Regional News
Thursday declared “Jimmy Carter Day” in Arkansas
LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has declared January 9, 2025, as “President Jimmy Carter Day” in honor of the late 39th President of the United States. Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100, was the longest-living U.S. president in history.
Born in Plains, Georgia, in 1924, Carter served as a Georgia state senator, the 76th Governor of Georgia, and was elected president in 1976. During his presidency, Carter worked to resolve international conflicts and address economic challenges. After leaving office, he and his wife, Rosalynn, dedicated their lives to volunteer work and humanitarian efforts.
In tribute to Carter’s legacy, President Joe Biden ordered flags to be flown at half-staff for 30 days and proclaimed January 9 as a National Day of Mourning, coinciding with Carter’s state funeral in Washington, D.C. Arkansas joins the nation in remembering his life and contributions to the country.
In response to a powerful winter storm expected to bring dangerous conditions across Arkansas, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced the closure of state office buildings for Thursday, January 9, and Friday, January 10, 2025. The closures, aimed at ensuring safety during the extreme weather, apply to all non-critical operations.
State employees able to work remotely are encouraged to telework, while agencies have been authorized to implement liberal leave policies for employees who cannot work from home.
The National Weather Service has warned of significant impacts from the storm, particularly in southern Arkansas, including the cities of Camden, El Dorado, and Monticello. These areas, identified as high-risk zones on the Winter Storm Severity Index map, are forecast to experience life-threatening conditions, including:
- Extremely dangerous or impossible travel due to icy roads.
- Ice accumulations of 0.25 to 0.5 inches, potentially causing widespread power outages.
- Infrastructure damage, including downed trees and power lines.
Residents in these regions are strongly advised to avoid travel, secure their homes, and prepare for potential power outages. The storm’s ice accumulation and high winds could lead to prolonged disruptions, making preparation critical for safety.
“This is a serious storm that demands caution,” Governor Sanders said in a statement. “We are taking every measure to prioritize the safety of Arkansans. I urge everyone to stay off the roads, avoid unnecessary travel, and take precautions to keep themselves and their families safe.”
Local emergency management teams are closely monitoring the storm, and updates will continue to be provided as conditions evolve. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and follow guidance from state and local authorities.
Stay Safe During the Storm
- Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
- Keep emergency supplies, including food, water, flashlights, and batteries.
- Charge electronic devices in case of power outages.
- Stay tuned to weather updates from the National Weather Service or local broadcasters.
As Arkansas braces for the winter storm, safety remains the top priority. State officials and emergency services are working around the clock to minimize disruptions and respond to potential emergencies.
ST JOE- – A devastating head-on collision on U.S. Highway 65 near St. Joe resulted in one fatality and one injury late Tuesday afternoon, according to the Arkansas State Police.
The crash occurred at approximately 5:38 p.m. on January 7, 2025. A 2005 Hyundai, traveling southbound, reportedly crossed the double yellow line and collided head-on with a northbound 2016 Jeep Wrangler in the opposing lane.
The driver of the Hyundai, Thomas Clay Clark, 34, of Harrison, was pronounced dead at the scene. The injured individual, identified as Mary Pollyea, 62, of Jasper, was driving the Jeep Wrangler. She was transported to North Arkansas Regional Medical Center for treatment of her injuries.
Weather conditions at the time were clear, and the road was dry, authorities said.
The investigation into the crash is being led by Corporal Nathan L. Holder of the Arkansas State Police. Clark’s body was taken to Roller-Coffman Funeral Home in Marshall. Next of kin have been notified.
10:30 PM UPDATE
Statewide
All Arkansas state government offices are closed Thursday and Friday.
El Dorado
The El Dorado School District will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, and will be closed on Friday, January 10th. The district urges everyone to prioritize safety during the anticipated weather conditions.
The Boys and Girls Club of Union County will be closed on Thursday.
Westside Christian School
Westside Christian School will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, and will be closed on Friday, January 10th.
Bravo Dance Centre
All classes for the remainder of the week have been cancelled. Classes will resume on Monday, January 13th.
Camden Fairview
The Camden Fairview School District has announced that all classes will be canceled on Thursday, January 9, and Friday, January 10, due to expected severe weather conditions. The decision was made to prioritize safety, with concerns about hazardous road conditions during afternoon dismissals.
All district events scheduled for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday have also been canceled. Updates regarding rescheduled events are already being shared, including the following:
- Basketball games originally scheduled for January 9 and 10 will now take place at the CFHS Gym on Tuesday, January 21, with start times to be announced.
- The Ivory Intermediate Spelling Bee will now be held on Wednesday, January 15, with 5th grade at 8:20 AM and 4th grade at 9:30 AM.
Thanks to five built-in inclement weather days in the school calendar, students will not need to make up the missed days. The district will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates.
CFSD employees are advised to check their work emails for updates. The district encourages everyone to stay safe and warm.
Parkers Chapel
The Parkers Chapel School District will dismiss early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, due to anticipated weather conditions. Schools will remain closed on Friday, January 10.
Smackover
The Smackover-Norphlet School District will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, due to forecasted inclement weather and potentially hazardous road conditions. Buses will begin lining up at 12:30 p.m., and all after-school preschool classes are canceled.
Classes and all extracurricular activities are also canceled for Friday, January 10. The basketball game against Centerpoint has been rescheduled for Monday, January 13. District officials emphasized that the safety of students, staff, and the community remains their top priority.
Magnolia
The Magnolia School District will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to anticipated inclement weather. While officials believe it is unlikely schools will be open on Friday, a final decision will be made after assessing actual weather conditions. The district will continue to monitor updates and communicate any changes.
Hampton
Due to the threat of inclement weather Hampton Schools will be closed Thursday, January 9, 2025. The decision was made for the safety and the best educational outcomes for students and staff.
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