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$3 MILLION PRIVATE GIFT TO SOUTH ARKANSAS COLLEGE, $25 MILLION IN CONSTRUCTION AND HIGH PRAISE FOR DR. TULLY-DARTEZ BRINGS APPLAUSE TO THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS

Published

1 year ago

February 14, 2025

Staff Reports

This is part two of our coverage of the El Dorado City Council meeting from Thursday of this week. You can find Part One here.

EL DORADO – Before approving a nearly $6 Million funding request from the El Dorado Works Board, the entity in charge of presenting disbursement requests of the previously collected 1% sales tax to the City Council, South Arkansas College President, Dr. Stephanie Tully-Dartez said the college was proud to work with Murphy Oil Corporation to facilitate the beginning of the stadium but said, “I really appreciate consideration of this proposal, I think it is going to do great things for our community. I was excited to work with Murphy Oil and for them to donate the money for us to have a ball field at the college but I really think that being able to turn our planned ball field into a Diamond Sports Stadium, where we can have youth play on a collegiate level field is just really exciting. From an economic development standpoint there’s some real numbers there but also the unquantifiable benefit to having young people involved in sports, especially on a collegiate field. I appreciate the support of the Works Board and the support of the City Council if you so choose.” Prior to the vote, which passed unanimously, Ward Four Alderman Buddy McAdams said, “Yes! I think we would be remiss by not mentioning Murphy Oil and not only what they have done for the stadium but for everything they do for our community.

BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE!

Mayor Paul Choate then said to Dr. Tully-Dartez, “There was another major contribution made too, wasn’t there?” Tully Dartez nodded and said, “Yes! On part of the housing, Mr. Bill Howard, one of our greatest philanthropists as a private individual, has donated…” She then stopped and turned towards one of her staff members in the audience and said, “I believe this is the first time we are going to say this outloud?” Then turning back to the Council said, “… $3 Million and the housing that will be established on the campus, next to the Conference Center, where our student housing is going, is going to be named Howard Hall in his honor and thanks for the gift. We are excited about bringing young people to El Dorado to attend college, get an education and hopefully we can keep them around and get them into our workforce.”

WAIT, HOW MUCH DID YOU SAY?

Mayor Choate then said, “If my math is not off, by far, this is going to be a $19 Million plus project for the community.” Tully-Dartez agreed and said, “With everything we’ve got going on, including the construction of the new Industrial Chem Lab on the East Campus, we’ve got about $25 Million in construction going on right now.” “Folks, that’s big stuff.” Choate said over the applause in the Council Chamber.

Ward Three Alderman Willie McGhee said, “I think we also need to thank our citizens for keeping this going. Every time we go to the Arkansas Municipal League and talk about our one-cent sales tax, people is so shocked, we are willing to tax ourselves and to turn our community. I am about like Mr. Rucks, I just truly, we need to invest in our young people and in our future.”

SHE’S BECOME ONE OF US

Sara Coffman, who was the El Dorado Works Board representative addressing the Council said, “It is so powerful to be able to work with a person that has such vision for our city. We are so lucky to have her here with us and she’s staying with us and she knows she wants smart people around us. It’s such an opportunity and thank you Doctor for working so closely with us, I really appreciate that.” As mentioned in Part One of this series, Dr. Stephanie Tully-Dartez moved to El Dorado in 2007 with her husband Shawn. In 2009 she was named as the Director of Institutional Research and Effectiveness at South Arkansas College, a position she held until 2013. Then she moved on to become Chief Institutional Effectiveness and Advancement Officer until 2017. Beginning that year, she made several transitions within the college, being first, Associate Vice President of Workforce and Career Education, then for Planning and Career Education, then for Institutional Planning and Academic Support. In 2021 she became Vice President for Academic Affairs and for a period of about a year (2022-23) also filled the interim position as Vice President of Student Services. Then in 2023, while the college sought for their next leader, she assumed the interim role as President. Then, on July 1st, 2024, she became the sixth President in the history of South Arkansas College.

HIGH PRAISE FROM A RESPECTED COUNCIL MEMBER

After the vote by the Council, the chamber again filled with applause. Ward Two Alderman, Judy Ward, said, “I just want to commend Dr. Stephanie at the college. We have several people here tonight that worked at the college for many years. Since Dr. Whitfield, our first president left, she is the first President, I think I can say, that the employees have been extremely excited about. Before, they would go out into the world and find somebody who didn’t know anything about El Dorado and bring them in and it was a revolving door. They would come to South Ark and wait for a better job at a bigger college. Dr. Stephanie has been there for years, she knows what’s going on, she is an A plus plus person and we are blessed to have her. And also, you talked about Mr. Bill Howard and those of you that know him. Sunday, he will be 101 years old. So, if you see him on Facebook, please send him a message, or mail him a card, I can give you his address. But he will be 101 with a sharp mind and is still up and going.” Mayor Choate said, “He is a real friend to the community and to the college.” Former El Dorado Mayor and South Arkansas College Board member, Veronica Smith-Creer agreed, being overheard in the crowd saying, “He is that! He is that!”

$4 MILLION FEDERAL GRANT FOR SOUTH ARKANSAS REGIONAL AIRPORT

The Council then moved on to a reclassification request from the El Dorado Works Board. Previously approved monies to the South Arkansas Regional Airport were discussed with the Council’s approval being sought to reallocate nearly $400,000. Coffman said the Airport was seeking the reclassification to include a design study in order to secure a $4 Million Federal Grant for the airport’s terminal renovation. “Again, this is a reallocation, we gave him a million dollars and so far there’s only been about $100,000 spent out of it. We just wanted to make the Council aware that this money needs to be spent on something else. We are just dotting our i’s and crossing our t’s”

COMING SOON: PART THREE OF OUR COVERAGE OF THE RECENT EL DORADO CITY COUNCIL MEETING

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El Dorado School District To Offer Free Breakfast, Elementary School Supplies

Published

8 hours ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO, Ark. — As families prepare for the start of a new school year, the El Dorado School District is working to ease some of the financial burden by providing free meals and classroom supplies for students.

District officials announced that all El Dorado School District students will receive free breakfast during the upcoming school year. In addition, students in kindergarten through fourth grade will receive free instructional school supplies, helping ensure they have the materials they need on the first day of class.

The district says the initiative is part of its ongoing commitment to supporting families, removing barriers to learning and helping every student begin the school year ready for success.

By providing essential resources such as breakfast and classroom supplies, school leaders hope students can focus on learning rather than worrying about basic needs.

The district encourages families to take advantage of the programs as they make final preparations for the new school year.

“At ESD, Every Student Deserves a great start,” the district said in announcing the back-to-school support initiatives.

News

City of El Dorado Seeks Applicants For Airport Commission

Published

8 hours ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — The City of El Dorado is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on the El Dorado Airport Commission.

City officials are seeking qualified applicants to fill a position on the commission, which helps provide oversight and guidance for the operation and future development of South Arkansas Regional Airport at Goodwin Field.

Those interested in serving are encouraged to submit an application before the 5 p.m. deadline on Thursday, Aug. 20.

Residents who would like more information about the position or the application process can contact City Clerk Heather McVay at 870-881-4877 or by email at [email protected].

The City of El Dorado encourages community members who are interested in contributing to the future of local aviation and economic development to apply.

News

Heat Advisory Continues For South Arkansas Counties

Published

8 hours ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Dangerous heat will continue across South Arkansas today, with the National Weather Service warning that heat index values could climb as high as 109 to 115 degrees in some locations.

Much of Union County and the surrounding South Arkansas region, including El Dorado, remains under a Heat Advisory, while areas farther south and west across East Texas and northern Louisiana are under an Extreme Heat Warning.

Afternoon high temperatures are expected to reach the upper 90s to lower 100s, but the combination of heat and humidity will make it feel significantly hotter.

The National Weather Service says prolonged exposure to these conditions can quickly lead to heat-related illnesses, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic health conditions and anyone working or exercising outdoors.

Residents are encouraged to:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible, as fans alone may not provide enough cooling during extreme heat.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing if spending time outside.

Officials also remind residents to check on neighbors, relatives and pets during the prolonged stretch of dangerous heat and never leave children or animals unattended in vehicles.

The heat advisory remains in effect through this evening, with forecasters expecting another round of dangerously hot conditions later this week.

News

El Dorado Business Leader Madison Murphy to Receive Statewide Leadership in Free Enterprise Award

Published

1 day ago

July 21, 2026

Sandy Sanford

Madison Murphy being honored as tourism person of the year at the Governor's Conference on Tourism. Photo from GoElDorado.com

LITTLE ROCK, AR – Throughout his career, Madison Murphy has earned a reputation as one of Arkansas’ most respected business leaders, with decades of service spanning corporate leadership, education, philanthropy, and the arts. This fall, that legacy will be recognized on a statewide stage.

The El Dorado native has been named one of two recipients of the Leadership in Free Enterprise Award, presented by Economics Arkansas, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing economic and personal finance education across the state.

Murphy graduated from Hendrix College in Conway in 1980 with a degree in economics and business administration before returning to El Dorado to begin his career with Murphy Oil Corporation as a junior accountant. He quickly advanced through the company’s ranks, serving as a junior auditor and associate auditor before accepting international assignments in London, England, with Murphy Eastern Oil and in New Orleans, Louisiana, with Murphy’s Ocean Drilling and Exploration Company.

Despite opportunities abroad, Murphy chose to return home in 1988, joining Murphy Oil as vice president of planning. Over the years, he held several executive leadership positions, including treasurer, chief financial and administrative officer, and ultimately chairman of the board. He continues to serve as a member of the Murphy Oil Board of Directors.

Beyond Murphy Oil, his leadership has extended across Arkansas’ business and civic landscape. Murphy served for a decade on the Arkansas Highway Commission, spent more than 11 years on the board of BancorpSouth, and also served on the board of Deltic Timber Corporation.

He is a founding member of the Murphy Arts District (MAD), co-owner of Presqu’ile Winery, president of the Murphy Foundation, and has served as chairman of the board of Murphy USA since the company’s 2013 spinoff from Murphy Oil.

Economics Arkansas selected Murphy for the Leadership in Free Enterprise Award in recognition of his commitment to promoting the principles and success of free enterprise throughout Arkansas.

Formerly known as the Arkansas Council on Economic Education, Economics Arkansas equips PreK-12 educators with the training and classroom resources needed to teach economics and personal finance. The organization believes that preparing teachers creates a multiplier effect, allowing generations of Arkansas students to gain practical financial knowledge and a stronger understanding of the marketplace.

Murphy will be honored during the organization’s annual awards ceremony on Nov. 4 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Little Rock. Also receiving recognition that evening will be Walter Hussman Jr., chairman of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Tickets for the event are $125 and may be purchased online or by calling 501-682-4230.

Featured

Murphy-Pitard Jewelers Joins Downtown El Dorado’s Christmas in July Celebration

Published

1 day ago

July 21, 2026

Jax Sanford

EL DORADO, Ark. – Christmas is coming early to historic downtown El Dorado as Murphy-Pitard Jewelers invites the community to celebrate the Christmas in July festivities, taking place Thursday, July 23, through Saturday, July 25.

Following the success of last year’s event, Murphy-Pitard is bringing the celebration back with an even greater focus on festive fun, holiday planning, and the excitement of brand-new jewelry arrivals.

Throughout the three-day event, customers will have the opportunity to get a first look at the store’s newest collections, recently hand-selected at market, while shopping the best selection before the holiday season begins.

“The response to Christmas in July last year was incredible, and we couldn’t wait to bring it back,” said Amanda Pitard, owner of Murphy-Pitard Jewelers. “It’s such a fun way to celebrate with our community, introduce the new pieces we found at market, help customers start their Christmas wish lists early, and remind everyone it’s never too early to start planning for the holidays. Whether you’re beginning your Christmas shopping or simply enjoying the festivities downtown, we hope you’ll stop in and celebrate with us.”

Guests can enjoy holiday treats, festive decorations, Christmas music, and plenty of Christmas cheer while exploring the store’s newest arrivals. Murphy-Pitard Jewelers is proud to join the Downtown Business Association and Main Street El Dorado, celebrating Christmas in July as downtown businesses spread holiday cheer with festive activities and create a fun shopping experience throughout historic downtown El Dorado.

Customers are encouraged to create their Christmas wish list during the event for a chance to win a $500 Murphy-Pitard Jewelers shopping spree through a special Christmas in July Wish & Win giveaway.

For the first time, Murphy-Pitard Jewelers is introducing a special Christmas layaway program during Christmas in July. The three-day offer allows customers to reserve gifts with 0% down, NO interest, and five equal monthly payments, making it easy to plan ahead for the holidays while securing the store’s newest arrivals. (Restrictions apply. See store for complete details.)

Additional highlights include Santa Savings, featuring select merchandise specially marked for the event, as well as a visit from Summer Santa on Saturday.

Murphy-Pitard Jewelers’ Christmas in July will take place during regular business hours:

Thursday- Friday, July 23- July 24: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 25: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

For more information about Murphy-Pitard Jewelers, visit the store in historic downtown El Dorado, call (870) 863-8818, or follow Murphy-Pitard Jewelers on Facebook for event updates and sneak peeks of the newest arrivals.