On today's show, we're once again in a state of emergency in Arkansas. Plus, an Arkansas Circuit Court Judge has ruled to resume federal pandemic unemployment benefits to over 69,000 workers, a University of Arkansas professor helps digs into a slice of World War II history, and much more.

As the virus surges in Arkansas and hospitals are full or nearly full, Governor Asa Hutchinson is again implementing a statewide public health emergency. He's also calling a special session of the Arkansas Legislature to possibly consider amending a new law that prohibits school districts from implementing mask mandates.

Federal pandemic unemployment relief has been ordered to resume in Arkansas by a Pulaski County Circuit Court judge to as many as 70,000 qualified Arkansans. In May, the emergency benefits were terminated by Governor Asa Hutchinson, who said jobs are now plentiful. Legal Aid of Arkansas sued the state on behalf of five Arkansas plaintiffs who claim the temporary benefits are critically needed. 

The Arkansas Department of Human Services is tyring to reach about 4,000 young people who are now, or were, in the Arkansas foster-care system. One-time payments are available to help during the pandemic.

University of Arkansas French professor, Kathy Comfort's 2018 book 'Refiguring Les Années Noires: Literary Representations of the Nazi Occupation,'  was released in paperback this July.

SONA, the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, is gearing up for a new season. Becca Martin Brown, the features editor for the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette gives us details...plus information about this weekend's offerings.

On today's show, we learn more about a study by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences about vaccine hesitancy. Plus, the live music rundown for a sweltering last hurrah of July, and much more.

As virus numbers rise in Arkansas, the research into the protection provided by COVID-19 antibodies continues.

This autumn, North Arkansas College, a public community college in Harrison is offering an enhanced arts curriculum — including art therapy — with foundation grant support to both students and surrounding community residents. 

This week's Northwest Arkansas Business Journal Report includes aconversation with John Erck. He'll be leading UAMS fundraising efforts.