Good morning, Jonesboro.

Local businesses and restaurants experienced a busy weekend during Arkansas State’s first home football game as they doubled their staff and supplies, filled every table, and used extra parking across the street—ensuring fans had a place to eat and celebrate.

Forty graduates from Lexicon University completed their industrial maintenance and welding program in August, fulfilling a hands-on workforce initiative that creates meaningful work opportunities for local families—Arkansas' chief workforce officer Mike Rogers praised the training as vital for economic growth. He noted that investing in skills transforms individual lives and supports a stronger local economy.

A study shows that 60 percent of teachers in our state used AI tools during the 2024‑2025 school year—Forward Arkansas advises schools to test different platforms in real conditions while keeping teacher-student bonds strong.

Educators are urged to use AI as a helper, not a replacement, for personal teaching.

The LEARNS Act has led schools to boost safety measures as experts praise the long-term progress in making campuses secure.

A state safety assessment is underway — results are expected in late September.

Nominees for Yarnell’s Sweetest Play of the Week were chosen from NEA games on Aug 29 — Salem earned a nod for a TD pass from Jackson Taylor to Ferris Thweatt, Valley View for an 80-yard punt return by Avion Jones, and Newport for an 88-yard touchdown run by Trevion Greer.

Voting began Sunday at 8:00 a.m. and will end Tuesday at 8:00 a.m. — Yarnell’s will donate funds to the winning school's booster club.

Arkansas State quarterback Jaylen Raynor led the offense with 81.3% passes for 345 yards and 3 touchdowns in a 42-24 win over Southeast Missouri State last Saturday at Centennial Bank Stadium in Jonesboro.

Coach Butch Jones praised Raynor’s quick decisions—especially when receivers like Chauncy Cobb stepped up—and said the team will improve before traveling to Little Rock on Saturday and playing Iowa State on September 13.

Arkansas State will face Arkansas for the first time ever on September 6th at War Memorial Stadium, where both teams hold 1-0 records after season openers — the game will be streamed on ESPN and SEC Network.

Jon Pardi Concert at First National Bank Arena

7-8:30 p.m. — First National Bank Arena — Tickets from $45 — Get ready for an energetic night with country star Jon Pardi in Jonesboro.