Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

A look at the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 15:26:39 +0000

Spencer Tirey sits with Kent Eikenbery from the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank to discuss what a food bank even is, the issues Arkansans face when it comes to food insecurity, and how the NWA Food Bank is changing to combat the growing issue of food insecurity.

What is the Arkansas Community Foundation?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 21:23:30 +0000

Multimedia Manager, Spencer Tirey, sits down with Vice President of Northwest Operations of the Arkansas Community Foundation to discuss how Arkansans can get involved with non-profits.

The Impact of Federal & State Legislation on Arkansas Children & Families

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 20 May 2025 15:43:21 +0000

Multimedia Manager, Spencer Tirey, sits down with NWA Director of the Arkansas Advocates for Children & Families Laura Kellams to discuss recent legislation that has impacted children & families in the state of Arkansas, especially low-income and food insecure households.

The NWA MLK Council and remembering Martin Luther King Jr.

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 17:43:17 +0000

Sit down with Dave Perozek and two members of the Northwest Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Council, President Lindsey Leverett-Higgins and Treasurer Chris Seawood, to discuss all things MLK.

To get more information about the upcoming events surrounding Martin Luther King Jr. Day, visit:

NWA Online

NWA MLK Council

A Conversation with Kent Eikenberry from the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 21:51:05 +0000

Sit down with President CEO Kent Eikenberry from the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank to talk about the Christmas Card program in collaboration with the Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette.

Becca Martin-Brown's farewell chat with other members of the arts “old guard” in NWA

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:01:15 +0000

In this week’s Know the News, Becca Martin-Brown, Arts and Entertainment editor, chats with the “old guard” of the arts in Northwest Arkansas about the changes over the past 35 years.

Don't forget to check out Becca's farewell column that came out today at: nwaonline.com/news/2024/jul/12/the-other-way-becca-martin-brown-says-farewell

Latest news from the Fort Smith Film Festival with executive director, founder Brandon Chase Goldsmith

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 17:15:11 +0000

In this week’s Know the News, host Chris Swindle sits down with Fort Smith Film Festival Executive Director and Founder Brandon Chase Goldsmith to discuss the festival, which is entering its fourth year.

With the festival expanding from two days to three and from one location to two, there’s a lot to discuss about what’s new this year and what organizers have learned since starting the festival.

Preserving the Storm: Rogers Museum Seeks Stories and Photos from May Tornado

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 16:15:53 +0000

The Rogers Historical Museum is seeking stories and photos from the May 26 storm as it works to preserve a record of the event. On this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast, we talk to museum Director Serena Barnett about what the project entails, what types of material have been received and why making this kind of record is important.

Cherokee Nation Chief champions Cherokee citizenship rights at U.S. Marshals Museum exhibit

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 15:45:18 +0000

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. has led the efforts to make descendants of Cherokee Freedmen full and welcomed citizens of the Cherokee Nation.

He talks about those efforts and “We Are Cherokee: Cherokee Freedmen and the Right to Citizenship,” on exhibit through Jan. 19, 2025, at the U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith with Becca Martin-Brown, Arts and Entertainment editor.

Know the News - Local brewery trends in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 17:00:08 +0000

In this week’s Know the News podcast, host Chris Swindle and reporter Lydia Fletcher talk about trends in the local brewery scene in Northwest Arkansas.

In addition, Chris takes a tour of Orthodox Farmhouse Brewery in Elkins, talk to owner Ashlyn Gagnon and gives his honest reactions to some samples of their current beer selections.

The Bentonville Film Festival is back for its 10th year!

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 17:25:06 +0000

The Bentonville Film Festival is back for its 10th year. It runs June 10-16. Wendy Guerrero, president of the film festival, joins us on this week's edition of the Know the News podcast to talk about all that the festival offers this year, as well as the work that takes place behind the scenes to make it all happen.

Benton County's May 26th tornado, its impact and recovery for the region

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 31 May 2024 16:49:02 +0000

In this week’s Know the News podcast, we look at the impact of the May 26 storms in Northwest Arkansas.

Podcast host Chris Swindle speaks with National Weather Service meteorologist Craig Sullivan, Bentonville Mayor Stephanie Orman, Benton County Judge Barry Moehring and NWA Democrat-Gazette reporter Tracy Neal.

Two Benton County residents who are working to assess and clean up damage to property also speak about what they experienced and what comes next.

Know the News - Former Rogers chief on firefighting in the age of lithium-ion batteries

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 24 May 2024 17:39:41 +0000

In this week’s Know the News segment, host Greg Harton is joined by Tom Jenkins, who retired as fire chief in Rogers last year after 15 years in the role. We discuss risks and the firefighting challenges involved in the increasing use of lithium-ion batteries for everything from cell phones and yard tools to the small but growing segment of electric vehicles. Emergency responders in Northwest Arkansas are modifying how they fight vehicle fires, for example, because of the reaction batteries can have to heat.

The podcast also features previews of stories coming up during the Memorial Day weekend in the Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette and in the River Valley.

Recap of Arkansas Legislature's 2024 fiscal session

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 17 May 2024 16:50:34 +0000

The Arkansas Legislature just wrapped up its 2024 fiscal session.

On this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast, we talk to a few Northwest Arkansas legislators — Sen. Joshua Bryant, R-Rogers; and state Reps. Denise Garner, D-Fayetteville; and Robin Lundstrum, R-Elm Springs — for their takes on what happened during the session.

KNOW THE NEWS: Against All Odds - Bentonville High School student, who is nonverbal and quadriplegic, graduates

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 10 May 2024 14:45:36 +0000

Elizabeth Forester was not expected to live past her first day when she was born 22 weeks into her mother’s pregnancy. The now 20-year-old Forester — a nonverbal quadriplegic — will be among this year’s class of special education students graduating from Bentonville High School next week.

Pam MacDade, Forester’s mother, tells us about how Forester made it to this point on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

Election Security and Voting Machines in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 03 May 2024 16:51:58 +0000

In this episode of the Know the News podcast, host Greg Harton speaks with Jennifer Price, executive director of the Washington County Election Commission, on the issue of security related to elections and voting machines.

As mentioned in the podcast, the election commission’s meetings are available for the public on its YouTube channel.

Information about Washington County elections is available at votewashco.com.

Registered voters can also check their registration information and see which wards and districts they are in by visiting https://www.voterview.org.

Barry Cobbs and the Rogers Short Film Festival

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 17:37:45 +0000

On today's "Know the News," Arts Editor Becca Martin-Brown chats with Barry Cobbs, founder of the Rogers Short Film Festival, about this year's event and why short films are such a great portal to filmmaking.

Bentonville's Coler Moutain Bike Preserve is now a designated firefly sanctuary

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 15:59:54 +0000

In this week's Know the News podcast, host Chris Swindle talks with staff writer Thomas Saccente and Northwest Arkansas Master Naturalist Pam Morgan about the recently designated firefly sanctuary at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve in Bentonville — the first firefly sanctuary in Arkansas.

Know the News - Latest news on Northwest Arkansas's AMMPlify Fest

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 20:02:21 +0000

In this week’s installment of Know the News, host Chris Swindle sits down with Music Editor Monica Hooper and Roger Barrett with AMMPlify to talk about the upcoming AMMPlify Fest.

Know the News - Branson's updated Fire in the Hole

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 17:19:32 +0000

Silver Dollar City just opened its new Fire in the Hole roller coaster ride — an update of an old classic. What can park patrons expect, and what's the expected impact on the Branson theme park?

Brandei Clifton, Silver Dollar City's public relations manager, joins us to talk about that on this week's edition of the Know the News podcast.

Is the four-day school week a good idea for Northwest Arkansas?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 17:21:44 +0000

The number of Arkansas school districts operating on a four-day school week is rapidly increasing. Lincoln made the move to four days this school year, and other districts in Northwest Arkansas — including Huntsville, Greenland and Decatur — plan to do it next year.

We talk to Lincoln Superintendent Mary Ann Spears and Decatur Superintendent Steven Watkins about the four-day school week in this edition of the Know the News podcast.

Artist and naturalist Christopher Marley's exhibit "Exquisite Creatures"

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 15:26:28 +0000

Artist and naturalist Christopher Marley, whose exhibit “Exquisite Creatures“ is featured at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. It is a display of animal, mineral and plant specimens arranged in precise, geometric compositions.

It's really unlike anything you've ever seen. Features editor April Wallace explores the exhibit in an in depth interview with artist Christopher Marley in Sunday's WhatsUp section. I got a chance earlier to visit with Marley for a few minutes as he was traveling and ask him to describe his exhibit and his art for the benefit of people who haven't seen his work yet.

Sneak peek to this weekend's stories

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 16:23:22 +0000

Managing Editor Dave Perozek and Arts & Entertainment Editor Becca Martin-Brown team up for this week's Know the News, a sneak peek at stories this weekend, including a TheatreSquared double-feature with guests April Wallace and Monica Hooper.

Rare total eclipse coming to Arkansas in April, what to expect in NWA

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 17:54:30 +0000

Arkansans will get a rare opportunity to see a total eclipse on April 8. Daniel Kennefick, physics professor at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, and researcher at the Arkansas Center for Space and Planetary Sciences, explains the science behind the phenomenon and what residents should expect to see in Northwest Arkansas.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat comes to Bentonville

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 17:36:38 +0000

Perry Ryan Theater Co. is producing "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" March 7-9, and company founder Kayla Grizzard; the show's assistant director, Mia Gracey; and Rocky Favia III, who portrays Joseph, sat down with Arts Editor Becca Martin-Brown to chat about the history and religion that underpins the show.

A vision for thoughtful growth: A look into Bentonville's future

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 17:11:46 +0000

During a 2018 community planning process, Bentonville residents collectively prioritized thoughtful growth as a pressing concern for the next 20 years. City officials are now soliciting public input for help determining what that thoughtful growth looks like.

We talk about that initiative with Tyler Overstreet, the city's planning director, and Susan Henderson, an architect involved in the process, on this week's edition of the Know the News podcast.

The biggest elections this primary season in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 17:40:25 +0000

The 2024 primary election is almost upon us.

In this week's edition of the Know the News podcast, we're going to talk about some of Northwest Arkansas' biggest races in this election with our politics reporter, Doug Thompson.

We'll also chat with Kimberly Dennison, Benton County's election coordinator, about how they're preparing and what people should know about voting this time around.

Fayetteville's Woolsey farmstead is completed. What's next for the project?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 16:50:02 +0000

Restoration work at the historic Woolsey farmstead property in west Fayetteville reached a milestone with completion of the main house built in the 1840s. Aaron Ruby with Revival Architecture has served as the project lead for the last decade and will talk about the project’s progress and what comes next with host Chris Swindle and reporter Stacy Ryburn.

Know the News: How the court system coped with the covid-19 pandemic

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 17:54:36 +0000

In this week’s Know the News podcast, host Chris Swindle speaks with reporter Ron Wood and Circuit Judge Mark Lindsay about how the court system has coped with the backlog of cases caused by the covid-19 pandemic.

Know the News - Previewing the Shawna Cash murder trial of Pea Ridge officer Kevin Apple

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 17:26:13 +0000

In this installment of the Northwest Arkansass Democrat-Gazette’s Know the News podcast, a conversation with reporter Tracy Neal on the eve of his coverage of the capital murder trial for Shawna Cash. Cash is accused in the 2021 death of Pea Ridge Police Officer Kevin Apple.

Know the News Podcast: A deep dive into the UAMS-Washington Regional partnership on graduate medical education

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 16:46:51 +0000

Washington Regional Medical Center and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Northwest Regional Campus have partnered to create up to 92 new graduate medical education positions at Washington Regional by 2030.

The first residents in the newly accredited internal medicine residency program arrived last summer. We’ll talk to Larry Shackelford, Washington Regional’s president and CEO, to catch up on how that program is going on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

Know the News - Should Benton County sell buildings that hold courtrooms?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 18:18:29 +0000

Metro editor Chris Swindle, Tracy Neal, Benton County Judge Barry Moehring, Administrative Judge Thomas Smith will talk about a proposal to sell two county buildings housing two courtrooms and building two new courtrooms at the Juvenile Detention Center to replace them.

What’s ahead for Crystal Bridges and The Momentary in 2024?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 17:21:54 +0000

The year 2023 was a busy one for the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. What’s ahead for the museum and its sister art space, The Momentary, in 2024? We’ll discuss that with Amanda Horn, senior public relations director for Crystal Bridges and The Momentary, on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

Exploring Entrepreneurship with Sarah Goforth, executive director of the UA's Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 18:50:40 +0000

Today’s Know the News podcast features a chat with Sarah Goforth, executive director of the University of Arkansas' Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

Goforth will be featured by April Wallace in the Profile section's cover story in the Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023, edition of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

For more information on UA's entrepreneurship program visit: entrepreneurship.uark.edu

Unwrapping History: A conversation on the Christmas exhibit with the Rogers Historical Museum director

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:52:23 +0000

In today’s Know the News podcast, host and Arts and Entertainment Editor Becca Martin-Brown chats with Serena Barnett, director of the Rogers Historical Museum, about the Christmas exhibit in the 1895 Hawkins House.

Fentanyl addiction and trends in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 16:41:34 +0000

Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reporters Tracy Neal and Tom Sissom and editor Chris Swindle sit down with U.S. Prosecuting Attorney Clay Fowlkes and Brittany Kelley and Chris Jones with Northwest Arkansas Harm Reduction to discuss fentanyl addiction and trends in Northwest Arkansas.

Fayetteville's Historic Dickson Street Marks 155 Years – A Journey Through Decades of Transformation and Reflection

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 19:08:35 +0000

Fayetteville’s Dickson Street is celebrating 155 years. This month, the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette takes an in-depth look at Dickson Street’s history, starting with April Wallace’s story this week about how Dickson has changed over the past few decades.

We’ll talk about it on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

Fayetteville awarded Gold certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Cities

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 17:48:52 +0000

The city of Fayetteville is the first municipality in Arkansas to be awarded a Gold certification in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Cities rating system, joining a global network of more than 130 certified cities and communities.

What does this mean for Fayetteville? We chat with Peter Nierengarten, the city’s environmental director, about that on this week’s edition of Know the News.

A way to fight hunger in Northwest Arkansas this holiday season

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 17:58:01 +0000

It may seem the Christmas ads have been running since July, but for many, it’s hard to get into the Christmas spirit until Thanksgiving is history. At the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, we’re hoping the spirit of giving this season will inspire our readers and podcast listeners and we’ve created an opportunity to help others right here in our part of the state.

On this week’s episode of the Know the News podcast, we provide details of the annual Community Christmas Card project that will benefit the school pantries program of the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank.

Kent Eikenberry, president and CEO, and Sabrina Thiede, director of programs at the food bank, joined us recently to discuss their work against hunger and food insecurity as well as the opportunity presented through the Community Christmas Card.

This episode also previews some of the stories you will find in Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for the weekend of Nov. 29.

Those who want to donate to the Community Christmas Card can do so in the following ways:

Visit nwaonline.com/2023Christmascard to donate using a debit or credit card.
Mail a check to:

Community Christmas Card

c/o Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Attention: Sandy Robinson

P.O. Box 1607

Fayetteville AR 72702

A minimum donation of $3 is suggested. Be sure to indicate in your mailing or at the website if your donation is being made in honor or in memory of someone you care about.

For additional information about the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank, visit https://www.nwafoodbank.org/

Insights from Alzheimer's Association program director on supporting caregivers in Arkansas during the holiday season

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 17:30:34 +0000

The holidays present additional challenges and stress for the more than 58,000 people in Arkansas caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. On this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast, we chat with Jill Thompson, program director for the Arkansas chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, to get her advice on how caregivers can best navigate the holidays and what family and friends can do to help.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

Support you local news, subscribe at: https://www.nwaonline.com/podcast23/

The ins and outs of the Rural Renaissance Roadshow clean energy conference

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 17:27:40 +0000

Know the News takes you behind the scenes as host Becca Martin-Brown chats with Associate Features Editor April Wallace about the Rural Renaissance Roadshow, a recent conference that brought people from all over the country to discuss solutions for clean energy in rural towns, and other upcoming stories in the Profiles section.

Bringing Northwest Arkansas leaders together to tackle tough topics

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 16:26:23 +0000

Angie Cooper, an executive vice president for Heartland Forward, is in charge of the Heartland Summit in Bentonville, which brings leaders together to tackle some of the toughest topics of our time. Matthew McConaughey will be the summit’s headlining speaker this year. Cooper joins us to talk about the summit in this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

Northwest Arkansas National Airport's 25 year journey and impact on the region

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 17:08:04 +0000

Northwest Arkansas National Airport opened 25 years ago, we’re talking with two of the folks, Scott Van Laningham and Uvalde Lindsey, who helped make it happen about some history and the significant impact the airport has had on the region.

The Airport has become a fixture in the region and almost a million people boarded flights this year, bound for destinations across the country and around the world but building a new airport in the middle of nowhere Arkansas in the 1990s was anything but a sure bet.

A sneak peek into weekend stories including the fall Diversity Weekend in Eureka Springs

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 16:47:42 +0000

Arts Editor Becca Martin-Brown hosts this week’s Know the News, a preview of interesting stories coming this weekend in the NWA Democrat-Gazette.

Our interview this week is with Jay Wilks, the organizer of the fall Diversity Weekend in Eureka Springs, and artist Zeek Taylor, who will speak at the Nov. 4 PDA in the Park event.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

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Interview with Jim Petty on Fayetteville's affordable housing project for veterans

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 16:28:03 +0000

This week’s Know the News podcast features an interview with Jim Petty of Van Buren, whose company Strategic Realty has begun work on a 60-unit apartment project in Fayetteville that will give preference for affordable housing to military veterans, but will also eligible to offer units to others who meet income qualifications. The project, years in planning, will be built on land owned by Washington County at North Street and College Avenue, near the Veterans Administration hospital, and leased to Strategic Realty.

This episode also previews stories you can expect to see in editions of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette the weekend of Oct. 22.

Be sure to check back every week for the Know the News podcasts for interviews and information about upcoming stories.

Expansion and change at the Bentonville Public Library

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 16:41:02 +0000

In this Know the News podcast, Hadi Dudley, Library Director, talks about the growth at the Bentonville Public Library with Becca Martin-Brown, NWADG Arts & Entertainment editor.

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A sneak peek for the Fayetteville Film Festival on the Know the News Podcast

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 16:35:30 +0000

The 15th annual Fayetteville Film Festival is next week (Oct. 12-14). We talk to Ringo Jones and Dan Robinson with the festival and get a preview of coming attractions on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

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Bentonville students collaborate with UA on groundbreaking heart failure research

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 16:32:58 +0000

A trio of Bentonville High School students is working with a University of Arkansas professor doing research focused on heart failure assessment and the discovery of new biomarkers that could have a significant impact on future diagnosis and treatment.

We’ll talk with Sarthank Chaturvedi, Aditya Sohaney and Saivarunteja Elagandula about their work on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

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Northwest Arkansas National Airport and Highfill are breaking up

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 15:02:54 +0000

Northwest Arkansas National Airport is breaking up with the city of Highfill. Meanwhile, the airport is as busy as ever, with passenger numbers achieving record highs and a $34 million terminal renovation making steady progress. Catch up on all that’s happening at XNA as we chat with airport officials Andrew Branch and Olivia Moore on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

What can local governments do to promote housing development in Northwest Arkansas?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 17:34:45 +0000

In this week’s Know the News podcast, we explore the question of what local governments can do to promote more housing development in Northwest Arkansas and to deal with the skyrocketing costs of housing in a region that continues to see an influx of newcomers. Our guest is Duke McLarty, executive director of the Workforce Housing Center of the nonprofit Northwest Arkansas Council.

Know the News - The Learning Center director Karla Gray gives children and adults with disabilities their best lives

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 16:17:51 +0000

This week on Know the News, Arts & Entertainment Editor Becca Martin-Brown chats with Karla Gray, director of The Learning Center of Northwest Arkansas, based in Berryville.

The Learning Center works to give children with disabilities the best start and adults with disabilities the best lives in their community, and Gray has been leading that effort for 30 years in Carroll County.

Listen here and read about her on Sunday when April Wallace features her in the Profiles section.

Know the News - Shannon Jones and her ten years with TheatreSquared

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 17:38:35 +0000

After almost 10 years with TheatreSquared — and a variety of jobs from assistant stage manager and production stage manager to associate producer, and finally general manager — Shannon Jones was named executive director of Fayetteville's professional theater company Aug. 24. Listen to her chat with Becca Martin-Brown, Arts and Entertainment editor, about what's ahead.

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Know the News - Do local parks need "friends" to help with projects?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 16:46:42 +0000

Members of Fayetteville’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board have been working to establish a “friends of” group that would raise money for the city’s parks system. Department heads say raising extra money would help expedite development of park projects. We talk with Stephen Sheely, the advisory board’s vice chairman, on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

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What to expect from the 2023 Fort Smith Film Festival

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 15:39:07 +0000

The third annual Fort Smith International Film Festival is Aug. 25-26. We talk with festival founder Brian Chase Goldsmith about what to expect from this year’s event on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - What does the school district do for NWA students considered homeless?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 15:10:00 +0000

Hundreds of students attending Northwest Arkansas schools are considered homeless. We talk to Damon Donnell, the Springdale School District’s director of student services, about what the district does for those students and how homelessness affects them.

A new school year starts next week.

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Know the News - What happens to your trash in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 16:54:45 +0000

This week on Know the News, host Becca Martin-Brown talks with Maggie Green, the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette’s summer intern, about her project story on the Tontitown landfill and her experiences as an intern.

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Know the News - Details around the proposed USL soccer stadium and team in Rogers

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 17:25:16 +0000

The recent announcement of plans in Rogers for a 5,000-seat soccer stadium and two United Soccer League teams — men’s and women’s — sets the stage for Northwest Arkansas to enter the world of professional sports. In this week’s episode of Know the News, we speak with Devon Kerr, a television analyst for MLS soccer on Apple TV, for the USL and for NCAA soccer on ESPN about the league, what the teams mean for Northwest Arkansas and the other teams that might become rivalries for this region’s as-yet-unnamed men’s team.

Plus we preview coverage readers of the Democrat will see in this weekend’s editions.

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Know the News - Interview with Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Rickey Medlocke

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 15:54:37 +0000

Guitarist Rickey Medlocke says he promised he’d be there for Lynyrd Skynyrd “until the very last note in ‘Free Bird’ was struck.” He recently talked to NWADG Music Editor Monica Hooper about his time with the band and the current tour with ZZ Top and Uncle Kracker, stopping July 28 at the Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion in Rogers.

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"Sweeney Todd" director Ray Clark and Arts One Presents upcoming show details

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 17:01:08 +0000

Arts One Presents will take to the stage starting next week with its presentation of “Sweeney Todd” in Springdale. Director Coleman Ray Clark joins us to discuss this classic musical.

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Why do ticks exist? And other facts about those bloodsuckers

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 16:58:23 +0000

Ticks are as ubiquitous in Arkansas as fans of the Razorbacks. More so, even. If the title of state insect was won by sheer volume, ticks would have a strong chance of winning the competition. It’s understandable that Arkansas lawmakers chose the honeybee for that honor; nobody feels much love for the tick. The Arkansas Department of Health says the little buggers are responsible for more human disease than any other insect, even though not all ticks transmit diseases.

In today’s edition of Know the News, University of Arkansas professor of entomology Dr. Ashley Dowling visits about the little bloodsuckers and addresses a question that’s probably crossed every Arkansas resident’s mind at one time or another: Why do ticks exist?

Listen as Dr. Dowling sets the stage for more coverage in this weekend’s Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette on the dangers ticks represent starting in the spring and continuing throughout the summer and fall. Higher levels of human activities in the places ticks thrive can mean an uptick — yes, we said it — in bites and in instances of tick-transmitted diseases. That’s this week in the Know the News podcast.

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Representatives of the Project for Public Spaces led public session at the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 18:54:10 +0000

Representatives of the Project for Public Spaces in New York led a public input session Wednesday at the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History. The landscape architects and urban planners, working with a grant from the Walton Family Foundation, are helping the museum staff create a sense of place, a place for everyone at the museum, a place where all feel welcomed.

Executive Director Martin Miller talks about leaving TheatreSquared

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 17:10:19 +0000

After 13 years at the helm of TheatreSquared, Martin Miller is leaving his position as executive director/producer of T2 for a new job at an historic theatre in Princeton, N.J.

Miller and T2 founder and Artistic Director Bob Ford chat with Becca Martin-Brown, NWADG Arts & Entertainment Editor.

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After 10 years, the U.S. Marshals Museum will open in Fort Smith

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 17:04:28 +0000

NWA Black Heritage Association trying to revitalize part of Fayetteville east of downtown

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Sat, 17 Jun 2023 18:15:03 +0000

Sharon Killian’s nonprofit, NWA Black Heritage Association, is trying to revitalize what once was a predominantly Black part of town east of downtown. Diving into some of the history, hearing from people who have seen the area change over time, and talking about some of the work the association is doing.

Know the News - Opera in the Ozarks kicks off its new season

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 15:42:14 +0000

Opera in the Ozarks kicks off another season next week. Nancy Preis, general director, joins us to talk about it, what’s new and what it’s like running the nonprofit training ground for young artists.

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Know The News - The 2023 Bentonville Film Festival kicks off next week

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 00:36:26 +0000

Join us to discuss this year’s festival with Ashley Edwards, director of programming, and Wendy Guerrero, president of the festival and the festival foundation, on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

Interview with Rachel Mills, executive director of Theatre Collective of NWA

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 17:21:57 +0000

A group of performers got together a few months ago to talk about how they might bolster the offerings of Northwest Arkansas’ already robust theater scene. The result is a new organization call the Theatre Collective of Northwest Arkansas, in which members nominate and vote on performance ideas. The group recently launched its first season.

In the June 2, 2023, episode of Know the News, we visit with Rachel Mills, executive director of the Theatre Collective, to discuss the group’s ambitions and how it operates.

Readers can turn to this Sunday’s What’s Up! section for a story about the collective. Learn more in this podcast about the many stories featured this weekend in the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

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Three solutions to housing affordability in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 26 May 2023 19:55:38 +0000

Duke McLarty, director of the workforce housing center of the Northwest Arkansas Council, speaks to the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette about three potential solutions to housing affordability in the region: zoning, housing trust funds and public-private partnerships.

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Fort Smith Symphony 100th season

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 26 May 2023 19:37:23 +0000

For the May 26 edition of “Know the News,” Features editor Becca Martin-Brown chats with John Jeter, music director and conductor of the Fort Smith Symphony, about the orchestra’s 100th season.

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What are the community's thoughts on downtown Bentonville elementary schools?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 19 May 2023 16:38:30 +0000

The Bentonville School District is partnering with the Comprehensive Center Network for Region 14 to help gather the community’s thoughts, ideas and aspirations for downtown Bentonville elementary schools, with the goal of creating unique educational opportunities in the heart of the city.

Superintendent Debbie Jones and Kristin Nafziger of the Comprehensive Center Network join us to discuss what this means on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - A look back at the last 40 years in journalism

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 12 May 2023 17:21:56 +0000

On the eve of our host’s retirement, a group of veteran journalists takes a look back at the last 40 years covering local news on the Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - Bandits look to prevent tons of usable furniture from being tossed at the University of Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 05 May 2023 17:10:20 +0000

Some students at the University of Arkansas are working to protect the environment one dorm room at a time. Hear how they want to recycle items left behind in campus housing on the Know the News podcast.

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What to expect as the Walton Arts Center's Artosphere kicks off next week

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 17:36:48 +0000

Artosphere, the Walton Arts Center’s annual celebration of arts and the environment, kicks off next week. Our entertainment writer Monica Hooper will tell us what we need to know about this year’s version.

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Springdale $350 million bond election conversation with Mayor Doug Sprouse

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 17:21:56 +0000

Springdale Mayor Doug Sprouse will talk about a $350 million bond issuse with street improvements, a new fire station and a new senior center among the proposed projects. Springdale resident will vote May 9.

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Know the News - Asa Hutchinson to announce campaign for president

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 16:26:53 +0000

Former Arkansas governor Asa Hutchinson plans to formally announce his campaign for president next week in Bentonville. What are his chances, and what does this campaign mean for Arkansas? Politics reporter Doug Thompson joins us to discuss Hutchinson’s run for the White House on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

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Walmart AMP season kicks off

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 18:38:10 +0000

The Walmart AMP kicks off it’s 2023 season next week. We’ll take a look at the eclectic and varied group of big-name artists who will be performing at the outdoor Rogers venue.

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KNOW THE NEWS: Will Arkansas high school athletes get NIL deals?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 17:05:10 +0000

Payments to college athletes for commercial use of their name, image and likeness has dramatically changed the landscape of college sports. Now, more than 20 states have cleared the way for NIL deals for high school athletes.

Will Arkansas be next? We’ll talk about that on the Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - Arkansas FOI survives

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 16:59:40 +0000

An attempt to rewrite and significantly weaken Arkansas’ Freedom of Information Act failed this week, as a legislative committee resoundingly defeated HB 1726.

A coalition of media members and private citizens mobilized to fight the proposal. But the fight might not be over just yet.

We’ll talk about the bill and importance of the FOIA on today’s Know the News Podcast.

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Know the News - Keeping up with demand for Bentonville Municipal Airport's services

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 15:39:57 +0000

As the city of Bentonville grows, so does its airport. The runway was recently extended and new amenities have been springing up at Bentonville Municipal Airport in recent years. The challenge is in keeping up with demand for the airport’s services.

Will Gunselman, fixed base operations manager at the airport, joins us to share his perspective on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - Strong Towns to promote safe streets in Fayetteville

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 16:34:25 +0000

DeLani Bartlette, a Fayetteville resident, has spearheaded a local chapter of Strong Towns to promote safe streets and urbanist policies in the city. Strong Towns is a national organization that seeks to replace America’s post-war, suburban-style pattern of development to create safe, livable, inviting communities, according to its website. The organization encourages residents in a community to collaborate with local governments on planning initiatives.

Today, we'll talk with Bartlette about the local chapter and the first meeting they had on Wednesday.

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Know the News - Fayetteville's Newest Superintendent

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 18:51:19 +0000

The Fayetteville School Board this week chose its next superintendent of schools: John Mulford, currently the deputy superintendent of operations for the Springfield (Mo.) School District.

How did the board end up choosing Mulford, who stands to be the 14th superintendent in district history?

We’ll discuss that with Nika Waitsman, president of the Fayetteville School Board, on this week’s Know the News podcast.

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Local non-profit uses fentanyl test strips to reduce overdoses

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 18:23:09 +0000

We take another look at a local non-profit working to reduce drug overdoses in the area by distributing fentanyl test strips and recovery kits on today’s Know the News podcast.

Read more this weekend at nwaonline.com.

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Know the News - After more than 100 years, Monte Ne's historic tower comes down

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 18:31:00 +0000

A major landmark from the historic resort town of Monte Ne was torn down this week. What led officials to remove the three-story Oklahoma Tower? And what makes Monte Ne special? We’ll dive into that topic on this week’s Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - Alma's big yellow bus fleet is going electric

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 18:05:00 +0000

Alma School district is about to make the move to electric school buses. Rusty Turner, editor for the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette talks with Monica Brich, River Valley Democrat-Gazette reporter, about how the plan could save money and be better for the environment on today’s Know the News podcast.

You can read more about the move to electric school buses this Sunday in the River Valley Democrat-Gazette.

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Springdale Police hold press conference after Murphy Park shooting

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 09:15:00 +0000

Springdale Police's Public Information Officer Capt. Jeff Taylor talks to the media after a police involved shooting Wednesday night in Murphy Park.

Know the News - Some Arkansas municipalities do not adhere to state's public meeting requirements

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 21:30:00 +0000

A new state law two years ago required Arkansas municipalities to record and make available their public meetings. But not every community in the region has managed to comply. We’ll talk with a River Valley attorney working to hold the ones who aren’t accountable on today’s Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - Addressing the lack of affordable housing in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 20:21:00 +0000

With a shortage of affordable housing in the region, one local city is looking for creative ways to address the problem before it begins affecting its ability to attract new residents. Here how Bentonville is looking to make affordable housing more attractive to both residents and developers on the Know the News Podcast.

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Know the News - Homelessness in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 18:22:00 +0000

The annual count of people experiencing homelessness took place in Northwest Arkansas on Friday, Jan. 27. The count is meant to gauge how many residents are experiencing homelessness in the region during a 24-hour period.

Who conducts the count, how do they do it and why is it important? Debbie Martin from the NWA Continuum of Care tells us about it in this week’s Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - From show biz to natural wine

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 18:26:00 +0000

After careers in show business, a couple came to Northwest Arkansas to open a unique business: A natural wine and bottle shop. Rusty Turner, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Editor, April Wallace, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Profiles Editor, and Jeff Barnett, co-owner Mavis Wine Co., will talk about the shop today on the Know The News Podcast.

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Know the News - Northwest Arkansas Land Trust

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 18:17:00 +0000

The race is on to protect undeveloped land from getting paved over by Northwest Arkansas’ explosive growth. Rusty Turner, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette editor, and Ron Wood, NWADG reporter, talk with Grady Spann, executive director Northwest Arkansas Land Trust, and Elizabeth Bowen, with Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning, about what’s being done to protect natural areas and green spaces in the region on the Know the News Podcast.

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Know the News - Wonderland Cave

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 18:34:00 +0000

Movie magic is becoming a regular part of the arts scene in Northwest Arkansas. Today we’ll visit with Krista Bradley, whose’s new locally produced film “Wonderland Cave” is about have the film's trailer shown at Sundance Film Festival.

Know the News - What were the biggest stories from Northwest Arkansas in 2022?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 17:30:00 +0000

Another year is almost in the books. What were the biggest stories from our region in 2022? Several Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reporters gather to discuss what happened this year in this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - All-area football teams announcements start this weekend

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 21:15:00 +0000

It’s that time of year! And we’re not talking about the holidays. The Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and River Valley Democrat-Gazette will announce their ARPreps all-area football teams beginning in this weekend’s editions. Chip Souza will tell us a little about the teams and how they were selected on today’s Know The News podcast.

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Know the News - Why does the flu seem worse this year?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 17:50:00 +0000

The flu is having a good year, which means lots of your friends and neighbors aren’t. We’ll talk today with Fayetteville Health Officer Dr. Marti Sharkey about why the flu seems worse this year and, more importantly, how you can keep yourself healthy.

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Know the News - Miss Arkansas Ebony Mitchell

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 18:10:00 +0000

Ebony Mitchell of Harrison has followed her dreams to become Miss Arkansas. Now she’s headed for the national stage, where the new Miss America will be crowned Dec. 15. In this podcast, she chats with Becca Martin-Brown, Features editor, about her journey.

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Know the News - The Futures Caucus on policies important to today's young voters

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 18:02:00 +0000

A group of young state lawmakers are banding together to support policies important to younger people. Meet the Futures Caucus on the Know the News podcast.

We'll talk with Rep. Aaron Pilkington (R) Clarksville , Press Secretary Alexa Whaley with the Millennial Action Project.

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Know the News - Community Christmas Card will feed the needy in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 18:34:00 +0000

As we recover from our enormous Thanksgiving feasts and Black Friday shopping, it’s important to remember that not everyone will have enough to eat.

Readers of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette will have a chance this holiday season to help correct that as we launch our annual Community Christmas Card fund raiser.

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Northwest Arkansas' variety of independent book shops

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 21:13:00 +0000

Independent book stores are not as easy to find as they once were, but Northwest Arkansas still has some. We’ll talk to the proprietors of two independent book stores — one in Bentonville, one in Fayetteville — on this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

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2022 Northwest Arkansas election recap

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 17:34:00 +0000

The mid-term elections are over. On this week’s Know the News Podcast, we’ll talk about the results and what they mean to Northwest Arkansas residents.

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Know the News - Expanding the Butterfield Trail for cyclist in NWA and the River Valley

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 17:34:00 +0000

What once was old is new again for the Butterfield Trail as the historic stagecoach and military route is being repurposed for cyclists in Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley.

Northwest Arkansas Regional Planners are expected to vote in December to recommend approval of a route through Washington and Benton counties that will be part of a bicycle touring route that parallels the historic Butterfield Stage Route between Jefferson City, Mo., and Fort Smith, about 500 miles in total when complete.

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Know the News - Interview with Noy Phoumivong, director of product innovation for Simmons Foods

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 17:23:00 +0000

Noy Phoumivong was born in Laos and came to Springdale as a refugee. She got a culinary/food science degree and was on her way to restaurant ownership when she was hit head-on by a drunk driver. She was told she might never walk again or work in a kitchen. Find out what happened next in her life as she joins us for this week’s Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - Lowell's newest park a perk for growing city

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 17:24:00 +0000

Lowell is developing Kathleen Johnson Memorial Park into a hub of recreation for the small but growing city. Join us as we talk with Karen Davis, city development director, about the project and what else is happening in Lowell.

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2024 solar eclipse will bring dark skies and a business boom

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 16:17:00 +0000

A total eclipse of the sun will be visible in much of the River Valley on April 8, 2024. But local cities and towns, and local hopitality businesses in the region need to start preparing now for what’s expected to be a huge influx of tourists determined to witness one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular but rare wonders.

We’ll talk about what local folks need to know about those preparations on the Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - Easy and affordable breast cancer test

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 18:24:00 +0000

We’ll talk to Northwest Arkansas resident Anna Daily, who developed a easy and affordable test for breast cancer detection.

Know the News - Bikes, Blues and Barbecue is back this year but in a new home

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 16:27:00 +0000

Bikes, Blues and Barbecue comes roaring back to Northwest Arkansas next weekend after a two-year break. But this year’s motorcycle festival will be different, starting with the move of its home base from Fayetteville to Rogers. We’ll talk about what you can expect next weekend in the Know the News podcast.

Interviews on Springdale’s latest closing of Emma Avenue

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 16:16:00 +0000

NWA Democrat-Gazette reporter Laurinda Joenks interviews Springdale Mayor Doug Sprouse, Jennifer Matsubara of Shelby Lynn's Cake Shop, and Heath Ward with the water department about Springdale’s latest closing of Emma Avenue.

Know the News - UA Fort Smith's new strategic plan

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 17:37:00 +0000

The University of Arkansas at Fort Smith is looking to plot its course for the next five years with the development of a new strategic plan. Join us as we talk with Chancellor Terisa Riley about what’s cooking at UAFS.

Know the News - The Format Festival coming to Bentonville in September

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 16:38:00 +0000

The Format Festival, an event celebrating music, art and technology, is coming to Bentonville Sept. 23-25. Visitors from across the country and the world are expected for this unique event. Will talk about it with one of the founders, Elizabeth Edelman, on today’s Know the News podcast.

What exactly does "farm-to-table" mean for local businesses?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 15:41:00 +0000

We’ve all heard the term “farm-to-table.” But just what does that mean, especially when a local restaurant makes the claim. Our food and restaurant expert Garrett Moore has a story coming this weekend about some local businesses emphasizing the “farm-to-table” concept in some creative ways.

Should Archibald Yell Boulevard be renamed for an escaped slave?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 17:42:00 +0000

The Fayetteville City Council is considering renaming Archibald Yell Boulevard to Nelson Hackett Boulevard. Yell was the state’s second governor. Hackett fled enslavement in 1841 to Canada. Yell sent a letter to the colonial governor of Canada requesting Hackett be returned. Hackett was extradited back to Fayetteville, publicly whipped and sold back into slavery. The British government subsequently made the extradition of people fleeing slavery nearly impossible.

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Know the News - Talking rising home prices in Northwest Arkansas with Duke McLarty

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 17:55:00 +0000

Home prices rose faster percentage-wise in Northwest Arkansas than in any other metro area in the second quarter of 2022, the National Association of Realtors recently reported. Duke McLarty, executive director of the NWA Workforce Housing Center, chats with us about the local real estate market in this week’s edition of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette’s Know the News podcast.

Fayetteville's 112 Drive-In wraps up its final season

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 19:17:00 +0000

Anthony Bowling, who has worked at the 112 Drive-In in Fayetteville with his family since the late 1980s, will chat with the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette about how the place has and hasn’t changed over the years now that its final season will wrap this month after 42 years.

New Alma trails

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 21:24:00 +0000

Alma Mayor Jerry Martin explains why he considers a new multipurpose trail system at Lake Alma Park an important project and what he believes it will provide to the city and the people who live in it.

Know the News - What makes Alice Walton's School of Medicine special?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:15:00 +0000

Alice Walton’s new medical school planned for Bentonville will welcome it’s first class in 2024.

The school promises that will arm practitioners with innovative techniques to combine traditional medical treatments with a “whole heath” approach to patient care. The list of collaborators the school has lined up is impressive and includes a local hospital and nationally known experts.

We’ll take a look at what the founders say will make this school unique on today’s Know the News podcast.

Know the News - Northwest Arkansas renter's dilemma

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 18:10:00 +0000

There’s no room at the apartment complex these days in Northwest Arkansas. With rental occupancy rates hovering around 97 percent and many potential home buyers getting priced out of the red-hot real estate market, finding a home or apartment to rent is a daunting challenge. We’ll talk about that on today’s Know the News podcast.

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Know the News - Everything you need to know about running for public office

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 16:32:00 +0000

Are your trash rates too high? Is there a pothole in your street? Wish there was a park closer to your house? If so maybe this podcast is for you.

We’ll have all the details about how to sign up and run for a city council position. Filing period opens next week. Learn more the Know the News podcast.

Know the News - What happens after the tornado?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 17:26:00 +0000

The effects of the tornado that cut through Fayetteville and Springdale on March 30 still linger for numerous residents.

We discuss the tornado’s aftermath with reporter Mary Beth Kemp and a Springdale resident whose home was severely damaged in the storm.

Did population grown lead to an increase in Northwest Arkansas' violent crime rates?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 21:31:00 +0000

Population growth brings a lot of good to a community: more commerce, more diversity, more energy. But it can also mean growth in other areas, like crime.

This week, the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette will take a look at crime rates across the region to see where we stand after decades of rapid growth. And we’ll talk to a leader in one community that has managed reduce crime in recent years. All that today on the Know the News podcast.

Read more about it this weekend at nwaonline.com.

Know the News - Police Pursuit Rules

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 16:54:00 +0000

When police pursue a fleeing suspect in a vehicle, they must balance the safety of other drivers against the need to immediately apprehend the person they’re chasing.

Such pursuits can and do result in car crashes that seriously injure civilians. So when do you chase, and when do you stop? We’ll talk about that today with a person injured in a police chase on the Know the News podcast.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

Know the News - NWADG All-Area Preps Teams

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 17:43:00 +0000

Sports editor Chip Souza gives us a sneak peak at the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette’s Preps all-area teams for baseball, softball, soccer and track and field on today’s Know the News podcast.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

Know the News - An interview with Rogers School District’s new superintendent

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 16:30:00 +0000

David Perozek talks to Jeff Perry who will take over July 1 as the Rogers School District’s superintendent. Learn more about him and how he’s prepared for this new role in this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

Know the News - Bentonville Film Festival Preview

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 19:58:00 +0000

The eighth Bentonville Film Festival begins June 22. We chat with April Wallace, features reporter; and Ashley Edwards, the film festival’s director of programming, about what to expect from this year’s BFF.

We'll continue coverage of the Film Festival all next week at nwaonilne.com.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

Washington County Judge Candidate Patrick Deakins

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 22:33:00 +0000

On June 21, Washington County voters will choose the Republican Party nominee for county judge. Patrick Deakins and Mark Scalise are the candidates in this runoff election. The winner will face Democrat Josh Moody in the November general election.

We invited both candidates to take part in this podcast. Mr. Scalise chose not to participate. Here are the questions we asked and Mr. Deakins' answers.

What's left to vote on? Election season isn't over yet

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 16:37:00 +0000

The spring preferential primary happened last month, but voters still have much to decide in the June 21 runoff election. We’ll talk about that unfinished business today on the Know the News podcast.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

KNOW THE NEWS - The Northwest Arkansas Playwright Festival

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 16:40:00 +0000

Two local theater organizations are teaming up to present locally written dramatic works at the Northwest Arkansas Playwrights Festival. But the best part is, admission is free. We’ll tell you all about it on the Know the News podcast.

Know the News - How a student graduated high school and got a college degree at the same time

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 27 May 2022 16:45:00 +0000

Thirty-nine high school seniors in Northwest Arkansas received an associate degree from Northwest Arkansas Community College along with their high school diploma when they graduated this month.

We’ll talk about that with Sydney Overton, a 2022 Rogers New Technology High School graduate, and Jorge Amaral, Early College Experience director at NWACC in this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

Know the News - How much phosphorous is safe for our streams and rivers?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 20 May 2022 16:34:00 +0000

The state of Arkansas and the federal government are headed to court over how much phosphorous can be in the water coming out of local sewer treatment systems. But what does that mean to the average person and the local environment? We’ll talk about that today with Dr. Rebecca Muenich, assistant professor in the school of sustainable engineering and the built environment at Arizona State University on the Know the News podcast.

Read more about the story this weekend at nwaonline.com.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

Know the News - It's a 'normal' graduation season again

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 13 May 2022 20:27:00 +0000

High school graduation season is upon us and, for the first time in two years, they’re happening without significant covid protocols and restrictions.

We’ll tell you what you need to know about this year’s graduation celebrations in Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley on the Know the News podcast.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

Know the News - What do potential new legislative and judicial district boundaries mean for you?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 06 May 2022 17:23:00 +0000

Four lawsuits challenging the various legislative and judicial district boundaries are working their way through the federal courts. But just exactly does that mean to you? We’ll talk about that on the Know the News podcast.

Know the News - Reflecting on downtown Bentonville's growth

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 17:17:00 +0000

Downtown Bentonville has grown rapidly over the past 15 years and now includes an eclectic mix of housing, restaurants and other businesses. We reflect on how far downtown has come in that time, and what the future holds, withRod Sanders, Bentonville Planning Commission, Andrew Heath, executive director of Downtown Bentonville Inc. and Dana Schlagenhaft, communications director for Downtown Bentonville Inc.

Read more about the downtown transformation this Sunday at nwaonline.com.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

Know the News - 30 years of the Walton Arts Center

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 16:35:00 +0000

The Walton Arts Center celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. We’ll spend some time with Peter Lane, CEO of the Walton Arts Center to talk about the impact its had on the NWA community and what’s next in store.

Tell us your favorite memory from the Walton Arts Center here.

Know the News - How can we pay for a potential Benton County Jail expansion

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 17:27:00 +0000

Benton County is examining the possibility of expanding its county jail. The question is, how will the county pay for it — and will voters be willing to help foot the bill? Benton County Sheriff Shawn Holloway joins us to discuss the matter.

Read more about the issue this Sunday at nwaonline.com.

You can sign up for our free email newsletters from the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette by visiting, https://www.nwaonline.com/email/

Know the News - The best basketball players in Northwest Arkansas on the River Valley

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 19:01:00 +0000

It’s time to name the Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette’s All-Area basketball teams. We’ll talk about the athletes and coaches selected this year which Sports Editor Chip Souza.

Know the News - An interview with Lifewater, improving lives through clean water

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 18:05:00 +0000

Rusty Turner, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette editor, April Wallace, NWADG features writer, talk with Jim Evans, with Lifewater, about the local non-profit's work to help impoverished people around to world get and keep access to clean water. Lifewater hopes to improve lives and health in some of the most remote places on earth.

Know the News – 'Meteor Shower' at Arkansas Public Theatre

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 00:17:00 +0000

Get a new spin on your weekly Know the News podcast with guest host Features Editor Becca Martin-Brown and her guests, Ed McClure, artistic director for Arkansas Public Theatre, and Stephanie Whitcomb, who is appearing in the comedy “Meteor Shower” after a two-year wait.

Know the News - We got "Hamilton"

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 19:36:00 +0000

What did it take to get the national tour of the massive Broadway hit “Hamilton” to stop in Northwest Arkansas? We’ll take you into the room where it happened on Friday’s Know the News podcast.

We will also preview the Speaking of Arkansas podcast with Greg Harton's interview with Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson.

Read more Sunday at nwaonline.com/features/whatsup

Know the News - How did the covid-19 pandemic effect routine vaccination numbers

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 18:32:00 +0000

The number of kids getting routine vaccines in Arkansas has declined since the covid-19 pandemic began. Dr. Marti Sharkey, Fayetteville’s public health officer, discusses this subject with us on this week’s Know the News podcast.

You can sign up for free email newsletters from the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette by visiting, https://www.nwaonline.com/email/

Know the News - It's election season

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 21:45:00 +0000

Filing for legislative, county and judicial offices closed this week. On the Know the News podcast we’ll talk about some of the more interesting races taking shape across the region.

Don't miss any election coverage. Sign up for our free 2022 election newsletter here.

Know the News - XNA's expansion plans

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 17:34:00 +0000

Northwest Arkansas National Airport continues to develop and make plans for the future. Andrew Branch, the airport’s chief business development officer, will discuss those plans with us in this week’s episode of Know the News.

Know the News - Vote early to have your voice heard in Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 18:25:00 +0000

Candidate filing for the May 24 party primaries begins Tuesday. The recent history of elections in Arkansas shows if you want a say in who represents you in the Arkansas Legislature, you need to vote in the primary because the November general election has fewer contested races.

Know the News - Overcrowding at the Washington County Detention Center

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 19:08:00 +0000

Overcrowding continues to be a serious problem at the Washington County Detention Center. We’ll talk about the history of the issue along with potential solutions on the Know The News Podcast.

Know the News - Local chef Kaitlyn Rush helps the needy

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 18:53:00 +0000

Kaitlyn Rush has a heart for helping her friends and neighbors in need, and the local chef has found plenty of ways to put food on the table and hope in the hearts of the people she meets. We’ll talk with her about that today on the Know the News podcast.

Know the News - Cyclo-Cross World Championships

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 17:03:00 +0000

The Cyclo-Cross World Championships are being held in Fayetteville this weekend. Join us as we discuss the event with Molly Rawn, chief executive officer of Experience Fayetteville.

Don't miss the latest news and subscribe to one of our free newsletters at https://www.nwaonline.com/email/

How the covid surge impacts local hospitals in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 17:49:00 +0000

Rusty Turner, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette editor, Janelle Jessen, NWADG health reporter, and Larry Shackelford, CEO Washington Regional Medical Center, gather to talk about hospitalizations for covid-19 in Arkansas. Hospitalizations have hit an all-time high this week.

We’ll talk to Shackelford about what the ongoing outbreak in covid cases means on today’s Know the News podcast.

Know the News - Fort Smith Little Theater's 75th Season

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 20:06:00 +0000

Rusty Turner, Becca Martin-Brown and Jamie Lamdin-Bowlin talk about Fort Smith Little Theater's upcoming celebration of it’s 75th season. We’ll talk about what shows the community theater group has in store.

Is the Omicron Variant driving the massive increase in Covid-19 infections?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 19:34:00 +0000

Covid-19 numbers are once again spiking due to the omicron variant. But hospitalizations aren’t increasing at the same rate. Meanwhile, mask mandates in schools may be on their way back and getting a covid test these days can be challenge. We’ll talk about all that and more on today’s Know the News podcast.

Arkansas District 7 Republican Candidates on Why They Should be Elected

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 00:55:00 +0000

Two Republican candidates are in a runoff election for the party's nomination in the District 7 race against Democrat Lisa Parks. The Arkansas senate a seat includes Springdale and Elkins. The candidates, Colby Fulfer and Steve Unger take 2 minutes each on why they should be elected.

This year's Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette's All-Area sports teams

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 17:30:00 +0000

Chip Souza will tell us about our package of stories coming next week recognizing the athletes and coaches named the the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette’s All-Area high school sports teams.

Know The News - Bentonville's effort to coordinate traffic signals

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 20:29:00 +0000

A project to coordinate Bentonville’s traffic signals is intended to improve traffic in one of the fastest growing cities in the country. How does it work? We’ll talk about it on the Know the News Podcast.

Rep. Steve Womack on the U.S.-Marshall Islands compact

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 18:12:00 +0000

The free association compact between the U.S. and the Marshall Islands expires next year, which could have a direct impact on hundreds of Northwest Arkansas residents, as well as the local business community. Today we’ll talk about the chances of renewal of the compact with the U.S. Congressman from Arkansas’ 3rd District, Steve Womack.

Candidates for Arkansas District 7 seat speak

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 21:21:00 +0000

The 6 candidates running for the District 7 seat in the Arkansas senate a seat that include Springdale and Elkins, each give a 2 minute speech on why they should be elected.

Democratic contenders are Lisa Parks (:42) and Derek Van Voast (2:52).

Republican contendere are Jim Bob Duggar (4:56), Colby Fulfer (6:53), Robert “Edge” Nowlin (9:00) and Steve Unger (11:03).

What you need to know about the Omicron variant

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 18:58:00 +0000

A new variant of covid-19 has grabbed the attention of health professionals around the world as it spreads. But what do we know about the Omicron variant and, more importantly, what do people in Northwest Arkansas need to know? We’ll talk about that on the Know the News podcast.

Don't miss the latest news in Northwest Arkansas, sign up for our free newsletters at: nwaonline.com/email/

Food Insecurity in Northwest Arkansas and a Solution

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 10:28:00 +0000

65,000 people in Northwest Arkansas experienced food insecurity in the last year. On the Know the News podcast, we’ll talk about what our listeners can do to help those folks get fed.

Don't miss the latest news. Sign up for our free email updates at nwaonline.com/email

Bentonville High School's Junior ROTC program

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 19:37:00 +0000

Bentonville High School is home to the only Junior ROTC program in Northwest Arkansas. The program launched this year. Cmdr. Mike Davis, instructor, and student Aryn Johnson join us to discuss how it’s going.

Celebrating the Holiday Season in NWA

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 21:01:00 +0000

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, even though we haven’t even gotten to Thanksgiving yet. But now is the time to start planning your holiday activities. Today we’ll talk with Lara Hightower, features writer with the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette about many of the opportunities to celebrate the season on today’s Know The News Podcast.

Fayetteville mayor prefers vaccine incentives over testing policy

Rogers turns down parklet program

Fort Smith food bank director talks turkey supply problems

Two finalists left for Fort Smith college dean position

High School Sports

What's Up!

Know the News - Vaccinating Children in Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 18:34:00 +0000

Covid-19 vaccines are now approved for children ages 5-11. What do parents need to know about the vaccines? We’ll talk about that on today’s Know the News podcast.

Focus on the U.S. Marshal's Museum in Fort Smith

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 17:34:00 +0000

Next week could be a turning point in the journey to get Fort Smith’s U.S. Marshal’s Museum open to the public. We’ll talk about it on Know The News.

Know the News: Supporting Dance Organizations

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 18:28:00 +0000

A recent survey of the public found a strong interest in supporting Northwest Arkansas dance organizations, but relatively low awareness of the groups offering dance performances. We explore the results and what they mean with survey director Karen Castleman in this week’s edition of the Know the News podcast.

Know the News - Coping with employee shortages

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 17:49:00 +0000

Restaurants and retail stores aren’t the only employers having trouble finding workers these days. School districts are struggling to find people to hire for support roles like custodians and bus drivers, and it’s creating some challenges for faculty, students and parents alike.

We’ll talk about how school districts are coping on Know the News.

Know the News - Western Benton County Expansion

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 19:55:00 +0000

Northwest Arkansas can expect to see a lot of growth over the next 25 years, with much of it likely to occur in western Benton County along major highways that exist or will soon exist. We examine this trend in today’s podcast with Tim Conklin, assistant director at the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission; Mike Harvey, chief operating officer at the Northwest Arkansas Council; and Randall Noblett, mayor of Cave Springs.

Know the News - Aggressive high-tech worker recruitment in NWA

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 19:07:00 +0000

Take that, Austin, Texas! The local business community gets aggressive recruiting high-tech workers to relocate to Northwest Arkansas. Hear how they’re making the pitch on the “Know the News” podcast.

What the Bella Vista Bypass will mean for Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 19:23:00 +0000

It’s happening: the Bella Vista Bypass is about to open. Officials will celebrate completion of the project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 30.

We chat with Tim Conklin of the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission and Rob Smith of the Northwest Arkansas Council about what this long-awaited project means to our region.

The LPGA is coming

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 16:41:00 +0000

It’s hard to believe that the LPGA has been competing Northwest Arkansas for 18 years, but it has. The 2021 version of the Walmart Championship Presented by Proctor and Gamble starts this week, and we’ll talk about the tournament’s impact on the community.

Remembering the Arkansas-Texas Rivalry

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 18:26:00 +0000

The storied football rivalry between Arkansas and Texas renews Saturday. We’ll talk a look back at some of the most memorable games in the series with people who were there to see them, Clay Henry, Grant Hall and former Razorback Tom Ginn.

Helping the formerly incarcerated return home

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 17:56:00 +0000

Meet Nick Robbins. He runs Returning Home, a ministry designed to help formerly incarcerated people return to their communities. Why does he do it? Because he’s been there himself.

Discussing ivermectin as a covid-19 treatment

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 19:21:00 +0000

Dr. Marti Sharkey, Fayetteville's public health officer, joins us to discuss the latest related to covid-19 and Northwest Arkansas, including the issue of prescribing ivermectin for covid treatment.

How did it started as a treatment? What are the risks? We'll also talk about the Bikes, Blues and BBQ postponement and more.

Read Janelle Jessen's story about ivermectin ast nwaonline.com/news/2021/aug/29/arkansas-poison-center-gets-24-calls-about/

Look for the stories this weekend at www.nwaonline.com.

What changes can NWA and the River Valley expect from the new census numbers?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 19:40:00 +0000

After months of delay, local leaders are finally getting a look at detailed census data, which will be used to determine everything from state funding levels to election boundaries for federal, state and local offices. It looks like big changes are on the way on a lot of different fronts. We’ll talk about it on Know the News.

Breakthrough Coronavirus infections

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 19:24:00 +0000

Today on the Know the News podcast, we take a look at breakthrough infections of the coronavirus and the impact they are having on the local community.

The episode features a talk with Janelle Jessen, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette health reporter, Dr. Joe Thompson, president and CEO of Arkansas center for health improvement and Dale Adams of Gentry who was infected with the coronavirus after getting the vaccine.

We'll also preview upcoming stories this weekend on nwaonline.com.

KNOW THE NEWS - How the arts become part of the local economy

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 06 Aug 2021 18:00:00 +0000

The arts are becoming a bigger part of local economies. Today, we’ll take a look at the impact that a couple of local film festivals — one in Bentonville, another in Fort Smith — may have on local businesses.

The difficulties of prosecuting human trafficking

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 17:49:00 +0000

Human trafficking crimes, especially involving minor children, remain especially difficult to prosecute for local law enforcement agencies. In today’s Know the News Podcast, we’ll take a look at efforts to crack down on the exploitation of vulnerable people in Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley.

Music in Northwest Arkansas During the Pandemic

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 20:18:00 +0000

Musicians Patti Steel and Stephen Boudreaux discuss how their bands adapted to the pandemic and the importance that live music has for the NWA community.

Know The News: Payson McElveen and 148 miles of MTB trails

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 20:06:00 +0000

One man rode 148 miles of mountain bike trails in Bentonville — in one day. Chip Souza, sports editor of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, gives us the details on this week’s Know the News podcast.

Read more Sunday in the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: nwaonline.com

Know the News - Why so much vaccine hesitancy in Arkansas?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 17:07:00 +0000

Covid-19 cases are spiking everywhere, yet Sebastian County, one of Arkansas’ largest, lags behind the state average for vaccinations. What does that mean for health care in the River Valley and why are residents there so hesitant to get the vaccine?
We’ll talk about that in today’s Know the News Podcast.

Know the News - Back to the Rodeo

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 21:20:00 +0000

A long time summer tradition in NWA renews soon as the Springdale Rodeo of the Ozarks returns. We’ll preview the rodeo this year during our Know the News Podcast.

What's the future of Solid Waste recycling in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000

An engaging talk about recycling with Dan Holtmeyer with the Northwest Arkansas Council, and Robyn Reed with the Boston Mountain Solid Waste District. Holtmeyer will talk on the NWA Council's interest in recycling, and the “circular” economy concept. Reed will talk about how the Solid Waste District operates and how that fits in with the NWA Council concept and what she sees for recycling in NWA going forward.

Know the News - What to do with the state surplus

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 17:59:00 +0000

What would you do if you were an Arkansas lawmaker and suddenly found yourself with an extra billion dollars lying around? Tax cuts? Spending programs? Save it for a rainy day? We’ll talk about it on Know the News.

Know the News - Live music is back

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 17:51:00 +0000

As things return to normal this summer, the opportunities to take in live music in the area are expanding. Hear all about it from our entertainment expert, Jocelyn Murphy, on Know the News.

Know the News: Elkins Amazon Future Engineer program

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 28 May 2021 17:54:00 +0000

Elkins School District is increasing its emphasis on computer science by expanding its participation in the Amazon Future Engineer program and improving district resources. Find out more about the program when we talk to Katie Kunz, the lead computer science teacher in Elkins, during the Know the News podcast.

KNOW THE NEWS - 10 year anniversary of the Joplin tornado

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 21 May 2021 16:02:00 +0000

Ten years ago this week, a huge tornado tore through Joplin, Mo., leaving in its wake a wide swath of death and destruction. It was one of the most devastating storms in U.S. history. We’ll talk about that storm with someone who lived through it and preview our weekend package about the Joplin tornado in this week’s “Know the News” podcast.

Know the News - The Rogers Historical Museum and the city's 140th birthday

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 13 May 2021 20:14:00 +0000

They say you can’t know where you’re going unless you know where you’ve been. We’ll put that maxim to the test when we talk with Serena Barnett, director of the Rogers Historical Museum, about its exhibits on the city’s 140th birthday.

Know the News - Arkansas General Assembly adjourned

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 07 May 2021 19:42:00 +0000

The Arkansas Legislature has completed its work for the year. We'll take a few minutes to talk about how what they did will affect you, your neighborhood and your community.

Know the News - Got E-waste? These teens can help.

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 14:20:00 +0000

Got E-waste? A pair of Rogers teens, Jackson Guthrie and Abigail Fleming, have created the organization E-Waste Warriors, which aims to increase the proper recycling of electronic waste in Northwest Arkansas. Find out more about their mission when we talk to them during the Know the News podcast.

KNOW THE NEWS - Catch the latest on the "Fish Story" contest

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 02:15:00 +0000

Funny fishing stories take center stage and Flip Putthoff talks about his annual “Fish Story” contest. Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette editor Rusty Turner will also preview the latest stories for the upcoming weekend. Learn more about it here: nwaonline.com/fishcontest

Know the News - How one girl got accepted to 18 different colleges

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 07:21:00 +0000

How does a girl who doesn’t speak English when she was 11 manage to get accepted to 18 different colleges after high school, including Harvard? Find out when we talk to Rogers Heritage senior Reyna Garcia in the “Know the News” podcast.

Know the News - Star Wars on the Bentonville Square

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 07:11:00 +0000

Not so long ago in a town no so far away, Star Wars characters started appearing on on the Bentonville Square. So why are Tusken Raiders and Jawas patrolling downtown Bentonville? Listen the the Know the News podcast to find out. We'll also hear from health reporter Alex Golden about recent developments in the state's fight against the Coronavirus.

Bentonville Bond Election - What to do with $266 million?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 02 Apr 2021 23:24:09 +0000

Bentonville voters will be asked in an April 13 special election to approve up to $266 million in new bonds to help deal with city growth and infrastructure. Included in that that total is $23 million for bond refunding associated with a 2007 bond election. Jake Harper, Bentonville director of finance and administration, will talk about how that process works.

Know the News - To mask or not to mask?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 02 Apr 2021 04:20:00 +0000

To mask or not to mask, that’s the question in Arkansas after the lifting of the statewide mask mandate. We’ll talk about what you need to know about masks in today’s Know the News podcast. We’ll also hear from Profiles writer Lara Hightower about this weekend’s story about a local woman who took an unconventional path to command a U.S. Army Reserve training unit.

Bentonville Bond Election - Street Improvements

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 19:05:54 +0000

The city of Bentonville will ask voters to approve $173.5 million for streets in a bond election April 13. The projects are part of a $266 million bonds package on the ballot. The bonds would be paid by extending a 1-cent sales tax. Dennis Birge, Bentonville Transportation director, will talk about the April 13 bond issue. The street bond takes up the biggest chunk of the requested funds. Staff engineers conducted a city-wide needs study that identified and ranked projects by safety, congestion reduction, bike and pedestrian movements, economic development impact, cost and construction duration, As a part of the city’s master street plan. The city’s goal to improve traffic flow consists of work on arterial and streets along with intersection Improvements. Final plans may vary, according to the city.

Know the News - Is there enough housing in Northwest Arkansas?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 07:24:00 +0000

Demand is forcing housing costs higher in Northwest Arkansas with houses selling fast and apartments nearly full. Is there enough inventory for the next wave of population growth in the region? We’ll talk about it in the “Know the News” podcast Friday. Today's episode features Matt Hoffman, an architect with Miller Boskus Lack Architects in Fayetteville and Ward Davis, founding partner of High Street Real Estate and Development in Springdale, a real estate company that focuses on creating town centers and neighborhoods.

Bentonville Bond Issues - How will it help local parks?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 21:20:27 +0000

The Bentonville Parks and Recreation is looking at $32.75 million bond to pay for the 8th Street Gateway Park and westside trails, downtown projects like an update to Dave Peel Park and the new Bentonville Common and upgrades to Phillips Park and the Melvin Ford Aquatic Center at Memorial Park. David Wright, the director of Bentonville Parks and Recreation Department, talks about the park projects included in a $266 million bond issue the city will ask voters to approve on April 13.

Know the News: What’s the deal with covid-19 vaccines? Am I qualified?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 05:19:00 +0000

What’s the deal with covid-19 vaccines? Am I qualified? How can I get on a list? And what are the risks? We’ll answer those questions and more on the Know the News podcast from the newsroom of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. We’ll also preview some of the great stories we are working on for the weekend.

Know the News - Silver Dollar City and local events

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 09:10:00 +0000

This week on the “Know the News” podcast, features editor Becca Martin-Brown tells us what’s new at Silver Dollar City and in Branson this year. She also talks about events and activities are available locally as we emerge from pandemic restrictions. Plus, we’ll review some of the stories coming this weekend from the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Bentonville Bond Issue - Flooding and Drainage

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 21:02:02 +0000

Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reporter Mike Jones talks to Dan Weese Bentonville's city engineer about a series of drainage issues. The city could address the problems if a bond issue passes. Residents will be asked at a special election April 13 to approve up to $266 million in bonds by extending a 1% city sales tax. Included in the bond proposal is $19.75 million for drainage improvements. The projects were selected from drainage studies, 311 concerns and known flooding issues. The upgrades would improve drainage for over 500 homes, reduce roadway flooding and the infrastructure will be designed to provide drainage for future development, according to the city.

Know the News looks at up coming stories and discussion in the NWA Democrat-Gazette

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 08:22:00 +0000

Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette editor Rusty Turner and the paper’s online editor, Tony Reyes, talk about the many different ways their teams deliver news stories on digital platforms. They also preview coverage plans for the coming weekend.

Bentonville Bond Issue - What do the police and fire departments need?

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 22:33:28 +0000

New radio system along with fire and police training facilities are part of the Bentonville bond issue. Replacing an aging radio system and new training facilities for police and fire personnel are part of a Bentonville bond issue. Residents will be asked at a special election April 13 to approve up to $266 million in bonds by extending a 1% city sales tax. Included in the bond proposal is $6.6 million for a new radio system, $3.9 million for a fire training facility and $1.6 million for a police training building. Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reporter Mike Jones talks with Bentonville police chief Jon Simpson, Bentonville police Capt. John Hubbard, Bentonville deputy fire chief Kevin Boydston and Bentonville fire battalion chief Jeremy Metcalf.

Interview with Bentonville Library Director Hadi Dudley about the proposed library expansion

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 17:58:04 +0000

The Bentonville Public Library has grown since its opened its doors in 2006 South Main Street. It has become a gathering place for patrons of all ages. There have been more than 3.75 million visitors since it opened. A proposed bond issue will further the library’s expansion. $4.5 million is earmarked for the library in the April 13 election. Join Library Director Hadi Dudley as she’s talks about the past and future of the library.

Know the News: A podcast about upcoming stories in the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 08:31:00 +0000

“Know the News” is a weekly podcast produced by the editors and reporters of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Each week it will preview some of the stories we have in store for our readers over the weekend. We’ll also talk about how we report and produce the stories we bring you each week and give folks a glimpse at how we do our jobs. A new version comes out every Friday.

Stand your ground - NWADG reporter Doug Thompson interviews state senator

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Sat, 09 Jan 2021 22:26:17 +0000

The podcast with NWA Democrat-Gazette Reporter Doug Thompson talking to Arkansas Senator Bob Ballinger and Dennis Garner on a Stand your ground bill Sen. Ballinger is proposing this legislative session.

Discussion on Arkansas Statewide Survey on Education and Covid-19

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 24 Dec 2020 21:59:54 +0000

A discussion of a statewide survey on education and covid-19 in Arkansas with Robert Coon with the Impact Management Group, Candace Williams, executive director of the Rural Community Alliance and Jared Cleveland, superintendent of the Springdale School District.

Covid Classroom Series Discussion

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 24 Dec 2020 10:57:00 +0000

Members of the NWA Democrat-Gazette and the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette talk about their Covid Classroom series they produced.

Covid-19 effect on teachers

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 10:36:00 +0000

Dave Perozek, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette education, reporter talks about the experience of K-12 teachers this school year with Joel Lookadoo, Arkansas’ 2020 teacher of the year and Carol Fleming, president of the Arkansas Education Association.

Covid Classroom - Covid-19 and distance learning.

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 10:50:00 +0000

Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette education reporter Dave Perozek chats with two K-12 school administrators who specialize in distance learning: Shay Hopper, coordinator of the Springdale School District’s Virtual Innovation Academy, and Amy Johnson, head of school at the Arkansas Virtual Academy.

Covid Classroom - Impact on education

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 10:16:00 +0000

The covid-19 pandemic has been something of a gut punch to America's education system. We discuss the impacts on education in Arkansas and nationally with Richard Abernathy, executive director of the Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators; Jay Barth, chief education officer for the city of Little Rock; and Anna Beaulieu, a French teacher and president of the Fayetteville Education Association.

The Covid pandemic and its effect on Arkansas schools

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 02:22:00 +0000

“Covid Classroom” is an ongoing series produced by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette newsrooms. The series will explore the effect that the coronavirus pandemic is having on K-12 public education and creative ways students, parents, teachers and administrators are adjusting to it. In this podcast, editors and reporters from the two newspapers discuss how the project came to be and preview the stories it will tell over the ensuing weeks. All the elements of “Covid Classroom” will be digitally available to non-subscribers.

2020 Census: Challenges face counters in Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 07 Aug 2020 15:20:38 +0000

The U.S. Census Bureau is working to wrap up its 2020 head count by the end of September. But there are multiple difficulties facing the operation, especially when it comes to counting minorities and immigrants. Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reporter Doug Thompson speaks with Brad Cameron, Jeff Hawkins, Mireya Reith and Celina Reyes about the challenge facing the country's first online census and its implications for Arkansans. Brad Cameron is the communications chairman for the Arkansas Counts statewide committee, a nonprofit group encouraging and coordinating census participation statewide. Jeff Hawkins is the executive director of the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission. Mireya Reith is the executive director of Arkansas United, a nonprofit advocacy group for immigrants. The group has made a priority of getting immigrants and other hard-to-count groups to participate in the census. Celina Reyes is a program assistant for Arkansas United responsible for coordinating the group's census efforts.

Crappie Fishing in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 26 May 2020 15:29:12 +0000

Flip Putthoff, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette outdoors writer, talks about crappie fishing in Northwest Arkansas. Is the crappie the most popular fish in Arkansas? More than black bass? Now that the weather is warming, the fish are spawning and can be caught in shallower water. Flip will let us know the right baits, which lakes to fish in and more.

Political campaigning during the pandemic

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 15 May 2020 22:49:18 +0000

Campaign consultants J.R. Davis and Dustin Seaton talk about what it is like for candidates to run for office during a pandemic. Northwest Arkansas has a congressional race and a number of state legislative seats on the ballot this year.

Discussion about NW Arkansas Land Trust and land acquisition

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 19:09:19 +0000

As the population of Northwest Arkansas grows, so does the pressure on undeveloped lands that help give the region its natural feel. And what is Northwest Arkansas if it's not full of options to experience nature? Building up the region to handle the influx of businesses and residents is an intentional act — construction of restaurants, apartments, houses, office buildings. Advocates say the preservation of natural spaces needs to be every bit as intentional, lest Northwest Arkansas residents are willing to chart a course toward a future as a concrete jungle, as has happened in other areas with growing populations. "Land is being consumed at an astronomical rate," says Terri Lane, executive director of the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust. In this edition of "Speaking of Arkansas," host Greg Harton speaks with Lane about her organization's work to set aside land protected from development, particularly in the increasingly urban areas of Benton and Washington counties. Below are links to organizations or sites mentioned in this podcast: U.S. Census Bureau — https://2020census.gov/en/ways-to-respond.html Northwest Arkansas Land Trust — https://www.nwalandtrust.org/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NWALandTrust To read a profile of Terri Lane that appeared in the Feb. 16, 2020, edition of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, readers can visit https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2020/feb/16/teresa-lynn-lane-20200216/

Washington County assessments during pandemic

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 22:25:41 +0000

Washington County businesses and home owners are looking at a bigger property tax bill if a long-planned reappraisal of the value of their property goes through in 2020 as scheduled. We talk to county assessor Russell Hill, who wants to delay that reappraisal by a year since the covid-19 pandemic is hurting property owners. Also, president Steve Clark of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce joins in to describe the economic effects of the pandemic.

Morel Mushroom Hunting

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 07 Apr 2020 16:04:18 +0000

Now that it is spring, Mushroom hunting season is upon us. Catch up with Flip Putthoff, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette outdoors writer, as he gives a few tips and tricks on where to hunt them, how to hunt them and how to cook them.

Trauma care in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Sun, 15 Mar 2020 16:08:42 +0000

Tom Jenkins, Rogers fire chief and governor’s appointee to the state Trauma Advisory Council, talks about trauma/emergency care in Northwest Arkansas and what needs to be done so fewer people leave the area for emergency medical care.

Swepco Lake Fishing

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 16:42:56 +0000

Flip Putthoff, outdoors reporter for the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, talks about one of the best winter fishing spots, Swepco Lake near Gentry. The water in the lake is warm due to the coal fired power plant next to the lake. The water is hot near the plant, 90 degrees or so, and warm by the dam, 70 degrees. It is a great lake for bass fishing and more.

Northwest Arkansas Water Falls

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 11 Feb 2020 16:42:00 +0000

Flip Putthoff, outdoors writer with the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, talks about his favorite season, winter. He also talks about how easy it is to see waterfalls in winter. Flip will talk about a few of his favorite waterfalls including the Glory Hole, Tanyard Creek waterfall, Lake Ann and more. Don't forget to check out his story and video about the Twin Falls waterfall in our outdoors section here. https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2020/feb/11/cascade-pours-where-buffalo-flows-20200/

Springdale teen breaks creative ground for Northwest Arkansas Marshallese community

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Mon, 30 Dec 2019 17:21:32 +0000

The evolving nature of local Marshallese art and the value of diversity in the arts is the topic of conversation in this podcast that launches a seven-story diversity in the visual arts series for the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Melisa Laelan, chief executive director and founder of the Arkansas Coalition of Marshallese; Nelson Peacock, president and CEO of the Northwest Arkansas Council; and Allyson Esposito, executive director of a regional arts service organization launched by the Northwest Arkansas Council, joined us in the NWADG podcast studio to speak into the topics.

Marshallese artist breaks creative ground

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Sat, 28 Dec 2019 19:15:08 +0000

Walleye Fishing in Beaver Lake

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Wed, 30 Oct 2019 19:48:10 +0000

Walleye are an up and coming fish in Beaver Lake. They grow large and are tasty. Flip Putthoff tells us how to fish for them. There's more in our story at the link below. https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2019/sep/17/eyes-on-the-walleye-prize-20190917/

Expansion of Fayetteville Public Library continues

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 18:07:04 +0000

David Johnson, executive director of the Fayetteville Public Library, is our guest on this episode of “Speaking of Arkansas.” Johnson details changes at the library as a result of an August 2016 election in which the people of Fayetteville agreed to higher property taxes to fund the expansion and ongoing operating and maintenance of the library. The project will double the library's size, but it will also launch a new era for delivering more. The future of the library involves a bigger collection, but also "maker spaces" for audio and video editing, a photography studio, a teaching kitchen, access to 3D printers and other features. The library also plans to use technology to make some services available on-site 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The library’s website for the expansion and fundraising efforts can be found at https://www.beyondwordsfpl.org

Thaden School

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 22:00:51 +0000

The Thaden School, an independent private school that opened three years ago in Bentonville, on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, celebrates its move into permanent facilities on 30 acres that for 80 years served the community as the Benton County Fairgrounds. In this edition of "Speaking of Arkansas," we interview Clayton Marsh, founding head of the school, about the school's mission "to provide a balanced and challenging education that ignites in our students a passion for discovery and learning, prepares them to succeed in college, and inspires them to lead lives of integrity, purpose and responsible global leadership." In the podcast, we discuss what the student body is like, the schools origins and namesake connection to an early 20th century aviation pioneer, the way the school seeks to educate its students and its process for selecting students and faculty. For more information on the Thaden School, visit thadenschool.org. "Speaking of Arkansas" is one of several podcasts produced by the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. You can subscribe to be notified of new editions through Spotify, Apple Podcast, Google Play, Stitcher, SoundCloud and other popular podcast services. They can also be found online at nwaonline.com/podcast. Contact “Speaking of Arkansas” host Greg Harton, editorial page editor of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, at gharton@nwadg.com or by calling (479) 872-5026.

2019 Hunting Seasons

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 15:44:47 +0000

Join Flip Putthoff, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette outdoors editor, and Spencer Tirey, photo editor, talk about the current and upcoming hunting seasons in Arkansas. From dove to squirrel to deer, Flip will give you the details for the hunting world.

Outdoors with Flip - Trout Unlimited Convention

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 14:54:02 +0000

Flip Putthoff, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette outdoors writer, talks about the 2019 annual meeting of Trout Unlimited coming to Rogers in October. Who can attend? What events are scheduled and more.

Fayetteville's Cultural Arts Corridor

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 22:03:10 +0000

In the buildup to last April's bond issue election in Fayetteville, advocates for what they called a "cultural arts corridor" in the downtown area from time to time repeated a description of what could be: It will be "transformational," they said. The voters gave them a chance to demonstrate that, voting 54 to 46 percent in favor of a $32 million plan to develop the corridor from West Avenue and Dickson Street — beside the Walton Arts Center — south to just past the Fayetteville Public Library. In this edition of the "Speaking of Arkansas" podcast, we speak with Molly Rawn, executive director of the Fayetteville Advertising and Promotion Commission, who has taken a lead role in developing the "programming" of the corridor space. Rawn explains her thoughts on what that means as the city embarks on a project reflecting its ambitions, but one with a lot of questions still to be answered. Additional city of Fayetteville information on the arts corridor is available by visiting http://www.fayetteville-ar.gov/3456/Cultural-Arts-Corridor The Fayetteville Advertising and Promotion Commission's website is https://www.experiencefayetteville.com/ As always, news coverage related to the arts corridor and other Northwest Arkansas news can be found at nwaonline.com, website of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Diversity Panel

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 20:15:47 +0000

Doug Thompson, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, talks with Sonia Gutierrez, D'Andre Jones, Richard Laraya and LaTricia Hill-Chandler gather to talk about diversity and inclusion in Northwest Arkansas. Millions of dollars are being spent in Northwest Arkansas to increase diversity and inclusion of all races and ethnic groups. A special report upcoming in Sunday’s edition takes a look at the successes and remaining challenges of those efforts.

White River Trout Fishing

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 20:52:38 +0000

Flip Putthoff, outdoors writer, talks about floating the White River near the Beaver Dam. Learn about the ice cold water you can enjoy in the middle of the summer, where to put in, trout fishing and the best spots to fish.

Miss Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 27 Jun 2019 15:39:52 +0000

Darynne Dahlem, the 22-year-old daughter of Ron and Traci Lewellen of Greenwood and a graduate of the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, was crowned Miss Arkansas June 15 in Little Rock. She stopped by during her media tour of Northwest Arkansas to talk about her addiction awareness platform, which she calls “Know Who You Are,” her preparation for the Miss America Pageant and her plan to attend medical school when her reign is over. Read more about Miss Arkansas in the Our Town section on July 4.

NWA Outdoors - Bass Fishing with top water lures

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 16:33:50 +0000

Flip Putthoff, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette outdoors writer, talks about bass fishing. Flip will tell us about the best time of year to fish for bass, the best baits including three different kinds of topwater lures and the best time of day.

Beaver Watershed

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 07 Jun 2019 19:41:09 +0000

Beaver Lake has been the water supply for much of Northwest Arkansas for nearly 55 years. But without steps to protect it, its capacity to deliver high-quality drinking water to the region could be challenged. In this edition of “Speaking of Arkansas,” host Greg Harton speaks with two advocates for protecting Beaver Lake and its watershed from pollution, whether it’s in the form of erosion that causes sediment in the lake or chemicals and trash attributed to a growing population and changing land uses. Alan Fortenberry is former chief executive of the Beaver Water District (https://www.bwdh2o.org) Clell Ford is executive director of the Beaver Watershed Alliance (https://www.beaverwatershedalliance.org) Events mentioned in this podcast include: Shiloh Museum of Ozark History “Once Upon A Stream” — 10 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2019. https://shilohmuseum.org/museum-events/once-upon-a-stream Secchi Day — 8:30 a.m to 1 p.m. Aug. 17, 2019 https://www.bwdh2o.org/education-outreach/secchi-day July is Lake Appreciation Month — https://www.beaverwatershedalliance.org/programming/lakes-appreciation-month.aspx Recent Democrat-Gazette coverage of environmental issues affecting Northwest Arkansas waters includes: New water service denied to Bethel Heights at state’s request, June 5, 2019 — https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2019/jun/05/new-water-service-denied-to-bethel-heig/ Some Beaver Lake swimming areas closed, May 25, 2019 — https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2019/may/25/some-beaver-lake-swimming-areas-closed-/ E. Coli presence prompts warning on stretch of White River, May 27, 2019 — https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2019/may/27/e-coli-presence-prompts-warning-on-whit/ Beaver Lake cleanup more fun than work, Sept. 18, 2018 — https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2018/sep/18/beaver-lake-cleanup-more-fun-than-work-/ West Fork sewer project gets state funding, Dec. 3, 2018 — https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2018/dec/03/west-fork-sewer-project-gets-state-fund/

Citizens Climate Lobby

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 30 May 2019 18:39:37 +0000

The Citizens Climate Lobby’s push for a carbon fee and dividend system to reduce climate change Members of the organization Citizens Climate Lobby stopped by the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette offices to visit with our editorial board about their hopes for federal legislation to establish a fee and dividend structure to encourage the reduction of carbon-producing activities. Editorial page editor Greg Harton visited with two members in our Fayetteville podcast studios for the latest edition of “Speaking of Arkansas.” For additional information about the Citizens’ Climate Lobby’s stance, visit the organization’s Carbon Fee and Dividend Policy and FAQs at https://citizensclimatelobby.org/carbon-fee-and-dividend/ For a sampling of other analyses about the merits or lack of merits for a carbon fee and dividend system, visit: Yale Climate Connections - https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/2016/07/pros-and-cons-of-a-carbon-tax-key-issues/ The Congressional Budget Office report on the “Effects of a Carbon Tax on the Economy and the Environment” - http://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/113th-congress-2013-2014/reports/44223_Carbon_0.pdf The CATO Institute - https://www.cato.org/publications/policy-analysis/case-against-us-carbon-tax Wharton University of Pennsylvania - https://publicpolicy.wharton.upenn.edu/live/news/1519-why-a-carbon-tax-is-good-for-the-us-economy The National Review - https://www.nationalreview.com/2017/02/carbon-tax-dividend-plan-conservative-case/ Other editions of “Speaking of Arkansas” as well as other podcasts from the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette can be found at nwaonline.com/podcast

Floating in NWA

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 20:40:18 +0000

It is that floating time of the year. Flip Putthoff, Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette outdoors writer, talks about the ins and outs of floating in Northwest Arkansas. Putthoff will talk about the best practices for floating including any needed permits, where the float for your experience level, canoe and kayak outfitters and more.

Fishing Crappie in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 18:31:38 +0000

Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette outdoors reporter Flip Putthoff is ready for crappie fishing. Join Flip and photo editor Spencer Tirey as they talk about the best time of the year to fish for Crappie (hint: it is getting close), where to find them, how to catch them and more.

Fishing Walleye in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Mon, 11 Mar 2019 16:21:01 +0000

Join Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette sports editor Flip Putthoff as he tells us about fishing walleye in Northwest Arkansas. Now is the time to start fishing for them. Flip will let us know the best places to fish, how best to catch them, how to cook them and more. Be careful when you get one on the line, they've got teeth.

Fayetteville Art Corridor

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 21:38:08 +0000

What is an arts corridor and why do Fayetteville officials want one? In this podcast, listeners will learn more about Fayetteville's proposed cultural arts corridor project, such as: • What an arts corridor is and what sparked the idea in Fayetteville • Why the city is likely to build the arts corridor regardless of whether voters approve the funding plan in an April 9 election • Why city leaders believe it's important to tie existing amenities together • What city leaders plan to do about parking the civic space would displace • Discussion about the economic impact the arts corridor might be expected to have • Whether the civic space is an anti-Bikes, Blues and BBQ project (https://bikesbluesandbbq.org/) Fayetteville residents will be asked in April to provide $30 million to build what city leaders call a "civic space" on the city-owned parking lot at West Avenue and Dickson Street. That parking lot, with 290 spaces, now serves as primary parking for the Walton Arts Center's performances. The project (http://www.fayetteville-ar.gov/3456/Cultural-Arts-Corridor) on the April 9 sales tax election is referred to as a cultural arts corridor that includes the civic space as well as a trail/park connecting the area's arts-related amenities, from the new TheatreSquared performance space (https://ournextstage.org) to the Fayetteville Public Library, which is now expanding (https://www.beyondwordsfpl.org/), and beyond to land the University of Arkansas is transforming into Windgate Arts and Design District in south Fayetteville. This podcast features an interview with Breck Gastinger, a senior associate with Nelson Byrd Woltz (https://www.nbwla.com), a landscape design and engineering firm funded with a Walton Family Foundation grant to the city for design work on the project. He's joined by Zu Ponca, an associate with the firm, and Peter Neirengarten, who is sustainability director for the city of Fayetteville and is leading the city's efforts on the project. Visit nwaonline.com for more stories on the Arts Corridor. https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2019/jan/30/fayetteville-council-sees-final-concept/ https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2018/dec/07/public-helps-shape-planned-arts-corrido/

Winter Fishing in Northwest Arkansas

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 17:59:53 +0000

Outdoors editor Flip Putthoff and photo editor Spencer Tirey talk about winter fishing in Northwest Arkansas. Find out what fish will bite in the winter, which lakes are stocked and the one lake in the area that stays warm in the winter.

Benton County Courthouse sales tax

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 18:35:21 +0000

For years, government officials in Benton County have piecemealed the county’s civil and criminal courts system. Currently, six judges hold court in four different buildings that were not built to be courtrooms. Benton County leaders have set a special election on March 12 to ask voters for a ⅛-cents sales tax increase that will raise about $25 million for a four-story courts facility in downtown Bentonville. In this episode of "Speaking of Arkansas," Benton County Judge Barry Moehring and Susan Anglin, a member of the 15-member Quorum Court, speak about the project, the tax proposal and the need. Moehring and other county officials plan 11 town hall meetings to deliver information about the project across the county. Below are the forum times and locations.

Flip Outdoors - Smoke a turkey

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 17:34:02 +0000

Outdoors editor Flip Putthoff encourages his listeners to smoke their Thanksgiving turkeys this year.

Flip Outdoors

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Tue, 13 Nov 2018 18:20:51 +0000

Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette outdoor editor Flip Putthoff talks about the kickoff to the modern gun season for deer hunters.

Doug Election Podcast

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 06:21:00 +0000

Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reporter Doug Thompson talks about some of the surprises from the 2018 mid-term election.

Outdoors podcast

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Thu, 25 Oct 2018 15:26:40 +0000

Flip Putthoff's outdoors podcast is all about fishing Beaver Lake this week. He's talk about the best times and baits to fish and the results of some big fishing tournaments at the lake.

NW Arkansas Fall Foliage Tours

NWA Democrat-Gazette — Wed, 17 Oct 2018 21:16:00 +0000

Join Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette outdoors editor Flip Putthoff as he talks about fall foliage trip in Northwest Arkansas. Flip will let you know to go to see the best color in the trees. Go hiking, driving or floating.