Tag Archives: Craighead County

Food insecurity remains challenge for Food Bank of NEA

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Story by DDNS Reporter Jerry Don Burton

JONESBORO – Following the government shutdown and with the holiday season approaching, food insecurity in Northeast Arkansas (NEA) remains a challenge for food banks.

Arkansas faces the highest rate of food insecurity in the nation, according to a since-discontinued annual report published in 2024 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA defines food insecurity as a household-level economic and social condition of limited or uncertain access to adequate food.

Terry Austin, development officer at the Food Bank of NEA, said the rural nature of Northeast Arkansas contributes to the high rates of food insecurity. Many areas of Arkansas are also classified as food deserts.

Food deserts are areas where access to affordable, healthy food is restricted or nonexistent due to the absence of grocery stories within convenient distances, as defined by Food Empowerment Project.

“Statistically speaking, 21% of Northeast Arkansas citizens are in food insecure households,” Austin said. “Which is a staggering statistic to me.”

The Food Bank of NEA entrance, located at 3414 One Place in Jonesboro. Photo courtesy of Food Bank of NEA Facebook.

Food deserts are not the only elements worsening food security in NEA, though. National factors have further increased demand for food banks.

Lingering Impacts of Government Shutdown
Austin said the latest government shutdown, which lasted from Oct. 1 to Nov. 12 put a spotlight on food insecurity. He said those who depend on food assistance, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and federal employees, were particularly impacted.

The Food Bank of NEA saw a 16% increase in SNAP recipients who received food assistance during the shutdown compared to that same period in 2024. 8% of those served were new households that had never received assistance from the Food Bank of NEA before.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump on July 4, is also expected to impact food security nationwide.

President Donald Trump displays the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, after signing it. Photo Courtesy of Leah Millis, Reuters.

“[The act] is estimated to reduce the number of meals for SNAP beneficiaries in the nation by some six billion meals year to year over the next 10 years,” Austin said. “We’re gonna see that kind of cut in food assistance and that’s going to mean a very steady rise in demand.”

Another factor influencing the increased pressure on food banks is the approaching holiday season.

Holiday Season Challenges
“Regardless of what your family’s financial picture may be, you still want to have those holiday gatherings,” Austin said. “You want to have a table of food to share with your loved ones.”

The holiday season further contributes to an increase in demand because, since many children will be on break, they’ll miss out on school-provided meals. One in three children are at risk for hunger in NEA.

Austin said the Food Bank of NEA orders traditional seasonal food during this time of year to give families in need the food to make a holiday meal.
Food insecurity is not an issue limited to NEA, either.

The River Valley Regional Food Bank entrance, located a 1617 Zero Street in Fort Smith.

Food Insecurity Affects Arkansans Everywhere
On the opposite side of the state, the River Valley Regional Food Bank in Fort Smith serves 140 pantries across eight counties in Western Arkansas.

Hattie Hamilton, interim food bank director and operations manager for the River Valley Regional Food Bank, said they have reached out to Feeding America for extra food. She said the additional product will help the food bank better supply the pantries as need increases.

Feeding America is a non-profit network of food banks nationwide that helps feed more than 46 million people.

“Our battle here to help fight against it is just to get the food in to help get to the neighbors in need,” Hamilton said.

State Funding Support
In an effort to combat SNAP cuts and relieve pressure on food banks, state funds have provided support to food banks across Arkansas.

On Oct. 31, Arkansas Governor Sarah Sanders directed $500,000 to be split among the six Feeding America partnered food banks in the state. On Nov. 9, with the shutdown still in effect, Sanders assigned $500,000 more to food banks.

“As the shutdown continues, my administration will stand with our partners in the legislature, at churches and in food banks to help Arkansans stay fed,” Sanders said.

Back in NEA, Austin said their food bank received about $83,000 from the state. He said the Food Bank of NEA priortized buying protein products with the funds.

“Protein is a critical part of a diet and it’s also part of a diet that’s hard for us to provide enough of in our distributions,” Austin said. “We get a lot of canned goods and a lot of dry goods. Protein can be tricky to fit into that parameter, so that’s why we focused using those dollars on protein purchases.”

Austin said he wants to stress that the food bank is grateful for the money, but more help is needed to meet the rising need.

Demand Rising in Northeast Arkansas
One of six food banks in Arkansas, the Food Bank of NEA serves a 12-county area in the northeast region of the state, serving about 8,000 square miles.

Austin said the Food Bank of NEA primarily raises money and food and then distributes products to 176 partner agencies. These agencies include churches, schools, food pantries and homeless shelters.

In 2024, the Food Bank of NEA distributed 8.2 million pounds of food to those facing food insecurity. 25% of that food was fresh products like meat, vegetables and fruit.

A Food Bank of NEA delivery truck, parked in the loading dock of the Food Bank of NEA. Photo Courtesy of the Food Bank of NEA website.

In addition to distributing food to partner agencies, Austin said the Food Bank of NEA travels to each of the 12 counties as least four times a year to hold a mobile distribution.

Through these distributions, Austin said the food bank arrives to a central location and hands out food themselves. He said the increased demand is felt even in these mobile distributions.

During a mobile distribution held in Craighead County in early October, Austin said the food bank brought 24 more boxes of food than normal and still had to turn away about 30 households because they ran out of food.
Similarly, during a distribution in Lawrence County, Austin said they brought 64 additional boxes of food and had to turn away 42 households.

“We simply ran out of food,” Austin said. “The demand has definitely spiked and it spiked in part because of the shutdown, but honestly, the demand was already beginning to climb.”

How to Receive Assistance and Offer Support
For those in need of food assistance, Austin said one of the best resources they offer is an interactive map on their website that allows users to find what food distributors in NEA are closest to them. Phone numbers, addresses and more information is included in the map to help guide users to help they need.

A screenshot of the Food Bank of NEA interactive map. The map allows users to search for food distributors in their location. Screenshot retrieved from the Food Bank of NEA website.



“We have done this a long time and we know all the ins and outs and the best way, the most efficient ways to get food to people who need it,” Austin said. “We stand ready to help if we need to.”

The Food Bank of NEA also has links under the “How to Help” section of their website for those interested in donating or volunteering. 1,157 volunteers donated 3,847 hours in 2024 to support the Food Bank of NEA.

Some of the most needed food items include peanut butter, canned soups, pasta, cereal, boxed meals, canned meats, and canned fruits and vegetables.

Austin said fresh food is always a challenge, so shelf-stable products are preferred. He also said popular foods that are flexible in meal prep are favored, such as spaghetti, corn, green beans and macaroni and cheese.

More than food, though, Austin said the Food Bank of NEA–and most food banks in general–actually prefer money donations.

Austin said donating money directly would serve the food bank more than canned goods, as the food bank buys product in bulk at reduced prices.
“We typically say that $1 donated can provide up to three meals,” Austin said. “We’re able to really stretch those dollars a long way.”

Austin said money donations can be used to pay for freight costs and other fees needed to keep the food bank running, too.

Still, Austin said any form of support–food donations, money donations, volunteer work or otherwise–is greatly appreciated.

The Food Bank of NEA is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and is located at 3414 One Place in Jonesboro. The food bank can also be reached by phone by calling 870-932-3663.
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Freshman to Physician Partnership Formed

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DDNS Story and Audio by reporter Mia Young

Young: Arkansas State University and the NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine are working together to make the path to becoming a doctor a little bit smoother for Arkansas State students. The Freshman to Physician Pathway is a new partnership this year between A-State and NYITCOM that lets qualified students secure early admission to medical school while they are still undergraduates. Jennifer Wharton, media contact for the program, knows the ins and outs of the program and how it can help students. [0:31]

Wharton: Our goal is to help students who are interested in going into healthcare, specifically becoming a physician, become more confident and a more competitive applicant for medical school. We’re seeing a lot of need in the delta region for students who not just have an education, but have a quality education. And one of the things we know about medical education is that students who are from an area, who are able to stay in that area and go to school are going to be more likely to in turn, practice medicine in that area. [0:34]

Young: Students in the pathway will major in biological sciences with a pre-professional emphasis. If they maintain at least a 3.5 GPA, complete the required coursework, and pass an interview, they will earn a spot in NYITCOM after graduation. Program leaders say the collaboration between the two schools will give students extra mentoring, academic support, and confidence, along with peace of mind about their medical future. Jamie Howell is a prospective student for the Freshman to Physician pathway. [0:30]

Howell: I would like to do this program because it provides me with a quicker opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor. I also believe, if I understand the program correctly, that it can help you get into med school without taking the Mcat. This can be beneficial to me because I typically struggle with test anxiety and tend to not do as well as I should or as well as I believe my knowledge permits. [0:23]

For more information about the program go to AState.edu/FreshmanToPhysician. I’m Mia Young and you’re listening to KASU. [0:09]

Second ‘No Kings’ protest to be held in Northeast Arkansas

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Story by DDNS Reporter Jerry Don Burton

Demonstrators protest in Jonesboro at the June 14 No Kings protest, organized by the Coalition for Change of Northeast Arkansas (CCNEA). The second protest, also organized by the CCNEA, is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18.
Photo Courtesy of the Democratic Party of Craighead County Facebook Page.

JONESBORO – The Coalition for Change of Northeast Arkansas (CCNEA) will hold a second No Kings protest from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, in Jonesboro at the intersection of Highland and Red Wolf, next to the Turtle Creek Mall.


One of 13 others scheduled in Arkansas and more than 2,500 worldwide as of Oct. 10, the demonstrations aim to protest against policies and alleged authoritarian actions from President Donald Trump and his administration.
Carol Davis, CCNEA member, said those who attend the No Kings protests are rallying together over a variety of concerns and causes. She cited government overreach and concerns about community safety as reasons for her expected presence at the protest.


“If what it takes is large amounts of people continually coming out and saying and showing that they disapprove, that they’re concerned, that there are issues, then the hope is that they’ll listen,” Davis said. “And if they won’t listen, then the hope is that we can encourage people to vote with their conscience and with their interests.”


Jayne Schack, another member of the CCNEA, said Trump’s deployment of the National Guard in specific cities across the United States also highlights the need for another No Kings protest. Schack noted her participation in the first No Kings protest, held June 14, was a singular experience.


“The kind of ‘high’ that I had from attending the June 14 protest is like nothing else that ever happened,” Schack said. “There was such a bond of solidarity of ‘We are people who believe in our democracy, we are people who believe in our Constitution, and we are not going to let it change into something else.’ That’s what the No Kings is about.”


Nationally, the first No Kings protests saw a turnout between 4-6 million, according to data journalist G. Elliot Morris. Schack said more than 400 attended the rally in Jonesboro, far exceeding the CCNEA’s expectations.


Davis said while the CCNEA is comprised of people from a wide variety of beliefs, what binds the group together is a desire to see their community get involved and succeed. The CCNEA started in Paragould, Arkansas, in response to the 2024 presidential election results. Schack said she attended her first CCNEA meeting in December 2024.


“We are a grassroots organization. We are nonpartisan. We want to empower individuals to take action and make a difference in their communities,” Schack said.


The CCNEA is an offshoot of Indivisible, a progressive movement that started in 2016. According to their website, Indivisible is committed to nonviolence and rejects all forms of political violence and intimidation.


Schack and Davis said the CCNEA shares these values and has taken measures to ensure all attendees stay safe at the upcoming protest. Although it was not mentioned, any form of violence has been an issue in the past; therefore, it is strictly prohibited at the protest.


Davis said the CCNEA hosts training sessions for members, educating them on safety and their rights as protesters. The CCNEA will also designate trained safety marshals for use in the protest. Schack said safety marshals maintain peace, de-escalate conflicts, and help wherever needed.


Davis said those attending should take care of themselves by staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and taking breaks as needed. She says the CCNEA will be ready to help anyone who has any questions or concerns during the protest.


“It’s a serious subject and it’s an important thing, but ultimately, you should feel like you’re enjoying the company of the people around you,” Davis said. “It’s a fun thing to be able to have that opportunity, to have that right and to exercise it.”

Protesters present signs to passing vehicles at the Turtle Creek Mall during the first No Kings protest on June 14. Photo courtesy of the Craighead County Democratic Party Facebook page.

Schack said counter-protesters have as much of a right to assemble as the CCNEA. Still, she said they will not engage with any counter-protesters and all attendees should act in a non-confrontational manner.

“It takes work to keep a democracy, it takes understanding, it takes compassion. You have the right to say what you think. I have the right to think something different. It’s fine, that doesn’t mean we have to hate each other,” Schack said.

Despite disagreeing with the message of the No Kings protests, Arkansas Sen. Dan Sullivan said he wholeheartedly supports allowing diverse voices to challenge perceived power structures without fear of reprisal.

“I also recognize the irony of the protesters’ claims,” Sullivan said. “That if we truly lived in the authoritarian regime that they decry, their public demonstration of dissent would be swiftly suppressed. Thus, their very ability to rally is a testament to the freedoms they claim lost.”

Others voice stronger opposition.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said the No Kings protests are outrageous gatherings for outrageous purposes.
“This ‘Hate America’ rally that they have coming up for October 18th, the Antifa crowd and the pro-Hamas crowd and the Marxists, they’re all gonna gather at the (National) Mall,” Johnson said.

The No Kings coalition issued a response following Johnson’s statements, writing that Johnson is running out of excuses for keeping the government shut down and that the protesters are committed to nonviolence.

“Instead of reopening the government, preserving affordable healthcare, or lowering costs for working families, he’s attacking millions of Americans who are peacefully coming together to say that America belongs to its people, not to kings,” the statement read. “All No Kings events adhere to a shared commitment to nonviolent protest and community safety.

Schack said protesters are still people and should not be demonized, nor should their opposers.

“We’re all just people. Nothing special about us. We’re not demons. People who disagree with us are not demons,” Schack said. “Most of us are patriotic for our country and what it stands for. We differ in our views on what the future might be and how we see it. But there’s no reason why we can’t be respectful.”

Arkansas 1st District Rep. Rick Crawford did not respond to statement requests before publication.

Davis questions whether the rhetoric surrounding protests as inherently violent and ineffective, especially in the Arkansas Delta, will discourage people from attending. She said the CCNEA would love anyone interested to participate in it if they feel safe to do so, but understands that it’s not for everyone.

“I think the important thing about demonstrations, especially in this area, is first and foremost to encourage other people who are similarly concerned,” Davis said. “When I went to the first No Kings demonstration, I didn’t expect a tremendous amount of support. So to see so many people in my community motivated and concerned was really encouraging.”

Davis said she hopes those who attend the protest are encouraged to continue their activism. Whether through civil disobedience or running for office, Davis said she hopes the protest motivates people to continue demanding to be heard.

Schack said the CCNEA will host an event at an undetermined date after the protest to receive feedback from attendees and discuss improvements for future demonstrations.

“If you want to be involved in an organization that is going to foster your ability as an individual to engage and mobilize and promote social justice, this is it,” Schack said.

More information about the CCNEA, No Kings, and Indivisible can be found at ccnea.org, nokings.org, and indivisible.org.
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Jonesboro Rocks Little Rock Catholic Like A Hurricane

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Story, photos, and video by DDNS Reporter Allie Carson

Jonesboro High School running back T.J. Brown scores a touchdown during homecoming. Video by DDNS Reporter Allie Carson.

For Jonesboro’s “Hurricane Hits” Homecoming Week, the Golden Hurricane played Little Rock Catholic after a week of events.

With dress up days throughout the week, a parade on Wednesday followed by the seniors vs juniors and sophomores Powderpuff matchup, a pep rally on Friday afternoon and then a dance following the football matchup against Catholic, the Hurricane schedule was packed. 

Hurricane Homecoming  celebrated all things music: From hip hop to country to rock to headliners. Just in time for gameday, the Golden Hurricane ended the week off with a black and gold theme.

The parade, which took place on Wednesday instead of the usual Friday, blocked off Main Street in Jonesboro for the entirety of Jonesboro Public Schools.

The Jonesboro band led the parade with Cane the mascot not far behind. 

Photo by DDNS Reporter Allie Carson.

The Kindergarten Center brought their Taylor Swift “Showgirl” themed float, Visual and Performing Arts had a country themed float. The cheer and dance teams walked the route and the Jonesboro High theatre troupe entered the parade and promoted their upcoming play, “Peter and the Starcatcher.” 

Photo by DDNS Reporter Allie Carson.

The Homecoming Court wrapped up the parade, riding in style at the end of the route. 

Later that day, the senior class took home the victory against the underclassmen in the annual Powderpuff match.

The pep rally would headline the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen after presenting the Homecoming Court for the second time that week and performances from the Jonesboro band and spirit squads. 

Homecoming Day came on Friday with a parking lot full and Hurricane alumni packing the stands, hoping to see a win from their alma mater.

And a win is what the Jonesboro fans got.

Getting their first back-to-back win since October of 2023, the Golden Hurricane played like they had something to prove.

“It’s Homecoming Week. There’s a lot going on. But I thought our kids did a good job of staying focused for the most part. It was a good week of practice and I thought they were ready to come out and perform,” Jonesboro head coach Tyler George said. “We really challenged them. You have people coming back from almost every decade. You have to perform and put a show on for them and they did that tonight.”

After a defensive first quarter where a field goal by Jonesboro kicker Alex Glomski, offense showed more in the second, Catholic scoring a touchdown on their first drive of the quarter off a quarterback keeper.

Jonesboro would score with three minutes to go in the half after running back K’Den Hawkins ran fifteen yards and proceeded to run it in for a touchdown on the next play, giving Jonesboro the lead back going into half.

The Golden Hurricane decided to go for it on fourth and seven on Catholic’s 36 yard line, too far to kick a field goal and too close to feel the need to punt.

It worked out for the Golden Hurricane, however, after wide receiver Jaylen Heard gave them a first down and running back TJ Brown would break free at the five yard line to give Jonesboro another touchdown. 

Jonesboro running back T.J. Brown. Photo by DDNS Reporter Allie Carson.

Catholic would have a turnover on downs on their next drive, trying and failing to repeat what Jonesboro had just done. 

Jonesboro was given the ball at their 44 yard line but wouldn’t be there for long as on the first play of the drive, Brown would complete a 56 yard run, breaking multiple tackles from defenders, to give Jonesboro his second touchdown of the quarter. 

It would go back to defense for both teams for the last four minutes of the quarter. A hard hitting block by Catholic cornerback Walt Menefee against Jonesboro wide receiver Kamari Fisher would give them the ball back. 

Jonesboro wide receiver Jamarius Jackson evades Little Rock Catholic defenders during a drive. Photo by DDNS Reporter Allie Carson.

However, an interception by Jonesboro defensive back Clarence Mucherson, his third interception of the year, at the Golden Hurricane 8 yard line would bring in the final quarter of Homecoming Night. 

Catholic would score their second touchdown of the night after multiple quarterback keepers by Phillips Blair on their first drive of the fourth would get them to the goal line before Blair would throw to middle linebacker Brock Hatchett for the score. 

“We didn’t want the quarterback to beat us,” George said. “He’s a phenomenal player. Can really beat you with his legs and his arm. We lost contain on him but for the most part of the night, I thought we did a really good job at keeping him contained and not letting him beat us with his legs.”

After having the lead be cut to only 14, Jonesboro would run down the clock while getting enough first downs to get downfield and score after a five minute drive. Brown would get his third touchdown of the night on a fourth and three at the goal line.

“I wanted to kick the field. The kids wanted to go for it. Really challenged them. I put my trust in them and they got it. And then they let me know about it after,” George said. “Sometimes you gotta let the kids play, and that’s what we did right there. And it paid off for us big.”

A kickoff return that hit Catholic receivers in the helmet would be recovered by Jonesboro at Catholic’s 21 yard line. However, Jonesboro quarterback Asa Myers would take a knee to end the game, securing a 31-14 victory for the Golden Hurricane.

The Golden Hurricane would improve to 3-3 and 2-1 in conference on Homecoming Night. 

Jonesboro moves on to play at Marion on Oct 17 while 2-4 Catholic plays Sheridan at home. 

Benton Panthers Storm Through Jonesboro Hurricane

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DDNS Story and Photos courtesy of Allie Carson

One of the touchdowns Benton scored against Jonesboro. Video courtesy of Allie Carson, DDNS Reporter.

After their first win of the season, the Jonesboro Golden Hurricane stayed at home to face off against Benton, a team they have always fallen short against. This meeting was no different, losing 55-24.

Jonesboro decided to defer to the second half so Benton started with the ball. And a touchdown.

Within the first 12 seconds of the game, Benton quarterback Drew Davis hit wide receiver Karson Collatt for a 55 yard gain to set the Panthers up at the Jonesboro 2. Free safety Gunner Deaton would sneak into the endzone on the very next play for a touchdown. 

While running back TJ Brown would bring the Golden Hurricane to the Panthers’ 11 yard line off the kick return, Jonesboro would be forced to kick a field goal.

The Panthers wouldn’t give the Golden Hurricane time to breathe as the next drive ends in another quick touchdown and Jonesboro doesn’t get in good enough field position to score on their drive.

A fumble on Benton’s next drive would push them away from the Jonesboro 37 yard line all the way back to their own 26 yard line. While Jonesboro had all the opportunity to jump or scoop up the ball, they were unable to get under it, causing QB Davis to jump on the ball.

However, Benton wouldn’t be able to do anything on their drive, giving the ball back to Jonesboro.

A perfect slant pass to wide receiver Kameron Davis from Jonesboro quarterback Asa Myers gives the Golden Hurricane team their first touchdown of the night after Davis was given the opening for a 25 yard run. 

After a made extra point, the deficit would be cut 14-10 Benton until the Panthers would break multiple tackles on their next drive, scoring their third touchdown of the quarter, the second touchdown run by QB Davis. 

The second quarter was off to a slow start until Benton’s ball at the eight minute mark. QB Davis throws the ball up the middle, intended for wide receiver Easton Snellings, but is intercepted by defensive back Jaylen Alexander, his fourth interception of the season.

It’s Jonesboro’s ball at the 41 yard line of Benton. An overthrown pass intended for Jaylen Heard is awarded with a defensive pass interference call, giving the Golden Hurricane 15 yards and getting to the Panthers’ 30 yard line.

Brown would soon have back to back 15 yard runs, giving Jonesboro their second touchdown of the night. A made extra point would bring the Golden Hurricane their edge back, closing the Panthers’ lead to 21-17.

After penalties and breaking tackles, the Panthers scored another touchdown, Jon Curtis Barger breaking through multiple Jonesboro defenders to make it to the end zone. 

The Golden Hurricane go into halftime down 28-17 but come out quickly like a second half team.

After a penalty on Benton, Jonesboro started at their own 16. QB Myers launched a deep ball down field into the hands of WR Davis who would catch it just past the Jonesboro 45 and reached the Benton 20, with a horsecaller penalty moving the Golden Hurricane into the Panthers’ 14.

While that early second half touchdown seemed promising for the Golden Hurricane, it’s where they stalled out, not scoring anything else the entire game. Instead, Jonesboro QB Myers would get hurt and taken out of the game early in the fourth quarter for a hamstring injury.

“He’s fine. I was proud of him for battling as long as he did tonight. We’ve got to get him back to 100 percent,” Jonesboro coach Tyler George said. “He’s kind of tweaked it throughout the week.”

Jonesboro would watch as Benton scored two field goals and three more touchdowns, making the 55 points the most the Panthers have ever scored all season.

This would include a 64 yard rushing touchdown by Panthers’ QB Davis, a 57 yard pass to Collatt and even a 49 yard field goal during the last minute of the game. 

“Came out of half playing good on defense and it got away from us in the fourth,” George said. “I say it every week. Our kids are gonna continue to fight,”

With the final score being 55-24, this marks Jonesboro’s sixth straight loss to Benton and puts their season record at 1-3 with a game at Sheridan next on the schedule.

Benton would improve to eight straight away game wins and become 3-1 on the season before heading home to play rival Sylvan Hills. 

Jonesboro’s Second-Half Run Leads to Victory

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Story and video by DDNS Reporter Allie Carson

The Jonesboro Hurricane celebrate after the come back from behind victory. Video by DDNS Reporter Allie Carson.

In their first home game of the season, the Jonesboro Hurricanes defeated the DeSoto Jaguars after being down 21-34 at the half.

“Like I say every week, this group does not quit. They fight and fight and fight no matter what,” Jonesboro Head Coach Tyler George said.

DeSoto’s heavy rush offense was on full display on its opening drive. On a quarterback keeper, Eric Perry made it to the Jonesboro 25-yard line after a gain of 27 yards, soon followed by an 18-yard rush by running back Cade Rogers on 3rd and 4, pushing the Jaguars to the Jonesboro 2.

The Jaguars score and the Golden Hurricane received the ball. On 3 and 15, Hurricane QB Asa Myers throws one downfield and finds running back TJ Brown. A throw to wide receiver Kam Davis puts Jonesboro on the DeSoto 12, a 44-yard gain. Brown scored on the next play for the Golden Hurricane.

DeSoto wasted no time, however, scoring on their next drive, after some Jonesboro flags helped them move the chains and get out of trouble.

A pass-heavy Jonesboro soon tied the game once again after an endzone throw to Brown.

Rogers got into the end zone untouched by the Golden Hurricane defense to put the Jaguars ahead. The punt that followed ended up being recovered by Desoto after the football hit defensive back J’Karious Lattimore.

DeSoto gets the first big lead of the game, going up 14-28 against Jonesboro.

After Meyers gets tripped up after he’s forced to keep the ball, Jonesboro is forced to punt, handing the ball back to DeSoto at their 23.

Thankfully for the Golden Hurricane, their defense is able to hold the Jaguars and get the ball back after a three-and-out.

Clarence Mucherson returns the Desoto punt for 13 yards, putting the Jonesboro offense on the Jaguars’ 33-yard line.

Brown ran up the middle for his third score of the night, closing in on the Jaguars 21-28, but Desoto returned the favor for Perry’s fourth rushing touchdown of the night, making it a 13-point deficit going into the half after a blocked extra point.

The Golden Hurricane came out of the halftime break looking like a new team, scoring back to back touchdowns.

“Came in at halftime, made some simple adjustments, but really nothing major,” George said. “Just executing and doing our job. They came out in the second half on defense and did that. Got a big play on kickoff right there, offense scored back to back to back.”

Running back K’Den Hawkins scored a 67-yard rush 20 seconds into the half.

“We all know Hawkins is super explosive; those are things we can do. We’re trying to find different ways to get him a ball. We’ve been working that last week,” George said.

Hawkins’ touchdown was followed by a punt recovered by tight end Patrick Dutton on Jonesboro, which gave the Golden Hurricane the ball back immediately.

The very next play, Myers threw downfield to Davis, resulting in a 42-yard touchdown. For the first time all night, Jonesboro was in charge of the scoreboard 35-34.

On fourth and 5, Desoto was going for it, but a defender on Jonesboro knocked it away and it was recovered by the Golden Hurricane defense on their own 49-yard line. Soon, Davis scored a 45-yard touchdown, the third touchdown of the quarter, and there was still 8:45 to go.

Three punts later, and Jonesboro had the ball again with two minutes left in the quarter. Brown immediately finds a hole in the DeSoto defense and runs 52 yards to score his fourth touchdown of the night.

Stretching the lead 49-34, neither team scored in the fourth quarter, handing Jonesboro their first win of the season and DeSoto their second loss.

Myers had 299 passing yards throughout the night, while Perry of DeSoto had 90 yards. However, Perry recorded 141 rushing yards against Myers’ 24.

The rushing leaders on both teams, in comparison, were Rogers with 220 on DeSoto and Brown with 126 on Jonesboro.

Jonesboro defensive back Jaques Jordan had a total of 14 tackles on the night, 11 solo and three assists, and made the DeSoto offense lose 4 yards.

“Offensively, we can score the ball better than we have the last two years. So that’s really good. Defensively, it’s a scrappy group. They stay together no matter what, good, bad, or ugly,” George said.

Craighead County Deputy PAO releases annual report on Hot Check Program

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JP Barbara Weinstock (District 5) announces retirement after 27 years

Delta Digital News Service

Brayden Morse | Contributor

Monday, April 29, 2024

JONESBORO, Ark. – The Hot Check Program from the Craighead County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney’s office in accordance with ACA 16-21-120(c) presented the 2023 annual report of attorney fees and restitution fees on Feb. 12.

The Hot Check program was terminated in April 2021. Keith Chrestman, former Craighead County prosecuting attorney, terminated the program when realizing few people write checks anymore. It was costing Chrestman more than he was getting out of it. 

Charlene Davidson, Managing Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for Craighead County, presented the 2023 annual report. 

“During the 2023 calendar year, our office received $13,011.21 from the Craighead County Sheriff’s Office to be entered as payments received from the defendants in the Hot Check Program,” Davidson said. 

“During the 2023 calendar year, our office received $13,011.21 from the Craighead County Sheriff’s Office to be entered as payments received from the defendants in the Hot Check Program.”

Craighead County Managing Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Charlene Davidson

The Craighead County Prosecutor’s Office disbursed $32,991.73 towards victim restitution and $11,813.25 towards merchant fees that defendants were charged for the hot checks. The office also disbursed $8,259.09 in prosecuting attorneys fees. 

The prosecuting attorney fees are entitled to the prosecuting attorneys by statute for managing the Hot Check program. 

Davidson shared that money is still coming in despite termination of the program, when a committee member asked about the money situation and how it works. 

“There is money still coming in. The defendants pleaded guilty and got on a payment plan. Some of them pay and some do not. Sheriff Marty Boyd has been really good about getting their tax refunds. We get money that has been owed for 10-15-20 years. There is still money coming in that needs to go out to the victims. I think money will come in for quite some time,” she said. 

Once a defendant is found guilty of violating the hot check law, they enter a guilty plea. The defendant is ordered to pay restitution. The collection of restitution fees is managed by the Sheriff’s office. 

“Until it is paid in full, it is still owed. It will continue to come in even though we are no longer prosecuting those types of cases,” Davidson said. 

Now that the program does not exist, if someone sees suspicion of a hot check, they will present them to the law enforcement agency for investigation. 

If the law enforcement agency finds probable cause for an arrest, they will forward it to the Craighead County Prosecutor’s Office. 

In other business, Craighead County Judge Marvin Day announced Barbara Weinstock’s retirement after 27 years as Justice of the Peace for District Five at the Craighead County Quorum Court meeting on Monday. 

Weinstock was responsible for $30,549,485 of grants of free money, helping people of Craighead County. The grants were used for mental health courts, veteran’s courts, drug courts, etc. 

Weinstock shared her thoughts on her appreciation of the committee and her time as part of the Justice of the Peace. 

“I’ve learned a lot, I really have. Thank you, it has been a pleasure,” Weinstock said. 

“I’ve learned a lot, I really have. Thank you, it has been a pleasure,”

District 5 JP Barbara Weinstock

Judge Day said Weinstock would retire Friday but continue to help. He also shared his appreciation of Weinstock and the future of her replacement. 

“We are looking for a replacement. We are excited for her,” Day said. 

Craighead County quorum court will meet again Feb. 26.

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Brayden Morse

Brayden Morse is a junior in the multimedia journalism program in the School of Media and Journalism at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. He can be reached at brayden.morse@smail.astate.edu.

NOTE: Featured photo by Money Knack on Unsplash

Committee adopts interlocal agreement for Craighead County-Jonesboro Public Library

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Agreement maintains shared expenses for library

Delta Digital News Service

Wednesday, February 21, 2023

By Laila Casiano | Contributor 

JONESBORO, Ark. – The Public Service Committee of the Craighead County Quorum Court adopted an interlocal agreement between Craighead County and Jonesboro concerning the management and supervision of the Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library., Monday, Feb. 12.

     The agreement maintains shared expenses for the Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library, solidifying terms and shared finances for the benefit of all citizens. This contractual arrangement supports the local library by assisting in maintenance and operations of the public library systems. Additionally, the committee adopted an ordinance between Craighead County and Poinsett County regarding library services.

     “The committee essentially examined an agreement with Poinsett County and the city of Jonesboro to operate the library within a regional library setting that updates every five years,” District 13 Officer Kevin Williams said.

“The committee essentially examined an agreement with Poinsett County and the city of Jonesboro to operate the library within a regional library setting that updates every five years.”

District 13 Officer Kevin Williams

    Last fall, between Thanksgiving and Christmas, Craighead County Judge Marvin Day received an email from the public library staff requesting an update on the Interlocal Agreement between Craighead and Poinsett County. Day received a copy of the public library’s financial statement and noted the Craighead County Public Library was following an outdated Interlocal Agreement from 1941.

     Day forwarded the financial records to Craighead County Attorney Kimberly Dale, and they were advised regarding issues in the language initially passed between Craighead County and Poinsett County. 

     The interlocal agreement between Jonesboro and Craighead County needs renewal and passage every five years, according to a new state law requiring agreements not to last more than five years without renewal or appropriate acknowledgment by governing bodies. Their attorney then began drafting a “bare-bones” ordinance.

     “More than anything, we are trying to keep it as apolitical, non-political, as possible,” Day said. “We are just following state statutes and agreeing to partner with the city of Jonesboro or Poinsett County, however that may be, to provide these services for the people.”

     Day reassured the committee that nothing will change, and that the agreement will essentially bring the Interlocal Agreement up to current state code. Regarding how things are run or how the library decides to govern itself, Day reiterated they are not attempting to change anything.

     “Let’s just bring it up to the current codes and move forward,”  Day said. “If someone wants to change something in the future, that’s great, but as of right now, we are doing the bare minimum of what we need for the agreement.”

     The county and city will consider the capital contributions of each entity. They aim to establish the benefits of the library to its citizens and take legislative steps to ratify the agreement, effective from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2027.

     “At the end of the day, it’s an agreement between us,” said chair of the Public Service Committee and District 7 Officer Richard Rogers. “The library runs its own board to manage its own affairs, so it doesn’t fall on our lap.”

     In other business, the quorum court:

  • Approved the road report for January 2024.
  • Approved a resolution expressing Craighead County’s willingness to utilize Federal-Aid monies for Highway 49/ County Roads 792 and 960 improvements.
  • Approved the annual report of the Hot Check program from the deputy’s prosecuting attorney’s office, pursuant to Arkansas Code Annotated (ACA) 16-21-120(c).
  • Honored Barbara Weinstock, District 5 officer, for her 27 years of service as Justice of the Peace.

– 30 –

 Laila Casiano

 Laila Casiano is a junior in the multimedia journalism program in the School of Media and Journalism at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. She can be reached at: laila.casiano@smail.astate.edu

NOTE: Featured photo shows from left, Public Service Committee Service members, Craighead County Judge Marvin Day; District 1 Officer Brad Noel; District 7 Officer and chair of the committee Richard Rogers; District 14 Officer Linda Allison; District 13 Officer Kevin Williams.

Businesses continue to require masks after mandate lifts

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Delta Digital News Service

By Maddison Smith | Contributor

JONESBORO, Ark. – COVID-19 vaccines are being distributed across the country and many states have lifted their mask mandates, Arkansas being one of those states. 

Gov. Asa Hutchinson lifted the mask mandate after consulting with Department of Health Secretary Jose Romero according to a press release from the official website of Gov. Asa Hutchinson.   

Tropical Smoothie Café requires both their employees and customers to wear masks inside the building.
Photo by Maddison Smith

Businesses still have the right to require that customers wear masks when entering their stores, but many only require their employees to wear a mask. Hotworx Sales Associate Megan Tremmel said, “After the mask mandate was lifted, we don’t require people to wear masks. If they want to and it helps them feel comfortable, then so be it.” 

Other stores like Palm Beach Tan require masks for their employees, routinely practice social distancing and leave signs on the outside of their building recommending their customers to wear masks. 

According to the Arkansas Department of Health’s website, there are 1,325 active cases of COVID-19. Craighead county had eight new cases, Pulaski county nine new cases and Lonoke county with seven new cases of COVID-19. 

Vaccinations are being distributed and given to people across the country. In Arkansas alone, around 630,000 people are fully vaccinated, with this number increasing daily. 

Tropical Smoothie Café Manager Ryan Denis said the store requires both their employees and customers to wear masks while inside the building. 

“I’ve been surprised to see so many people still wearing masks. The threat is still out there, we don’t want to turn our back to it,” Denis said. 

“I’ve been surprised to see so many people still wearing masks.”
– Tropical Smoothie Café Manager Ryan Denis

Up until two months ago, Tropical Smoothie Cafe’s drive-thru provided the only business the store received. Denis said there is now more traffic in their lobbies since the mask mandate has been lifted. 

Denis said he feels food service workers feel different about wearing masks. Guests do not pose a threat because his employees are able to successfully social distance.  

“I wear my mask mostly for other people. We owe each other that courtesy,” Denis said. “I’m ready for it to be normal. I want to see people’s faces and smiles again.” 

Palm Beach Tan Manager Kaygan Muse said they have more customers coming in without masks. 

Muse said she is not concerned for her well-being or her employees since they are still wearing masks and have extra cleaning procedures for their tanning beds. 

“It’s a start. I think the cases have lowered a lot recently so I think we are going in the right direction to go back to normal,” Muse said.

CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE LOCAL MASK MANDATE.

MASK MANDATEDownload

Maddison Smith is a senior in the multimedia journalism program in The School of Media and Journalism at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. You can follow her on Twitter. She can be contacted at: maddison.smith@smail.astate.edu.

U.S. Census could potentially bring important funds to Jonesboro

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By Tristan Bennett
Delta Digital News Service

JONESBORO – The U.S. Census has occurred without fail since 1790 despite obstacles like war, natural disaster, and now, a pandemic.

The United States conducts a census every 10 years to get an accurate count of residents. In 2020, it is once again time for gather information from around the nation.

Article I, Section 2 of the United States Constitution mandates the count and legally requires residents in all 50 states and five territories to respond. The U.S. Census Bureau makes it fairly simple to fulfill the requirement.

According to the Bureau’s website, invitations to respond have already been sent to homes around the country. This year, anyone can respond by mail, phone or online by the April 1 deadline. After that, census takers may be dispatched to collect answers.

The survey asks a few simple questions about who lives in the home and how they are related as well as their races and sexes. There is no question about American citizenship.

These questions may seem simple to some, but Kade Holliday, Craighead County clerk, said they hold a great importance to the city and county.

“The U.S. Census is one of the biggest ways that federal money is dispersed out,” Holliday said. “You want the most people to be counted so that your area gets more of those tax dollars.”

Holliday said because Jonesboro experienced a population boom since the last census in 2010, the city can expect a significant jump in federal funds, and that money will be used to build parks, bridges and roads as well as add to the police, fire and sanitation departments.

An accurate count is also important for elected officials. Shifts in population or growth can significantly change areas they represent.

“Let’s say there’s a situation where in Arkansas we picked up a fifth (congressman), or we lost one because the population went up so greatly in another part of the country. We would have to redraw the lines to create those districts to make sure they were equal in population, so one district doesn’t have more people in it than another,” Holliday said.

While some may be hesitant to give information to a government agency, Title 13 of the U.S. Code strictly prohibits the Census Bureau from sharing personal information. Responses can only be used to produce statistics, and no information can be used against the responder. The Supreme Court has even ruled that the Patriot Act does not override the law of confidentiality on the census, and addresses cannot be discovered through the Freedom of Information Act.

Revenue Gains Spur Projects

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By Chloe Short
Delta Digital News Service

JONESBORO — The Craighead County seat will see changes due to recent economic gains and plans for incoming jobs.

Sales tax revenues for Jonesboro have started strong in 2019 and could potentially pass the record-breaking 2018 totals. The increase in money means many new proposals for the city and the continuation of projects and population inflation. It also opens conversation for further development of the city.

“What we can see is that people spent money in 2019 in the city of Jonesboro, which is always a good thing,” said Craig Rickert, the director of communications for Jonesboro Unlimited, a company that works to bring new businesses to the Jonesboro area. “People are shopping, they’re going to restaurants … they’re buying cars and that money goes to a general fund and helps the city pay for the services for its citizens.”

Mark Young, president and CEO at Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce, said these repairs and services would likely not be limited to police and fire protection, parks and recreation and road improvements. One service that is coming to Jonesboro is a new bike trail.

“I think It would benefit the community positively because it would provide more opportunities for people to get out and be active,” said Jordan Nash, a current Jonesboro resident.

Jonesboro Unlimited’s five-year plan focuses on attracting businesses and talent, business expansions, workforce development and community enhancement. Chris Barber, chairman for Jonesboro Unlimited, said they’re targeting jobs and businesses in health care, agriculture, manufacturing, logistics and professional services.  

“We’re not at liberty to say what businesses are coming due to confidentiality agreements that the companies have signed,” Barber said.  

The plan is two years ahead of schedule and the projected outcome is expected to bring 5,153 new jobs.

“Jonesboro is doing very well,” Barber said. “We are seeing a steady community, employment and population increase.”

Cellphones Pinpoint Emergencies

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by Miranda Reynolds
Delta Digital News Service

JONESBORO – In a life-threatening situation where seconds matter, Craighead County’s dispatch service uses advances in technology to find someone’s location and provide them help.

Cellphones allow people across the nation to quickly access information at a touch of a button. In an emergency, it provides a lifeline to help. E911 Director Jeff Presley said GPS technology is vital for first responders in the line of duty.

“With smartphones that we’re using today, they’ve actually got GPS readers built into that phone. So when you activate a call for service or a 911 call, it automatically tracks that cellphone,” Presley said.

Dispatchers in Craighead County work around the clock, seven days a week. Mellenee Bennett actively works in emergency services and began her career in 2001. The public’s access to cellphones sometimes overflows the dispatchers.

“The thing is, if you’re going to take the time to call, give us pertinent information because our phone will just be ringing off the hook with everybody that has a cellphone,” Bennett said.

Last month, 90 percent of 911 calls came in from cellphones, Presley said. Sprint store sales associate Zach Vickers said the E911-texting option gives people another way to contact 911, but with a cost.

“It wasn’t just an inconvenience on consumers. I know it did raise cellphone bills up a small margin. But in doing so, it enabled consumers to be able to make emergency phone calls,” Vickers said.

Downloading emergency cellphone apps onto phones allow for third parties to be involved, not putting you directly with emergency services.

“I would be really weary of any third-party apps or anything that does not connect directly to your local 911 center because it could delay services getting to you,” Presley said.

The dispatchers in Craighead County rely on training and experience and are ready to take emergency calls, Bennett said.

“We’ve got probably 60-to-70 years of experience in here. So if I don’t know where they’re at, somebody’s going to know,” Bennett said.

When an emergency arises, remain calm and pay attention to surroundings, Bennett said. By listing personal information on smart911.com, first responders can use that to help police, fire and EMS in an emergency.

Taxes Fund Necessary Services and Programs

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By Rachel Moore
Delta Digital News Service

JONESBORO – As tax season approaches, citizens should be concerned with more than income taxes. From Jan. 1 to May 31, all Craighead County residents must have their personal property manually assessed. This includes vehicles, boats, trailers, camping trailers, tractors and airplanes.

“There is also business personal property, which is all of the assets not affixed to the physical structure of the building that are used in the regular course of business. For example, a hair salon should turn in items such as salon chairs, mirrors, drying stations, scissors, waiting area furniture, mobile stations, office supplies, a computer,” said Hannah Towell, Craighead County’s tax assessor.

Towell’s duties include appraising and assessing all personal property. She determines a property’s assessment by taking 20 percent of the market value and then multiplying that number by that person’s school district millage.

“In 2016, the collector’s office collected $66,823,765.58,” said Wes Eddington, the Craighead County tax collector. His office works alongside Towell’s in order to sort and obtain local taxes.

While most citizens know they must pay their taxes every year, not all of them know what programs the taxes fund.

“I just know I need to pay them to avoid legal trouble. I don’t really know anything about what it funds,” said Brigitte Schwartz, a hairdresser currently residing in Jonesboro.

Local taxes fund governmental operations such as the county courthouse and public schools. According to CraigheadAssessor.com, nearly 75 percent of the money goes to schools in the area. Some of the money also goes to the quorum court, county judge, mayor and City Council.

“Also, improvements such as drainage districts, timber, fire districts, city liens, mineral rights and other interests can be legally added to the tax books for collection by this office and there may be a set fee or it may be calculated differently,” Eddington said.

Overall, taxes fund services crucial to the county. Without them, over 100,000 people in the area would not be able to live as they do. But legal punishments exist for those who fail to follow local tax guidelines. This can include monetary penalties that accumulate over time.

It’s important to note real estate taxes are handled differently than property taxes.

“Real Estate is appraised on a five-year cycle. Once every five years, we re-evaluate all of the real property — houses, farm land, commercial buildings — in Craighead County,” Towell said.

The county’s five-year cycle is ending, so officials are currently compiling data that they will use to determine the current fair-market value of everyone’s real property.

Tax assessment and collection can become complicated. So for more information about personal property and real estate taxes, visit the Craighead County courthouse in Lake City at 107 Cobean Blvd. in Lake City, Arkansas, or the Jonesboro courthouse at 511 S. Main Street.

 (NOTE: Cut money image courtesy of TaxCredits.net, [CC BY 2.5], via Creative Commons)

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