The Echo | September 12, 2018

The Echo

THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS’ STUDENT NEWSPAPER

WEDNESDAY

SEPTEMBER 12, 2018 Volume 113 — Issue 3

ucaecho.net TODAY’S FORECAST

Campus Life:

CONWAY

Volunteer Fair: Pairing students with local nonprofits

SINGLE COPY PAID FOR BY STUDENT PUBLICATION FEE

Entertainment:

Sports:

Troye Sivan: Newest dance pop album in full bloom

Football: Home game win gives hope for the season

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Conway community honors UCA junior Jacob Phillips

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THE NEWSDESK

by Sarah Kapity

FROM THE EDITOR

Entertainment Editor

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

37 dead, 401 injured, 5,788 evacuate homes Two people remain missing and over 401 people were injured in a 6.7 magnitude earthquake, which hit Japan Sept. 6. The colossal quake left over 3 million households without power and destroyed hundreds of homes.

Evacuation centers continue to hold 5,788 citizens while debris is cleared from roads.

The earthquake lasted almost one minute and was one of the several natural disasters that have struck Japan recently.

These disasters include several earthquakes, heatwaves, massive flooding and typhoons.

New adaptive lights projected to be installed on Dave Ward by early 2019

by Rose McGarrity Staff Writer

Blue macaw announced extinct in the wilderness A study was released by the Biological Conservation listing bird species that have gone extinct in recent years.

The Spix’s Macaw, native to Brazil and highlighted in the acclaimed Disney Film “Rio,” was included on that list.

These macaws were one of eight species specific to Brazil that have reached extinction in the wild due to the rising acts of deforestation.

There are still 60-80 macaws living in captivity.

N AT I O N A L

photo by Lauren Swaim

The current traffic lights on Dave Ward Drive current;y operate on a timer. The lights will be more responsive when adaptive signal control technology is implemented on Dave Ward’s traffic lights by early 2019.

Williams fined $17,000 at US Open by male umpire

Adaptive signal control technology on traffic lights is projected to be installed on Dave Ward Drive in Conway by early 2019.

Traffic lights with adaptive signal control technology use sensors to regulate signal change.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, “by receiving and processing data from strategically placed sensors, [adaptive signal control technology] can determine which lights should be red and which should be green.”

The FHA reported “poor traffic timing contributes to traffic congestion and delay” and that outdated traffic signals account for “more than 10 percent of all traffic delay and congestion on major routes alone.”

The traffic lights on Dave Ward currently operate on a timer, meaning the lights are not always changing colors at the most opportune times for drivers.

Director of Conway’s Street

Umpire Carlos Ramos penalized renowned tennis player Serena Williams twice during the second set of the U.S. Opening before issuing her a full game penalty.

Serena was playing against Naomi Osaka when Ramos issued the first penalization of illegal coaching. The second was administered because Williams smashed her racket after missing a key shot.

Williams then called Ramos a “thief” for taking the point, costing her the game. Shortly after, Williams accused by Cody Macomber Ramos of administering Sports Editor sexist calls toward her Associate Professor of throughout the game.

Psychology Dong Xie was elected president of an international S TAT E psychology organization that Jonesboro bomb threat aims to increase Chinese Mason Gott is in police education and involvement in custody after threatening the field of psychology.

Xie will serve as president the use of a bomb on himself and others at the of the Association of Chinese Professionals and Garden Manor apartment Helping complex in Jonesboro. After Psychologists-International for the term of 2020-2022. evacuating the residents of When he trained other the complex, officers on-site counselors before coming to called in Jonesboro Police America, he noticed a lack of Department’s SWAT team counselors who were able to and Crisis Negotiation Team. reach out to Chinese people, Gott eventually conceded particularly students.

He to the Crisis Negotiation decided to take action to benefit Team and abandoned his students once he came to position in the building. No America.

“I feel the needs. I feel the injuries were reported, and passion that people have,” Xie the explosive device has said. “It’s not just myself that not been found at this time. has a sense of calling. I found many other Chinese colleagues, and they have a similar [sense of calling].”

In 2013, he met former IN OUR NEXT ISSUE president of ACHPPI SAB presents: Paint U Campus Changming Duan at a Paint Party conference and learned she

and Engineering Department Finley Vinson said the traffic lights on Dave Ward currently change between 500 and 1,500 times per day.

The adaptive lights will allow drivers to spend less time waiting on traffic lights while commuting.

“The traffic around the lights is very congested. It takes a long time to get to class,” junior Nicole DeSalvo said.

DeSalvo drives on Dave Ward every school day.

Vinson told THV11 that Dave Ward is “a congested corridor, probably one of the busiest in Conway.” He said the traffic circles on the east end of Dave Ward help ease the congestion, but the traffic lights are still a pressing problem.

Vinson said he believes the adaptive signal control technology could help clear up the congestion.

“The purpose of the project is to improve [points of ] congestion,” Venson said.

However, he said he does not expect the project to provide “any significant safety improvements.”

Conway’s growth over the

last few decades has been rapid.

According to the city of Conway, in 2013, Faulkner County ranked as the 72nd fastest-growing county in the nation, out of 75 Arkansas counties and over three thousand counties in the U.S. Conway residents have witnessed this growth firsthand.

Resident Rachel Lance, 20, has lived in Conway her entire life and can still recall a time when she had to drive to Little Rock if she wanted to shop at Target. “[Conway] has grown so much that I don’t even need to go to Little Rock anymore,” Lance said.

This is the first adaptive light system in Conway, but it is not the first adaptive light system in Arkansas.

“Rogers and Little Rock both have adaptive traffic control,” Vinson said.

The adaptive signal control technology on Dave Ward is not the only technology of that kind that Conway will have.

According to the Conway City Council meeting agenda from August, the adaptive signal control technology will also be implemented on Oak Street.

FA C U LT Y

Xie elected president of international psychology organization for 2020-22

WHAT’S AHEAD

photo by Lauren Swaim

Associate professor of psychology Dong Xie will serve as president of the Association of Chinese Helping Professionals and PsychologistsInternational starting in 2020. Xie has been with the organization since 2013.

was very involved in building the organization to bring Chinese scholars together and bring Chinese-helping professionals and psychologists to America.

Xie said he was intrigued

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because he did not realize there were so many Chinese scholars working in psychology in the United States.

He attended some training activities through ACHPPI and was eventually asked if he wanted to be nominated for presidency, due to his willingness to be involved and the relationships that he developed in China with students and teachers.

At first, Xie hesitated, feeling he wasn’t ready.

“For me, growing up, I didn’t see myself as a leader,” Xie said. “I’m just a plain person doing my work and didn’t feel I had the leadership. With the encouragement [of others], and what I had achieved, I thought, ‘Well, maybe I’ll give it a shot.’”

Xie applied for the position and, since his election, has developed many plans for the future of the organization. He is already involved in several projects such as webinars to have professors talk about their professional development

See Xie- page 2

UCA and Conway community members gathered Sept. 4 at the Student Center Amphitheater to honor the life of belated junior Jacob Dylan Phillips, who died from a seizure Aug. 23 at age 20. Phillips is survived by his parents Bryan and Cheryl Phillips, his sister Hannah Phillips, his great-grandparents and many aunts and uncles.

Phillips was highly active on campus and affected many people in the community.

He was a member of the Young Democrats and the Fisheries and Wildlife Society.

Phillips was also president of UCA’s Phi Gamma Delta chapter and president and board member of Bear Den. “Jacob was a very important part of this community,” President Houston Davis said at the memorial service. “He was a man of action [and] taking care of business.”

In addition to his involvement with the UCA community, Phillips was also working toward earning a bachelor of science in biology.

He planned to become a pediatrician.

“He saw there was a need for children’s physicians. He absolutely loved kids,” Phillips’ father Brian Phillips said.

Pastor Everette Cornell Maltbia spoke at the memorial and suggested

three ways students could honor the life of Phillips.

First, Maltbia said students should make right their wrongs in Phillips’ memory.

Maltbia’s second suggestion was to embrace forgiveness.

“Since we know life is short, since we know it is but a vapor, if you’re holding a grudge against anyone, take action and let it go.”

Third, Maltbia said to say the kind things that pop into your head, because you never know how kind words can affect someone positively.

Maltbia stressed that students should strive every day to leave as good of a legacy as Phillips did.

Memorial attendees were encouraged to write down happy moments that they shared with Phillips. Many mourners crowded around a table to share their memories.

Phillips left a positive legacy on campus, both in the form of loving memories with friends and in the changes he made at UCA by helping launch the Bear Den and being active in every organization he committed to.

“Jacob loved the University of Central Arkansas and I’m here to say that the University of Central Arkansas loved him,” Maltbia said.

The members of Phi Gamma Delta plan to establish a scholarship in Phillips’ name and will hang a photo in memory of him in the fraternity house.

H E A LT H

Gonorrhea resistant to antibiotics, STDs rising

by Aysha Dixon Social Media Editor

An August 2018 analysis by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that for the fourth consecutive year, sexually transmitted diseases have increased nationwide, piquing at a record 2.3 million diagnosed cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis.

The Student Health Center provides screenings, condoms and nurses available to answer any question.

Campus nurse practitioner Leah Martin said chlamydia is the most frequently treated case on campus. Syphilis and gonorrhea are also cases commonly treated by the Student Health Center.

Gonorrhea is typically treated with a dual therapy of the antibiotics ceftriaxone and azithromycin. However, the potential threat of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea persists nationwide and could become an untreatable STD in the near future.

“Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention there is a strain of gonorrhea that has shown resistance in all antibiotic classes except cephalosporins,” Martin said.

This resistant strain is most likely due to gonococcus, the bacteria that causes gonorrhea, developing a resistance to the multiple antibiotics that have been used to treat the infection.

With the halt in new antibiotics being developed to treat this

Social:

infection within the past 20 years, the bacteria have only become stronger, according to the CDC. To prevent potentially becoming infected, abstinence is always the best method.

For sexually active students, Planned Parenthood suggests condoms, female condoms and dental dams as barrier methods.

A 2015 survey from the CDC estimated 258 adults and adolescents were diagnosed with HIV in Arkansas. Arkansas ranked 30th among the nation’s 50 states for HIV cases, eighth in chlamydial infections and sixth in gonorrheal infections.

Located between the HPER Center and Baridon Hall, the Student Health Center is easily accessible. With one free STD test per semester, students can get screened for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV. Tests are confidential and follow-up appointments are available if necessary.

The Student Health Center will not disclose your medical information to anyone unless you give your written permission for them to do so.

The health center is also available for exams that pertain to women’s health. Licensed healthcare professionals offer routine health exams including PAP smears, breast exams, pelvic exams and other diagnostic lab tests. Students

See STD- page 2

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Xie:

NEWS

Psychology department has multicultural aims

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experiences. He believes this will help those studying in the United States and those just beginning in the field.

ACHPPI is developing a new website where the organization will place many resources, such as referral information to nearby counselors, and plans to produce its own publication.

Xie has a long-term vision to set a precedent of evidence-based counseling for Chinese psychologists.

Through the organization, he hopes to develop research on the modifications that must be made to traditional Western practices of psychology to fit the needs of other cultures.

Xie said a great example of this is the role of eye contact in Chinese culture.

“In American culture, we view eye contact as a good thing. Eye contact shows selfassertiveness, confidence and respect,” Xie said. “But in China or some other cultures, we’re focused on hierarchical relationships, and maintaining eye contact may not be

appropriate.”

Xie earned his bachelor’s and master’s degree in abnormal psychology from Peking University in China, and earned his doctorate in counseling psychology from Ohio State University.

Associate Professor of Psychology Kevin Rowell believes that multicultural training benefits students here at UCA as much as the other groups of students that Xie trains.

“Dr. Xie has a long history of collaboration with psychology faculty in China, which has enabled him to develop a significant cross-cultural link between faculty and students at UCA with faculty and students at East China Normal University and Hangzhou Normal University,” Rowell said.

Xie used his summer and winter breaks to present psychology counseling workshops and lectures in the U.S. and China. He gave presentations in China this summer at the Counseling

Center at Suzhou University in Suzhou and at China Women’s University in Beijing.

Rowell and Xie were invited to present workshops on suicide prevention to three groups of high school and university counselors in the Zhejiang Province. Rowell said that over 160 people were in attendance between the three workshops.

“Suicide is the number one cause of death for people age 18-35 in China, so this was a very timely and critical training opportunity,” Rowell said.

Through Xie’s work with different cultures and his work to promote understanding between them, Rowell said his efforts have benefits beyond the field of psychology.

“In an era of international tensions among nations, I think that faculty and students in higher education can be goodwill ambassadors for our respective nations,” Rowell said.

“I firmly believe that Dr. Xie has fulfilled that role very well.”

STUDENT SUCCESS

ucaecho.net

STD:

Student Health Center meeting women’s health needs 4 Continued from page 1 are allowed one PAP smear per calendar year and no more than two pelvic exams, including the PAP smear, per semester.

Although PAP smears do not test for common STDs, they can detect abnormal cells that have the potential to transform into cervical cancer. This is a process

that is linked to the human papillomavirus, which is one of the most common sexually transmitted disease in this country according to statistics from the CDC. Students may schedule an appointment with the Student Health Clinic online or can

be completed on the myUCA portal, but only five slots are available for STD screenings per day. Appointments can be scheduled through the Appointment/Patient Portal on the health center’s home page, or by phone at (501) 450-3136.

Police Beat

The following information is compiled from UCAPD incident reports

by Assistant News Editor Caela Rist

Bike stolen from Farris Center rack Student Juliet MacDonald rode her COPA bike to class Aug. 30 and left it securely locked to the bike rack near the South West parking lot of the Farris Center. She returned Sept. 4 to find her bike stolen with no indication of how long it had been gone. The estimated replacement value of the bike is $410. The bike was described as a Specialized Hard Rock that was black, green and yellow in color.

The missing bike has yet to be found or spotted on campus.

Man breaks into student’s vehicle On Sept. 4, officer Phillip Boyd filed a report of a vehicle break-in. The owner of the vehicle, student Sydney Watson, informed the officer she and her friends were

leaving the Alpha Sigma Tau House at 11:45 p.m. and witnessed a stranger inside her vehicle. The man was described as African-American with dreadlocks, wearing red basketball shorts and a white t-shirt. The unknown man fled the vehicle with Watson’s Canon camera. There were no other witnesses and the burglar has yet to be identified.

Collision in east lot of the HPER Center Student Catherine Page backed into student Chelsea Strebeck’s Ford F-250. Upon realizing she had collided with the parked vehicle and left a considerable scratch on the driver side door, Page informed UCAPD of the accident. Page’s 2014 Ford Edge had resulting damage located on her front driver side bumper. Page was not given a municipal citation for the accident because of her honesty in reporting the collision.

Student’s money stolen by roommate Upon returning to her dorm room in Carmichael Hall Aug. 26 student Mako Matsumoto noticed several of her personal items missing.

She reported the incident the same day with officer Josh Heard. Matsumoto’s stolen items included $251 dollars of Japanese Club funds, a USB drive and a blue wallet containing $45. After officer Jake Moss reviewed video footage of the building Sept. 6, he realized Matsumoto and her roommate Elizabeth Hausman were the only ones who entered and exited the dorm.

Officer Moss interviewed Hausman and it was revealed that Hausman stole her roommate’s personal items to pay for textbooks. She planned on reimbursing her roommate when her financial aid came in. Hausman was issued a district citation for Filing a False Police Report and Theft of Property.

KEYNOTE

Respecting students leads to new research

by Lauren McLemore

have in their lives and apply some of those resources toward their counseling and toward their change or [the] improvement of their problems?” Murphy said.

UCA Professor of Murphy said this approach Psychology John Murphy changed his perspective as presented the keynote address a professional providing at the sixth annual International treatment.

Conference on School “I found myself Psychology in Hanoi, also becoming Vietnam Aug. 1. more hopeful and Although Murphy’s optimistic,” Murphy research on solutionsaid. focused counseling Murphy designed became internationally his counseling recognized at the techniques in a conference only way that could be recently, it began much administered by earlier in his career. virtually anyone, “For me, this rather than exclusively [research] came out psychologists. of a direct desire to “I take research be respectful to the on what works in students and parents psychotherapy and and families that counseling and photo courtesy of John Murphy I worked with in translate that science Covington public schools Professor of psychology and counseling John Murphy and research into in Covington, Kentucky,” recently gave the keynote address at the International practical, user-friendly Murphy said.

Conference on School Psychology in Hanoi, Vietnam. techniques that can In Hanoi, Murphy Murphy discussed his research on solution-focused be used by students spoke and conducted a counseling. themselves, parents workshop based on the and teachers and other teachings of his book, “Solutiontremendous strength and counselors,” Murphy said.

Focused Counseling in Schools,” resiliency,” Murphy said.

Amid the international which is now publishing in He said he believes attention, Murphy remains its third edition. His research that members of the school committed to his students in the promotes ideas of empowering counseling profession must psychology department at UCA. clients by allowing them to have find ways to incorporate the “He just wants to do good an active role in their care and capabilities of students in their work,” psychology department building on the strengths they counseling. chairman Art Gillaspy said. “The already possess.

“Without denying or students that we have who go “I partner with them and ignoring the pain or the out and are school psychologists we work together in developing problems or the difficulties, how are more compassionate and change strategies based on can we discover and build on more skilled and have a deeper their strengths and ideas and the strengths and successes and caring in a lot of ways because of resources,” Murphy said. resources that these students their exposure to him.”

Staff Writer statistics courtesy of uca.edu, graph by Cassidy Kendall

UCA retention rates for first-time, full-time undergrads have seen a steady increase over the past few years.

UCA retention rates maintain steady trend

by Cassidy Kendall Associate Editor

UCA’s retention rate has kept a steady trend in recent years due to consistent freshman students and maintaining student success.

According to uca. edu, in 2015 UCA saw an 89.9 percent retention rate between fall 1 and spring 1 semesters, but a 72.9 percent retention rate between fall 1 and fall 2 semesters, and only a 59.3 percent retention rate between fall 1 and fall 3 semesters.

Retaining students is not a challenge unique to UCA because a college education, once considered a privilege for the few, has now become a necessity for the economic stability and mobility of an increasing number of Americans, said Associate Provost for Instructional Support Kurt Boniecki.

“All colleges and universities, particularly public comprehensive ones like UCA, are under greater pressure to educate a larger portion of the population,” Boniecki said.

“The public, as represented by legislatures and accreditors, are demanding accountability and productivity.”

Boniecki said that as a result, institutions have had to shift from a “sink or swim” approach to a “success” approach that provides all students with the support they need to achieve their educational goals.

From 2013 - 2017, an increase of 1.5 percent has been seen in UCA’s two-year retention rate, and from 2013 - 2016 an increase of 2.2 percent has been seen in UCA’s one-year retention rate.

Boniecki named a number of changes at UCA as reasons for the modest upsurge, including the expansion of Residential Colleges, First Year Seminar courses offered in residential colleges, the hiring of additional college advisers and an improvement in developmental course delivery.

“But we are not satisfied with only a modest increase,” Boniecki said. “Therefore, as part of our 2017-2022 Strategic Plan, UCA set student success

as our primary goal, and has directed resources to implementing a wide variety of success initiatives, such as supplemental instruction, Summer Start programs, success coaches and a new Journeys to Success course.”

Boniecki specified that most instances when students decide not to continue their schooling involve issues which fall into three main categories: academic performance, finances and belonging.

He said academic performance and finances are the traditional, common-sense reasons for leaving university — a student struggles to maintain a 2.0 GPA or to pay tuition — but UCA has many support services to help students overcome those struggles.

Students leaving a university because they feel like they don’t belong is a reason that may be less obvious, but no less important, Boniecki said.

He said that whether they are leaving home for the first time or returning to school many years later, the transition to college is a major life change for most students, and during that transition, students carry a lot of doubts about whether they fit in or can succeed. He said this is natural, but that those fears can get the better of students, causing some to leave because they don’t think they belong at UCA. “By recognizing belonging as a retention factor, we have initiated a number of programs to make a diverse student population feel included and welcome and to provide early interventions to help students overcome those self-doubts.”

Boniecki identified the first year of college as the greatest transition for students, which brings on the largest drop in retention. He said approximately 30 percent of first-time students at UCA leave after one year.

“That’s why most of our retention efforts are directed at freshmen, but we can’t forget sophomores. We lose another 10-15 percent of students after two years,” Boniecki said. “Each year of college is a different transition that poses its own challenges, and UCA is committed to developing and providing the support for

students at each stage.”

Boniecki said his advice to students who are struggling in school is to build a community of support.

“The college transition is a process, and struggle is part of it. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and anxious,” he said. “You are not alone, and there are caring professionals all around you that can help. Talk to your instructors, your advisers, your resident assistants — they want to help you succeed. Also, make friends, join a Recognized Student Organization or be a part of study groups.”

There are over 200 RSOs for students to choose from at UCA, many of which challenge, support and encourage students by providing services, programs, facilities and resources to maximize the collegiate experience.

The Minority Mentorship Program is an RSO designed to raise retention of minority students.

“The Minority Mentorship Program is an organization on campus that aids incoming freshmen by giving them the necessary tools and resources to become successful at UCA,” senior MMP mentor Chanell Roy said. “We, as mentors, guide them in the right direction to achieve the ultimate goal of graduation because that is what we are about: raising retention.”

Boniecki said he doesn’t think it’s all-important for retention rates to be considered by students or parents before making a university decision because the number can be misleading.

He said it’s a number UCA is required to report to the U.S. Department of Education, but it only includes first-time, bachelor’s-degree-seeking students.

“It’s a good number for university administrators to track, but you have to know what it is telling you,” Boniecki said. “It’s more important, I believe, for students and parents to look at the academic programs and the student support services that are available at the institution.

You want to know that the institution offers a degree in your area of interest and that the institution is prepared to assist you whenever you need help, whether academically, financially or socially.”

He strongly believes in client involvement and said conversations with his students lent him a new perspective.

“Instead of simply acknowledging everything that was going wrong in [students’] lives, all the challenges, [we] sat side-by-side with this

C U LT U R E

German curriculum increases enrollment

by Ronak Patel Staff writer

In recent years, German courses at UCA have had some of the fastest growing course enrollment numbers and the UCA German program sent four students to study abroad this summer at the University of Konstanz in southern Germany.

The spark behind the growth of the German program is German native professor Horst Lange.

Lange believes one of the biggest keys to improving how German is taught is making it more exciting for students.

“I got rid of the textbook and created my own materials, which are more in line with [the] latest pedagogical insights [and] which are free and don’t [involve] electronic homework, which sucks,” Lange said.

He said his new material places an emphasis on making learning interactive and fun for the students, and it has been successful in its attempts to

make German easier to learn and more exciting.

After he revamped the curriculum, Lange saw an increase in his retention rates.

Lynn Burley, interim chair of the languages, linguistics, literatures and cultures department, said the number of German students enrolled in fall 2018 is 86, which is a 39 percent increase from its total of 62 last year.

Sophomore Matthew Law is taking German this semester and said he enjoys the interactive and student-friendly curriculum used by Lange.

One of the methods Lange has implemented is what he calls “farben deutsch,” meaning German colors. Farben deutsch is a tool structured as a color chart that is intended to help students learn the fundamentals of German conjugation.

“Each [grammatical] gender is assigned a color and based on the [word’s] position in a sentence [or its role as subject, direct object or indirect object], the table will tell you the ending.

It seems rather complex, but it’s something that genuinely

simplifies a crucial part of the language,” Law said.

Senior Thomas Moore studied abroad in Germany during the summer and said he feels he was well prepared by Lange’s curriculum.

“Having taken one of his classes prior to leaving … the German that I remembered helped me a lot when I arrived,” Moore said.

Studying abroad was more than just a language-learning experience for Moore. He said he experienced a culture that he wouldn’t have been exposed to here in the states.

“Germans have a different set of norms than we do and having to navigate public places [there] exposed me to a different way of living,” he said. “They don’t have the same small talk we Southerners have. They usually keep a serious exterior and are to the point when you see them on the street or at the supermarket. Until you enter their private bubble, and then they are really hospitable and warm.”

Campus Life

3

September 12, 2018

Exhibition shows artistic processes

Around Campus:

by Ronak Patel Staff Writer

IGC Cookout Members of Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha Sorority and Phi Iota Alpha Fraternity and will host a cook out to celebrate the start of the year.

The event is free and open to all UCA students and will include free food and games.

For more information, contact Abigail Galicia Romero at agaliciaromero1@cub.uca.edu.

Mental Health Class The Outreach and Community Engagement Department will host a course by instructor Emily Butler titled “Understanding and Dealing with Difficult Mental Behaviors” from 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 13 at the Brewer Hegemen Conference Center.

The class will offer clarity on a range of behaviors that span all ages of those experiencing mental health difficulties, and is targeted at anyone who is dealing with or knows someone experiencing mental illness. For more information contact the Department of Outreach and Commnity Engagement at communityed.uca.edu.

Women’s Kick-Off Leadership Event The UCA Women’s Leadership Network wil have a kickoff event from 3 to 5 p.m.

Sept. 14 at UCA Downtown.

The organization, which was created by women, for women, brings together a diverse range of women interested in leadership roles at home, at work or in the community. For more information, contact the Department of Outreach and Community Engagement at communityed.uca.edu.

Rethink Your Drink UCA Student Wellnesss and Development teamed up with on-campus dietitian Lauren Allinson for a Re-Think Your Drink event Campaign beginning at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 12 as well as from noon to 2 p.m. in the Student Center Lobby. The event is to educate students about healthier alternatives to sugary beverages, and infused water will be offered to those in attendance. For more information, contact Student Wellness and Development Center representative Kelsey O’Dell at kodell3@cub.uca.edu.

Crafting Course The UCA Downtown will host a crafting course by instructor Jessica Ann Lane that will teach participants how to create an art journal filled with fun textures and beautiful watercolors. The course is ideal for beginners, and the cost of the class will cover all necessary supplies, including handouts, pain brushes, watercolors, paper, modeling paste, gesso and matte medium. For more information, contact the Department of Outreach and Community Development at community.uca.edu.

Artist-in-Residence Student media law expert Frank LoMonte will deliver multiple lectures on First Amendment issues culminating in a talk titled “The State of Student Press Law” from 11 a.m. to noon Sept. 15 at Reynolds Performance Hall. For more information, including LoMonte’s full lecture schedule, contact Journalism Professor Polly Walter at pollyw@uca.edu.

photo by Lauren Swaim

Daphne Scott talks to junior Judith Artis about the Single Parent Scholarship Fund at the Volunteer Fair Sept. 4 in the Student Center Ballroom. The event was hosted by UCA’s service-learning program.

Volunteer fair pairs students, nonprofits from community

by Kai Mortensen Staff Writer

The service-learning program of the Division of Outreach and Community Engagement set up a volunteer fair for Conway nonprofit organizations to promote themselves and inform students about their services in the Student Center Ballroom Sept. 4.

Each of these nonprofits aimed to recruit students as volunteers who could give back to the Conway community and help those in need.

Many of the organizations assist children of all ages and backgrounds. These include the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Boys and Girls Club, Community Connections, Deliver Hope, Mayflower Elementary School Garden and the Girl Scouts.

“I’ve talked to the Sexual Assault Crisis Hotline and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

I’m very interested in both of those, but I’ve also talked to one of the food banks and an education tutoring program too,” freshman Kate Lundy said.

“I love [volunteering]. I actually took a gap year last year and

spent three months overseas teaching English.”

Director of Service-Learning and Volunteerism Lesley Graybeal said that the beginning of the school year is a good time to introduce students to opportunities in the community.

“We do one volunteer fair annually. We may try to do more in the future, but right now at this time of year, when people are back from summer break, we kick things off with the volunteer fair,” Graybeal said.

Volunteers for Community Connections set up and run extracurricular activities for special needs children, and volunteers for Deliver Hope become mentors for at-risk teens for holistic growth.

“I haven’t [volunteered], I am recently looking into the community scene and really trying to help out the community, so this is kind of like a first time thing for me, but I feel like I could really have a potential for something good in the future,” senior John Rebera said. “I really liked [one of the] food pantries that donates natural food to local communities and I would be delivering the food, so I feel

like that is a good thing to do because a lot of times it’s just canned foods that is donated, so it’s good to see fresh produce.”

The Conway Human Development Center Volunteer Council and the Museum of Discovery were looking for people to volunteer at large events hosted annually.

The volunteer council has three upcoming annual events and are in need of volunteers.

The Museum of Discovery has many events as well, but are specifically looking for volunteers for their largest annual event: Tinker Fest. It is an annual festival with events that engage children and adults, teach visitors how everyday objects such as cars and computers work and provides opportunities to explore the engineering and science behind building objects.

There were many food pantries in attendance, including UCA’s Bear Pantry.

There were also many other organizations including Stamp Out Smoking, Conway EcoFest, Arkansas Art Center, The Women’s Shelter of Central Arkansas, the Locals and Sheep Dog: Impact Assistance.

ELECTION

Student representatives run for SGA positions

By Ryan Bradford Staff Writer

Election time for the Student Government Association has come and gone once again here at UCA, with the polls closing 4 p.m. Sept. 11.

SGA held a meeting Sept. 4 to accept applications for those planning to run and to inform them of campaign rules.

Candidates included Julia Williams, Davonne Moore and Carlen Johnson for Freshman Class President; Reagan Jones and Braxton Laster for Freshman Class Vice President; and Dalton Orsborn, Malachi Morse, Garrett Spears, Esmeralda Ramirez, Isaiah Weston and Alexis Harris for Freshman Class Representative.

Candidates for Sophomore Class Representative included Amber DiPersia, Nate Young, Bradley Parker, Ashlyn Sander, Will Mulloy, J’me Eddinger, David DeLuca and Emma Cheek.

Candidates for Junior Class Representative were Zachary Waitzman, Colby Little and Erin Golden.

There was only one candidate each for Senior Class President and Vice President, which was Martin Grider and Bror Thirion, respectively.

Running for Senior Class Representative were Jose Sierra and Alexander Propes.

Running for Graduate Representative were John Gilbreath, Demetrius Moore, Laurel Spurgeon, Anthony Farnam and Emily L. Harris.

Each of the academic colleges are eligible for a representative spot; however,

most had only one person running, and some went without representatives.

For the College of Business, it was Autumn Wilson. For the College of Fine Arts and Communications, Marco Ramirez. The College of Health and Behavioral Sciences had Mary Beth Ivie, and the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics had Jennifer Cale.

The only college with two people running was the College of Liberal Arts, which had Riley Kovalcheck and Riley Tribble.

Finally, for the International Student Representative spot, was Theodora Andreea Tuduriu.

The meeting was led by the four SGA Executive Board members: President Joshua Eddinger-Lucero, Vice President Sophie Barnes, Vice President of Operations Rose McGarrity and Vice President of Finance Spencer Burton.

While class officer positions and sophomore, junior and senior presidents and vice presidents are usually elected in the spring, a lack of applicants caused the vote to be held earlier.

Historically, it has not been a problem, but it can be “a hit and a miss with students each year” depending on who wants to run, Eddinger-Lucero said.

To combat this, SGA has done outreach with the deans of schools on campus, such as the dean of graduate school.

Eddinger-Lucero said he was excited to see their efforts pay off with five students in the running for the graduate class representative.

Eddinger-Lucero said that the most difficult part of the election season is

getting students to fill out the application and run for student government.

First, the SGA members shared a humorous video on the importance of the association and its role here at UCA. They then went over a handout of the campaign rules, which explained that candidates must provide signatures to affirm that they had read and agreed to the rules.

Rules included having an Election Committee member approve campaign materials before they are displayed or distributed, size requirements and areas where candidates are prohibited from campaigning.

Breaking one of the rules results in a campaign violation.

When a candidate receives more than two of these they are subject to disqualification by the Rules Committee.

Campaign violations have not been a problem in the past.

Barnes talked about how she deals more with the internal aspects of SGA, from making sure the senators are okay and are enjoying their time in SGA to planning their annual fall retreat.

“I’m just really excited. I didn’t know how warmed my heart was going to be until I saw all of these lovely faces,” Barnes said.

Eddinger-Lucero also talked about how the number of voters has been low the last couple of years and that he hopes that UCA students will “turn out and vote this year.”

To help increase the voter turnout, SGA extended online voting times to the weekend before the poll stations opened on Monday, Sept. 10.

Baum Gallery director Brian Young gave one of his first lectures of the semester, providing a tour of the Baum Gallery to show the new exhibition “Art Process: Drawings and More” and the theme of this fall’s exhibits.

This semester’s theme centers around the beauty of the process behind the artwork and artist.

Young said one of the inspirations for this semester’s theme was Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling.

Young said he admired the Sistine Chapel ceiling and wondered how “someone like [Michelangelo] had thought of the concept and created the Sistine Chapel from that.”

One of the first art processes displayed in the exhibit was a small model of Donaghey Hall that was actually used to help create the actual building.

Young said he decided to use the model for the theme because it had gone through many stages of change before reaching its final form.

The model of Donaghey Hall showed that the bear on the side of the building was originally meant to be bigger.

After learning about bears, the artist, Bryan Massey, professor and chair of the art department, made the bear skinnier because bears actually press their stomachs against what they are climbing to help them climb.

In the middle of the gallery hangs a long sword-like visual, created by Kevin Cole, a Pine Bluff native and featured artist in the Smithsonian.

Young said he enjoys setting up a gallery focused on art processes because it is “like going back in time.”

The exhibit sheds light on how artists work on their art and go through long and difficult processes to get their works to their final forms Young said he believes anyone can produce good art if they take it “seriously, like a job” and “immerse themselves in art.”

Senior Lauren Lee, who studies art education, said she hopes to have her own work featured in the Black Box Student Gallery. Lee said she makes a lot of fiber art and likes to use her work to “show the roles of women in society and how they can work away from that.”

The Baum Gallery is also featuring an exhibit titled “Peter Pincus: Color and Form” until Oct. 11.

AUTHOR

photo by Emily Gist

Author and poet Steve Kistulentz points to the screen playing The Knack’s “My Sherona” during his craft talk Sept. 4 in Thompson Hall.

Kistulentz described how the band succeeded by creating empathy in their music.

Visiting novelist lectures writing students on crafting beginnings

by Caela Rist

Assistant News Editor As part of the creative writing program’s visiting artist lineup, author Steve Kistulentz read from his March 2018 novel “Panorama” Sept. 4 at Hendrix College and delivered a craft talk Aug. 5 at UCA on beginnings and the process of crafting art.

During his craft talk, Kistulentz gave recommendations to the writers in the room on how to start the beginning of a piece, whether it be fiction, nonfiction, poetry, film or music.

He advised students on how they should view the relationship of empathy with their characters and on what keeps an audience reading and watching.

He emphasized the importance of providing the audience a doorway into the world the writer crafts.

“That’s what good art does,” Kistulentz said. “It gives you insight into a world that you could otherwise never participate in.”

Kistulentz said he wanted students to keep in mind the creator’s intention for his work. Instead of immediately dismissing the work as a topic most would find uninteresting, he prompted students to consider what the writer wanted to convey.

This is why he spent the majority of the meeting encouraging students to interpret for themselves the meaning of different passages.

While students bounced ideas around, Kistulentz joined in their laughter and considered their points of view before providing his own.

The beginning scene from the acclaimed “Hawaii Five0” pilot episode was shown as an example of beginnings, in addition to François Pompon’s famous Polar Bear sculpture.

Kistulentz provided a two-page packet to students during the meeting, which held essential information regarding what openings should accomplish, helpful tricks for beginning a piece and examples from texts.

Kistulentz ended his craft talk with a simple response to an infamous question.

“Where does the story begin?” he said, before adding, “At the beginning.”

Wrapping up his discussion, Kistulentz left the students with a simple but necessary piece of advice.

“Ambition is good, right?”

Kistulentz asked students. “You should want to write things no one has written before. To bring your experience to bear and to tell stories which do not exist yet for other people, but don’t make the task more daunting than asking yourself, ‘Did I do something that informed my writing today?’”

Assistant Professor of Creative Writing Sandy Longhorn said craft talks and public readings are vital for students’ education.

“Visiting authors provide UCA creative writing students with the opportunity to hear from and engage with writers publishing today in genres our students would like to master,” Longhorn said. “This is an invaluable resource as our visiting authors bring diversity and fresh voices to the instruction in creative writing that our students receive.”

She also said that witnessing these authors allows students to make networking contacts with the writers who visit campus and said that these authors inform students about what their next steps might be outside the classroom.

Students can look forward to two more authors visiting UCA in the near future: creative nonfiction writer Kathryn Miles on Oct. 1-2 and poet Allison Joseph on Nov. 9.

ucaecho.net

CAMPUS LIFE

September 12, 2018 /4

STUDENTS SAY How do you feel about the construction on campus?

“

“

story and photos

by Jessica Huffmaster photo by Alexis Leyva

Poet and arts educator Jinahie gives a spoken word performance Sept. 6 in the Student Center Ballroom. She has performed at more than 100 shows for renowned people and organizations, including TEDx and Michelle Obama.

Spoken word poet champions vulnerability during show

by Alexis Leyva Staff Writer

The Student Activities Board invited spoken word poet and arts educator Jinahie to perform Sept. 6 in the Student Center Ballroom.

A college student herself, Jinahie is currently on a college tour and is juggling performing and pursuing a master’s degree in psychology.

“A lot of my work is super interactive and I am also an arts educator, so I teach spoken word as well. It wasn’t until recently that I realized how much that looked like therapy, so in the future I am interested in using art as therapeutic expression,” Jinahie said.

Jinahie has performed more than 100 shows, both as a part of her college tour and including performances for noteworthy individuals and organizations, such as Michelle Obama, Delta Airlines and

TEDx. She said she highly values performing on college campuses.

“I find that it’s such an empowering place to be because you find people at a stage in life where everyone is trying to put things together.

To meet people and offer some form of relief is really rewarding,” Jinahie said.

She also thinks of performing as her own form of personal therapy, she said.

“When you open up a room, people start sharing their own stories, their own vulnerabilities and creating that safe space for other people to express themselves, and that is really therapeutic for me,” Jinahie said.

Her performance included various poems on topics ranging from her childhood to her identity as an EgyptianAmerican woman.

“I consider performing a form of activism, taking stories

that are sometimes in the shadows and putting them on a platform. With performance there is a kind of humanity that is able to seep through the performance while raising consciousness and inspiring conversation that we are sometimes too afraid to have,” Jinahie said.

Students interacted during the performance by participating in a “potluck poem” in which each member of the audience wrote one line of a collaborated poem.

“I hope to one day to publish my collections of potluck poems as an artwork,” Jinahie said.

Jinahie also invited students to perform their own pieces on stage, and brought up volunteers to introduce one of her poems. At the beginning of one of her pieces, students who volunteered revealed some of their own vulnerabilities to the crowd.

“I thought the performance

was beautiful. It’s important to have events like this because it brings people together,” senior Ayana Williams said.

Many of the students attending expressed their liking of both Jinahie’s performance and SAB’s choice in pop culture performance.

“Events like this are meant to inspire, laugh, cry and promote community. We all learned a lot about each other tonight and it was great,” freshman Aisha Ausler said.

Jinahie is the only spoken word poet lined up to perform per invitation from SAB this semester; however, it is possible that SAB will invite more spoken word artists in the spring.

“Jinahie has a different perspective as an Egyptian American poet, and we hope to invite more artists who promote different backgrounds,” SAB pop culture chair J’me Eddinger said.

Senior Adrienne Thompson

Freshman Amina Tou

“I think it’s fine; it doesn’t get in the way of going to class, other than not being able to pass through the library because Starbucks is closed.”

“I think it’s cool to see the improvements they are making, so it doesn’t bother me..”

Senior Kane York

Freshman Isaiah Weston

“It’s annoying because it blocks stuff off and has Starbucks shut down, but I’m also glad since it means the university is expanding and looking to improve.”

“I don’t mind it because it’s a cool thing to see. I would probably prefer less noise, but since the campus is pretty open I don’t really mind.”

Freshman Ricole Warren

Senior Ben Brockinton

“The construction on campus doesn’t really bother me until I can’t get to Farris from the left side of New Hall.”

“It’s a little inconvenient at times, but I think big picture it will always be worth it.”

M U S I C R E C I TA L

photo by Lauren Swaim photo by Lauren Swaim

Piano professor Neil Rutman plays two pieces by Claude Debussy during his performance Sept. 7 in the Snow Fine Arts Recital Hall. Rutman also played pieces by Chopin, John Phillip Sousa and Queen.

Piano professor dazzles with selections from Chopin, Debussy

by Lauren McCabe Staff Writer

Music lovers young and old had the opportunity to attend a piano recital by one of UCA’s most distinguished musical faculty, piano professor Neil Rutman, Sept. 7 at the Snow Fine Arts Recital Hall.

Rutman, a piano master and mentor, has been a part of the UCA family since 1990, and according to a short biography

presented in the recital’s bulletin, has had his students win top prizes in musical competitions since 2000.

“I do [a performance] every year,” Rutman said. “I started [learning] piano when I was 11 … I think I was kidnapped by music from the beginning.”

A small selection from his list of accomplishments include winning several international music competitions, recording alongside the Academy of London Orchestra and, most

recently in 2016, publishing a book titled “Stories, Images, and Magic from the Piano Literature.”

Rutman said that his most cherished accomplishments include the many competitions he has participated in around the world that allowed him to travel and play music at an exceedingly high level due to the tough competition.

Some pieces that Rutman performed during the recital

included a 30-minute selection of “Sonata in B minor”

by Frédéric Chopin, the well-known “Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Phillip Sousa and an audience favorite, “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen.

“I hope the audience [took away] excitement and a love for music,” Rutman said. “[Also] having had some spiritual experiences during the concert.”

PEOPLE OF UCA Patricia Poulter SPOTLIGHT

by Sophia Ordaz Editor

photo by Lauren Swaim

This is Patricia Poulter’s first fall semester as provost since she bagain working in the position July 1.

Originally from Northern Illinois, Poulter has family ties to Arkansas.

For Northern Illinois native Patricia Poulter, moving to Conway to begin in her new position as provost July 1 was a homecoming of sorts.

“I’m really happy,” she said. “ I have a lot of family in Arkansas. My dad actually was born and raised here and his family, so in a lot of ways it’s like coming home.”

Poulter previously served for five years as the dean of the College of the Arts at Kennesaw State University in Georgia, before becoming provost at UCA. She was inspired to apply not necessarily because she had her sights set on taking on a provost position, but because she wanted to work at UCA, she said. The opening at UCA was the only provost job she applied to.

“It’s not so much about the title, as the opportunity to serve in another capacity,” Poulter said. “It’s an opportunity to serve in a way and at a place and with people that I felt I could make the biggest connection and impact with.”

Poulter has a bachelor’s in music education and a master’s in conducting from Eastern Illinois University. After teaching music at public school, she earned a doctorate in music from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Since her childhood, music has played a formative role in Poulter’s life. At the age of 4, she started playing piano, and she has fond memories of watching her father play guitar as a small child. Poulter sings and plays the piano, guitar and ukulele, but cites conducting as a primary passion.

“What I love about music is that it expresses things that we can’t express any other way,” she said. “For me personally, music is a way that I

experience the world, that I express myself.”

Poulter was the first of her family to graduate from college and said that when she started at Eastern Illinois University, she didn’t even consider graduate school as a possibility for herself. She believes that college can open up a world of possibilities for students.

“The advice I want [every student] to have is that you belong. You have a right to be here, and we’re here to help you succeed,” she said.

“Sometimes it gets hard, and you’ll get through it. It’s OK to ask for help …. There are a lot of resources and people here to help you.”

Poulter has two daughters, Corey and Annie, and three grandchildren. She also has a cat named Cleopatra, or Cleo, who she took in as a stray.

Some of her favorite pastimes include iPhone photography, writing, exploring abandoned places, traveling, Geocaching and blogging. On her blog titled The Shadow Photographer, Poulter collects old photographs that capture the shadow of the photographer by accident. She estimates that she has uploaded about 200 of these photographs.

Occasionally, Poulter will dabble in what she jokingly calls “procrasti-creation.” Her latest “procrasti-creative” endeavor was refinishing and reupholstering a dining table set.

Because of her love for the arts and sciences and her explorative spirit, in her free time on campus, Poulter enjoys discovering what UCA has to offer and is looking forward to attending lectures and performances on campus this semester.

“I want to thank every single person I’ve met [at UCA]. Every single person I’ve met has been welcoming and kind and proud to be part of UCA,” Poulter said. “I feel at home already.”

Opinion

5

ucaechoeditor@gmail.com

September 12, 2018

The Voice

UCA should encourage coed Greek organizations

The Echo Staff Sophia Ordaz Editor

Cassidy Kendall Associate Editor

Marley Cash-Powell News Editor

Caela Rist

Assistant News Editor

Taylor Sone

Campus Life Editor

Jessica Huffmaster

Assistant Campus Life Editor

Emily Gist Opinion Editor

Sarah Kapity

Entertainment Editor

Cody Macomber Sports Editor

Marcus McClain Assistant Sports Editor

Caroline Bivens Online Editor

Women should not pay to play football Women cannot play football professionally.

If they want to play, they can either pay out of pocket to play the full-contact sport in bikinis or pay out of pocket to play the full-contact sport at a specialty women’s league.

The women in the Legends Football League, formerly known as the Lingerie Football League until it was rebranded in 2013, hike, catch and tackle just like their male NFL counterparts. But instead of being protected by body armor that covers the entire body, their uniforms resemble bikinis, which is extremely dangerous for the players.

These women wear sports bras, shoulder padding, knee pads with long socks and clear helmets that show their faces. Their entire midriff shows and their underwear often hikes up, revealing the players’ buttocks.

And how much do they get paid to play this sport? They don’t. In fact, according to Sports Illustrated, the players pay an annual $45 registration fee for public recognition and the

by Emily Gist honor of playing a Opinion Editor predominantly male sport.

But, of course, according to the Sports Illustrated article, the male coach of the team they interviewed gets paid based on the wins and losses of his team.

Though, despite my research, the amount is not listed and the coach in the article refused to say how much he was paid.

The one good thing about the LFL is that it offers an outlet for women to play football.

It allows these women to be seen playing football. But it also tells women that the only way to be seen playing football is to show off what you’ve got.

NFL players are paid millions of dollars for playing the same sport. One can argue that the NFL brings in more money than the LFL, but denying these women a paycheck is immoral.

And forcing these women to pay for the right to play is deplorable.

According to the Sports Illustrated article, these women work other jobs to make an honest living. For example, LeAnn Hardin, who played for the Atlanta Steam in 2015, spent eight and a half years doing logistics for a special ops unit in the Air Force, but playing in the LFL is a way for her to let off steam, according to the article. She just wants to play football.

There is, however, another outlet for women to play football: through an amateur league. In an amateur league, women wear full body armor just like their male counterparts.

However, these amateur leagues are also paid for out of the players’ pockets and don’t have near as much notoriety as the LFL. So, if a woman wants to play football, her choices are to pay to play, show some skin and get noticed, or pay to play, wear proper equipment and remain unknown.

Gender inequality is a huge issue within the realm of sports, especially within the realm of football. For women who want to play professional sports, other than football, their pay is dismal compared to their male counterparts. For women who want to play football, they can’t even get paid and have to work other jobs just to play.

The best way to fix this sexist issue is to draw attention to it. The more people who become aware of this inequality, the more people who will fight against it, and the sooner it can be rectified.

Aysha Dixon

Social Media Editor

Lauren Swaim Photo Editor

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Nontraditional label inherently exclusionary Although I graduated high school at age 16, However, the more important I started college as a 30-year-old freshman. consideration may be, did the term contribute In those 14 years, I stigmatized myself as to the self-doubt I had? And, if so, what about nontraditional in every aspect of my life. While my seasoned peers?

I may have worn my “nontraditionalness” like In a 2016 article for Inside Higher Ed, a badge, I always retained a cynical, negative educator Needham Yancey Gulley said, connotation for the label.

“Referring to our students as nontraditional It wasn’t until I was 30 years old, sitting in puts them at a starting line behind other college the parking lot outside the admissions building enrollees — not only in their sense of self but also in the minds of fellow students, faculty at ASU-Beebe for an hour, afraid to enter, members, administrators and policy that I realized my fear of being labeled makers.” nontraditional. When the classes Gulley said such language changed, I hunkered in my seat, affirms adult students’ beliefs my car nearly swept away among that “[they] really should not be the younger faces, and all I could here” and “perpetuates a divide think was: I don’t belong here. between who belongs in college, That day, the imposing brick for whom college is designed and building and sea of young faces for whom college success is an defeated me, but I fought the cynic option.” inside me then, and I still do now. Oftentimes, I even I would posit a step win. further to suggest Now, as a senior that this construct who will turn 33 the of traditional versus day after this opinion nontraditional affects

by Marley Cash-Powell piece is published, I not only adult students, but News Editor realize that the negative also puts pressure on the connotation I placed on “traditional” demographic being nontraditional is of young students to decide at the very least duplicitous. in or around their teens what talents they may If you consider Merriam-Webster’s list of have or what career they may enjoy when they synonyms for nontraditional, you’ll find the are in their 50s. word describes me as both broad-minded and The entire notion of this is nonsensical. Not radical. Words nearly related to nontraditional only because I’m now 33 and still don’t know include advanced, modern and unbiased, or what I’m going to be when I grow up, but more indulgent, extreme and lenient. The word is explicitly because many scientists studying synonymous with and related to terms that brain development speculate that the brain isn’t have both negative and positive connotations. fully developed until age 25, or even the early Regardless of my own negative 30s. connotations, a high number of nontraditional What I am now realizing and hope to relay students have consistently been attending to readers — both older and younger — is the universities. Over the past decade between divide between traditional and nontraditional 38-42 percent of college students have been age is a fallacy. Knowledge has no time frame or 25 or older, according to the National Center for age limit. Ignore the pressure to conform to the Education Statistics. construct. We all belong here.

In light of the negative stigma that encompasses fraternities due to high numbers of fraternity brothers accused of sexual assault, some students may be looking for more options. Because Greek life is a much beloved part of college, it would do colleges, including UCA, good to offer coed Greek organizations.

According to UCA’s Greek life website, UCA offers students 14 fraternities and 11 sororities. However, there are no coed Greek organizations offered at UCA. Coed Greek organizations would promote safety and help fight the stigma against Greek life, specifically against fraternities. Fraternities are often stigmatized as being unsafe, with their extensive partying and with the link between fraternity culture and sexual assault. Fraternity men are three times more likely than other college men to commit sexual assault, according to 2007 study

by John D. Foubert, a professor of higher education and student affairs at Oklahoma University who studies sexual assault.

If it were coed, a Greek organization would make a higher priority of keeping the safety of the participating women in mind when planning parties. By being more aware of these problems and having women there to help guide the discussion, these organizations are far more likely to produce a much safer environment that would better promote gender equality.

Also, coed Greek organizations are much less selective than their traditional counterparts.

According to the Seattle Pi website, “Coed fraternities do not choose their members based on popularity or through traditional fraternity rushing and are much more inclusive than social fraternities.”

Additionally, the strict, traditional notions of gender rife within fraternities and sororities leave little space for those who identify outside of that binary. Nonbinary people might be conflicted as to which organization to join, assuming they’re even allowed to join. Coed Greek organizations would offer that student a place to feel comfortable expressing their gender identity while also offering them all of the benefits of Greek life. By not offering coed Greek organizations, a university is essentially pushing these members of society away.

And by only offering strictly gendered Greek organizations with specific ideas regarding masculinity and femininity, people who aren’t necessarily gender nonbinary, but who still don’t fully comply with those strict ideas, would also be pushed away from that aspect of college life.

Some might worry that the advent of coed Greek organizations would deter students from preexisting fraternities and sororities. For those students who are set on joining a specific fraternity or sorority, the offer of supplemental coed Greek organizations would not deter them from joining their preferred fraternity or sorority. It would just offer a wider variety of options for those who are looking to join a version of Greek life that is gender-inclusive and potentially safer from sexual assault.

The introduction of coed Greek organizations to campus might also urge members of already established fraternities and sororities to consider enhancing inclusivity in their own organizations. This would produce an environment that pays more attention to safety, inclusivity and gender identity.

Coed Greek organizations would promote safety

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Entertainment

6

September 12, 2018

New This Week Movies

Sept. 14 — Hal (R), directed by Amy Scott, starring Allison Anders, Judd Apatow, Rosanna Arquette, Hal Ashby

Sept. 14 — Lizzie (R), directed by Craig William MacNeill, starring Kristen Stewart, Chloe Sevigny, Kim Dickens, Fiona Shaw

Sept. 14 — The Predator (R), directed by Shane Black, starring Boyd Holbrook, Trevante Rhodes, Jacob Tremblay, Keegan-Michael Key

Sept. 14 — White Boy Rick (R), directed by Yann Demange, starring Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Piper Laurie, Eddie Marsan

‘Bloom’ provides unique perspective on young romance

by Brynn Prewitt Staff Writer

Australian singer songwriter Troye Sivan released his third album, “Bloom,” Aug. 31, taking pop into his own hands with this delicate yet intense record.

“Bloom” embraces the experiences of a young gay man in the 21st century. Troye’s lyrical talent, accompanied by strikingly dreamy melodies and tinkering beats, will evoke an emotional response in any listener.

The album flows with themes of youth, lust, discovery and the all-around trivialities of being a hopeless romantic.

Sivan makes clear the importance of using male pronouns to describe love interests relevant to his personal life. His additional goal of eliminating heteronormative undertones and fragile masculinity throughout the album is accomplished with soft,

photo courtesy of itunes.apple.com

Troye Sivan in the music video for “Bloom.” Colorful, artistic makeup is an important part of the video’s aesthetic.

traditionally more feminine sounds.

Important topics in Sivan’s music are his experience with his sexual orientation and obstacles related to puppy love, heartbreak and true love.

Compared to past albums, the overall sound of “Bloom” is less aggressive, and the meaning is more intimate and personal. The album is

particularly colorful in its sense of pride and excitement while discovering and exploring sexual themes.

Instrumentally, a beautiful cross of acoustics, pop beats and electronic sound effects grab the listener’s attention.

The first track, “Seventeen,” is about Sivan reminiscing on the naive thrills of being with an older, more experienced man,

specifically when it comes to intimacy. It embodies the feelings of youth, mischief and pure lust.

Lyrics like “Got something here to lose that I think you wanna take from me” and “Boy becomes a man now / Can’t tell a man to slow down” truly showcase these themes on “Seventeen.”

“Dance To This” is another

SHOCK RAP

Music Sept. 14 — Cry Pretty — Carrie Underwood Sept. 14 — Generation Rx — Good Charlotte

Sept. 14 — For Ever — Jungle

Sept. 14 — Room 25 — Noname

Sept. 14 — Hiding Place — Tori Kelly

Sept. 14 — My Way — Willie Nelson

Sept. 14 — East Atlanta Love Letter — 6LACK

Netflix Sept. 14 — American Vandal: Season 2 (TV-MA), starring Tyler Alvarez, Griffin Gluck, Jimmy Tatro, Lou Wilson

Entertainment Editor

On Aug. 31, Eminem dropped his new album “Kamikaze,” striking controversy among many with its tacky, outdated political incorrectness begging for attention as “shock rap.”

Eminem was once a big figure in the shock rap scene, and for good reason: Most of Eminem’s lyrics were quite unsettling. However, Eminem is arguably losing his ability to come up with original material that’s actually new and, well, shocking.

For instance, using “rape” as a casual verb isn’t even astonishing anymore, it’s just cringe-y; yet he uses it in “The Ringer,” the first song on “Kamikaze.” In the same vein, elsewhere on the track Eminem uses “mentally retarded” as a synonym for “stupid,” which is just plain offensive.

In “Fall,” Eminem crosses yet another line when he raps, “Tyler creates nothing, I see why you call yourself a f****t, b***h” in reference to rapper Tyler, the Creator.

Eminem has always sprinkled his music with casual homophobia, but

‘A.X.L.’ impresses viewers with spectacular inventions Assistant News Editor

Sept. 14 — BoJack Horseman: Season 5 (TV-MA), starring Will Arnett, Amy Sedaris, Alison Brie, Aaron Paul

Sept. 14 — El Angel (UR), directed

by Luis Ortega, starring Lorenzo Ferro, Chino Darin, Daniel Fanego, Mercedes Moran

Sept. 18 — American Horror Story: Cult (TV-MA), starring Lady Gaga, Kathy Bates, Angela Bassett, Sarah Paulson

Best Five Dog Breeds For Apartment Living List compiled by Rachel Mares Staff Writer

consists mostly of him yelling/ mumbling/rapping “Fack, fack on everyone” over and over.

Eminem has always felt the need to trash everyone around him, but it’s starting to sound as if an angsty 12-year-old wrote the lyrics for him.

Eminem also calls out other rappers like Lil Yachty and Lil Pump in “Kamikaze.”

For context, Eminem is 45 years old, and Lil Yachty is 21.

It’s strange to see a man dissing a kid that could be his son.

Eminem is trying to compete with people who aren’t even his peers, which speaks to his obvious immaturity.

Much of Eminem’s familiar rage seems to sprout from the failure of his 2017 album “Revival.” In the “Kamikaze” track “Greatest,” Eminem angrily says, “Revival didn’t go viral.” Eminem has always seen himself as the best (see “Rap God,” “Without Me” and “The Real Slim Shady,” among many other songs), but it’s quite possible he’s starting to realize that his hateful rhetoric and repetitive themes aren’t welcome in 2018.

“Kamikaze” can be streamed on Apple Music and Spotify or purchased on Google Play and iTunes.

SCI-FI

by Caela Rist Sept. 14 — Bleach (UR), directed by Shinsuke Sato, starring Miyavi, Hana Sugisaki, Masami Nagasawa, Sota Fukushi

specifically calling out a queer artist is a whole new level of inappropriate.

Furthermore, Eminem continues his explicit misogyny in songs like “Fall” and “Normal,” casually mentioning domestic abuse, perpetrated by none other than Eminem himself.

If you aren’t familiar with Eminem’s past music, you may want some context for his consistent hatefulness.

One of the most disturbing songs by Eminem is “Guilty Conscience” from his 2005 album “Curtain Call.” The song features Dr. Dre, his former mentor. Eminem’s alter ego, Slim Shady, is supposed to represent a darker, amoral figure, and Slim is the center of this track.

The song consists of Eminem rapping as a bad influence on different male characters, while Dr. Dre plays the conscience. In the song, Eminem encourages each character to commit horrible acts, like date rape a 15-year-old girl, murder one of their wives and rob a bank.

Not only is he immensely problematic, but his lyrics are downright childish.

The chorus of “Kamikaze”

Oliver Daley’s film “A.X.L.” is a trifecta of romance, heart and futuristic autonomation.

The science fiction film follows a robotic dog named A.X.L. — a creature whose sole design is for military use as a futuristic weapon built for annihilation and adaptation.

A.X.L.’s adaptability surpasses all expectations, including those of the lead developer on the project, when he escapes from the lab, meeting an unlikely ally and fellow outcast, Miles Hill (Alex Neustaedter.) The dirt biker and his current crush, Sara Reyes (Becky G), bond with the war machine and set off on a journey to protect A.X.L from those who wish to fulfill his destiny of destruction.

“A.X.L.” offers a fresh outlook on actors Neustaedter and Becky G. The male lead, Miles, expectedly battles with his other testosterone-filled teenage counterparts for acceptance 1. Bichon Frise This just so happens to be the first dog I ever had as a child, and they are absolutely wonderful, lifelong companions. The bichon frise is a small dog breed that does not typically grow past 1 foot in height, making them the perfect size for an apartment home. Not only that, but bichons rarely drool or shed fur, so these fluffy friends are simple to maintain. Friendly, energetic and easy to train, the bichon makes the saying“man’s best friend” ring true. Because of their energy level, bichons require about 30 minutes of exercise per day. Overall, the bichon frise is a loving, loyal and lively pup that will bring joy to your small living space.

and equal opportunity, continuously having it out with local and privileged bully, Sam Fontaine (Alex MacNicoll). The relationships between Miles and his peers play with the well-known politics of teenage dominance.

The female lead, Sara, provides a raw outlook on female empowerment. She comes to Miles’ aid early on, and doesn’t hesitate to enforce her own independence in severe situations.

Both actors show promise in their skills during the film as they display a realistic on-screen romance, but their acting skills are overshadowed by the intriguing technology of A.X.L. The robotic rascal had several interesting moments where he showed off his own high-tech capabilities.

With rockets on either side of his flanks, the ability to manipulate his hindquarters and intense coding in his brain, this war-dog seemed almost unstoppable.

His abilities to hack systems, transfer data and adapt 2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel For those of you who are not familiar with this dog breed, the Cavalier King Charles is similar to a cocker spaniel, but smaller, reaching about 1 foot in height.

The Cavalier King Charles is an athletic, affectionate and amicable pup. I say pup because this breed never seems to age; they maintain their cute puppy faces and attitudes throughout their entire lives. While they are known for their playfulness, Cavalier King Charles are also great lap dogs. There is nothing this dog loves more than lying on the couch and getting a belly rub from his owner.

personalized profiles for each individual will have the gears in your own head turning.

This attention to detail proved successful in the creation of the canine’s abilities and personality.

Though his muzzle is molded into a permanent scowl, his eyes hold the key to his complex persona.

“A.X.L.” managed to humanize a robotic animal and make the audience truly empathize with him. The balance of friendship and loyalty meshed well together and left little room for confusion.

The film takes the viewer on a few twists and turns, which ultimately lead them to question what the military truly values and to the notion that predetermined design doesn’t always decide fate.The film, released Aug. 24, scored $5 million during its opening weekend, and finished ninth at the box office.

“A.X.L.” is rated PG and is currently showing at Cinemark Towne Centre.

3. Bulldog The bulldog is great company to have in one’s apartment. Their little wrinkled bodies and faces are almost too cute to handle. Bulldogs, similar to the previous dogs mentioned, grow up to 1 foot in height. They tend not to bark, which is a terrific trait for any dog residing in an apartment.

The bulldog is known to be a devoted and dauntless breed, so one can always feel safer with a bulldog around. Bulldogs are also wonderful sleeping buddies because, although they love playing, they love napping even more.

Overall, the record is a sweet take on a young man’s perspective on frivolous love, hopeless romance and heartbreak. By the end, Sivan will leave you wanting more.

“Bloom” can be streamed on Apple Music and Spotify and purchased on Google Play and iTunes.

FUNKY

Eminem releases problematic album ‘Kamikaze’

by Sarah Kapity

standout bop which features pop princess Ariana Grande.

Grande, an outspoken supporter of the LGBTQ community, is a perfect choice to team up with Sivan in helping him get across the message in this pretty, lively pick-me-up.

Every Sivan fan is aware of his interest of playing with runway-esque makeup looks and colors on his album covers, which have stuck to a floral, light-tempered aesthetic until “Bloom,” which features a striking black-and-white photo of the back of his newly dyed platinum blond hair as the cover. This sophisticated image could symbolize the new, mature themes addressed in this album.

photo courtesy of wsoe.org

Lenny Kravitz poses for a promotional image. His newest album is one of his weirdest and most creative yet.

Lenny Kravitz explores genres in newest album ‘Raise Vibration’

by Taylor Sone Campus Life Editor

Lenny Kravitz’s 11th studio album, “Raise Vibration,” righteously rages against the current political climate in the soulful, funky and rockin’ way that has defined his sound since he started making music in the late ‘80s.

The album depicts Kravitz at his most creative while still retaining the catchy popinfluenced sounds that keep his work accessible. And like everything that Kravitz puts his creative energy into, it’s just plain cool.

The titular track “Raise Vibration” growls with classic blues riffing, then breaks off into a driving psychedelic rock section complete with ethereal organs and Kravitz’s vocals flying above. It finally concludes with an unexpected but beautiful Native American drum chant.

Kravitz pulls no punches when he takes aim at the current state of affairs in U.S. politics with tracks like “It’s Enough” and “Here to Love.”

The former is a sultry R&B jam that criticizes police brutality (“.45 caliber in the face / Shot him in the head because of his race / Now that he is dead, will we plead his case?”) as well as environmental destruction, conflict in the Middle East and power-hungry individuals.

Kravitz demonstrates the degree to which he can bend genre in “Johnny Cash,” one of the best tracks on the album.

It begins with a Thundercat influenced electro-funk intro then turns quickly into bluesy Pink Floyd-like jangling guitar and an electronic piano verse, with lyrics reminiscent of the country music genre.

4. Miniature Pinscher I would love to have either a regular-size or a miniature pinscher. Miniature pinschers, reaching over 1 foot in height, are ideal for apartment living.

These dogs are protectors and pals to their owners. They are friendly to kids and dogs alike, but can still pack a powerful bark — and bite — for intruders or unwelcome guests. Min pins are very energetic and hyperactive dogs. Therefore, it is crucial that they are walked daily. Grooming comes easy for a miniature pinscher, as they shed little to no fur and have potential for drooling. A miniature pinscher will without a doubt be an exceptional watch dog and roommate.

Another track that demands attention is “Low.” The song samples Michael Jackson and borrows from his style, featuring a couple of unmistakable “Hoooo!”s.

The instrumentation is funky and sexy, and the Nile Rodgers-sounding guitar is the cherry on top of this track. Jackson and Kravitz have worked together before on the track “(I Can’t Make It) Another Day,” which was released after Jackson’s death in 2010.

Kravitz himself provides a lot of the instrumentation on this album, which has been his modus operandi for albums from 1989’s “Let Love Rule” to 2014’s “Strut.”

Upon its release, “Raise Vibration” received a 56 out of 100 rating on Metacritic, a 7.2 out of 10 from Paste Magazine and three out of five stars from Rolling Stone reviewer Kory Grow. Though this is on the low end of positivity, the album is definitely worth a listen. Kravitz displays a deft hand for his work, subtly injecting politics throughout the album while refusing to let the quality of the tracks play second fiddle. The variegation in the songs themselves is perhaps why some reviews aren’t exactly glowing.

Kravitz is well-known also for his acting and fashionforward style. He played Cinna in the “Hunger Games” film series, and has appeared in other movies such as “Precious” and “Zoolander.”

He is currently touring “Raise Vibration” across the U.S. and in the U.K. with his band.

“Raise Vibration” is available on Spotify and Apple Music, as well as for purchase on Google Play and iTunes.

5. Pomeranian These little fluff balls grow to be 1 foot in height, and have quite a long life span, too, at 12-16 years. Pomeranians are always on guard, so barking is pretty frequent with this breed, although they can be trained to stop on command. Pomeranians are very intelligent and active dogs that do require some sort of exercise or playtime daily, but a stimulating toy can keep one sufficiently entertained.

Pomeranians are silly and spirited, so they are sure to keep you on your toes with their spunky attitudes. At the end of the day, there’s nothing better for Pomeranians than being able to snuggle up next to their owners after a long day of play.

Sports

7

September 12, 2018

Editor’s Take

ROAD TO THE GOVERNOR’S TROPHY

NFL fans should not be enraged with Nike’s Kaepernick approch

Date

Sport

Location

Pts.

Result

Aug. 17

Women’s Soccer

Bill Stephens Track and Soccer Complex

3

(tie) LR- 1.5 UCA 1.5

Sept. 6

Volleyball

Conway

3

UCA wins LR- 1.5 UCA 4.5

Sept. 9

Men’s Cross Country

Conway

2

UCA wins LR-1.5 UCA 6.5

Sept. 9

Women’s Cross Country

Conway

2

UCA wins LR- 1.5 UCA 8.5

Oct. 14

Men’s Cross Country

Little Rock

2

-

Oct. 14

Women’s Cross Country

Little Rock

2

-

Oct. 22-23

Men’s Golf

Little Rock

2

-

Oct. 28-30

Women’s Golf

Hot Springs Village

2

-

Nov. 28

Men’s Basketball

Conway

4

-

Dec. 4

Men’s Basketball

Little Rock

4

-

by Marcus McClain Assistant Sports Editor

Since I started college two years ago, Colin Kaepernick was an extremely hot talking point, and that is something that has yet to change. Honestly, it has grown even hotter, with no signs of slowing down.

For the 30th anniversary of the company’s “Just Do It” campaign, Nike chose Kaepernick as one of the faces of its advertisement.

This has caused unrest and a heavy load of criticism to come the company’s way. Many have recorded themselves burning Nike apparel and letting their feelings of disapproval be known. Several have also vowed to stop wearing Nike apparel and spending money on company merchandise.

On the other hand, many people have displayed their support of the campaign by reposting and sharing the Nike slogan paired with Kaepernick’s ad: “Believe in something.

Even if it means sacrificing everything.”

This is an idea that I find hard not to get behind. Being passionate enough to sacrifice personal gain for the benefit of many is beyond commendable.

However, the initial problem still remains.

Despite what side you take on this issue, burning or buying Nike apparel isn’t going to solve anything. We can’t forget the reasoning this whirlwind around Kaepernick began. The support that Nike has shown Kaepernick is amazing, and is something that deserves to be celebrated, but we can’t get away from the topic at hand.

Kaepernick kneeled to protest injustice between minority communities and the police around the country.

He has stayed consistent in this position, and the people as a whole should as well.

The relationship between members of the minority and law enforcement needs to be improved. That’s the conversation that we need to continue. No matter how tough it may be, this is a conversation that should be expanded upon.

Refocusing on the root of it all is mandatory. Nike is not the real topic of discussion here. Neither is the military, the NFL or the tweets that Donald Trump may spew about it. Until we all actually come together and find a resolution, rather than argue about it, we’ll find ourselves in the same position.

photo by Jessica Huffmaster

UCA’s offensive line prepares to snap the ball against Murray State Sept. 8 at Estes Stadium. The Bears earned 143 rushing yards and 281 passing yards behind their offensive front. UCA finished the game with 159 more offensive yards than MSU.

UCA defeats Murray State, Brown’s first coaching win

by DJ Jones Staff Writer

The UCA football team (1-1) bested rainy conditions and defeated the Murray State University Racers (0-2) 26-13 at home for its first win of the season Sept. 8.

The Racers put points on the scoreboard first with a 39-yard field goal in the first quarter from junior kicker Gabriel Vicente.

The Bears answered quickly with a 1-yard touchdown run by sophomore quarterback Breylin Smith, putting UCA up 7-3.

In the second quarter Vicente kicked a 24-yard field goal, bringing Murray State within 1 point at 7-6.

UCA junior running back Carlos Blackman got his first rushing touchdown of the season in the second quarter, with a 1-yard rush on a 72-yard drive that lasted 11 plays.

Smith got his first passing touchdown of the night in the

second quarter with a 25-yard pass to senior receiver Lester Wells, giving the Bears a 20-6 lead.

Murray State ended the first half with a 31-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Drew Anderson to junior wide receiver James Sappington. The Racers made the extra point, making the score 20-13 in UCA’s favor going into the halftime break.

Early in the third quarter, UCA junior defensive back Juan Jackson forced a fumble and UCA junior defensive back Trai Mosley recovered the ball.

The Racers got the ball back with 5:42 left on the clock after Smith threw an interception.

Neither team put points on the scoreboard in the third quarter, but the Bears opened the fourth quarter with a six-play, 54-yard drive that lasted 2:31 on the clock and ended with a 1-yard rushing touchdown by Blackman.

The Bears held the Racers

scoreless for the remaining 12:29 of the game and won the game 26-13.

Both teams fought through heavy rain in the game.

“Adjusting to the weather was nothing for me. We’ve been taught from a younger age to play in all types of weather conditions, so to get to play in the rain was actually fun,” sophomore defensive back Jackie Harvell said.

Harvell said that despite this, it could get a little tricky to adjust to the ball being wet.

Blackman said that winning this first home game was everything to him and his team.

“Winning this first game meant the world. It was a hard-fought and rainy battle, but it feels good to come out on top with the win,” Blackman said.

The next UCA game will be its first conference game at Southeastern Louisiana University Sept. 5 in Hammond, Louisiana.

photo by Taylor Sone

UCA men’s Cross Country Team pose with their trophies Sept. 8 at Beaverfork Lake Park after winning the Central Arkansas Cross Country Challenge. The UCA women’s Cross Country Team won their division as well at the meet, meaning together the two teams picked up 4 points for the Governor’s I-40 Showdown rivalry between UCA and UALR.

Men’s cross country increases rivalry lead

by Taylor Sone Campus Life Editor

Volleyball

Men’s Soccer

7 p.m. vs. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Sept. 13 Women’s Soccer

7 p.m. at Sam Houston State University Sept. 14 Football

7 p.m. at Southeastern Louisiana University Sept. 15

MUDDY

CLEAN FINISH

Upcoming Games 6:30 p.m. at Arkansas State University Sept. 13

The UCA volleyball team won the first match of the Central Arkansas Invitational against the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, giving UCA 3 more points for the rivalry. Both the men’s and women’s cross country teams won in the Central Arkansas Cross Country Challenge, which gave UCA a combined 4 more points for the Showdown.

photo courtesy of UCA Sports

The Sugar Bears celebrate after finishing off the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in the fifth set of the match. This marked the first win for the volleyball team in the Governor’s I-40 Showdown, and earning UCA 3 points with the win.

Volleyball sweeps Invitational

by Marcus McClain Assistant Sports Editor

For the second consecutive season, the UCA volleyball team (8-2) swept the Central Arkansas Invitational, winning three straight games at the Farris Center Sept. 6-7.

Sophomore defensive specialist Emily Doss was named to the All-Tournament team with an average of 3.82 digs, 1 assist and 0.27 aces per set.

Senior outside hitter Haley Tippett was named MVP of the Invitational, averaging 4.45 kills, 3.48 digs and 0.45 assists per set.

The first and most competitive opponent during the tournament was the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (7-3, 0-0). The

Sugar Bears edged out a 3-2 nail-biting victory in the second matchup between the schools in the Governor’s I-40 Showdown rivalry.

UALR had their way in the first set, holding the Sugar Bears to an attack percentage of only .03. The Lady Trojans went on to win the first set decisively at 25-13. The second set saw much more back-and-forth action. UCA started the set with a 7-4 lead before UALR battled back to tie the set at 12.

Three kills from senior middle blocker Savanah Allen and an ace from senior defensive specialist Amanda Dimon powered a 5-1 run for the Sugar Bears, but once again the Lady Trojans responded.

After a 4-point run and an error from UCA, Little Rock

took a 24-23 lead and a chance to take the second set.

However, UCA got kills from senior outside hitters Haley Tippett and Kellen Dunn, followed by a Lady Trojan error, to take the set and even the match.

The Sugar Bears rode this momentum into the third set and came out on top at 25-21, giving them the 2-1 lead.

UCA looked to be in control entering the fourth set, going up 9-4, but UALR responded with heavy fire.

They bounced back with 9 straight points, forcing UCA coach Jeni Chatman to call both of her timeouts.

The Sugar Bears came within 1 point of the lead on two separate occasions, but couldn’t get over the hump.

Volleyball page 8

The UCA cross country team crushed the competition at the annual Central Arkansas Cross Country Challenge Sept. 8 at Conway’s Beaverfork Lake Park, finishing first in both the men’s and women’s competitions.

Coach Richard Martin said that his teams performed well in the muddy, humid conditions, especially considering that it was the first meet for the women’s team and the first meet for many freshmen.

“It was a good competition.

I’m just glad the good Lord blessed us and it didn’t rain on us,” Martin said.

The course was a 1.5-mile loop that was mostly on grass, except for a few dirt areas. The conditions on the south end of the course were especially muddy from the previous day’s rain.

The men’s team finished the day with 19 points and took four of the top five spots.

Freshman Thomas Cain came in first with a time of 16:08.50, senior Brock Collins came in second with a time of 16:19.87, freshman Hunter Henderson came in fourth with a time of 16:38.09 and junior Jared Hamilton finished fifth with a time of 16:43.19.

“It was a good race. Our main strategy was to work together as a team,” Collins said.

He added that the adverse conditions were welcome, and made the track a “true cross country course.”

The women’s team ended the meet with 24 points and picked up two of the top five spots. Senior Taylor Dunn

finished second with a time of 19:05.32 and senior Alejandra Ruiz finished fifth with a time of 19:17.17.

Eleven teams competed in the women’s division. In the women’s division, the University of Arkansas at Little Rock finished in second with 61 points, John Brown University finished in third with 87 points and Oral Roberts finished fourth with 98 points.

Ten teams competed on the men’s side of the challenge.

In the men’s division, UALR finished second with a score of 66 points, JBU finished third with a score of 85 points and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff finished fourth with a score of 95.

The victories also added to UCA’s lead over UALR in the Governor’s I-40 Showdown Rivalry, which was established Aug. 17 by the athletic departments of both universities.

After the victories at Beaverfork, UCA stands at 8.5 points and UALR at 1.5.

Cain said he had his shoe clipped off for the first quarter mile, and had to stop to adjust it mid-race. Despite the setback, he still managed to take first place.

“The goal was to go out there and win the meet as a team, so we definitely went out and accomplished that,” Cain said. “We ran as a pack for the first two miles or so before me and Brock split off.”

A week before the first home meet, the men’s team had success in Memphis, Tennessee, at the Brooks Memphis Twilight XC Classic at the Mike Rose Complex, finishing fourth overall with UCA senior Marcus Schweikert finishing in first place.

ucaecho.net

SPORTS

8/ September 12, 2018

Sugar Bears win at home

SPORT

UCA STATS CORNER OPPONENT

RESULT

RECORD

26-13 (W)

(-1, 0-0)

3-0 (W)

(8-2)

2-2 (T)

(2-1-1)

2-1 (W)

(5-2-1)

By Marcus McClain Assistant Sports Editor

The UCA women’s soccer team (5-2-1) pushed its win streak to three, earning two victories at the Bill Stephens Track and Soccer Complex Sept. 5 and 9.

It began with a 5-0 victory over Oral Roberts University (4-5) Sept. 5.

With less than two minutes off the clock, UCA earned a corner kick and ORU senior goalkeeper Ryleigh Bohnenstiehl made a save in the eleventh minute.

UCA continued to create opportunities to score, coming up short on several shots.

A header opportunity from senior forward Camille Bassett went just wide in the 17th minute, followed by another good look just inside the 18-yard area that was stopped again by Bohnenstiehl.

Sophomore Anika Sultan also had a chance to score in the first half on a penalty kick, but the shot flew just inches over the crossbar.

Despite not capitalizing on their shots in the first half, the Sugar Bears remained in control of the game with some tough defense. They only allowed the Golden Eagles to get off one shot in the first half.

In the second half, things started to open up for the UCA offense as junior midfielder Connie Awuku-Darkoh took a shot just inside the penalty area that connected for her fifth goal of the season.

Less than two minutes later, a combination play from junior forward Jordan Slim and Awuhu-Darkoh led to an easy opportunity for Bassett.

She was able to take advantage of this chance, giving UCA a 2-0 lead and earning Bassett her second goal of the season.

Four minutes later, the Sugar Bears got a chance on their second penalty kick of the night. Freshman defender Gracie Hair stepped up and nailed the kick into the bottom left corner for a 3-0 lead.

UCA put the game away with goals from freshman defender Taylor Webb and freshman midfielder Morgan Rollow.

In the next matchup, UCA’s 2-1 victory over Arkansas State University (3-1-2) handed the Red Wolves their first loss of the season.

UCA became the first team to score more than one goal against ASU. The Sugar Bears connected on their first goal much earlier in this contest with sophomore midfielder Hadley Dickinson knocking in her first goal of the season at the 6-minute mark.

ASU responded quickly with a goal of its own by sophomore Sarah Sodoma at the eight-minute mark to tie the score.

Dickinson looked to score again in the 15th minute, but Red Wolf senior goalkeeper Kelsey Ponder was there for one of her seven saves of the night.

The Sugar Bears landed two more shots on goal for the half, but didn’t connect for the score, leaving a 1-1 tie at the half.

A combination from Hair and Awuku-Darkoh in the second half set up Bassett for the score in the 62nd minute, giving UCA a 2-1 lead.

Clutch defense helped the Sugar Bears hold on and win the game as senior goalkeeper Lauri Mercuri made a save in the 68th minute.

ASU had chances to tie the score with four corner shots in the final 20 minutes, but couldn’t convert. This win gave UCA its best start since the 2012 season.

UCA begins conference play against Sam Houston State University at 7 p.m.

Sept. 14 in the Bill Stephens Complex.

Murray State University

Football

Volleyball

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

University of Incarnate

Men’s Soccer

Women’s Soccer

Word Arkansas State University

Volleyball: photo by Marley Cash-Powell

Sophomore Amari Mitchell, middle blocker on the UCA Sugar Bears volleyball team, enjoys spending time with the people she cares for and listening to old-school R&B. Some of her favorite artists include Boyz II Men, Jodeci and Usher.

UCA middle blocker proud of past success, aims for more

by Marcus McClain Assistant Sports Editor

Sophomore middle blocker Amari Mitchell is poised and determined to have a standout season in her second year as a UCA Sugar Bear.

“Volleyball is my passion,” Mitchell said. “Most of my time is spent with my teammates, whether it’s just bonding and hanging out together, or working to improve our game.”

Mitchell’s volleyball career began back in her home of Arlington, Texas.

Initially, she played at a local YMCA, but she started to take the game more seriously as a high school freshman. She also joined a club volleyball team, a travel team aimed at training and providing exposure for high school athletes.

As she expanded her game, she became more comfortable with volleyball and became a starter her junior year at Mansfield Timberview High School in Arlington.

While there, she was named Defensive Player of the Year, selected for the All-District First Team, recognized as an Academic All-District player and designated a spot in the All-Tournament Team at Nationals.

After UCA reached out to her, she decided to become a Sugar Bear because of the program’s dedication and commitment, she said.

“They came off as the most serious and committed of any school about their volleyball program,” Mitchell said. “So after convincing my parents to bring me for a visit, I decided this was where I wanted to be.”

In her first year at UCA, Mitchell helped the Sugar

Bears reach the conference championship, a major goal for the program.

“Last year was great for us as a team. We set our goals before the season, and we definitely met them,” Mitchell said. “That experience we gained from that will only help us moving forward.”

Mitchell said she is looking to enhance her overall game and raise her contribution level from last season.

“My freshman season here was a pretty good one, individually, but I know I can do more,” she said. “I just remain positive through ups and downs and develop my game where I can.”

Volleyball coach Jeni Chatman said she has seen those improvements firsthand.

“Amari has definitely improved her work ethic and ability to take in information and apply it,” Chatman said. “It is night and day from last year.

Just by making those changes, it has increased her volleyball IQ tremendously, as well as her efficiency, kill percentage and blocks per set.”

Beyond this season, Chatman believes Mitchell can become a team leader in these categories and develop into a “go-to” player for the Sugar Bears.

“I’m looking forward to more years with Amari here in our program. She brings an incredible sense of humor and perspective to all she does,” Chatman said.

Mitchell also voiced her excitement on upcoming games and being a part of the Governor’s I-40 Showdown. “[The Showdown is] something we are for sure looking forward to,” Mitchell said. “The standard is to whip them out.”

Little Rock took the set 25-18, forcing a fifth set.

A fast start to the set helped UCA grab the victory, jumping ahead 9-4. The Lady Trojans tied the score twice in the set, but kills from Tippett and Allen would seal the deal, as UCA won the set 16-14, earning the 3-2 victory.

For the game, Tippett finished with a match-high 24 kills and 19 digs. Anderson tallied 18 kills and sophomore setter Bailey Waddington added 36 assists.

In its next contest, UCA defeated the University of South Dakota Coyotes in a 3-0 sweep.

Despite South Dakota taking the first 5 points in the opening set, the Sugar Bears made a run and cut the lead to 1.

They extended that run to 15-4, taking a 20-14 lead before finishing the set 25-17.

The Sugar Bears remained consistent throughout the final two sets, finishing them both 25-22 and taking the win.

UCA wins Central Arkansas Invitational.

In the final day of the invitational, UCA defeated the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Lady Lions (1-9) 3-0.

The Sugar Bears got off to a red-hot start, jumping out to a 6-0 lead in the first set.

They never slowed, hitting 50 percent in the frame.

The team collected kills frequently as senior right sider Samantha Anderson tallied 6, senior outside hitter Haley Tippett reached 5 and junior outside hitter Abbie Harry added 5.

This high-powered attack helped UCA finish the first set in dominating fashion at 25-11.

UAPB answered back in the second set, jumping out with a quick 3-1 lead.

However, their lead swiftly changed hands as the Sugar Bears took the next 4 points.

The Lady Lions stayed close and tied the score twice in the set before UCA went on a strong 6-0 run, giving UCA an 18-10 lead.

UCA stayed ahead to win

the set 25-16. Again, Tippett and Anderson led UCA in the set, each gathering 3 kills.

The Sugar Bears showed their strength again in the third set, blasting out to a 6-0 lead. They managed to hit .591 in the frame, giving them the victory and closing the set 25-10.

Tippett earned her fifth double-double of the season with 11 kills and 10 digs.

Waddington finished with 25 assists and middle blocker sophomore Amari Mitchell collected 7 blocks.

“I think our chemistry has been really good,” Tippett said. “As long as we’re able to keep that going and keep playing for each other, I think our success will carry over to the rest of our games.”

UCA will finish their nonconference schedule at the A-State Invitational Sept. 13-15, with their first matchup against the host Red Wolves followed by Jackson State University and Southern Illinois University.

TIED DOWN

Men’s soccer forces draw with Cardinals

by Daniel Adams Staff Writer

For the second straight week, the road gave the UCA men’s soccer team (2-1-1) mixed results after traveling for two games on the road in Texas.

While they wouldn’t have a loss this time — unlike earlier in the season against Marquette — the men’s soccer team walked away with a draw against the University of the Incarnate Word Cardinals in San Antonio Sept. 7, and with a cancelled game against the Houston Baptist University Huskies Sept. 9, due to severe weather.

The Bears started slowly against UIW, as the Cardinals scored 2 goals in the first half to take the early lead.

It took a great effort from senior captain Niklas Brodacki to star the rebound in the

second half, scoring both goals in the game to get the Bears back into the thick of things and in contention for a win. The closest any team got to winning came when UCA freshman Moiad Ankir got a shot off that went just off course with one second remaining in the second and final overtime.

Both teams wanted a win after 110 tough minutes of play, but UCA and Incarnate Word walked away with a 2-2 draw.

While it wasn’t necessarily a win, UCA coach Ross Duncan still had positives to take away after the effort made by the players Sept. 7, and despite the lack of a game two days later.

“It was a positive to see the energy the boys had to get themselves back in the match,” Duncan said. “We are a different team when we play with that urgency.”

Duncan said the team must have the right mindset if it wants to beat its next opponent at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Sept. 13.

“It’s all about our mentality to start the match,” Duncan said. “Our focus needs to be on the first whistle and coming out flying.”

Assistant coach Matt Taphorn had several positives about the team as well.

“It’s great to get Brodacki off the mark. we are never worried about him getting goals, but it’s good for his confidence. Moiad [Ankir] gives us a ton of energy and pace off the bench. He’s one that’s really pushing for more time and a starting role,” Taphorn said.

UCA goes back into action against UTRGV Sept. 13 at 7 p.m. at the Bill Stephens Soccer Complex.