
Ozarks At Large

A workshop this month in Fort Smith is designed to help candidates, and potential candidates, of all kinds learn more about the electoral process.
A Tom Bresh concert in the River Valley and the Waka Winter Classic in NWA are on Becca's music agenda this week.


Yesterday, Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration officials yesterday outlined Governor Mike Beebe's budget priorities to state legislators. Funding for the state's Private Option expansion of Medicaid could be in danger after a special election for state Senate yesterday. And the University of Arkansas Fort Smith is in the process of developing its its first Master's degree program.



Lineups for music festivals are just part of what to keep your eye on this week.
Latest Edition of Ozarks at Large
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Ahead on this edition of Ozarks at Large, Davy Carter, Speaker of the Arkansas House, talks with Roby Brock about the continuing process to decide funding for the Private Option. And Jim DePriest, a deputy Attorney General for Arkansas, explains how his office combats potential fraud against seniors.
In the span of 35 years, The Austin Lounge Lizards have released 11 albums including one this year. The band has a loyal following around the country, and when they were in Fayetteville recently, they stopped by the Firmin-Garner Performance Studio for a live set on The Pickin' Post. Here's one of the songs from that set.
Governor Mike Beebe yesterday released the results of an investigation into the Arkansas Department of Community Correction, and that systemic problems exist within the department. Excess state revenue in October may be needed later this year, according to a state economist. Work gets underway at Fayetteville's Wilson Park, as renovations begin to the buildings at the park's pool. A longtime lobbyist for the U of A announces his retirement. And the Walton College of Business gets another favorable ranking.
"Vivian Leigh's Veins" by Kaki King
Two years ago we reported on plans by the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville to establish a comprehensive support program for students with high functioning autism. Nine students are now enrolled. The UA is among two-dozen colleges offering such services.
Some kids may like athletics or marching band, but one effort in Fayetteville aims to nurture the next generation of nerds in a positive atmosphere.
"A Streetcar Named Desire" by Kenny Burrell
Becca Martin Brown gives us the details of the big food and wine week in Eureka Springs.