EL DORADO – The Union County Sheriff’s Department is urging the public to avoid unnecessary boat traffic along the Ouachita River, where rising floodwaters are threatening homes and property.

In a public advisory issued Monday, officials warned that residents living near the river and the Moro Bay area are struggling to keep floodwaters from entering their homes following days of heavy rain. The situation is being made worse by the wakes caused by boaters navigating through the flooded areas.

“Every extra inch of water created by boat wakes can mean the difference between someone’s property being ruined or not,” the statement read. “While curiosity is understandable, the current river conditions are dangerous for boaters and harmful to residents.”

The sheriff’s department is asking boaters to consider the difficult circumstances of those affected and to stay clear of populated riverfront areas unless absolutely necessary.

Advertisement

Officials continue to monitor the flooding situation and have not issued mandatory evacuations, but emphasized that the threat remains serious in low-lying areas.

CAMDEN – The District Court of Camden and Ouachita County, in partnership with the City of Camden, is offering residents a chance to clear misdemeanor warrants without the risk of arrest during a special Amnesty Night Court session on Tuesday, May 27.

The event will begin at 5 p.m. at the Camden District Court, located at 109A Goodgame Street. Judge Daren Nelson will preside over the evening session, which aims to provide a second chance to individuals with outstanding misdemeanor warrants.

Organizers are calling the event a “Get Out of Jail Free” opportunity, encouraging citizens to resolve their legal matters voluntarily and without fear of immediate consequences.

Those wishing to participate are asked to visit or contact the court in advance to schedule their appearance. Residents can call the District Court at 870-836-0331 or the District Court Probation Office at 870-836-8544. When calling or visiting, participants must mention the word “AMNESTY” to be scheduled for the May 27 session.

Advertisement

The initiative is being supported by Camden Mayor Charlotte Oliver Young and Ouachita County Judge Robert McAdoo.

Officials said the effort is designed as a blessing to the community and a proactive way to help residents address outstanding legal issues in a constructive and supportive environment.

EL DORADO – The El Dorado Parks Commission is inviting residents to help shape the future of city parks through a series of community meetings and a public survey as part of the El Dorado Parks Comprehensive Plan.

Architect Michael Rogers, who is leading the planning effort on behalf of the commission, said the initiative is focused on gathering input from those who live, work or spend time in the El Dorado community. The plan aims to guide the continued growth and improvement of the city’s parks and recreation spaces.

Residents can participate by completing a short 10-question online survey available at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DKXSKLV.

In addition to the survey, a series of public meetings will be held to allow for open discussion and feedback. Upcoming meetings include:

Advertisement

• Tuesday, April 22, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at El Dorado City Hall Council Chambers

• Thursday, April 24, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Murmil Education Center

• Tuesday, April 29, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. in the lobby of the El Dorado Municipal Auditorium

Each session will provide an opportunity for community members to voice their thoughts and suggestions regarding all city parks. Links to the individual events are available on the El Dorado Parks Facebook page.

Rogers expressed appreciation for those who have participated in previous meetings or shared their feedback at the parks, and encouraged all El Dorado residents to attend the upcoming sessions.

“Providing the community an opportunity for their voices to be heard through these events is critical in the work being developed,” he said.

Advertisement

EL DORADO – The El Dorado School District will hold kindergarten registration for the 2025-2026 school year beginning this month.

According to district officials, registration for students who have siblings currently enrolled in the district will be held Thursday, April 17. Open kindergarten registration for all other incoming students is scheduled for Tuesday, April 22.

Registration is available for all three elementary campuses in the district: Hugh Goodwin Elementary, Northwest Elementary and Yocum Elementary.

Parents are encouraged to visit the district’s website at www.eldoradopublicschools.org for more information on registration requirements and school zone details.

Advertisement

The El Dorado School District is home to the El Dorado Promise, a scholarship program that provides tuition assistance for eligible graduates pursuing higher education.

EL DORADO – The Parkers Chapel School District is inviting former Miss Parkers Chapel queens to return to the stage in celebration of the district’s 100th anniversary.

As part of the centennial festivities, past titleholders will be recognized during this year’s Miss Parkers Chapel Pageant. Organizers are encouraging all former queens to participate in a special walk to commemorate the milestone.

“If you or someone you know has held the title of Miss Parkers Chapel, we would love to include you in this memorable event,” the district shared in an announcement.

Those interested in participating are asked to email stringfellowm@parkerschapelschool.com or reach out directly to the district.

Advertisement

The event is part of a series of activities planned throughout the year to celebrate the district’s century of excellence in education and community.