News

South Arkansas Communities Receive State Grants

Published

11 months ago

August 29, 2025

Grant Merrill

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, alongside the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, today announced more than $11.9 million in funding for Arkansas cities, counties, and communities.

The 65 grants – totaling $11,917,562.70 – were awarded from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and State Rural Community Grant programs.

“From Norfork to McGehee to Horatio, Arkansans across the state deserve to live in safe, vibrant communities, and that’s why these grants are so important,” said Governor Sanders. “Not only will this funding go towards critical infrastructure projects throughout the Natural State, but it will also fund community parks, walking trails, youth centers, and more – projects that will improve residents’ quality of life and ensure our towns and cities are great places to call home.”

“In Arkansas, strong communities are the foundation of our success,” said Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “Grants awarded through AEDC’s Division of Rural Services and the Grants Division help communities provide needed resources, equipment, and services that keep our communities strong and healthy.”

“In Arkansas, our rural communities are crucial to the state’s economy and our team works to ensure that rural communities have the resources they need to succeed” said Becca Caldwell, Director of Rural Services for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “We are proud to award the Rural Community Grants to these 29 Arkansas communities and to award the Rural Services Block Grants to these 16 Arkansas communities to help improve their infrastructure and quality of life offerings, which positions them and our state for continued success.”

“This latest round of CDBG awards from the General Assistance set-aside support vital public facility and infrastructure projects aimed at building stronger and more economically resilient communities,” said Jean Noble, Director of the Grants Division for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “These funds represent the State’s commitment to addressing critical needs while empowering our local partners to prioritize and enhance their own capacity. With these CDBG investments, we are working strategically to foster a better standard of living across the more rural areas of the State.”

State CDBG funds are utilized for a variety of public infrastructure projects, including senior centers, childcare centers, public health facilities, youth centers, flood control and drainage projects, as well as economic development grants. Funds are awarded on an annual basis, with counties and municipalities also allocating resources to meet urgent needs.

The Rural Services Block Grant program funds new construction or renovation of community centers, fire stations, and multi-purpose buildings, as well as the purchase of fire trucks and fire equipment. Applicants from incorporated towns of less than 3,000 in population and unincorporated rural areas with low to moderate incomes of 51 percent or higher are eligible for up to $100,000 in funds with a 10 percent match.

The Rural Community Grant Program is used for fire trucks, fire protection equipment, community centers, storm sirens, community parks, walking trails, and baseball fields. Applicants from incorporated towns of less than 3,000 in population and unincorporated rural areas are eligible for up to $15,000 in 50/50 matching funds under the program.

View the full list of recipients and awards below:

General Assistance Block Grants

Norfork, Baxter County, $459,900.00, wastewater treatment rehabilitation
Benton County, $1,000,000.00, water line extension
Whelen Springs, Clark County, $499,650.00, water storage tank rehabilitation
Piggott, Clay County, $499,950.00, water system improvements
Columbia County, $499,730.00, Lake Columbia spillway rehabilitation
Black Oak, Craighead County, $500,000.00, new wastewater collection system
McGehee, Desha County, $499,995.00, lift station improvements
Salem, Fulton County, $500,000.00, wastewater treatment plant rehabilitation
Franklin County, $496,675.00, disabled adults learning center building renovations
Paragould, Greene County, $337,580.00, storm siren replacement
Nashville, Howard County, $500,000.00, wastewater treatment facility improvements
Oxford, Izard County, $500,000.00, wastewater treatment facility upgrades
Cabot, Lonoke County, $499,908.00, developmentally disabled building expansion
Keiser, Mississippi County, $499,989.00, drainage projects
Wrightsville, Pulaski County, $499,902.00, street and drainage repaving and repair
O’Kean, Randolph County, $450,000.00, storm shelter construction
Mansfield, Sebastian County, $492,111.00, sidewalk and crosswalk construction
Cave City, Sharp County, $500,000.00, sewer main improvements
Farmington, Washington County, $396,392.00, senior center renovations
Garner, White County, $500,000.00, safe room

Rural Services Block Grant

City of Montrose, Ashley County, $91,988.95, radios and turnout gear
Benton County, $66,750.00, roof renovation
Town of Egypt, Craighead County, $100,000.00, new HVAC system and generator
Town of Viola, Fulton County, $100,000.00, new brush truck
Town of Pratsville, Grant County, $31,946.00, side by side unit and trailer for rescue operations
Town of Pineville, Izard County, $100,000.00, pumper truck, utility vehicle, and associated equipment
Lafayette County, $100,000.00, fire equipment
Town of Ravenden, Lawrence County, $97,000.00, new pumper truck
City of Huntsville, Madison County, $88,853.00, equipment for special rescue team
Town of St. Paul, Madison County, $100,000.00, fire department substation construction
Town of Etowah, Mississippi County, $100,000.00, new pumper truck
City of Bearden, Ouachita County, $100,000.00, new fire station construction
City of DeValls Bluff, Prairie County, $100,000.00, fire equipment
Scott County, $50,001.00, telecommunications equipment and pumper truck
City of Marshall, Searcy County, $87,989.00, addition to fire department building
City of Ash Flat, Sharp County, $100,000.00, new pumper truck

Rural Community Grants

Cotter-Gassville RFPD, Baxter County, $14,413.82, new tires and fire equipment
Valley Springs FD, Boone County, $15,000.00, turnout gear
Pansy FD, Cleveland County, $4,024.00, new fire hoses
Brookland FPD, Craighead County, $15,000.00, fire protection equipment
City of Bono, Craighead County, $15,000.00, heat and air unit replacement
Dyer Fire Department, Crawford County, $9,844.56, pumper truck equipment replacement
Cherry Valley FD, Cross County, $15,000.000, jaws of life equipment
Altus Rural FPD, Franklin County, $3,500.00, remodeling for fire station
Watalula VFD, Franklin County, $4,375.00, new radios
Sturkie VFD, Fulton County, $15,000.00, new SCBAs and face masks
Grapevine FD, Grant County, $15,000.00, new skid unit UTV
City of Washington, Hempstead County, 15,000.00, new tractor
Cerro Gordo FD, Little River County, $15,000.00, replace fire vehicle
Peel VFD, Marion County, $15,000.00, replacement pumper truck
City of Mount Ida, Montgomery County, $15,000.00, Veterans Memorial flag display foundation infrastructure
Perryville VFD, Perry County, $13,699.44, new turnout gear
City of Antoine, Pike County, $9,000.00, community center electrical system
Murfreesboro FD, Pike County, $15,000.00, new SCBAs
City of Grannis, Polk County, $12,870.99, new storm siren
City of DeValls Bluff, Prairie County, $15,000.00, new storm siren
Marshall FD, Searcy County, $11,006.25, jaws of life equipment
Town of Gilbert, Searcy County, $14,309.75, remodeling for fire station/community center
Milltown-Washburn, Sebastian County, $14,599.00, pumper truck equipment
White Bluff-Rye Hill, Sebastian County, $14,607.51, fire truck equipment
Horatio FD, Sevier County, $5,002.45, radios and AED machines
Hardy VFD, Sharp County, $15,000.00, new SCBAs and face mask
Lincoln FD, Washington County, $15,000.00, equipment and turnout gear
West Fork FD, Washington County, $15,000.00, equipment replacement
Albion Volunteer FD, White County, $15,000.00, new SCBAs

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News

El Dorado School District To Offer Free Breakfast, Elementary School Supplies

Published

8 hours ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO, Ark. — As families prepare for the start of a new school year, the El Dorado School District is working to ease some of the financial burden by providing free meals and classroom supplies for students.

District officials announced that all El Dorado School District students will receive free breakfast during the upcoming school year. In addition, students in kindergarten through fourth grade will receive free instructional school supplies, helping ensure they have the materials they need on the first day of class.

The district says the initiative is part of its ongoing commitment to supporting families, removing barriers to learning and helping every student begin the school year ready for success.

By providing essential resources such as breakfast and classroom supplies, school leaders hope students can focus on learning rather than worrying about basic needs.

The district encourages families to take advantage of the programs as they make final preparations for the new school year.

“At ESD, Every Student Deserves a great start,” the district said in announcing the back-to-school support initiatives.

News

City of El Dorado Seeks Applicants For Airport Commission

Published

8 hours ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — The City of El Dorado is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on the El Dorado Airport Commission.

City officials are seeking qualified applicants to fill a position on the commission, which helps provide oversight and guidance for the operation and future development of South Arkansas Regional Airport at Goodwin Field.

Those interested in serving are encouraged to submit an application before the 5 p.m. deadline on Thursday, Aug. 20.

Residents who would like more information about the position or the application process can contact City Clerk Heather McVay at 870-881-4877 or by email at [email protected].

The City of El Dorado encourages community members who are interested in contributing to the future of local aviation and economic development to apply.

News

Heat Advisory Continues For South Arkansas Counties

Published

8 hours ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Dangerous heat will continue across South Arkansas today, with the National Weather Service warning that heat index values could climb as high as 109 to 115 degrees in some locations.

Much of Union County and the surrounding South Arkansas region, including El Dorado, remains under a Heat Advisory, while areas farther south and west across East Texas and northern Louisiana are under an Extreme Heat Warning.

Afternoon high temperatures are expected to reach the upper 90s to lower 100s, but the combination of heat and humidity will make it feel significantly hotter.

The National Weather Service says prolonged exposure to these conditions can quickly lead to heat-related illnesses, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic health conditions and anyone working or exercising outdoors.

Residents are encouraged to:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible, as fans alone may not provide enough cooling during extreme heat.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing if spending time outside.

Officials also remind residents to check on neighbors, relatives and pets during the prolonged stretch of dangerous heat and never leave children or animals unattended in vehicles.

The heat advisory remains in effect through this evening, with forecasters expecting another round of dangerously hot conditions later this week.

News

El Dorado Business Leader Madison Murphy to Receive Statewide Leadership in Free Enterprise Award

Published

1 day ago

July 21, 2026

Sandy Sanford

Madison Murphy being honored as tourism person of the year at the Governor's Conference on Tourism. Photo from GoElDorado.com

LITTLE ROCK, AR – Throughout his career, Madison Murphy has earned a reputation as one of Arkansas’ most respected business leaders, with decades of service spanning corporate leadership, education, philanthropy, and the arts. This fall, that legacy will be recognized on a statewide stage.

The El Dorado native has been named one of two recipients of the Leadership in Free Enterprise Award, presented by Economics Arkansas, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing economic and personal finance education across the state.

Murphy graduated from Hendrix College in Conway in 1980 with a degree in economics and business administration before returning to El Dorado to begin his career with Murphy Oil Corporation as a junior accountant. He quickly advanced through the company’s ranks, serving as a junior auditor and associate auditor before accepting international assignments in London, England, with Murphy Eastern Oil and in New Orleans, Louisiana, with Murphy’s Ocean Drilling and Exploration Company.

Despite opportunities abroad, Murphy chose to return home in 1988, joining Murphy Oil as vice president of planning. Over the years, he held several executive leadership positions, including treasurer, chief financial and administrative officer, and ultimately chairman of the board. He continues to serve as a member of the Murphy Oil Board of Directors.

Beyond Murphy Oil, his leadership has extended across Arkansas’ business and civic landscape. Murphy served for a decade on the Arkansas Highway Commission, spent more than 11 years on the board of BancorpSouth, and also served on the board of Deltic Timber Corporation.

He is a founding member of the Murphy Arts District (MAD), co-owner of Presqu’ile Winery, president of the Murphy Foundation, and has served as chairman of the board of Murphy USA since the company’s 2013 spinoff from Murphy Oil.

Economics Arkansas selected Murphy for the Leadership in Free Enterprise Award in recognition of his commitment to promoting the principles and success of free enterprise throughout Arkansas.

Formerly known as the Arkansas Council on Economic Education, Economics Arkansas equips PreK-12 educators with the training and classroom resources needed to teach economics and personal finance. The organization believes that preparing teachers creates a multiplier effect, allowing generations of Arkansas students to gain practical financial knowledge and a stronger understanding of the marketplace.

Murphy will be honored during the organization’s annual awards ceremony on Nov. 4 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Little Rock. Also receiving recognition that evening will be Walter Hussman Jr., chairman of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Tickets for the event are $125 and may be purchased online or by calling 501-682-4230.

Featured

Murphy-Pitard Jewelers Joins Downtown El Dorado’s Christmas in July Celebration

Published

1 day ago

July 21, 2026

Jax Sanford

EL DORADO, Ark. – Christmas is coming early to historic downtown El Dorado as Murphy-Pitard Jewelers invites the community to celebrate the Christmas in July festivities, taking place Thursday, July 23, through Saturday, July 25.

Following the success of last year’s event, Murphy-Pitard is bringing the celebration back with an even greater focus on festive fun, holiday planning, and the excitement of brand-new jewelry arrivals.

Throughout the three-day event, customers will have the opportunity to get a first look at the store’s newest collections, recently hand-selected at market, while shopping the best selection before the holiday season begins.

“The response to Christmas in July last year was incredible, and we couldn’t wait to bring it back,” said Amanda Pitard, owner of Murphy-Pitard Jewelers. “It’s such a fun way to celebrate with our community, introduce the new pieces we found at market, help customers start their Christmas wish lists early, and remind everyone it’s never too early to start planning for the holidays. Whether you’re beginning your Christmas shopping or simply enjoying the festivities downtown, we hope you’ll stop in and celebrate with us.”

Guests can enjoy holiday treats, festive decorations, Christmas music, and plenty of Christmas cheer while exploring the store’s newest arrivals. Murphy-Pitard Jewelers is proud to join the Downtown Business Association and Main Street El Dorado, celebrating Christmas in July as downtown businesses spread holiday cheer with festive activities and create a fun shopping experience throughout historic downtown El Dorado.

Customers are encouraged to create their Christmas wish list during the event for a chance to win a $500 Murphy-Pitard Jewelers shopping spree through a special Christmas in July Wish & Win giveaway.

For the first time, Murphy-Pitard Jewelers is introducing a special Christmas layaway program during Christmas in July. The three-day offer allows customers to reserve gifts with 0% down, NO interest, and five equal monthly payments, making it easy to plan ahead for the holidays while securing the store’s newest arrivals. (Restrictions apply. See store for complete details.)

Additional highlights include Santa Savings, featuring select merchandise specially marked for the event, as well as a visit from Summer Santa on Saturday.

Murphy-Pitard Jewelers’ Christmas in July will take place during regular business hours:

Thursday- Friday, July 23- July 24: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 25: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

For more information about Murphy-Pitard Jewelers, visit the store in historic downtown El Dorado, call (870) 863-8818, or follow Murphy-Pitard Jewelers on Facebook for event updates and sneak peeks of the newest arrivals.