Columns

BRIDGES: Ford

Published

1 year ago

April 25, 2025

Staff Reports

“The mind once enlightened can never again become dark,” wrote Thomas Paine generations ago. Progress in education has been an important feature of the development of the United States as it steadily moved to become an economic and scientific leader. Arkansas faced a difficult transition as it attempted to develop its school system in the twentieth century. One of the key leaders in Arkansas education was Arch Ford, the former state education commissioner.

Archibald Washington Ford was born in the small Faulkner County community of Wooster in 1906. The importance of education was emphasized to him at an early age. His father, Rev. Thomas Noah Ford, was a Baptist minister, farmer, and a leader in public education in Faulkner County in the early 1900s. He served on the Wooster School Board and later on the Faulkner County Board of Education.

In the early 1900s, most Arkansas communities had schools of some type. However, the quality differed widely among the hundreds of school districts spread across the state’s 75 counties. In 1900, there were still no compulsory school attendance laws, few standards for teachers or what was taught, school terms in many districts were only four months, and many communities only had one-room schools educating children of all ages at different grade levels because of a lack of resources. Most school districts did not offer any education past the eighth grade. Many children may only have a couple years of education if they had any at all.

Though Arkansas was an agricultural state, and the labor of children was seen as necessary on the farms, the education system in Arkansas was far behind other farming states. In addition, schools were segregated, increasing costs for districts.

As a child, Ford was sent to a local two-room school that had only a six-month term so students would be able to help on their family farms. The family moved briefly to Oklahoma when Ford was 13, where he was able to attend a full nine-month term. The family returned to Wooster when he was 15, and he had to attend the high school ten miles away in Conway, as that was the only high school in Faulkner County at the time. In the meantime, his father worked on the county school board to consolidate the patchwork of dozens upon dozens of school districts in the county down to just seven.

Upon graduation, Ford attended Arkansas State Teachers School in Conway (the modern University of Central Arkansas). Upon his graduation in 1928, he attended the University of Arkansas where he received a masters degree in vocational education. He spent the next several years as a teacher. In 1935, he began working with the Civilian Conservation Corps developing and advising the education programs offered to its participants. He began working for the Arkansas Department of Education in 1941, supervising vocational education and business education programs.

In 1953, Ford became the state commissioner, supervising education programs and teacher training for all districts. In 1954, the Supreme Court ruled that segregation was unconstitutional in the Brown v. Board of Education case. Ford recognized that this would completely change education in Arkansas, and he began quietly crafting policies to comply. Ford, however, was limited as to what he could do as desegregation faced volatile opposition in many communities. Many districts were later placed under supervision of the federal courts for their resistance to desegregation. Nevertheless, he assisted districts in adjusting to their constitutional responsibilities regarding equality, providing policy and training input.

His efforts went far beyond the traditional student. He began programs to provide education to disabled students, starting with an experimental program in Conway in 1959 that spread throughout the entire state by the late 1970s. He worked with legislators and campaigned for a constitutional amendment to allow state educational funds to allow five-year-olds (for kindergarten) and residents over 18 greater access to educational programs by 1968. Ford’s efforts were helped by many legislators, teachers, and governors in his long career who shared his passion for educating the next generation.

In the 1960s and 1970s, recognizing that many students needed job skills beyond high school, he worked with legislators to create 23 vocational schools across the state, offering such programs as welding, carpentry, automotive repair, and even nursing. Many of these vocational education programs have since been absorbed by local community colleges, who now provide these opportunities for skilled trades and workforce training in their communities. He further advocated teacher pay raises and funding for education television.

In 1969, Gov. Winthrop Rockefeller had one of the newly refurbished buildings in the Capitol complex renamed for Ford in honor of his work for Arkansas schools. The building, down the hill from the Capitol, had originally been erected in the 1930s under the administration of Gov. Carl Bailey to house state administrative offices. The Arch Ford Annex houses many state educational offices today.

In 1978, at the age of 72, he stepped down from his position after 25 years as state education commissioner. Ford retired to Conway. He died in 1987 at the age of 81, lauded by educators across the state for his service. He was further honored with the dedication of the Arch Ford Education Service Cooperative in Plumerville to aid in teacher training. He became synonymous with public education in Arkansas in a long and distinguished career, and thousands of students forever had their lives improved in part through his efforts.

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Columns

HealthWorks Swim Programs Give South Arkansas Children Safety, Fitness and Summer Fun

Published

4 weeks ago

June 24, 2026

J.W. Misenheimer

EL DORADO, Ark. — Families looking for productive ways to keep their children active this summer may not have to travel far. At HealthWorks Fitness Center in El Dorado, a growing swim program is helping children build confidence, stay active and learn skills that could one day save their lives.

HealthWorks offers private and group swim lessons designed to help children of different ages and ability levels become more comfortable in and around the water.

The program’s primary goal is not simply teaching children how to swim laps. Instructors also help students learn how to remain calm, control their breathing, float and move toward the side of a pool if they unexpectedly enter the water alone.

Swim coach Diego Valero said introducing children to basic water-survival skills at an early age can help them respond more effectively during an emergency. As children become more familiar with the water, they can replace panic with practical skills and greater confidence.

Those lessons are particularly important during the summer months, when families spend more time around swimming pools, lakes, rivers and other bodies of water.

Swimming also provides benefits beyond water safety. Regular lessons can help children develop coordination, endurance and strength while giving them a positive outlet for their energy.

The program offers a local answer to the familiar complaint that there is nothing for children to do in the community. By taking a closer look at programs already available in South Arkansas, families may discover activities that are entertaining, educational and beneficial long after summer ends.

Lessons for Different Ages and Skill Levels

HealthWorks Swim School uses the American Red Cross Water Safety and Learn-to-Swim programs. Its instructors are certified American Red Cross lifeguards and water-safety instructors.

Group lessons are limited to six students per instructor, allowing children to receive more individualized guidance while still learning alongside other swimmers.

The program offers lessons for children beginning at six months old.

Its Diaper Dippers program introduces children between six months and 3 years old to the water with a parent or guardian present. Songs, toys and guided activities are used to help young children become comfortable while parents receive information about water safety.

Older children can advance through five Learn-to-Swim levels:

Level 1 introduces basic water skills and is recommended for children who are not yet comfortable putting their heads underwater.
Level 2 focuses on fundamental aquatic skills such as floating and gliding.
Level 3 introduces stroke development and longer swimming movements.
Level 4 works on stroke improvement, treading water and swimming greater distances.
Level 5 helps experienced swimmers refine six swimming strokes and learn flip turns.

Children progress at their own pace, with instructors building upon each swimmer’s comfort level and existing skills.

Free assessment tests are available before group sessions to help determine the safest and most appropriate placement for each child.

From First Lessons to Competitive Swimming

Children who develop stronger swimming skills may also have the opportunity to continue through the Southern Arkansas Swim Club’s Thunder Turtles summer league team.

The summer league practices at HealthWorks on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Separate practice periods are offered for beginner-focused and advanced swimmers.

Participants must be able to swim 25 yards without assistance before joining the summer league team.

The club provides young swimmers with opportunities to practice regularly, participate in meets and develop their skills in a team environment. The 2026 schedule includes competitions in El Dorado, Monticello and Arkadelphia, along with the Junior Olympic Games in Des Moines, Iowa.

Whether a child is entering the water for the first time or preparing for competition, the programs provide opportunities to build discipline, friendships and confidence.

How Families Can Begin

Families interested in HealthWorks Swim School can visit the front desk at HealthWorks Fitness Center, located at 304 N. Madison Avenue in El Dorado, and request an enrollment form.

The enrollment form includes options for private lessons and group sessions. Parents can also review program information, lesson procedures and answers to frequently asked questions before registering.

For questions about HealthWorks Swim School, families may contact the aquatics department at 870-862-5442, extension 13.

Questions about the Southern Arkansas Swim Club may be directed to Diego Valero at 870-918-2238 or [email protected].

For South Arkansas families searching for something worthwhile for their children to do, the program demonstrates that local opportunities are available. Sometimes, families simply have to look a little closer beneath the surface.

Columns

Free Back 2 School Bash to Bring Family Entertainment and Educational Resources to El Dorado

Published

4 weeks ago

June 24, 2026

J.W. Misenheimer

EL DORADO, Ark. — Families across South Arkansas are invited to attend the Back 2 School Bash 2026, a free community event combining family entertainment with educational opportunities ahead of the new school year.

The event will be held July 22 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Douglas Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, located at 969 Smackover Highway in El Dorado. Registration will begin at 4:15 p.m.

The Back 2 School Bash will feature waterslides, bouncy houses, amusement rides, motorcycle clubs and other activities for children of all ages. Colleges and additional educational organizations are also expected to participate, giving families an opportunity to connect with helpful information and resources.

Admission is free and the event is open to the entire community.

Attendees will also be able to enjoy free food and refreshments, including snow cones, cotton candy and popcorn. Music will be provided by DJ P “Flann,” with prizes and giveaways planned throughout the evening.

The event flyer also lists appearances and activities featuring Hamilton’s Farm and the national champion EHSS cheerleaders.

Organizers hope the celebration will provide children and families with an enjoyable evening while helping students become excited and prepared for the upcoming school year.

For additional information, contact Nikki Lee McCoy at 870-814-2876. The event flyer also lists Jamie Davis at 870-918-5096 as a contact.

Columns

Free YAS Summer Camp Marks Fifth Year of Supporting South Arkansas Children

Published

4 weeks ago

June 23, 2026

J.W. Misenheimer

El Dorado, Ark. — What began as one mother’s search for an affordable way to keep six children safe, fed and learning during summer break has grown into a free camp serving families across the community.

Stephanie Miller-Owens founded the YAS Summer Camp after realizing that many parents faced the same summer dilemma she did.

“A few years ago, I had six small children at home with nothing to do during the summer — at least nothing I could afford for six kiddos,” Miller-Owens said. “Then I noticed so many other parents were having the same issue.”

She said families wanted their children to enjoy summer break without losing the academic progress they had made during the school year. Parents also needed a dependable environment where their children could remain safe, active and properly fed.

“We didn’t want our babies to lose what they had learned during the school year,” she said. “We wanted them safe and happy, and we wanted to make sure they had healthy meals daily.”

That need inspired Miller-Owens to establish a summer program provided at no cost to participating families.

“I had this bright idea to help these parents, so I started an absolutely free summer camp that combats learning loss, provides meals and safety, all while allowing children to learn and have fun,” she said.

Now entering its fifth year, the YAS Summer Camp continues to focus on academic achievement, safety and prevention. The camp provides breakfast and lunch each day and has expanded its services to include transportation for participating children.

This year’s camp began June 8 and will continue through July 17.

Miller-Owens credited the program’s growth to a dedicated team and community supporters who share her commitment to serving children.

“I work with an amazing team that shares the same love and passion for educating our babies,” she said. “We are blessed to have great supporters in the community who stepped up to sponsor this program and allowed us to help even more families this year.”

Summer programs such as YAS can be especially important for young people in South Arkansas. During the weeks away from school, children may have fewer opportunities for structured learning, regular meals, supervision and positive social interaction. Free programs help make those resources available to families regardless of their financial circumstances.

By combining academics with recreation, meals, transportation and prevention education, the camp helps children maintain important skills while giving parents greater peace of mind during the summer months.

Miller-Owens said she remains grateful that the program has continued to grow and reach additional families each year.

“It is our endeavor to continue providing love, safety and education to every child we meet,” she said. “To God be the glory.”

Community members and businesses interested in supporting or sponsoring the YAS Summer Camp are encouraged to contact Miller-Owens for additional information.

Columns

Community Baby and Safety Shower to Support South Arkansas Families

Published

4 weeks ago

June 23, 2026

J.W. Misenheimer

EL DORADO, Ark. — New and expectant parents across South Arkansas are invited to attend a Community Baby and Safety Shower designed to connect families with essential supplies, education and local support services.

The event will take place Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Immanuel Baptist Church, located at 3209 West Hillsboro Street in El Dorado.

The shower is being hosted by TOUCH Coalition, which stands for Tremendous Opportunities for Union County Health, in partnership with Ambetter Health & Wellness, the UAMS Institute for Community Health and the UAMS Family Medicine Clinic.

While supplies last, families attending the event will be able to receive diapers, wipes and baby formula. A free boutique featuring baby clothing and other infant items will also be available.

Arkansas Children’s Hospital representatives will be on site to provide car-seat safety checks and education. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to bring their child’s car seat to receive guidance on proper installation and use.

Safe-sleep classes will be offered at 10:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. Participants who complete one of the classes may receive a portable Pack ’n Play while supplies are available.

More than 30 vendors are expected to participate, offering resources, supplies, educational materials and information about services available to children and families throughout the region.

Organizers say the event is intended to help parents prepare for their new arrival while learning about infant safety, health and community resources in a welcoming environment.

Columns

OP-ED: SENATOR TOM COTTON

Published

4 months ago

March 11, 2026

Sandy Sanford

Communist China has been working to undermine the United States at seemingly every turn. From leaking COVID from a lab to buying up farmland in Arkansas, they will stop at nothing to try to do us harm. Their latest target? Medications. The flow of illegal Chinese drugs into our country is stronger than ever and puts our nation at risk. For these reasons, we must now take long-overdue action to protect the health and safety of Arkansans. Communist China is a major source of counterfeit and unregulated active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). These are the substances in medications that produce a drug’s intended therapeutic effect. For example, ibuprofen is the API used in many pain relievers.

Communist China doesn’t have the same quality-control standards as the United States, meaning that APIs produced by corrupt, unregulated Chinese manufacturers can’t be trusted. When sourcing APIs from Communist China, there’s no telling whether they are diluted or mixed with other dangerous ingredients. Nonetheless, these substances make their way into our homes by way of online marketplaces. Under-regulated GLP-1s are a good example of how Chinese APIs can infiltrate our pharmaceutical supply chain. While FDA-approved versions of these drugs can be life-changing, the under-regulated compounded GLP-1 market exposes Americans to dangerous, unreliable Chinese APIs. These products are sold directly to American patients at high volumes through online marketplaces. Yet, when they arrive on a patient’s doorstep, they have no way of knowing what’s actually in it or what it will do.

That’s why Congress must take action to protect Arkansans against this unnecessary risk. In November, I introduced the Combatting Counterfeit Pharmaceuticals Act to identify and sanction those responsible for bringing counterfeit drugs and drug ingredients into our country. I also wrote to Attorney General Pam Bondi, urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate and prosecute anyone affiliated with bringing illicit foreign pharmaceuticals into America. Recently, the Department of Health and Human Services announced that it was working with the DOJ to investigate under-regulated manufacturers of compounded GLP-1s for potential violations of federal law. While this is a welcome development, we must do more to address this ongoing problem. That’s why I also recently wrote to the Director of the Food and Drug Administration, urging him to investigate the extent to which unregulated Chinese ingredients are infiltrating American medications.

Communist China’s unfettered access to America’s pharmaceutical supply chain presents national security risks as well as significant health risks to Arkansans. Protecting Americans from illicit Chinese pharmaceuticals requires that we strengthen enforcement, secure our supply chains, and hold bad actors accountable. Every Arkansan should have the assurance that their medication will provide the therapy it advertises. And above all, no Arkansan should ever have to worry that the medicine they take contains unsafe or counterfeit ingredients that may do more harm than good.