Volume 10 - No. 7 by South Arkansas Leader

Union County’s source for community news and more

South Arkansas

EADER

April 9, 2014 Volume 10 – No. 7 WANT MORE?

facebook.com/saleader

Olympian

Famed gymnast Miller to speak in El Dorado next Thursday

The most awarded U.S. gymnast of all time, Shannon Miller, will appear at the El Dorado Conference Center on April 17 in a partnership effort between the Medical Center of South Arkansas’ Healthy Woman and South Arkansas Community College. Among her career highlights, Miller has won 59 international and 49 national competition medals, more than half of which are gold. She is the only U.S. gymnast to win two World All-Around titles (1993 and 1994). Her tally of five medals (two silver, three bronze) at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, Spain, was the most medals won by any U.S. athlete. At the 1996 Games in Atlanta, Ga., she led the “Magnificent Seven” to the

Community Cleans Up – p. 5

Chamber to bring in speaker on making projects work The El Dorado Chamber of Commerce will bring in South Carolina attorney J. Wesley Crum to discuss significant federal programs from 9 to 11 a.m. on Monday, April 28. Crum will present “Leveraging Federal Programs to Stretch Local Resources and Make Projects Work,” discussing such federal programs as the New Markets Tax Credit and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant. Chamber president and CEO Jeremy Stratton said that, having worked with Crum over the past 15 years on various economic development projects, he’s seen Crum’s ability to make projects work. “I have found him to be one of the most creative and innovative thinkers in putting together financing to make projects work,” Stratton said. “By utilizing New Market Tax Credits and the USDA REDLG programs, he has helped me on numerous occasions make projects that would not work financially, feasible otherwise. He has excellent contacts with CDE’s (Community Development Entities) and can help us put together our own entity, which we will need

CHAMBER continued on Page 7

MILLER continued on Page 6

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

South Arkansas Leader

04•09•14

Log on to www.eldoark.com ...

‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ heats up theaters Cole Clay

Red Carpet Crash

Chris Evans’ portrayal of Captain America is largely the most uninteresting character in the Marvel Franchise. His first silver-screen appearance was corny. Aside from a few “bromanitc” moments shared between Steve Rogers (Evans) and Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and some impressive CGI, the film fell short of its other “Marveling” counterparts. The spangled hero was even more diluted by his far more intriguing colleagues in 2012’s billion-dollar baby, “The Avengers.” Now, flash forward to 2014 with two exceptional trailers blazing across the Web, and “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” is poised to take this character to new heights. With a movie that’s part chase film, part thriller and completely pulse-pounding, directors Anthony and Joe Russo (TV’s “Community”) somehow mustered up the most satisfying film out of the nine installments in the Marvel cinematic universe, besides the aforementioned “Avengers” epic. We pick up with Steve Rogers

CAPTAIN AMERICA: The Winter Soldier Steve Rogers, Captain America, struggles to embrace his role in the modern world and battles a new threat from old history: the Soviet agent known as the Winter Soldier. » Release date: April 4. » Run time: 136 min. » Rated: PG-13 for intense sequences

after he has transcended from being a WWII hero to being a national treasure and is, foremost, his own brand. He still stands strong to his moral code, but he seems to be influenced by the ever-progressive 21st century. He is more ruthless and perhaps jaded by his past transgressions that stemmed from the loss of his best friend Barnes. The film is essentially Rogers’ battle with the old and modern world, which is carefully masked by a geopolitical terrorist plot. The fiendish scheme to control the world through surveillance and drones is not only socially relevant, but is crisply orchestrated without being

Small businesses offered marketing course April 14 The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center will present Marketing Techniques for Small Businesses, a non-credit course at South Arkansas Community College from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, April 14 at the college’s East Campus. The course will cover general marketing techniques through the lens of small businesses with small budgets, including marketing plans and calendars, determining target markets, low-cost marketing tools, image development, branding and e-marketing. The speaker will be training coordinator Julia Nipper of the ASBTDC at Southern Arkansas University. The cost is $30; contact Nipper at 870.235.5033 or email julianipper @saumag.edu to register.

Assisting Arkansas businesses has been the mission of the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center since its inception in 1979. Part of a national network of more than 1,000 small business development centers, the ASBTDC serves the business community of Arkansas through a statewide network of offices. An assistance program for the state’s businesses, the ASBTDC provides training, consulting, and research services. For more information, visit asbtdc.org.

of violence, gunplay and action throughout. » Director(s): Anthony Russo, Joe Russo and Joss Whedon. » Stars: Chris Evans, Samuel L. Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Robert Redford, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie, Cobie Smulders, Frank Grillo, Emily VanCamp and Stan Lee.

terribly obvious. As well, the Russos develop a character who has always cloaked himself in a pirate-like appearance with, none other than, S.H.I.E.L.D. leader Nick Fury, played by the legendary Samuel L. Jackson. The audience gets a glimpse into his world through a few sequences that showcase his pedigree as a soldier and his allegiance to the organization he has assembled. A glimpse into Fury’s past is also shown through his relationship with the menacing Alexander Pierce, played by Robert Redford, whose debonair persona makes him ideally cast for the role as the quintessential

power-hungry tycoon. There is no way that a superhero film can be directly compared to the Jason Bourne franchise due to “The Winter Soldier’s” sheer implausibility. However a heightened sense of mystery is forged from an inherently campy premise. But, for a good third of the film we are taken on a thrill-ride, as Rogers is on the run from assailants with the pristine Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson). Johansson is on a career hot streak in terms of her versatility with last year’s “Her” and the upcoming “Under the Skin,” making her Hollywood’s most-interesting working actress. Yes, she has had notable roles in the past Marvel films, but all she offered audiences was a scantily-clad bombshell pounding mindless bad-guys. Here Romanoff, or code name “Black Widow,” is actually taken seriously as a woman and a member of S.H.I.E.L.D. It appears like this is a win-win for fan service and a small step for women portrayed on screen. Bloated blockbusters have suffered from what I like to call “Transformers-syndrome,” where the action is convoluted and fails

CAPTAIN continued on Page 6

04•09•14

... for hundreds of FREE classifieds!

South Arkansas Leader

Couple wonders if extravagant giving is always foolish spending Dear Dave, My husband and I are debt-free, and we have several hundred thousand dollars in savings. We pay for our children and grandchildren to visit during Christmas each year, but my mother thinks this is foolish spending. What do you think? — Linda

Tinkerers: The Kuhlmann family, (clockwise) Christopher, Cameron, Clara and Don, work on taking apart different electronic devices at a previous Tinkering Studio workshop from

the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources. The upcoming take-apart Tinkering workshop on Saturday, April 12 will also feature a jewelrymaking component. — File Photo

For anyone who’s ever wondered about the hidden parts of a machine or what’s inside a computer, toy or old fan, the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources offers an opportunity for discovery with its Tinkering Studio workshops. The next tinkering workshop will run from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 12. Participants will be able to take apart a variety of machines and gadgets and then use the pieces to make their own custom piece of jewelry or art. Wearing safety goggles and using a variety of tools, attendees will dissect old appliances and toys to learn how they operate, as they explore the different technologies and mechanisms that animate everyday gadgets. Once the machines have been deconstructed, the pieces can be used to make jewelry or any work of art that the participant can imagine. The take-apart, jewelry-making activity is part of the museum’s Tinkering Studio. In the studio, participants create unique pieces of art, while experimenting with different scientific concepts. Children are free to explore, experiment and construct. Attendants learn how to

use common objects in surprising ways, which can help them learn a new approach to conserving natural resources. The take-apart, jewelry-making activity reflects the overall theme of the Tinkering Studio, in which participants link science and art through experimentation. For many students, the decorative aspects of the Tinkering projects are as important as the scientific elements. The take-apart and repurposing process can even be recreated at home. The workshop is free and open to the public; however a $5 fee will be charged to keep the creation. Space is limited. Call 870.725.2877 to make a reservation. The Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources aims to collect, preserve and interpret Arkansas’ natural resources with particular emphasis on petroleum and brine used for bromine extraction. One of 52 Arkansas State Parks, the museum is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Admission to the museum is free. For more information, go online to www.amnr.org.

Museum invites youth to its Tinkering Studio workshop this Saturday

Dear Linda, I’m sure your mom loves you guys a lot, but she’s wrong twice on this one. First, she should mind her own business. Ramsey Second, you guys have obviously worked hard and been extremely smart and disciplined with your finances. For someone in your situation, bringing your family together for one of the most important days of the year isn’t foolish on any level. I think it’s awful that you’re even having this conversation with her. One of my great dreams years ago was to have the ability to do things like that for my family. When I was 22, I worked for a real estate guy who would bring his entire family in from all over the country once a year to go skiing for a week. He and his wife would pay for everything. They would rent a nice chalet, and spend that time having fun as a family and growing closer together. I sort of borrowed that idea a while back. Once a year we’ll take all our kids and their spouses on a nice vacation. We pay for everything, and it’s just one of our gifts to them because we love them. So, I think your mom is

DAVE Says

completely wrong. There are three things you can do with money: spend, save and give. Trust me, giving is the most fun of all! — Dave Dear Dave, Is it possible to book a hotel room without a credit card? — James

Dear James, Absolutely, it is. Just use a debit card. I don’t have a credit card. When it comes to finances, the only pieces of plastic you’ll find in my wallet are two debit cards – one for my business, and the other for my personal account. A Visa- or MasterCard-branded debit card can be used anywhere credit cards are accepted. And the best part is that you’re not borrowing money when you use one. The funds come directly from your checking account. Some hotels might put a temporary hold on your account for the amount in question, so you need to make sure you actually have the money in the bank. But that just makes sense, doesn’t it? You shouldn’t be traveling without money in the first place. If you’re too broke to travel, then you need to stay home. Pretty simple! — Dave Dave Ramsey has authored four New York Times best-selling books: “Financial Peace,” “More Than Enough,” “The Total Money Makeover” and “EntreLeadership.” The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 5,000,000 listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the Web at daveramsey.com.

FOLLOW THE LEADER @ http://bit.ly/1eE1IhS

South Arkansas Leader

04•09•14

Log on to www.eldoark.com ...

SouthArk celebrates Arts in April with several events Arts in April, the annual South Arkansas Community College celebration of the arts in all of its various forms, will include six different events throughout the month. All are free to attend.

» 4 • 10 – Poetry Reading Local poet Jim Barton, who has won nearly 400 awards since 2006, will speak about the creative process and read some of his own works, including poems from his latest book “Dirty Little Town,” at 12:15 p.m. tomorrow, April 10 in the Cypress-Oak Room at the El Dorado Conference Center.

Barton

Harden

» 4 • 11 – Organ Recital SouthArk music professor Victoria Harden will present an organ recital at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 11 at First Presbyterian Church. She will play from the works of Kenneth Leighton, Caesar Franck, Johann Sebastian Bach, Nicolaus Bruhns and Charles Marie Widor. The performance will be followed by a reception, hosted by the SouthArk Foundation, in the church fellowship hall.

Smackover High School to host local talent show SMACKOVER — The Drama Club of Smackover High School will present The ‘S’ Factor Talent Show this Friday, April 11 to find out who will be the next “Smackover Idol.” The talent show will feature a number of performances, including singing, dancing and comedy, as well as an appearance by local American Idol contestant LeBryant Crew. The public is invited to attend the event, which will begin at 6 p.m. in

Schulman

» 4 • 24 – Spring Recital The spring recital for SouthArk music students will be at 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 24 in the west concourse of the El Dorado Conference Center.

» 4 • 24 – Art Exhibit SouthArk visual art students will have an exhibit and sale in the El Dorado Conference Center on April 24-29.

» 4 • 27 – Writers’ Ceremony

The 17th annual Writers’ Ink awards ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 27 in Murphy Hall at the conference center. About 375 Union County highschool students participated in the creative-writing contest; the work of 46 were selected for publication in the Writers’ Ink literary magazine, which is published by the college, Tuesday, April 15 in the Cypress- edited by the SouthArk faculty and Oak Room at the El Dorado Confer- judged by members of the faculty and staff. A reception will follow ence Center. Schulman has appeared the ceremony. in the lead roles of “Jekyll and For more about Arts in April, conHyde,” “The Phantom of the Opera” tact liberal arts dean Phil Ballard at and “Les Misérables.” 870.864.7156.

April

» 4 • 15 – Drama Discussion Broadway actor and singer Craig Schulman, the director and star of the local production of “Les Misérables,” will discuss his theatrical career at 12:15 p.m. on

The following day, April 12, youth can come out for the Fishing Derby from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mattocks Park Pond, located on Detroit and Hobgood Auditorium, located on by the Arkansas Game and Fish Sharp streets. Youth should bring the grounds of the high school cam- Commission and the Family and their own bait and tackle. Those pus. Admission costs $3 per person. Community Fishing Program. who received a voucher at the preFor more information, contact The Fishing Clinic will take place vious day’s clinic will receive a drama director Veronica Jenkins at from 6 to 7 p.m. on Friday, April 11 free rod and reel, and all attendees 870.725.3101 ext. 26. at Starlight Baptist Church, located will be eligible to win door prizes at 1406 Detroit St., in El Dorado. and gifts. Game & Fish Commission The first 50 children, ages 15 and For more information, contact offers family fishing events younger, to attend the clinic will re- Laura Rogers, with the AGFC’s This weekend, families will have ceive a voucher for a free rod and Southeast Education Region, at the opportunity to enjoy some local reel, redeemable at the fishing derby BRIEFS continued on Page 12 fishing with two programs offered on April 12.

In Brief

3 locations

items accepted

» El Dorado Police Department » Smackover Police Department » Union County Sheriff’s Office

prescription medications, patches and ointments; over-the-counter medications; vitamins; samples and pet medications

04•09•14

... for hundreds of FREE classifieds!

South Arkansas Leader

Keep El Dorado Beautiful organizing litter pickup for May 10 Volunteers are needed to participate in Keep El Dorado Beautiful’s annual spring community improvement from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 10. The cleanup is being held in conjunction with the Keep America Beautiful Great American Cleanup in Arkansas, the annual spring statewide litter pickup campaign promoted by Keep Arkansas Beautiful. “Litter continues to be a problem in El Dorado,” said Janis Van Hook, chair of the local committee. “It can leave a negative impact on our community for years to come. By participating in this year’s Great American Cleanup in Arkansas, local residents can help make El Dorado a vibrant community.” Everyone in El Dorado is encouraged to participate in this year’s community improvement effort. Civic and service organizations, church and youth groups, school groups and clubs, scouts, individuals, families, neighborhoods, and businesses can organize cleanup teams and pitch in. KEB will focus on the areas surrounding City Hall, the main fire department and the police department. Volunteers will meet to sign in at the back parking lot at City Hall. Supplies, such as trash bags, will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own work gloves. Any other organizations wishing to have a cleanup in a specific neighborhood or area of town should

Volunteers needed to help keep El Dorado beautiful

contact Keep El Dorado Beautiful at 870.866.8982. At least two weeks’ notice is necessary for supplies to be made available. Sign up for the Great American Cleanup in Arkansas is also available online at www.keeparkansasbeautiful.com. “Community pride is everyone’s responsibility,” Van Hook said. “We all live in this community together and must work together to keep it clean and green. We do this to maintain our quality of life, to create a place we can all be proud of and to improve our local economy.” The Keep America Beautiful Great

Local organizations are encouraged to schedule cleanups in their communities The Keep El Dorado Beautiful committee is encouraging local clubs, civic groups, neighborhoods and individuals to help improve the quality of life in this community by volunteering in the national Keep America Beautiful Great American Cleanup in Arkansas. This spring cleanup campaign is coordinated and promoted statewide by the Keep Arkansas Beautiful Commission, a Keep America Beautiful certified affiliate, and will run through May 31. Once a group signs on to host a Great American Cleanup in Arkansas event, KAB will work with that community to organize and publicize the effort. KAB will provide

volunteers with trash bags, gloves, safety vests and T-shirts. Great American Cleanup volunteers will also be registered to win prizes. Any other organizations wishing to have a cleanup in a specific neighborhood or area of town should contact Keep El Dorado Beautiful at 870.866.8982, or Liz Philpott at KAB at 888.742.8701 or email elizabeth.philpott@arkansas.gov. Sign up for the Great American Cleanup in Arkansas is also available online at www.keeparkansas beautiful.com. At least two weeks’ notice is necessary for supplies to be made available.

— Courtesy photo

American Cleanup kicked off last month, with local Great American Cleanup events organized throughout March, April and May. Activities include beautifying parks and recreation areas; cleaning

waterways; collecting recyclables; picking up litter; planting trees and flowers; and conducting educational programs and litter-free events. This year’s national Great American Cleanup is sponsored by Altria, Dow Chemical Company, Glad Products Company, Phillips 66, Troy-Bilt Lawn and Garden Equipment and Waste Management. As a certified state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, Keep Arkansas Beautiful works to inspire and educate individuals to reduce litter, recycle and keep Arkansas beautiful. It operates as a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism and is overseen by a ninemember commission appointed by the governor. KAB is funded by 1 percent of the eighth-cent conservation tax and, by mobilizing volunteers, returns to the state a cost benefit of more than $6 in community service for each program dollar spent. For more information about KAB, visit KeepArkansasBeautiful.com or stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

South Arkansas Leader

04•09•14

Log on to www.eldoark.com ...

MILLER

continued from Page 1

U.S. Women’s first-ever team gold, and for the first time for any American gymnast, she captured gold on the balance beam. She is the only American to rank among the top 10 All-Time Gymnasts and is the only female athlete to be inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame twice (individual 2006 and team 2008). But in January of 2011, Miller was diagnosed with a malignant germcell tumor, a rare form of ovarian cancer. She had the baseball-sized tumor removed successfully and followed up with nine weeks of chemotherapy. She is currently cancerfree and advocates for early detection and making health a priority. These days Miller runs the Web resource Shannon Miller Lifestyle: Health and Fitness for Women and the Shannon Miller Foundation (which combats childhood obesity), and is a published author, TV personality and radio show host. She is a graduate of Boston College with a degree in law and of the University of Houston with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and entrepreneurship. She and her husband John Falconetti have two children: son Rocco Falconetti, age 5; and Sterling Falconetti, age 10 months. Miller first will appear at Healthy Woman’s Girls’ Night Out, beginning at 5 p.m. The event will

CAPTAIN

continued from Page 2

to have a sense of pace or reason for existing other than to destroy cityscapes. In “Winter Solider” every set piece has a purpose and is engineered into a cohesive piece of filmmaking, which is a stretch for entries in the action genre. The film excels in every way by widening the scope of the already ever-expansive franchise. It comes as no surprise the Russo brothers are already contracted to head up the next entry in the Captain

Girls’ Night Out pre-event with Shannon Miller Join the pre-event on April 17 from 5 to 6:30 at the Conference Center! » Shopping » Hors d’oeuvres » Womens’ Health Info

» Hand Massages » Wine Tasting » Meet & Greet

Tickets cost $10. Call 864.3282. The Lecture Series will follow at 7 p.m. in the Conference Center. It is free and open to the public.

include shopping, hors d’oeuvres, women’s health information, hand massages and wine tasting. Tickets cost $10 and are available by calling the Medical Center of South Arkansas at 870.864.3282. She then will speak as part of the SouthArk Lecture Series beginning at 7 p.m. Admission is free. For more information contact Phil Ballard at 870.864.7156. America franchise, due out in 2016. “Captain America: The Winter Solider” is undoubtedly the superior entry of the two Captain America films mainly due to the fact that they finally dove head first into the once shallow psyche of Steve Rogers. Let’s hope the Russos can get his squeaky clean image even a little dirtier. Red Carpet Crash provides review writing on films, DVDs and television; news and updates on all things entertainment; and the occasional free stuff. Find RCC at www.redcarpetcrash.com or facebook.com/RedCarpetCrash.

Olympian: U.S. gymnast, Shannon Miller, will speak in El Dorado on Thursday, April 17. — Courtesy images

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.

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!

04•09•14

... for hundreds of FREE classifieds!

South Arkansas Leader

Arkansas ranks 19 out of 31 in nuclear generation in the U.S. Ken Bridges

under proper care. When the announcement was made in 1967 that Russellville It is the fundamental building was the site of the nuclear plant, block of the universe. the community was thrilled. It has the capacity to light homes Bechtel Power, a Californiaand destroy cities. based engineering firm, would It is the atom. design the facility. Construction began to the west of the As the 20th century dawned, city on Lake Dardanelle, bringing scientists began learning more about the atom and how to control hundreds of workers to the area. Officials began educating the pubits power. By mid-century, the dream of controlled atomic energy lic about the potential risks and evacuation procedures in case of had become a reality and nuclear a catastrophic accident, a process power plants were being built across the nation. In 1967, Arkan- that would continue after the reactors were completed. sas Power and Light announced Two nuclear reactors were that Arkansas, too, was entering constructed. The two units use a the nuclear age. pressurized water reactor system, The first nuclear reactor was a system used in 70 other nuclear produced by scientist Enrico Fermi and a team at the University of power plants across the nation. In this system, the nuclear reacChicago in 1942 in a lab beneath tors warm water, and the steam the university’s football field. This early research eventually led produced is driven to the turbines, which are turned by the pressurto the development of the atomic bomb through the Manhattan Proj- ized steam to produce electricity. ect. In 1951, the United States had The water then cools and is used again in the process. This water produced the first nuclear power could also be used as a secondary plant in Idaho. Steadily, nuclear cooling system for the reactors if power was being proven to be a safe and reliable source of energy needed.

South Arkansas Historical Foundation

CHAMBER continued from Page 1

as we move Union County and El Dorado forward.” Crum, an attorney in Greenville, S.C., has worked on economic development, corporate financing and incentives with municipalities and companies for more than three decades. “New Market Tax Credits and rural development programs are often overlooked by municipalities, but are effective in helping finance economic development projects,” Crum said. “In today’s environment of complex financing, it often takes private sector dollars, local tax dollars, and state and federal resources to make a project work.” New Market Tax Credits is a program developed by Congress in 2000. It is managed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury through the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund to help spur development in low-income

South Arkansas Historical Foundation presents

ist o ry minute

The first reactor, Arkansas Nuclear One, was brought online on Dec. 19, 1974, to great celebration. This reactor, using a Westinghouse turbine generator can produce 836 megawatts of electricity, or enough to power 8.3 million 100-watt light bulbs. This reactor is licensed by the federal government to operate until 2034. But an accident at the Three Mile Island nuclear plant in Pittsburgh, Pa., in 1979 dampened the public’s enthusiasm for nuclear power, and safety concerns mounted nationwide. Nevertheless, on March 26, 1980, the sister reactor, Arkansas Nuclear Two, began operation. This reactor uses a General Electric turbine generator capable of producing 987 megawatts of electricity. Slightly different in design, this reactor uses the 447-foot

cooling tower, perhaps its most distinctive feature, in helping the reactor water cool enough to be reused in the power generation process. This reactor is licensed for use until 2038. In 2013, workers attempted to move a generator to another part of the facility when pieces broke away, killing one man and injuring eight others. It was the most serious incident in the history of the plant, but the accident took place far from the reactors or the control systems, meaning the public was never in any danger. What would become the Entergy Nuclear division today operates 12 nuclear power plants across the nation, including the Russellville facility. Nearly 950 employees work at the plant. It is the only nuclear power plant in Arkansas, ranking Arkansas 19 in nuclear generation out of the 31 states with nuclear plants. Organized in the 1970s, the South Arkansas Historical Foundation has been dedicated to educating the public about Arkansas’s rich history for over 30 years. The SAHF offices are located in El Dorado. For more information, call 870.862.9890.

have limited amount of allocation and their project focus may not coincide with our needs. My strong suggestion is to set up an El Dorado and Union County CDE for our own allocation to use toward future projJeremy Stratton • President and CEO, El Dorado Chamber of Commerce ects. Wesley Crum will discuss the —————————————————— process of forming our own CDE.” Union County and El Dorado are communities, specifically areas their project. If a project has a that have greater than a 20 percent $10 million investment, then the both eligible for the U.S. Departpoverty rate and median house- New Market Tax Credit process ment of Agriculture’s REDLG Prohold income 80 percent of the will lower it to a net $8 million gram based on population, as long investment and make it a more as an eligible Rural Utility Service national average. is available to run the grant and loan The NMTC program offers a feasible project. New Market Tax Credits have programs for economic develop39 percent tax credit over a sevenyear period to developers and com- been used in the past for industrial, ment projects. Crum will discuss panies that make economic develop- medical, educational, commercial how 0 percent loans and grants can ment investments in qualified areas. and mixed-use projects in eligible be used to leverage economic deOften times, the developer or com- census tracts. Presently, most of velopment projects, such as induspany will sell the credit on the open El Dorado, except for a strip around trial site locations, medical uses and market through a Community De- downtown, is eligible. The larg- infrastructure. The event will take place in the velopment Entity to a large bank or est and eastern most census tract in oil company (for instance), seeking Union County also is eligible. Charles H. Murphy Jr. Boardroom “We can work with Community at the Chamber, located at 111 West to lower their taxable income in exchange for money for their project. Development Entities, such as Ar- Main St. Reservations are required Through this process, the devel- kansas Capital Corporation, to ob- for this event; contact the Chamber oper or company will receive a tain an allocation for a project,” at chamber@goeldorado.com or 20 percent cash infusion toward Stratton said. “However, all CDEs 870.863.6113 to register.

—————————————————— “I have found [Wesley Crum] to be one of the most creative and innovative thinkers in putting together financing to make projects work.”

South Arkansas Leader

04•09•14

Upcoming workshop takes aspiring photographers into great outdoors The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will offer a free outdoor photography workshop from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 17 in the Center for Workforce Development on the East Campus of South Arkansas Community College. Participants will learn basic photography techniques such as controlling depth of field, managing shutter speed and understanding composition. Instruction will include how to approach wildlife, the use of blinds, and differences in the time of year and effects on photography. Registration is required and students must bring their own camera to take pictures during class. To register, call 870.864.7192 or email ce@southark.edu. For more information about the class, contact AGFC regional education coordinator Laura Rogers at 870.818.6378 or email larogers@ agfc.state.ar.us.

Outdoor Photography

April 17

Log on to www.eldoark.com ...

Registration for Mayhaw Festival’s Wing Ding now open For the fourth year, the Mayhaw Festival will feature the WING DING Chicken Wing Cook-off, with a $1,000 grand prize for best wings. The top place will also receive a bantam rooster. The South Arkansas Historical Foundation is now accepting cooking teams to compete in the cook-off, which will take place the day of the festival from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday May 3. Entry fee costs $50 per team, and registration is due by Friday, April 18. For registration information and contest rules, contact the SAHF office by emailing info@soarkhistory.com or calling 870.862.9890. More information about the Mayhaw Festival can be found online at mayhawfestival.com and at facebook.com/mayhawfestival.

Shelve the e-reader and grab a book at the SouthArk library Lauri Wilson

mission, you’ll probably survive a dangerous battle with alien armies. However, as new Ensign Andrew Dahl is about to find out, low-ranking members of the crew are sometimes … disposable. Will Andrew be just another redshirt? Or will he discover the secret of the Starship Intrepid?

South Arkansas Community College

Want a change from your e-reader? Good news: We have 33,000 (and more) non-digital books. Everybody knows that too much screen time is bad for your eyes; so pick up one of our books today. Our hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to noon on Friday, and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. We will be closed on Easter, April 20.

‘Five Days at Memorial’ by Sheri Fink. Several years ago the news was saturated with stories about the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Among the tales of rescue and disaster was the story of Memorial Medical Center and how its caregivers stayed until the bitter end, tending the terminal patients amid the chaos. Some doctors later were charged with euthanizing their patients after they were unable to evacuate the hospital. Investigative journalist Sheri

‘The Doodle Revolution’

Fink spent six years reporting, interviewing and reconstructing those last desperate days with doctors and nurses who made those decisions, documented in “Five Days at Memorial.”

‘Redshirts’ by John Scalzi. Any Star Trek fans out there? Take a journey aboard the Universal Union Capital Ship Intrepid in the Year 2456 in “Redshirts” from John Scalzi. If you’re a senior officer on a

by Sunni Brown. All it takes is a scrap of paper and being stuck somewhere, and away I go. Squares, triangles, leaves, mountains, geometric shapes – but I’m not really artistic or creative, I just like to doodle. Did you know that mindless scribbling really involves deep thinking and can aid in problem-solving? In “The Doodle Revolution: Unlock the Power to Think Differently,” Sunni Brown (a.k.a. Dr. Doodle) shows how doodling can inspire, empower and lead to breakthroughs in visual learning and other fields.

Women’s History If you missed the library display

of books during Women’s History Month in March, don’t worry – they all belong to the general collection at our library. If you’re interested in information about women’s history, please ask for help at the circulation desk. We have many titles about amazing women, what they’ve done and what they’re doing.

Gardening Know-How It’s time to think about gardening. If you’re a first-time gardener or just wanting to expand your knowledge, we have books to help you learn all kinds of gardening techniques. A couple of good choices for vegetable gardens are “The Year-Round Harvest” by Catherine Abbott and “How to Grow Food” by Richard Gianfrancesco. Next month look for suggestions for flower gardens and landscaping. Lauri Wilson is a library technician at South Arkansas Community College. All of the books mentioned in Shelf Life are available at the SouthArk Library, located at 300 Summit Ave. in El Dorado. The library is open to the public. For more information, call 870.864.7115.

04•09•14

... for hundreds of FREE classifieds!

South Arkansas Leader

Hunger Relief Alliance SAFA raises funds to help announces next meeting raise awareness of AIDS Tickets are still available for the $1,500 necklace

Local nonprofit South Arkansas Fights AIDS began a raffle fundraiser on April 1 for a lady’s white gold, pear-shaped diamond pendant, consisting of .81 white diamonds. Tickets are still available for the necklace, valued at $1,500. Tickets cost $5 each or three for $10, and are available at the SAFA office at 526 West Faulkner St. and the following local businesses: Charlie’s Corner, Cole’s Jewelers, Creative Means, The Finishing Touch, First Financial Bank’s West Main Branch, Main Street Antiques & More, Melvin’s Discount Pharmacy, Possibilities, and the United Way of Union County office. The drawing will take place at noon on May 5. SAFA is a partner agency of the United Way of Union County. The nonprofit operates on funding from the SHARE Foundation and Union County Community Foundation; Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS; donations from local churches, organizations and individuals; and hours of help from volunteers. Through the years, SAFA has joined with other prevention efforts in this area, including health fairs, workshops and prevention programs, as well as holding fundraisers to increase awareness and raise needed funds. The HIV epidemic is real. But, the most important thing about HIV is that it is preventable, and education is the key to stopping this insidious disease. Union County remains in the top 10 for new cases in Arkansas and has since statistics were first reported in 1983. South Arkansas Fights AIDS is a

The Union County Hunger Relief Alliance will meet at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 23 in the Charles H. Murphy, Jr. Board Room of the El Dorado Chamber of Commerce, located at 111 West Main St. The Union County Hunger Relief Alliance is a joint venture of the Arkansas Foodbank and United Way of Union County. The group is focused on creating solutions in the areas of childhood and senior hunger and to

work toward expanding the resources of food pantries in our area. The meeting is open to anyone interested – churches, civic groups, food pantries, other volunteers. For more information on the Hunger Relief Alliance, contact United Way of Union County executive director Alexis Alexander at 870.862.4903 or email alexis@ unitedwayunioncounty.com.

NOTICE: Road Closure Mount Holly Road will be closed for two and a half weeks for bridge replacement, beginning on Tuesday, April 8, according to a notice from Union County Judge Mike Loftin’s office. The first bridge coming out of the El Dorado city limits, northwest of West Hill Drive, will be replaced. Alternate routes are Morning Star Road, West Hillsboro and North Wyatt Drive. For more information, call 870.864.1900.

Raffle: South Arkansas Fights AIDS director Janet Beane displays the white gold, pear-shaped diamond pendant that the organization is raffling to raise funds. Raffle tickets are still available. — Brooke Burger / South Arkansas Leader

community-based AIDS information taskforce that offers the following services free to the public: » HIV prevention education programs for all ages; » Oral HIV testing and test counseling; » Brochures and literature on HIV and other related health issues; and » Direct services to those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. Since March 2011 Janet Beane has served as the director of this state chartered 501(c)(3) organization. Sue Worsham started the SAFA agency in 1990 after the death of her only son in hopes of ending the spread of this disease

SAFA continued on Page 12

South Arkansas Leader

04•09•14

COMMUNITY calendar

» CORKS & CANVAS ART CLASS — Kelly Campbell will teach the South Arkansas Arts Center’s popular class, “Corks & Canvas,” for artists and non-artists alike. Even those who have never painted before can leave with a completed acrylic beach landscape at the end of the class. The fee costs $40 and includes all supplies and snacks. Class is limited to 12. When: Thursday, April 10 from 6 to 9 p.m. Where: South Arkansas Arts Center, 110 East Fifth St., El Dorado Contact: For more information or to register, call the SAAC office at 870.862.5474.

» FRESH FLOWER ARRANGING CLASS — South Arkansas Community College Corporate and Community Education will offer “Fresh Flower Arranging,” hosted by All About Flowers. The cost is $45 per student. Registration is required. When: Thursday, April 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. Where: All About Flowers, 106 East Elm, El Dorado Contact: To register, call 870.864.7163. For more information, call 870.864.7192. » 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: Water, Water, Everywhere! Participants can prepare for fun summer activities around water with a few

Log on to www.eldoark.com ...

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

tips on how to be safe. Program will include games, prizes and water. When: Thursday, April 10 at 6 p.m. Where: Center for Workforce Development, South Arkansas Community College East Campus, 3698 East Main St., El Dorado Contact: For more information or to register, call 870.864.7192 or email ce@southark.edu.

» PICTURES WITH THE EASTER BUNNY — The local Girl Scout Troop 2322 will offer pictures with the Easter Bunny to raise funds for its programs. Based in Union County, Girl Scout Troop 2322 is a United Way of Union County partner agency and a branch of the Girl Scouts Diamonds of Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas. The photo booth will be set up inside Mellor Park Mall, next to T.J. Maxx. When: Saturday, April 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Where: Mellor Park Mall, 1865 North West Ave., El Dorado Contact: For more information, contact Girl Scout Troop 2322 at union girlscouts@yahoo.com. » SHS AUTISM AWARENESS CARNIVAL — Smackover High School will host an Autism Awareness Carnival. The carnival will be setup at the school’s football field and is open to the public. When: Saturday, April 12 from 1 to 6 p.m. Where: Smackover High School, 1 Buckaroo Lane, Smackover Contact: For more information, contact Cammie Martin at SHSautism awareness@yahoo.com. » FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH CHOIR DAY — First Baptist Church of

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 by noon Monday the week of publication. For more information, contact the Leader staff at 870.863.6126 or by email.

Smackover, under the direction of pastor Calvin Carroll, will host a Choir Day, with guest pastor and church D.R. Dredd and Zion Watch Baptist Church of El Dorado. The theme will be “Singing Praises unto God.” When: Sunday, April 13 at 2:30 p.m. Where: First Baptist Church, 404 Martin Luther King, Smackover Contact: For more information, contact First Baptist Church of Smackover at 870.725.3413. » PRESERVATION SOCIETY CIVIL WAR PRESENTATION — The Preservation Society of the South Arkansas Historical Foundation will host Vernon Dutton, who will provide a presentation on the history of the 3rd Arkansas Infantry, CSA with stories of the two companies of enlisted men who came from Union County. Dutton has participated in more than 20 reenactments and is a noted author from Little Rock. The program is free and open to the public. When: Monday, April 14 at 6 p.m. Where: Newton House Museum, 510 Jackson St., El Dorado Contact: For more information, call 870.862.9890 or email info@soark history.com. » ‘ROADMAP TO THE STARS’ PROGRAM — The Barton Public Library will host Dr. Kevin Manning, an astrophysicist, who will present “Roadmap to the Stars: The Night Sky Explained.” Manning has worked as a consultant with NASA and other ground-based observatories. Weather permitting, Manning will set up telescopes to view the night sky following his presentation. The program is free and open to the public.

When: Tuesday, April 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. Where: Callaway Theatre, South Arkansas Arts Center, 110 East Fifth St. El Dorado Contact: For more information, call the library at 870.863.5447. » ‘START A BUSINESS’ SEMINAR — The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center will host a seminar to prepare individuals for the process of starting a business in Arkansas. Veterans and AARP members may attend the seminar free of charge. Registration for all others costs $30. When: Thursday, April 17 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Where: Room 160, Tech and Industry Building, University of Arkansas Community College at Hope, 2500 South Main St., Hope Contact: For more information or to pre-register, contact Julia Nipper at 870.235.5033 or email julianipper@ saumag.edu. » LIVING LAST SUPPER — First United Methodist Church of El Dorado will host a Living Last Supper prior to Easter. Thirteen men will recreate the moment in the painting when Jesus told his disciples about the coming crucifixion. The event is open to the public. A nursery will be provided, and an elevator is available. When: Thursday and Friday, April 1718 at 6:30 p.m. Where: First United Methodist Church, 201 South Hill Ave., El Dorado Contact: For more information, contact Susan Burge at 870.665.2985 or email s-cb@sbcglobal.net.

Crossword and Sudoku Answer Keys

April 3

04•09•14

... for hundreds of FREE classifieds!

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 Monday the week of 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.

CROSSWORD How It Works

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 Try Thai with a side of fried rice Fried rice is one of the more popular Thai dishes that can be easily cooked up from the comfort of your own kitchen. Those who want to try their hand at Thai cuisine can use the following recipe for “Pineapple Fried Rice” from Katie Chin’s “Everyday Thai Cooking.”

Pineapple Fried Rice

Ingredients:

Serves 4 to 6 as a side » 1 whole pineapple » 2 large eggs » 1 teaspoon salt, divided » 2 tablespoons high-heat cooking oil, divided » 1 garlic clove, minced » 1 small shallot, finely sliced » 1 fresh hot red or green chili, preferably Thai (deseeded for less heat), finely sliced » 3 cups cooked and chilled

Directions:

CLUES ACROSS

Thai jasmine rice » 2 tablespoons fish sauce » 1 tablespoon soy sauce » 1 cup cubed cooked chicken breast » 1 cup cubed cooked shrimp » 1/2 cup fresh or thawed frozen peas » 4 tablespoons finely chopped fresh coriander leaves (cilantro), plus more for garnish » 4 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint » Pinch ground white pepper

Cut the pineapple in half lengthwise, and cut the fruit from the middle, leaving shell halves intact. Cut out the eyes and core. Set the shell halves aside. Dice the fruit. Dry the diced pineapple with paper towels and set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and the pinch of pepper. Heat half of the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook eggs, stirring, until set but still moist. Transfer eggs to a plate. Wash and thoroughly dry the wok or skillet. Heat the remaining oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, shallots and chili, and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the rice and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, chicken, shrimp, peas and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the reserved eggs, pineapple, fresh coriander leaves and mint; stir-fry for 30 seconds. Scoop the fried rice into the pineapple shells and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve immediately. Note: If you dice the pineapple ahead of time, rinse the pineapple shells with boiling water and dry with paper towels before serving.

1. Express disgust or contempt 4. Do-nothings 10. Before 11. Gave birth to a horse 12. Spanish pain 14. Khmer Rouge’s Pot 15. Tory opposition 16. Even chance 18. Horse feedbag 22. Selfishness 23. Windward Island nation 24. On and on: ad ___ 26. Second musical tone 27. A steady brisk pace 28. People in southern India 30. Withered, dry 31. Central nervous system 34. Short composition for

solo instrument 36. Communist 37. Specific localities 39. Garden cultivator 40. Stratford’s river 41. Atomic No. 34 42. Stalkless leaves 48. Significant other 50. Chilled 51. Dakar is the capital 52. Amuse and delight 53. Explorer Vasco da ____ 54. Annoy 55. 365 days (abbr.) 56. Peremptory command 58. Born of 59. Particle fineness grades 60. Obtain

CLUES DOWN 1. Colas 2. Awaken 3. Better half 4. In event that 5. Demotes 6. City in NE Pakistan 7. Lotus roadster model 8. University board trustees 9. 40th state 12. Egyptian Sun god (var. sp.) 13. Hindu exercise discipline 17. Small coin (French) 19. More naked 20. Feel deep affection for 21. A protected community 25. Nation of birth

29. Two people singing 31. Applauding sounds 32. Variable stars 33. Reject 35. Building up 38. Not a fraction 41. Sailor 43. An evening party 44. Hollow for a light bulb 45. Type 46. Dutch portrait painter Sir Peter 47. River of Hesse 49. N. Botswanan lake 56. 1/10 gram (abbr.) 57. Original Hawkeye actor’s initials

Answer key on page 10.

South Arkansas Leader

BRIEFS

04•09•14

Log on to www.eldoark.com ...

Annual Mayhawlin’ race registration is now open

continued from Page 4

Registration for the Seventh An870.818.6378 or email larogers@ nual Mayhawlin’ 10K Run and 5K agfc.state.ar.us. Walk/Run is now open. The race is a part of the Mayhaw Festival, schedAdmin Professional uled for May 3. Participants should Luncheon coming up register by April 18 to receive a Reservations for the upcom- 2014 Mayhaw Festival T-shirt. Pre-registration is available at ing Administrative Professionals Appreciation Luncheon are due by fightrightracing.com and costs $25. Friday, April 18 to the El Dorado Easter Egg Hunt scheduled Chamber of Commerce. SMACKOVER — The SmackFor the second year, the Chamber will recognize and honor an over community will host an Anoutstanding Union County admin- nual Community Easter Egg Hunt istrative professional at the annual at Smackover Preschool, located luncheon, sponsored by El Dorado at 1406 Lisbon Road, beginning Chemical and supported by El Do- 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 19. The hunt is open to youth 12 years rado Printing and the South Arkanold and younger. The first several sas Arts Center. One winner will be selected from children will receive a basket. As three finalists, and each administra- well, prizes will be awarded for tive professional who attends will each age group. All plastic eggs and receive a gift and be eligible to win candy (individually-wrapped only) door prizes. The luncheon will take should be ready for drop-off or pickplace at the El Dorado Conference up by 8 p.m. on Friday, April 18. Center on Wednesday, April 23. For more information, call RonCost to attend is $17.50 per person. neesha Williams at 870.562.1497. For more information or to make a More information can also be found reservation, call 870.863.6113 or online through the Facebook event email chamber@goeldorado.com. at http://on.fb.me/1ir6I8a.

Free Checking

g in s a h c r u P +

Power Kasasa Cash Back® puts your hard-earned money right where you want it — back in your pocket. Earn cash back on debit card purchases — what you buy is up to you. It’s free checking that doesn’t just pay. It pays you back. We’ll even refund your ATM fees, nationwide. So you can use your debit card across the country, worry-free.

DON’T JUST BANK. KASASA . ®

s PluNo minimum balance requirements to earn rewards Free debit card • Free online banking and bill pay

www.ffb1.com | All the bank you’ll ever need.

SAFA

continued from Page 9

in South Arkansas. With assistance from medical professionals and concerned individuals, she received prevention training, gathered educational information and set about sharing that information with adults and youth in Union, Columbia and Ouachita counties. Annually, SAFA participates in National Testing Day and World AIDS Day. In 2013, SAFA served an estimated 5,044 people in South Arkansas. Of those, 229 were tested and test counseled. Direct services were provided 736 times in 2013. Those services include: access to a food pantry; assistance with utilities; transportation to medical appointments; medication co-pay; and nutritional supplements. HIV prevention education programs were presented to 1,204 individuals, and HIV/AIDS/STD prevention literature was made

available at local health fairs to an estimated 2,433 people. SAFA is thankful to 298 volunteers who provided 582 hours help in 2013 in the food pantry and with other office needs. SAFA’s 12 board members meet on the fifth Tuesday of each month. Nancy Arn serves as president and Patty Cardin is the United Way’s liaison. For free anonymous oral HIV testing, please call 870.875.2099 for an appointment. HIV is preventable. The office, located at 526 West Faulkner St. in El Dorado, is open Monday through Thursday. For more information, call 870.875.2099 or follow SAFA on Facebook at facebook.com/South ArkansasFightsAIDS. 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, visit unitedwayunioncounty.com.

HOPE

the

a do

nation box benefting HOPE Landing

You can help! Donate cleaning supplies at any HOPE Box to help HOPE Landing, a nonprofit serving kids in Union County with disabilities!

box

Follow The HOPE Box on Facebook! • Find a location near you! • Get details on donation drives! • Be inspired by the kids of HOPE Landing!

20 + Lo

n County! o i n U cations Across