Two state lawmakers weigh in on the debate about proposed expansions to the state's Medicaid system as the 89th General Assembly begins its second week in session. The unemployment rate for the state rose in December, but a state economist says the increase is not statistically significant. And 2012 housing sales figures for Northwest Arkansas have been compiled; overall sales and median home prices are up in some areas, but not all.
Ozarks At Large

We welcome back our tech ambassador to discuss this month’s Consumer Electronics Show, the annual showcase for what’s next in the digital world.

Here's the list of our presidential songs, quotes and miscellany for our montage:
- President Dwight Eisenhower's farewell address on television on January 17, 1961
- President John F. Kennedy's inaugural address three days later.
- James Brown sings "Funky President."
- President Franklin Roosevelt's first fireside chat on radio on March 12, 1933.
- The band They Might Be Giants performing the catchy (and educational!) song "James K. Polk."
- Ronald Reagan speaks on June 12, 1987.
- Johnny Cash performs the standard "Mr. Garfield."
- Henry Fonda predates Daniel Day Lewis by more than 70 years in Young Abe Lincoln, directed by John Ford.
- The song "Peaches" by the band . . . The Presidents of the United States of America
- Herbert Hoover addresses voters in 1928. (bonus points if you knew that one)
With all of the acts announced for this year's Wakarusa music festival on Mullberry Mountain, Kevin Kinder of NWA Newspapers gives us his thoughts on this year's lineup.

Thursday is Arkansas Clarinet Day. As part of the celebration, the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith will host internationally acclaimed clarinetist Guy Yehuda. Ozarks at Large's Christina Thomas speaks with him prior to his recital and master class.
Latest Edition of Ozarks at Large
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Ahead on this edition of Ozarks at Large,a report on former president Bill Clinton's address on the Affordable Care Act from his Presidential Library yesterday. And, we visit a local bike shop to learn what it takes to get back on a bicycle after not riding for years.
Do we really need to spritz toxic chemicals in our kitchens and on our yards and gardens to quell insect invasion? A science known as integrated pest management provides a greener, safer option. In northwest Arkansas there's one alternative pest control operator. Jacqueline Froelich goes out on a job with him and reports on an emerging industry.
To learn more about integrated pest management visit epa.gov and to find out about alternative pest control check out greenvalleypestco.com.
When perusing the rows of trees and flowers at the local nursery, patrons are often searching for the most aesthetically pleasing plant to place in their yard. What many of them may not consider is the impact their choice could have on the insects in their yard. A Delaware author will share his thoughts on the matter during an upcoming trip to Fayetteville.
More information on the event is available by calling Cindi Cope at 479-521-0934.
For more information on Doug Tallamy, visit bringingnaturehome.net.
Late last week the two major party candidates for Arkansas' U.S. Senate seat shared a stage together for the first time in the fall campaign season. Roby Brock from talkbusiness.net talked with Andrew DeMillo from the Associated Press about the event.
For more of Roby Brock's coverage of Arkansas politics and business visit www.talkbusiness.net
A blues guitarist, balloon and more in our history capsule for August 17.
For the second consecutive day, Becca has a loud suggestion.
"New Planet" by Martin, Modeski and Wood