Regional News
Arkansas business titan announces retirement as company CEO
LITTLE ROCK – Warren Stephens, a towering figure in American finance and recently nominated by former President Donald Trump as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom, is stepping down as President and CEO of Stephens Inc. after nearly 40 years at the helm. Effective January 7, 2025, his sons, Miles Stephens and John Stephens, will assume the roles of Co-Chief Executive Officers, marking the third generation of family leadership for the 91-year-old financial services firm. Warren Stephens will retain the title of Chairman.
Under Warren Stephens’ leadership, Stephens Inc. expanded into a global financial powerhouse, offering investment banking, wealth management, insurance, and asset management services across the United States and Europe. His tenure is credited with driving the firm’s growth while maintaining the family-owned and relationship-focused ethos established by his uncle Witt and father Jackson T. Stephens.
Reflecting on his career, Warren Stephens said, “Leading Stephens Inc. has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished and am confident that Miles and John will carry forward our vision for the firm. With Laura also in a key leadership role, I know the future of Stephens Inc. is in excellent hands.”
The leadership transition underscores Warren Stephens’ commitment to family legacy. His daughter, Laura Brookshire, has been named Senior Executive Vice President and Chair of the Executive Committee. Alongside her brothers and a seasoned C-Suite team, she will play a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s continued growth and strategy.
Miles and John Stephens bring more than two decades of experience at Stephens Inc. to their new roles. Miles has served as President and CEO of Stephens Insurance since 2019, where he enhanced the division’s expertise and market presence. John, a managing director in investment banking, has been instrumental in expanding the Family Advisory Services Group and deepening the firm’s network of family offices.
“From an early age, my siblings and I have witnessed our father’s unwavering dedication to the business,” said Miles Stephens. “It’s an incredible opportunity to build on his legacy and lead Stephens Inc. into its next chapter.”
John Stephens added, “Working alongside our father has been a privilege. With the support of Laura and our executive team, we are focused on continuing Stephens Inc.’s tradition of excellence and growth.”
Laura Brookshire, who oversees marketing and corporate reputation initiatives, expressed her pride in the family’s legacy and her father’s achievements. “My father’s leadership has been transformative, and I’m honored to work alongside my brothers to ensure Stephens Inc. thrives for generations to come.”
The Stephens Executive Committee, comprised of Laura Brookshire, Brad Eichler, Mark Doramus, and Doug Martin, will support the transition and guide the firm’s strategic direction. Collectively, they bring more than 100 years of experience at Stephens Inc.
This generational transition marks a new chapter for Stephens Inc., a firm rooted in family values and long-term vision, as it continues its legacy of leadership in the financial services industry.
10:30 PM UPDATE
Statewide
All Arkansas state government offices are closed Thursday and Friday.
El Dorado
The El Dorado School District will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, and will be closed on Friday, January 10th. The district urges everyone to prioritize safety during the anticipated weather conditions.
The Boys and Girls Club of Union County will be closed on Thursday.
Westside Christian School
Westside Christian School will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, and will be closed on Friday, January 10th.
Bravo Dance Centre
All classes for the remainder of the week have been cancelled. Classes will resume on Monday, January 13th.
Camden Fairview
The Camden Fairview School District has announced that all classes will be canceled on Thursday, January 9, and Friday, January 10, due to expected severe weather conditions. The decision was made to prioritize safety, with concerns about hazardous road conditions during afternoon dismissals.
All district events scheduled for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday have also been canceled. Updates regarding rescheduled events are already being shared, including the following:
- Basketball games originally scheduled for January 9 and 10 will now take place at the CFHS Gym on Tuesday, January 21, with start times to be announced.
- The Ivory Intermediate Spelling Bee will now be held on Wednesday, January 15, with 5th grade at 8:20 AM and 4th grade at 9:30 AM.
Thanks to five built-in inclement weather days in the school calendar, students will not need to make up the missed days. The district will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates.
CFSD employees are advised to check their work emails for updates. The district encourages everyone to stay safe and warm.
Parkers Chapel
The Parkers Chapel School District will dismiss early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, due to anticipated weather conditions. Schools will remain closed on Friday, January 10.
Smackover
The Smackover-Norphlet School District will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, due to forecasted inclement weather and potentially hazardous road conditions. Buses will begin lining up at 12:30 p.m., and all after-school preschool classes are canceled.
Classes and all extracurricular activities are also canceled for Friday, January 10. The basketball game against Centerpoint has been rescheduled for Monday, January 13. District officials emphasized that the safety of students, staff, and the community remains their top priority.
Magnolia
The Magnolia School District will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to anticipated inclement weather. While officials believe it is unlikely schools will be open on Friday, a final decision will be made after assessing actual weather conditions. The district will continue to monitor updates and communicate any changes.
Hampton
Due to the threat of inclement weather Hampton Schools will be closed Thursday, January 9, 2025. The decision was made for the safety and the best educational outcomes for students and staff.
NASHVILLE – After seven successful years on the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), Huckabee, the talk show hosted by former Arkansas Governor and conservative commentator Mike Huckabee, will air its final episode on January 11, 2025. The farewell episode comes as Huckabee steps into a new chapter, following his historic nomination as the first evangelical Christian to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Israel.
Since its debut in 2017, Huckabee has become a favorite among TBN viewers, offering a unique mix of patriotic discussions, God-honoring values, and family-friendly entertainment. The program featured a wide array of guests, from national and international newsmakers to celebrities, music legends, and inspiring everyday heroes. Huckabee’s blend of political insight, humor, and charm helped the show connect with millions of viewers across the globe.
The final 90-minute tribute episode, airing on January 11 at 8:00 PM ET/7:00 PM CT, promises to be a memorable send-off. The special will feature an exciting lineup of surprise guests and returning favorites, including Kid Rock, Babylon Bee, Chairman James Comer, Gary Sinise, Rich Little, Scott Hamilton, The Spinners, and more.
Reflecting on the end of the show, Governor Huckabee expressed gratitude for his time on TBN. “Hosting Huckabee has been an honor and a privilege, and I am deeply thankful for the remarkable guests, the loyal viewers, and the incredible team at TBN who made these past seven years so memorable,” he said. “It’s been a joy to celebrate the heart and soul of America, and I’m grateful to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey.”
TBN President Matt Crouch praised Huckabee’s contributions to the network and wished him well in his new role. “We are losing an amazing TV host, but gaining what will be a great Ambassador to Israel,” Crouch said. “Congratulations, Governor Huckabee, on this historic nomination.”
The final episode of Huckabee marks the end of an era for TBN, while viewers and fans celebrate Huckabee’s new opportunity to serve on the global stage.
In response to a powerful winter storm expected to bring dangerous conditions across Arkansas, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced the closure of state office buildings for Thursday, January 9, and Friday, January 10, 2025. The closures, aimed at ensuring safety during the extreme weather, apply to all non-critical operations.
State employees able to work remotely are encouraged to telework, while agencies have been authorized to implement liberal leave policies for employees who cannot work from home.
The National Weather Service has warned of significant impacts from the storm, particularly in southern Arkansas, including the cities of Camden, El Dorado, and Monticello. These areas, identified as high-risk zones on the Winter Storm Severity Index map, are forecast to experience life-threatening conditions, including:
- Extremely dangerous or impossible travel due to icy roads.
- Ice accumulations of 0.25 to 0.5 inches, potentially causing widespread power outages.
- Infrastructure damage, including downed trees and power lines.
Residents in these regions are strongly advised to avoid travel, secure their homes, and prepare for potential power outages. The storm’s ice accumulation and high winds could lead to prolonged disruptions, making preparation critical for safety.
“This is a serious storm that demands caution,” Governor Sanders said in a statement. “We are taking every measure to prioritize the safety of Arkansans. I urge everyone to stay off the roads, avoid unnecessary travel, and take precautions to keep themselves and their families safe.”
Local emergency management teams are closely monitoring the storm, and updates will continue to be provided as conditions evolve. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and follow guidance from state and local authorities.
Stay Safe During the Storm
- Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
- Keep emergency supplies, including food, water, flashlights, and batteries.
- Charge electronic devices in case of power outages.
- Stay tuned to weather updates from the National Weather Service or local broadcasters.
As Arkansas braces for the winter storm, safety remains the top priority. State officials and emergency services are working around the clock to minimize disruptions and respond to potential emergencies.
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