Local Digest

Boil order still in effect for Strong

The Arkansas Department of Health issued a boil water order for Strong shortly before 11:30 a.m. Friday morning that was still in effect at press-time Saturday afternoon.

According to the ADH, a water main burst at Strong Waterworks, affecting the entire water system.

The United States Centers for Disease Control recommends using only bottled or boiled water for cooking, teeth brushing and watering pets. Tap water, even if it is filtered, should be boiled before use. Water from appliances, like ice or water from the refrigerator, should also be boiled before use.

According to the CDC, if bottled water isn’t available, one should bring water to a full rolling boil for at least one minute, then allow it to cool before use.

One should also be careful not to swallow water if bathing under a boil advisory. The CDC recommends giving children sponge baths to reduce the chances of their swallowing water.

If a dishwasher reaches a final rinse temperature of at least 150 degrees Fahrenheit, or if it has a sanitizing cycle, it should be safe to use, according to the CDC.

Black history awards presentation scheduled for today

The Black History Person and Youth of the Year awards presentation will begin at 6 p.m. Friday in the El Dorado Municipal Auditorium, 100 W. Eighth. The event will be limited to 35-40 people.

The event, presented by Meet Me at the Court and The Bailey Family, will honor notable people in the community in six categories, including Kaleb Floyd, 6, Youth of the Year; Bettie Elerson, Education; Eugenia Boulden-Ford, Community; Marvin Stewart Sr., Sports; Greg Williams Jr., Business; and Terry Davis, the Robert and Margie Bailey Humanitarian Award.

Mayor Veronica Smith-Creer will present the awards. Jimmy Howard will recite Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech in its entirety and Floyd will recite the poem “Hey Black Child” by author, playwright and activist Useni Eugene Perkins.

Seating will be limited and attendees must wear face masks and practice social distancing.

For more information, call Veronica Bailey, founder and chief executive officer of MMC, at 870-310-0391.

Election Commission to meet Friday

The Union County Election Commission will meet Friday, Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. on the fourth floor of the Union County Courthouse. The meeting is open to the public.

“Homage series” closes

Gay Bechtelheimer’s “Painting With Paper: The Homage Series” exhibit closes at the South Arkansas Arts Center today.

Gallery viewing hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors must sign in upon entering the building and masking is required.