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1.30.19 | Vol. 127, Issue 13 | www.obusignal.com

Lives of meaningful work, Christian Focus Week 2019

By JACOB COTTRELL Staff writer Campus ministries will sponsor Christian Focus Week Feb. 4-8. This week-long event that encourages students to refocus their relationships with Christ has been a part of Campus Ministries for over 30 years.

Senior Katie Jo Henley from Conway, who is a co-leader for the Christian Focus Week leadership team, said, “We have an opportunity to re-focus and dwell with the Lord.” This year’s theme is “Here am I,” a theme chosen by the leadership team to give an overall idea and vision for Christian Focus Week.

This week is designed to offer many types of worship services, guest speakers and includes men and women breakout sessions for students to hear advice and wisdom. Evening sessions include Art & Worship, We the Union in concert, student testimonies, Refuge and Life Music @ Dr. Jack’s.

Chapel will feature a variety of speakers and will be held Monday at 9 a.m. with John McCallum, Tuesday at 10 a.m. with Kristen Padilla, Wedneday at 10 a.m. with Harry Li, Thursday at 10 a.m. with Nathan James, and Friday at 11 a.m. with Nathan Wagnon. Worship will be led each day Ashley Huenefeld. Classes are cancelled during the chapel time each day.

The times for each event are set throughout the day to offer every student a chance to make a breakout session during the day. Some of the events from past Christian Focus Weeks will be put on again this year such as the art and worship night, women’s tea and a men’s dinner. Henley said, “Our men’s and women’s event on Tuesday night includes Dr. Brune speaking for the men, and

“We get to have incredible speakers come and get to dwell in the presence of the Lord. That will get to be our main focus of the week.”

KATIE JO HENLEY

author of the book ‘Now That I’m Called,’ Kristen Padilla speaking at the women’s event.” After the men and women’s breakout sessions, Tuesday night in Jones Performing Art Center there will be a night of worship with the band We the Union.

The breakout sessions taking place around campus have varying topics and leaders that have been asked to speak and give their wisdom and advice to those attending. The speakers range from Christian Studies professors to the dean of students, which will allow students to hear from a variety of people.

“You get to hear a lot of incredible speakers that you normally do not get to hear from. We try to bring in speakers from all different backgrounds and at different stages of life, so they can relate to anyone,” said Katie Jo Henley.

“We get to have incredible speakers come and get to dwell in the presence of the Lord. That will get to be our main focus of the week.”

Jack Bennington, a sophomore from Arkadelphia who is part of the Christian Focus Week leadership team, said, “I enjoy this week, because it puts an emphasis on our faith. As college students who are busy with homework and just finishing joining clubs this gives students a chance to take a break and refocus back on the Lord.”

To find a full schedule for Christian Focus Week, go to the Ouachita website. From the campus life drop down tab, click on campus ministries and there you can find the schedule for the week. Campus Ministries has also provided the location of the breakout sessions going on around the university campus. n

Students join various social clubs Allen Asbury provides guest

By MANDY HALBERT Staff writer Social clubs welcomed potential new members to consider their club as the semester began. Each club participated in Rush starting on the Tuesday classes began, and then began Induction Week activities.

“The purpose of Rush Week is for people to get a glimpse into what each club on campus is really like,” Tri Chi vice president Annie Phillips said. “It is a way for people to see another way to get involved on campus and meet more people.”

Students who signed up last semester to participate began attending club Rush parties all week in hopes of finding a group they felt compelled to join.

“For the rushees that pledged clubs, I hope that they found their home in the club that they thought fit them best,” Phillips said. “My hope is that they found their place and where they belong, like I did in Tri Chi. For the rushees that did not pledge a club, I hope that they walked away with new friendships.”

Phillips planned and organized all Tri Chi Rush events to make sure both members and rushees had a smooth Rush process.

“I took this position, because I had a great Rush experience,” she said. “I wanted to give back and hopefully impact others during

this week and allow them to have the same experience I did.”

Clubs met late into the night throughout the week to narrow down the pool of rushees to those the club feels would thrive best in their club. Each club encourages rushees to go into the week without preconceived notions about the clubs.

“My Rush Week led me to choose Tri Chi, because it allowed me to be around and spend time with the girls that I thought I fit in best with,” Phillips said. “For future rushees, I would say go into rush week with an open-mind, and even if you aren’t sure if you want to pledge a club, still rush because it can change your mind.”

Rushees listed their club preferences the night of Jan. 18 and received their bids the following morning. Bid day also marks the beginning of each club’s Induction Week.

“The purpose of pledge week is to get the guys or girls bonded together as a new pledge class and bonded with the other members of the club,” Eta Alpha Omega Pledge Master Jacob Cottrell said. “We hit the clubs history and traditions this week and with that it shows why and how our club came to be on the OBU campus. The week is set up to learn our history and our members’ information.”

Induction Week allows new members to learn about club traditions and to acclimate them to the club they have chosen.

“My personal pledge week was very different, because it was Chi Mu’s first pledge week,” Chi Mu Head Pledge Mistress Olivia Witcher said. “I remember them telling us the things they wanted to keep as traditions, so it’s very special being Head Pledge Mistress because the traditions that

“For the rushees that pledged clubs, I hope that they found their home in the club that they thought fit them best.”

ANNIE PHILLIPS

we have developed since then, I’ve been there for all them.”

Each social club hopes that the week develops a respect and commitment to the club and to their new pledge class in their new members, and that it has prepared them to lead and contribute to the growth of the group in the future.

“We got a really good pledge class that is a solid group of guys and they love the Lord,” Cottrell said. “That is all we can ask for in a new PC. They grew together and they all want to see ETA grow and are all committed to the club. n

concert for OBU students

By HAYDN JEFFERS Staff Writer

Ouachita hosted Christian recording artist Allen Asbury for a concert on Tuesday in Jones Performing Arts Center. The concert, which was sponsored by the School of Fine Arts and Division of Music, was free and open to the public.

Asbury is a contemporary Christian recording artist with Doxology Record Company. He has had four No. 1 hits and seven top 10 songs.

His 2002 song “Somebody’s Praying Me Through” was the Presidential Prayer Team’s theme song and the National Day of Prayer theme song in 2003.

Asbury is also known for his portrayal of Simon Peter in the award-winning musical “The Promise.” He has played this role over 3,000 times in areas such as Branson, Mo., New York City, Russia and South Korea.

Asbury has also played the role of Joseph in the musical “Two from Galilee,” and another role as Simon Peter in the musical “The Rock, the Redeemer & the Resurrection Morning.”

“I first met Allen in March of 2018,” said Dr. Jon Secrest, Ouachita’s Addie Mae Maddox Professor of Music and coordinator of vocal studies. “He and my daughter Caitlin performed together in the

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Echo Hollow Show in Silver Dollar City last year.”

“Having been privileged to attend as many live events as I have in my lifetime, it takes quite a lot to make an impact on me,” Secrest added. “I can honestly say I am moved by Allen’s performances.”

Asbury’s performance at Ouachita was punctuated by his infectious energy and inspirational vocals. He sang several songs from his albums as he led the audience in worship and energized the crowd.

“Quality musical performances enrich our lives,” Secrest said. “I believe anyone who missed this program will regret not having been there.”

Asbury performed with an ensemble of eight musicians from the Branson, Mo. area. The group helped Asbury lead worship in concert.

“Allen demonstrates the trademark skillsets required to have success in the worship and performance arts,” Secrest noted.

Asbury sang a few pop songs in addition to his spiritual songs, demonstrating his talent in multiple areas. His concert proved to be invaluable to anyone interested in worship arts, music industry and performance.

“Allen is genuine, loving and spirit-filled,” Secrest said. “Anyone who missed this concert will regret it.” n

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“Pancakes, definitely.”

“Waffles.”

“Pancake sandwich with waffle(s) in the middle.”

“Waffles are pancakes with abs, so I relate to pancakes more.”

“Waffles.”

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News Briefs

A look at the biggest news of the week Unexpected cold front The midwest saw massive snow accumulation early Monday morning. Experts are predicting that temperatures will continue to plummet over the course of the next week.

Temperatures in Indiana are expected to fall to negative 55 degrees with wind chill, resulting in life-threatening conditions. Minnesota temperatures are predicted to drop to negative 60 degrees. Frostbite and hypothermia are extremely prone at these temperatures.

Cold weather advisories are being expected across central U.S., as well. School across the country are bracing for closures that might become necessary.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport cancelled nearly 800 flights on Monday.

The governor of Wisconson declared a state of emergency due to the winter weather.

Source: AP

Superbowl Foods

5 4 3 2 1

Waffles or pancakes?

Chocolate chip cookies Chips and Dip Nachos Pizza Buffalo wings

Shutdown ends for three weeks The five week partial government shutdown over President Donald Trump’s border wall issue ended last Friday. It’s been estimated that the shutdown cost the government 3 billion dollars.

The deal to reopen the government will last until Feb. 15 and the government will resume its shutdown.

The Congressional Budget Office, CBO, announced that this money will be unrecoverable. The shutdown was the longest lasting funding lapse in U.S. history.

An overall 11 billion dollar loss over the shutdown is expected to be partially recovered through an 8 billion projected boost through the GDP. Funding is now successfully being delivered to the goverment organizations that functioned without it after well over a month.

Source: AP

Facetime eavesdropping bug The popular video call application Facetime has been the target of criticism after users discovered an invasive bug that directly removes privacy.

The malfunction allowed users who made the call to eavesdrop and see through the recipient’s front-facing camera.

Through a series of technical steps relating to the application’s group call features, users stumbled across the bug and quickly brought it to attention over various social media sites.

While the bug wasn’t easy to replicate, many sources found that they were able to duplicate the results.

Apple has addressed the bug and is currently working on a fix. The company has projected an update to launch by the end of the week. In the meantime, Apple has disabled group call functionality on the application .

Source: AP

Ouachita to host annual pageant, Miss $800,000 gift provides Ouachita Baptist University 2019 artificial turf surface for OBU’s Cliff Harris Stadium

By CAITY HATCHETT Staff writer

This coming weekend, 15 women will compete in the 2019 Miss Ouachita Baptist University Contest. The girls will be competing for a chance to represent Ouachita over the next year, traveling around and sharing their platform and compete in the Miss Arkansas Pageant in June. With 15 girls competing this year, the number is double that of last year, according to Miss OBU coordinator Becky Hartsfield.

“This year we have seen a tremendous increase in interest for Miss OBU. The scholarship contest has fifteen participants this year, up from seven last year,” Hartsfield said. “Many campus clubs and organizations nominated and sponsored young women for the title of Miss OBU 2019.”

There is also a lot more diversity in the contest this year—in both contestants and platforms.

The platform is a cause that is chosen by each girl, and it is typically something that she wants to advocate for if she is chosen as Miss OBU. This year, the chosen platforms are unique to each girl, and their diversity is very impressive, according to the 2018 Miss OBU Emma Pitts.

“All the platforms that I’ve seen have been really different and really unique and special to each individual girl,” Pitts said.

“Each woman selects her own platform based on interest or experience in her chosen critical issue,” Hartsfield said. “The platforms are as varied as the women that select them, so we have great diversity in interests and challenges put forward.”

The Miss OBU competition consists of five different phases: talent, evening gown, interview, on-stage question and lifestyle

Miss OBU Scholarship Pageant z Courtesy

By OUACHITA News Bureau

UK-USA Ministries Instagram z Courtesy Miss OBU 2018 winner Emma Pitts joins Tiffany Lee, Miss OBU 2017, and Maggie Benton, Miss Arkansas 2017, to celebrate Pitts’ victory last year. Pitts will crown a new Miss OBU at Saturday night’s competition.

and fitness.

Each part is scored a bit differently, but each of them gives the contestants a chance to show who they are in a different way.

For Pitts, talent is the most fun part of the competition.

“Talent is where each girl kind of gets to find that thing that they love to do and present it on stage, so I think that that’s the most fun part for people to get to watch,” Pitts said. “And that’s what kind of makes it a fun event to attend.”

The diversity among the contestants is really going to be an interesting part of this year’s contest. Both Pitts and Hartsfield are excited about this year’s contestants.

“The diversity this year is probably the best we’ve ever seen, and I’m so thankful for that. I think that everyone is being well represented,” Pitts said.

“I’m really excited to see everything that they’ll bring, both talent-wise and with their indi-

vidual platforms.”

“With the addition of more women participating, we get to see more ideas and how each individual woman works in her community to reinforce her critical issue and make a difference in the lives of the people it affects,” Hartsfield said.

For Pitts, though, the weekend will be bittersweet. She is passing on her crown and helping a new girl step into the role of representing Ouachita over the next year. Pitts is still excited to see who will be crowned Miss OBU 2019, though, and she is just as excited to pass on her title.

“I have loved this job because we get to be a representative, and we get to go to Miss Arkansas with this title. It’s been such a huge honor,” Pitts said. “And the fact that I’ll get to be a part of the next girl’s special moment as she kind of starts off this crazy, whirlwind of a year - I’m just very excited and honored to get to be part of that.”n

Ouachita Baptist University announced that a Little Rock attorney has provided a generous $800,000 gift that will fully fund the installation of artificial turf at Cliff Harris Stadium.

The turf will be ready for the kickoff of the 2019 Ouachita football season in September.

Tom Thrash of the Thrash Law Firm in Little Rock is a 1977 graduate of Ouachita. He and his wife, Toni, made the contribution because of the university’s impact on his life.

“I owe everything I have to Ouachita,” said Thrash. “The football program taught me the importance of achieving goals when faced with adversity, a lesson that has served me well over the years. I give because I want to continue the gift of Ouachita – an environment that fosters spiritual growth, provides an extraordinary education, and receives you as part of a family.”

Thrash was a four-year starter at defensive back for the Tigers and earned First-Team All-Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference honors twice in his time at Ouachita.

He was also inducted into the Ouachita Athletic Hall of Fame as a member of the 1975 football team. The gift comes on the heels of a historic season for the Tigers, in which they finished 12-1 overall and were undefeated in the regular season. They won the Great American Conference Championship for the fourth time in nine years, earned the top seed in the NCAA Division II Super Region 3, and captured their first playoff victory in school history.

“Tom is a member of Ouachita’s Board of Trustees and a loyal and

enthusiastic supporter of our university,” said Dr. Ben Sells, Ouachita’s president. “Of the 167 NCAA II football members, we’re one of the smaller institutions, but we finished the season ranked sixth in the country. Ouachita is rising in many ways, including in athletics, and investments such as this extend our upward trajectory.

Director of Athletics David Sharp played football with Thrash at Ouachita. He says he’s not surprised that his former teammate stepped in with a significant gift.

“Tom has been a leader ever since I have known him during our playing days,” Sharp said. “His passion for Ouachita and Ouachita football is exemplified through this gift he and his wife, Toni, have given. Artificial turf will continue to enhance Cliff Harris Stadium, and this will directly impact the recruitment of student-athletes and the playability of the field they will practice and compete on.”

Following his graduation from Ouachita, Thrash graduated with honors in 1980 from University of Arkansas School of Law. His professional career began at Rose Law Firm in Little Rock, where he served as senior partner. He then founded Thrash Law Firm, P.A. in 1998. Recently, the National Trial Lawyer’s Association voted Thrash one of three members of the 2018 Class Action Trial Team of the Year. He was named Trial Lawyer of the Year in Arkansas by the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association in 2000.

Thrash is also a past president of Pleasant Valley Country Club and an active member of Immanuel Baptist Church.

Construction on Cliff Harris Stadium’s Benson-Williams Field will begin in the coming weeks and will be ready for the Sept. 5 home opener. n

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“A Day in the Life”: Sean Carney at Ouachita 11:00 a.m.

It is time for Sean to practice the organ. He makes his way towards Macbeth Recital Hall with music and organ shoes in hand. His trip up the stairs sounds more like crashing than climbing, but once Sean starts to play, the galumphing quickly transforms into grace. His fingers seem to move without thought as they dance across the keys. Likewise, his feet perform their own tap dance upon the pedals as the singular notes come together to form an entire orchestra. In between songs, Sean pokes fun at himself, putting on one-man shows with dozens of ridiculous voices as he toys with the monstrous instrument and prepares for the next piece.

By SCARLETT CASTLEBERRY Online staff writer

8:00 a.m.

Sean is feeling crusty. He galumphs and groans, gradually making his way to the sink where he splashes his face raw with water. He nuzzles up to his suitemates, searching for a last moment of comfort as they reassure him that it’s all going to be okay. He skips breakfast, and begins to mosey his way to class for another Thursday.

Sean Carney is a junior Spanish and music double major. He is an active member of Eta Alpha Omega and a Tri Chi Beau. He loves Jesus, sweet tea, friends and family and chicken nuggets in that order. After college he plans to attend seminary and Noon eventually preach.

Almost all of Sean’s meals include talking with a friend or 8:30 a.m. mentor and on this particular Once he remembers where he day Sean was able to catch up is, Sean’s mosey grows into a skip with his Uncle Randy and friend as he makes his way to biblical De’Ja Smiley at Flying Burger. preaching with Dr. Carter. Here he jokes with friends, eyes 1:56 p.m. squinting with giggles, but Sean runs to his piano lesson, as soon as class begins, Sean beating himself up over his transforms into a model student: missing piano books, only to find wide-eyes, aggressively taking that his teacher, Dr. Chung, has notes and popping his head back been politely waiting, books in up like a meerkat with a childlike hand. hunger for knowledge.

2:00 p.m.

9:45 a.m.

Sean’s piano lesson begins.

Once out of class, fellow Once again, the notes dance and Eta Alpha Omega member it is as if the single instrument Riley Carson joins Sean. They is performing a whole ballet order t-shirts for the club while of scales and flips that only he discussing many things from understands. the meaning of life to bodily Note: Sean wants his readers functions. No topic is too small to know that his arpeggios were or too off-putting. It all matters. very good on this day.

SEAN CARNEY, a junior Spanish and music double major from LIttle Rock, spends his days in a mixture of classes, extra curricular activities and worship.

4:00 p.m.

Sean is able to “slither into bed” for a few minutes of peace and quiet.

Courtney travel to Dollar Tree where they spend a total of $2.18 and proceed to discuss life on the floor of the shop.

4:15 p.m.

Sean remembers his responsibilities and is forced to “slither” back out for group pictures with Tri Chi and Eta Alpha Omega at the amphitheatre.

7:00 p.m.

The two make their way to the home of Tyler and Anna Rosenthal for cookies and conversation.

The topic of the night is car wrecks, tickets and Jesus. Again, Sean’s voice rises above the rest describing his escapades with the law, near-death experiences and trying and failing to charm his way out of trouble.

5:00 p.m.

It is dinnertime; Sean quickly becomes the most animated character amongst his friends, as his hands flap enthusiastically emphasizing his words and the pitch of his voice rises and falls forcing roller coasters of emotions.

6:00 p.m.

Sean and his friend Bethany

9:00 p.m.

Thursdays mean Sean can be found at Refuge usually near the front of the room with a Bible in hand, singing his heart out in worship.

10:00 p.m.

After Refuge, Sean typically likes to be with friends somewhere where he can consume carbs. Tonight the location is McDonald’s and the topic is the different struggles of the Enneagram types.

There is a reason that people describe Sean as “joy-bringing,” a “passionate goof,” “tenacious” and even “poopy in the best way.” There are not many people with the ability that Sean has to see the best in people and to encourage them to be all that God has called them to be.

Midnight Sean crawls back into bed, crusty from a day of hard work, and comforted with the knowledge that it was a good day. n

Ouachitonian video of adorable dog goes viral on Twitter

By GRACIE STOVER Staff writer

What is the best type of fame you can imagine? Is it winning the lottery? What about winning on a game show like “The Price is Right?” Or even winning “American Idol?” For social media lovers, there might be something even better.

Picture this: one afternoon, you post a funny video on your Twitter account, hoping some of your friends think it is cute. but when you wake up the next morning you find you are the owner of the first viral video of 2019. Ouachita student Sarah Ashley Bryant, a senior psychology major from Fayetteville, has been living that reality for almost a month.

On Dec. 30, 2018, Sarah posted a video of her aunt’s bulldog playing in the mud, and her tweet went viral overnight.

“I went to bed with 120 retweets, and I woke up to 30,000,” Bryant said.

Twitter is one of the social media hot spots to go to for posting brief updates, videos and memes. But I’m sure many of us want to know what it’s like to have your own minute in the spotlight, to have hundreds of thousands of people see what you posted, and then share it on their own social media pages.

“I just thought this video is really funny and deserves to be seen by people,” Bryant said.

The 40-second video starts out with Rose the bulldog innocently playing in the mud outside of Bryant’s aunt’s house.

Sarah Ashley Bryant z Courtesy LEFT: Sarah Ashley Bryant tweets a video of her aunt’s new English Bulldog puppy in the mud. The video, which features her aun’ts voice speaking to Rose and Rose’s subsequent entrance into a freshly cleaned living room, went viral on Twitter overnight. ABOVE: Rose poses today from the lap of her owner, Kimberli Kern.

Sarah Ashley Bryant z Courtesy

That seems to be the obvious first ingredient to the formula of why this video gained so much popularity so quickly. How could one not stop scrolling through their timeline when they see a video featuring a cute puppy?

Even better than a cute puppy is a cute puppy in the mud. Even better than a puppy in the mud is what happens next because it is completely unexpected – but something many of us have experienced.

Rose the bulldog continues to explore the mud while the aunt talks to her and laughs with a charming, Southern drawl while she films the puppy. At the end of the video, Rose begins to waddle towards the house, covered in

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mud. As Rose approaches the open door, we hear Sarah’s aunt yell “just don’t run in!” just in time for the tiny bulldog to sprint into the house, covered in mud, much to the dismay of her owner. The video suddenly cuts to an end with a blur and a scream from Bryant’s aunt, which is by far the funniest and most replay-worthy part of the whole ordeal.

“I think she [Sarah’s aunt] still thinks it’s because her dog is so cute… I don’t think she gets that the funniest part is her narration and her screaming,” explained Bryant.

I would venture to say that almost everyone has childhood memories of their mom yelling

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at them to not bring dirt into the house or to not let the family pet drag dirt and mud in. Some of us even talk to our pets like they’re humans. That’s what makes this video so relatable and funny.

Many of you might be wondering “what happens after a tweet goes viral?” What happens when a small-town university student suddenly has the most popular video on Twitter? In this case, Sarah said she was originally contacted by larger Twitter accounts and other organizations seeking permission to repost the video.

One company even reached out to discuss her licensing the video so that she could monetize on it, which is exactly what her

Ouachita Baptist University Office: Evans Student Center E-Mail: signal@obu.edu Phone: 870.245.5210

aunt did after talking with an attorney. Bryant also said she even eventually received a direct message on Twitter from Good Morning America, asking if they could play the video on their show the next morning.

“The whole thing was insane. I never would have imagined any of this happening when I tweeted it,” Bryant said.

One of the most common replies that the video received from other Twitter users was people wanting to know what happened next. What happened after Rose the bulldog ran through the open door covered in mud?

Bryant explained, “My aunt had just cleaned her carpets, and [she] had to spend the next two hours cleaning up. Rose ran through the curtains, and mud was everywhere, but she couldn’t be mad because it was all so funny.”

Although all of the attention was on the dog and her aunt, Bryant said she actually gained several hundred new followers across her Twitter and Instagram accounts. For those of us hoping to become famous on Twitter or Instagram, let’s keep what happened on Bryant’s tweet in mind: cute puppy, charming accent, mud, an unexpected animal response and fleeting terror by the person filming the puppy. Or it may be as simple as sharing the little things you think people want to see to that might make them happy.

Currently Bryant’s tweet has almost 4.7 million views, 100,000 retweets and 305,000 likes. An amazing response for a new social media sensation – Rose. n

The Signal is the student newspaper of Ouachita Baptist University, and is published every Wednesday during the fall and spring semesters when school is in session. The newspaper is distributed free of charge; 1,200 copies are placed in more than 20 locations across campus.

Opinions expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the newspaper staff or university. The Signal is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association and the Associated Collegiate Press and is printed by the Nashville Leader.

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accepted, unless libelous, irresponsible or obscene. Letters should be typed and include a signature and contact phone number, and must be less than 500 words. The Signal reserves the right to edit letters for space and style. Letters should be sent via campus mail to Box 3761 or via e-mail to signal@obu.edu.

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Spider-Verse grows in new animated movie

By WILL BLASE News editor

The moniker, Spider-Man, is a familiar one with audiences young and old. Our friendly, neighborhood web-head has dominated the comic book industry and the silver screen for decades and fans keep demanding more.

“SpiderMan: Into the Spider-Verse” attempts to deliver a fresh take on the beloved fan-favorite and succeeds beyond all expectations.

With six, live-action “SpiderMan” movies, you’re probably familiar with the hero’s origin by now. If you’re not, here’s the short and sweet version -radioactive spider bite causes superhuman powers to develop in young, nerdy teen. When it comes to Miles’ story, not much changes.

Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) is a teenage kid living in Brooklyn. He’s just moved to a new school, one that is extremely hard to get into. Miles, however, would rather run around spraytagging buildings and slapping his street-art on signs. Miles’ father (Brian Tyree Henry) is a NYPD officer and disapproves of his son’s rebellious tendencies because they remind him of his brother Aaron (Mahershala Ali) who has grown distant from the family.

Miles sneaks away from school to spend time with his uncle. A radioactive spider manages to bite Miles’ turning him into Spider-Man. However, there’s already a Spider-Man of this dimension—Peter Parker (Chris Pine). Peter is working to stop the criminal mastermind Kingpin (Liev Schreiber) from opening a dimensional teleporter. In a showdown between the two comic book giants, Peter is killed and Kingpin opens the teleporter only for the device to explode.

As our story progresses we learn that Miles isn’t the only SpiderMan roaming New York City looking for answers.

Miles is the integral character here and while the film introduces a slew of new “Spider-Men” that the audience isn’t familiar with, the story remains true to Miles’ journey. Peter B. Parker (Jake Johnson) is the first SpiderMan that Miles encounters, and he begins to mentor Miles while trying to get back to his dimension. Gwen Stacy (Hailey Steinfeld) showcases the wide berth of individuals that have Spider-Man comic arcs. Similar in age to Miles, she acts as a friend and understands the pressure placed on him with his newfound powers.

These are exemplary characters and help round out the cast of quantum physics, dimensionleaping Spider-Men, but they

succeed in building Miles up.

Their experiences are used to train and relate with Miles—to help him know that the weight of the world isn’t entirely on his shoulders.

“Into the Spider-Verse” boasts a visual style akin to that of its comic book origins. At times I found myself gravitating toward the sleek stylized suits that our heroes wear and at times I couldn’t take my eyes away from the perforated and printed comic book effect that ignited feelings of nostalgia from my youth.

Visual language is rampant and, in my opinion, is deserving of the utmost praise. Multiple art styles find themselves intertwined to create motion in 2-D frames, through color and texture. I could feel the passion and care placed into each frame. It took a team of 180 animators to craft “Into the Spider-Verse” and the film is nothing short breathtaking.

Sony abandons the cinematic universe continuity and reinvents the Spider-Man franchise with “Into the Spider-Verse.”

We’ve seen Tobey McGuire, Andrew Garfield and, currently, Tom Holland all don the red and blue costume, but with “SpiderVerse” the pressure to continue the heroes story arc is alleviated.

Accompanied by a standout soundtrack featuring artists like Post Malone, Amine, Nicki Minaj and Jaden Smith, “Into

Sony Animation z Courtesy

the Spider-Verse” maintains a steady pace and concise, welledited scenes. With a 117-minute runtime, skeptics of animated films might be hesitant, but “Spider-Verse” keeps attention with its focus on Miles, diverting attention away from the length.

After my second viewing, I couldn’t help but feel that the film is now the definitive portrayal

of Spider-Man. Tobey McGuire will always be my Spider-Man, mainly due to nostalgia, but “Into the Spider-Verse” completely reinvents Spider-Man, but also the superhero film genre itself. In the age, “Into the Spider-Verse” is a movie that I’ll be the first in line to pick up a Blu-Ray copy that I can cherish and appreciate for years to come. n

“Compton” soundtrack brings Dre success

By WILLIAM GOODSON Staff writer

Justin Trostle z Photo Lab DR. BILL SHALTIS performs various compositions on timpani in a guest recital as part of his tour. Dr. Shaltis is an Assistant Professor at the University of Memphis, as well as a sought-after percussionist.

Accomplished percussionist performs at guest recital

By CATHERINE LYP Arts / Features editor

With the spring semester underway, events on campus are beginning to fill the calendar. On Monday, Ouachitonians were treated to a guest recital by Dr. Bill Shaltis, assistant professor of percussion at the the University of Memphis. Along with being an assistant professor at the University of Memphis, Dr. Shaltis is also the assistant professor of percussion at the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music as well as the Principal Timpani of the New Hampshire Music Festival Orchestra, according to his website.

As stated on his website, “Shaltis is a sought-after clinician and performer throughout North America, Europe, and China.” Shaltis has performed with a multitude of orchestras in a variety of places, including the “Kansas City, Utah, Memphis, Portland, Lansing (Mich.), Jackson (Miss.) and Detroit Civic Symphonies,” as are listed on his website.

“Notable performances include the Aspen and Atlantic Music Festival, the First International Timpani Competition in Paris, and the Beijing Modern Music Festival in China.”

In addition to this success, Dr. Shaltis also has three different podcasts called “Good Beats,” “The Solo Timpanist” and “7

Steps to a Great SD Sound,” as well as an album for sale entitled “Essence/Descent.”

Dr. Shaltis came to Ouachita as he is currently “on a concert tour and offered to come to OBU on his way to Texas,” said Dr. Ryan Lewis, the associate professor of percussion at Ouachita. “Dr. Shaltis is known as a timpani expert.”

Unlike other members of a band who learn a single instrument at a time, “percussionists must perform on a wide variety of instruments,” Lewis said.

Throughout Dr. Shaltis’ performance, he played various “compositions for timpani, also known as kettledrums, and digital playback tracks,” Lewis said.

While Dr. Shaltis has the ability to perform with a variety of percussion instruments, he is best known for “his timpani expertise, and, since there are not many compositions for timpani with digital accompaniment, he is interested in exposing audiences to the possibilities of the genre,” Lewis said.

Dr. Shaltis’ performance was “unlike any other we have had on campus in a long time,” Lewis said.

Dr. Shaltis played “recent compositions that incorporate digital sound along with live sound from the timpani, each of which are so unique and quite different from most classical chamber music.”n

I grew up listening to The Chronic, Chronic 2001 and Aftermath’s whole catalog long before the 2015 film “Straight Outta Compton” came out.

However, the album in question today is Dre’s soundtrack to the film, “Compton: A Soundtrack.”

Aside from a few singles, guest verses and countless production credits, Dr. Dre had not released much of anything for his fans since 1999. After all, he was busy creating Beats

by Dre with Jimmy Iovine. An understandable departure from music considering they would go on to sell the company to Apple in 2014 for 3.3 Billion. Dr. Dre had been promising the album “Detox” for years. Between 2001 and 2015, there were countless leaks online rumored to be unfinished tracks for the Detox project.

However, shortly before the film came out, it was announced that “Detox” had been scrapped, but that Dr. Dre would be releasing an album in the form of movie soundtrack. His fans were just excited he was finally going to release some music.

Unfortunately, when the album was released it was met with much criticism. To be fair, this is inevitable when you hype an album for nearly 15 years and are a notorious perfectionist. Every project he had ever released became a classic Hip Hop album, and every freshman project he produced seemed to launch a new rap legend. I mean the guy is responsible for N.W.A., Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, Tupac’s biggest hit, Eminem, 50 Cent and The Game.

Musically, he had done no wrong (yes, we’re intentionally ignoring a couple of Aftermath’s early projects), and the hype and build up for “Detox” was unparalleled.

There is no unreleased album that is more famous. Basically, the soundtrack was bound to disappoint, and disappoint critics and many fans it did. But truthfully I have always enjoyed it and never understood why no one embraced it. The album does its job, and does it well.

The opening track, “Talk About It,” after the intro is arguably the least impressive.

The production is a rare misstep for Dre, but is ultimately still significantly better than today’s

average trap producer. In this track, Dre introduces some relatively unknown artists who have some lack-luster verses, but sure enough Dre’s verse is the braggadocios mega mogul his fans know and love. Dre addresses what’s changed since last time he dropped music. As expected this includes nods to the fact that his finances have gone from being great to being football owner level. Dre also reminds the listener that he’s still young enough and has enough influence in Hip Hop to shake things up.

For the third track, “Genocide,” we have a strong song that fits well with the soundtrack and features a great verse from Kendrick Lamar. The lyrics are objectively compelling while they also paint the picture of what growing up in Compton was like, which is a major part of the film. Also, the production and samples are fantastic.

They’re aggressive while still being sonically clean.

The next two tracks, “It’s All on Me” and “All in a Day’s Work,” have minimal features and the verses predominantly focus on Dre’s storied career and what it took for him to get achieve the monumental success he has today. In track five, one of Dre’s last verses goes on about the countless hours he has put into his career. He talks about working despite how much wealth he has attained and the sacrifices (friends, family and going out) he has had to make for his success.

The next three tracks, “Darkside/Gone,” “Loose Cannons” and “Issues” are great.

Track six features Kendrick Lamar and delivers two quality verses over quality production.

And tracks seven and eight feature Xzibit and Ice Cube, both of which are artist’s fans have been dying to hear reunion collabs with for years. And they do not disappoint. Xzibit sounds like he’s back to his early 2000’s form. And Dre and Cube’s reunion is near perfect; two legends reflecting on their story careers and their continued success both professionally and financially 30 years later.

Track nine, “Deep Water, “features a great Kendrick Lamar verse, and it is fitting for the film, but for me it does not have much replay value.

In track ten, “One Shot One

Kill,” Snoop Dogg delivers one of the meanest verses he has had in years over one of the most well produced and captivating tracks on the album. After all, he has been Snoop Lion, the reggae singer, and Martha Stewart’s cooking partner in recent years.

Track eleven, “Just Another Day,” features The Game and another hard hitting beat that reminds you why Dre is one of the best producers of all time.

The Game goes on to deliver another classic verse over a Dre beat. When they team up it’s always heat. Game reminds every one of his gang roots and brags about his fellow Compton alum, Dre, for him.

Track twelve, “For the Love of Money,” is a well-produced track but features some up and coming artists. Dre’s verse is powerful though and again reminds the listener who he is in this game.

Track thirteen, “Satisfiction,“ features Snoop Dogg and Dre together. This song is probably the only track Dre and Snoop have both laid verses on that has not gone on to become a major hit. They even managed to release a hit song as recently as 2010. It is not my favorite song on the album by any means, but the lyrics and message are strong.

They address the current state of hip-hop and how it stacks up to their own careers, which is to say it does not.

The final three tracks, “Animals,” “Medicine Man” and “Talking to my Diary” are essentially Dre tying up his loose ends. Animals features one of Dre’s best beats and verses on the album. It is also the most politically charged and honest song Dre has had since 1992. Dre then goes on to produce a track for Eminem to showcase his skills on, and finally he wraps it up by reflecting on his career from his N.W.A. days to his time with Suge Knight, but goes on to say that though it all, “I’m strong financially, physically, mentally I’m on a whole ‘nother level. And don’t forget that I came from the ghetto”. The whole song is filled with powerfully delivered lyrics to wrap up his blessing to hiphop.

Ultimately, this album is a phenomenally made movie soundtrack, but not another Dr. Dre classic. However, if you find yourself nostalgic for West Coast hip-hop, this album will provide you with a modern fix. n

OPINIONS

30, January, 2018 u page 5

www.obusignal.com

Studios seldom produce exceptional sequels for moviegoers another slew of superhero flicks into their projected releases.

News editor While these characters feel very nostalgic to me, I’m beginning Nothing has the power to to feel sequelitis and the weight kill off a franchise quite like a of being overloaded by these sequel. This insatiable urge for storylines. It began with “Doctor companies to continue their grip Strange” (2016) and its inability on our attention through lazy to “blow my mind” as it did and ineffective sequels drives for so many. The storyline and the entertainment industry. portrayal felt bland to me, While successful sequels aren’t hard to come by, it’s not very often the second installment exceeds the novelty and wonderment the first brought us. Let’s look at a few prime examples to help cement just what I’m trying to say.

If it worked once, why can’t it work again? This mentality is such a simplistic one.

Too often this outlook is initiated by greed, rather than passion for the characters and setting that the writer and director have strived to bring to life.

We’ve suffered through eight “Fast and Furious” films, some better than others, but each induced suffering in its own way. I can’t imagine the driving factor in Universal Studios decision to keep the franchise running. Is it avarice? Is it the belief that the average moviegoer will ironically contrasted by the fall prey to action and fast cars astounding visual effects within being thrust upon them at every the film. “Black Panther” (2018) opportunity? Numbers don’t continued this trend of hesitancy lie and the “Fast and Furious” within the genre. The best part of franchise has definitely put big the film was Black Panther’s suit. numbers into the ledgers for To me, everything else felt like it was being limited by the film’s Universal.

Each year, it seems that Marvel placement within the Marvel and DC manage to eek out Cinematic Universe’s timeline.

By WILL BLASE

Both titles are standalone films, but their involvement in the cinematic universe leads me to group them as sequels.

Without the films, the storyline would be weak and audiences would certainly notice the gap.

“Captain Marvel” (2019) has me worried. As many Marvel fans wait with bated breath to grasp the fate of their beloved heroes,

“Avengers: Endgame” (2019).

If you skipped over my take on the MCU, I don’t blame you.

I feel its constant presence and domination of our media and slowly, but surely, I’m beginning to acknowledge it.

Every so often, a sequel will spark a sense of bewilderment on its audience. The creative direction the writer and director

due to the events of “Avengers: Infinity War” (2018), they feel the need to view “Captain Marvel” to fully comprehend the story.

True, the film is intended to be a prequel, offering a glimpse into the superheroine’s adventures in the 90’s, but canonically, it’s meant to fill the gap between “Avengers: Infinity War” and

foresaw results in a final product worthy of being marketed as a sequel. These movies are far and few, especially in blockbuster titles and franchises, but two primary examples (amidst a sea of many more) come to my mind.

Shockingly, “Shrek 2” (2004), builds upon the fairy tale universe implemented by the

first movie and exceeds its predecessor by tenfold. While the subject content isn’t new to the audience, it builds on classic tales and characters in a creative new imagining (who doesn’t know the Fairy Godmother from Cinderella and the Muffin Man— you know the one who lives on Drury Lane?) The humor and absurdity that ran rampant in “Shrek” (2001) returns with a vengeance, showing careful and calculated revision while continuing to push the limitations of animated films. The team at Dreamworks absolutely knew what they were getting into with “Shrek 2” and it shows.

Returning to a golden era of films, “The Godfather: Part II” (1974) continues the story of Michael Corleone and his efforts to strengthen his family’s crime syndicate.

The three hour and 22 minute film received six Oscars for its efforts.

These Oscars were earned—it wasn’t just a bad year for the Academy.

The dedication to Mario Puzo’s novel and the desire to build further upon Vito Corleone’s saga not only captured the essence of the first film, it exceeded and delivered.

I guess what I’m trying to say is that we’re constantly being manipulated.

Companies need profit and sometimes, in order to turn that profit, they’re going to pull a fast one on us. But sometimes these companies see through the guise of avarice and deliver a handcrafted masterpiece directly following success. And for this I remain hopeful. n

Ask The Signal Student calls university to action,

By WILL JOHNSON

Sports / Opinions editor

A lot of my friends are joining social clubs this semester. Do you think I made the right decision to go the indie route?

One thing that’s so special about college is the opportunity for freedom, the opportunity to be independent and make your own decisions.

While some people choose to rush and eventually join a social club, others prefer not to, and there’s no problem with that. Joining a social club is a great way to make and build friendships with other members, but it isn’t the only way. At Ouachita, students have an abundance of opportunities on and off campus to become more connected within the community, meet other students and strengthen their resumés.

Even if you aren’t a social club member, you’ll find that many experiences are available within your own field of study, whether it be a major or minor.

For me, I’ve received unmatched experience working for “The Signal.”

Not only have I improved the writing skills necessary for my communications major and potential job after college, I’ve also strengthened editing, design and interview techniques, as well as met some exceptional people on the staff.

This opportunity has truly been special, but working for the paper is just one of the many experiences I’ve received.

My communications emphasis is in sports media, a field that requires much-needed hands-on work to develop skills. From commentating to directing and filming, I have attended quite a few Tiger sporting events where I can put those skills into action. Simply

put, there are opportunities all over campus where students can be more active without joining a club.

I’m a former member of Eta Alpha Omega, and I met some of my best friends while being a part of the social club. So, I’m in no way discrediting the fact that joining a social club certainly comes with benefits.

In fact, you can participate in a club and still have time for other opportunities, but sticking with the “indie route” won’t evaporate all hopes for other Ouachita experiences.

Ouachita’s small campus atmosphere allows for a community where you don’t have to worry about not seeing a few friends who elected to join a club. Students who choose not to rush can still maintain close friendships while meeting others through campus activities.

However, some students feel they need the club social interaction to “kick-start” them into building friendships, and I can see that as being a valid reason. The most important thing to understand is that joining a club isn’t the only way to meet someone new.

Some students may also choose not to Rush if they see it as a distraction, and that just depends on the individual. I believe that whatever you feel enhances your growth both intellectually and spiritually is what’s most valuable. If spending time in a social club bonding with other members gives you that much needed development, then join a club.

If you prefer learning and engaging in a different setting, then a social club may not be the best fit. Some students need a mix. Whatever path you choose to take, know that you have the freedom and independence to make that decision, no matter the outcome. n

Submit your “Ask The Signal” questions at signal@obu.edu.

seeks to challenge silence on abortion

By COLE JESTER Guest writer

I write as a man with a broken heart. The Lord says: Love thy neighbor. We try, we struggle to do such as Christians. However, some will never know the love we might give. This year in New York, there will be thousands of “neighbors” I will never know and never love; their gentle lives will be snuffed out under the guise of medicine. Before they breathe their first breath of the evening air, see their first sunset over the ocean or have someone to fall in love with, they will be killed, as they are an inconvenience.

They will be killed on this industrial scale under a law passed under the newly democratic New York Senate and signed by Governor Andrew Cuomo. The World Trade Center was lit in pink to commemorate this, but the pink glow stood above a monument honoring the six fetuses killed in the 9/11 massacres.

Personhood; revoked. The love of God: denied by human lips.

At Ouachita, we should have been fighting this on a national scale as a much as we could, with our money, our knowledge and all of our resources. If we do not teach the sanctity of human life here, why do we teach at all? In the politically correct world of the 21st century, abortion has been struck from the list of topics good Christians can be angry about, we have been falsely

told fighting against abortion is fighting against women. God is not pleased with the silence.

I am guilty as well. I am the Academic Chair of the Carl Goodson Honors program, and I am the 2018-19 Refuge speaker. One semester in, have I taken a stand against abortion in any leadership capacity? Did I address it in my time as the Beta Chaplain? No. Much of this campus shares my guilt. I have attended an increasingly divisive Chapel here for seven semesters. Every ethical issue under the sun has been addressed: racism, sexism, income distribution, politics,

Let this be no more.

However, I cannot lead this effort beloved friends. I have neither the time left at this college home of mine, nor the ability alone. One of you reading this must. There are three ways this must begin.

First, students have founded a club for life on campus. This must be fast-tracked. We must have organization and activity to support two groups. First, pregnant women making a difficult decision. We must raise funds and show love to support these people. Second, we must support political candidates who fight against abortion, in any city, state or country we can.

Second, if chapel continues to address political issues, abortion must be at the forefront. We do not have time to debate the angels on the head of a pin when it comes to race and gender, yet ignore the killing of the innocent. This is the position of the Arkansas Baptist Convention, the organization that helps fund and guides this university.

This is the position of the majority of Ouachita students. This is a position that is not insignificant.

Finally, staff, faculty and students must rally together around the most sacred gift of all: life. Do we talk about this gift in the classroom? Do we discuss policies to support it? Do we take the challenge of abortion seriously, as so many churches do? Or are we committing the sin of omission? Is God pleased? n

“On abortion we have a screaming silence.

A deafening, seven-semester silence.

Sadly, this follows the blowing of the ideological winds of higher education, which seek to tell us what is right and wrong by numbers and statistics alone.“ littering, ecology. On abortion we have a screaming silence.

A deafening, seven-semester silence. Sadly, this follows the blowing of the ideological winds of higher education, which seek to tell us what is right and wrong by numbers and statistics alone.

This is an absurdity. This silence on abortion speaks ill of us all.

SPORTS

www.obusignal.com

30, January, 2018 u page 6

Basketball brothers driven by winning, leadership on court

By CAITY HATCHETT Staff writer

Matthew and Michael Ward have been playing basketball for as long as they can remember.

The brothers attribute their involvement in the sport to their dad, who coached basketball teams at the local Boys and Girls Club when they were younger and continued coaching as they got older.

“My dad got a team together, and it’s kind of when the foundation started,” Matthew said.

“Later on, we did some traveling teams and stuff like that.”

The boys have played on the same team or at the same time for most of their career, with the exception of Matthew starting high school or college and Michael still being in junior high or high school. This has given them the chance to develop a dynamic as brothers on and off the court.

“On the court, we are always encouraging each other while still being honest with each other,” Michael said. “We treat each other very similar on and off the court… We give each other feedback… In a sense we both give and take from each other.”

Despite their longtime involvement with basketball, only Matthew really wanted to play college basketball. The realization came a bit later for Michael, and he was really convinced after seeing Matthew play college ball.

“That was kind of my goal. I wanted to play in college,” Matthew said. “Once I got here, I was really excited about it, and it’s been a really awesome experience.”

“When I was a sophomore in high school, I didn’t really see myself playing college ball. But once I started getting through my high school career, I was getting a lot more interested in the game,” Michael said. “And seeing how Matthew was going into college

Alex Blankenship z Photo Lab Editor MATTHEW AND MICHAEL WARD play on the Ouachita men’s basketball team. The Ward brothers grew up playing the sport with their father as coach and have since followed in his footsteps by modeling his leadership.

and enjoying it, I decided, ‘Hey, I wanna do the same thing.’”

The college arena has been an adjustment for both Ward boys.

The way the game is played and the backgrounds of the players have separated college basketball from high school basketball.

Both have adapted well to playing in college, though, and their enthusiasm for the sport is still just as strong.

“The biggest difference is the pace of the game. It’s gonna be a lot quicker, there’s gonna be a shot clock; a lot of the guys are gonna be a lot bigger, stronger, more athletic than they are in high school,” Michael said. “Everyone’s gotta be skilled, everyone’s gotta be handpicked.”

“In high school, you’re usually around guys that are from the same backgrounds, that are from the same city,” Matthew said.

“Being in college, you meet people from different backgrounds, and it’s a wonderful learning experience. You get to see their per-

spectives and learn from that.”

On the court, the brothers play different positions and have different playing styles. As a guard, Matthew works more from the outside of the court, shooting and handling the ball from there.

Michael is in a more defensive position as a forward, and he usually plays closer to the net to be able to help with rebounds.

“Matthew shoots a lot more on the outside than I do,” Michael said. “He’d be the one to bring the ball up the court.”

“He’s [Michael’s] a lot more athletic than me, too,” Matthew said. “He does more of the dunking and stuff.”

The team had a rough start to the season, but they have come back strong. Their goal is to make it to the conference tournament, and the brothers feel optimistic about the team’s chances.

“We’ve had some rough patches here and there, but I feel like the guys are starting to come together more and more, so I think

we’ll be fine in the long run,” Matthew said.

“We’re starting to improve and we’re starting to gel more as a team,” Michael said. “I think that we have a pretty good shot at doing well the rest of the season.”

Their individual goals for the season are interesting and different. As a senior, Matthew is more focused on leaving a good legacy for the team. Michael is trying to help his team as much as he can and in different ways.

“The main thing I wanna do as a senior is be able to lead by example. Just work hard any time I’m out there,” Matthew said. “Making sure I’m doing the small things right, and just making sure that they understand what it means to be a Tiger.”

“For me, it’s just being able to contribute to the team,” Michael said, “whether it’s on the sidelines cheering for my other teammates, or playing good defense.”

For both Matthew and Michael, being a student athlete is

a serious commitment. It is more than just a title or a scholarship; it means that they represent not only the basketball team, but also the university.

“We’re kind of held to a high standard since we’re representing the university…We have to make good decisions,” Michael said. “We can’t be making bad decisions because it’ll reflect badly on the university and on the basketball team.”

“There’s a lot to it when you’re a student athlete at Ouachita.

Just from the education side of it, Ouachita has very high standards. And then being an athlete, there’s a lot of hard work involved with that,” Matthew said. “Managing what you’re doing with the classroom, as well as with the athletics is a lot. Being a student athlete is a big accomplishment.”

As a senior, Matthew has been able to reflect on his time here at Ouachita.

“Learning and growing here at Ouachita has been a great experience. I’ve made some really good bonds with some of my teammates,” Matthew said. “Just sharing these connections with my teammates and coaches has been an awesome experience.”

Next year is going to be different, though. Matthew graduating definitely changes things for Michael.

“I’ve already gone through this once, back in high school,” Michael said. “I’ll just have to get through it, I guess. I’ll miss him, though.”

Despite their unique personalities, the brothers can both agree that one thing makes all of the hard work and tough opponents worth it.

“The winning side of it. I know that sounds pretty cliché,” Matthew said, “but when you’re in the locker room after a big win and everybody’s happy and cheering, you think, ‘Man, it was all worth it.’” n

Spring intramurals available for all Ouachita students

By WILLIAM GOODSON Staff writer

For many students, the loss of consistent physical activity is one of the most difficult parts of successfully transitioning from high school to college. Along with physical activity, the sense of community and competition is what so many students miss about high school sports and physical education class.

Fortunately, there is still time to sign up for OBU intramurals this spring. This semester, there will be inner tube waterpolo, ultimate frisbee, softball and basketball.

Now, unfortunately the deadline to sign up for basketball has already passed. However, there are several teams with open roster space if people are still interested in joining. There is still time before the signup deadlines for the remaining leagues, but make a reminder.

The registration window is Feb. 17-28 for inner tube waterpolo, Feb. 24-March 7 for ultimate frisbee, and March 24-April 4 for both softball leagues.

Collin Battaglia, Assistant RecLife Director at Ouachita, believes intramurals are important for students to get involved in. Battaglia went to OBU, and during his time he was very involved with intramurals, competing in football, soccer, volleyball, basketball and softball.

Battaglia said that intramurals successfully provide a unique context for students to socialize.

Like any school, the vast majority of socializing will be done in the classroom, through a student organization or through some sort of social event, but having the opportunity to compete alongside one’s peers is another experience entirely. Intramurals can also be a unique way to stay physically active because it is an opportunity to compete without the pressure of a traditional high

Person z Photo Credit

TOP LEFT: Senior Brandon Trostle dribbles the ball for the men of Beta Blue team. TOP RIGHT: Members of Chi Mu and Chi Delta scramble for control of the ball in last night’s intramural basketball games. BOTTOM LEFT: Two girls block an opposing player from making a scoring play.

ABOVE: Senior Alex Jones takes control of the basketball for the men of Berry Bible Bullies.

school or college level sports setting.

Intramurals are accessible to anyone, regardless of skill level.

For those who fancy themselves ultimate frisbee phenoms, they can join an upper level league which will be more competitive, and for those of us who simply want to get out and compete casually, there are lower level league options. Another great thing about OBU’s intramurals that makes them more accessible

is that they are free.

And for anyone who has a hectic schedule, and feels they may not have time to commit to a sport, that will not be a problem.

Intramural leagues typically only meet once or twice a week, and the matches will run from 45 minutes to an hour. So at most students will need to commit two hours a week to their leagues.

And besides, for anyone who feels too busy it may be nice to take a break and run around a

couple times a week.

Veteran intramural athlete Peyton Frick, a senior from West Monroe, La., has played in every sport, has been a team captain and has won two championships in flag football and basketball.

Quite the resume.

Over the years of playing, Peyton has created countless memories with friends, and one could argue these kinds of memories can only come through physical competition. After all,

many of our best friends are those who we grew up playing sports with. Peyton sincerely enjoys his time competing with friends and meeting new people, and believes that interaction what intramurals is all about.

One’s perceived skill level or schedule should not hold them back from joining an intramural team this spring. Remember to sign up, get active, have fun competing, and meet someone new. n