News

SAU Jazz Director Honored For Distinguished Military Service

Published

2 months ago

June 17, 2026

Grant Merrill

MAGNOLIA – Southern Arkansas University is proud to recognize Jason Smith, director of Jazz Studies and assistant professor of trumpet in the Dempsey College of Liberal and Performing Arts, for a distinguished chapter of military service that continues to inform his leadership, artistry, and dedication to students at SAU.

This past December, during the retirement ceremony of his wife, Dr. Christin Foley Smith, Smith was unexpectedly honored in a ceremonial presentation recognizing his early years of service with the United States Air Force Band of the West. Smith left the Air Force in 2012, and being formally recognized more than 14 years later is uncommon, making the moment especially meaningful both professionally and personally.

Smith served on active duty in the United States Air Force from 2006 to 2011 and was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for meritorious service as a Regional Band Journeyman with the USAF Band of the West, 502d Air Base Wing, at Joint Base San Antonio–Lackland. During this period, he performed trumpet in more than 300 performances with five ensembles, reaching nearly six million audience members across the Southwest region of the United States.

In addition to his performance responsibilities, Smith held significant leadership roles, including Musical Director and Operations Representative for the Air Force jazz ensemble Dimensions in Blue. In that capacity, he organized musical programming, secured performance venues, and coordinated travel logistics for 142 events across a four-state region. His leadership culminated in the release of the ensemble’s jazz recording, I’ll Be Home.

Smith also played a key role in marketing and outreach efforts for the band. He conceived and produced the 2009 “Fiesta in Blue” concert series, an ambitious production that engaged thousands of community members and expanded the ensemble’s regional reach.

Recognized for his versatility and professionalism, Smith was hand-selected to perform as a last-minute substitute with the elite United States Air Force Band’s Airmen of Note when their lead trumpet player went on emergency leave. With just 24 hours of notice, he successfully prepared and performed two full programs, ensuring mission success across Texas and Oklahoma.

Internationally, Smith represented the United States at the 2009 NATO Musikfest, performing in a six-nation partnership concert viewed by more than nine million people. His contributions helped strengthen international cultural relations and highlighted the role of music in diplomacy.

“I was deeply moved by the recognition,” Smith said. “Those years were filled with meaningful work—performing hundreds of concerts, leading ensembles, collaborating with incredible musicians, and serving a mission I believed in wholeheartedly. It is an honor to reflect on that experience and to bring those lessons into my work with students at Southern Arkansas University.”

Now serving on the faculty at Southern Arkansas University, Smith brings the same commitment to excellence, service, and leadership to his work with SAU Bands and the Jazz Studies program, mentoring the next generation of musicians while continuing to grow a vibrant jazz culture on campus.

Smith extends special thanks to Lt. Col. Michael Hoerber for his leadership and for formally recognizing this chapter of service.

Southern Arkansas University celebrates Jason Smith’s achievements and is honored to have his experience, artistry, and dedication enriching the academic and cultural life of the institution.

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News

CAMDEN CHIEF OF POLICE RESIGNS

Published

3 hours ago

August 4, 2026

Sandy Sanford

CAMDEN, AR — Camden Police Chief T.J. Robertson confirmed to local media on August 4, 2026, that he has officially submitted his resignation to the city. His final day leading the department will be September 11, 2026.

“I have turned in my resignation,” Robertson stated to the Camden News. Expressing confidence in the future of the force, he added, “They’re going to do fine without me. I just want this to go as smoothly as it can for them.”

A Look Back at Chief Robertson’s Tenure

Robertson took the helm of the Camden Police Department on January 31, 2025, following his appointment by Camden Mayor Charlotte Young. He succeeded outgoing Chief Royce Carpenter after a thorough search process. Robertson stepped into the role with 18 years of law enforcement experience, having previously served both the local police department and the Ouachita County Sheriff’s Office.

During his 19 months in office, Chief Robertson focused heavily on community engagement, public safety initiatives, and youth outreach. Most notably, he developed a specialized youth program aimed at supporting and mentoring at-risk children within the Camden community.

Next Steps for Camden Leadership

The city of Camden has not yet announced an interim successor or detailed the upcoming timeline to appoint a permanent replacement. Mayor Charlotte Young’s office is expected to address the transition and outline the search parameters for the city’s next police chief in the coming days.

This is a developing local news story. Updates regarding the department’s transition plan will be provided as more details are officially released by City Hall.

News

BUY A BLIZZARD, SUPPORT BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

Published

3 hours ago

August 4, 2026

Sandy Sanford

EL DORADO, AR – For the rest of today, (Tuesday, August 4th) $1 from every Blizzard sold at El Dorado’s Dairy Queen will go to the Boys & Girls Club of Union County to assist with after school program supplies.

Dairy Queen is at 2201 North West Avenue in El Dorado and will be open until 10:00 P.M. tonight.

News

Very dry conditions raise wildfire concerns across South Arkansas

Published

8 hours ago

August 4, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO, Ark. — A growing wildfire threat is developing across South Arkansas and the surrounding Four State Region as hot temperatures and a prolonged lack of rainfall continue to dry out vegetation.

According to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, much of the region has received less than a quarter-inch of rainfall over the past two weeks, leading to the development of flash drought conditions across much of the area.

Meteorologists say the combination of dry weather, intense summer heat and low soil moisture is increasing the potential for wildfires, particularly in areas that have seen little to no recent rainfall.

While eastern portions of the Four State Region have received more precipitation, much of South Arkansas, East Texas and northern Louisiana remain significantly drier than normal.

The National Weather Service says the elevated wildfire threat means outdoor burning should be approached with extreme caution, as fires can spread more rapidly under these conditions.

The warning comes as firefighters across the region continue responding to vegetation fires during the peak of summer. Officials are reminding residents to avoid activities that could accidentally spark a wildfire, including improperly discarded cigarettes, unattended campfires and equipment that produces sparks.

With little widespread rainfall expected in the immediate future, forecasters say the wildfire risk is likely to remain elevated until more substantial precipitation returns to the region.

News

El Dorado’s MAD Playscape highlighted by Arkansas Municipal League as model for family recreation

Published

8 hours ago

August 4, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO, Ark. — El Dorado is receiving statewide recognition for one of its most popular family attractions after the Arkansas Municipal League featured the Murphy Arts District Playscape and Splashpad in the latest edition of City & Town magazine.

The feature spotlights El Dorado’s commitment to creating safe, engaging recreational spaces for children and families, describing the fully fenced Playscape as a model for family-friendly amenities in South Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas Municipal League, the Playscape includes interactive musical features, controlled access and on-site attendants, creating a secure environment where children can play while parents enjoy added peace of mind.

The league also noted that El Dorado continues to invest in parks and outdoor recreation, saying the city is “raising the bar for family-friendly fun” through long-term improvements designed to enhance quality of life for residents and attract visitors.

City leaders expressed appreciation for the recognition, thanking the Arkansas Municipal League for highlighting one of the community’s signature destinations.

“We are honored to have one of our community’s favorite family destinations highlighted and appreciate the opportunity to showcase another great amenity that makes El Dorado such a special place to live, work and visit,” the City of El Dorado said in a statement.

Officials also thanked the league for recognizing the city’s continued investment in amenities that benefit local families while encouraging tourism throughout South Arkansas.

Located in the Murphy Arts District, the MAD Playscape and Splashpad has become a popular destination during the summer months, offering children an opportunity to play and cool off in a safe, supervised environment.

City officials are encouraging residents and visitors to take advantage of the attraction before the summer season comes to a close, saying the recognition reflects El Dorado’s ongoing commitment to investing in recreation and community spaces that serve families for years to come.

News

SouthArk Outdoor Expo Car Meet and Main Street Motorcycle Meet set for Sept. 12

Published

9 hours ago

August 4, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO, Ark. — Classic cars, custom motorcycles and outdoor enthusiasts will come together in downtown El Dorado next month for the inaugural SouthArk Outdoor Expo Car Meet and Main Street El Dorado Motorcycle Meet.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12, beginning at 8 a.m. at the corner of East Cedar Street and South Washington Avenue in downtown El Dorado.

Organizers say the first-of-its-kind event is designed to bring together car enthusiasts, motorcycle riders and the community for a day celebrating automotive culture and outdoor recreation.

The event is being sponsored by LSB and is held in partnership with Main Street El Dorado and the SouthArk Outdoor Expo.

Those interested in participating in the car meet can contact Ross Lowery at (870) 814-1782 or by email at [email protected].

For information about the motorcycle meet, participants can contact Terry Moore with Main Street El Dorado at (870) 862-4747 or by email at [email protected].

Additional information about the SouthArk Outdoor Expo is available through the event organizers.

The event is expected to attract automobile and motorcycle enthusiasts from across South Arkansas and the surrounding region while providing another opportunity to showcase downtown El Dorado and its local businesses.