Good morning, Jonesboro.

NEA Baptist held its 12th annual Christmas Tree Lighting event today—drawing community members for caroling, hot chocolate and a reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas' by chief meteorologist Ryan Vaughn.

The hospital collected food donations and presented a $1,250 check to Helping Neighbors Food Pantry to support local families.

Motorcycle enthusiasts gathered Saturday at the Harley Davidson dealership in Jonesboro for the 41st annual Toy Run where over 100 bikes joined to donate an unwrapped toy or $10 for children at Christmas.

Riders ate grilled burgers and hot dogs—food provided by Freedom Biker Church—before ending the ride at Clopton Clinic and delivering the toys to Southwest Church for distribution.

Jonesboro earned statewide and national awards last year for its innovative job programs, inclusive parks plans, and advanced emergency tools that keep the community safe — honors include the 2024 Trendsetter City Award and recognition for technology and security.

Local leaders like Mayor Harold Copenhaver were also recognized for their efforts, underscoring the city's commitment to progress and quality of life.

Jonesboro is looking for participants and volunteers for its 78th annual Christmas Parade as organizers hope to reach 100 entries with registration closing November 28 at 5 p.m. The parade will run on December 5 from 7-9 p.m. along Main Street to Oak Ave with a sensory-friendly area—offering noise-cancelling headphones and ADA parking—set up for visitors.

Jonesboro’s manufacturing network is a key part of the local economy with nearly 100 facilities employing over 11,000 workers to produce goods from snack foods to steel systems — new developments at Craighead Technology Park South and the launch of the CREST Center at Arkansas State University are set to drive future growth.

Arkansas State University has boosted the local area with a $2.5 billion economic impact and $480 million in spending while offering over 150 study areas and Division I sports to a global student body.

New projects will soon open, including the state's first public College of Veterinary Medicine for 120 students in spring, a new research center for steel work, and a workforce center starting construction next spring—furthering local progress.

A-State clinched its seventh Sun Belt Volleyball Tournament Championship—defeating James Madison 3 to 1 at the Foley Sports Tourism Complex on Sunday.

The NCAA Tournament Selection Show will air on Sunday, Nov. 30th at 5:00 p.m. on ESPN.

Arkansas State women's basketball won 75-69 over Jackson State Sunday afternoon at the Lee E.

Williams Athletics and Assembly Center — Bella Weary led with 12 points while Zyion Shannon and Wynter Rogers also contributed key plays. The Red Wolves outrebounded their opponents and will travel to The Bahamas to face Houston on November 28 at 1:30 p.m.

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.