Author Archives: deltadnews

Partnership Engages Jr. High Students

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by Mia Young
Delta Digital News Service

Nettleton BRIDGE program students presenting and watching their final video projects about Nelson Mandela and Zodwa Dlamini. Photo by Mia Young.

JONESBORO, Ark.- The Nettleton BRIDGE program introduces middle school students at Nettleton Junior High to the learning environment of a college student by teaching them about multimedia journalism in the School of Media & Journalism.

The Nettleton BRIDGE program began as a way to help Nettleton Junior High students experience what it is like on a university campus, so they can imagine themselves as a student at Arkansas State University or any other university. Many first-generation college students struggle to imagine college life.

Chris Moss, principal of Nettleton Junior High, contacted Gina Houge, associate dean for the College of Liberal Arts and Communication, because he wanted to target his eighth-grade students young enough to benefit from an experience that could encourage them to become college students. Last year, the program began by bringing in a small group of Nettleton students who were interested in multimedia journalism, especially the media aspect.

“I mean, that’s what students know, right? They have their phones, and they’re engaged in media constantly,” Hogue said. “But to get an experience within an academic field was what Mr. Moss wanted them to experience.”

Hogue and Moss also wanted to add a historical component to the program, as they are both passionate about history. But last year’s pilot program focused on building the students’ multimedia journalism skills, and they were unable to build out any historical component. Jonathan Reaves, instructor in the school of media and journalism, played a critical role in working with the students and developing their multimedia journalism skills.

“The first year of the program (last year) was a challenge in that we were developing a program from scratch,” Reaves said. “In the first year, we had to decide which media we wanted to use.  We primarily focused on video packages, and I have been working on audio podcasts separately.  I expect we will incorporate more audio podcasting next year.”

The program changed significantly from the first year to the second. Last year, the group of students interested in media activities merged with the group who were interested in STEM activities. This meant some Mondays, the group would work on multimedia projects and other Mondays, they would work on STEM projects.

This year, the two groups remained separate, and they focused on adding a historical component along with learning the elements of writing, audio and video.

“So we wanted to continue with street talks, and we wanted to expand and add the audio component in so they could do more audio editing. Then Alina and Jonathan wanted them this semester to do an actual video report that encompassed all of these elements of interview, audio and also video,” Hogue said. “To build in the historical component, we wanted students to be able to meet people from many places around the world and learn about the culture in other places and to interview people, so that they’re doing their research, ’cause when you research like a journalist, you’re researching like a historian.”

Throughout the last year, students completed several multimedia projects based on what they learned about different historical topics in the Nettleton BRIDGE program class.

One of the first things Alina Sakayeva taught the students about was her hometown of Kazan, Russia. Sakayeva talked about her family traditions, the food they eat and the relationship between her and her family. She showed them some of the historic buildings and contemporary athletic facilities where they host global soccer matches, and taught the students about the ancient culture and the traditions there.

“The students sat on the edge of their seats, listening and looking at the images, and watching the videos of the cultural dancers in Kazan, conveying the history of that region of the world to these young people, these eighth graders, from Nettleton Jr. High School,” Hogue said.

At the end of the nine weeks, the students created their video story about Kazan and something from Sakayeva’s culture they were interested in, and then presented it to the class.

“The Kazan video (was my favorite), it gave us a lot of freedom to do whatever with the video, and it was super fun to learn about,” Brylin Smallman, eighth grader in the Nettleton BRIDGE program, said.

During the second nine weeks, the students learned about the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. They also individually created videos on the topic using interviews with Alice Phelps, a former educator on the reservation, and their own research.

During the third nine weeks, they read “The Story of Nelson Mandela” by Floyd Stokes and learned about him, and Zodwa Dlamini, who was in his administration in South Africa and who brought several school districts together there. The students also interviewed Dlamini over Zoom.

For their final projects in the fourth nine weeks, the students spent time in the K-labs learning about audio production and editing their videos about what they learned from their reading, their research and the interview with Dlamini.

Not only are the students learning audio, video, storytelling and a little bit about history but they are also learning life lessons they will carry with them throughout their lives.

“(I learned) to be open-minded. I wasn’t very open-minded at the beginning, and now I’m just like ‘OK, this is what’s going to happen, and that’s OK,’” Fielder Franks, an eighth grader in the Nettleton BRIDGE program, said. “Sometimes life happens, and it doesn’t go your way, and sometimes that’s just how it works, and so, you’ve just gotta be OK with that and move on.”

Every Monday, the group of 12 students would meet in the TV studio in the A-State College of Media and Journalism for two hours. This means these students would be missing three class periods and would be responsible for making up the classwork they missed. To be in the BRIDGE program, the students have to meet certain requirements, like having good grades (because they miss a lot of work) and not having any behavioral issues at school.

Karley Barnes incorporates multimedia elements into her EAST class, which each of the students attends. Barnes, an A-State alum, also travels with the students to and from the A-State campus and gives students a participation grade based on whether or not they came out and did their best.

“I think it benefits them because they get out of the classroom, they get to be challenged. It might be kind of taboo to say, but public school education is very watered down, and it’s not watered down out here,” Barnes said. 

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Next year, the program will see a new group of eighth graders with many of the same and many different projects. Each year the students move up in school, the program continues to support them, but they have less time to visit campus. Reaves and Hogue are still excited for what next year will bring, even though the current eighth graders may not be on campus as much next year as they are now.

“I would tell these students to stay curious, keep working on their editing skills and be proud of what they have done,” Reaves said.

The Nettleton BRIDGE program does not just give students a chance to learn and improve their media skills, but “to help them, to inspire their learning, and to find their pathway in life. That’s the goal,” Hogue said.

City Trolleys Offer Free Transportation to A-State Students

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Story by DDNS Reporter Kinley Rainwater

A blue trolley-style bus parked at the Jonesboro City Hall building. These buses offer transportation services using the GoJo Transportation System. Photo courtesy of the City of Jonesboro website.

JONESBORO, Ark. — The City of Jonesboro’s new GoJo Transportation System provides a convenient service to Arkansas State University students, offering free, campus-wide transportation. However, limited outreach to students has kept many from using the service.

The new GoJo system, previously JET, provides service to A-State and the surrounding Jonesboro area. It features six routes, ranging from on-campus hotspots to countless places in the city. The new Let’s GOJO! The app and website provide a map of all stops and routes to help users locate the nearest available transportation, as well as live tracking of all buses and trolleys.

The service is free to students with a valid student ID, providing an accessible alternative to driving or walking.

One of the most notable features of the system is the new Trolley-style buses. These vehicles provide classic aesthetics with modern functionality, which gives students a comfortable ride that is also more visually appealing than traditional transportation options.

A red trolley-style bus parked in front of the Arkansas State University Welcome Center. Photo courtesy of the City of Jonesboro website.

City officials and transportation coordinators said GoJo is meant to connect residents, visitors and students to the city of Jonesboro through expanded connections throughout the city, including A-State.

Despite the advantages to students, GoJo is relatively unknown amongst them. International student Boaz Muteba said she followed the news surrounding the new system.

“In the fall of 2024, when public transportation options were expected to increase, I was one of the individuals who participated in the meeting to get more buses,” Muteba said. “Recently, when the idea took shape, I spotted the bus on campus and even saw it featured on Instagram. Unfortunately, I never got the chance to utilize it.”

The system’s impact goes beyond convenience. By encouraging students to use public transit, Gojo supports sustainable efforts and accessibility for those without personal vehicles and eases parking demand that comes with a growing campus.

As Jonesboro and student enrollment at A-State continue to grow, GoJo presents an opportunity to strengthen connections between the city and it’s academia scene. However, its success will depend on public awareness of this new system.

Students Provide Help, Seek Outlets

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by Benjamin McDowell
Delta Digital News Service

Pedestrians walk through downtown Jonesboro beneath a “Welcome to Downtown Jonesboro” banner, highlighting the connection between Arkansas State University and the local community. Photo courtesy of Arkansas State University.

JONESBORO, Ark. — As Arkansas State University continues to grow alongside the city of Jonesboro, students and community leaders say the relationship between campus and community is evolving, but not without challenges.

From economic inequality to shifting social values, both groups are working to better understand their roles in a shared space. While students often focus on academics, identity and campus life, many Jonesboro residents are more concerned with jobs, healthcare and the rising cost of living, highlighting a need for stronger collaboration.

Local organizations say collaboration is critical as community needs continue to grow.

At the Jonesboro Human Development Center, officials say demand for services has increased in recent years, creating new challenges for staffing and care.

“We are struggling to hire people to provide hands-on care for adults with disabilities,” said Diane Keith, a nursing home administrator at the facility. “We need employees with a CNA license.”

Keith said the center also maintains a waiting list for services, reflecting a broader need for support across Northeast Arkansas. She said A-State students help fill some of those gaps through internships in nursing, dietetics and speech therapy.

“We receive several A-State students for internships,” Keith said.

She said the organization remains active in the community through events like Oasis Fest, blood drives and the United Way’s Day of Caring.

Volunteers request roadside donations for the 2022 United Way Day of Caring. More than 500 volunteers attended the event in 2022. Photo courtesy of UWNEA Jonesboro YouTube Channel.

Community leaders say those partnerships are key, but there is still room to grow.

Heather Coats, executive director of United Way, said A-State has already made strong efforts to connect students with the community.

“I think what’s important, and A-State already does a great job of this, is letting students, especially young adults, know what resources are available,” Coats said.

However, she believes the responsibility does not fall solely on the university.

“I think the community could do a better job of being present on campus when it’s not just for sporting events,” Coats said. “We need to have more of a presence that isn’t just about our own entertainment.”

Coats said increased engagement from Jonesboro residents could help integrate students into the community and encourage long-term involvement.

Erin Calhoon, development director for United Way, said improving awareness is essential to strengthening that connection.

“I would say finding ways for people on A-State’s campus to be more aware of what’s available in the community,” Calhoon said.

Student leaders agree that awareness remains one of the biggest barriers.

Jaycee Davis, president of Volunteer A-State, said her organization has made it a priority to connect students with local opportunities.

“Our mission last year was to connect campus to the community,” Davis said. “We had organizations from Jonesboro come to campus, and we introduced ourselves and shared how we could help each other.’

Volunteer A-State works with organizations such as United Way, the Northeast Arkansas Food Bank and the Craighead County Public Library, helping students find ways to give back through service and outreach.

“Our goal this year is to have students make a bigger impact in the Jonesboro community by making them more aware of volunteer opportunities,” Davis said. “So many students don’t know what’s available in Jonesboro.”

Davis said students can get involved through activities like packing food boxes, participating in community events and supporting organizations like Hope Found, which raises awareness about human trafficking.

“Right now, the community gives a lot to the campus, which is great,” Davis said. “But I think our mission moving forward is to give that same energy back.”

Lavonda Evans, an instructor of sociology and criminology at Arkansas State, said differences in age and life experience often shape priorities.

“Students are in that space between being supported by their families and stepping into the real world,” Evans said.

Evans said campus conversations often focus on identity and diversity, while broader community concerns center on economic stability and infrastructure. She said there is a growing shift toward individualism.

“Everything is more individualized and specialized, which creates less collective support,” Evans said. “People tend to focus on their immediate circles rather than the community as a whole.”

Despite those differences, Evans said collaboration is both possible and necessary.

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“Jonesboro is already making efforts to connect the campus with the city,” Evans said.

She said projects like walking trails and plans to better link the university to downtown are some examples of this effort.

Evans said expanding paid internships or job-shadowing opportunities could help students gain early experience while strengthening ties to the community.

“Overall, both city and university leaders are making strong efforts to connect students and the community, but there is always room for improvement,” Evans said.

As both sides continue to grow, leaders agree that bridging the gap will require greater awareness, stronger partnerships and a shared commitment to engagement on campus and in the community they will eventually call their own.

Local Hospital Navigates Rising Costs, Growing Demand

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Stethoscope with dark blue tubing and metallic chest piece on a white background

Story by DDNS Reporter Benjamin McDowell

St. Bernard’s health care physician Dr. Christina Carl (right) performs a heart and lung auscultation for a patient during a routine wellness exam in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Photo courtesy of St. Bernard’s.

JONESBORO, Ark. — As St. Bernard’s Health Care approaches its 126th anniversary on July 5, leaders say the oganization is balancing a legacy of community care with the growing challenges of modern health care.

St. Bernard’s has been in medicine for 125 years, evolving alongside the social service industry rather than the city, economy, or technology. Kevin Hodges, senior vice president, said rising costs and increasing insurance requirements continue to strain providers in the post-COVID era.

“Every time they add requirements, it adds cost to us,” Hodges said. “Someone has to make sure those requirements are met just for us to get paid. Those are uncompensated burdens.”

Health care systems face high operational costs, including labor, transportation, utilities, and food insecurity. Hodges said balancing expenses while navigating reimbursement challenges has become increasingly difficult. Hodges also noted funding for social service programs has stagnated, often coming from federal and state sources, and emphasized the importance of volunteers from churches, students, and other community groups.

“To have high-level social services in communities, you have to have strong volunteer programs,” he said.

Michael Givens, administrator and chief operating officer, said the vision of the Sisters who founded St. Bernard’s 126 years ago continues to guide the hospital. Over his 25 years, Givens has seen growth in heart care, stroke care, robotic surgery, and technology, including artificial intelligence.

“We already use a system called Rapidan. It works with our CAT scanners to analyze brain scans and quickly identify strokes or aneurysms,” Givens said. “That kind of speed can save lives.”

Givens said St. Bernard’s aims to expand services further, recruit specialists, and become a top-10% hospital in the U.S.
Kevin Byron, assistant vice president for Behavioral Health Services, said the rise in mental health issues has driven growth in inpatient and outpatient care. The hospital has 108 beds serving patients with a wide range of needs, from severe psychosis to depression and suicidal thoughts.

Mental health remains central to St. Bernard’s mission, he said, inspired by the founding Sisters. Programs like the recuperative care program at the CSU allow patients to stay up to three months post-discharge, supporting those experiencing homelessness.

“I’ve been in health care for about 27 years, and Jonesboro has grown significantly. As the population grows, so does the need for infrastructure and services,” Byron said. He hopes to create a crisis response team that works with law enforcement and 911 and a psychiatric residency program to train new psychiatrists locally.

Mitchell Nail, media relations manager, said his role has shifted since the pandemic from health guidance to encouraging residents to address health issues early, including finding primary care providers and attending screenings.

Increased awareness of social services has led St. Bernard’s to provide prenatal and postpartum care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. Nail said patient stories remain the hospital’s most effective way to connect with the community.

“I want people to see St. Bernard’s as their trusted source for health information and care,” he said. “I want them to feel confident they can find expert guidance and treatment right here in their community.”

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Food insecurity rises in northeast Arkansas as costs climb

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Story by DDNS reporter Benjamin McDowell

Photo courtesy of the Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas

As grocery prices climb and paychecks fall short, more Northeast Arkansas families are waiting in food bank lines to make ends meet.

Food insecurity is rising in northeast Arkansas as inflation drives up the cost of groceries, gas and housing, putting increased pressure on local food banks.

The Food Bank of Northeast Arkansas secures donations from food and grocery industries, government agencies, individuals and other organizations to provide for people in need. The food is stored in the organization’s 59,600-square-foot distribution facility in Jonesboro.

Terry Austin, a development officer focused on fundraising and communications, said demand for food assistance has increased over the past year due to inflation, rising gas prices and cuts to federal support programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

“Demand has risen already just from the cuts that we’ve taken so far from the economy being in rough shape,” Austin said.

Austin said donors are also feeling financial strain, forcing them to be more cautious with their contributions as they balance their own household expenses. He said the food bank has seen an increase in senior citizens and families seeking assistance.

“Everybody right now is watching gas prices go through the roof,” Austin said. “Everything is more expensive at the grocery store.”

According to Feeding America, about 240,000 people in Arkansas benefit from SNAP, including 113,000 children and 36,000 senior citizens. A University of Arkansas study estimates that 28.8% of Arkansans face food insecurity.
“The price of one pound of ground beef is now higher than the federal hourly minimum wage,” Austin said, describing the current conditions as a “perfect storm” of rising costs and reduced assistance.

Austin said he is concerned about the food bank’s ability to meet growing demand as grocery prices continue to rise and federal assistance programs face potential cuts.

“I’m honestly worried about making sure that we’re able to meet the needs that may be coming our way,” Austin said.
Feeding America estimates that cuts to SNAP benefits could result in a loss of up to 41 million meals for Arkansas families.

Laura Dunivan, who works on the programs team managing fundraising and grant efforts, said rising costs are bringing more first-time clients to food pantries.

“What used to be occasional support for some families is now something they rely on more heavily,” Dunivan said. “We’re consistently serving more households each month.”

Dunivan said many families use food assistance to fill gaps during financial hardship, allowing them to afford other essentials such as gas, rent or medication.

“Would you sit in a car line for an hour for a box of food if you could just go to Walmart and get it in 10 minutes?” Dunivan said.

She said transportation remains a major barrier in rural communities, where access to food pantries can be limited. To address this, the food bank operates the Nourish Mobile, which delivers fresh produce at no cost to underserved areas.
“Some of the people can’t come to the pantries, we have to go out to them,” Dunivan said.

Natalie Neal, the USDA coordinator for the food bank, said federal food programs play a critical role in addressing hunger across the state.

“With the rising price of food, it is more expensive to purchase food, and our neighbors can’t afford everything they need,” Neal said. “It really starts to feel like there’s a greater gap.”

Neal said the food bank has seen a decrease in USDA food shipments, limiting the amount of food available for distribution.

“We are seeing less come into the food bank, so we have less to go out to the community,” Neal said.

She said the organization works with mayors, churches and community partners to expand access and reach new households.

“USDA foods provide a pivotal source of food,” Neal said. “It helps keep food in the pantry to help us all get through difficult times.”

Bonnie Mamula, office manager at the food bank, said rising food costs combined with stagnant incomes are key drivers of food insecurity.

She said senior citizens are especially vulnerable because many live on fixed incomes while expenses continue to rise.
“Some counties only have a few pantries, and they’re only open a couple of times a month,” Mamula said. “People in more remote areas have fewer choices.”

Mamula said the food bank is also seeing more working individuals and recently unemployed residents seeking assistance.

“Even people with jobs can’t make ends meet,” Mamula said.

Jennifer Hannah, chief program officer, said inflation has affected not only how many people the organization serves but also the quality of food it can provide.

“If we look at our data over the last few years, what we’re seeing is consistently serving more people,” Hannah said. “Demand is always there; it’s just how urgent it is.”

Hannah said many families fall into a gap where they earn too much to qualify for assistance programs but not enough to consistently support their households.

“It’s not so much changing the services we deliver, it’s changing how much we’re able to deliver,” Hannah said. “When prices go up, the quality of people’s food is going to decrease.”

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A-State Museum more than just a museum

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Story by DDNS Reporter Mia Young

Photo courtesy of Arkansas State University.

JONESBORO, Ark. – The Arkansas State University Museum is not only a place where people can see parts of history, but also an educational resource for teachers, professors and students.

Many students spend four or more years at A-State without visiting the museum, missing a valuable interactive educational experience that could help them better understand what they learn in history classes. The museum focuses not only on Arkansas history, but also on preserving and showcasing the history of northeast Arkansas and the Delta region.

The museum serves as an informal learning environment, according to Elisabeth Engel, director of the A-State Museum.

“You don’t have to be here. It’s not like class,” Engel said. “So, you know, we value the people that come through because they’ve made an effort to come see us. We hope that they walk away feeling like that effort to brave campus, find a parking spot, and all of those kinds of things, in our particular environment, was well worth it.”

Students, faculty, staff and Jonesboro residents can visit the museum on their own or book a tour with Jill Kary, curator of education at the museum. For teachers and professors, the experience can be especially valuable.

Lillie Fears, professor and interim director in the School of Media and Journalism, brings her classes to the museum every semester to help students understand historical events in ways a textbook cannot.

“My favorite part about taking students to the museum is seeing their reactions when they see something old that we’ve talked about in class, or that is mentioned in our book or in a documentary. These types of experiences can allow them to step out of present-mindedness and to realize how the tools and technology they use in modern times evolved at different eras in U.S. and world history,” Fears said.

Many groups, Engel said, visit the museum with a specific purpose. For some groups, Engel pulls artifacts from storage and creates a “mini exhibit” tailored to their interests.

Fears prefers tours focused on communication history and artifacts, so Engel often brings out old newspapers, cameras and photographs for her students.

“I really appreciate how the director, Elisabeth Engel, is always willing to bring out old artifacts that pertain to mass communications and provide us with special lectures on the history of these media tools. A textbook or video could never do what she and Jill Kary, education coordinator, do for my classes,”

For some students, a focused tour helps them better understand what they have been learning in class.

“It made a lot of the concepts feel more real. In class, we talk about the history of media, but actually seeing the artifacts and examples in person helped me connect everything more clearly, especially how media has evolved and impacted society,” Kaysen Lomax, a junior creative media production major from Jonesboro, said.

For other students, seeing everything the museum offers gives them a perspective they otherwise might not have considered.

“Yes, I did thoroughly enjoy the tour Dr. Fears took us on. Seeing how passionate Jill Kary was about the black business district was inspirational. I enjoyed looking at all the old pictures of old businesses and equipment/technology, and find it crazy to see how much those things have changed,” Alexander Riggs, a junior creative media major from Forrest City, Arkansas, said.

While the museum serves as a tool for professors on campus, teachers in surrounding school districts also can use it as a resource.

Photo courtesy of Arkansas State University.

Traveling suitcase exhibits are smaller exhibits teachers can check out for two weeks at a time. They offer hands-on materials, visual aids and lesson plans for each exhibit. Teachers can choose from five options, including Pioneer Living, Portals of the Soul: Native American Culture, World War II on the Arkansas Homefront and more.

“All of them are linked to the educational standards that are dictated by the state,” Kary said.

Visitors can also explore the tinkering studio to test whether they have the same innovation skills as people on the Arkansas frontier.

“If the kids have been paying attention, in every gallery they’re seeing innovation happen,” Kary said. “So they are told to invent things, make something, and if it doesn’t work, tweak it, fix it.”

Learning does not just happen in the classroom; it can happen in many places, including the museum. And learning is not just for students. Anyone who visits the museum is welcome, whether for a specific purpose or simply for fun.

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Jonesboro woman says father buried in wrong grave, raising oversight concerns

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Story by DDNS Reporter Benjamin McDowell

JONESBORO, Ark. — A Jonesboro woman told city leaders her father was buried in the wrong grave, raising concerns about oversight and recordkeeping at a municipal cemetery.

During public comment, LaToya Yarber told Council members her father was buried in the wrong grave at Oakland Cemetery and must now be exhumed and reburied.

“How do you expect me to trust you,” Yarber asked, “when my father lies in a grave that does not belong to him?”

Yarber said the mistake disrupted her family’s ability to grieve.

“For the last week of my life, where I was supposed to be grieving my father, has been disrupted,” she said. “It is unfair to my 81-year-old mama to have to be going through this .”

City officials said they have met with the family and aim to correct the burial mistake, including covering the full cost of exhumation, raising questions about how cemetery records are maintained.

“If you want to do something for the city of Jonesboro, get the records together so that we will know where our people are or where they’re supposed to be,” Yarber said.

Other public comments surrounded concerns about city operations. Patty Lapp said she worried about a lack of financial reporting from a volleyball tournament.

“We don’t really know where those numbers are,” Lapp said. “It needs to be crystal clear what is spent and what is taken in.”

Linda Wright said she is concerned about supervision at sports events, saying children should always be protected.

“I’m just wondering why we are spending money on these tickets,” Wright said. “I just wonder what kind of supervision is going on out there.”

Eugene Holloway, of Marshall Street, said housing conditions are deteriorating and urged the council to take action.

“People are living in terrible conditions,” Holloway said. “We’ve got to do something here.”

Despite concerns raised, the council continued its routine business. Members approved resolutions requesting City Water and Light provide free utility services at 423 W. Huntington Ave. and 6106 Southwest Drive. The resolutions allow utilities to be provided at no cost for projects serving a public or governmental purpose, a common practice for city infrastructure such as lighting and municipal facilities.

Several zoning ordinances advanced, including a request to rezone property at 1601 Granger Drive to allow it to be split for two single-family homes.

A new ordinance, 26013, would establish a Sports Advisory Committee, outlining its membership, purpose and duties. The measure received its first reading and will return for further consideration. Other ordinances concerned traffic signage and zoning changes.

During council reports, Anthony Colman, (Ward 6, Position 1), highlighted growth in Jonesboro but raised concerns about east-side infrastructure and speeding.

“There’s a lot of traffic, and there’s a lot of speeding going on,” Colman said. “I’d like for us to consider another study.”

Mayor Harold Copenhaver highlighted ongoing projects, including a six-month downtown traffic pilot program.

“We’ve had a lot of input – most of it is very positive,” Copenhaver said of the Main Street project, noting the evaluation of Washington Avenue will involve public surveys and comments.

Officials also continued work on Plan Jonesboro, a long-term development strategy focused on growth, infrastructure and quality-of-life improvements.

“Please visit PlanJonesboro.com to ensure your voice is heard,” Copenhaver said. He also noted recent meetings in Washington, D.C., with federal officials to discuss funding for public safety, infrastructure and economic development projects.

The council recognized City Clerk April Leggett for her 10 years of service, praising her support in maintaining city records. While the meeting covered routine business, Yarber’s comments highlighted a deeper issue of human impact and public trust. City officials said they will continue reviewing the cemetery issue as questions remain.

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Craighead County Salary Administration Policy and Job Classifications Recently Considered

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Story by DDNS Reporter Mia Young

Members of the Craighead County Quorum Court meet.
Photo by DDNS Reporter Mia Young.

JONESBORO, Ark. – The Craighead County Quorum Court advanced two ordinances to their next readings to amend the county’s salary administration policy and job classifications in the County Judge’s Office during its meeting on April 13.

During old business, the court held the second reading of an ordinance amending the county’s salary administration policy to include cost-of-living increases. The ordinance proposes employees would be eligible for cost-of-living raises after one year of employment. Supervisors, however, would be able to approve the increases after 90 days based on performance. The policy would be guided by the Consumer Price Index, but not a specific rate.

The 13 justices also voted to untable a recommendation from the Job Evaluation and Salary Administration Policy committee involving the County Judge’s office, which Judge Marvin Day previously tabled. The ordinance will reclassify and restructure the Secretary Coordinator I position as an Administrative Coordinator I position.

“We’re not changing the budget. This is just going to change the position,” Day said. “If we do decide we want to change the budget, we will come to finance.”

Wendy French previously served as Administrative Coordinator I, in which she worked with elected officials and department leaders to help with daily operations and coordinate internal processes. However, officials appointed French as Craighead County Administrator in January 2026. Since leaving the position, Day said French held skills the Judge’s Office would like to mandate and look for.

The county presented the changes as part of its efforts to retain employees, recognize and support their work and improve the county as a whole. Day said if there was a possibility of hiring someone with the skills in place, he would come back and ask for a salary adjustment.

Once the court broke into committee meetings, Shannon Kee made a second attempt before the Public Service Committee to open a restaurant and obtain a liquor license after the committee rejected his previous application last year. Kee plans to open 141 Prime at Sterling Springs, 2761 County Road 766, near the Highway 141 intersection.

“Born and raised, I’m 53 years old and never had anything out there other than a gas station,” Kee said. “Nowadays, we don’t really have a gas station because all the gas stations are shut down.”

He said North Jonesboro has no restaurants and if he wants customers to choose to come to his restaurant and not just “drive right past,” they will expect a beer with their dinner. The committee, after hearing no additional public comments, voted 3-1 to advance the proposal to the full Quorum Court for a vote when it meets again on April 28.

During public comments from the full Quorum Court, Robin Martin raised the issue that a recent Freedom of Information Act request showed Day’s email was included in the list of people emailed when someone emails quorumcourtmembers@craigheadcounty.org. However, Day’s name did not appear anywhere on the list of email recipients.

“That seems a little deceptive,” Martin said.

Martin also said there is no way for citizens to email Quorum Court members individually, as the only email address provided is the group email. Day said it would be possible for him to be removed. But the role was already set up that way when he took office, and he would not commit to anything during the meeting.

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Hispanic Center Addresses Fear as Immigration Concerns Rise in Jonesboro

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Story by DDNS Reporter Benjamin McDowell

Staff members from the Hispanic Center pose outside their facility in Jonesboro, highlighting the organization’s role in supporting local families amid growing community concerns. Photo courtesy of The Hispanic Center via Facebook.

JONESBORO, Ark. — As immigration enforcement concerns grow in Jonesboro and across the country, leaders at the Hispanic Center say fear keeps some families from going to school, seeking medical care or accessing basic services. Immigration enforcement policies and increased activity by Immigration and Customs Enforcement have created uncertainty for many immigrant families, including those in northeast Arkansas.

The Hispanic Center is a nonprofit organization that serves the Hispanic community in Jonesboro, as well as others in need. The center offers services such as after-school programs, interpretation, translation, English classes, computer training and health fairs. The center also provides legal consultations, mental health sessions, and community events, while assisting families with food, transportation and housing support.

Carolina Elmore, assistant director at the Hispanic Center, said, “We serve the Hispanic community primarily, but we help anyone in need regardless of ethnicity, religion or race.”

Elmore said the Hispanic Center is a place she wants people to feel they could depend on anytime.

“We provide interpretation in hospitals, schools and legal settings so people who don’t speak English can still access essential services. Language is one of the biggest barriers, and we try to bridge that gap every day,” Elmore said.

Elmore said the Hispanic Center acts as a bridge between schools, the Hispanic community and local institutions. The center partners with local universities and organizations to provide students with educational support and expose them to career opportunities.

Elmore said one of the biggest challenges for the Hispanic Center has been increased activity by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

“A lot of people are afraid to seek services because of immigration concerns. Some parents are even scared to send their kids to school or go to the doctor. We try to create a safe space where families feel supported despite those fears,” Elmore said.

Due to concerns about ICE, many community members are afraid to seek help or services at the Hispanic Center out of fear of being detained. That fear reflects what many immigrant communities are experiencing across the country, where enforcement actions can affect access to education, health care and other essential services. The center often works with churches and community partners to provide safe spaces and trusted environments for families.

“We help families with everything, from enrolling their kids in school to making doctor’s appointments. Sometimes it’s as simple as helping fill out a form, but that can change everything for a family,” Elmore said.

Elmore said she wants to continue serving her community during challenging times tied to immigration enforcement.

“Everything we do is about helping families feel supported, connected and valued in this community,” Elmore said.

Leo Hernández, program coordinator, helps facilitate the after-school program, which allows children to catch up on homework and receive tutoring.

“La Escuelita is here to support kids from kindergarten through ninth grade with their homework and academics. A lot of parents can’t help their kids with schoolwork, so we step in to guide them,” Hernández said.

La Escuelita runs Monday through Thursday during the school year and is divided into groups by age, allowing younger and older students to receive the support they need. Students work on subjects such as math, reading, writing, Spanish and public speaking, while also building communication and teamwork skills. The program also includes a summer component that helps students stay on track in a more engaging environment.

Hernández said the Hispanic Center also has a program called HELP, which gives high school students opportunities to explore life after high school. He said the program allows students to complete community service hours while visiting college campuses and local institutions.

“We’re not just helping with homework, we’re giving kids opportunities they might not have otherwise. It’s about building a foundation for their future,” Hernández said.

Hernández said education and guidance are some of the biggest needs in the Hispanic community, especially for students who struggle with English and need additional support.

Hernández said he wants the community to feel like a safe place where families can feel at home and that many people simply need direction.

“What’s happening with immigration affects families, especially the kids. We always encourage people to seek legal advice and handle things the right way. At the end of the day, we’re here to help people grow and succeed,” Hernández said.

Yesenia Dixon serves as a front desk receptionist, interpreter and after-school teacher at the Hispanic Center.

Dixon said many children struggle to express their emotions, and the center helps them build communication skills.

“It’s rewarding to see their faces light up when they realize they can do something,” Dixon said.

Dixon said she enjoys interpreting people but she also knows it is serious because she serves as the voice for others.

“I’m usually the first person people see, and they come in upset or needing help. I try to calm them down and let them know they’re in a safe place,” Dixon said.

Dixon said increased ICE activity has heightened fear in the Hispanic community, with some people choosing to handle everything virtually.

“During stressful times, we focus on giving people factual information so they don’t panic. There’s a lot of fear, so it’s important we don’t spread misinformation,” Dixon said.

Dixon said even if she does not have an immediate answer, she works to help people find one.

“We’re not just a place for handouts, we’re here to support people. We want to be known as a place where people can come without feeling judged,” Dixon said.

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Valley View School Board celebrates service, theater success and technology upgrades

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Story by DDNS Reporter Benjamin McDowell

Members of the Valley View School Board, as well as Superintendent Roland Popejoy (second from right). Photo by Benjamin McDowell.

JONESBORO, Ark. — The Valley View School Board honored longtime member Richard Rogers, celebrated the success of the theater program, and approved major technology purchases during its recent meeting.

The board recognized the Valley View theater program, which took its one-act play Eurydice to competition in Russellville and earned a score of 97 out of 100. Judges selected the group as one of four schools in the state to showcase their one-act play at the State Thespian Festival in February.

Students later performed in Springdale, receiving a superior rating, along with awards for ensemble work and music design, and earned $100,000 in scholarships for theater education.

The board also heard updates on the Fine Arts Center lighting project, which improved stage and auditorium lighting for performances. The new lights allow different colors, enhancing plays, festivals, and shows.

Chromebook purchases and finances

The committee reviewed financial reports showing a $2.7 million deficit due to building project expenditures, though revenue collections are currently 51% ahead of budgeted expenses. Members approved the purchase of 750 Acer 514 Chromebooks for $373,525 and 250 Lenovo L16 Chromebooks for $223,223, citing cost-effectiveness and vendor reliability.

Superintendent Roland Popejoy discussed the Chromebook purchases and technology replacement plan.

“I have shared with you guys previously that we’ve been working on a replacement plan for laptops. That is an area where, whenever I came into this role, it was very important for me to make sure that we work toward getting a specific line item per year for technology replacement,” Popejoy said.

Popejoy emphasized that students should have access to the tools they need to succeed.

“Previously, we made really big purchases and then kind of saw how long they would last as part of our process. I really want to make sure that we have a solid replacement plan. And so that’s what we’ve been working on. We’re moving to one-to-one,” he said.

Honoring Richard Rogers

Board members recognized Richard Rogers for his 11 years of service, noting his role in overseeing several major school projects.

“He has served on our board since October of 2011, and so this will be his last meeting. Mr. Richard Rogers has played a pivotal role in multiple things in his time here. He oversaw the building of our high school while he was on the board, also the women’s field house, the additions here at the intermediate and the intermediate junior high, and now our high school addition,” Popejoy said.

He also praised Rogers’ contributions to athletic facilities.

“In addition, one thing that I think is really important is that he has played an integral role in the efforts to improve our athletic facilities, with our turf project for our football field, baseball field and softball field,” Popejoy said. “Anybody that knows this board over the years knows Richard is a voice that a lot of people reach out to. Richard is one that has a unique way of his advocacy.”

Special education and facility updates

Special education director Carol Brown provided an overview of services.

“As of December, there were 2,827 students enrolled in our district, and out of those, there are 448 receiving special education services, which is 15.85%,” Brown said.

Brown explained that the district serves students with a variety of disabilities, including specific learning disabilities and other health impairments such as ADHD, seizure disorders, and other medical conditions. She said the district provides multiple therapists and therapy options to support students academically, mentally, and medically.

Senior project manager Angie Berryhill gave an update on facility improvements.

“What I’d like to do is dwell on the path moving forward, and our message is still the same to this board and this community, that we’re going to move as expeditiously as possible. When we understand things, we will make that known, and we’re going to be here until the very end,” Berryhill said.

Berryhill added that the improvements will not cost taxpayers extra money.

“We have processes and procedures in place now that are going to prevent things like this from happening again,” she said.

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Jonesboro Public Schools Launches Counselor’s Website

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Story by DDNS Reporter Mia Young

Courtesy of Jonesboro Public Schools Facebook Page

JONESBORO, Ark. – Jonesboro Public Schools launched a new counselor website and approved additional compensation for teachers who teach more than 150 students per day and more during its monthly school board meeting on March 10.

Mandy Zipful, district school improvement specialist, presented the new counselor website, highlighting the new and improved course catalog for Jonesboro High School. The JPS School Counselors’ website provides a hub for connecting students with counselors, finding mental health resources, booking appointments, accessing grades and graduation requirements, and viewing a detailed course catalog. While the site is live, the district is working to connect the site to each school’s tab.

“This is a great tool for the students and parents,” Zipful said. “We’re super proud of this work.”

Zipful highlighted the new “Academics at Jonesboro High” course catalog, noting that the old version was just a Word document, while the new one lists every course offered and includes a detailed description. The new catalog also makes it easier to find graduation requirements, concurrent credit courses at both Arkansas State University and Black River Technical College, Success-Ready Pathways, and more.

“What would it look like to be more supported socially and emotionally?” Superintendent Misty Doyle asked students. Students said to be able to better get in touch with their counselor. 

The website helps students easily book appointments with their counselor in 30-minute increments. Students can schedule an appointment by going to the JPS School Counselors website, clicking “Academics at JHS,” clicking the “Counselor Appointment” tab, selecting the counselor they wish to meet with and choosing a time that works best for them. Doyle even gave an example of how a student had an appointment scheduled for 9 a.m. and was surprised to actually be called out of class on time.

During the superintendent’s report, Doyle asked Von McDaniel, director of student health services to give an update on mental health.

“As of today, we’ve had 167 student contacts for this school year. Some of them we spend a lot of time with, and some of those we don’t,” McDaniel said.

Counselors meet with and contact students for a variety of behavioral and mental health concerns. Students can meet with counselors as many or as few times as needed. While some students have the resources needed to head in the right direction, others don’t and the district recognizes that.

Photo courtesy of JPS School Counselors website.
(Left) Lene Pierce, Jonesboro High School Health and Human Services counselor, and Emily Aycock, Visual and Performing Arts Magnet school counselor.

The board passed the motion to approve additional compensation for teachers teaching more than 150 students per day for the first semester in the 2025-26 school year. The JPS finance office recommended six teachers, including two from JHS, two from Douglas MacArthur Junior High School and two from Annie Camp Junior High School, for the supplemental teacher contract pay.

“A teacher is not required to teach more than the maximum number of students permitted per day under the Standards for Accreditation of Arkansas Public Schools and School Districts, but a teacher may agree to teach more than the maximum number of students permitted per day,” according to Arkansas Code § 6-17-812 (2024).

The district will pay the teachers an additional amount in addition to their regular salary, proportionate to the additional number of students they taught.

The board also passed the motion to approve the purchase of a new $153,054 77-passenger school bus.

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NEA Baptist Brings Awareness to Heart Health Through Heart Talk

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Story by DDNS Reporter Benjamin McDowell

Picture courtesy of Jacob Still.

NEA Baptist hosts programs that promote heart-healthy behaviors through community screenings and educational programs that raise awareness of risk factors and promote healthy lifestyle choices.

NEA Baptist hosted a Heart Talk on Feb. 26, 2026, at Southwest Baptist Church.

Ty Jones, director of marketing at NEA Baptist, said his goal is to create opportunities for community engagement and education.

The organization focuses on community engagement and education through health screenings and risk-factor education. Outreach efforts include digital marketing, terrestrial radio, and television advertisements. Jones said balancing medical accuracy with creativity is crucial.

“As a company, we seek perfection every day, whether or not perfection is ever really attainable,” Jones said. “As human beings, we try to seek that in everything that we do. When you balance that with marketing and making sure you’re staying inside the box — which a lot of people find more difficult than just going with any creative whim — it’s a lot of fun.”

Jones said NEA Baptist always strives to partner with local schools, churches, and organizations to promote heart health and target the next generation of cardiologists.

“The big thing for us is making sure that we’re engaging students at a young age, letting them know not only what clinical health care careers look like — physicians and nursing — but also letting them meet residents to see what that educational track looks like from school to becoming a doctor,” Jones said.

Jones said balancing medical accuracy with creativity in marketing campaigns and materials helps convey heart health information in an engaging and impactful way.

“Understanding the roles in health care that may be behind the scenes — laboratory scientists who run tests to help physicians determine a patient’s root cause, as well as financial, billing, and marketing staff — is also important,” Jones said.

“Our goal at the end of the day is to take care of our community, whether that’s patients admitted to our emergency room, patients seeing primary care providers, establishing a baseline for preventive medicine, or providing free education,” Jones said.

Jones said community impact is measured by individualized patient care and tailoring medical services to each person.
Lena Awar, an interventional cardiologist at NEA Baptist, said it is important to educate people to recognize and not ignore early warning signs of heart disease, such as fatigue, leg swelling, and chest pain.

“Coronary artery disease is very prevalent in this area,” Awar said. “We live in what’s called the Stroke Belt, and part of this talk discusses risk factors that contribute to that, including hypertension, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. All of that increases heart disease risk.”

Awar said stress management techniques such as walking in nature, reading, taking a hot bath, or practicing yoga or meditation can improve heart health.

“In our community, recommending smoking cessation is probably the most important thing, followed by getting in those 10,000 steps a day,” Awar said.

Awar said about 50% of health outcomes are genetically inherited and cannot be controlled. However, lifestyle choices can make a significant difference.

“One thing we can control is how we live our lives — diet, exercise, and routine checkups,” she said.

She also addressed misconceptions about heart medications.

“A lot of people think of us as drug pushers who just want to prescribe another medicine,” Awar said. “We wish all our patients could achieve their goals with diet and exercise alone, but sometimes that’s not enough. Some medications, like statins, have a bad reputation, but they save lives. We work with patients to tailor medications so they maintain a good quality of life.”

Oreoluwa Oladiran, a cardiac electrophysiologist at NEA Baptist, said it is important to recognize heart disease symptoms such as chest pain and heartburn, which are often overlooked.

He stressed the need for early heart health management beginning in a person’s 30s and highlighted preventive measures such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and avoiding smoking.

“Heart disease is the most common cause of mortality not only in the United States, but worldwide,” Oladiran said. “In the United States, it kills nearly a million people every year,” Oladiran said.

Oladiran said monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar levels is an effective way to track heart health.

“We see patients in their 30s having heart attacks,” he said. “The earlier, the better. Don’t wait until you’re 40 to establish care with a primary care provider and pay attention to your health. Many of these issues are lifestyle-related, not necessarily medication-related.”


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Jonesboro Mayor Gives State of City, Hears Criticism over City Stars

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Story by DDNS Reporter Mia Young

JONESBORO, Ark.- Mayor Harold Copenhaver gave his sixth State of the City address to the Jonesboro City Council on Tuesday evening, featuring major growth in the economy, finances and infrastructure, lower crime rates, and a bright future for the city.

Amid the city’s acquisition of CityStars’ finances, Copenhaver highlighted the 15 consecutive audits. He said Jonesboro is thriving and, at the end of 2025, had $28.1 million in reserves and $15 million in capital improvements.

He mentioned the growth in nearly every aspect of the city, including the 150 businesses that opened last year, 10% more calls firefighters responded to, and numerous projects ready to start. Not only projects “built for wheels,” but for pedestrians. Funds awarded to Jonesboro through the Transportation Alternatives Program will go toward new pedestrian infrastructure on the Marion Berry overpass. This will not only make the overpass safer and more walkable but will also help connect Arkansas State to the rest of Jonesboro.

“Jonesboro’s future is bright, but we’d better prepare for it now,” Copenhaver said.

He highlighted that even with the large population growth over the last decade, statistics recently released by the FBI show that violent crime is the lowest it has been in at least a decade.

More than 100,000calls were answered by dispatchers through the city’s emergency medical dispatch program. Seven calls helped guide people through CPR, and one even helped deliver a baby. Copenhaver also noted that 63% of firefighters’ and 52% of police officers’ salaries have increased.

The city also won three Trendsetter awards for Jonesboro connecting efforts, emergency medical dispatch, and the city park ranger program, and was also named Volunteer City of the Year. Copenhaver knew the council was not the only one responsible for helping win these awards; the public was a big help. He called upon citizens to make an effort to get involved and help craft a blueprint for a better city.

“But all those numbers can add up to an overall total of one. One goal, one responsibility to make Jonesboro the best city,” Copenhaver said to close his address. 

After the State of the City address, business continued as usual. A few Council members raised additional concerns regarding the handling of CityStars. Questions were raised regarding Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, missing paperwork and invoices for individuals working the tournaments, and making sure all aspects of taking over CityStars’ finances were done legally.

Efforts are underway to move toward partial- or fully cashless events in youth sports. IT is making strides to handle this issue. The first phase of this process is to assess the cost of the required infrastructure and ensure that locations have the Wi-Fi capabilities needed to run the program.

Matt Daniel, former executive director of the Arkansas Revolution Soccer Club, spoke during public comment. He stated during the Feb. 3 City Council meeting, Copenhaver directly named him and incorrectly quoted both his CityStars resignation letter, which did not mention anyone by name, and his proposal. Daniel went on to correct Copenhaver and state what he actually said in his letter. He stated the city has maintained that CityStars operated independently, but contracts, payroll involvement, event insurance filings, and more “show a far more entangled relationship,” and people deserve to know the truth.

“Mayor Copenhaver, I have lost all confidence in your leadership for our city,” Daniel said, after stating the aforementioned documents were not any type of confidential record but documents he was a part of.

Daniel closed his public comment, giving a call to action to the council, saying, “If you have confidence in this administration, say so. If you do not, say so. Jonesboro deserves clarity.”

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