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SAU inducts 2025 Educational Leadership Hall of Fame honorees

Published

2 months ago

March 24, 2025

Staff Reports

MAGNOLIA – Southern Arkansas University proudly inducted the newest members into the Educational Leadership Hall of Fame on Monday, March 17, 2025. The evening honored outstanding leaders in the field of education, recognizing two building-level administrators, two district-level administrators, and two recipients of the Community Leadership Award, culminating with the prestigious Dr. Kenneth C. Booth Educational Leadership in Excellence Award.

Marilyn Marks (Hope, AR) – Building-Level Administrator Honoree

Marilyn Marks (Hope, AR) – Building-Level Administrator Honoree

Marilyn Marks is the principal of Hope Academy of Public Service in Hope, AR. Under Marks’s leadership, the campus completed the Highly Effective Schools Accreditation program in April 2024. This year, the Office of Educational Policy recognized Hope Academy of Public Service as one of the top five schools in the Southwest region for high overall high math and high ELA growth. Marks completed cohort one of Hope’s Aspiring Leaders Program. Additionally, Marks is enrolled in Leadership Hempstead County, a program geared toward innovative leadership training and community awareness. Marks holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s of Science in Education, K-12 Guidance, and Counseling, with building-level and district-level administrator licensure endorsements, all from Southern Arkansas University. Marks is married to Vincent Marks and has one son, Vincent Reese, and a stepdaughter, Shamyia. Marks is grateful for the opportunity to serve students, staff, and the community.

Curtis Black (Horatio, AR) – Building-Level Administrator Honoree

Curtis Black (Horatio, AR) – Building-Level Administrator Honoree

Curtis Black is the principal of Horatio High School in Horatio, AR. Under Black’s leadership, Horatio High School received a financial award from the Arkansas School Recognition Program for demonstrating high student performance, academic growth, and graduation rates. Black’s service to the community includes roles as a Hospital Board Member, former Horatio city councilman, Sevier County Coalition—Ready to Read by 3rd Grade participant, Chamber of Commerce member, Save the Children Federal Program 21st Century Grant coordinator, DHS liaison, and a contributing grant writer to city park improvement. Black was named the Belleville Lodge Sevier County Citizen of the Year in 2017 and received the Horatio School District Teacher of the Year award in 2015. Black holds a bachelor of science in Education from Henderson State University and a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Southern Arkansas University. Black also completed the principal/building-level licensure program at Southern Arkansas University in 2020. Black has been married to Jennifer Black for 31 years. They have two sons, Hunter Black, who is married to Allie Black, and Reece Black, who is married to Laney Black. Black has one grandson named Fenton Black.

Javana McCall (Camden, AR) – District-Level Administrator Honoree

Javana McCall (Camden, AR) – District-Level Administrator Honoree

Javana McCall is a retired assistant superintendent from the Camden-Fairview School District. McCall has worked in Lafayette County for 22 years and the Camden-Fairview School District for nine years. This tenure included serving as an assistant principal at the middle school and working in the district’s central office. At the district level, McCall was the special programs coordinator for three years and an assistant superintendent for four years. McCall holds a bachelor of science in Education and a master’s in Education, with endorsements from Southern Arkansas University for building-level and district-level administrator licensure. McCall is a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. McCall is married to Stephone McCall and has two children, TaRoya Lawson and Jerome Edwards Jr. McCall has six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Zebulon Prothro (Mount Vernon, AR) – District-Level Administrator Honoree

Zebulon Prothro (Mount Vernon, AR) – District-Level Administrator Honoree

Zebulon Prothro is the superintendent of the Mount Vernon Enola School District. Under Prothro’s leadership, the district received a highly effective school accreditation rating and was recognized in the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Schools in the Nation. In 2018, Prothro received the Farm Bureau New Ag Education Teacher of the Year award and was the youngest superintendent in Arkansas from 2023 to 2025. Prothro holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education and a master’s degree in educational leadership in Administration and Supervision, with a district-level administrator licensure endorsement from Southern Arkansas University. Prothro is currently a doctoral student in the Rural and Diverse Educational Leadership program at Southern Arkansas University. Prothro has been married to Jessica Prothro since 2014. Together, they have built a loving family and are proud parents of two daughters, Kennedy and Korlee.

The Community Leadership Awards category includes SAU College of Education and Human Performance Graduate Program alumni who exhibit outstanding leadership and accomplishments in their field. This category was developed based on the recommendation of Dr. Kenneth Booth, who felt it was important to recognize a broader group of individuals for excellence.

Christy Canfield (Emerson, AR) – Community Leadership Award

Christy Canfield (Emerson, AR) – Community Leadership Award

Christy Canfield is the Special Education teacher at Emerson High School. Canfield has taught at Emerson for 11 years and is the cheerleader and student council sponsor. Canfield received the Teacher of the Year Award at Emerson High School for the 2018-2019 school year. Canfield earned a bachelor of business administration in Finance from SAU in 2002, a master of arts in Teaching from the University of Arkansas at Monticello in 2014, and a master of education and program administrator endorsement from Southern Arkansas University in 2020 and 2024, respectively. Canfield has been married to Chris Canfield for 24 years. They have two daughters, McKenzie and Chrissi. Canfield is dedicated to positively impacting students’ lives by helping them reach their full potential and being an advocate for them.

Kelly Ribble (Magnolia, AR) – Community Leadership Award

Kelly Ribble (Magnolia, AR) – Community Leadership Award

Kelly Ribble is the counselor at Magnolia Middle School. Ribble has served in public education for 33 years, working in Bearden Public Schools, Stamps High School, and the Mt. Holly School District. Ribble has worked in Magnolia ISD since 1999, where she received the Building Level Educator of the Month Award. In 2025, Ribble received the Chamber of Commerce Educator of the Year Award. Ribble is actively involved in the community through organizations such as the Circle of Friends for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Magnolia Junior Charity League, First United Methodist Church, and the Magnolia Middle School food pantry. Ribble has also served as chair and board member at the First United Methodist Child Development Center. Ribble earned a bachelor of arts and master of education from Southern Arkansas University in 1991 and 1999, respectively. Ribble is married to Barry Ribble, and they have a son, Parker (who is married to Abbie). Ribble is passionate about helping young people navigate academic, social, and emotional challenges during critical stages of development.

Monty Harrington (Magnolia, AR) – Dr. Kenneth C. Booth Educational Leadership in Excellence Award

Monty Harrington (Magnolia, AR) – Dr. Kenneth C. Booth Educational Leadership in Excellence Award

Monty Harrington was born and raised in Magnolia, AR. Harrington graduated in 1993 from Southern Arkansas University with a degree in Finance. In 2006, Harrington graduated from the Barrett School of Banking in Memphis and later from the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University in 2009. Harrington has been with Farmers Bank & Trust since 2000, serving as a consumer, mortgage, and commercial lender before becoming the Magnolia market president.

Harrington has been actively involved in numerous community activities and organizations, including:

40 Under 40 Member
Albemarle Community Advisory Chairman
Central Baptist Church
Columbia Christian School Board Member and Past Chair
Leadership Magnolia
Magnolia Blossom Festival
Magnolia Columbia County Chamber of Commerce Board Member
Magnolia Housing Authority Chairman
Magnolia Regional Medical Center Foundation Board Member
Mulerider Club Board Member
Southern Arkansas University Board of Trustees
Relay for Life Board Member
United Way Board Member
Leadership Arkansas

Harrington has been married to Janet Harrington for 29 years. Together, they have a son, Thomas (married to Karigan), and a daughter, Abby.

The Educational Leadership Hall of Fame banquet celebrated the remarkable achievements of these individuals, recognizing their unwavering commitment to educational excellence and leadership. The evening was an inspiring tribute to those shaping the future of education in Arkansas and beyond.

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Scattered Storms Possible In South Arkansas Today

Published

19 hours ago

May 28, 2025

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO – Residents across South Arkansas should keep an eye on the sky this afternoon as showers and thunderstorms may push into the region from Texas and Louisiana. While the highest severe weather risk today is focused on central Louisiana and parts of East Texas, the National Weather Service notes that some storms could extend northward into southern portions of Arkansas.

According to the NWS Shreveport office, the overall severe threat remains low across the region. However, a few stronger thunderstorms could produce gusty winds and hail. The primary hazards include damaging wind gusts of 60 miles per hour or more and large hail up to quarter size.

The risk is classified as a Level 1 out of 5 – a marginal risk – meaning isolated severe storms are possible, but widespread impacts are not expected. Forecasters emphasize that any strong storms will likely develop during the afternoon and evening hours.

Residents are advised to remain weather aware throughout the day and have multiple ways to receive warnings in case conditions worsen.

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Fifteen Members Of South Arkansas Drug Ring Sentenced To Federal Prison

Published

20 hours ago

May 28, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO — Fifteen individuals involved in a large-scale South Arkansas drug trafficking operation have been sentenced to a combined 1,591 months—more than 132 years—in federal prison, following a series of sentencing hearings held in U.S. District Court in El Dorado between August 2024 and May 2025.

The organization, led by 45-year-old Christopher Walters of Magnolia, operated between August 2021 and August 2022, distributing kilograms of methamphetamine across Columbia County and surrounding areas. Walters received methamphetamine shipments from California supplier Michael Cummings, a 46-year-old businessman based in Los Angeles, who used Robert Leonne Morris, age 47, to transport narcotics to Arkansas, sometimes by rail. The drugs were then stored, distributed, and sold locally by Walters’ network of associates, generating substantial profits shared with the California suppliers.

On August 10, 2022, law enforcement agencies executed coordinated search warrants across Columbia County, seizing methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, over 15 firearms—including tactical rifles—and thousands of dollars in cash from properties linked to the drug operation.

A federal grand jury later returned indictments charging all 15 individuals with multiple felony counts related to drug trafficking. All defendants pleaded guilty to one or more felony violations of the Controlled Substances Act.

Sentences included:

Christopher Walters, 45, Magnolia – 222 months (Dec. 6, 2024)
Michael Cummings, 46, Los Angeles – 162 months (Mar. 21, 2025)
Jvance Radford, 47, Magnolia – 144 months (Aug. 22, 2024)
Joseph Lowe, 38, Magnolia – 140 months (Aug. 12, 2024)
Robert Leonne Morris, 47, Los Angeles – 121 months (May 21, 2025)
Lacadran Thomas, 37, Magnolia – 120 months (Aug. 22, 2024)
Marcus Jordan, 42, Waldo – 110 months (Dec. 4, 2024)
Hendrick Johnson, 27, Magnolia – 108 months (Sept. 11, 2024)
Dawnisha Jordan, 40, Magnolia – 98 months (Aug. 7, 2024)
John Grissom, 40, Magnolia – 97 months (Aug. 7, 2024)
Jarrod Wilson, 38, Magnolia – 78 months (Mar. 20, 2025)
Nyterious Sharp, 32, Waldo – 60 months (Aug. 23, 2024)
Antonio Johnson, 41, Magnolia – 54 months (Aug. 22, 2024)
Malaysia Benjamin, 36, Los Angeles – 41 months (Dec. 5, 2024)
Mario Meadows, 36, Magnolia – 36 months (May 21, 2025)

In addition to prison time, Cummings was ordered to pay a $100,000 money judgment, representing the profits he earned from the methamphetamine distribution. The judgment is enforceable against his assets in California and other locations.

The investigation was conducted by the Magnolia Police Department, 13th Judicial District Drug Task Force, Union County Sheriff’s Office, El Dorado Police Department, Arkansas State Police, and the FBI, under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) program. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham Jones.

News

El Dorado School District to Host Teacher Excellence Awards Ceremony Thursday

Published

20 hours ago

May 28, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO — The El Dorado School District will honor its most outstanding educators at the upcoming Teacher Excellence Awards, set for Thursday, May 29 at 1:30 p.m. in the El Dorado High School Auditorium.

This special event will recognize exceptional teachers from across the district, celebrating both finalists and semi-finalists for the Teacher Excellence Awards. The ceremony will also include the announcement of the 2025 District Teacher of the Year.

District leaders are encouraging the community to attend and show support for the educators who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of El Dorado students.

The awards highlight dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence in education and are among the most anticipated recognitions of the school year.

News

Camden Native Tommy Tuberville Launches Bid To Become Alabama Governor

Published

20 hours ago

May 28, 2025

Staff Reports

CAMDEN — U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville, a native of Camden and former high school football coach in South Arkansas, has announced his candidacy for governor of Alabama in the 2026 election.

Tuberville was born and raised in Camden and graduated from Harmony Grove High School in 1972. He went on to play football at Southern Arkansas University, then known as Southern State College, where he was a defensive back for the Muleriders. After college, he began his coaching career at Hermitage High School before moving into the collegiate ranks.

He later served as head football coach at Ole Miss, Auburn, Texas Tech, and Cincinnati, building a high-profile career in college athletics before entering politics. In 2020, Tuberville was elected to the U.S. Senate representing Alabama.

His campaign for governor emphasizes key issues including manufacturing, education, and border security. Tuberville has stated that he meets Alabama’s constitutional requirement of seven years of residency, noting Auburn as his primary residence since 2019.

The announcement of his candidacy marks a return to executive ambitions for the former coach and further elevates the profile of a South Arkansas native whose career has spanned athletics and public service.

News

SAAC to Host Summer-Themed Corks and Canvas Event

Published

20 hours ago

May 28, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO — The South Arkansas Arts Center is inviting the community to a creative evening of art and fun at June’s Corks and Canvas event, “Just Hangin’ Out,” on Thursday, June 19 at 6 p.m.

Led by SAAC artist and Yocum Elementary School art teacher Nicole McAdams, the event will offer participants the opportunity to paint and personalize their own summer-themed door hangers using 18-inch wooden rounds and acrylic paints.

“Summer is the perfect time to add a fun, functional piece to your home or porch,” said McAdams. “I look forward to helping participants unleash their creativity and craft a door hanger that reflects their unique style.”

The event is open to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists. The $40 registration fee includes all art supplies and a selection of snacks. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite beverages to enjoy during the evening.

Corks and Canvas events at SAAC are known for their relaxed, social atmosphere and are designed to foster artistic expression and community connection.

Registration for “Just Hangin’ Out” is available online at www.saac-arts.org or by calling the SAAC office at 870-862-5474.