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Ozarks At Large
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Arkansas's new state treasurer is reshaping policies of the office based on input from employees of the division. The 2014 fiscal year begins today with a new budget for the state, which includes increased spending for Medicaid and higher education. Today is the deadline for public input on the state's new voter ID law. Political commentators ruminate on Tom Cotton's chances for running a successful Senate campaign against Mark Pryor. And, Benton County starts looking at building a new courts building to replace the current one, built in 1928.
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In our weekly review of the headlines, we take a look at groups and organizations that are on the hook for more money, and one organization getting a sizable amount of money.
Former state treasurer Martha Shoffner talks to reporters on her way into the courtroom in Little Rock. Some state lawmakers wonder if Arkansas can cover the cost of the so-called private option when the state has to pick up part of the cost in a few years. And UAFS gets a sizable gift to help expand the college's nursing program.
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Latest Edition of Ozarks at Large
Monday, March 31, 2014
On this edition of Ozarks, a preview of an upcoming grief seminar for bereaved parents. Also, Fort Smith releases an annual report on its homeless community.
President Obama was in Central Arkansas yesterday, visiting victims of the recent storms and tornadoes that ravaged the area. Meanwhile, state legislators heard testimony from state finance officials regarding fiscal forecasts for the next few years.
“Wonderwall” by Oasis
University of Arkansas officials yesterday unveiled a new chamber in the Human Performance Laboratory will allow researchers to have a temperature and humidity-controlled atmosphere in which to study physiological effects that heat has on the human body.
According to a new report, the funding disparity between traditional school districts and charter schools has increased more than 54 percent in 8 years.
“Thursday” by Pet Shop Boys
Many events this month head outdoors including this picnic benefitting SpayArkansas. Dogs are welcome.
“Stoned Soul Picnic” by Kombo
Our content partner KUAR in Little Rock is interviewing Arkansas' gubernatorial candidates. Today's conversation is with Asa Hutchinson. An extended version of the interview is available here.