News

Cotton announces re-election bid for US Senate seat

Published

2 months ago

February 28, 2025

Staff Reports

LITTLE ROCK – Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) officially launched his campaign for re-election to the United States Senate today, signaling his intent to seek a third term in 2026. The announcement, made through a series of posts on social media and a subsequent press release, underscores Cotton’s commitment to advancing conservative priorities and addressing national security concerns, particularly the threat posed by China.

In his announcement, Cotton expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve Arkansans since taking office in 2015. “It’s been an honor to serve Arkansans, and I’m announcing my campaign for re-election to the Senate,” he stated. “I’m going to keep fighting to secure our border, lower prices, keep America safe, and reverse the damage the Democrats did to our country.” The message was accompanied by a video highlighting his legislative record and vision for the future.

The Arkansas Republican enters the race with significant momentum, boasting $8 million in cash on hand between his campaign and leadership accounts—more than triple the amount he had at this stage in his successful 2020 re-election effort. Cotton’s campaign also emphasized widespread grassroots support, noting 135,000 donations from tens of thousands of Arkansans across all 75 counties in the state.

Cotton’s bid comes with a formidable show of unity from Arkansas’ Republican establishment. Hetouted endorsements from every statewide elected official, including Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Lieutenant Governor Leslie Rutledge, and Attorney General Tim Griffin, as well as the entire Arkansas congressional delegation. Additionally, 108 of the state’s 110 Republican state legislators have pledged their support. “I’m grateful to launch my campaign with such overwhelming backing,” Cotton said. “Thank you for your support! More endorsements to come.”

A vocal conservative and chair of the Senate Republican Conference, Cotton has positioned himself as a key figure in the GOP, particularly on issues of national security and border policy. He highlighted his focus on countering China’s influence, a recurring theme in his tenure, and expressed optimism about working with a Republican-led Congress and President Donald Trump to “get our state and nation back on track” over the next four years.

First elected to the Senate in 2014 after serving one term in the U.S. House, Cotton secured a decisive victory in 2020, defeating Libertarian challenger Ricky Dale Harrington with 66% of the vote in an election where no Democratic candidate ran against him. Political observers expect a more contested race in 2026, though Cotton’s early fundraising advantage and broad GOP support could deter strong opposition.

Brian Colas, Cotton’s campaign adviser, praised the senator’s record in a statement: “Senator Cotton is fortunate to have overwhelming support from Arkansans who recognize that he has fought and delivered for conservative values.” The campaign promises to build on recent Republican successes, with Cotton pledging to sharpen his focus on economic relief, border security, and military strength.

As the 2026 election cycle begins to take shape, Cotton’s announcement marks an early move to solidify his standing in a state that has trended solidly Republican in recent years. With nearly two years until Election Day, the senator appears poised to leverage his influence within the GOP and his deep ties to Arkansas voters to secure another term in Washington.

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$73M Profit, Vietnam Oil Discovery Highlight Murphy Oil First Quarter Report

Published

18 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Grant Merrill

HOUSTON – Murphy Oil Corp. on Wednesday reported first-quarter net income of $73 million and announced a new offshore oil discovery in Vietnam, along with a $100 million stock repurchase and strategic asset acquisition in the Gulf of Mexico.

The El Dorado-based energy company posted earnings of 50 cents per diluted share for the quarter ending March 31. Excluding discontinued operations and other one-time items, Murphy reported adjusted net income of $81 million, or 56 cents per share.

First-quarter production averaged 157,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, including 78,500 barrels of oil per day. The company reported adjusted EBITDA of $339 million.

Murphy also repurchased 3.6 million shares during the quarter, totaling $100 million. The company declared a quarterly dividend of 32.5 cents per share, or $1.30 on an annualized basis.

Oil discovery in Vietnam

A major highlight for the quarter was an oil discovery at the Lac Da Hong-1X (Pink Camel) exploration well in Block 15-1/05 in the Cuu Long Basin offshore Vietnam. The well encountered 106 feet of net oil pay and achieved a flow rate of 2,500 barrels of oil per day. It is the second discovery in the region, following the Hai Su Vang (Golden Sea Lion) find.

Murphy’s subsidiary, Murphy Cuu Long Bac Oil Co., Ltd., operates the block with a 40% interest. PetroVietnam Exploration Production Corp. holds 35%, and SK Earthon Co., Ltd. holds 25%.

Asset acquisition and operational updates

During the quarter, Murphy acquired the BW Pioneer floating production storage and offloading vessel for $104 million. The vessel supports operations in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to deliver a two-year payback.

In onshore operations, Murphy delivered new wells in the Eagle Ford Shale and Tupper Montney regions. Offshore, the company brought its Mormont #4 well online in the Gulf and completed work on the Samurai #3 well early in the second quarter.

In Canada, Murphy produced an average of 9,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, all oil. In Vietnam, construction continued on infrastructure for the Lac Da Vang (Golden Camel) project, which has now surpassed 1 million work hours without a lost time injury.

Guidance and capital spending

Murphy’s first-quarter capital expenditures totaled $403 million, including the FPSO acquisition. Full-year 2025 production is projected between 174,500 and 182,500 barrels of oil equivalent per day, with capital expenditures estimated at $1.135 billion to $1.285 billion.

Winter storm delays in the Gulf of Mexico affected some production timelines, placing output near the lower end of guidance. Second-quarter production is forecast between 177,000 and 185,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, with 48% from oil.

Capital returns and outlook

Murphy has repaid 35% of its long-term debt, repurchased $550 million in stock, and increased its dividend by 30% since adopting a new capital strategy in 2022. The company plans to continue allocating at least 50% of adjusted free cash flow to shareholder returns through buybacks and dividends.

Murphy will host its first-quarter earnings call on Thursday, May 8, at 9 a.m. EDT. The webcast will be available at ir.murphyoilcorp.com.

News

South Arkansas College Announces Shining Stars For May

Published

20 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO – South Arkansas College has announced its Shining Stars for the month of May, recognizing a group of outstanding students for their academic achievement, leadership, and dedication to excellence in their respective programs.

Emma Bulloch – Radiology

Nominated by Vernita Morgan for her performance in College Algebra (MATH1023), Emma is an online student who demonstrates unwavering dedication to her coursework. She currently holds the highest average in her class and plans to pursue further specialization in CT and MRI scanning. Her goal is to gain experience in the field while making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

Annalea Elliott – ACAP Program

Recognized by Amanda Moore, Annalea has distinguished herself through academic excellence, leadership, and intellectual curiosity. She consistently excels in her assignments and elevates classroom discussions with thoughtful questions. Known for organizing study groups and supporting her peers, Annalea plans to pursue a career in the healthcare industry.

Abigail Jerry – Practical Nursing

Praised by Angela Roberson, Abigail has maintained an A average throughout all three semesters of her PN cohort. Her strong academic performance and commitment to nursing make her a standout in the program as she prepares to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN).

Ashley Pascual-Cortez – Practical Nursing

Nominated by Kailyn Loveless and Holly Lawrenz, Ashley is a model nursing student whose organizational skills, positivity, and peer support make her an invaluable asset to her cohort. Her kindness and dedication reflect the true spirit of nursing.

Savannah Pyle – Business

Recognized by Carolyn Langston in Accounting Principles II (ACCT 2103), Savannah exemplifies responsibility and dedication. She commutes from Magnolia to attend classes and maintains excellent attendance, only missing when seriously ill. She also offers help to classmates, reflecting her generous spirit and work ethic.

John Tyler Simonelli – Accounting

Also nominated by Carolyn Langston in Accounting Principles II (ACCT 2103), Tyler is both a top-performing student and an athlete. With plans to complete his bachelor’s degree at Northwestern State and work at Raytheon Intelligence and Space, Tyler’s drive and excellence continue to inspire his peers.

Joseph (J.D.) Zachary – General Business

Another standout from Accounting Principles I (ACCT 2003), J.D. was recognized by Carolyn Langston for his exceptional attitude and academic performance. Always early, cheerful, and supportive, J.D. plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, and finance.

News

Report released in fatal wreck south of Strong

Published

21 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Staff Reports

UNION COUNTY, Ark. – A Bastrop, Louisiana woman was killed in a single-vehicle crash Friday afternoon on State Highway 275, just north of State Line Road in rural Union County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 41-year-old Roilishia D. Davis was driving a 2006 Jeep Cherokee northbound around 4:35 p.m. on April 25 when she lost control of the vehicle while navigating a left-hand curve. The vehicle veered off the right side of the road and struck a tree on the northbound roadside.

Davis, the sole occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her body was transported to the UAMS Medical Center Morgue, and next of kin has been notified. No other injuries were reported, and no additional vehicles were involved.

Weather and road conditions at the time of the crash were clear and dry.

The fatal crash is being investigated by Corporal John Parker of the Arkansas State Police. Davis is the 146th traffic fatality recorded in Arkansas in 2025.

News

El Dorado Educator Named South Region Teacher Of The Year

Published

21 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO – Clair Antoon-Newton, an educator at El Dorado High School, has been named the Arkansas Rural Education Association Teacher of the Year for the South Region, a prestigious honor recognizing excellence in rural education.

Antoon-Newton will be formally recognized at a statewide ceremony in July, where she will receive the Crystal Apple Award and a $1,000 check, sponsored by the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas.

The award comes during Teacher Appreciation Month, adding meaningful significance to the recognition. The Arkansas Rural Education Association’s Teacher of the Year program highlights outstanding teachers who make a lasting impact in rural communities through innovative instruction, leadership, and dedication to students.

El Dorado School District officials praised Antoon-Newton for her commitment to academic excellence and for being a role model both in and out of the classroom. Her recognition reflects not only her personal accomplishments but also the strength of rural education in South Arkansas.

The July ceremony will bring together honorees from across the state to celebrate the role of educators in shaping the future of Arkansas’s rural communities.

News

Smackover Schools Graduation Set For May 19th

Published

21 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Staff Reports

SMACKOVER – Smackover High School will celebrate the Class of 2025 with a full day of Senior Day and graduation activities on Monday, May 19, 2025, culminating in a formal commencement ceremony at Buckaroo Stadium that evening.

The day begins at 9:00 a.m. with the Senior Day Awards Program at Hobgood Auditorium, where senior awards and recognitions will be announced. A graduation rehearsal will follow the awards program.

At 11:00 a.m., students and families are invited to a Senior Reception at Smackover First United Methodist Church, located just across the street from the high school.

Later in the day, individual graduation pictures will be taken at 6:00 p.m. in Hobgood Auditorium.

The graduation ceremony itself will begin at 8:00 p.m. at Buckaroo Stadium. Stadium gates open at 7:15 p.m., and the event will also be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in person.

School officials encourage the community to come out and support the graduates as they take this significant step toward their future.