WEST MONROE  — Phil Robertson, the bearded patriarch who rose to fame as the spiritual and outspoken head of the “Duck Dynasty” family, has passed away, according to a statement released by his family.

Robertson, remembered as a father, husband, grandfather and bold man of faith, died surrounded by loved ones. The family shared that he is now “with the Lord,” a comforting affirmation consistent with Robertson’s lifelong commitment to sharing the gospel.

“He reminded us often of the words of Paul, ‘you do not grieve like those who have no hope,’” the Robertson family wrote in a tribute. “For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.”

A former star athlete turned duck call inventor, Robertson became a household name through the hit A&E reality show “Duck Dynasty,” which chronicled the lives of the deeply religious, Louisiana-based Robertson family and their business, Duck Commander. Known for his camouflage attire, rugged outdoorsman persona, and unwavering Christian beliefs, Robertson gained a national platform and used it to share his testimony.

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“Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life,” the family said. “We are grateful for his life on earth and will continue the legacy of love for God and love for others until we see him again.”

The Robertson family cited 1st Corinthians 2 in their message, reflecting Phil’s devotion to Scripture and his mission to live and lead by faith. Details about memorial services have not yet been announced.

El DORADO – Following up on their announcement during the Symphony on the Square, the El Dorado Union County Chamber of Commerce released the details about bringing back the 4th of July Fireworks show. The free fireworks show had long been a staple of 4th of July celebrations in South Arkansas. Burn bans due to drought conditions, budgetary restrictions, and sometimes just lack of volunteers had stopped the spectacular a number of years ago. A press release from the Chamber says:

It’s Showtime in the Sky – We’re Bringing Back the Boom!

Join us Friday, July 4 at the Union County Fairgrounds for El Dorado’s Independence Day celebration, brought to you by the El Dorado Union County Chamber of Commerce and the City of El Dorado. Gates open at 7:30 PM, with a patriotic ceremony at 8 PM and fireworks lighting up the sky around 9 PM. Enjoy music by DJ Bmoe, a community-wide flag wave, and the Patriotic Car Decorating Contest. Tailgate with friends and celebrate fun, and community. Thanks to our generous sponsors: Murphy USA, LSB Industries, Standard Lithium, First Financial Bank, RightFiber, Diversified Services, and Mac’s Tree Service.

EL DORADO – El Dorado School District announced a retirement celebration for Athletic Director Phillip Lansdell. “In honor of Phillip Lansdell, a true leader and mentor. We look forward to celebrating his legacy and wishing him all the best in his retirement.”

Lansdell, a graduate of Southern Arkansas University has received countless awards during his tenure as Athletic Director, including the 2024 Distinguished Service Award from the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association and the Arkansas High School Athletic Administrators Association. Earlier this year he was named the Class 5A Athletic Director of the Year. Coach Lansdell’s retirement marks the conclusion of a 43-year career in education and athletics. Lansdell has spent 35 years at El Dorado, first joining the district in 1990 as the baseball coach before transitioning into administrative roles. He later became the principal at Hugh Goodwin Elementary before taking over as the Wildcats’ athletic director following the retirement of Mike Bender. Under Lansdell’s leadership, El Dorado’s athletic programs have achieved sustained success, winning 41 conference championships, 17 state titles, and earning 10 state runner-up finishes. His tenure also saw significant facility upgrades, including the installation of turf at Memorial Stadium and the construction of a new high school athletic facility.

Before arriving at El Dorado, Lansdell began his coaching career at Converse High School in Louisiana after graduating from Southern Arkansas University. He guided the Wildcats to a state baseball championship in 1986 before returning to SAU to work on his master’s degree. He then took the El Dorado baseball job, beginning a long tenure that would shape the school’s athletic success. The celebration is set for Wednesday, May 28th, 2025 from 11:30 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. as a drop-in event at the El Dorado School District Administration Building, located at 200 West Oak Street.

EL DORADO – In a press release ProMed Ambulance celebrated their recent recognition as a Pediatric Ready Ambulance Service.

“ProMed Ambulance is proud to announce its official recognition as a Pediatric Ready Ambulance Service by the Arkansas Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) program. This designation places ProMed among the top 5% of ambulance providers in the state and makes it the only service in South Arkansas to receive this distinction. Achieving the Pediatric Ready status reflects ProMed’s steadfast commitment to providing high-quality, age-appropriate emergency care for children in every community we serve. The designation was made possible through the leadership of ProMed Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator John Burdue and the tireless efforts of the entire clinical and administrative team.
What This Recognition Means for the Community:
* **Enhanced Pediatric Training:** – All frontline EMS personnel have completed specialized training in pediatric emergency care, ensuring clinical excellence in high-stress situations involving children.

* **Pediatric Equipment Standards:** – Every ProMed ambulance meets or exceeds state requirements for pediatric-specific equipment and medications.

* **Dedicated Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator:** – Oversight and continuous improvement in pediatric care protocols are led by a designated clinical leader focused solely on the unique needs of children.

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**Community Trust and Readiness:** – Families can rest assured that ProMed teams are trained, equipped, and ready to respond to all emergencies — from the smallest infants to growing adolescents.

**Statewide Leadership:** – As a top 5% provider, ProMed is helping set the bar for pediatric EMS excellence across Arkansas.”

“We are deeply honored to receive this designation,” said Ken Kelley, President and CEO of ProMed Ambulance. “This achievement represents our team’s ongoing dedication to excellence and our responsibility to protect the most vulnerable members of our communities — our children.”

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LITTLE ROCK – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced the latest rounds of appointments to various Arkansas Boards and Commissions, including some South Arkansas residents.

Arkansas Dietetics Licensing Board

• Detri Brech, Arkadelphia – Term to expire January 14, 2030. Replaces Rosalea Hyland

Arkansas Forestry Commission

• John McAlpine, Monticello – Term to expire January 14, 2030. Reappointment.

Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission

• Ricky Davis, Junction City – Term to expire September 1, 2028. Reappointment.

Old State House Commission

• Rebecca Gosnell, Magnolia – Term to expire March 19, 2033. Replaces Stacy DeJarnette.

State Board of Health

• Dr. Keith Davis, Smackover – Term to expire December 31, 2028. Replaces Glen Byrant.