
Ozarks At Large

A new report released yesterday by the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation finds that Arkansas had the fourth-highest rate of immigrant population in the United States during the first decade of this century. But while the state's immigrant population remains below the national average, the report also says that the growth has been beneficial to the state's economy.
Governor Mike Beebe urges Republican state legislators to look at all possible solutions to shore up the shortfall in the state's Medicaid system, though he stated he is against using one-time budget surplus funds to close the gap. The city of Fayetteville looks into selling a bit of land in an effort to clear an eyesore in the name of new commerce.
Republican leaders of Arkansas' legislature met with the media yesterday to discuss their plans to shore up the state's Medicaid system during the upcoming legislative session. Fort Smith looks to purchase property for a new recreational facility, the first of its kind in the city. And Fayetteville is recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in the nation.
If your new year's resolutions include shedding a few extra pounds or rocking out Becca Martin Brown has a couple of suggested activities for you.
Kevin Jones is a professor of english and rhetoric at the University of Arkansas Fort Smith, but his new book uncovers parts of the city's history, using pictures from postcard to tell the story. Ozarks at Large's Timothy Dennis spoke with Dr. Jones about the book.
A new program in the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas aims to address teacher shortages in Arkansas schools by placing fellows in classrooms as early as fall 2013. Ozarks at Large's Christina Thomas speaks with the program's director Benton Brown and faculty director Gary Ritter.
Mitchell Communications Group announced late last week that it had been acquired by Dentsu, a 111-year-old firm founded in Japan with headquarters in Tokyo and New York City. Just a few hours after the announcement Ozarks at Large’s Kyle Kellams talked to Elise Mitchell, the founder and CEO of Mitchell Communications.
The newest member of Arkansas's Congressional delegation justifies his opposition to President Obama's nomination of Chuck Hagel for Secretary of Defense. A former Arkansas Congressman announces his intentions to run for governor in 2014. And the current governor urges more Arkansans to become organ donors.

Latest Edition of Ozarks at Large
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Ahead on this edition of Ozarks, how the Office of Human Concern is helping low-income residents stay warm this winter. Plus, a conversation with a cast member of I Love Lucy Live on Stage.
The city council will consider buying just more than four acres for the city's fourth fire station. Plus, the Private Option compromises were discussed at the Political Animals Club in Little Rock.
"Mambo Meixcano" by Sergio Mendoza Y La Orkestra
Open enrollment for health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act ends March 31st. And if you don’t have minimal essential coverage of any kind, you will be penalized. And as Jacqueline Froelich reports, how much depends on your income level.
Meanwhile, a push to raise the Arkansas minimum wage, and a separate effort to increase workforce programs get underway in the state. Roby Brock has that story and more in his weekly update.
The Arkansas Agriculture Department has recently revamped its program that connects local farmers to interested consumers, including an upcoming App.
Louis Jordan is one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Still, many Arkansans might not know about their native son. Stephen Koch, the host of Arkansongs, has written a new book about him.