
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.
Becca tells us that Tales From the South is coming soon to Springdale.
In this installment of What's in a Name, we look at the history of Benton, the county and the ville.
"Five and Dime" by Port O'Brien
The Michigan-based band discusses how they came together as a family band, and they perform "My Love is a Tall Ship" by Jimmy Crowley.
Here is our list of famous Patricks:
Pat(rick) Sajak spins the Wheel of Fortune.
Patrick Stewart as Captain Picard on Star Trek: Next Generation.
Danica Patrick answers a pre-race question.
The Smiths, including Steven Patrick Morrissey, sing How Soon is Now.
Patrick McGoohan is The Prisoner.
Patrick Swayze defends Baby in Dirty Dancing.
Patrick Star, comic relief, from Spongebob Squarepants.
Patrick Duffy as a fictional Ewing, Bobby on Dallas.
Patrick Ewing as a real Ewing, Patrick...with the Knicks.
Orson Welles on a vinyl record delivers Patrick Henry's speech.
Apologies to: Patrick Roy and Dan Patrick. Sorry, we already had two sports figures. maybe next time.
The Arkansas Forestry Commission is warning state residents that March is prime time for wildfire conditions. The Arkansas Election Commission is being taken to court over rules for absentee ballots under the state's new voter ID law. And a new report details the challenges and successes the state faces in regards to childrens' health.
"Kisses Sweeter Than Wine" by Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt