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Opinions

March 30 - April 12, 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

TORI TALKS ‘The final countdown’

By Victoria Hickey Executive Editor editor@ualr.edu

H

appy Spring!

If you’re like me you’ve been counting down the days until summer since the first day of classes back in January. Although I’m getting more and more excited as the number of days continues to decrease, I know that the last month of the semester is not going to be easy.

I have a love/hate relationship with the last part of each semester. On one hand, it’s almost over and I’m ready for a breather. But on the other hand, I know this final month is going to be one of the craziest yet.

On top of final projects and tests for

IN THIS ISSUE

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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.

all my classes, there are also various events that will be going on in these last several weeks that will cause everyone to be wishing for more hours in the day.

Just remember, even though you may have a to-do list that never ends and things may seem like they are spiraling out of control, don’t give up! You’ve made it this far, you can make it to the end!

Here, based on my own experience, are a few suggestions to help you get through: Take a walk! This is one thing that always relieves my stress. When the weather is good, I typically walk along Coleman Creek, often stopping on one of

the bridges to watch the fish swim in the water below. If it’s cold or rainy, walking through the DSC can also be a nice way to take a break.

Find a quiet spot to study or just to relax. I typically choose my office as I don’t have to worry about disturbing others with my music or pacing when I get frustrated. There are various spots on campus, from your dorm room to the library, that offer room for relaxation.

Whatever your choice, it’s important to find a place where you can concentrate on your studies.

Good luck to everyone as we complete the final weeks of the semester!

CORRECTION

Active shooter training and you Lt. Aaron Birmingham UALR DPS ajbirmingham@ualr.edu

Photo Editor/ Web Designer Brady Jackson Sydney Bradshaw Stephanie Donovan Zoe Harris Elton Tevebaugh Chris Gardner Lela-Tamara Fluker Destinee Lewis Renea Goddard Abdul Mohammed Victoria Mugambi Alex Vandiver Jack A. Webb Whitney Bryson Scott Foster Jacy Andrews Lyndse Ellis

ualr.edu/forum

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n article was previously run with this title, and the subsequent correction in the following edition.

Active Shooter preparedness is such an important topic to the University Police Department that The Forum has graciously extended me the opportunity to get the important information out to you—the students, faculty and staff.

The University Police Department partners with the Student Affairs Office during School Safety Week to present Active Shooter Preparedness. There is a training video to watch, which basically highlights the principles of “Run, Hide, Fight”; if you can get out, run; if you can’t get out, barricade yourself in your room and hide; if the shooter is coming in, fight with whatever you’ve got. After the video, we have breakout sessions and practice these scenarios. It gives some basic familiarity so that if it should ever happen, the students have something

they can fall back on after the initial “Oh crap!” moment. Because we are all going to have that moment, no matter how fleeting it may be.

Mental preparation is key, whether you’ve had the training or not. When police officers get dispatched to a call, we run mental scenarios on our way there.

“If this happens, I’ll do that.” We can’t be prepared for every possibility, but having some possibilities worked out reduces hesitation. In your mind you’re saying: “OK, I prepared for this, I know what to do.” instead of, “Oh crap, what now?”

If you find yourself in an active shooter situation, get out of the area if you can safely do so. Keep in mind that Law Enforcement is converging to deal with the threat. The Police Department has officers in cars, on bikes, on Segways, and on foot. We can be anywhere on campus in one to two minutes. In the event of an active shooter, you can count on us getting there even quicker. If you encounter an officer, keep your hands raised. If an officer tells you to get on the ground, don’t argue with them. You may know you’re not the shooter, but we don’t.

Arguing makes a tense situation worse, and delays us getting to the real bad guys.

We’ll get it all worked out. Don’t worry.

Another resource UALR offers, is the RAVE Guardian app for iPhone and Android. You can set up people you want to designate as “guardians.” If you go out and expect to be back by a certain time, you can set a timer in the app.

If you don’t disable the timer, the app will automatically call your designated guardians, and/or the police. The Police Department has a dedicated terminal in our Dispatch that will alert us to your alarm. In this event, we will try to contact you, and can even ping your phone. In the event of an emergency, there are panic buttons that will call University Police and 911. There is even a feature to send anonymous text messages and photos to the terminal if you want to make us aware of something but don’t want to get involved. So if a shooter enters the building, you can have a direct line to the Police Department, and if you happen to get a picture, you can send it to us so we know who to look for.

Departments and professors on campus have contacted our Department and Student Affairs to set up training sessions. If your group is interested, please don’t hesitate to contact Sgt. Jennifer Lusk at 569-3400, or Student Affairs at 569-3328.

Come read our online edition at http://issuu.com//TheUALRFORUM

Opinions

ualr.edu/forum

THE UALR FORUM

ON ISIS

ISIS is not a normal enemy Brian Gregory straight first. Number one is that lence.

ISIS is in the minority of Muslims.

Sports Editor While terrorism is a big threat, I bjgregory@ualr.edu am certainly not one to say that it is overblown, but many politicians and people in general act like every single Muslim on the planet is a am going to be honest, this is a terrorist. very hard topic for me. On one This, again, is not true. ISIS is a hand, this group called ISIS is group that thrives on hate, misinkilling Christians, Yazidis and other terpretation and fear. Republicans ethnic groups. They are killing peo- and Democrats feed into that fear, ple by the thousands. saying that we will kill every single On the other hand, there are so terrorist. many people that I know, whether This is not the way to go about they are friends or people in gen- trying to defeat an enemy. You caneral, that do not represent anything not defeat terrorists by killing every that ISIS represents. single one of them. The only thing This notion that we can just kill you will breed are more terrorists, all the terrorists and everything and these terrorists will be more will as good as new is a stupid and dangerous than ISIS, just like ISIS idiotic idea. is more dangerous than Al-Qaeda.

Let’s get a couple of things Violence only begets more vio-

I am not saying we take a completely peaceful approach either; there will have to be some type of military action involved.

I honestly don’t what that would be. It could be drone strikes, bombing campaigns, but it can’t be boots on the ground. Even then, that could be detrimental to peace in the Middle East.

What we need to do is provide these countries with the tools they need. Allow the countries to be deterministic, to forge their own destinies.

They are people just like we are and if we, as Americans, stop espousing hatred and hypocrisy maybe we could see a change in the Middle East. They are our fellow human beings and should be treated as such.

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Military intervention against ISIS is working

two sides, one issue A

Illustration by Byron Buslig

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March 30 - April 12, 2016

Scott Foster ment. Even if Sadaam Hussein had

developed WMDs (the main reaStaff Writer son we supposedly invaded), this snfoster1@ualr.edu technology was, at best, a relatively crude and unsophisticated type of weapon system that had never special debate in the field been used against an allied counof U.S. foreign policy has try and posed almost no threat to been raging for many years the United States. The price of the through several presidential invasion and occupation of Iraq, administrations: under what cir- however, were staggering to say cumstances should our country the least. The Iraq war cost the use military intervention to further U.S. between 1.7 and 2 trillion dolits security aims? In today’s envi- lars in immediate costs, and much ronment where many different more importantly, lead to almost types of “terrorist” organizations 4,500 casualties. This is a premier exist, what criteria should be used example of what happens when a in determining our policies? The cost analysis of any proposed milianswer to these questions largely tary intervention is not thoroughly determine the stance I decided prepared and rigorously analyzed.

The way we have dealt with ISIS, to take on what should be done about the particular organization however, has been reasonably sucin question for this discussion: cessful so far. The United States responded to a clear and present ISIS, or, the Islamic State.

The reason I favor military threat to the safety of American action against ISIS is because the citizens and those of our allies organization’s deeds and beliefs around the world. The response meet the two criteria I see as cru- has also been a measured one…we cial in determining whether we as have not committed large amounts a society decide to resort to vio- of ground troops yet, but we have lence. The first criterion involves succeeded in significantly weakwhether or not the opposing coun- ening ISIS. This month, a study try or terrorist organization can was published authored by expert be classified as a “proven threat” defense analysts at IHS Janes lookto the safety and security of the ing at the progress of the Islamic United States, our allies, or their State. The study found that ISIS citizens abroad. By “proven threat” had lost nearly a quarter of its terriI mean that the country or orga- tory in the last fifteen months, that nization has published a clear the direct attacks on the oil prointent to initiate acts of violence duction of ISIS was choking off its or has already demonstrated their funding, and that the perception of willingness to engage in them. It its leadership may be eroding. Yet, would seem reasonably safe to the United States has not borne an say that both of these are true in enormous cost in treasure or blood the case of ISIS, for their horrific to get these results, and has had exploits and threats have made what costs there are involved with worldwide news for many months. the attacks lessened by the coopThe second test I apply has to eration of allies like Great Britain. do with the balance between the Military intervention works if it is potential gains and losses to the used only against a clear threat, country both during and after the when our military has a clear misproposed military action. In the sion, and when the correct amount case of Iraq, for example, our coun- of force is utilized to accomplish try spent much needed resources the mission…one that has been (in addition to the price paid in thoroughly analyzed and found to damaged bodies and psyches) for be absolutely necessary and cost a very small return on that invest- efficient in dollars and blood.

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March 30 - April 12, 2016

Opinions

ualr.edu/forum

Trump and Clinton need not fear the ‘Ides of March’ Scott Foster Rubio of Florida. According to the elites in a very awkward position. than 50% of the delegates), pri- votes at the Democratic National

New York Times, Trump trounced Staff Writer Rubio in his home state (where snfoster1@ualr.edu he has served as both Speaker of the Florida House and as a federal Senator) by 19 points, 46% to 27% hakespeare warned Julius of the ballots cast. He then moved Caesar to “beware the Ides on to win Illinois, North Carolina, of March”, but it didn’t apply and probably Missouri, defeating to this election cycle’s Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas by single Caesar, Donald Trump. The New digits in each of those three states.

York businessman and television Trump’s only defeat of the night personality soundly defeated his came at the hands of Governor opposition on “Super Tuesday John Kasich of Ohio, besting 3” to take a commanding lead in Trump’s vote total in his home the delegate count and knock the state by 11 points, 47% to 36%. The premier establishment candidate Republican election results have out of the race, Senator Marco left the Party establishment and

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Now that Rubio has suspended his campaign, the only candidate left in the race acceptable to the establishment is Kasich, but with a total delegate count of 143, there is no realistic path for him to win the nomination. This leaves the elites with a choice between supporting Trump or Cruz, both staunch antiestablishment candidates, who have together garnered the clear majority of the popular vote and the delegates. Although the Cruz campaign is publicly denouncing the possibility of a brokered Republican National Convention (where no one candidate has more

vately, according to CNN, the campaign is beginning to formulate strategies for that contingency.

On the Democratic side, former Secretary of State and First Lady Hillary Clinton also delivered a dominating performance, defeating Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont by double digits in Florida, North Carolina, and Ohio and winning narrow victories in Illinois and Missouri. As a result, her lead in the nomination contest has increased to over 300 pledged delegates, which combined with her overwhelming lead in “super delegates” (party elites with automatic

Convention) all but assures her the Party’s nomination. This is primarily due to Democratic Party rules requiring states to award delegates in approximate proportion to the votes they received, which effectively eliminates the possibility of using “winner-take-all” states as a means of mounting a comeback.

As the plot thickens in this unusual election year, keep asking questions and gathering information about the issues and candidates. The general election day is sure to provide voters with some pretty clear choices…and it will arrive sooner than you think.

Keep me "ghosted" Alexandra Vandiver Staff Writer aevandiver@ualr.edu

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o here is the thing, in this day and age if you don’t know what ghosting is, then you are probably fooling yourself or you just live under a rock. Ghosting is just the modern definition for ‘hey I don’t really want to date you but am too scared to actually let you know’. Honestly, I hate this, because as a modern generation we are way better than this.

But the problem I have more than the act itself, is how much we let it get to us emotionally. When someone we were absolutely crazy about just vanishes, it messes with our head and confidence. In a time where apps like OK Cupid and Tinder make relationships disposable, we have to break the cycle.

That guy or gal you spent all that time on, dates, late night conversations, yeah remember them?

They couldn’t even bother to send you a text, call you, Facebook you or heck even send a carrier pigeon your way. So do you actually really want to date somebody like this? Relationships are about communication and whoever you date should have the integrity and compassion to have the hard talks with you.

So when somebody “ghosts” you they just proved that they definitely can’t communicate with you or take on adult responsibility. No matter how well things were going, something clicked with them and they vanished. From firsthand experience of being one of the ghosted, you will literally question everything you ever did around them. Don’t beat yourself up about everything but do gain some selfawareness. Because what significant other is worth being around if they destroy your confidence and make you question yourself constantly?

People that do this aren’t in a good place, and if you are somebody that does this, shame on you.

You don’t just drop off the face of the earth. Just say you aren’t interested politely. The adult dating world is full of confrontation and if you can’t handle it you are just making our generation look bad.

With the growth of online dating, empathy has declined. In this day and age nobody likes to talk and it’s becoming a major problem.

So the next time you get ghosted, it’s okay to be upset. You were interested in somebody and they let you down. But they proved that they weren’t ready for a relationship. Just remember that you, don’t let it get to you. Move on and find somebody who is really worth your time.

Illustration by Byron Buslig

Opinions

ualr.edu/forum

March 30 - April 12, 2016

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G UEST CO L UM N

Persuading or understanding: choices in political discourse with friends April Chatham-Carpenter emotions than reason? The stakes Guest Writer axchathamca@ualr.edu

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ith the presidential election rhetoric in full swing, and with Super Tuesday and the primaries in Arkansas behind us, we have an opportunity to practice difficult dialogues with people who disagree with us. But how do you do that when there is name calling, refusal to consider another person's point of view, and a tendency to be moved more by

are very high, both for our country and for our relationships.

What would it mean to listen, really listen, to what another person is saying, without trying to come up with arguments in your own mind about your candidate of choice? But what happens when you hear another person use arguments that you think are morally or ethically wrong? Do you have the obligation to correct them when they think your ideas are just as wrong?

These are all questions we have to confront if we want to main-

tain our relationships in the midst of these types of discussions. We have choices such as the following.

1. Avoid discussing the topics on which you disagree, and agree instead to disagree.

2. Try to persuade the other person to your side, with emotions perhaps getting hotter as persuasion attempts continue.

3. Listen to the other person, with a desire to learn where they are coming from.

A few days before the presidential primary in Arkansas, I found myself being unwilling to listen to people who disagreed with me. It

was very easy to do one of the first two strategies. But as we have moved on from the primaries here, I am realizing now that it would be good for me to take the time to sit across from friends and family members who disagree with me individually, looking them in the eye, with the only goal of understanding where they are coming from and hearing what they are saying. What result would that have? Would it be more likely for them to also listen to me and to my opinion, without either one of us automatically saying “you are wrong” or “I can’t believe you

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would believe that.” Perhaps we would realize that we have more in common than our surface opinions originally indicated, and we could work together to help others who are polarized like we were to come to some common understandings.

It’s worth the try, I think, to create understanding rather than polarization between us. What do you think?

Dr. April Chatham-Carpenter is professor and department chair, Department of Speech Communication.

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News

March 30 - April 12, 2016

ualr.edu/forum

Math remediation reform Stephanie Donovan required modules in one semester, and provide an extra hour of reme-

Police Beat Sydney Bradshaw Staff Writer slbradshaw@ualr.edu

Theft at Law Library On March 2, an officer was contacted about a person who had his phone stolen. The officer arrived at the Bowen Law School library and talked with the victim. The victim said that he was making a delivery for Jimmy John’s when a man approached him and asked if he could use his phone. The victim lent him his phone, and the suspect immediately began running towards MacArthur Park. The victim followed him, but eventually stopped. He also had his wallet stolen, which he believed happened while he was chasing the suspect.

It was later confirmed that the wallet had not been dropped while the victim was running.

Smoking in University Village On March 5, two officers arrived at University Village in response to a call about smoking. They met with the Village Housing Director, who told them that two RAs were having trouble with a group of four individuals that were smoking on the balcony. The RAs told the officers that, when they asked the individuals to put out their cigarettes, they were rude to the RAs. The officers informed the individuals that smoking on campus is against UALR policy and is a crime in the State of Arkansas. Three of the four individuals were not UALR students and were told to leave for the night and not return. If they did return that night, they would have been charged with Criminal Trespassing.

they must continue each semester Staff Writer until they do. This model can have smdonovan1@ualr.edu students in math remediation for up to four semesters.

In other words, that would be his summer, the UALR two years of college spent in a department of Mathematics class that does not contribute to a and Statistics is implement- degree plan or GPA. With around 500 students ing an improved program for math remediation. They have com- enrolled in math remediation pletely redesigned the approach courses each semester, the proto developmental math, so that gram is a critical component of students can finish remediation many UALR students’ educations. quicker and have a better chance A core math course is required to of passing their core math course. graduate, but many are incapable Students that score too low in of taking this course due to their the math section of the ACT, SAT performance in remediation.

In fact, only about 11 percent of or COMPASS are placed in remediation before enrolling in either students who started the current Quantitative Reasoning or College program in fall 2012 were eligible to continue on to College Algebra.

Algebra.

Currently in remediation, stu- This indicates a need for drastic dents are aided by tutors as they modification.

The new model offers tracks work in a self-paced software profor Quantitative Reasoning and gram called ALEKS. Depending on their major, College Algebra that not only students can choose to enroll in reduces time spent in remediation, Quantitative Reasoning after com- but also cuts costs for both the stupleting eight modules or College dent and the University.

There will be new classes that Algebra after ten modules.

If they do not complete their are linked to a core math course

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diation lab. These classes will be lecture based and offer more time for review.

Depending on their ACT scores, students could either be placed directly into the linked course or required to complete one semester of remediation first. Upon completion of the linked course, students earn their necessary math credit.

Assistant professor and PreCore Mathematics Coordinator, Ann Burns Childers initiated these new changes and has high hopes for the program.

“The statistics have shown that this new model works. This is really the direction that developmental math programs need to go. We took this into our hands and upgraded what we’re bringing to UALR for our new remediation,” she said.

These linked courses have been shown to result in about five times the success rate of traditional remediation. UALR hopes to share the same success as this new practice is developed.

For more information, contact Ann Burns Childers at abchilders@ ualr.edu.

Visitors on Stabler Hall roof On March 7, two officers were checking the roof of Stabler Hall when they heard talking and laughing.

Upon inspection, they saw two people; one of which was trying to climb over a chain link fence on the roof.

The officers informed the two suspects that they were not allowed to be in Stabler Hall after-hours or on top of the roof. Another officer arrived and warned them about the dangers of being on top of the roof. If they had fallen from the roof, it would have been a 90-foot drop with almost certain death. They were told that if they returned after hours they would be charged with criminal trespassing. Only one of the two suspects was a UALR student and issued a citation to appear before the dean of students.

Illustration by Byron Buslig

News

ualr.edu/forum

March 30 - April 12, 2016

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McClellan serves as new Vice Chancellor of Finance Zoë Harris Staff Writer zcharris@ualr.edu

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“Out of all of my responsibilities, my main job is to provide leadership for the areas under me and keep things together,” McClellan said.

Courtesy of ualr.edu

teve McClellan is the new Vice Chancellor of Finance at UALR. He moved to the Natural State after spending the first 25 years of his degree in Cleveland Mississippi.

McClellan is an alumnus from Delta State University, where he has earned his Master’s MBA. Before becoming Vice Chancellor, McClellan served as the Associate Vice Chancellor at UALR. He then moved back to his home state to take care of his parents, hoping to be able to come back as Vice Chancellor.

McClellan recently moved back to UALR after finishing up business back home, and got the job position that he hoped for.

As McClellan takes on his new

Former UALR English professor passed away in early March

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Courtesy of Regency Funeral Home

Brandon Lambert, a former UALR English professor, known for his great sense of humor and fun nature, died on Wednesday, March 2.

Caitlyn Sample Art & Leisure Editor casample@ualr.edu

Tanner Newton Entertainment Editor tgnewton@ualr.edu

former UALR English professor, known for his great sense of humor and fun nature, died on Wednesday, March 2.

Brandon Lambert, 33, was a World Literature teacher while employed at UALR. From fall 2009 to fall 2015, he worked at UALR’s Benton campus. In addition to UALR, he also worked at College of the Ouachitas in Malvern and National Park Community College in Hot Springs.

Several of Lambert’s former students were asked what they will remember him for: “He was such a great professor! I will remember how knowledgeable he was and how great he was with relating to his students.

He learned all his students’ first names when I had him for History of Civilizations. He will be forever missed!” junior, marketing student Sarah Stranczek said.

“He was my World Lit teacher.

I remember him always sitting on his desk Indian-style and drinking coffee,” junior, social work student Jordan Hass said.

“Mr. Lambert was a very quirky, down-to-earth professor, and it always showed in the bow ties he wore. He would allow such creativity in his assignments, and he made learning fun for all of his students. I always recommended him to everyone . . . He will always be remembered as the professor whose class I would never leave without a smile on my face. Here’s to you, Mr. Lambert.” Alumna Michaela Tingley said.

A memorial was held for Lambert on March 6. He is survived by his mother, Jacqueline Henson; stepfather, Terry Henson; brother, Blake Lambert; wife, Brenesha, stepbrother, Eric Henson; stepsister, Mallery Henson; grandfather, Arthur Sandoval; step-grandparents, Orville and Janie Henson; uncle, Michael Lambert; aunt, Ramona Schneider and cousins, Jacob and Lauren Lambert and Nicole Schneider .

Anybody wishing to honor Lambert can make a book donation to a school or library, or donate to a cat rescue group.

role as Vice Chancellor of Finance, he plans on making it his goal to enhance transparency and communication.

McClellan believes that communication is key to a successful business and will be needed to keep the balance between students, faculty and finances.

McClellan takes pride in his ability to be an effective communicator and be able to fully explain things.

He realizes that students and faculty often have questions when it comes to finances, and he wants to continue building a team capable of getting and relaying steadfast answers.

Although accounting was his major, McClellan has always had a passion for teaching.

“I like working with students; I love seeing the light bulb come on when they learn something new that interests them,” McClellan said.

When first starting off,

McClellan was applying for a teaching position. There happened to be no teaching position available, which in turn landed him a job in accounting.

That was in 1984 when McClellan started off as an entry level accountant, now putting him at over 30 years in the business.

“I plan on seeking out a teaching position after retirement,” said McClellan.

One of the biggest challenges he faces as the Vice Chancellor of Finance is enrollment and retention in finance.

McClellan hopes to solve this problem in whatever way he can.

In order to do that, he plans on starting with the root and working outwards.

“Out of all of my responsibilities, my main job is to provide leadership for the areas under me and keep things together,” McClellan said.

Upcoming student outcomes symposium evaluates learning experiences Elton Tevebaugh orally and in writing, the ability to

make professional presentations, Staff Writer and the ability to think critically. ewtevebaugh@ualr.edu Toro continued to say, “every academic program has a student he Office of the Provost and outcome that is related to general the UALR Faculty Senate education, but also that is very spewill present an upcoming cifically related to the field.”

Student outcomes help play to Student Outcomes Symposium which aims to discuss unique students’ strengths as well as their aspects of students’ learning expe- interests. They will help students riences and how those experiences “not only transition to their first can be captured through student job, but it will help them for life,” learning outcomes and various Toro said.

The concept and identification methods of assessment.

The symposium will occur on of student outcomes is a relatively April 8 from 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. new concept. “For many years, it There will be faculty discussion was a theoretical concept. Since panels, and the speaker at this about 15 years ago, people started, event is Gloria Rogers from the through engineering programs, University of Colorado at Boulder, applying it,” Toro said.

Rogers is the former Vice an expert in the field of student President of Institutional Research outcomes.

Student outcomes sound more at Rose-Hulman Institute of intimidating than they actually Technology, a private engineering are. According to Executive Vice and business college in Indiana.

Chancellor and Provost, Zulma Rogers has conducted 11 nationToro, a few examples of student al symposia on “Best Assessment outcomes include the ability to Processes” and is a national expert communicate effectively, both on the matter.

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March 30 - April 12, 2016

Major Spotlight

Campus Life

ualr.edu/forum

Greek Life hosts anual shows

Information Science

Illustration by Byron Buslig

Christopher Gardner know that if I have any questions

or issues, I can email any of them Staff Writer to help me answer it,” Eddy said.

While Eddy has built strong cagardner@ualr.edu connections on campus through he Information Science majoring in information sciences, Major at the University she said “I have had several of Arkansas at Little Rock opportunities to network with makes sense of the data that peo- recruiters in my field so that I can ple gather through information have a job laid out for me once I technology. The programs that are graduate college.”

Eddy also stated, “With my in the Department of Information Science focus on the transforma- major, I have so many different tion of data to information and career paths that I could take. I knowledge, to intelligence and would love to work with databases application and on the technolo- or web design after I graduate, but gies and systems that store and I am willing to dabble in everything access the data in ways that reveal in order to find my niche.”

The Department Information its meaning.

Lyndsay Eddy, a senior at UALR, Science is dedicated to educating said “I originally chose computer students in the knowledge, skills, systems as my major, but by talking and technologies needed to design with some previous ambassadors, I and develop systems for better became interested in Information storage, retrieval, and usage of information. The department Science.”

After the interest was sparked in also is dedicated to offering Information Science, she declared degree and certification programs it as her major. Eddy has built strong that prepare students to pursue relationships with her instructors, successful careers and to continue as well as her peers, and says that lifelong learning in Information they have empowered her to be the Science. Another dedication of the department is to conduct research best that she can be.

“My peers have challenged to advance the field of Information through innovative me and helped me along the way. Science of information There are so many professors that applications have been super helpful and I technologies.

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Photo by Destinee Lewis

The Sigma Gamma Rho Neophytes stand at attention while their Dean of Pledge Nora Bouzihay goes to get props for their next stroll.

Destinee Lewis Phi Alpha also put in a lot of work Staff Writer ddlewis2@ualr.edu

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he month of March has been a pretty busy month for many of the greeks at UALR. The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated introduced a new line of members with their neophyte presentation on Sunday, March 13.

They initiated five new members to their brotherhood with Dominique Thomas as their Dean of Pledge.

The new members of Alpha Phi Alpha put in hard work and countless hours of training for their presentation.

The Kappa Psi chapter of Alpha

within the past month. Along with their neophyte presentation, they also recently hosted their 19th annual Renaissance Greek show, where greeks from all over came and performed in the show with the chance of winning money for their organization.

The men of Alpha Phi Alpha were not the only ones busy preparing for a new group of members this month. The ladies of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated initiated five new members to their sisterhood on Monday, March 14.

Nora Bouzihay, who is a graduate of UALR, was the Dean of Pledge for the Spring 2016 TORCH line.

She took control of the line, and managed to balance it along with her graduate school schedule.

“The new TORCH class of Sigma Gamma Rho has worked hard on their neophyte presentation, the purpose of these presentations is to reveal the new initiates of the sorority or fraternity. The entire intake process is very sacred. This allows for the initiated members to be presented,” Bouzihay states.

“We were also happy that the Little Rock Kappa League were able to be apart of our show!”

Admission to the probate was a two dollar donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or a canned good donation could be made to the UALR food pantry.

Bouzihay was grateful for those who came out the support the new members, and for the money and canned goods donated to their organization.

Campus Life

ualr.edu/forum

March 30 - April 12, 2016

9

outh Florida native Lillian Wichinsky has made her mark at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

An associate professor of social work, Wichinsky is interim executive director of the Community Connection Center, which fosters campus and community engagement through such programs as Children International, service-learning and Cooperative Education Internships.

Having earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, a master’s from California State University, and a Ph.D. at Photo courtesy of Lillian Wichinsky Florida International University School of Social Work, Wichinsky is “I’m a first-generation college graduate, just like many of the students that putting her many years of expericome here and that’s why I chose to come to UALR; because it reminded me of ence and education to use at UALR, the type of student I was,” Lillian Wichinsky said. where she came to work in 2008.

“I’m a first-generation college graduate, just like many of the students that come here and that’s why I chose to come to the University of Arkansas at Little Rock; because it reminded me of the type of student I was,” Wichinsky said.

Wichinsky started her career in social work as a welfare worker, then went back to school to get her master’s in community practice social work. After years of practice, she attained her Ph.D. Her resume includes many positions, including crisis counselor, assistant community coordinator and evaluation consultant. Wichinsky also has presentations and publications under her belt.

While having held many leadership roles, over all Wichinsky sees herself as a social worker. “That’s the thing I’m most proud of, the fact that I am a community practice social worker,” she said.

After hearing a speech by Provost Zulma Toro at a Faculty Senate meeting in 2012 about UALR

becoming a community-engaged research university, Wichinsky was immediately inspired and offered her help to make that happen. She began to serve on multiple committees and eventually applied for and was hired at the Community Connection Center.

This year, Wichinsky began working alongside Betsy Hart, the center’s assistant director, to organize and build the UALR Food Pantry, which is open to students, faculty and staff. Hart is now in charge of the pantry.

After a meeting at the Arkansas Foodbank to hear about food insecurities on college campuses, Wichinsky and Hart gained the support of Brad Patterson, then the interim vice provost for student affairs and dean of students, to help decide what the campus needed regarding hunger and food shortages. (Patterson has since been named to the position full time.)

A survey sent out to the campus revealed that about 50 percent of staff and students were going without food at certain times. After receiving approval from the chancellor and provost, they went forward and brought in student organizations to build the pantry.

She noted that many were involved in establishing the pantry, “we just happened to be the ones who organized it.” Wichinsky added, “I’m making these connections between the needs of the community and our campus.

That’s going to grow, that’s what’s cool.”

praise to current members of SGA for all their hard work throughout the year and helping to grab the attention of those running for positions.

Senate went on to pass Senate Bill S003-2016: Rock n’ Roar Sponsorship. SGA was to spend up to $400 to sponsor 20 two-person teams to participate in the first event of the Rock n’ Roar Rivalry series. At the March 15 game at Gary Hogan Baseball Field a Bats n’ Bags Baggo Tournament was held.

“It will promote engagement on campus, it will get students involved and working with one another to promote a friendly, competitive thing between UALR and UCA. Our students went to school with, grew up with and are from the same families as their students. I think [students] can really buy into it but we just have to give them a little nudge. That’s what this bill is all about,” said President Jacob Lann when speaking about the benefits of the rivalry series.

Senator Noah Asher introduced Senate Bill S004-2016: SGA Student/Voter Appreciation Day which would have allocated senate funds in order to pay for cake and ice cream to be given out during election days as reward for voting.

The bill was removed from consideration and the group opted to use a different source of funding for the items.

March 17 Student Government Senate Meeting: There’s Strength in Numbers One of the quickest meetings of Student Government Association thus far, but still packed with business and discussion, the March 17 meeting of SGA helped to prove that we’re all human and our lives get busy and stressful.

Straight to business, the group passed Bill S005-2016- Bone Marrow Donor Drive introduced by Senators Noah Asher and Shayna Underwood. The bill helps in one of the groups commitments, this one being to promote and support

disease awareness. SGA will appropriate $600 in senate funds to help purchase t-shirts for the upcoming Be-The-Match Bone Marrow Drive.

Senator Noah Asher and Vice President Connor Donovan were selected as Leaders of the Week for their work with assisting with the Bone Marrow Drive and the drafting of Bill S005-2016.

The Rock n’ Roar Sponsorship was also announced to be cancelled due to undisclosed difficulties. The Rock n’ Roar Rivalry was intended to build rivalry between UALR and UCA (University of Central Arkansas) athletics, draw in more attention to Central Arkansas sports, increase attendance at sporting events and school spirit at the two schools.

With the year coming to an end, senators were advised to complete their office/event hours and make note of the remaining senate budget to help them to work on more initiatives to use the remaining funds on.

Lela-Tamara Fluker Staff Writer ldfluker@ualr.edu

S

SGA Student Government Association

Lela-Tamara Fluker Staff Writer ldfluker@ualr.edu March 9 Student Government Senate Meeting: “Sorry that was an incredibly long answer...” - Jacob Lann During the March 9 meeting of Student Government Association, the discussion of bills and upcoming were just a few parts of the busy agenda that filled the entire hour without a second of downtime.

After the approval of two sets of minutes from previous meet-

ings Senate went on to select Chief Justice Rick Dierenfeldt as Leader of the Week for hosting Candidate Orientation sessions for those interested in running for an executive position in SGA next year.

25-30 people have signed up for SGA positions for the 2016-2017 academic year.

“Give yourselves a pat on the back because this all starts and ends with you.” said Dierenfeldt as

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March 30 - April 12, 2016

Campus Life

ualr.edu/forum

Student organization spotlight: Trojan Talk Renea Goddard Staff Writer rbgoddard@ualr.edu

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Trojan Talk invited the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity to host the talk during Que Week in early March.

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growing student organization, Trojan Talk, seeks to improve the overall health of students by educating and assisting them in finding alternatives to high-risk activities. It’s no secret that some of the greatest rates of high risk behavior occurs among teenagers and young adults. For many students, college represents a newfound freedom and independence---but with this freedom also comes the choice to participate in activities that may be dangerous or unhealthy.

“Our goal is to provide a support group that can identify with the many needs of a student,” says Vanessa Lewis, Trojan Talk’s adviser. “We build communication skills that can bridge the gap between lack of knowledge, perceptions and misconceptions about various student health related issues.” These issues include sexual health, emotional health, and mental health, Lewis says, and Trojan Talk plans to improve these by addressing issues such as drug and alcohol use, as well as sex and STIs. Trojan Talk meetings involve Photo by Destinee Lewis discussions of heavy topics, HIV/ AIDS awareness and sexual violence to name a few. However, the sensitivity of these subjects pose no problem, according to Lewis.

“We are an open minded, nonjudgmental group, and we want to discuss any topic that can lead to a revelatory action or positive change.”

In a state that primarily implements “abstinence-only” sex education in high school, an organization that is truly catered to individual students’ sexual needs and concerns is sorely needed. Trojan Talk also offers confidential, oneon-one sessions for students who prefer not to talk to counseling services.

Their presence on campus is hard to miss---they plan to host activities for Trojan Fest on April 29. Trojan Talk meets at 7 p.m. every Tuesday in the lower lobby of West Hall.

Arts and Leisure

ualr.edu/forum

March 30 - April 12, 2016

Student spotlight: Kari Payton– a visionary for women’s empowerment

Abdul Mohammed Staff Writer ggmohammed@ualr.edu

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Photo by Jeff Ridgle

“One shouldn’t be afraid to do something that people don’t do or something that is crazy,” Kari Payton explains. “If you think you are doing the right thing... just go ahead.”

othing is impossible in life once you have made up your mind to achieve it; UALR senior Kari Payton knows this first hand. Originally from Bastrop, Texas, she came to UALR in 2011.

Payton received a basketball scholarship offer from the university and made the decision to study here. Payton chose to pursue a dual major in systems engineering and sociology. A combination in which systems engineering helped her work on her technological skills and sociology helped her understand people better.

She has achieved a lot in her time at the university. With guidance, she became the Engineering and Information Technology (EIT) Ambassador for UALR. She also served for the Student Government Association, where she worked on budgeting for the association.

She did not know where to stop and kept going ahead, grabbing each opportunity in her way.

Payton said, “One shouldn’t be afraid to do something that people don’t do or something that is crazy.

If you think you are doing the right thing; just go ahead.”

She has also spent time as a legionnaire for the university, welcoming the visitors to the campus.

Her duties as a legionnaire also

included being a point of contact for visitors and being a representative at events.

Being here gave her the opportunity to go on several mission trips, which included a visit to Africa. She is also going to visit Kenya in December.

Payton describes herself as a very down to earth person and believes strongly that “service to mankind is service to god.” She loves to cook, fly drones, play guitar and ride bikes.

In 10 years she sees herself married, with kids and having a great engineering job. She would like to teach people the importance of STEM and is going to serve the country by being a guide to the under privileged.

Her dreams are about having a simple life. Payton has a different view about the American dream.

To her it’s all about living a simple and peaceful life with everyone around her rather than living a lavish life that would be far away from reality.

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Arts and Leisure

March 30 - April 12, 2016

Trojan's Trending Topics Photo Editor bajackson4@ualr.edu

by Brady Jackson

ualr.edu/forum

Fit tip: fruits and veggies...as snacks

How are you preparing for the end of the semester?

Wesley Ferguson Junior Computer Science Major “I prepare for the end of the semester by making sure that everything I have to turn in is finished so I don’t have to cram for finals.”

Illustration by Jacy Andrews

Lela-Tamara Fluker Jake Wright Freshman Information Science Major “I’m keeping up with everything I need to get done so that when the time comes, I can have as easy of a finals week as possible. “

Lauren Govern Senior Molecular Biotechnology Major “Studying, spending some time with friends, and doing my best to get at least some sleep.”

Staff Writer ldfluker@ualr.edu

W

e've all been guilty of indulging in something not-so-good as a snack.

Salty chips, sugary cookies, fizzy drinks – the whole nine yards – and these snacks probably haven't been filling or kept you satisfied for long. Eventually, you'll deal with a sugar crash that isn't very nice. There are, however, many healthier alternatives that can help you fill up and feel great.

An APPLE a day can keep the doctor away- Firm, fresh, smoothskinned apples are a good alternate snack for their nutritional benefits. They are fat-free and provide lots of dietary fiber among other things.

Monkey Pickles a.k.a BananasBananas are great on-the-go and even come with their own packaging. These everyday fruits come with a good supply of vitamin C, potassium and fiber. Fiber is great at helping to achieve and maintain a HEALTHY weight.

Fun Fact-Banana trees are not actually trees, but the banana plant is in fact a giant herb.

"When you think of fiber, chances are your weight isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But recent studies show the more fiber you eat, the less you tend to weigh.

The reason: Part of it lies in satiety, or feeling full. Fiber moves through your body more slowly than highly processed foods, making you feel full faster and satisfied longer.

Most of us are only getting about half the recommended 25 grams of the filler-upper a day, though.

Doubling up could cut 100 calories from your day—over a year, that adds up to 10 pounds," according to Health Magazine.

Strawberries- Shiny, bright, firm strawberries are the way to go. Providing folate (vitamin B9), cholesterol-free and free from saturated fats, they would be great paired with other food.

Veggies- We've all been told to eat our vegetables so that we can grow! Choose vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, leafy greens, olives, and others to add a variety of nutrtional benefits to your snack or lunch.

Arts and Leisure

ualr.edu/forum

March 30 - April 12, 2016

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UALR Department of Music introduces spring performances Stephanie Donovan Assistant Professor of Piano, Naoki

Hakutani, and UALR music stuStaff Writer dents as they perform different smdonovan1@ualr.edu genres and styles.

The Songwriter’s Showcase, held each semester by Professor s spring arrives at UALR, of Music, Robert Boury, will take the Department of Music place Tuesday, April 12, at 7:30 will feature a number of p.m. Student composers and guest events that showcase student tal- artist, Jacqueline Schwab, will be ent and effort. There will be plenty performing songs. Fellow students of opportunities to witness what and guests can take this chance to there is in store and the wide vari- encourage potential artists to conety of performances offers some- tinue making progress and refining thing for everyone. their skills.

On Friday, April 1, there will There will also be an opera be an All-Spanish Music Concert production of Shakespeare’s titled Iberia Thrives! at 7:30 p.m. Enchantment on April 22 and April Following that, on April 3 Artspree 24. presents the Mark Boling Trio in Later dates include perforthe Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall. mances by the Wind Ensemble on This is an opportunity to come out April 26, Guitar Ensemble on April and enjoy the work of talented jazz 27, and Percussion Ensemble on musicians free of charge for UALR April 28. students and faculty.

Each of these productions is a Further support is welcome at result of the UALR Department of the Student Showcase on Friday, Music’s hard work and dedication April 8, at Pulaski Heights Methodist to the arts. For more show dates Church. The event, hosted by Little and times, visit http://ualr.edu/ Rock Musical Coterie, will feature music/concert-schedule/.

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Illustration by Jacy Andrews

Science says: old yawner Victoria Mugambi Staff Writer vnmugambi@ualr.edu

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ontagious yawning has always been a slight annoyance among humans. You’ll be at work, going into hour six, and you and your coworker will be exchanging jaw-breaking yawns back and forth until it’s time to call it a day.

Studies in the past have shown that this contagious yawning is a sign of empathy in humans.

However, contagious yawning is seen not only in our species, but in some primates and dogs as well.

Recently, researchers have set out to determine whether this contagious yawning can occur between two different species as well.

Studies conducted by the

University of Tokyo have found that dogs are more likely to reciprocate a yawn from their owner than from a stranger.

The researchers had 25 dogs and their owners participate in the study. The dogs were fashioned with a heart rate monitor in order to ensure that the dogs’ yawns were responding out of empathy, not stress or anxiety.

The results of the study found that the majority of dogs were more likely to yawn in response to their owners than they were to strangers. More importantly, the researchers found that the dogs could differentiate between a real yawn and a fake yawn in their owners.

When the participants were instructed to give a fake yawn, and to give a genuine yawn, their canine companion was more likely to respond to the genuine yawn than the fake yawn.

This is big news for the scientific community for two reasons.

First, this is the first time con-

tagious yawning has occurred between different species which indicates that the social attachment between dog-owners and their pets is profound.

Second, the findings of the study also conclude that dogs can feel some level of empathy for their owners, proving (to some extent) that dogs can feel our emotions.

So the next time you’re cleaning up your dog’s “accident” while they look on, just know that they empathize with your feelings of annoyance and frustration and are either really sorry or just jerks.

Illustration by Byron Buslig

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March 30 - April 12, 2016

Arts and Leisure

ualr.edu/forum

three reasons to hate cell phones Caitlyn Sample Arts and Leisure Editor casample@ualr.edu

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am probably one of few 20-somethings to say this, but some days I hate cell phones.

Living in a world where people practically live on their cell phones, the struggle is real.

Sure, this is a love-hate relationship. I love the convenience that cell phones provide us. I love having a camera with me wherever I go. I love always being connected to my friends and loved ones. I love having that security, knowing that if I am ever in an emergency situation, I can call someone in a moment’s notice. I love having access to any information that I can possibly think of in my pocket (thank you, smartphones).

However, I think, just like with everything great, people abuse this privilege.

Here are three reasons to hate cell phones: 1) Rudeness: Whether it’s watching a movie or having a conversation, people can’t stay off their phones.

Despite the numerous warnings to stay off your phone before a movie, there will still be a little blue screen lit or a ringtone going off during the movie. I have actually seen someone recording the movie on their phone (including the warning not to record the movie on your phone). I love going to the movies and tickets are expensive!

I am going there to “escape” into a movie. I am not paying that money to be disrupted by someone rudely on their phone.

I have also had (several times this year, in fact) people completely disengage from me during a conversation. I am not much of a talker; I am actually pretty quiet. I will listen attentively to you, while you are talking to me. When I talk back, I expect you to return the same courtesy. Numerous times, however, I have had someone look down and start reading something on their phone in the middle of my conversation. Nothing gets under my skin more!

2) Dangerous: Not putting your phone down can be dangerous also.

A pet peeve of mine is when people are on their cell phone while driving. You may not think you are distracted, but you are! I can always spot who is too. They are either driving 10 miles under the speed limit waving their free hand around and holding the phone to their ear with the other or they are serving all over the place their head frantically jerking up and down between each word of their text. This is not just annoying but it is very dangerous. According to Huffington Post, nine Americans are killed daily due to distracted driving.

It is not just dangerous while driving, but while walking or taking a selfie as well. According to CBS News, numerous deaths have occurred because people were trying to capture a selfie. These deaths include people posing with guns or

Illustration by Lyndse Ellis

ately. This is probably the reason we can’t stay off of them.

I can understand answering phone calls immediately or when convenient, if you are driving. I can also understand answering a 3) Accountability: Thanks to the text within a reasonable amount of convenience cell phones provide, time. It is just considerate.

I do not like that you can’t have you are now expected to answer a phone call, text, e-mail, social the freedom from your phone media post, etc. almost immedi- though. I would like to just put my other weapons or in front of wild and dangerous animals. According to ABC News, pedestrian related accidents due to cell phones have increased 15 percent since 2009.

phone down, like during a movie, and forget about my responsibilities every once and awhile without that pressure.

Cell phones are a wonderful thing! But there is a world beyond the tiny screen in your pocket. I hope this serves as a reminder, to myself as well, to be respectful and put the phone away every now and then.

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March 30 - April 12, 2016

Entertainment

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‘Spotlight’ earns its Oscars Potential DNA app threatens future healthcare Stephanie Donovan Staff Writer smdonovan1@ualr.edu A new company called Helix plans to develop an app store that files and stores consumers’ genetic information.

Genome sequencing has advanced to the point where it is now getting progressively cheaper to be tested. This presents many opportunities to make a profit off of this technology.

Helix’s idea is to have customers send in a saliva sample and then Helix will release the sequenced genome data through purchasable apps.

While people can send in saliva samples each time they purchase a genome app, Helix simplifies things by offering a one-time sequencing option that holds the information on file.

If someone wants to know if they are predisposed for a certain illness, they could buy the app that sequenced for that illness.

This, however, is not necessarily cheap yet. Genome sequencing costs over $100, and with Helix it would be $100 plus the money spent on the apps.

The cost is not the only problem, though. Having biological information on file introduces some ethical issues.

Businesses like Helix have the ability to sell information to insurance companies, making it easier for them to discriminate against people based on the results of their genetic information.

Also, releasing this information in the form of apps eliminates the use of a medical professional.

While some people may be predisposed to have a certain condition based on their genes, it is not certain that those people will actually have it.

In other words, people may purchase an app and misunderstand the results which can have detrimental results.

For example, a person may drastically change their outlook on life after finding out they are predisposed to an illness that significantly shortens their life when in reality, there is a good chance they do not have the illness at all.

While it is convenient to always have “an app for that,” it may not always be beneficial when it is referring to your DNA.

Photo courtesy of Open Road Films

What’s happenin’ in

Elton Tevebaugh Staff Writer ewtevebaugh@ualr.edu

Alexandra Vandiver Staff Writer aevandiver@ualr.edu 4th Annual Jazz in the Park-Every Wednesday in April

The Clinton Library is going for gold- March 12 - Sept. 11

Sponsored by the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau and the River Market, Jazz in the Park is starting its fourth season in the downtown Little Rock area. Jazz in the Park is a family-friendly jazz concert that is split into two parts beginning in April.

Some of the performers this year include; Acoustix with Rod, Off the Cuff and SynRG. The proceeds from the event go towards the benefit for the Art Porter Music Education scholarship fund. For the first set the shows will be every Wednesday night from 6-8 p.m., starting April 2 and ending April 27.

The event is free and located in the History Pavilion downtown. Adult beverages and soft drinks will be sold during the show and coolers will not be allowed. There will also be limited seating in the pavilion but there will be plenty of room for lawn chairs and blankets.

Starting in March, “American Champions: The Quest for Olympic Glory” will be on display at the Clinton Library. This exhibit is set against the backdrop of the up and coming summer games in Rio de Janeiro as well as 20 years after the centennial Olympic Games that took place in Atlanta, Georgia.

The purpose of the exhibit is to tell the stories of American athletes in the Olympic and Paralympic games.

With two floors displaying summer and winter games separately, photographs, films and memorabilia will be included as well as materials related to Presidents in office during the games.

Each floor features items ranging from outfits worn by medal winners to even a replica of Team Night Train’s USA Team bobsled. No matter what generation, gender or race, the exhibit proves to celebrate athletic and personal achievement and American diversity.

This exhibition will run from March 12 until Sept. 11.

“S

potlight” had tough competition during this year’s Oscars. It was nominated for Best Picture against hits like “The Revenant,” “Mad Max: Fury Road” and “The Big Short.” Despite the crowded field, “Spotlight” emerged victorious with the Oscar for Best Picture. It also won Best Original Screenplay.

The film’s success is due to a couple of factors. Firstly, the type of story involved is uncommon in film. Secondly, the casting was brilliant.

Movies about investigative journalists confronting the Catholic Church, specifically in Boston, aren’t too common. The fact that it’s based off of a true story makes “Spotlight” all the more unique.

The events in “Spotlight” take place in 2001 and 2002, and feature a small group of journalists who work for the Boston Globe.

Under the group name Spotlight, they cover various stories at their discretion, taking months to over a year to get their stories.

When a new editor-in-chief is hired to the paper, he begins to make some changes. One of these changes is the suggestion that the Spotlight group pursue a case about child molestation within the Catholic Church.

It had been covered before, but brushed aside after the records were sealed. The new boss pushes for the team to reopen the case by pursuing legal action against the Catholic Church.

As the investigation progresses, more information is unearthed about the gross practices within the church. This is more dramatic due in part to a majority of the Boston Globe’s readers being Catholic, as is pointed out in the film.

The story builds as more and more information about the pedophilia and child molestation within the Catholic Church is gathered.

Things get even more interesting whenever the cover-up within the church is revealed.

There is a scene with a victim in which he reveals a collection of information regarding the pedophilia and child molestation within the Catholic Church. It was a very dramatic scene, and was acted out superbly.

While watching, you can feel the tension. The scene almost seems too real and full of raw emotion,

bringing the issues of pedophilia, child molestation and the following cover-ups within the Catholic Church to the forefront.

Finally, “Spotlight” was superbly cast. The leader of “Spotlight,” Walter ‘Robby’ Robinson, is played

by Michael Keaton (“Birdman”).

The rest of the group is Mark Ruffalo (“Foxcatcher”), Rachel McAdams (“Midnight in Paris”), Brian d’Arcy James (“Smash”) and John Slattery (“Mad Men”). The new boss is portrayed by Liev Schreiber (“Lee Daniels’ The Butler”), and another notable performance is given by Neal Huff (“The Grand Budapest Hotel”) as a survivor.

Two more noteworthy additions to the cast play significantly smaller roles than the aforementioned.

Stanley Tucci (“The Lovely Bones”) plays Mitchell Garabedian, a lawyer who had worked in cases against Catholic priests involving child molestation. Billy Crudup (“Big Fish”) plays Eric MacLeish, another lawyer who has worked similar cases.

The reality and gravity of the child molestation and pedophilia within the Catholic Church was once again brought to public attention with “Spotlight.” Despite facing considerable competition, the film is well executed on every front and is worthy of its Oscars.

Entertainment

ualr.edu/forum

A classic alternative: the

power of journalism

March 30 - April 12, 2016

Eat beat:

Skinny J’s

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Skinny J’s Price Rating: $$-$$$$ $ = $5 or less $$ = $6 - $15 $$$ = $16 - $25 $$$$ = $26 - $35 $$$$$ = $36 +

Whitney Bryson that I would be too full to try any-

thing else but I managed to try one Staff Writer of Skinny J’s burgers, “Old Flame,” wxbryson@ualr.edu and I had the choice of either fries or chips to go along with it. sually when people go I ended up choosing the fries downtown, they stay on the to accompany my juicy burger Little Rock side because because I already had chips with there are more options to choose the queso, so giving the fries a try from. Well I am here to let everyone only seemed right.

The burger came with pepper know that downtown North Little Rock has several family friendly jack cheese, bacon, sautéed onions places to eat, including Skinny J’s. and fried jalapenos with chipotle Skinny J’s has a very diverse ranch and sriracha mayo on the menu which made it a little hard side.

When the burger came out, it for me to order at first. The food was fresh, hot and perfectly tender. ranges from about $7-$30.

So to begin, I tried three of the And the fries were also hot, fresh appetizers which included: queso- and seasoned well.

In addition to the great food house-made white cheese dip with tortilla chips, Avocado Fries- beer served at Skinny J’s, there was also battered with chipotle ranch, and great customer service.

The waiter’s and waitress’ that lastly Artichoke Dip- spinach, artichoke, mushrooms with wontons. work there are very friendly and Each appetizer stood out with helpful when it came to answerits own signature taste. I was ing questions and being interactive delighted that each serving came with customers.

The only downfall was that at out very hot and large in portion.

The queso was made to per- times the food/drinks were not fection. It was very smooth and brought out in a timely manner cheesy, leaving my mouth water- because of the waitress’ forgetfulness. ing and wanting more!

Overall, Skinny J’s is not your The avocado fries were also surprisingly really good. They were a average steak and burger joint and mixture of crunchy and fresh. I was if I had to rate Skinny J’s as a whole, a little skeptical to try them at first I would give them 4.5 stars. They because I’ve never been too big on have an amazing atmosphere and avocado. Also, the chipotle ranch is definitely a great place for enterthat went along with it set off all of tainment with its bar, televisions and stage for live music. the flavors.

Skinny J’s is open every day Lastly, the artichoke dip was very creamy and smooth. It was Monday-Wednesday from 11 a.m. different for me because they used to 9 p.m., Thursday-Friday from 11 the wontons to dip into the arti- a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday’s from choke. Using the wontons brought 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

This Skinny J’s is located more texture to the appetizer and also made the artichoke dip even downtown on 314 Main St. Chef more desirable by how nice and James Best started Skinny J’s in 2009 in Cash, Arkansas and he crispy they were.

Since the appetizers were so has two other Skinny J’s located in large in portion, I was almost afraid Jonesboro and Paragould.

U

Photo courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox from the movie, “Gentleman’s Agreement”

Tanner Newton Entertainment Editor tgnewton@ualr.edu

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f “Spotlight” sounds interesting then you can look up the films that precede it.

“All the President’s Men” is the natural predecessor to “Spotlight.”

The 1976 film shows the investigation into the Watergate scandal by Washington Post journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein.

The scandal happened after five men broke into the Watergate hotel with the intention of stealing information. The Democratic Party Headquarters were located in the building and that was the target.

This is a fascinating film full of memorable performances.

The best part of the film is Hal Holbrook’s performance as Deep Throat. The man is a creepy enigma; always hiding in the shadows, knowing more than anybody else.

Robert Redford plays Woodward and Dustin Hoffman plays Bernstein. They do a fine job as small, unknown journalists who are hungry for a good story. This is a big difference between “All the President’s Men” and “Spotlight.”

The people in “Spotlight” are compelled to bring justice to the morally corrupt Catholic Church.

While Deep Throat has a similar conscience, the two journalists in “All the President’s Men” do not have this same feelings. They just see this story as an excuse to get their name out there.

Regardless of the reasons Woodward and Bernstein persisted with the story, there is no denying that what they uncovered was hugely important and had a lasting impact on the world.

The movie was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture, but it lost to “Rocky.” While “All the President’s Men” is not on the list of Best Picture winners, 1947’s “Gentleman’s Agreement” is.

“Gentleman’s Agreement” tells the story of a journalist with an assignment about antisemitism.

Gregory Peck plays Phil Green and he decides to approach the subject via gonzo journalism.

Gonzo journalism is a type of journalism where the reporter inhabits the role of the articles subject. This type of reporting would later become famous due to Hunter S. Thompson’s use of it.

So Phil Green becomes Phil Greenberg.

Greenberg lives with his mother and one day she has a heart attack.

She is put on bed rest at their home.

The doctor that checks in on her is very friendly until he discovers that his patients are Jewish, at which point he awkwardly leaves their house, never to be seen again.

These situations continually happen to Greenberg. A mailman gets angry when he has to deliver to a Jew. A very nice hotel is about to give him a room until he announces that he is Jewish. After that, the hotel suddenly has no vacancies.

“Gentleman’s Agreement” is almost a wonderful film.

Unfortunately, it has a tacked on love story that severely slows down the film. Every time things get heated, Greenberg’s girlfriend shows up to stop the movie in its tracks.

Filmmakers can’t resist adding a love interest or a comic relief character. An early draft of “All the President’s Men” actually had a subplot about Woodward and Bernstein trying to get girlfriends.

Thankfully, Redford, also producer of the film, cut those scenes out of the movie. I wish somebody had done the same with “Gentleman’s Agreement.”

Even with the unnecessary love story, “Gentleman’s Agreement” is still a wonderful movie.

Both these films did what “Spotlight” is doing now; they look at an injustice in the world and demand its end.

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March 30 - April 12, 2016

Entertainment

ualr.edu/forum

‘Fuller House’ is what ‘Full House’ fans were waiting for Caitlyn Sample Arts and Leisure Editor casample@ualr.edu

“F

uller House” accomplishes what fans of their favorite TV show hope for in a revival.

“Fuller House” takes place 20 years after the conclusion of “Full House.” It stars all grown-up D.J. Tanner-Fuller (Candace Cameron Bure), Stephanie Tanner (Jodie Sweetin) and Kimmy Gibbler (Andrea Barber).

After D.J.’s husband passes away and her family moves away, her sister, Stephanie, and best friend, Kimmy, move in to help her raise her three boys (that’s right Kimmy Gibbler finally moves into the Tanner house).

The full original cast, except for Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, appears in the first episode.

This includes Bob Saget, Dave Coulier, John Stamos, Lori Loughlin, Blake and Dylan TuomyWilhoit, Scott Weinger and even the ancestor of the beloved golden retriever.

This cast, except Blake and Dylan Tuomy-Wilhoit, appear separately throughout the season. The only cast to not return at all was Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, who played the youngest Tanner.

“Fuller House” also has new characters. D.J.’s children are Jackson (Michael Campion), Max (Elias Harger) and Tommy Fuller Jr. (Dashiell and Fox Messitt).

Kimmy Gibbler has a daughter, Ramona (Soni Bringas). Juan Pablo Di Pace plays Kimmy’s on-again/ off-again husband, Fernando. John Brotherton plays D.J.’s coworker, Matt Harmon.

Like the original, it is produced

by Jeff Franklin. It takes place in the same house in San Francisco as the original series. The house is decorated in modern décor with some recognizable “Full House” props.

The success of “Fuller House” depends on how much you like the original series. The new series stays true to the themes and characters of the original, such as the cheesy humor and iconic catch phrases. The show is also filled with “Full House” and ‘90s nostalgia that warm the hearts of many.

The show does this while also staying modern and fresh. Part of the fun is searching for all the “Full

Photo courtesy of Netflix

House” references. Some references slap you in the face, while others are hidden like Easter eggs.

Reappearing throughout the season are blunt jokes directed towards Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen.

In the first episode, Stephanie asks about Michelle’s whereabouts.

Danny replies with, “(She) sends her love but she is busy in New York running her fashion empire.” After he says this, everyone in the room turns and stares into the camera.

This line from Danny is the exact explanation the Olsen twins gave production for their lack of partici-

pation in the new series.

Jokes like these repeat several times throughout the season.

Although they are funny, they could have been a little more subtle and less frequent.

Despite not having the Olsens, “Fuller House” succeeds.

It was renewed for a second season before the first season was even a week old. According to Tech Times, the series had 14 million views the first weekend, with 5.5 million views on the first day.

As a fan of “Full House,” I love “Fuller House.” However, I don’t see how outsiders could enjoy the

show.

It is written in a way that only “Full House” fans could enjoy it.

People new to this world would be lost and not understand most of the jokes.

For those of you interested in watching “Fuller House,” try a few episodes of the original (maybe buy a few boxsets) before giving the new show a try.

“Fuller House” also misses an opportunity to add depth to the show by badly squeezing modernday issues into five-minute emotional scenes.

The show is very light-heart-

ed (which it should be, it’s a sitcom). But part of the appeal of “Full House” was its ability to relate to issues that families in the “real world” dealt with and seeing how the “Full House” family would always prevail. “Fuller House” misses this and in turn has not received many positive reviews.

All in all, “Fuller House” is what fans have been waiting for. It warms their hearts and leaves them with a smile on their face. For newcomers to the “Full House” world, this show may be a missed opportunity. You can stream all 13 episodes of “Fuller House” now on Netflix.

ualr.edu/forum

Entertainment

March 30 - April 12, 2016

19

‘Cash Your Investment’ gives post-grad perspective Jack A. Webb Eberwein breaks into five chapters author of his time leading up to

to maximize a positive outcome for Staff Writer the investment of your future and jawebb@ualr.edu land that top-shelf job: mastering your mind, utilizing a mentor, conducting an exhaustive job search, interviewing effectively and crafting a superior resume. he lessons and knowledge An underlying theme of this that we as college students book is the necessity to adopt obtain during our under- an A-1 attitude that reflects not graduate careers should all be only who are now, but also who assembling together to score our you want to become when you dream job. Our ideas of that dream are gainfully employed and have job are likely to vary, but the steps access to the “upper end of the to achieving it shouldn’t be all that white-collar domain.”

Eberwein also cites that your different.

Obtaining your post-college mental approach is the “critical career is a huge investment of not factor in determining whether only your time, but money as well, or not you ultimately succeed in and the first book by S.A. Eberwein, obtaining a top-shelf, post-gradu“Cash Your Investment: How to ation job.”

I learned that you’re not alone Leverage Your College Degree into a Great First Job,” attempts to capi- when it comes to your future. You talize on the uncertainty of post- should build a strong network of peers and professionals that have grad anxiety.

Eberwein, a former Wall Street your best interest in mind.

The value of a mentor could not banker, left his dream job in the “City That Never Sleeps” to share be more important when trying to his first-hand knowledge that he open up doors into the industry gained on his journey to landing in which you aspire to be. This a coveted position at a reputable person should be someone that is investment banking firm. His jour- trustworthy but also fair with conney to the banking firm began well structive criticism. Don’t be afraid before the pomp and circumstance to mess up along the way; you’re not alone! of graduation day.

This book is well thought out In “Cash Your Investment,” there are several key points that with empirical reflection from the

T

college graduation and beyond. It is a beyond personal account of some trials that current and previous college students should be able to appreciate.

“Cash Your Investment” is so personal at times, I question whether the information being given would be better supported from industry professionals, for the sake of validity. What the book lacks in outside sources, it makes up for with details and anecdotes--almost overwhelmingly so at times.

My takeaway from the book is that every job search is a critical moment for you as an employee to showcase your knowledge and expertise to a world in which you’ve worked so hard over the past four years and prior to be a part of.

Eberwein questions, “Why invest appreciable sums of money, time, and personal exertion into the higher educational experience only to fumble in translating your investment into a rewarding postcollege career?”

With the tips in this book, you’re bound to be better off than you were before. My suggestion is to give it a look over and utilize the things that make the most sense to you and consider the rest. The payout of your investment is within your reach!

Photo courtesy of Brown Books Publishing Group

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22

Sports

March 30 - April 12, 2016

Hot Corner

March Madness 2016: a tournament unlike any other Brian Gregory

Warriors and Spurs: the only option for NBA Champion Brian Gregory Sports Editor bjgregory@ualr.edu

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he National Basketball Association is the best sport in the world to me. While it may not have as many fans as the National Football League or college football, or it may not capture America’s heart like NCAA Basketball does, but at the end of the day it’s about who can be consistently good over a gauntlet that is an 82 game season. I love the NBA; it is my favorite thing to watch. In all my years watching the NBA I have never seen two teams as dominant as the Golden State Warriors and the San Antonio Spurs. I will tell you right now that if any other team wins the tournament besides these two teams it is a major fluke and one of those teams choked.

The Golden State Warriors led by the maestro that is Stephen Curry are the fastest team to 60 wins. They have the best offense in the league and a top-five defense. This is a team that is a supreme juggernaut. When you beat Golden State, you have to catch them on an off night.

The worse teams in the league are the only ones who seem to do that because they have only lost to these teams: Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, Portland Trailblazers, and the Los Angeles Lakers. The San Antonio Spurs are just as good, if not a little bit better than the Warriors.

While the Spurs are not the offensive force they are still a top-10

team, and they also have the best defense in all of the NBA. They are 57-10, and it seems everyday they are just pushing the Warriors to new heights. The Spurs led by the brilliant Kawhi Leonard, are running roughshod over the NBA. Who is the best team in the NBA? I honestly could not tell you. Some days I think it’s the Golden State Warriors and other days I think it’s the Spurs of San Antonio. I can tell you who it’s not though. It’s not the Oklahoma City Thunder who have lost 12 games when leading in the fourth quarter even though they have the two of the top-five basketball players in the world. Other than that they don’t really have a team. The Clippers can’t beat the Cavaliers much less the Warriors or the Spurs. The Cavaliers the only team in the East that might have any credibility winning comes to having the ability to win the championship, and that is only because of LeBron James.

The Cavs are not a team that has neither the defense to compete with the Spurs nor the offense to compete with the Warriors. If only there were no conferences and we could see the two best teams in the NBA face off in the Finals.

However, we can only hope for the Warriors and Spurs to meet in the Western Conference Finals to fulfill every basketball fan’s greatest desires.

ualr.edu/forum

Sports Editor bjgregory@ualr.edu

M

arch Madness has finally arrived and it has captured the hearts and minds of people all across the globe. Millions of people have filled out brackets; sometimes multiple ones knowing that there hopes will more than likely be dashed and they will never achieve the perfect bracket are slim to none. (The actual numbers are less than one in 9.2 quintillion.) This is just isn’t for kicks however, it’s to see the joy of those teams you picked right and to see just how bad a pick was. Nothing is worse than seeing one of your final four teams lose in the first round as many did with the Michigan State Spartans.

Nothing is sweeter than seeing an underdog that you picked for no reason entirely other than you just have feeling. We experienced that with our own Little Rock Trojans.

Josh Hagins and head coach Chris Beard became household names in there own right. It is even reported that our coach might be leaving to go coach the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels, when you are a great coach of midmajor in the tournament these things tend to happen. We wish him the best of luck.

Let’s talk about the Final Four teams: Villanova Wildcats, Oklahoma Sooners, North Carolina Tar Heels, and Syracuse Orange. You have three teams that were in the national title talk all season.

Villanova and North Carolina have to contrasting styles but are cut from the same cloth.

Both are veteran-teams a rarity in college basketball these days. Senior point guards lead both of these teams, Ryan Arcidiacono for the Wildcats and Marcus Paige for the Tar Heels. However, the strength of Villanova is their spectacular shooting from guards Kris Jenkins and Josh Hart along

with their lone inside presence in Daniel Ochefu. North Carolina has Brice Johnson a breakout star and Kennedy Meeks on the front line to cause problems for any team in the country.

This is in comparison to two totally different teams. Nova will be facing off against the Oklahoma Sooners and the team I thought had a chance to win it all from the start of the season. The Sooners mainly known for their football team has great guard play from both Jordan Woodard and Isaiah Cousins. Ryan Spangler is their scorer down the middle. But it wouldn’t be anything without their one name superstar. Buddy. Buddy Hield a name that has trended plenty of times throughout this season on Twitter. A name that first entered our national consciousness when he scored 30 against the Memphis Tigers, and who became a household

name and the national player of the year front-runner when he dropped 46 points against the Kansas Jayhawks in a triple overtime loss, in what yours truly called the greatest college basketball game in history.

While one player can’t win it by himself, Buddy can is the type of player who can elevate a team like Oklahoma to the final four.

Syracuse is a team nobody expected to make the tournament, much less the final four. A team that was saddled by postseason sanctions last year, is now the first ten-seed to make it to the Final Four.

This team with Michael Gbinje and Malachi Richardson is only here because Jim Boeheim is a Hall of Famer and is on a vengeance tour against the NCAA. After being suspended for nine games this year, Boeheim willed this team to their victories late in the season Syracuse is here and are as deserving

Illustration by Byron Buslig

Sports

ualr.edu/forum

March 30 - April 12, 2016

23

Intramural volleyball season ends

Lauren Humphrey tied for first place with a record of

3-1 in the regular season.

Campus Life Editor In the mens playoffs, many lehumphrey@ualr.edu games were forfeited or defaulted.

On March 17, The Punishers beat Pike 3-0, winning the playoff tournament.

In the Co-Ed A division, Digs layoffs for the intramural and Chicks were in first place with volleyball seasons ended an undefeated record of 4-0 and the Thursday, March 17. Village People were in second with Because many players partici- a record of 3-1 during the regular pated, the playoffs lasted four season. In the B division, Pikes and days with more than six games Ladies had an undefeated record of being played each night. Games 4-0 and the Village People were in second with a record of 3-1. were played in the DSC gym.

On the last night of the co-ed In the womens division, One Hit Wonders and Red Hot Chios playoffs, the Village People beat tied for first place, each having a Pikes and Ladies with a score of record of 2-2 in the regular season. 3-0 at 5:30. The Straight Up Ball On The last night if the playoffs, Slappers beat Digs and Chicks 3-2 Red Hot Chios forfeited to Prestige. at 6:15. In the last game, the Village Then, in the final game, The one people beat The Straight Up Ball Hit Wonders beat the Prestige 3-1. Slappers 3-0 at 7:45. The Village One Hit Wonders won the womens People won the Co-Rec playoff tournament. volleyball playoff tournement.

Only a few more seasons of In the men’s A division, Kappa Sig was in first place with an unde- intramural sports remain in the feated record of 4-0 and D-Chi was spring semester; however, registrain second place with a 2-2 record tion is closed. Ultimate Frisbee, during the regular season. In the B Indoor Soccer and Tennis will be division, QATIF and the Punishers played in April.

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In the playoffs, the teammate set the ball for the other players so that they could spike the ball. this was a common tactic for most teams.

Photo by Lauren Humphrey

Hayden Martin looks to play inspired baseball Analee Jones Staff Writer aejones4@ualr.edu

H

ayden Martin is a senior infielder for the Little Rock Trojans baseball team. Martin hails from Murphy, Texas were his dreams of being a baseball player were first formed. Martin’s inspiration comes from playing ball with his father. His father was

a college baseball player so baseball was in the household.

Hayden Martin says that he didn’t really have a huge backstory but, in his previous days he played for his high school and was named the secondteam all-conference player.

How Martin prepares for the game is eating. He said, “I normally eat a Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich.” Which he laughed about because it was weird thing to say. However, as game time approaches its all business. The players file into

the locker room and Coach Curry enters in to give them the pointers for the day. Martin says he tries to tell the freshman and the new kids to calm down and try to focus on the game. Martin tells all the guys to, “Trust their work.” Each game is new battle to them but they don’t try to get worked up.

Martin then explains that one of his weaknesses is that he gets worked up and too aggressive by wrapping himself in the moment, which is a very understandable thing.

Hayden Martin’s achievements include being named to the Sun Belt Conference Commissioner’s List for achieving a GPA of 3.5 or higher during 2014-2015 academic year.

His success has made him a role model on the team. Martin said that his strong suit is, “that I try to be as consistent throughout the games and keep a calm manner throughout the game.”

Hayden Martin had a few words to say to the incoming walk-on’s or freshman. His advice was to “make sure you

know where you came from and not to be a big shot when coming to play at a new college”

Sports

ualr.edu/forum

March 30 - April 12, 2016

25

Little Rock men complete historic season with SBC tourney title

Little Rock defeated Georgia State 57-49 on Feb. 18.

Brian Gregory Sports Editor bjgregory@ualr.edu

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he Little Rock Trojans finished their historic season with a regular season conference championship, and now they have captured the Sun Belt Conference Tournament. This appearance is now their fifth appearance all-time and first since 2011. It is also their second conference tournament title. The Trojans received a 12 seed from the NCAA selection committee and faced the 5-seeded Purdue Boilermakers in Denver Colorado. Little Rock fin-

ished the season with a school record 29 wins and are tied with the least amount of losses in the country with the Kansas Jayhawks who were the number one overall seed in the tournament.

The Trojans had their first tournament game against the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns. Little Rock started off strong in the first half outscoring the Ragin’ Cajuns by ten. The team eventually warmed after starting 1 of 6 from the field to shoot 50% from the field and from the three-point line. Marcus Johnson, Jr., scored 11 straight points to give the Trojans the lead for good during the first half. In the second half, Louisiana began to strike back scoring 42 points and tying the game twice, which made the Trojans sweat just a little bit. But their spectacular shooting

Photo by Lauren Humphrey

allowed for them to retain the lead and make it to the title game.

The title game featured the Trojans facing off against the second-best team in the conference in the Louisiana Monroe Warhawks.

During the regular season, the Warhawks beat the Trojans in Louisiana which was one of the very few loses they had during the season. Lousiana-Monroe played like a team that was not afraid of the Trojans. They jumped out to a halftime lead of 33-28, but after a 13-2 run the Trojans ended up keeping the lead for good. Roger Woods was named tournament MVP. Little Rock was one of only seven number seeds in the country to win their conference tournament. They established a record for wins, conference wins and road wins in a season.

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March 30 - April 12, 2016

Sports

ualr.edu/forum

Sun Belt basketball standings 1. South Alabama Jaguars 18-6(9-0) 2. Georgia Southern Eagles 15-8 (6-3) 3. Texas State Bobcats 15-9 (6-3) 4. LouisianaLafayette Ragin’ Cajuns 15-9 (6-3) 5. Little Rock Trojans 12-11 (5-4) 6. Troy Trojans 13-12 (3-6) 7. Arkansas State Red Wolves 11-12 (3-6) 8. UT-Arlington Mavericks 14-11 (2-4) 9. Georgia State Panthers 12-12 (2-4) 10. Louisiana Monroe Warhawks 10-13 (2-4) 11. Appalachian State Mountaineers 5-19 (1-8)

Sports

ualr.edu/forum

March 30 - April 12, 2016

27

SPORTS C O M M E N T AR Y

Forum basketball power rankings

NBA 1. Golden State Warriors 66-7 2. San Antonio Spurs 61-12 3. Oklahoma City Thunder 51-22 4. Cleveland Cavaliers 52-21 5. Toronto Raptors 49-23 6. Atlanta Hawks 44-30 7. Los Angeles Clippers 45-27 8. Boston Celtics 43-30 9.

Miami Heat 42-30

10. Charlotte Hornets 42-31 11. Memphis Grizzlies

41-32 12. Indiana Pacers 39-34 13. Detroit Pistons 39-35 14. Utah Jazz 36-37 15. Portland Trailblazers 38-36

22. Orlando Magic 30-43 23. Milwaukee Bucks 30-44 24. Sacramento Kings 29-44 25. New Orleans Pelicans 26-46

16. Chicago Bulls 36-36

26. Minnesota Timberwolves 24-49

17. Washington Wizards 36-37

27. Brooklyn Nets 21-51

18. Houston Rockets 36-38

28. Phoenix Suns 20-53

19. Dallas Mavericks 35-38

29. Los Angeles Lakers 15-58

20. Denver Nuggets 31-43

30. Philadelphia 76ers 9-65

21. New York Knicks 30-44

"These are the opinions of Forum Sports Editor, Brian Gregory, based on his observations."

* As of Monday, March 28, 2016 from ESPN.com

Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 3436

4 9

Medium level

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2016-03-10

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Play sudoku online at:

www.sudokukingdom.com

ACROSS 7 Never-ending and convoluted tale about English servicemen (7) 8 Taking first appearances, Karajan used largely to resemble another maestro (7) 10 American gets nicked going outside – not the first to mess up (6) 11 Where to get loaded or rolling? (8) 12 Tree – its content, you said, should be rejected (4) 13 Romantic piano works to include second item from Pyotr Ilyich perhaps (10) 14 Two vehicles block a view, we’re told, in place for holidaymakers (7,4) 19 Girl working as stripper has to keep quiet – it involves working with others (3,7) 22 Potato curry’s not very Indian (4) 23 Maureen’s lost part of her log-in details (8) 24 Billy No-Mates drops round, then starts to harass unfortunate holy man (6) 25 What good subjects show the monarchy when leader changes? (7) 26 Amazon, for example, leads in world as really reliable international online retailer (7)

DOWN 1 Bad-tempered agent drinks wine up (7) 2 Plant somehow has to obtain energy – a lot of water’s the answer (5,3) Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 3436 2016-03-10 Medium level 3 Sounds like girl’s out of bed and got her face on (4,2) 4 One-off riotous frolicking in which party’s held in the open air (8) 5 Close attention given to book appearing in NewPage Year1/2 (6) 4 stripped 7 in Scottish town (7) 2 8 6 Apparatus for shock treatment’s 9 New German translator is eclipsed by Welshman and rendered ineffective (11) 15 US city’s home to a legendary runner (8) 16 Notorious bad driver 9 cops nicked 2 initially for3weaving this way and that (2,3,3) 17 Dancers getting endlessly bloody-minded about nothing (7) 18 Accumulated bets on pirate captain being one to maintain position of vessel under fire?

On the contrary (7) 5 2 9 4 20 One making you laugh or cry (6) 21 In disgust, avoid Mahler? (6)

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