Issue 5, Volume 116-- September 23, 2020

THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS’ STUDENT NEWSPAPER

SINGLE COPY PAID FOR BY STUDENT PUBLICATION FEE

WEDNESDAY

SEPTEMBER 23, 2020 Volume 116 — Issue 5

ucanews.live TODAY’S FORECAST CONWAY

Campus Life:

Entertainment:

Sports:

People of UCA: Connor Holmes has a passion for documentary work.

New Release: The Devil All the Time gives dark look into religion.

Women’s Tennis: Season begins with first Fall Invitational.

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ADH provides free COVID-19 tests to UCA students

Rain

67/58 THE NEWSDESK FROM THE ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Greece migrant camp set fire in protest

Over 12,000 refugees and migrants fled Moria, a migrant camp in Greece, after a fire was set last week. Four Afghans have been charged with arson in connection with the fire, which is said to have been started as a form of protest against conditions in the camp. The camp has been locked down and confined since a coronavirus outbreak in early September.

By Addison Freeman Staff Writer

The Student Health Center partnered with the Arkansas Department of Health on Thursday, Sept. 10 to provide students, faculty and staff with free COVID-19 tests.

According to an email sent out by President Davis’ office, 377 tests were collected with nine positives.

“We were expecting between 300 and 500, so 377 was a pretty fair turnout,” Medical Director and Physician Dr. Randy Pastor said.

Of the tests that were taken, all came back with a result. However, this is not always the case with tests that are administered.

“Sometimes you’ll have more done and some get lost and tubes get broken, so not every test that’s collected will always have a result associated with it, but in our case they were,” Pastor said.

As of Sept. 16., the Arkansas Department of Health has given 109,664 tests in the month of September to the entire state of Arkansas according to the department’s website.

The ADH “brought 1,200 tests with them, which is their standard amount for a large university,” Pastor said.

The entirety of Carmichael Hall is used for quarantine and isolation services. Currently, there are five of 134 on campus quarantine rooms in use and 24

of 85 on campus isolation beds in use.

Students who have tested positive for the virus will be put in quarantine in Carmichael and have to sign a COVID-19 quarantine contract that details specific measures that each student must take to keep everyone as safe as possible.

There are strict protocols outlined for the cleaning of Carmichael and a scheduled meal delivery plan that is detailed on uca.edu.

Senior Shea Terrazas was tested because “it was free… and I wanted to test just to make sure I wasn’t asymptomatic,” she said.

Terrazas said the test took no longer than 10 minutes, and she performed the test herself.

“It didn’t hurt, but it was very uncomfortable. It kind of tickled at the top of my nose,” Terrazas said.

She received her negative result the following Saturday.

Freshman Abby Gray was also tested. “My boyfriend had to get tested and days after I started feeling pretty bad, so I went ahead and got tested,” Gray said.

Gray’s test took about five minutes and was “a 1 out of 10 with discomfort considering the risk,” she said.

Her negative result came back within three days.

According to uca.edu, within the last week, UCA has seen a spike in the number of positive cases.

There were 665 tests

MAGAZINE

EMERGENCY

Other emergency alternative aides available to students

N AT I O N A L SupremeCourt justice and women’s rights activist dies Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died at her home in Washington on Sept. 18 from complications from pancreatic cancer. Ginsburg fought for women’s rights in the seventies and served on the Supreme Court for 27 years. One of her dying wishes was to not be replaced until a new president be installed. If Trump were to elect a new justice, the court would have a 6-3 conservative majority.

by Mia Waddell Staff Writer

S TAT E Conway organization pushes for spot at City Council meeting Conwaygrassroots organization “Reinvest in Conway” is still pressing for a spot on the City Council agenda. The organization, which formed in response to the death of Lionel Morris, who was accused of shoplifting from Harps, wants to discuss race issues within the community with city leaders. The group has been denied because City Council meetings are for city business only and not public discussion, said City Spokeman Bobby Kelly. The group doesn’t aim to defund the police but to reallocate funds to social initiatives that would strengthen the community.

ArtsCenter expansion

Arkansas Arts Center in Little Rock is planning an expansion in MacArthur Park scheduled to open in 2022.

The new center will include a glass-enclosed cultural room, galleries, a theater and lecture hall, art studios and six acres of landscape around the building. The center has raised $122.7 million of its $128 million goal, and construction is developing rapidly.

WHAT’S AHEAD IN OUR NEXT ISSUE Former employees sue Kroger for religious discrimination.

photo courtesy of Claret Collins

Former University of Central Arkansas student, Claret Collins, has released a digital magazine to teach readers to live intentionally. “Living intentionally is all about having a purpose,” Collins said.

UCA alumna launches magazine

By Kennadi Harris Entertainment Editor

UCA alumna, Claret Alcalà Collins has launched a digital magazine titled “My Life Essentials Magazine”.

The magazine, “My Life Essentials”, is a quarterly digital magazine that teaches people how to live intentionally. “Living intentionally is all about having a purpose,” Founder and Editorin- Chief, Claret Alcalá Collins said. “If you’re doing something but you don’t have a reason why you’re doing it, then why are you doing it at all?”

The magazine provides readers with educational tools and information to help them live a more intentional life. “My Life Essentials” has a team of professionals that give guidance in areas like health, finances and personal development.

Collins studied film and marketing at UCA and graduated in the spring of 2018. After she graduated, Collins began working as an associate producer at Arkansas’ PBS. It wasn’t until March of this year, when she began working at home, that she became inspired to turn this idea of a magazine into reality.

“I lost a sister to cancer in 2017 and ever since then I felt like she showed me that you have to take advantage of every single day in your life and that you have to do what makes you happy and you have to have a purpose in life and you really just have to live your passion,” Collins said.

“After that, she inspired me to create this magazine. This was an idea that I’ve had for a really long time and I decided to actually do it this year.”

The magazine released its first issue in June and its second in September. Before she officially launched, she reached out to several professionals to give expert opinions to readers. “I asked my friends, I even reached out to people I haven’t talked to before and surprisingly they said yes!” Collins said. “It kinda just all fell into place.” The team of writers and professionals includes certified financial coach Anita Grote and systemic therapist and wellness coach Ligia Vásquez.

The magazine is also available in English and Spanish. Being that Collins is a latin woman, born and raised in Venezuela she felt that it was only right to have it available in her first language. “I

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collected with 55 positive results the week of Sept. 9-15. This was a jump from the week of Sept. 2-8 which had 555 tests with only 19 positive results.

The positivity rate over these two weeks spiked nearly 4%.

There are 2,103 total positive cases in Faulkner County according to the Arkansas Department of Health website; roughly 2.97% of the total number of cases in Arkansas.

Faulkner County ranks number four in the total number of new cases in Arkansas as of Sept. 16.

As of Sept. 16, there are 70,731 confirmed cases in the state of Arkansas. 109,664 tests have been administered so far in September.

felt like I wasn’t going to be true to myself if I didn’t offer the same information in Spanish because hispanic people are my people,” Collins said.

Collins said that her education and experience at UCA benefited her in creating this magazine. “I went to school for film and I feel like it was a very creative degree. I learned a lot of stuff that I definitely put into practice,” Collins said. “I made a lot of connections when I was there and all those connections definitely got me something,” Collins said.

Collins hopes to soon take her magazine out of the digital world and bring it into the physical by hosting in-person workshops and dinners for readers and staff to connect with each other in a safe space. “[I want to] create a safe space for people to just be themselves and learn from each other and create a community where we can just learn how to live more intentionally,” Collins said.

You can purchase issues of “My Life Essentials” at mylifeessentialsmag.com.

A subscription to the magazine cost $15 a year.

Rising distrust for police has made resources, such as UCA’s non-emergency number, crucial to reducing fear among students and aiding those who have anxiety about calling police an Executive Member of UCA’s Social Justice Committee said.

The Public Information Officer for the UCA Police Department Michael Hopper explained that the campus’ main non-emergency number is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by the department’s communication personnel.

“Both numbers [911 and the non-emergency number] ring into our communication center, however, the 911 calls have priority over nonemergency calls,” Hopper said.

The main difference between these two numbers, according to Hopper, was that dialing 911 on campus may connect the caller to the City of Conway communication center “depending on which cell tower handles the call.”

The caller would then tell the communications operator that they are on UCA’s campus which will transfer them to the UCA PD’s communication center.

Hopper said that the number can be contacted for a variety of things including “needing directions, help with a disabled vehicle or someone needing a report made.”

An anonymous source said they called the non-emergency number after their ex-partner appeared to be yelling outside the source’s dorm room. After calling the number, anonymous was transferred to the campus police who were dispatched to the source’s residence.

“It was an experience that nobody wants to have, but it did show me that I can trust our UCA police system and I’m very grateful that I was able to call

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their non-emergency number instead of 911 for the actual Conway PD,” anonymous said.

The source requested to remain aonymous due to safety concerns.

The non-emergency number can also be used for students experiencing a mental health emergency outside of the Counseling Center’s business hours, according to the Counseling Center’s website. During the Center’s business hours, crisis care can be facilitated by calling their office at 501-450-3138.

Executive member of the UCA Social Justice Committee Ajah Criner commended the non-emergency number for its ability to mitigate anxiety in students who may be fearful of contacting police directly.

The Social Justice Committee recently created a new non-emergency contact system for students who feel as though they have been “wronged,” Criner said.

Students can contact members of the committee, including Criner, Romala Dominguez, Dwight Blakey and Senior Diversity and Inclusion Administrator Richard Martin to report possible discrimination.

Criner said that this initiative was discussed with campus police as well as other concerns held by the committee.

“We discussed campus and police interaction, procedures for traffic stops, accountability and discipline when a police officer takes advantage of their authority and interactions with civilians in general,” Criner said.

Criner said that the meeting was an important first step to building a relationship between the committee and campus police.

Any students who need to contact the campus nonemergency number should call (501) 450-3111.

The Echo

ucaecho

© 2020 The Echo, Printed by The Courier, Russellville, Arkansas.

The author courses for English majors shouldn’t be limited to old white guys.

see page 6

2/September 23, 2020

ucanews.live

NEWS

Police Beat

ELECTION

The following information is compiled from UCAPD incident reports

by Assistant News Editor Kaitlin Benight

Obscene graffiti found by UCAPD

On Saturday, Sept. 12, UCAPD Officer Chris Vasquez spotted a penis in the Harding Centennial Fountain.

The spraypainted penis was tagged “Derek Sheppard.”

UCAPD said they could not find a student on campus with that name. The damage is estimated at $50. There are currently no leads.

Domestic spat UCA student sent between students to hospital

Andrea Simpson came into UCA Police Department on Sept. 18 fearing for her life.

Simpson said her boyfriend and herself had gotten into a fight, during which he tried to choke her and broke the windshield of her car from the inside out. The two had been drinking, and officers confiscated a few beers and a half-empty bottle of whiskey.Simpson refused to file a police report or to give the name of her boyfriend.

A 19-year-old UCA student was rushed to Conway Regional Hospital after intentionally overdosing in an attempt to end their life.

The student said they did not know how many pills they had ingested and gave the remaining tablets to the officers.If you or a friend are having a crisis, call the UCA Counseling Center at 501-450-3138, UCAPD at 501-450-3111, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.

HOUSING

Graphic by Ed Toddy

Student Government Association issue election results despite delay

by Olyvia Gonzalez Staff Writer

Graphic by Ed Toddy

Conway non-profits offer rental assistance to residents

by Heidi Mackey Staff Writer

With more people being laid off, it is getting harder to pay rent and unemployment stopped giving the additional $600 in July.

In Conway, there are seven non-profit organizations that are helping individuals and families who need assistance with rent due to COVID-19.

Bethlehem House, City of Hope Outreach, Conway Ministry Center, United Way of Central Arkansas, Conway Gives, Salvation Army and Community Action Program of Central Arkansas are all working together to help with housing and rent.

“We did an emergency fund in the spring to help with rental assistance but we are not currently doing anything directly to help. If people are

looking for direct help now, they can contact the Salvation Army or Community Action Program of Central Arkansas,” Community Impact Director at United Way of Central Arkansas Annie Hounsel said.

Currently in Arkansas, there is no rent freeze or statewide assistance for individuals and families who need rental assistance. Local governments are taking it upon themselves to help the people in their cities and counties with this rental assistance.

Anyone who is struggling to make rent or find affordable housing during this time can reach out to any of these non-profit organizations for assistance. This applies to people who live in Faulkner, Van Buren, Perry and Conway counties.

You can also call 501358-6960 to ask for more

information and to request an application for more help.

Each application is kept private and is considered on a case by case basis according to the needs.

For Little Rock residents, the Metropolitan Housing Alliance (MHA) has announced that section eight tenants and public housing residents will not be evicted during this time. The MHA will work with local property owners to help with rent forbearance.

UCA has not said if they are helping students with housing fees during this time or if they are turning students away who may not be able to pay for all of their housing upfront.

All of this information can be found at https:// www.naahq.org/covid-19information-arkansas.

After a four day delay, the results of the Fall 2020 Student Government Association election results were posted on SGA’s Instagram (@uca_sga)on Sept. 15.

There were a total of 1,109 votes during the first election and 284 within the run-off election.

“I am incredibly excited about this year’s new senators,” SGA President Jamaal Lockings said. “Every year we get outstanding students dedicated to making a tangible impact and sustainable change not only on campus but in the Conway community. I have no doubt this year will be any different.”

Vice President Javier Hernandez is excited about the

new group that has been voted in to the SGA this election.

“I’m glad elections are over and we have our new Senate. I’m excited to get to work with this new group of diverse Senators to help represent the student body,” Hernandez said.

The plans for this upcoming year is unclear, but certainly plans are in motion for the year of 2020-2021.

Hernandez stressed the importance of this new group of senators during the pandemic.

“We have a lot of plans in the works and are looking forward to getting a lot of work done during these unusual times,” Hernadez said. “I believe this summer and the beginning of the school year have all taught us hard lessons that we are going to have to recognize this school year.

I’m looking forward to dealing with all of the challenges this year brings and seeing how we will overcome them as a Student Government.”

Many of these senators are excited for their upcoming time in the office to help shape campus into a lively, inclusive and safe environment for students to learn and grow in.

“I wanted to join because I want to make a difference on campus and have a positive impact, and I think that SGA will help me [to do this] and give me the best opportunities to grow,” Sophomore representative Courtney Clawson said. “My role will include listening to any concerns or anything from my fellow sophomores and helping alleviate any problems or issues on campus with the rest of the Senate.”

SGA

SGA Diversity Committee positions remain unfilled

by Kaitlin Benight Assistant News Editor

The Student Government Association held their first meeting of the year on Sept.

21, covering old business and regular housekeeping.

The Diversity Committee is looking for more members to fill the board. It is also celebrating National Italian American Heritage and Disability Awareness months.

Joseph Woodington, a freshman who was disqualified from running, asked SGA and those in attendance for support in receiving a public apology. He was using his main Instagram account as his candidacy account, which was unapproved and resulted in his first violation.

His second violation was for the content on his page, a

Halloween picture from last year with Woodington dressed as Trump with the caption “Felt cute, might deport some illegals later.” He was sent an email and was given 24 hours to remove the content, and his failure to do so along with libelous posts about SGA resulted in a third violation.

Woodington was trying to go above SGA to get vindication, going so far as to suggest he would contact Tucker Carlson in posts he made on Instagram. While he says he meant no ill will towards immigrants of the country, UCA has Dreamers as well as undocumented students. He said he was “happily disqualified” from the SGA election.

“As a Latino, I personally found it very offensive. Those words carry weight, we can’t

accept that as an SGA, we can’t accept that as UCA, we should see it as if we accept those who are undocumented, we have to recognize the power in those words and the different steriotypes and connotations with those who are different than us,” Executive Vice President Javier Hernandez said.

SGA members helped UCA students register to vote on Sept. 22, National Voter Registration Day, at Lewis Science Center, the Student Center and cafeteria.

The next two SGA senate meetings will be held via Zoom in order to troubleshoot distanced gatherings operating under parliamentary procedures.

The Finance Committee approved the purchase of 300 silicon wristbands for $115.

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

College of Business enhancement fund receives Landmark donation

by Haley Melendez Staff Writer

UCA’s College of Business received a generous donation of $50,000 to their enhancement fund from Landmark Certified public accountants (PLC). With the new amount in the fund it has helped open better opportunities to students with better student programming and better development opportunities.

Landmark is a public accounting and business advisory firm who assists clients on taxes, audits and advisory assistance.

Landmark PLC also helps with the College of Business Blake Payne Memorial

Endowed Scholarship, which is for their junior and senior students. The Scholarship is honoring the memory of a former UCA alumnus who also worked with Landmark PLC. Landmark PLC’s generosity will not only help the students, but it will also help faculty and staff recieve additional training to keep the students curriculum up to date with the rest. ”The College of Business faculty, students and staff greatly appreciate the generous gift from Landmark PLC, which will be used to support a range of activities including co-curricular programming and professional development opportunities for the students and faculty,”

Dean of the College of Business Michael Hargis said.

With this helping hand, students wish to see more staff to help improve their education. “I’m a senior this year and I’ve noticed that several of the classes are only taught by one professor. If you don’t like the teaching style of a professor, then you have the opportunity to take the class with a different professor,” senior Allison Shwartz said.

In the end all the students said they could not wait to see what would come next.

The College of Business currently has over 1,600 students who can potentially benefit from the Landmark PLC donation.

Campus Life

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September 23, 2020

Around Campus: Purple Table Talks “What it’s like to be a person of color.”

4:30p.m., Sept. 22, in Student Center rooms 223 and 224, UCA NAACP will host a panel on the what it is like to experience life as a person of color.

Dharma and Justice Dialogues.

7:00p.m., Sept 23 via Zoom, Lama Justin Von Bujdoss and Rev. Kosen Gregory Snyder will discuss how Buddhists can address social and political violence.

Register for this event on Cubconnect.

Coronavirus Structures and their Mechanisms 1:30p.m., Sept. 24, via Zoom, join the biology club with Dr. Lori Isom who will lecture on COVID-19 and the battle to defeat the virus.

Meeting ID: 946 5594 3364 Password 6pWArg

Ping Pong Tournament 6:00p.m., Sept. 23, in the Baridon Hall Back Courtyard.

Flex your ping pong skills and compete to be the best player in the residence hall’s annual tournament.

Voter Registration Table 11:00a.m, Sept. 25, on the Student Center Lawn, Bear X and the Feminist Union will register students to a vote.

Let’s talk Ethics 7:00p.m., Sept. 28, via Zoom learn about the crossroads of ethics and PR with Jon-Stephen Stansel UCA’s Digital Social Media Specialist .

RSVP through Cubconnect

Sex Trafficking Informational 12:30p.m., Sept. 28, in Student Center Room 214 Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha inc. will host a sex trafficking informational to bring awareness about the issue and its danger to students on campus.

The Origins of Covid-19: Fact and Fiction 6:00p.m., Oct. 1, via Zoom, join Dr Anita Sego and Dr Michelle King to learn about how the pandemic began.

Campus Job Listing: UCA Athletic Department The UCA athletic department is looking for students to work in its ticket office. The position is part-time/seasonal. The deadline to apply is Oct. 1.

Students must be eligible for a work study to apply for this position. Apply on bears4hire.

Email hroberts10@uca.edu with any questions.

Photo courtesty of UCA Women of Excellence

The purpose of the program was to help the attendees set broad goals for themselves. The Women of Exellence board pose in front of the Student Center.

Women of Excellence provide tips to succeed like a “Goal Digger”

by Megan Holder Social Media Editor

The Women of Excellence (WOE) held their Think Like a Goal Digger program on Tuesday, Sept.

15.

Junior Jayla Farmer, the WOE president said the main purpose of the program was for the audience to set broad and personal goals for themselves. It was to also help them learn about resources and other groups on campus.

Farmer’s personal tips on how to become successful as a woman include building

meaningful connections and not focusing on other people’s time.

“Make sure you’re not making life a waste. Go at your own pace,” Farmer said.

The program consisted of three games.

The first game was meant for everyone to get to know each other. It was called Who’s Story is It? Each person had to anonymously write down things about them. Their story was read aloud, and everyone had to guess who wrote it.

“Everyone in the circle

found out everyone’s name and classification,” Farmer said.

The second game was called I’m Going to the Store.

This game gave time for the facilitators to talk to everyone who attended the event to discuss different resources on campus.

The third game was called Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes.

Whichever group won this game was given resources by the facilitators to use on campus.

Breyona Butler has been a

member of WOE for two years now and is the event coordinator.

“As a facilitator, my favorite part was watching everyone mingle and create new friendships. The whole point of WOE is for minority women (not exclusive only to minorities) on UCA’s campus to connect and create a bond to help each other navigate through college.”

Women of Excellence was launched in 2016 to create experiences such as conversations and activities that discuss

self-esteem academics as well as leadership, social, and personal development.

The main goal of WOE is to build a bridge between African American female and caucasian female achievement, retention, and graduation rates according to the programming repertoire of UCA. On Sunday September 20, WOE held their Netflix party. They watched the movie “Becoming” starring Michelle Obama.

See Excellence-page 4

RSO guidelines require FWS receives attention from students in spite of fraternities to invent new recruiting methods abnormal circumstances by dJ Jones Staff Writer

UCA greek life and all other RSO’s (Recognized Student Organizations) were involved in a training meeting on Aug.20 that went over guidelines for COVID-19. All UCA organizations were required to complete the training before Sept. 18.

The COVID- 19 guidelines discussed in the meeting included mask/face covering requirements, available spaces-adjusted capacities, meetings, large indoor venues, outdoor events, events

with 100 or more people, events with food, off-campus events, and event registration.

The main guidelines that will affect greek life are the guidelines involving the space and capacity requirments for inperson meetings.

In person meetings cannot exceed 66 percent of the capacities of the space and everyone attending must socially distance six feet apart.

Caylin Allen, UCA senior and president of Phi Beta Sigma, said the guidelines that

will affect Greek life recruitment the most are the limited space guidelines.

“We have a limited amount of space for our face to face programs and that’s how a majority of our organizations recruit members who come to our programs.

Other than that it wasn’t really any new rules, just limiting the amount of people we can have in one sitting,” Allen said.

Allen said that in

See GreekLife -page 4

byAndrew McMAhAn Staff Writer

The University of Central Arkansas Fisheries and Wildlife Society (FWS) kicked off their semester last week. The meeting was held via zoom at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15th.

FWS President Tori Hebert maintained direction of the meeting, with others chipping in along the way. The UCA FWS meeting touched on a variety of topics, but had an emphasis on what the semester held for the club in such abnormal conditions. The meeting was open to all, but had many returning members partaking. This led to a turnout in the double

digits, including a few interested students.

Club sponsor and Professor Ginny Adams said, “The club has been at UCA for 15 years. It was a combination of the Wildlife Society and the AFS (American Fisheries Society).”

The members of the club are proud of its impact in helping sustain the fisheries and aquatic ecosystems in our local area around UCA. The club even boasts a fish tank of species from our local area in the basement of the Lewis Science Center.

The fish tank is maintained by various members of the club. The tank is something that the club

is very proud of and wants to ensure the future of it by recruiting more new members.

A survey was sent out to everyone attending the meeting, looking to unveil what activities and goals the FWS’ students would like on the agenda this semester. t was free to attend the FWS meeting, however, if students look to continue being a part of the club, a $10 fee must be paid. This fee covers the entire semester. By paying that fee, students are also granted membership to the Arkansas Chapter of the American Fisheries Society.

See Wildlife -page 4

Baridon Minecraft server offers a place to connect

by Ed Toddy

Campus Life Editor

Baridon Hall attempted to launch a minecraft server for its residents on Saturday, Sept. 19, to no avail.

The server has yet to be launched due to technical diffiucltiues.

In spite of the setback, RA Alexander Roemer won’t give up that easily.

In fact, he is planning to go bigger and open the server to the entire university.

Roemer came up with the idea to launch a communal minecraft server in order to create

a space where residents can connect despite living in a pandemic.

Since the beginning of the semster,students have been required to follow a strict set of social distacning guildines while in their residence halls or on campus.

Unfortunately, masks and social distancing policies can make it difficult for new students to reach out and make new connections with one another. Raomer decided to utilize online gaming to supplement for the lose of socialization.

Roamer said that he came up with the idea

for a minecraft server independently, but was inspired by watching the “shenanigans of the Dream SMP server with some popular Youtubers and streamers.”

He hopes to find enough players to make the server a lively, safe place to interact with fellow students.

“I would plan to keep the Realm up as long as people are wanting to play on it,” Roamer said. “The idea started as a program to met my monthly RA requirements, but I am quite fond of the idea and would like to see it

succeed.”

As of friday only a few students had shown interest in the server, but Roamer plans to adevertise to the rest of campus in order to drum up more players.

“The orignial intention was to help Baridon residents make freinds within the hall, but encouraging virtual friendships throughout UCA would be good,” Roamer said.

Interested students should sign up for a discord account and email Roamer at aroamer@cub.uca.edu.

Graphic by Ed Toddy

4/ September 23 , 2020

CAMPUS LIFE

ucanews.live

STUDENTS SAY Are you registered to vote, “and will you do it in person or by mail? ” Story and photos by Ed Toddy & Ronak Patel

Junior Jania Wood Photo by UCA Women of Excellence

Participants played various games that hinted at helpful ways to succed. The event was held Sept. 15 to bring women around campus together for an evening of fun.

Excellence: 4 Continued from page

Wildlife:

4 Continued from page

members get a chance to be a part of the conversation schools

October 12.

WOE has been embraced by many young ladies since it first opened in 2016. It is open to

Greek Life: his opinion the new guidelines would allow recruiting to be conducted in a safe manner.

“I believe so it’s just a lot tougher given covid and having to social distance. So instead of talking to a group of people you may only talk to one or two. Although you may not be able to reach out to the number of people you hope, it’s still something, so I can’t complain too much,” Allen said.

Abdoulaye BassamTraore, UCA senior and

Junior Eryka Williams

“I am registered to vote and I will be voting in person.”

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The movie is a 2020 documentary film directed by Nadia Hallgren.

Their next event will be on

4 Continued from page

“I am registered to vote, but I am going to be doing it by mail because my hometown is three hours away, so I am completely out of my voting district and I can’t miss school in order to vote.”

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every woman on campus.

Being part of this organization allows women to be a part of conversations and programs

that address a variety of issues related to personal, professional, and social development.

Induviduals can report RSOs at the division of students serveces website

president of Kappa Alpha Psi, said his chapter is not recruiting this semester because of the new guidelines for COVID-19.

“We are currently not recruiting for this semester.

As you said, we are in a pandemic and that is our main concern. In my opinion, I don’t think any organization should take the risk to have intake,” Traore said.

Allen said his chapter has had to make more than a few adjustment this semster.

“A lot of things that we

do as Greeks, especially my chapter, are usually face to face such as strolling and step shows, but the biggest difference would be switching to online community service or having to cancel a program that we are known for ( Study with the Sigmas) due to covid, so we can’t make the impact we want to, but we will not let the circumstances hold us back, “ he said. “We just have to adjust and keep pushing for the betterment of our community.”

Jacob Ternes, associate

dean of student life, said that individuals can report parties or gathering they see or know of that do not abide by social distancing guidleines to the division of student services website.

“Our Dean of Students office is actively reviewing reports of events that do not adhere to health policies,” Ternes said.

For more information about the new rules and guidelines, visit www.uca.edu/rso/ resources/.

Senior Cassidy Clayton “Yes, I am registered to vote, and I will be voting in person.”

Senior Tyler Rose

“I am registered to vote. I am from Texas, so I will be doing an absentee vote.”

Induviduals can report RSOs not abiding by rules at the division of Students Services website

3

Details were announced about how future meetings will look in regards to COVID-19. “Meeting will be tailored to how they need to be. We will be doing meetings outside. We will be masked and socially distanced on benches,” Hebert said. “We still want to be able to discuss job opportunities, job boards and resume builders.”

The FWS meeting introduced possible activities for the club to participate in this semester. Cleanups at Stone Dam Creek and Tucker Creek as well as their respected trails were both spoken on in regards of possibilities.

Hebert said, “We will be going out to Jewel Moore and flipping rocks and logs

to see if we can find anything like salamanders. We will be picking up any trash we see at Jewel.” The club is not limited to those exact cleanups and activities, and was open to input from anybody in the club.

The FWS, in only their first meeting, was already naming resume building opportunities for their

members to pursue. The opportunity discussed was the Arkansas Game and Fish Commision’s turkey and quail survey via the AGFC smart phone app. Hebert said, “This is an example of resume builders we find for our members.”

Sophomore Nijah Gates “I am registered in person and I will be voting in person.”

Freshman Josh Stettmeier

“Yes, I am registered to vote.

I will be voting in person.”

People of UCA: Connor Holmes

by Sarah Coleman Associate Editor

From fashion to humor, Connor Holmes is far from the average college student and his lack of being basic is something to be celebrated.

Holmes is a normal college student in a lot of ways. Through studying journalism and film, Holmes has been able to elevate his own college experience.

Holmes is heavily involved with News 6, the student-run broadcast station on campus.

Holmes’ life looks very different at this time of the year than it did last year. Last year Holmes was serving pizza on the side to support his way through college, this year Holmes is helping direct a true crime

documentary entitled “Uneven Ground, the story of Missy Whit.”

Holmes has a passion for documentary work and loves that he is able to get a head start on his dreams. “I am passionate about telling any story that is worth sharing, my biggest dream is to go to impoverished countries and help others speak on their reality,” Holmes said.

Originally, Holmes came to UCA from Hot Springs in order to go to the only school in Arkansas with a 4 year film program. He later decided that Journalism would also be helpful to study because he knew he wanted to make documentaries and interviewing and research is a huge part of documentary making.

On top for his love of

documentary making and broadcasting, Holmes also has a knack for percussion. During his college experience, Holmes has been able to march at Drum Core, where only three fellow UCA students have marched.

“Its cool to be on their level without being a music major, I got to travel all along the eastern part of the country drumming in different states for the past two summers,” Holmes said.

While music is a big part of his life, Holmes, like others, fell in love with making music.

Holmes is an inspiration. While many separate the love for music and making music as a career, Holmes reminds us all that you can still love music even if its not your career.

Marching in Drum Core is something that Holmes will always remember about his college experience, especially due to his love for percussion.

On top of drumming, film, documentary writing and broadcast, Holmes can be found listening to rap music, watching films and hanging out with his friends. Holmes is an advocate and will always fight for what is right.

While there have been many students to graduate from UCA, Holmes is one to remember, he is devoted to making this world a better place, and because of that mindset, the world is already better with him in it.

Photo by Sarah Coleman

Senior Journalism and film student Connor Holmes smiles on a bench by the fountain. Holmes is currently helping direct a true crime documentary.

Sports

5

September 23, 2020

Positives in three day golf tournament show growth

Upcoming Games Men’s Golf

Sept. 21-22 at Chattanoga Sept. 27 at WCU Women’s Soccer 7 p.m., Sept. 24 vs ULM Football 7 p.m., Sept. 26 vs Missouri State

Editor’s Take

By Kelly Rico Staff Writer

The UCA Men’s Golf team scored a three day total of 895 (+31) remaining 11th place in Jim Rivers Intercollegiate.

The tournament took place in Choudrant, LA at Squire Creek and began on Sunday, Sept. 13.

On the first day, UCA placed 11th with 305 (+17). Freshman Palmer McSpadden finished T28 with 74 (+2). At T52, sophomores Davis Irving, Josh Turnock, Nate Jolly and freshman Blaine Calhoon ended the round with 77 (+5). Junior Miles Smith ended T63 with 78 (+6).

“The course was in great shape, one of the nicest I’ve played,” Jolly said.

He stayed focused by talking photo courtsey of UCASports to his playing partners and saying The Bears and Blazers await a cornor kick during their match on Sept. 19. UAB scored in extra time to defeat the Bears relaxed.

3-2 in the Bears home opener.

“I told myself to not put pressure on myself and just go out there and see what happens.

It ended up allowing me to throw

By Rob Davis Soren Jensen brought his team kick and tying the game up at 2-2 together a good round,” Jolly Staff Writer back into the game, executing in the 61st minute. said. the penalty kick given to him Both teams were given The second day of the The UCA men’s soccer team at the 14th minute mark after chances to put the game away for tournament, the team scored a kept themselves competitive on being taken down by the Blazer’s their respective squads, It would be the experience total of 604 with 28 birdies. their home field in their season goalkeeper, leaving the game tied and poise of UAB that would lead opener against the University of at 1-1 going into the half.

McSpadden, Jolly and The young UCA core came them to victory in the extra time Turnock, scored a two day total Alabama- Birmingham Blazers on Saturday, Sept. 19, but ultimately out strong, early in the second period as they found the Bears of 152 (+8) and tied for 50th. lost in the overtime period, with half of this game, quickly scoring out of position on the counterSmith started at T63 with a goal at the 53rd minute mark attack set up by the Blazers, with the score being 3-2 Blazers.

The Bears fell behind early after sophomore midfielder the game-winning goal scored at 78 and finished with 75 at T57, totaling his score to 153 (+9) for in this match after the Blazers Alexsi Morel slid a through ball the 95th minute of the match.

UCA’s Head Coach Ross the second day. scored a quick goal around the to sophomore defender Edoardo 8th minute with UCA’s young Calzola, putting the Bears up 2-1 Duncan, while disappointed by the Behind Smith was Irving who close loss, acknowledged that this ended his second day score with team not executing on defense as in the match.

With a match total of 38 UCA team is young and will make 155 (+11), again placing the they allowed the score off of a low cross-kick and push in from the fouls, 20 belonging to UAB, some mistakes down the stretch.

UCA golf team 11th place with a and 18 to UCA, UAB found “It’s a completely different team Blazers. total of 604 (+28).

On a team full of less their chance to bring the game from last season so it’s hard to really In regards to strategies experienced freshmen and back within only a few minutes, sophomores, senior midfielder scoring their goal off of a penalty See Extra Time- page 8 to help and coach the team,

Bears fall in last moments of match photo courtesy of bigblueview.com

New York Giants’ running back Saquan Barkley tore his ACL on Sunday in a 17-13 loss against the Chicago Bears. Barkley was one of over 20 players to get significant injuries on Sunday.

Injuries to some of the biggest names spells trouble for a full 2020 NFL season If you were like me you watched the NFL over the weekend.

While watching these games I was reminded of one thing.

The NFL wasn’t ready to get started at this point.

I woke up Monday morning and saw ESPN notifcations on my phone all day that said that really important players are now out for the season with a torn ACL. I have never seen so many players get the same injury in the same day.

I blame this on players not training as they probably should have over the offseason because they didn’t expect to actually play.

COVID-19 was messing up all the other sports they probably they thought they were not going to actually see competiton.

Plus the NFL just skipped the pre-season and yes they are boring to watch and they mean nothing.

However, in my opinon we need a pre-season.

There is a big difference between being hit by a bag during training camp and being hit by a 260 or bigger person running full speed to knock you into the middle of next week.

Thats why we had all those injuries in the same day. They were not ready for contact.

When I say contact I mean real contact.

A teamate hitting you is very different between an rival hitting you. The NFL now is in trouble because the names they lost in one day will hurt them big time.

Watch over the next few weks the ratings will tank.

When the big names don’t play people really don’t care.

It’s like in the NBA when players sit when they are injured. Fans get mad because they want to see the best.

The NFL is in trouble now.

Miles Smith said, “Everyone has different weaknesses and strengths so being a coach that can help one player out varies.

Coaching is a pretty big aspect out there.”

Some UCA players struggled with putting and focusing on the greens.

“Golf is probably the most mental sport out there,” Miles said. “I just know that everytime I putt the ball and if it’s the best stroke that I can possibly do, there’s nothing I should be upset about.”

Even though the Bears struggled at the beginning of the match they got better each round which was a positive as they head to their next tournaments.

“First two rounds were not all that great and I couldn’t really get anything going,” Jolly said.

“I drove the ball really well, but I struggled with reading the greens a little bit. I played well in my last round.”

On the final day of the tournament UCA scored 291 bringing their total over three days to 895 (+31).

Jumping up two spots, Jolly totaled 222 (+6) at T30 followed

by Calhoon who ended at T37 with 223 (+7).

“My next match I’m going in by learning from my mistakes,” said Smith.

He finished with 227 (+11) at the end of T50 and both Irving and McSpadden ended with 230 completing 14 birdies at T58.

At T68 ending, Turnock finished with a 235 (+19) score.

“My putting was struggling so all

See Jim Rivers page 8

Victory

photo courtsey of ucasports.com

Doubles teammates sophomore Chunxi Xin and sophomore Fuka Nonoyama celebrate during a match during the 2020 UCA Invitational on Sept. 18. These two players had a combined doubles recored of 27-12 in 2019 before COVID-19 stopped their season.

Impressive weekend at home to start the fall Tennis season

By Andrew McMahan Staff Writer

The University of Central Arkansas tennis team had a dominant weekend while hosting multiple universities from around the region.

The first UCA Invitational was held at the Conway Tennis Center in Laurel Park on Friday evening to Saturday afternoon.

The schools that traveled to Conway for the invitational were Missouri State University, the University of Louisiana at Monroe, and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

“We have been fortunate to have teams come here in the fall. We’ve had a good turnout this year, and we are excited,” Head Coach Casey Wharton said.

In terms of expectations, Wharton was not sure what to expect due to how early it is in the season.

“There are expectations, but I would rather us buy into a process rather than expectations. We’ve had lots of time to practice, we are very fortunate,” Wharton said. “Coming into the fall season, some schools have had little time to practice. I think we (UCA) have done a great job in adjusting.”

The UCA Bears competed well on Friday, starting with sophomore Fuka Nonoyama and freshman Maja Gledic in flight one.

The two Bears took turns defeating Missouri

State’s Anna Alons.

Gledic continued her success in flight two by defeating Ellie Burger of MSU in two games.

Junior Yada Vasupongchai also defeated Burger in her opportunity during flight two.

In flight three, freshman Jaeun Lee had to come from behind in route to her victory.

Lee continued to lead UCA in flight four by defeating Louisiana-Monroe’s Daniela Hernandez.

Freshman Sumomo Hamanaga also took a victory in flight four over ULM’s Hernandez.

Hamanaga topped off UCA’s tremendous day one of singles in flight six. She clashed with MSU’s Claire Martin and took victory for UCA. In day one doubles, the Bears earned victories in all three doubles flights.

UCA junior Chunxi Xin and Nonoyama highlighted the Bears in doubles when they were matched up against Chattanooga’s number one doubles team in flight one.

The two defeated the Chattanooga duo 8-6.

On day two, UCA kicked off flight one with Nonoyama picking up where she left off. She defeated Chattanooga’s number one singles player in the first flight, capping off her undefeated weekend in singles play.

In flight three, Vasupongchai defeated Chattanooga’s Carolina Gibbens.

Vasupongchai ended her weekend with a 2-1 record in singles play.

Flight four followed with Lee winning her final singles match of the weekend against Chattanooga.

Lee joined other undefeated Bears with a weekend record of 3-0 in singles play. In flight five, freshman Paulina Engback redeemed her 0-2 performance from day one with a win over Chattanooga’s Grace Anne Dunavant.

On day two of doubles play, the UCA duo of Xin and Nonoyama led the charge for the Bears. The two defeated the doubles teams from both MSU and ULM in flight one.

In flight two, UCA’s junior Mei Ishimura and Vasupongchai took down doubles teams from all three schools that traveled to the invitational.

In flight three, Gledic and Hamanaga were duos for UCA. The two went on to defeat two other doubles teams in flight three.

Wharton told UCA Sports, “I think there are things we can work on and get better at, but for the first tournament I am very encouraged and proud of our play.”

The next action for the women’s tennis team will be on October 2nd, as the Bears will be again hosting the second UCA Fall Invitational.

Opinion

6

ucaechoeditor@gmail.com

September 23, 2020

The Voice

Students should stay informed on the news

The Echo Staff Ronak Patel Editor Sarah Coleman Associate Editor Delaney Van Wilpe News Editor Kaitlin Benight Assistant News Editor Ed Toddy Campus Life Editor Ian Lyle Opinion Editor Kennadi Harris Entertainment Editor Travis Gupton Sports Editor Megan Holder Social Media Editor

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We need diversity in English author courses at UCA With a new author course designed to delve We used to be what helped fill the background in a into the works of Jane Austen, UCA is, hopefully, story instead of what fueled it. beginning to turn in a new direction and explore the Women have fought for decades to become voices of women in literature. a more valued part of society. Some took obvious According to UCA’s class schedues dating measures, like the suffragettes of the early twentieth all the way back to the semester of Fall 2007, there century, but others snuck their opinions into their have been four author courses consistently available writings. If we want to honor those who fought for to students: Shakespeare I and II, Milton and recognition, we need to stop letting Chaucer. the work of women in literature be Shakespeare is known by practically swept under the rug. everyone in all corners of the world. But in When we study the literature all honesty, how many people (outside of of women, we get to look at how English literature lovers) actually know they were treated from a new angle. who Milton or Chaucer is? I had never We see that the actions of men that heard of them before I began my male authors portray as normal and studies here at UCA. And I’m an expected are actually indecent, English major. ridiculous and harmful in the eyes But whether or not an of women. author is well-known isn’t Through the writings of the problem with the women, we get to see the author courses. The lack delicate line they are toeing in

by Addison Freeman of diversity is where things the sociopolitical boundaries Staff Writer need to be evaluated. of their culture. When we Other than being some study these boundaries, we can of the most widely discussed learn more about the actions authors of all time, Shakespeare, Milton and Chaucer women take today to further their progress in society. all have one major thing in common: they’re old, dead If the university wants to take an even deeper white guys who are -- dare I say it -- over studied. dive into diversity, courses studying minority authors I believe that if the English department really should also be integrated. wants to challenge us and send us into the world In today’s climate especially, studying the works with well-rounded views, we must be given more of minorities could bring about difficult but muchopportunities to study the works of women and needed conversations. The recognition of minorities minority authors. is an ongoing battle and one that has been too long If we only look into the writings of male authors, ignored. it isn’t hard for women to be practically written out of With the implementation of more diverse author history. In most stories, women are seen as nothing courses, UCA can create students with a more wellmore than conquests with an overabundance of rounded viewpoint and a better understanding of the emotion and a tendency to fall from societal grace. situations others face.

Black culture shouldn’t trend; it should be normalized Essentially I’m annoyed at the timing of my childhood Our country is woven with the intricate fabric that is favorites coming to popular streaming services. Don’t get systemic racism. The United States has normalized this way me wrong, I am absolutely over the moon that I am able of life where BIPOC-- especially Black Americans-- aren’t to relive my childhood through watching “Sister Sister”, represented in everyday things. There isn’t a lot of attention “Girlfriends”, “Living Single” and “The Game.” I love that is brought to Black issues on the local or national level. these shows and I will continue to watch them and be Time after time again our society has failed us. grateful to Netflix and Hulu for finally deciding to allow more So in short I don’t know if I am more annoyed at the representation to their services. timing or finally grateful for the little bit of respect that is I am mostly annoyed about the timing because lately being placed on the Black community. I do not love how long performative activism and tokenism have really plagued it has taken our society to start recognizing an entirely other society. This is a social justice movement that is somewhat culture. There’s so much appropriation of Black culture and unprecedented. People who have traditionally been silent are so much of Black culture that has been ingrained in every day now speaking up and I am extremely grateful for that but it popular culture for Black people to not receive the respect just feels kind of like a slap in my melanin face to add they deserve. these shows now.

I am thankful for Netflix and Hulu for finally There’s this annoying air around election putting up shows that meant so much to me years that especially rings true this year. The growing up as a biracial Black child. I wish it Black community does not seem to matter in didn’t take a massive social justice movement other years, or not nearly as much. Everyone for these little changes to happen. I wish is concerned about how they’re going Black culture was respected at all times, to win over the black vote but nobody not just during election years and not really wants to continue making steps just after Black people are murdered to improve life for Black Americans. at the hands of police.

I grew up in an almost totally It’s not supposed to be like this white atmosphere - which im and this not me complaining not mad about but I am mad without cause. This is me

by Sarah Coleman that these small gestures seem complaining that our world is Associate Editor to be helping people sleep at unnecessarly unfair to biracial night. “Oh well Netflix and Hulu are putting Black shows up!”, “They’re changing Aunt Jemimas and Uncle Bens names!” and “Walmart is finally not locking up multicultural hair products!” are some of the common things that I have heard my white counterparts exclaim with a little too much excitement.

These are positive changes but they’re also changes that are very overdue. Should we really be patting companies on the back for finally showing out? Do they really care or are they trying to somehow convince the public that they really didn’t know that their products were offensive?

people and people of color.

It is weird that these that it takes social impact in order for people to recieve representation. This is my plea for companies to do better.

I wish that everyone would hold companies accountable.

Do not let them profit off of a hurting community. This is not a way for them to help represent the Black community this is about lining their own pockets. It should not take a revolution in order for our community to be represented.

This whole thing seems very opportunistic and it doesn’t sit right with my soul. I need this energy toward Black folks to be everyday not just when it’s socially convenient.

There is immense importance in keeping up with news.

Sure, as students, there are many things to keep up with on a daily basis.

That goes without question and should be acknowledged. From classes to work to homework to having a job to maintaining your house and maintaining good mental health.

Staying informed on the news may seem like an extra thing to keep up with, but there are great benefits from doing so.

Keeping up with news can benefit you in many ways as it informs you on what is happening in the world on a dayto-day basis. This is important in order to not only further invest in the global economy, but to not remain in a bubble of American society. It is important to know what is happening in the world to expand one’s mentality in a globally diverse perspective and enhance one’s knowledge on current events.

Another way the news is important to stay up to date on is that it impacts each person personally and in different ways.

From global to country to state to city, news is relevant to each person and informs each one on how it affects them.

News pertains to people individually in various ways, such as economically, morally, financially and in plenty of other aspects.

Attaining this knowledge helps one take on what is to come for them.

Say if something is happening in one’s local economy and he reads about it in the news, he will then be informed on the subject to better take appropriate measures to handle it in the best way suitable for him. Whether it be combating the issue, manipulating a situation or learning how to live through the economic impact, the news reader will be competent on what is to come and how it will impact his life as an individual.

This concept gives way to better success and knowledge in each person’s life.

Without knowing what is happening personally, one can be misled and be hit with a potential disaster, whether it be financially, economically, physically or some other form of disaster.

Staying informed on the news also enlightens people with true knowledge, depending on the source of where they get their news, and delivers accurate information rather than confusing and swayed stories on social media.

True, accurate and ethical news is an excellent way to keep informed on events happening in a factual manner, with no bias or opinion intertwined in it.

This is immensely important to practice as bias news is manipulative and keeps one in an echo chamber.

Nonetheless, this can leave a reader uninformed or misinformed on a subject and can lead one to speak or act with incompetency on the subject.

Furthermore, it is good to know every end of the story and every fact before making assumptions and eating the opinion that someone else feeds you. It is important to not live in sheep mentality.

This way, one can decipher the news for himself, forming his own opinion on a subject without someone skewing a story and delivering a biased perspective into it.

Many people, especially students, tend to rely on social media outlets to deliver current event news, but do not seek further beyond what is truly happening.

It is highly valuable to know what is happening in the world, the country, the state, the city, the economy and in everything, but in true, factual perspective, knowing every end of the detail whether it hurts feelings or not.

Staying informed on the news may seem like an extra thing to keep up with, but there are great benefits from doing so.

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 The Courier. 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

7

September 23, 2020

New This Week

“The Devil All the Time” gives dark look into religion

Movies

BY

Sep. 23 — Oliver Stacks: His Own Life (N/A), directed by Ric Burns, starring Oliver Stacks

Sep. 25 — Ava (R), directed by Tate Taylor, starring Jessica Chastin, Collin Farrel, Common

Sep. 25 — Kajilionare (R), directed by Miranda July, starring Evan Rachel Wod, Gina Rodriguez

Music Sep. 25— So Help Me God- 2Chainz Sep. 25 -Only For Dolphins- Action Bronson

SADIE CLARK

Staff Writer

Even the biggest thriller fans would be shaken after watching director Antonio Campos’ The Devil All the Time. Based on the novel of the same name, this film touches on the deep psychological aspects of religion and violence over several storylines.

This story takes place from 1945 to about 1965, and covers the journeys of several families which are all connected somehow. More complex ideas of how religion and spirituality play along with death appear in many of the characters’ lives.

Tom Holland as Arvin and Robert Pattinson as Preston Teagardin are the two performances that stick out in this film. Both take on such powerful roles and much different accents that would leave you dumbfounded that they are British.

The cast is full of other great names such as Bill Skarsgård, Riley Keough, Sebastian Stan and Mia Wasikowska. While many of these stars have played

photo courtesy of www.mashable.com

(letft) Tom Holland and (right) Robert Pattinson star star in the Netflix original “The Devil All the Time”.

other memorable roles, this movie brings out a new darkness that captivates the audience from the beginning.

Arvin Russell seems to be the focal point of the madness.

For no good reason, he seems to attract death all his life. There seems to be some insinuation that the religion in the town has a more negative element to it, especially when it involves his father and Reverend Teagardin.

Willard Russell looks to sacrifice and violent prayer to save his dying wife and

Arvin’s mother, but to no avail. Teagardin also heavily manipulates the word of God to fit his agenda. He uses this twisted logic to entice young girls and indulge in sinful acts behind closed doors.

The runaway couple, Sandy (Keough) and Carl Henderson (Jason Clarke) also connect to religion in a more unorthodox manner. Carl claims to feel closest to God when he and Sandy murder random hitchhikers they pick up. The power is spiritual to

him, but Sandy grows tired of this routine.

The strong negative energy in the film was easy to feel when watching, but pulls the viewer in closer. There are things that are easy to predict, but the surprises are enough to make one audibly gasp.

Meade and Knockemstiff, Ohio seems to be ridden with corruption and extreme violence. Many dark scenes also take place in the woods, which is a key indicator for impending danger or evil. The animal

NETFLIX

sacrifice, murder, gore and sexual elements of the story are enough to make your stomach turn.

While it is known that Tom Holland has an audience composed of younger fans, this movie requires maturity and emotional endurance. This subject matter is disturbing and the visuals can be graphic with no warning, so children and young teenagers should not tune in.

Although it mainly covers darker themes, some of the love stories are sweet in their own way. When Willard met his wife, Charlotte, at the diner, he cared for her deeply. When she fell ill though, his love turned into a deep obsession to keep her alive. His devotion to her though meant more to him than his own life.

There is something about small towns in the 1960’s that can be almost nightmarish. The innocence of Arvin Russell and other unsuspecting characters in “The Devil All the Time” being corrupted by evil is something that will leave me disturbed for days.

MUSIC

Sep. 25- My GiftCarrie Underwood Sep. 25 - Before Love Came to Kill Us [Deluxe Edition]Jessie Reyez Sep. 25-What You Gonna Do When the Grid Goes DownPublic Enemy photo courtesy of www.digitalspy.com

Sep. 25 —BalleriniKelsea Ballerini Sep. 25- SpilligionSpillage Village

Scene from “We Summon the Darknes” now available on Netflix.

New horror film falls flat due to bad acting and plot BY

Sep. 25- Ambient Girl - Ross Harper

Netflix Sep. 23- Enola Holmes

Sep. 24- The Chef Show (Season 2)

Sep. 25- A Perfect Crime Sep. 25- Country-Ish

Sep. 25- The School Nurse Files Sep. 25- Sneakerheads

Sep. 25- Whose Vote Counts, Explained

Top 5 biblical ways to overcome bitterness List compiled by Olyvia Gonzalez and Hope Townes Staff Writers

Ed Toddy

Campus Life Editor

“We Summon the Darkness”, directed by Marc Meyers, is a fast-paced thriller pact full of disappointing violence and bulleted with bad acting and hardly enough blood.

The film’s main characters Alexis, Beverly and Val seem like nice girls, but in actuality they are metalheads who don’t even listen to metal. Yup, probably “nice” girls.

With a car full of twinkies and bladders full of soda, the “deathmetal” devotees make their way to a heavy metal concert. While Val surfs the radio station for some jams the dial lands on news update.

There have been several satanic murders in the area and the public is warned to be on guard. Let the terror not begin.

Upon arriving to the concert, three girls meet three boys. It is obvious that their fates are sealed.

Who wouldn’t be suspicious of three men in a large, ugly van at a death metal concert? The girls are not and the six are coupled up.

Who will court who? Who will kill who?

Preparing myself for the usual satanic murder plot, I started guessing who would be the first to die. Normally, it is the character with the least exposition and the least screen time, but I will give this terrible thriller credit for keeping me guessing. My prediction could not have been further from the truth, and by the end credits it was

clear that I had underestimated this film. It was worse than I thought.

The naivety of this film was too much, so I was not surprised at the climax when the viewer discovers who has been committing all those satanic murders.

The acting in this film was so underwhelming that the films more chilling scenes come across as cheesy. Not to mention, the plot focuses on the wrong characters, villainizing the more likable ones, and the big twist of the film is more than hard to believe -- its laughable.

As the film progresses, one mishap spirals into another, but just when it appears that all hope is lost, an unsuspected heroine emerges and for a moment the movie is about more than murder.

It is a story of redemption. Lame.

I cannot help wishing this film had a better cast and a bigger budget. Perhaps with a bit more character exposition and a better plot in general and the film could have been salvaged. With a little extra love and a better direction this film could have been absolutely terrifying, but instead like many new horror films, and despite the film’s one good twists, it was too rooted in cliches to be good.

Often the things that are most scary take the form of the unexpected. Nobody likes a film they can guess from the get-go.

They don’t make horror like they used to. Calling this film a mystery is an overstatement; confusing, lackluster and just plain bad are spot on.

photo courtesy of www.wmagazine.com

Rapper Rico Nasty poses in mermaid inspired outfit for the viusal of “Own It”. The music video can be watched on Youtube.

Punk-rapper Rico Nasty releases insane music video for new single BY

KENNADI HARRIS

Entertainment Editor

Rapper Rico Nasty released a visual to her new single titled “Own It” and the video showcases the punkrapper doing what she does best, owning her loud and eccentric style.

The music video was released last Friday and is the second single to her upcoming, highly-anticipated debut album, “Nightmare Vacation”. Her first single, “iPhone” was released earlier in August and if I’m being honest, it wasn’t a favorite of mine being that it was more on the pop side. Nevertheless, “Own It” brings back the grunge and cocky Rico that I fell in love with.

The song has a upbeat funky feel to it, slightly reminding me of the song “Countin’ Up” on her previous EP titled “Nasty” except more laid back. I wasn’t a fan of the particular flow she used on this track, being that it sounded a little lazy and like she was dragging out her words unnecessarily.

1. Overlook an offense

2. Forgive

3. Think on the good things

Easier said than done, I know.

But what if we just never let a situation/problem/word get to us in the first place. Proverbs 19:11 says it is a man’s glory to “overlook an offense.” That means we have a choice. We can entertain an offense, thereby letting it into our heart where it will eventually take root and sprout vines of bitterness that have the potential of walling it off, or we can determine in our hearts not to let it take residence, leaving peace and other good things to flower in its place.

If bitterness has already set in, forgiveness is the next step. The reward of forgiveness outweighs the baggage of bitterness.

Have you ever heard the saying “unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die from it”? Bitterness is a thief that steals joy, peace and frankly time. Love and bitterness cannot occupy the same space, so something has to give. Peter 4:8 says love covers a multitude of sins. There is a good chance the other person hasn’t given that situation or conversation one more thought but you are left holding the bitterness bag.

Forgive.

Guard your heart and your thoughts by training yourself to pursue the good things in life. In fact, Philippians 4:8 says to think about things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent and worthy of praise and the God of peace will be with you. When your heart and your mind is full of those good things, bitterness will find there is no room in a space already occupied by peace. Therefore, it cannot stay.

This is a 180 from her usual high energy style, that often features her screaming on tracks in an enjoyable way.

However, the visuals make up for what was lost.

The music video directed

by Philippa Price features Nasty in extraordinary outfits posing in quite unordinary settings.

My favorite scene is the opener in which Nasty wears this yellow headpiece with long unicorn-like crystal horns placed all over, covering her whole face but leaving her red crystalized lips exposed. It’s truly something I have never seen before and Nasty, as the song suggests, totally owns the look. She poses in a nude and yellow bodysuit in front of a sunset backdrop, with several baby chicks close by. The set up is most definitely random but somehow still badass.

Other scenes includes even crazier looks such as Nasty sitting amongst racoons and possums (thankfully these animals are fake) on a swing-set with braided hair that spells

4. Give

Proverbs 22:9 says that a generous man will be blessed.

Try to give your time, talent or resources to the person that offended or wronged you and just watch the bitterness melt away. Bitterness is the antithesis to kindness, love, joy and peace.

One moment of “undeserved” kindness can change a life, especially yours. If you can’t give to the person who offended you then give of yourself in some other way. Use your gifts and talents in a way that benefits others. Give mercy, grace and forgiveness quickly. Bitterness will be pulled up and washed away by the blessings you receive in return for your sacrifice.

“Rico”, a close-up with Rico wearing mouthpiece with letters that spell the word “nasty” hanging from the bottom, and other scenarios that are beyond the average person’s imagination.

Also, another one of my favorites, is shot from a fisheye lens and features Nasty in her own flamboyant version of a tea party. Her look is a cross between a renaissance princess and the mother in the “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” theme song.

This video has too many absurd details to name.

You could probably spot something new each time you watch it. The wildness of it all is true to Nasty’s nature and that is why I love it.

Nasty is a wildcard and is truly in her own lane. Her outrageous ways do not seem forced and she can pull off some things others would look foolish doing. This song is a bop but the video is truly what sets it off.

You can watch the music video to “Own It” on Youtube and listen to the song on all streaming platforms.

5. Pray After reading the first four on the list this last one probably doesn’t come as a surprise. Have you ever just sat down with a friend, or two, and poured out your heart and felt better by the time the conversation was over? Well prayer is just that: a conversation with God. Exodus 33:11 says that the Lord spoke to Moses face to face “as a man speaks to his friend.” Imagine spilling your guts to a friend who IS love and full of mercy and forgiveness. In that atmosphere you would be more willing to cast off bitterness in exchange for the healing of your soul.

ucanews.live

SPORTS

8/ September 23, 2020

UCA STATS CORNER SPORT

OPPONENT

RESULT

RECORD

Tennis

UCA Invitaitonal

(W)

Women’s Soccer

SFA

2-2 (T)

(2-1-1,0-0-1)

Women’s Soccer

Texas State

2-0 (W)

(2-1-0,0-0-0)

Men’s Soccer

UAB

3-2(L)

(0-1)

Back To Winning

photo courtsey of UCA Athletics

Senior foward Kasper Anderson involved in a practice this fall. Anderson in the two years he has played for the Bears has recorded four goals, nine assists and 17 points.

Anderson has plans to go pro in Denmark

By Megan Holder Social Media Editor

Life in America has been a journey, but he’s used to it considering that he’s been around the world.

Kasper Anderson is a senior at the University of Central Arkansas. He is also a forward on the soccer team.

Anderson is from Randers, Denmark but has been in America for five years.

He said he misses his family and friends the most, the people he grew up with. Anderson is the oldest out of him and his three brothers. Anderson said it is a “very important value” for him to stay connected with his family and friends back home.

“I definitely miss the food as well. The food is amazing,” Anderson said.

The time difference between America and Denmark is seven hours. Whenever America has two time changes each year, the time difference is six hours for only three weeks.

“I don’t know why the times don’t change at the same time,” Anderson said.

Anderson’s favorite American holiday is Labor Day. “It’s warm weather outside, and people get together to go out. Typically we go out to the lake and have a lot of fun team bonding and stuff like that,” Anderson said.

Although Anderson enjoys

the warm weather in America, he said the humidity is “way higher here than it is in Denmark.”

“As soon as Denmark hits October or even September, it’s rainy and windy. November all the way up to like early March is really cold.” Anderson said.

In Andersons home of Denmark the summers can get warm every other day, but it’s not like a summer in Arkansas.

“The humidity here is definitely a big difference. I remember the first time I came to Arkansas I was like, wow it’s hard to breathe here.”

He said he got used to the heat and humidity by working hard at practices.

When he is not on the soccer field Anderson knows how to keep himself busy.

“I spend a great amount of time catching up on school work, hanging out with friends, and playing video games if I have time for that. I also catch up with family and friends at home.”

Anderson said.

Anderson is majoring in marketing.

“I’m graduating here in December, Anderson said. “I don’t have a future plan for what I want to do with my degree yet.”

Eventhough he does not know what he wants to do with his degree Anderson does of a dream back home.

“I’ve used this opportunity to travel and meet a new culture but also to pursue a pro career

Jim Rivers :

in soccer. I definitely think I’m going to be going back home to Denmark to try to pursue that dream.”

Anderson since a young boy has traveled and had soccer apart of his life.

“I’ve been to a bunch of places in Europe basically from playing soccer at a young age.

I’ve been to the Netherlands. I’ve been to Germany. I’ve been to Belgium playing in all different kinds of places in Europe.”

Anderson has also traveled to Spain and England to watch some of the top players play in professional soccer matches.

“I’ve been to Italy on vacation, so I’ve been to a lot of places in Europe.”

Anderson has even been skiing in Norway. “It’s great. It’s really good,” he said.

He started his senior season with a soccer game against the University of Alabama at Birmingham on September 19.

“Go Bears,” Anderson said.

photo courtesy of ucasports.com

Sophomore middlefielder Emma Hawkins makes a play on the ball against a Texas State defender in San Marcos, Texas. Hawkins had two shots on goal in the 2-0 UCA victory.

Bears back to their winning ways

By Ian Lyle Opinion Editor

Bouncing back from a previous loss, the women’s soccer team won 2-0 away against Texas State Bobcats, Friday, Sept. 19.

Each goal from UCA was scored from headers assisted by corner kick set pieces. The first was scored by sophomore midfielder Abby Gibson in the 47th minute and the second one was scored by junior central defender Taylor Webb.

“It was a good corner,” Webb said, explaining her goal.

“It was a good ball played into the box. I missed the first one, but then Kirsten gave me a perfect ball back in and I was able to make contact and just get it in the back of the net.”

As for what brought the team to victory, Webb said, “Our possession was on point today and just our energy made it so

much fun to work hard today.

We were all on the same page and wanted to work hard for each other.”

Six days prior to the match, the team lost 2-0 to the Arkansas State University Redwolves.

However, they seemed to find a difference in their game against Texas State.

Right behind Webb on the pitch was junior goalkeeper Reagan McCombs, who shared her insight on what went differently between this match and the previous loss.

“I think it was the energy that we brought into the game, honestly, “ McCombs said. “It was so high. I think we kind of got down a little bit in the last game, made some mistakes that could’ve been completely avoided and tonight we were just on our game. We just did really well just playing out of the back, playing quick and easy so that was huge for us too.”

Not only did McCombs see a difference in her team’s energy, but saw the results of it by conceding no goals.

“It was awesome,” she said about keeping a clean sheet during the match. “Huge help by my defense. It was just a team effort tonight and I really felt like everybody pulled their weight, did really well and made that possible for me.”

Also complementing the team’s defensive play was Coach Jeremy Bishop.

“We played well. We worked a lot this week in possession, keeping the ball, and it showed up tonight. We were able to make them really chase the game and have the ball for...a big percentage of the game,” Bishop said.

Slow start better finish for the Bears

4 Continued from page 5 week long I have been really really working on putting a chipping and stuff like that and keeping myself sharp. Hopefully that will give me the edge and we’ll get a win in there.”

Jolly is looking forward to playing the honors course in Tennessee.

“They have played some big tournaments there and we’re all excited to go out there and play,”

Jolly said.

They will continue to their next game on Sept. 21 in Chattanooga, Tennessee at the 2020 Scenic City Collegiate. photo courtesy of arkansasonline.com

Arkansas State Athletic Director Terry Mohajir made the decison to postpone the game against UCA due to several players in one position showing COVID-19 symptoms.

Bears, Red Wolves postponed until October

By Travis Gupton Sports Editor

Extra Time :

Close game doesn’t go Bears’ way

4 Continued from page 5

even compare the two. I think for us we were looking for better execution in key moments,” Duncan said. “We had so many chances to win that game, the fact that they were still hanging around toward the end of the match was disappointing and a letdown from our standpoint, but that’s the way that the game

works. If you don’t bury your chances, if you don’t put teams away then they will hang around and they hurt you.”

The Bears will look to bounce back from the tough loss, traveling to Lexington, Kentucky next to face off against the Kentucky Wildcats. The match will take place on Friday,

October 2, with a 3 p.m. kickoff.

The Wildcats will play five home games in a row with UCA being the third of five.

Kentucky opened up home play against the Duke Blue Devils on Sept. 21.

The Bears got an extra week of preparation after it was announced that the game against Arkansas State was postponed until Oct. 10 according to ucasports.com.

It was reported by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette that on Sept. 15 several players were reported having COVID-19 symptoms from Arkansas State.

According to ucasports.com in a statement released by ASU the reason the game was being moved was, “due to Arkansas State being unable to assemble a full twodeep depth chart at a specific position group due to player unavailability.”

With the importance and expectation of this game, ASU Athletic Director, Terry Mohajir understood how big of a game this was for both schools.

“I’m disappointed for the student-athletes, the coaches, the fan bases from both schools,” Mohajir said in a quote found in the Arkansas DemocratGazette. “ We would have benn able to play the game if it wasn’t concentrated into one position group.”

The story in the DemocratGazette several players did not make the trip when Arkansas State faced Kansas State.

It is not clear what specific position was effected by COVID-19 at this time.

It was around noon on Sept.15 that Mohajir contacted UCA Athletic Director Brad Teague to let him know that they would not be able to play as scheduled according to the Democrat-Gazzette. “ I get it,” Teague said in the Democrat-Gazzette. “ I mean, it’s where we are. He ( Mohajir) tolf me it wasn’t about the numbers, it was just a position and he didn’t

tell me which position. I take him at his word , and I understand.

That’s kind of the threshold: Can you field every position?”

Teague made a statement on ucasports.com that continued to explain just how COVID-19 is effecting the world we are in now. “ During these unique times, these situations are bound to occur,” Teague said. “ We have seen it across the nation. We were definitely ready and looking forward to competing against the Red Wolves, but we absolutely understand that the health and wellness of our student-athletes has to guide all our decisions.”

With the moving of the game to Oct. 10 UCA’s second home game of the season against Eastern Kentucky University was moved to Nov.14.

The Bears will face North Dakota State University the week before they travel to Jonesboro to play the Red Wolves.