OBU Signal - Dec. 6, 2012

theSignal O U A C H I T A B A P T I S T U N I V E R S I T Y

December 6, 2012

Volume 121, Issue 12

www.obusignal.com

Christmastime at Ouachita

this week zCALENDAR

take place tomorrow afternoon at ONE ACTS will take place 12:15 p.m. For more information, today and tomorrow from 7-10 contact: Tim Harrell at harrellt@ p.m. in Verser Theater. For obu.edu. more information, contact: Scott Holsclaw at holsclaws@obu.edu.

CHRISTMAS MOVIE NIGHT will take place tomorrow at 7 REFUGE will be held tonight in p.m. in Dr. Jack’s Coffeehouse.

JPAC from 9-10 p.m. For more For more information, information, contact: James contact: Allison Sweatman at Taylor at taylorja@obu.edu. sweatmana@obu.edu.

LIVE MUSIC at Dr. Jack’s will

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TOP

1 2 3 4 5

Pick-up Lines

Are you a parking ticket?

Because you’ve got FINE written all over you.

If you were a hamburger at McDonald’s, you’d be a McGorgeous.

Hi. The voices in my head told me to come over and talk to you.

You know what? You’re eyes are the same color as my Porsche.

Bond. James Bond.

Elizabeth Jones photo.

Bethany Swiontek and Blakeley Knox in One Acts

Remembering L.J. Brooks L.J. was a constant encouragement; his joy in Christ and his quirky humor was contagious. We had many conversations about running the race well in Christ, but lately he has given me an example of how to finish the race well. On the way to ICU, L.J. could not help but repeat “Thank you, Jesus,” because he knew that his Lord is faithful. He demonstrated that “to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

John Bacon, Friend

Tyler Rosenthal photo.

L.J. was not perfect but he strived to be like Christ in every way, even in his weaknesses. He did not take his strengths for granted, but praised God for them. I had the opportunity to be mentored by him; the lessons he taught me were indispensible. The first lesson was to praise God in every situation.

The second lesson was to be diligent in sharing Christ with others and the community. May I honor his legacy in my ministry and by my life. Praise be to God for the life of L.J. Brooks.

L.J. respected me, protected me and treated me with kindness from the day we met. I find it funny that we met during “Healthy Relationships Week” as we were both on the “tell all” panels, but what can I say; it’s Ouachita. He brought out the best qualities in me. He encouraged me constantly. He taught me about Christ-like love every day. I lost a part of my heart when his stopped beating, and I will always miss him.

Kelsey Frink, Girlfriend

“

Grant Novak, Friend

“

Grace Finley photo.

At Ouachita, L.J. was a black man living in a white world.

Being in the minority is always disconcerting; us white folks don’t have any idea of what it’s like to live our life with the majority of people not being like us. Yet L.J. loved everyone truly. He embodied the fact that Christ has torn down racial walls. It is now our turn to step over the rubble, following in the steps of L.J.

Anthony Emerson, Friend

L.J. — mentor, friend and loving partner — your legacy and memory will never be forgotten. You lived your life for Christ and you had a profound impact upon us at Ouachita. We thank God for the opportunity to have known you. — The Signal Staff

Heather Ellis photo.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT U.S. Representative Mike Ross & Ouachita President Dr. Rex Horne

Press Conference

Friday, 4 p.m. | Young Auditorium Live online broadcast will begin at 3:55 p.m. www.obusignal.com 12.06.12 x NEWS n 3

Speechie Christmas tree lighting tradition continues

By MOLLY TURNER Staff Writer

Feeling extra spirited this year for Christmas? Perhaps that has something to do with the increase of decorations all across campus, from the elaborate trees and garland in the student center and the lights hung across the Heflin Plaza bridge to the Christmas trees in the dorms.

Though these are becoming new traditions, an old favorite among Ouachita students is the annual Speechie Christmas tree lighting, which happens every year to help spread Christmas cheer.

The Communication Sciences and Disorders (CMDS) department, often referred to as Speechies, host this event and have been for the past six years.

Nancy Hardman, professor of communications sciences and disorders and the head of the CMDS department, has been heading up this event each year since 2006, when the tradition began.

“I was talking with some of our stusee TREE z 6

By SAM CUSHMAN News Editor

@SamuelCushman

Heather Ellis z The Signal STUDENTS GATHER for the annual Speechie Christmas Tree Lighting. This is the sixth year for the Tree Lighting put on by the CMDS Department.

Annual Lessons, Carols service follows historic model

By EMILY GRIGSBY Staff Writer

Embracing a tradition that was introduced to Ouachita in 1997, this year’s Service of Lessons and Carols performance was the 16th holiday showing of the event.

A traditional service of Lessons and Carols can date back to 1880 in England. In 1918 it was adopted by King’s College in Cambridge which was eventually broadcast on television and radio by the British Broadcasting Channel.

“At Ouachita we seek to maintain elements of that tradition as well as contributing our own,” said Rob Hewell, associate professor of music and director of worship studies program.

“I loves that the service combines worship and the reading of the scripture with music,” said Anna Moxley, sophomore worship arts major and singer in Lessons and Carols.

One addition that Ouachita has add-

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Arkadelphia Christmas parade emphasizes unity in community

Jessica Bowling z The Signal LESSONS AND Carols features musical performances by the Ouachita Singers, the Women’s Chorus and the Handbell ringers.

ed to Lessons and Carols is the selection of a different translation of the Bible each year for the Lessons. The Holman Christian Standard Bible was used Tuesday evening.

“The Service of Lessons and Carols is wholly appropriate to the season of Advent, focusing primarily on the Incarnation of God in Christ,” Hewell said.

Hewell added that the Lessons are Scriptures taken from Genesis, Isaiah, Luke, Matthew and John and the carols are consistent with themes from the Lessons.

The service had performances by the Ouachita Singers, the Women’s Chorus, and the Handbell Ringers. John Briggs, was the organist. n

The 28th Annual Arkadelphia Christmas Parade will take place tonight at 5 p.m. on Main Street, with the theme “The 20-12 Days of Christmas.”

“One thing that we have really tried to emphasize and promote with the Christmas parade is unity in the community,” said Herman Thomas, resident of Arkadelphia and chair for the Arkadelphia Christmas parade. “We try to ensure and encourage participation from the college community from both universities.”

This year, both the Ouachita and Henderson State bands will be involved with the Parade. The wives of local head football coaches, including both universities and Arkadelphia High School will serve as honorary chairs, Thomas said.

“That’s another way we’re trying to show and promote unity,” he said. “All three schools had tremendous football seasons. We’re also going to have all three football teams in the parade. So the spirit of community is what we’re trying to promote each year.”

Thomas’ wife, Cynthia, organized the first Arkadelphia Christmas parade as it exists today. She was then serving as the president of the Arkadelphia Women’s Development Counsel (AWDC). The AWDC then decided to start the annual parade, and for more than 20 years, Thomas’ wife served as chair.

For the past two years, Thomas himself has served as chair.

The parade’s committee features representatives from the following: Arkadelphia Area Chamber of Commerce, the Arkadelphia Economic Alliance, the police department, the volunteer fire department, Henderson State, Ouachita, the public schools, several churches and volunteers from various see PARADE z 6

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TREE

z Continued from Page 4 dents about different Christmas traditions,” she said. “I mentioned our campus having a Christmas tree each year when I was a student here at Ouachita. As we talked, my daughter and her friends decided we could do one that year.”

Hardman and her husband, John, found a tree on their land and it started from there.

“At the time, Kevin Inman was the Campus Ministries director and Refuge was held at First Baptist,” she said. “[After Refuge, Kevin] led all the Refuge folks singing Christmas songs as they walked to the tree. Once they arrived, hot chocolate was served and there was a countdown for the lights to turn on.”

The first year, this event was

scheduled the Thursday before the Festival of Christmas and the Donors Banquet. Several of the visitors to campus commented on how much they enjoyed seeing the tree as they made their way to the banquet and the performances, according to Hardman. Because of this, the tree lighting has occurred on that same day every year.

Ever since then, this tradition has been a way for the campus to enjoy a Christmas tradition together, and it is an event the Speechies look forward to.

“It’s not only just a fun tradition, but the department also asks for donations for children’s books to donate to a charity,” said Emory Clayborn, a junior CMDS major.

Not only is the lighting a time to socialize and get a cup of hot chocolate, but it also creates a close-knit environment

that encourages students to reflect on the upcoming holiday season.

Hardman says it is her and her husband’s way of adding to the Christmas events on campus.

“I love celebrating the birth of Christ,” she said. “The lights on the tree should remind us that Christ is our light and we should reflect Christ in our lives.”

Taylor Tomlinson, a junior mass communications major, has attended the Speechie tree lighting event since her freshman year.

“It has definitely become something that I look forward to this time every year,” she said. “There’s something about seeing so many students gathered around the tree that shows the incredible community at Ouachita.

“The hot chocolate is good too.” n

PARADE

z Continued from Page 4 other clubs and organizations throughout Arkadelphia.

One thing that we have really tried to emphasize and promote with the Christmas Parade is unity in the community.

— Herman Thomas “We try to get representatives from the community at large so that there is a diverse mix, racially and culturally,” Thomas said. “Those are the things we are trying to empha-

size with the parade.”

Thomas has also worked with Trennis Henderson, Ouachita’s vice president for communications, in coordinating the university’s involvement in the Christmas parade this year.

“Our goal,” Henderson said, “is to represent the Ouachita campus with an emphasis on Christmas.”

Henderson has worked with Hillary Hill, assistant director of campus activities at Ouachita. Hill has worked with Ouachita social clubs and organizations in helping to coordinate their participation in the Christmas parade.

For more information about the 2012 Arkadelphia Christmas parade, contact the Chamber of Commerce at (870) 246-1460 or Thomas at (870) 246-2937. n

All-day field experiences prepare Ouachita education majors for future careers

By RACHEL GREGORY News Bureau

Five education courses at Ouachita offered the opportunity for teaching education candidates to participate in allday field experiences throughout the month of October.

Ouachita teacher education candidates were assigned to their all-day field experiences based on their declared major, teaching level and personal preference.

“We wanted our students to get as much experience and exposure to the specific areas they hope to teach in the future in order to help solidify their desire for education,” said Rachel Pool, an instructor of education at Ouachita.

“These field experiences reinforced the fact that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life,” said Lorna Kirk-

patrick, a junior early childhood education major. “When you do these things, you learn for sure whether this is for you or not.”

“Because of these unique and meaningful partnerships with schools across Arkansas,” Pool said, “Ouachita teacher education candidates are able to begin their journey of building the knowledge, skills and dispositions needed to become competent, caring, culturally sensitive, student-centered teachers like the Master.”

Students enrolled in Freshman Seminar visited the Arkansas Capitol and the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum to reflect on the role of government in education. The group was guided by Dr. Paul and Mary Root, retired longtime faculty and staff members at Ouachita. Dr. Paul Root is professor emeritus of educa-

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tion, and Mary Root is retired academic coordinator of Student Support Services.

Secondary Methods, Middle School Methods and Methods of Secondary Mathematics students observed educators in Bryant Middle School and Bryant 9th Grade Academy.

Ouachita’s teaching education candidates observed content areas including choir, band, theatre, physical education, English, social studies, mathematics and science.

The Child and Adolescent Development and Foundations of Education courses visited three schools across Central Arkansas: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Interdistrict Magnet Elementary School, Little Rock Central High School and Benton Middle School. The teacher education candidates who went to King Interdistrict Magnet Elementary observed

in classes from pre-K to 5th grade. They also spoke with teachers and Principal Karen Carter concerning issues in education such as data collection and charting student learning.

At Central High School, teaching education candidates interviewed the principal, head counselor and an English teacher.

“These educators,” Pool said, “provided tremendous insight and advice regarding high expectations, strong classroom management and servant leadership.”

The Ouachita students who went to MLK Jr. Magnet School and Central High School also visited the National Historic Museum, where National Park Rangers spoke about the 1957 desegregation crisis. Driving the experience home, teacher education candidates planning to teach in high school

were able to walk in the same footsteps as the Little Rock 9 walked 55 years Benton Middle School hosted Ouachita teaching education candidates who were able to visit Ouachita graduates at work. “A special thanks to Ouachita alumni Sue Shults, principal, and Jenna Nissen, first year teacher,” said Pool, speaking about the all-day field experience in Benton, “for hosting our OBU teacher education candidates and for providing refreshments.”

Ouachita teacher education candidates are required to accumulate 90 to 110 hours of field experience before they are allowed to student-teach.

“Field experiences provide the opportunity to wed theory and practice,” said Dr. Merribeth Bruning, dean of the Mike D. Huckabee School of Education. n

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Family Christmas activities include caroling, volunteering ply want to get out of the house for a day, get the family together to go driving around town and look at Christmas The holiday season is officially in full lights. Try Google to see if there are any swing; trees are being bought, orna- places near you especially extravagant. ments are being hung and cliché Christ- If you don’t mind the drive, Garvan mas music can be heard in almost every Gardens in Hot Springs is famous for store. Even more prevalent to this time its lights this time of year. of year, however, is that schools will While you’re in Hot Springs, or even soon be letting out their students for just in town, buy tickets for a Christmas Christmas break. play. There are always musicals or con While getting to spend quality time certs this time of year - some sentimenwith family around Christmas is great, tal, some funny - making it easy to find sometimes trying to figure out how to a performance perfect for the entire occupy these next few weeks (and kid’s family. interests) can get difficult. Luckily, this If you feel like staying in instead of time of the year is full of fun activities going to see a play, pick out a plethora for families to participate in. of Christmas movies and have a movie The first is an obvious one for Christ- marathon. “My mother always made mas: picking out a tree. Getting the me watch ‘White Christmas’ with her family together to pick out the perfect when I was little. Now, it’s turned into tree is always fun, and being together a fun tradition we do every Christto decorate it is even better. If you en- mas Eve,” said Kathleen Post, a junior joy crafts, buy some glitter glue and speech communications and Christian plain ornaments to have kids decorate. studies major.

They’ll enjoy making them now, but If “White Christmas” isn’t the movenjoy looking at them even more when ie for you, there are numerous others they’re older. Kara Reynolds, a junior to pick from. “Miracle on 31st Street,” speech pathology major, can attest to “A Christmas Story,” “Elf,” “ How The this. “I loved making the ornaments Grinch Stole Christmas,” “ Christmas when I was a kid and thought I was the Vacation” and “It’s a Wonderful Life” best artist. Now, while the latter may are just a few of the quintessential not be true, I still find joy when looking Christmas movies. at the ornaments and thinking back on One of the best ways to come togethall the memories.” er as a family is figuring out ways to On the topic of being crafty, making help others. An example is Operation Christmas cookies and gingerbread Christmas Child, where you put tohouses is another gether shoeboxes activity the whole for children who My mother always family can have are less fortunate. fun with. Simply made me watch ‘White While it benefits buy your favorin need, it Christmas’ with her when I others ite kind of cookis also fun to get ie dough (sugar was little. Now, it’s turned together to buy cookies work the gifts and asinto a fun tradition we do the best), along with semble the boxes. different colors of every Christmas Eve. If you don’t have icing and sprinthe means to conkles. Roll out the — Kathleen Post tribute monetaridough and use ly, organizations cookie cutters to make fun shapes. such as Meals On Wheels allows you to Then let your imagination go. The same help make or deliver dinners or lunches can be said with gingerbread houses; to families who can’t afford them. buy these pre-made, or make your own Another option is to get together as a from scratch. group and go Christmas caroling. Cait If you’re on less of a budget, or sim- lin Jones, a senior early childhood edu-

By TAYLOR TOMLINSON Staff Writer

“

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Nicole McPhate z The Signal DECORATING THE tree is another activity families can enjoy together during the break from school and work.

cation major, said she and her family go caroling with their church every year.

“It’s a great way to meet new people,” she said, “Plus, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!”

While doing this door to door is not as popular as it used to be, going to an assisted living home or hospital is a great alternative. Spreading cheer to these patients can help raise their spir-

its, which in turn will be something rewarding for the whole family.

While Christmas time can be stressful, finding fun activities for the family shouldn’t be.

No matter what you choose to do, be it making crafts at home or going to look at lights in the city, there is always something amidst the hustle and bustle ready to help contribute to the Christmas spirit. n

Daniel Schwen z Courtesy

Local events, lights displays celebrate holidays

By TORI ABELLERA Staff Writer

L

ights illuminating buildings and jolly characters greeting passers-by on street corners are sure signs that Christmas is just around the corner.

Christmas is a time to embrace the holiday season, but also to embrace the people that make the season truly worthwhile. Christmas lights are hung so that moments can be created that will be cherished forever. Many students are planning to take part in viewing Christmas lights sponsored by

various organizations such as the City of Arkadelphia and Garvan Gardens.

Near Arkadelphia there are several places where people can view Christmas lights with loved ones.

In Prescott, the Emmet Night of Lights and Spirit Christmas Parade will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8.

The Emmet Christmas parade is sponsored by Emmet Vision Association, a non-profit organization. Candy will be available for kids. Horses, four wheelers and floats will be present for the two-mile parade. A special surprise will be presented at the end of the parade.

The participants are required to move at a mere walking pace. The event is free. More information about location is available at emmetvision.org.

Sophomore Austin Kennedy has reserved his weekend to attend Garvan Gardens, a 17-acre light display in Hot Springs. He plans to see the lights with his fiancé and a group of friends.

“Last year we went while it was late and we forgot to consider that there might be traffic,” said Kennedy. “When we finally got there, it was all worth it.”

Garvan Gardens will be hosting its own Holiday Lights Nov. 17 through Dec. 31 daily from 5-9 p.m. Complimentary hot chocolate will be served for those in attendance. In addition, the café will be open from 3-9 p.m. There is an admission fee of $10 for adults and $5 for children. Children under the age of 5 can attend for free as well as members. For those who are not interested in walking, but would still like to enjoy the holiday lights, golf cart rides will be available on a first come, first served basis. Garvan Gardens Holiday Lights will not be in operation on Christmas Day. In Little Rock, the majestic state capitol building is covered in holiday lights

to celebrate the season. The Capitol Lighting Ceremony took place on Saturday, Dec. 1 at dusk, at which many people were in attendance. The state capitol is located at 500 Woodlane Street in Little Rock and will be lit by the holiday lights until Christmas Day. The Festival of Music will take place inside the rotunda on Dec. 3 through Dec. 14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Also, on Friday, Dec. 7, a Pearl Harbor Remembrance ceremony will take place at the state capitol building at 3 p.m. All are welcome to attend the events.

In Arkadelphia, Henderson State University’s Reynolds Science Center is hosting a Christmas show entitled Season of Light on Dec. 6. Also on Dec. 6, on Main Street in Downtown Arkadelphia, the businesses and community of Arkadelphia will hold a Christmas Parade beginning at 5 p.m.

Junior Rachel Carr has never made it a priority during Christmas time to view lights. This year, she and her friends plan to make it a special part of their week.

“We might go see some lights in Hot Springs,” said Carr. “I have never really been out to see Christmas lights, but I do love seeing them around.” n

12.06.12 x FEATURES n 9

AT

By KATHLEEN SUIT Staff Writer

Traditions. Some are embarrassing, som unexplainable and some, well, can just be we love them and Christmas certainly wo same without them. Whether it is decking around the Christmas tree or seeing who c eccentric distant relative’s fruitcake the lo traditions mold the way we think, feel and The Christmas season is easily one of th recognizable periods of time. The crisp nip air combines with the joyful, giving hearts tack on an oversized, eclectic Christmas sw down a tree and throw it in the living room holiday. Granted, all of the aforementione constitute, in itself, a holiday (though it se camouflaging itself as such, hasn’t it?). Ou in its definition something passed on from generation, have shaped Christmas into th symbol we have today. Someone thought them an absolute crazy person to shell ou hanging their socks across the fireplace, an thought to tell all the children that a fat, o breaking into their house in the middle of it’s okay—he’s leaving presents, don’t wo you put it that way… But despite the trad

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Traditional Christmas

me are e plain dorky. But ouldn’t be the g the halls, rocking can endure your ongest, Christmas d enjoy the season. he most p of the winter s of individuals; weater, cut m and we have a ed surely does not eems it has started ur traditions, being m generation to his recognizable it wouldn’t make ut the idea of nd another person old man would be f the night, but orry. Well, when ditions we cannot

explain and grasp at straws when trying to rationalize, we still do it; and we still pass them on. Of course we do.

Some things don’t need rationalization; they just need to be enjoyed. So, without thinking, we do and will continue to.

For my family, every year after Thanksgiving we would set up the Christmas tree (the same 6 foot synthetic Evergreen with equally synthetic pinecones that we have used for as long as I can remember, mind you), exchange the throw pillows for our festive “Peace”, “Joy”, “Noel” versions, and gather around the TV to watch National Lampoon’s “Christmas Vacation,” a classic. Christmas Eve, like so many others’, was the Bible reading on the birth of Jesus and, if we begged hard enough, the opening of one Christmas present early. Then we would set out Santa’s cookies and milk, and it was “To bed, I said!” from the lips of the parents. Christmas morning we played a nice subliminal game of “Let’s See Who Can Wake Mom up First” which over the years evolved into “Let’s See Who Can Look the Absolute Zombie Craziest for the Present Opening Pictures”.

This year, however, I’ve been able to meet so many different people, each with a variety of traditions. It’s a joyous experience being able to observe and participate in so many different new traditions with new people.

There are people all over the world celebrating Christmas in their own way. While most of the symbolic traditions are shared, many countries have their own unique

holiday flavor. Zach Fricke, a freshman OBU student from Guatemala said that on Christmas Eve where he lived, they would all shoot off fireworks at midnight. “Guatemalans also have their big Christmas dinner at around 1 o’clock in the morning,” Fricke said, “They welcome in Christmas and eat big tamales.”

I, myself, lived in Australia for a few years and while we celebrated the holiday in much the same way we do in America, there was one outstanding difference. While the West is all bundled up with Jack Frost nipping at their noses, Australians spend their Christmases trying not to collectively die of heat strokes. You will find no Christmas sweaters (or jumpers, as we would them) there! The temperature in Alice Springs, smack dab in the middle of the Outback where I was from, averages in the triple digits during Christmas time. Many of the celebrations for Christmas took place outdoors where groups of people would gather in the cooler evenings for Carols by Candlelight. However, the weather tended to make most Christmas carols a lot more confusing!

For a majority of college students, family Christmas time is starting to become a bit different. We don’t live at home and our parents are longing for the days back from when we were younger during the holidays.

My advice: enjoy the traditions, love them, remember them, and when you have your own family, pass them on. If you don’t, who will? n

Nicole McPhate photos of historic Magnolia Manor.

Decorations by Bill and Sherri Phelps.

12.06.12 x FEATURES n 11

Top 5: Christmas Movies

By NOAH HUTCHINSON Staff Writer

You know it’s Christmas when every time you walk through the living room to get to the kitchen, you catch 30 seconds of some old Christmas movie that has been playing every hour of the day on at least one channel since the eggnog hit the shelf. Christmas movies have a way of keeping that feeling of holiday magic alive long after you noticed the Walmart sale tags on those gifts from “Santa” when you were eight. However, not all Christmas movies are created equal. There hasn’t been a great Christmas movie made in the past five years.

Besides, it’s always those classics that bring you back to your days of putting cookies next to the fireplace that really get the good feelings flowing.

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“Die Hard” “Yippee Kia-Yay, Mr. Falcon.”

This abomination of censorship is reason enough to avoid the TV version (which will most definitely be playing) and find a copy of “Die Hard” on DVD. Some people might say this doesn’t really have anything to do with Christmas. I’d like those people to go ask baby Jesus what he thought of all the talking snowmen and deformed, flying deer prancing around the manger on his first birthday.

It happened during an office Christmas party. It has touchy feely family stuff when McClane saves his wife.

There was snow. It’s a Christmas movie. Aside from that, it can go toe-to-toe with “Rambo” and “Predator” in terms of eighties action movies, and has some of the greatest one liners to ever see a bad guy off to his grave. Also, Bruce Willis and Carl from “Family Matters” have some bro moments that will make your heart grow three sizes just from watching them.

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“Jingle All The Way” If you think “Jingle All The Way” isn’t deserving of a spot on the list, go read some of my past articles. On any given list of great movies, I will always leave a spot for Arnold.

“Terminator” is #3 on my list of romantic comedies.

Schwarzenegger’s masterfully executed performance as himself aside, “Jingle All The Way” is a top notch Christmas movie. For those who haven’t seen it, it’s about an overworked father’s quest to find the last Turbo Man action figure in time to give to his son for Christmas. This may not have been the case in everybody’s home town, but when I was just a developing little bro-ssel sprout, all the cool kids got a Turbo Man action figure the year that this movie came out. For that reason

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alone, this movie always brings back memories of when Christmas really felt magical (you’re allowed to gag at my sappyness, but just know that you’re a terrible person).

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“Christmas Vacation” This may not necessarily be the movie to bring out the Christmas warm fuzzies, but it’s definitely relatable. You should also just accept the fact that you will have to watch this movie at some point over your time off, because I would bet the Championship Belt of Masculinity (the squat challenge is still open) that every dad in existence has the ability to watch this movie indefinitely.

This is the movie that makes that time you spent four hours on the roof trying to get your frozen nub-hands to magically will the Christmas lights to stop burning out a little easier to laugh at.

It plays on literally every stereotypical holiday nightmare that everyone has had to deal with at some point in their life. On top of that Chevy Chase falls down like Kevin James can only dream of falling down. When someone comes along that can surpass Chevy Chase in the field of making people laugh by getting hurt, this movie will finally be able to retire. Until that day, the greased sled scene and electrocuted cat will have to suffice.

2 1

“A Christmas Story” There is an actual thing that happens every Christmas eve on TBS called 24 hours of “A Christmas Story”. If you don’t watch this movie at some point during the break, you have willfully tried to avoid it. It’s narrated

by Adam West and it’s great. Watch it.

“Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” It’s just not Christmas without claymation. I’ve talked a lot about movies that bring me back to my childhood, but when I see this, my younger self may as well land a time machine on top of me.

Yes, there are other cheesy, claymation Christmas movies, but none of them compare to this. “Santa Clause is Coming to Town”? No thank you.

He can stay in medieval Europe until he gets old, fat and jolly. I don’t have time to question that clockwork knight thing or the scary Russian guy. I want to watch a congested reindeer and an elf that wants to be a dentist tell the water gun that shoots jelly that he’s wanted somewhere before they go knock the Abominable Snowman’s teeth out.

I caught a whiff of scented pine cones just from typing that sentence.

“Rudolph” is the chainsaw-wielding grizzly bear of Christmas movies. It’s unstoppably whimsical. n

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2. We will gather your books and have them ready when you return to campus.

3. Pick up books; avoid long lines.

20%

off

One -Ti Whe me Purc h n Yo u Pre ase pay

12.06.12 x FEATURES n 13

Editors write letters to Santa Dear Santa,

Dear Santa, I’ve been so blessed with so many things th is year; it is hard to co with a list of more that me up I want. I think I’ve been good this year and I th agree. So maybe you ink you’d could make my one wi sh come true, just give more time at OBU. me a little Ouachita has been my home for three an d a half years now; wi semester left, I can’t im th only one agine leaving the place I love. The faculty, staff students here have br and ought me so much joy and have given me th ories. So Santa, please e best memjust give me more; mo re memories and more these people who have time with become my family an d this place that has be home. come my And if you’re feeling a little more generous, I’d like a horse too. An with a stable where sh d a home e can live and acres wh ere she can roam. I’ve parents for years now, asked my but maybe I was asking the wrong people. So horse? Please. , Santa, a Say hello to your elv es for me! And Mrs. Cla us too!

With love, Nicole

d in receivight be blesse m I at th se el hing istmas Among anyt u work your Chr yo at th k as I , as ight receive ing this Christm ving so that I m gi of e ad lc va ca t that at the Magic into the ove all else, bu ab re su ea tr ill w I something that gh of. em to get enou se ppears. t n’ ca t, en mom d some, it disa un fo ve ha to em se hands like Whenever I es through my go it it, p as gr to seems that I Whenever I try t little I have, it ha w , d en sp I r ve king, of course smoke. Whene hers. I am spea ot to it e ith tim w h ed , I spend so muc am left indebt nic as it sounds iro s time at all in A e. m Ti t abou that it wastes no f, el its e m Ti r ue trying to conq slave. its give me a e m g makin you’ll see fit to at th pe ho I as emy. With This Christm longer be my en no ill w it at th so s with the friend in Time sting memorie la e ak m n ca I e, ng family and a friend in Tim ita and my lovi ch ua O at le e world God wonderful peop learn about th n ca I e, m Ti g y studies and friends; by usin r amounts to m te ea gr te vo ugh Time, I’ll be created and de ist did; and thro hr C as e, ic rv He plans for especially to se man that I know ly od G e th to able to grow in friend in Time. me to become. nta, give me a Sa , se ea pl , se So, plea

Dear Santa,

ional this htly dysfunct ig sl n e e b e av t I promise if I know I h bsessive, bu o it , b a e b ay ristmas tree year, and m nder my Ch u g in th u e n yo o w you just slip in. Yes, I kno happen aga r oes the ve d e n o S ill . d w that e in min av h I at h w y o know me. know alread f people wh o n o ti la u p o ds up as rest of the p I hope he en h g u o th n ve t more than But Santa? E g that I wan in th e n o is Tebow, my gift, there ristmas. More than Tim h C is ws out and anything th Sanchez bo rk a M at th sition for himself. I ask e starting po th r ve o s ke t not be the Tim Tebow ta w that migh o n k I . ts Je e chimney, the New York get down th d n a y tr to And HEY, if easiest thing ple request. m E. si e n o y YOU OWE M but that is m ocrats here, m e D e lik g we’re talkin is year! per good th I’ve been su That is all.

Chelsea

14 n OBUSIGNAL.COM x 12.06.12

Sincerely, Sam

Deares

t Santa

,

Ther e’s Mac, so quite a few th m in sweet c e repairs for M gs I could ask oat her for this a rilyn (m e C particu lar thin as of late. But y car) and I’ve hristmas. I co g in min uld ask instead had my I wan fo of askin d. t e g for th yes on this p r a Oh, c a job. retty ose thin ome on gs, I ha . I know names ve one ar yo whatev ound here, I’m u have the p ower to er s d ask, I w CEO you cou ure, so if you could p o it. You know ld, that ould ve ut in a would ry muc a LOT o You’r go be h f e the c oolest, like a good vie pretty great od word for m big . If it’s n man. w in m e o y office t too m with With CO . uch to LD rega Tarah rds (Ge t it? You ’re in th e North Pole), PS. Avo id my li ttle bro iPod fia ther’s c sco. ookies.

He’s stil l bitter about t he

theSignal Ouachita Baptist University Office: Evans Student Center E-Mail: signal@obu.edu Phone: 870.245.5210 Tanner Ward z EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Sam Cushman z NEWS EDITOR

Emily Terry

z FEATURES/SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR

Tarah Elliott

z OPINIONS EDITOR

Chelsea Byers z SPORTS EDITOR

Daniel Aylett z ONLINE EDITOR

Nicole McPhate z PHOTO EDITOR

Abbey Fowler

z ADVERTISING MANAGER

Dr. Jeff Root z ADVISER

Dr. Deborah Root z ADVISER

Ms. Tiffany Eurich z ONLINE ADVISER

The Signal is the student newspaper of Ouachita Baptist University, and is published every Thursday 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 Hope Star.

Letters to the editor are encouraged and accepted, unless libelous, irresponsible or obscene. Letters should be typed and include a signature and contact phone number. Letters 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.

Santa: Tanner Ward. Rudolph: Tarah Elliott. Cindy Lou Who: Chelsea Byers. Penguin: Daniel Aylett. Frosty: Sam Cushman. Elf: Emily Terry. Bird: Abbey Fowler. Star: Nicole McPhate. Ornaments and Gifts: Staff Reporters. Cartoon by Tori Abellera.

Opinions Editor takes her bow TARAH ELLIOTT Opinions Editor

Life and Times of a Fan Girl Well, I have put off writing this letter for as long as I possibly could. Something about writing a “goodbye column” terrifies me – probably because it means that it’s actually happening. I am actually leaving this place that has been my home for the past four and a half years.

When I first showed up at Ouachita, I didn’t think it would be the place for me.

My first semester was confusing and, at times, downright lonely. But then I found “my group.” I found the niche where I belonged, and everything else kind of fell into place. In the past four and a half years, I have made friends who will be there for the rest of my life. I have had professors who not only shaped my experience here, but shaped who I am today. I have had experiences that I will never forget, and it’s all because I chose to come to a private Baptist college nestled in the center of Arkansas.

I told myself that by the time I got to this point, I would be so ready and excited

to leave that there wouldn’t be any room or time to be sad or scared. I was wrong.

Yes, I’m excited to go out and start a new chapter in my life, but in order to do that, I have to turn the page on this current chapter, and I’m hesitant to do that. I’m hesitant because I like this chapter. This chapter has had late nights filled with delirious laughter, Taco Bell runs at two in the morning and friends that have blessed me beyond measure. To think that I’m turning the page on all of that is scary and, yes, sad.

There are people whom I would be amiss not to mention in this letter, as they see GOODBYE z 16

12.06.12 x OPINIONS n 15

GOODBYE

z Continued from Page 15 have made my experience at Ouachita what it has been.

To my fellow editors at the Signal, I can’t even begin to tell you how much I will miss you. Over time, we have become a small, slightly dysfunctional and wonderful family, and I can’t imagine my experience without you guys.

Tanner, you have easily become one of my most trusted and treasured friends here at OBU, and I will always look back fondly on our “old people” dinners at Cracker Barrel and our jam sessions to embarrassing boy bands. It was not only a pleasure to work for you, but a true honor. I will never in my life have another boss who is as wonderful and hilarious as you.

Chelsea, my “adopted daughter,” you have filled my days with smiles and laughter, and your sweet spirit has been an inspiration to me for as long as I have known you. Please don’t ever let this world change how kind, wonderful and faithful you are. I know you and Tebow will have a great life together. (*wink, wink*) Sam, you are a character. Not only have we become best friends, but I have come to view you very much like a younger brother. I know that you always have my back, and I genuinely look forward to your bearhugs. You’re a fantastic guy, and I will miss our talks, whether they were heartfelt, or they were about what happened on the last episode of the “Walking Dead.”

Emily, even though we are fairly new friends, I will definitely miss your wonderful wit and hilarious puns. You were a pleasure to work with, and I only wish that we could have worked together longer.

Nicole, I know you aren’t technically a Signal editor, but you’re going on this list anyway, because it’s my list and I do what I want. You and I haven’t been friends for a very long time, but I can honestly say that you have blessed me in so many ways, and I will miss you dearly. You were always there for me with a kind, encouraging word, and your constant love has

It’s

gotten me through some days when I didn’t think I could. Thank you for being your amazing self.

There are, of course, other friends that have made huge impacts on me and my time here at Ouachita, some of whom graduated before me. Thank you, Leah Garavelli, Emily Davis, Kelli Wilson, Dielle Short, Glenn Bolton, Bethany Ivie, Andrea Lock, Tori Abellera, and Nikki McNair for always supporting me, loving me and reminding me that Christ is always present in everything – especially you guys.

As far as professors go, every single professor I have had the opportunity to learn under has taught me things that have helped shape not only my skills and ideas, but have helped shape who I am as a person. That being said, there are certain professors who I need to thank in this letter, though I am grateful for every single one of you who teach here at this amazing school.

First and foremost is Dr. Deborah Root. Dr. Deb, I have told you before, but I can’t even begin to stress how much you have blessed me. I knew from the very first day of Intro to Mass Comm that you would be someone whom I admired. You were my first class on my very first day of college, and the impression you left me with has been one that has lasted until now and will continue to last. Through my years here, I have had the great honor of being taught by you in a number of classes, and I have learned so much from you. Even outside of class, you have encouraged me, loved me and supported me without end. You and Mr. Dr. Root have become my parents away from home, and I am so thankful for everything you do and everything you are. You are beautiful inside and out, and I strive to be like you one day. Thank you for all you have done for me.

Dr. Jeff Root, though I have never had a class with you (I’m still not sure how that happened!), you have always treated me as though I was part of the family.

You never cease to make me laugh, and I knew from the moment you first threw candy at my face that you were someone I wanted to be around. Thank you for always supplying the Signal with many laughs and good snacks.

Dr. Jess Kelly, I might have only had you for one class, but you are one of the most amazing professors I’ve had. I still remember the day I came to you, worried about a grade on a test, and you told me something I will never forget. You told me that my worth as a person had nothing to do with the grade on the paper, and that is something that has helped me tremendously since. It’s rare to see a professor who genuinely loves his students as much as you do and someone who will fight for his students like you. Even when I was struggling with your class and was ready to give up, you got me back in the game and made sure I tried as hard as I could. You’re a fantastic teacher and a fantastic person altogether.

Like I said, every professor I have had has taught me something, but a special thanks goes out to Dr. Casey Motl, Tiffany Eurich, Rebecca Jones, Dr. Johnny Wink, Sally Dann, Dr. Raouf Hallaby, Julia Jones and Dr. Dave Ozmun.

So, there you have it. I could literally go on for days about how much this place, this school and these people have impacted me in the course of four and a half years. And while it’s terrifying and heart-wrenching to leave my home away from home, I know that this isn’t really goodbye. I will continue to keep in touch with the people I have grown to love (I even have a Christmas movie marathon planned with a certain Signal Editor-in-Chief), and I know that, as cheesy as it sounds, Ouachita will always be home to me, and I know that it isn’t going anywhere.

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” – Winnie the Pooh

Sincerely,

the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

CANDY CANE CAROLING CHIMNEY COOKIES EGGNOG FINALS GRINCH LIGHTS NORTH POLE

16 n OBUSIGNAL.COM x 12.06.12

ORNAMENTS PRESENTS REINDEER RIBBON SANTA SCROOGE STOCKING WINTER WRAPPING

Making his mark, leaving his legacy:

Dennis Nutt begins second year at Ouachita, discusses having famous last name

By LAUREN SNOW Staff Writer

Having the famous Nutt last name can be easily intimidating, but Ouachita Head Basketball Coach Dennis Nutt has learned how to handle it with a down to earth approach.

Nutt has a long background in basketball. His father was a coach, which caused him to be around the basketball court at a young age.

With him being the youngest of four brothers, Houston, Dickey and Danny, he followed in their footsteps coaching.

“Once my oldest brother got into basketball, all of the rest of us just followed suit,” Nutt recalls.

After graduating high school, Nutt attended Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas, the state that later provided him an opportunity to continue his love for the sport as a professional in the NBA. “Well I played a little for the Dallas Mavericks, then some minor league where I had the opportunity to travel around the United States and even later to Madrid, Spain.”

Nutt has acquired multiple experiences in the position as coach, starting off in Fort Smith, Ark., followed by joining his brother, Dickey, at Arkansas State.

Following Arkansas State, Nutt stayed six years at Texas State University as the head coach, which later led him to South Carolina as an assistant, where his and current Ouachita assistant coach Logan Johnson’s paths crossed.

It was here that president Dr. Rex Horne’s called, while Nutt was scouting for the NBA Charlotte Bobcats, bringing him to Ouachita’s court.

When asked about coaching, without any hesitation, Nutt said, “It is for the love of the game. I guess since I couldn’t play it, I wanted to be around it, so I coach it.”

Nutt knew early on he had a love for the sport.

“My life schedule was school, church and basketball as a child,” he said. “I

knew basketball was the one sport I was going to stick to throughout my life.”

However, over time there was a new edition to the mix ― family. Nutt met his wife Vickie while attending TCU, where they were the stereotypical jock and cheerleader couple. Soon after graduation they were married.

“One year out of school we got married, and now here we are 26 years later. Wow, that was 26 years ago,” Nutt blushingly stated.

It was after Nutt began his coaching career that he was blessed with two twin girls, Myca and Macy.

“While we were in Fort Smith the twins came along, and that was a big time in our lives,” he said. “It was hard, but my wife was an amazing mother.”

The two girls soon adapted to being a part of a coaching family.

“It really is all I know, so it is pretty much normal for me,” Myca said.

Her twin sister Macy compared her experience with being a member of this family with her sporting career.

“When I would play sports, I understood the importance of the coach’s position, so with it being important in my family it helped me as a player,” Macy said.

Being associated with the Nutt last name can be tough, but this side of the family has no complaints.

“I am very fortunate being the youngest of the family, with good role models from my wonderful parents as well as with my three older brothers,” Nutt said. “From a young age we have all been close and we simply transferred that to our adult lives.”

For the girls’ side of family, “You are kind of used to all of the publicity, with the majority of our family being known so well, but it is still a great family to be a part of and I really enjoy it,” Myca said.

Nutt’s daughters, now Ouachita students, are a big part of his life, and said he is a part of their college life as well.

“It really isn’t strange seeing him around campus and it is also nice to be able to have him here at times,” Macy

Dr. Wesley Kluck z Courtesy OUACHITA TIGERS beat LeTourneau University in a decisive win to start the season.

said.

Not only does his family praise him, but his basketball players do as well.

Sophomore kinesiology major Colt Fason has played for Nutt for two years and has nothing but kind words to say.

“Coach Nutt is not only a great coach, he’s also an all-around great person,” Fason said. “That’s what I admire most about Coach Nutt; he is able to be serious when he is coaching but also a mentor off the court.”

Fason’s description of his coach is Nutt’s favorite thing about his team.

“I enjoy being around this age of guys and helping them with more than just basketball, but with life,” Nutt said.

With his story, Nutt simply wants to help guide the team by being a mentor so they will succeed in their future.

Nutt said he does not want to be anywhere else but Ouachita; he feels that this is the best fit for him and his family.

“I have been at the D1 level before, but something about this D2 level is different,” Coach Nutt said. “I enjoy coaching here better and feel that having Dr. Horne and David Sharp as an encouraging back bone, no matter the outcome, is very valuable. My brothers don’t even have that.”

With the experience and determination in both Nutt and his players, this team is bound to succeed.

“Our goals for this year are to win conference and to be ranked and get a bid in the NCAA tournament,” he said.

“It is going to take some hard work, but we are all willing to put forth the effort.” n

12.06.12 x SPORTS n 17

BCS: Winner? Loser? Two sports gurus debate Fighting Irish have fighting chance against Saban’s Crimson Tide in BCS

Crimson Tide to roll over Notre Dame in National Championship

HUNTER SOPER

CHELSEA BYERS

Staff Writer

Sports Editor

3:00 PM

Here it comes folks, the biggest game of the college football season. The good old BCS is almost here, and two teams have begun the process of preparing for the battle.

As Alabama swept through the SEC championship game against Georgia, they showed what would be coming to South Florida in the next month.

Though Georgia put up a fight, it wasn’t enough for Saban’s army of crimson.

Although, Bama was having to keep up in that game, playing the Bulldogs’ game ― not the Alabama game every other fan in the country expected to see.

Now, to talk BCS here, not turkey, it needs to be known that I do not believe in Santa Claus and I do not believe in Notre Dame winning the BCS. That’s the cold hard truth, kids.

Notre Dame has their strong points, excuse me, point, mainly being Manti Te’o on their defense tossing quarterbacks around like an elf playing hackysack. (excuse my numerous Christmas references, I’m quite in the mood.)

Nick Saban has sat his boys down, made them watch tape after tape and has gone through play after play, in preparation for this game. Their schedule has prepared them as well, playing four top 25 teams, dog fighting in the SEC title game and turning games around late in the game to crank out the win.

Only having one loss to Texas A&M, who we’ll give number 19 credit for, which yes Kyle, I’m putting this win on the shoulders of a Lamothe.

Notre Dame has struggled to come out with a win more than once this season, and January 7 they will be struggling to do the same. The Fighting Irish do not have the same amount of skill set or experience that Saban’s Tide brings to the table, along with the difference of Alabama having four shut-outs to date.

I will also bring up again the caliber of teams each college has faced this season. Take a look at the schedules and you’ll be able to get a much better perspective on the two.

Alabama: four top 25 teams, nine SEC teams, 41-14 win over Michigan.

Notre Dame: four top 25 teams, no SEC teams, 13-6 win over Michigan.

Need I say more? n

1/10/2013 Arkansas Tech OBU 7:30 PM

Ouachita Tigersharks Schedule

Notre Dame and Alabama. Arguably the two best teams in college football will square off against one another on Jan. 7 and see who is good enough to earn the title of the “best team in all of college football.”

However, you can’t go anywhere without overhearing various disputes on television or amongst friends over which team is the better of the two.

I honestly believe that Notre Dame is the best team in the nation and if they play to their full potential, they can beat any given team on any given night.

Out of their 12 games played, the Irish have beaten nine bowl eligible teams compared to Alabama who has only beaten four. Some people might point out the fact that the Fighting Irish have had a few close games with some average or even below average competitors, which is indeed true.

Notre Dame struggled against Purdue and Brigham Young University, beating the two teams each by three points, and not to mention the two close overtime victories against Pittsburg and Stanford.

Nevertheless there is a positive to this seemingly pessimistic statistic; Notre Dame knows how to win and finish out a game. They may have not been able to blow out every single opponent, but when the final whistle blows they come out on top.

Their success is due to their defensive performance, which is definitely the strongpoint of their team; with Heisman candidate Manti Te’o spearheading their success, but it will be interesting to see how their defense fares as they go up against Alabama’s downhill running game.

The game will be decided in the trenches and in order for the Tide to have success on the ground, they will have to scheme around Te’o, making sure to have two blockers on him constantly to prevent him from making plays, and I still don’t see number five having a quiet game. n

OBU Men’s Basketball Schedule 12/8/2012

Arkansas-Monticello

Monticello, AR

12/29/2012

Tarleton State

Stephenville, TX

12/18/2012 1/3/2013

Texas A&M-Commerce

OBU

Southern Nazarene

Bethany, OK

4:00 PM

7:00 PM

7:30 PM

1/12/2013 Harding Searcy, AR 7:30 PM 1/17/2013 1/19/2013

Northwestern Oklahoma SW Oklahoma St.

OBU

OBU

7:30 PM

4:00 PM

12/31/2012

Winter Training

Arkadelphia, AR

1/12/2013

Delta State University Cleveland, MS

TBA 1:00 PM

1/18-19/2013 Oklahoma Baptist

Shawnee, OK

5:00 PM

1/26/2013 Southern Arkansas OBU 4:00 PM

1/25/2013

Arkadelphia, AR

6:00 PM

2/13-16/2013 NSISC Championships Cleveland, MS

TBA

2/2/2013

3/6-9/2013

TBA

1/24/2013 Henderson St. OBU 7:30 PM 1/31/2013

SE Oklahoma St. East Central

18 n OBUSIGNAL.COM x 12.06.12

Durant, OK Ada, OK

7:30 PM 4:00 PM

Henderson State DII Championships

Birmingham, AL

Tigersharks compete at prelim-finals, come away with numerous wins

By SAMANTHA GUERRA Staff Writer

The Tigersharks and Lady Tigersharks traveled to UALR this past weekend to compete in a three day prelim-finals meet starting on Thursday and finishing up on Saturday night. The meet was filled with excitement and good swims for Ouachita for the weekend. Other teams in the meet included conference teams such as Henderson and Delta State.

The women’s team of UALR, which is an NCAA Division I team, competed in the meet as well.

The meet began on Thursday night with the 200 medley relay. Ouachita’s women’s relay team for this race included Svitlana Smirnova, Elizabeth Willis, Rebecca Zandstra and Bailey Broadway. They finished with a time of 1:48:26, which was enough for an NCAA B qualifying standard.

The men in this race, Jason Pullano, Carl Thomas, Kenton Scott and Marcus Schlesinger, won with a time of

1:31.74.

Ouachita Lady Tigersharks dominated the 800 freestyle. Haley Fox, Jennifer Steele, Zandstra, and Willis easily finished well ahead of the competition with a time of 7:40.93.

The Tigersharks dominated the A relay with Kody Moffatt, Schlesinger, Emile Maritz, and David Wray winning with a time of 6:46.43.

On Friday in the finals session, Lady Tigersharks Zandstra, Steele, Willis and Annaliese Clark finished in third place in the 200 Yard Freestyle relay with a time of 1:37.74.

The men won first place in this same event when Scott, Moffatt, Schlesinger and McLain finished with a time of 1:22.68.

Steele opened the first individual final of the meet strong for the Lady Tigersharks winning the 500 Freestyle in a time of 4:59.13. As for the men, Distefano finished third for the Tigersharks with a time of 4:45.74.

Svitlana Smirnova got second place for Ouachita when she finished

the 100 yard breastroke in a time of 1:07.72. In the men’s 100 yard breastroke, Pullano took first place with a time of 57.82 In the 200 backstroke Rachel Ewart finished in third place with a time of 2:07.54 while on the men’s side Willis placed second with a time of 2:04.81.

In the 100 butterfly, Schlesinger won with a time of 47.89. For the last individual meet of the night which was the 400 Individual medley, Price took first place with a time of 4:06.58.

In the last race of the night the men’s A and B 400 medley relays got first and third place.

The A team members of Schlesinger, Thomas, Pullano and Moffatt finished with a time of 3:21.39. The B relay team of Maritz, Johnson, McLain and Pritchard finished in a time of 3:28.45.

On Saturday’s portion of the meet, in the 1650 yard freestyle, Steele finished in second place with a time of 17:29.29. Steele also started off Saturday night with a win in the 200 yard

freestyle in a time of 1:52.50. Smirnova took second place in the 200 breaststroke finishing with a time of 2:28.64. Pullano also finished second in the men’s 200 breaststroke with a time of 2:06.26. In the women’s 100 backstroke, Willis finished third in a time of 57.47.

As for the men, Schlesinger took first place in the 100 backstroke with a time of 48.94. Maritz finished third with a time of 51.22. In the women’s 100 freestyle, Zandstra finished in third with a time of 53.17.

For the Tigersharks, Scott also finished third with a time of 47.19. Holly Wray finished in second place for the Lady Tigersharks in the 200 yard individual medley with a time of 2:13.29. Price got second place for the men with a time of 1:55.23.

Both the Lady Tigersharks and Tigersharks swam a great meet this weekend. The teams will take to the water again on Jan. 12 when they travel to Delta State after Christmas Break. n

Meet the Coaches: Jeremy Haworth

By LAUREN SNOW

Dr. Wesley Kluck z Courtesy OUACHITA TIGERSHARKS compete against Delta State, Henderson and UALR in the prelimimary finals.

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Staff Writer How did you get started in baseball?

When I was a little kid my mom asked me if I wanted to play. I went out there in jeans and a t-shirt not knowing what I was doing, but ever since then I have had a love for the sport.

Why Ouachita?

I went to school here as a student for two years, so this school means a lot to me. While I was a hitting coach at ULAR the program here was kind of in decline and it really was bugging me so I figured I should try to do something about it.

What is your experience with this sport?

I have played since I was five years old. I was very successful in college, having been awarded player of the year and All-American. I have a total of seven years of coaching.

What are your goals for this season’s team?

Just like every season, our goal is to win a conference championship. It doesn’t matter what tournament we are in, our goal is to win each one of them.

This is going to take a lot of hard work and our guys understand that but they want to do well.

What other college/MLB team do you cheer for?

For college teams I only cheer for Ouachita Baptist! As for MLB I am a New York Yankees fan. I am Yankees fan because I grew up in Oklahoma where everyone idolized Mickey Mantle.

Tell me about your family.

My wife is Emily Haworth and she actually went to school here at Ouachita as well. We have a new daughter named Lily and she is eight months old. That is our family right now and we are enjoying every moment of it. n

12.06.12 x SPORTS n 19

Festival of Christmas 2012

Last weekend, students, faculty, parents and community members flocked to JPAC for one of two shows of the 20th anniversary Festival of Christmas performances during the 20th anniversary year of the building. The campus choirs featured were the Ouachita concert choir, the Ouachita Singers and Ouachita Sounds.

Photos courtesy of Dr. Wesley Kluck