Arkansas Times' Week in Review Podcast

Send us a textPodcast listeners: We need your help!Please take this short survey and let us know what kind of coverage you value from the Arkansas Times Week in Review. It should take no more than 2-3 minutes to complete. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSelGwfouBLfdR0RWUfz75fNXZFv6Z1s9T7YMPLIGlGK_ri3tQ/viewformThanks! We appreciate your time.Stories discussed this week:Bill targeting hog farm moratoriums near Buffalo River fails in committee Tuesday, sponsors will amend and try againhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/03/11/bill-targeting-hog-farm-moratoriums-near-buffalo-river-fails-in-committee-tuesday-sponsors-will-amend-and-try-againBill that could make it harder to stop hog farming near Buffalo River continues to stallhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/03/04/bill-that-could-make-it-harder-to-stop-hog-farming-near-buffalo-river-continues-to-stallArkansas Foodbank says vital USDA program to buy fresh produce from local farms has been haltedhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/03/06/arkansas-foodbank-says-vital-usda-program-to-buy-fresh-produce-from-local-farms-has-been-haltedArkansas Foodbank says vital USDA program to buy fresh produce from local farms has been haltedhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/03/06/arkansas-foodbank-says-vital-usda-program-to-buy-fresh-produce-from-local-farms-has-been-haltedCities, counties, state could shower private projects with taxpayer funds under senator's amendmenthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/03/12/cities-counties-state-could-shower-private-projects-with-taxpayer-funds-under-senators-amendmentWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textPodcast listeners: We need your help!Please take this short survey and let us know what kind of coverage you value from the Arkansas Times Week in Review. It should take no more than 2-3 minutes to complete. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSelGwfouBLfdR0RWUfz75fNXZFv6Z1s9T7YMPLIGlGK_ri3tQ/viewformThanks! We appreciate your time.Stories discussed this week:Power companies would be able to raise your electric bill more easily under new legislationhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/03/04/power-companies-would-be-able-to-raise-your-electric-bill-more-easily-under-new-legislationSenate committee advances bill to ease utility regulations at consumer expensehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/27/senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ease-utility-regulations-at-consumer-expensexpenseHouse committee advances nitrogen gas execution billhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/28/email-shows-new-prison-build-was-first-priced-at-1-2-billion-almost-3-times-higher-than-governors-numberGovernor's ‘major' grocery tax relief bill would save you a whole quarter on a $200 trip to the storehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/03/04/governors-major-grocery-tax-relief-bill-would-save-you-a-whole-quarter-on-a-200-trip-to-the-storeBudget bill for Franklin Co. prison now $750 million, more than twice what lawmakers said last weekhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/03/03/budget-bill-for-franklin-co-prison-now-750-million-more-than-twice-what-lawmakers-said-last-weekWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:Anti-woke activism meets technocratic tinkering: Breaking down Sanders' higher ed billhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/22/anti-woke-activism-meets-technocratic-tinkering-breaking-down-sanders-higher-ed-billGet off the Capitol lawn! Gov's bill aims to limit students' political speechhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/21/get-off-the-capitol-lawn-govs-bill-aims-to-limit-students-political-speechSecretary of state joins Legislature in assault on the people's ballot measure processhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/17/secretary-of-state-joins-legislature-in-assault-on-the-peoples-ballot-measure-processWith icy roads limiting public testimony, House committee passes bill to dampen direct democracyhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/19/with-icy-roads-limiting-public-testimony-house-committee-passes-bill-to-dampen-direct-democracyFailed raffle bill sparks kerfuffle between Saracen Casino exec and UA athletic directorhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/20/failed-raffle-bill-sparks-kerfuffle-between-saracen-casino-exec-and-ua-athletic-directorWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:UAMS, AR Children's brace for Trump administration cuts to medical research fundinghttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/10/uams-bracing-for-trump-administration-cuts-to-medical-research-fundingRick Crawford sponsors bill to keep USAID cash flowing to farms amid Musk's assault on agencyhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/12/rick-crawford-sponsors-bill-to-keep-usaid-cash-flowing-to-farms-amid-musks-assault-on-agencySenate passes slate of bills to hamstring ballot measure campaignshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/12/senate-passes-slate-of-bills-to-hamstring-ballot-measure-campaignsBill to stop Arkansas cities from regulating Airbnbs passes House committeehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/12/bill-to-stop-arkansas-cities-from-regulating-airbnbs-passes-house-committeeBill targeting disability rights nonprofit narrowly passes Househttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/13/bill-targeting-disability-rights-nonprofit-narrowly-passes-houseWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:‘Tort reform' bill passes Senate, heads to governor's deskhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/06/tort-reform-bill-passes-senate-heads-to-governors-deskSanders' maternal health plan would make it easier to get Medicaid — but not to keep ithttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/02/06/governors-maternal-health-plan-would-make-it-easier-to-get-medicaid-but-not-to-keep-itU.S. reading and math scores keep trending downward, with Arkansas towards the bottomhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/31/u-s-reading-and-math-scores-keep-trending-downward-with-arkansas-towards-the-bottomWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:Phones would be banned ‘bell to bell' in Arkansas public schools under new billhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/29/phones-would-be-banned-bell-to-bell-in-arkansas-public-schools-under-new-billSanders will seek new Medicaid work requirement for 220K Arkansanshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/28/sanders-will-seek-new-medicaid-work-requirement-for-220k-poor-arkansansSenate passes bill to end affirmative action as pleas from Black colleagues fall on deaf earshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/30/senate-passes-bill-to-end-affirmative-action-as-pleas-from-black-colleagues-fall-on-deaf-earsWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:State law allowing child sexual abuse victims to retroactively sue gets its day in court https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/23/state-law-allowing-child-sexual-abuse-victims-to-retroactively-sue-gets-its-day-in-courtArkansas immigrants brace for Trump's promised raids as rumors fly on social mediahttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/24/arkansas-immigrants-brace-for-trumps-promised-raids-as-rumors-fly-on-social-mediaTrump pardons Jan. 6 rioters, including those from Arkansashttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/20/trump-pardons-jan-6-rioters-including-those-from-arkansasVery dumb resolution filed to rename the Gulf of Mexico in state documentshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/22/very-dumb-resolution-filed-to-rename-the-gulf-of-mexico-in-state-documentsCotton at odds with Trump over extension for TikTok salehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/21/cotton-at-odds-with-trump-over-extension-for-tiktok-saleWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:Crawford picked as House Intelligence chair after ouster of Republican who dared question Trumphttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/16/crawford-picked-as-house-intelligence-chair-after-ouster-of-republican-who-dared-question-trumpUPDATE: Sanders' session agenda includes school phone ban, firing ‘woke' professors, higher ed fundinghttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/14/sanders-session-agenda-school-cell-phone-ban-higher-ed-funding-rework-firing-woke-professorsSanders wants a new Medicaid work requirement — and this time, it could hit more Arkansanshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/16/sanders-wants-a-new-medicaid-work-requirement-and-this-time-it-could-hit-more-arkansansArkansas Times Film Series screens ‘Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown' (1988) Tuesdayhttps://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2025/01/15/arkansas-times-film-series-screens-women-on-the-verge-of-a-nervous-breakdown-1988-tuesdayAngelo Badalamenti explains how he wrote Laura Palmer's Themehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-eqgr_gn4kWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories Discussed this weekBaker claps back at other Supreme Court justices, declares recent orders null and voidhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/08/baker-claps-back-at-other-supreme-court-justices-declares-recent-orders-null-and-voidState Supreme Court majority voids chief justice's appointments to judicial discipline panelhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2025/01/07/state-supreme-court-majority-voids-chief-justices-appointments-to-judicial-discipline-panelWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:Despite opposition from local right wing group, Fort Smith City Board approves EPA granthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/12/18/despite-opposition-from-local-right-wing-group-fort-smith-city-board-approves-epa-grantGovernor's consultants pitch bad ideas for a FOIA overhaulhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/12/18/governors-consultants-pitch-bad-ideas-for-a-foia-overhaulWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:220K Arkansans will lose insurance if Republicans cut federal Medicaid expansion fundshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/12/12/220k-arkansans-will-lose-insurance-if-republicans-cut-federal-medicaid-expansion-fundsEmails show officials hid purchase of land in Franklin County for prison, mocked residents by sharing South Park video clips (UPDATED)https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/12/10/emails-show-state-officials-intentionally-hid-purchase-of-land-in-franklin-county-for-prison-mock-residents-by-sharing-south-park-video-clipsCorrections board approves lease of proposed Franklin County prison sitehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/12/10/corrections-board-approves-lease-of-proposed-franklin-county-prison-siteNew toolkit aims to help Franklin County prison opponentshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/12/13/new-toolkit-aims-to-help-franklin-county-prison-opponentsWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories Discussed this weekCan you really use an Arkansas school voucher for horseback riding lessons? Yes.https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/27/can-you-really-use-an-arkansas-school-voucher-for-horseback-riding-lessons-yesDonald Trump taps Mike Huckabee as ambassador to Israelhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/12/donald-trump-taps-mike-huckabee-as-ambassador-to-israelPicking Mike Huckabee for ambassador to Israel spells more misery for Palestinianshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/14/picking-mike-huckabee-for-ambassador-to-israel-spells-more-misery-for-palestiniansTrump names GOP mega-donor Warren Stephens as ambassador to UKhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/12/02/trump-names-gop-mega-donor-warren-stephens-as-ambassador-to-ukState officials promise more air testing near Tontitown landfillhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/12/06/state-officials-promise-more-air-testing-near-tontitown-landfillFort Smith restaurateur sues to ‘Stop the Stink' from a nearby waste storage lagoonhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/12/03/fort-smith-restaurateur-sues-to-stop-the-stink-from-a-waste-storage-lagoon-near-the-cityWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textPrefiled bills have Republicans pushing discrimination, tooth decay and maternal healthhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/20/pre-filed-bills-have-republicans-pushing-discrimination-tooth-decay-and-maternal-healthArkansas House Dems unveil 2025 agenda, but can any of it pass?https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/19/arkansas-house-dems-unveil-2025-agenda-but-can-any-of-it-passRaw milk, raffles and retroactive panic: prefiling bills for 2025 continueshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/22/raw-milk-raffles-and-retroactive-panic-prefiling-bills-for-2025-continuesStudy finds sharp rise in Arkansas child labor violations in years before state rolled back work permit lawhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/18/study-finds-sharp-rise-in-arkansas-child-labor-violations-in-years-before-state-rolled-back-work-permit-lawChrissy the runaway emu makes her way through Central Arkansashttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/20/chrissy-the-runaway-emu-makes-her-way-through-central-arkansasEmuzing! Chrissy the fugitive emu is back homehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/21/chrissy-the-fugitive-emu-is-back-homeWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textFranklin County residents question prison location during contentious town hallhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/08/franklin-county-residents-question-prison-location-during-contentious-town-hallFailing up: 10 months after his firing, former prisons chief Profiri still has a $184K job in the governor's officehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/15/failing-up-10-months-after-his-firing-former-prisons-chief-profiri-still-has-a-184k-job-in-the-governors-officeLRSD board member faces questions over job with program for disadvantaged students https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/05/lrsd-board-member-faces-questions-over-job-with-program-for-disadvantaged-studentsArkansas Times Film Series screens ‘Still Walking' (2008) on Tuesdayhttps://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2024/11/14/arkansas-times-film-series-screens-still-walking-on-tuesdayWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textLittle Rock voters say no to new sales tax, yes to incumbent city directorshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/06/little-rock-voters-say-no-to-new-sales-tax-yes-to-incumbent-city-directorsPope County casino dead after Issue 2 passes, despite local voter support for casinohttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/06/pope-county-casino-dead-after-issue-2-passes-despite-local-voter-support-for-casinoBaker, Tucker, Eubanks win judicial raceshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/06/baker-tucker-eubanks-win-judicial-racesThe day after: An election postmortem from Max Brantleyhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/06/the-day-after-an-election-postmortem-from-max-brantleyWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textVote yes: Little Rock's 1-cent sales tax plan is the city's chance to think bighttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/29/vote-yes-little-rocks-1-cent-sales-tax-plan-is-the-citys-chance-to-think-bigWill it make a difference? Analyzing Little Rock's proposed 1-cent sales tax increasehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/21/will-it-make-a-difference-analyzing-little-rocks-proposed-1-cent-sales-tax-increaseArkansas Community Organizations endorses city board candidates, opposes sales taxhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/15/arkansas-community-organizations-endorses-city-board-candidates-opposes-sales-taxHere's who's running for the Little Rock Board of Directors this yearhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/07/heres-whos-running-for-the-little-rock-board-of-directors-this-yearCandidates talk policy at Coalition of Little Rock Neighborhoods meetinghttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/14/candidates-talk-policy-at-coalition-of-little-rock-neighborhoods-meetingR.I.P., irony: Rhonda Wood accuses two justices of playing politicshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/11/01/r-i-p-irony-rhonda-wood-accuses-two-justices-of-playing-politicsWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textUPDATE: Franklin County selected as home of new 3,000-bed state prisonhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/31/franklin-county-selected-as-home-of-new-3k-bed-state-prisonNew data on Ark. vouchers: More than 80% of new enrollees did not attend public school last yearhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/31/new-data-on-ark-vouchers-more-than-80-of-new-enrollees-did-not-attend-public-school-last-yearDHS numbers show Sarah Sanders is wrong: Arkansas needs Medicaid extension for new momshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/30/dhs-numbers-show-sarah-sanders-is-wrong-arkansas-needs-medicaid-extension-for-new-momsArkansas DHS officials say they want to find insurance for low-income, Medicaid-ineligible new momshttps://arkansasadvocate.com/2024/10/28/arkansas-dhs-officials-say-they-want-to-find-insurance-for-low-income-medicaid-ineligible-new-moms/We welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories Discussed this weekUtility regulators say AG failed to meet deadlines in case to raise gas rateshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/23/utility-regulators-say-ag-failed-to-meet-deadlines-in-case-to-raise-gas-ratesAdvocates of the ‘raw milk revolution' push legislation allowing retail sales at marketshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/18/advocates-of-the-raw-milk-revolution-push-legislation-allowing-retail-sales-at-marketsSplit Supreme Court, stacked with Sanders-appointed justices, rejects marijuana amendment (UPDATED)https://arktimes.com/news/cannabiz/2024/10/21/split-supreme-court-stacked-with-sanders-appointed-justices-rejects-marijuana-amendmentWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textState Supreme Court requires 2 early voting sites in West Memphis, rejecting Republicans' argumentshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/17/state-supreme-court-requires-2-early-voting-sites-in-west-memphis-rejecting-republicans-argumentsSupreme Court clears path for Arkansans to vote on anti-casino amendmenthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/17/supreme-court-clears-path-for-arkansans-to-vote-on-anti-casino-amendmentTyson Foods under investigation again for alleged child labor violationshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/16/tyson-foods-under-investigation-again-for-child-labor-violationsWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:Judge sentences two former officers videotaped in infamous Mulberry beatinghttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/10/judge-sentences-two-former-officers-videotaped-in-infamous-mulberry-beatingOverwhelmed voucher systems in West Virginia, Arkansas leave thousands of homeschoolers hanginghttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/09/overwhelmed-voucher-systems-in-west-virginia-arkansas-leave-thousands-of-homeschoolers-hangingThe import business: How Arkansas residential psych facilities make money on out-of-state kidshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/07/the-import-business-how-arkansas-residential-psych-facilities-make-money-on-out-of-state-kidsArkansas Times Film Series screens ‘Candyman' (1992) on Tuesdayhttps://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2024/10/09/arkansas-times-film-series-screens-candyman-1992-on-tuesdayWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories Discussed this weekBilly Jack Lincks named as sole suspect in 1995 Morgan Nick kidnapping (Updated)https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/01/billy-jack-lincks-named-as-prime-suspect-in-1995-morgan-nick-kidnappingThere's an international bird flu summit in Arkansas this week, and this is why it is importanthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/02/theres-an-international-bird-flu-summit-in-arkansas-this-week-and-this-is-why-it-is-importantMedical marijuana expansion a no-go, Secretary of State Thurston sayshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/09/30/medical-marijuana-expansion-a-no-go-secretary-of-state-thurston-saysSecretary of state rejects marijuana amendment; sponsor plans lawsuithttps://arktimes.com/news/cannabiz/2024/09/30/secretary-of-state-rejects-marijuana-amendment-sponsor-plans-lawsuitMarijuana group files lawsuit, says Thurston should count remaining signatureshttps://arktimes.com/news/cannabiz/2024/10/01/marijuana-group-files-lawsuit-says-thurston-should-count-remaining-signaturesTwo state Supreme Court justices recuse in marijuana amendment case (UPDATED)https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/10/02/two-state-supreme-court-justices-recuse-in-marijuana-amendment-caseWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:TIF tiff: Downtown Little Rock Master Plan calls for controversial funding toolhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/09/20/tif-tiff-downtown-little-rock-master-plan-calls-for-controversial-funding-toolCity board to vote on another master plan, mobile grocery stores next weekhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/09/27/city-board-to-vote-on-another-master-plan-mobile-grocery-stores-next-weekSupreme Court refers Justice Courtney Hudson to judicial disciplinary committeehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/09/24/supreme-court-refers-justice-courtney-hudson-to-judicial-disciplinary-committeeWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:Sarah Sanders used a July traffic stop to demonize immigrants; the dashcam footage tells a different storyhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/09/18/sarah-sanders-used-a-july-traffic-stop-to-demonize-immigrants-the-dashcam-footage-tells-a-different-storyTraffic stop used as anti-immigration rallying cry comes under scrutinyhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/09/20/traffic-stop-used-as-anti-immigration-rallying-cry-comes-under-scrutinySolar power is thriving in Arkansas schools — but a new state law may end the growthhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/09/16/solar-power-is-thriving-in-arkansas-schools-but-a-new-state-law-may-end-the-growthWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textStories discussed this week:New animal waste rule would keep public in the dark on hog farm permits, environmental groups sayhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/09/06/new-animal-waste-rule-would-keep-public-in-the-dark-on-hog-farm-permits-environmental-groups-saySouth Arkansas landowners fire back at lithium companies, call proposed royalty structure ‘unlawful'https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/09/12/south-arkansas-landowners-fire-back-at-lithium-companies-call-proposed-royalty-structure-unlawfulSpecial master's findings in casino case could help medical marijuana amendmenthttps://arktimes.com/news/cannabiz/2024/09/10/special-master-findings-could-help-medical-marijuana-amendmentArkansas Times Film Series screens ‘No' (2012) on Tuesdayhttps://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2024/09/11/arkansas-times-film-series-screens-no-2012-on-tuesdayWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a textOn this week's podcast, Arkansas author Alice Driver discusses her new book on Tyson Foods and the perils faced by its largely immigrant "Life and Death of the American Worker: The Immigrants Taking on America's Largest Meatpacking Company," by Alice Driverhttps://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Life-and-Death-of-the-American-Worker/Alice-Driver/9781668078822We welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a Text Message.The Arkansas Times has been hosting a series of fundraisers in the form of a lecture series featuring Arkansas newsmakers, politicians and writers on current events and policies. The proceeds go to the Arkansas Times Investigative Reporting Fund.This month, we met at the Copper Grill to hear from Skip Rutherford, Dean Emeritus of the Clinton School of Public Service and founder of the non-partisan Political Animals Club, who spoke about the current race for the presidency between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.After the event, Skip spoke with Arkansas Times reporter Lara Farrar to give further insight into the state of the race.Note: You'll hear in the interview Skip Rutherford refer to an anticipated announcement of Harris first interview as the Democratic nominee. Shortly after the interview it was reported that she and her running mate Tim Walz will sit down with CNNs Dana Bash for a prime time interview Thursday night.We welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a Text Message.Stories discussed this weekLRSD Superintendent Jermall Wright resignshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/15/lrsd-superintendent-jermall-wright-resignsWronging Wright a huge mistake for LRSDhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/18/wronging-wright-a-huge-mistake-for-lrsdLRSD board hears from the public on Wright's resignation letter, takes no actionhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/19/lrsd-board-hears-from-the-public-on-wrights-resignation-letter-takes-no-actionLRSD superintendent hangs in through another board meetinghttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/23/lrsd-superintendent-hangs-in-through-another-board-meetingArkansas Supreme Court stretches law to disqualify abortion petition (UPDATES)https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/22/calvinball-arkansas-supreme-court-stretches-law-to-disqualify-abortion-petitionWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a Text Message.Stories discussed this week:AG confirms no Chinese or communist ties in land purchased by Walmart supplierhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/13/ag-confirms-no-chinese-or-communist-ties-in-land-purchased-by-walmart-supplierMarijuana and casino petitioner groups agree with abortion petitioners: Key argument from attorney general is wronghttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/13/marijuana-and-casino-petitioner-groups-agree-with-abortion-petitioners-key-argument-from-attorney-general-is-wrongArkansas Times Film Series screens ‘Lovers Rock' (2020) Tuesday nighthttps://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2024/08/14/arkansas-times-film-series-screens-lovers-rock-2020-tuesday-nighthttps://www.riverdale10.com/movie/Lovers%5FRockWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Send us a Text Message.Stories Discussed this weekSouth Arkansas landowners, lithium extractors clash over royalty rates https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/07/south-arkansas-landowners-lithium-extractors-clash-over-royalty-ratesWalmart supplier under investigation after state officials suggest possible Chinese tieshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/07/walmart-supplier-under-investigation-after-state-officials-suggest-possible-chinese-tiesBoth sides file briefs in Arkansas Abortion Amendment lawsuithttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/06/little-rock-city-board-extends-sunday-on-premise-alcohol-sales-windowLittle Rock city board extends Sunday on-premise alcohol sales windowhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/06/little-rock-city-board-extends-sunday-on-premise-alcohol-sales-windowWe welcome your feedback, write us at  podcasts@arktimes.com

Stories Discussed this weekLRPD is asking for access to home security cameras to fight crimehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/29/lrpd-is-asking-for-access-to-home-security-cameras-to-fight-crimeLittle Rock will again vote on a one-cent sales tax in Novemberhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/30/little-rock-will-again-vote-on-a-one-cent-sales-tax-in-novemberLittle Rock metro is 10th deadliest in the U.S. for pedestrians, study sayshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/10/little-rock-metro-is-10th-deadliest-in-the-u-s-for-pedestrians-study-saysLR Ward 2 Director Ken Richardson recovering from ‘multiple life-threatening surgeries'https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/08/02/lr-ward-2-director-ken-richardson-recovering-from-multiple-life-threatening-surgeriesCasino amendment makes the ballot, marijuana amendment heads to cure period, sec. of state sayshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/31/casino-amendment-makes-the-ballot-marijuana-amendment-heads-to-cure-period-sec-of-state-saysWe welcome your feedback, write us at  podcasts@arktimes.com

Stories discussed this week:Ark. Supreme Court orders secretary of state to count some abortion petition signatureshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/23/ark-supreme-court-orders-secretary-of-state-to-count-some-abortion-petition-signaturesState Supreme Court won't dismiss abortion petitioners' lawsuit, for nowhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/26/state-supreme-court-wont-dismiss-abortion-petitioners-lawsuit-sets-briefing-scheduleDisgraced cult leader's name to be removed from Riverfront Park arthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/25/disgraced-cult-leaders-name-to-be-removed-from-riverfront-park-artArkansas AG investigating another business with possible Chinese tieshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/24/arkansas-ag-investigating-another-business-with-possible-chinese-tiesState does about-face on Chinahttps://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/state-does-about-face-on-china/Pharmacies running low on Paxlovid as summer COVID spike continueshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/26/pharmacies-running-low-on-paxlovid-as-summer-covid-spike-continuesWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

Stories Discussed this weekAbortion advocates sue secretary of state over rejection of amendmenthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/16/abortion-advocates-sue-secretary-of-state-over-rejection-of-amendmentLittle Rock City Board accepts Downtown Master Plan, plans July 30 tax vote https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/16/little-rock-city-board-accepts-downtown-master-plan-plans-july-30-tax-voteLittle Rock city board member has missed every meeting since mid-Mayhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/04/little-rock-city-board-member-has-missed-every-meeting-since-mid-mayUA System President Donald Bobbit to retire by Januaryhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/16/ua-system-president-donald-bobbit-to-retire-by-januaryUA System board to begin search for new president to replace Bobbitthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/18/ua-system-board-to-begin-search-for-new-president-to-replace-bobbittConservative GOP women, led by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Sanders, rally at conventionhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/17/conservative-gop-women-led-by-arkansas-gov-sarah-sanders-rally-at-conventionWe welcome your feedback, write us at  podcasts@arktimes.com

Stories discussed this week:Repro rights supporters cheer a milestone in push to put abortion on the ballot:https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/05/photos-repro-rights-supporters-cheer-a-milestone-in-push-to-put-abortion-on-the-ballotSecretary of state disqualifies Arkansas Abortion Amendment from ballot on technicality:https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/10/secretary-of-state-disqualifies-arkansas-abortion-amendment-from-ballot-on-technicalityWhiplash: Why the Arkansas Abortion Amendment still might be in play:https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/07/12/whiplash-why-the-arkansas-abortion-amendment-still-might-be-in-playEndorsements:Arkansas Times Film Series screens ‘Desperately Seeking Susan' (1985) Tuesday nighthttps://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2024/07/11/arkansas-times-film-series-screens-desperately-seeking-susan-1985-tuesday-night'James' by Percival Everetthttps://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/738749/james-by-percival-everett/

Stories Discussed this week:POSTMORTEM: Joe Biden and Donald Trump face off in presidential debatehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/27/liveblog-joe-biden-and-donald-trump-face-off-in-presidential-debateWhy it's a big deal that the Supreme Court struck down Chevron deferencehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/28/why-its-a-big-deal-that-the-supreme-court-struck-down-chevron-deferenceU.S. Supreme Court ruling against homelessness puts advocates on edgehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/28/u-s-supreme-court-ruling-against-homelessness-puts-advocates-on-edgeWill Supreme Court's Jan. 6 ruling affect ‘Bigo' Barnett's prison sentence?https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/28/will-supreme-courts-jan-6-ruling-affect-bigo-barnetts-prison-sentenceSupreme Court will hear case on transgender youth medical care with implications for Arkansashttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/24/supreme-court-will-hear-case-on-transgender-youth-medical-care-with-implications-for-arkansas We welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.comIf you like the show, tell your friends and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Stories Discussed this week:Dashcam footage from ATF raid that killed LR airport director Malinowski released by prosecutorhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/19/dashcam-footage-from-atf-raid-that-killed-lr-airport-director-malinowski-released-by-prosecutorBodycam footage of attorney's arrest at bar association convention supports her version of eventshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/19/bodycam-footage-of-attorneys-arrest-at-bar-association-convention-supports-her-version-of-eventsAttorney arrested at Arkansas Bar Association meeting in Hot Springs for carrying FOIA petitionshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/14/attorney-arrested-at-arkansas-bar-association-meeting-in-hot-springs-for-carrying-foia-petitionsHam-fisted House resolutions attacking direct democracy efforts may have backfiredhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/21/ham-fisted-house-resolutions-attacking-direct-democracy-efforts-may-have-backfiredStill need to sign petitions? Here's where to go, June 20-22https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/20/still-need-to-sign-petitions-heres-where-to-go-june-20-22Don't believe the propaganda: One-time surplus money does not fund Sanders' tax cutshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/18/dont-believe-the-propaganda-one-time-surplus-money-does-not-fund-sanders-tax-cutsEndorsement:Bentonville Film Festival: ‘The In Between' lingers in liminal spaces at the borderhttps://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2024/06/12/bentonville-film-festival-the-in-between-lingers-in-liminal-spaces-at-the-borderWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.comIf you like the show, tell your friends and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Stories discussed this week:More tax cuts incoming: Governor calls special session next weekhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/11/more-tax-cuts-incoming-governor-calls-special-session-next-weekWe can blame one of the clumsiest politicians in Arkansas history for next week's special sessionhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/13/we-can-blame-one-of-the-clumsiest-politicians-in-arkansas-history-for-next-weeks-special-sessionFight! GOP fissures laid bare as Arkansas Republicans vote to close primarieshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/10/fight-gop-fissures-laid-bare-as-arkansas-republicans-vote-to-close-primariesFather shot by 11-year-old son in library parking lot has long history of crime, drug abuse and child neglecthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/12/father-shot-by-11-year-old-son-in-library-parking-lot-has-long-history-of-crime-drug-abuse-and-child-neglectLawsuit challenges LEARNS voucher program as unconstitutionalhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/10/lawsuit-challenges-learns-voucher-program-as-unconstitutionalEndorsements:Arkansas Times Film Series screens '35 Shots of Rum' (2008) Tuesday night https://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2024/06/13/arkansas-times-film-series-screens-35-shots-of-rum-2008-tuesday-nightThe Sympathizer: https://www.hbo.com/the-sympathizerKami Renee: https://soundcloud.com/soulsistakami/landr-recharge-m-m-balancedWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com.If you like the show, tell your friends and leave a review wherever you get your podcast.

Stories in this week's edition:Education vendor Solution Tree abandons ship on hefty state contracthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/03/education-vendor-solution-tree-abandons-ship-on-hefty-state-contractGovernment sues ExxonMobil 11 years after Mayflower oil spillhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/31/government-sues-exxonmobil-11-years-after-mayflower-oil-spillUPDATE: Proposed $1.8 million settlement filed over Exxon's 2013 Mayflower oil spillhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/03/proposed-1-8-million-settlement-filed-over-exxons-2013-mayflower-oil-spillVoter registration groups sue over Arkansas's abrupt rejection of e-signatures on formshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/06/voter-registration-groups-sue-over-arkansass-abrupt-rejection-of-e-signatures-on-formsBig if true: Pro-lifers claim no abortions in Arkansas in 2023https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/04/big-if-true-pro-lifers-claim-no-abortions-in-arkansas-in-2023One mother's suffering under the Arkansas abortion banhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/05/one-mothers-suffering-under-the-arkansas-abortion-banU.S. Supreme Court revives Arkansas gerrymandering case, but plaintiffs face long oddshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/06/03/u-s-supreme-court-revives-arkansas-gerrymandering-case-but-plaintiffs-face-long-oddsWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com.If you like the show, tell your friends and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Stories discussed in this week's episode:Little Rock police say governor told them to block canvassers from public propertyhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/30/little-rock-police-say-governor-told-them-to-block-canvassers-from-public-propertyArkansas education secretary withdraws Solution Tree contract after legislative oppositionhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/31/arkansas-education-secretary-withdraws-solution-tree-contract-after-legislative-oppositionSolution Tree may not be improving Arkansas schools, but it is raking in the cashhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/29/solution-tree-may-not-be-improving-arkansas-schools-but-it-is-raking-in-the-cashEndorsements:Bens Appliances and Junkhttps://www.youtube.com/@bensappliancesandjunkThe ‘Voushttps://www.riverdale10.com/movie/The%5FVousWe welcome your feedback. Write us at  podcasts@arktimes.comIf you like the show, tell your friends and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.

Stories discussed in this episode: Attorney general threatens groups advertising abortion pills in Arkansashttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/21/tim-griffin-warns-against-advertising-abortion-pills-in-arkansas$15K in donations to Supreme Court Justice Barbara Webb come from industry her husband regulateshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/17/15k-in-donations-to-supreme-court-justice-barbara-webb-come-from-industry-her-husband-regulatesArkansas Educational Rights Amendment organizers say they're ‘nearing the halfway mark' on signatures for the 2024 ballothttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/21/arkansas-educational-rights-amendment-organizers-say-theyre-nearing-the-halfway-mark-on-signatures-for-the-2024-ballotJim Walton gives $500K to defend Arkansas school vouchers from ballot measurehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/16/jim-walton-gives-500k-to-defend-arkansas-school-vouchers-from-ballot-measureEndorsementsSerial Season 4: Guantánamohttps://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/podcasts/serial-season-four-guantanamo.htmlThe Rest is Historyhttps://linktr.ee/restishistoryWe welcome your feedback. Write us at  podcasts@arktimes.comIf you like the show, tell your friends and leave a review wherever you get your podcast.

Stories discussed this week:Central High principal's salary adjustment to close a gender pay gap up for approval Thursdayhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/15/central-high-principals-salary-adjustment-to-close-a-gender-pay-gap-up-for-approval-thursdayGlitch sends out contract renewals to all LRSD employees, even the ones losing their jobshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/15/glitch-sends-out-contract-renewals-to-all-lrsd-employees-even-the-ones-losing-their-jobsLRSD outlines $15 million in budget cuts, employee non-renewalshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/16/lrsd-outlines-15-million-in-budget-cuts-employee-non-renewalsPublic schools must teach pro-adoption, anti-abortion lesson by end of school year, per new state law:https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/14/public-schools-must-teach-pro-adoption-anti-abortion-lesson-by-end-of-school-year-per-new-state-lawJudge asks the guns-in-courthouses questions the Arkansas Supreme Court chose to ignorehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/08/judge-chip-welch-asks-the-gun-questions-the-ones-the-arkansas-supreme-court-chose-to-ignoreArkansas Supreme Court goes loco after judge refers to its gun ruling as ‘LOCO'https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/14/arkansas-supreme-court-goes-loco-after-judge-refers-to-its-gun-ruling-as-locoEndorsements:The Hundred Years' War on Palestine A History of Settler Colonialism and Resistance, 1917–2017https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781627798556/thehundredyearswaronpalestineThe Beinart Notebookhttps://peterbeinart.substack.com/Arkansas Times Film Series screens ‘Late Spring' (1949) Tuesday nighthttps://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2024/05/16/arkansas-times-film-series-screens-late-spring-1949-tuesday-nightWe welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.comIf you like the show, tell your friends and leave a review wherever you get your podcast.

Stories discussed this week include:Judge partly sides with plaintiffs suing to stop Arkansas's ban on ‘critical race theory,' ‘indoctrination'https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/07/judge-partly-sides-with-plaintiffs-suing-to-stop-arkansass-ban-on-critical-race-theory-indoctrinationJudge hears arguments in lawsuit over LEARNS ban on ‘indoctrination,' ‘critical race theory'https://arktimes.com/news/2024/04/30/judge-hears-arguments-in-lawsuit-over-learns-ban-on-indoctrination-critical-race-theoryStudents and dignitaries celebrate in Little Rock as Daisy Bates statue debuts in Washington, D.C.https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/08/students-and-dignitaries-celebrate-in-little-rock-as-daisy-bates-statue-debuts-in-washington-d-cStreaming numbers say Netflix's controversial ‘Unlocked' is a hithttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/01/streaming-numbers-say-netflixs-controversial-unlocked-is-a-hitEndorsementsYe Paul's Soul Bodega & Grill https://www.facebook.com/YePauls/Annikahttps://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/shows/annika/We welcome your feedback, write us at podcasts@arktimes.comIf you like the show, tell your friends and leave a review wherever you get your podcast.

On this week's show: More on the Legislature's stingy 2025 budget, a pair of new bitcoin mining laws are signed by the governor, the state makes it harder to register to vote, and Attorney General Tim Griffin sues to keep the gun show loophole open. Benji, Austin and Dave Ramsey have the details.Hester reelected as President of Senate as Legislature wraps up fiscal session; Chesterfield honoredhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/02/hester-reelected-as-president-of-senate-as-legislature-wraps-up-fiscal-session-chesterfield-honoredCrypto regulation bills advance out of House committeehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/01/crypto-regulation-bills-advance-out-of-house-committeeCrypto bills pass House and head to the governor's deskhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/01/crypto-bills-pass-house-and-head-to-the-governors-deskLawmakers adopt emergency rule barring electronic signatures for would-be votershttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/02/lawmakers-adopt-emergency-rule-barring-electronic-signatures-for-would-be-votersArkansas AG Tim Griffin sues to keep gun show loophole open, with a nod to Bryan Malinowskihttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/05/01/arkansas-ag-tim-griffin-sues-to-keep-gun-show-loophole-open-with-a-nod-to-bryan-malinowskiWe welcome your feedback: Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

This week, in lieu of our regular weekly news roundup, we're sharing something special — a speech by Arkansas Times editor emeritus Max Brantley on the sorry state of politics and journalism in our state.Beginning in November 2023, the Arkansas Times started a luncheon speaker series that covers current events in Arkansas and serves as a fundraiser for our reporting efforts. Speakers have included former LRSD superintendent Baker Kurrus; Lauren Cowles, a drafter of the Arkansas Abortion Amendment and coalition member with Arkansans for Limited Government; and former state representative Nate Bell. This week, guests heard from Max, who retired from the Arkansas Times in 2023 after 50 years in journalism in Little Rock. We welcome your feedback. Write us at podcasts@arktimes.com

This week: We say a bittersweet farewell to Arkansas Times city reporter extraordinaire Mary Hennigan, but not before one last update on Little Rock news. And, Matt Campbell answers everything you want to know about the #lecterngate audit and the governor's response.Stories discussed in this edition:Little Rock city manager hopefuls include Sen. Fred Love, acting manager Emily Coxhttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/04/12/little-rock-city-manager-job-attracts-out-of-state-prospectsU.S. senators say ATF agents weren't wearing body cameras in fatal Malinowski raidhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/04/19/u-s-senators-say-atf-agents-werent-wearing-body-cameras-in-fatal-malinowski-raidActivists call on Little Rock officials to support ceasefire in the Middle Easthttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/04/16/activists-call-on-little-rock-officials-to-support-ceasefire-in-the-middle-eastCity officials OK financial plan for Little Rock solar arrayhttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/04/17/city-officials-ok-financial-plan-for-little-rock-solar-arrayArkansas lawmakers call on ATF to release footage of Malinowski raidhttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/04/19/arkansas-lawmakers-call-on-atf-to-release-footage-of-malinowski-raidLawmakers question governor's staff over lectern audithttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/04/16/lawmakers-question-governors-staff-over-lectern-auditState auditors refer lecterngate findings to prosecutor's officehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/04/15/state-auditors-refer-lecterngate-findings-to-prosecutors-office

Arkansas Times listeners, we need your feedback! What do you like about the podcast? What do you hate? What can we improve? Email us with your thoughts, please, at podcasts@arktimes.com.This week, Dave Ramsey and Benji preview the fiscal session, the governor's meager budget and the legislative fight over crypto mining; and, Omaya talks with Rhett Brinkley about John Calipari's arrival at the University of Arkansas and what it means for Razorback basketball.Stories discussed this week:Austerity Sarah: Governor's budget is generous to private school families, stingy for everyone elsehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/04/11/austerity-sarah-governors-budget-is-generous-to-private-school-families-stingy-for-everyone-elseState budget leaves only crumbs for rural schools and the poor, advocates sayhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/04/11/state-budget-leaves-only-crumbs-for-rural-schools-and-the-poor-advocates-sayThousands pack Bud Walton Arena to welcome new Razorbacks coach John Caliparihttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/04/11/thousands-pack-into-bud-walton-arena-to-welcome-new-razorbacks-coach-john-calipariCrypto at the Capitol: Legislature revisiting Bitcoin mining after complaints from local residentshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/04/11/crypto-at-the-capitol-legislature-revisiting-bitcoin-mining-after-complaints-from-local-residents“It's bad for everything”: Citizens group from Arkansas County ready to fight back against crypto mineshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/04/11/its-bad-for-everything-citizens-group-from-arkansas-county-ready-to-fight-back-against-crypto-mines

This week Benji and Mary Hennigan discuss the latest in the case of Bryan Malinowski who was posthumously awarded a $24,000 bonus by the Airport commission, as well as several actions taken by the city board of directors at Tuesday meeting. Then Benji and Austin Gelder talk about the latest in a new lawsuit regarding a provision in Arkansas LEARNS. Finally, Benji talks to Rhett Brinkley, Daniel Grear, and Stephanie Smittle about everything happening this eclipse weekend.Little Rock officials approve new recycling contract, glass is backhttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/04/03/little-rock-officials-approve-new-recycling-contract-glass-is-back$4.3 million Little Rock port expansion up for a vote tonighthttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/04/02/4-3-million-little-rock-port-expansion-up-for-a-vote-tonightAirport commission gives $24K bonus to director Malinowski after deathhttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/04/02/airport-commission-gives-24k-bonus-to-director-malinowski-after-deathCentral High plaintiffs sue Sanders, Oliva over targeting of AP African American Studieshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/25/central-high-plaintiffs-sue-sanders-oliva-over-targeting-of-ap-african-american-studiesFederal judge in LEARNS lawsuit plans to apply for LEARNS vouchers, won't recusehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/04/01/federal-judge-in-learns-lawsuit-plans-to-apply-for-learns-vouchers-wont-recuseLEARNS lawsuit over ‘indoctrination' reassigned to Judge Rudofskyhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/28/learns-lawsuit-over-indoctrination-reassigned-to-judge-rudofskyPartly cloudy skies expected in Arkansas for Monday's eclipsehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/04/03/partly-cloudy-skies-expected-in-arkansas-for-mondays-eclipseMulberry Mountain welcomes eclipse watchers with one-day music festivalhttps://arktimes.com/entertainment/2024/04/02/mulberry-mountain-welcomes-eclipse-watchers-with-one-day-music-festivalMass eclipse wedding ceremony to bring hundreds of couples to Russellvillehttps://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2024/03/22/mass-eclipse-wedding-ceremony-to-bring-hundreds-of-couples-to-russellville9 stellar ways to celebrate the solar eclipse in Central Arkansashttps://arktimes.com/rock-candy/2024/03/04/9-stellar-ways-to-celebrate-the-solar-eclipse-in-central-arkansashttps://arktimes.com/tag/2024-solar-eclipse

This week, Benji and Matt Campbell discuss Pulaski County Sheriff Eric Higgins' reality show TV (coming soon to Netflix!), the latest on the long-awaited #lecterngate audit and why you shouldn't accept Arkansas's projections for April 8 eclipse tourism at face value. Plus, Austin fills us in on a GOP primary runoff in Hope that's turning some southwest Arkansas Republican legislators against the governor's office. Show Notes:Pulaski County weighing options for handling sheriff's seemingly illegal contract with TV producershttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/27/pulaski-county-weighing-options-for-handling-sheriffs-seemingly-illegal-contract-with-tv-producersRepublican infighting over south Arkansas legislative runoff continues, pitting Sanders against old-guard GOPhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/27/republican-infighting-over-south-arkansas-legislative-runoff-continues-pitting-sanders-against-old-guard-gop‘Lecterngate' audit is ready, but the public release date is still unknownhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/27/lecterngate-audit-is-ready-but-a-public-release-date-still-unknownState's estimates of 1.5 million eclipse tourists next month are shady at besthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/05/despite-states-claims-1-5-million-eclipse-tourists-unlikely-to-come-to-arkansas-next-month

This week, Benji and Mary review the big news of the week — the shooting of Little Rock airport director Bryan Malinowski on Tuesday by federal agents as they attempted to execute a search warrant related to illegal gun sales. Then, reporter Debra Hale-Shelton discusses two stories she's reported this week: an ominous new effort to intimidate public libraries and Asa Hutchinson's interest in a job atop the University of Arkansas System.Show Notes:Illegal guns sales led to fatal ATF raid on airport director Malinowski's home, affidavit says:https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/21/judge-unseals-documents-in-malinowski-casePolicing libraries, aka book banning, moves a step further in Arkansas:https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/19/policing-libraries-aka-book-banning-moves-a-step-further-in-arkansasIs Asa Hutchinson interested in becoming the next UA System president? Apparently.https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/21/is-asa-hutchinson-interested-in-becoming-the-next-ua-system-president-apparently

Show Notes:The queen's gambit: Gov. Sanders and Co play political games with overcrowded prisonshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/02/28/the-queens-gambit-gov-sanders-and-co-play-political-games-with-overcrowded-prisons?fbclid=IwAR2FFU6Gw9ldB0JxOij_e81FprTrW3fL2QwkzkHeI_i8aFYkRFzBh-LFB9cLegislature OKs 'emergency' rule limiting gender options on state IDs, dodges public commenthttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/15/legislature-oks-emergency-rule-restricting-gender-options-on-state-ids-dodging-public-commentBill Whitworth, legendary editor at The New Yorker and The Atlantic, dies at 87https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/08/bill-whitworth-legendary-editor-at-the-new-yorker-and-the-atlantic-dies-at-87I remember his sweetness: Bill Whitworth and Dizzy Gillespiehttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/12/i-remember-his-sweetness-bill-whitworth-and-dizzy-gillespieThe Women by Kristin Hannahhttps://kristinhannah.com/books/the-women/The Arkansas Times Film Series Presents Kundun (1997)https://www.riverdale10.com/movie/Kundun 

Show Notes:Little Rock Zoo welcomes new baby orangutanhttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/02/26/little-rock-zoo-welcomes-new-baby-orangutanWe dig it! Construction slated for Little Rock's Southeast Trailhttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/03/06/we-dig-it-construction-slated-for-little-rocks-southeast-trailLittle Rock's city boardroom still under construction, April return hopefulhttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/03/06/little-rocks-city-boardroom-still-under-construction-april-return-hopeful$53 million in federal funds set to improve Arkansas water systemshttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/02/27/53-million-in-federal-funds-set-to-improve-arkansas-water-systemsTop Little Rock housing authority exec resignshttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/03/08/top-little-rock-housing-authority-exec-resignsTwo appointments to Little Rock housing authority cleared by city boardhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/07/two-appointments-to-little-rock-housing-authority-cleared-by-city-boardSecretary of state warns against voter registration e-signatures; Pulaski clerk says she'll keep taking themhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/03/07/mixed-messages-from-the-arkansas-secretary-of-state-sow-confusion-over-online-voter-applicationsIf Arkansas claims to protect life, it needs to do more for mothers and infantshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/01/30/if-arkansas-claims-to-protect-life-it-needs-to-do-more-for-mothers-and-infantsSanders rejects 12-month Medicaid extension for moms, says Arkansas already has enough coveragehttps://arktimes.com/news/2024/02/22/sanders-rejects-12-month-medicaid-extension-for-moms-says-arkansas-already-has-enough-coverage

In this week's podcast, we focus on the March 5 primary and nonpartisan judicial elections coming up on Tuesday. Group pushes Womack to support Ukraine aid despite GOP blockade of billhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/02/21/group-pushes-womack-to-support-ukraine-aid-despite-gop-blockade-of-billU.S. speaker fight influences Arkansas congressional race (via Arkansas Advocate)https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/02/26/u-s-speaker-fight-influences-arkansas-congressional-raceMarch 5 election may hand Gov. Sanders new state Supreme Court appointmentshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/02/07/march-5-election-may-hand-gov-sanders-two-new-state-supreme-court-appointmentsThe Central Arkansas legislative primaries to watch on March 5https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/02/29/the-central-arkansas-legislative-primaries-to-watch-on-march-5Stepping away, not down: Vivian Flowers leaves the Capitol to run for Pine Bluff mayorhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/02/29/stepping-away-not-down-vivian-flowers-leaves-the-capitol-to-run-for-pine-bluff-mayorUp and down the ballot, judicial races could create openings for the governor to fillhttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/02/21/up-and-down-the-ballot-in-central-arkansas-multiple-judicial-races-could-create-openings-for-the-governor-to-fillMax Brantley and the Blue Hog weigh in on judicial raceshttps://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2024/02/20/max-brantley-and-the-blue-hog-weigh-in-on-judicial-races