UALR Forum- Jan 27 Issue

Jan 27

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TROJANS ARE NOW 15-2

IN conference PAGE 15

also IN THIS ISSUE Dining dollars Now roll over

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Boot Camp helps get Trojans into a healthier Mindset

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eat beat: getting to ‘the root’

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Opinions

January 27 - February 9, 2016

STAFF Executive Editor Victoria Hickey Adviser Sonny Rhodes Operations Manager/ Art Director Byron Buslig News Editor Alexandria Barnes

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Campus Life Editor Lauren Humphrey Arts & Leisure Editor Caitlyn Sample Entertainment Editor Tanner Newton Sports Editor Brian Gregory Copy Editor Abigail Marshall Business Manager John Arnold Graphic Designer Brady Jackson Lauren Humphrey Distribution Manager Dakota Thompson

IN THIS ISSUE

Photo Editor/ Web Designer Brady Jackson

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Sydney Bradshaw Christina Turner Elton Tevebaugh Whitney Bryson Christopher Gardner Eva Legg Zoe Harris Lela-Tamara Fluker Tanya Triplett Renea Goddard Abdul Mohammed Victoria Mugambi Shaun Williams Jeff Ridgle Analee Jones Scott Foster

he Forum is the official student newspaper at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. The Forum is funded in part by the student activity fee; members of the UALR community are allowed one copy per edition. The opinions expressed in The Forum are those of the staff and contributing writers and do not represent the official views of UALR. Advertising inquiries should be referred to The Forum’s advertising office and can be reached by calling 501-569-3319. The Forum is published 7 times in each of the fall and spring semesters. The Forum editor can be reached at 501-569-3265. All material published in this newspaper is copyrighted.

TORI TALKS ‘This is the new year’

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Letters to the Editor The Forum welcomes letters to the editor on any subject as well as comments on our news coverage and editorial position.

By Victoria Hickey Executive Editor editor@UALR.edu e have almost finished a full month of 2016 and for me, it’s been a busy month. School has started back and with that comes hours of homework, studying and extracurricular activities. Those who know me could tell you, I’m involved in a wide variety of student organizations and I love it! However, with those extracurriculars come numerous responsibilities and someone who always needs you to complete another task.

I love being involved but I’ve realized that sometimes it just becomes too much and that’s what caused me to make my New Year’s Resolution for this year.

My resolution is to be more selfish with my time. This may sound like a negative thing, but let me explain.

I have always been a people pleaser.

I do what I can to make other’s lives as easy as possible. Whether that’s taking on extra tasks when working on something

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with a committee or picking up the slack at work where others have fallen short.

Since I’m involved in so many organizations this leads to the tasks piling up pretty quickly and things getting crazy.

Completing all these extra tasks has left me with very little free time to spend with friends and family or to just do something relaxing. Last semester I found myself so exhausted on the weekends I didn’t even want to do anything with the hour or two I had of free time. I love seeing other people happy and that’s one thing that I try to make happen a lot.

But after last year I realized that I need to start doing more things to make myself happy.

So, my goal this year is to enjoy life a little bit more. I have big plans and I want this to be my year. What are your resolutions? We still have 11 months ahead of us to follow through with our resolutions.

Good luck!

P O L I T I C A L C O M M E NT A R Y

•Letters must include the author’s name, classification, major or position and a contact telephone number for confirmation.

•Letters are subject to editing to meet space limitations.

•Please limit letter to 500 words or less.

•The staff will not alter the meaning of the letter, but will correct spelling and punctuation and edit to conform to Associated Press and news style.

•All letters are subject to publication.

The editor has the right to reject any letter especially those letters that are libelous, obscene or incoherent.

Letters should be emailed to editor@ualr.edu or sent to:

The Forum University of Arkansas at Little Rock 201J Donaghey Student Center 2801 S. University Ave. Little Rock, Ark. 72204

The 2016 presidential race is almost here Scott Foster Staff Writer snfoster1@ualr.edu

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fter long last, the primaries and caucuses determining the Democratic and Republican nominees for president are upon us. Beginning Feb. 1, brave souls inhabiting the great state of Iowa will don their warmest winter gear and officially kick off the 2016 nomination contest. New Hampshire will join them about a week later on Feb. 9, providing the country with its first hints of which candidates may have the political moxie and grassroots support to emerge victorious in the party conventions.

Looking at the latest polls from Real Clear Politics, the race for the Democratic nomination has turned out to be much more competitive in the early voting states of Iowa and New Hampshire than

some experts predicted at the onset of campaigning. Underdog Senator Bernie Sanders (D) has mounted a solid challenge to the clear front-runner for the White House, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (D), by running on issues near and dear to the heart of many students. Some of the most important of these resonating issues include student loan forgiveness, free tuition waivers and a higher national minimum wage of $15 per hour. Mr. Sanders, who is running an unusual campaign in which he describes himself as a “Democratic Socialist”, has closed to within ten points in Iowa and is maintaining a lead in the state of New Hampshire.

While some have dismissed the competitive nature of these early contests by pointing out the domination of Ms. Clinton in nationwide polls, Assistant Professor Gregory Shufeldt of the UALR political science department sees things much differently. Shufeldt, who is teach-

ing a timely class on the power of political party influence this semester, stated in a recent interview concerning the Democratic race that “who is leading in the national polls actually matters very little.” He points out this is due directly to the state-by-state nature of the election, where the results of one state can have a significant impact on the state's voting later in the nomination process.

Shufeldt also points out that the media often over-emphasizes the national polling results, which sometimes misleads average citizens into thinking races are essentially over.

Until next time when we analyze the Republican nomination, remember that your ballot does matter, races are still competitive, and students can always make their voices heard by voting for the leaders of our country. The presidential primary for the state of Arkansas will be held on March 1.

News

ualr.edu/forum

January 27 - February 9, 2016

MLK Mega Kingfest takes over UALR Christina Turner Staff Writer cmturner2@ualr.edu

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he University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s Office of Campus Life hosted one of the largest events in the community at the Jack Stephens Center on Jan. 18. The event drew hundreds of people from the metro area to celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. and also raised awareness about the community involvement of the Martin Luther King Commission. This event was free and open to the public. Many special guests were in attendance and local leaders came out to support as well.

The celebration kicked off with an interfaith prayer breakfast at 7 a.m. with keynote speaker Presiding Elder Jimmy Lee Thompson from Lakeland, Florida. Other speakers also included Governor Asa Hutchinson and actor Eric Braeden

with a musical selection by Zatoria Curry of St. Mark Baptist Church.

After the breakfast followed the MLK Birthday Bash. This honored organizations and individuals for their commitment to community service. The Nonviolence Youth Summit presented young speakers who are actively involved in the community doing good works and learning about business and leadership with the help of the Arkansas MLK Commission.

Another special guest celebrity was comedian Marlon Wayans.

Well-known local leaders, including Broadway Joe from Power 92 Jams and Chief Executive Officer of the Arkansas MLK Commission, Dushun Scarbrough were also a part of the event. They gave out prizes that included gift cards, cash and bicycles.

The event also sponsored free breakfast and lunch, haircuts, beauty styling and health screenings.

Vendors included P.O.T.S (Part Of The Solution), which educates

smokers and non-smokers about the benefits and consequences of the bad habit and educates about Act 11 ban on being able to smoke inside vehicles and Kosmic Kidz, which a volunteer rep stated is “an outreach that helps children 18 and under in underprivileged communities with nutritional services.”

Other activities included a bounce house and bounce slide for children as well as activity stations set up for them. Greek organizations were also in attendance with various information about voting registration, banking, etc.

Courtesy of facebook.com/arkingdream.org

Celebrities and local community leaders were in attendance at the MLK Mega Kingfest.

Research colloquium: ‘Commerical Myth-Making and the Holy Land Experience’ Alexandria Barnes ings by Lenita Davis, professor and News Editor ambarnes@ualr.edu

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he University of Arkansas at Little Rock's Office of Research and Sponsored Programs hosted its first presentation in its 2016 Research Colloquium Series on Jan. 14. The presentation reported on find-

chair of the UALR Marketing and Advertising Department and UALR Sales Program Executive Director, and her colleague, David Crockett of the University of South Carolina of the Holy Land theme park in Orlando. They attended the park in 2011 and again in 2013.

Davis’ research focused on marketing, sales, retailing and services.

This project idea was sparked by

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Land theme park is a “brand-builder,” not a profit center. The park “competes in the marketplace with her interest in televangelism and counter-myths found in mainline the marketing done in that area. presentation and secularism” and She defines myth-making is not required to report its revas, “any story that perpetuates a enue. moral” and concentrated on marDavis stated that religion is a keting strategies in relation to this huge market in the business world for the project. and is very different from the secuIdeology is how we make sense lar commercial markets. The Holy of our lives. Brands use ideol- Land park provides attendees with ogy in their advertisements and religious experiences in a theme promotions. Products perpetuate park setting. There is communion, ideology. She concluded that Holy baptisms, Jesus look-alikes walk

around and passion plays are performed. It provides Christians with an “escape from the secular world.”

“It’s like a church,” says Davis.

Some of the tactics Holy Land uses to back up this idea is “redemption through violence” using passion plays to tell the story of Jesus’ crucifixion and “authentic connection to a sacred place” where your prayer requests can be taken to the Wailing Wall in Israel.

Sacred rituals are also performed and Middle Eastern products are sold in the gift shop.

In her future work, Davis plans to research international Christian retailers.

Come view our online edition at: http://issuu.com/theualrforum

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News

January 27 - February 9, 2016

ualr.edu/forum

UALR dining dollars now roll over Univer si ty

Sydney Bradshaw Staff Writer slbradshaw@ualr.edu

Disorderly conduct On Dec 14, 2015, a homeless woman was found on the second floor of the Student Services Center Registrar’s area on a university computer. When asked to log off the computer, the suspect refused. She became verbally abusive and threatening. She was arrested for disorderly conduct and obstructing government operation. She had already been warned by other officers not to return to the campus which led to her being charged with criminal trespassing.

On Jan 7, the same woman was found in the same place as her previous arrest, the second floor of the Student Services Center Registrar’s area. She was on a university computer, asked to log off, and then handcuffed and escorted out of the area. While being transported to Pulaski County Detention Center, the suspect verbally abused the transporting officer, which resulted in her being charged with 2nd Degree Terroristic Threatening along with Criminal Trespassing.

Officers called to the Fine Arts Building On Dec 11, 2015, an officer reported to the Fine Arts Building about a vending machine being broken into. The glass on the machine had been pushed in from the lower corner. It could not be proven that anything was missing. The officer unplugged the machine and turned it around so that it could not be accessed until the vending machine company could be contacted.

On Dec 15, 2015, an officer was securing the Fine Arts Building when the officer noticed an office door was unlocked. Upon opening the door a young man was found sleeping on the floor. With him he had two backpacks and an inflatable mattress. In the two backpacks were several changes of clothes, food and personal hygiene items.

When asked why he was sleeping in the building, the suspect told the officer that his professor had given him permission, but contact with the professor could not be made. The man was not arrested, but was told that he cannot sleep in any building on campus and if he was caught doing it again, he would be arrested.

Parties in University Village On Dec 12, 2015, an officer heard loud music coming from one of the apartments in the University Village. Upon investigating the noise the officer also heard someone say, “It’s the police.” The suspect was told that the music was too loud and that his guests needed to leave for the night. The officer counted 15 people leave the apartment.

On Dec 28, 2015, an officer responded to a call about a loud party in the Village. The music could be heard from the parking lot in front of the building. There was a live D.J. and approximately 40 people in the apartment. The suspect was told that the party needed to be shut down. He was compliant and cleared everyone out of the apartment.

e rock tl it

Police Beat

rkansas at A l of

DINing Dollars Illustration by Brady Jackson

Elton Tevebaugh “The recent changes were imple- years, weighs in. “I'm quite happy

mented to better serve the stuStaff Writer dents.” ewtevebaugh@ualr.edu This saves students money in the long run, since, as Williams said, “Students will not lose their dining dollars at the end of the s the New Year sets in and semester.”

“We are constantly looking to people are making changes to their daily routines and implement changes to improve the behaviors, a change was also made dining services here on campus,” to the meal plans at the University said Williams.

Not only do these changes benof Arkansas at Little Rock.

If dining dollars within meal efit UALR, but also Sodexo. The plans aren't used in the course benefit to UALR is student retenof a semester, they now roll over tion and student satisfaction with into the next. What once was con- the food services on campus. The sidered an annoying problem for benefit to Sodexo is client and custhose using school plans is now a tomer satisfaction.

Regarding student satisfaction, thing of the past.

According to General Manager sophomore Dustin King, who has of Sodexo at UALR, Curtis Williams, been on the meal plan for two

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with the changes, and I'm optimistic,” King said.

In reference to the meal plan before this change, King said, “It was a waste of money”.

Sophomore and student athlete, Quin Wilkes, has been on the meal plan for a year and a half.

He also added some perspective on the dining dollars now rolling over. “You're not in a rush to waste money at the end of a semester, since it rolls over now,” Wilkes said.

While sometimes people can be hesitant to change, this recent revision to the meal plan seems to be embraced universally and is mutually beneficial for Sodexo, UALR, and arguably most importantly, students, faculty and staff with meal plans.

UALR professor receives NEH grant Whitney Bryson love my research and I’m excited to

be able to do it!”

Staff Writer With the money she was awardwxbryson@ualr.edu ed, Romney plans to travel overusanah Romney recently seas to learn more about the Dutch received a grant from the Empire and archives. She hopes National Endowment for the to start full time by May and be Humanities to conduct research on finished with her research by next March to start writing her new the Dutch Empire.

Romney, who has been a history book; in which she was inspired to professor here at the University of write because of the first book she Arkansas at Little Rock since fall wrote and her interest in the Dutch 2011, learned she was awarded the Empire.

“The first book inspired me to maximum grant when she received a phone call from the assistant start thinking about looking at hisadministrator from the office of tory a little more globally and trySenator Tom Cotton. After sending ing to see all the connections that an email to NEH to confirm what existed even back then in the different parts of the world,” Romney she heard, Romney was thrilled.

She said, “I was really excited. I said.

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While Romney is still at the stage of doing research for her new book, such as going to different libraries and archives, she plans to take many notes and do a lot of reading.

She adds, “In some ways, it’s just like a student writing a paper. You have to do your homework before you have anything to write.”

Above all, once Romney has concluded her research, she hopes to bring a unique learning experience for her prospective students.

She stated, “I would like for my students to understand the way that different people acted when cultures that were very different from one another came into contact for the first time.”

Campus Life

ualr.edu/forum

January 27 - February 9, 2016

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Bootcamp helps faculty, staff and students get into a healthier mindset Victoria Hickey some regular exercise and having offered. Classes are offered all day

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Executive Editor editor@ualr.edu

egistration is under way for UALR’s Boot Camp Program, which aims to help participants not only lose weight but maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Open to students, staff and faculty, the program began Monday, Jan. 25, but those interested may sign up through Monday, Feb. 1.

Registration fee is $25. The program ends March 21. For more information, contact Naomi Fletcher at nffletcher@ualr.edu or call 501-569-3228.

Fletcher, program coordinator, said the “goal behind the program is not just to help the people lose weight ... [but] to help them achieve more of a balance by doing

some control over their diet.”

The program consists of both a contest and a challenge. The contest is open to those classified as overweight or obese, according to their body mass index (BMI).

“The contest is both about weight and body fat percentage, so we are doing measurements in addition to weight,” Fletcher said.

“If you’re not that heavy but you want to join the boot camp you can still do it, you just do the challenge portion instead. The only difference between the two is that if you’re doing just the challenge, you are not competing for prizes.”

To complete the program, participants must attend at least three classes a week, two boot camp classes and a third class of your choice out of the cardio classes

Office of Campus Life hosts student organization fair Lauren Humphrey Campus Life Editor lehumphrey@ualr.edu

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tarting off the semester, the Office of Campus Life organized the Student Organizations Fair on Jan. 13 in the Donaghey Student Center. Over 20 organizations set up tables to recruit new members and make connections with students who wanted to get involved. Students could visit the fair between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to make connections with organizations around campus.

Each organization that signed up to be involved in the fair prior to the event set up their own table and decorated it with memorabilia and pictures from events they had done in the past. Many clubs also had freebies to give away that attracted students to their table.

"This event always brings in a lot of organizations to recruit students who are looking to get involved. Students are always looking to get involved and this is a great opportunity for them to get connected," student organizations program coordinator, Leah Vaughan said.

Greek organizations including Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) got involved with the fair to grow and get better campus presence. AKA promoted working with students to get involved around campus.

"We wanted to connect with girls in hopes of recruitment. We talked about how we can partner with them to achieve our goals," chapter president sophomore Faith Thomas said.

Near the end of the fair, the Latin dance club tried to attract members with a dance presentation. Senior Rachel Chatwood and senior Kendle Carter performed a traditional Latin dance called a Cumbia.

"It is a circular dance that has a distinct sound different from salsa.

It's a little tricky at first, but fun and easy once you get the hang of it," Chatwood said.

Students who want to get involved with campus organizations should visit the Office of Campus Life. Their office is actively working with organizations to get more students involved.

Photo by Lauren Humphrey

Students visit tables set up in the DSC on Jan 13 at the Student Organizations Fair.

to fit into everyone’s schedule.

“We always have a goal for them to lose up to 24 pounds because ½-2 pounds a week is considered healthy,” Fletcher said.

The winner in the female division of the contest for the Fall 2015 semester was Crenisha Wright, a research assistant in the Center for Applied Studies in Education.

Wright lost 7.4 pounds during the six week contest.

Wright said she had been running marathons for three years but had lost no weight, so she decided she needed to try something different. She liked the variety of classes the camp offers.

“I’m the type of person that when it’s a variety, it keeps my attention,” Wright said. “I told her [Naomi] I would try Boot Camp,

Step Aerobics and Pound! and I liked them, I enjoyed the class so it kind of kept me motivated through the program.”

Wright said she would recommend the camp both for its variety and because each week Fletcher would send participants information about how to eat or meet with them for 30 minutes and give them a food plan.

Wright's reward for winning included a medicine ball, floor mat and “some other things so it will keep me motivated on the days when I’m not here. ...So that was really nice.”

The winner in the male division of the contest was Gregory Shufeldt, assistant professor of political science. Shufeldt lost 14.4 pounds during the six week contest and has lost over 10 pounds since

the program ended, by continuing the healthy habits he learned from the program.

“I think most faculty would agree that they don’t live the healthiest lifestyles,” Shufeldt said.

“Except for the time that we are in front of the classroom, we are sitting at a computer, in our office or at a coffee shop, so we live pretty sedentary lifestyles which can lead to bad habits -- eating throughout the day or constantly having coffee -- so it’s pretty easy to not live a healthy lifestyle.”

Shufeldt said he would recommend the program. “I think it definitely helps kind of set the pace. I was able to lose a decent amount of weight during the six weeks of the program but a lot of the skills and training and stuff that I learned there, I’m still keeping up with.”

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Campus Life

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UPC welcomes a new semester with meet and greet Eva Legg the chance to make new connecStaff Writer emlegg@ualr.edu

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n Friday, Jan 15, the University Program Council (UPC) hosted their semester Meet and Greet in the upper concourse of the Donaghey Student Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Students had the opportunity to socialize around food, music, games and gifts. The event allowed students to reconnect with others from last semester and also have

tions.

At the event, tables were set up with various handouts. One table was decorated with UPC gifts such as UPC T-Shirts, headphones and UPC cloth bags; campus life bags filled with information such as health services pamphlets, highlighters, a campus map and tutoring services information. UPC games such as giant Jenga blocks were set up on the second table, and the third table had food.

Blaise Hale, who has volunteered for UPC for two and a half years, said “The event takes your

pus. Williams said, “you can’t comStaff Writer plain about things if you aren’t willcagardner@ualr.edu ing to step into a position and fix them.” Williams felt that by stepping into the president's position, she could help the organization go he active president of the Pre- in a more successful direction.

Law Society at the University Some daily duties as presiof Arkansas at Little Rock, dent are sending out information senior English and French major, to people in the Pre-Law Society Alexis Williams, started as a charter Listserv to over 100 recipients. member in the spring semester of In addition, Williams organizes 2013, becoming the communica- events not only for the members tion director shortly after. of the Pre-Law Society, but to help The Pre-Law Society is an orga- promote the organization as well. nization that allows the members She organized a booth for the Preto get more prepared for law school Law Society at the UALR organizaand to help the members figure tion fair on Jan. 13. out how to become law students.

Williams stated that the PreAnyone, including those who are Law Society is planning to go not majoring in Pre-Law, who pays to Houston for a Law School the $5 membership fee can join Admissions Test (LSAT) conferthis organization. Meetings last ence to help members become semester were twice a month. more involved and receive more When the president position information about the test. For the became available, Williams quickly spring semester, Williams is also applied because she had ideas to hoping to get guest speakers at make Pre-Law Society more suc- meeting to inspire members.

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mind off of class and helps you relax. This event always seems to attract the attention of students and many of them attend multiple times to this event.”

UPC will have meetings every week at 5 p.m. in the Leadership Lounge to discuss future events.

All students are welcome to attend.

The next UPC event is “Movie Lela-Tamara Fluker Night” Jan 27 at 7:00 p.m. in Ledbetter Hall. Food and drinks Staff Writer will be served. Students will also ldfluker@ualr.edu get a chance to put their name in a drawing for chances to win a prize.

More information about future UPC events can be found at http:// Jan 20 Senate meeting of SGA ualr.edu/campuslife/upcomingStarting the spring semester, the Student Government Association disevents/. cussed new plans for the semester in their first meeting. Led by Vice President Connor Donovan and President Jacob Lann, the senate gathered to discuss new plans for the semester and get down to business.

Student Government Association

Student organization president feature: Alexis Williams; Pre-Law Society Chris Gardner cessful and more involved on cam-

SGA January 27 - February 9, 2016

SGA meetings are open to the campus community. There are hopes to be able to move the meetings from the original meeting room in the Student Organizations Office and to fill up a room in Ledbetter Hall with attendees.

Those interested in SGA for the perks of having it on their resume would also benefit from participating. The group has the ability to put those interested in contact with committees that better fit their passions.

At the meeting, three newly elected senators were sworn in as a part of the SGA senate. Sophomore Kaden Harris, freshman Makell Swinney, and sophomore Neden Yacine swore an oath of duty at Wednesday's meeting. Harris is an undeclared student but is taking business courses to find his interests. Swinney is a political science major and member of Delta Chi fraternity. Yacine is a chemistry major and member of Chi Omega sorority.

Nominated by President Lann, freshman and senator for the College of Engineering and Information Technology, Larry Dicus, was named Leader of the Week for his work in getting the opening of a rear gates around South Hall opened for safer entry.

The meeting also resulted in the passing of Bill S001-2016. As a part of their efforts to improve the lives of UALR students and help to combat hunger across the campus, the senate approved a bill that allowed them to appropriate funds towards purchasing shelves to be added to the Campus Food Pantry. The Center for Community Outreach will be Photo by Christopher Gardner opening the campus food pantry next month. This will allow students, faculty, and staff members of the UALR community to go in and receive Pre-Law Society President Alexis food items.

Williams said, “you can’t complain about things if you aren’t willing to New President Pro Tempore, Seth Cook, was not able to attend the meetstep into a position and fix them.” ing due to illness. His newly acquired positions places him in charge of recruiting and introducing new senators to the senate. SGA has several vacant Senate seats for the separate colleges. Potential senators should be recommended to Cook.

"You [senators] have more of an impact of the university that arguably any other position you might hold across the university," says President Lann. "I feel that we have an obligation to be a part of shaping and informing the decisions that directly affect our lives... we should have a voice."

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January 27 - February 9, 2016

Arts and Leisure

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UALR’s New Year’s resolutions...

Photos by Jeffery Ridgle

“Cleaning up my attic is the one thing this year that I really want to do.”

“I am going to study everything I can about computers and find a job in IT services.”

- Devon Holimon,

Administrative Assistant,

Department of

Information Science

- Chukka Bhanu Girish, International

Graduate Student

“I will be working to improve the

Information Science program and make it the best program in the region.”

- Elizabeth Pierce

Associate Professor

and Chair, Department

of Information Science

“This year I want to work on my personal development and family.”

-Ian Calder IT Services Employee

“Graduating in Dec 2016 is what I am going to concentrate on this year.”

- Flora Loo, Senior

Abdul Mohammed Staff Writer ggmohammed@ualr.edu

Arts and Leisure

ualr.edu/forum

“I am going to be career-oriented and study hard. Not just for the academics, but also for MCAT to get into medical school.”

- Kaitlyn Pitman, Junior

January 27 - February 9, 2016

“This year I am going to follow my heart and write a screen-play because that’s where my passion lies.”

-Kyle Graves

Post-Graduate Studies

“I am determined to graduate with an Honours degree this year.”

-Mark Gray, Graduate Senior

“It’s been a while since I have been social. This year I am going to get out of the box and look for some adventure.”

- Shawn Manis, Operations Manager – UALR Ottenheimer Library

“My goal for the year is to eat well, sleep well, workout well, stay fit and stay alive.”

- Tiera Woods, Sophomore

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January 27 - February 9, 2016

Arts and Leisure

ualr.edu/forum

Student spotlight: The ‘myth-tery’ of our brains

Traci Grizzle

Victoria Mugambi Staff Writer vnmugambi@ualr.edu

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e’ve all heard the myth that we as humans only use 10% of our brain’s mental abilities. This misbelief is still a prevalent lie used in movies, magazines, books and other media outlets.

A recent example of this is seen in the movie “Lucy,” in which a woman gets a drug leaked into her system and becomes so smart she turns into a black glob. Throughout the movie it is suggested that, as she accesses more of her brain, she gains incredible capabilities such as telekinesis, mind-reading and accelerated learning competences.

And although Morgan Freeman’s silky, smooth voice sounded very convincing, he is ultimately wrong.

We do use more than just 10% of our brains.

Like most myths, it is hard to place its origin. It has been suggested that it started with Albert Einstein, who claimed that humans

don’t use their full brain power.

There are some who believe it was first started by well-known psychologist, William James. But the truth of the matter is that we use practically every part of our brains on a daily basis.

For example, neuroimaging techniques, such as MRI scans, show that almost every portion of our brain is active when completing simple tasks such as viewing an image or having a conversation.

Not all areas are active at the same time, but that’s to be expected.

Just like every muscle in our body isn’t active at the same time, we have areas in our brain that can go inactivated for periods of time depending on the activity one is engaged in.

Another reason why this myth is false lies behind the actual implication of only needing 10% of your brain. If this were true, that would mean that we have 90% of the brain going unused and taking up space and body mass. Though it would be nice to shed the extra 2.7 pounds that “unnecessary” 90% takes up, that would be extremely detrimental to our body.

Plus, if it were true that only

10% of our brain is used, we would rarely have to worry about tumors.

Although it would be nice to hear: “Good news! Your tumor is in the area of the brain you don’t use!” damaging or removing any portion of the brain will lead to at least some changes in mood, thinking, functioning, and behavior in a person. I’m sure a neurosurgeon’s job would be much easier if it was as easy as slicing out a section like a piece of cake; however, that is not the case. They have to carefully plan out a method for removing the affected areas so as to leave the patient as healthy and mentally unscathed as possible.

It’s time that we as a society say goodbye to this outrageous myth and allow it to rest in peace with other myths, such as the myth about chocolate milk coming from brown cows or the body needing seven years to digest chewing gum.

Although the idea of being able to send a pen flying towards your least favorite professor’s noggin by will sounds like a great capability. We are, unfortunately, already using our brain’s full potential on a daily basis.

Photo by Lauren Humphrey

Traci Grizzle is a senior in the American Sign Language Interpreting Program at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Tanya Triplett Staff Writer tmtriplett@ualr.edu

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raci Grizzle is a senior in the American Sign Language Interpreting Program at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She transferred from Pulaski Technical College, where she graduated with an Associate of Science degree. She started at UALR in 2012 and is expected to graduate in May of 2016. She chose UALR because it is close to where she lives and works.

Grizzle said that upon starting at UALR that her advisor encouraged her to take a foreign language class. This is how she got exposed to sign language and gained experience. . After taking a few classes, Grizzle said, “I started falling in love with the language and found out it was my calling.”

She likes everything about the Interpreting Program. She explained, “There are definitely some stressful times but in the end it’s worth it.”

“The instructors have helped me come a long way, in many different ways than you can imagine.”

When asked if she would recommend the program to others Grizzle said, “Absolutely! I feel it’s important.” She continued, “you may never know when you run into a deaf person. I can see the joy and excitement in their face when someone can communicate with them [Deaf people] or make the communication easier.” “ Grizzle is also president of Sigma Lambda Kappa, the sign language club at UALR. Grizzle’s hobbies are hanging out with friends, playing with her dog, and sometimes relaxing at home watching TV. Her favorite quote is, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” Philippians 4:13.

Illustration by Brady Jackson

ualr.edu/forum

being a military brat Renea Goddard still more trees. Seriously, I’ve

never seen so many trees in my Staff Writer life. rbgoddard@ualr.edu Obviously I knew that I would be facing a multitude of cultural differences, but I still found myself surprised and frustrated by many Growing up overseas as a mili- things. These things range from tary brat means lots of acronyms: minor discoveries like the fact AAFES, AFN, BX, BDU, DODEA... that American McDonald’s doesn’t and so on and so forth. For me, deliver (in Korea, they deliver AND the most gut-wrenching of these are open 24 hours) and the exisacronyms would have to be “PCS”- tence of sales tax (I had never, in --permanent change of station. It’s my life, had to pay sales tax before) a term you always hear; thrown to more serious things like some of around casually to the point that my first encounters with xenophoit becomes a verb itself: “When are bia and racism.

But most of all, I struggled with you PCSing?” You hear it from your friends, every year when they move the sudden feeling of alienation. away. You hear it from all the new Every interaction and every new kids, every other month or so when experience felt like a test I didn’t they come in. People become tran- study for. I suddenly got a sense sient memories, flowing in and out of how bizarre I am, an American who didn’t grow up in America, like water.

Compared to most other mili- and I felt like I gave it away every tary brats, I’ve been pretty station- time I opened my mouth.

A year and eight months later, ary. Before I moved to Arkansas in the summer of 2014, I had lived in I’ve grown used to the trees. I South Korea for six years straight, remember to add sales tax when I much longer than many of my check prices. I appreciate the good peers. It was the place that my air and beautiful sky that I didn’t mom is from and the place I con- have in Korea. I’ve become wholly sidered home, in both familiarity unapologetic about who I am and where I come from. It can be a and in culture.

As far as struggles have gone long and challenging process to for me, leaving my home in the get to this point. And every military middle of my high school years and brat knows it. But the rewards that starting anew in Arkansas felt like come out of it are well worth the the equivalent of an unseen hand struggle.

(I’m still upset that McDonald’s suddenly picking me up out of my life and dropping me on a vaguely doesn’t deliver, but I guess I’ll get familiar alien planet. My subways over it.) and bustling cityscape had been replaced with trucks, camouflage, sweet tea, trees, more trees...and Illustration by Byron Buslig

Arts and Leisure

January 27 - February 9, 2016

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January 27 - February 9, 2016

Entertainment

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The Revenant is flawed and beautiful Mini Segway Shaun Williams Staff Writer sgwilliams@ualr.edu

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egway has released a new model, the mini Segway.

The mini Segway operates in many ways just like a regular Segway — both can turn 360 degrees and the operator can accelerate or brake smoothly.

The mini Segway’s controls are a bit different, however. It is controlled by the operator balancing on both pads of the Segway and then applying pressure on the front or back of his or her feet. A crucial difference is that there are two motors inside each wheel and both can be controlled independently. Also, the mini Segway allows the user to maneuver through more narrow spaces.

The mini Segway has made it where its owners no longer have to walk anywhere but instead just jump on and balance their way

Illustration by Byron Buslig

What’s happenin’ in Renea Goddard

Tanner Newton that movie John Wayne tracks the is Emmanuel Lubezki’s amazing Entertainment Editor tgnewton@ualr.edu

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eonardo DiCaprio fights a bear, Native Americans and Tom Hardy in Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s The Revenant. The film is good as long as you are not bothered by all the historical inaccuracies.

The Revenant tells the story of fur trapper Hugh Glass. After getting attacked by a bear, Glass was left for dead by his companions. Before leaving, one of the men murders his son. The horribly injured man refuses to die and starts tracking down the murderer that left him.

It is a very slow chase. DiCaprio will get his revenge no matter how long it takes.

This brings to mind the John Ford classic, The Searchers. In

Native Americans that kidnapped his niece. Wayne’s famous quote about refusing to give up repeated through my mind several times while watching The Revenant.

“An Indian will chase a thing till he thinks he’s chased it enough.

Then, he quits. Same way when he runs. Seems like he never learns there’s such a thing as a critter who’ll just keep coming on. So we’ll find ‘em in the end I promise you.”

This quote not only works with Glass’s relentless pursuit of Tom Hardy’s John Fitzgerald, but it is also an inverse of a subplot about a tribe looking for a kidnapped Native woman.

Across the three hour long film there are two slow, violent chases.

That’s about it on plot. It is also very short on dialogue. DiCaprio spends most of the run time by himself so most of that is spent silent.

The best thing about the movie

cinematography. Lubezki filmed using only natural lighting and he has made one of the best looking movies of all time. He won Oscars in 2014 for Birdman and in 2013 for Gravity. I expect he will make it three in a row.

The worst thing about the movie is all its inaccuracies.

I hate when Hollywood changes history. Hugh Glass, John Fitzgerald and the bear attack were real. Not much else in The Revenant is.

Here is the truth, Glass had no son and he tracked Fitzgerald down because he wanted his belongings back. In real life he did not get revenge, he got his possessions.

One of my favorite quotes about movies is from Rotten Tomatoes Super Reviewer flixsterman. When writing about the highly fictionalized Birdman of Alcatraz he said, “Taken as fiction, Birdman of Alcatraz is good cinema.” I will say the same of The Revenant.

anywhere they want to go, as long as it is in a 10- to 13-mile radius. The mini Segway can only hold a charge long enough for the user to travel up to 13 miles at most, so anyone who needs to travel farther should plan to carry a 25-pound Segway the rest of the way.

The mini Segway though does come in handy for people who live within ten miles away from their workplace. These people would have to make sure they charge it before the trip and while they are at work. The mini Segway is also perfect for college campuses, ideal for students going to and from class.

It is also a great way to stay outdoors. One of the toughest problems parents in the 21st century have is their kids are glued to either their phones, a television screen or a computer screen. This is the generation of technology, so why not use the technology in a way to get outdoors and have some fun?

Staff Writer rbgoddard@ualr.edu Feb 6 - SoMa Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball Coming to the Villa Marre in downtown Little Rock, SoMa throws its first annual Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball.

From 7 p.m. until 10 p.m., dancing, mystery and festivity will ensue in this historic 19th-century style venue. Participants are encouraged to dress the part and prizes will be given for the most elaborate, aristocratic hairdos.

Enjoy drinks and hors d’ouervres through the night and enter to win Mardi Gras King and Queen at the end of the night. Winners receive a place in next year’s Mardi Gras parade.

Tickets are $50 each. For more information message SoMa: Little Rock’s Southside Main Street Project on Facebook.

Feb 14 - ASO Pops Live!

Broadway Rocks!

Arkansas Sy m p h o n y Orchestra is bringing hit songs from Broadway classics like Rent, Mamma Mia!, The Wiz, Phantom of the Opera and many more to the Connor Performing Arts Center on Valentine’s Day. ASO and guest vocalists from Broadway will be working together to perform these favorites in a high-energy show.

Like other Pops Live! concerts, the show is intended to be an engaging visual experience as well as a musical one.

Tickets range from $19 to $58 for adults and kids enter free. For more on ticket prices, including discounts, check out www. arkansassymphony.org/concerts.

Entertainment

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Blackstar: David Bowie’s final studio album

January 27 - February 9, 2016

Eat beat: Getting to ‘The Root’

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The Root Cafe Price Rating: $-$$$ $ = $5 or less $$ = $6 - $15 $$$ = $16 - $25 $$$$ = $26 - $35 $$$$$ = $36 +

Photo by Victoria Mugambi

Victoria Mugambi sign of a good French fry).

Staff Writer vnmugambi@ualr.edu

D Photo courtesy of stereogum.com

Elton Tevebaugn Staff Writer ewtevebaugh@ualr.edu

David Bowie has been renowned for decades. His final album, Blackstar, was released on Jan 8, 2016. Two days later, Bowie, 69, died of liver cancer.

Blackstar is filled with songs which engulf the listener with a sense of morose beauty that shines through the bleak lyrics. The overall style of the record is a jazz/rock/ electronic fusion, and the work is a great addition to Bowie’s already extensive body of work.

While every track is noteworthy, some songs stand out more than others.

The title track is perhaps the most hauntingly beautiful song on the album. Bowie chants at times and the instrumentation between

the synthesizers and the saxophone adds to the quality of the song Bowie’s lyrics throughout the album are somewhat dark, but the title track has some of the more cryptic lines, including “Something happened on the day he died / Spirit rose a meter then stepped aside / Somebody else took his place, then proudly cried / I’m a blackstar.” Another line that jumps out is when Bowie asks, “How many times does an angel fall?”

Girl Loves Me references Anthony Burgess’ A Clockwork Orange, using the fictional language of the novel for many of the lyrics. This song is mostly nonsensical, but it echoes common thoughts that people have.

Specifically, “Where the f--- did Monday go?” It’s a nice break from some of the tracks which deal with heavier issues, but it still has the same haunting and sad feeling that

is heard throughout the album.

No track better frames Blackstar as a fitting farewell album than the final track, I Can’t Give Everything Away. The song begins with the words: “I know something’s very wrong.” The chorus is simply the title repeated (“I can’t give everything/ Away”) and, set to the music, serves as a very sad and very beautiful sentiment.

Another relevant song is Lazarus. This song opens with the words: “Look up here / I’m in heaven.” Bowie continues, “Look up here man / I’m in danger / I’ve got nothing left to lose.” This track, and this album, reflects how Bowie was coming to terms with his mortality.

If the music alone was not indicative enough of this, Bowie’s rapid decline in health was. The way the two facets of Bowie’s life coalesce is uncanny. Bowie poured so much of himself into his work until the end.

owntown Little Rock, particularly South Main Street, is the soul of the city, with its historic buildings, beautiful views, and numerous attractions to enjoy. Among brightly painted murals and independently-owned businesses, one of these is The Root Cafe, a quaint little restaurant that focuses on serving fresh, locally-sourced meals. Although everything on the menu looked mouthwatering, I wasn’t able to try everything, so I ordered two entrees, a side and a drink.

The first entree I tried was the cheeseburger with yellow cheddar. It came with regular fries and a small spring salad topped with a homemade dressing. I had high expectations for this all-organic cheeseburger.

Not only were those expectations met, they were exceeded.

The burger was juicy, tender, and cooked to perfection. The cheddar gave it a slightly sharp taste that was complemented beautifully by the sweetness in the caramelized onions and Dijon mustard. The fresh greens and dill pickle gave it a delicious crunch.

The fries came out hot and fresh.They were seasoned wonderfully and tasted just as mouthwateringly delicious after they had cooled down (the true

My second entree was the State Fair Bratwurst made with local, pasture-raised pork, a fresh bun made by the Arkansas Fresh Bakery, and topped with mustard, grilled onions and peppers.

The bratwurst was just as delicious as the burger.

The grilled veggies mixed with the spicy tartness from the mustard and the seasoned brat came together beautifully. The bread was soft and chewy without tasting tough or moist.

To finish off my meal, I ordered one of their specialty lemonades, honey ginger. Unsurprisingly, I loved the lemonade as well.

It was at that perfect balance between tart and sweet, and left me feeling so refreshed it almost felt like summer.

The only downside to The Root was its minimal parking and crowded seating area. I managed to find a table that wasn’t completely surrounded by other patrons, but I was still forced to move my chair around several times as waiters and customers moved about. Overall, I give The Root Cafe a 4.5 out of 5.

The cafe is at 1500 S. Main St. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. weekdays, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays. Almost all of the Root Cafe’s regular menu items come in vegetarian and vegan forms. Plus there’s a promising breakfast menu along with soups, salads, and pastries that all feature fresh, seasonal ingredients from local farmers.

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Entertainment

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Just Cause 3 is too repetitive Shaun Williams Staff Writer sgwilliams@ualr.edu

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illustration by Lyndse Ellis

ust Cause 3 is a chaotic action romp tragically let down by its constant repetition and padding. There is fun to be had, but too little variety in its vast open world.

Just Cause 3 takes you on a ride through the life of Rico Rodriguez, former CIA operative and current leader of a rebellion group on his home island, Medici. He is back again to liberate his home island from a psychopathic dictator named Di Ravello.

Just Cause 3 starts with Rico flying back to his home island but instead of a friendly welcome home, he is met by several missiles trying to blow him out of the sky.

Most would expect the protagonist to jump out and parachute safely to the ground, but it wouldn’t be a Just Cause game if that happened.

Instead, you find Rico climbing on top of the plane with a rocket launcher to blast any anti-air defenses.

Just as in the game’s predecessor, the player is thrown into a world where one must cause as much mayhem as possible to progress through the story line, but Just Cause 3 puts a spin on how mayhem is used in its story. As the player progresses through the story you find yourself having to liberate 400 square miles of provinces that

contain several cities and military bases that have to be liberated for the storyline to progress. Though at first this it is found as a great way to blow off steam and have fun, it soon turns into more of a chore to be completed. The player no longer sees the explosions but instead a mental tick next to the giant checklist.

Most would see this and instead of liberating the provinces, they would just enjoy the open sandbox world. This comes at the cost of all the entertaining toys that come along with freeing another city or military base in a province.

Besides this there are many other ways to enjoy Just Cause 3 — like calling in a military helicopter along with a gun drop or finding a tank and blowing your way through a military base.

Unfortunately for the player, Di Ravello’s army is a little bit too effective. The game seems like it’s punishing you for experimenting.

With worrying about anti-air missiles and the never ending forces of the DRM, the fight becomes very tedious.

In the end, there is plenty of fun to be had but in the 400 square miles that it offers there isn’t enough variety to keep things interesting.

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Sports

January 27 - February 9, 2016

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Little Rock on fire heading into February

Trojans get into good offensive flow vs. Montaineer defense.

Photos by Zoë Harris

Analee Jones said, later on in the press conStaff Writer aejones4@ualr.edu he Trojans are now 15-2 in conference after a rare Thursday-Monday split with a home win against Appalachian Mountaineers and a road loss against their archrival Arkansas State Red Wolves. The team shot 43% in both games, and has tried to maintain offensive consistency all season. Little Rock had fans dress up in all white for this game, and the crowd did not disappoint.

Coach Chris Beard said, “I am very appreciative of the support of the community and students.

Players have been playing here for 3 or 4 years and they are complementing our community and students.”

Roger Woods made 6 of 9 from the floor for 16 points. Jackson added 16 and 7 rebounds. Lis Shoshi chipped in with 12 points including a massive dunk, which fired up a raucous crowd. Soshi

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ference, “Tonight was kind of my night.”

Little Rock trailed early but cruised to 81-55 win over the Mountaineers, their third largest of the season. The Trojans traveled to Jonesboro for an MLK Day showdown. The Red Wolves had an eighteen-point lead thanks to some hot shooting and great defense. It was a very off game for Little Rock on the offensive end and defensive end.

However, in the second half the Trojans outscored the Red Wolves 43-28. It wasn’t enough however, as the Red Wolves pulled away at the end to beat the Trojans 76-73 at the Convocation Center in Jonesboro.

Little Rock was led by Senior Josh Hagins who scored 16 points, and redshirt junior Kemy Osse poured in 13 points to spur the comeback effort. Anthony Livingston and Devin Carter scored 20 points each that helped the Red Wolves close out and push them to over .500 for the season.

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Sports

Lady Trojans moving up the standings Analee Jones Staff Writer aejones4@ualr.edu

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he Little Rock Lady Trojans split a rare ThursdayMonday split with a win at home against the Appalachian State Mountaineers and a loss on the road against their rival the Arkansas State Red Wolves.

The Lady Trojans faced off against the Mountaineers on Thursday, Jan. 14 at the Jack Stephens Center. Little Rock was led by Junior Kaitlyn Pratt with 16 points, Sophomore Monique Townson with 12 points and Senior Shanity James with 10 points.

The Lady Trojans used a strong second quarter to give them the edge in the game, after a fairly even first quarter, that had Little Rock leading by four. The Lady Mountaineers were outscored 23-8 which lead to a 21 point lead for the Trojans going into the second half.

In the second half, the Lady Trojans let off the gas pedal. The Lady Trojans pulled off a win of 67-50, this was their largest win of the season. The team then went on the road for a Martin Luther King Jr. Day game against Arkansas State in Jonesboro on Monday, Jan 19. Shanity James powered the Trojans with 13 points and Pratt added 10 points.

The Lady Trojans stayed close with Arkansas State. Arkansas State’s offense fed more into the post and that led to easy buckets for the Red Wolves. The first half ended with the score 26-25 Little Rock. In the third quarter, the Trojans tried to answer back but the Red Wolves played strong and ended it 43-41 in their favor. It was shaping up to be a very close game in the end but seven fourth quarter turnovers doomed the Trojans as the Arkansas State Red Wolves ended up winning 66-53.

The Trojans will be back for a four home game run starting with a game against Georgia Southern.

Photo by Zoë Harris

Soph. Monique Towson goes up for a layup against a Mounaineer defender.

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Fryar, Gray lead Little Rock in final home meet Jeff Ridgle Staff Writer jlridgle@ualr.edu On Jan. 16 the Little Rock Trojans swim team had a meet against Ouachita Baptist, Southern Illinois and North Texas. The fans came out in full support of their Trojans, as it was their last chance to see the Trojans for this 2015-2016 season. These three teams were very strong opponents that they had to face, in the thirty-two events that took place in the Donaghey Aquatic Center.

Little Rock finished 1-2 at the meet, with their only win coming against Ouachita Baptist.

Two-time Missouri Valley Diver of the Week Sophomore Samantha Gray took home two second-place finishes in the one and three meter diving events. Freshman Laura Ruiz Astorga won second place in the 100 yard backstroke and also finished second in the 200 yard backstroke.

Tori Fryar placed third in the 1,000 freestyle and recorded her fastest time in this event and second fastest time of her career. Later in the meet Fryar placed fifth in the 500 freestyle.The Little Rock Trojans also placed second in the 400 freestyle relay with the team of Emma Doll, Courtney Coe, Fryar and Ruiz Astorga.

The Trojans will have a couple of weeks off before their final regular season meet of the 2015-2016 season at Henderson State. In three weeks the Trojans will look to cap their season at the Missouri Valley Conference Championships on Feb. 17-20.