Local News from Ozarks at Large

Parts of Arkansas experienced rain this past week but most of the state remains in some form of drought. Many farmers are making decisions to care for animals and crops, while keeping their farm afloat. The University of Arkansas’ Extension held a webinar to prepare producers for what is happening and how they could be profitable when the dry spell eventually breaks.

A supply-chain shortage of tampons this summer is raising awareness about menstrual equity or equal access to menstrual products. University of Arkansas, which has lead the way in menstrual equity, among public institutions in the state, is responding. We also learn about sustainable alternatives to conventional period products.

Northwest Arkansas' racially and ethnically-diverse population has grown from less than five percent to more than 30 percent since 1990. The Northwest Arkansas Council hosted a webinar about making the region inclusive and welcoming to all.

The limited-run podcast The R Word comes to a conclusion with a live recording of a conversation about racism, Christianity and reparartions. The discussion was recorded last week at St. James Missionary Baptist Church in Fayetteville.

Bobby Hopper made a huge impact on the region and the state. John Brummett, a political columnist with the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, talks with Roby Brock, from our partner Talk Business and Politics, about Bobby Hopper's legacy.

Inflation hit a 40-year high in July, impacting everything from food to fuel costs. We hear from an Arkansas economist on what is driving the inflation and what it means for consumers in Arkansas.

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences' new, accelerated nursing program is taking advantage of a new simulation center on the Fayetteville campus to train more nurses for Arkansas.

Michael Tilley, with our partner Talk Business and Politics, says the weeks and months ahead could deliver details about medical expansion in the River Valley, a possible Fort Smith street change and a lawsuit regarding recycling.

A century before Roe v. Wade federally legalized abortion in America, girls and women in Arkansas seeking to prevent or terminate unwanted pregnancies were often required to resort to extreme measures. Independent historian Melanie K. Welch Ph.D. chronicles the history of contraception and abortion in Arkansas.

Today's Northwest Arkansas Business Journal includes an examination of the impact the late Cameron Smith had on how Bentonville and Northwest Arkansas operate.