Between Editions

Rumors that New Century Chinese Restaurant might be vacating its premises in Mellor Park Mall are right now merely a matter of negotiation, said Sajal Agarwal.

Agarwal, one of the owners of the mall, declined to comment further saying he doesn’t have all the information yet and doesn’t expect to be free to further elucidate on the matter for another week or longer.

If New Century ultimately doesn’t resign its lease on the North West Avenue location, Agarwal said he wishes them luck, but doesn’t believe the premises will be difficult to fill.

“If their decision is to vacate we with them the best,” he said. “I don’t think it will be hard to find someone to fill their spot and I’m confident they’ll thrive in another location if they so choose.”

Photo by The Diamond Agency.

El Dorado earned a bit of national cred this morning as one of the “best small town comebacks” compiled by CNN.

Citing the city’s investment in the $18 million El Dorado Conference Center and a recent boom in commerce and restaurants, CNN notes El Dorado has fended off a 1980-era economic weakening to recoup its reputation as “the pride of South Arkansas.”

“Thanks to one huge civic mobilization, mass restorations, a new $14.4 million conference facility and a roster of annual festivals, El Dorado has recouped its reputation as ‘the pride of south Arkansas.’ The once desolate downtown is now lined with more than 65 specialty shops, eateries, inns and the state’s only operating art deco theater.”