Volume 9 - No. 48

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United Way raises $1 million p. 12

Question of the Week

About what year did you get your first mobile phone?

remember!

« Lori Johnson “2005.”

celebrate!

» Sandy Johnson “2000.”

« John Rickard “2001.”

act!

Remembering the Dream: Groups, organizations and individuals from around the region came together in El Dorado on Jan. 19 to participate in the Self Culture

» Olivia Rickard “1996.”

Club’s 24th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, “Remember! Celebrate! Act!: King and His Dream in 2014.”

See More Page 6-7. — Brooke Burger / South Arkansas Leader

All the bAnk you’ll ever need. w w w. f i r s t f i n a n c i a l b a n k . c o m

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Latest from Kevin Hart, ‘Ride Along’ is outrageously funny Monique Thompson Red Carpet Crash

Mention Kevin Hart’s name and you immediately think of him as the stand-up comedian in his successful stand-up documentaries “Let Me ExRide Along plain” (2013) or “Laugh at My Pain” (2011). However, after successful » Release date: Jan. 17. roles in “Grudge Match” (2013) and » Run time: 100 min.

“Think Like a Man” (2012), and now in “Ride Along,” Hart is prov» Rated: PG-13 for sequences of violence, sexual content and brief ing himself to be the next big breakstrong language. out urban comedic actor.

Hart co-stars alongside rapper» Director(s): Tim Story. turned-successful-actor Ice Cube in » Stars: Ice Cube, Kevin Hart, Tika this action comedy, which is packed Sumpter, John Leguizamo, Bruce with tons of laughable moments.

McGill, Bryan Allen, Laurence Fishburne, Dragos Bucur and Gary Ben Barber (Hart) is determined to Owen. make it into the police academy and Your El Dorado, Arkansas Community Guide continue to grow his life with his » RCC Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars. girlfriend Angela (Tika Sumpter).

But Angela’s overly protective older Eldoark.com: A 10-Million+ Hits a Month Website brother, Atlanta PD detective James bickering is outrageously funny and Payton (Ice Cube), doesn’t feel Ben will certainly remind you of the reEldoark.com Jackiehelps Chan and is the right man for his sister. In ex- lationship between change for his blessing to marry his Chris Tucker in the “Rush Hour” keep you and your sister, James decides to take Ben on franchise. “Ride Along” is easily certainly a 24-hour ride along around Atlanta one of those films familythat up tocan date on for him to prove he’s able to handle be the start of a new franchise when comedies. being a cop, but most importantly it comes to action all things in Although there are unrealistic moworthy enough to marry Angela.

Doradotoand the plot (i.e.

While the two are out patrolling ments when itElcomes allowing a civilian to engage in acthe streets, they encounter one crazy South Arkansas. tive police calls) and not tons of acscenario after the next. Although untion, “Ride Along” is intended to be realistic, each of the scenarios calls Log on today! ridiculously funny and that’s exactly for hilarious results. While Ben is ecstatic to finally get the opportu- what you will get. nity to live the life of a cop, James is Visit Eldoark.com to be part of a community website that receives 12 writRed Carpet Crash provides review willing to do everything in his power ing on films, DVDs and television; news to make sure Ben theStay task. million hits perfails month. upBut, to date onand El Dorado community updates with on allthe things entertainment; eventually, James may find himself and the occasional free stuff. calendar, Sandy’s Blog and more! Also,Find enter ouratweekly nibbler trivia having to depend on Ben’s help.

RCC www.redcarpetcrash.com or facebook.com/RedCarpetCrash.

Hart and Ice Cube’s back-and-forth

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— Brooke Burger / South Arkansas Leader

Team Murphy USA sponsors local Boys and Girls Club basketball season Last Wednesday, Jan. 15, Murphy USA presented the El Dorado Boys and Girls Club with a $2,000 check through its sports sponsorship program, Team Murphy USA. Murphy USA will serve as title sponsor of the BGC 2014 basketball season.

Attending the presentation are (from left) Britney Boroughs, MUSA communication

specialist; Reggie Thomas, BGC Board of Directors; David Lee, BGC executive director; Andrew Clyde, MUSA president and CEO; Velvet Bledsoe, MUSA El Dorado store manager; Stetson Moon, MUSA district manager; Jeff Elbatnigi, MUSA division manager; and Lindsey Kennebeck, MUSA manager of field communications.

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Emergency funds should be kept, used separate from ‘squirrel’ funds

DAVE Says

Working for Water: The upcoming Preservation Society lecture will look at the struggle of Shreveport, La.’s quest for quality water, its supply problems and the attempts to solve them prior to municipally owned waterworks. The event, scheduled for Feb. 3, is free and open to the public. — Courtesy photo

‘The struggle for good water’

Shreveport Waterworks subject of upcoming Preservation Society lecture

The Preservation Society of the South Arkansas Historical Foundation will host a lecture on the history of Shreveport, La.’s Waterworks at its regular meeting on Monday, Feb. 3.

Retired history professor Dr. Terry Reynolds will present “The Struggle for Good Water,” discussing the early history and struggles of the Shreveport Waterworks.

The lecture will begin at 5:15 p.m. at the Newton House Museum, located at 510 North Jackson in El Dorado. The program is free and open to the public.

Shreveport, like most Southern cities of its size, had neither the financial ability nor the political will to erect a municipally owned water supply system in the late 19th century. Thus, in the 1880s it turned to a privately owned company to supply its citizens with water, like many other cities of the period.

Reynolds’ presentation will look at the history of Shreveport’s water supply problems and the attempts to solve them in the period prior to

construction of the first municipally owned waterworks around 1915.

As well, Reynolds will discuss why private water companies failed to maintain their hold, even while privately owned light and telephone companies were succeeding.

Reynolds received his B.S. in history from Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia and his Ph.D. in history from the University of Kansas. Now retired, Reynolds previously served on the faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Michigan Technological University, where he chaired the Department of Social Sciences from 1990 to 2002. He is a past winner of the Norton Prize issued by the Society of Industrial Archaeology, and is the author of “Stronger Than a Hundred Men: A History of the Vertical Water Wheel.”

The Preservation Society is the support organization for the South Arkansas Historical Foundation, and Society membership forms are available at the SAHF offices. For more information, call 870.862.9890.

Dear Dave, My husband works construction, so we barely scrape by during the winter months.

Dear Dave, Should we build an emergency What do you think about the idea fund for the slow times? of putting your emergency fund — Cathy into bonds?

— Ryan Dear Cathy, I think that’s a great idea. AlDear Ryan, though, I’d probably call it someI think that’s a really bad idea, thing other than an emergency fund. How about a “squirrel fund”? and here’s why: Bond values and Squirrels need to have nuts saved prices go down as long-term interup for winter, and in your case est rates rise. Right now, long-term you’d be setting money aside dur- interest rates – a good example ing the summer to get you through would be mortgage rates – are ticking up. They’ve moved up a the slow winter months.

You may think I’m playing games quarter of a percent recently. So, with the name, but really I’m not. as this happens, the value of bonds This sort of saving isn’t for emer- goes down. If these interest rates gencies. It’s a budget issue, be- spiked, you could lose half your cause you’re planning and setting emergency fund.

Never, ever put your emergency aside cash leading up to the down fund into things where risk and time you know is coming.

Keep your emergency fund of volatility are factors. An emerthree to six months of expenses gency fund isn’t an investment. separate from this, and take a care- It’s there to help protect things ful look at what he made this winter that are investments and your life. and how much that left you short Keep it in something safe and simple, like a money market aceach month.

Remember, we’re not talking count where there’s no penalty for about some random amount of early withdrawal.

We’re not looking to make money money here. It’s an exact amount with an emergency fund, Ryan. It’s that you can budget for accordinginsurance.

Just let it sit there, safe ly. Teachers can do the same thing and sound, until it’s needed. if they’re not paid 12 months a year.

— Dave It’s a simple matter of planning ahead for the down time, and setDave Ramsey has authored four ting aside enough during the other New York Times best-selling books. nine months to see you through!

Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey at daveramsey.com.

— Dave

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ATV-related hospitalizations decline between 2005-2009 Mary Hightower

Cooperative Extension Service U of A System Division of Agriculture

LITTLE ROCK — Hospitalizations due to incidents involving all-terrain vehicles declined in Arkansas between 2005 and 2009, according to data from the Arkansas Department of Health.

However, the numbers show that people aged 19 and older, were still the most likely to wind up in the emergency room due to an ATV accident. Of the 256 ATV-related hospitalizations in 2005: » 173 were for people ages 19 and older; » 32 percent of the cases included children; » 13 involved children 1-9 years of age; » 36 involved children ages 10-14; and » 34 involved children ages 15-18.

Just four years later the number of ATV hospitalizations dropped 22 percent to 210. In 2009: » 145 were for people ages 19 and older; » 10 were from ages 1-9; » 22 were from children ages 10-14; and » 23 involved youths ages 15-18.

Males were far more likely to be involved in an ATV crash than females. In 2005, 203 males were hospitalized, versus 53 females.

In 2009, the numbers had declined by 13 percent to 168 males and 42 females.

Noah Washburn, the statewide coordinator for the Arkansas 4-H ATV safety program, said “the decline is encouraging, but we still have a way to go to eliminate all ATV-related hospitalizations.”

Part of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture’s Cooperative Extension Service, 4-H works with Arkansas Children’s Hospital’s Injury Prevention Center to ensure ATV riders learn proper and safe operation techniques.

“There are many factors that go

Columns: Campers from an Operation Military Kids Camp prepare to move off in two columns as they participate in ATV safety training offered through the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. The 4-H ATV Safety Program is offered throughout the state. — U of A System Division of Agriculture

into being able to operate an ATV safely,” Washburn said. “These include having a properly sized vehicle, wearing safety clothing such as helmets, and not allowing others to piggyback a ride.”

The 4-H ATV Safety Program began in June 2008 and by 2012, more than 22,000 people had heard the 4-H ATV Safety message, including nearly 700 youths and adults. Those participants completed the fourhour ATV RiderCourse and became certified safe riders through the Arkansas 4-H ATV Safety Program.

The program has 17 instructors throughout the state.

“We have a lot of ATV users in this state. For many, it’s the workhorse vehicle on the farm or out in the deer woods,” Washburn said. “Because of its prevalence, Arkansas has been one of the states chalking up high

ATV continued on Page 8

IMMEDIATE OPENING

Radio Announcer Noalmark Broadcasting Corporation and its El Dorado cluster of stations is looking for self-motivated and dependable individuals to fill a full-time position for a radio announcer.

Interested candidates should have a strong work ethic and be able to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends and holidays. Knowledge of Wide Orbit automation and Adobe Audition is a plus. This position will require on-air shifts, music programming, commercial production, help with station promotions and live remote broadcasts.

If you love being part of a winning team and enjoy meeting new people, we would like to meet you!

Benefits include medical, dental and life insurance; paid vacation, holidays and sick leave.

Email resumes to jobs@noalmark.com.

Noalmark Broadcasting is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Females and minorities are strongly urged to apply.

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Rotary Club helps fund city’s first Citizens Police Academy Earlier this month, the Rotary Club of El Dorado provided the El Dorado Police Department with a $250 donation to help fund the department’s upcoming Citizens Police Academy.

Beginning Feb. 4, the El Dorado Police Department will offer the city’s first-ever Citizens Police Academy. According to Sgt. Christopher Lutman, community relations supervisor for the EPD and head of the academy, operating a Citizens Police Academy is relatively inexpensive and the department was able to get donations from community organizations and civic groups such as the Rotary Club to offset some of the costs. Thanks in part to those donations, the academy is offered free to the public.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age; live or work in the city of El Dorado; be clear of a felony background or a serious misdemeanor arrest in the last couple of years; and agree to a background check. As well, applicants need to be willing to attend at least 70 percent of the eight-week class.

ourselves accountable and what actually goes on here.”

The program will accept 20 students who will meet from 6 to 9 every Tuesday night at the EPD, culminating with a graduation dinner on March 20. Participants will have the opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge and hands-on experience with many aspects of being a police officer. Though the CPA will feature a number of hands-on experiences, there are no physical requirements to enroll in the academy and all activities will be strictly voluntary.

While graduates will receive a certificate of completion, they will not be police officers.

The deadline to apply for the CitiDonation: Rotary Club of El Dorado President Greg Harrison (center, right) zens Police Academy is 5 p.m. Fripresents Sgt. Christopher Lutman (center, left) with a $250 donation for the El Dorado Police Department’s upcoming Citizens Police Academy. Also pictured day, Jan. 24. Applications can be picked up at the El Dorado Police are (from left) Union County Judge Mike Loftin, Elaine Strickland, Donna Bradshaw, El Dorado Mayor Frank Hash and Patrick Hotard. — Courtesy photo Department, located at 402 North “The Citizens Police Academy community relations supervisor for West Ave. For more information on the CPA, is a great tool to get the citizens the EPD and head of the academy. of El Dorado engaged in exactly It’s about earning trust with the pub- contact Sgt. Christopher Lutman at what we do on an everyday ba- lic and about getting them involved. 870.863.4141 ext. 120 or clutman@ sis,” said Sgt. Christopher Lutman, I want them to see how we hold eldoradopolice.org.

AdoptMe Pet adoptions are available at the Union County Animal Protection Society shelter, 1000 Sunset Road, El Dorado. UCAPS’s hours are noon to 5 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday. For information about adopting or sponsoring a pet, call 870.862.0502.

BARTON PUBLIC LIBRARY » Adult Reference » Fiction and Nonfiction » Teen and Children Titles » Cookbooks and MORE! » $2 reference works » $1 hardbacks » 50¢ softbacks, CDS, etc. » 25¢ paperbacks » 10¢ magazines

Book Sale March 13 - 20 noon to 6 p.m.

TAC House

1101 North West Ave. El Dorado

UCAPS accepts donations including, but not limited to: » Dog and cat food » Dog houses » Cat litter » Play pens » Paper towels » Five-gallon buckets » Cleaning supplies » Large and small fans » Bleach and detergent » Plastic kiddie pools » Hand sanitizer » Dog and cat toys » Towels » Dog and cat treats » Blankets » Monetary donations » Sheets » Pet sponsorships » Pet taxis » Volunteer time Like UCAPS on Facebook for updates on new animals available for adoption and the shelter’s current donation needs, as well as hours of operation and more!

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Self Culture Club celebrates life, legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. throughout weekend Throughout a weekend-long celebration, the Self Culture Club encouraged the region to join in remembering and celebrating the life and legacy of one of the nation’s most revered leaders and champions of civil rights – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A highlight of the weekend, the Self Culture Club’s 24th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade brought together a number of groups, organizations, bands and individuals from around the region, including entrants from Warren and Pine Bluff. The parade marched down North West Avenue and through downtown El Dorado on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 19.

Parade entrants marked the remembrance of King’s life and honored his

legacy of service through the theme “Remember! Celebrate! Act!: King and His Dream in 2014.” With the sun shining and temperatures in the low 60s, community members from across the area lined the streets to remember and celebrate along with parade participants. » Dream Keepers: (above) A member of the group SWAG: Saved With A Gift” holds high a sign reading “dream keepers.” The group gets its name from Proverbs 18:16: (NIV), “A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.” » Celebration: (left) A group stands on the corner of North West Avenue and Main Street, cheering as the entries rode by and hollering out to friends and family participating

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— Brooke Burger / South Arkansas Leader

in the parade. » High Steppers: (clockwise from top) Community equestrians turn onto Washington Avenue in downtown El Dorado for the last stretch of the parade. » Joy Ride: Several community members ride in the back of a pickup truck, holding signs representing the overall theme for the local Martin Luther King Jr. celebration: “Remember! Celebrate! Act!” » Honored: Members of the Warren High School Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, the “rock steady” Lumberjack Battalion, march in the annual parade Sunday afternoon. » Marching Band: Members of the Dollarway High School marching band of Pine Bluff make their way through downtown El Dorado during the annual parade.

The observance began on Saturday, Jan. 18 with the Self Culture Club’s 26th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Banquet, featuring keynote speaker Tai M. Crater, director

of risk finance and insurance for Tyson Foods.

A graduate of El Dorado High School, Crater has recognized twice in her career by the Arkansas Business Journal, in 2006 as a “Top 40 Under 40” honoree and again in 2010 as a member of the class of “The New Influentials: 20 In Their 20s.” The young professional also made a mark in community service.

The celebration culminated Sunday night with the Ninth Annual Gospel Musical celebration at Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. The concert featured the Olive Branch Missionary Baptist Church Choir of El Dorado and “Rejoice” The Gospel Ensemble.

The Self Culture Club is a community-based organization operating under the motto, “Lifting as we climb.” The club states its goal as promoting spiritual and community growth through providing individuals and organizations with the necessary tools required to promote progress in the community.

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Students invited to enter So. Arkansas Arts Center’s annual art show and competition The visual arts committee of the South Arkansas Arts Center is now accepting entries for the 2014 Student Art Show and Competition. Entry deadline for works is Jan. 29.

The 2014 Student Art Show opens in the Merkle, Price and Lobby galleries on Feb. 11 and continues through Feb. 28. An artist reception will be hosted from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at the Arts Center, at 110 East Fifth St. in El Dorado.

The contest is open to all students grades K-12, and all two-dimensional, 3-D and multi-media fine arts will be accepted. Pieces must be the original work of the student, completed in the last year, and not previously shown at SAAC. All entries must have the child’s name on the work, either as part of the artwork or on the back in pencil.

Sales are encouraged during the exhibition and all works not for sale must be clearly marked “NFS.” Entry fee to the competition costs $5 per entry and is non-refundable.

This year’s competition will be

Entry deadline for works is Jan. 29, Artist reception scheduled for Feb. 18

judged by Sandy Bennett. Cash prizes will be awarded to the Best of Show, now known as the Betty Norman Award, selected from all entries received. Works will be divided into three divisions for judging: K-4 Elementary, 5-8 Middle School and 9-12 High School. Prizes will be awarded in each division for first, second and third places.

According to the Arts Center, the Best of Show Award has been renamed after artist and teacher Betty Norman, who was one of SAAC’s most beloved, accomplished and influential artists.

Through a lifetime of studying her

craft around the world and teaching in El Dorado, Norman influenced generations of artists.

For more information about entering the 2014 Student Art Show and Competition, contact the SAAC office at 870.862.5474.

Ann Pruet Calhoon and Paula Pruet James are serving as the title sponsors of the Student Art Show and Competition in memory of their mother Elizabeth Pruet. Rainer Office Machines and Equipment will serve as awards sponsor.

Celebrating 50 years, the South Arkansas Arts Center is a complete visual and performing arts center, providing Artist In Education residencies, monthly gallery exhibits, community theater productions, and classes in visual arts, ballet, photography, drama and music. For more information, go to saac-arts.org.

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ATV

continued from Page 4

injury numbers.”

For more information on ATV RiderCourses throughout the state, contact Washburn at 501.671.2053.

Union County Cooperative Extension Service oversees eight 4-H clubs throughout the county. Sponsored by the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, 4-H is an education program open to all youth between the ages of 5 and 19.

Youth do not have to live on a farm nor have animals to be a member.

As well, there are no membership dues to be a part of the program.

To learn more about local 4-H programs and ATV safety opportunities in Union County, contact the Union County Cooperative Extension Service at 870.864.1916.

The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. For more information, go online to www.uaex.edu. Many links to extension publications may change in the spring as the extension service renovates its site.

Turn of century sees Arkansas plagued by parasitic worm Ken Bridges

South Arkansas Historical Foundation

At the dawn of the 20th century, many Arkansas business and political leaders had high hopes for progress and prosperity for the state in the coming years. But as Arkansas attempted to move forward, it faced an old scourge that steadily held back its progress.

Hookworm had infected thousands of Arkansans, steadily wearing down their health and vitality. Hookworm often infected individuals walking through soil or sewage contaminated with the parasite. Infections could last for years. The parasites would burrow into the intestines of the host, causing fever, coughing, nausea, and even anemia and heart problems.

Dr. Charles Stiles, a New York native and European-trained doctor, had been conducting a study of hookworm in the South at the turn of the century and became

alarmed at how common the disease had become. He pushed for health officials to respond to this public health crisis in a 1903 paper.

Wealthy industrialist John D. Rockefeller became interested in the situation. Partially through the efforts of Stiles, Rockefeller donated $1 million to the creation of the Rockefeller Sanitary Commission for the Eradication of Hookworm Disease in 1909. The task ahead was difficult. Arkansas was an extremely poor state in spite of being blessed with an abundance of agricultural products. Roads in rural areas were often impassable, if they existed at all, and it was difficult for people in outlying areas to reach a doctor, much less afford one.

Nevertheless, the state was persuaded to take action. In 1913, the Arkansas Department of Health was established, with its top priority being the eradication of hookworm.

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South Arkansas Historical Foundation presents

ist o ry minute

Reports on the extent of the problem were shocking. The Rockefeller Commission reported that some counties had infections rates of over 60 percent. Union, Nevada and Columbia counties reported infection rates of over 66 percent. Hot Spring County reported a 75 percent infection rate.

Some schools had a 100 percent infection rate. The ADH reported that in one study 31.3 percent of all Arkansans were infected, and at any given time, 10,000 people in the state were so badly infected that they could not function at any kind of job.

The Rockefeller Commission and ADH set up free clinics across the state to treat the infected.

A treatment of Epsom salts and thymol were prescribed for treating the condition. Doctors working with the Rockefeller Commission, however, identified the problem leading to hookworm.

They noticed that many of the infected, particularly children, did not have shoes and would often have to walk to flooded outhouses where the soil was contaminated with hookworms. Health officials began insisting that children have to wear shoes outside and that outhouses be redesigned in a way to prevent soil contamination.

By 1914, the epidemic, called the “damnation of the age,” had passed, and the Rockefeller Commission disbanded. Hookworm all but disappeared throughout the United States, with children ever since being reminded to wear shoes while outdoors.

The South Arkansas Historical Foundation is located in El Dorado. For more information, call 870.862.9890.

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United Way united

United Way of Union County recognizes volunteers, board The United Way of Union County recognized the hard work of many campaign volunteers on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at its annual meeting and campaign celebration. The 2013-2014 campaign total was also announced – a record-breaking $1,041,565. It is the most money ever raised in the annual campaign.

The United Way of Union County thanked the Loaned Executives from local businesses: Dr. Tim Kirk, South Arkansas Community College; Carl Sivils, BancorpSouth; Katie Sandifer, Murphy Oil; Josh Nelig, DuPont; Bobbi Britton, Deltic Timber; Benny Bussey, Tetra; Amanda Adams, First Financial Bank; John Kevin Tolin, El Dorado Chemical; Bear Van Ness, Simmons First Bank; Rhonda Murry, SouthernBancorp; Ray Poole and Janice Murphy, Nexans Amercable; Jay Staggs, Traci Dutchover and Reggie Thomas, Murphy USA; and Michelle Clayton, Clean Harbors.

New board members were elected to serve a minimum of one three-year term and officers were elected. New board members beginning in 2014 are: Christy Gunter, Clean Harbors; Leslie Carroll, Simmons First Bank; and Julie Mathews, First Financial Bank. New officers for 2014 are: President Melody Morrow, SouthernBancorp; VicePresident Greg Harrison, Edward Jones; and Treasurer Shari Terry, Murphy USA. “Union County is very fortunate to have such generous support of both businesses and individuals who will share their time, talents and resources to improve our community. Their contributions to this campaign will impact many lives in Union County for years to come and help the United Way to partner with agencies that can bring about lasting change for the better,” said

Alexis Alexander, executive director. “The people of Union County are extremely generous and always willing to lend a hand.

We can’t thank them enough for their support again that led to our record-setting year.”

Originally begun as the El Dorado Community Chest in 1933, the United Way of Union County came into existence in 1962. Its mission is to mobilize the caring power of communities to impact lasting changes – by focusing on the underlying causes of the most serious problems in each community they serve. Since 1950, they have raised over $22 million to invest in fulfilling their mission in Union County.

Donations to United Way of Union County support programs and services that meet community needs through United Way’s 14 nonprofit partner agencies’ work; United Way’s special initiatives, like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library; and other collaborative efforts. Instead of focusing on one cause, United Way focuses on many of them.

That way, one donation not only goes to the need that everyone is aware of, but also to those that are less obvious, but no less important.

For more information, contact, United Way of Union County at 870.862.4903 or visit the organization’s new website at unitedwayunioncounty.com.

Union United is a section showcasing the news and happenings of the 14 nonprofit partner agencies of the United Way of Union County.

For more information, call 870.862.4903, email liveunited@uwucar.org or visit unitedwayunioncounty.com.

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Girl Scout Cookie Program underway across the region TEXARKANA — Girl Scouts in the region started off the New Year by putting their entrepreneurial and leadership skills to work through the Girl Scout Cookie Program. Scouts began taking orders for the “cookies with a mission” on Jan. 11 and will continue to place orders through Jan. 26. After the initial order period, cookies will be available at area booths beginning Feb. 21.

The cost of the cookies is $3.50 per box, with proceeds supporting local Girl Scout troops and programs for the girls. There are eight flavors to choose from: Do-si-Dos, Dulce de Leche, Samoas, Tagalongs, Thank You Berry Munch, Thin Mints, Trefoils and Savannah Smiles.

The Cookie Program is an important part of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. The program is the largest girl-led business in the world,

generating $790 million in annual sales. With earnings from the Girl Scout Cookie Program, girls fund community projects on a local level and work together to make an impact in their communities. The Girl Scout Cookie Program is a long-standing tradition, dating back to the 1930s.

For those individuals who are not cookie fans or perhaps watching their waistlines, the Gift of Caring Program allows consumers to donate to U.S. military members by purchasing Girl Scout Cookies. The Girl Scouts – Diamonds Council bakers, Little Brownie Bakers, then coordinate the shipment of donated cookies to approved military bases.

For more information on purchasing cookies, contact the local Girl Scout office at 800.632.6894 or go online to girlscoutsdiamonds.org.

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COMMUNITY calendar

» ‘ARTS IN THE HEARTS’ — The South Arkansas Arts Center will kick off its 50th Anniversary celebration with the retrospective showcase “Arts In the Hearts for Decades” in all three galleries. The showcase spans 32 years of Artists In Education projects

by El Dorado AIE artists and local schools. The exhibition is sponsored

by Ann Pruet Calhoon and Paula Pruet James. Exhibition coordinator Mary Pat Anthony is collecting stories from students, parents and educators. Those wishing to share their story can email how the arts influenced their lives to info@saac-arts.org.

When: Now to Feb. 7 Where: South Arkansas Arts Center, 110 East Fifth St., El Dorado Contact: For more information, contact the SAAC office at 870.862.5474 or visit the website at saac-arts.org. » HARPER FAMILY CONCERT — New Hopewell Baptist Church will host the Harper Family in concert.

Hailing from Missouri, the Harper Family plays bluegrass gospel music.

Learn more at theharperfamily music.com. Admission to the concert is free, but love offerings will be accepted. Seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.

When: Friday, Jan. 24 at 7 p.m.

Where: Hopewell Baptist Church, 3027 Hopewell Road, El Dorado Contact: For more information or directions, call 870.863.5093. » NJCM PRE-ANNIVERSARY SERVICES — New Jerusalem Christian Ministry, under the direction of pastor LaDebra Van Hook, will host pre-anniversary services for bishop George Calloway Jr. and first lady

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Your guide to events happening in communities in and around Union County.

Alice Calloway. The public is invited to attend the following services: Jan. 26 at 6 p.m. with Bishop Chester Thomas of Zion Hill Baptist Church of Camden; Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. with Pastor Erma Jackson of Faith In the Word Worship Center of El Dorado; and Jan. 28 at 7 p.m. with Pastor Robert Cunningham of Christ Missionary Baptist Church of El Dorado.

When: Jan. 26-28 Where: New Jerusalem Christian Ministry, 1400 North Gray St., El Dorado Contact: For service information, contact pastor LaDebra Van Hook at 870.881.9579.

» FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE — New Jerusalem Christian Ministry, under the direction of pastor LaDebra Van Hook, will host Friday Night Live, an uplifting Holy Ghost worship experience.

The public is invited to attend.

Musicians are invited to bring their musical instruments, and singers their song and voice. The theme will be “Everybody with Everything Praise Him!” When: Friday, Jan. 31 at 7 p.m.

Where: New Jerusalem Christian Ministry, 1400 North Gray St., El Dorado Contact: For service information, contact pastor LaDebra Van Hook at 870.881.9579. » TAX FORMS AVAILABLE — The Internal Revenue Service will open the 2014 filing season on Jan. 31. Tax payers are encouraged to use e-file or Free File, but individual tax forms will be available at the Barton Public Library during regular business hours. The library will make all forms available as it receives them.

When: Monday, Wednesday and

Tell Us Something Good!

Submit your event, announcement or story idea to the South Arkansas Leader at leader@noalmark.com at least one week before the date of the event. All material must be received the Friday before publication on Wednesday. For more information, contact the Leader staff at 870.863.6126 or by email.

Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m.; and Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m.

The library is closed on Sundays.

Where: Barton Public Library, 200 East Fifth St., El Dorado Contact: For more information, contact the library at 870.863.5447 or go online to youseemore.com/barton. » SINGLE-PARENT SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE — Applications are available for the Union County Single Parent Scholarship. To be eligible, one must live in Union County, be enrolled in any college or university and be a single parent providing support of a dependent child or children under the age of 18 in the household.

Deadline: The deadline to apply is Monday, Feb. 3.

Where: Applications are available online at www.aspsf.org/students_sp scholarships.html and at the South Arkansas Community College financial aid office.

Contact: For more information about donating to the scholarship fund or applying for a scholarship, call 870.864.7150. » NATURE NIGHTS — On the second Thursday of each month, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and South Arkansas Community College’s Corporate and Community Education will team up to offer Nature Nights, a series for the entire family. The program is free and open to the public. Space is limited, so registration is requested.

Program: A Bed for Bluebirds. Participants will build their own bluebird box to put in their yard.

When: Thursday, Feb. 6 at 6 p.m.

Where: Center for Workforce

Development, SouthArk East Campus, 3696 East Main, El Dorado Contact: For more information or to register, contact CCE at 870.864.7192 or email Laura Rogers at the AGFC at larogers@agfc.state.ar.us. » BASIC COMPUTER CLASSES — Connect Arkansas will bring its mobile lab to El Dorado for three basic computer classes. The following classes are free and open to the public: Computer Basics from 11 a.m. to noon; Setting Up an Email Account from noon to 1 p.m.; and Using an Email Account from 1 to 2 p.m. Attendance is limited to five students per class, and registration is required. Connect Arkansas will return to Union County in April with more educational opportunities.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Barton Public Library, 200 East Fifth St., El Dorado Contact: For more information, contact Nancy Arn at 870.863.5447, or go online to youseemore.com/barton. » HEALTH INSURANCE SIGN UP ASSISTANCE — The Medical Center of South Arkansas is providing sign-up assistance for health insurance, through the March 31 enrollment deadline. Based on household income and dependents, you may be eligible for health insurance coverage at no cost through Medicaid; or you may be eligible for new health insurance on the Health Insurance Marketplace.

When: Now through March 31.

Where: Medical Center of South Arkansas, 700 West Grove St., El Dorado Contact: For more information or to make an appointment for sign-up assistance, contact MCSA at 870.864.4185.

Crossword and Sudoku Answer Keys

Jan. 15

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... for hundreds of FREE classifieds!

L

SUDOKU

EADER

To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box.

You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

Union County's free source for community news and more

Noalmark Broadcasting

General Manager Jay Helm jay_helm@noalmark.com

Editor Brooke Burger brooke.burger@noalmark.com Advertising Harry Dyer harry@noalmark.com Stacey Turner stacey.turner@noalmark.com

The South Arkansas Leader is owned and operated by Noalmark Broadcasting Corporation. The views and opinions expressed in the South Arkansas Leader are those of the staff and contributing writers and do not represent the official views of Noalmark Broadcasting Corporation. All material published in this newspaper and on its website is copyrighted.

The South Arkansas Leader publishes every Wednesday.

All materials for publication must be received no later than noon the Friday before publication. For more information on submitting news releases, photos, event announcements, story ideas or photo opportunities, please contact the editor.

The South Arkansas Leader is a weekly communityinterest newspaper serving Union County, Arkansas.

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South Arkansas

2525 North West Ave. El Dorado, AR 71730 Office: 870.863.6126 Fax: 870.863.4555 leader@noalmark.com

South Arkansas Leader

WEEKLY RECIPE Add some spice to your health Healthy doesn’t have to mean tasteless. Try “Chicken and Curried Cauliflower Salad Sandwiches” from Joy Manning and Tara Mataraza Desmond’s “Almost Meatless: Recipes That Are Better for Your Health and the Planet.”

CLUES ACROSS

Chicken & Cauliflower Salad Sandwiches Ingredients:

Serves 4 to 6 » 1 medium head cauliflower, chopped into 2-inch pieces (about 6 cups) » 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon canola oil » 1 teaspoon hot curry powder » Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper » 1 1-pound bone-in, skin-on chicken breast » 1 egg yolk » 1 1/2 teaspoons white wine vinegar

Directions:

» 1/8 teaspoon salt » 3 grinds black pepper » 1/4 teaspoon mustard » 1/2 cup canola oil » 2 scallions, white and green parts, sliced very thin » 1/2 teaspoon hot curry powder » 2 tablespoons grated onion » 1/3 cup salted roasted cashews, coarsely chopped » 1/3 cup golden raisins » Toasted slices rye, pumpernickel or other brown bread » Mayonnaise

To prepare the cauliflower and chicken: Arrange two racks in the oven and preheat to 400 degrees. Toss the cauliflower with 1 tablespoon of oil, curry powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a bowl; arrange in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet or glass baking dish. Put the chicken in a roasting pan or rimmed baking sheet, brush with the remaining 1 teaspoon of oil and season with salt and pepper. Transfer both to the oven, one on each rack. Roast the cauliflower for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool. Let the chicken roast for an additional 10 to 15 minutes (30 to 35 minutes total), until a meat thermometer registers 160 degrees. Remove from the oven and cool.

To make the mayonnaise: Whisk the egg yolk with vinegar, salt, pepper and mustard in a bowl. When well combined, begin adding the oil slowly, a few drops at a time, until about a quarter of the oil has formed a smooth emulsion with the yolk. Add the remaining oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly. To this halfcup of basic mayo, add the scallions, curry powder and the grated onion. Adjust seasoning as needed; refrigerate until ready to use.

To prepare and serve the salad: When the chicken is cool, remove and discard the skin, cut the meat from the bone, and dice it into 1/2-inch pieces. Give the cauliflower a rough chop so the pieces are no more than 1/2 inch. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cauliflower, mayo, cashews and raisins and toss until well mixed. Taste for seasoning, adding more salt, pepper or curry if you like. Scoop the salad onto toasted bread and enjoy.

1. Chronicles (abbr.)

4. Wallops 9. He supported the world 14. Own (Scottish) 15. Ungentle 16. Sinews 17. Computer processing 18. A Monkey’s song 20. Narrate or tell 22. Lampreys 23. Dialogue for the audience 24. Many signatured requests 29. Cost, insurance and freight 30. Not under 31. Exchange 32. S. Am. river - Rio de la ___ 34. Isaac’s mother (Bib.) 38. Sodium 39. Possesses

CLUES DOWN

1. Protocist genus 2. Hell 3. Copies 4. 1932 and 1980 Olympic mtn.

5. Part of harness 6. Macaws 7. Mutual savings bank 8. Flat or fitted bedding 9. Canted 10. Dissertation 11. Bulgarian monetary unit 12. Wonderment 13. Used to be United ___ 19. Hawaiian garland 21. Nearly horizontal mine shaft 24. Search party group 25. One who makes it into law 26. Exclamation of pain 27. Grannys 28. Out of it (slang)

40. Falls 42. Animal pouch 43. Overdose 44. Samoyeds 45. Genus bellis 47. Mediation council 50. Beachware manufacturer 51. Not on 52. Inactive 56. 1963 Nobel chemist 59. Bambi 60. More ethereal 61. Adornments 66. No (Scottish) 67. 805 km Venezuelan river 68. Occasion 69. Time at 0 meridian (abbr.)

70. Nathan & George Ellery 71. S.I.T.C. character Jones 72. South southeast 32. Loudness units 33. Soup serving dipper 35. Rough, grating 36. A public promotion 37. Pleasure seekers 41. Article 42. Winnows 46. From a distance 48. Rural delivery 49. Previously 53. Nostrils 54. Icahn’s airline 55. Poker stakes 57. Game sides 58. Sharp, glacial ridge 60. Tennis’ Kournikova 61. Spoken telegraphic dash 62. Anti pollution agency 63. ___ de sac: one end access 64. Marsh elder genus 65. Original part maker (abbr.)

Answer key on page 10.

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South Arkansas Leader

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United Way breaks $1 million goal

Celebrate Good Times: (above) Catherine Harrell gets into the groove Friday afternoon, Jan. 17, as she and the rest of the flash mob make a commotion before revealing the United Way’s 2013-2014 fundraising total.

For the Record: United Way of Union County Board president Rodney Milam raises the thermometer on the fundraising meter to 100 percent, signifying the record-breaking total of $1 million. — Brooke Burger / South Arkansas Leader

Flash mob reveals records-breaking total Last Friday the center of downtown El Dorado filled with music, the scent of hot dogs on the grill and cheers of celebration as the United Way of Union County announced its record-breaking fundraising total of over $1 million.

“It’s time to celebrate! We have money and it’s all because of you!” El Dorado Salvation Army Capt. NaKisha Carr cheered from the steps of the Union County Courthouse on Jan. 17.

As she spoke, Kool & the Gang’s “Celebration” came over the speaker and a flash mob broke out in the middle of the sizeable crowd. The group of 10 danced their way through the crowd and up the steps, stripping off their coats before turning around to reveal the total printed on the back of their Live United T-shirts – $1,000,000.

The organization and its 14 nonprofit

partner agencies had reason to celebrate.

Having fallen just shy of the $1 million goal in 2012-13, this year they exceeded it.

The actual amount, $1,041,565, is the most money ever raised in the annual campaign for the United Way of Union County, said executive director Alexis Alexander.

“We’ve had a million-dollar goal for several years now, and last year we came very close. We wanted to celebrate and we wanted to thank you for helping us reach a record-setting million-dollar goal,” Alexander said. “We have had a very successful campaign and we could not have done that without your help.”

According to Alexander, 100 percent of donations made to the United Way of Union County stay in the county. Learn more at unitedwayunioncounty.com.