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.
Thursday, June 12
Reception set for Small Works
The ARTx3 Campus will host a free public reception for the 38th annual “Small Works on Paper” exhibition from 5-7 p.m. on June 12 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas (ASC), 701 S. Main St. This year’s exhibition features 40 works by 35 artists. Alexia Lams of Pine Bluff is among the artists chosen for the display. “Small Works on Paper” showcases two-dimensional artwork no larger than 18-by-24 inches, and spotlights members of the Arkansas Artist Registry. The exhibition will travel to nine venues throughout the state in this yearlong show.
Session to teach credit building
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“How to Build Credit and Protect Your Money,” a free lunch-and-learn session, will take place at noon on June 12 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Building, 211 W. Third Ave. Cassandra Kidd of U.S. Bank will share how to effectively manage debts and obligations for a healthy personal credit history. The session will also explore the large role personal finances play in obtaining a business loan and how to safeguard your money from scams and thieves, according to a news release. The event is presented by the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center and co-sponsored by U.S. Bank. There’s no cost to attend, but registration is required to have lunch provided. To register, call (501) 804-4530 or visit asbtdc.org/asbtdc-events.
Free ACT Boot Camp set
The Ivy Center for Education Inc. will present a free virtual ACT Boot Camp from 6-8 p.m. June 12 via Zoom. The event covers all subjects on the test. The presenters will be Charity Smith-Allen and team from Fetterman and Associates. Organizers encourage seventh through 12th-graders to join the workshop. Whether they are taking the test June 14 or later, they are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity, according to a news release. The free ACT Boot Camp is made possible through a grant from the Pine Bluff Area Community Foundation. On the Zoom link, use Meeting ID: 856 8296 4187 and Passcode: 351061. To attend or for more details, email Ivy President Mattie Collins at kencol1@msn.com or mattie1908@gmail.com.
Westerman offices open
Fourth District Congressman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) announced casework-specific office hours have been set for district office locations in June. Staff will be able to assist with issues for constituents addressing Veterans’ Affairs, Social Security, Medicare, IRS, USCIS, and passports, according to a news release. For casework specifically related to Veterans’ Affairs, the following dates and locations are available: In Pine Bluff, the office will be open at 211 W. Third Ave. Suite 245, Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Building, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 12.
Through Thursday, June 12
Barraque church conducts VBS
Barraque Street Missionary Baptist Church, 1800 W. Pullen St., will conduct Vacation Bible School from 6-8 p.m. June 10-12. The theme is God’s Laboratory. The theme scripture verse is: “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” (John 15:11, KJV.) Classes and group activities will be offered for all ages. The Rev. Sidney D. Milton Sr. is the pastor.
Friday, June 13
Arsenal plans Strongman contest
Pine Bluff Arsenal’s Family Morale, Welfare and Recreation will host a Father’s Day Strongman Competition June 13 at 1 p.m. There will be three age divisions, with the winner determined by overall combined total weight. Trophies will be presented to the winners, according to a news release. For information about this event and gaining access to the Arsenal, call (870) 540-3778 or 540-3779.
Through Friday, June 13
Fire department sets youth camp
The Pine Bluff Fire and Emergency Services Department will host a Junior Fire Camp from June 9-13 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center, 211 W. Third Ave. The free camp is designed for boys and girls ages 9-13 to experience what it’s like to be a firefighter as well as learn about fire safety. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. The camp will be held 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday which will be a fun day and awards presentations. Details: www.pineblufffire.com or (870) 730-2048.
Art Jr. Camp set
The ARTx3 Campus will host Art Jr. Camp, for ages 7-11, from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday, June 9-13. The camp combines basic lessons in drawing, painting, crafting and sculpting with an exploration of current art exhibitions. Students will create two-dimensional and three-dimensional projects, focusing not only on creating independently and working with different media, but also creating projects with fellow campers. Elly Bates instructs the camp. The cost is $110 for ARTx3 members and $140 for nonmembers; full scholarships are available for everyone who applies, regardless of income. Register at artx3.org/all-events/art-jr-camp.
Art Pro Camp set
The ARTx3 Campus will host Art Pro Camp from 1-4 p.m. weekdays, June 9-13. For ages 12-17, the camp combines advanced lessons in drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture with exploration of current art exhibitions. Students will create two-dimensional and three-dimensional projects, focusing not only on artistic methods and working with different media, but on the creative process itself. Shalisha Thomas instructs this camp. The cost is $110 for ARTx3 members and $140 for nonmembers; full scholarships are available for everyone who applies, regardless of income. Register at artx3.org/all-events/art-pro-camp or call (870) 536-3375.
Saturday, June 14
Raven’s Nest pantry opens
Raven’s Nest Food Pantry at Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 Hill St,, will be open June 14. The press release announced an incorrect date last week. The pantry will be open from 8-9:30 a.m. June 14 or until all the food has been given away. Food will be distributed on a first come, first-served basis. Participants must bring a picture identification, according to the release.
St. John to give away food
St. John AME Church, 1117 W. Pullen St., will give away food boxes to those in need June 14 from 9 a.m. until all food is handed out. State ID’s are required to receive one box per family. Food can be picked up in front of the church on Cherry Street. For safety reasons, recipients are asked to stay in their vehicles and open their trunks. To help support this effort, people may partner with the feeding ministry. You can mail your financial support to: St. John AME Church-Feeding Ministry, 1117 W. Pullen St., Pine Bluff, Ark., 71601, or electronically through Givelify St John AME Pine Bluff. Contact Pearl Matlock by email at pearl1948@sbcglobal.net to volunteer.
Mental health, suicide prevention event set
The community is invited to attend the third annual Mental Health Wellness Suicide Prevention Summit from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 14 at Southeast Arkansas College in the McGeorge Building, 1900 S. Hazel St. The summit is hosted by the D’Andre Seals Suicide Prevention Outreach Project (DSOP). This summit is free to attend. “Join the DSOP for an important summit focused on mental health wellness and suicide prevention, tailored for mental health professionals, emergency responders and first responders,” according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. Key experts in the fields of mental health wellness and suicide prevention will make presentations. Register for the summit at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mental-health-wellness-suicide-prevention-summit-tickets-1368820602269?aff=oddtdtcreator.
Line Dance class, health fair June 14
The community is invited to attend the Divine Dancers of the Delta (3-D) Beginner Line Dance Workshop and Health Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 14 at the Pine Bluff Convention Center. The cost of the workshop is $10. “Divine Dancers of the Delta promote health and wellness in the community. There will be healthcare professionals, nutritionists, fitness trainers, self-care professionals, and much more. This event promotes line dancing, health advancing, and self-care enhancing,” according to a news release. Register for the workshop at the door or here. Details: Beverly Blunt (founder of 3-D) at msbev1964@gmail.com.
Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Class set
Ages 3-6 are invited to Ms. Madkin’s Literacy Class: Come Read, Sing, Dance and Play with Me! from noon to 1 p.m. June 14, at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas,, 701 S. Main St. The program is free. “Melanie 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. Register by June 10 at artx3.org/all-events/literacy-june-2025 or call (870) 536-3375. For more information, contact Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call the arts center. The program is sponsored by McFarland Eye Care.
ARTx3 hosts DIY Upcycle Fashion
The ARTx3 Campus will host Second Saturday Family FunDay: DIY Upcycle Fashion from 1-3 p.m. June 14 at the Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas. The event is free and open to the public. “Visitors will transform old clothing and other materials into new, stylish items without using a sewing machine,” according to the release. “This approach involves using glue, duct tape, hot glue, or tying and knotting fabric to create unique and sustainable fashion pieces. Some T-shirts and old items will be available, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own.” For more information, contact Lindsey Collins, assistant director, at lcollins@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Beginning Saturday, June 14
Ceramic Creations xet June 14 and June 28
The ARTx3 Campus is hosting a two-part, hand-built ceramics workshop from noon to 3 p.m. June 14 and June 28 at the ARTSpace on Main. In Ceramic Creations, Debbie Phillips will teach essential techniques including coiling, slab-building and sculpting to create unique, functional and decorative pottery. The workshop is suited for beginning and experienced artists, ages 16 and older. The cost is $75 for ARTx3 members and $90 for nonmembers, and includes all supplies. Register by June 10 at artx3.org/all-events/ceramic-creations. For more information, contact Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call (870) 536-3375.
Beginnng Sunday, June 15
Juneteenth set in Monticello
The first Juneteenth Fest hosted by the NAACP Drew County Branch will be held at the Monticello town square from 2-5 p.m. June 15 and will kick off a week of celebrations. The community on June 15 will enjoy a fun, festive and historic event with food trucks, vendors, a kid zone, a DJ and a gospel hour, according to the NAACP branch. A Juneteenth commemorative ceremony at the town square is scheduled for noon June 19, the actual holiday. The guest speaker June 19 will be Barry Jefferson, the NAACP Arkansas state conference president and former president of the NAACP Jacksonville Branch. Details: dcnaacp6042.org/Juneteenth. Drew County Branch president is Clarissa Pace.
Beginning Monday, June 16
Generator sets free youth camp
The Generator, 435 South Main, will hold a free Inventioneer Summer Camp for youth June 16 through July 11 from 12:3-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. “Inventioneer Camp is a free, hands-on experience for youth ages 11-17, focused on engineering graphics using CAD and designing imaginative inventions in a fun, team-based environment,” according to the flier. Participants can learn engineering graphics, have a summer invention challenge, as well as build confidence, teamwork and problem-solving skills. Free lunch will be provided, according to the flier. The camp is free but spaces are limited. To register, visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf4Z8Sg9uNLELke_R3H893OdKYNo1XJnKT6vDeIjMv5K880-w/viewform. Details: (870) 663-0200.
Tuesday, June 17
3rd Ward residents to meet
The Third Ward Community Watch Meeting will be held at 6 p.m. June 17 at Destiny Worship Center, 4700 W 28th Ave. The president is Evelyn Bass, according to a news release.
Theater Pro Camp set
The ARTx3 Campus will present Theater Pro Camp, for ages 12-17, from 1-4 p.m. weekdays June 16-20 and June 23-27. The camp focuses on theater preparation, collaboration and exploration. By combining acting, voice, movement training and performance skills, students will develop the traits needed in theater performance. They are also empowered to advance their creativity in a fun and supportive environment, according to the release. The cost is $220 for members and $280 for nonmembers; full scholarships are available for everyone who applies, regardless of income. Register at artx3.org/all-events/theater-pro-camp or call (870) 536-3375.
Wednesday, June 18
The Commercial sets Church News Deadline
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, June 19
Women’s Connection sets luncheon
The Christian Women’s Connection invites the community to its monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 19 at the Pine Bluff Country Club. The speaker will be Maria Johnson of Bella Vista and her topic will be “Who Me? A Princess.” The special feature will also be Kim Bradley of Pine Bluff explaining how to make a USA prayer Flag Pillow from a 5×5 fabric square, according to a news release. “She gave her relationship with God low priority for several years until being invited to a women’s conference where things changed dramatically for her,” according to the release. “She presents a very clear presentation of the gospel.” The luncheon costs $20, which includes the meal, drink, dessert, tax, and gratuity. For reservations or cancellations, contact Jennifer Keahey at (870) 540-9302.
Friday, June 20
Arts center slates Bingo Night
The ARTx3 Campus will host Bingo Night from 6-8 p.m. June 20 at The ARTSpace on Main. This event is for ages 18 and older. The cost is $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers. Additional bingo cards will be available for purchase. Register by June 17 at artx3.org/all-events/bingo-night-june-2025 or call (870) 536-3375. For more information, contact Bethany Gere, theater and programs coordinator, at bgere@artx3.org or call the center.
Beginning Monday, June 23
Theater Jr. Camp set
The ARTx3 Campus will host Theater Jr. Camp 9 a.m. to noon weekdays June 23-27. The session is for ages 7-11 and teaches the basics of theater preparation, collaboration and exploration. Campers will work with props and costumes and perform a play. They will learn to work in teams, solve problems, build self-confidence, use different techniques to help stay focused and explore their creativity. The camp concludes with a public performance. Emily Burris instructs. The cost is $110 for members and $140 for nonmembers; full scholarships are available for everyone who applies, regardless of income. Register at artx3.org/all-events/theater-jr-camp or call (870) 536-3375. Details: artx3.org/all-events/live-5-june-2025.
Through Thursday, July 3
AR Kids Read plans free tutoring
AR Kids Read will host its 2025 Summer Reading Tutoring program, a free four-week initiative designed to support rising first through fifth graders in building strong reading skills through small group instruction rooted in the science of reading. Hosted at local libraries in Pine Bluff, this program will run in June and early July, offering twice-weekly tutoring sessions led by certified teachers and trained interns, according to a news release. Dates and locations: Pine Bluff Main Library June 9 – July 2; Mondays and Wednesdays; 4-5 p.m. or 5-6 p.m. and Watson Chapel Library: June 10 – July 3; Tuesdays and Thursdays; 4-5 p.m. or 5-6 p.m. Families can visit www.arkidsread.org/summer-program to sign up. For more information, email info@arkidsread.org.
Thursday, July 17
Rotary to host Hooten’s
The Rotary Club of West Pine Bluff’s program will be Hooten’s Arkansas Football at 11:30 a.m. July 17 at Pine Bluff Country Club. The luncheon will be presented by Barry Grooms of Hooten’s Arkansas Football, according to a news release. “We are extending this invitation to representatives from all football programs in southeast Arkansas, so you will not only have the opportunity to hear comments from Arkansas’ premier football authority, you can also visit with coaches and key players from football programs in Southeast Arkansas — all in the same room at the same time. And eat well,” according to the release. Details: Roy Ferrell at roywferrell@gmail.com.
Thursday, June 19
Sip and Soul Juneteenth event set
SIP & SOUL: A Juneteenth Celebration will be held at Indigo Blue Coffee House, 212 W. Barraque St., June 19 beginning with an art exhibit and auction from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The celebration is free and open the public to attend, however art and refreshments will be for sale. An open mic show will be held from 4-7 p.m. and is open to anyone from age 13 to 90. Interested participants must register by June 16. A prize of $25 will be awarded to an adult participant and a $25 prize will be awarded to a young person 13-18 years old. Presenters need to focus on the topic of Juneteenth, according to Stuff in The Bluff.com. Food and beverages will be for sale from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the Pine Bluff NAACP ACT-SO program for youth. To make a donation, you may mail checks or money orders to: Pine Bluff NAACP, P.O. Box 9064, Pine Bluff, AR 71611-9064. In the notation line, please write “ACT-SO Donation.” You may hand deliver your donations to Indigo Blue Coffeehouse or give through GoFundMe at https://www.gofundme.com/f/pine-bluff-actso-program or PayPal at https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=8Y2Y82EZ7NHJ8.
Friday, June 20
Zebra Golf Tournament returning
The Zebra Golf Tournament will return for its second year June 20 at the Pine Bluff Country Club.
The first tournament last year proved successful with more than 25 teams participating and $50,000 raised for Pine Bluff High School athletics, according to a news release from the Zebra Athletic Club, the organizer of the event. The ZAC was founded as a booster club to benefit the athletic department.
Team sign-ups and sponsorship support for the tournament are still being accepted. Fees are $400 per team or $100 per individual, with complimentary lunch starting at 11 a.m. and a shotgun start at 1 p.m.
Details: Jason Lovell at (770) 366-3194 or zebraathleticclub@gmail.com.
Juneteenth set downtown
The Juneteenth celebration will be held in downtown Pine Bluff from 5-11 p.m. June 20. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s Juneteenth in the Bluff Arts & Cultural Festival will be located in the Delta Rhythm and Bayous Cultural District. The downtown celebration will primarily be from Second Avenue to Third Avenue and State Street to Pine Street with the main stage at Second Avenue and Main Street, according to a spokesman from the Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission. Juneteenth is powered by UAPB, the A&P Commission and city of Pine Bluff, according to a flier.
Through Friday, June 20
Ag department accepts grant proposals
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the 2025 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) through June 20. Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), this program is designed to enhance the competitiveness of Arkansas’s specialty crop industry. Specialty crops are defined by USDA as fruits, vegetables, horticulture, floriculture, and tree nuts. Access the 2025 application, Request for Applications, and additional details on the Department’s website at https://agriculture.arkansas.gov/grants/
Beginning Friday, June 20
UAPB plans new student orientation
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff will kick off new student orientation (NSO) sessions Friday to welcome the fall 2025 class. The sessions include lunch and optional tours. All activities will take place in Henderson-Young Hall, according to a news release. The six NSO sessions will be held June 20, July 11, July 25, Aug. 8, and Aug. 20, (during Welcome Week.) Each NSO date will include a Meet the Campus Team and Meet Your Academic Advisor session, covering what to expect, new student basics, and class schedules, as well as a Q&A session with campus administrators. Basic Academic Services will advise students with fewer than 30 college credit hours. Students with 30 or more credit hours will be advised by their academic department/major advisor. NSO is mandatory for all new and transfer students. Students must be fully admitted to register for the orientation. To register, visit UAPB.edu or call the admission office, (870) 575-8492. For details, email rigginsc@uapb.edu or call (870) 575-8732.
Saturday, June 21
UAPB 5K set June 21
UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association announces a 5K Run and Walk will be held at 8 a.m. June 21 beginning at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff ROTC Building, 1802 W. Reeker Ave. The community is invited to participate in the event benefiting the UAPB Athletics, according to the flier. Entry is $25 per person. The event is presented by Gold Standard Collective. For details and to register, email goldstandardcollective1873@gmail.com or call (678) 612-1042.
Thursday, June 26
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. June 26. To reserve a time slot, veterans should call (501) 370-3829 before 4 p.m. June 25, 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 answer questions about existing VA benefits claims and assist with filing new claims. Details: http://benefits.va.gov/benefits/ or call 800-827-1000.
Boys & Girls Club sets Heroes Banquet
Table sponsorships for the fifth annual Heroes Banquet are now being sold. The event benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson County is scheduled for 6 p.m. June 26 at First Methodist Church, 200 W. Sixth Ave. The banquet honors those who have positively impacted the community. A $600 table sponsorship will provide a reserved table for eight guests, recognition in the event program and slideshow and social media acknowledgement on the BGCJC’s platforms. An online payment may be made by requesting an invoice for submission. Checks to be mailed may be made payable to the Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson County and sent to P.O. Box 6027, Pine Bluff, AR 71611. In-person payment is available at the office at 200 W. Sixth Ave. Confirmation of sponsorship by May 15 is requested. For information on sponsorship, contact BGCJC at info@boysgirlsclubjc.org.
Monday, June 30
OES offers scholarships
The Royal Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, PHA, is awarding five $700 scholarships for the 2025 school year. The scholarships are one-time awards and are nonrenewable, according to a news release. Two scholarships will be awarded to high school or GED graduates, and three scholarships will be awarded to students currently enrolled in a vocational program or two-year or four-year institution of higher learning. The application deadline is June 30. For an application, text your email address to (870) 413-9481 and a coordinator will forward you the application, according to the news release.
Beginning Monday, July 7
UAM Kids’ University set
UAM Kids’ University will be held at the University of Arkansas at Monticello from July 7-10 for youth in grades 1-6 and registration is open. The morning session for students entering grades 1-3 and will be held from 9 a.m. to noon. The afternoon session for students entering grades 4-6 and will be held from 1-5 p.m. An early drop-off option is available for both sessions. The day camp aims to cultivate new interests, expand knowledge and spark imagination and creativity in children in a non-graded environment, according to a news release. Early registration is open now and runs through May 31. If you sign up and pay by May 31, the registration fee is $80. Registration from June 1-26 is $100. After June 26, the registration fee is $125. Checks made payable to “UAM Kids’ University” can be mailed to Attn: Rebecca Newton, P.O. Box 3608, Monticello, AR 71656. Payments may also be made over the phone by contacting the UAM Cashier’s Office at (870) 460-1043.
Friday, July 11
Branson trip set to see ‘David’
Women of Faith will charter a bus to Branson, Mo., July 11 to see the live performance of “David” on the Sight & Sound Theatre stage. Men, women, couples and children (accompanied by an adult) are encouraged to attend. This is a turnaround trip with transportation and reserved seating included in the cost of the ticket, according to a news release. For details or ticket information contact Jessie Clemmons at (870) 692-2194.
Beginning Saturday, July 12
Blues by Budweiser concerts set
The 2025 Blues by Budweiser concert series will be held at RJ’s Grill & Bar, 128 S. Main St. The doors open at 7 p.m. and concerts begin at 8 p.m. Port City Blues Society members are admitted free. There is a $5 cover charge for non-members, according to a news release. The line-up includes: July 12 — Tina Cossey Band; Aug. 2 — Kent Burnside Band; Sept. 6 — Big Al & The Heavy Weights; Oct. 4 — Garry Burnside Band; Nov. 1 — Charlotte Taylor & Gypsy Rain.
Saturday, July 26
1st Ward pantry sets gala
First Ward Living Grace Food Pantry will present its third annual Black Tie Fundraiser at 7 p.m. July 26 at Sahara Temple, 820 S. Main St. Proceeds from the fundraiser go toward the pantry’s mission of feeding those in need. This year the honoree is Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. Each year, First Ward Living Grace hosts the gala in honor of a community member who has been instrumental in supporting the pantry, according to director Debra Allen. Tickets are $75 each. Tables are $675 and sits eight people. Sponsors’ names will be on the tables as well as the program. For tickets or details, contact Mae Washington at (870) 489-2376 or Dr. Arlene Woody, (870) 329-3473.
Through Thursday, July 31
Registry seeks state women artists
The Arkansas Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts (ACNMWA) is accepting applications for its biennial Juried Artist Registry of Arkansas women artists. The application is available on the ACNMWA website at www.acnmwa.org/programs/juried-artist-registry. The deadline to apply is July 31 and there is a $20 entry fee. The application is open to all artists who are residents of Arkansas at the time of application. The registry will be featured on the ACNWMA website from October 2025 to October 2027, according to a news release.