PHOTO: GARETH PATTERSON, PHOTO ILLUSTRATION: ERIK NORTHFELL
International Student Population On the Rise by MATILDE BONIFAZ Staff Writer
The UA population of international students has grown significantly since 2011, officials said. Around 1,195 international students from 118 countries enrolled for the Spring 2012 semester. The top countries represented by enrolled students include: 173 Chinese, 135 Indian, 68 Korean, 64 Bolivian and 61 Vietnamese students, according to the UA graduate and international education website. “International student enrollments has had a growing population from 823 students in Fall 2000, 885 in Fall 2004, 951 in Fall 2007, 1,037 in Fall 2009, all the way to 1,191 in Fall 2011,” said Gary Gunderman, director of Institutional Research. The undergraduate international population has grown from 436 students in 2001 to 599 in 2011. Graduate international students from 538 in 2001 to 625 in 2011, whereas the number of international law students has decreased from four students to two, according to the Office of Institutional Research. “We have seen a continuous increase since pretty
much records have been kept. We have seen an increase of international students anywhere about 3 to 12 percent since 2001,” said Lynn Mosesso, director of Graduate and International Recruitment and Admissions. The UA surpassed its goal to reach 100 countries around the world when it recently reached 120. “Ever since 9/11, we have watched how international students have decreased in population around universities in the United States, however, we are very pleased to see that the UA has had a minimal decline of 2 percent,” Mosesso said. “It has always been a goal to have diversity on campus, and we are happy to still have that around.” Catalina Gutierrez, transportations and logistics major, said diversity was one of the first things she notices upon her arrival. “Year by year, I see how it is increasing more and each year I find new RSOs, events and opportunities for foreign students. It is always satisfying to see how much the university is growing in every way,” Gutierrez said.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012 VOL. 106, NO. 73 10 PAGES UATRAV.COM
Published Physics Student Makes Waves in Honors College by KRISTEN COPPOLA Staff Writer
Each year, thousands of students graduate from the UA, but only a fraction graduate with honors. Even fewer students graduate with honors after being published. AJ Salois is one of those students. She graduates in May
with honors, a double major in English and physics and a byline in ScienceWriters magazine. After receiving a fellowship to attend the Science Writers 2011 conference in Flagstaff, Ariz., Salois wrote an article titled “Don’t Say Die: Selling the Story.” “I wrote an article which was posted on their blog. They
said if they really liked it, it had a possibility of going in their magazine,” Salois said. The conference was four months ago in October, so it caught Salois off guard when her article was published last month. “I received an email from a random woman who told me she really liked my article in the ScienceWriters magazine,” Sa-
lois said. “I hadn’t gotten mine yet. It turned out that they had chosen it as the lead article of the five or so articles from people who had been given the fellowship. It even had one of those quotations pulled out.” The ScienceWriters magazine is part of an organization,
see HONORS on page 6
Michael Ian Black to Perform in the Union
Comedian Michael Ian Black will perform in the Union Ballroom Thursday, Feb. 16 at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Seating is limited.
COURTESY PHOTO
FEATURES THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER WEEKENDER
PAGE 2 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012
FEATURES EDITOR: LAUREN LEATHERBY ASST. FEATURES EDITOR: KELSI FORD
by EMILY RHODES Opinion Editor
Every Wednesday, my friend Jordan and I get together and have a “girls’ night.” Now, I’m not talking going out to eat – we go all out. Cooking dinner together, painting our nails and watching chick flicks are all in the schedule for each night that we meet at our apartments and celebrate with a glass of plum wine. For our girls’ night this week, we decided on a fun menu of Brie sticks, Margherita pizza and a glass of our favorite wine. And while I can’t give you the recipe for your favorite Vino, the Margherita pizza is one recipe that I simply have to share. Using completely fresh ingredients, a rockin’ homemade pizza dough and my favorite kitchen utensil, a baking stone, this pizza was a hit. CHAD ARNOLD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
On her first day of work, senior Ashley Skinner helps a customer choose the perfect kings cake for her Fat Tuesday dinner party. Mardi Gras falls on February 21st this year. You and your friends can celebrate downtown this Saturday with a costume contest, floats, and beads in honor of this holiday.
by MIKE MAHARDY Staff Writer
Every year, on the day before the religious holiday Ash Wednesday, people from all walks of life gather to celebrate Fat Tuesday, traditionally the last opportunity for indulgence and excess before the start of the Lenten season. For those unfamiliar with the literal term, the celebration is better known as Mardi Gras. Parties erupt across the globe, not only on Tuesday, but spanning the preceding weekend, too. French heritage is celebrated in style, and tradition abounds. Fried dough, pancakes and a plethora of other sweet dishes are prepared to supplement the meals and drinks of this indulgent day. Mardi Gras boasts a flood of other names. To Brazilians, Carnaval is one of the biggest celebrations of the year. In Germany, Karneval attracts individuals to large cities across the country. Carnevale, an Italian version of the feast, lights up the night with parades and parties for all who attend. In the U.S., no other city can claim to be the epicenter of activity on this day than New Orleans, the quintessential epicenter for all things Mardi Gras. This metropolis bursts with pride and tradition and puts its culture on display for tourists and natives alike, promising an unforgettable experi-
ence for any attendee. While the iconic Bourbon Street is always a main attraction for outsiders, Jarret Slonaker, UA student, harbors a different view of the festivities. “My friends and I usually steer away from Bourbon Street; it’s usually packed with tourists, so we try to stay away from them,” he said. Slonaker is a Mississippi native who lives 40 minutes away from New Orleans, so celebrating Mardi Gras in style is no problem. “We go to St. Charles Street; there’s a ton of parties being thrown in huge houses. Everyone comes out on their balconies to catch beads and have fun,” he said. Slonaker said the best part of celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans is the camaraderie he shares with his friends. “It’s amazing. Everyone comes together and throws the biggest party ever. No matter what year you go, there’s always something different, but it’s always an awesome time.” For those unable to make the trip to New Orleans from Fayetteville, a closer, albeit smaller alternative waits nearby. Eureka Springs boasts a Midwestern Mardi Gras celebration for Ozark natives. Arkansans are invited to don their favorite Mardi Gras masks and costumes and join in the festivities of Eureka Gras. Feb. 16 will mark the beginning of the celebration and the party will last until the end of the St. Elizabeth Cajun Ball on Tuesday
night. In its seventh year running, Eureka Gras kicks off the events with the Coronation Grand Ball. A parade, costume contests and live bands fill the weekend. The Krazo Pub Krawl attracts many college students to the festivities, spanning a surfeit of bars downtown. Although Louisiana natives are scattered across the country, their sense of pride for their origins never leaves them. Mike Stelter of Joplin, Mo., still loves the time of year when he can reminisce and celebrate where he came from. “I have my Saints flag flying year round, so everyone knows where I come from. I always love Mardi Gras. It gives me an excuse to cook food from home, have a party and celebrate with anyone who wants to,” Stelter said. On the surface, this annual celebration appears to be about the fanfare, partying and entertainment. But there is much more to it than that. As Stelter said, “The best part about Mardi Gras is not just the partying or celebrating or eating, it’s the fact that everyone, regardless of who they are or where they’re from, can come together and celebrate. You don’t have to be from down South, you don’t have to be French, you just have to be able to have a good time.”
Ingredients For the Dough:
1 cup warm water 1 packet quick rising yeast (Red Star is a good brand to use) 1 teaspoon sugar 1 cup bread flour 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 2 tbsp. olive oil 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning 1 tablespoon Rosemary (dried or fresh)
For the toppings:
¼ large can crushed tomatoes ½ can tomato paste ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning Salt and Pepper 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced 1 handful fresh basil, chopped 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded Parmesan Cheese, to top
To make the dough, I used my KitchenAid mixer, but kneading by hand works just as well. Start by placing the yeast and sugar in a large mixing bowl and incorporate well. Add the water and let the yeast become active – when it starts to bubble you are ready to make the dough. Make sure that your water is around 110°F, no need to get too scientific, but if the water is too hot or cold, the yeast won’t work.
by KIMBERLY MCGUIRE Staff Writer
It’s that time again. We’ve reached the few days before Lent, and so the countdown begins. I’m sure that as college students, we all have Mardi Gras marked in our calendars. If you don’t, I question your faith in beads, booze and…well, we aren’t going to go there. Some of us might be fortunate enough to make the trek to the true home of Mardi Gras, New Orleans, and take part in the festivities. For UA students who have a budget and a liver, we might have to remain on The Hill and take part in their own Mardi Gras events whether they be dinner, drinks and a simple family gathering around a king cake, there is one place that is for sure to be drowning in Cajun merriment—Café Rue Orleans. There’s not a lot of Cajun food in Fayetteville, so many students may not even realize how much they’re missing out. If you’ve never spooned your way through an etouffee or savored a muffaletta, jambalaya, Andouille sausage, or a beignet, you should be charged with felony neglect of your tastebuds. Café Rue Orleans is a very different restaurant with a menu to match. I highly doubt you’ll find “Catfish Tchoupitoulas” or “Shrimp Pontchartrain” anywhere else in Fayetteville. Don’t be afraid to order dishes that you can’t pronounce, I promise you won’t have any regrets. Upon arrival, I looked around skeptically at the dilapidated motel that surrounded the restaurant’s location. There were only a few cars present, enough for the staff and patrons I assume, so I question the motel’s validity. Perched on top of the concrete hill is Café Rue Orleans, a simple hole-in-the-wall that serves up dishes as loud and impressive as Louis Armstrong’s wailing trumpet. As I was making my way around the menu, I couldn’t help but to eavesdrop with my eyes at the neighboring
see CAFE RUE ORLEANS on page 5
Add both of the flours in ¼ cup increments, allowing the mixture to gently incorporate. Then, add the herbs and the olive oil, and mix until you get a soft but firm dough ball. The consistency shouldn’t be too sticky, but easy enough to roll without it sticking to your hands. Once you have a dough ball, knead the dough using your mixer or your hands for 6-8 minutes. Cover and let rise for 30-40 minutes until the dough has doubled in size. Once risen, roll the dough out onto a baking stone - if you don’t have one a round pizza sheet will work just as well.
To make the tomato sauce, mix the crushed tomatoes and the tomato paste in a small bowl. Add the Italian seasoning, and cover the pizza dough with about ½ inch to spare around the outside. Add the sliced Roma tomatoes and the chopped basil, cover in Mozzarella cheese and add a generous sprinkle of Parmesan or your favorite Italian cheese blend. Bake the pizza for 20-25 minutes, until the crust is cooked throughout and the cheese is hot and bubbly.
MIKE NORTON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Red beans and rice served with sausage and a side of bread. The beans and rice provide the classic Cajun flavor with the sausage acting as an excellent centerpiece to the plate. It will not disappoint.
see MARGHERITA PIZZA on page 3
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012
FEATURES
MARGHERITA PIZZA from page 2
PAGE 3
Behind the Blueprint: The Life of An Architecture Student by MIKE MAHARDY Staff Writer
While you will probably eat this entire pizza in one sitting – it’s that good – rest assured, it’s decently healthy. The toppings are completely vegetarian, fresh and a great way to get lots of veggies in one meal. The dough is crisp and has a wonderful melt-in-your-mouth flavor from the dried herbs. And who can resist the melted Mozzarella cheese?
Pizza is an incredibly easy-to-make meal, perfect for a night in with family, friends, or on those nights when it’s only girls allowed. Serve with Caesar salad, your favorite drink and a few episodes of your favorite show to make a great dinner celebration.
PHOTOS BY: EMILY RHODES
Of all college majors, architecture boasts the reputation of the toughest deadlines and most arduous work hours. Despite this sinister reputation, the majority of students in the department are there because of a passion for the craft. The studio work, classes, deadlines and precious hours of sleep are a testament to their own ability to reach a higher potential. Joseph Weishaar, a fourth year University of Arkansas architecture major, said that the amount of work anyone does is a reflection of how badly they want results. “On most nights in the studio, it’s hard to walk through without seeing someone trying to get comfortable in a chair or training themselves to sleep sitting up,” he said. “We even got in trouble a lot because we tried setting up hammocks in the studio basement.” However, Weishaar believes that there is just as much discipline in forcing oneself to go home as there is in staying. “When the immaturity wears off and people realize they can’t do these things, they start to go home and do normal things at normal times. I have enjoyed four years in a nice bed (often hard to get out of) when the studio got too overwhelming and I just needed to go home.” The workloads and studio projects are not all stress, though. As Weishaar said, the department truly becomes like home: “This may sound lame, but the people you spend so many hours with in studio and classes become your friends.” Weishaar believes that sacrifice is a major aspect of a student’s life. “There are benefits to becoming a great architecture student or becoming a frat star, although very few can do both,” he said. “My advice to any incoming architecture freshman is to not sacrifice the relationships with the people who are worth it because of studio; I’ve made that mistake and regret it.” Taking the time to relax can alleviate huge amounts of anxiety for struggling students. Weishaar begins his day by reading the comic section of the newspaper during a long breakfast. “It’s not a hobby per se, but it is relaxing and also entertaining.” For Dalton Iannuzzo, a Syracuse University architecture major, the bond be-
LOGAN WEBSTER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Senior Evan Davis and his peers work in the temporary architecture studio Monday. They have been working on the design for the first gallery space in a series of projects planned to revitalize downtown Little Rock. tween the students is also a helpful driving force for those who are struggling. “I begin my day with other architecture students, eat dinner with them, spend my time in classes and studio with them, and hang out with them in my free time.”
Iannuzzo often finds it stressful to meet the myriad deadlines given to him and his friends. “If there is a deadline due soon, we
see STUDENT on page 5
OPINION THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER WEEKENDER
PAGE 4
EDITOR:SABA EDITOR: SABA NASEEM MANAGING EDITOR: MATTIE QUINN
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012
FROM THE BOARD
Campus Cafeteria Overrun While our campus cafeterias are slightly overrun with the mass number of students wanting to fill their stomachs between classes, we do have multiple options when trying to find that perfect campus meal. Instead of leaving class early to beat the Brough rush, take advantage of the multiple places we have to eat at on campus - Northwest Quad dining is a great place to grab a quick lunch or dinner, and is a pretty walk through campus this time of year. Quiznos and Papa John’s both take flex dollars, and Brough on-the-go provides nutritious meals for students not wanting to sit down and eat. While we want a break from our busy schedules to eat lunch with friends, consider grabbing lunch to go and heading down to Old Main Lawn (pending nice weather coming our way), take food back to eat with friends in the dorms, or take a break from campus and grab a bite to eat on one of the many Dickson street restaurants. Just remember, however busy our campus gets, there are always options for finding a tasty meal.
HEBRON CHESTER Staff Cartoonist
ABOUT THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER The Arkansas Traveler, the student newspaper of the University of Arkansas, is published every day during the fall and spring academic sessions except during exam periods and university holidays. Opinions expressed in signed columns are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Traveler. The editor makes all final content decisions. One copy of The Arkansas Traveler is free to every member of the UA community. Additional copies can be purchased for 50 cents each. Mail subscriptions for delivery within the continental United States can be purchased for $125.00 per semester. Contact the Traveler Business Manager to arrange.
More than $40: Obama’s Tax Cut Gain Rocket Science
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Flying Possum, the leather store that burned down on Dickson Street last year, plans to reopen on Block Avenue in March.
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Razorback baseball season begins Friday, where the Razorbacks will play against Villanova at Baum Stadium.
Ramay junior high assistant principal was accused of eight counts of indecent exposure and arrested last Wednesday. Arrests for drug violations increased over the past two weeks, with seven arrests in 2012 already.
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Students hoping for tax-free textbooks in years will not be seeing a drop in textbook costs anytime soon.
Penn State recently reported the $3 million cost associated with the Jerry Sandusky sexabuse scandal. The Razorback men’s basketball team maintained their 0-8 away record after losing to Georgia last Wednesday.
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The Razorbacks men’s basketball team beat South Carolina 76-65 Saturday at Bud Walton Arena.
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The third advantage is distance from the enemy. Throughout the last year, Obama has heartily painted a “do-nothing” Congress as the cause of the hardships of everyday Americans. This extends even farther as he is able to strike a deal for the payroll tax cuts. “This is a make-or-break moment for the middle class,” the president said. “The last thing we need is for Washington to stand in the way of America’s comeback.” Obama’s mounting campaign against Congress will soon take full swing, and this just serves as more rising action to put a wedge between the president and Congress, with the president acting as the superhero for the middle class. While President Obama still has work to do to “guarantee” reelection, the payroll tax cuts were a good start, and they are exclusive to him. No Republican candidates can “credit claim” off the cuts. When voters are in the booth in November, this is one thing that will surely come to mind.
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extending the tax cut for the rest of the year, he had free press to make himself appeal to the nation, and he sure used it. “I’m glad to see that Congress seems to be making progress on extending the payroll tax cut so taxes don’t go up on all of you and 160 million working Americans,” Obama said in relation to the tax cuts. “It will make a real difference in the lives of millions of people.” When spouting that kind of rhetoric that Americans are quick to eat up, he continues to rack up the votes. Not only that, but his press location is important. Democrats have been trying to portray Republican frontrunner Mitt Romney as a corporate mogul, and every time Obama speaks at a Virginia community college or a Milwaukee lock factory, he builds his reputation as an “everyday American,” someone voters can relate with. Yet, the passage of the tax cuts themselves is enough to earn him quick votes, as a large amount of American voters are “nature of the times” voters, meaning they base their vote on a candidates’ recent performance. The Obama administration isn’t going to let the American voter forget about the payroll tax cuts.
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Just months ago, it seemed as though we may have an incumbent president lose in November. Obama had been vehemently indicted for failing to produce a budget, blamed for poor congressional leadership, a faltering economy and most recently lashed for infringing upon religious freedoms. Yet, in past weeks, Obama has turned negative airs around, just in time to for what may be a blistering election. After riding the wave of a large drop in unemployment, a recent birth control deal boosting his support with his liberal base and an economy that is on its way to being back on track, Obama’s appeal is explosive, as shown by his highest approval rating- 50 percent -in eight months, according to CNN. Yet, the most recent cause
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for his higher-than-average approval can be credited to payroll tax cut deal that will extend the tax cut until the end of the year. There are three big advantages to the payroll tax cut that the president has gained that will carry him far in the election season, and the support shows no sign of stopping. The first is social media. If there’s one thing the president has done well in the last four years, it’s effectively harnessing social media. During the waves of renewal for the payroll tax cut, the president asked the “twittersphere” what $40 (the amount the average American would save with the tax cut) meant to them. There were a plethora of answers, ranging from gas in the car, food on the table, and making the rent payment to keep a roof above the head. This kind of positive feedback moves quicker than any kind of political support. At a time when social media is literally at our fingertips, every “retweet” or “like” on facebook resembles the potential for one more vote for Obama. It takes seconds for overwhelming support to grow. Second - free press. Obama got his free lunch. Every time Obama was able to debate or speak on the issue of
Whitney Houston, American recording artist, died Saturday from unknown causes at age 48. More than 300 inmates in a Honduras jail were killed after a fire ravaged the building.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012
FEATURES
Campus Style Diaries: What Students Wear by CAITLYN SWAIN Staff Writer
With the Fayetteville weather that is as unpredictable as Lady Gaga’s ensemble for a music awards show, students at the UA have lots of choices for what to wear.
We’ve seen all types of garb around campus: the laid-back Ugg boots and high ponytail combo, the professional suit and tie, and just about everything in between, from Chaco sandals to Cosby sweaters. Many choose to walk the campus ready for a job inter-
view with starched collars and shiny loafers in order to make a good impression on professors, while some find themselves donning pajama pants after an arduous all-nighter. A few students have even received complaints from professors regarding their ward-
robe choice. It comes as no surprise to find that most UA students, however, prefer to find a happy medium of comfort and style. Three different students share their styles, schedules and philosophies on campus clothing.
Isaac Allen Senior Majoring in public relations What do you wear on a typical day of school? Usually I’ll wear fitted jeans, boots, a v-neck sweater or button-down, and a jacket or blazer. I like to be comfy and dress how I am feeling that morning, but overall, I guess you could say style beats comfort.
Mackenzie Bray Freshman Majoring in business Would you say you dress more for comfort or for style? Well, I have to say I am more likely to dress for comfort. I usually wear large t-shirts, leggings, a Polo hat and a scarf. Last semester when I went through pledging, we had to dress in pin attire, which is great and all, but I love dressing casual, too.
Ruth Bradley Junior Majoring in political science How do you dress when going from school to work? I almost always wear a scarf and boots. I feel like boots are a good way to look puttogether and still stay warm. When I go to work at Underwood’s Jewelers on Dickson Street, I’ll look nicer, but even if I am trying to be stylish, I am more concerned with being comfortable.
COURTESY PHOTO
CAFE RUE ORLEANS from page 2
tables’ decisions. At one table I saw a plate of beignets being devoured. Knowing that there is a place in Fayetteville that offered beignets saves me a trip to Café du Monde in New Orleans. Beignets are a pretty big deal, people; do you not watch the Food Network? Once it came time to order, I went with Eggplant Napoleon, deep-fried eggplant layered with crab cakes, covered with a creamy seafood sauce. Apparently my reading comprehension skills were nonexistent that night because when I was served my meal, the words “crab cakes” and
STUDENT from page 3
usually stay up pretty late to get the project done. If there is no deadline, then there is usually a ‘desk critic’ who walks around to oversee your work.” While it seems that stern, hardened professors would accompany this rigorous schedule, Weishaar and Iannuzzo put this notion to rest. Weishaar tells any new students to “make friends with the professors by doing good work, they’ll do the best they can to help someone who constantly shows initiative.” Iannuzzo has a similar view of the teachers. “They can be pretty intimidating at first, but that’s usually just preconceived
“layered” came as a surprise. I was not prepared for the tower of food that graced my plate. However uninformed I may have been (my own fault) the consequence was incredible. The crab cakes were absolutely delicious, the eggplant was full of flavor, and the sauce— the sauce flowed aplenty. It was just about the richest thing I’ve ever eaten. Although I have fascination with beignets, I just couldn’t muster up the courage to ingest another thing. Seeing the nearby table enjoy them was satisfactory enough. Also, my meal was already a paycheck and a half too pricey for me to add to the bill. Other desserts include crème brulee and white chocolate bread pudding. Be-
cause the prices (even though it’s totally worth it) are a little on the higher end, I would recommend to save this meal to enjoy with a parent. If you just can’t hold out for their next visit, I understand, plan to have a Café Rue Orleans Sunday brunch or weekday lunch. The menu is adapted for the time of day, but many items still remain. Did I mention $1 mimosas at brunch? If that doesn’t get you out of bed, I’m not sure there’s much hope for you. Not only is Café Rue Orleans a perfect spot to celebrate Fat Tuesday (emphasis on the fat), it doubles as a great loophole for your meatless days during Lent, that is, as long as you didn’t give up all things savory and delicious.
mentalities of new students who think they they’re going to be ridden throughout their career. The professors are there to help. They know we have a rough schedule and if we show that we want results, they’re going to assist us if they can.” In the mind of Weishaar, no architecture student should be nervous about a career after college. “I’m not anxious about graduating with a job in hand. I don’t mean that I’ll definitely have an architectural career, I mean that a major in architecture prepares you for so much more than just what you learn in school.” Graphic design, computer analysis, art techniques and pseudo product development are all skills that students
pick up while focusing on architecture. As Iannuzzo and Weishaar agree, students who spend their time with this major are prepared for a much more diverse assortment of jobs than one would think. Weishaar recommends a year of architecture to anyone. He believes the experience offered, the skills and responsibility learned, and the friends made are all enough to compensate for the stress of the major. “You learn how to be a much harder and goal-oriented worker who understands requirements,” he said, “and that’s something any employer will look at.”
PAGE 5
NEWS THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER WEEKENDER
PAGE 6
NEWS EDITOR: CHAD WOODARD ASST. NEWS EDITOR: BRITTANY NIMS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012
Special Traveler Beat
ARTS & CULTURE
International Carnival at Friday Night Live
LOGAN WEBSTER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
The International Carnival is an opportunity for students to network with other students from different cultures. Dancing, food and games will be provided. by MATILDE BONIFAZ Staff Writer
This year marks the first time Friday Night Live has hosted the International Carnival in conjunction with the International Student Organization, the International Bolivian Organization and The National Association of the Advancement for Colored People. The event will take place Friday, Feb. 17. “The purpose of FNL is to provide the UA community an opportunity to have
a fun Friday night in which students will have an environment in which they can interact with one another and build connections with each other and to the university,” said D.J. Walch, coordinator of First Year Experience. FNL has teamed up with ISO every year since FNL was founded. This will mark the third time FNL has collaborated with IBO and their first time to partner with NAACP. They have taken many
different elements from the organizations and past events and packaged it in new ways for the groups to showcase themselves and their cultures to those in attendance. International Carnival is an opportunity for them to highlight many of their students from around the world. They will provide an international talent show, a fair featuring booths from international students from all over the world, dancing, a jeopardy game, free food,
New Heights Raises Future Missionaries by EMILY HARVEY Staff Writer
New Heights Church of Fayetteville sponsors a sixweek summer program for university students called the Global Training School. The program is specifically designed for students who are seriously considering work overseas. “GTS is a six-week training program that allows students to see different forms of ministry used oversees,” said Linda Mohlman, who works on staff with the college ministry at New Heights and helps organize GTS. “They will be exposed to various forms of work done oversees: construction, medical, schools, orphanages, rural and city.”
The last three summers New Heights has organized trips to Honduras, China and, most recently, Thailand. Matt and Julie Clayton led the trip to Thailand this summer in a GTS team of seven other college students. “While on one of these trips, you get to experience different cultures and a completely different way of life,” Matt said, junior communications major. “Basically, it is a practical way to see what you would enjoy doing overseas and what that would look like in your everyday life.” The team worked at an orphanage for abandoned children and another that treated children born with HIV, built a house, painted
a church, renovated a preschool, shopped at outdoor markets, rode elephants at an elephant conservatory and went white water rafting, Matt said. “My favorite kind of ministry was working in the slums and the villages,” Julie said. “They are both just completely different than anything you can see or experience here in the U.S. I learned so much just being stripped of every cultural norm for us and diving into theirs.” “The variety of things that we did allowed me to get a good handle on the things I would want to be involved in and those that I would prefer not to do. Also, I know what missions looks like now,” Matt said.
free shirts and games. “We are hoping that the students [who] attend will be able to learn about some of the international peers and classmates while being exposed to new foods, cultures, performances and activities from around the globe,” Walch said. ISO president Mohamen Boudhoum is working on organizing the international booths at the fair and also the talent show schedule. “I think that FNL has
HONORS from page 1
and only members of the National Association of Science Writers receive the magazine, Salois said. Salois’ success wasn’t surprising to those who have watched her throughout her academic career at the UA. “She is an exceptional student, and it’s a good achievement,” said Claud Lacy, vice chair of the physics department and Salois’ research mentor. “[It reflects] mainly on her personality and goals.” Lin Oliver, Salois’ academic advisor and a member of her thesis committee, worked with Salois beginning her freshman year. “We had a grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute beginning fall of 2007. AJ was recruited to be in the inaugural group,” Oliver said. The program was a two-year commitment, and by the summer after
the potential to be very successful this year. All of our partners have contributed to the event in ways that will truly make for a fun and entertaining night. I would like to encourage everyone to show up and support their friends and classmates by attending this FNL,” Walch said. “IBO is pleased and thrilled to be working with FNL in the International Carnival because it is great opportunity to showcase our countries festivities
and culture,” said Fabiana Pena, secretary of IBO. “I personally think that Friday Night Live is an important event for a student that works hard all week, wants a change in routine and over all relax with friends and great food,” said Daniel Maldonado, mechanical engineering major. Friday Night Live is free and open to everyone. There will also be free food and free t-shirts for those in attendance.
her freshman year “she was able to run fairly sophisticated experiments,” Oliver said. When Salois learned of the ScienceWriters spot, she immediately sent Oliver an email with the good news. “She was ecstatic. All of that came through in the email. I can’t think of more than one time when she had excitement like that,” Oliver said. “It brightens my days.” As graduation nears, Salois is narrowing down her options. “It looks like I have a pretty sure job offer at the International Dark Sky Association, which is a non-profit organization which works against light pollution or the artificial brightening of the night sky,” Salois said. “They’re starting a new program, which involves dark sky parks and places,” Salois said. “They’re starting a new position, which they want me to fill, and
I would be traveling to national parks who were wanting to get dark sky status.” Salois currently has an internship with the International Dark Sky Association and has advocated light pollution awareness to officials in the Honors College. “The Honors College is creating a new series of events called the Honors College Invites, and the very first events that they’re going to be having are about light pollution. I was the one who pushed them in that direction,” Salois said. Salois said she has narrowed her passions to find what works best for her during her five-year stint at the UA. “She went from science to astronomy to public outreach science writing,” Oliver said. “I haven’t seen a student explore and narrow things down like she has.”
DOWNTIME THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER WEEKENDER
PAGE 7 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012
LAUGH IT UP
Comics, Games, & Much Much More!
SUDOKU
Little John: “Robin Hood, where do you keep your arrows?”
Robin Hood: “In a quiver.” Little John: “Whheere ddo yyoou keeep youuur aaaarrows?”
A baby seal walks into a bar. Bartender says, “What would you like?” “Anything but a Canadian Club on the rocks.”
Difficulty:
Q: What’s grey? A: A melted penguin. A fireman runs into a classroom with a screw driver and shouts “Everyone get out, now. THIS IS NOT A DRILL.”
WELCOME TO FALLING ROCK
Josh Shalek
THAT MONKEY TUNE
Michael A. Kandalaft
BREWSTER ROCKIT
Tim Rickard
BLISS
Harry Bliss
CALAMITIES OF NATURE
CROSSWORD ACROSS
DOWN
1 “Yipe!” (or an apt title for this puzzle?) 5 San Antonio shrine 10 “__, sesame!” 14 Skin cream ingredient 15 Popular plastic wrap 16 Without a stitch on 17 It’s roughly between a batter’s chest and knees 19 Terminates 20 Ryan who played Granny on “The Beverly Hillbillies” 21 Cornerstone abbr. 22 “Shoo!” 23 Polynesian wrap 25 Quarter half 27 Puts to work 29 Within view 32 Put in the “circular file” 35 Recent: Pref. 37 Sing soothingly 38 Actor Holbrook 39 Maynard G. Krebs of old TV, notably 42 “Ease on Down the Road” musical, with “The” 43 Self-mover’s rental 45 2,000 pounds 46 __-ran: loser 47 Visible means of __ 50 Pesky little biter 52 Mad magazine specialty 54 Play in the pool 58 Brad of “Ocean’s Thirteen” 60 Attorney’s matter 62 Expensive fur 63 Arab ruler 64 Begin traveling 66 Doily material 67 Like neon and xenon 68 Crisscross pattern 69 Toddler 70 Slalom curves 71 Europe’s highest active volcano
1 Desert refuge 2 Extreme 3 Gadget to remove apple centers 4 Abominable, as a crime 5 Enzyme suffix 6 Stretch out in the recliner, say 7 Stood up 8 “Praying” insect 9 Tense 10 Poor movie rating 11 Whence fruity drinks are ladled 12 Old Norse poetry collection 13 Bird’s home 18 Barbie counterparts 24 Kelly of song and dance 26 “What the __!” 28 Dead __ Scrolls 30 Superman’s Lane 31 Automaker Ferrari 32 Therefore 33 Pearl Harbor’s island 34 Pie-throwing comedy 36 Giant Mel of Cooperstown 39 Sponge up 40 Yuletide cupful 41 Travelers’ havens 44 Like a cornered cat 46 Not yet captured 48 “Hello” singer Lionel 49 Lionels under the tree 51 Church recess 53 __ Park, Colorado 55 Scrub the launch 56 Done in, as a dragon 57 Hopper of old gossip columns 58 Animal hide 59 “If __ make a suggestion ...” 61 To be, in Bordeaux 65 Elevs.
Crossword provided by MCT Campus
SOLUTION
TODAY’S SOLUTION
Tony Piro
SPORTS THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER WEEKENDER
PAGE 8
SPORTS EDITOR: JIMMY CARTER
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012
ASST. SPORTS EDITOR: ZACH TURNER BASEBALL
The Men Behind the Mask Hogs trying to identify new catcher by ZACH TURNER
Asst. Sports Editor
GARRETH PATTERSON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Arkansas junior DJ Baxendale enters the 2012 season as the Razorbacks’ No. 1 starting pitcher on a staff that coach Dave Van Horn said is 10-deep. The Hogs enter the season with their highest preseason ranking since 2007 and were picked by SEC coaches to win the Western Division.
Aces Lead to Omaha? Hogs’ pitching staff loaded
by MARTHA SWEARINGEN Staff Writer
Arkansas’ No. 4 preseason ranking by Baseball America is the Razorbacks’ highest since 2007. A large part of the ranking could be attributed to the Hogs’ deep pitching staff, a unit that includes at least 10 players coach Dave Van Horn said could play this season. “It is unbelievable,” sophomore catcher Jake Wise said. “I thought we had a good staff last year. We were young, but this year we return everybody and added freshman. From top to bottom, I would say we are stacked.” With 13 games in 17 days and a limited number of pitches per player, Van Horn said all of the pitching staff will re-
ceive plenty of opportunities and playing time early in the season. “At the beginning of the year your starters have limitations up, like for example Baxendale will be right around 70 (pitchers per outing),” Van Horn said. “In a game normally later in the season, we may let him go 90 pitches or 100. So for now, those guys are going to get their time early, and then they’ll start separating themselves a little bit.” The staff is led by team captain and preseason All-American DJ Baxendale and Ryne Stanek, Baseball America’s No. 3 sophomore prospect in the nation. As Baxendale enters his junior year, he is rated the No. 85 draft prospect by Baseball America for the 2012 MLB
Draft and ranked the No. 25 collegiate player by CollegeBaseballDaily.com. “(DJ) is just an extension of our coaching staff,” pitching coach Dave Jorn said. “Such a great character kid. Great instincts, great feel for the game. He’s a package of just competitive, poised, I don’t have all the words to be able to describe him.” Baxendale spent the offseason with Team USA, where he struck out 12 batters in 13 1/3 innings and held the competition to a .245 batting average. “My numbers last year were really good, so it’s kind of a big step for me to be able to beat those numbers,” Baxendale said. “But I mean I’ve put in a lot of work; coach Jorn and bullpen sessions to just kind of fine tune some of my mechan-
ics and pitches, so now all that’s left is for me to get out there and do what I know how to do, and that’s pitch.” After starting 12 of 15 games last year, Stanek will enter the 2012 season ranked the No. 57 player in college baseball by CollegeBaseballDaily.com. The Overland Park, Ks., native held opposing hitters to just .213 at the plate last year, the fourth-best opponent batting average in the Southeastern Conference. “The middle of the year was rough,” Stanek said. “I had to figure a lot of things out. I had to learn how to control myself, and then the last part of the year I started to make some adjustments and figure out what I was doing. It was a big growing
see ACES on page 10
Bo Knows the Road to Omaha by JIMMY CARTER Sports Editor
Initially, Bo Bigham was disappointed he would have to return to Arkansas for his senior season after he wasn’t selected in the 2011 MLB Draft. Friday, the second baseman will be doing backflips to be back in Baum Stadium. Literally. Bigham is planning to do a backflip when the Razorbacks huddle before taking the field for the season opener against Villanova, resurrecting a pregame ritual he last did early in his sophomore year. “Apparently some of the pitchers have been saying I’m going to do it,” Bigham said. “Most likely, I will. It shouldn’t be too much harder now that I’m older. I’m 22. I’m not super old yet.” He injured his shoulder as a sophomore and hasn’t done the pregame move since. His freshman season in 2009 was the last full year of backflips, a season that resulted in the Hogs’ last College World Series appearance. Arkansas is ranked No. 4 by Baseball America entering this season, the Razorbacks’ highest
GARRETH PATTERSON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Arkansas senior second baseman Bo Bigham went undrafted in the 2011 MLB Draft, but his return will give the Razorbacks veteran leadership and the fielding ability that resulted in his being named the SEC’s best defensive second baseman by league coaches.
preseason ranking since 2007. “That ’09 team, we were best friends,” Bigham said. “Everybody got along. We just had to put things together. This team, potentially we’re a lot better. So far, from what I’ve seen, we’re better off this year than where were that year. It’s just going to come down to if we play our game.”
Bigham and senior shortstop Tim Carver are the only remaining players on the roster that were on the 2009 team. Bigham likely won’t be alone in the middle of the huddle Friday afternoon. “Tim’s going to do it with me,” Bigham said. “We’re going to do a combo thing. There’s just a couple things we’ve got to
talk about before Friday.” The duo has started a combined 268 games in their career, more than any other combination on the team. “We know what it takes to get to Omaha, the type of work you’ve got to put in,” Bigham
see BIGHAM on page 10
Arkansas will have a new man behind the plate this year when the baseball season gets underway Friday. Sophomore Jake Wise is the top candidate to fill the void left behind by James McCann, who was second on the team a year ago in batting average with .306 for the 40-22 Razorbacks. Wise got valuable experience in the reserve catcher role a year ago, though, starting 11 games and finishing with one home run and five RBIs. “Jake (Wise) has done real well,” coach Dave Van Horn said. “He has had some really good practices and a couple of good scrimmages so far. He will get the nod right now for the first game unless there is a problem or an injury between now and then.” McCann was the 76th pick of the 2011 Major League Baseball draft by the Detroit Tigers following a three-year career at Arkansas. The 6-foot, 200 pound Wise said his time spent learning behind McCann was valuable. “I feel ready because James was a great mentor,” Wise said. “Right now, I feel as prepared as I can be.” McCann’s departure also left behind a void in leadership since the Santa Barbara, Calif., native was a captain for the 2011 Hogs. Having an established pitching staff should help Wise transition, though. “Well we have one of the best pitching staffs in the nation so as a catcher your job is to lead and keep them in line,”
Wise said. “Also make sure they are doing their job and help keep the infielders ready. I need to be a leader on the field and that is what I am trying to do.” Even with the departure of McCann, replacing him isn’t
Jake Wise what is the main focus of the catcher position is this season, catchers coach Brian Walker said. “You can try to replace and do something you are not capable of doing,” Walker said. “James wasn’t the catcher last year that he was his freshman season. He learned last year and is continuing to grow at the position through time. I think that’s what the catchers need to understand is that we are not trying to replace him. “We are just trying to put somebody back there that gives us the chance to win.” Although Wise was pegged as the opening day starter by Van Horn, there is still competition looming. Freshman catcher John Clay Reeves will get a chance to play plenty, Van Horn said. Reeves starred at Neville
see CATCHERS on page 10
BASKETBALL
Road Woes Continue 58 77 by ZACH TURNER
Asst. Sports Editor
Arkansas kept the trend alive Wednesday night, losing another game away from Bud Walton Arena This time, the Razorbacks dropped a 77-58 decision to Tennessee Thompson-Bowling Arena. After getting down by double digits as early as the 15:30 mark in the first half, the Hogs were unable to get the Tennessee lead back down in single digits, while the Volunteers shot 56 percent from the floor. The loss drops Arkansas to 0-6 on the road in Southeastern Conference play, while the Volunteers’ win bumps their winning streak to four games. Tennessee had a balanced scoring attack against the Hogs, with all five starters scoring 10 or more points. “The first half we just didn’t play smart,” Arkansas coach Mike Anderson said. “We didn’t play with the toughness you have to have on the road. Credit Tennessee though because they made shots. They made some unbelievable shots.” Arkansas (17-9, 5-6 SEC) turned the ball over 18 times and shot just 25 percent from 3-point range, an area the Razorbacks shoot better than 40 percent at home. The Hogs took a 6-4 lead
to start the game, but from that point on it was all Tennessee, which went on a 20-2 run to take an 18-point lead early in the half. Tennessee sophomore Jordan McRae led the way for the Volunteers off the bench, scoring a team-high 14 points and dishing out for assists. McRae added three blocks and was one of six Volunteers in double figures scoring. Arkansas was led by leading scorer BJ Young, who made his first start in SEC play, scoring 18 points while shooting 70 percent from the floor. Young, along with fellow freshman Ky Madden, combined for nine turnovers in the Hogs losing effort, though. “We didn’t do the things well enough that you have to do to win on the road,” Anderson said. “We ended up turning the basketball over on unforced turnovers. I thought the first half was Ky’s worst half as a Razorback. You have to remember these guys are freshmen, and I don’t like excuses, but at the same time it is something I have to live with.” Arkansas’ other two freshmen, forwards Hunter Mickelson and Devonta Abron, combined for 19 points while shooting 60 percent from the floor. Mickelson also added five rebounds and swatted two shots. Arkansas made a 7-0 run to end the first half, Tennessee (14-12, 6-5 SEC) still led 47-30 at halftime. The Hogs went to a matchup zone in the second half and limited the
see ROAD WOES on page 9
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012
SPORTS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
from ROAD WOES on page 8 Volunteers to just 4 of 13 from 3-point range where, in the first half, Tennessee made 7 of 10. “I thought our matchup defense, if there was a positive in this game, it was our defense in the second half,” Anderson said.
“We whittled a lead that had been up to 24, down to 10 points with about eight minutes to go in the game, but they hit some big shots.” Arkansas was able to get the Tennessee lead down to 10 points with 8:22 remaining, but the Volunteers used an 17-8 run to finish the game.
PAGE 9
“ This team continues to change,” Anderson said. “It was a game where our guys lacked the effort and the execution wasn’t ver y good. That is life on the road and until we can ward that off, and the way you ward that off is how you play, and you have to play with the toughness to give yourself a chance.”
LOGAN WEBSTER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Arkansas freshman guard Calli Berna has played in all 24 games in her first season as a Razorback averaging 27.3 minutes and shooting a team-high 35.2 percent from 3-point range. Berna was named Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Week for the Razorback’s wins over South Carolina and Auburn.
Let the Good Times Roll Razorbacks trying to extend a win streak
by MONICA CHAPMAN Staff Writer
The struggles Arkansas had their first four game of Southeastern conference play are long gone. The women’s basketball team has won a record-setting eight games in a row and will try for one more Thursday against LSU. Despite the win streak, the Razorbacks still haven’t been able to get into the top 25 rankings. Arkansas received 50 votes in the Feb. 13 AP Poll, leaving it 28th. “You always like to get recognition for what you accomplish, I think more for the players than anything,” coach Tom Collen said. “I’m okay with playing the underdog role. The only thing you can control is what you do on the basketball floor. If you go out and you keep winning games,
you’re going to get recognized. When that comes it will be even sweeter we had to work hard for it.” The Razorbacks stayed ranked behind South Carolina, a team that dropped just one spot to No. 25 despite a 68-47 loss to Arkansas one week ago in Bud Walton Arena. “I think I speak for the team when you don’t get those rankings it makes you want to play that much harder so that people know that you are ready to play and you are going to make an impact,” freshman Calli Berna said. So I think them not ranking us doesn’t necessarily upset us, but it makes us want to play harder.” The Razorbacks kept their streak intact with a win Sunday at Auburn 51-48 after previously beating the Tigers by 20 at home. Arkansas is tied for third place in the SEC with Georgia.
LSU is on its own threegame win streak, including a win last week against No. 7 and SEC-leading Kentucky. The Razorbacks beat the Tigers 72-52 in Baton Rouge on Jan. 22. “I think that they know LSU is going to come into here with something to prove,” Collen said. “LSU is in a situation not so dissimilar to us. They’re still trying to work their way into the tournament and secure a spot. I think they’re going to feel they need to come in here and get a big win.” LSU is ranked sixth in the SEC in scoring offense with a 63.1 average per game. The Razorbacks trail right behind with a 62.8 average. Senior Ashley Daniels has continued to be an impactful player for the Razorbacks,
see GOOD TIMES on page 10
FILE PHOTO
Arkansas freshman Ky Madden had just two points and three rebounds to go with a game-high five turnovers in the 77-58 loss to Tennessee. Coach Mike Anderson called it Madden’s worst game in a Razorback uniform.
ARKANSAS 58 , TENNESSEE 77
ARKANSAS (17-9, 5-6 SEC) FG 3pt
M. Waithe, f B. Young, g M. Wade, g D. Abron J. Nobles, g R. Madden R. Scott K. Haydar H. Mickelson
2-5 1-3 5-9 0-3 1-4 0-7 0-1 6-11 3-4
0-0 0-0 5-5 0-2 0-2 0-4 0-0 3-8 1-2
FT
3-5 0-0 0-0 2-2 1-1 4-4 0-1 1-1 3-3
O-T
1-4 2-4 0-1 0-2 0-0 0-2 0-0 0-0 1-6
F
1 2 0 0 3 2 3 2 4
TENNESSEE (14-12, 6-5 SEC) FG 3pt
Pts.
2 18 3 7 7 2 2 0 12
Assists: Turnovers: Waith, M. 1, Wade, M. 1, Young, B. 4, Abron, D. 1, Nobles, J. 2, Mickelson, H. 2, Madden, R. 5, Scott, R. 2 Steals: Wade, M. 2, Young, B.J. 1, Nobles, J. 3,Mickelson, H. 1, Scott, R. 2 Blocks: Mickelson, H. 2
ARK TENN
Golden, Trae Hall, Kenny Maymon, Jerrone McBee, Skylar Tatum, Cameron Woolridge, Ren. Stokes, Jarnell McRae, Jordan Richardson, Josh
FT
5-12 1-5 0-0 4-4 2-2 0-0 5-5 0-0 2-4 4-7 4-7 0-0 5-12 1-5 0-0 0-1 0-1 0-0 3-6 0-0 4-6 4-10 2-6 4-6 2-4 1-1 0-0
O-T
2-9 1-5 0-5 0-1 2-9 0-0 4-1 1-2 2-4
F
2 2 2 3 2 1 0 3 1
Pts.
13 10 12 12 11 0 10 14 5
Assists: Turnovers: Tatum, C. 1, McBee, S. 1, Golden, T. 4, Stokes, J. 1, Maymon, J. 3, Richardson, J. 1, McRae, J. 2 Steals: Tatum, C. 2, McBee, S. 1, Golden, T. 1, Maymon, J. 3, Richardson, J. 2, McRae, J. 1 Blocks: Stokes, J. 1, McRae, J. 3
30 28 47 30
---- 58 ---- 77
PAGE 10
SPORTS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2012 from ACES on page 8
experience for me.� With seven freshman pitchers on the 2012 roster, pitching coach Dave Jorn said development and experience will be vital for the staff to improve as the season progresses. “They’re still young, they’re not a finish or polished product yet,� Jorn said. “They’ve gained the experience in a game, so they have the understanding of how to react in game situations. But now, in order to get
from BIGHAM on page 8 said. “Tim and I, we’ve been taking ground balls together for three years now. Double plays, you know what to expect from the other person. It’s comfortable. We both decided that we needed to teach the guys .We need to help them out, let them know what it takes.â€? Bigham was voted a team captain for the upcoming season, a selection earned by his more talkative approach in the offseason after going undrafted in June. “It’s the most verbal he’s been since he’s been here,â€? coach Dave Van Horn said. “He’s always been kind of quiet ‌ Now he’s starting to talk and lead and even coach out there with the younger guys. That’s good to see. That’s one reason I think the guys selected him as a captain.â€? The 5-foot-10, 185-pounder was voted the best defensive second baseman in the Southeastern Conference by league coaches in the preseason. The coaching staff wasn’t expecting
better in the game, they’re going to have to locate pitches, improve quality of breaking balls, improve change ups, just overall improve the execution of their pitches and make their deliverance.� After a few weekends of scrimmages, Arkansas’ hitters are ready to face other pitching. “I’m getting tired of facing this pitching staff,� junior third baseman Matt Reynolds said. “I mean we’re facing the best if not one of the best in the nation’s pitching staff, and it’s def-
initely preparing us for season.� The Razorbacks open the season on Friday at 3:05 p.m. in Baum Stadium against Villanova, but are not completely sure yet of the pitching rotation. “It’s going to be Baxendale, Stanek and we’re not sure yet,� Van Horn said. “(Junior Randall) Fant has been throwing well, but his arm is a little tender. We’re just going to take it easy with him a little bit. Could be (sophomore Brandon) Moore, but we’re just not sure yet.�
to get his defensive prowess for a fourth year. “I thought Bo would be drafted and signed,� Van Horn said. “Then he didn’t get drafted. He was disappointed. You look back at it and offensively he didn’t have a great year. I think he knows what he’s got to do to get a chance to play at the next level.� One of his main tasks to get to the next level will be improving a batting average that slipped from .316 as a sophomore to .291 as a junior. His .354 on-base percentage was the lowest in his three collegiate seasons. “I didn’t have a very good year at the plate last year and I was disappointed with that,� Bigham said. “I’ve worked on a few things fundamental in the offseason. It’s got me hitting more line drives instead of lazy fly balls. I’m pulling the ball more. “Just little things that will help me in the long run.� Part of Bigham’s drop in production could be attributed to new NCAA-regulated bats introduced prior to the 2011
season that resulted in the lowest batting averages, home run totals and earned run averages in more than 30 years. Regardless of the cause, his lowered numbers were likely a factor in why his name wasn’t called in the draft. “It was disappointing,â€? Bigham said. “For me, working up all these years to get drafted, you expect to go your junior year. I was disappointed. I was real disappointed. It took a little bit to get over it, but I did. It was a real good choice to come back here for my senior year, though. “It couldn’t have worked out any better so far.â€? He will get his first opportunity to showcase his offseason progress Friday. Not  before  he  and  Carv- HU VKRZFDVH WKHLU EDFNĂ€ LSV though. “The  guys  give  us  a  hard  time  about  saying  we’ve  been  here  since  the  beginning  of  WLPH EXW ZHÂśUH JRRG ´ %LJKDP said.  “It’s  not  going  to  be  too  KDUG -XVW GR LW D FRXSOH WLPHV EHIRUH ZH DFWXDOO\ FRPH RXW DQG GR LW DQG ZHÂśOO EH Âż QH ´
from CATCHERS on page 8 High in Monroe, La., where he was named all-state three consecutive years and was part of the Razorbacks’ 2011 recruiting class. Since arriving in Fayetteville, Reeves said Wise has taken him under his wing. “We are really good friends and work out together,� Reeves said. “He is a year older so he has taught me a lot and told me things I didn’t know before. Sometimes when the coaches are hard on me too, he explains things and helps slow them down for me a bit. We are still friends, but there is competition between us and that is just
how it is.� Being behind Wise on the depth chart hasn’t discouraged Reeves’ thinking either. “We have both been working hard all year,� Reeves said. “Just talking to the coaches, I feel like we are both going to get our shot. We are looking forward to a great season and it is even easier for us when we have the best pitching staff.� Although Wise and Reeves are both battling for one position, the two catchers each bring something different to the table, Walker said. “Jake (Wise) has been here and is the only returner we have behind the plate,� Walk-
er said. “He has the experience and brings the intangibles you look for in a catcher. John Clay has that leadership type quality that maybe Wise as a freshman didn’t have. Reeves has taken a lot of pride in working extra and asked a lot of questions which Wise has helped him with that, too.� As the season progresses though, the best combination of hitting and defense is going to get the majority of time, Walker said. “Whichever one can put the most at bats together and do what they need to do defensively, will probably end up finding most of the time,� Walker said.
GARRETH PATTERSON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER In addition to returning its entire starting rotation, Arkansas sophomore Dominic Ficociello returns for the Razorbacks a season after leading the team in batting average, RBI’s and doubles. This switch-hitting first baseman hit .335 while driving in 50 runs and smacking 15 doubles for the Hogs in 2011. from GOOD TIMES on page 9 scoring 10 points Sunday for her eighth consecutive doublefigure outing.
Berna, who was awarded SEC Freshman of the Week for averaging 7.5 points in two wins, has begun to make an impact on the offensive end, shooting well from the 3-point line. The Fayetteville native made 2 of 3 3-pointers against South Carolina and 3 for 5 at Auburn. Her recent offensive productivity compliments the consistent defensive pressure she has applied this season, including a six-steal performance against South Carolina. “Calli is known as one of
our best help defensive players,� Daniels said. “She’s smart at it. It’s something you can’t teach and she’s great at it.� The Arkansas-LSU game is crucial for both teams. Both are fighting their way into a bid to make the NCAA Tournament at the end of the season. “Neither team was in the NCAA last year and they both want to be in it this year so I can’t imagine a bigger, more important game for both teams,� Collen said.