Daniel Breen
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News Director @LRPublicRadio. Reporting on politics, agriculture, health, justice and much more. RT ain’t endorsement
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Articles by Daniel Breen
Daily Newscast for Monday, October 19, 2026
Here's the latest local and regional news from the Little Rock Public Radio Newsroom for Monday, October 19, 2026.
The Arkansas Newswrap: October 16, 2026
New crime statistics show a shocking rise in reported sexual assaults on the campus of the University of Arkansas. We’ll have more on how officials are responding. And we’ll take a look at the three amendments Arkansas voters will see on their November ballots. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Hammer, Grappe, Pakko in the running for Arkansas Secretary of State
Three candidates are vying to become Arkansas’ top elections official. Arkansas’ incumbent Secretary of State Cole Jester, a Republican, was appointed to the post. That means he can’t run for it in November – he’s running for Land Commissioner instead. Taking his place will be one of three candidates – Republican state Sen. Kim Hammer, Democrat Kelly Grappe or Libertarian Michael Pakko. The Secretary of State’s Office is primarily tasked with overseeing elections in the state.
Two dead, multiple injured in shooting near UA Little Rock
At least two people were killed and multiple injured in a shooting Thursday evening at a gas station near UA Little Rock's main campus. Little Rock Police say they responded to a shooting call around 5:18 p.m. Thursday at the Circle K on the corner of Colonel Glenn Road and University Avenue. Police said multiple suspects are in custody. Speaking with reporters shortly before 7:00 p.m., Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. confirmed two people were killed.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for October 15, 2026
FUN The Arkansas State Fair & Livestock Show kicks off at11 a.m. Friday and runs 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily through Oct. 25 at the State Fairgrounds, 2600 Howard St., Little Rock. The 2026 theme is “Big Flavors. Big Rides. Even Bigger Fun.” An interesting facet to this year’s fair: No national has-been acts — all the Main Stage entertainers each day are local. (501) 372-8341; arkansasstatefair.com.
Three-way race to fill open Ward 7 seat on Little Rock City Board
Ward 7 is Little Rock’s most southwestern ward, radiating out from the corner of Asher and University to the city limits. And, for more than three decades, it’s had the same representative on the city board – BJ Wyrick, who’s giving up her seat to challenge incumbent Mayor Frank Scott Jr. The once-in-a-generation opportunity has drawn three candidates, all of whom say they’re the best fit for the job. None of the three is completely unknown to voters.
The Arkansas Newswrap: October 9, 2026
A new STEM-focused college is under construction in Northwest Arkansas. The race heats up to lead the Natural State’s largest city. And we hear from NPR journalists tracing the rise of the first American pope. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for October 8, 2026
FUN The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History, 503 E. Ninth St., Little Rock, hosts its 13th Vintage Vehicle Military Show, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday on the historic parade grounds behind the museum. The show features Jeeps and other vehicles from the Arkansas Military Vehicle Preservation Association as well as displays from the 87th Troop Command of the Arkansas National Guard. Also part of the event: living history exhibitors of military memorabilia.
Irby, Wright vie for Arkansas Senate District 16 seat
Arkansas Senate District 16 covers a large swath of Saline and western Pulaski counties. Saline County Sheriff Rodney Wright is running as a Republican in the race. Wright did not respond to multiple requests for an interview with Little Rock Public Radio, though an invitation still stands. Little Rock Public Radio’s Daniel Breen spoke with the Democratic candidate in the race, Joshua Irby. You can hear their conversation, which has been edited for length and clarity, in the link above.
Smith challenges Webb for Ward 3 seat on Little Rock City Board
Little Rock’s Ward 3 runs the gamut. It encompasses part of the 12th Street corridor, sweeping through Capitol View/Stifft Station, rising up through Hillcrest and the Heights, and is bounded to the north by the Arkansas River. It’s diverse not only in topography, but in race and socioeconomic status. Now, two very different candidates are seeking to represent the ward; the longtime incumbent City Director Kathy Webb, and her challenger, Lake Smith.
The Arkansas Newswrap: October 2, 2026
A new survey finds high rates of depression and anxiety among Arkansas farmers. A central Arkansas arcade continues its barrel-smashing tradition. And we’ll have a rundown of all you need to know to register to vote ahead of next month’s election. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for October 1, 2026
FUN Baklava and bouzouki music, handmade pastries, gyros and other Greek dishes, plus Greek, ballet and kid dancers, are all on tap for 40th International Greek Food Festival, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 1100 Napa Valley Drive, Little Rock. Proceeds go to a number of area nonprofits.
The Arkansas Newswrap: September 25, 2026
A Fayetteville nonprofit asks for the public’s help in shaping its future. A new book traces the history of the changing education landscape of the Natural State. And a northeast Arkansas museum celebrates the literary legacy of Ernest Hemingway. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for September 24, 2026
FUN The William F. Laman Public Library, 2801 Orange St., North Little Rock, will be on the ropes as it hosts a second round with Natural State Rasslin’: Lucha Libre, 7 p.m. Saturday. The event celebrates the tradition of Llucha Llibre in conjunction with Hispanic Heritage Month. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. (501) 758-1720; nlrlibrary.org.
Introducing LRPR's new voice of the afternoons: Christian Leus
Little Rock Public Radio is pleased to welcome the newest member of its news team: All Things Considered Host/Reporter Christian Leus. Leus comes to LRPR following a stint as managing editor of the Oxford American, a nationally-published literary magazine based in Conway. She holds a bachelor's degree from Hendrix College and a master's in Southern Studies from the University of Mississippi. Leus will begin anchoring local news during NPR's All Things Considered later this month.
The Arkansas Newswrap: September 18, 2026
A new medical campus is taking shape, with the goal of increasing specialty care in Northwest Arkansas. An investment program aims to ensure access to higher education for Arkansas kids. And nominations are open for the state’s Food Hall of Fame. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Afternoon Newscast for Friday, September 18, 2026
Here's the latest local and regional news from the Little Rock Public Radio Newsroom for Friday, September 18, 2026. -University of Arkansas officials uphold the firing of a former professor -A dozen Arkansas pharmacies sue a drug middleman over alleged unfair pricing -Gov.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for September 17, 2026
FUN The Downtown Little Rock Partnership marks 15 years of mobile munchies as nearly six dozen food trucks and trailers cluster in the 30 Crossing Green Space under the Interstate 30 bridge for the 15th Downtown Food Truck Festival, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
The Arkansas Newswrap: September 11, 2026
Arkansas Democrats have high hopes for the upcoming election. We’ll have a breakdown of some of those races, and a look at how election officials in Northwest Arkansas are preparing. And an archaeologist looks to learn more about some of the first European explorers to venture to the Natural State. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for September 10, 2026
FUN The Museum of Discovery, 500 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, brings together makers, artists, engineers, crafters and community partners providing opportunities to build, create, experiment and explore for its annual Tinkerfest, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday inside and outside the museum. This year’s activities include bubble art and giant bubble play, robotics with Harding Academy and the University of Central Arkansas, printmaking and fabric weaving, giant Lincoln Logs and a Pinewood Derby.
The Arkansas Newswrap: September 4, 2026
An electric utility sues to block publication of details of a massive data center project. Advocates call on the state to do more to reduce wait times for a healthcare assistance program. And the Trump Administration’s new import policies could spell trouble for Arkansas cattle ranchers. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for September 3, 2026
FUN The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce hosts its Red, White & Bingo fundraiser, 6 p.m. Thursday at The Venue at Westwind, 7318 Windsong Drive, North Little Rock. The evening will also feature a 50/50 raffle, food and “plenty of patriotic fun.” (501) 851-9700. THEATER Argenta Contemporary Theatre, 405 Main St., North Little Rock, closes out its run of “Hands on a Hardbody” — 10 Texas contestants. Four days. One pickup truck — 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday 6.
The Arkansas Newswrap: August 28, 2026
Northeast Arkansas faces the threat of so-called “forever chemicals” in the water supply. A member of the Walton family seeks to boost maternal health outcomes. And Northwest Arkansas residents protest the state’s role in the defense industry. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Afternoon Newscast for Friday, August 28, 2026
Here's the latest local and regional news from the Little Rock Public Radio Newsroom for Friday, August 28, 2026. -ICE arrests in Arkansas hit a four-year high in July -Little Rock School Board members approve new attendance zones for the district's high schools -Gov.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for August 27, 2026
FUN The annual Great Southern Stone Skipping Championships, on the banks of the Arkansas River for the first time, get under way at 9 a.m. Saturday at the boat launch in Little Rock’s Murray Park. The judges — “Volunteer military veterans with keen eyesight from VFW Post 9095,” will award cash prizes to the top three finishers in the men’s and women’s flights (13 and older) and the youth flight (12 and younger). Proceeds go to area hunger relief nonprofits. stoneskipping.org.
The Arkansas Newswrap: August 21, 2026
State officials seek to keep Arkansas’ Medicaid expansion program alive. Arkansas farmers turn to drones to help keep their crops watered. And a Northwest Arkansas man makes a name for himself by withstanding the heat of some of the world’s spiciest peppers. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for August 20, 2026
FUN As we speak, the Central Arkansas Library System’s new used bookstore Library Square Books is in the midst of its grand opening, until 6 p.m., at 405 President Clinton Ave. in Little Rock’s River Market District, with refreshments and giveaways and a limited number of commemorative items.
Little Rock Public Radio honored with RTDNA National Edward R. Murrow Award
Little Rock Public Radio’s flagship podcast, Track One, has been awarded the station’s first National Edward R. Murrow Award from the Radio Television Digital News Association. The podcast’s first episode, titled “Shelved, Episode 1: Patty,” won Best Podcast in the Small Market Radio category. The episode won the Regional Murrow Award in the same category in May, and faced winners from 12 other regions in the national contest. “I couldn’t be prouder of this newsroom.
The Arkansas Newswrap: August 14, 2026
A Northwest Arkansas city turns to churches to help center diversity and equity initiatives. New research looks at the relationship between thyroid function and heart health. And the state’s busiest airport looks for ways to fund a much-needed expansion. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Afternoon Newscast for Friday, August 14, 2026
Here's the latest local and regional news from the Little Rock Public Radio Newsroom for Friday, August 14, 2026. -Pulaski County officials delay recommending a data center moratorium -Economic development officials seek to attract a "super project" to a 1,300-acre West Memphis site -Arkansas Republicans nominate Kara Armas to fill the vacancy following the arrest of former Rep.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for August 13, 2026
FUN The Clinton Presidential Center, 1200 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, celebrates President Bill Clinton’s 80th birthday on Saturday with free admission and a slate of family-friendly activities that includes crafts and games, free Hope watermelons for the first 80 visitors and a performance by the Hot Springs World Class High School Marching Band. clintonfoundation.org/events.
The Arkansas Newswrap: August 7, 2026
The future of Arkansas’ Medicaid expansion program is uncertain after the Trump administration moves to axe it. Officials in a rural central Arkansas county balance economic development with preserving the water supply. And we’ll have a preview of an upcoming film festival featuring some big names. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for August 6, 2026
FUN The Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the 50th annual Hope Watermelon Festival, today through Saturday Aug. 6-8 in Hope’s Fair Park, with a wide variety of melan-cholic activities, ranging from an arm-wrestling tournament to seed-spitting and watermelon-eating competitions, and concluding Saturday night with a grand-finale concert by Grammy-winning country singer Gretchen Wilson. (870) 777-3640, hopewatermelonfest.com.
The Arkansas Newswrap: July 31, 2026
A federal lawsuit is challenging the legality of a whites-only community in northeast Arkansas. The University of Arkansas changes its approach to emergency response after a shooting hoax. And a new exhibit explores the beauty of everyday objects. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
The Arkansas Newswrap: July 24, 2026
Arkansas libraries could be forced to roll back services based on which books they carry on their shelves. A new investigation looks at disturbing incidents in so-called “microschools” in Arkansas. And a new exhibit traces nearly two centuries of the history of the state’s constitution. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for July 23, 2026
FUN The Clinton Presidential Center, 1200 President Clinton Avenue, Little Rock, celebrates Arkansas’ ratification of the 19th Amendment, permitting women to vote, with a Suffragist Tea Party, 2 p.m. Saturday. A selection of teas, coffees and beverages accompany a curated afternoon tea menu; attendees can win a basket of female-inspired gifts from the Clinton Museum Store. It’s part of the Clinton Center’s America250 commemorations. Historical attire is not required but encouraged.
The Arkansas Newswrap: July 17, 2026
Arkansas prepares, once again, to roll out a work requirement for some Medicaid recipients. A new report looks at the state of the workforce in northwest Arkansas. And what are state officials doing to help curb the spread of a dangerous parasite? Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for July 16, 2026
FUN “Killers of Kill Tony” — comedians David Lucas, Hans Kim, Timmy No Brakes and Martin Phillips from the popular podcast — take the stage at 7 p.m. Friday at Little Rock’s Robinson Center Performance Hall, 426 W. Markham St. at Broadway. Ticketmaster.com. THEATER The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, 501 E.
The Arkansas Newswrap: July 10, 2026
Residents of more than half of Arkansas’ counties don’t have access to maternal care – we’ll have more on what’s being done to tackle the issue. The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra welcomes a new associate conductor. And NPR’s Wailin Wong talks AI, bubbles, and how to make economics accessible. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for July 9, 2026
FUN Rock band Evanescence, with its front woman, Little Rock’s own Amy Lee, brings its 2026 World Tour to North Little Rock’s Simmons Bank Arena, 7 p.m. Saturday, with “special guests” Spiritbox and Nova Twins. (501) 975-9000; Ticketmaster.com Little Rock’s Historic Arkansas Museum, 200 E. Third St., hosts its fifth Hop-Off during Second Friday Art Night, 5-8 p.m. Friday.
The Arkansas Newswrap: July 3, 2026
Arkansas has one of the highest rates of births by cesarean section in the U.S. — we’ll have more on one group’s efforts to lower that number. Students from Northwest Arkansas take their robotics talents abroad. And UA Little Rock gears up to celebrate its 100th birthday. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Daily Newscast for Friday, July 3, 2026
Here's the latest local and regional news from the Little Rock Public Radio Newsroom for Friday, July 3, 2026.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for July 2, 2026
INDEPENDENCE DAY Independence Day festivities, particularly important this year as the nation celebrates its 250th birthday, take place across the state.
The Arkansas Newswrap: June 26, 2026
Americans from all walks of life are encouraged to share their stories for the country’s 250th birthday. The World Cup brings Northwest Arkansas soccer fans together. And all things Arkansas are being celebrated at a multi-day festival in the Little Rock area this weekend. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for June 25, 2026
FUN More than 30 performers encompassing the breadth of Arkansas’ diverse musical and cultural traditions will appear on various stages at the inaugural Arkansas Folklife Festival, Friday through Sunday at North Little Rock’s Riverfront Park, among the celebrations of the People’s 250th. Friday’s headliner is venerable bluesman Bobby Rush; Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams headlines on Saturday. The festival also features regional food and crafts. arkansasfolklifefestival.org.
The Arkansas Newswrap: June 19, 2026
Scientists seek new ways to make one of Arkansas’ most important crops resilient in the face of climate change. A new directory lists LGBTQ+ friendly businesses in the Northwest Arkansas area. And a new statewide program encourages Arkansans to travel via E-Bike. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for June 18, 2026
FUN Little Rock’s Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, 501 W. Ninth St., anchors the 17th annual Juneteenth in Da Rock street festival, all day Saturday on Little Rock’s West Ninth Street, anchored on the east by the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center.
The Arkansas Newswrap: June 12, 2026
Participants in a popular civics education program for high-schoolers say this year’s event was marred by a culture of fear and shame. State officials consider withholding funding from libraries offering materials they see as controversial. And a new exhibit chronicles the colorful life of an Arkansas music icon. Those stories and more are coming up this week on the Newswrap from the Arkansas Newsroom. Tune in each week to the Arkansas Newswrap, airing Fridays at 6 p.m. on KUAR 89.1.
Daily Newscast for Friday, June 12, 2026
Here's the latest local and regional news from the Little Rock Public Radio Newsroom for Friday, June 12, 2026.
Weekend Entertainment Roundup for June 11, 2026
MUSIC The Little Rock Winds headlines the 29th annual Flag Day concert, 7 p.m. Sunday on the old parade ground behind the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History in MacArthur Park, 503 E. Ninth St., Little Rock. The band’s America250 celebration features a program of marches, patriotic songs and pop tunes. Israel Getzov conducts. Blue Bell Creameries is providing free ice cream and Woodmen Life will provide free hand-held flags.
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