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, May 2
Center to honor future medical students
The Ivy Center for Education Inc. will present its annual Future Medical Professionals Club Scrub Class of 2024 White, Green and Black Coat Ceremony from 6-8 p.m. Thursday in the J&R Conference Room at Jefferson Regional Medical Center. The speaker will be Dr. Brandi Wright, a physician at Jefferson Regional Nephrology Associates and Jefferson Regional Medical Center.
Audubon Society board to meet
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The Three Rivers Audubon Society’s monthly board meeting will be held at 11:45 a.m. Thursday at the Delta Rivers Nature Center classroom. Participants should bring a sack lunch. Visitors are welcome to attend. “Also, come join us on our weekly Tuesday morning fun time,” according to a news release. “We meet at 9 a.m. at Lake Saracen’s parking lot near the start of the walking trail. We bird by car, occasionally getting out of cars to see birds. Walkie Talkies are used to communicate between cars. We are finished around noon.”
Produce washing workshop set
A Produce Washing Workshop for Beginners will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday at the Jefferson County Cooperative Extension Service, 500 Idaho St. The extension services’s Horticulture Department will host the workshop. The community is invited to attend. “This is an amazing opportunity for small-scale farmers, farmers marker prospective sellers, backyard gardeners, homesteaders, and anyone interested in improving their fruit and vegetable washing and handling practices,” according to a news release.
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. Chris Racey, the chief of staff at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, will replace AGFC Director Austin Booth as the speaker. 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. “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
UAPB sets grand reopening on student union
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff invites the community to the L.A. Davis Sr. Student Union Grand Reopening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 11 a.m. Friday at the facility, 1301 L.A. “Prexy” Davis Drive. There will be a brief program, ribbon cutting ceremony, tour of the facilities, and reception. The student union underwent a renovation project valued at approximately $3 million. The facility will serve as an extension to the planned $33 million Student Engagement Center. It will provide a more contemporary space for the bookstore, mailroom, print shop, and student gathering areas, according to a news release.
Classic tailgate packages available
The Southern Heritage Classic at the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis will feature the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Golden Lions against the Tennessee State University Tigers on Sept. 14. Premium packages for the Classic Tailgate will go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. at https://bit.ly/445YlhV. “Be ready to secure your space for this unforgettable event that highlights friends, food and football,” according to a news release. For additional tailgate/RV information, visit https://bit.ly/3UlAyr9. Details: www.southernheritageclassic.com.
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
BBQ, fish fundraiser to benefit ACT-SO
A barbecue fundraiser will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 3-4 at NTPFC (National Trusted Partners For Christ), 2101 E. Sixth Ave. Pine Bluff Arkansas Community Organizations and Pine Bluff Branch of the NAACP are sponsoring the fundraiser to benefit the 2024 ACT-SO (Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics.) ACT-SO is an enrichment program of the NAACP that recognizes the academic achievement of high school students. The fundraiser will consist of rib dinners, rib tip dinners, buffalo rib dinners or catfish fillet dinners for $15 each. The dinners will include potato salad, or coleslaw, and baked beans. Sodas will be sold separately for $1 and pound cake will be sold for $1.50 a slice.
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
Director to graduate, speak at Clinton School
Tomekia Moore, executive director at Arkansas Community Action Agencies Association, is slated to graduate and deliver the student address at the Clinton School of Public Service Spring Commencement Ceremony. The ceremony begins at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Ron Robinson Theater in Downtown Little Rock. A lifelong Pine Bluff resident, Moore is scheduled to receive a Master of Public Service degree from the Clinton School, according to a news release.
Liberty hosts event
Liberty Utilities, 1100 State St., will host a water education and conservation fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 4. It was postponed from Saturday because of rain in the forecast, according to a spokesman. 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.
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 StuffintheBluff.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
In honor of 2024 VFW Day of Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4455, 1518 E. Harding Ave., and VFW Auxiliary are hosting an event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 4. The observance will bring together veterans, community members, community leaders and veteran service-related vendors to share information and resources. Attendees will be able to access resources from local groups including Area on Aging of Southeast Arkansas, Retired Senior Volunteer Program, Pine Bluff Quilters Guild, Pine Bluff Arsenal Suicide Prevention, Petsense, Pine Bluff Animal Control and others. 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. 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
James Hayes Art Glass Co. sets show
The James Hayes Art Glass Co., 2900 Ridgway Road, will present its Spring Art Glass Show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 4-5, according to the newsletter from Pine Bluff Downtown Development. The company will also be offering the glass blowing experience both days. For details or to sign up, call (870) 540-9080. (Special to The Commercial)
Speakers to present Tragedy into Triumph
Grace Community Church of the Nazarene, 2400 W. 31st Ave., and the pastor, Robert Anderson, invite the community to Tragedy into Triumph, a simulcast, featuring speakers sharing how God changed a life from “Tragedy into Triumph,” May 4-6, according to a news release. Sessions will be held at 7 p.m. on these dates with these speakers: May 4 — Coach Jim Tressel, National Champion coach from Ohio State University, discussing Adversity; May 5 — Wendell Brown, founder of Tragedy into Triumph, discussing Instant Gratification/Addiction; and May 6 — Anne Beiler, founder of Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, discussing Loss and Abuse. “Come and hear these real stories of what God can do in your life,” a spokesman said.
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.
Sunday, May 5
Unified to award scholarships
Unified Christian Alliance will hold its 27th annual Baccalaureate Service at 4 p.m. Sunday at Breath of Life Church, 1313 S. Pine St. Scholarships will be awarded to area high school seniors who plan to attend the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, according to a news release. The speaker will be Madison Powell, president of the Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. at UAPB. The Memphis resident plans a career as a labor and delivery nurse in Nashville, Tenn., after graduation.
Wednesday, May 8
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, May 9
First Ward Living Grace hosts Mother’s Day giveaway
First Ward Living Grace Food Pantry will give away Mother’s Day bags and groceries at its location at 1201 Commerce Road from 3-5 p.m. May 9. The bags of personal care products are valued at $98 each. Groceries will include hams, chicken, flour and more, according to a news release.
Central Park neighbors to meet
The Central Park/Shady Grove Community Watch Group will meet at 6 p.m. May 9 at Family Church, 2309 S. Poplar St. “Let’s continue to keep one of the longest established Watch Groups in our city alive! Hope to see you then,” spokeswoman Joyce C. Brown said in a news release.
Friday, May 10
UAM to hold commencement May 10
The University of Arkansas at Monticello will hold its spring commencement exercises May 10 in the Steelman Field House at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., according to a news release. The 10 a.m. ceremony will include the College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources, the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, the School of Nursing, the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences and the Division of General Studies. The 2 p.m. ceremony will include the School of Arts and Humanities, the School of Business, the School of Computer Information Systems and the School of Education. Scheduled speakers include UAM Chancellor Peggy Doss, and Donald R. Bobbitt, president of the University of Arkansas System.
AME district honors leaders
Presiding Bishop Michael Leon Mitchell and Cordelia D. Mitchell, Episcopal supervisor will be honored by the 12th Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church at 7 p.m. May 10 in the Wally Allen Ballroom of the Statehouse Convention Center at Little Rock. The Quadrennial Celebration is held every four years to commemorate the end of a bishop’s four-year assignment in a district. The theme of the semi-formal affair is “Celebrating God’s Faithfulness: A Legacy of Leadership.”
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 announces 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. Robin Givens, an award-winning actress, director, author, and advocate for women’s rights, will be the spring 2024 commencement speaker. The ceremony will be livestreamed at YouTube.com/UAPBTelevision, according to a news release. Details: UAPB Registrar Aretha Lacefield at lacefielda@uapb.edu or visit UAPBcommencement.com.
Raven’s Nest to give away food
Raven’s Nest Food Pantry at Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 2507 Hill St., will open May 11 from 8-9:30 a.m. or until all the food has been given away. Food will be given away on a first come, first-served basis. Participants must bring a picture identification. The program is a U.S. Department of Agriculture distribution site and an equal opportunity provider, according to a news release.
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
Christian 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. May 16 at the Pine Bluff Country Club. The speaker will be Pat Smith of Lancaster, Texas, an educator and author of “Roots and Branches,” her memoirs. At the luncheon, Smith will discuss “Finding Pearls” and give an art presentation, according to a news release. The luncheon costs $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. Participants will be charged for reservations not kept.
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.
Begining Saturday, May 18
Area Agency sets fan drive
Area Agency on Aging of Southeast Arkansas will host its Beat the Heat Annual Fan Drive May 18 through June 29 in Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Cleveland, Desha, Drew, Grant, Lincoln and Jefferson County. People who want to donate a fan or an air conditioner, should call the agency in their area. All donations will remain in their designated county. For applicants to receive a fan, they must be disabled or 60 years old or older, according to a news release. To obtain a fan, call the agency. The applicant’s name will be placed on a waiting list amd the applicant will be notified by a case manager or the coordinator on the date and time the fan may be picked up. Distributing the fans will depend on the number of fans received. Applicants will be asked to present ID and an award letter from Social Security or Department of Human Services. If the agency should receive any air conditioners, an applicant must have a doctor’s statement with diagnosis indicated, their ID, and an award letter. Details: Carolyn Ferguson, (870) 543-6309 or Pauline Jones, (870) 543-6313.
Beginning Monday, May 20
McGehee slates school board meetings
McGehee School Board meetings will be held at 5 p.m. May 20 and July 15 at the high school library. Details: (870) 222-3670 or www.mcgeheeschools.org.
Tuesday, May 21
Johnny Cash topic at DAR
The Pine Bluff – John McAlmont Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will meet at 1:30 p.m. May 21 at the Lakeside United Methodist Church Center, 1500 S. Laurel St. The program will be “The Johnny Cash Statue in the Capitol’s Statutory Hall in Washington, D. C.” The presenter will be Rita and Wayne Cash of Pine Bluff, who are relatives of Johnny Cash. The hostesses of the meeting will be Sabrina Self and Claire Holmes, according to a news release.
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.