The Forum August/September 2023

ANTI-TRANS LEGISLATURE IN ARKANSAS

On Aug. 1, 2023, a number of laws went into effect that may affect the transgender community in Arkansas.

In January, hundreds of people gathered at the Capitol to protest SB-43, a bill that would ban drag shows for audiences under 18 and redefine drag performances as an “adult-oriented business.”

The bill also states that an adult-oriented business can not be located on public property or anywhere a minor might view the business. This bill was amended and passed at Act 131, which does not explicitly target the LGBTQ+ community.

An “adult-oriented

Story: Emily Wells

performance is now defined as performances of a sexual nature, in which there is partial or complete nudity, the complete or partial exposure of a specific anatomical area or prosthetic genitalia or breasts or a sexual activity is performed.

Act 317 is a law that requires transgender students at public schools in the state to use the restroom that matches their assigned gender at birth. This law will apply to multi-person restrooms and locker rooms.

Act 372 will change how content in state libraries is classified and creates punishments for those caught “furnishing harmful

materials to a minor.”

“Harmful materials’’ may include topics like race, sexual activity and LGBTQ+ identities. This law has been temporarily blocked by an Arkansas federal judge.

Act 542 is a law requiring parental consent for Arkansas teachers to use the preferred names and pronouns of transgender students.

SB270 was originally introduced as a bill to make it a criminal offense for an adult to enter a restroom that does not correspond with their assigned gender at birth, knowing that a minor is inside.

It was amended to Act

619, which no longer explicitly targets trans people. This law states that it is a criminal offense of sexual indecency with a child if the adult enters a public changing facility with the purpose of arousal if the room is assigned to the opposite sex and a minor is inside.

If you or someone you know is being affected by this legislation, there are resources available. On campus, you can visit the Rainbow Center in Dickinson 104 or you can visit this website to find local resources.

Emily Wells

GUEST AUTHORS VISIT CAMPUS

On Sept. 8, UA Little Rock’s School of Literary and Performing Arts hosted their first event for the Visiting Writers series of the Fall 2023 semester.

The event hosted authors James Brubaker and Damon McKinney. McKinney is a UALR alumnus and a graduate from the university’s English and Creative Writing program.

He is also an indigenous author, a member of the Sauk, that specializes in creating flash fiction; he is currently the managing editor for Emerge Literary Journal, as a submissions reader and editor for Likely Read Press and a postal service worker. McKinney’s works have appeared in JMWW, Equinox and Likely Red Press’s “Fancy Arm Hole Series.”

Brubaker is a novelist,

Story: Kaitlin Jackson

short story writer and English professor at Southeast Missouri State University. He is the director for SEMO’s University Press, and he holds a few published works to his name, such as “Pilot Season,” “Black Magic Death Sphere” and “The Taxidermist’s Catalog.”

He lives with his wife and three cats, one of whom has 80,000 followers on Instagram. He also donned a snazzy man bun at the event.

During the literary event, McKinney read from a few of his selected writings such as “Independence Day,” a flash fiction about a narrator coping with his father’s recent abandonment via the heat. Other brief pieces spoke about topics such as remembrance, loss, etc.

Brubaker read from his most recent novel “We Are

Ghost Lit,” a story about a man struggling through grief after the death of a close friend.

The narration is led by a fictionalized version of Brubaker, another Brubaker giving commentary on the others’ life and actions and Starman, an entity created by the universe.

The sections being read encompass Brubaker’s denial of his friend’s death and his creation of reasons as to why it did, or didn’t, happen, a future Brubaker’s commentary on the others’ grieving and the origin of Starman.

A Q&A followed the readings. Some of the things revealed about the stories were very interesting, such as the themes of rebirth being inspired by Brubaker and his friend’s love of Star

Trek or Starman partially being based on Carl Sagan.

Most questions pertained to creative writing: pre-writing and outlining processes, how to send works out for publication without wanting to die after doing so, finding the right presses to send one’s works to and live reading events to attend.

Brubaker also spoke briefly on SEMO’s English program and the University Press it hosts. With the live readings, the Q&A and the information about SEMO’s English department, this literary event proved to be incredibly useful for aspiring writers and those potentially seeking graduate degrees in English.

Pathway Progress: Navigating the Maze of Campus Construction

For almost a year, students and staff have had their normal campus routines uprooted due to the extensive placement of fences along the main pathways of campus.

Beginning last October, campus notified students that new campus improvements would begin taking place, and fences would block off the construction zones, especially along the main campus promenade, known as Trojan Way. Additionally, the library has been reduced to only one main entrance due to the Library Plaza Project.Once the fences were up, the project stalled and students seemed to wonder what was going on and why they were put up so early, but we probably will never know. Then construction started in the

Story: Adison Cummings

spring semester. The bricks in the center of campus were in the process of being removed and the pathways were being busted up while temporary pathways were laid in asphalt all across campus.Fast forward to September 2023, where we now stand: with the fences still obscuring most of campus and causing disruptions for students trying to reach one side of campus from the other. However, students can see progress being made through the gaps in the fence and holes in the black fabric. Concrete has been laid in place of the old pathways, and most of the bricks have been removed as the area in front of the library awaits for its improvements to begin.Other projects that have been going on, some of which are finished, include

the Campus Grove Project and the Alumni Patio Project. The Campus Grove Project has been officially finished and is located on the North side of the Fine Arts Building. The Alumni Patio Project is ongoing and has the sidewalks blocked off near the alumni building so they can begin construction.The Education Building Demolition, which was located between Ross Hall and Dickinson Hall, was finished during the last spring semester and has really opened up that part of campus. The extra greenspace provides a space for students to stretch out and relax, and really makes campus feel much more expansive and connected.The expected finish date states that the Trojan Way improvements will be completed by the end

of 2023, and I am sure many students await that day. But until then, campus has marked pathways across campus to help new and returning students find their way to where they need to go. Additionally, campus communications and facilities management will continue to email students with updates about pathways, disruptions, and news about each project, so keep a lookout. If you are interested in more details, you can visit the University of Arkansas at Little Rock website. It is definitely exciting to see what will come next, and we can’t wait for the new seating areas for students along with any other improvements in store for us.

Brandy Sweeden Dixon: The New Assistant AD of Communications

A new welcome hire had just been greeted with an awesome genius; Brandy Sweeden Dixon was elated for a homecoming reception that elevated her to the position of the assistant athletic director of communication at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. “I am very excited to be back in the Little Rock Athletic Department,” she says.

Her resumption began in August, a few months after the position of the assistant AD of communication had been lying vacant following a rocky period for both the men and women’s basketball, track and field and cross country teams.

The men’s basketball team, the Trojans, led by the fifth-year Head Coach Darrel Walker, representing the UA Little Rock AD was disqualified in the tournament after losing to the Ohio Valley Conference. As the spring dragged on, AD of Communication George Lee, alongside other board members, began deliberation for a new hire.

Sweeden Dixon emerged as Lee’s candidate, guarded of impeccable traits to move the Trojan sports events and oversee communication and media relation activities.

43-year-old Sweeden Dixon, is married to Dr. Thomas Dixon, and the couple resides in Sherwood, AR. Born in Murfreesboro, and a native of Murfreesboro, AR, Sweeden Dixon began her new assignment in the Fall of 2023.

It was her second assignment for the Trojans after 11 years away from the collegiate athletic field. There were several amazing angles that she had wanted to tie-up about her new appointment, however, her skills, previous roles, experiences, job prospects, education, alumnus, ethics and style, have all been revered following her impeccable magnitude in

Story: Stanley Sike

her previous performance.

She is a member of the College Sports Information Directors of America, the United States Basketball Writers Association and the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association.

Her portfolio has been polished, with remarkable experiences gained across the country, her career has been memorably glorious with eminent accomplishment, her style modest and aesthetic and her status seemed bright.

Besides, she is an Arkansan who began her career with energetic enthusiasm at UA Little Rock, and made decorous contributions in sporting events. She had dedicated 18 years of her life to communication, marketing, media relations and online social media in promoting sporting events, catering and public services.

She shared her experience delightfully following her big fit obtained in industry leadership.

“Little Rock Athletics has always felt like home, so it is so good to be back, and I have a wonderful team that is now fully staffed.” She says, noting that she would dedicate relentless effort as a team toward promoting the UA Little Rock AD through marketing efforts, including social media and press releases.

Sweeden Dixon briefly worked for Henderson State University as a graduate assistant after her graduation from HSU with a Bachelor’s degree in mass media in 2002.

She gained experience in the field while pursuing her career and education. Having become the Assistant Media Relations Director of UA Little Rock, Sweeden Dixon made an impressive remark in societal views about women empowerment that brought about civil change and resolved gender conflict.

From executing several

media roles in sporting events and reporting to the Sun Belt Conference and NCAA, these engender a stimulating insight of her career in communication and public services.

Perhaps her service for athletics created social norm and health consciousness through the implementation campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness in the women’s basketball and volleyball team, which she continued relentlessly.

Between 2019 and 2021, she worked as a senior event manager for the Little Rock Marriott and held the position of director of catering at Hyatt Regency Birmingham.

On obtaining her master’s degree in sports administration in 2005, she worked for the Little Rock Marathon Department as assistant manager prior to coming back to Little Rock.

She was once the Director of the Little Rock Expo, and instituted media policy in managing the Basketball Media Relations and procedures for league and team that oversees media operations for all major events across the country.

While occupying the AMRD position at UA Little Rock, she incorporated strategic marketing concepts and maintained media pertinent between Sports Association and Government Association, relatably prioritizing client’s needs, fostering welfarism and creating enabling environments, as well as researching better options that advance client’s growth and excellence.

With her new appointment, the Trojan women’s basketball team has experienced a dramatic change in their performance.

The golf programs top the highest in the department, and all 15 Little Rock Athletic teams are currently making impressive performance with nearly every sport holding a portion of its success.

“I am very proud of our

students’ athletics and the importance they placed in their work in the classroom,” says Lee.

He adopted the spirit of winning in the Trojan Athletic Department, and encouraged the team to continue to thrive in this spirit of enthusiasm.

UA Little Rock athletics have been exceptional since Sweeden Dixon’s appointment. Sweeden Dixon’s poignant motivation and selfless services in sporting events creatively promote cultural diversity, competitive driven ambition towards excellence, social awareness, enterprising, purposeful vision, educational goals and public interest, bringing about emancipation and resuscitating diligence in many talented individuals across the country.

Her resounding skills in public communication and knowledge gathered from various experiences across all facets of her career aim at piloting young talents in athletics, transforming them through sporting empowerment and into professionals for successful career prospects.

NALOXONE KITS ON CAMPUS TO COMBAT RISING OPIOD OVERDOSES

Opioid usage has vastly increased across the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that from 1999-2021, there were about 280,000 fatal overdose deaths.

An opioid prescription is often written for pain relief, but its risks could cause more harm. As opioid prescription rates increase, so too does the rate of opioid misuse.

From Jan. to July 2023, healthy.arkansas.gov has reported 2,260 nonfatal overdose rates and 202 overdose deaths in Arkansas. While these numbers raise concern, they should also be a catalyst for action.

Story: Vasti Hernandez

The Arkansas Department of Health has taken previous action by creating many education and prevention programs to help reduce these rates.

Some of them include: Dose of Reality, Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS), Naloxone Training/ Distribution, and Healthcare Provider Education.

As for UA Little Rock, 33 Naloxone opioid overdose kits (Naloxbox) were placed in various buildings on campus. Anyone can administer Naloxone if they see that someone has overdosed on an opioid and have called 911.

UA Little Rock Health

Services shares some common signs of opioid overdose, such as “respiratory failure, slow breathing, small pupils, unresponsiveness or blue skin from poor circulation.”

The Naloxone kits have instructions on how to administer the Naloxone as well. There is even a map available that shows the locations of these kits, along with the locations of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

It is important to be aware of these signs and even more so about the rising rates of opioid misuse and deaths.

Reach out to those around you that are struggling or facing difficult times. Refer

them to the appropriate places, such as UA Little Counseling Services, and share the free resources available online through the Arkansas Health Department website.

It is important to know how to use lifesaving measures like the Naloxone kits, but even more important that preventative measures be implemented.

ARKANSAS RATED 30 OUT OF 50 IN NATIONWIDE ACT SCORES

The ACT is a significant exam given to high school students all around the United States in which it is used by colleges and universities to make admissions decisions.

Schools in the U.S. utilize the ACT to determine admission decisions as the exam measures students on skills deemed necessary for readiness and potential success in postsecondary education settings. Such skills include capabilities in English, reading, math and science.

The ACT is graded on a scale from 1 to 36, with the latter being the highest a person can score.

A good ACT score typically consists of a 24 or higher. According to World Population Review, 93% of Arkansas students have tested for the ACT exam, and individual unit scores are as follows: an 18.3 in English, an 18.1 in math, a 19.2

Story: Kaitlin Jackson

in reading and a 19.1 in science.

Each score combines to average out at a composite score of 18.8, a tie with Hawaii.They both sit a point below the national average.

However, seventh graders in Arkansas struggle with literacy and 10th graders turn classrooms into zoos, so this isn’t too shocking to anyone slightly knowledgeable about the education field. It’s honestly a bit surprising the scores aren’t lower.

Currently, Arkansas outperforms Tennessee and Kentucky with composites of an 18.6, North Carolina with an 18.5, Arizona with an 18.4, Louisiana and Alabama with an 18.1 and an 18 respectively, Oklahoma with a 17.9, Mississippi at a 17.8 and Nevada, holding the lowest composite score in the nation, a 17.3.

Arkansas’s scores are

far from the best, especially compared to states where 5% of students take the ACT yet manage to score a 25 or 26.

Fear not – there are ways to prepare students for future exams. A few tips were shared for improving future ACT scores following a brief interview with an Arkansan high school student, a teacher and a librarian.

For the purpose of this interview, the names of the participants have been purposely changed.

Without going into more persevering issues, Kendall Paul, a teacher, suggested the following: practice tests for each session, test-taking tips for students with test anxiety, encouraging students to enroll in core classes and monthly ACT practice sessions.

Librarian Rita Baldwin claims that students and teachers alike should “practice

multiple choice using the allotted time allowed.”

This is especially important for students who qualify for extended test times, such as those with learning disabilities.

From a student’s perspective, Olivia Little suggests helping students by working through ACT workbooks with them, practicing multiple choice questions and working with students to find a testing method they are comfortable with. With all of this in mind, it is crucial that Arkansas students take charge in their studies regarding such crucial tests and that they receive support from those around them while doing so, especially when it plays a vital role in their postsecondary education pursuits. After all, these are our future engineers, doctors and teachers.

U.S. Department of Education Takes Action Against Five Schools for Disbursing Federal Student Aid to Students Enrolled in Unaccredited Programs

On Aug. 24, 2023, the Department of Education released a statement announcing their agreement with five law schools after a Federal Student Aid investigation revealed that these five schools did not disburse Title IV funds in the correct manner to several students enrolled in accredited Master of Laws (LL.M.) programs. The five schools involved in this investigation were Albany Law School, Atlanta’s John Marshall School of Law, Brooklyn Law School, New England Law–Boston and New York Law School. Between July 2017 and June 2022, an estimated total of

Story: Vivian Angeles

$2.9 million in ineligible disbursements were made to more than 90 students throughout the five schools.

In addition to this, institutions like these must be either accredited or preaccredited by an accrediting agency that is nationally recognized in Title IV programs. The FSA Programs regard accreditation to be a vital part of the regulatory framework. That being said, each school is responsible for properly disbursing Title IV funds. They must ensure that the funds are only being given to students enrolled in the eligible programs of the department’s

institutional accrediting agency.

Now that a settlement is established, these five schools will have to: agree not to seek reimbursement or to recoup the amounts paid as a settlement from any students or former students; reimburse the expected loss to the department from the improperly disbursed funds; and stop disbursing federal student aid funds to students in ineligible programs.

Additionally, there were three schools who improperly disbursed the Title IV funds within the last five years. These three schools will have to pay a fine. Nonetheless, the agreements reached do

not establish an admission of liability or wrongdoing on behalf of any of the schools involved.

“Today’s actions demonstrate our commitment to protect the integrity of the federal student aid programs,” said FSA Chief Operating Officer Richard Cordray.

“Through our ongoing work, we will continue to protect both students and taxpayers.”

SEPTEMBER MARKS THE MONTH OF REMEMBERING: SUICIDE AWARENESS EFFORTS

Since the 1960s, health organizations have recognized suicide as a health concern that requires serious attention and preventative action.

September Marks National Suicide Awareness Month, World Suicide Prevention Day and National Suicide Prevention Week are initiatives are to remember those lost and educate the population about suicide.

Through education, friends, family members and professionals, we can take the time to learn about facts related to suicide in order to advocate, empower, prevent suicide and honor suicide awareness efforts.

There are populations at higher risk for suicide, such as people who have had previous attempts, are in college or demanding professions or come from specific racial and ethnic backgrounds. Also, some warning signs are more overt than others.

Yet, learning the symptoms for an at risk individual is

Story: Olivia Hausman

an effective way to identify those around you who may need your help. Especially because anyone could be thinking about taking their life regardless of their background.

Behaviors appearing in those thinking about suicide can be placed into three categories, according to the National Institute of Mental Health: talking about suicide, feelings of hopelessness and drastic behavior changes.

Someone can openly or indirectly communicate thoughts of suicide. An example of an indirect suicidal statement would be, “I feel like everyone would be better if I was gone.”

Feelings of hopelessness can show up in a multitude of ways, like feelings of sadness, anger, emotional distress or even neglect of physical hygiene.

Drastic behavior changes can be any behavior that seems out of the ordinary, but most notably getting affairs in order or withdrawing from activities of interest. Keep

these behaviors in mind when observing those around you.

There are ways to help those struggling with suicidal thoughts, but it can be difficult to discern from myths brought on by mental health stigmatization.

To make it easier to discern between ways to help and myths about doing so, the following information will prioritize the person in need of help.

Be open to having calm conversations and asking about mental health, validate feelings or perspectives, empower the person by recognizing their good traits, provide a resource such as the text line 988 and if necessary get in contact with a professional that can speak to the person you are concerned about.

If interested in being apart of suicide prevention efforts, there are organizations that have suicide response training. On the other hand, talking about mental health concerns does not encourage suicide, suicide is not inevitable and

people who are at risk of suicide communicate their struggles. Debunking myths surrounding mental health is crucial to advocating for those around you as the stigmatization of mental health only exacerbates these issues. Helping those around who are struggling can be difficult as suicide is regarded as a sensitive topic. Efforts to help those struggling are valuable regardless of having an incredibly significant impact. Going forward, remember that September is the month of suicide prevention efforts. Together we can build unbreakable bonds with our neighbors that provide unwavering support in life’s difficult moments.

Via Pexels

TROJAN ACTION GROUP NEWSLETTER

What is the SGA Trojan Action Group (TAG)?

TAG is a creation of the Student Government Association which will ensure government officials at the local, state, and national level are aware of the most important issues to our student body, including legislation that is working its way through the General Assembly or Congress. TAG will update students on legislation that is poised to directly or indirectly impact college students.

One of the major federal government issues that will directly impact students is Federal Student Loan payments starting in October 2023. So, if you have Federal Student Loans, this will definitely impact you, or someone you know dealing with Federal Student Loans.

Key Dates: Start: Student loan interest will resume starting on Sept. 1, 2023. Payments will be due startin in October. Borrowers will be notified before payments restart.

Why is this happening?

The White House repeatedly extended the broad, zero-interest pause on loan payments that began in midMarch 2020 due to COVID-19. The Federal government can no longer extend the

pause on those payments due to a debt limit deal.

What should you do?

Make sure you make your payments on time. If you can’t swing a payment here are some other options:

Parent Plus Loan: Direct PLUS Loans for parents are unsubsidized loans made to parents of dependent undergraduate students. If a student’s parents cannot get a parent PLUS loan, the student may be eligible to receive additional unsubsidized loans. Apply here: https:// studentaid.gov/plus-app/

On-Ramp Program: The on-ramp will run from Oct. 1, 2023, to Sept. 30, 2024. You don’t need to sign up for the on-ramp; it’s automatic. So if you simply don’t pay, it’ll be in effect.

During this time, borrowers who don’t pay their monthly student loan bills can expect the following benefits and drawbacks:

Benefits:

1. Student loans won’t fall into delinquency or default.

2. Missed payments won’t be reported to credit bureaus.

3. Credit scores won’t drop as a result of missed payments.

4. Missed payments won’t be reported to debt collections agencies, which can garnish or withhold tax refunds, wages, Social Security benefits and more.

5. Unpaid student loan interest won’t capitalize — or be added to your principal loan balance — after the on-ramp expires. This prevents you from eventually paying interest on a larger amount.

Negatives

1. Interest will accumulate, increasing the amount you’ll owe.

2. Missed payments will still be due after the on-ramp expires.

3. No progress toward loan forgiveness under income-driven repayment (IDR) plans or Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

New SAVE income driven repayment program: There’s another way to get $0 payments while also working toward

loan forgiveness and avoiding ballooning unpaid interest. The Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan provides nearly all student borrowers with the lowest monthly payments of any IDR plan. Borrowers on the REPAYE Plan will automatically get the benefits of the new SAVE Plan.

Benefits:

1. Borrowers earning less than about $32,800 individually, or less than $67,500 for a family of four, would see $0 monthly bills

2. Works towards your loan forgiveness

3. Avoids accumulating unpaid interest

What about the Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness program?

The Supreme Court issued a decision blocking the plan that would’ve forgiven up to $20,000 federal student loan forgiveness to many borrowers. Visit StudentAid.gov/ debtrelief to learn more about the actions President Biden announced following the decision and find out how this decision impacts you!

ENTERTAINMENT

Gran Turismo: Could it be One of This Year’s Best Motion Pictures?

When you walk through doors that hit you with the urge to shove popcorn down your throat, you want to enjoy the movie you are about to see.

A good motion picture makes you crave scene after scene, a film that draws you in, allowing you to experience every emotion in a general 120 minutes.

If you are one of the ones who don’t wish to get lost in a motion picture story, the new release Gran Turismo is probably not for you.

The film, which was released on Aug 25 by Sony Pictures, surrounds the compelling true story of Jan Mardenborough, a teenage clothing store employee turned professional racecar driver.

About the film:

At the age of 19, Jan Mardenborough, played by Archie Madekwe, was chosen to compete in a Gran Turismo tournament against thousands of other gamers for a chance

Story: Madison Stolzer

to make his dreams a reality. The film, is based around the true events that took place in the 2011 competition, resulting in Mardenborough being the youngest player to ever win the tournament, followed by the difficult journey to a successful career in racecar driving.

The film, that stars celebrities such as Orlando Bloom (Danny Moore), David Harbour (Jack Salter), Geri Halliwell (Lesley Mardenborough) and many more, has taken its viewers inside the world of racing like never before.

Personal Opinion:

Every emotion. This film will take you on an emotional rollarcoaster that will have you laughing one minute and tugs on your heart strings the next.

I believe that this film was executed beautifully. As someone who knew very little about this true story, or racing in general, the writers did an amazing job capturing every

aspect of this tale to leave their audience with a very fulfilled movie experience.

Although the film was shifted accordingly to fit the screen, the story held on to the base facts that made this movie a good retelling of the actual events that took place.

One of the many reasons I believe the film has become such a success, is because of the hand Jan Mardenborough himself had in the film.

Not only did he play as his own stunt double, Mardenborough had a say in the important aspects of his career he wanted put on the big screen, one of those being his fatal crash.

The incident that actually took place in 2015, not 2011 like the film appears, was one of the biggest turning points in the movie.

“It’s my life; it’s part of my story,” Mardenborough told Will Dron with Driving.co.uk.

“So I feel it would have been a disservice for the audience

for that not to be in there.”

Audience opinion and box office stats: Since the film’s release in August, it has an overall 98% audience score on Rotten Tomatos. Recent audience reviews online have labeled the film “exhilarating” and “a marvellous cinematic accomplishment.”

Sai Marie posted a review on Google saying “If a marvel is what you are looking foryou will find it in the true story of visionary epic proportion unlike anything I’ve seen in theaters of late, and it is exactly what we need more of.”

Even with the films tight budget of $60 million, it has almost doubled what it was made for, currently bringing in $110,484,173 worldwide according to statistics by Box Office Mojo.

THE ERAS TOUR: A WORLDWIDE SPECTACLE

What would it be like to attend a concert spanning three hours, which covers an artist’s musical career spanning multiple musical genres?

Well I would not know because Ticketmaster waitlisted me.

However, The Eras Tour has become a global phenomenon that can not only be experienced in 20 cities, but through firsthand experience, through a TikTok live, from TaylorNation’s Instagram page or through the Eras Tour Movie releasing on October 13th.

People are lining up online and in person to somehow gain a ticket to this spectacle.

They are driving crosscountry to catch a glimpse of Taylor Swift and her performance or to just listen to her sing from outside the stadium (known as ‘Taygating’).

There are not enough stadiums in the U.S. to hold all the people who hope to see this tour.

Those lucky enough to experience it get to sit in a stadium filled with thousands of people dressed in outfits designed to represent Swift and one of her eras or to trade friendship bracelets with their fellow ‘Swifties,’ all while listening to selected song from each one of Swift’s albums, with accompanying choreography and bedazzled outfits.

While the setlist stays the same for 95% of the tour, there are some changes throughout because she plays two surprise songs at each location she goes to, and they usually do not repeat.

This just goes to show how expansive her musical career is, due to the fact that she is playing multiple nights in 20 cities across the United States, and is able to play two different new songs each night in each city.

Once the tour begins, we take a journey through the Lover Era, then on to Fearless, Evermore, Reputation, Speak Now, Red, Folklore, 1989,

Story: Adison Cummings

her Debut album(Taylor Swift) and then finally to her latest release, Midnights.

This tour is not only iconic because of it’s length and its content, but because of how much of a mastermind Miss Swift is.

With subtle changes in her outfits and easter eggs she hides in music videos, public outings and social media posts, fans can guess and see when she will release something new, or do something different.

The Eras Tour has not only revisited the past, it

is reinventing her music for the future. She is rewriting stolen versions of her albums and releasing them as Taylor’s Version.

These are never scheduled, and are announced on very random, yet meaningful dates.

While on tour, she has announced Speak Now TV, with a new music video and a visit from Taylor Lautner himself, 1989 TV and there are many rumors Reputation TV will be next. She definitely keeps us guessing.

As she says in her song

Mastermind, “...it was all by design, cause I’m a mastermind.”

While her first leg to the United States Eras Tour has ended, she will be back in 2024.

However, like many others, if you do not have tickets already, then you are probably out of luck, as are the 30 million others who were waitlisted.

However, do not forget, you can witness it yourself in theaters October 13th, where Miss Swift herself has encouraged her fans to dress up and trade friendship bracelets while there.

She has definitely brought one of the most iconic tours to the world stage, and it will be hard to beat.

While she still has a year or so left on her tour, it is definitely exciting to see what she might do next.

MOVIE REVIEW: HAUNTED MANSION

I walked into the movie theater to watch Haunted Mansion expecting a lighthearted horror comedy. What I did not expect was an emotionally gripping story about grief centered around a ghastly tale.

This movie starred LaKeith Stanfield, Rosario Dawson, Chase W. Dillon, Owen Wilson, Tiffany Haddish, and Danny DeVito. It is a remake of the 2003 Haunted Mansion movie starring Eddie Murphy, Marsha Thomason, and Jennifer Tilly.

However, according to screenrant.com, the 2023 version “takes on a different narrative direction and is scarier than the original film.”

To note, although it is said this movie is scarier than the original film, this movie was still on the mild side of the horror genre. The spooky and ghostly aspect did not leave me jumping out of my seat.

First, let’s talk about the casting. The casting for this movie was so well done and intentional.

The actors and actresses truly fit the role they played. LaKeith Stanfield played Ben Matthias, a witty scientist and New Orleans tour guide, who is the film’s protagonist.

Next is Rosario Dawson, who plays Gabbie, a physician and single mom who recently moved to New Orleans and into

the ghostly Haunted Mansion. Her son, Travis, is played by Chase W. Dillon. Travis is an intelligent and unique kid. Instead of t-shirts, he wears bowties, and he prefers dress shoes rather than sneakers.

Owen Wilson, plays Father Kent, the oddball priest aiding in the eradication of the ghosts in the mansion.

Tiffany Haddish portrays Harriet, a psychic also on the “ghost-busting” team.

And finally, Danny Devito plays Professor Bruce Davis, a history fanatic along for the ghost adventure.

This movie is filled to the brim with other famous fan favorites such as Jamie Lee Curtis, Jared Leto, Dan Levy and Hasan Minhaj.

The dialogue between characters was magnificent. It was completely natural and hilarious.

Disney loves their cliche one-liners, but I found the scriptwriting and dialogue to be incredibly intelligent. It wasn’t corny or drawn from stereotypes.

The wardrobe was whimsical and vintage with a modern twist, with bright colors and geometric shapes. It fits the offbeat comedic style of the movie.

The movie was also set in New Orleans, another amazing touch. The city of New Orleans

is so rich in history, myths, and tales, that it truly can feel like you have stepped back into the past. It was the perfect setting for a movie like this.

One of my favorite things about the movie was how the directors were not afraid to stray away from stereotypes, especially of its black characters.

Their personalities and characters did not revolve around their blackness. They truly were just themselves. They were able to have their own authentic story. They did not turn into animals and have to be turned back into humans. They were not “sassy” or made to be comedic reliefs.

The characters were quirky and eclectic. For once, it seemed like Disney did not rely on outdated stereotypes of black characters and it was so refreshing to see.

It was a beautifully done movie that truly showed the effects of grief and what happens when it is left unprocessed.

It was a tearjerker, something I was not expecting. One of my biggest pet peeves in most movies is that when there are emotional scenes they are often glazed over and not fleshed out. Some movies can be quick to move on to the next scene or the next comedic moment. That is why Haunted Mansion stood out.

Although it was a comedy

they did not shy away from serious topics such as grief, escapism and binge drinking. Comedy can sometimes undermine what the characters are going through, but Haunted Mansion intelligently uses it as a tool to create special moments in the film.

The movie was around 2 hours long with credits and it used every single minute wisely. Nothing felt rushed or out of place. Everything about the movie was so intentionally well done and thought-out. Even the smallest of details were made to be seen. If I were to see it again, I am sure I would find something that I did not notice or see the first time.

To conclude, I see this movie as having the potential to become a film franchise.

I love it when a witty and fun group of actors gather together on screen. I would love to see these actors and actresses be cast together again.

I am usually not the type of person who watches movies more than once, but this film has quickly become a comfort movie and I can’t wait to see it again.

If you are looking for a movie to start spooky season off right, I implore you to watch Haunted Mansion.

Story: Rian Newman

CUE THE ELEVATOR MUSIC

An Interview with the Anonymous @ualrelevators on Instagram

As the new scholastic year commences, many new students have questions about the amenities offered throughout the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

One of the most asked questions on campus is, “How are the elevators on campus?”

In short, there are too many different kinds of elevators to give one specific answer.

There are some spectacular elevators, while there are also some subpar elevators.

Nonetheless, an anonymous source has taken to Instagram, under the username @ualrelevators, to review and rate the elevators of UA Little Rock’s numerous buildings.

This source has chosen to stay anonymous for reasons they’ve answered below. With that being said, this interview was conducted on a Question and Answer basis through the Direct Message feature on Instagram.

Q: How did you come up with this idea?

A: First, I LOVE elevators. I would rather take the sketchiest elevator over a single stair.

I love the buttons, the noises, and the entire concept is SO me. So, I find myself riding in elevators frequently, especially in my sophomore year when I had a lot of classes in Stabler and Ross.

I also love the fifth floor of the library. I even live on the top floor of my dorm building so I can spend more time in the elevator.

I felt like I needed an account to express my appreciation for the elevators on campus because there truly are some awesome ones!

Q: What is your favorite elevator on campus?

A: This is a difficult question because there’s so many options. I would have

Story: Vivian Angeles

to say I am OBSESSED with the scary elevator in the old student union building, right next to the asbestos sign.

One of my followers told me I need to review it for Halloween because it’s so scary! Part of me wants to say it’s my favorite because it’s so iconic.

I feel like there are elevators that are better in some ways and worse in others:

In terms of speed, style and general aesthetic, it would have to be the elevators in West Hall.

Fortunately, I am no longer a freshman, so I never use it, which I’m grateful for because it breaks down every other week (I lived on the sixth floor as a freshman, haha).

Similarly, I think the elevator by the gym is awesome because it’s hidden and basically never used, but is also so much more convenient to use instead of those dizzying spiral stairs or walking up the hill by the DSC.

Ultimately, my personal favorite is the old student union elevator because it makes me giggle every time, but I think all elevators are awesome.

Q: What’s your least favorite?

A: 1) Either of the Stabler elevators. Yikes! I’ve heard nightmare stories about those breaking down and needing to be opened via the emergency button.

They also break down a lot too and aren’t very efficient since they’re always packed - especially when it’s super cold outside.

2) I’ve never lived in North Hall, but I did visit a friend once and got stuck.

I literally had to pry the doors open myself. Not. Cool. I’ve also heard numerous rumors of it being haunted.

Q: How would you improve the UALR elevators?

A: I honestly wouldn’t

change a thing. I think facilities management generally does an awesome job of maintaining them and keeping them accessible.

I do wish some of the elevators had cool or unique floors though, as the library, Ross and Dickinson all share similar designs.

Q: How do UALR elevators compare to different building’s elevators?

A: They’re worse, no doubt. Private businesses such as hotels or office buildings tend to have much more beautiful elevators. But, I still have great appreciation for our elevators on campus, considering I made a whole Instagram account dedicated to them.

Q: Are you planning to continue your elevator reviews?

A: Yes! I was actually contacted by a member of the Forum staff to potentially conduct some reviews through the Forum and I would absolutely be willing to do that, so be on the lookout for that!

Q: If so, what are your future plans for your page?

A: Well, not to give out my identity or anything, but I am not walking all the way to the business or EIT buildings when I never go over there. So I might have to recruit some fellow eLOVEators (fans of elevators) to snap some pics of the elevators I don’t frequent. I do intend to continue my reviews, whether they be on Instagram or the Forum.

Q: Why have you chosen to keep your identity anonymous?

A: I keep my identity anonymous because the focus should be on how awesome our elevators are, not myself!

Though I am quite

awesome as well, I have my own account dedicated to that.

The Forum is incredibly excited for the future reviews that will be published under the anonymous administrator of @ualrelevators. Go follow them on Instagram! Their page is as brilliant and comical as the elevators on campus. Stay tuned for those future reviews!

Spotlight on Faculty Dr. Nickolas Doshier

r. Nickolas Doshier was born and raised in Austin, Texas.

He received his bachelor’s degree in Music & Human Learning from the University of Texas at Austin where he stayed teaching music in the Austin Independent School District after meeting the love of his life who is now his wife.

Daron, a full-time mother to their two little girls Adeline and Eliza, ages four and one and a half, is also a teacher with degrees in English and Sociology.

Dr. Doshier describes life at home as “musical; Moana is the hit at the house these days.” Their little girls sing and dance all the time.

After receiving his master’s degree in wind conducting from Louisiana State University, Dr. Doshier went on to study for his doctorate in music education at Florida State University.

Before being hired on at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, he taught choir, guitar, and band at Akins High School. Dr. Doshier joined the University of Arkansas at Little Rock music faculty this semester as the Director of Music Education.

In addition to serving as the Director of Music Education, Dr. Doshier also conducts the UA Little Rock Wind Ensemble.

The syllabus for The UA at Little Rock wind ensemble lists objectives to have evident “improvement in individual musicianship through a demonstrated commitment to the highest level of personal artistic expression in rehearsals and performances.”

Upon successful completion of the course,

Story: Val Bell-O

Dstudents will be able to “listen and musically adjust to other musicians within the ensemble, demonstrate an ability to perform the ensemble’s repertoire, including works from multiple genres and in a variety of styles.”

They will also show evidence of “personal growth in instrumental techniques and overall musicianship. Perform and rehearse with professional etiquette and class.”

When asked about his impression of his wind ensemble students he asserted that he loved his one-on-one meetings with each student; they helped him to contextualize rehearsals.

“Everyone’s journey is important to me; sharing the music is just one of the many rewards.”

The Fall Concert “Portraits of the Sky” will be his first with the UA at Little Rock Wind Ensemble.

The concert theme represents the weather and first daylight. Doshier stated that he knew that the piece entitled “Sheltering Sky” by composer John Mackey would fit the group.

He was very intentional about getting living composers to have a conversation about the pieces they wrote with the musicians who will play them.

This will happen virtually during rehearsal on the Wednesday—a week before the concert—in the Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall.

One of the pieces, “Aphelion” by Giovanni Santos, will feature Kevin Fitzgerald, a UA at Little Rock 2022 graduate, current music theory tutor, and an Institutional Assistant in the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education on piano.

Additionally, the final selection, a march called “Rolling Thunder,” will feature Dr. Michael Underwood, the Director of the UA Little Rock Jazz Band and Principal Trombone of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

The next concert after “Portraits of the Sky” will commemorate Dr. Bob Bowery, a retired UALR music professor who passed away last year.

“Dr. Bob,” as students called him, wrote the UA at Little Rock alma mater which will be performed at the concert on November 28th, the Tuesday after Fall break.

Dr. Doshier feels that it would be a great opportunity to educate the public about the history of the school song.

He also looks forward to programming a piece called “One Life Beautiful” by Julie Giroux, as a tribute to the late composer and UA Little Rock music professor.

Dr. Doshier is also serving as the Musical Director of the upcoming opera/ musical theater production titled “Games of Chance.”

Dr. Doshier explained that this will be the “biggest musical collaborative production put on by UA Little Rock in recent years.”

The pit orchestra alone

consists of 14 musicians made up of current students and music faculty, members of the community, as well as members of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

“Games of Chance” will feature multiple unique operas and musicals, French to Modern types that will be a musical interpretation of gambling using Samuel Barber’s chromaticism and Scott Joplin’s Pulitzer Prize winning “Treemonisha” with an infusion of jazz elements dating back to Bizette.

Dr. Groesbeck, who teaches music history at UA at Little Rock, and who is a very accomplished musician, will play piano.

Dr. Nickolas Doshier hit the ground running this semester and looks forward to many successful exploits as a part of the faculty of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Be sure to make plans to come meet our new director of the wind ensemble at one or all of the upcoming events scheduled. https://ualr. edu/litperforming/events/

There are currently 33 musicians in the UA at Little Rock Wind Ensemble and Dr. Doshier welcomes anyone with prior experience on a wind or percussion instrument to join.

Spotlight on Faculty Dr. Rachel Eells

As the Interim Director of the School of Education at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Dr. Rachel Eells aspires to help position the School of Education to improve the educational landscape in Arkansas and her long-term goals and objectives are to be able to use her expertise to continue to do good in the community.

When asked what is her WHY for what she does, she answered, “My calling in life is helping people figure out what they do well and positioning them to do it.”

Before receiving her Master of Education in gifted and talented from UA Little Rock in 1998, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education from Concordia University in 1995 and in 2011 she received her PhD in Educational Psychology from Loyola University in Chicago.

Her husband Brandon Eells is a voice-over actor, and her daughter is a junior at Parkview Arts & Sciences Magnet High School where her primary focus is theater.

Dr. Eell’s personal interests that bring her joy are exercising

Story: Val Bell-O

to stay healthy and strong at CrossFit, her faith community at St. Margaret Episcopal and being able to put her eyes on something green outside.

She loves nature and interacting with the ”backyardigans” with her bird feeder and reading the stack of books that she keeps next to her bed. She also has two cats who are named Kurt and Katy.

Besides birds, books, and cats, Dr. Eells likes to indulge herself in arts & crafts, which is currently crocheting. Finally, she has a distinct interest in observing key changes in songs, which attributes to her love of music, this includes listening to, creating and singing.

The landscape of her career in education started out as a teacher in elementary classrooms for twelve years at Christ Lutheran, where she taught 5th and 6th grade and worked with special education and the gifted and talented.

While in Chicago working on her PhD, She became pregnant with her daughter which led her to apply for a position at Concordia where she spent 17 years as faculty in Higher Education but then moved to Psychology and

became chair of that department and chair of faculty senate and then became Dean of Arts & Sciences for five years.

From there she became Vice President of Academic Affairs & Student Experience at Concordia in New York, which was a small private college where she lived on campus for a year and a half from February 2020-2021.

The school eventually closed partly due to the impact of COVID, so in the summer of 2022 she moved back to Little Rock where she says, “family brought us back”. She cared for mother who was ailing and has since passed.

Upon her return to Little Rock, she reached out to Ann Robinson who was her professor while she studied for her master’s degree at UA at Little Rock and Dean Sara Beth Estes and started working with her on projects before filling a sudden vacancy as she was there and had the expertise and the time to step in.

At the end of the school year, she was appointed as the Interim Director of the School of Education. Dr. Rachel Eells who feels like she has 15 years left in her career, completed her interview with “it’s nice to be back at my alma mater.”

BACK TO SCHOOL BASH

New Hope Church Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Music, food, decorations, games and a lively atmosphere – this is how New Hope Church, located in Glenwood, Arkansas, celebrated the start of Hispanic Heritage Month.

This year marked the fourth year that NHC held their Latino Festival. While it is only a one-day event, several weeks ahead of time are spent planning and praying for this day.

It is an event not only to celebrate Hispanic history and culture, but to also bring in folks from the surrounding areas to celebrate community as a whole.

One of the best parts of this event is seeing everyone come together, especially as they line up for the tacos, pupusas, elotes (street corn) and fresh fruit cups topped with a spicy chamoy sauce.

As people wait in line,

Story: Vasti Hernandez

they share how they found out about the event. From their sister to their customers to the flyers passed out with a free coupon for a taco to a Facebook post, somehow they all found their way to the Lat Fest.

There were so many options for food and drinks, like aguas frescas and Mexican coke, that people came back repeatedly to try all the things.

Alongside all the food and games, this year’s itinerary included: Folklórico dances, live music, piñatas and fireworks.

Music is highly valued in the Hispanic community, and is even better when experienced live. As for the Folklórico dances, the dancers themselves never fail to impress the crowd with their swift movements and coordination.

A piñata is a must at any

party, whether for the kids or the adults. Plus, who wouldn’t want to swing at a piñata with the hope that you’ll get the most candy, and fight a few people along the way?

Each year is different in the best way possible. It’s a day that can’t be missed and is one NHC looks forward to when the new year comes around.

When the event is over and the cleaning process begins, it is nice to reflect on everyone’s favorite part of the event.

By then, the stress of setting it all up and ensuring all the needed supplies and materials are on hand has subsided, and everyone can rest in the fact that all the familiar and unfamiliar faces present had a great time.

The funds raised during the event will be invested in many different areas, such as

the scholarships the church gives to qualifying high school graduates, community projects in Glenwood, investments in the church and much more.

If there is something about NHC, it’s that they value community.

While yes, you can do most anything alone, the process and journey you find yourself in will always be more enjoyable when others are present. Through support or prayer or simply a listening ear, the church is filled with people that are willing to walk with you through life.

It’s a special thing, and this is what sparks many ideas and projects within the church and Glenwood itself; it causes movement and action.

HAPPY HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH!

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!

From Sep. 15 to Oct. 15, the United States observes National Hispanic Heritage Month.

This month of celebration of Hispanic histories, cultures and contributions began as a single week in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. Then, two decades later, in 1988, this week turned into a month under President Ronald Reagan.

“Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the contributions of Americans tracing their roots to Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America and the Spanish-speaking nations of the Caribbean,” states the U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. National Archives and Records Administration.

“The timing is historically significant as September 15 is the anniversary of independence in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. The designated period is also a nod to those from Mexico and

Story: Vivian Angeles

Chile, which celebrate their independence September 16 and September 18, respectively.”

At the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, there are students, faculty, and staff of diverse Hispanic descent. There are also numerous courses that teach Latin American literature, history and Spanish.

“For me, Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a period of celebration, communitybuilding and joy, but also a time for self-reflection and learning. Participating in colorful and cheerful events that celebrate Hispanic and Latinx cultures by showcasing delicious dishes, great music, lively dances, and vibrant traditional clothes is the first of many steps in experiencing the richness of our cultures,” writes Associate Professor Dr. Laura Barrio-Vilar.

“...However, to truly learn about our cultures, experiences, and contributions to society, it is essential to develop meaningful relationships, working side

by side, and collaborating with individuals of Hispanic and Latinx descent.”

During this 30-day period, UA Little Rock has several activities planned to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

So far, the Multicultural Center (MC) has collaborated with the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) to host a Loteria Night on Sep. 27. It was a fun-filled night with food, games and prizes! The students loved it, and LULAC plans to host more Loteria Nights throughout the year.

On Oct. 5, the MC and LULAC are putting together an event to showcase a Mariachi Band with Folkoricos!

There will be music, dancing, food trucks, and a guest speaker! In addition to this, LULAC plans to host a movie night showcasing the historical documentary, “Underwater Dreams” in collaboration with the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP).

This movie tells the true story of how the sons of undocumented Mexican immigrants learned to create underwater robots from Home Depot parts.

On Oct. 10, another movie night will be held in collaboration with the MC showcasing the 2023 DC film, “Blue Beetle”. “Blue Beetle” is the first movie in the DC Universe to hold a Latino superhero as their lead!

Lastly, on Oct. 13, the MC is putting together a gallery walk of several members of the Hispanic community who have made a lasting impact in the United States and around the world. These events will be a lot of fun where students and faculty can learn more about this history and culture of Hispanic Heritage.

LITTLE ROCK BCM FRESH LIFE

Jacobb Nichol and Angel Hovis

food truck friday

Jacobb Nichol and Grace Johnson

Music Students Go Abroad

Mya Little

Mya Little’s summer experience was something you could make a movie about. The senior music education student was approached by her voice professor, Diane Kesling, to be a part of the Festival International Opera Summer Program in Italy. She could not say no.

She quickly accepted the offer but soon realized she had two weeks to prepare herself to be on an airplane headed to Italy.

Although this opportunity came out of the blue, Mya was prepared and thought fast.

She is a seasoned performer and what better way to raise money than to do what she does best: sing. Using a benefit concert and GoFundMe, she was able to raise enough money to cover the expenses she would need for her time in Italy.

Getting her passport was another obstacle, but

Story: Rian Newman

with the help of an Arkansas Senator, she was able to get an expedited passport just a day before her flight.

In my interview with Little, she explained how the community around her supported her through this process. It takes a village and it is beautiful to see a community of people support a young adult in the pursuit of her dreams.

The opera Little was a part of was called, Lo frate ‘nnamorato by Giovanni Battista Pergolesi, a comedic opera show.

She sang the part of Cardella, a hardworking maidservant. I asked Little what her favorite part of the whole experience was. She answered it was working with her director of the opera.

She said, “Her vision was made plain. She did not have us guessing ‘What are

we doing?’ Our time was always respected and we were always given everything we needed for those rehearsals and the whole production.”

A magnificent director can make a stark difference in the quality of a performance.

In our interview, I asked the performer what she learned from this experience. She talked about how different the culture in Europe was from America.

She learned how to sing better in Italian, adjusting her sound and diction to sound like a native Italian opera singer.

When she went there, there were also new pieces she had to learn and new techniques such as the Italian international phonetic alphabet (IPA). She also noted having to speak an Italian dialect.

“For us, our opera was actually a Neopolitan Italian, so it was a dialect. So the Italians

there, most of them could not understand us because they don’t know that dialect. The dialect is specific to Naples, so people in that region speak it even till this day.”

While in Italy, the senior music student stayed in the town of Urbania. It was a small community but filled with many other musicians like herself.

Little said she enjoyed immersing herself in the Italian culture. Although she could only speak greetings in Italian, she noted that music filled whatever language barrier was there.

Once people found out why she was there, they were filled with awe. “Their whole demeanor would change.”

Little expressed that being a single black woman in Europe at times she felt like an exhibit. I asked her if she felt the need to shy away or hide a part of herself.

She responded, “It encouraged me more because I was being looked at already and people were already pointing at me and talking about me, so I wanted to give them a show. I made it a point every day to dress good, look good and make it look like it was New York Fashion Week. I made it a point to put the ‘S’ on my chest and walk out and be my own little Superwoman.”

Little is a performer and a force of nature. She has always performed R&B, rap or theater, but she’s never done anything operatic until this program.

“Opera is definitely something I want to work hard on and really have under my belt even if I don’t pursue it all of my life.”

When asked if she had any advice for music students who would like to do what she did, she replied, “Always say yes. You will be shocked how people will show up for you, for just saying yes, for just showing up.”

My last question for Little was what was she looking forward to in the future. She thoughtfully replied, “I am looking forward to having programs similar to the one I just left but for underprivileged and underrepresented youth. So having them take these classes for learning different languages and taking lessons with singing,

or playing an instrument.”

As a vocal education major, this is what Little wants to do. “I want to be able to teach it. I want to able to make it accessible to everyone, even if they’re not my students.”

Stephen Graham

Stephen Graham is yet another amazing part of the UA Little Rock music department.

From June 26 until August 6 the junior piano performance major attended the Atlantic Music Festival in Waterville, Maine.

The Atlantic Music Festival is a prestigious music program filled with talented musicians from around the world coming together to hone their craft.

During the 6 week program, Graham attended the piano institute and studied with twelve professors including those from Julliard and the New England Conservatory of Music.

Graham said he met people from around the world. There were students from Sweden, France, Japan, China, Italy, and across the United States.

The program was intense and rigorous. Graham said they heard new music every week from the student composers.

He studied solo piano music, as well as chamber music which is playing with other instruments.

I asked Graham what his favorite part of the whole experience was. He said the people and the friends he made. He said they still talk and keep up with each other and plan on visiting each other.

He also mentioned a professor that he was able to closely work with who was the director of the piano institute at this program. “She gave me extra piano lessons and helped with my chamber music piece. She really helped me to become more confident and better at piano.”

I asked the music student what he learned from this experience. He replied, “I had a lot of insecurities being from Little Rock. Not many pianists come from here. Going up to a place close to a lot of big schools and people from big schools, I learned that I have my place in this field and music. A lot of people accepted me and were so kind to me and teachers made a big difference in my life. It just made it really concrete that this is what I want to do and what I want to pursue.”

Graham says he hopes to go again in the next year to study with a particular professor he liked.

I asked him what he hopes for in the future. He responded, that he plans on going to graduate school then getting his doctorate in musical arts and studying piano.

His goal is to teach at a conservatory of music and be able to perform with the local musicians. He also wants to be able to travel with friends and perform solo works as well.

During our interview, I asked the piano performer what advice he would give other pianists like himself.

Graham replied, “Work hard. I saw a quote the other day, ‘Just let it turn you to dust because you’ll be disappointed if you don’t.’ Just go all in for it. Don’t second guess being welcome into those communities. Put yourself in uncomfortable spaces and places you feel you don’t belong, that you feel are too advanced for you.

Put yourself continually in those situations and that’s how you’ll advance and eventually become more comfortable.”

Andrew Battie Sophomore and vocal music education major Andrew Battie had the opportunity to travel with the Trinity Episcopal Cathedral choir to perform in cathedrals in England. The music student explained that during the summer, the local singers who normally perform for the services at these cathedrals are on break during the summer months. But there is still a need for a group of singers to sing the traditional hymnals of the services. That is where the Trinity Episcopal Cathedral choir comes in. They first performed at Lichfield Cathedral in Lichfield, a city in Staffordshire, England. Then a week later traveled to London to perform in Southwark Cathedral. With the musical differences, Battie said he felt he was going back in time. They had to practically relearn all the pieces to fit the techniques and musical style of the pieces. It brought challenges having to adjust to a new

style of choral music, but it was rewarding.

They worked with a variety of performers including people from Julliard and a famous musician from Jamaica.

Battie said he loved sharing his musical experiences with others and also hearing about their experiences. Battie recounts the trip as being the best thing he has ever experienced.

“I don’t think anything can beat it.” Battie was amazed by the cultural differences, the architecture and loved interacting with the locals.

Towards the end of our interview, I asked Battie what his future plans were. Battie is an introspective musician. He talks about the beautiful exchange of life and experiences when working in music.

He says, “I am hoping this is the first of many to come. I want to one day go to places like Italy or Jamaica and perform there. Being able to perform in the UK, you are not just getting to experience it yourself, but the people that are there watching you perform, they’re able to experience something they don’t see every day. I don’t like to just think of myself. It’s good to also think about others. Be able to not just appreciate it yourself but also let the listener appreciate the music you’re making.”

Kaitlyn Kendrick

Kaitlyn Kendrick made her dreams come true this summer.

The music student, majoring in vocal performance and music theory traveled to London to perform with the Ozark Festival Singers in the historic landmark, Cadogan Hall.

I asked Kendrick what made this experience so special to her. She replied, “I really enjoy getting to sing in historic venues like Carnegie Hall and Cadogan Hall. What I didn’t anticipate was how much oneon-one time we would get with the composers. Getting feedback from the composers on how we’re singing was very different. You get to make informed musical decisions.

Whereas with composers who are already deceased, you can go off whatever their markings are and things that you’ve heard. But with living composers, you can even change things in the moment.”

Kendrick described it as a collaborative environment where everyone there is working to create music.

During our interview, Kendrick talks about a powerful moment she experienced with one of the composers of the pieces they were singing.

“During our dress rehearsal, before the concert, we ran through the entire show and Paul Mealor was sitting in the audience and when he came up he said, ‘I wouldn’t change a thing.’ That is an unreal experience. To have the composer say I wouldn’t change anything, we nailed it! That was the best feeling I’ve ever had.”

I asked the music student what new experience she thinks will stick with her. She replied, “Singing a solo on stage with the composer, Joanna Gill, in the audience.”

She also noted how incredible it was to meet other music professionals and make music with people she was not familiar with.

Kendrick explains how at home she felt in London and the positive experiences she had with the people there. She also notes how amazing her Paris trip was.

“I knew I was going to have a good experience in Paris. It’s like a dream come true that I was in Paris. I’ve been dreaming of that since I was a kid. And I wouldn’t have gone if I didn’t have the opportunity to go to London.”

I asked the junior music student what advice she would give those who want to do what she did. She had a checklist ready.

“Get a passport. Save your money. Always be prepared to go somewhere. And always be open-minded. Always say yes to opportunities if it’s not going to overwhelm you.”

When asked what her future plans were, she

explained that she plans to go to graduate school and continue her music theory research, but her dream is to be a performer and a professional opera singer.

She also plans on auditioning for the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition in New York.

She hopes that performance opportunities continue to come her way and she continues becoming a better musician. Kendrick made her dreams come true this summer and there is only more to come in the future.

Christian Waldron

Senior voice education major Christian Waldron is a talented musician. Not only is he part of the UALR choirs, but he has also taken the theater world by storm.

This summer Waldron was quite busy. He was one of the collaborative pianists for the ACT II Summer Education Program and the musical director and pianist for the production of Rent at the Argenta Community Theater.

In my interview with the music student, I asked him what his experience was like being part of this program. His response was, “Working with the children in the summer program was an absolute delight! Arkansas underestimates the talent and potential of its young performers. Rent was also amongst my favorite productions to direct under - the efficiency and that cast were phenomenal performers and longtime friends.”

Waldron has such a talent for teaching. When asked what he learned from the experience, this is what he had to say, “With the children - one of the most valuable things kids admire and adhere to is an experience they can latch on to. To find balance between structure and freedom to let them create is a brilliant challenge to undertake! With Rent - the most valuable takeaway is the unapologetic voice. With a show as impactful as its message, it led to a lot of personal growth and it

became this deep-rooted and compelling masterwork!”

Waldron is currently working on another production: Sweeney Todd. However, after this one, Waldron will be going on a hiatus. He explains in his interview that he has been in musical theater since 2015, and he has been a part of 28 productions since then.

In the past two years, he has done 14 musical theatre productions. Though the music student does not want to slow down, he wants to focus on his studies and take a well-needed and deserved break for the time being.

I asked him where he saw himself in the future. His response was, “My passions lie in score study, conducting, and teaching, so my plan is to look for a master’s program out-ofstate or even out-of-country.”

Waldron has a bright present and an even brighter future. Keep a lookout for future productions from Christian Waldron!

These five music students are just a glimpse of the flourishing music program here at UA Little Rock. The work these musicians put in to get to this point in their career is indescribable. Each of these students has a unique experience and story to tell. Remember to always support the music program by attending performances and sharing on social media!

Brushes and Baguettes: UA Little Rock Art Students Take On Paris

Paris, the iconic ‘City of Love,’ has long beckoned artists worldwide with its creative atmosphere and rich history. This summer, 13 UA Little Rock

Story: Skylar Boone

the hall of mirrors. It was crazy, walking around that place and thinking about how people lived there,” says Kate Lusk, a painting major and one of the participants in the trip.

even for seasoned travelers.

But for Rodriguez, it was her first time on an airplane, “that first plane ride was rough,” she remarked, “like a roller coaster but worse. And I hate roller coasters. But it was worth it, of course.”

During the trip, students improved upon their observational drawing skills by making master copies of famous artworks, “my drawing skills improved so much,” says Jorge Mandujano, an illustration major, “we were only there for two weeks, but my art improved so much during that time.”

When asked how his

Mandujano said that he learned not only about drawing on the trip but himself, “I’d never left North America before, so I was pretty nervous when we left for the trip, but it was amazing. It helped me decide that I wanted to travel a lot more. I don’t want to stay in the same place anymore.”

Lusk had a similar experience, as did many of the other students who attended the trip, “I feel like a new woman,” Lusk joked, “I don’t want to be here [Arkansas] anymore; I have to keep traveling.”

Though many students decided to attend the trip on

art students had the opportunity to study drawing in Paris alongside Krista Schoening, MFA, an assistant painting professor at the Windgate College of Art and Design.

The students visited places like the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Versailles and many other iconic Parisian places during the trip. Under Schoening’s guidance, the students studied and sketched many statues, paintings, and famous works of art.

Versailles was at the top of most of the students’ favorite places in Paris.

“It was so grand, especially

An art education major, Pamela Rodriguez, said, “I read about it [Versailles] in textbooks … it was all so pretty, so fancy and boujee. It was so surreal like it didn’t even happen.”

Though the trip was surreal for many students, it felt unreal to Rodriguez. She says: “I guess I hadn’t looked at many pictures of Paris before the trip, so I was expecting to see this concrete jungle—something like New York. But I was completely surprised by the city’s beauty, especially the plants and parks. We don’t have that here.”

The eight-hour flight to Paris is a serious undertaking,

drawing skills improved, Mandujano remarked: “I had a lot of problems with proportions and stuff … when I draw a lot of the time, it’ll run off the page, so Krista helped me with that a lot.”

a whim, most, if not all, have come back with a passion for travel, “oh yes, I recommend that other people travel, especially students.” Lusk says, “You won’t regret it.”

EVENT REVIEW: SOMA AFTER DARK

n Sept. 1, some students from UA Little Rock attended a new event happening in the South of Main (SoMa) District in Downtown Little Rock.

The event was called SoMa After Dark, and was started by the SoMa 501 nonprofit organization which is, according to their mission statement, “championing its economic interests, celebrating and protecting its history, and cultivating an exceptional downtown experience for all who come to live, work, play, and be in our vibrant, neighborly community.”

SoMa After Dark is an attempt to execute this mission.

Story: Lamar Townsend

OCaleb Mimms, Yvonne Rodriguez and Alex Martin. We started our night at The Root Cafe towards the end of the SoMa row. The weather was beautiful so we decided to sit outside. The Root Cafe is known for its soulful meals with an eclectic twist.

For instance, we ordered Kimchi Fries as an appetizer –even though it did not come out until our entrees – which had mixed reviews around the table. The fries were nice and crispy and real kimchi was used, but the overall combination didn’t hit like it should.

I had hot fried chicken with the zucchini cornbread which I enjoyed a lot.

The chicken was seasoned well and the heat was not overbearing. The zucchini

tofu from Mr. Chen’s on South University Avenue for a better tofu experience.

Lastly, Rodriguez got the regular burger with Dijon mustard and really enjoyed it.

My recommendation is unless you really love kimchi, avoid the kimchi fries; if you are not too sensitive to a little spice, get the spicy.

After dinner, the streets were bustling with people going in and out of stores.

We went to Moxy Modern Mercantile, next door to Loblolly, and were pleasantly surprised.

walked down to Bernice Garden in the middle of the SoMa district. The garden was full of local vendors from around Arkansas, many of them women or minority-owned businesses.

We spoke to the Mokasso Experience, an art vendor who was selling prints of her original artwork. We asked her how she was able to get a spot in the SoMa and why she chose to be a vendor in Bernice Garden.

Held each first Friday of the month, the event is an invitation for businesses and restaurants to keep their doors open a little later than usual to draw people into the SoMa nightlife.

Their website states, “Over two dozen local eateries, art galleries and shops lining Main Street and adjacent streets will keep their lights on late so that everyone from children to retirees can enjoy the creative, eclectic and unique SoMa community. Businesses will offer special menus, discounts and entertainment. SoMa plans to work closely with Bernice Garden to bring in food trucks, vendors and live music.”

Let’s see if the hype lives up to the truth of what it is like to attend SoMa.

The UA Little Rock students included myself, Lamar Townsend,

bread was DELICIOUS, moist buttery and healthy. Others were not so happy with their meals.

Martin got the regular fried chicken and said that the Trojan Cafe fried chicken was seasoned better.

Mimms got the fried tofu with a side of mac and cheese. He said it was “alright,” but recommended the crispy

Moxy has a variety of antique and new knickknacks, gifts and furniture all centered around a 1950s vintage theme. The store is on the expensive side.

However, there are some cool items for cheap such as stickers, posters and t-shirts. There was also merch that the store made special for the SoMa After Dark event.

After leaving Moxy we

“I got an invite to be part of SOMA night. A lot of people from the community [SoMa District] are my favorite because they’re local. Whether it’s soap or fruits they support local.”

This rang true as I saw the vendors throughout the garden all were local small businesses just trying to get their start, eager to show the city what they have to offer.

From wax melts, custom t-shirts, jewelry and others we couldn’t make it to, it was truly an event by locals for locals.

We ended the humid night with a much-needed break at Loblolly Creamery. SoMa After Dark is an amazing event if you’re looking to support local businesses and meet some friendly faces.

The food is plentiful, but is not for the weak-pocketed as SoMa is known for its notso-cheap restaurants. I would recommend attending at least one of the Friday events with a group of friends or a cute date. SoMa After Dark 6/10 moons.

Lamar Townsend

RIVER MARKET 2023: LAST CALL

Sitting just along the Arkansas River is the beautiful downtown area of Little Rock. The sun was out in full force with temperatures sticking close to 100 deegrees fahrenheit. Upon arriving at the River Market, guests are treated to many displays. From fresh produce and homemade Kansas City Style bbq sauce to handmade wooden products and unique arrangements of artwork, the mark was chock full of amazing items.

The HIGHLIGHTS: Deandra Givens, an Alumni of UALR, class of 2004, has been helping her daughter sell her artwork which she began drawing during her time in the air force.

Story: John Reed

in some cases precious metals.

The true gift of expression is being able to allow everyone to showcase their take on these things. In her latest release, “TO MY SISTERS” Brianna encourages her consumers to bring their passion to these amazing styles.

The misrepresentation of black women has long been an issue, however this is a step forward in properly showcasing these amazing women, their culture, and allowing even more of their community the opportunity to see their expressions come to fruition.

Just a few booths down and across, visitors were treated to a unique assortment of accessories made from genuine snake skin.

Banana Ball Python while his counterpart Angel is a Pastel Calico Spider Morph Python.

A little sidenote, Riley had to write two essays in order to convince her mother to allow her to obtain the reptiles, primarily because as any parent would be, she was concerned about how they would be cared for and why Riley wanted them.

As time went on, they began showcasing her art

and along with her mother Gabrielle Edwards, they are gradually attempting to change the stigma around snakes.

If you would like proof, take a look at the picture where she allowed me to hold one of them, and trust me, I was nervous, but it was a huge step in making me address my fears. That exact feeling is a major reason for Riley’s work.

Her daughter Alaysia Brianna, known on Facebook and Instagram as Alaysia’s Place, began her relationship with art at just two years old.

Her work showcases a unique perspective on minority individuals such as herself. The expression of colored women specifically is diverse and abundant in terms of how many styles and how much history is stored within those.

Many examples of this can be seen just from the near infinite options of braids they can choose from along with the accents provided from an assortment of beads, fabrics, and

This booth was owned by 12-year-old Riley Hinman, known on Instagram as Rileyssnakecreations, who is also an avid animal lover.

She makes it a point to only use the skin that her snakes, Stan-Lee and Angel, naturally shed. It is a well known truth that the majority of the snakeskin products available today typically cost the reptile its life.

For those of you privy to comics, it is in fact true that the names of Riley’s snakes are an ode to Marvel Comics creator Stan Lee.

Speaking of the two stars, Stan-Lee is a Pastel

John Reed

ARKANSAS COMIC-CON TAKES OFF

For residents of the downtown Little Rock area, it might look like a typical day outside until you see the number of stormtroopers, anime characters and members of Starfleet walking down the street.

Yes, I’m talking about the Arkansas Comic-Con that took place at the Little Rock Convention Center earlier this September.

Story: Alexis McAlister

his problems with tech says, “It’s not working! Technology said, ‘Hahaha’ I’m American Airlines, it’s not working. The phone didn’t work, the airplanes don’t work. If I decide I don’t want to be a part of your life, technology is over, we rebel, we strike! And that’s technology.”

The other Q&A I attended was Shameik Moore’s, the actor most known for playing Miles Morales in the Spiderverse movies.

Moore sheds light on how he came up as an actor, as well as his love of Tobey Maguire’s “Spiderman”, “Harry Potter” and even ketchup on rice.

When asked what his favorite part about acting was, Moore had this to say: “Honestly the best part is when someone likes it. It’s like ‘Oh my god this movie Spider-verse really like changed my son’s life, I’m telling you, he really sees himself in that character, and it really...’ I’m like wow. That hit me, y’know?”

Moore continues, “Acting is like there’s someone from

look at you. It’s interesting.”

The three-day event hosted not only many Q&As for its celebrity guests but also panels on cosplay, writing, gaming, art and just all-around fun!

The main ballroom was the central hub and the most packed part of the convention, the center lined with vendor booths forming a little fandom market.

On the other side of the vendor booths were the guest booths, where fans get to meet their favorite people, get autographs, and take selfies! I got the chance to meet Felicia Day, who played Charlie Bradbury on the CW show, “Supernatural.”

Arkansans from all over the state, and visitors from out of state, come to see the convention. This year especially, iconic celebrities such as William Shatner, Christopher Loyd, Jonathan Franks, Shameik Moore, Felicia Day and many more celebrity guests all came to this year’s Comic-Con.

This is William Shatner’s first time coming to Little Rock.

The Star Trek Star played Captain James T. Kirk (Jim Kirk) on the renowned TV show as well as six movies thereafter.

I sat down to listen to Shatner’s talk on the main stage Saturday, and the entire ballroom was packed with Comic-Con goers and fans alike.

Shatner talks about technology, the nature of plants, going to Australia for Stars on Mars and his troubles with American Airlines.

Shatner, joking about

a totally different age bracket, totally different walk of life, who’s just as excited, if not more excited. They see a different person when they

Just walking through the thoroughfare was a sight: beautiful prints being shown on tall stands, booths full of plushies, handmade swords and masks on display, jewelry booths decorated with string lights, Japanese candy and snack shops, art from local artists, books to be signed and bought and the spectacular cosplayers walking in between.

She was so sweet and we were able to talk for quite a bit. There was no rush, and it was very casual. The guest booths make it a comfortable experience for any fans nervous about meeting their favorite stars.

On the far end of the ballroom was one table I found particularly interesting, the cosmedics table! The booth was set up with glue guns, scissors, tape, and other supplies to

Alexis McAlister

help with any cosplay repair.

Cos-Medics has been going to cons since 2021 and was started by Christine Higgins, otherwise known as CosMom.

I had the pleasure of talking to Jade and Sylinda, who were working the table with their two helpers.

“We do this for free out of the kindness of our hearts,” Jade says, “If anybody needs their stuff repaired, we do minor repairs, from hot glue, to tape, to safety pins, wig caps, we fix wigs for people - we do everything.”

The last event on the main stage for Saturday was the cosplay contest!

There were four categories: Kids, Masquerade, Judges Choice, and Craftmanship. The judges’ choice was a favorite from each judge.

Judging the competition was Little MS Cosplay, Little Red Fox Cosplay and Bat Outta Hale Cosplay.

All the cosplayers who participated in the contest had incredible cosplays, and every personified their character when they walked the stage. Either they danced on stage, said a funny line

from their character or showed off their skills with a sword.

The audience was pumped, shouting and cheering every time someone came on stage. At the end of the contest, during the judge’s deliberation, cosplayers participated in some karaoke!

A cosplayer dressed as Glamrock Freddy from the “Five Nights at Freddy’s” series sang “Let’s Groove Tonight by Earth, Wind, and Fire.”

After that, someone in an N7 hoodie, from the “Mass Effect” Trilogy, sang the “Skyrim” theme song. Then the judges announced the winners and that was a wrap on Saturday.

Overall, Comic-Con has become a gathering of geeks and nerds from all walks of life, sharing their love of fandom and pop culture.

It’s a safe place to be yourself and meet others who share your niches. Comic-con is also a surge of creativity. So much artistic talent goes into making those cosplays or the items on display at booths. And, it’s a great place to meet new people and talk non-stop about your favorite fandoms. Comic-con is a place for fans to come together!

SPORTS

LITTLE

ROCK TROJANS ARE OFF TO A TERRIFIC START

Little Rock Trojans are off to a Terrific Start securing two OVC weekly honors two weeks in a row.

Every Monday since the start of the 2023 soccer season, the Ohio Valley Conference has announced three Players of the Week through their social media accounts.

These players, grouped into offense, defense and goalkeeper, are selected for this award based on performance through voting from coaches, staff and administration.

For the first week of September, two Little Rock Trojans, Sanaa Williams and Marie Cimatti, were awarded OVC defensive

Story: Kate Benne

and goalkeeper of the week.

Williams, a senior defender from London, England, played 120 minutes in two games and registered her first two shots of the season. She is currently the only Trojan, alongside centerback partner Mykena Turner, who has played over 500 minutes in the season so far.

Cimatti, a graduate student from Cestas, France, played 90 minutes in the two matches that led to her receiving the award. She helped secure a shutout against local rival, University of Central Arkansas, and made a total of five saves.

The following week, UA Little Rock picked up two more awards with Senior midfielder Karina De Paoli and Freshman

defender Kaitlin Graeber being recognized as well.

De Paoli scored double on Sept. 7, when UA Little Rock swept UA Pine Bluff 4-0. She was just getting started, as the Dallas native scored from 25 yards out in the Trojan’s 3-0 win against Alabama A&M just four days later.

De Paoli was a unanimous vote for the award and currently leads the Trojans in goals for the season. She is also tied for first in the OVC for goals made.

Graeber is currently on par to break the school record for most minutes played by a freshman. Playing over 140 minutes, she helped the Trojans to two shutout victories and has been an integral

part of the team all season.

Her most notable moment of the week was her pictureperfect cross that assisted Freshman forward Emily Jensen in a goal against UA Pine Bluff.

With a record of 3-1-4, UA Little Rock boasts the best record in the OVC so far, but the big games are still ahead of them. The Trojans start conference play on Sunday, Sept. 17, versus Morehead State. They have a total of nine conference games and are hoping to advance to the Conference Tournament which takes place in the last week of October and into November.

OPINION

IS THIS JOE BIDENS REDEMPTION ARC?

Joe Biden has been disappointing those who voted for him, particularly young people. However, he knows he needs us to vote for him again in the Democratic primary in March and the general election in November 2024.

The mobilization of the young vote will be key in upcoming elections since the giant generation of Baby Boomers is approaching 100 years of age.

The White House knows that the issues central to the Gen Z voter base include women’s rights, labor and pay, LGBTQIA+ rights, the price of college, gun violence and climate change. In the weeks prior to my writing this piece, the President has been on a hot streak of giving young voters what they have been asking for.

For starters, the President forgave over $100 billion in student loan debt and announced the SAVE plan, which allows low-income borrowers to seek early forgiveness, loan deferment and avoid new interest.

The plan even slashes undergraduate loan payments from 10% of discretionary income to 5%. Applications for the SAVE Plan are at

Story: Owen Haynes

studentaid.gov. In addition, as of the time of writing, Biden and Harris have publicly floated the idea of barring medical debt from affecting credit scores. This could have huge implications for low-income Americans who accrue sizable medical debt due to the high price of American healthcare coupled with the limitations of Medicare and Medicaid.

These Americans will have expanded economic opportunities, such as having a better chance to take out loans necessary for starting a business or acquiring a car or housing.

At the United Nations General Assembly, Biden gave a speech condemning Iran’s recent treatment of women.

In the same speech, he advocated for the worldwide advancement of the rights of women and LGBTQIA+ persons. It is certainly not lost on him that Republicans have waged war against the rights of women and queer people here in the United States.

A record number of laws made against trans people have been filed since Biden took office, and Roe v. Wade was overturned by a conservative Supreme Court, for which former

President Trump takes credit.

Additionally, every major referendum on abortion has resulted in a win for women. Voters want to protect women and are becoming fed up with the Republican targeting of trans people, and he likely knows his campaign can ride the waves of anger at conservatives.

When it comes to the most pressing issue facing humanity, the President announced the creation of the American Climate Corps.

The White House’s new initiative is reminiscent of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal Civilian Conservation Corps.

20,000 young people will be chosen from those who apply to join the American Climate Corps to be trained in areas such as implementing clean energy and rebuilding coastal wetlands. The application can be found at whitehouse.gov/climatecorps.

The day after announcing the American Climate Corps, the President invited the only Gen Z member of Congress, Maxwell Frost, to the White House for the creation of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention.

Mass shootings have become a “normal” part of American life and education.

Citizens have been begging for the government to do something, only to receive “thoughts and prayers.”

The President is finally listening and doing what Congress and the State of Arkansas won’t. We all should still remain critical of the government’s response to gun violence to ensure this Office will be effective.

Winters have been notoriously deadly when it comes to COVID-19. People are more likely to stay inside and spread the virus to others around them.

Thankfully, the President has made preemptive measures to combat the coming winter. The White House is offering four free rapid COVID tests per household that can be delivered directly to one’s home through the mail. Tests are available at covid.gov.

Even more: President Biden became the first president to join a picket line. He joined automotive industry workers who are demanding more pay from the Big 3 car manufacturers in the United States.

WE MUST SUPPORT AP AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES

I will make no bones about it: in the United States, we are in a time of intellectual crisis. Backlash against ideas considered unacceptable by conservatives is reaching a fever pitch. The “Don’t say gay” Bill in Florida and the challenges to books depicting Queer content are only two examples of a spate of discriminatory challenges.

Here in Arkansas, we are facing our own set of restrictions. We have seen bans on public drag performance and non-normative gender presentation, and, more recently, the beginning of an apotheosis of initiatives opposed to education on race.

As NPR reported, the Arkansas Department of Education announced, just two days before the start of the school year, that AP African American Studies will not contribute to a student’s graduation.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is quoted by NPR as saying, “We cannot perpetuate a lie to our students and push this propaganda leftist agenda teaching our kids to hate America and one another.”

This is a dangerous point of view, particularly from an elected official. KUAR’s Josie Lenora reported that AP African American Studies has four units, covering, “ancient Africa, the slave trade, the civil war and the civil rights movement.”

These are objective historical facts, not lies. The characterization of education on America’s past failures and present issues as lies should frighten all of us.

The elimination of knowledge considered harmful to those in power is one of the first steps in fascism. We have, for years, been witnessing a slippery slope into fascism, and it is only getting worse. These laws, that are out of touch with the desires of parents and

Story: Sable Hawkins

unfair to children, threaten to undo all that is good in the U.S. Democracy thrives on education and understanding. Attempts to restrict it hurt us all.

Governor Sanders’ statement is nothing less than an attempt to distort reality. It is a continuation of a project that the Republicans began at the highest-level government, now trickling down to the states.

The Little Rock School District is continuing to offer the course despite state objections, as first reported by The New York Times.

It will also pay for students to take the AP test, as it does for other AP tests. I applaud the courage of the LRSD officials. It is a powerful stand against restrictions on education

and for our democracy.

In addition to the implications for our democracy, Governor Sanders’ stance also does a direct disservice to our children. Black children deserve to have their history taught in classes. All children deserve the freedom to study what they wish.

Also, since these restrictions do not apply to college education as yet, Arkansas children will be behind compared to other college students. Discussions of racial issues are common in higher education, particularly in the humanities and social sciences.

If our children are not exposed to such discussions in high school, they will be left floundering to catch up with their peers from other states. It

seems that Governor Sanders is perfectly content to let Arkansas children be at a disadvantage.

To me, it seems clear that Governor Sanders does not have the best interests of the next generation in mind. This is a blatant attempt to shift political opinion in favor of conservative viewpoints and silence intellectual thought that White America dislikes.

I believe that this action by Governor Sanders and her administration mandates disobedience. The path the LRSD is taking is the right one. They are standing up for education and democracy against a political party that wants to destroy both of those. Their initiative is one we must all support.

Cassi Pinnon