EL DORADO — Union County Judge Mike Loftin has issued a countywide burn ban effective Monday, March 23, citing dry and windy conditions that have increased the risk of wildfires across South Arkansas.

According to Judge Loftin, the burn ban will remain in effect until further notice as officials continue to monitor weather conditions and wildfire risk levels.

South Arkansas has experienced periods of dry weather in recent weeks, combined with gusty winds and low humidity, creating favorable conditions for fires to start and spread quickly. Forestry and emergency officials warn that even small outdoor burns can become dangerous when vegetation is dry and winds are strong.

Wildfire danger in South Arkansas is often heightened during late winter and early spring, when dormant vegetation dries out before seasonal rainfall returns. In recent years, multiple counties across the region have issued burn bans during extended dry periods to prevent grass and brush fires from spreading into wooded areas and residential property.

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Officials say burn bans are commonly enacted when weather conditions create a higher likelihood of fast-moving fires that can threaten homes, timberland and public safety. South Arkansas’ heavily forested landscape makes the region particularly vulnerable to wildfire activity during dry spells.

Residents are urged to follow the burn ban and avoid outdoor burning of any kind, including burning yard debris, trash or brush piles. Violating a burn ban can result in fines and may place emergency responders and neighboring properties at risk.

Safety officials also recommend several precautions during periods of elevated wildfire danger. Residents should avoid activities that create sparks, such as welding outdoors or using equipment that may produce heat or friction near dry grass. Properly discarding cigarettes and avoiding parking vehicles on dry vegetation can also reduce fire risk.

Homeowners are encouraged to keep yards clear of dry leaves and debris and to maintain defensible space around structures by trimming vegetation and removing flammable materials near homes and outbuildings.

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Authorities advise residents to remain alert for signs of fire and to report any smoke or uncontrolled flames immediately by calling 911.

Officials will continue to evaluate weather patterns and wildfire conditions in the coming days. The burn ban will remain in place until conditions improve and officials determine it is safe to resume outdoor burning.

EL DORADO, Ark. — A Union County woman has filed a federal lawsuit against the City of El Dorado, its police department, animal control officials and a former officer, alleging constitutional violations stemming from the fatal shooting of three dogs at her residence.

The lawsuit, filed March 4, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas, names the City of El Dorado, El Dorado Police Department, City of El Dorado Public Works, Union County Animal Control LLC, animal control officer Charles Hartsell and former police officer Scott Snell as defendants. The plaintiff, Rhonda Anderson, is seeking damages and a jury trial.

According to the complaint, officers were dispatched to Anderson’s residence after receiving a report that one to three dogs had attacked a man in the street. The lawsuit states that when officers arrived, the dogs were inside a fenced yard on the property.

The complaint alleges that officers entered Anderson’s fenced property without a warrant or consent and later entered the home under what the lawsuit describes as the pretense of conducting a welfare check. Inside the residence, three dogs were shot and killed, including one that was in a cage and another that was tethered, according to the filing. Two additional dogs located outside the home were captured without lethal force.

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Anderson alleges that the actions violated her constitutional rights under the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments, including claims of unlawful search and seizure, excessive force, and deprivation of due process. The lawsuit also alleges that city officials failed to properly train and supervise personnel involved in the incident.

The complaint further states that Anderson was later charged with multiple misdemeanor offenses related to alleged dangerous dogs, vaccinations and animals at large. The lawsuit claims those charges were retaliatory and intended to justify the earlier actions by officials.

In addition to federal civil rights claims, the lawsuit includes state law claims for trespass, destruction of property, intentional infliction of emotional distress and malicious prosecution. Anderson alleges the deaths of the dogs caused severe emotional distress and financial hardship.

The lawsuit also references prior disciplinary actions involving one of the named officers and alleges deficiencies in training and certification related to animal control personnel. The plaintiff contends these issues contributed to the actions taken during the incident.

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Anderson is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, attorney fees and other relief, including a declaration that the defendants’ actions were unconstitutional.

Court records indicate that responses from the named defendants had not yet been filed as of this time. The case remains pending in federal court.

MAGNOLIA — Former Southern Arkansas University head football coach and longtime Arkansas athletics leader Sam Goodwin has died at the age of 82 following complications from heart surgery over the weekend.

Goodwin, who served as head football coach at Southern Arkansas University from 1979 to 1980, was widely respected across Arkansas and the region for his contributions to college and high school athletics. He also served as an assistant coach under legendary coach Lou Holtz at the University of Arkansas during his coaching career.

Southern Arkansas University was among several institutions connected to Goodwin’s career, which spanned decades of coaching, athletic administration, and mentorship.

According to Henderson State University Athletics, Goodwin was a standout student-athlete at Henderson State before launching his coaching career. He competed in both football and track and earned Honorable Mention All-Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference honors in 1963, before being named All-AIC on both offense and defense in 1965. That same year, he earned NAIA All-American honors in football.

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In track and field, Goodwin was a dominant discus thrower, winning AIC championships in 1964, 1965, and 1966, and setting a conference record in 1965. He was named the football team’s Most Valuable Player in 1966 and was later selected to the AIC All-Decade Team by Dave Campbell’s Arkansas Football Magazine.

Following his playing career, Goodwin began coaching at several Arkansas schools, including time at Parkview High School in Little Rock, before moving into the college ranks. After serving at Southern Arkansas and the University of Arkansas, he went on to become head football coach at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, where he led the Demons program for 17 seasons.

Goodwin later returned to his alma mater, Henderson State University, where he served as athletic director from 2000 until his retirement in 2010. During his tenure, Henderson State experienced success across multiple sports, including Gulf South Conference championships in basketball. He also hired football coach Scott Maxfield in 2005, who went on to become the program’s all-time winningest coach.

In recognition of his impact on athletics, Goodwin was inducted into the Henderson State Hall of Honor in 1998 and later into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.

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Even after retiring from college athletics administration, Goodwin remained involved in coaching, returning to the high school ranks as head football coach at DeQueen High School in Arkansas and later at Alexandria in Louisiana.

Goodwin’s influence extended across multiple levels of athletics in Arkansas and Louisiana, shaping programs and mentoring generations of student-athletes throughout his career.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

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EL DORADO — South Arkansas residents should prepare for continued warm temperatures and an elevated wildfire threat through the end of March, according to the National Weather Service in Shreveport.

Forecasters say temperatures across the Four-State Region, including South Arkansas, are expected to remain above normal through early April, with the potential for record warmth in some areas. The outlook also shows precipitation chances leaning above normal into early April, which could eventually help reduce wildfire concerns.

However, before rainfall improves conditions, officials warn that dry conditions will persist through the end of March, increasing fire danger across the region.

The National Weather Service reports that the ongoing drying trend is expected to continue across the Four-State Region through at least the end of the month. As a result, wildfire risk is likely to increase, and additional counties and parishes may be added to existing burn ban lists.

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South Arkansas has already experienced periods of low humidity and breezy conditions in recent weeks, creating favorable conditions for wildfire growth. Officials encourage residents to avoid outdoor burning and to use caution with any activity that could create sparks or open flames.

While above-normal rainfall is expected to develop into early April, providing some improvement to soil moisture and vegetation conditions, the immediate concern remains the heightened fire danger through the remainder of March.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local burn ban announcements and stay informed about changing weather conditions as warmer-than-normal temperatures continue across South Arkansas.

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EL DORADO — As spring break arrives, Arkansans are once again hitting the road, heading to destinations that offer a mix of accessibility, affordability and experience.

For many travelers across the state, the decision comes down to three options: the beach, the mountains or a nearby city.

The Florida Panhandle remains the most popular destination, with cities such as Destin, Panama City Beach and communities along Scenic Highway 30A drawing the largest share of Arkansas travelers.

The region offers white sand beaches and clear Gulf waters within a 10- to 12-hour drive, making it one of the closest coastal options for residents of the state. Panama City Beach continues to attract younger crowds seeking a more active environment, while Destin and 30A appeal to families and visitors looking for a quieter experience.

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Alabama’s Gulf Coast, including Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, is another top destination. The area offers similar beaches at a slightly closer distance and is often viewed as a more relaxed and budget-friendly alternative to Florida. Many families choose the Alabama coast to avoid larger crowds while still enjoying Gulf-front accommodations.

In-state travel also remains a significant part of spring break plans for Arkansans.

Hot Springs continues to draw visitors with its combination of lakes, historic bathhouses and seasonal attractions. The city’s proximity and lower travel costs make it a popular option for families and those seeking a shorter trip.

Short-drive destinations outside the state have also grown in popularity in recent years.

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Broken Bow, Oklahoma, has become a frequent choice for travelers looking for a nature-focused getaway. Known for its cabins and outdoor recreation opportunities, the area appeals to couples and groups seeking a quieter experience.

Branson, Missouri, remains a consistent option as well, offering a combination of entertainment, shopping and outdoor activities within a few hours’ drive of Arkansas.

For shorter or more flexible trips, some Arkansans are choosing larger metro areas such as Dallas-Fort Worth, where visitors can access shopping, dining and entertainment. Others are opting for destinations within the Ozarks and Northwest Arkansas, including Eureka Springs, which provide scenic landscapes and a slower pace.

While the Florida Panhandle continues to lead in overall popularity, travel trends among Arkansans are evolving.

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Cabin destinations such as Broken Bow are growing in demand, while in-state options like Hot Springs remain strong among budget-conscious travelers. Regional trips within driving distance also continue to attract those looking to maximize time without extended travel.

Spring break travel in Arkansas continues to reflect a balance of tradition and practicality, as residents choose destinations that offer both convenience and experience.