Good morning, Jonesboro.

The Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library has cut its hours due to an aging HVAC system failure amid extreme indoor heat, so it now opens from 8:30 A.M. to 1 P.M. on weekdays and stays closed on weekends—repairs are estimated to take 4-6 weeks and officials are already working on a long-term replacement.

Jonesboro residents face heavier traffic as multiple road construction projects are underway to improve travel—projects include widening Highway 351, building the Eastern Bypass linking Interstate 555 to U.S. Highway 49, and constructing an overpass on Airport Road that will eventually ease congestion.

A Jonesboro man was charged with terroristic threatening, public intoxication, and criminal trespassing after he threatened to bash in an EMS worker's head during a medical call on Fairview Drive on July 6—he ran from police, was later caught in a backyard, and faces a court hearing on Aug. 21.

Former Craighead County clerk Jacob Kade Holliday is serving prison time for embezzling $1,579,057.03 in county funds and still owes $1,465,456.73 plus a $100 fee after paying $113,600.30—his retirement account holding $15,199.47 was garnished following a writ served on May 8 that processed the check on May 20.

Arkansas State University System President Dr. Brendan Kelly announced several staff changes for the system office that took effect July 1.

The changes include part-time roles for Julie Bates and Pam Kail—promotions for Brad Phelps, Landen Crancer and Dr. Lori Pope—and new hires Megan Gross and Esther Canales to support a system serving nearly 35,000 students.

Jonesboro’s Finance and Administration Council Committee moved three grant resolutions to the full council on Tuesday for community projects.

One resolution asks for state funds to build an administrative building at the Shooting Sports Complex, another asks for money to create a trail network and fishing pond near Journey Church and Cornerstone United Methodist Church, and the third seeks federal transit grant funds.

Homeowners, renters and businesses in Craighead and other affected counties can apply for federal disaster assistance for losses from the April storms, tornadoes and flooding, with applications due by Tuesday, July 22.

Craighead County residents may apply in person at Lake City City Hall from July 14 to 16 — they must file insurance claims first since FEMA cannot pay for losses already covered.

St. Bernards Medical Center earned certification as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center— the Gold Seal of Approval reflects its top stroke care— after a rigorous, unannounced onsite review on May 17.

The hospital’s coordinated response for stroke emergencies and fast imaging underscores its commitment to high-quality care.

Summer Social 2025: Candy Land Craze

4-6 p.m. — New Moon Venue — Free entry — Enjoy a Candy Land themed social for families and the community in Jonesboro.