The Echo | December 5, 2018 by The Echo at UCA

The Echo

THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS’ STUDENT NEWSPAPER

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December 5, 2018 Volume 113 — Issue 13

ucanews.live TODAY’S FORECAST

Campus Life:

CONWAY

SAB Doomsday Escape Room: Students struggle to break free

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THE NEWSDESK

by Ryan Bradford and Marley Cash-Powell

FROM THE EDITOR

I N T E R N AT I O N A L 200 arrested in Paris

Over 200 people were arrested in Paris when the “Yellow Vest” protesters were tear-gassed by Paris policemen Dec. 1. They were protesting the rise of gas prices and taxes on highemissions transportation. Photographers captured chaotic images of protestors striking police vehicles, smashing windows and setting cars on fire. After the protests turned violent, at least 92 people were injured by the gassing, including civilians.

N AT I O N A L Bush senior dead at 94 The former 41st President of the United States, George Herbert Walker Bush, died Dec. 30 after several healthrelated complications. Bush suffered from a form of Parkinson’s disease, which left him confined to a wheelchair. He was predeceased by his wife of 73 years, Barbara Bush, who died eight months prior, and his daughter Pauline “Robin” Bush, who died from leukemia at 3 years old. Bush served as a World War II naval aviator, Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces, Ambassador to the United Nations and Vice President of the United States.

Trump subdued at G-20 The Group of 20 summit conducted business Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 in the city of Buenos Aires, Argentina. President Donald Trump canceled his meeting with the Russian leader, Vladimir Putin, and called off a scheduled news conference to discuss trade with Chinese President Xi Jinping out of respect for former-president George H. W. Bush’s family after his death. Trump didn’t address the public at the summit. It is also notable that Trump made no public embrace of Saudi Arabian Crown Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud due to the previous controversy over the brutal killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

S TAT E

Arkansas losing drug battle against opioids The Centers for Disease Control confirmed the average American lifespan has shortened compared to previous years. Drug overdoses account for 9.6 percent of all Arkansas deaths and Arkansas is one of only three states where opioid prescriptions have increased since 2000. Arkansas ranks fifth in the country for pain pill sales, with 37.9 kilograms of medication sold per 100,000 people per year.

IN OUR NEXT ISSUE The Echo will return in January.

Entertainment:

Sports:

Coen Brothers Film: Western holds six episodic vignettes within 4 page 6

Volleyball: Sugar Bears loses to Wichita State Shockers 4 page 7

Accomplished officer remembered by Conway community, statewide

Mostly Sunny

WHAT’S AHEAD

someone with a tough exterior, but beneath that, Boothe said, he had the biggest heart. Staff Writer and News Editor “He was willing to help everyone who needed it,” Boothe Conway police officer said. “And [he] wanted Nathan Riddle died everyone to have a at the age of 35 due good time. If there to complications were more people like from pneumonia Nov. Riddle walking this 25. He was a Marine Corps veteran who earth, then the world served two tours, had would be a better previously worked place.” within the Department UCA senior of Corrections prison Alexis Shaw and system and as a her sister, freshman police officer at Camp Emmalee Shaw, had Robinson before known Riddle since serving in Conway. childhood. Riddle was On Dec. 1, one of their father’s colleagues from two friends but was like a police departments, second father to the Marines and pair. community members “He was always bowed solemnly at just smiling,” officer Nathan Riddle Emmalee said. Jr.’s graveside in Pine Alexis remembers Bluff. Riddle as one of the After two Marine funniest people she servicemen performed knew. She said he the sounding of “Taps,” had a love of country a final call radio music and joking broadcast for #523 was around. An inside joke dedicated: “Officer between the family Nathan Riddle Jr. and Riddle was that he receives his final call to was actually the real heaven on November father of the sisters. photo courtesy of Arkansas Online 25, 2018. Thank you “I’m definitely Conway police officer Nathan Riddle died Nov. 25 due to for almost three going to miss him, complications from pneumonia. Riddle had previously served years of service to the that’s for sure,” Alexis citizens of Conway UCAPD for nine years. said. with the Conway A fund has been Police Department and almost People from Victory Baptist set up through Centennial nine years of service with the Church prepared and served Banks by Riddle’s friends and University of Central Arkansas lunch to Riddle’s colleagues colleagues and a limited number Police Department. Calling to Nov. 29, and the Hendrix College Officer Nathan Riddle, may you Student Affairs and Office of of memorial bracelets were sold rest in peace. We have the watch at Conway Police Department Public Safety dropped by a card from here.” on the day of Riddle’s funeral. and a tub full of snacks Nov. 30. UCA, Conway and Lt. Jamie Boothe of UCAPD Proceeds will go toward communities around the state served with Riddle for many establishing a lasting memorial are mourning the loss of an years. He described Riddle as in Riddle’s honor.

upstanding public figure. The Conway Police Department has received an outpouring of condolences and support on social media and in person.

4Students Say

Students produce anthology, bond with residents over place by Lauren McLemore Staff Writer

Students from a Topics in Creative Writing course dedicated to writing about place interviewed senior citizen residents of the College Square Retirement Community on campus and wrote essays based on those interviews. Students compiled the essays in an anthology titled “The State of Our Roots: Voices from College Square” that will be printed by Conway Printing. The project received funding from the faculty-led Service-learning Committee, the faculty-led Educating for Diversity and Global Engagement Committee and the Dean of Liberal Arts’ Office. The anthology is expected to be back from the printer by

Dec. 5 and presented to the residents, who will each receive a copy, Dec. 6 during the class’ normal meeting time. The class is taught by Interim Chair and Professor of English Conrad Shumaker and Assistant Professor of Creative Writing Jennie Case. The class contains students from each department. Some essays were collaboratively written with two students interviewing one resident. Shumaker and Case pitched the idea to the director of College Square who sought out residents interested in being interviewed. After compiling a list, students were paired with residents and taught how to conduct

See Essay- page 2

RESOLUTION

UCA leads in establishing foreign exchange SGA evaluates student fees, partnership with Riara University in Kenya advocates for mental health by Caroline Bivens Online Editor

The Office of International Engagement has established a semester exchange program at the Riara University in Nairobi, Kenya, for fall 2019. Associate vice president for International Education and Engagement, Phillip Bailey, and codirector of the African and African-American Studies program, Michael Kithinji, worked together to organize the program and signed an exchange agreement with Riara University in early November. Exchange programs allow students to attend a university overseas while paying UCA tuition, keeping their federal and state financial aid and earning class credits to transfer at UCA. Bailey said UCA currently offers 17 active semester exchange programs. Established in 2012, Riara University is a private university in Nairobi, and UCA is the university’s first U.S. partner. Bailey said RU is a good academic fit for UCA, and many of the classes are taught in English. He said traveling to Africa is also less expensive than traveling to Europe. At RU, students can pursue research projects and collaborate with Kenyan students to diversify their learning experience. Bailey said 25 percent of

UCA’s international students are from Africa. “Africa has a very bright future, and UCA has a long history of working well with students from Africa,” Bailey said. Kithinji said at RU, students will share classrooms with African students and learn more about their culture through immersion in the culture’s environment. Exchange students from RU will also interact with UCA students and share perspectives. Kithinji made the first connections with RU with a book he and a professor at RU collaborated on. Kithinji is from Kenya and felt he should help create an exchange program in Africa because UCA didn’t have one. Kithinji said the U.S. has many misconceptions about Africa, and that an exchange program could help educate students on Africa’s current condition. “What [the U.S.] knows is based on media reports and Hollywood movies, which are very exaggerated. Some of it is also based on old stories told by colonists,” Kithinji said. “so much of that information is distorted.” He said if American students visit Africa, they will have a more accurate understanding of the culture. He said Africa is experiencing huge economic

photo by Marley Cash-Powell

College Square Retirement Community is the only retirement community in the United States located on a state college campus. UCA students forged special bonds with the residents this semester while compiling an essay anthology based off the residents’ perspectives of place.

STUDY ABROAD

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4Senior Columns 5 4Entertainment 6 4Sports 7

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and population growth in many countries. “Students visiting Africa is key to [them] being more wellrounded and global citizens,” Kithinji said. “Africa is the continent of the future.” He said the U.S. isn’t taking advantage of African economic partnerships because Americans still view Africa as a “dark continent.” “Americans need to build closer relationships with Africa, and creating an exchange base will help,” Kithinji said. Bailey said the partnership could also lead to faculty-led study abroad programs in summer 2020. Bailey said the department is working on exchange programs in Kazakhstan and the Czech Republic. He said there are plans for a second exchange program in Japan and expansion of exchange programs in China to allow more study abroad spots for students. “Globalization is something that’s been going on for a long time, but sometimes if we aren’t looking at it from an educated standpoint … it can create a lot of anxiety and fear,” Bailey said. “[Our] job is to prepare students to function well in a context where globalization will be going on… and [help them] engage on a deeper level.” For more information about UCA’s exchange programs, visit uca.edu/studyabroad.

by Caela Rist

Assistant News Editor The Student Government Association held their final chambers meeting Dec. 3 where four motions were passed, including the Student Fee Advisory Committee’s student fee report and a suggested mental health statement on professors’ syllabi. The SGA Student Advisory Committee proposed a motion to senate regarding their compiled report over the student fees for fall 2018. According to the report, the committee’s main goal is to, “ensure openness and transparency in the distribution and spending of student fees by university officials.” SFAC agreed with the majority of student fees, including the Access and Security Fee and the Athletics Fee, The Student Center and Recreation Fee. However, the committee did suggest raising the price of the current technology fee to provide the necessary updates to UCA’s facilities. The technology fee is currently $7.50 per credit hour each semester, one of the lowest Technology Fees in the state. Though the committee recommends raising the fee, they did not specify how much within their report. The motion for their report was passed and

will be submitted to the UCA Board of Trustees. SGA President Joshua Eddinger-Lucero encouraged the Student Resources Committee to pursue the implementation of a mental health statement on UCA professors’ syllabi. This motion was passed with the resolution suggesting that professors implement a section in their syllabi to account for mental health. According to the motion, the Student Resources Committee acknowledges that “poor mental health can have adverse effects on academic performance.” Similar statements have been made on professors’ syllabi at Northwestern University, Ohio State University, Ithaca College and the University of Portland. Three separate motions were made to recognize the accomplishments of both men and women’s soccer teams and the male cross country team. The motions all stated that SGA congratulates the respected teams on their accomplishments over the course of the semester, including: the Sugar Bears win in the Southland Conference, and their 16 total wins for the season, the men’s soccer team win in both of the Missouri Valley

See SGA- page 2

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Senior Columns: @ucaecho The Echo

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Beginning college with persistence and leaving with gifts. see page 5

2/ December 5, 2018

NEWS

ucanews.live

Police Beat The following information is compiled from UCAPD incident reports by Assistant News Editor Caela Rist

Man arrested for ecstasy possession

photo courtesy of Walmart Conway -- Dave Ward Dr’s Facebook page

[Left to right] Walmart employees Dashyra Johnson, Kedrin Watkins and Kristin Vaughn pose for a promotional photo at the Walmart on Dave Ward Nov. 15. The program positions mobile cashiers in target areas, such as the electronics department, allowing debit and credit card transactions to be processed on the spot.

Walmart launches Check Out With Me

by Daniel Adams

Staff Writer

As technology continues to advance, stores around the country are attempting to help make shoppers’ experiences easier. Walmart has begun to use its “Check Out With Me” program, which gives shoppers a more convenient checkout option. Check Out With Me employees use handheld scanners to check out customers who are paying by card. This allows customers with a handful of items to avoid long lines at traditional checkout counters. Customers are given the option to receive a printed receipt or an electronic one. Mobile cashiers are easy to spot when walking around the store because they are outfitted with yellow sashes that read: “Check out with Me!” The program expanded

to all Walmart Supercenters nationwide by Black Friday, Nov. 23, allowing bigger stores to accommodate more customers. At the Dave Ward Drive location in Conway, the program was first implemented in the Lawn and Garden Center in April, according to Walmart’s website, but has since been expanded to include other departments. Management ran the program in full force during Black Friday shopping, and the program helped Walmart handle the masses who participated in the biggest shopping day of the year. “We did over 200 transactions just with Check Out With Me [on Black Friday],” employee Kristin Vaughn said. She said she typically serves only about five to 15 shoppers on regular days, depending on what department she is assigned to patrol. Assistant manager Janet Lawrence said the biggest focus

for the program was to keep customers satisfied. “One of the big things is keeping the lines down. When our customers line up to check out, our biggest focus is to get them in and out as fast as we can,” Lawrence said. “They started this program, especially for the holidays, to help keep the lines down and deal with customers who would only have a few items in their basket versus a customer who has a large amount [of items].” Lawrence said that while there may be newer programs that develop to improve the Walmart customer experience, it would take time for these programs to reach Conway. “[Check Out With Me] piloted in larger stores throughout the country, and then it came into smaller stores like ours. We’re hoping to go nationwide with it,” Lawrence said.

Essays: Students and retirees bond over stories 4 Continued from page 1

interviews before visiting College Square as a class to meet residents. Shumaker asked students to go and talk to the residents about places that had been significant to them throughout their lives. The student went together during class time. “Most of them spoke for a full hour together during that class session, but then almost all of those students returned on their own at a time that was convenient for them and the resident and had a longer interview,” Case said. Senior Zora McBride got to know UCA alumna Mary Ferguson, 90, who said the food in UCA’s cafeteria was locally sourced when she attended. “You can inhabit a place a year or two later, and it can be so different,” McBride said, referring to the drastic change of Conway’s agricultural presence in the years since Ferguson attended the university. Students unable to return and see their designated resident beyond the initial interview exchanged contact information.

“One of the residents came up to me and said, ‘Well, I never expected I’d get a young man’s phone number at this age!’” Case laughed. Students developed relationships with the residents beyond just conducting interviews. Senior Samantha Still cultivated a friendship with the resident she was paired with, Billie Bollinger, and has returned to spend some evenings at College Square. “She was very welcoming and honest, and [my class partner and I] loved listening to her life story. We’re going to go play cards with her sometime soon,” Still said. She and her partner, junior Celeste Keller, collaborated on an essay titled “Billie Bollinger: Finding Home in People.” Senior Damaryo Smith shared a meal with his resident, Floyd Brantley. “We went and ate at Freddy’s. It was totally his idea,” Smith said. He also went to College Square for Brantley’s 93rd birthday, Oct. 16. However, there was one extra special contribution made

to the anthology by senior Jordan Crank who missed the interview portion of the project because his grandmother was ill. Shumaker agreed to let him interview his grandmother instead and shortly after, she died. “It’s really been meaningful for him to get the stories from her. And now he’s lost her, but he has the stories,” Shumaker said. After completing the essays, students were then assigned tasks within the publication process. The students did the copyediting, drafted the contributions page, chose fonts and page number placement, designed the cover, arranged the essays and crafted the introduction. Shumaker said the residents have enjoyed the process and look forward to seeing the book. One of the students told him that her resident requested five copies. “I think that they’re just really gratified that the students are interested in their lives,” Shumaker said. “We all like to tell our stories and have people be interested in what we have to say about who we are.”

RESOURCES

Autism Advocacy Program installs low-sensory room

by Daniel Adams

Staff writer

Resources are important for every student at the University of Central Arkansas, and for students on the autism spectrum, the Autism Advocacy Program is their assistance resource on campus. The Autism Advocacy Program is a recent addition to UCA, having started up in the 2016-17 school year. Its goal is to assist incoming autistic students acclimate to life on campus and help students become self-advocates. One of the main resources the program has implemented is a low-sensory viewing room for any incoming students who may have autism. The sensory room, located in the Farris Center, gives students a quiet place to unwind when experiencing sensory overload. Patricia Smith, the interim dean for the Schedler Honors College, helped lead the effort to make the low-sensory room available for students visiting campus. “I attended the Bear Facts Day event in December of last year,” Smith said, “and based on

that experience, realized that the new pep rally format would not be a comfortable or welcoming environment to students with sensory processing issues. So I looked for a way we could include the students in the event while providing a sensory alternative.” The low-sensory room was first open for use during this year’s Bear Facts Day on Oct. 20, giving students the chance to occupy a quieter environment while still taking in the Farris Center festivities. The advocacy program also facilitates student interaction with Students Who Advocate for People, led by lecturer Cindy Lea, the coordinator of leadership and engagement for the Honors College. Lea helps lead the SWAP group as part of the Autism Advocacy Program. It meets twice a month in a lowsensory student lounge in Old Main room 28. SWAP is one of the many ways that students can use the Autism Advocacy Program to their advantage, giving them a chance to talk about their perspectives on campus. “Students are very busy.

So in our first year, we’ve been trying to find the right combination of meeting times and days to reach the most students,” Lea said. “I hope that for those who attend [meetings] they have felt reassured that people are listening and trying to give them a space to meet other people and not worry about being judged in some way.” Lea believes that students are the key for SWAP’s future growth. “I hope that the group will grow and become more independent and able to set their own goals and achieve them. Becoming more student-directed would be ideal,” Lea said. Only time will tell how successful the program will become, but coordinators are confident and have materials available to ensure that students with autism have resources at their disposal to make life at UCA more tailored to their needs. Students interested in learning more about the program can visit uca.edu/dst/ autism-advocacy-program.

Officer Taylor Berry made contact with a vehicle with fogged-up windows idling in the parking lot east of the Physical Plant Nov. 29. The owner of the vehicle, Jarvis Paylor, had five individuals in the back seat and one in the passenger seat. Once Berry made contact, he smelled a faint odor of marijuana coming from the inside of the vehicle. When Berry asked passengers if they had any marijuana, they denied it. Berry called for backup and Paylor stepped outside of the vehicle for questioning. Berry asked Paylor if he had any marijuana inside the vehicle. Paylor denied it and Berry conducted a probable cause search. Berry found a small plastic bag containing some marijuana. After further investigation, Berry located a blue pill shaped like an Autobot Transformer inside a sunglasses case in the driver’s side door which was later identified as ecstasy/MDMA. Paylor denied the pill was his, but was placed under arrest for Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Man hides marijuana Hit and run leaves near his genital area student with $2,500 in damage A traffic stop north of Robins Street on Davis was initiated Nov. 30 for nonstudent Corey Allen Jr. after officer Christopher Vasquez noticed him traveling at an accelerated speed down Torreyson Avenue. The car had expired tags and Allen was not wearing a seat belt. Upon contact with Allen, Vasquez noticed an odor of marijuana and asked for Allen’s driver’s license. The passenger in Allen’s car gave the officer a fake name when Vasquez asked for his information. Both men were asked to step outside of the vehicle and admitted to having just smoked marijuana when prompted by Vasquez. The passenger was identified as Deante Deshawn C. Smith when the officer located his ID under the seat. He was detained for intentional deceptive behavior. Allen was released, but Smith, who had an outstanding warrant, was transported to Faulkner County Detention Center Unit 2 for further processing. During transport, Smith revealed he did have marijuana on him. Vasquez located the marijuana in Smith’s genital area between his testicles and perineum.

Student Jamee Shores reported damage to her vehicle Nov. 29 while she was in class between 6 and 8:30 p.m. Shores was parked on an incline in the Bunker parking lot on Donaghey Avenue. When she returned to the parking lot, she found her car resting against a metal pole. She suggested the damage was caused by a blue vehicle because there was paint transfer on the scratch marks left on the back side of her car. The damage was contained to the front passenger side fender and the undercarriage of the vehicle. There were small scratches on the rear driver’s side, but Shores couldn’t tell if they were from before or after the accident. The damage was estimated at $2,500. Officer Jamie Boothe tried to review the camera footage, but was unable to access the cameras to obtain any additional information. The case has been marked inactive pending further development.

SGA: Representatives hear motivational speech. 4 Continued from page 1

Conference Championships and the postseason conference tournament,and the men’s cross country’s first-year win at the Southland Conference. Student Services program coordinator LaTonya Matheney gave a motivational speech at the beginning of the chambers meeting, encouraging the students to finish the semester

strong, though she did recognize the struggles of a typical college student. “Some of you are tired. Some of these teachers act like they are the only teacher you have. Some of you are working and going to school. Some of you are first-generation college students and there’s a whole lot of pressure for you to get this right. It’s only too late if you tell

yourself it’s too late,” Matheney said. “You’ve got literally two weeks left in your race. Now is not the time to buckle. Now is not the time to quit.” She ended her commentary by stating that every single person is struggling in their own way this semester, but what’s vital to remember is that we all can finish, and finish strong.

TECH TRAINING

Coding academy recruits new students with demo day by Taylor Sone Campus Life Editor

The Arkansas Coding Academy, a coding boot camp offering affordable job training for the ever-expanding tech industry, wrapped up a four-day demo starting course, beginning Nov. 27, and an open house event aimed at recruiting new students. The demo course touched on popular coding languages, including HTML, SQL and Java, and also went over the business aspects of coding, including back-end programming, business logic and data stores. Instructor Louis Frederick said the demo is a way for students to try courses before investing in enrollment. “We give people a little taste of the material,” Frederick said. Students transitioning from the demo class to enrollment choose between enrolling in part-time or full-time classes, pending a successful interview with instructors. Both classes cost $6,500, and costs include a laptop, books and software for the class. Frederick said many of the academy’s students enroll in the part-time classes, which last for six months and go from 6 to 8:30 p.m., and two Saturday classes a month. “Our students are usually pretty motivated,” Frederick

photo by Taylor Sone

The Arkansas Coding Academy, which recently hosted a demo day starting Nov. 27, offers training in coding, programming and app development, as well as certi ication in these subjects in three- to six-month programs.

said, noting that many are balancing their coursework with their jobs. ACA’s curriculum covers technical training necessary for seeking a job in the tech field. ACA director Mary Dunlap Condit said the ACA also has access to career services, ensuring they are competitive when seeking employment. “Our students have a Halfway Celebration networking event, go to on-site visits to tech companies to see where they might work in the future, [and] engage in mock interviews with local community members,” Condit said. “We also do a full career support package, including help with resumes and cover letters, how to efficiently look for jobs and how to network and make connections.”

ACA student Josiah Douglas, who received his certification in July 2018, said the skills and knowledge he learned at ACA gave him the means to be successful in the tech industry. “The most helpful skills I learned were how to think and how to learn. Learning the technical aspects of writing code was great, but even more valuable was learning how to think like a programmer, and how to work through complex problems,” Douglas said. “Technologies constantly go in and out of favor, and change constantly, but the skills to be able to think through problems logically don’t.” Condit said ACA already has students enrolled for all three upcoming courses beginning Jan. 19 of next year.

L I T E R A R Y I N S P I R AT I O N

Vortex organizes reading to encourage aspiring writers by Lauren McCabe Staff writer

Students who are passionate about analyzing literary ideas and writing their own poems, scripts and short stories shared their ideas at a public reading and discussion group hosted by the university’s literary magazine, the Vortex, Nov. 27. The Vortex produces a student-run blog, podcast and magazine, and strives to host at least one reading per semester in the Black Box Theater located in the Schichtl Studio Arts building. While these events encourage students to submit self-written pieces and receive feedback, they also give the Vortex staff a preview of what types of writing might be submitted for online and print editions of the vortex. “As the art editor for the Vortex, I don’t usually have much contact with the writing side of the publication, so it’s

always exciting for me to actually get to hear the writing pieces people have submitted,” senior Rachel Hunt said. “Plus, there’s something really soothing about being read to that I just adore. It’s a great event for me.” Selections read by fellow students included sections from books that inspired their creative thoughts and writing passions, such as excerpts from Stephen King’s “It” and Stan Lee’s Marvel Comics. “[Being inspired can come from] anything like poetry to a piece from a journal that is nonfiction or fiction,” said junior Vortex Editor-in-Chief Ashley Hunter. “It’s very fun to try your hand at different ways of storytelling.” Though the turnout was smaller than the Vortex staff expected, those who attended said they left with insights from fellow contemporary writers. “One of the great things about UCA’s writing department

is that there is always either a reading,an event or a visiting writer talking craft and sharing work throughout the semester,” senior Ricky Rivera said. “There’s never a lack of inspiration or advice.” The students shared a common interest in exploring others’ ideas and perhaps receiving a much-needed push in confidence to publish their own pieces, knowing that they have supporters rallying behind them. Rivera encourages those who want feedback and an opportunity to have their work published to consider the Vortex as one of their outlets. “Submitting to the Vortex can be an invaluable writing tool because even if your piece doesn’t make it in the first time, getting your work out there and getting feedback from a real publication is a great first step on the road to becoming a writer,” Rivera said.

Campus Life December 5, 2018

Around Campus: Polar Express Volunteering The Conway Human Development Center will present their annual Polar Express event from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 5-6. CHDC needs help bringing their scene to life and tearing down props. This event is aimed at children in special education, Pre-K, homeschool programs, foster care and CHDC residency. For more information, contact Elizabeth Molica at elizabeth. molica@dhs.arkansas.gov or at (501) 329-6851.

Game Changers Scott Coffey, the president and CEO of Exchange Capital, will present Startup Stories at 11 a.m. Dec. 5 at UCA Makerspace. Coffey will share his experiences as an entrepreneur in Arkansas and answer audience questions. This is a networking opportunity for all UCA students. Lunch will be provided. For more information, visit arconductor.org/gamechangers/.

First Friday Coffee The UCA Women’s Leadership Network will host its final First Friday Coffee event for the semester from 9-10 a.m. Dec. 7 at UCA Downtown. The event is part of the organization’s endeavor to cultivate support and unity among women. For more information, contact Mary Grace Young at myoung17@cub.uca.edu or RSVP at uca.edu/outreach/ women/.

Doomsday escape room tests students’ deduction by Emily Gist Opinion Editor

The double doors to the Student Center Ballroom opened and a group of six female students ran into the room. The sound of a false Amber Alert nearly drowned out the women yelling as they ran to the far-right corner of the room, where an escape room was set up. Harsh red lights illuminated the otherwise dark ballroom area. The group immediately surrounded a replica of the Oval Office in the White House, a replica of the president’s “nuclear football” at the end. Books were strewn about the table. A picture of a man in a tux stood at the edge. Two television screens surrounded the table: one pressed against the right wall with text on its screen and the other on the wall perpendicular, inset within a cabinet, with a picture of an airplane on its screen. The women yelled numbers and words at each other over the siren. One woman fiddled with the padlock at the side of the cabinet. One scoured a book. Another joggled the padlock in the center cabinet. Eventually, the group was drawn under the desk. One woman called out numbers on a bright red telephone while another opened a desk drawer. The group eventually found a red key and fiddled with the lock on the football. The clock stopped with five minutes and fifty three seconds to spare. The group, who named themselves “Sugar Mammas” escaped the Doomsday-themed escape room hosted by SAB in four minutes and seven seconds. This, however, was only one of a little over a dozen groups that attempted and successfully

photo by Emily Gist

Senior Carrigan Goad fumbles to turn the red key into the fake “football” key slot to stop the timer and escape the room while her groupmates, senior Elizabeth Watkins, senior Kailan Johnson, sophomore Madison Butler and senior Jayla Bright encourage her. The Doomsday-themed escape room was hosted by the Student Activities Board Nov. 29 in the Student Center Ballroom.

minutes and 20 seconds, three group members described the experience. “Oh my god, my blood pressure went up,” freshman Karrenna Silva said after her group’s run. “You’ve gotta rush and then you’ve got a certain time and you’re being competitive.” Silva later commented on the atmosphere. “It sounded like the purge,” she said. Sophomore Jasmyn Caldwell said she had participated in an escape room before, but the one hosted at the Student Center was much shorter. “The other one, it took like an hour. [This one] didn’t

completed the escape room Nov. 29. As the group exited, they met a line reaching far back into the hallway. Just outside the doors, a member of SAB sat in front of a whiteboard taking note of each group’s names and times. SGA, a group made up Student Government Association members, were the fastest group to escape at two minutes and 32 seconds. The escape room host gave the next team hints and the general rules, the doors opened again and “Bebe’s Kids” ran in. After them was a group who named themselves, “Pimps@ UCA.” After escaping in four

UCA music students impress during SoundScape Extravaganza by Marcus McClain Assistant Sports Editor

The Conway Symphony Orchestra will have a concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8 at Reynold’s Performance Hall. The Classic Christmas Concert will include choreographed performances from the Arkansas Festival Ballet to traditional music. Tickets are available at the Reynold’s Performance Hall Box Office or at tickets.uca.edu.

Celtic Angels Christmas

“Jingle Bells Batman Smells” “Junie B. Jones Jingle Bells Batman Smells” will be performed at 6 p.m. Dec. 18 in Reynold’s Performance Hall. The play is adapted from a book in the Junie B. Jones series by author Barbara Park. When Junie B. pulls her nemesis May’s name during a Secret Santa Gift Exchange, she has to choose between being nice and being naughty. Tickets are available at the Reynold’s Performance Hall Box Office and at tickets.uca.edu. For more information, contact Reynolds director Amanda Horton at ahorton@uca.edu.

But The Mime, which is a group that hosts events at college campuses. These events can include anything from juggling to bounce houses. Orozco said, however, if SAB were to host another escape room, the room would have a different theme to add variety to SAB events. Before the room opened to students, Orozco said SAB worked as their own group and completed the room themselves. “It was very interactive. It was very hectic. You had to go against the clock and find where you were,” Orozco said. “There were so many clues throwing you off. They were just there to distract you.”

ROCKING REYNOLDS

Classic Christmas Concert

The Celtic Angels will perform at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12 at Reynold’s Performance Hall. The Trinity Band Ensemble of Dublin will perform a variety of songs, accompanied by the Celtic Knight Dancer’s choreography. Ticket proceeds will benefit Reynold’s Main Stage Education Series. For more information, call UCA Reynold’s Box Office at (501) 450-3265 or buy tickets online at tickets.uca.edu.

take as long. There wasn’t too much to be looking for since everything was in the same area,” Caldwell said. The host explained to each group that everything in this escape room was in plain sight, but some hints could only be seen using a blacklight. Pimps@ UCA had been the only group to find the blacklight hidden in the coat rack. The escape room was hosted by SAB. Junior SAB Vice President Karen Orozco said SAB set up a survey the previous semester to see if students would be interested in an escape room at UCA. She said SAB worked with a company named Everything

photo by Marcus McClain

Brad Richter performs at the SoundScape Extravaganza Nov. 29 in Reynolds Performance Hall. Crawford was the only complete solo performance of the night.

The UCA Music Department provided a night filled with diverse musical talent at 7:30 p.m Nov. 29 in Reynolds Performance Hall with the SoundScape Extravaganza. The concert featured performances from students and faculty including the Saxophone, Wind and Trombone Ensembles, along with many more bands. The event was hosted by KARK news anchor Mallory Brooks. The show was opened by the Peak Brass Ensemble, directed by senior Jacob Waymon, which set the tone for what turned out to be an exceptional show. Transitions between each performance were effortless and never took attention away from any of the performances. The Wind Ensemble was one of the standout acts of the night, performing both “Symphony in B-flat” by German composer Paul Hindemith and an excerpt from “Lincoln Portrait” by American composer Aaron Copland.

Both pieces were directed by director of bands, music professor Ricky Brooks, with the latter being a tribute to Abraham Lincoln and narrated by fiscal and outreach coordinator at UCA’s Community School of Music Ronald Jensen-McDaniel. Mason Crawford from the guitar studio of professor Smokey Emerson also stood as one of the most memorable performances of the night. Crawford presented “Musing,” a soothing guitar solo by classical guitarist and composer Brad Richter. The piece provided a relaxing and calming element to the show, which fit perfectly into a mostly uptempo concert. The UCA Bear Marching Band supplied unity and UCA spirit in its closing act of the show, performing a host of pieces, including UCA’s Fight Song and Alma Mater. “The band practiced specifically for this for several days throughout the semester for this performance,” sophomore flutist McKenzie Kelly said. “We try to strive for perfection, so I think the show

was a huge success. We were really able to show people what the band is all about.” Aside from her band’s performance, Kelly acknowledged the Wind Ensemble for their performance. “They were probably my favorite performance,” Kelly said. “They’re extremely talented and played some amazing music.” The extravaganza was sponsored by the UCA Friends of Music, a group of alumni whose donations support instrument and equipment maintenance, as well as student travel for the music program. The concert was free to the public and definitely worth the wait as one of the final Music Department performances of the semester. The next scheduled performances by the Music Department are Dec. 6 in the Snow Fine Arts Performance Hall as Natural Slides performs and Dec. 7 as senior Blake Hanson displays his talents on the French horn for his senior recital.

D OW N TOW N D I S C U S S I O N

Science Wednesday explores nature of human sensory experiences by Ryan Bradford Staff Writer

UCA’s Science Wednesday met for its last event of the year at Kings Live Music in a discussion of the senses. The discussion focused particularly on the parts of the body that relay everything from sight to heat to the brain. The panel was made up of three UCA professors: chemistry professor Lori Isom, assistant professor of biology Amrita Puri and physics and astronomy professor Will Slaton. The event was packed with few places to sit. The talk was moderated by Lucas Ratz, a UCA alumnus who studied biology. First, people asked about

the possibility of a sixth sense as well as precognition. The panel said there is a lack of scientific proof in both cases. Another person asked why we are supposed to run cold water on cold hands. Isom explained how when heat is applied to cold hands it causes them to go numb as hot water forces the heat senses open. On the other hand, if you use cold water it will slowly close the cold senses instead. “[Humans] are built to notice changes and contrast,” Puri said. The next question was based on an anecdote where people on a beach couldn’t see a ship in the distance until they noticed the people arriving on the shore; the audience members asked why they didn’t notice the ship before.

Puri explained how ambiguity in the environment can affect how we perceive objects until our other senses help us put the pieces together. She gave the example of a man mistaking his wife for a hat until he heard her voice and recognized her. Someone asked if women have senses besides sight that are better than men. The panel said that the only advantage in sight they have heard women have over men is in regard to color. Isom talked about changes women go through during pregnancy and how various senses can be heightened at that time. Another audience member questioned if twins could feel each others’ pain. Isom talked about mirror neurons — recently discovered

neurons that activate both when performing and viewing an action. Slaton didn’t buy the twins’ story, raising an objection that if this were a real phenomenon, the hypothetical twins would feel each other’s pain all the time. Finally, audience members questioned the existence of synthesia: the phenomenon where people’s senses intermingle, allowing them to hear color or see sound. Puri said that there is evidence it exists “as far as we can tell experientially.” Ashley Hicks, a visiting lecturer in physics and astronomy at UCA, picks the Science Wednesday topics based on relevance and students’ requests. Senses was picked for November because of Thanksgiving, Hicks explained.

“We do a lot of feasting and we had already done food,” Hicks said. Hicks was proud of the large turnout, especially for November. She was also glad to start seeing a bigger student turnout at the events. Senior Gene Austin, a particularly enthusiastic attendee, said he loves Science Wednesday. He said he always makes sure to ask at least one question no matter what it is, noting that his philosophy is, “[T]here are no stupid questions.” Austin also applauded the panelists for working hard to answer his question no matter how ridiculous they were. The next Science Wednesday will discuss the science of dreams Jan. 30 of next year.

CAMPUS LIFE

Cooking class teaches young chefs philanthropy by Rose McGarrity Staff Writer

Young chefs ages 7-12 participated in the charity event “Cubs in the Kitchen: Cooking for a Cause,” a cooking class at 9:30 a.m. Dec. 1 at UCA Downtown. The class offered a hands-on cooking experience where students prepared food to donate to Bethlehem House, an organization that houses homeless people and equips them to get back on their feet. Class participants donated toys to the City of Hope Outreach — an organization that offers resources, such as tutoring, to Conway residents in need. These toys will be donated to people who are unable to give their children gifts they would adore.

Class instructor Tiffany Block teaches other UCA Outreach classes besides “Cubs in the Kitchen: Cooking for a Cause,” and has owned a restaurant in Conway called Tiffany’s Soul Food and More. “Know that you are important and making a difference,” Block told the young chefs. “As you are opening up the Christmas gifts, I want you to think about other people,” Block said. By donating toys and their time for this class, the students learned the importance of helping others. Block said she hopes her students will remember this lesson during the holidays. The holiday music playing in the background established an upbeat atmosphere while the students cooked. The

students made spaghetti with meat sauce, bread, salad and cupcakes. Students prepared mounds of food so there would be enough to donate to Bethlehem House. The food was served to residents for dinner that Saturday night. Student workers for UCA Outreach, including Mary Grace Young, aided the kids while they cooked. “My favorite thing about the downtown cooking classes is the kids’ classes because they are so much more hands-on for me. The adult classes are fun too, but I don’t get to do as much hands-on stuff,” Young said. The young students cooked from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Around 10:45 a.m., representatives from COHO and Bethlehem House arrived to speak to the students while the students and organizations gathered and

STUDENTS SAY

ate a portion of the students’ prepared meal. Case manager of Bethlehem House Mike King and Hope Home Director from COHO Derrick Marshall gave short informative speeches at the event. Both men explained the mission of their respective organizations to the students, after which the students were invited to ask questions. The class required a $35 participation fee per child. Block has taught other cooking classes for young kids. She said that many of the students at her “Cubs in the Kitchen: Cooking for a Cause” class have attended her previous classes. This class is one of UCA’s many Outreach classes, which offer other nonculinary courses. The list of all available classes can be found at uca.edu/outreach/classes/.

SEASONAL SERENADE

photo by Cassidy Kendall

Dean Martin, impersonator in Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack experience, sings Christmas songs in between jokes and sips of what looked to be a cocktail. The performance, themed “Someday at Christmas,” was Dec. 1 in Reynolds Performance Hall.

December 5, 2018 /4

“

Do you think UCA should diversify the

holidays it celebrates?

“

ucanews.live

story by Jessica Huffmaster photos by Lauren Swaim

Freshman Cory Tessman

Junior Ky Sanders

“I don’t really think so. I like that it’s happy holidays that makes us feel together.”

“Yes, because we should make everyone feel welcome. Some people come from far away and you want to make them feel comfortable.”

Senior Gary Henderson Jr.

Senior Moesha Livingston

“Yes. People like foreign exchange and international students would really benefit from something that can remind them of home.”

“Yes. They’re all important for different reasons. We didn’t do much for Thanksgiving. We had Christmas decorations up before Thanksgiving.”

Freshman Rebekah Harpool

Senior Jason Steele

“Yes. We have a very diverse student base and it would be considerate to celebrate all holidays and make students feel involved.”

“I would be okay with not decorating for the holidays. They could use the money they put toward decorating toward better uses.”

Rat Pack impersonators channel holiday spirit at Reynolds by Cassidy Kendall Associate Editor

Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack kicked off the holiday season for Reynolds Performance Hall, performing its show “Someday at Christmas” Dec. 1. This modern-day Rat Pack keeps the original musical group’s legacy alive through impersonations of its members: Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Joey Bishop, striving to deliver the “real” Rat Pack experience. The night began with black-and-white clips featuring the original Rat Pack playing

on a screen across the stage, concluding with the screen rising to reveal the four impersonators on a stage decorated with wrapped presents and a large Christmas tree. The men took turns with their time on the stage, each casually singing a mix of timeless Christmas songs with classic everyday songs, and rattling off many jokes in between songs. Inapt jokes received nervous laughs from the audience, but some classic jokes were met with bellows. The performance included many Rat Pack insider jokes threaded throughout, making this a performance enjoyable for

Rat Pack aficionados and making it more about the Rat Pack than the holiday season. Attendee Donna Richardson said she enjoyed the performance. “I like everything about those times and those days [the 1960s],” Richardson said. “Being there [in the 1960s] when you’re young is fun, but being here when you’re older is sweeter and nostalgic.” Attendee Erin Ryman said, “I didn’t grow up in [the 1960s], but I loved Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Joey Bishop as a kid.” However, Ryman said, in reference to the performance, she felt like the impersonators were over-portraying the characters at

times. However, attendee Matt Monia said he felt like the impersonators were “nailing” the characters. Monia compared his experience at Rat Pack Christmas to previous Reynolds’ events Buddy Guy and “Saturday Night Fever.” Reynolds Performance Hall will hold two more events during the holiday season: Celtic Angels Christmas Dec. 12 and “Junie B. Jones Jingle Bells Batman Smells” Dec. 18 and 19. For more information, visit uca.edu/ publicappearances/2018-2019season/.

SPOTLIGHT

PEOPLE OF UCA Michael Gates by DJ Jones Staff Writer

photo by Lauren Swaim

Sophomore Michael Gates knew since high school that he wanted to be in a fraternity. This fall, he chose to join Phi Beta Sigma fraternity.

Sophomore Michael Gates of Blytheville is majoring in business management with plans to start his own business in the future. Gates said when he’s not in class or studying, he likes to spend his free time hanging out with friends and family. Gates is a member of the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, which he joined this fall. “Ever since I was in high school I always had plans [of] going to college and joining a fraternity. I just didn’t know which one was right for me. I joined this fraternity because my personality fits very well with everything that Phi Beta Sigma stands for,” Gates said. He said he made his decision after giving it months of thought, but he knows he definitely made the right decision. Gates said being in a fraternity meant so much to him for a number of reasons. “Most people think fraternities are only important for your social life, such as being cool or well-known around campus, or even just the partying. But to me it means much more than that,” Gates said. “The most important perk of it is the lifetime brotherhood that

you’ll have with your brothers.” During his freshman year, Gates decided he was going to major in physical therapy, but later changed to a major in the business field. “After being involved in sports my whole life, especially in high school, I always thought I would want to see myself staying close to it,” Gates said. “But I realized I could make much more money doing something else, so I decided to move on to the business field.” Gates has not decided exactly what kind of business he wants to invest in, but whatever he chooses, he wants his major to lead to a career that helps benefit others. “I want to move to a bigger city and be able to build something from the ground up that would benefit the world in the best way possible. Whether it’s helping out communities or giving jobs to others,” Gates said. Gates is looking forward to finding out what the future holds for him at UCA. He wants to continue to help his fraternity and work for the community. “As I get older, I realize that helping others is more important than having everything to myself. I feel like that’s a big part of everyone’s life.”

Opinion

ucaechoeditor@gmail.com

December 5, 2018

SENIOR C OLUMNS

The Echo Staff Sophia Ordaz

Six key elements I’ve taken away from UCA

My three and a half years at UCA have given me many good memories, with a healthy mix of bad too; but ultimately my experience has given me six key elements that will be defining factors in my life. UCA has given me many friendships that I will cherish forever. I found these friendships in roommates, hallmates, classmates, professors, coworkers and service workers. The love and companionship of these friendships got me through difficult days and made good days better, even if my friends didn’t realize their impact. I am sad to leave them behind, but will carry their love and memories with me as I begin my next chapter. UCA has given me the skill of persistence to achieve success. When I was a freshman, it was fun to pull all-nighters in the “lib” with my friends during finals week. However, as time went on, studying for finals turned into solo all-nighters and all-dayers, during which I tried not to have a breakdown as I studied pages of notes and filled multiple dry erase board walls with test material. My grades mattered more to me in college than ever before, and I learned how to dedicate one week of misery to my transcript twice a year. And looking back now, my success was 100 percent worth the persistence. UCA has given me an open-mindedness that I previously lacked, having grown up in a small Southern town slammed on the right side of the political spectrum. UCA leveled out my political views, which I am grateful to take away from college. I’ve learned to lighten up, determine what is right and stand up for that. I’ve also learned to respect people with differing political opinions.

Editor

Cassidy Kendall Associate Editor

Marley Cash-Powell News Editor

Caela Rist

Assistant News Editor

Taylor Sone

Campus Life Editor

Jessica Huffmaster

Assistant Campus Life Editor

Emily Gist

UCA has given me the resources charming community, outside of solely needed to get a grip on the depression I UCA’s community. It took some time, but had been unknowingly harboring for most it eventually became a home I knew well. I of my young adult life. My perspective am sad to be leaving, but I will be back. and lifestyle improved when I was Finally, UCA has given me recommended to the Counseling journalism.There isn’t a more Center my sophomore year. If intriguing time to fall in love with it weren’t for this resource, this ethical reporting of the world mental illness would continue than in 2018. Jackie Kennedy said to conquer me daily. I’ve being a reporter seemed to be learned to not be ashamed a ticket out to the world. I hope to seek help when I need it, my next chapter brings me to especially when it offers me genuine and meaningful the possibility to better work. myself. The gift of journalism UCA has given me goes hand in hand with by Cassidy Kendall the opportunity to UCA’s gift of The Echo. find a new home in The Echo has given me Associate Editor Conway after leaving the basis of my career in the place where I journalism — in addition grew up — Camden, Arkansas — where to a lot of great memories with a lot of great I felt like I didn’t have a home anywhere. people — and has ultimately prepared me I have enjoyed being part of the town’s for what is to come.

Opinion Editor

Sarah Kapity

Entertainment Editor

Cody Macomber Sports Editor

Marcus McClain Assistant Sports Editor

Caroline Bivens Online Editor

Aysha Dixon

Social Media Editor

Lauren Swaim Photo Editor

How despising sports led to a journalism degree Organizations, mentors shaped my whole life I never liked sports growing up. I remember captions were easy, but walking up to a total at summer camp while the other kids were stranger and talking to them was difficult. In out playing kickball or volleyball, I’d be taking general, I think of myself as an introvert, unless pictures of the other kids and the landscape I’m comfortable with the people around me. If and the scenery — anything that caught my eye. I’m with someone I don’t know or someone who During a week-long camp session, I probably I’m not close to, I will sit and look at my phone went through three or four disposable cameras, or, if I’m lucky, read manga that happened to be if I even had that many. Later in middle school, I in my purse. joined the yearbook committee for the excuse to Looking back, I wasn’t the only person bring my camera to school. My hobby became who felt this way. After becoming Photography more serious in high school when I took Editor for The Echo, many of the staff photography classes and majored in photographers told me they felt art photography at UCA. uncomfortable approaching people. After moving into the dorms Over the years, I’ve gotten better at during Welcome Week of freshman talking to people because it’s not as year, the Student Orientation big of a deal anymore. But every so Staff held its annual Battle of the often, I get a rush of fear before I Halls at the intramural field. I walk up to someone. In the end, I preferred not to participate always go up to them because not in the sporting spectacle, only is it my job, it proves that I so I decided to go out have confidence. and take photos for fun. This boost of courage I remember going off to went beyond obtaining the side of the field to get a information for captions. It by Lauren Swaim wide view shot. There was went with me as I stood on Photo Editor another photographer the steps of the Little Rock there and, looking back, Capitol at a National Socialist I assume he was one Movement rally; as I walked of UCA’s photographers. He asked me which up the aisles at a Fall Out Boy concert while flames publication I worked for, and I told him I was just were shooting out of Pete Wentz’s guitar; and taking photos for fun. After taking pictures for a when I was standing in the press box at a rally for minute or so, he turned to leave. Before he left, then-presidential candidate Donald Trump, who he told me, “You know, the college newspaper told the crowd that journalists were a part of the is hiring photographers, if you’re interested.” fake news media. The next day, I walked into The Echo newsroom This confidence has also helped me in my in Stanley Russ Hall and was hired as a staff life outside of photography and journalism. It’s photographer before the semester had even inspired me to finally get that tattoo I wanted, started. even though some family members disapproved So, in a roundabout way, you could say my and it’s inspired me to leave college behind and dislike for physical activity is what brought me to face the world of adulthood. I’m going to miss The Echo and introduced me to what would later The Echo for all the friendships I’ve made, the be my second major: journalism. adventures we’ve been on and the many jokes As a photographer, one of my responsibilities about how to correctly spell “Ida Waldran.” I know was to get the names and classifications of that after I leave, the newspaper will continue to people I photographed, then write captions for shape the next generation of journalists, just like each photo. Taking the photos and writing the it shaped me.

As my last semester at the University of admiration for my thesis mentor, philosophy Central Arkansas comes to a close, I have professor Charles Harvey. Thank you for putting contemplated all of the amazing organizations up with me for the duration of my thesis; not and mentors that I have been blessed with over only did you challenge my writing and the way the course of the past three years. When I came I think, but you always listened whenever I to UCA as a freshman in August 2015, I had no needed advice or just needed to rant. I could not idea about the challenges that I would face and have made it to this point without you. the person that I would become. Last, but by no means least, thank you to I first want to thank the Bear Marching Honors professor Allison Wallace for seeing Band colorguard for giving me my first family. something in me when I couldn’t see it for I made my first friends in college through myself. You never stop pushing me, and I the colorguard, and I am blessed to still have learned so much from you as your call many of them my best friends to pedagogical associate this semester. this day. I was fortunate to serve as a Without you, I never would have section leader during my last season, been brave enough to do something and it taught me many things about as crazy as camping in Maine for a who I am and what it truly means to week with 20 strangers. be a leader. Everyone warns you that college I also want to thank the Schedler is one of the hardest things you ever Honors College for taking a do. They also tell you that you will chance on me and seeing have the best experiences of my potential when I your entire life. struggled to see it in There were days and myself. I truly believe nights where I wanted to that the Honors College drop out, and there were by Jessica Huffmaster has shaped me into the times when I didn’t even Assistant Campus Life Editor best version of myself and know if I could survive to has given me confidence in the next day. I have never my abilities that I did not struggled so much in my originally posess. entire life, and never asked myself so many My deepest gratitude goes to my sisters in times if I was doing the right thing. Sigma Alpha Iota who never stopped supporting Now that I am sitting here, writing this me. This organization surrounded me with article exactly two weeks before I walk across the some of the strongest, most dedicated and stage and receive my Bachelor of Arts in English, talented women that I have ever met. They I have never been more thankful for everything inspired me on a daily basis to never give up, that I’ve been through in my time at UCA. and always reminded me that there were people It is true that college is not for everyone. in my corner. However, I know that I would not be happy Lastly, I want to thank The Echo for with my life if I had not come to UCA. I have taking a chance on me — an English major done things that I never thought I would do with no journalism experience. I had never in a million years and met some of the most done anything like this previously and it important people in my life, and I would not was such an illuminating experience. I truly change a single thing. believe that it has broadened my horizons for If I had to give advice to anyone struggling future opportunities. A special thank you to and asking themselves if college is worth it, I Lauren Swaim for taking the time to teach me would tell them to just hang in there. You came photography and showing me that it’s never too here in the first place for a reason. If you give up, late to try new things. you might miss out on the opportunities and I have the deepest appreciation and growth that reason is leading you toward.

Letter to the Editor by Stephen P. Cohen The Caroline Bivens editorial about classroom discussion in the Nov. 28 edition of the Echo is troubling. Two issues, among others, reflect an attitude that constrains learning. 1. Her stated goal is to be prepared for the test. Shouldn’t it be to become educated? “I’m paying tuition so my professor can teach me about class topics that we will be tested on,” Bivens said. Ms. Bivens must not have been thoroughly tested on the presence of a preposition at the end of a sentence. This shortsighted view would result either in enormous tests or grossly constrained course syllabi. “I don’t want to take a test over something I had to teach myself,” Bivens said. Heaven forbid that she might have to learn something on her own. “I attend class,” Bivens said, “so I can be better prepared for a test.”

It is troubling that the writer believes the test to be an end rather than a measure of another end. Does she actually believe there is nothing beyond the test to be learned? Instead, her end should be plural, e.g. “goals.” They should include: • Becoming educated • Learning how to learn • Questioning the material • Debating the subject material. • Offering and receiving different points of view 2. Bivens voiced her disdain for classroom discussion. “I’m not paying tuition to hear my classmates give their opinions on current events or social issues,” Bivens said. She later admits that class discussions are important but not test-worthy. This insults fellow classmates. How dare she denigrate the contributions of other’s life experiences? Does Ms. Bivens ascribe zero value to her

own opinions? If so, then why does she spew her worthless drivel in an editorial to be presented to an entire student body? The Arkansas legislature is aware that our state ranks last in per capita college degrees. To this end, it enacted a program whereby citizens aged 60 and above are encouraged to attend college. I learned this outside of class, on my own, from a newspaper editorial, and have not been tested on it. One reason is to increase the number of folks having attended a public institution of higher learning. The hope is, of course, that it increases their level of education — tests notwithstanding. Another reason is to inject the life experiences of these older, nontraditional Arkansas students directly into the classroom. Why? This injection is to enhance the classroom experience. I am one of these older students. It has been my experience that there are worthy points of view not being discussed in class because young students lack a basis for considering

them — they’ve not yet encountered them. Yet, Ms. Bivens would marginalize these broader views because they might not be test-worthy, nevermind that they might give her a better understanding of the material. I have also observed that many young students rarely question the material or the professor. Do they also believe everything they read in the newspapers and Facebook? Can they differentiate journalism from commentary? Or are they among the lemmings just following the crowd? Ms. Bivens has illuminated the shortcomings of a highly entitled student victimized by the idea that she is not responsible for her education. She prefers to be spoon-fed and that she be limited to learning only that on which she is to be tested. She faults the teacher for her inept learning skills. She would prefer not to benefit from second- and thirdhand learning opportunities. Worst of all, she would impose her limited view on others.

Have an opinion? Everyone does. Write a letter to the editor at ucaechoeditor@gmail.com Letters to the editor don’t just have to be about Echo content. If you’ve noticed something on campus that’s positive or negative, we want to hear about it. The Echo is printed weekly by Leader Publishing. Decisions about content are made by the student editors. The views published are not necessarily those of the University of Central Arkansas. All material is subject to respective copyrights.

Entertainment

December 5, 2018

New This Week

Coen Brothers create artful, unconventional old Western by Taylor Sone

Movies

Campus Life Editor

Dec. 7 — Ben Is Back (R), directed by Peter Hedges, starring Julia Roberts, Lucas Hedges, Courtney B. Vance, Kathryn Newton Dec. 7 — Central Park (R), directed by Justin Reinsilber, starring Grace Van Patten, Ruby Modine, Marina Squerciati, Michael Lombardi Dec. 7 — The Great Pretender (UR), directed by Nathan Silver, starring Esther Garrel, Maelle PoesyGuichard, Keith Poulson, Linas Phillips Dec. 7 — Mary Queen of Scots (R), directed by Josie Rourke, starring Saoirse Ronan, Margot Robbie, Jack Lowden, Joe Alwyn Dec. 7 — Tyril (UR), directed by Sebastian Silva, starring Christopher Abbott, Trust Arancio, Nicolas Arze, Max Born Dec. 7 — Vox Lux (R), directed by Brady Corbet, starring Natalie Portman, Jude Law, Raffey Cassidy, Christopher Abbott Dec. 14 — Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (PG), directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney Rothman, starring Hailee Steinfelf, Zoe Kravitz, Chris Pine, Nicolas Cage

Music Dec. 7 — Superfecta — 7Horse Dec. 7 — Ticket to LA — Brett Young Dec. 7 — Evil Genius — Gucci Mane Dec. 7 — Everythang’s Corrupt — Ice Cube Dec. 7 — The Prophet Speaks — Van Morrison Dec. 7 — Puff O’Giglo — XXL

“I reckon that’s just the human material,” is the conclusion the titular protagonist of the Coen Brothers’ newest film reaches during an opening monologue on the shortcomings of humankind. It is a quirky, philosophical statement that runs through all six vignettes that make up “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs,” the Coens’ beautifully crafted, darkly hilarious and sometimes profoundly moving film, now streaming on Netflix. Tim Blake Nelson, famous for portraying Delmar in the Coens’ 2000 film “O Brother, Where Art Thou?,” plays Buster, a gunslinger known throughout the West for his sonorous voice and skill with a pistol. Nelson’s character is most directly influenced by golden age Hollywood Westerns, and this utilization of pastiche is deployed to various degrees in every other vignette as well. Buster’s musical story — with songs performed by Nelson and Willie Watson, of Old Crow Medicine Show fame, who plays a rival gunslinger — occupies the first 20-something minutes of the film, with a twist at the end

Hulu Dec. 7 — Killers (PG-13), directed by Robert Luketic, starring Katherine Heigl, Ashton Kutcher, Tom Selleck

Dec. 7 — Why Did I Get Married Too? (PG-13), directed by Tyler Perry, starring Janet Jackson, Tyler Perry, Jill Scott Dec. 10 — Graves (TV-MA), directed by Joshua Michael Stern, starring Nick Nolte, Skylar Astin, Helene Yorke Dec. 11 — Say You Will (R), directed by Nick Naveda, starring Travis Tope, Katherine Hughes, Israel Broussard

Five Movies to Watch This Christmas List compiled by Lauren Swaim Photo Editor

best embodied by the proverb, “Pride cometh before a fall.” Most notably in the Buster tale, the film expands on the aesthetic that had mixed success in Coens’ “Hail, Caesar!,” but by dialing down the level of affectation, “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs” is more balanced and palatable, though still delightfully weird. It successfully avoids the overpowering cynicism and biting satire of other Coen works, like “Barton Fink” and “The Ladykillers” which, regardless of their merits, are just unpleasant to watch.

It should come as no surprise that “Buster” is the culmination of a 15-year process of slowly piecing together stories. The film is full of thoughtful considerations of mise en scene and excellent storytelling choices. The Coen brothers used a book as a framing device to direct the audience from one story to the next. The framing device also uses a method for foreshadowing: An illustration in the book with accompanying caption hints at a motif, plot twist or piece of imagery contained in the

following story. I would be willing to stake that the early drafts of “Buster” had to have informed the Coens’ Oscar-nominated 2010 remake of “True Grit.” It immediately becomes apparent that both share a dialogue that diverts from presumptions of 19th-century frontier illiteracy and adopts the hypothesis that many were exposed to and informed by the ornate literature of the King James Bible; this exposure is reflected to various degrees in the speech of many characters, from bank

S AV I N G C H R I S T M A S

ADRENALINE JUNKIE

Netflix Original emphasizes sibling love, cooperation ‘Death By Magic’ stuns audience by Cassidy Kendall Associate Editor

Netflix Original “The Christmas Chronicles” is the feel-good Christmas movie of 2018, providing genuine laughs, and maybe even some tears, to viewers of all ages. “The Christmas Chronicles,” released Nov. 22, features Kurt Russell as a suave Santa Claus that doesn’t succumb to the common Santa stereotypes like belting “ho ho ho” or being fat as a result of eating Christmas cookies — yet he is known to quote classic Christmas songs in regular conversation. Casting Russell as Santa Claus was a stroke of genius because of his hilarious and gruff personality; he’s comparable to Tim Allen in “The Santa Clause,” minus the identity crisis. “The Christma Chronicles’” story initially revolves around the Pierce family — Claire (Kimberly Williams-Paisley), her teenage son Teddy (Judah Lewis) and youngest daughter

Dec. 7 — Skins — XXXTentacion

Dec. 11 — Meth Lab II: The Lithium — Method Man

photo courtesy of time.com

Tim Blake Nelson, who plays Buster Scruggs, holds up a “wanted” sign of himself. He is called “the misanthrope” because of his supposed hatred of humankind.

tellers and businessmen to prospectors and outlaws. Each vignette deploys tropes that are associated with the Western, but each retains an individuality that is particular to itself. The chapter “All Gold Canyon,” starring Tom Waits as an aged prospector and based on a Jack London short story, examines the subgenre of the gold rush fable. The chapter “The Mortal Remains” dips into the supernatural, and resembles a “Twilight Zone” episode as much as it does the 1939 film “Stagecoach.” “I think what’s astonishing about [‘The Ballad of Buster Scruggs’] is that it’s six different movies within the Western genre, but then each one is in the vernacular of a subgenre in and of itself,” Nelson said of the film during a panel discussion at the 56th New York Film Festival. With a star-studded cast, fantastic costumes, gorgeous harsh landscapes and introspective and hilarious dialogue, “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs” is without a doubt one of the best films available on Netflix. It’s entertainment with a soul; a Wild West romp that explores the human condition in the face of an unforgiving world.

Kate (Darby Camp) — celebrating Christmas for the first time without their father (Oliver Hudson) who died fighting a fire the previous year. Since their father’s death, Teddy has begun to act out and Kate, remaining innocent, just wants her brother’s affection and for things to “be like they were before.” The story temporarily changes when the siblings find themselves on Christmas Eve, working together due to a blackmailing scheme, to catch Santa Claus in their living room on videotape. When Santa is discovered, Kate and Teddy sneak onto his sleigh, inevitably spooking him mid-flight and causing a crash and the loss of Santa’s magic reindeer, hat and toy sack. Santa, Teddy and Kate then begin a night of adventure in Chicago, searching for these three lost items that are essential to the delivery of Christmas to the world. As the movie progresses, so does Teddy’s enthusiasm for Christmas and love for his

sister, but the two still have to overcome many hardships to see the night through. Although this is a movie about Santa Claus and his magic, don’t let that deter you if you consider yourself a mature viewer. The movie maintains excitement with thrilling scenes of a sleigh crash, multiple car thefts, a high-speed chase, a memorable musical number in a jail cell and a kidnapping resulting in a death threat. The movie already plays like a classic, but is almost comically modern when featuring references to the popular Christmas toy, Elf on the Shelf, “Stranger Things,” that one undeniably recognizable girl from Degrassi (Lauren Collins), as well as talk of “fake news.” “The Christmas Chronicles” is currently streaming on Netflix with a 7.4/10 rating on IMDb, a 66 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a 3/5 rating on Empire and a 100 percent approval rating from Cassidy Kendall.

CHEER

Billie Eilish puts her own spin on Christmas music

by Rose McGarrity Staff Writer

Billie Eilish’s “Come out and Play” is different than most songs on the radio today, which are mostly comprised of rap and very upbeat bops. Eilish’s vibe, however, is a darker and more emotional version of a pop song. When I first heard this song, I didn’t find it very catchy, but as I listened to it more it got stuck in my head. This song would serve as excellent background music. “Come Out and Play” is mellow and relaxing, but it’s also the type of song that will give you goosebumps. Eilish’s voice is very light, delicate and airy. Many stars rely on AutoTune to help them sing, but Eilish is naturally talented. Her singing sounds effortless on the track. Eilish’s vocals make listeners feel as if they are physically outside in the cold, 1. “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” It’s not the typical Christmas movie, but the beauty of “Monty Python” is that you can watch it any day of the year and it’s still funny. You could even spruce up your house with Holy Grail themed Christmas decorations and activities to put you in the mood for the movie: You can light elderberry-scented candles and roast coconuts over an open fire. It will be cold outside, so you will want to warm yourself with plagueinfested blankets. And don’t worry about the loud chirping of birds bothering you as you watch the movie. They will have flown south for the winter, except for the African swallows. They are nonmigratory.

because the sounds of wind billow in the background. The background instruments add to the quality. The guitar in the background adds a nice touch; it makes the song very soothing. Additionally, the drums in the background build momentum. “Peaceful” is the word I would use to describe this song. I will continue listening to this song for a while because it is relaxing. Although this song is considered a holiday song, it doesn’t sound like one. Additionally, this song is highly emotional. It sounds as if Eilish is persuading someone out of hiding, which reminds me of the song “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” from “Frozen,” a song about a young child trying to convince her sister to come out and play with her. Even though Eilish is only 16 years old, she has taken the 2. “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” This is possibly one of the best Christmas movies that ever existed, although that’s just one opinion. With Jim Carrey’s background of comedic weirdness, he created a character that can only be portrayed by him. This movie isn’t just for kids; it has adult humor as well, which is why it’s such a popular movie. So break out the glass shards and bring out the roast beast, because you will be watching this movie until you are sick of singing “Where are you Christmas.” Don’t think of going to see Dreamworks’ “The Grinch.” Carrey didn’t spend a total of 92 days in Grinch makeup for people to watch a B-rated knockoff.

music industry by storm. Due to the success of her previous songs, there is a good chance this song will be successful. If you have not listened to Eilish’s “Come Out and Play,” I recommend listening to it sometime soon. It is a nice mellow song that works well as background music while studying for finals. I do not think this song will go down in history, and do not think Eilish will stand the test of time. However, her music is soulful and pleasant to listen to, so she will likely remain in the spotlight for a while. I doubt it will ever become my favorite song, but I still really appreciate the song’s quality. The song “Come out and Play” was released Nov. 20, and it is currently streaming on Apple Music and Spotify and is available for purchase on Google Play and iTunes. 3. “The Simpsons Movie” A great movie that is fun to watch any time of the year, “The Simpsons Movie” really captures the essence of what it means to be a family, but some may not want to watch it with family members. The scene where the Simpsons move to Alaska really makes our winter weather feel like summer when compared to their Alaskan home’s front yard that was ravaged by an avalanche. If this movie were holiday-themed, the Simpsons could easily dispose of their dead Christmas tree, along with all the pig crap, in the Lake Springfield. Wait…

with outrageous daredevil stunts by Sarah Kapity Entertainment Editor

“Death By Magic” is a new Netflix series in which talented magician, Drummond Money-Coutts, attempts stunts that previously killed other magicians and daredevils. He travels around the world, showing his training process and performing smaller magic tricks with the locals. His first stop is South Africa, where he recreates a stunt that killed Karr the Mysterious in 1930. In the original performance, Karr was trapped in a straitjacket with a car barrelling toward him. He did not manage to get out of the way because, as the autopsy revealed, he had a heart attack at a pivotal moment in the escape. The driver could not swerve because the audience was in the way, so, tragically, Karr died in a stunt that he had performed many times before. Money-Coutts, who goes by DMC, takes these lethal stunts and personalizes them to make them more modern and even more dangerous. His take on Karr the Mysterious’ deadly performance had the audience crying and yelling as he tried to escape a straitjacket, then a chained box positioned in front of a speeding train. With only 60 seconds before impact, this scene will have you on the edge of your seat. One of the best things about “Death by Magic” is DMC’s determination to not only wow the audience, but also shock them with his own twist on the stunt — which often means escaping in ways you would never expect. DMC also attempts to solve the mysterious circumstances of past magicians’ deaths, partly out of curiosity, but also so he can avoid making 4. “The Nightmare Before Christmas” Some may argue that this is a Halloween movie; others say it’s a Christmas movie. All are right. It doesn’t matter when you watch it, because this Tim Burton classic is a perfect watch for the family, and that includes your dead ghost dog. To keep with the spirit of the film, you could stack three pumpkins on top of one another, making each one smaller than the last, and call it a Christmas tree. Better yet, just take off your head to recite Shakespearean quotations while your family stuffs your stockings with bats.

the same mistakes they did. This focus on education made the episodes that much more interesting. When explaining what happened to the last magician who attempted a particular stunt, DMC acts out a dramatization of the event, which brings a new layer of excitement to the show even though it’s obviously not real. Just seeing DMC struggle builds the suspense of the last, and most dangerous, stunt of the episode. DMC does everything from card tricks to underwater escapes. Even though drowning was his worst childhood fear, he’s not afraid to face his own phobias. The street magic he performs in the days leading up to his dangerous recreations is just as wowing as the stunts themselves. In one instance, DMC has a couple choose any spot on the beach and start digging right below them; When they discovered a box and opened it, inside was the man’s watch that he had been wearing just previously. DMC isn’t afraid to spill a few of his secrets — of course, not the important ones. He reveals his preparation process, like when he demonstrates how to get out of a straitjacket and how he trained to hold his breath for a long time under extreme stress. He also reiterates that most magic tricks are all about impeccable timing; at one point, he tosses a deck of cards into a fan, and the only card that flies between the slats and sticks to the ceiling was the card he had an audience member pull from the deck. “Death By Magic” is perfect for anyone who loves suspense, adrenaline and unexpected, last-minute escapes. The series is currently streaming on Netflix. 5. “Die Hard” “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie, no matter how you look at it. Sure, people get shot or blown up, but this 1988 action thriller also exhibits the magic of Christmas. No matter how many bad guys there were, John McClane comes through for his family and saves them from the terrorists. Once you’re done watching “Die Hard,” if you don’t have “Die Hard 2,” just watch “Die Hard” again. It will be even better the second time. Just be mindful of the man who walks across your roof on Christmas Eve when you watch the movie — It might be McClane dropping a bomb down your chimney.

Sports

December 5, 2018

Editor’s Take

ROAD TO THE GOVERNOR’S TROPHY

NFL has to answer the wake-up call brought by Kareem Hunt scandal

Date

Sport

Location

Pts.

Result

Aug. 17

Women’s Soccer

Bill Stephens Track and Soccer Complex

(tie) LR 1.5 UCA 1.5

Sept. 6

Volleyball

Conway

UCA wins LR 1.5 UCA 4.5

Sept. 9

Men’s Cross Country

Conway

UCA wins LR 1.5 UCA 6.5

Sept. 9

Women’s Cross Country

Conway

UCA wins LR 1.5 UCA 8.5

Oct. 14

Men’s Cross Country

Little Rock

UCA wins LR 1.5 UCA 10.5

Oct. 14

Women’s Cross Country

Little Rock

UCA wins LR 1.5 UCA 12.5

Oct. 22-23

Men’s Golf

Little Rock

LR wins LR 3.5 UCA12.5

Oct. 28-30

Women’s Golf

Hot Springs Village

UCA wins LR 3.5 UCA 14.5

Nov. 28

Men’s Basketball

Conway

UCA wins LR 3.5 UCA 18.5

Dec. 8

Men’s Basketball

Little Rock

by Daniel Adams Staff Writer

On Nov. 30, news broke that star running back for the Kansas City Chiefs, Kareem Hunt, was seen in a video shoving and kicking a Cleveland woman back in February. On Monday, Dec. 3, he was accused of beating up a man in a Kansas City nightclub Jan. 7. While Hunt cleared waivers, it would be extremely risky for any team to sign him with the current baggage he has. What’s troubling is that unlike other domestic violence cases the NFL has had to deal with such as Ray Rice, is that they don’t seem to have exerted the effort to find the proper evidence. After the Rice scandal, the NFL instituted a new policy around domestic violence that was used more often when necessary. While the Chiefs still have wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who pled guilty to domestic assault in 2015;however, they did the right thing by releasing Hunt as soon as the video went viral. The NFL, however, was slow to find any clear-cut evidence to convict Hunt until the video was released to the public. Domestic violence is an extremely serious crime and the NFL has consistently handled these types of incidents in a questionable manner. Even before Hunt, linebacker Reuben Foster made headlines when he was picked up by the Washington Redskins after being released by the San Francisco 49ers for being charged with domestic violence. While Foster is unable to play until his legal issues have passed, this was still extremely troubling for those in the league to hear. With recent cases like Aldon Smith, Jameis Winston and Ezekiel Elliott, the NFL needs to address the domestic violence that their players commit While the NFL’s policies may not ensure that players act like moral human beings, but the league could be much stricter. Hopefully the league sees these cases as a wake-up call that things need to change much sooner than later.

photo courtesy of UCASports

Senior Samantha Anderson leaps into the air to make a play on the ball Nov. 29 against Wichita State University. She finished the game with 18 kills to lead the Sugar Bears in the opening round of the National Invitational Volleyball Championships tournament.

Volleyball fights through five, loses to stingy Shockers team by Aysha Dixon Social Media Editor

The UCA Sugar Bears volleyball team (26-7) fought a tough battle against the Wichita State Shockers (14-18), but fell just short after the thrilling five-match game in the first round of the National Invitational Volleyball Championship Nov. 29. Senior Samantha Anderson led UCA in Denton, Texas, with 18 kills and a .359 hitting percentage. Senior Haley Tippett followed with 12 kills and junior Abbie Harry had nine, adding to the team’s fiery performance. On the opposite side of the net, senior Tabitha Brown and redshirt freshman Megan Taflinger led the Shockers to victory, as they combined for 44 of Wichita State University’s 66 kills. Sugar Bears sophomore Amari Mitchell maintained a positive outlook by the end of the game. “We could’ve given the

match up in four sets, but we decided to fight our way through and show the opponent that we are here to compete,” Mitchell said. “I was just so proud that we stepped up together as a team in the fourth set to lead us with all the momentum into the fifth set.” After UCA won the first set, WSU won the next two sets. UCA gave the Shockers a run for their money during the fourth set, winning 25-23 and pushing the game for a fifth and final set. The Shockers advanced to a quick 3-0 lead in the first set after Brown delivered two of her 22 kills. Anderson wasted no time making her presence known on the court, as she delivered back-to-back kills and evened the score at 4-4. After three more ties, UCA gained its first lead after a Wichita State error. A Shockers ace tied again at 15-15, but the Sugar Bears responded with a 4-0 run, with three kills from Tippett, making the score 19-15.

The Shockers pulled within two at 19-17, but the Sugar Bears prevented a comeback as Anderson and Tippett delivered back-to-back kills to win set one 25-20. The Shockers responded in the second set with a commanding 9-1 lead, helped by five Sugar Bear errors. Central Arkansas responded with a 10-4 run, making the score 1311. The Sugar Bears inched closer to winning after two more Shocker errors made the score 14-13, but Wichita State went on a 6-0 run that helped WSU secure the lead. The Shockers sealed the set 25-18. The third set started close, as Anderson delivered a kill in the back right corner that tied the set at 2-2. However, the Shockers came back with a 14-4 spurt that gave them a 16-6 lead. Taflinger had five kills for WSU during the run.

DEFENDING HOMECOURT photo courtesy of UCASports

Freshman forward Alana Canady fight through contact Dec. 1 against Crowley’s Ridge College. Canady led the Sugar Bears in scoring with 18 points.

Sugar Bears win first road game, win another home by Cody Macomber Sports Editor

photo courtesy of newsrecord.org

Men’s Basketball

6 p.m. Dec. 5 at University of Louisville 5:30 p.m. Dec. 8 at University of Arkansas at Little Rock 3 p.m. Dec. 16, at University of New Mexico Women’s Basketball

7 p.m. Dec. 5 at University of Oklahoma 2 p.m. Dec. 8 at Texas A&M University

R O A D WA R R I O R S

See Volleyball- page 8

photo by Cody Macomber

Upcoming Games

table by Cody Macomber

photo by Lauren Swaim

Sophomore guard Matthew Mondesir gets ready to shoot a 2-pointer as a University of Arkansas - Little Rock player follows close behind. The Bears beat the Trojans in the “Governor’s I-40 Showdown.”

Men’s basketball remains undefeated in Farris, earns 4 points for UCA in I-40 Showdown by Marcus McClain Assistant Sports Editor

The UCA men’s basketball team (3-4) earned another victory for UCA in the Governor’s I-40 Showdown Nov. 28 with a 78-65 win over the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (4-4) in the Farris Center. This ended the Bears’ threegame losing streak, and moved the team to 3-0 at home this season. A hot shooting night propelled UCA over the Trojans, as the Bears shot 50 percent from beyond the arc, and 51 percent overall. Sophomore guard DeAndre Jones was a spark plug for the Bears throughout the game, tailing a career-high 23 points and controlling the game’s pace. Jones found other ways to impact the game as well,

grabbing seven rebounds and hitting teammates for open shots with seven assists. Jones credited his career game to being aggressive from the opening tip. “I just came out looking to attack and trying not to play on my heels,” Jones said. As the team’s leader in points and assists so far this season, Jones said the balance of finding teammates for good shots and looking for his own shots came naturally within the team’s offense. Despite their good start to the contest, the Bears were forced to play through foul trouble early in the game, as freshman guard Khaleem Bennett picked up two quick fouls within the first three minutes of play. The two teams went

blow for blow in the first half, exchanging the lead on several occasions. Despite shooting a lower percentage, the Trojans gained an advantage on the offensive boards. They used this edge to combat the Bears’ offensive attack, gaining 9 second-chance points and going into halftime down only 1 point. “They’re a strong team, and they crash a lot,” Bennett said. “They probably had more offensive rebounds than us, but boxing out and grabbing the boards later in the game helped us a lot.” Ending defensive positions with a solid rebound was a key to sparking a 15-2 run early in the second half.

See Rivalry- page 8

The UCA women’s basketball team (4-2) earned two significant wins Nov. 28 and Dec. 1, winning its first road game against Alcorn State University (0-6) and scoring its highest point total so far this season against Crowley’s Ridge College (2-8). A second-half offensive surge helped UCA on the road Nov. 28. After scoring only 19 points in the first half of play against ASU, the Sugar Bears scored 19 points in the third quarter to separate themselves from the Lady Braves. UCA won the game 57-46. UCA took advantage of its tenacious defense Dec. 1, and scored 38 points from turnovers to beat the Lady Pioneers 91-33. UCA made exactly half of its shots attempted — 36 of 72 — in an all-around dominant performance against CRC. “It was the teamwork and how we passed the ball around,” junior guard Taylor Sells said. “We didn’t take the first shot we’d get. We used teamwork. The more you pass the ball around, the better the shots you’re going to get.” UCA took advantage of its size over CRC, as the Sugar Bears scored 64 points in the paint. The team out-rebounded the Lady Pioneers 43-31. The team had five players score in double digits, including a team-high 18 points from freshman forward Alana Canady and 12 from senior guard Alanie Fisher. Sophomore forward Mekaylan Hicks added 10 points, along with a teamhigh six rebounds, which included four offensive rebounds. “In the beginning, we got in trouble, because we weren’t taking it to them, and going in

strong,” Hicks said. “Once we realized, and started taking it in and going in strong, we took advantage of that, and took it to them.” UCA scored the six points of the game, but a few missed shots allowed CRC to come within reach at 8-5. From that point, UCA stifled the Lady Pioneers with its defense, and went on a 17-2 run to end the first quarter. CRC scored 12 points in the second quarter, but UCA scored 14 to extend its lead 39-19 going into halftime. In the third quarter, UCA prevented CRC from scoring in the five minutes of the third quarter, and scored 28 points, including 7 from senior guard Kamry Orr. UCA continued its dominance in the fourth quarter to seal the game, winning 91-33. “After we won against Alcorn, I told the team that it was only up from here,” Hicks said. “It gave us a little hype. We won that game. We came in today ready to play, and we’re going to keep it rolling, take that energy into the next game.” While freshmen played a large role against CRC, it was Orr who had the biggest impact against Alcorn, scoring a gamehigh 21 points while grabbing five rebounds, four assists and two steals. Orr was the only player to score in double digits for UCA, though Hicks and Fisher each edged the mark with 9 points. Hicks had nine rebounds and one block to hinder Alcorn’s post presence. UCA outrebounded Alcorn State 47-40, and scored 32 points in the paint compared to ASU’s 22 in the paint. Though the Sugar Bears dominated during these two games, UCA faces its toughest challenge yet Dec. 5 when it plays at the University of Oklahoma.

ucanews.live

SPORTS

8/ December 5, 2018

SPORT

UCA STATS CORNER OPPONENT

University of Arkansas at

Men’s Basketball

Little Rock

Wichita State University

Volleyball

RESULT

RECORD

78-65(W)

(3-4, 0-0)

3-2 (L)

(26-7, 14-2)

91-33(W)

(4-2, 0-0)

photo courtesy of Bradley Lambeth

Junior Bradley Lambeth runs during a meet against Hendrix College in April 2017. He is double majoring in education and social studies and makes sure to communicate with his professors whenever he has to miss class for a cross country meet.

Women’s Basketball

Crowley’s Ridge College

Cross country runner follows father’s path by Ronak Patel Staff Writer

Junior Bradley Lambeth is currently in his third season of running cross country for UCA. Lambeth started running competitively at the age of 12, and hasn’t looked back since. Lambeth’s love for running started at an early age as he was pushed in the direction of track and field with the help of his dad, who was a cross country coach. “My dad coached cross country when I was younger, and he used to take me to all his early morning practices and meets,” Lambeth said. “I think being around his team and watching them practice really influenced and inspired me to run competitively, but with my dad being a coach, I don’t think there was ever really any doubt,” Lambeth said. Cross country at the college level is a very demanding sport, and Lambeth gives a lot of credit to his coach for helping him stay in shape. “It really depends on what time of the season we are in and if we have a race coming

up or not,” Lambeth said. “The decision ultimately all falls on Coach [Beau] Theriot, but he does a great job of catering to each runner’s specific needs. Depending on the type of runner, whether it be middle distance or long distance, the average week consists of about 60-80 miles a week with two of those days being faster, harder workouts and also two weight-lifting sessions per week. We almost always have one off day at the end of the week.” So far this season, the team’s commitment to staying in shape has paid off, and Lambeth is happy with what the team has done. “We recently had our conference championship meet this past October, and took home our first Southland Conference championship in school history,” Lambeth said. “It was really exciting to be a part of our school’s history and contribute to its success.” On top of running cross country, Lambeth is double majoring in education and social studies. Lambeth said double majoring and running cross country can be a handful.

“Being a student-athlete is a large load to handle, but it can be done if you manage your time wisely,” Lambeth said. “Running is important, but we are all here to get an education first. Missing class for meets is probably the hardest thing to compensate for, but having good communication with your teachers helps a lot.” Upon graduation, Lambeth said he wants to follow in his father’s footsteps. “After college, I plan to use my degree to obtain a head coaching and teaching job at a high school in my home state of Texas,” Lambeth said. Lambeth doesn’t plan to become a professional cross country runner, he still plans to keep running a part of his life. “Distance runners at the professional level are guys you hear about in the Olympics, like Mo Farah and Galen Rupp,” Lambeth said. “In reality, most people who run competitively after college join a club team while training and racing around their daily lives. Personally, after college I would still like to race competitively locally for my own enjoyment.”

SOUTHLAND’S ELITE

photo courtesy of UCASports

Allison Susa has been in the athletic training program at UCA for two and a half years and is projected to graduate at the end of the semester. She will then travel to Florida, where she will serve as a seasona

Football players given All-Conference Honors by Lauren McCabe Staff Writer

Select UCA football players were presented with AllSouthland Conference honors on Nov. 20. The conference honored four of UCA’s juniors with first-team honors, including running back Carlos Blackmon, offensive lineman Hunter Watts, defensive end Chris Terrell and safety Juan Jackson. “I try my best to come out and work hard [along with what] I do at practice,” Terrell said. [Being a first-teamer] means that I have to lead by example, and show younger [players] how to work [so that] they can have a shot [at receiving awards].” Terrell, of Pensacola, Florida, is a two-time firstteam All-Southland Conference

selection and is described as UCA’s “most feared pass rusher,” according to UCASports. He finished the season with 8.5 sacks (fourth in the SLC) and 16 tackles for loss. Terrell began playing football at the age of 5, and has a goal to play in the NFL. He credits his father as one of his inspirations. “Even if I’m not able to [play with the NFL], [I can] at least say I attempted to,” Terrell said. “My dad inspired me to keep going hard, even when I didn’t have any [college football] offers and wanted to give [up].” Junior Juan Jackson, originally from Gardendale, Alabama, also reflected on receiving first-team honors for the first time. “It was a goal of mine to be first-team this year after

finishing on second team last year,” Jackson said. “There is a long list of great players who have been first-team, and it is an honor to be a part of that list.” Jackson is credited with leading the Bears this season with 91 stops, which ranked ninth in the SLC. He also had five forced fumbles, broke up four passes and caught an interception. Jackson made a career-high 16 tackles in the season opener at the University of Tulsa, but Jackson has been in the game of football from an early age. “I have been playing football since I was 6 years old,” Jackson said. “I had always imagined being able to play Division-1 football, and UCA gave me that opportunity. [I always remember to] work hard and [not] get complacent.”

J U M P S TA R T

Men’s track and field places third in Alabama by Lauren McCabe Staff Writer

The UCA men’s track and field team finished the month of November strong, and made an impressive start to the month of December, as they competed in both the Birmingham Southern College Indoor Icebreaker and the Arkansas State University Kickoff Klassic. The Bears took on more than 20 teams during the Southern Panther Ice Breaker Indoor Nov. 30, and finished third place overall with 57 points received from the events. The tournament revealed two key highlights: UCA junior Zachary Jewell taking first place in the men’s 60-meter run and freshman Thomas Hutchinson taking first place in the men’s pole vault.

Jewell ran with a time of 6.75 to secure his place in the 60-meter run, while also showing some skill by finishing in sixth place in the 200-meter run with a time of 21.94 – just above competitor David East from Alabama State University. Freshman Thomas Cain made strides in the competition by placing second in the final round of the men’s 3,000-meter run with a time of 9.01, earning 8 points for the team. With Cain’s success, the team ranked fourth in the meet with 43 points through 12 events. One field event that went in the favor of the UCA Bears was the men’s high jump, in which sophomore Logan Hall placed third with a jumping height of 2 meters. Overall, the Bears placed third in field events and fourth in running, allowing them to travel

on to their next competition with a hearty third place. UCA competed next at the Kickoff Klassic at Arkansas State University Dec. 2, where the competition seemed to bring a challenge for the men. Despite a sweep in the men’s 1-mile run by host Arkansas State, UCA freshman Brett Borchert brought the Bears to sixth place overall with a time of 4:36. Freshman Bradley Lambeth took eighth place in the men’s 800-meter run with a time of 2:09. Ultimately, freshman Leopold Stefanski of Christian Brothers University, took first place with a time of 1:56. The team will return for another chance of glory when they start out the new year competing at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama Jan. 18 and 19 of 2019.

S P L I T V I C TO R I E S

photo courtsey of UCASports

Senior Hannah Noble clears the beam to win the high jump award for UCA Nov. 30 at the Birmingham Southern Panther Ice Breaker Indoor. The Icebreaker Indoor and the A-State Kickoff Klassic were the first events of the year for the women’s track team.

Women place third in Birmingham meet by Lauren McLemore Staff Writer

The UCA women’s track and field team were split, with some of the team winning third place in Birmingham, Alabama, Nov. 30, and others taking home numerous individual event wins in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Dec. 3. In Alabama, 13 of the UCA women competed in the Birmingham Southern College Indoor Icebreaker, hosted at the CrossPlex in the future conference location, Birmingham. Out of 21 teams, UCA finished in third place – tied with Alabama State University – with 50 points. Tulane University won the meet with 147 points. UCA senior Hannah Noble jumped 1.7 meters to win the high jump event. Sophomore Teshuna Sheppard made it to finals and jumped 11.48 meters to place second in the triple jump, and sophomore Erin Woodward ran 5:09.42 to place second in the mile run. “Birmingham is a great

Rivalry:

track to start the season on,” Woodward said. She also placed fourth in the 3,000-meter run, with a time of 10:12.24, and said both of her times were one of many newly set personal records that day. Senior Kylee Kirk said she performed better than expected in the women’s weight throw. “I came in ranked ninth and I made it to finals, and placed seventh,” Kirk said. “My best throw on Friday was close to my personal record at the end of the indoor season last year.” Kirk is the only thrower on the team. Coach Ethan Turpen told Kirk that junior Ajah Criner also made it to the finals in the 60-meter run. Criner finished the preliminaries at 7.62, and the finals at 7.63, coming out with 5 points and finishing fourth in the event. In Jonesboro, the Red Wolves hosted the annual A-State Kickoff Klassic inside First National Bank Arena, where 12 of the UCA women competed at the season opener, which was scheduled to begin at

2 p.m. Freshman Gracie Hyde took home first in the 3,000-meter run, finishing with a time of 10:14.93 Hyde, who also took home fourth in the mile run with a time of 5:14.29, was excited to get a collegiate win after coach Jones told her to just go after a lax first three laps, she said. Senior Alejandra Ruiz took home second place in the mile run, finishing with a time of 5:06.70. Ruiz also placed second in the 800-meter run with a time of 2:25.70. Criner placed fourth in the 55-meter run preliminaries and third in the event’s finals. Sophomore Taylor Coleman placed fourth in the long jump and sophomore Rickeya Martin placed fifth in the high jump. “I think we did really well at pushing ourselves and competing with some good competition, and I’m excited to see how we do when we’re all together,” Hyde said. The team will return to Birmingham Jan. 18 to compete at Samford University.

Trojans’ struggles at free-throw line help Bears win.

4 Continued from page 1 This gave UCA the separation it needed to hold on for the win. This spurt started with a rim-rocking slam from Bennett, and pushed UCA out to a 48-34 lead. While the Bears did step it up on the defensive side of the ball in this half - holding UALR to just 2 of 11 from 3-point range - the Trojans made matters worse for themselves. They shot just 1 of 13 from the free-throw line in the half and only 4 of 21 for the game. Still, the Trojans extended their defensive pressure through the length of the court and attacked the rim off the dribble. This looked to be the best option for UALR as they saw a significant drop in their three point shooting

Volleyball:

percentage. After nailing five triples in the first, the Trojans only shot 2 of 11 from deep in the second half. Still, UALR was able to cut the Bears’ lead down to eight with 1:31 left to play, with the help of their full court pressure. The Trojans’ defense forced the Bears into 10 second-half turnovers that converted into 17 points for UALR. However, the Bears were able to hold the lead with a late corner 3-pointer from freshman forward Eddy Kayouloud, followed by two free throws from senior guard Thatch Unruh. Junior guard Rayjon Tucker led the Trojans in scoring, with 20 points, but shot only 8 of 23 from the field. He was followed by junior guard Ryan Pippins with 16

points on a 6 of 16 shooting performance. Sophomore center Hayden Koval assisted Jones’s big scoring night with 15 points on 6 of 10 shoting to go along with six rebounds. Unruh and Bennett also reached double figures for the Bears, scoring 13 and 10 points respectively. The Bears’ next contest will come Dec. 5 against the Cardinalds from the University of Louisville as they look to pick up their first road win of the season. If they’re unable to do so there, UCA will have several more opportunities as they play four of their next five games

on the road before returning home Dec. 30 to face Lyon College.

Bears take Wichita State down to the wire.

4 Continued from page 1 The Shockers closed the set on a 17-7 run and won 25-13. The Shockers finished with 20 kills in the third set alone. As both sides continued to battle, the Shockers got in a kill by Taflinger and a service ace by Emma Wright to make it 14-14, the ninth tie of the set. After five more ties, with the score sitting at 21-21, Central Arkansas went on a 4-2 run, led by two kills from Harry, that helped the Sugar Bears emerge

and get the 25-23 fourth set win. Brown gave the Shockers a 2-0 lead in the final set with back-to-back kills. Wichita State used a 6-2 run, helped by three straight Sugar Bear errors, which resulted in Wichita State’s 11-6 lead. UCA made it a 3-point game after Anderson’s kill and a Shocker error made it 12-9. Wichita State answered with two kills of their own, resulting in a 14-9 lead. The

Sugar Bears attempted one last run as another Anderson kill and Shocker error made it 14-11, but the set ended on the next point, as Central Arkansas’ serve landed out in the back right corner and the Shockers won 15-11. The Sugar Bears’ season ends with a 26-7 record. This is the sixth time in nine seasons that the team finished with more than 25 wins and postseason play.