Fells to appear on national program
William Fells III, newly elected 3rd Ward council member, will be featured in the virtual program Justice Sunday Service Around the Clock. Fells will be among guests on the program that will be streamed nationally from noon Jan. 19 until 12:05 a.m. Jan. 20, the federal MLK Day of Service.
On Nov. 5, Fells was elected to the Pine Bluff City Council, becoming the youngest member to serve on the council, regardless of race, in the city’s history, according to the Rev. Jesse Turner, executive director of Pine Bluff Interest Citizens for Voter Registration.
Justice Sunday highlights Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s role as a pastor and coincides with National Mentoring Month. The program is conducted by the 400 Years of African American History Commission, according to a news release.
Fells began his involvement with the PBICVR PEN OR PENCIL Mentoring Movement in the seventh grade. He remained active in the program until his high school graduation, serving as the national spokesman for the PBICVR PEN OR PENCIL King Team Program. A graduate of Ridgway Christian School, he went on to attend American University in Washington, D.C., according to the release. Details: https://www.400yaahc.gov/justice-sunday.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Annual Christmas Potluck set
The 16th annual Pine Bluff Community Christmas Potluck will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Christmas Day, Dec. 25, at Opportunity House, 1305 E. Sixth Ave. The community is invited to participate. Donations may be dropped off starting at 8:30 a.m.
“Dr. Ryan Watley and the organizing team invite you to join in a meaningful celebration this Christmas Day by supporting the 16th annual Pine Bluff Community Christmas Potluck,” according to a news release.
Help is needed to make this event a success. Volunteers are especially encouraged to provide vegetable dishes, such as corn, peas, string beans, greens, potatoes, yams, and dressing. Donations of desserts, drinks, water, and toys for children will be accepted as well as monetary donations.
“For 15 years, Pine Bluffians have demonstrated their ability to come together and make a difference in the lives of many,” Watley said in a news release. “While this mission started as an outreach for those less fortunate, it has evolved into an opportunity to fellowship as a community on Christmas Day.”
Through the years, the event was held at Pine Bluff High School.
“Our location change is due to the Pine Bluff High campus demolition. I am forever grateful to Mr. Booker Franklin, the facility management staff, and Pine Bluff School District leadership for a decade and a half of hospitality. I am also thankful to Dr. Mary Liddell for her steadfast support and assistance to organize the potluck. It’s been a blessing to be a blessing. We are looking forward to year 16,” he said.
“Let’s come together as a community to spread love, fellowship, and holiday cheer,” a spokesman said.
To get involved or for details, call or text (870) 643-2383 or email pbjc.uapb.amnalumni@gmail.com.
Summit to present holiday concert
The Summit Soundz Celebration Band will present its Christmas Spectacular Concert at 6 p.m. Dec. 21 in the worship center of Summit Baptist Church, 901 Ridgway Road.
The band is a volunteer group of students and adults who enjoy playing a wind band instrument. The concert is free and open to the public, according to a news release.
“All of your favorite Christmas songs will be included in the concert program,” said Lewis Hinkle, director of Summit Soundz.
The program will feature music from the movie “Polar Express” as well as the “Merry Christmas Polka” made popular by the late Jim Reeves, plus tunes such as “Feliz Navidad.”
“I want you to bring your family and friends for this Christmas treat,” said Scott Jones, Summit’s pastor. “There is music for every person no matter your age.”
Housing Authority to meet
The Housing Authority of the city of Pine Bluff will hold its board of commissioners meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Colonial Steakhouse, 111 W. Eighth Ave., according to a news release. Details: (870) 541-0706.
McGehee School Board to meet
The McGehee School Board will meet at 5 p.m. Monday at the high school library. The agenda includes honors and awards, invoices and financial statement, student academic data or performance, administrators’ reports, and executive session, according to a news release.
Urban renewal board to meet
The Pine Bluff Urban Renewal Agency Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at the URA Board Room, 417 W. Sixth Ave. Details: (870) 209-0323.