Good morning, Jonesboro.

The Salvation Army of Jonesboro is seeking donations as red kettles (present at 12 local stores) remain until today to help families facing high living costs; volunteers stand ready at stores like Hobby Lobby and Walmart Neighborhood Market to collect support.

North Jonesboro Community Development Corporation hosted its first Christmas meal event to provide warm holiday meals for community members in need and people experiencing homelessness.

Volunteers said they hope it becomes an ongoing community tradition.

Jack in the Box will open its first Arkansas location at 1207 W.

Parker Rd. in Jonesboro in February 2026, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner + featuring a drive-through at the former Rodeo Mexican Grill site.

Hytrol Conveyor Co. was honored as a Best-in-Class Employer in Gallagher’s 2025 U.S. Benefits Strategy and Benchmarking Survey for its people-first approach—boosting employee well-being and sustainable growth in Jonesboro.

Jonesboro churches are hosting traditional candlelight services today with communion, music, and hot chocolate for families.

Central Baptist offers four services from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., while Fellowship Jonesboro holds a service at 5 p.m. and First United Methodist Church schedules three services at 3, 7, and 11 p.m.

A Craighead County jury awarded $120,000 to two former Valley View School District teachers in Jonesboro after they proved false criminal claims tied to a 2021 Save America Rally defamed them; the verdict ended a five-year legal battle and came on Friday.

Valley View Intermediate teacher Erin Eastman was named K8 News December Teacher of the Month for her structured classroom and engaging reading programs (she achieved a top 2% student growth rate statewide) ahead of Christmas break.

Nick Meurrier, a local business leader and A-State alumnus, has donated $30,000 to create an endowed scholarship for Arkansas residents pursuing veterinary education at A-State.

An agriculture official confirmed that highly pathogenic avian influenza affected a commercial broiler farm in Drew County and a backyard flock in White County, leading to depopulation and traceback investigations – wildfowl exposure may have contributed, and residents are advised to report dead birds.

The Cardinals Caravan will arrive at Embassy Suites at noon on Monday, Jan.

19 to connect fans with team legends, top prospects & current players while offering ticket giveaways and autograph sessions.

NFL players — including Demario Davis and Blake Grupe — excelled on Monday Night Football as Davis recorded 8 tackles in a Saints win and Grupe converted two field goals and three extra points.

Their strong performances bolstered local pride in NFL talent.

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.