Rex Nelson

I was assistant sports editor of the Arkansas Democrat in the winter of 1986, and University of Arkansas at Little Rock men's basketball was all the rage in central Arkansas. A fiery young coach named Mike Newell had taken the city by storm. The Trojans played on a portable court in the basement of the Statehouse Convention Center, but attending UALR games was the popular thing to do in the capital city.

I was assistant sports editor of the Arkansas Democrat in the winter of 1986, and University of Arkansas at Little Rock men's basketball was all the rage in central Arkansas. A fiery young coach name…

Back when there were still newsstands that carried Sunday newspapers from across the country, I spent too much money buying papers. Being a newspaper junkie can be an expensive habit.

Back when there were still newsstands that carried Sunday newspapers from across the country, I spent too much money buying papers. Being a newspaper junkie can be an expensive habit.

For obvious reasons, the sports focus at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock has been on baseball in recent weeks. But those who follow college sports know that at an NCAA Division I school without football, men's basketball will usually be the flagship. With the hiring of Travis Ford as basketball coach, UALR has a chance to earn national attention and rankings in two sports.

For obvious reasons, the sports focus at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock has been on baseball in recent weeks. But those who follow college sports know that at an NCAA Division I school wit…

I'm having lunch at 42 Bar & Table inside the Clinton Presidential Center and eavesdropping. I enjoy hearing what visitors have to say about the Clinton Center, Little Rock and Arkansas. After lunch, I head into the museum to see the temporary exhibit "Making Amends," which is open to visitors until July 26.

Let us read it for you. Listen now. Your browser does not support the audio element. My Arkansas road trips generally begin early and end late.

My Arkansas road trips generally begin early and end late. For me, it's not a true road trip unless you have three meals in independently owned restaurants. No chains allowed.

My office is at the intersection of Capitol and Scott in downtown Little Rock. For years, I watched development take place in the nearby River Market District, the recently dubbed East Village and MacArthur Park. Meanwhile, Capitol Avenue languished.