Michael Hibblen
@hibblen.bsky.social
Veteran reporter, author, former Arkansas PBS Director of Public Affairs, News Director of KUAR/Little Rock, Asst. News Director WLRN-Miami Herald News, reporter for CBS News Radio, WIOD/Miami. https://hibblenradio.com/
A new phase of work will begin soon to preserve the 108-year-old Rock Island Railroad Depot in Perry, Arkansas. I've been part of what initially seemed like a long-shot effort to save the historic structure for nine years now and wrote this update. hibblenradio.com/new-restorat...
New restoration work planned for Rock Island Perry Depot
A new phase of restoration work is to begin soon on the Rock Island Railroad Depot in Perry, Arkansas. A retired architect known for his expertise in historic preservation is planning to restore the…
hibblenradio.com
January 25, 2026 at 1:31 AM
A new phase of work will begin soon to preserve the 108-year-old Rock Island Railroad Depot in Perry, Arkansas. I've been part of what initially seemed like a long-shot effort to save the historic structure for nine years now and wrote this update. hibblenradio.com/new-restorat...
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
"One proposed solution to the gridlock and parking problems at many of the country’s major national parks is expanding access via Amtrak trains" HELL YES www.thetravel.com/why-amtrak-a...
Why Amtrak-Accessible Parks Could Become The National Park System’s Future
As we move toward more sustainable travel options, having more Amtrak-accessible National Parks might be a crucial move.
www.thetravel.com
January 22, 2026 at 12:38 AM
"One proposed solution to the gridlock and parking problems at many of the country’s major national parks is expanding access via Amtrak trains" HELL YES www.thetravel.com/why-amtrak-a...
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
More on Terri Womack and the condolences for the Womack family.
Terri Womack, wife of U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, dies at 68 | Arkansas Democrat Gazette
WASHINGTON — Terri Womack, the wife of U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, died Sunday, the Rogers congressman announced Tuesday. She was 68 years old.
www.arkansasonline.com
January 20, 2026 at 7:34 PM
More on Terri Womack and the condolences for the Womack family.
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
Leadbelly’s birthday.
He popularized the now-classic “Rock Island Line,” a song with Arkansas origins that’s been recorded & performed by many artists, including Lonnie Donegan & Johnny Cash.
youtu.be/Bwc5wMNidSk?...
He popularized the now-classic “Rock Island Line,” a song with Arkansas origins that’s been recorded & performed by many artists, including Lonnie Donegan & Johnny Cash.
youtu.be/Bwc5wMNidSk?...
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Clarence Wilson, a member of the Rock Island Colored Booster Quartet made the
earliest known written transcription of "Rock Island Line" in 1929. The singing group was made up of employees of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad at the Biddle Shops freight yard in Little Rock, Arkansas.
The lyrics to this version are largely different from the version that later became famous, as explained below.
The first audio recording of the song was made by folklorist and musicologist John A.
Lomax at the Tucker, Arkansas prison farm on September 29, 1934 (sometimes identified as "Kelly Pace and Prisoners"). (2]
Lead Belly accompanied Lomax to the prison. Lomax had discovered Lead Belly in a prison in Louisiana and helped win his release, but the relationship between them was trying. John Lomax's son, Alan Lomax,
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January 20, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Leadbelly’s birthday.
He popularized the now-classic “Rock Island Line,” a song with Arkansas origins that’s been recorded & performed by many artists, including Lonnie Donegan & Johnny Cash.
youtu.be/Bwc5wMNidSk?...
He popularized the now-classic “Rock Island Line,” a song with Arkansas origins that’s been recorded & performed by many artists, including Lonnie Donegan & Johnny Cash.
youtu.be/Bwc5wMNidSk?...
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
From the entire @arkansasadvocate.com team:
The University of Arkansas abruptly revoked its offer to the incoming dean of its law school after key Republicans complained about her background and legal position on protections for transgender athletes. #arpx
arkansasadvocate.com/2026/01/15/u...
The University of Arkansas abruptly revoked its offer to the incoming dean of its law school after key Republicans complained about her background and legal position on protections for transgender athletes. #arpx
arkansasadvocate.com/2026/01/15/u...
University of Arkansas withdraws incoming law dean’s offer in wake of Republican complaints | Arkansas Advocate
The University of Arkansas abruptly revoked its offer to the incoming dean of its law school after key Republicans complained about her background and legal position on protections for transgender ath...
arkansasadvocate.com
January 15, 2026 at 6:18 PM
From the entire @arkansasadvocate.com team:
The University of Arkansas abruptly revoked its offer to the incoming dean of its law school after key Republicans complained about her background and legal position on protections for transgender athletes. #arpx
arkansasadvocate.com/2026/01/15/u...
The University of Arkansas abruptly revoked its offer to the incoming dean of its law school after key Republicans complained about her background and legal position on protections for transgender athletes. #arpx
arkansasadvocate.com/2026/01/15/u...
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
UPDATED: University of Arkansas withdraws incoming law dean’s offer in wake of Republican complaints arkansasadvocate.com/2026/01/15/u...
UPDATED: University of Arkansas withdraws incoming law dean’s offer in wake of Republican complaints | Arkansas Advocate
The University of Arkansas abruptly revoked its offer to the incoming dean of its law school after key Republicans complained about her background and legal position on protections for transgender ath...
arkansasadvocate.com
January 15, 2026 at 11:15 PM
UPDATED: University of Arkansas withdraws incoming law dean’s offer in wake of Republican complaints arkansasadvocate.com/2026/01/15/u...
11 years ago today, Little Rock’s Cinema 150 was torn down. I was there taking photos and interviewing people as it took two excavators less than an hour to demolish the unique dome-shaped movie theater at the corner of Asher and University. It opened in 1968 and featured a 150-degree angle screen.
January 13, 2026 at 6:22 PM
11 years ago today, Little Rock’s Cinema 150 was torn down. I was there taking photos and interviewing people as it took two excavators less than an hour to demolish the unique dome-shaped movie theater at the corner of Asher and University. It opened in 1968 and featured a 150-degree angle screen.
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
Guess what? I'm back on "Arkansas Week" this evening!
Tune in at 7:30 p.m. Central as we navigate a new year on Capitol Hill.
Tune in at 7:30 p.m. Central as we navigate a new year on Capitol Hill.
January 9, 2026 at 4:53 PM
Guess what? I'm back on "Arkansas Week" this evening!
Tune in at 7:30 p.m. Central as we navigate a new year on Capitol Hill.
Tune in at 7:30 p.m. Central as we navigate a new year on Capitol Hill.
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
Trusted straight man of Arkansas news, journalist Andrew DeMillo aims to preserve that reputation for truth and objectivity as he levels up to his new role as editor of the nonprofit Arkansas Advocate.
The beat goes on: A Q&A with journalist Andrew DeMillo, new editor at the Arkansas Advocate - Arkansas Times
Trusted straight man of Arkansas news, journalist Andrew DeMillo aims to preserve that reputation for truth and objectivity as he levels up to his new role as editor of the nonprofit Arkansas Advocate...
arktimes.com
January 5, 2026 at 3:27 PM
Trusted straight man of Arkansas news, journalist Andrew DeMillo aims to preserve that reputation for truth and objectivity as he levels up to his new role as editor of the nonprofit Arkansas Advocate.
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
Facing a New Year where traditional journalism outlets face gigantic challenges, there is a bit of good news: Consumers have never had more power to choose where and how they get information. Here's an essay w/some ideas on how to pick trustworthy sources. https://loom.ly/dSUyk5c
December 28, 2025 at 9:59 PM
Facing a New Year where traditional journalism outlets face gigantic challenges, there is a bit of good news: Consumers have never had more power to choose where and how they get information. Here's an essay w/some ideas on how to pick trustworthy sources. https://loom.ly/dSUyk5c
A commissioner is taking issue with the decision to sever ties with PBS, the Ark. Democrat-Gazette reports. “I believe there were many considerations not disclosed at the Commission meeting on Dec. 11 in the push to move with undue speed in disaffiliating,” Annette Herrington wrote in an email.
December 20, 2025 at 5:46 PM
A commissioner is taking issue with the decision to sever ties with PBS, the Ark. Democrat-Gazette reports. “I believe there were many considerations not disclosed at the Commission meeting on Dec. 11 in the push to move with undue speed in disaffiliating,” Annette Herrington wrote in an email.
PBS says there was no effort by the Arkansas commission to negotiate before voting to end being a PBS member. The national network hopes Arkansas will reconsider.
“This news came as a shock to us,” wrote PBS SVP of Station Services Susi Elkins. “PBS did not receive any indication from Arkansas TV that this was under consideration.” current.org/2025/12/in-l...
In letter to commission, PBS expresses hope that Arkansas TV will reverse decision on cutting PBS programming
SVP of Station Services Susi Elkins said PBS was shocked to learn that the Arkansas Educational Television Commission would drop its programming.
current.org
December 18, 2025 at 10:49 PM
PBS says there was no effort by the Arkansas commission to negotiate before voting to end being a PBS member. The national network hopes Arkansas will reconsider.
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
Be sure to check out Overcrowded, @arkansasadvocate.com’s series on prisons. Today’s installment by @grajeda.bsky.social looks at fines and fees formerly incarcerated people are levied. #arpx #arleg
arkansasadvocate.com/2025/12/17/o...
arkansasadvocate.com/2025/12/17/o...
Overcrowded: Arkansas' prison system costs inmates, taxpayers | Arkansas Advocate
Expenses that accumulate inside and outside prison can keep formerly incarcerated Arkansans who may struggle to find employment stuck in the carceral system for years.
arkansasadvocate.com
December 17, 2025 at 9:36 PM
Be sure to check out Overcrowded, @arkansasadvocate.com’s series on prisons. Today’s installment by @grajeda.bsky.social looks at fines and fees formerly incarcerated people are levied. #arpx #arleg
arkansasadvocate.com/2025/12/17/o...
arkansasadvocate.com/2025/12/17/o...
Amid the turmoil that is Arkansas PBS or Arkansas TV or whatever, Steve Barnes remains calm and delivers an “Arkansas Week.” The ultimate pro, who next month marks 58 continuous years on Little Rock television doing news or public affairs.
December 13, 2025 at 3:13 AM
Amid the turmoil that is Arkansas PBS or Arkansas TV or whatever, Steve Barnes remains calm and delivers an “Arkansas Week.” The ultimate pro, who next month marks 58 continuous years on Little Rock television doing news or public affairs.
Excitted to have an interview I recorded with Willie Nelson 20 years ago be featured in a new book which is a compilation of 31 interviews. I was working for the Miami Herald in 2005 I talked with him about biodiesel fuel and his tour with Bob Dylan playing in old ballparks around the country.
December 11, 2025 at 12:30 AM
Excitted to have an interview I recorded with Willie Nelson 20 years ago be featured in a new book which is a compilation of 31 interviews. I was working for the Miami Herald in 2005 I talked with him about biodiesel fuel and his tour with Bob Dylan playing in old ballparks around the country.
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
Steve Cropper, legendary guitarist for Booker T & the MGs, dies aged 84
Steve Cropper, legendary guitarist for Booker T & the MGs, dies aged 84
Prolific musician was known for work on songs like Green Onions and Otis Redding’s (Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay
Steve Cropper, the legendary guitarist whose work as an instrumentalist, producer and songwriter at Stax Records left an indelible impression on Memphis soul music, has died at the age of 84.
Hs son Cameron confirmed his death to Variety. Continue reading...
www.theguardian.com
December 3, 2025 at 10:38 PM
Steve Cropper, legendary guitarist for Booker T & the MGs, dies aged 84
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
The Arkansas Advocate has big news! Andrew DeMillo, a veteran reporter who has covered Arkansas politics and policy for 23 years, will take the reins from retiring founding editor Sonny Albarado next month. Read more here:
Andrew DeMillo named top editor of Arkansas Advocate by States Newsroom • States Newsroom
States Newsroom today announces the hiring of veteran political journalist Andrew DeMillo as editor-in-chief of the Arkansas Advocate, Arkansas’ leading state government-focused nonprofit news outlet....
statesnewsroom.com
November 18, 2025 at 8:36 PM
The Arkansas Advocate has big news! Andrew DeMillo, a veteran reporter who has covered Arkansas politics and policy for 23 years, will take the reins from retiring founding editor Sonny Albarado next month. Read more here:
John Oliver had a great segment on public media this week, which included this mention of Arkansas PBS.
November 18, 2025 at 2:33 AM
John Oliver had a great segment on public media this week, which included this mention of Arkansas PBS.
On “Arkansas Week,” which airs again this morning at 10, I discussed the state’s high prison recidivism rate and the latest on the proposed Franklin County prison with state Sen. Ben Gilmore and Jim Bell, owner of a Little Rock prison reentry facility. Watch on Arkansas PBS, the PBS app or YouTube.
November 2, 2025 at 3:05 PM
On “Arkansas Week,” which airs again this morning at 10, I discussed the state’s high prison recidivism rate and the latest on the proposed Franklin County prison with state Sen. Ben Gilmore and Jim Bell, owner of a Little Rock prison reentry facility. Watch on Arkansas PBS, the PBS app or YouTube.
Reposted by Michael Hibblen
News has arrived of the passing of Judge Billy Roy Wilson at age 85. Known for his country wit and his love of mules, he had continued hearing cases until earlier this spring. Read more about this Arkansas original here: encyclopediaofarkansas.net/entries/bill...
Billy Roy Wilson (1939–) - Encyclopedia of Arkansas
Scott County native Billy Roy Wilson is a raconteur, a mule and guinea fowl farmer, and a longtime civil and criminal defense attorney. In 1993, he began ...
encyclopediaofarkansas.net
October 28, 2025 at 6:09 PM
News has arrived of the passing of Judge Billy Roy Wilson at age 85. Known for his country wit and his love of mules, he had continued hearing cases until earlier this spring. Read more about this Arkansas original here: encyclopediaofarkansas.net/entries/bill...
A $5.8 million grant to UAMS will allow it to continue researching how to mitigate the terrible side effects of cancer treatments. Dr. Marjan Boerma spoke about this with “Arkansas Week” host Steve Barnes on Arkansas PBS. Here’s a highlight of the interview that aired this weekend.
October 19, 2025 at 4:26 PM
A $5.8 million grant to UAMS will allow it to continue researching how to mitigate the terrible side effects of cancer treatments. Dr. Marjan Boerma spoke about this with “Arkansas Week” host Steve Barnes on Arkansas PBS. Here’s a highlight of the interview that aired this weekend.
On Arkansas Week tonight, economists Dr. Michael Pakko and Mervin Jebaraj join host Steve Barnes to discuss the economy, agriculture and recent stock market volatility triggered by trade tensions. Watch at 7:30 on Arkansas PBS or afterward on the PBS App and YouTube.
October 17, 2025 at 7:01 PM
On Arkansas Week tonight, economists Dr. Michael Pakko and Mervin Jebaraj join host Steve Barnes to discuss the economy, agriculture and recent stock market volatility triggered by trade tensions. Watch at 7:30 on Arkansas PBS or afterward on the PBS App and YouTube.
A new waterfowl research program, funded through $7 million in donations, is now based at University of Arkansas at Monticello. Agriculture and university officials celebrated the Snowden Waterfowl Center of Excellence, which you can watch via Arkansas PBS. www.youtube.com/live/ZeBZ1sg...
UA Division of Agriculture celebrates new waterfowl center in Monticello
YouTube video by Arkansas PBS
www.youtube.com
October 14, 2025 at 2:44 PM
A new waterfowl research program, funded through $7 million in donations, is now based at University of Arkansas at Monticello. Agriculture and university officials celebrated the Snowden Waterfowl Center of Excellence, which you can watch via Arkansas PBS. www.youtube.com/live/ZeBZ1sg...
The UA Division of Agriculture’s Dr. Hunter Biram has been talking with agricultural lenders about the grim prospects for farmers. The government shutdown has only worsened the situation by disrupting programs that benefit growers. Here's a highlight from tonight's "Arkansas Week."
October 10, 2025 at 11:03 PM
The UA Division of Agriculture’s Dr. Hunter Biram has been talking with agricultural lenders about the grim prospects for farmers. The government shutdown has only worsened the situation by disrupting programs that benefit growers. Here's a highlight from tonight's "Arkansas Week."
New Arkansas PBS Executive Director/CEO Carlton Wing sat down with me on “Arkansas Week” to discuss how he’s planning for the future of the station. While this is a challenging time for public broadcasting, he said there are immense opportunities ahead. Watch tonight at 7:30 or afterward online.
October 10, 2025 at 10:01 PM
New Arkansas PBS Executive Director/CEO Carlton Wing sat down with me on “Arkansas Week” to discuss how he’s planning for the future of the station. While this is a challenging time for public broadcasting, he said there are immense opportunities ahead. Watch tonight at 7:30 or afterward online.