Good morning, Jonesboro.

CASA is hosting its fundraiser luncheon, 'The Next Chapter: A CASA Storybook Luncheon,' on Wednesday, April 1 at 11:30 a.m. at Arvest Ballroom (Embassy Suites) to raise awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month with remarks from Mayor Harold Copenhaver and Judge Barbara Halsey.

United Way of Northeast Arkansas announced its 6th annual virtual singing competition, NEA Sings, presented by NEA Baptist, welcoming local bands and artists.

Registration continues until March 15 at 8 a.m., and the single elimination tournament with prize details (including a $1,000 grand prize) will be revealed afterward.

United Way of Northeast Arkansas opens registration for its virtual NEA Sings music competition fundraiser with a March 15 deadline at 8 a.m. Contestants earn votes with $1 donations and the grand prize includes $1,000 plus a Downtown Jonesboro BBQ Fest performance.

The downtown arts scene will celebrate local storytellers when the Porchlight Film Festival begins Friday, Apr.

10 and runs through Sunday, Apr. 12 at the historic Forum Theater + 115 East Monroe Ave. The event offers screenings, workshops, and panels that help local filmmakers grow their craft.

On Tuesday, Harrisburg Elementary hosted a farm-to-school program when the Arkansas Department of Agriculture taught students to grow, harvest, and cook rice by swapping pencils for aprons.

The program will continue to visit other Region 8 schools in the coming weeks.

Arkansas State University received a $125,000 commitment from Farm Credit Mid-America to expand Beyond the Classroom Experiences at its College of Agriculture in Jonesboro (funding supports farm tours, research projects and travel opportunities that link classroom skills with real-world practice).

Six students and two faculty from Teikyo Heisei University in Tokyo are visiting A-State this week to attend OT classes, tour local clinics, and meet university leaders in Jonesboro (Chancellor Todd Shields and Provost Calvin White Jr.) as the visit concludes with plans for a spring 2027 reciprocal trip.

Arvest Bank warns consumers and businesses about rising tax identity theft risks this filing season.

The bank advises filing early and securing records (using IRS guidelines) to help prevent scams that could delay refunds.

Sen. John Boozman and fellow lawmakers urged the Department of the Interior and Fish and Wildlife Service to maintain conservation easement investments after the duck hunting season ended, noting that duck populations (34 million breeding ducks) remain well below averages and could reduce hunting in the Mississippi Flyway.

Chi Omega Run for a Wish 5K

9 AM — Arkansas State University Pavilion — Registration fee applies — Participate in the 18th Annual Run for a Wish 5K to support local wishes.

Honk! Jr

2-3 p.m. — The Foundation of Arts- Forum Theater — Tickets available — Enjoy the delightful family musical based on the Ugly Duckling.

Honk! Jr

2-3 p.m. — The Foundation of Arts- Forum Theater — Tickets available — Experience the fun and whimsy of Honk! Jr, a delightful performance for all ages.