News from the South - Arkansas News Feed
What are the qualifications to be called an 'astronaut' ?

SUMMARY: Pop star Katy Perry and journalist Gail King recently traveled to space as part of an all-female crew on Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin rocket. However, they do not officially qualify as astronauts under U.S. definitions. NASA, the FAA, and the U.S. military have specific criteria for astronaut designation. NASA and military astronauts must be launched aboard spacecraft into orbit, while the FAA requires specific flight training and activities contributing to safety for commercial astronaut wings. The Blue Origin flight, which reached 66.5 miles, was autonomously operated, leaving no room for onboard activities that would meet these criteria.

Following pop star Katy Perry and journalist Gayle King’s flight to space earlier this week, many have been wondering if the women can call themselves astronauts.
News from the South - Arkansas News Feed
Arkansan appears on Wheel of Fortune

SUMMARY: Justin, a contestant from Arkansas, appeared on *Wheel of Fortune* and showcased his Razorback pride by calling the hogs. Originally from Van Buren and a UOVA graduate, he won $6,000, despite the wheel not favoring him. Justin’s son convinced him to audition after spotting an open call, leading to his appearance. He celebrated the experience with a watch party, expressing that the memories and family trip were more valuable than the prize money. He also expressed a desire to bring the Razorback spirit to *The Price Is Right* next, envisioning an audience call of the hogs.

One lucky Arkansan got the chance to show his smarts and state pride on Wheel of Fortune— and what better way to do that than call the Hogs!
News from the South - Arkansas News Feed
R&M Southern Eatery | Eat it Up

SUMMARY: R&M Southern Eatery, a new restaurant in downtown Conway, combines delicious Southern and Cajun cuisine. The owner, a computer programmer at Children’s Hospital, teamed up with Chef Maryanne to create unique dishes like pasta egg rolls and homemade Alfredo sauce. Everything is crafted from scratch, ensuring quality and flavor, with highlights including chicken and waffles, honey cornbread, and seasonal yams. The eatery, known for its impressive portion sizes and distinct flavors, has quickly gained popularity since opening just a few months ago. For more food adventures, tune into “Eat It Up” on THV11 Plus every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m.

On this week’s Eat It Up, Hayden Balgavy visits R&M Southern Eatery in Conway, a new spot with incredible soul food that will make your mouth water.
News from the South - Arkansas News Feed
Bathroom bill heads to Governor's Office

SUMMARY: Senate Bill 486, requiring single-stall gender-neutral bathrooms in some buildings, has been sent to the Governor’s Office. The bill mandates individuals use bathrooms that align with their gender at birth, raising concerns among transgender individuals. One transgender man, Gideon Dursin, expressed his worries about the law forcing him to choose between using the men’s restroom unlawfully or the women’s restroom, potentially causing distress. Lawmakers argue the bill aims to protect children, ensuring they feel safe using restrooms. The bill includes exceptions for emergencies but has raised significant debate regarding its implications for the transgender community.

Senate Bill 486 would regulate Arkansas transgender bathroom use.
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