Note: I do not own the image or music used in the video, I merely spliced and edited the audio.
J.W. Misenheimer
Taken from the mesmerizing title 'Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood' by Santa Esmeralda, I edited the instrumental section to reflect the parts used in the film 'Kill Bill, Volume 1' while adding some meat to it. I have been on a Kill Bill craze lately and this song stuck out to me. It really captures the final showdown between Kiddo and O-Ren.
Note: I do not own the image or music used in the video, I merely spliced and edited the audio.
Note: I do not own the image or music used in the video, I merely spliced and edited the audio.
updated 6 years ago
Note: I do not own the image or music used in the video, I merely spliced and edited the audio.
Union County Judge Mike Loftin called the special meeting for 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 30, inside the Union County Quorum Courtroom. The meeting came amid growing public discussion surrounding proposed data center development, crypto-mining, power use and the possible effect of large industrial computing facilities on county resources.
South Arkansas Now livestreamed the meeting as county officials and residents discussed the issue before the court voted on Ordinance No. 1795.
Following the discussion, every member of the Quorum Court voted in favor of the ordinance.
The measure establishes a one-year moratorium on new data center development in Union County. The pause is scheduled to run from July 10, 2026, through July 9, 2027.
The ordinance also contains an emergency clause, allowing the county to put the measure into effect without waiting through the usual timetable applied to standard ordinances.
County leaders said the pause will give local officials time to study the possible effect of large data centers on water, electrical demand, public utilities, emergency services and surrounding property. It will also provide time for the county to consider zoning rules, operating standards and other safeguards before additional projects are permitted to advance.
The vote does not mean data centers will receive automatic approval when the moratorium expires. County officials will use the coming year to determine what local requirements may be needed and whether future development proposals can meet those standards.
Proposed Union County Campus Draws Attention
The public discussion follows the announcement of a proposed data center project known as the Union County Campus in El Dorado.
Z Squared Inc., a Fort Lauderdale-based computing infrastructure company, announced June 25 that it had entered into a binding letter of intent to acquire a majority ownership interest in Paradox Data LLC.
Paradox Data is the company connected to the proposed Union County Campus.
According to information filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the proposed transaction has not closed. It remains subject to due diligence, final agreements, required approvals and other closing conditions.
The company describes the Union County Campus as a proposed development for artificial intelligence and other high-performance computing needs.
Z Squared reported that the site currently has an eight-megawatt utility connection. The company said its long-term plan could include a combination of utility power and on-site natural-gas generation using industrial turbines, with a target of as much as 150 megawatts of continuous power.
Company documents describe a site that could span as much as 170 acres and identify an approximately 10-acre parcel currently under a binding purchase contract.
Those figures represent the company’s development goals and projections. The full campus has not been completed, and the proposed acquisition of Paradox Data has not been finalized.
Residents Pack Emergency Meeting
Tuesday’s emergency meeting filled the courtroom with residents seeking more information about the possible project and the county’s plans for regulating large data centers.
County officials said the gathering was the largest crowd the Quorum Court had ever seen.
Residents and officials discussed the need for clearer standards before development moves forward. Concerns raised during the broader public discussion have included transparency, electrical demand, water use, public safety and the possible effect on nearby homes and property.
One resident told South Arkansas Now that the adoption of the ordinance provided some relief because it gives the county time to examine the issue. However, the resident said community members remain cautious and plan to continue following developments closely.
Loftin also explained during the meeting why he believed an emergency session was needed rather than waiting for the court’s next regular meeting.
The unanimous vote gives county officials a defined period to collect information, speak with specialists and decide what rules should govern any future data center proposals.
What Happens Next
During the one-year pause, Union County officials are expected to study possible regulations addressing where data centers may be built and what requirements developers must meet.
The county may also examine how other Arkansas communities are responding to the rapid growth of data centers and whether similar ordinances could be adapted for Union County.
The passage of Ordinance No. 1795 does not permanently prohibit data centers. Instead, it places development on hold while county officials work to create a clearer local process.
UCAPS volunteer Terra Walker said the organization is caring for more than 400 animals through its adoption center, its shelter on Sunset Road and a network of foster homes. With kennels and other available areas occupied, she said the organization has nowhere to safely place additional animals.
“Unfortunately, we’ve had to close our intakes temporarily because we are simply out of space, out of time and out of the capacity to take on any more animals,” Walker said.
The closure comes as Union County continues to face a large number of stray and unwanted dogs and cats. Walker said one of the main causes is the number of animals in the community that have not been spayed or neutered.
She said programs are available to help residents afford those procedures, but many pet owners are not taking advantage of them. The result, she said, is a continuing cycle of unwanted litters.
“We have lots and lots of unwanted litters of puppies and kittens that people think they can find homes for,” Walker said. “Many give away free kittens and free puppies, and then that continues the problem.”
Walker said reducing the number of unwanted animals will require residents to better understand the scope of the issue and take greater responsibility for preventing new litters.
## Concerns About Local Animal Control
Walker also raised concerns about the current level of animal-control coverage available in the area.
Based on the number of animals handled by UCAPS and the city, Walker said she does not believe the community has an animal-control program large enough to meet its needs. She said evening and weekend coverage is limited and claimed that law enforcement officers sometimes contact UCAPS because they cannot access the city pound after regular hours.
Walker also said she would like to see a closer working relationship between UCAPS and local animal-control services.
She pointed to other Arkansas communities where animal-control departments and rescue organizations work together to place adoptable animals, address behavioral concerns and manage overcrowding.
“We’ve got to make sustaining changes as a community and as an organization,” Walker said. “We have got to start making changes in the way that we do things.”
## More Than 400 Animals in Care
UCAPS currently operates with five paid employees, according to Walker. She said those employees earn only slightly more than minimum wage, while administrative work is handled by volunteers.
With limited staff and volunteers, the organization is responsible for feeding, cleaning, transporting and arranging medical care for more than 400 animals each day.
Walker said the animals housed at the adoption center represent only part of the organization’s total population. UCAPS also continues to care for animals at its Sunset Road location and through volunteers who open their homes as fosters.
She said the number of animals has placed considerable pressure on a staff that was already operating with few people.
“We’re as lean as you get,” Walker said. “There are not any paid administrative people. All of us are volunteers.”
HealthWorks offers private and group swim lessons designed to help children of different ages and ability levels become more comfortable in and around the water.
The program’s primary goal is not simply teaching children how to swim laps. Instructors also help students learn how to remain calm, control their breathing, float and move toward the side of a pool if they unexpectedly enter the water alone.
Swim coach Diego Valero said introducing children to basic water-survival skills at an early age can help them respond more effectively during an emergency. As children become more familiar with the water, they can replace panic with practical skills and greater confidence.
Those lessons are particularly important during the summer months, when families spend more time around swimming pools, lakes, rivers and other bodies of water.
Swimming also provides benefits beyond water safety. Regular lessons can help children develop coordination, endurance and strength while giving them a positive outlet for their energy.
The program offers a local answer to the familiar complaint that there is nothing for children to do in the community. By taking a closer look at programs already available in South Arkansas, families may discover activities that are entertaining, educational and beneficial long after summer ends.
Lessons for Different Ages and Skill Levels
HealthWorks Swim School uses the American Red Cross Water Safety and Learn-to-Swim programs. Its instructors are certified American Red Cross lifeguards and water-safety instructors.
Group lessons are limited to six students per instructor, allowing children to receive more individualized guidance while still learning alongside other swimmers.
The program offers lessons for children beginning at six months old.
Its Diaper Dippers program introduces children between six months and 3 years old to the water with a parent or guardian present. Songs, toys and guided activities are used to help young children become comfortable while parents receive information about water safety.
Older children can advance through five Learn-to-Swim levels:
Level 1 introduces basic water skills and is recommended for children who are not yet comfortable putting their heads underwater.
Level 2 focuses on fundamental aquatic skills such as floating and gliding.
Level 3 introduces stroke development and longer swimming movements.
Level 4 works on stroke improvement, treading water and swimming greater distances.
Level 5 helps experienced swimmers refine six swimming strokes and learn flip turns.
Children progress at their own pace, with instructors building upon each swimmer’s comfort level and existing skills.
Free assessment tests are available before group sessions to help determine the safest and most appropriate placement for each child.
From First Lessons to Competitive Swimming
Children who develop stronger swimming skills may also have the opportunity to continue through the Southern Arkansas Swim Club’s Thunder Turtles summer league team.
The summer league practices at HealthWorks on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Separate practice periods are offered for beginner-focused and advanced swimmers.
Participants must be able to swim 25 yards without assistance before joining the summer league team.
The club provides young swimmers with opportunities to practice regularly, participate in meets and develop their skills in a team environment. The 2026 schedule includes competitions in El Dorado, Monticello and Arkadelphia, along with the Junior Olympic Games in Des Moines, Iowa.
Whether a child is entering the water for the first time or preparing for competition, the programs provide opportunities to build discipline, friendships and confidence.
How Families Can Begin
Families interested in HealthWorks Swim School can visit the front desk at HealthWorks Fitness Center, located at 304 N. Madison Avenue in El Dorado, and request an enrollment form.
The enrollment form includes options for private lessons and group sessions. Parents can also review program information, lesson procedures and answers to frequently asked questions before registering.
For questions about HealthWorks Swim School, families may contact the aquatics department at 870-862-5442, extension 13.
Questions about the Southern Arkansas Swim Club may be directed to Diego Valero at 870-918-2238 or swimcoachdiego@gmail.com.
For South Arkansas families searching for something worthwhile for their children to do, the program demonstrates that local opportunities are available. Sometimes, families simply have to look a little closer beneath the surface.
**By J.W. Misenheimer | South Arkansas Now**
Union County officials say congratulations are in order for the women working behind the scenes at the Union County 911 Call Center.
The Union County Quorum Court has officially passed an ordinance recognizing 911 dispatchers as first responders, according to Union County Judge Mike Loftin.
Loftin told South Arkansas Now that dispatchers serve as a vital connection between people facing an emergency and the police officers, firefighters and medical personnel sent to help them.
“911 dispatchers act as a lifeline in critical situations between those in distress and the emergency services personnel,” Loftin said.
Dispatchers are often the first people to speak with someone during a medical emergency, fire, automobile accident or dangerous situation. They must quickly gather information, determine what kind of emergency is taking place and send the correct responders to the scene.
Loftin said a dispatcher’s ability to remain calm and understand the situation can make an important difference when every second matters.
“Being able to assess the situation is crucial,” Loftin stated in a release provided to South Arkansas Now. “The person on the other end of the line needs someone who can understand the kind of help that is needed, and these dispatchers ensure that the help they need promptly arrives.”
Because dispatchers are the first people to answer calls for help, Loftin said they deserve to be recognized as the “first of the first responders.”
While the work can be rewarding, dispatchers told South Arkansas Now that it can also be emotionally difficult. They regularly communicate with people who are frightened, injured or experiencing one of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Some calls involve tragic or frightening circumstances. Even while hearing those situations unfold, dispatchers must remain composed, collect accurate information and guide callers until emergency personnel arrive.
The emotional effects of those calls do not always disappear at the end of a shift. Dispatchers may carry the memories of difficult conversations home with them, making mental strength and support from their coworkers especially important.
Matthews said she also plans to send members of her team to career fairs and other community events to raise awareness about the work performed inside the call center.
The outreach will give dispatchers an opportunity to explain how the center serves Union County and keeps communication moving among law enforcement officers, fire departments, emergency medical personnel and other first responders.
Matthews said the call center currently has two full-time positions available. One opening is for a full-time dispatcher. The other is for a full-time floater who would provide coverage when another employee is sick, on vacation or otherwise unable to work.
Those interested in applying may call the Union County 911 Call Center at **870-864-1990**. An application will then be sent to the prospective applicant by email.
The ordinance recognizes that dispatchers do far more than answer telephones. They make quick decisions, provide reassurance and help coordinate emergency responses throughout Union County.
For Loftin and other county officials, formally naming 911 dispatchers as first responders acknowledges the important role they play in protecting the public and helping emergency personnel reach those who need them.
“Because our 911 dispatchers are the first to answer the call, they should be considered the first of the first responders,” Loftin said.
**CALION, Ark. —** A growing Calion tradition will return this summer as residents rally around a beloved community member undergoing cancer treatment.
The second annual **Boat Poker Run in Support of Debbie Hudson** will take place Saturday, June 27, at the Calion Spillway. Organizers say all proceeds from the event will go directly to Hudson’s family to help with treatment and other related expenses.
Residents describe Hudson as a maternal figure within the Calion community and someone who has consistently encouraged others to pursue their goals. She is often regarded as one of the community’s biggest cheerleaders — or “hype girls” — because of her enthusiasm for Calion and her desire to see local residents succeed.
Assistant event coordinator **Holly Hudson** and event coordinator **Katie Gibbons** are helping organize the fundraiser and bring the community together in Debbie Hudson’s honor.
Registration will take place from **8 to 9:30 a.m.** on the day of the event at the Calion Spillway. The first boat will depart at **10 a.m.**, and the final boat must return by **3 p.m.**
Stops will be positioned along the river before participants finish back at the spillway.
The entry fee is **$20 per hand**, with all payments due in cash on the morning of the event. Organizers emphasize that proceeds will be given directly to the family to assist with the financial costs associated with Hudson’s care.
The fundraiser will continue later that evening with a **Baggo tournament beginning at 5 p.m.** Registration for the tournament will cost **$40 per team**, with additional details about its location expected to be announced.
Supporters may also purchase official poker run shirts. Profits from the shirt sales will also go directly to Hudson’s family.
Organizers hope the event will provide meaningful financial support while also showing Hudson how much she means to Calion and the surrounding community.
Additional updates are available through the event’s Facebook page. Questions may be directed to Katie Lyn Gibbons.
**EL DORADO, AR —** Food truck operators doing business inside the El Dorado city limits could soon face a revised permit-fee structure, stricter enforcement and new restrictions on the use of city-owned property.
The El Dorado Food Truck Committee met to formulate procedures food truck owners would be expected to follow while operating within the city. The committee’s recommendations are expected to be presented to the El Dorado City Council on Thursday for consideration.
Under the proposal, food truck operators who live within the El Dorado city limits would pay **$60 for the first day of operation without electricity** or **$80 with electricity**.
For a second day of operation, city residents would pay **$35 without electricity** or **$50 with electricity**.
Food truck operators who do not live within the city limits would pay higher rates. Non-resident operators would pay **$75 for the first day without electricity** or **$100 with electricity**.
For a second day, non-resident operators would pay **$50 without electricity** or **$75 with electricity**.
Food truck owners would be required to pay the applicable fees and secure their permits during regular city business hours. City officials said operators would not be permitted to arrive late on a Friday or during the weekend and begin operating without first paying the required fees.
Failure to follow the proposed permit requirements could result in a **$300 fine**.
Committee Vice President Andre Rucks suggested developing an online system that would allow food truck operators to pay their fees and obtain permits electronically. Mayor Paul Choate said creating an online registration and payment system would be too costly, estimating that it could cost the city approximately **$10,000** to establish.
Marty Rosson, owner of DP Food Truck, addressed the committee and said he believes some food trucks are coming into El Dorado, setting up and operating without paying the required fees.
Rosson said the situation concerns him as both a taxpayer and a local food truck operator. He argued that vendors who avoid the fees create an unfair business environment for operators who comply with the city’s rules and pay the required costs.
Rosson also said he had heard that the Boys and Girls Club had been allowing food trucks to operate on its property. During the discussion, the property was described as being owned by the city.
Rosson said he would consider withdrawing his financial support and involvement with the Boys and Girls Club unless the city consistently enforces the food truck permit and fee system. He said the same rules should apply to every operator conducting business within El Dorado.
Councilman Hurst suggested that El Dorado consider an enforcement procedure similar to the one used in Magnolia. Under that approach, police officers could ask a food truck operator to present a valid permit. An operator who could not produce one would be instructed to leave.
The committee also discussed whether food trucks should be allowed to operate on city-owned property. One recommendation expected to be brought before the City Council would prohibit food trucks from setting up on city property unless they are participating in an approved event.
Grease disposal was another issue raised during the meeting. Committee members questioned where mobile food vendors are dumping used cooking grease and whether operators have access to approved grease traps.
Rosson said he would make a grease trap available at his privately owned food truck park, though operators would be required to pay a fee to use it.
The proposed permit rates, enforcement procedures, grease-disposal concerns and restrictions involving city property are all expected to be discussed when the recommendations are presented to the El Dorado City Council on Thursday.
The proposals will not become official city policy unless they are approved by the council.
**EL DORADO, Ark. —** Razorback fans and community supporters packed the First Financial Music Hall at the Murphy Arts District Thursday evening for *Calling The Hogs – Stories from the Booth*, an event that brought together Arkansas sports stories, dinner, fellowship and fundraising.
The evening featured Chuck Barrett, the well-known voice of the Arkansas Razorbacks, who shared stories from his years behind the microphone and offered guests an inside look at some of the most memorable moments in Arkansas sports. Longtime Arkansas broadcaster and storyteller Rex Nelson served as Master of Ceremonies, helping guide the evening with humor, insight and plenty of Hog spirit.
The catered event, with dinner provided by Madhouse 101, drew a strong turnout, with venue tables filled throughout the evening. In addition to the program, guests also took part in an auction, where every auction item was sold.
Organizers said the event was a great success, bringing together Razorback fans, local supporters and community members for an evening centered on storytelling, sports nostalgia and South Arkansas hospitality.
Watch a quick highlight from the event!
The El Dorado Finance Committee selected new leadership during its latest meeting, naming Dianne Hammond as chair and Councilman Andre Rucks as co-chair.
Councilman Willie McGhee nominated Rucks for the chair position, and Rucks accepted the nomination. After discussion, the committee agreed to establish both a chair and co-chair position because more than one city official expressed interest in helping lead the committee.
Hammond was selected as chair after receiving five votes. Rucks received three votes and will serve as co-chair.
Following the leadership selection, Hammond reviewed the city’s latest sales tax report, which compared 2026 collections with figures from 2025 and 2024.
According to the report, the city’s one-cent sales tax collections are down year-to-date compared to both previous years listed. The report shows $1,420,999.46 collected in 2026, compared to $1,499,388.69 in 2025. That is a decrease of $78,389.23, or 5.23 percent. Compared to 2024, when the total was $1,611,394.01, the one-cent sales tax is down $190,394.55, or 11.82 percent.
The quarter-cent sales tax showed stronger results compared to 2025, but still trailed 2024 figures. The report lists 2026 year-to-date collections at $560,883.71, compared to $524,413.28 in 2025. That is an increase of $36,470.43, or 6.95 percent. Compared to 2024, however, collections are down $55,186.16, or 8.96 percent.
The El Dorado WINS tax followed the same trend. Year-to-date collections for 2026 totaled $2,243,534.85, compared to $2,097,653.16 in 2025. That marks an increase of $145,881.69, or 6.95 percent. Compared to 2024, when collections totaled $2,464,240.61, the WINS tax is down $220,705.76, or 8.96 percent.
The solid waste tax was also down compared to both 2025 and 2024. The report shows 2026 year-to-date collections at $1,619,925.16, compared to $1,707,456.69 in 2025. That is a decrease of $87,531.53, or 5.13 percent. Compared to 2024, collections are down $215,598.19, or 11.75 percent.
Month-to-month, the report showed some improvement in April across several categories. The one-cent sales tax was up 1.98 percent compared to April 2025, while the quarter-cent sales tax and WINS tax were both up 11.29 percent compared to April 2025. The solid waste tax was also up 2.27 percent compared to the same month last year.
Logan Adams with Emrich & Scroggins, LLP, CPAs also spoke during the meeting. Adams discussed plans to help the city have monthly financial reports prepared in time for upcoming city council meetings.
Hammond said she would like the Finance Committee to meet once a month moving forward.
South Arkansas Now
The El Dorado City Council met Thursday night and covered a wide range of topics, including police needs, economic development, senior transportation, food truck regulations, board appointments, city equipment and public safety concerns downtown.
Before the meeting, City Attorney Robert Rushing noted to several council members that some city ordinances have not yet been codified for enforcement by the El Dorado Police Department. Rushing later addressed a similar issue during discussion of possible food truck regulations, saying city code would need to be updated before certain rules could be enforced.
Councilman Willie McGhee suggested moving the Finance Committee meeting to City Hall. Mayor Paul Choate agreed with the suggestion and thanked McGhee for his contribution.
El Dorado Police Chief Ricky Roberts also brought a grant form before the council for signatures from the full council and mayor. The grant, totaling $22,000, would be split between the city and county and used for Class A uniforms and updated patches for police uniforms.
The council then approved an updated contract with the El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce, authorizing $400,000 for economic development. Councilman Andre Rucks commended the council for investing in the city’s economic arm, saying the move helps make El Dorado a stronger contender for outside investment and future industry.
The contract was approved unanimously.
Choate also spoke about the future impact of the Expo Center, saying the project will help bring money into the El Dorado community and pay dividends for decades to come.
Another major item was the “Miles for Seniors” program. McGhee said helping seniors get out, stay active and remain connected is important for the health of the community. He also said the program shows how neighbors can come together to solve problems facing local residents.
Tyler Turner with United Way is coordinating the effort. Turner said volunteers will use an app to help organize rides and support for seniors. He also noted that the grant connected to the program was awarded to only 22 out of 174 applicants across the nation.
Turner closed his comments by saying, “We are stronger together.”
Food truck regulations were also discussed at length. Councilwoman Dianne Hammond said the city needs clear rules for food trucks, especially when it comes to whether they should be allowed on city property.
Council members discussed several options, including banning food trucks from city property, allowing certain exceptions for areas such as the Recreation Complex, and raising the rental price for food trucks using city-owned property. Some members said a higher fee could help support local businesses and food truck courts that already operate in El Dorado.
Rushing said the city code would need to be updated before the city could enforce new food truck rules.
Council members McAdams and David Hurst both agreed there is a need to look at raising the rental price. Judy Ward suggested that Rucks, Hammond and Hurst research the issue and bring a recommendation back to the council.
Rucks said he wants to make sure the city supports local businesses, including DP’s Food Truck Park.
The council also handled several appointments. Janis Vanhook was unanimously reappointed to the Civil Service Commission. Jeff Fort was also unanimously appointed to the Advertising and Promotion Commission.
Council members also approved a resolution for the disposal of non-salvageable AV equipment at the El Dorado Conference Center. Officials said any equipment that can be recycled will be recycled, while any reusable equipment will continue to be used. The resolution passed unanimously.
Near the end of the meeting, council members discussed ongoing public safety concerns downtown, particularly late at night.
McGhee said Police Chief Ricky Roberts should not be the only person held accountable for the issue. He said families also have a responsibility to help keep young people safe and address behavior before it becomes a larger problem.
Roberts said much of the concern involves young adults, mainly in the 18 to 26 age range, staying out well past midnight and creating dangerous situations downtown. He said the activity has become frequent enough that police are having difficulty keeping it under control.
Roberts said the city needs “more teeth” to address the problem. He also raised concern about the amount of taxpayer money being used for police resources to respond to fights, shootings and other dangerous incidents.
Roberts said he believes more people in the community need to speak up and say, “This is wrong within our community.”
Misenheimer Media had a blast capturing all the action from the **Teach ’Em Young Kids Bounty Hole Series — Stop 1** at **RATS ATV & Off-Road Park LLC**!
It was an awesome day watching the kids get after it, make memories, and enjoy some good ol’ muddy fun.
A big thank you to RATS for having us out, and thank you to **KwadFly Services** for helping us capture drone footage so we could bring even more energy to the final reel.
We’re thankful to be part of moments like this and can’t wait to share more!
The South Arkansas Flying Club, a 501(c)(7) nonprofit organization based at South Arkansas Regional Airport at Goodwin Field, was formed with a clear mission: to help keep aviation available in South Arkansas.
In a new South Arkansas Now feature, Jax Sandford joins Chris Jones, president of the South Arkansas Flying Club, for a literal “on-air” interview as the two take flight above El Dorado. The conversation offers viewers a closer look at the club, its purpose and how residents can become involved.
Jones shares more about what goes into maintaining a flying club, the benefits of joining and why local access to aviation matters for the region. The organization provides a way for members to take part in aviation without carrying the full individual cost and responsibility that can come with aircraft ownership.
The South Arkansas Flying Club also serves as a gathering point for those who have a passion for flying, whether they are experienced pilots, aspiring aviators or simply interested in learning more about aviation in the area.
Filmed from South Arkansas Regional Airport at Goodwin Field, the feature highlights both the club and the airport’s continued role as an important aviation hub for the region.
Follow them on Facebook for more information: facebook.com/p/South-Arkansas-Flying-Club-61565430631008
The idea of getting together often evokes memories of loved ones eating their favorite foods and tons of laughter. That being said, large crowds can sometimes be overwhelming when you are trying to prepare food for everyone. Thankfully, finger foods are a saving grace.
The Insider's Food Editor, Liz Slater, sat down with us to discuss options to reduce stress when feeding a party.
*This segment is sponsored by the El dorado Insider Holiday Gift Guide. The Insider can be picked up at the Chamber of Commerce or the Arkansas Welcome Center.
Working with this couple was an absolute blast. Everyone involved had such spunk, such personality. Thank you, Jessica Lindquist Franques and Rob Franques III for reaching out to us to capture your big day.
RATS Entertainment Park, LLC wants people to experience the great outdoors with family and friends. Exploring nature on approximately 1,880 acres in Ouachita County, Arkansas with 30+ miles of trails for off road and outdoor recreation. RATS Entertainment Park wants making memories with family and friends number one. Come enjoy the fun!
Situated on approximately 1,880 acres with 30+ miles of trails ranging from easy, moderate to difficult rides keeping all ages in mind. Enjoy ATV / UTV riding in Arkansas, with miles of scenic riding over winding trails. RATS Entertainment Park is a playground for thrill-seekers looking to have some good, dirty fun, whether your rides of choice are Four Wheelers, side by sides, or dirt bikes.
ratsentertainmentpark.com
The Eye Of The Needle hike is one of the most scenic and diverse hikes in the Ozarks. This hike includes waterfalls, caves, rock formations, and a beautiful overlook. Anyone from a beginner to an avid hiker can find something to enjoy on this hike.
Starting at approx. 900' in elevation, this 5 mile out and back hike ascends 700' in elevation to 1,400 at the highest point- The Eye of The Needle.
"The trail head is located next to the Buffalo River sign at Kyles Landing on the West side of the campground. You will follow the trail less than .25 miles before splitting off to the left. Almost immediately after starting at the trail head you will see a trail that splits off to the left, but stay on the main trail. You will want to follow the second split off which is a few hundred yards down the path. You will take that split and it will lead you to Indian Creek. Once to Indian Creek following the trail is simply heading up stream. There is a small trail you can follow in the spring during the rainy season when the creek is flowing, however if you go in the late summer, fall, or winter, the creek will be mostly dry and you can just hike in the creek bed. As you hike along the creek bed you come across numerous waterfalls, both in the creek and from run offs on either side. Use caution as some sections require you to walk along narrow paths which can be slippery. You will pass several attractions on the way up including Devil's Bathtub (pictured above). Once you hit Arkansas Cave, which will be overhead on the left side in a bluff (this may or may not have a waterfall coming out of it depending on the time of year you go) soon after passing the cave the creek will end at a water fall. On the right there are ropes, which are helpful in scaling the small rock wall. You will continue scrambling up the side of the bluff using the ropes until you reach The Shelter. This is a great spot to stop and rest and enjoy the view. Looking out you can see the creek bed and Kyle's Landing in the distance which is where you have hiked from. There is a small cave to explore here as well.
When ready you will climb along the thin ledge and through crawl through the hole in the bluff. Follow the trail a few hundred yards to The Eye of The Needle. If you're lucky there will be a waterfall flowing through The Eye. I went late fall when the creek was dried up, however this hike was still very beautiful and had a lot of pretty sites.
Once you are finished taking pictures retrace your steps on the trail back to your vehicle, being careful when going back down the bluff, using the ropes as support. Be cautious of kicking rocks as they can start sliding and be dangerous for anyone below you.
This is a very fun hike with so many different types of landscape and views! It can be extremely enjoyable when done safely. Just respect wet ledges and the scale up the wall. Would not recommend to do this hike alone." - A description we followed by Chris Davenport of The Out Bound.
Our experience there after a big rain was magestic. 10/10 would recommend. We filmed this video using Samsung Galaxies for Instagram. Hopefully it will translate well on YouTube.
Shoutout to Imari Dellimore for providing assistance during the shoot!
When we were young we had an old cassette tape video camera and access to Windows Movie Maker, and we made a lot of random comedy videos for fun to pass the time. Simpler times, we grow up so fast, don't we?
Credits:
J.W. Misenheimer - Lead Camera, Editor, Producer
Taylor Dick - Assistant Camera, Sound, Lighting
Jacob Bland - Drone Pilot
"Providing Augusta with a top-notch tattoo shop! Our phenomenal artists will help you with all your tattoo needs, so don’t waste another minute!
We are a high end tattoo shop located in beautiful downtown Augusta, GA. Lucky 7 Tattoo caters to a broad spectrum of individuals, taking care of all your tattoo and piercing needs in a clean and professional environment. Our amazing artists’ styles cover everything including old school/traditional, Japanese, portrait, black and gray, cover-ups, and custom work. So come on down and get modified."
Media Team:
J.W. Misenheimer - Lead Camera, Editor & Producer
Taylor Dick - Assistant Camera, Sound & Lighting
Jacob Bland - Drone Pilot


