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Jody Barker

Jody Barker is the Editor-in-Chief of Jonesboro Right Now. A lifelong resident of Northeast Arkansas and an Arkansas State University alum, Jody is dedicated to delivering fair, transparent, and community-focused news.

Government & Politics
3 weeks ago
City of Jonesboro Clarifies Zoning Codes in Tractor Supply Relocation Denial

Following a variance denial at a recent Board of Zoning Adjustments (BZA) meeting, the city of Jonesboro is working to clarify the application of its redevelopment codes and explore a potential compromise with TSC.

Arts & Entertainment
3 weeks ago
Local Art League to Showcase Northeast Arkansas Talent in Late-Summer Events

Northeast Arkansas is home to a community of artistic talent, and one group is working to bring those creators to the forefront in the months ahead.

Smiling man in a black suit and red tie, head-and-shoulders portrait for a professional profile against a white background (slightly tilted).
Education
3 weeks ago
Making Career Tech a ‘Status Symbol’: How NEACTC’s New Director Plans to Elevate Vocational Education

JRN sat down with Barnes to learn more about his past and how it has influenced his career, and how he plans to move NEACTC forward heading into the new school year.

A small motorboat with two people travels along a muddy river bordered by trees under a blue sky.
News
1 month ago
UPDATE | Recovery Effort Underway for Child Missing in Water in Craighead County

Emergency crews in Craighead County have officially transitioned to a recovery effort for a juvenile who was last seen going underwater and did not resurface.

Logo for 'Together We Home Inc' featuring red decorative wordmark, a white house outline with a red heart, and the slogan 'We Home Inc' beneath.
Giving Guide
1 month ago
Nonprofit Seeks to Bring Homelessness Support to Jonesboro

“Together We Home” is an initiative led by Rashawn Vaughan that is dedicated to helping individuals and families experiencing homelessness rebuild their lives.

Close-up of a tick (arachnid) on a green leaf, displaying a dark blue-green shield and red abdomen.
Health & Wellness
2 months ago
Local Experts Warn of Severe Tick Season in Northeast Arkansas

As summer temperatures peak across Northeast Arkansas, local experts are warning residents that a severe uptick in tick activity is posing a double threat to area families and their pets.

Group of ten adults posing with a large ceremonial check in front of a United Way Northeast Arkansas backdrop, smiling at the camera.
Community
2 months ago
United Way of NEA Announces Over $425K in Funding for Various Nonprofits in 2027 Funding Cycle

Nonprofits in Northeast Arkansas will have increased support next year, as the United Way of Northeast Arkansas unveiled its recipients for its 2027 funding cycle.

woman holding book and showing it to a group of young children
Education
2 months ago
Openings Available for Arkansas Early Learning Locations in Jonesboro

AEL provides no-cost Head Start and Early Head Start services to pregnant women and children from birth to age five.

Young girl in a lavender dress posing with hands on hips at a charity booth that reads 'Backpack Full of Dreams' with a blue backpack illustration on a backdrop.
Giving Guide
2 months ago
​10-Year-Old Jonesboro Girl’s Car Show Raises Over $1,300 for Unhoused Youth

Multiple people came together in Jonesboro to support a 10-year-old girl’s mission to provide stability and opportunity for children without a permanent home.

Aerial view of a large solar farm separated from colorful patchwork fields by a winding canal.
News
2 months ago
$3.5 Billion Investment Secures First Phases of Steel River Energy Center in Mississippi County

One of the largest solar and battery storage facilities in the United States is taking a massive step forward right in Northeast Arkansas.