EL DORADO — Longtime legal professional Tonya Allen has officially announced her candidacy for Circuit Clerk of the Thirteenth Judicial District in Union County, pledging to bring professionalism, modernization, and community-centered service to the office.

A lifelong resident of Union County and graduate of Parkers Chapel High School, Allen brings more than 35 years of experience working as a secretary and paralegal for local attorneys. Her decades in the legal field have provided her with firsthand insight into the critical role the Circuit Clerk plays in the community.

“After much heartfelt reflection and encouragement from the people of Union County, I am honored to announce my candidacy,” Allen said in a campaign statement. “I pledge to work tirelessly to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and ethics you require from this office.”

Allen emphasized the importance of both technological advancement and personal service in her vision for the Clerk’s office. She plans to pursue modernization of record-keeping systems to increase efficiency and accessibility, while maintaining a welcoming environment for the public.

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“My vision is to advance the development of the Circuit Clerk’s office into a model of efficiency and accessibility,” she said. “At the same time, I believe that providing friendly and positive personal service to the public is vitally important.”

Framing her campaign as a commitment to public trust, Allen said she is dedicated to serving with integrity and transparency.

“All of us living and working in Union County deserve a candidate who will look out for our community and drive progress in the Circuit Clerk’s office,” she said. “I look forward to the opportunity to share my vision and to earn the trust of its voters.”

Allen will be meeting with residents across Union County in the months ahead as she begins her campaign.

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CAMDEN — Camden Fairview High School will honor the Class of 2025 with a graduation ceremony on Friday, May 16, at 8:00 p.m. in Cardinal Stadium. Families, friends, and community members are invited to attend the event and celebrate the achievements of this year’s senior class.

The graduation caps off a busy spring filled with milestone moments for seniors. The school hosted its College and Career Signing Day on April 21, where students formally committed to postsecondary education, military service, or entering the workforce. On May 3, students gathered for prom in the high school commons, with a walk-in event beginning at 6:00 p.m.

The week leading into graduation featured two more senior traditions. On May 11, students participated in the Baccalaureate ceremony, followed by the annual Senior Awards Assembly on May 12, both held in the school gymnasium.

Camden Fairview officials said Friday night’s ceremony will recognize not only academic accomplishments but also the resilience and character of the graduating class.

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Graduates are encouraged to arrive early, and attendees are advised to bring seating and plan for evening weather conditions. For more information, contact Camden Fairview High School.

EL DORADO — In an ongoing effort to keep Union County clean and accessible for all residents, the Union County Solid Waste Department will once again offer its free large item disposal service this Saturday, May 17, 2025. The drop-off site at 2450 Champagnolle Road in El Dorado will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The monthly service, held on the third Saturday of each month, provides a convenient way for residents to dispose of large household items such as washers, dryers, and mattresses at no cost.

County Judge Mike Loftin encouraged residents to take advantage of the program and help maintain the region’s natural beauty. “Please use this free service and help keep our woods clean,” Loftin said.

While the service is free, there are restrictions on what can be accepted. Perishable items, household garbage, and hazardous materials will not be allowed.

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The initiative reflects the county’s commitment to responsible waste management and environmental stewardship.

EL DORADO — Local professionals are invited to connect and unwind at the next Business After Hours event, hosted by The 1988 Bookstore on Tuesday, May 20.

The El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce will hold the networking event from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at 117 N. Jefferson Ave., offering attendees a casual setting to meet fellow business leaders, exchange ideas, and support a local business.

Admission is $5 and a business card, with light refreshments and door prizes expected.

“Business After Hours is a great way to strengthen professional relationships and discover new opportunities right here in El Dorado,” the Chamber said in an announcement. “Whether you’re a longtime Chamber member or just getting plugged in, this event is for you.”

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Organizers encourage guests to bring a friend and come ready to build community—one conversation at a time.

For more information, visit the Chamber’s website or follow their social media channel.

EL DORADO — The El Dorado School District, in collaboration with Ideal Construction Company and CADM Architecture, will officially break ground on a new Intermediate School during a ceremony on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The event will take place at 501 North Timberlane Drive in El Dorado.

The groundbreaking marks a major milestone in the district’s continued efforts to enhance educational facilities and provide state-of-the-art learning environments for students. School officials, project partners, and community leaders are expected to be in attendance to celebrate the beginning of construction on the long-anticipated campus.

“This is an exciting day for El Dorado,” said district leaders. “Our new Intermediate School will not only offer modern amenities and improved learning spaces but also reflect our commitment to academic excellence and community growth.”

The public and local media are encouraged to attend and cover the event, which will feature remarks from key stakeholders, a ceremonial shovel dig, and architectural renderings of the new facility.

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The project is being led by Ideal Construction Company, with architectural design by CADM Architecture, Inc.

For more information, contact the El Dorado School District at (870) 864-5006.