Tim Youtzey, freshman undecided, donates blood on the Blood Connection bus. (Photo By: Jessicah Peters)

Natalie Roush, junior broadcast media, holds a baby duck outside a dorm on a beautiful spring afternoon. (Photo By: Candace Mackie)

Tucker MacDonald, freshman sport management, putts during the tournament at Cherokee Valley last week. The Crusaders finished in 4th place and the Lady Crusaders will be back in action next week at the Aramark Collegiate Invitational in Etowah, N.C. Photo courtesy of Cory Guinn.

Last week, North Greenville University’s men’s and women’s golf teams hosted the Cherokee Valley Invitational tournament at Cherokee Valley Golf Course, just minutes from campus.

The women came in second at the tournament. Erskine took first place winning by three strokes. Some of the other teams that played were Mars Hill, Brevard and Limestone.

The men’s team placed fourth in the competition.The schools that went up against the men were Tri-County Technical College, Limestone, Brevard and Montreat.

“Obviously I was a little nervous at first, but when I got out there and began playing, I fell into my comfort zone,” Ben Farist, first year team member said.

Adam Black was NGU’s top finishing golfer, earning a third place finish with a total of 76-72-148.

Danny Dippel finished in the top 10 by placing seventh with a score of 73-80-153. Joshua Hopwood also earned a top 10 spot by placing 10th  with a score of 75-80-155.

For the women’s team, Anni Dibert finished third overall with a final score of 78-82-160. Anna Padgett and Regan Ouzts both tied for eighth place. Padgett’s score was 85-84-169 and Ouzts’ score was 83-86-169.

Denise Shirley claimed a top 10 spot with a final score of 82-89-171.

“I am thankful to have the opportunity to be able to play for NGU’s golf team,” said Farist.

The next event for the Lady Crusaders is April 9-10 at the Aramark Collegiate Invitational in Etowah, N.C.

The men’s next invitational will be on April 9-10 as they also compete in the Aramark Collegiate Tournament.

Photo courtesy of Biljana Kroll.

Having a new teacher on the NGU campus is definitely noticeable, considering how closely knit the campus life is. Biljana Kroll got noticed in the spring of 2011 when she joined the NGU faculty. She chose this school because she was looking for a job that fulfilled a greater purpose.

“I worked hard the past 10 or so years to immerse myself in learning and working in a variety of design fields,” Kroll said. “I felt I had a lot to share with younger generations; not just only graphic design skills but also skills to prepare them for the working world. The fact that I can do that in an environment where I can grow my relationship with Christ was a major plus.”

Kroll’s love for the Lord shows through her work as a professor. One of her students, Brooke Smith said,  “She is a really great professor who really obviously loves her students and genuinely wants them to do well and having that is such an encouragement.”

Kroll is originally from Macedonia, which is a small country on the Balkan Peninsula, and grew up in a town called Bitola, which is about 30 minutes from the Greek border.

Going from Macedonia to South Carolina is a big transition. North Greenville offers a similar sense of serenity compared to where she is from, a wonderful atmosphere and loving, godly people. Kroll, though, she likes the sense of community and the connection that students and teachers have through their spiritual outlooks on life.

When she was a child she always found herself interested in all art and design fields. She said she just wanted to create and draw. Her grandmother was a seamstress, so Kroll learned at an early age how to sew, which is where her interest in fashion began, which eventually led her to having an interest in drawing.

Two years before becoming a North Greenville professor, she worked as a full-time graphic designer and illustrator. She also taught at Mars Hill College where she attained her B.S. degree in Fashion and Interior Merchandising. She taught a class there that combined fashion and graphic design, which is partly why she was a good fit for the position at NGU as a Graphic Arts professor.

Kroll said, “Choosing a favorite class is like choosing your favorite child – impossible to do. I love every class I teach because together they teach students the fundamentals of art and design.”

Her goal as a professor at NGU is, “to encourage students to explore, not be afraid of solving problems, and achieve their own personal maximum level of creativity,” she said.

Outside of school, Kroll is a very outgoing and enthusiastic person. She is a vegetarian and she said she, loves veggies – roasted, steamed or raw, and has recently begun learning how to make variety of meals with phyllo dough. Phyllo dough is of Central Asian Turkish origin; crepes and pastries are on the top of her list.

She has one brother named Filip Bosevski who works as a car designer for Mazda in Germany.

Since she is from different places, speaking with her and talking to her about the things she likes can prove to be a very enlightening and fun experience.

Jamie Daughtry/Photo courtesy of Melissa Norris.

From Atlanta to Canada, Jamie Daughtry has been working to impact students’ lives for the Gospel. She has a heart for youth and following God in impacting them, whether she is working in a church or at a university.

From Atlanta, Georgia, Daughtry graduated from Samford University with a degree in Math and Secondary Education.

After graduation, she began working with youth. Her home church had a partner church in British Columbia, Canada, where she moved and took over the youth program. Daughtry worked in British Columbia for five years ministering to youth.

Now working as the Student Activities Director with Student Services at North Greenville University, Daughtry has a very different job and environment than with the Canadian youth group.

When asked to describe her new job with NGU, she explained it had many sides to it.

“There’s the activities director side, where I plan activities on campus; things like: movie nights, coffee houses, special events, like concert and homecoming, orientation, spring fling, even Miss NGU,” said Daughtry.

Her job does not consist of just planning, but also executing the events. She explained she was responsible for any event or activity planned through Student Services.

Daughtry is also in charge of clubs and organizations on campus, which have to register through her. She is responsible for running the club fair in the fall, which is the sponsor for the Student Government Association.

Daughtry has housing responsibilities and is in charge of the game room. She has a student activities staff of about 10 people. This team helps to run the game room during weekends and evenings, as well as help with all events. There are currently openings on the team and she is taking applications for them.

The housing aspect of her job includes her duties as a resident coordinator for Brashier. During the summer semester, she is in charge of summer housing for girls, which entails placing girls in rooms as well as checking the ladies in and out.

She is also in charge of RA’s and coordinators living on campus for the summer term. She oversees the pool and lifeguards during the summer.

After living in Canada for five years, South Carolina was somewhat of a culture shock for Daughtry.

“There is such a different mindset and view on Christianity in Canada and South Carolina,” she said.

There are little things that are a “southern norm” here that she would like to change. “Southern girls have a mindset that they have to get married young and by they time they graduate from college,” Daughtry said.

She would like to see young ladies content in following God with all their hearts.

Ministering to students is Daughtry’s passion. Whether God had placed her in a youth group in Canada or a university in Tigerville, S.C., she lives to glorify God by showing His love to the young people around her. Her desire is to continue doing that through the years, wherever God places her.

Students are encouraged to come by and talk to Daughtry and get to know her as well as help give some ideas for new activities. She explained that sometimes it is hard to come up with events that appeal to everyone and would love some new and fresh ideas from students.

Stop by her office in Student Services and get to know your new Student Activities Director, Jamie Daughtry. Anyone who is interested in being involved in the student activity staff or working on campus this summer can pick up an application in her office.

North Greenville students may want to clear their schedules for the evening of Wednesday, April 17.

NGU will be hosting a debate on the topic “Is Christianity Good for America?”  The debate will take place at 7 p.m., in Turner Chapel and will be offered as a bonus chapel credit.

Alex McFarland

The debate will be between NGU’s own Alex McFarland and Edward Tabash, chair of the national legal committee of Americans United for Separation of Church and State.

McFarland is NGU’s Director of Christian Worldview & Apologetics, a radio host, an award-winning author and former president of Southern Evangelical Seminary.  McFarland currently lives in Charlotte with his wife Angie, but the couple is planning on moving to the upstate next year to make his new position at NGU more manageable.

In addition to his work as an author and over the airwaves, McFarland is also an accomplished speaker with a passion for apologetics.  McFarland has spoken at more than 100 different colleges and 1,300 different churches, in all 50 states. He has also had speaking engagements in Canada, as well as various nations in South America, Europe and Africa.  For McFarland, debating an outspoken athiest like Tabash will be just another day at the office.

Edward Tabash

Tabash has spent much of his life working to further the atheist cause. He is a lawyer in the Los Angeles area and has argued before the Supreme court. Tabash has also been one of the official campaign speakers and debators for the presidential campaigns of Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton.

In addition to being head  of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, Tabash also leads the First Amendment Task Force for the Council for Secular Humanism. Like McFarland, Tabash is an experienced public speaker and debator.

With these two knowledgeable speakers and seasoned debaters, the upcoming debate will be an incredible event for students to experience firsthand.

Selflessness is becoming a rarity in today’s world. Most people crave to have all the attention focused on them, but to make a difference in the world, one has to be selfless.

Eliza Rountree, junior early education, embodies what it means to be caring and selfless.

Working with North Greenville University’s Campus Ambassadors and being a mentor for the First Year Experience program, Rountree loves to get involved on campus.

“I think it’s something important that Christians should do. The more that you’re involved, the more that people see that you genuinely care. When you do acts of service for others, it keeps your life from being self- centered,” said Rountree.

She also volunteers at the Myers Center in downtown Greenville where she works with students who have disabilities.

Though friends of Rountree say she cares too much about others, it is what makes her a difference maker. Life is not about us, it is about being servants to others.

S3 ROTC officer Drew Brogden trains on North Greenville's high ropes course. Photo courtesy of Drew Brogden.

North Greenville University’s ROTC program has experienced rapid growth this semester and has great opportunities for students.

This semester, ROTC officially opened its new on-campus office located underneath Hester Library right beside the Writing Center.

Drew Brogden, junior Christian studies, is an ROTC workstudy student who will be manning the office. He serves as the recruiting/retention officer for ROTC and acts as the liaison between the NGU and Furman University campuses. He believes this new office will bring advancement to the campus’ program.

“I hope that it will be the first step in getting ROTC on the North Greenville campus more recognition and more support,” said Brogden.

Although the office will not be open daily, its hours are Tuesday and Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m.

The ROTC’s new office isn’t the only resource available for students. Later on this month, ROTC will be hosting an event called ROTC-For-A-Day. It is a challenge that is open for all students on campus to watch and experience the everyday duties of an ROTC member.

“ROTC-For-A-Day is for those who have always wondered what it takes to be an Army ROTC Cadet,” said Brogden.

The event allows students to participate in activities such as Physical Training, Leadership & Tactics Training, Practical Leadership & Tactics Training or a combination of any of the three.

“Anyone and everyone is encouraged to come out and see if they have what it takes to be an ROTC cadet with no obligations,” said Brogden, “Who knows, they might like it.”

To learn more about ROTC, contact Drew Brogden at arbrogden@ngu.edu. or scan the QR code below.

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Chandler.

When you read a story about a heroic dog saving a person’s life or about someone who was successful in accomplishing a Guinness World record, you often think or say, “That was awesome!” Well, did you know that God desires to do something awesome with your life? Yes, you. In the entire world, in all the people, God has a specific plan for you to fulfill.

Exodus 34:10b reads, “And all the people among whom you are shall see the work of the Lord, for it is an awesome thing that I will do with you.”

It is important to remember that it is not just you who is doing that awesome thing. It is by God’s power and strength that you are capable of accomplishing the impossible. Where you come in is by trusting Him with whatever is going on in your life. Trust Him through the day-to-day troubles. Trust Him when you are feeling weary and tired. Trust Him in the tough and easy situations, for by this, He is building your character so that in everything His Light will be shown through you.

It is not just for the future that God is waiting to use you, but right now. Believe it my friend; He is doing an awesome thing with you now. Pour yourself daily into the lives of your friends, professors, parents and even strangers. And to think, not only are you doing things that advance His Kingdom, but the body of Christ is also reaching out as well.

He is longing for the day when He will say to say to you, “Well done, my good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21).

North Greenville’s women’s soccer team is experiencing change. Former head coach Jesse McCormick stepped down after four seasons and is taking the head coaching position at Bob Jones University.  Bob Jones will be competing in intercollegiate athletics in the NCCAA Div 1 beginning this fall, 2012. McCormick’s replacement is former assistant coach Rachel Baer.

Laney McGarity, freshmen art major, a forward for the women’s soccer team, said, “We’re all really excited for Rachel.  We know she is going to be a great coach for us and we know there is so much we can learn from her.”

Baer takes over the program after one season as assistant coach. The 2009 Kennesaw State University graduate boasts an extremely impressive resume. She played collegiately at UNC-Charlotte and Kennesaw State, both NCAA Division 1 programs.

At Kennesaw she led the Owls in goal scoring and led the Atlantic Sun Conference in points, goals, shots, shots on goal and game-winning goals for the 2008 season. She was named to the 2008 NSCAA/Adidas NCAA Division I All-Mid-Atlantic Region Third Team, received Atlantic Sun First Team All-Conference honors and was selected for the Atlantic Sun All-Tournament Team, as well as being  named the 2008-2009 Kennesaw State University Female Athlete of the Year.

Coach Baer has trained internationally with the Paraguay and South African Women’s U17 and U20 national teams, and spent a summer training with Sparta, the top women’s professional soccer team in the Czech Republic. She has played one season of pro-amateur soccer for the Charlotte Eagles (part of the USL W-League) and plans to play with them again this summer.

Baer said, “I’m most excited about taking over as head coach because I have always had a passion for the game of soccer, and I recognize how competing at a high level athletically can build character and teach life lessons that athletes can carry with them for the rest of their lives. I see this job as an opportunity to teach women to be better soccer players, but to also help them to grow strong character and to be better individuals.

“My goals for recruiting are to find young women who can raise the level of our program for the future, helping us to be more competitive, but who also want to challenge themselves both on and off the field,” Baer said.

The goal for her new team is to glorify God, work hard and build team unity.  And while winning is important, it is not the number one priority.

“Having played college soccer myself, I can really relate to my players,” said Baer. “I plan to raise the level of expectation when it comes to training and the work we put in both on and off the field, but I also plan to focus on our team unity. The women’s game is very different than the men’s game in that regard, so it is of utmost importance that we be unified as a team both on and off the field,” she said.

Baer plans to give her players freedom when it comes to style of play saying, “Soccer is a player’s game, not a coach’s game. I plan to do everything necessary in practices to prepare the girls for games, but come game time, I want to give them space for creative freedom,” she said.

“Soccer is such a beautiful game that allows for so much creativity from the individual, and I never want to take that away from my players,” said Baer

“Over the years I’ve found that players who can delight in the game without a fear of failure play so much better and with so much more joy. As a coach, I want to give my players the freedom to fail as long as they never stop fighting for success,” she said.

The women’s soccer team has not released its 2012 schedule yet but should begin play sometime in early September.

DEDICATION CEREMONY

North Greenville will hold a ceremony to dedicate new buildings on campus, such as the Craft-Hemphill center and the Prayer Chapel, as well as other new additions to university property. The ceremony will be held on Thursday, April 26, at 11 a.m.

RELAY FOR LIFE PAGEANT

The Miss Relay for Life pageant of Travelers Rest will be held on campus as part of the North Greenville Relay for Life event. The Travelers Rest pageant will be held in Turner Chapel on April 21 at 4 p.m., and the NGU pageant will be held later in the evening at 7:30 p.m.

FINAL CULTURAL EVENTS OF THE SEMESTER

• 4/4 at 7 p.m. Alberto and Fabio Parrini Recital in Hamlin
• 4/9 at 7 p.m. Flute Choir Concert in Hamlin
• 4/10 at 7 p.m. Brass Ensemble in Hamlin
• 4/11 at 7 p.m. Katie Mahan Piano Recital in Hamlin
• 4/16 at 7 p.m. Concert Band Concert in Turner
• 4/19 at 5 p.m. Chamber Evening-Strings & Singers in Hamlin
• 4/23 at 7 p.m. Jazz Band in Turner
• 4/24 at 7 p.m. Orchestra Concert in Turner

National

RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS CANCELLED AT STATE UNIVERSITY

State University of New York at Stony Brook decided to stop cancelling classes for certain Jewish and Christian holidays. The university said this decision was made to prevent some religions from being treated more favorably than others. Charles Robbins, vice provost for undergraduate education, said, “As a secular university, as a state-funded university our priority must be to maximize instructional opportunities for our students.” The Jewish and Christian holidays that will be affected are Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Passover, Holy Week and Good Friday.

It’s not easy to say goodbye to The Skyliner after three years. I have learned and grown as a writer, a journalist and a person during my time here. The Skyliner influenced me and my career plans in definite ways.

When I first started at North Greenville University, I intended to be an English major—that is, until I discovered my love of journalism while working for the paper my first freshman semester, fall 2009. I realized I wanted to be a journalist and decided on print media.

When I started as a staff writer, I hardly knew what I was doing, but writing a story and getting published each week inspired me. I wanted to learn more. I became copy editor my second semester and spent time in the publication office each Monday, an experience that cemented my resolve to start a career in journalism.

I was fascinated by the behind-the-scenes aspect of working for a newspaper. Every week was hectic to varying degrees but never uninteresting. I stayed on the editorial staff for another year, working as news & features editor and then opinion editor. I was blessed to work with great editors-in-chief: Joseph Huntley for the first year and Samantha Mayo for the second.

In fall 2011, I started as editor-in-chief. I was intimidated going into it, but I knew I had some amazing people to work with. Karyn Campbell, The Skyliner adviser, has always been 100 percent invested in making the student newspaper the best it can be. She has encouraged me and the rest of the staff during her time as adviser, inspiring us to work hard and teaching us plenty about journalism staples like news value and AP style.

I have also had a great editorial staff to work with during these two semesters, including Anthony Reese, Erin Chandler, Meaghan Wilkie, Kayla Rease, Cory Guinn, Billy Watson, Elizabeth Pirkle and Allie Outhouse. They made my time working with The Skyliner infinitely easier every week, and I could not have done it without them. I especially need to thank our visual arts editor, Emily Bain, who re-designed our layout from scratch over summer 2011 and has worked every week to make the newspaper look that much better.

Altogether, working with my fellow editors and our adviser has been one of my favorite things about being a part of The Skyliner. I made good friends while working at The Skyliner, something that definitely made crazy Monday nights a lot better. The editorial staff had good rapport, and we managed to have fun as we put out a newspaper every week. I will have to remember our good times, inside jokes and occasional Pinterest sessions.

Of course not everything about being an editor is fun; some weeks have been harder than others. But overall, my time with The Skyliner has been an incredibly worthwhile experience, and I cannot say that I regret one bit of time or work that I have put into it. While the title of editor-in-chief is nice to have on a resume, working with The Skyliner has meant much more than that. I am so proud of how much The Skyliner has grown as a publication over just these past three years. As I move on, I know I am leaving the newspaper in great hands with the next staff, and I look forward to seeing what they do with it.

Paddy O’Conor
Staff Writer

Susan Kahl, associate professor of sociology, prepares a dish of fried rice for the Faith, Race, and Culture-sponsored event. Photo courtesy of Carlie McKinley

When the topic of race comes up, most think of white and black and tend to forget about the multitudes of cultures that exist in the world.

May is Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month. To celebrate this month, the North Greenville University Faith, Race and Culture committee put together an event called “Crossing Cultures: East Meets West.”

The event, held at 5:30 p.m. in Hayes Ministry Center, celebrated the accomplishments of Asians in the United States and their history.

NGU associate professor of English Hiewon Shin directed  the event, which included Asian foods and a viewing of select scenes from the film The Joy Luck Club.

Shin said, “The campus does not have many Asian-Americans. I wanted people to be aware of our existence and bring awareness to the Asian-American culture.”

One of the issues Shin wanted to address is the cultural differences between Asian-Americans and Caucasians.  Shin said that there are stereotypes about every culture and Asian-Americans are no different.  She noted the emphasis that Asian-Americans put on academic excellence is a stereotype which has emerged from that cultural difference.

Besides rice, the event features other Asian-influenced specialties like egg rolls. Photo courtesy of Carlie McKinley

Those who attended the event were encouraged to participate in the Q&A session afterward. Crossing Cultures was the third major event this semester for the Faith, Race and Culture committee, following a debate on racial labels and a Q&A portion on adoption which were featured last month.

For more information on the Crossing Cultures event or the Faith, Race and Culture committee, contact Hiewon Shin  or history department chair Paul Thompson.

It is that time of the year that casual golf fans come out of the woodwork, and the diehard golf fan lives for.  It is Masters week.

This year’s Masters tournament much like in years’ past, promises to be one of the best tournaments of the golf season.  There are several big name golfers who are looking to make history by winning their first green jacket and then there are those looking for their second, third or fourth green jacket.

If you didn’t know, the green jacket is the prize given to the winner of the The Masters along with a trophy and a hefty check.

Like every other year in the past, there are the household names that have a chance to win every single tournament.  They are Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, Sergio Garcia and last years’ champion Charl Schwartzel.

Any one of these golfers could win this year’s Masters and one of them probably will.  However, there are a number of young golfers who could make their way to the forefront of the golfing world by winning this weekend, Rickie Fowler, Hunter Mahan and Kyle Stanley, just to name a few.

This article will highlight a few of the favorites and some of the guys that could surprise the world and walk out of Augusta, Ga with a Masters championship.

Phil Mickelson

Phil Mickelson, known by many around the golfing world as “Lefty,” is looking for his fourth green jacket. Mickelson has been in the running for a Masters championship for the past decade and this year he should find his name at the top of the leaderboard again. Mickelson is a favorite going into the tournament and should be able to head into the weekend easily inside the cut.

Rory McIlroy

The number one golfer in the world comes all the way from Northern Ireland. McIlroy’s best Masters finish is 15th but in a year after winning his first major championship he could be the best golfer in the field. If he plays solid golf and doesn’t stumble he should win his first green jacket and be on his way to a career that rivals that of some of golfs’ greatest.

Tiger Woods

Once again Tiger Woods is back and looking to get that statement victory that he is “back”. Woods will be looking for his fifth green jacket after winninghis last in 2005. Woods has played much better golf this season, but a leg injury is a big question going into this weekend. If his leg is fine, Woods could be the golfer to beat at a course that he has dominated over the past 15 years.

Rickie Fowler

Fowler is one of the young guns in this year’s field playing just his second Masters. Last year Fowler scored a 38th-place finish, a remarkable finish for someone in his first Masters as a professional. Fowler was the 2010 PGA Tour rookie of the year and could make the biggest statement of his career by walking away with a green jacket come Sunday. Fowler will have to bring his A game for four rounds this week and if he does, he could be at the top of the leaderboard on Sunday.

Kyle Stanley

Competing in his first Masters as a professional, Stanley has a tall task in front of him but a championship is not out of the equation. He earned his first PGA victory earlier this year at the Waste Management Phoenix Open after coming back from eight shots down on Sunday. Not only was the win remarkable for the Sunday comeback, but the week before, Stanley let a tour victory slip away as he lost a five-shot lead at the Farmers Insurance Open. Stanley has the talent to compete this weekend and it will be interesting to see if the pressure of the Masters gets to him or not.

The Masters should be exciting as always and if you are like me you will be glued to the television and internet for most of this weekend.

Spring semester will be head coach McCray's debut with the Crusaders . Photo courtesy of Josh Landum.

Spring practice has begun for the North Greenville University football team. This is the first spring practice for new head coach Carroll McCray.

The Crusaders will head into the 2012 season with lofty expectations after a record breaking 2011 season in which they went 11-3 and made it to the quarterfinals of the NCAA division II playoffs.

The Crusaders will look to veteran players to make an impact.  Isaiah Johnson, junior sport management, will be one of those players who can make an impact on both sides of the ball and on special teams.

Aaron Seigler drops back to make a pass during practice. Photo courtesy of Josh Landum.

For the first time in several years the Crusaders will have a quarterback battle for the starting position. Aaron Seigler, senior business administration, will be one of the quarterbacks under consideration along with Nelson Hughes, freshman education.

The defense will also be a big question going into 2012. The Crusaders graduated a number of starters from the 2011 team and replacing them will be a key to their success.

The football team will conclude its spring practice on April 14 with its annual spring game in Younts Stadium. Until then, the Crusaders will continue to practice and scrimmage every Saturday.

Melody Stipe, sophmore psychology, wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty at REVEAL Day. Photo courtesy of Ben Wade.

REVEAL 2012, an enormous community service project headed up by North Greenville University’s Baptist Student Union, involved the students of North Greenville as well as local churches.  Promoted through Facebook, campus life, Twitter and YouTube, REVEAL 2012 gained a large student following with the slogan “God Reveals. God Revealing. God Revealed.”

Students and volunteers from surrounding areas met in Turner Chapel at 9 a.m. to begin their day focused on God with a small worship service. Participants then went out to the area they were assigned to work. Construction work, sorting food at food pantries and organizing supplies at local ministries were among some of the service projects that teams of participants worked on.

Ben Wade, sophomore secondary education, served on one of the media teams sent out to film and photograph the various locations.

He explained, “REVEAL 2012 partnered with David Platt and the book he wrote, Radical Together. The whole goal and theme of the book is going out and making a difference in the world.  It is about sharing the love of Christ with everyone we meet.”

Wade also mentioned the hands-on element of REVEAL, saying, “Projects took place at Miracle Hill, God’s Pantry, Triune Mercy Center, schools and in some cases old houses in the community.  Workers did almost anything from moving and packaging literally thousands of cans, tearing down old porches, cutting grass, doing yard work, sorting clothes and just sharing the Good Word downtown.”

Some volunteers did yard work for people in the community. Photo courtesy of Connor Hipps.

Participants were divided into teams for their workday.  The teams themselves displayed sincere love and concern for the people they served.  Wade said, “Everyone was cheerful and kind to the workers.  It was so cool seeing so many people all working together for one cause, bringing more glory to Jesus.”

One site in particular stood out to Wade.  He detailed the experience, saying, “At our first stop, we watched a group of people tear down an old lady’s porch and then build a new one.  This old lady’s house was in the ghetto. Like, it was bad.   We thought that we were going to get shot. No joke.”

But as soon as the team got there and started working, the neighbors from surrounding houses sat and watched the REVEAL volunteers from their porches.

“They just sat there for hours, watching these young adults work together,” Wade said.

One especially interesting moment was when a man started walking toward the team.

Wade described, “In his right hand was a leash with a pitbull on the end.  Turns out, he was super cool. He just wanted to know who we were and what we were doing.  We petted his dog, who was also super chill, and just got to know him.”

The experience was an extremely positive one for Wade and his team.  He summed it up, saying, “It was seriously cool to see the people of the community watch dumfounded as REVEAL people just kept on working through the heat.”

Wade also pointed out a particularly relevant quote from Radical Together, which says, “Unleashing the people of God for the Purpose of God.”  Wade related it to the work his team completed, saying, “That is what was done this past Saturday.  I was blessed to participate and capture this event with my camera.”
Merica Broome, Erin Chandler, Allie Outhouse and Elizabeth Pirkle contributed to this article.

Frank Turek spoke at the first chapel service for Christian Worldview week 2012.

“We need to understand what we believe and why,” said Alex McFarland, director of Christian Worldview, at North Greenville University’s Christian Worldview Week which was held March 19 – 21. Throughout the week, NGU’s Christian worldview department gave students the opportunity to learn from renowned apologists how to understand and defend their faith.

Speakers Frank Turek, Clayton King and Alex McFarland were invited to speak in Chapel and explain how to create a sound argument for Christianity, a topic known as apologetics. In addition to the chapel services, Christian Worldview Week featured three breakout sessions in the new Craft-Hemphill Center for Evangelism, Missions and Christian Worldview. There were six lecturers to choose from and around 20 attendees.

Tony Beam, vice president for Student Services and Christian Worldview, explained the reason for low attendance might have been lack of student availability, competition for their attention as well as a lack of advertising and information on the subjects. Beam pointed out the other events were in the evening when nothing else was going on, in addition to being bonus chapels.  Beam added, “We’ll make it more public next year.”

Beam stated the purpose of Christian Worldview Week when he said, “We wanted students to learn new ways to defend their Christian faith.” Beam added the intention included reaching out to those who have not yet met Christ and strengthening the walk of those who had.

Beam explained that McFarland and Turek were chosen as speakers because they are both excellent apologists that could reach college-aged students. Beam described Clayton King as a strong evangelist, saying, “Clayton tied apologetics and evangelism together.”

Kaitlyn Nealis, freshman undecided, said, “I think it’s important to know how to defend your faith.  I liked how [Frank Turek] showed the facts but Clayton King connected the intellectual part of us with the spiritual side of us. [King] spoke to Christians. People need more than facts; they need love and attention.”

How much work goes into putting on a Christian Worldview Week? “A ton: we have to go get sponsors and exhibitors, arrangements for food, a greenroom for the speakers to wait in, and we have to promote it. It’s advertising, getting posters up, announcing it in chapel… getting the word out,” Beam said.

“It’s a lot of coordination. Chrysta Johnson does an excellent job. She learned the market and how to promote and also has a God-given talent for organization,” Beam said. He also thanked Johnson’s workstudy students Emily Bain, senior interdisciplinary studies, and Hannah Jackson, senior mass communication.

Christian Worldview Week was a sponsored event. Beam explained that the sponsors had to be found. “We look for people and organizations interested in apologetics. We call them and ask if they would like to have a booth to promote their product. We go to other conferences, looking for other venders. We pick up cards and call people.”

This event had 10 sponsors and exhibitors: Logos Bible Software, Voice of the Martyrs, Palmetto Family Council, Baptist Bible College, Christian Life and Public Affairs Committee of SCBA, Billy Graham Evangelism Association, South Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, The Vibe, Life Answers Team and Mentor Leaders.

According to the students, the invited band was perfect for Christian Worldview Week. Kenzie Madson, freshman health promotion and wellness, said of the lead singer, Chase Callahan, “His passion for Christ just stood out.”

Alex McFarland.

McFarland stated he was pleased with the overall outcome of Christian Worldview Week, especially the fact that 20 people claimed to have accepted Christ. McFarland said, “We had a great mixture of intellectual content and spiritual challenge.”

Cayce Hopper, sophomore biology, said, “It helped me to see that reaching out needs to be more of a priority in my life.”

Anna Moseley, freshman broadcast, said, “He [Clayton King] let it be controversial, nothing less than the gospel….I wish we had more of those opportunities in chapel – not preaching, but how to defend your faith.”

Photo courtesy of Aurora staff.

From everything from an ordained house pastor to a professor to a Major in the Air Force, Dr. Ronald Marks looks at everything he has ever done as a mission field. His goal is to be used by God wherever He places him. Working at North Greenville University as a chemistry professor, Marks is entering his 8^th year of working with students and serving God. He comes from a lineage involved in the history of NGU.

Marks’ involvement at NGU does not stop at teaching chemistry and advising students but continues through his role as the College of Science and Math’s Safety Officer. He is involved every year with speaking to freshman in the honors seminar about creationism and the worldview of science. Marks has breakout sessions during Worldview Week about Philosophy of the Science of Young Earth. Outside of NGU, he unofficially represents the school by leading weekend creationism presentations at churches.

When asked what his favorite part of working at NGU was he answered, “Being able to be a worshipper of God unabashedly – being able to teach science from a Biblical worldview.”

His passion, he expressed was “being part of God’s work and changing lives.”

Marley McDonough, a senior biology, said, “I think Dr. Marks is a great teacher. He genuinely cares about his students’ success, and I really see that as being evident in the way he teaches our class. And it’s not just in the classroom that he wants us to succeed. Like many professors I have in the science department, he wants us to succeed outside of the classroom as well as in our walk with Christ. He treats us like adults and expects us to act accordingly, which I appreciate because how much he cares about us doing well.”

Nick Hammond, senior biology, said, “I really enjoyed his teaching style. It was very clear and concise. He could hear a question from and angle and know just how to answer it. He is a shining example of a Christian mentor/teacher. His enthusiasm for the word is evident in his classes, as well as outside of the classroom. In class he always does a devotion without fail, and through out he displays passion for the word. He also challenges us as students and as Christians. He educates our mind and our spirits with each class. But despite that, he is still no walk in the park. He is certainly a challenge.”

“Everywhere is a mission field,” he explained. Viewing every day as an opportunity to impact the students of NGU for the Kingdom of God, Marks hopes to continue serving God and impacting people at NGU for a very long time.

BIG BIRTHDAY ON CAMPUS

President Jimmy Epting’s birthday is this Sunday, April 1.

UPCOMING ETIQUETTE DINNER

North Greenville’s annual etiquette dinner will be held Monday, April 17 from 5 to 7 p.m. Students must register and pay the $10 fee for this event by Monday, April 6 at the Office of Career Services. This dinner calls for cultural event dress and is a requirement for most senior seminars.

MARCH SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINES

There are several upcoming scholarships deadlines coming up. Download the applications from www.ngu.edu, look under the “Students” section and find the “Financial Aid” area. Some of the scholarships include:

• Friday, March 30- NGU Alumni Scholarship
• Friday, March 30- ACT II Scholarship
• Sunday, April 1- Champions for Christ (Deadline for Summer School)- Private Scholarship
• Monday, April 2- NGU First Year Experience Mentor Scholarship

NGU BUDGET

The Board of Trustees has approved a new budget for the 2012-2013 school year. On Jan. 19 the $4.5 million budget was set with a 4 percent increase in tuition, room and board. According to Randall Pannell, Vice President of Academic Affairs, tuition is the primary source of income.

FINAL TWO MOE’S NIGHTS

The Mountain Laurel is hosting its last two Moe’s Nights on March 28 and April 11. The benefit lasts from 4 to 9 p.m. All proceeds benefit The Mountain Laurel 2012 issue, which will be available April 13.

Photo from www.kony2012.com.

It has been said that our generation is prone to sensationalism. This judgment has been proven true once again by the recent outbreak of rage over Joseph Kony, the leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in Northern Uganda, a rebellion against the Ugandan government.  Kony is wanted by the International Criminal Court, and the LRA is considered to be a terrorist organization by the United States government.

As it stands right now, the most involvement the United States has in northern Uganda is the presence of 100 military advisers, who are training Ugandan soldiers to fight the LRA.  The crimes committed by Joseph Kony and the Lord’s Resistance Army include kidnapping and forcing children to become sex slaves and child soldiers.  Villagers have taken to traveling to the cities at nighttime before sleeping because they are afraid that their children will be kidnapped overnight.

Invisible Children (IC), an organization formed in 2005, aims to end Kony’s acts of terror in Uganda.  According to IC’s video “Kony 2012,” it aims to do this by raising awareness among the population and encouraging citizens to pressure politicians to continue sending help to the Ugandan government.

So, what’s the problem?

Well, the first problem is the Invisible Children organization.  When it comes to raising awareness, IC is one of the best there is; however, when it comes to making a difference in Uganda, IC does not do all that much itself.  IC spent less that one-third of its proceeds on actual projects in Uganda.  The remainder of the money was spent on raising awareness, salaries and products, according to audits of the IC organization.

There is an even bigger problem, though.  The Ugandan government is not at all better than the LRA.  The Human Rights Watch reports: “The country’s security forces regularly use lethal force, especially during political demonstrations.  Opposing politicians, their supporters and some journalists face harassment, beatings and arrest. The Ugandan military, despite efforts by key donors [sic] countries to ‘professionalize’ them, has yet to address the severe due process violations in military courts–especially the prosecution of civilians, who should be tried in civilian courts. Torture in detention is endemic, with torturers rarely brought to justice.”

So, with all the human rights violations in Uganda, is it really a good idea to give it money and aid?  If Kony and the LRA were to be stopped, would any real change come to Uganda?

As if this weren’t enough, the Telegraph, a British publication, reports that Kony and his troops actually fled from Uganda around six years ago.  Furthermore, the Telegraph argues that if we “make Kony famous,” as IC would like, we could actually empower him.  If Kony feels threatened, there is the possibility that his brutality and hostility could increase.

All in all, the IC takes a very complicated issue and attempts to simplify it. Admittedly, IC has acknowledged that it has done this.  That said, the hunt for Joseph Kony could allow for more crimes against humanity.  Training the military of an inhumane country is a terrible idea, especially when we do not know if the man we are hunting is even in the country.  I would encourage anybody interested in helping the IC’s mission to research the truth before making a decision.  In our day and age, it isn’t hard to do.

Two weeks ago the tournament field of 68 was released and now we find ourselves with the only four teams left to make up the final four. Kentucky, Louisville, Ohio State and Kansas are this years’ final four teams.

The first matchup in the Final Four is between two teams who know each other pretty well. It only seems right  that Kentucky and  Louisville, two  rivals, find themselves pitted against each other on such a big stage. In their meeting earlier this year Kentucky won 69-62 but one could argue that this Louisville team is better than the one Kentucky played in December. But the same could be said of Kentucky.

This should be a fantastic matchup of two great teams and should come down to the wire. Anthony Davis of Kentucky has been completely dominant during the tournament but did get banged up in their Elite Eight game against Baylor. Point guard Peyton Siva, who is a game changer and can take a game over at any time, leads Louisville and should make this game very entertaining.

Saturday’s contest could go either way and I believe that it will come down to the end but it is hard to pick against the Kentucky Wildcats, especially if Anthony Davis is healthy.

The second matchup is between two teams who are very familiar with what the final four is and what it feels like to be on this national stage.

Ohio State is a team that has quietly been one of the best teams in the country for most of the year. Jared Sullinger is one of the best players in the country and he will need to have a great game for the Buckeyes to move on to the national championship. The Buckeyes play some of the best defense in the country and will look for that to turn into offense on Saturday night.

The Kansas Jayhawks have also been overshadowed for most of the year but are one of the best teams in the country. The Jayhawks  have one of  the best guards in the country in Tyshawn Taylor. Although he is one of the best, he also may be the most inconsistent. At times he looks like an NBA superstar and then the next day he looks like he has never played basketball. If the good Taylor shows up, the Jayhawks would have an excellent shot at besting the buckeyes.

The  Jayhawks knocked the Buckeyes off earlier this year 78-67 but the Buckeyes were without Jared Sullinger. In this matchup he could be the difference in the Buckeyes getting revenge over the Jayhawks.

If Kentucky and Ohio State both win we could see one of the best national championship games in recent history. Right now I think Kentucky will be to much to handle and will walk away with the 2012 national championship.

Dylan Fulk, senior history, swings during an at bat against West Virginia State last week. Photo courtesy of Cory Guinn.

The North Greenville University baseball team is in the midst of another historic season. The Crusaders are currently third overall in Conference Carolinas and second in the western division.

The  Crusaders are trying to do something that no other team has done at NGU and that is win a conference championship at the NCAA Division  II level. The Crusaders are also looking to make the NCAA tournament for the first time after going to the NCCAA tournament the last two years.

The  Crusaders have had an up and down year so far but have reached the 20 win mark and currently sit at 20-11 overall and 10-4 in the conference.

Marlin Morris, freshman undecided, Ryan Woodring, sophomore accounting, and Drew Provence, senior sport management, have led the Crusaders on the mound. Morris and Woodring are each 5-1 while Provence is 4-1 on the year.

The Crusaders have had great offensive  production at times this year. Derek Fulmer, senior business administration, has had a great year and is currently hitting .407 with 12 doubles and four homeruns. The  Crusaders have also gotten excellent production from Allen Staton, freshman undecided, who is hitting .391 with 10 doubles.

The Crusaders will be back in action this weekend in a crucial series against the Crusaders of Belmont Abbey Friday’s game will be at 2 p.m. and Saturday’s double-header will begin at noon.

Ladies, this is nothing new; you’ve all heard that you should be dressing modestly. Tired of hearing this same old message? Start listening to your Father’s and your brothers’ pleas for your bodies to be presented in such a way that declares you serve a God who loves you.

Your body is a temple and is to be treated with utmost respect. “You are not your own, for you were bought with a price” (1 Corinthians 6:19). That price? The blood of Jesus Christ. The argument that we should be able to dress however we wish is selfish, discounts the sovereignty of God over our lives and is wrapped up in nothing other than pride. Pride says, “I am my own person and do not have to answer to anyone.” I have found that when looking at the cross, it is very hard to be prideful.

Justin Robinson, senior broadcast media, is passionate about his sisters in Christ dressing modestly and has even spoken to a group of youth girls at a local church on the topic.

Robinson says, “When girls dress immodestly it breaks my heart because deep down, it’s broken, empty, selfish motives that rule the way they dress.  They dress exactly the same as unbelievers. There is no difference from here to Hollywood.”

Glorifying God with our bodies is a simple response, not an inconvenience, to the grace which God has poured out over us. When you have experienced that love of Christ that has purged you of your depravity, why would you not respond by giving the Lord that which is His?

My second appeal is to those of you who say it is not your responsibility for your brothers’ purity; what does Scripture have to say about that selfish statement? Romans 14:13 makes it very clear that we are to “decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother,” which most certainly includes the way that we dress. Adorning ourselves with “respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control” (1 Timothy 2:9) should be a high priority in our lives.

We hold a world of control in the palm of our hands and with it we can choose to flaunt ourselves and to appease the eyes of men to win their momentary approval, or we can choose to honor our Creator and seek to protect the minds of our fellow brothers, who have enough sexual struggles without the aid of our scantily-clad cries for attention.

Robinson says, “Modesty is love for your brothers in Christ in not causing them to sin, honoring your husband in saving those intimate things for just you and him and obedience to God because He is the source of your self-worth, not the passing looks of lustful men.”

The men who are only attracted to the shallowness of low-cut shirts, tight jeans and short shorts are not the kind of men we as daughters of the King should want holding our hearts anyway.

More than anything, I want you to understand all we do should be done for the sake of the Gospel. Since the Almighty God crushed His Son so we can have life, it should be our ultimate goal to heed to 1 Corinthians 10:31, doing all things for the glory of God. Will you be willing to jeopardize losing the eyes of men for the favor of the King?

Candice Paschall, senior broadcast media, directs camera operators in the Broadcast Studio Producing and Directing class. In this class students learn to direct live productions using the Tri-Caster Studio program. (Photo By: Candace Mackie)

The North Greenville University women’s basketball team’s 2011-2012 season has come to an end.

The Lady Crusaders finished the season with a 21-9 overall record and a 14-4 conference record. Their season ended at Emmanuel College, as the Crusaders fell to the Lions 80-69 in the NCCAA South Regional title game for the second time in two years.

The loss to Barton Collegeon March 1 put an end to North Greenville’s conference season. The Lady Crusaders dominated at home with a record of 11-2.

Three Lady Crusaders received post-season recognition by making the All-South Region Women’s Basketball team. Karly Stache, senior math, and Christina Carlis, senior business management, made the team along with Krisceda Cotton, junior sport management.

Carlis also was named to the 2012 Conference Carolinas All-Tournament Team. Stache averaged 13 points a game during the 2011-2012 season and led NGU in scoring for the fourth season in a row. Stache shot 38.2 percemt from behind the 3-point arc. Stache also broke NGU’s all-time scoring record this season with her 1,449th point.

Christina Carlis, also found her way into the North Greenville record books this season after she dished out her 363rd assist to become NGU’s all-time assists leader. Carlis averaged 11.7 points per game and 4.3 assists. Carlis also reached 1,000 points for her career this season.

CREATION KIDZ AUDITIONS

Creation Kidz will be holding auditions for six TV episodes in the Mass Communication TV studio on March 23 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eight roles need to be filled, five male and three female. Those auditioning will need to emulate child-like behavior, sing, dance and portray a bright smile. A sign-up sheet will be posted on the Mass Communication bulletin board.

SUMMER SCHOOL INFORMATION

Students planning on enrolling in summer courses are encouraged by the financial aid office to complete their 2011 taxes as soon as possible. This tax information must be completed by students and their parents before the FAFSA can be filed or financial aid can be requested. In most cases, loans are the only financial aid available for summer semesters.

If you see your best friends passing up that Starbucks drink they just can’t live without or foregoing other indulgences, it may be more than just a pre-summer diet.

Lent, they claim, is the reason for denying themselves of the simple pleasures they participate in.  Many people think hearing the term “Lent” is the stuff you find in a clothes dryer; however, it is really a holy period of time.  Lent is in full swing now, and it has brought with it a time of self-denial and reflection. The purpose is to shift the focus back on what this time of year is about remembering.

Lent is a period of 40 days that spans from Ash Wednesday to Easter.  During Lent, people often deny themselves things they would usually enjoy and sometimes participate in a period of fasting, all with the goal of de-cluttering their lives to ponder what Jesus did during his last few weeks on Earth.

Although Lent is often linked to the Catholic church, it is not solely practiced by Catholics; some Protestants also take part in this holy time.

Jeff Rankin, assistant professor of Christian studies, did not grow up participating in Lent, but he is not opposed to it or to the connotations it bears, so long as the focus is kept on Jesus and not legalism.

“I grew up on the coast of Mississippi, so my view of Lent was totally tied to Catholicism,” he said. “For me growing up, Lent was something the Catholics did.”

His close proximity to Louisiana and its famed Mardi Gras celebration also contributed to his view of Lent.  To many, the emphasis is put on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, which is referred to as “Fat Tuesday.”  Rankin described it, saying, “You have a big blow out Tuesday before you enter into a time of reflection and self-denial.”

Although he has never participated in the practice of Lent, Rankin sees positive elements about it.  “I realized that there was some value in the concept of it,” he said, looking at it from the angle that Jesus was also tempted for a period of 40 days in which he fasted and went without comforts.

Curt Horn, associate professor of Christian studies, also grew up in a predominately Roman Catholic area.  “Growing up in a Roman Catholic town, I would hear them talking about giving things up for Lent,” he said.  To him, it looked like a ritual his friends were going through that made them feel like they were doing something for Christ.

Horn, like Rankin, is not opposed to the practice of Lent.  He said, “I think almost any type of ritual, if it has authentic heart piety, can be utilized.”  He does feel that if a tradition is practiced in a routine way, though, it can lose its sincerity.

So, who participates in Lent?  Is it solely a Catholic holiday on the church calendar?  Not at all.  Many denominations recognize Lent.  Rankin, who is a Baptist, simply says, “It was just something we didn’t do.”  That seems to be the case for many people, and the lack of familiarity with it may be a deterrent; however, there are many positive aspects of Lent, which should be considered.

Lent is a time of reflection, and Rankin believes reflecting is vital for all Christians. “All of us need to examine our lives and make sure that meaningful experiences cause us to reflect on the work of Christ in our lives,” said Rankin.  He also gives this advice: “Incorporate something into your life that allows you to reflect.”

There is a danger in Lent, though, which all practitioners should be aware of: motivation.  Often, traditions can breed insincerity or legalism.  When something is practiced repeatedly, it has the tendency to lose its spontaneity and genuine nature.  Rankin challenges a thought-provoking examination of self, saying, “What is the value beyond reflection?  What is the value in giving up something?  What is my motive for giving it up?”

Horn offered these thought-provoking questions to anyone considering the practice of Lent: “What are your motivations?  Why do I want to do it? If it’s a substitute for something else, I don’t think it would be a good reason,” he said.

Rankin respects Lent as a valid church tradition that can have heart- and life-changing ramifications.  Sincere reflection, in whatever form it occurs, is what he considers important.  “I think reflection is important.  I’m not going to prescribe the method of reflection for someone,” he said.

“If a Lenten expression helps you reflect well, then I don’t have a problem with it,” Rankin said.

It is important to remember that we can very easily fall into a ritualistic mindset about religious practices.

Horn said, “Even in churches that are not liturgical, we can do the same thing singing out of a hymnbook.”  Even if it’s functionally the same thing, Horn says we can still just be “going through the motions.”

So whether you’re in or out on the subject of Lent, remember that it’s not just about the 40 days of denying yourself; it’s about the One who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Remembering Jesus and reflecting on Him in whatever way we most sincerely can should be our focus during this time of year.

North Greenville University will be offering a criminal justice concentration in the fall of 2013. The criminal justice program, to be taught by new professor Angelia Turner, will be headed up by Gregory Bruce—the Chairman of NGU’s interdisciplinary studies program. Turner will definitely bring a great deal of much-needed help in the program’s development to Bruce as well.

The criminal justice concentration will function as a component of the interdisciplinary studies program. Interested students would enter into the interdisciplinary program and include Criminal Justice as one of their components of study.

With an ever-changing economy and job market landscape, demand is increasing for versatility from today’s graduates. “We are developing the criminal justice program from a holistic perspective within the interdisciplinary studies area, which gives it the critical liberal arts foundation necessary for a well-rounded collegiate education,” said Turner.

This program will offer an avenue for students looking to enter into a multi-vocational industry.

Turner received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of South Carolina and brings 20 years of work in the field to this project. Her experiences include working with the Bureau of Prisons, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, various state and local offices on developing training for personnel, providing curriculum and researching and providing data and recommendations. Turner’s goal is to provide students with a complete, comprehensive education which will equip and prepare them to enter into any area of specialization within criminal justice.

When asked why she chose North Greenville, Turner said, “I did some research on the school because I wanted to work in an environment that is Christianity-based where I felt like I was part of a family and not just a person who came to work. I wanted to be in an environment that embraced your spirituality, your belief, and your faith and held that as one of its top priorities.

“I also wanted to work in a school where your work as a scholar is further developed and appreciated. North Greenville was high on my priority list. I wanted to have a chance to be a part of this great team.”

In spite of recent unstable economic conditions, criminal justice has continued to be a fruitful field. Many graduates, depending upon their credentials, can go on to be corrections officers or  work in law enforcement, as well as countless other areas that will interest those who will enter the program.

As the criminal justice program grows, it will also be able to increase its faculty. There is already a great deal of interest as word of the program is spreading. This will be another addition to the ever-growing and always expanding vision and focus of the North Greenville mission. Look for this program to take off this fall.

Kimberly Robertson, junior health promotion and wellness, slides safely into home during a game earlier this season. Photo courtesy of Josh Landrum.

The 2012 North Greenville University Softball has had quite a year since winning their first National Championship last May.

Karli Taylor, senior sport management, who plays third base on the team said,“When we won the national championship I was shocked after the kind of season we had, but I was so proud of our team stepping up.”

Junior education major Kansas Wofford feels that the team has formed a special bond this season. “I think the team this year is closer than it ever has been. Before every game, we pray together in a huddle and everybody grabs a hand,” she said.

The softball team so far has played 12 games in conference and remain undefeated. This is their first year in the Conference Carolinas.

So far, the women have played St. Andrews, Southern Wesleyan, King, Coker, Erskine, Mount Olive, and Lander, among others, and have accumulated a 13-3 overall record.

Their next game will be on Saturday, March 24 at Southern Wesleyan in Central, SC at 3 p.m.

“We are a much closer team and we are playing relentless, never giving up no matter what happens during the game,” said Taylor.

Bill Stuermann, chair of the Modern Linguistics department, is looking for more students who are interested in taking foreign language courses outside of  the traditional German, French and Spanish options. The alternative courses being offered are medical Spanish, American Sign Language, Hindi and Arabic.

Medical Spanish, which is being offered this summer, involves a trip to Honduras with a surgical team from the Baptist Medical and Dental Missions International. Students who take this course and are unable to go to Honduras will spend the week working with a medical mission team locally. This course is highly reccommended for pre-med students because it will help sharpen their resumes when applying for medical school.

Stuermann is also hoping to expand the American Sign Language program. “The purpose is to make this course available for students who want to go into deaf ministry, fine art students who want to interpret at cultural events and education students who want to have an advantage in the job market,” said Stuermann.

Hoping the program will eventually take off for missionary work in India, Stuermann is looking for more students to enroll in the Hindi language course.

Medical Spanish and Arabic are being offered this summer. Students who take the Arabic course will be studying the language in Ammon, Jordan, at a school sponsored by the Consortium for Global Education, a faith-based organization to which NGU belongs. Students can earn up to 12 credit hours for the foreign language.

Courses in Arabic will also be offered during the fall 2012 and spring 2013 semester to consolidate the student’s knowledge of the language.

If you are interested in any of these linguistic courses, contact Bill Stuermann at bill.stuermann@ngu.edu.  Keep in mind, the job market is tight and taking one of these courses may add an edge to your resume.

There are few departments that handle more than the maintenance department, and they do so without much praise or recognition.  Yet, it is rare to see one of the maintenance men without a smile on his face, and it is rare to walk into the office without hearing laughter.

One of the maintenance men, who would only give his name as Bubba, particularly lights up the office with his humor.  He handles most of the preventative maintenance, such as changing the air conditioning filters in the various buildings.  Bubba also drives to pick up various parts for the rest of the department.

When asked why he chose North Greenville University, Bubba said that 10 years ago, he was offered a job by the head of the maintenance department at the time.  He also made it clear that he would not want to work anywhere else.  “It’s a family, ain’t a job,” he said.

Throughout the interview, Bubba’s humility continued to show as he insisted that he did not know why The Skyliner would want to interview him, and insisted that he was simply the low man on the totem poll.  Yet, when he walked into the office that morning, there was not a single person who did not greet Bubba like a brother.

Spring training is in full blast and opening day is a mere 15 days away as The Skyliner continues its preview of the Major League baseball season.

This week we look at the division that could potentially have two of the best clubs in the league in the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and the Texas Rangers.

Favorites:

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

The Angels may have made the most noise of any team in the MLB this off-season as they acquired star first basemen Albert Pujols and all-star pitcher C.J. Wilson. With these two acquisitions, along with the roster the Angels have returning they feel that this is the year in which they surpass the Rangers once again.

The Angels will look this year for Pujols to bring their offensive fire power to another level with Torii Hunter, Erick Aybar and Vernon Wells, along with young talent Alberto Callaspo and Howard Kendrick.

While the offense should be solid for the Angels, the pitching should be more than superb. Jered Weaver and Dan Haren will hold down the top two spots in the rotation, while newcomer C.J. Wilson will be the number three man. With their top three starters the Angels could contend with the likes of the Philadelphia Phillies as having one of the best rotations in baseball.

Texas Rangers

The Texas Rangers once again have one of the most experienced lineups in the American league. With Josh Hamilton, Ian Kinsler, Elvis Andrus, Nelson Cruz and Adrian Beltre the Rangers can compete with the Angels at the plate. There are few holes in the Rangers’ lineup this year as they look to once again make a run at a World Series championship.

If there is one area the Rangers have questions about, it would be on the mound. Colby Lewis will be the ace of the staff and a newcomer to the world of Major League baseball. Yu Darvish from Japan will follow him in the rotation. The Rangers will also be transitioning Neftali Feliz from the closer role to the starting rotation. If Darvish and Feliz can be as good as the Rangers hope, then the American League West could come down to the wire.

What to watch for:

Yoenis Cespedes

The Oakland Athletics, still using their moneyball tactics, signed one of the best young Cuban players in recent memory. It will be interesting to see how he develops into a major league outfielder and if he will have an impact for the A’s in 2012.

Felix Hernandez

The Mariners don’t have a whole lot going for them other than Ichiro Suzuki and Felix Hernandez, who has quickly become one of the best pitchers in baseball.

The emergent danger of Sharia law was depicted by human rights activist and former Muslim Nonie Darwish on Thursday, March 1 at Furman University.

Liliane Toss, assistant professor of French, encouraged North Greenville University students to attend this event so that they could obtain a better understanding of what Islam teaches and why they should pray for a revival among Muslims.

A number of NGU students and faculty were eager to do just that.

Hannah Ballard, junior psychology, said, “I came to this because I have a mission trip coming this summer to an Islamic country. I want to learn more about Islam and hear about it from someone who has become a Christian.”

The lecture was hosted by the Conservative Students for a Better Tomorrow (CSBT), a national, student-led, political organization.

Students of the Muslim Student Association at Furman University hold up posters at a peaceful protest held before Nonie Darwish's speech on Sharia law on the Furman campus on March 1. Photo by Allie Outhouse/The Skyliner.

Panos Harakas, who spoke on CSBT’s behalf and introduced the speakers, said, “Our aim is to encourage students to step outside of their ideological comfort zones, to critically examine their assumptions and to thoughtfully explore the opinions of others. Please note that CSBT as whole neither agrees nor disagrees with any of the speakers we present.”

Darwish spoke out against the prime directive of Islamic law known as Sharia.

In her speech, Darwish said “Most people, including myself, don’t want or care to criticize any religion, let alone the religion I was born in. In the sense that a religion is a personal relationship with God, but if religion expands itself so much that it becomes a one party, totalitarian state with an elaborate legal system to control every aspect of life and activity and that has a military institution called jihad which violates other nations’ rights if they are not Muslims, then that religion is no longer a private matter.”

She simplified her description and said, “Sharia is a tyrannical law that oppresses other people.”

Darwish’s lecture focused on Sharia’s mandates concerning the Islamic oppression of women, specifically wives, and the role of jihad – defined as “a permanent war instituted against Jews, Christians and pagans” by an Islamic textbook– in the lives of Muslim individuals and heads of state.

Darwish repeatedly stated throughout her speech that it is not her intention to offend peace-loving Muslims; however, she did say, “Unfortunately, a lot of Muslims have not studied their own religion…they don’t know what is in their books.”

A peaceful protest was held before and after the event by Furman’s Muslim Student Association against CSBT’s decision to invite Darwish. Spokesman Ahmer Ansari said MSA has been active on Furman’s campus for about four years.

“We talk about Islam and the misconceptions about it,” Ansari said, “We came in spirit of democracy. It’s not good for us [Muslims and students] to be talking like this. I think nothing was accomplished [with this lecture]… nothing productive anyway.”

Ansari explained that when students come to events speaking of Islam, they want to learn from an academically qualified presentation of Sharia and jihad.

“All she [Darwish] said was because I didn’t agree with her, I don’t know about Islam.” Ansari said, “My family is from Pakistan. We go there frequently. What I see is a lot of culture: practices practiced because of culture disguised as Islam. Learning Islam is not that stuff. Culture and Islam are not the same. Culture should be changed. Islam teaches justice, tolerance and acceptance.”

In conclusion, Ansari said “At least we talked to people before they went it. Hopefully we were successful in giving them another side, a different representation, not a misrepresentation.”

Both Toss and Darwish said that students need to be aware of what Islam teaches. Toss recommends having an actual translation of the Qur’an in hand. She [Toss] pointed out that many of the books considered to be translations of the Qur’an state that they are a “translation of the meaning of the Qur’an” not translations of the Qur’an itself.

Similarly, Darwish advised reading Reliance of the Traveler: The Classic Manual of Islamic Sacred Law Umdat Al-Salik saying, “All of the top Islamic organizations stamped it so this is mainstream Sharia.”

For more on this topic, Darwish has written three books on the subject of Sharia and is the executive director of a website called “Former Muslims United” (formermuslimsunited.org). Linked to the site is her personal blog (NonieDarwish.com).

Toss suggested a site called thequran.com/VerseTopic that provides the entire Qur’an in English, verse by verse with comments concerning the validity of translation and context. She also recommended a book called The Qur’an Dilemma.

Thanks to attendee Thomas Hanson, Darwish’s speech can be viewed in its entirety online at vimeo.com/37847399 and southcarolinaconservative.com.

Photo courtesy of Naomi King.

Naomi King, freshman studio art (pictured, second from the left), believes that music is a vocal expression of what’s on your heart, which is why she joined the handbell choir. “I enjoy hearing the result of cooperation,” King said. “In handbells, you have to rely on each person to play their part at the right time in order to produce music.”

The handbell classes are offered every other spring semester.

Team members showed God's love by playing with children from the "barrios" or slums while their parents visited the doctor. Photo courtesy of Will Belue.

North Greenville University students made an impact in Nicaragua over Spring Break.  An NGU L.I.G.H.T. team made up of five students and one professor spent their break working with natives in the third world country.

The L.I.G.H.T. team worked with a team from a Spartanburg church volunteering with Chosen Children Ministries, building local’s houses and improving existing houses and ministering to children.  The Spartanburg team ran a free clinic for the nationals, which gave NGU students the opportunity to spend time with the children of those waiting for medical attention.

Kortnee Stelly, sophomore intercultural studies, explained her part in the team’s ministry to Nicaraguan children. “We worked in barrios [slums] almost every day,” Stelly said. “I played and entertained tons of children while their parents were being cared for by the medical team. Man, did those children just want attention. I was constantly overwhelmed by tons of arms around me and faces smiling at me,” she said. “Cate Boulet, Will Belue and I painted their faces, did mini Bible schools, danced the chicken dance and ran the dusty barrio streets with them. We had a blast.”

Kortnee Stelly loved spending time with the Nicauragaun children. Photo courtesy of Will Belue.

Stelly said that out of all the work the team did in Nicaragua, sharing the Bible stories and the love of Christ with the small Nicaraguan children was her favorite memory from the trip.

“The best part was running through the barrio streets with children laughing and holding my hands,” Stelly said. “I could live in the barrios and love on those children day in and day out and bring joy and peace to them through Christ.”

Levi Smith, senior youth ministry, said, “The best thing about the trip was living a life for a week without a phone or without Facebook where the only thing that mattered was glorifying God.”

The team was originally a much larger group with a different destination.

Smith explained, “There were actually 20 of us and we were originally going to go to Brazil.  But the entrance fee got raised and we ended up switching to Nicaragua and lost most of the team on the way.”

Though their numbers were down, the team saw the opportunity for six people to share God’s love as a blessing.  Smith said, “It was a great experience.  I became really close to the other kids from NGU.  They were all great people.”

Tony Merida, along with his son Joshua, shares his story at the Q&A session. Photo by Allie Outhouse/The Skyliner.

The Faith, Race and Culture committee hosted a question and answer session on the topic of adoption with Tony Merida and Dan Cruuen on March 12. Both speakers have adopted biracial children, but they each came to the Q&A with experience in completely different areas of adoption.

Merida has a total of five children, all of whom are from two different international countries, while Cruuen has two domestic ethnic sons and a biological daughter. Both Cruuen and Merida agree that there seems to be an overall lack of racism in their younger biracial families, although the world may force racism on these adoptees later in life.

Cruuen said, “We have to be observant of how the world sees them [our children.]”

In regard to adopting four children from Ukraine and a fifth child from Ethiopia, Merida said, “I couldn’t have chosen countries further apart. Ukraine is a racist country…but my kids really don’t see race at this time.”

Merida mentioned that watching a family form as racial barriers are broken is like seeing a glimpse of God’s grace. Cruuen said “My kids adapt to diversity a lot faster than I can because they live in a diverse ethnic home.”

When the topic of favoritism towards one child or culture over another was mentioned, Cruuen talked about his identical joy-filled reactions upon the birth of his biological daughter and the arrival of his adopted sons.

Likewise, Merida related a discussion he had with his oldest son concerning the athleticism of his younger Ethiopian son. Merida had pointed out that both of his children were equally loved even though they were created differently.

Merida said, “You have to get your perspective from the gospel… Jesus came to bring many sons to Him. As Christians, that is our primary identity in any parentship…Adoption is a beautiful thing. It’s the world’s Plan B, but it’s God’s Plan A. That’s why we can’t take cues from the culture.”

Some hard questions were also raised concerning what ought to be done if an adoptee has a sense of displacement. Cruuen said “Every case is different.”  While Merida said, “I’m going to keep going back to that identity in God. Our dominant concern is that they know Christ. We want to send out little missionaries.”

Many of the students who attended seemed to have a genuine desire to adopt. One participant, Stephanie Nease, senior intercultural studies, even mentioned her desire to adopt instead of having biological children. Toni Marie Wilson, senior psychology, said, “I’ve always wanted to adopt. Oliver Twist changed my life.”

If someone is interested in adopting, Merida said the best advice is to begin planning now. The first question that should be asked is where is the child coming from? That decision will then shed light on which agencies will be able to offer aid in obtaining a new son or daughter based primarily on the prearranged budget.

Cruuen mentioned that domestic adoptions usually cost between $15 and 25,000, but he had heard of some international adoptions running up to $50,000 because of all the traveling.

Merida said the most economical option available is likely fostering to adopt. Merida also suggested getting involved in local orphan care programs. There are always ways to assist through volunteering, and organizations would love the assistance.

The BSU council, (Julie Deese, Katie Coward, Kendra Morton, Becca Buckley, Carly Clark, Hunter Buchanan, Walker Capps, Philip Black, Travis Leasure and Marcus Fuller) along with Jody Jennings the BSU director get together for a yearbook picture before the beginning of the service. (Photo by: Candace Mackie)

Ana Lea Atwell, junior elementary education, practices with the BSU band before they lead worship during the service. (Photo by: Candace Mackie)

The North Greenville University cheerleading team competes at the Christian Cheer Nationals last week in Concord, N.C. Photo courtesy of Josh Landrum.

The North Greenville University cheering squad won their second title at the competition on Saturday, March 3.

The competition was held in Concord, N.C. Senior Brad Shetley, health promotion and wellness, said, “My job was mainly to assist in building our pyramids as well as throwing our big basket toss and stunting during the coed part of the routine.”

There are rules and regulations to go by and if those rules are not met, then there are disqualifications and other consequences. “Practices were pretty stressful at times, but I was really proud of our team for pulling together and encouraging one another committing to and achieving our overall goal of winning our second national championship.” he said.

“During the competition season, we would practice every Monday and Wednesday night from 8 to 10 o’clock.  Early in the semester we would work on building each individual portion of our routine by working with the music,” Shetley said.

SUMMER AND FALL REGISTRATION

North Greenville students can begin registration for Summer ‘12 and Fall ‘12 this week. Seniors may register on or after March 19, juniors on or after March 21, sophomores on or after March 23, and freshmen on or after March 27. To register, students must make an appointment with their advisors and bring a tentative schedule to that meeting. The course offerings list is available on Student Portal.

CREATION KIDZ AUDITIONS

Creation Kidz will be holding auditions for six TV episodes in the Mass Communication TV studio on March 23 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eight roles need to be filled, five male and three female. Those auditioning will need to emulate child-like behavior, sing, dance and portray a bright smile. A sign-up sheet will be posted on the Mass Communication bulletin board.

WRITE2IGNITE CONFERENCE

The Write2Ignite conference will take place on NGU’s campus March 16-17. Students who attend will be able to recieve instruction from professional writers, editors, and literary agents about writing, editing, revising, marketing and contacting agents and publishers. The cost is $50 for students.

Baseball
The NGU baseball team has caught fire since beginning conference play. The Crusaders are currently leading the conference with an 8-1 record (16-6 overall). The Crusaders beat top 25 Tusculum last week before sweeping Conference Carolinas preseason favorite Limestone over the weekend. The Crusaders will be back in action today as they host Anderson University at 3 p.m. before traveling to Pfieffer University this weekend.

Putting together costumes for a theatre production takes more time, effort and creativity than one would think. The image above portrays the costume design used in North Greenville University's very own version of Little Women: The Broadway Musical. Photo courtesy of the NGU Theatre Department.

The audience knows when the outfit doesn’t fit. The quality of a theatre experience is enhanced when a production’s garments display research and ingenuity. An example of the costumes’ effect on a performance is seen in North Greenville University’s latest achievement, Little Women The Broadway Musical.

To give an accurate presentation throughout a play, costume designers have to gather quite a lot of information before beginning to actually design the garments.

According to Brynna Stevens, sophomore interdisciplinary, a volunteer and an extra in Little Women, the costumes used in the production required nearly two months of research.

Little Women’s Assistant Costume Designer, Heather Pace, freshman theatre ministry, explained how time period, local trends, social class, shoes, accessories and even the weather are just a few of the elements that require in-depth research for a production.

In addition to discovering the cuts, fabrics and stitching used in their production’s time period, costume designers have to take into account the individuality of each character they desire to clothe.

Little Women’s heroine Jo and her sister Meg must both wear ball gowns in the same scene but Meg’s character must achieve the pinnacle of beauty and good taste while Jo’s, although fashionably attired, must appear out of place despite her attempts to fit into society.

Pace mentioned that Google and costume books created especially for theatre costume design are particularly helpful as they provide visual aids to assist in the actual design.

However, it is the script that provides the most important details, as the director and the script are the only restraints to which a costume must submit.

“If we don’t do the research, the costumes won’t fit the productions,” Pace said.

Costumes play a big part in the willing suspension of disbelief, that is the ability of the audience to believe that what is occurring onstage is more than just an act. It is a story that is taking place at this moment.

“Costumes can’t make a show, but they could break a show,” said Pace.

After the clothing is designed there are only two options for turning the renderings into an actual outfit: a costume can be rented or it can be constructed from preexisting materials.

There are a number of costume warehouses that will sell, or more frequently rent, clothing exclusively for theatrical performances.

Little Women rented a number of the more extravagant clothing items from a company called Costume Curio, Inc.

Corrine Dyer, director, mentioned that for some extended rentals, costume warehouses will offer occasional deals such as half off the first week, half off the half off the second week and so on.

Stevens and Pace both mentioned that the costume department is often confined by its limited funds.

When a single actor or character needs multiple costumes, as is often the case, many costumes must be obtained via construction, or as Dyer called it “cannibalized modern clothes,” as well as some drastic recycling from previous productions.

The designers shredded and spray-painted an ordinary pair of men’s pants from Goodwill and a shirt from one of NGU’s prior cabarets, A Christmas Carol.

Combined with a shawl, some makeup and a crazy hairstyle, Stevens was able to transform from a lady of high society into a troll of menacing intent in a matter of minutes.

Fewer costumes can lead to a demotion in the quality of a production because it forces the actors to work harder to portray their story.

It’s not hard to see that costume designers have their work cut out for them.

In honor of Black History Month, the Faith, Race and Culture Committee presented a debate between Paul Thompson, department of history and political science chair, and Curtis Horn, associate professor in the college of Christian studies, about the use of racial labels. The debate was sure to spark passion and questions as it dealt with a controversial issue.

“I believe it was needed and this was a huge step in moving forward,” said Cortani Mims, senior business administration.

The program began with a viewing of a segment of Race: The Power of an Illusion, which showed how the housing market contributes to racial labeling.

Horn then began the debate by asking, “What should we do as Christians about the issue?”

Thompson stated that the church is not leading in the area of breaking down racial barriers. As Martin Luther King, Jr. stated, “It is appalling that the most segregated hour in Christian America is 11 o’clock on Sunday morning.”

Thompson also stated that we will never truly reach King’s vision, which is for people to be judged by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin. Horn then questioned Thompson, asking, “Should we surrender to the fact that Dr. King’s dream will never be reached?”

As the debate continued, the focus shifted on how racial barriers can be crossed. Opinions and personal experiences of students and faculty in attendance were voiced.

The program ended with a session of prayer that centered on bringing about change and helping everyone to see others as God does. Students were excited about the outcome of the program.

“I see it as the analogy of a rocket ship. This helps light the fire, but now, are we going to take off, or sit back in mission control acting as if we’re doing something?” said Nathan White, senior broadcast media.

Freddi Martino, sophomore business administration, said, “It gave people who think alike the chance to come in an environment where everyone is trying to achieve the same goal. We have some people that may try to shy away from it, knowing it exists. It feels good to have people who know it exists being able to discuss it.”

Bringing about change on such a complex matter as racism must begin with each individual.

Jonathan Bozymowski drives the lane for a layup against Fayetville State in a game on Jan. 24 in Hayes Gymnasium. Photo courtesy of Josh Landrum.

Cut off the lights, turn off the cameras and close the doors the 2011-2012 North Greenville men’s basketball season is over.

The Crusaders season ended February 28, when the Crusaders lost to Queens College in the first round of the Conference Carolinas tournament.

The Crusaders got off to a good start this year opening the season with two wins and finishing the first half of the season with an 8-5 record. NGU would not finish the season like they started, losing 10 of their last 14 games during the second half of the season.

The Crusaders were a much better home team then road team, going 8-6 at home but only 4-9 on the road. The team finished the season with a 12-15 record and finished 5-11 within the conference, good enough for a fourth place finish in the Western Division and eighth overall in conference.

NGU graduate’s five seniors this year: Luke Lattimer, senior Sport Management, Jonathan Bozymowski, senior sport management, Zack Shields, senior sport management, Jason Wray, senior biology, and Paul Harrison, senior sport management.

The seniors will be greatly missed. Shields averaged 6.8 points and 2.5 rebounds per game for his career.

Bozymowski is seventh all time in assists and ninth all time in steals.

Wray was named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches Honors Court, the highest award for excellence in academics for college basketball players.

Lattimer was also named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches Honors Court with a 3.4 GPA. He will graduate with a degree in sport management.

Harrison, the most decorated athlete in men’s basketball history, played in 108 career games as a Crusader, including 98 career starts and is the career leader in points and rebounds, while also ranking second in blocks, 8th in assists and 10th in steals.

He holds records for most rebounds in a single game (17 four times) and season (281 in 2011-12). He also holds the record for most field goals made in a season (243 in 2009-10), free throws made and attempted in a season (141-for-198 in 2009-10) and scoring average in a season (22.4 in 2009-10).

What do Josh Hutcherson, Emma Stone and Leonardo DiCaprio have in common? They’re all headliners in some of 2012’s most anticipated movies. With the Oscar season starting again and summer blockbusters just around the corner, let’s take a look at some of the looked-for, star-studded films of 2012.

Since buzz about Suzanne Collins’s bestseller trilogy-turned-franchise has already reached a fever pitch, there’s really not much left to say. The Hunger Games has a built-in audience, the young adult demographic that made it #1 on the Nielsen’s Bookscan list of bestsellers for 2011. It could be the next entertainment phenomenon, stepping into the void left by Harry Potter, which finished up last summer, and the Twilight Saga, which will end this November. If the movie satisfies the fans’ expectations, the obsession will continue for a projected three more films (with final book Mockingjay split into two parts). Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth play Katniss, Peeta and Gale respectively and establish themselves as stars in the making.

Even in a field of movies heavy with star power, The Avengers outdoes its competition. With big names like Robert Downey, Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Chris Evans and Mark Ruffalo, The Avengers is jam-packed with stars.

The topnotch cast makes up the collective of superheroes known as the Avengers, which includes heroes Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, the Incredible Hulk, Hawkeye, and Black Widow. Led by Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson), the team comes together to fight evil being Loki (Tom Hiddleston) and save the world.

Spider-Man 3 was released only five years ago. Is it really time for another installment in the Spider-Man franchise? Maybe not, but I’m up for just about any movie that puts talents the likes of Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone onscreen together.

This reboot goes back to the beginning with Spider-Man in high school again. The title role is played by Garfield, while Stone co-stars as his high school crush, Gwen Stacy. In this newly-imagined spin on the Spider-Man story, Peter Parker goes on a quest to understand his parents’ disappearance, learning about life, love and destiny along the way.

This follow up to critical and commercial success The Dark Knight features an arsenal of stars. Christian Bale reprises his role as Bruce Wayne/Batman and is supported by a stellar cast. Michael Caine returns as Alfred, while Anne Hathaway makes her first appearance as Catwoman. The film shows Batman dealing with the aftermath of taking the rap for Harvey Dent’s crimes and fighting Bane (Tom Hardy) to save Gotham City.

The big question in my mind? Whether or not The Dark Knight Rises will nab a Best Picture nomination, something The Dark Knight failed to do, now that the Academy’s selection process has changed.

The final installment of the Twilight Saga should bring a fitting end to Stephenie Meyer’s little franchise that could. Fans will  have been kept waiting a year in between the two Breaking Dawn films, but if Part 2 lives up to the book, it will be worth it. Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner reprise their roles as Edward, Bella and Jacob as they prepare for a final showdown against the Volturi.

It feels as if we’ve been waiting for this movie for more than a decade. Oh, wait—we have. Lord of the Rings fans were speculating about a proper Hobbit film back when The Fellowship of the Ring was released in 2001. The Hobbit went through its own journey to become a film, battling copyright entanglements, casting issues and studio bankruptcy over the last 10 years.

The Hobbit is directed by Peter Jackson and stars familiar faces like Ian McKellen as Gandalf, Andy Serkis as Gollum and Cate Blanchett as Galadriel, as well as newcomer Martin Freeman as Bilbo. This fantasy set in Tolkien’s Middle-earth will be warmly welcomed when it finally comes to theaters.

The F. Scott Fitzgerald classic has had many onscreen incarnations over the years. Could this new adaptation, starring Leonardo DiCaprio in the title role and Carey Mulligan as the iconic character Daisy Buchanan, be the best one yet?

While the film is still in post-production and a trailer has not yet been released, the stills so far look gorgeous, and the strong supporting cast, including Tobey Maguire and Isla Fisher, holds promise. It’s too early in the Oscar season to tell, but The Great Gatsby could be a contender if it lives up its potential.

Tobey Maguire, Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan and Joel Edgerton fake ennui in a production still from The Great Gatsby. Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

Stepping out in faith is something Holley Chappell, junior intercultural studies, has learned and is sharing with those around her. In the future, she plans on being a missionary overseas.

She considers her high school Sunday school teacher, sister-in-law and mom to be women of godly influence in her life.

“All of these women have showed me what it is to live a life of patience and holy peace when waiting for God’s promises and blessings,” Chappell said.

Back home in Columbia, S.C., Chappell is a member of Shandon Baptist Church where she has worked as a youth intern for the past two summers. During school years, she is a participant of Act II, North Greenville University’s drama ministry team that travels to different places presenting the Gospel.

“Holley is always willing to listen and pray for you in any situation. She gives her all in everything she does and you can depend on her with anything,” Chelsea Bailey, sophomore theatre, said.

Chappell is also involved with several of BSU ministry teams and enjoys helping out with the theatre productions.

Would you like some extra money to put towards your college education?

Scholarships could be the answer to your financial dilemmas, easing the burden of paying for tuition and other expenses.

At North Greenville University, where more than $30 million in financial aid is awarded each year, there are many resources and tools available to students seeking financial aid for the 2012-2013 school year.

Admissions counselors, like NGU’s Andy Ray,  are a valuable resource for students during their search for scholarships. Ray’s main focus is the Financial Aid section of the NGU website, www.ngu.edu.  The website has numerous links to various school-sponsored scholarships, information on both state and federal aid, and scholarships from organizations not affiliated with the university.

Ray urged students to browse all three sections and see what scholarships they might be eligible for, then select several that look promising and follow the steps to complete each one.  Popular scholarships include the Founder’s Scholarship, President’s Scholarship and the Dean’s Scholarship.

Ray said students should not be discouraged if they are not considered “the best student” or do not maintain a 4.0 GPA.

Ray said, “Start looking for the scholarships early.  Don’t let the deadlines go past.  Let’s say you’re a great student but you’re not at the top of your class.  I would recommend looking for scholarships that either have very long applications or require an essay, because that means that scholarship committee is looking at things other than your academic standing.”

He pointed out a tool on NGU’s website called the Net Price Calculator that helps students figure out what financial aid they are eligible for, based on questions similar to the FAFSA.  This device outlines the out-of-pocket expenses that may be involved in attending college, which is useful for both students and parents.

Also included in the Financial Aid section are links to nine reputable scholarship databases, such as scholarships.com, fastweb.com, and scholarshipsandgrants.us.

Ray said, “There are literally more than 100 scholarship databases out there, but these are the ones that we trust to give you the best information.”

One of these databases is www.scholarships.com, where, after answering simple questions regarding both financial and personal situations, students are able to view the scholarships available to them.  Some require essays either long or short, while others are random drawings or sweepstakes requiring no essay at all.

For instance, the Zinch Weekly “Three Sentence Essay” Scholarship, worth $1000, is exactly what it sounds like.  Applicants answer a question in 280 characters or less, enter a few pieces of information (name, college information, etc.), and contact information to be used in the event of winning.  As its title suggests, this is a weekly opportunity, so students do not have to rush to meet a deadline, there are multiple opportunities to win.

A scholarship that does not require an essay, or much work at all, is the College Prowler $2,000 No Essay Scholarship.  This opportunity is open to all students, current and prospective, and its monthly winner is announced via the company’s Facebook page.  All an applicant must do is submit both college and contact information.  Only one entry is allowed per person per month, but applicants may try again each month.

There are many more scholarship databases and opportunities than listed here or on the NGU Financial Aid website.  Different databases will yield different results based on the criteria and information required, and each student’s eligability will vary. Students are encouraged to do their own research and take advantage of the opportunities available because every penny counts.