Dr. Lillie Fears, professor of multimedia journalism production, will be guest speaker for Arkansas State University Museum's Black History Month program Tuesday evening, Feb. 23, at 5.  Her topic will be the history of the black press in Arkansas, with an emphasis on her research and insight about the power of the printed word in African-American-owned newspapers. At a reception afterward, guests will enjoy food prepared according to African-American traditions.

Dr. Hans Hacker, associate professor of political science and adviser to pre-law students, is co-author of a guest column in the Baltimore Sun. Following the sudden death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia Saturday, Hacker and Dr. William Blake of the University of Maryland Baltimore County submitted the opinion article in which they argue for the advantages of President Obama reappointing Justice Sandra Day O'Connor to the court.

Dr. Justin Castro, assistant professor Latin American history, recently gave a webinar about his forthcoming book, "Radio in Revolution: Wireless Technology and State Power in Mexico, 1897-1938," to be published by the University of Nebraska Press. Scholars from North America, South America, and Europe participated. The book, which is in pre-order for delivery after July 1, has drawn excellent advance reviews from history scholars.

Dr. Joyce Olushola (left), assistant professor of sports management, will perform an African interpretive dance as a means of illustrating the dialectical nature of music and dance in this culture during "A Night of African American/African Culture and History" Saturday evening. Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch, associate professor of history, will present Black History Month readings. The program is sponsored by Jonesboro radio station KLEK at Whistle Stop Bistro and Catering.

Jeff Chandler, English as a second language instructor and international activities coordinator, recently consulted with 12 faculty members at Walnut Ridge Middle School who had requested assistance with helping new Spanish-speaking students. He provided guidance on teaching students at that level, including the use of a technique called "teacher talk," which quickly assists students with little previous knowledge of English.