Prison

Last week, dozens of people gathered in a pasture in the small town of Charleston, Arkansas, just southeast of Fort Smith, to protest a proposed new prison there. Ozarks at Large's Daniel Caruth brings us this report.

On today's show, we hear from a group of organizations in Arkansas that are coming together to protect direct democracy on the ballot. Plus, residents of Franklin County gathered last week to challenge an impending prison being built. We also discuss why Osage Park in Bentonville is more than just a green space.

Arkansas Justice Reform Coalition and Gravel and Grist are holding a panel discussion and film screening near the site of a controversial new prison in Charleston.

On today's show, we discuss the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences' new comprehensive online tool to empower stronger youth mental health. We also learn about bugs in Candy Lee's new album and get an expert opinion on the current economy from a University of Arkansas economist.

Plans to build a controversial prison are moving forward in a western Arkansas community. Little Rock Public Radio’s Josie Lenora has more on one group's objection to the project.

Amor Towles’ novels take readers to Moscow, New York and the Lincoln Highway. On today's show, we hear about his latest book, which is a collection of short stories. Also, we learn more about recently passed legislation and how it may affect maternal health outcomes in Arkansas. Plus, Backroom Social Club is back, but it's in Springdale this time.

Little Rock Public Radio reporter Josie Lenora walks us through last week's legislation that were halted or forced to pivot.

The Arkansas Legislature is continuing to stalemate over funding for a new state prison. Yesterday, members of the Senate voted down an appropriations bill for a new 3,000-bed prison for the fifth time in a meeting.

The city of Fayetteville and the Fayetteville School District are teaming up to provide safe routes to school. On today's show, we hear how the city is seeking public input on how to implement the plan best. Plus, we hear about new words from the late Charles Portis. We've also got your next weekend planned out as we talk some tunes.

Arkansas’ junior Republican U-S senator is proposing legislation to jam cell phone signals in state and federal prisons.