On this day in 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger was lost shortly after launch, along with its seven crew members. Their mission, and their lives, are remembered for the spirit of exploration and learning they represented. KMI ow.ly/1iQR50Y46Hl

As AI-generated content becomes more common, states are pushing for legal guardrails to address fake or misleading material in courts and public discourse. Clear rules can help protect trust in information. KMI ow.ly/mkxc50Y46IM

Arkansas has slipped from 48th to 49th in a key national ranking, a reminder that there’s more work ahead to improve health, education, jobs, and quality of life for everyone in our state. KMI ow.ly/3gJn50Y46IA

A recent opinion piece argues that federal agents’ use of force, from Minneapolis to Little Rock and beyond, continues to raise questions about enforcement tactics and accountability. KMI ow.ly/xfBu50Y46IU

A new resource maps Arkansas’s birthing hospitals and maternal care options across the state. Access to safe, local care matters for mothers, babies, and families. KMI ow.ly/1v8W50Y46IZ

Oklahoma’s governor is calling for a reset in immigration enforcement after multiple fatal encounters during immigration operations. Calls for review and reform of enforcement practices are growing in several states. ow.ly/CJX650Y46J4

Have a great week. KMI

In Arkansas, voters need to register at least 30 days before the election they want to vote in. For the 2026 regular primary, that fell on Feb. 1, a Sunday, so potential voters will need to register by the end of day today! ow.ly/3A5K50Y7oEE

Happy Groundhog Day. Whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not, spring will eventually get here and warmer days are coming! KMI

The Flourish Center will host a mobile food distribution in St. Francis County, on Thursday, Feb. 5, at the City Hall in Madison from 2-3 p.m. or until food runs out. KMI ow.ly/39gw50Y7oza

More than 5,300 files referenced the president… Transparency and accountability still matter. KMI ow.ly/fojC50Y7oAv

On this day in 1870, the 15th Amendment was ratified, prohibiting the denial of the right to vote based on race. It was a step toward a more inclusive democracy… and a reminder that voting rights must always be protected, and never taken for granted. KMI ow.ly/HIoo50Y7oB5

The governor has expanded her authority over the state’s corrections board with obvious goals, but major challenges remain across the prison system... KMI ow.ly/4L9y50Y7oBn

States hit by winter storms are finding fewer federal resources available as FEMA’s capacity shrinks… KMI ow.ly/Fw3M50Y7oBx

Here’s a clear breakdown of how citizens can propose a ballot measure in Arkansas… a reminder that civic participation is a constitutional right, not a favor. KMI ow.ly/vRwQ50Y7oBC

A new forecast suggests Arkansas could see slower job growth in the coming months, even as inflation is expected to cool. Planning ahead matters in uncertain times. KMI ow.ly/PRBB50Y7oBM

A new analysis outlines why stability at home, in schools, and in policy matters so much for student success, and what Arkansas can do better. Kids learn best when adults lead responsibly. KMI ow.ly/zxKc50Y7oBS

Rising healthcare costs are shaping voter attitudes heading into the midterms, according to a new survey. When health care becomes unaffordable, people will react at the polls. KMI ow.ly/OePH50Y7oC8

Throughout February, I’ll be sharing stories of Black Arkansans whose lives and work helped shape our communities, our culture, and our state. These figures have deep roots in the Arkansas Delta and deserve to be remembered. First up... music legend Sonny Boy Williamson II! KMI

Political violence and intimidation have no place in a democracy. KMI ow.ly/ByXe50Y7oCf