Good morning, Jonesboro.

Fourteen local nonprofits were awarded $48,500 by the Craighead County Community Foundation to support projects on early literacy and address food insecurity—grants were given through the 2025 Giving Tree cycle.

Valley Ridge Baptist Church in Jonesboro will host a one-day VBS on October 4 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 1707 Christian Valley Drive, where children and families will enjoy food, crafts, games — and a Bible lesson to teach faith.

St. Timothy’s Anglican Church will host its annual Blessing of the Pets on Saturday, October 4 at 10:30 a.m. Families are invited to bring their pets for a special blessing—free to all—at 419 West Highland Drive.

Fourteen local nonprofits in Craighead County received a total of $48,500 Tuesday morning from the Craighead County Community Foundation through its annual Giving Tree Grant to support projects addressing food insecurity and literacy.

The foundation has planned a year-long celebration for its 25th anniversary—marking strong community progress—and will announce a major award next year.

Jonesboro's First National Bank Arena announced Tuesday that it will be fully cashless starting Oct.

1 — patrons must use debit, credit, or mobile payment for all tickets, concessions, merchandise, and parking. Arena officials said the change will improve efficiency and reduce wait times for guests.

Arkansas State University will host its first Lab Safety Awareness Week from Sept.

29 to Oct. 3 on campus as students, faculty, and staff join live demonstrations on CPR, eyewash, and proper use of personal protective equipment — the week will also offer guest speakers and hands-on workshops to help everyone learn safe lab practices.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders cut proposed health insurance rate hikes after rejecting increases as high as 54 percent in August.

New rates from Centene and Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield for over 300000 Arkansans will take effect January 1.

Tobymac & Mercyme Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — First National Bank Arena — Ticket information available — Experience the dynamic sounds of TobyMac and MercyMe at a night of inspiring music.

A-State Red Wolves Volleyball vs Southern Miss

12:00 – 2:30 p.m. — Arkansas State University Gym — Tickets available — Watch the A-State Red Wolves take on Southern Miss in an exciting volleyball match.