 each, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. Scholarship sponsorship opportunities are also available. The Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Checks or money orders should be made payable to the Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation and mailed by Feb. 10 to the Southeast Arkansas Jewel Foundation, P.O. Box 3159, Pine Bluff, AR 71611. Details: Arzo Knox, (501) 351-7336 or arzo.knox@hotmail.com.
Through Saturday, March 1
ARTX3 hosts ‘Matters of Abstraction’ display
The ARTx3 Campus invites the community to view its new Permanent Collections exhibition “Matters of Abstraction,” featuring decades of distinct two-dimensional and three-dimensional abstract art styles. Visitors will be welcomed to a breadth of abstract works that include subjects and non-representational art. Discover various mark-making techniques that create textures on the canvas, careful color choices that provide subtle gradation, focus and repeating patterns and the use of a variety of lighting situations, according to a news release.
Beginning Thursday, March 6
Workforce youth program sets events
Be Pro Be Proud, a workforce development initiative led by the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas, announced dates and locations for the 2025 Draft Day Series. Be Pro Be Proud will travel to 11 locations across Arkansas, providing career exploration and interview opportunities to high school students by matching their interests and skill sets with relevant career options, according to a news release. Area events will be held: March 6: Southeast Arkansas Education Cooperative, Monticello. April 1: Grand Prairie Center, Stuttgart. April 3: Pine Bluff Convention Center, Pine Bluff. April 8: University of Arkansas at Hope/Texarkana, Hope. April 29: El Dorado Conference Center, El Dorado. For other dates and locations or details visit AR.BeProBeProud.org.