SHREVEPORT – After a night of severe thunderstorms, more unsettled weather is expected today across southern and eastern parts of the region, including South Arkansas. The National Weather Service in Shreveport has placed the area under a Level 1 (Marginal) risk for severe storms, the lowest tier on its five-level scale.

Scattered showers will continue through much of the morning, with embedded thunderstorms developing at times. While isolated thunderstorms are possible throughout the day, the best chance for stronger storms will be in the southern and eastern zones.

Forecasters warn of potential hazards including damaging wind gusts in excess of 60 miles per hour and large hail up to quarter size or larger.

Residents are advised to stay weather aware and monitor for any warnings issued throughout the day, especially in areas like El Dorado, Ruston, and Monroe.

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For the latest updates, visit weather.gov/shv or follow @NWSShreveport on social media.

EL DORADO — The Murphy Arts District (MAD) in El Dorado is teaming up with the NELA Music Association in a new partnership aimed at providing expanded performance opportunities for musicians from Northeast Louisiana.

Announced Monday, the collaboration is a significant move to bring fresh talent from the NELA region to new stages and broader audiences. As part of the agreement, the Murphy Arts District will serve as the official presenter of the Best Emerging Artist Award at the 2025 NELA Music Awards.

The partnership underscores both organizations’ shared mission to elevate Southern music and create platforms for rising artists.

“We greatly admire the work they’ve done to build a thriving district that champions live music,” said Myra Gatling-Akers, President and Founder of the NELA Music Awards. “Expanding into new markets is vital for our musicians, giving them greater exposure and helping them grow their fan base beyond our region.”

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Joanna Benson, Marketing Manager at MAD, echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the venue’s long-standing support of regional talent.

“Over the years, we’ve developed a strong bond with many talented NELA artists who have taken the stage at MAD, and it’s been a joy to watch their careers flourish,” Benson said. “We’re passionate about continuing to support and build relationships with the next generation of artists.”

The partnership is expected to drive greater visibility for emerging musicians while reinforcing El Dorado’s status as a vibrant cultural hub in the South.

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EL DORADO — The El Dorado School Board will convene for its regular monthly meeting Monday evening at 6 p.m., with several key items on the agenda, including athletic budgeting, personnel discussions, and assurances for federal education programs.

Board members will begin by reviewing and approving the minutes from the May 12 regular meeting, as well as three special called meetings held on May 8, May 13, and May 27.

One of the notable items on the agenda is a presentation from Athletic Director Phillip Lansdell regarding the district’s athletic budget and insurance plans for the upcoming school year. The board will also vote on a resolution to appoint a representative to the South Central Service Cooperative Board of Directors.

Sherry Floss is scheduled to present the annual ESSA (Every Student Succeeds Act), IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) assurances, and the district’s GEPA (General Education Provisions Act) statement, which are required for federal funding compliance.

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Additionally, the board will consider student transfer petitions before moving into executive session to discuss personnel matters.

The meeting will take place at the district’s central office and is open to the public.

EL DORADO — The El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce is inviting the community to “Give the Spice of Life” by donating blood during a special drive on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. The event will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Chamber’s downtown office, located at 111 W. Main Street.

Organized in partnership with LifeShare Blood Center, the drive aims to help save lives by collecting much-needed blood donations for hospitals across the region. Each donation can help up to three patients in need, according to organizers.

As a token of appreciation, every donor will receive a complimentary pass to attend the Chamber’s “Business After Hours” event that same evening at The Wooden Nickel. The networking event is designed to support local business connections while celebrating those who gave the gift of life.

Community members are encouraged to stop by, roll up their sleeves, and make a meaningful impact.

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For more information, contact the El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce.

SMACKOVER — The Smackover-Norphlet School District has announced Melanie Castleberry as the new principal of Smackover Elementary School.

Castleberry comes to Smackover from Fairview, where she most recently served as Assistant Principal at Fairview Elementary. With 17 years of experience in education, she has held roles as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and administrator.

“I am so excited for this new journey and the opportunity to lead this amazing group of teachers,” Castleberry said. “I look forward to building a school community where every voice is valued, challenges are embraced, and our success is celebrated.”

Castleberry is a graduate of Southern Arkansas University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She is also a dedicated mother to three sons and enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and cheering on her boys in sports.

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The district welcomed Castleberry as a leader who brings both experience and enthusiasm to the role and expressed confidence in her ability to guide Smackover Elementary with excellence.