Good morning, Jonesboro.

The Arvest Foundation recently awarded a $4,000 grant to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of the 2nd Judicial District to help recruit and train new volunteers.

The funds will be used to support the work of advocates who help children in the court system.

In Jonesboro, shoppers turned out for Black Friday deals and kept long-standing traditions while starting new ones — several residents reported that they began shopping early and noticed larger crowds than in past years.

Local businesses in Jonesboro are preparing for Small Business Saturday as small shop owners expect nearly 20% of their yearly revenue from the holiday, and downtown organizers are hosting the Culinary Crawl today from 5 to 9 p.m.—a progressive dinner where patrons will sample menus from four local restaurants.

Graduate students from Arkansas State University’s Expressive Arts in Counseling course will host a free Community Mental Health Day at the A-State Museum from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday in December.

Local experts offer pet-friendly holiday decorating tips that include using shatterproof ornaments, pet-safe plants, and LED candles while avoiding tinsel and edible decor.

The guidelines advise homeowners to secure their trees and keep pets safe during the festive season.

Hayti's football team gave back for Thanksgiving by hosting a donation drive for local families and is now preparing for the state semifinals—coaches say the team is focused on playoff success.

Arkansas State men’s basketball overcame an early deficit—winning 85-80 in overtime against North Dakota State on Friday at First National Bank Arena.

Caldwell led the team with 19 points as they now prepare to face UT Arlington on Dec. 2 at 7:00 p.m.

Football Friday Night shows key wins as Hayti honored Thanksgiving and prepped for state semifinals while Cross County and EPC advanced to the 2A finals.

Salem won its game and will host a quarterfinal matchup—East Poinsett County is set to play in a 2A semifinal next week.

Arkansas State women's basketball beat Houston yesterday by forcing 38 turnovers — their strong defensive play led to the win.

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.

Live at the 501 Steakhouse

6:30 PM – 12:30 AM — 501 Steakhouse — Cost varies — Enjoy a night of new tunes and classic covers in a cozy Arkansas setting.