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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2012
Here We Grow Again:
Vol. 106, NO. 71 UATRAV.COM
UA Officials Brace for Next Freshman Class by KRISTEN COPPOLA Staff Writer
After a record-breaking number of freshmen last semester, UA officials are preparing for another 4,400 freshmen next fall, officials said. “We’re planning on hitting about the same numbers [in the freshman class] as we did last year, give 100 up or down,” said Suzanne McCray, vice provost for Enrollment. “We’ll have overall growth because the freshman classes are replacing smaller senior classes.” A new project called Founders Hall is in the design phase and would expand retail dining, Brough Commons and student housing. “The intent is to build a new facility adjacent to Brough Commons that will, on the first level, expand the option for additional retail spaces, on the second level, add roughly 300 seats and new dining options for the Brough seating area and, on the third level, add 160 to
200 beds,” said Danny Pugh, vice provost of Student Affairs. Founders Hall will be similar in appearance to Gregson Hall and is expected to be complete in August 2013 at the same time that Hotz Hall is finished. “We’ve had enough beds to manage the incoming freshmen. What we’re short on now is meeting our historical capture rate for second-, third- and fourth-year students,” Pugh said. “We’ll bring Hotz back online with 400-plus beds and add Founders Hall.” The application process for re-contracting for upperclassmen to live on campus just finished. “We’re probably going to be able to do most of those who applied,” said Florence Johnson, executive director of Housing. “It looks like we’re going to be able to accommodate a lot more students who applied this year than we were last year,” Johnson said. “That see ENROLLMENT Even on a cold and chilly Friday afternoon, open computers can be hard to find in Mullins Library. on page 2
MIKE NORTON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Parking and Transit Department Sees Ridership Increase by BAILEY KESTNER Staff Writer
Ridership on some buses at the UA transit has increased by more than 25 percent from this time last year, according to the UA Department of Transit website. Ridership on the Green Route increased by 8 percent and Maple Hill Express increased by 28 percent. Pomfret Express ridership decreased by 13 percent, Route 56 by 12 percent, and the Yellow Route by 1 percent. “On my way to band, I can barely find a seat. Sometimes there isn’t even enough room to stand,” said Casey Bowman, freshman education major. “There have been times when I had to wait for the next bus because the bus I was waiting for filled up.” UA bus drivers track the number of people that enter each bus, said Mike Seither, associate director of Transit and Parking. “We experience the most CHAD ARNOLD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER crowding on the buses at A mass of students share personal space while riding the green bus. In addition to increased enrollment, cold weather contributes to the overcrowded buses. the peak times during the
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day, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. and from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.,” Seither said. Transit and Parking officials suggest students be at the bus stop 30 minutes before their class is scheduled to start. “A regular-sized bus holds 38 to 44 passengers, while the larger buses are able to hold 65 to 70,” Seither said. As the seats begin to fill up, the drivers ask the standing passengers to head to the back of the bus to fit in as many riders possible before reaching the occupancy number, he said. “There are currently three Blue, three Green, and two Purple buses,” Seither said. “We are running all the buses we have.” “The UA Department of Transit and Parking was just accepted in receiving two more buses,” he said. “We are expanding the number of buses for the next school year as well.” Tom McMahon, freshman marketing major, said the crowded buses didn’t bother him. “I don’t mind standing and the bus is actually a good place to meet new people every day,” McMahon said.
Opinion
Revamping Valentine’s Valentine’s Day Sorority Members Vie Student Instructors Day Activities for Singles for Gamma Needed Celebrate love a diff erent Even if you’re single, you 8QLYHUVLW\ 5HFUHDWLRQ RIÀ Chi Positions way this Valentine’s Day by can manage to have fun on
Mitchell’s Busy Spring
Does ASG Matter? Only If You Want It To
Panhellenic Council is in the process of selecting 2012 Gammi Chi.
cials will begin hiring UREC doing something special for staff as a result of losing a stranger. seniors to graduation
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2012 VOL. 106, NO. 71 8 PAGES UATRAV.COM
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WEATHER FORECAST
TODAY 48°
Valentine’s Day by celebrating with friends or by treating yourself.
Page 5 WEDNESDAY 51°
THURSDAY 55°
FRIDAY 53°
Sophomore Brandon Mitchell balancing football, Being involved with ASG can basketball, taking 15 hours help students bring grievances to UA administrators. and volunteer work.
SATURDAY 55°
SUNDAY 55°
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NEWS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2012
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Old Man Winter Makes His Appearance 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.
CONTACT 119 Kimpel Hall University of Arkansas Fayetteville, AR 72701 A little more than one inch of snow fell in Fayetteville Monday but classes and construction continued.
Main: 479.575.3406 Fax: 479.575.3306 traveler@uark.edu
KRIS JOHNSON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Scan to call us! ENROLLMENT from page 1
being said, we had fewer students apply this year, probably because of the shortage of being able to accommodate all of the students that want to come back.” Retail dining will soon be expanded, too. “We’re adding an Einstein Bagels kiosk in Bell Engineering,” Pugh said. “On the ramp at the top of the stairs, they’ll begin doing plumbing work, and we’ll add a 14ft. kiosk and do coffee and bagels out of that facility as well.”
The kiosk should open after spring break and will begin service at 7 a.m. “We’re trying to begin to bring retail and some food products back out into the areas as opposed to having them all centralized,” Pugh said. Freshens, a convenience store at Maple Hill, has also expanded its hours. “I think they’re going to open at 7:30 a.m.,” Pugh said. “We had some requests from all the nursing students over there. They’re excited about being at a location where they can get access to some healthy services.”
Sorority Members Vie for Gamma Chi Positions by MANDY MCCLENDON Staff Writer
Panhellenic Council is in the process of selecting 2012 Gammi Chi’s, sorority members who serve as mentors to rushees, officials said. Yasmeen Abdelaal, director of recruitment counselors for recruitment 2011, said choosing Gamma Chi’s is a difficult process. “We had around 180 applications total, and I believe we ended up with 112 Gamma Chi’s for rush,” Ab-
woman to partake in the Gamma Chi experience,” Porter said. Abdelaal said recruitment counselors make the transition to college easier for rushees. “Recruitment is a new and complex process for every girl going through, regardless of what year she is in school,” she said. “Gamma Chi’s are essentially camp counselors during recruitment. Many girls have hardly been away from their parents for more than two days
“After the interviews, it was really difficult to choose from such a great pool of girls.” - Yasmeen Abdelaal, director for recruitment delaal said. “After the interviews, it was really difficult to choose from such a great pool of girls.” Each Gamma Chi typically mentors a group of about ten “rushees.” Sophomore or junior members from any of the eight sororities may apply to be a Gamma Chi. Anyone who applies must have participated in the recruitment process at least once. “Being a Gamma Chi was a phenomenal experience,” said Laura Porter, a junior English major who served as a Gamma Chi for recruitment 2011. “The opportunity to make the rush process easy and enjoyable for young ladies going through recruitment was extremely rewarding. I would highly encourage any sorority
and this is their first college experience.” If chosen to be a Gamma Chi, sorority members must disaffiliate from their sorority for a given amount of time before recruitment begins, so as not to influence the decision of rushees. “It was an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything,” said Macy Brisben, junior dietetics major and former Gamma Chi. “Filling out the application and taking part in the interview process was completely worth getting to help these young girls make such an important decision in their lives,” Brisben said. Potential Gamma Chi’s will be notified about their positions later in the spring semester, Greek officials said.
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CRIME REPORT: STAFF
February 9
Possession Of A Controlled Substance (Marijuana); Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia A student was arrested in Pomfret Hall.
Breaking Or Entering
A staff member reported someone entered his vehicle while it was parked in the Harmon Avenue Parking Garage.
Theft Of Property
A student reported someone stole his bicycle from the bicycle rack at the east entrance of Futrall Hall.
February 8
Possession Of A Controlled Substance (Marijuana); Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia A student was arrested in Reid Hall.
Harassing Communications
A student in Pomfret Hall reported an acquaintance has been sending harassing text messages since she moved into the hall.
EDITORIAL SABA NASEEM
ZACH TURNER
Editor -in-Chief 575-8455 traveler@uark.edu
Asst. Sports Editor
CHAD WOODARD
News Editor 575-3226 travnews@uark.edu
MATTIE QUINN
Managing Editor travmgr@uark.edu
BRITTANY NIMS
LAUREN LEATHERBY
Asst. News Editor
Features Editor 575-7540 travlife@uark.edu
EMILY RHODES
KELSI FORD
BEN FLOWERS
Opinion Editor
Asst. Features Editor
Photo Editor
JIMMY CARTER
SHELBY GILL
Sports Editor 575-7051 travsprt@uark.edu
Special Projects Editor
MEGAN HUCKABY Multimedia Editor
Criminal Trespass
A student reported someone entered her room in Humphreys Hall without an invitation.
February 7
Theft Of Property
A student reported someone stole his bicycle from the northwest exterior corner of Bell Engineering Center.
Driving While Intoxicated
ADVERTISING & DESIGN CANNON MCNAIR
A non-affiliated person was arrested in the parking lot at 1417 Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard (E-Z Mart).
February 5
ZACHARY FRY
A non-affiliated person was arrested in Pomfret Hall.
Criminal Mischief
A student reported someone threw a rock and broke a door glass at the Kappa Sigma Fraternity House.
February 4
Burglary; Theft Of Property
A student reported someone stole his wallet from his room in the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity House.
Arrest On Warrant (Contempt Of Court on an original charge of Driving While License Suspended/Revoked out of Fayetteville Police Department)
A non-affiliated person was arrested in the parking lot at 1545 West 15th Street (Foghorn’s).
February 3
Theft Of Property
A student reported someone stole his bicycle from the north side exterior of the Lewis E. Epley, Jr. Band Building.
Harassing Communication
Two students reported someone made harassing comments on Twitter regarding the Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority.
Theft Of Property
A student reported someone stole her cell phone from the coaches and officials locker room at Bogle Park.
Possession Of A Controlled Substance (Marijuana); Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia
A student was arrested on campus grounds south of Maple Hill South Residence Hall.
Arrest On Warrants (Driving While License Suspended/Revoked out of Fayetteville Police Department; Driving While License Suspended/ Revoked out of Greenland Police Department) A non-affiliated person was arrested at Dickson Street and McIlroy Avenue.
Campus Account Executive 575-7594 travad4@uark.edu
JAIME HOLLAND Account Executive 575-3899 travad2@uark.edu
Possession Of A Controlled Substance (Marijuana); Possession With Intent To Deliver; Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia
MICY LIU
Advertising Director 575-3839 travad1@uark.edu
AARON TAN
Campus Account Executive 575-7594 travad4@uark.edu
ANDY KOUCKY
Account Executive 575-8714 travad3@uark.edu
Account Executive 575-8714 travad3@uark.edu
ERIK NORTHFELL
Lead Designer/ Web Developer
SARAH COLPITTS Features Designer
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DYLAN CRAIG
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CORRECTIONS The Arkansas Traveler strives for accuracy in its reporting and will correct all matters of fact. If you believe the paper has printed an error, please notify the editor at 575.8455 or at traveler@uark.edu.
CAMPUS NUMBERS NEED EMERGENCY HELP? CALL UAPD 575-2222
The women and men of the University of Arkansas Police Department, in partnership with the community, are committed to protecting the future of Arkansas by promoting a safe and secure environment.
HAVE A TICKET? CALL 575-7275 TO RESOLVE IT
The Transit and Parking office handles parking permits and passes and transit for students, including bus routes and GoLoco Ride Sharing. Students with parking violations can contact the office to appeal their citation.
NEED A RIDE AT NIGHT? CALL 575 - 7233
Otherwise known as 575-SAFE, the mission of the Safe Ride program is to provide students with a safe means of transportation from any uncomfortable or inconvenient situation. Safe Ride brings you home safely.
NEED TICKETS? CALL 1-800-982-4647 Don’t forget to call early and reserve your student football tickets for the 2010-2011 season. The ticket office is located on Razorback Road next to Baum Stadium.
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NEWS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2012
Special Traveler Beat
HEALTH & SAFETY
UREC Officials Seek Student Instructors by VICTOR MANTALUO Staff Writer
University Recreation officials will begin hiring UREC staff as a result of losing seniors to graduation, officials said. “I had never considered it because I didn’t know they were hiring students, but it’s definitely something I’d like to do,” said Nick Boris, freshman. Boris’ friend Tyler Toney agreed. “Yeah that would be great. You kind of get to kill two birds with one stone: work out and be employed,” Toney said. UREC officials are especially looking for new strength instructors after recently losing seven from last semester, said Jessica Graham, UREC graduate assistant. Starting hourly pay for an instructor is $15. The pay increases based on the number of classes taught and level of certification, Graham said. Instructors get to choose how many classes they teach each week. Most choose between one and six classes, Graham said. At the beginning of fall semester, instructors are allowed to allocate their classes to whatever hours suit them best. However, once the schedules are submitted, UREC expects instructors to keep the same schedule throughout the year, Graham said.
UREC is now looking for nationally-certified instructors to lead participants through a variety of exercises and workouts such as yoga, zumba and strength formats. “Becoming a group instructor is a great job for a college student because you get to set your own schedule at the beginning of the year,” Graham said.
Alcohol Awareness Event at the HPER by VICTOR MONTALUO Staff Writer
Three UA organizations will host an Alcohol Awareness event, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., March 6 at the Connections Lounge of the Arkansas Union. University Recreation, Pat Walker Health Center and Greeks Advocating the Mature Management of Alcohol will sponsor the event, which aims “to educate students on the danger of alcohol and driving drunk before Spring Break,” according to a UREC handout. Alcohol awareness activities will include: screenings of educational videos and interactive material, charts and graphs relating drunkenness to performance, a drunk driv-
“Plus, if you’re planning to be an instructor, chances are you like working out, and this is the perfect job to stay fit and have fun doing it,” Graham said.
In order to be qualified to be a UREC instructor, students must have national certification in their format of group exercise. Once a student is qualified, they must pass an in-
terview with UREC and put on a demo at the HPER. For those interested, UREC will host Powder Blue Productions officials at the HPER on May 19 and 20. During these
LOGAN WEBSTER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
two days, PBP will offer instructor certification for HPER classes, which include Turbokick and HipHopHustle.
‘The Road Less Traveled’
that share our goals,” said Sam Fehr, graduate assistant for special events and instructional programs. Other sponsors include Kramer Entertainment, which will provide a drunk driving simulator. The UA event is a stop on the company’s national “Save A Life” tour. Last semester, Kramer lent the university a “Distracted Driving” simulator, in which students operated a virtual car while reading and composing text messages on a cell phone. Attendance is expected to be higher this semester because of a ramped-up advertising campaign by UA officials. “That simulator sounds like it would be interesting to try,” said Will Swinney, fresh-
“We not only promote recreation, but health and wellness too, and we find it important to partner with other organizations on campus that share our goals. .” - Sam Fehr, graduate assistant ing simulator and drunk goggle games. The drunk driving simulator will give students a feel for how quickly their motor skills can deteriorate after consuming alcohol. “We not only promote recreation, but health and wellness, too, and we find it important to partner with other organizations on campus
man. “It’s a shame I didn’t know about the simulator that was brought in last semester, but I’m definitely interested in attending the event that’s happening in March.” Hot dogs and drinks will be provided at the Union Mall and Pat Walker will have various giveaways to promote alcohol education.
MIKE NORTON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Snow began to fall early Monday morning and continued through the mid-morning hours as UA students headed to class.The snow did not cancel many university classes, but students did enjoy the first touch of winter this season.
OPINION THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER
Scan here to go to the Opinion section on uatrav.com
EDITOR: SABA NASEEM MANAGING EDITOR: MATTIE QUINN
PAGE 4 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2012
FROM THE BOARD
Student Snow Day, Is It A Friend or Foe? Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow. While it’s a little late for the winter-weather Christmas songs, we can still enjoy the little flurry of snow that we experienced in Fayetteville yesterday. Yet, while many of us enjoyed the idea of having a day away from the classroom, the two inch fall was barely a snowocalypse. While we made our plans to sleep in and watch daytime television in our pajamas, Monday morning came around with no luck of keeping us home. And although this didn’t make a lot of us ecstatic, being on campus Monday wasn’t all that bad. Taking a snow break from school definitely has its downs as well as ups. We miss a day of school and we’re instantly behind in all of our classes. Tests scheduled for the end of the week don’t get moved because of one day off school, and it generally puts us behind in all of our studies and schedules. Here at the Traveler, producing a paper while many of us are stuck at home doesn’t bode well for deadlines and getting to the newsroom. Similarly, those of us with tests, projects and papers due know that we won’t get any work done on a day at home. Even though the snow didn’t keep us away from our studies this week, let’s enjoy the little bit of winter weather we have (as this might be the only time until next December) and stay on track with our classes. In the middle of the semester, it’s not the ideal time to have a snowocalypse - two weeks earlier and we would be house bound with no problems whatsoever. But in the middle of February, when our planners are jam packed with things to do, we just don’t have the time to waste. So, don’t get bogged down with the idea of the snow providing no extra rest this weekend, but instead grab a pair of boots, a warm coat and go outside to enjoy the winter weather we have in Fayetteville. There might just be enough to throw a snowball or two.
MARCUS FERREIRA Staff Cartoonist
Bringing the Crowd: A Different Approach Expanding Horizons
Valentine’s Day: Our Love-Hate Relationship Valentine’s day. It’s the one day of the year we love to love (or hate) with our friends, family or significant other. But whether you are celebrating with that special someone or simply writhing in the fact that roses, chocolate and the color pink make you sick to your stomach, we can all agree on one thing - there is a lot going on for the big day. Whether you’re going out with friends to grab dinner at one of the many places in Fayetteville offering great deals on food and drink, taking your date on a special soiree or simply watching the corny TV shows that air on Valentine’s night, we all have the opportunity to do something to celebrate. Valentine’s day isn’t just for the lovebirds anymore - many students are spending time with family, roommates or simply taking part in dorm room celebrations. Stick around on campus for the afternoon and you might just see a hand-delivered bunch of roses come into the classroom. However you choose to celebrate this February 14, make sure it’s a good one. At the Traveler, we have a lot to love - a great, friendly staff, a ton of talent and thousands of wonderful readers who make each publication worthwhile. Whether it’s campus events, a new Fayetteville restaurant opening, or the latest sports score, having readers who care about student news makes each sentence we write that much more meaningful. So, from all of the Traveler staff, thank you for being such a great student body, one that cares about our campus and our news. Enjoy your Valentine’s Day, however you choose to spend it, and remember to tell someone - whether it’s your mom, girlfriend or boyfriend, roommate or brother —that you love them.
Traveler Quote of the Day “We’re planning on hitting about the same numbers [in the freshman class] as we did last year, give 100 up or down,” - Suzanne McCray, vice provost for Enrollment, “‘Here We Grow Again’: UA Officials Brace for Next Freshman Class,” page 1.
EDITORIAL EDITOR Saba Naseem MANAGING EDITOR Mattie Quinn OPINION EDITOR Emily Rhodes The Arkansas Traveler welcomes letters to the editor from all interested readers. Letters should be at most 300 words and should include your name, student classification and major or title with the university and a day-time telephone number for verification. Letters should be sent to traveler@uark.edu.
by DESHAUN ARTIS
Traveler Columnist
“Less about modeling clothes and more about modeling people.” This is the feature that set the Black Student Association’s Essence of History Fashion Show apart from any other fashion show that is strictly about fashion. As a participant in this first-time Black History event for BSA, I can say that it was an attention-grabbing way to educate the University of Arkansas community on black historical figures who we may not hear of otherwise. The event had a great turnout, which I would attribute partly to the different avenue taken to get the educational aspect across. Nowadays it can be harder than ever to capture the attention of the college-age generation. Faculty and student leaders have started looking at alternative ways to capture and hold our attention for extracurricular
events. Parties will always be heavily promoted and heavily attended as they are a part of our culture here at college. But why is it that when educational programs or events held for the benefit of the students are heavily promoted, attendance is often times dismal? Many times these events are free and open to the public, but student interest is little. Sometimes professors even offer extra credit for attending events about a particular subject. This boosts attendance somewhat, but even then the turnout is sometimes only for the bonus points and not to get the full meaning out of the event. Doing things in an untraditional way is what helps attract students to those educational events that we can genuinely learn from. The Essence of History Fashion Show showcased fashion from the 20s until now and gave detailed biographies of 18 African Americans who have made an impact in the world. Had this program been a lecture-style event, many may not have been interested in attending, but the fashion show aspect of it offered the audience a different experience. Historical performances mixed with faculty and students strutting their stuff over music and biographical information caused the event
to serve a dual purpose. Friday Night Live (FNL), through the office of First Year Experience, is a committee that does a great job at mixing educational and cultural knowledge in a setting that will attract students.
“Doing things in an untraditional way is what helps attract students to those educational events that we can genuinely learn from.” Just this past Friday, FNL hosted “Love Decoded,” where students could speed date, complete an obstacle course while “intoxicated” by special goggles and talk to a panel of “sexperts.” FNL does heavy promotion and offers free food and free t-shirts at their events. Every college student loves free food and t-shirts, so this works to their advantage. Creativity in how events are promoted and executed is crucial in increasing attendance in these events that are many times for students by students. Everyone has a busy schedule and things to do on top of being in class up to 15 hours a week, so it is sometimes unappealing to
go to an event and be lectured to (unless it is a part of the Distinguished Lecture Series). For those events that cannot attach Elie Wiesel or The Dalai Lama to them to draw in a crowd, student leaders must add an element that sparks the interest of students. This could be in the form of a fashion show, game show, competition, or simply through food and t-shirts. Without proper funding from the Associated Student Government, paying for these “attractive events” can be difficult, which is why it is important for RSOs to take advantage of the ASG funding rounds. Our campus offers so many events that are advertised daily, tweeted about and listed on those Arkansas Newswire emails we wake up to every morning. Many times these events offer interactive and unique ways of learning, so be sure to check out the flyers and banners in the Union, the chalk on the sidewalk and those emails in your inbox, because the faculty and student leaders on campus are everchanging ways to incorporate the You in the “You of A.” DeShaun Artis is a Traveler columnist. His column appears every other Tuesday.
Does ASG Matter? Only If You Want It To by AUSTIN REID
Guest Columnist
Does ASG matter? This is a question I ask myself on a daily basis. I don’t ask this question out of a foreboding sense of crippling doubt, wondering if I spend many hours a week in a meaningless activity. As Treasurer, the answer is “yes” because I see the impact that my work has on student groups on this campus. The reason I ask it is because I feel like many students on our campus have asked this same question and then quickly answered “no.” I sympathize with these sentiments. During my first two years here I couldn’t recall a single time that ASG had any significance in my life. I’ve come to know better, but I am very aware that many students still feel the same way that I did. For many, ASG is simply a collegiate extension of high school student council. However, my experience in ASG has taught me that it can be profoundly relevant to our campus. The problem is that both the general student body and members of ASG
underutilize our most valuable resource - our administration. At its foundation, our student government is intended to be a “voice” for the student body. But to what end do we organize and utilize this voice? To communicate with the administrators that make the decisions that truly affect student life on campus. A good relationship with administration is where ASG can be truly relevant to students. As a student body, we are very fortunate to have an administration that really does operate under a “student’s first” mentality. While the “You of A” slogan has become a bit trite and is often used facetiously by frustrated students, almost all of the my experiences with my professors, advisors and administrators have confirmed the idea that students matter at our university. Despite my positive experiences, there is popular sentiment that feels the administration is the enemy of popular student opinion. This sentiment seizes upon any inconvenience on campus
and assumes that the higher ups created these frustrations to make our lives worse. For example, I’ve heard quite a lot of tongue-in-cheek gratitude (“Thanks You of A!”) for the incessant pounding of machinery outside the once tranquil Mullins library. While these and other inconveniences are frustrating, they are serving a purpose and weren’t put in place to make students miserable. If students simply had the opportunity to interact with their administrators, I believe they would quickly realize how hard the administration is working on our behalf . So, how does the average student engage administrators? Have a genuine concern and reasonable solution for an issue on campus (parking tickets do not count). You’ll gain no ground with the administrators if you simply complain; respect their time and approach them thoughtfully. To get in touch with administrators, you can utilize a number of our cabinet members and executives who meet with administrators on
a regular basis. Make ASG a conduit to address your concerns, rather than letting your complaints fall to idle ears. I also advise you to pay attention to the upcoming ASG Exec elections. Try to look past the free hot dogs and Panda suits to consider the merits of each candidate’s proposed policies. A good Exec team is crucial to determining the success of ASG and especially important for fostering good relations with administrators. In encouraging involvement in ASG, I am not appealing to your sense of civic duty rather I am appealing to your desire to have a good college experience. Most students will spend their college careers complaining about problems. The unfortunate thing is that they don’t have to - with a just little bit of personal initiative, they can find answers to their most pressing problems. So, does ASG matter? Yes, but only if you want it to. Austin Reid is the 2011-2012 ASG Treasurer.
Scan here to go to the Features section on uatrav.com:
THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER
FEATURES PAGE 5
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2012
FEATURES EDITOR: LAUREN LEATHERBY ASST. FEATURES EDITOR: KELSI FORD
by CAITLIN MURAD Staff Writer
Dateless on Valentine’s Day? Don’t worry. Single students can do much more than simply surviving the day, and, if done right, they can even have more fun than all the lovesick couples. 1. Have a spa day. Treat yourself to a day of relaxation and beauty. Get your nails done, or get a massage or a facial. Celebrate your independence by making today all about you.
BRITTANY WULF STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
P.R.I.D.E. members make Valentine’s Day cards for the LGBT community. P.R.I.D.E stands for People Respecting Individual Differences and Equality.
2. Bake some Valentine’s treats to share with your friends and family. It will brighten up your day and brighten the day of everyone you deliver the desserts to. You can find some delicious Valentine’s recipe ideas on Pinterest and on marthastewart.com. 3. Try out some of those crafty ideas on Pinterest that you pinned and swore you were going to make. It will take your mind off “Singles Awareness Day” and you can even make something to spice up your dorm room or apartment. 4. Join an RSO. Joining a new organization can be a great way to meet new people and to give back to your community. Visit http://leadership.uark.edu/organizations/sidebar/rso_list_ fall2011.php to get a list of RSOs on campus that you might be interested in. 5. Go hiking in Devil’s Den with some friends. It is a great way to get some fresh air, exercise and enjoy the weather.
by WHITNEY GREEN Contributing Writer
Valentine’s Day is notoriously known for love and romance. If you’re in the mood to switch things up a little this year, try focusing less on romance and more on genuine love. Instead of devoting the whole day to your significant other, step out of tradition and do something loving for a person in need. There are plenty of ways to do good and feel good this Valentine’s Day. Here are a few. Maintaining clean clothes is a basic necessity for life. However, for people living below the poverty line, doing laundry can become a financial burden. Laundry Love Projects partner with local laundromats to assist those living in shelters, motels, cars, garages and on the streets. Their mission is to convert laundromats into hubs of relief, granting reprieve to those living in oppressive poverty. The first Friday of every month, volunteer at the event or get a group of friends together and cook a meal to be served while people are waiting. Visit their website cobblestoneproject. org to get involved.
The mission of 7Hills homeless center is to fight homelessness and poverty with education, opportunities and hope. Stop by the shelter Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. to meet wonderful people and hear stories that will take your breath away. Instead of giving your money to help those in need, give your time by volunteering at 7Hills. Find out more at 7hillscenter.org.
Consider satisfying your Valentine’s Day sweet tooth by ordering yummy goodies from Baking For Good, an online bakery that donates 15 percent of the net proceeds from every purchase to a charity of your choice. You and your honey will feel good knowing people in need are benefiting from your sweet indulgence. Place your guilt-free order at bakingforgood.com.
by NICK BROTHERS Staff Writer
Today is one of the most polarized holidays in America. It’s hard to avoid, and even more important to remember if it applies to you. For some, it’s a day of reflecting on how lucky you are to be surrounded by love and adoration from someone special, while for others it’s an excessive, petty and sad excuse of a holiday. For the fortunate, it is a day of love, Valentine’s Day. For the cynical (or fortunate, depending on your view), it’s become to be known as Singles’ Awareness Day (S.A.D.). Whatever your relationship status, here are two playlists designed specifically for either scenario. One is for the romantics —
With spring just around the corner, this is a great time to make a drastic change with a fun hairstyle. Get some long-haired hippie friends together and cut off at least 10 inches of hair to donate to Locks of Love. The organization’s mission is to return a sense of self, confidence and normalcy to children suffering from hair loss by utilizing donated ponytails to provide the highest quality of hair prosthetics to financially disadvantaged children. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, do something loving for a child. Get started at locksoflove.org.
Every Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Central United Methodist Church hosts a complimentary lunch for the low-income and homeless community in Northwest Arkansas. Actions & Truth is an outreach ministry focused on meeting the spiritual and physical needs of those coming to community meals with the purpose of introducing them to Jesus Christ. During lunch today, grab a friend and head down Dickson Street to Central United Methodist Church to build relationships with people needing a friendly face and listening ear. Contact Glen Miller at gmiller@centraltolife.com to let them know you’re coming.
. Plan USA is a community of individuals, families, groups, organizations and institutions that share the common belief that every child in this world deserves to fulfill his or her potential. They are working to end sex-trafficking in America and many other humanitarian projects. Representatives will be around campus asking for simple donations of $1 a day to rescue a child from sex slavery. Talk to a representative or visit planusa.org.
child’s education. Potter’s House is devoted to providing a hope and a future to at-risk youth in Fayetteville by changing the culture of education that surrounds them. Volunteer to tutor in the afternoons, lead a small group on Sundays or get involved in bi-monthly mentoring. There’s a child waiting to meet you. Go to pottershousekids.com to start changing lives.
There are many opportunities to serve the local community at The Salvation Army where they provide spiritual, physical and emotional care for men, women and children in Benton and Washington counties. Get involved in shelter feedings, the social services food pantry, thrift stores, holiday meals or the Angel Tree program. In the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., “Everybody can be great because anybody can serve. You only need a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.” Step out in grace and love this Valentine’s Day by visiting nwasalvationarmy.org.
6. Volunteer at the animal shelter. Nothing will put you in a better mood than playing with some innocent cats and dogs at the Fayetteville Animal Shelter. Remember— These animals need love just as much as you do. 7. Go shopping. Buy yourself something you have had your eye on for a while. You deserve to treat yourself. 8. Host a “I hate Valentine’s Day” dinner with some of your single friends. You can go all out with broken heart cookies and black balloons. 9. Participate in a Secret Santa gift swap or a White Elephant exchange, but for Valentine’s Day. You and your friends can go to dinner or have Valentine’s Day desserts while exchanging gifts. 10. Have a movie night with your friends. If you are tired of the same old romantic comedies, go for a scary movie marathon. That will be sure to keep your mind off of Valentine’s Day.
If you’re planning on buying a fancy, new outfit for your Valentine’s date, look through the racks at a thrift store first. Goodwill, Samaritan Community Center, Potter’s House and The Salvation Army thrift stores all contribute to the greater good by meeting the needs of local families. If second-hand clothes aren’t your style, give back by buying a new outfit and donating one that is gently used.
Instead of writing love letters just to your sweetheart, write to people and organizations that are doing good things for the world. Tell them you respect and appreciate what they are doing to make a difference and remember to thank those who daily serve you. Everyone needs a little encouragement, and Valentine’s Day is a great time to share the love. BRITTANY WULF STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Put your book smarts to good use and take a break from studying to invest in a
those that are happy together on this day — full of songs that parallel the cheer and optimism of romance in the air. The other is for those who currently have “single” as their relationship status on Facebook. The S.A.D. playlist is a collection of songs that aren’t melancholy or depressing, but a collection of music that makes one feel awesome about being single. You don’t need some holiday telling you have to be in a relationship to enjoy it. As Cee Lo Green’s song puts it, the playlist is a bit of a “f*** you” to the holiday and/or past relationships. Even if you don’t care at all about the holiday, it’s a fun bunch of music to check out. Give it a try with the free music streaming services from grooveshark.com or Spotify.
Amber Conner, junior social work major, sits comfortably on the couch in her pajamas eating ice cream and watching Couple’s Retreat.
Tongue Tied – Grouplove You Are The Best Thing – Ray LaMontagne VCR – The xx You Make My Dreams – Daryl Hall & John Oates Fell In Love with a Girl – The White Stripes This Year’s Love – David Gray Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell It’s Love – Chris Knox Fair – Remy Zero Hoppípolla – Sigur Ros Young Folks – Peter Bjorn And John Maybe I’m Amazed – Paul McCartney I Would Do Anything For You – Foster The People You and I – Ingrid Michaelson
Next Girl – The Black Keys MoneyGrabber – Fitz & The Tantrums Song For The Dumped – Ben Folds Five Changing – The Airborne Toxic Event Somebody That I Used To Know – Gotye (feat. Kimbra) How You Like Me Now? – The Heavy Roses – OutKast Float On – Modest Mouse Kiss With A Fist – Florence + The Machine Like A Rolling Stone – Bob Dylan F*** You – Cee Lo Green Breaks – The Black Keys You Don’t Know What Love Is [You Just Do as You’re Told] – The White Stripes Two Weeks – Grizzly Bear
THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER
DOWNTIME Comics, Games, & Much Much More!
PAGE 6 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2012
LAUGH IT UP
SUDOKU
Q: What’s yellow and can pass through walls?
A: A ghost banana Q: What lays on the bottom of the ocean and twitches?
A: A nervous wreck Difficulty:
Q: What’s red and invisible? A: No tomatoes A priest, rabbi and a politician walk into a bar and the bartender says “What is this, a joke?”
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 Fight-stopping calls, briefly 5 Discourteous 9 Ireland patron, for short 14 10 million centuries 15 Soon, to the bard 16 Chicago airport 17 Backstage 20 The second story, vis-à-vis the first 21 Tough Japanese dogs 22 Coll. football’s Seminoles 23 Over, to Oskar 24 Got married 29 Wee lie 32 Forster’s “A Passage to __” 33 Off one’s rocker 34 Dashboard gadget prefix with meter 35 Robin’s Marian, for one 36 Market express lane units 38 Car 39 North Pole helper 40 Muscle pain 41 Desi who married 60-Across 42 Sneaky 43 Forefront, as of technology 46 USA or Mex., e.g. 47 “Do __ favor ...” 48 Blood deficiency that causes weakness 51 Embodiments 56 Returning to popularity, or what you’d have been doing if you followed the sequence formed by the first words of 17-, 24- and 43-Across 58 Informal bridge bid 59 Activist Parks 60 Ball of Hollywood 61 Praise 62 Sheltered valley 63 Brown or cream bar orders
1 “Forbidden” cologne brand 2 Hang on to 3 Partners of aahs 4 Fit of agitation 5 Pungent salad veggie 6 Fictitious 7 Cries from Homer Simpson 8 Opposite of WSW 9 Plugging-in places 10 “... all snug in __ beds” 11 Cool off, dog-style 12 Locale 13 “__ of the D’Urbervilles” 18 USA/Mex./Can. pact 19 Wooden shoes 23 E pluribus __ 24 Los Angeles daily 25 Counting everything 26 Spiritually enlighten 27 Completed 28 Kicked with a bent leg 29 No longer lost 30 Luggage attachment 31 Hooch 36 Swelling treatment 37 “__ she blows!” 38 Exist 40 White whales, e.g. 41 Colorful marble 44 Levy, as a tax 45 Upscale retailer __ Marcus 46 __ acid 48 Unrestrained way to run 49 Half of Mork’s sign-off 50 Barely made, with “out” 51 Environmental sci. 52 Beatles nonsense syllables 53 Manhandle 54 Caesar’s “Behold!” 55 “The __ the limit!” 57 Neighbor of Braz.
Crossword provided by MCT Campus
SOLUTION
TODAY’S SOLUTION
Tony Piro
SPORTS THE ARKANSAS TRAVELER
PAGE 7
Scan here to go to the Sports section on uatrav.com:
SPORTS EDITOR: JIMMY CARTER ASST. SPORTS EDITOR: ZACH TURNER
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2012
BASKETBALL
COMMENTARY
Anderson Gets It Extra Points
JIMMY CARTER
jicarter@uark.edu
ready and has given some good advice. I think some of the guys have tried to follow it because he knows.” Mickelson was good for 11 points and four rebounds in the Hogs 76-65 win over South Carolina. Arkansas is still searching for its first win on the road as they travel to Knoxville, Tenn., to take on a Volunteers team who picked up its first road win of the season Saturday at then-No. 7 Florida. “Tennessee is playing some pretty impressive basketball,” Anderson said. “When you stay true to what you do and stay within the script, all of a sudden things
Mike Anderson bowed his head at one point as ESPN’s “40 Minutes of Hell” documentary premiered on the Bud Walton Arena scoreboard above him. On the screen, he recalled his relationship with former Arkansas coach Nolan Richardson’s family, his acceptance as a family member since he played for Richardson at Tulsa. Then he remembered Yvonne, Richardson’s daughter who Anderson viewed as a younger sister. In the documentary, Anderson recalled driving Yvonne more than two hours from Fayetteville to Tulsa on a weekly basis so she could receive treatments for leukemia. She died at age 15. It devastated Richardson and Anderson. That segment was one of the somber moments in the 48-minute documentary focusing on Richardson’s life. In a production juxtaposing a championship season with outspoken press conferences and an awkward interview with John A. White, the chancellor that fired Richardson, the segment about Yvonne was the hardest to watch. “I was really emotional just sitting there,” Anderson told the fans that remained in Bud Walton to watch the premiere following the 76-65 win against South Carolina. Saturday was another reminder of why Anderson is a great fit at Arkansas. He closed the day with remarks following the showing of the documentary. In March 2009, Richardson and the 1994 national championship team were recognized in a 15th anniversary
see MITCHELL on page 8
see COMMENTARY on page 8
RYAN MILLER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER In addition to being on both Arkansas’ basketball and football teams, Arkansas sophomore forward Brandon Mitchell is enrolled in 15 hours of school and works at the Fayetteville Boys and Girls Club as part of his curriculum for his degree in Business Marketing. Mitchell is coming off a career game against South Carolina when he scored eight points, pulled down four rebounds, blocked one shot and had one steal while playing a career-high 16 minutes.
Mitchell Defining Student-Athlete Role by ZACH TURNER
Asst. Sports Editor
There is more to Brandon Mitchell than playing on both the Arkansas basketball and football teams. The 6-foot-4 dual sport athlete is taking the student-athlete title to new heights. Mitchell, a business marketing major, is enrolled in 15 hours as well as volunteering at the local Boys & Girls Club as part of his curriculum. In addition to the rigors of basketball season, Mitchell has continued to work out with the football team as regularly scheduled. “It is exhausting, especially with class,” Mitchell said about his weekly schedule. “It is tiring but it is something I am getting used to.”
Mitchell has also been spending many hours in the training room using the ice tubs and hot tubs to get himself through each week. “I am not a big coffee guy, but I take quite a few Five Hour energy,” Mitchell said. The Amite, La., native is coming off a career game in a key win against South Carolina as the Razorbacks enter the home stretch of the season. Mitchell scored eight points and had four rebounds, both career-highs, while also playing a career-high 16 minutes. “It felt great and I hope it continues,” Mitchell said. “I plan on coming out here and doing whatever it takes to get a win for the team. I feel very comfortable compared to when I first started now that I am getting into basketball shape.”
Mitchell was a presence on the defensive end as well, registering his first career block and steal. “In practice he has been doing some things that will catch your eye,” coach Mike Anderson said. “He has a good feel for the game. As a guy that plays the quarterback position, he has been in that leadership role, so he talks to these guys and they listen.” Arkansas freshman Hunter Mickelson, who was in the game for a majority of Mitchell’s minutes, said the football player has provided leadership in his own way. “He is doing well and we have kind of called on him to share his insight on what he thinks we need to do,” Mickelson said. “On road games he helps to try and get us
BASEBALL
Reynolds Expects a Big Year
WOMEN’S TRACK
Razorbacks Prepping for SECs by ZACH LIGI Staff Writer
Now it’s time for the meets that matter. Arkansas’ women’s track team has completed the indoor regular season and has a week off before competing in the Southeastern Conference Championships. The No. 4 Razorbacks have been ranked in the top five all season and secured its fifth NCAA automatic qualifying performance over the weekend when the 4x400 team finished sixth with a time of 3:40.76 in the Tyson Invitational. “It was a successful weekend,”
associate head coach Rolando Greene said. “every distance runner that we’ve had, the pole vaulters performing the way they performed, we had a great meet. All across the board, every kid in the program performed like a champ.” Arkansas’ pole vaulters were led by senior All-American Tina Sutej’s first-place finish, her fourth win in four meets this season. The SEC Championships are held Feb. 24-26 in Lexington, Ky. The Razorbacks will compete see TRACK on page 8
GARRETH PATTERSON STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Arkansas third baseman Matt Reynolds is healthy and motivated to improve on his sophomore season, when he hit just .243 and slipped to the No. 9 spot in the batting order. by MARTHA SWEARINGEN Staff Writer
Arkansas junior third baseman Matt Reynolds has high expectations for 2011 after a disappointing sophomore year. Reynolds began his sophomore season batting third against Delaware State, but ended the season hitting just .243 and batting ninth against Arizona State.
“He didn’t hit very well,” Arkansas coach Dave Van Horn said. “He was battling some more injuries last year, and he got through it, had a good summer.” Battling through injuries wasn’t easy for Reynolds. “It’s always tough whenever you struggle,” Reynolds said. “The big thing in baseball is that you’ve got to keep your
confidence. You’ve got to forget about the past day, and I tried doing that. When season ended, I went to the Cape Cod league with a fresh mind, started over, and I’m glad to be starting this season.” The Tulsa native redeemed himself over the summere when he played in the Cape Cod League, batting .322 with two home runs
and 20 RBI. He was also invited to play at Team USA with teammates Dominic Ficociello and DJ Baxendale. He started five of six games and batted .233 with 2 RBI. “I worked with the Team USA coaches and they were really helping my swing and load,” see REYNOLDS on page 8
LOGAN WEBSTER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Arkansas senior pole vaulter Tina Sutej and her teammates get one week off before competing in SEC Championships Feb. 24-26 in Lexington, Ky.
SPORTS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2012
PAGE 8
Arkansas senior forward Marvell Waithe talked with assistant sports editor Zach Turner about life on the road in the Southeastern Conference, the emergence of Brandon Mitchell, recovering from a calf injury and why he enjoys playing on the road more than at home.
Marvell Waithe Forward
Being winless on the road, are you tired of hearing about it and being asked questions about the team’s struggles on the road?
6’9’’ 216 lbs.
Yeah it is draining, you know, it is draining. Hopefully we can finally win and get that monkey off our back.
Senior
What do you notice about the differences of playing on the road and how the team plays differently. Do the referees make a difference? It is like that in all sports. It is not just basketball, or just basketball officials in all sports, it is harder to get calls when you are on the road. You have to play through those types of things because home court advantage is a real thing, it exists. Sometimes the refs may get caught up in the game too. I am sure when we play at home, we get a lot of calls we normally wouldn’t on the road too. It is just sports. How are you feeling physically returning from the calf injury that sidelined you for two games? My calf feels like it is getting better, getting better. I feel a bit under the weather, but I feel good. I can’t wait to play. As far as putting a number on my health, as long as I am on the court I am going to produce and try to produce. What are your thoughts on Brandon Mitchell and how he played on Saturday? He brought a lot of energy to the game. He is going to be playing minutes especially with Sanchez being out. He played well. He is a big body and is athletic so there are going to be spurts when we need him and he will be useful. Talk about your play on the road. Your scoring averages are higher on the road and you were even the team’s leading scoring against Ole Miss on the road earlier in the season. I like playing on the road. As a competitor and an athlete I have always loved the crowd cheering against you. It gets me going, just the thought of you and everybody else against the world type of feeling. I really love playing on the road as an athlete, even more than playing at home. Love the fans here though. When Arkansas does finally get its first road win, what are going to be your thoughts? I am going to take a deep breath, realize the monkey is finally off our back, and move onto the next one. Celebrate a little bit and when the night is over, look forward to the next one.
RYAN MILLER Staff Photographer from COMMENTARY on page 7 celebration, a moment featured in the documentary as the first step toward rebuilding the RichardsonArkansas relationship severed by his firing and subsequent lawsuit against the university. Anderson couldn’t be there that day. He was coaching a Missouri team that would make it to the Elite Eight, a place the Razorbacks haven’t reached since 1995 when he was on the bench next to Richardson. John Pelphrey was there. He was in his second season at Arkansas. He welcomed the reunion, but when it happened he was a spectator. He wasn’t part of the culture Richardson established. Anderson is part of the culture. He was instrumental in defining it. That was made clear as he and Richardson were shown walking and talking on the Bud Walton court during the documentary. Anderson pointed to the national cham-
pionship banner in the rafters and said he wanted to add another one. “That’s why you’re here,” Richardson told Anderson as the two walked down the sideline. “You know how it was.” He might or might not add that banner. Regardless, he will win or lose with a style learned from Richardson, one that was successful and impactful enough to warrant a documentary in ESPN’s SEC Storied series. Anderson is off to a better start than most forecasted, including his mentor. He and his team have had to overcome a lot this season. Leading scorer Rotnei Clarke transferred to Butler in the summer while two role players transferred to other schools. Marshawn Powell, the Hogs’ top returning player, tore his ACL before the third game of the year, a season-ending injury that left the Razorbacks without a reliable inside scorer. Anderson has had to push a team with four freshmen through injuries to two of its
remaining four frontcourt players, all while installing a new system and culture. Arkansas’ win against South Carolina before the documentary was its program-record 17th home win this season. At 17-0, the Razorbacks have bettered the 16-0 home mark in 1994, the first year in Bud Walton. “I am so proud of Coach Anderson,” Richardson said before the game. “I can’t believe he’s won 16 ball games. He’s got a few pieces, but he’s got to go and get some more ... Here he is with what he’s got and he’s already won 16 games. “He’s way ahead of me.” So while Anderson is still trying to figure out how to win away from Bud Walton –– the Hogs’ are 0-8 outside –– he has led Arkansas to a surprisingly competitive season. The Razorbacks still have an outside shot at making their first NCAA Tournament in four years. Don’t panic if Arkansas doesn’t make it to March Madness, though. Next year Powell will be back, the freshmen will be sophomores and Anderson will add at least three new players that fit his system. His system that he learned from Richardson. The system that produced the Razorbacks’ only national title. Anderson gets it. Jimmy Carter is the sports editor for The Arkansas Traveler. His column appears every Tuesday. Follow him on Twitter @jicartersports.
from MITCHELL on page 7 start taking place for them. They put together a great performance against Florida and the impressive part was they swept Florida, which is one of the better teams in the country.” With the availability of Michael Sanchez still in question as he is recovering from a shoulder injury, Mitchell will again be called on to provide depth off the bench Anderson said. The Volunteers have size in the front court, starting Jeronne Maymon who is 6-foot-7, 265 pounds, as well as bringing firstsemester freshman Jarnell Stokes, 6-foot-8, 245 from REYNOLDS on page 7 Reynolds said. “Getting to play with some of the best players in college, I mean it was amazing getting some of the best teaching, getting to play with some of my teammates and head coach, it was an amazing experience.” Despite his struggles at the plate in 2011, Reynolds still managed to draw a team-high 32 walks. “He’s very patient,” Van Horn said. “I saw when I was recruiting him in high school that he had a very good eye. Sometimes the guys with very good plate discipline, they sometimes have to swing more, and that’s something I’d like to see with Matt.” from TRACK on page 7 against three other ranked teams and will be one of the favorites in a field that will include No. 2 LSU. “We just have to continue to execute,” Greene said. “If we continue to execute between now and the SEC Championship, we have a really good shot at winning it. It isn’t about how much you do, it’s about the quality of what
pounds, off the bench. Mitchell is a bit undersized for the forward position at just 6-foot-4, 230 pounds, but said he attributes his physical play to his football experiences. “Sometimes it is a bit intimidating,” Mitchell said. “I have a little advantage of some of them because I am a lot stronger being in football year round. It has been fun and very competitive. That is something we do in football is compete in the weight room and try to be the most physical person out there.” Mitchell had played just four minutes since joining the basketball squad in mid-January before his 16 minutes in the Hogs win
over the Gamecocks on Saturday. “I think waiting is something I have improved on since in football I have had to sit and wait my turn,” Mitchell said. “When I came out to basketball I knew exactly what it took and every day I just wanted to practice and make the team better.” Arkansas has six more conference games left on its slate before the Southeastern Conference Tournament and then possible postseason play. Spring football and basketball could overlap. “We haven’t discussed that yet and will have to cross that road when it comes,” Mitchell said.
With four of the Hogs’ scheduled conference opponents ranked in the top 25, finding the balance between patience and aggression will be important. “I’m definitely going to be patient, but I also want to be aggressive and attack early in the count because in the SEC,” Reynolds said. “Those Friday and Saturday guys have killer pitches that can strike you out.” Entering his junior year, Reynolds was selected to the preseason All-SEC team by Perfect Game. He is ranked the No. 36 prospect in the junior class and the No. 83 draft prospect by Baseball America for the 2012 Major League Baseball Draft. “This is a big year for him,” Van Horn added. “It’s
a big year for him as far as our team goes it’s a big year as far as personally getting a chance to play pro ball, so I think he’s on a mission.” In addition to receiving many preseason honors, Reynolds said he is on a mission this season. “My number one goal is to get to Omaha,” Reynolds said. “Get a national championship.” Reynolds started in all 59 games he played last year and will make his 60th consecutive start Friday. “It just shows what kind of confidence they have in me,” Reynolds said. “It gives me experience going into this year knowing what I can do if I start struggling. I’m just ready for this season to start.”
you do. Hopefully, Lord willing, we will be good enough to win the SEC championships.” Following the conference meet, Arkansas athletes that haven’t qualified for NCAAs will get a final opportunity at the Arkansas Last Chance meet March 2. The NCAA Championships are March 9-10. “We have a whole lot left in the tank,” Greene said. “We have specifical-
ly held them back to this point so that we could perform and be ready for the SEC and the national championship. This is a long year, this is one of those unique years where this is an Olympic year and people are trying to get ready for London. “We have pulled the reigns back so that as we go forward, we will continue to perform affectively.”