by Audrey Poff

It’s hard to believe that 22 years ago this month, we gathered with colleagues, mentors, family and friends as we debuted the first issue of Jonesboro Occasions at a launch party at the 501 Club.

Jeff Hankins, my longtime friend and former business partner, and I had worked together previously – first on the staff of The Herald, the student-run newspaper at A-State, and later on the staff of the Northeast Arkansas Tribune, a bi-weekly newspaper in Paragould at the time, before going different directions.

Hankins had picked up the first copies of the magazine, and we were excited to share them with everyone. Many of those at the launch party had pledged their support and backed our idea for a new publication that would serve as Jonesboro’s city magazine. 

We started the magazine from a spare room in my home but quickly outgrew it. We moved into an office in the Southwest Business Square approximately six months later. Since then, we’ve moved the office four more times, eventually relocating to Downtown Jonesboro in 2016.

Starting a magazine from scratch was a huge undertaking 22 years ago, but with the support of the community, we have managed to stick around for more than two decades. Considering some of the unanticipated events of the past two decades, I know God sustained us through the tough times. It is also a testament to our dedicated staff, advertisers and loyal readers. 

So, this month, we celebrate more than two decades of service to our community. Collectively, that’s 22 years of event coverage; 22 years of supporting local nonprofits in fundraising efforts; 22 years of promoting the arts in the community; 22 years of highlighting local chefs and restaurants; 22 years of promoting area businesses; 22 years of serving as the city’s social and events calendar; 22 years of style and fashion; and 22 years of spotlighting dedicated volunteers.

For a little perspective, that takes the magazine back to 2003 – a time when George W. Bush was president, and the late Hubert Brodell was the city mayor; a time when Junior Auxiliary of Jonesboro hosted its annual Charity Ball inside the former Holiday Inn Holidome and the best local shopping was at Indian Mall – the social venue back in the day.

From black tie events to space-themed galas, we have had the honor of being a part of so many memorable events during the past two decades. The biggest honor, however, is being able to shine a light on others in our community. If we can help one local business owner succeed, one nonprofit ease the burden on those they serve, one artist share their gift as inspiration to others, that gives us purpose. Lifting others in our community – that is what we strive to do. 

Thank you for 22 years of support and the privilege of paying it forward in the community we serve. Here’s to another trip around the sun!