News

SAU Jazz Director Honored For Distinguished Military Service

Published

42 minutes ago

June 17, 2026

Grant Merrill

MAGNOLIA – Southern Arkansas University is proud to recognize Jason Smith, director of Jazz Studies and assistant professor of trumpet in the Dempsey College of Liberal and Performing Arts, for a distinguished chapter of military service that continues to inform his leadership, artistry, and dedication to students at SAU.

This past December, during the retirement ceremony of his wife, Dr. Christin Foley Smith, Smith was unexpectedly honored in a ceremonial presentation recognizing his early years of service with the United States Air Force Band of the West. Smith left the Air Force in 2012, and being formally recognized more than 14 years later is uncommon, making the moment especially meaningful both professionally and personally.

Smith served on active duty in the United States Air Force from 2006 to 2011 and was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for meritorious service as a Regional Band Journeyman with the USAF Band of the West, 502d Air Base Wing, at Joint Base San Antonio–Lackland. During this period, he performed trumpet in more than 300 performances with five ensembles, reaching nearly six million audience members across the Southwest region of the United States.

In addition to his performance responsibilities, Smith held significant leadership roles, including Musical Director and Operations Representative for the Air Force jazz ensemble Dimensions in Blue. In that capacity, he organized musical programming, secured performance venues, and coordinated travel logistics for 142 events across a four-state region. His leadership culminated in the release of the ensemble’s jazz recording, I’ll Be Home.

Smith also played a key role in marketing and outreach efforts for the band. He conceived and produced the 2009 “Fiesta in Blue” concert series, an ambitious production that engaged thousands of community members and expanded the ensemble’s regional reach.

Recognized for his versatility and professionalism, Smith was hand-selected to perform as a last-minute substitute with the elite United States Air Force Band’s Airmen of Note when their lead trumpet player went on emergency leave. With just 24 hours of notice, he successfully prepared and performed two full programs, ensuring mission success across Texas and Oklahoma.

Internationally, Smith represented the United States at the 2009 NATO Musikfest, performing in a six-nation partnership concert viewed by more than nine million people. His contributions helped strengthen international cultural relations and highlighted the role of music in diplomacy.

“I was deeply moved by the recognition,” Smith said. “Those years were filled with meaningful work—performing hundreds of concerts, leading ensembles, collaborating with incredible musicians, and serving a mission I believed in wholeheartedly. It is an honor to reflect on that experience and to bring those lessons into my work with students at Southern Arkansas University.”

Now serving on the faculty at Southern Arkansas University, Smith brings the same commitment to excellence, service, and leadership to his work with SAU Bands and the Jazz Studies program, mentoring the next generation of musicians while continuing to grow a vibrant jazz culture on campus.

Smith extends special thanks to Lt. Col. Michael Hoerber for his leadership and for formally recognizing this chapter of service.

Southern Arkansas University celebrates Jason Smith’s achievements and is honored to have his experience, artistry, and dedication enriching the academic and cultural life of the institution.

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El Dorado Schools Open Online Enrollment For 2026-27 School Year

Published

32 minutes ago

June 17, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — The El Dorado School District has opened online enrollment for the 2026-27 school year and is encouraging families to complete the registration process as soon as possible.

District officials announced that enrollment is now available for all grade levels, including kindergarten through 12th grade. Parents and guardians can complete the process online through the district’s enrollment portal.

Families with children entering kindergarten this fall are reminded that students must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 1, 2026, to be eligible for enrollment.

The district is also welcoming new students who plan to attend El Dorado schools during the upcoming academic year. New families can complete registration online and access information about required documentation, school assignments, and enrollment procedures through the district website.

School officials say early enrollment helps campuses prepare for the upcoming year by allowing administrators to plan staffing, classroom assignments, transportation, and student services.

Parents seeking additional information about enrollment requirements or the registration process are encouraged to contact the El Dorado School District or visit the district’s website for details.

The 2026-27 school year will begin later this summer, with district leaders looking forward to welcoming both returning and new students to campuses across El Dorado.

News

Area Students Earn Top Academic Honors at South Arkansas College

Published

34 minutes ago

June 17, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Students from communities across South Arkansas were among those recognized for outstanding academic achievement during the spring 2026 semester at South Arkansas College.

The college recently announced its President’s Honor Roll and Dean’s List, recognizing full-time students who demonstrated academic excellence throughout the semester.

To qualify for the President’s Honor Roll, students must earn a grade-point average of 3.75 or higher while maintaining full-time enrollment. Students from El Dorado, Camden, Magnolia, Junction City, Smackover, Strong, Warren, Hamburg, Fordyce, Crossett, Hermitage, Sparkman, Bearden, Banks, Emerson and other South Arkansas communities were among those receiving the distinction.

El Dorado students earning President’s Honor Roll recognition included Kayla Michelle Anderson, Dylan Christopher Avant, Phillip Rhett Boeckmann, Sara Kathryne Cobb, Melissa Nicole Compton, Camryn Grace Cranford, Taylor Jean Darden, Jonah Michael Davis, Tiyanna Semaj Dunn, Chloe Gatewood, Tyler Brock Gorman, Emily Gunderson, Deedra R. Hall, Liam Elliot Harrison, Telviyonta L. Henyard, Anthony Hodges, Claire Elizabeth Hooker, Heidi Elaine Kolb, Jackson Patrick Lewis, Avery Jeaux McGoogan, April Nicole McKinnon, Christine M. McLeland, Tanner Luke McLelland, Emerald Brooke Metcalfe, Eriyunna Miller, Amanda Parker, America Ramos Gaona, Jillian Nicole Ramsey, Juana Guadalupe Ruiz, Russell Allen Schroeder, Simeon Jude Stipp-Bethune, Brady Ryan Thornhill, Jessica Lyn Thurlkill, Lisa Marie Thurmon, Chandler Williamson, Kiki Williamson, Terra Elise Wise and William Daniel Wood.

Camden students earning President’s Honor Roll recognition were Kirsten Kelley, Rodeshia McGhee, Ashley Danielle Nguyen and Emily Michelle Pickett.

Students from Magnolia, Junction City, Smackover, Warren, Strong, Hamburg, Crossett and numerous other South Arkansas communities were also recognized for their academic accomplishments.

The Dean’s List recognizes full-time students who achieve a grade-point average between 3.0 and 3.75. South Arkansas students honored on the Dean’s List represented communities including El Dorado, Camden, Magnolia, Warren, Hermitage, Louann, Norphlet, Strong, Crossett, Fordyce, Hampton, Hamburg and others throughout the region.

El Dorado led the area with more than 30 students earning Dean’s List honors, while Camden, Magnolia, Warren and other Union, Ouachita, Columbia and Bradley County communities were also well represented.

South Arkansas College officials said the recognition reflects the hard work, dedication and academic success of students throughout the region. The honor rolls highlight the college’s continued commitment to student achievement and educational excellence while serving South Arkansas and neighboring communities.

The complete lists include students from Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas who met the academic requirements during the spring 2026 semester.

News

El Dorado Chamber Unveils “The Business Hour” Networking Event

Published

35 minutes ago

June 17, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — The El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce is giving one of its longtime networking programs a fresh new look and a more convenient schedule.

The Chamber announced that its popular Business After Hours program is being rebranded as The Business Hour, while continuing to provide the same opportunities for networking, relationship-building, and community engagement that members have enjoyed for years.

According to Chamber officials, the concept remains unchanged, offering attendees the chance to connect with fellow business leaders, Chamber members, and community stakeholders in a relaxed setting while enjoying refreshments and conversation. The biggest change is the event’s new time slot.

The Business Hour will now be held from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., creating a streamlined one-hour event designed to better fit the schedules of today’s business professionals.

The inaugural Business Hour event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at KTVE Studios, located at 400 W. Main Street in El Dorado.

Guests attending the first event will have the opportunity to network with area business leaders while also enjoying a behind-the-scenes look at local television news operations. Attendees will be able to watch a live broadcast of South Arkansas News during the station’s 4 p.m. newscast.

Chamber officials say they are excited to continue fostering connections within the local business community while making the program more accessible and convenient for participants.

The Chamber encourages members and prospective members to attend and experience the updated format firsthand.

“Same great networking. Better timing.”

News

Flood Risk Returns To Forecast On Thursday

Published

36 minutes ago

June 17, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO – Residents across South Arkansas should remain alert for the potential of flash flooding on Thursday as another round of tropical moisture moves into the region.

According to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, much of South Arkansas, including Union County and the El Dorado area, is under a Marginal Risk for excessive rainfall. Forecasters say tropical downpours combined with an approaching cold front to the north will continue to produce periods of heavy rain across the ArkLaTex region.

While widespread flooding is not expected, localized areas that experience repeated thunderstorms could receive an additional one to two inches of rainfall. Those heavier pockets of rain may quickly overwhelm drainage systems, especially in low-lying areas and locations that have already received significant rainfall this week.

The flash flood risk covers much of eastern South Arkansas, including El Dorado, while areas farther east toward Monroe, Louisiana, face a slightly higher risk level.

Meteorologists are encouraging residents to stay informed of the latest forecasts and be prepared to take action if Flash Flood Warnings are issued. Drivers are also reminded to never attempt to cross flooded roadways, as water-covered roads can be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.

The National Weather Service’s safety message remains simple: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

Additional rounds of showers and thunderstorms are expected through Thursday, with locally heavy rainfall remaining the primary weather concern for South Arkansas.

News

Camden Residents Invited to Join Water Aerobics at Carnes Park Pool

Published

37 minutes ago

June 17, 2026

Grant Merrill

CAMDEN — Community members are invited to stay active this summer by participating in Water Aerobics at Carnes Park Pool in Camden.

The program is open to everyone and offers a low-impact exercise option that can help improve cardiovascular health, flexibility, strength, and overall fitness. Water aerobics is especially popular among individuals looking for a workout that is easy on the joints while still providing a full-body exercise experience.

Classes are held Wednesday through Saturday at 8:15 a.m. at Carnes Park Pool. The cost is $3 per day, making the program an affordable fitness opportunity for residents of all ages.

City officials encourage anyone interested in improving their health, meeting new people, or simply enjoying time at the pool to attend.