
Ozarks At Large



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.



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.



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.
Jim Fairbanks’ new memoir examines his life since a diagnosis of type one diabetes.
More about the book at makesusstronger.com
"Stonewall Stone Fence" by Gregory and the Hawk
Becca Martin Brown has her usual Thursday rundown of activities.
The new outdoor workout area near John Brown University is only the second one put in place by a city in the state, and is the result of a partnership between the city, JBU and Bridges to Wellness in Siloam Springs.
"Hotel Feelings" by Ditka
Three more events and the season ends for Walton Arts Center. Plus, we say goodbye to our Walton Arts Center guide for the past three years.
"All I'm Thinkin' About" by Bruce Springsteen
Home BancShares, owner of Centennial Bank, announces its acquisition of Liberty BancShares of Jonesboro, nearly doubling the bank's reach in the state. Head Start of Washington County will close two classrooms as a result of federal sequestration of part of the organization's budget. A strain of bird flu found in Scott County has been isolated and contained. And some state campgrounds closed because of flooding have reopened.
"Rather Never Know" by Bronze Radio Return