Good morning, Jonesboro.

Tuesday, residents at South Wind Heights hosted an appreciation lunch for local first responders, though many were busy on calls.

General Manager Scott Logemann said the event—meant to show sincere thanks—reminded the community of the responders’ constant commitment to public safety.

Little Caesars will celebrate its new restaurant grand opening at 3800 E Johnson Avenue on November 22 with a free pizza giveaway for the first 100 guests and live entertainment (including a prize wheel, face painting, and photo opportunities with the mascot).

The official ceremony at noon will feature a ribbon cutting led by local franchisee Chris Mathews as the restaurant adds 10 new jobs to the community.

Walk-On's Bistreaux will replace the former Ryan's Buffet at 2809 E.

Highland Drive after the building and parking lot are demolished. The 6,000-square-foot restaurant is set to open in summer 2026, with StoneBridge Construction + Gamble Land Company confirming the plans.

Regional professionals will share insights today from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Black River Room of Reng Student Union during the Six Types of Working Genius workshop.

The event—presented by the College of Engineering and Computer Science and the Delta Center for Economic Development—features interactive sessions that help 17 students identify their strengths and challenges as they prepare for the workforce.

Voters in the Nettleton School District approved a 4.8-mills increase Tuesday to fund improvements such as extra classroom space and a new basketball arena—marking the first millage increase in 13 years as the district faces rising enrollment.

The measure passed narrowly with about 52% support.

The College of Veterinary Medicine at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro hired Dr. Trey Neyland as an assistant professor of livestock practice ahead of its fall opening.

He will lead the livestock clinical skills program and help deliver care through the ambulatory service—supporting local agricultural operations.

Rex Nelson released his Week 13 college football picks, forecasting that the Arkansas Razorbacks will lose a close game to Texas and that Arkansas State will win at home in Jonesboro Thursday at 6:30 p.m.—he also predicted outcomes for Harding, Abilene Christian, and Alabama A&M while noting a strong record from last week with five wins out of six games that brought his season total to 70 wins and 21 losses.

Arkansas State men's basketball coach Ryan Pannone announced he signed five players—Anthony Hester, Aliou Maiga, Aaron McGee, Delang Muon, and Rho Omed—for the 2026-27 roster.

The coach said the new players bring strong offense and defense and will boost the team in Jonesboro next season.

Santa Shuffle

6:30 PM — Joe Mack Campbell Park — Free entry — Enjoy a festive stroll through Jonesboro in holiday spirit.

23rd Annual Duck Classic

7 p.m. — First National Bank Arena — Ticketed event — Celebrate with a charity banquet followed by a fun-filled duck hunting experience for a great cause.