MM 2003 - Steelee Harper

Numeracy, or the ability to understand and use numbers effectively, is increasingly vital in the age of social media. With billions of users worldwide, platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok disseminate vast quantities of information daily, often in the form of data, statistics, and infographics. While these platforms can democratize access to information, they also create challenges in ensuring that audiences interpret numerical data accurately and critically. Social media's rapid pace encourages brevity, leading to the oversimplification of complex numerical concepts. For instance, statistics about public health, economic trends, or political polling are often condensed into eye-catching headlines or memes. While such formats can attract attention, they can also misrepresent data by omitting context or nuance. A viral post about a "50% increase in crime" may fail to explain that the increase is relative to an unusually low baseline, misleading readers about the ...

Civics education is the cornerstone of any democratic society, equipping citizens with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate effectively in governance and public life. It fosters an understanding of governmental structures, the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, and the critical thinking skills required to evaluate political and social issues. In an era of increasing political polarization and misinformation, the role of civics education is more crucial than ever. Civics education focuses on the structure and function of government at local, state, and national levels. It explains the three branches of government, executive, legislative, and judicial, and their roles in maintaining a system of checks and balances. By understanding these mechanisms, individuals are better equipped to hold their leaders accountable and ensure that power is not concentrated in any branch. This knowledge is vital for protecting democratic principles and preventing authoritarianism. ...

KZHE 100.5 FM, based in Magnolia, Arkansas, is important to the community. It serves Columbia County and nearby areas by broadcasting music and local updates that fit the town’s culture and values. The station focuses on classic country and gospel music, offering entertainment and connecting people to their roots.  KZHE started broadcasting in the late 1900s and quickly became known for playing timeless music and sharing local content. Its focus on classic country and gospel music reflects the traditions of the South. Magnolia is a small town known for being friendly and traditional, so KZHE fits right in. Over time, it has built a loyal audience that appreciates its familiar and genuine style.   KZHE is all about classic country and gospel music. Popular artists like George Jones , Merle Haggard , and Patsy Cline are part of its playlists, along with gospel songs that inspire faith and unite people. This focus makes KZHE stand out compared to stations that play only mo...

Arkansas, known for its natural beauty and vibrant communities, has also been the backdrop for high-profile crime stories that have captured both local and national attention. The West Memphis Three (1993) Perhaps the most infamous crime in Arkansas, the West Memphis Three case involved the brutal murder of three young boys in West Memphis. Three teenagers, Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin, and Jessie Misskelley, were convicted amidst allegations of satanic ritual abuse. Years later, evidence casting doubt on their guilt led to their release in 2011 via an Alford plea, though questions about the true perpetrator remain. The Murder of Beverly Carter (2014) Beverly Carter, a Little Rock realtor, was lured to a fake property showing and murdered by Arron Lewis and Crystal Lowery. The case drew national attention due to its chilling nature, highlighting safety concerns for real estate professionals.   The Elaine Massacre (1919)  Though not a "crime" in the traditional sense, the ...

The United States has a dark history with some of the world’s most infamous serial killers , individuals whose crimes have left lasting impacts on society, the justice system, and pop culture. H.H. Holmes (1861-1896) Herman Webster Mudgett, better known as H.H. Holmes, is often referred to as America’s first serial killer. In the late 19th century, Holmes built a hotel in Chicago dubbed the “Murder Castle,” designed with hidden rooms and secret passages to trap and kill his victims. He is believed to have killed at least nine people, though some estimates put the number in the dozens. Albert Fish (1870-1936) Known as the “Gray Man,” Albert Fish was a cannibalistic serial killer who preyed on children during the early 20th century. His crimes shocked the public, particularly the brutal murder of young Grace Budd. Fish claimed he had killed multiple children, but the exact number remains uncertain. He was arrested and executed in 1936. The Zodiac Killer (Active late 1960s)    Th...