Volume 94 Spring, 2003 Number 4

College of the Ozarks…”Hard Work U.®” www.cofo.edu Point Lookout, Missouri 65726

March Madness, NAIA style, Comes to C of O

The Ozark Visitor (USPS600540) (ISSN 0890-2690) ispublished quarterly by theOffice of Public Relations, andis distributed free of charge tofriends of our college, alumni,faculty, staff and parents ofour students.

Editor . . . . . Camille F. Howell, Director of Public Relations

Associate Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda LeNeve

Artistic Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Laura Lane

Dean of Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rodney Arnold

Director of Alumni Affairs. . . . . . . . . . . . Helen Youngblood

Student Writers and Photographers . . . . . . Hannah Sparks,Matthew Fulkerson, Sam Waterman,

Melinda Elliott, Kyle Calvert

Produced by the J.M. McDonald Printing Departmentin memory of Jerrold Watson, Manager

Associate Member, Missouri Press Association

College of the Ozarks is an independent, privatelysupported, church-related, fully accredited coeduca-tional four-year college. The College does not dis-criminate on the basis of sex, race, color, age or ethnicorigin, in its educational programs, activities oremployment policies.

College of the Ozarks®…Hard Work U.®

Point Lookout, MO 65726 • 417-334-6411

There’s no better timethan Spring on a col-lege campus. This

year we welcomed it withextra enthusiasm, given thewinter we had. Early 2003seemed to be just one snow-storm after another, andwhen the longer, warmerdays of Spring got here,everyone was thrilled.

Our NAIA Division IIMen’s National Basketball

Championship heightened spring fever at C of O againthis year. This was our fourth year to host the tourna-ment, and once again, we welcomed 32 teams fromacross the United States to Branson and Point Lookoutfor this spectacular event.

We are proud to be part of an organization that pro-motes not only sportsmanship and a high level of com-petition, but the building of character as well. If youknow anything about C of O, you know we believe thisto be an important part of our overall learning experi-ence, and it pleases us to be part of an organization likethe NAIA, which underscores our own ideals.

The C of O Lady Cats also got a bid to their nationaltournament this year, as they often do. We are so pleasedwith the efforts of these young ladies and the recognitionthey bring our college.

In this issue of the Visitor, you’ll read about thetournament and what goes on behind the scenes beforethe games ever begin. It takes hundreds of people thou-sands of hours to make the event successful, and wethink you’ll enjoy reading about some of the things thathappen off the court as well as on.

You’ll also find stories in this Visitor about faculty,staff and students who’ve received honors and recogni-tion, and about recent places the College has appeared inprint and in cyberspace.

There’s also a feature on a small-time dairy opera-tion run by an alumni family, who is trying to bring old-

fashioned milk in glass bottles back to supermarketshelves, as well as an article on two alumni who are ourmost recent inductees into the C of O Sports Hall ofFame.

Finally, we say goodbye to a dear friend, Edith Git-tinger, who died this past February. Together with herhusband, Leonard, Edith made a difference in the livesof thousands of C of O students and employees. We willmiss her, but we celebrate her wonderful life.

Best wishes from all of us at College of the Ozarks,and may God bless you richly.

2 THE OZARK VISITOR

PROMISES TO KEEPGoodbye to Winter: We Welcome Spring at C of O

Incorporated in 1906as The School of the Ozarks

Periodicals postage paid Point Lookout, MOPostmaster: Send address changes to:

Ozark Visitor • P.O. Box 17Point Lookout, MO 65726-0017

ON THE COVER: Things are quiet in the Keeter Gym lockers now, butin March College of the Ozarks played host to theNAIA Division II Men’s National Basketball Cham-pionship. See related stories and photos inside thisissue on pp. 3, 8 and 9.

Photo by Linda LeNeve

SPRING 2003 3

TODAY’S TOP STORYNAIA: Hard Work Behind the Scenes Pays off

By Sam Waterman

For the past four years, thou-sands of visitors from all overthe country have traveled to

Point Lookout to enjoy the NAIAMen’s Division II National Basket-ball Tournament. What the estimated20,000 ticket holders see when theyenter the Keeter Gymnasium on thecampus of College of the Ozarks isthe finished product. What they donot see is all the hard work andpreparations that go on behind thescenes. The competition lasts only sixdays, but preparations take place allyear long to ensure the success of thetournament.

To successfully host the tourna-ment at C of O it takes hundreds ofstudent workers, 80 businesses, 12officials, 10 food vendors, 32 teams,20 televisions, five athletic trainers,18 area schools, one Cub Scout Pack,one Girl Scout Pack, C of O Security,the College Press, maintenancecrews, food service workers, land-scapers, electricians, EMT’s, theBranson Vacation Channel andcountless volunteers from the Col-lege and community.

The College enlists the help ofmore than 400 student workers dur-

ing the tournament. Their dutiesrange from serving as concessionsworkers to picking up trash betweengames to selling souvenirs. They alsoact as ushers before games and onrare occasions enforce crowd control.

“This tournament could not hap-pen if it weren’t for all the studentworkers and community volun-teers,” said Candy Sullinger, Collegeof the Ozarks Sports InformationDirector. “It is interesting to knowthat the Women’s National Tourna-

ment, held in SiouxCity, Iowa, is hostedby a convention centerin Sioux City. Theyhave to pay hundredsof staff members tomake their tourna-ment run smoothly. Cof O has been blessedwith hundreds of vol-unteers who want todonate their time andbe involved in theevent.”

Not only do thestudent workers workhard during the tour-nament, but also in themonths leading up to

the event. The C of O student electri-cians and their supervisor work hardto make sure that everything used isin good working order. They run allthe phone lines used for the mediaand install safety equipment such assmoke detectors and fire alarms forthe safety of the many visitors. Theyalso let the tournament coordinatorsknow when the gym is at maximumpower—a point Keeter Gymnasiumcomes close to every year.

The gym maintenance crew has abig job during the tournament work-ing with all other departments tomake sure everything is set up andlooks good before tip-off on openingnight.

C of O construction made its con-tribution to the National Tournamentthis year by constructing three brandnew locker rooms to be used for thevisiting teams. In years past, studentworkers had to work fast to clean upthe locker rooms between gamesbefore the next team could enter.With the addition of the new lockerrooms, this will no longer be a prob-lem.

Gary Turbak and the C of O ath-letic trainers turn their hole-in-the-wall training room into a facilitycapable of handling the 32 teams.During the tournament, nobodyworks harder than trainer Turbak.He puts in more than 100 hours dur-ing the tournament week tapingcountless numbers of ankles, heatingup shoulders, stretching out ham-strings and providing various treat-ments to more than 150 athletes.

Prior to the championship, thetraining room staff is busy orderingall the supplies needed during thetournament week as well as makingsure the entire staff is capable of pro-viding proper treatments to the hun-dreds of athletes that will comethrough the training room during thetournament.

C of O professors Rex Mahlman andSteve Petty man the clock and thep.a. system.

Trainer Gary Turbak wraps an injured player’s ankleduring a game. Photos by Linda LeNeve continued on page 16

Rodney Arnold, Dean of Development

In the aftermath of September11, a record number of peo-ple made appointments with

their attorneys to either updatetheir wills or create new ones.The suddenness of that catastro-phe was a wake-up call to act onlong-delayed intentions.

Perhaps you are thinkingabout your estate plan as well.

You may even be ready to makean appointment with an attorney

to obtain a current will. If so, the following questionswill help you prepare for that visit. Thinking about thesethings before meeting with an attorney may also helpsave you time and money.

1. WHATThis first question addresses your assets and liabili-

ties. What do you own and what do you owe? Make a

list of real estate, vehicles, collectables, bank and broker-age accounts, insurance policies – everything you have.Estimate the current value. Also, list all of your financialobligations. This inventory will help your attorneyimmensely.

2. WHODecide beforehand who you want to settle your

estate when you are gone. This personal representativeshould be someone you consider fully trustworthy. Ifyou will need guardians for your dependent children,select those as well. You should consider trustees tooversee any trusts you may have and you may want toconsider more than one. In addition to these people, tryto come up with names of alternates just in case any ofyour primary choices cannot serve. Also, be sure to askall of these persons before including them in your will.

3. WHEREThis can be the most difficult part of planning your

estate. Where or to whom will you transfer your assets?A surviving spouse will likely receive all or part of yourassets. Family members may be beneficiaries as well.You may want to consider an estate gift to those organi-zations you have supported during your life, such asCollege of the Ozarks that reflect your interest andvalues.

There are other things to consider as well…and oneof the advantages of meeting with an estate-planningattorney is that he or she can bring up important ques-tions that you may not consider otherwise. A good advi-sor can also introduce transfer techniques like familytrusts and can make sure your will conforms to the lawsof your state.

If you do not have an estate-planning attorney, askyour trusted friends for suggestions. You might also askthe trust officer at your local bank for recommendations.If you wish, do not hesitate to call or write me for thenames of several attorneys.

The important thing is to act on your impulse to putyour house in order. It may take a little effort, but theend result is well worth it. You will enjoy the peace ofmind.

4 THE OZARK VISITOR

DEVELOPMENT NOTESThree Questions to Ask Yourself About Your Will

Request FormTo help you think further about estate planning andhow you can also include College of the Ozarks inyour plans, we would be pleased to send you acomplimentary estate-planning brochure. Pleaseuse the response form below to request the brochureor call me at (417) 334-6411 ext. 2209.

■■ Please send me the free brochure about estateplanning.

■■ I have already included College of the Ozarks inmy estate plan.

■■ Please send me the names of attorneys youwould recommend.

■■ Please contact me personally. The best time toreach me is ___________.

Name ________________________________________

Address ______________________________________

City/St/Zip __________________________________

Telephone ____________________________________

Please complete the response form and either returnit in the enclosed business reply envelope or mail to:Rodney Arnold, College of the Ozarks, Point Look-out, MO 65726

Rodney Arnold

The important thing is to act on yourimpulse to put your house in order. It maytake a little effort, but the end result is wellworth it. You will enjoy the peace of mind.

SPRING 2003 5

ACCOLADESHerchenroeder Selected to Attend U.S. War College

By Sam Waterman

College of the Ozarks militaryscience professor, Lt. Col.Gary Herchenroeder, has

been given the opportunity to attendthe United States Army War College.Herchenroeder will attend the WarCollege from August 2003 to May2004. The College, located at CarlisleBarracks in Pennsylvania, is one ofthe nation’s oldest military installa-tions. Carlisle Barracks has providedtraining and education for more than200 years. Most of the Army’s branchschools originated here with an inno-vative vision for future readiness.

Herchenroeder has been at C ofO since 1997, where he teaches class-es in military science as well as theCitizenship classes to all C of Ofreshmen. Along with his teachingduties, Herchenroeder also directsthe College’s Army ROTC program.The Colonel is also active at manycampus events. He is perhaps knownbest by people outside of the C of Ofamily as pilot of the miniature blimpthat sails over the gym during bas-ketball games.

The Army War College servesthe nation as it prepares senior lead-ers to pursue mastery in the art ofstrategy, and apply strategic leader-ship in a unified, joint or multina-tional environment.

Each year, more than 300 stu-dents study in the 10-month resident

Army War College class. These stu-dents and their families include rep-resentatives of all branches of themilitary, U.S. government agenciesand about 40 nations world-wide. Atthe War College, graduates leavewith the intellectual capabilities toimpact national strategy of thefuture.

The courses Lt. Col. Herchen-roeder will be enrolled in are for mil-itary officers and selected civilians tolearn how to utilize combat forceseffectively. Upon the completion ofhis course work, Herchenroeder willcome away with a master’s degree inhis chosen area of study.

“I am thrilled to receive thisopportunity and even more thrilledthat my family has agreed to accom-pany me,” Herchenroeder said.

The College has offered to holdHerchenroeder’s position until com-pletion of his course work. While heis away, Captain Jim Schreffler of theSMSU ROTC program will beresponsible for the military scienceprogram at C of O.

Lt. Col. Gary Herchenroeder hasbeen selected to attend the U.S.Army War College, beginning thisAugust. Herchenroeder heads up theC of O Army ROTC program.

Photo by Donna Herchenroeder

Riley Receives Award for Teaching ExcellenceBy Melinda Elliot

Kevin Riley, associate professor of businessadministration at College of the Ozarks,recently received the 2002 Governor’s Award

for Excellence in Teaching. Governor Bob Holden pre-sented the award during the 2002 Governor’s Awardfor Excellence in Teaching Luncheon on December 4,in Jefferson City.

Riley was one of the 65 outstanding faculty mem-bers from numerous post-secondary schools, collegesand universities in Missouri. Each recipient for the awardwas selected by their respective institutions for theireffective teaching and advising, service to the schoolcommunity, commitment to high standards of excellenceand success in nurturing student achievement.

This year marks Riley’s tenth year teach-ing at C of O. As a teacher of marketing, per-sonal selling and finance classes, Riley is wellliked by his students.

“I was quite surprised, actually shockedwhen I heard the news,” Riley said after find-ing out he received this honor. “It was veryhumbling for me because there are manyeducators here who are well deserving of thisaward.”

A 1979 graduate of John Brown University, Rileyreceived his M.B.A. from the University of Arkansas in1981. His wife, Tami, is also employed at C of O as anR.N. The couple has two children, Ryan, 21, and Chris, 15.

6 THE OZARK VISITOR

SPOTLIGHT ON ALUMNIA Trip to Memory Lane Dairy: An “Udder” Country

By Hannah Sparks

When we reminisce about thepast, we often refer to it as“taking a trip down memo-

ry lane.” Things such as grape Nehi,paper dolls, 45 rpm records, teaberrygum and milk in glass bottles mightcome to mind. Some of us mightwish we could grab one of theseobjects straight from the past to enjoyit one last time.

While it’s true some of theseitems may be irretrievable things ofyesterday, thanks to the Kensingerfamily, at least glass bottles of milkcan come straight from MemoryLane—dairy, that is.

Memory Lane dairy in Fordland,MO (about an hour from Point Look-out), was started two years ago, in2001, as a family idea, and College ofthe Ozarks was involved from thebeginning. The business was con-ceived with one basic concept inmind—to have more family time.Dave and Vickie Kensinger, foundersand owners of Memory Lane, havethree children, two of whom werealready married when the businessidea came about.

While their oldest son, Luke, andyoungest daughter, Holly were busyraising their own families, their otherson, Paul, was attending college at Cof O.

Luke was an employee of Kee-bler, and his work hours oftenincluded overnight stays. He and hiswife had a baby boy, Garrett, andLuke felt the need to stay home andbe with his family more.

At the same time, the youngestchild and only daughter, Holly, wasdissatisfied with her job. “I didn’tlike driving into town everyday and

really wanted to do something differ-ent,” said Holly.

Paul wasn’t sure what he wantedto do when he graduated from C ofO. All of them wanted a change anda different future, so the idea of start-ing a family business came to mind.

The Kensingers knew the bestway to do well in a business is toknow the nature of one’s product. Itseemed natural then to start a busi-ness dealing with livestock since theyhad owned cows for more than 25years. The major question was howto make enough money from thefarm to support three families. “Weknew we couldn’t farm out the land

with crops or just raisemeat to sell and makeenough, so we had to dosomething else,” saidMrs. Kensinger.

After much thought

and input from all family members,they decided to form their own milkcompany. It all came down to onething, though. “We brought all thefamily together and said, ‘Eitherwe’re all in this or none of us are.’Everyone had to be committed or itwouldn’t work. Each of us said wewere in, and so we went throughwith it.”

Paul, who graduated in 2001with a bachelor’s degree in Agricul-ture Business, was able to help thefamily with business skills he waslearning at college. He said thatthough he applied much of what hewas learning, there was still a lot toknow. “It’s a learning process. Youlearn better ways to do things as yougo along, kind of trial and error,” saidPaul.

Mrs. Kensinger and Hollyagreed. “We’ve definitely learnedalong the way. We’d make a mistakeand then next time we would know abetter way to do it,” said Mrs.Kensinger.

The Kensingers found early on itwasn’t going to be easy to learn allthey needed to know about this busi-ness. It was hard for them to evenobserve the operation of small milkprocessing plants, due of the lack ofthem in the area. “There are onlyabout three other businesses like thisin the state, but we got a pretty good

Memory Lane dairy produces a vari-ety of milk, including low fat, creamtop and chocolate.

Owner Vicki Kensinger (L) anddaughter, Holly Hensley (R), man-age the Memory Lane Dairy store sixdays a week.

Memory Lane…was started twoyears ago…and College of theOzarks was involved from thebeginning.

SPRING 2003 7

idea of all the work involved,” said Mrs. Kensinger. Afterdoing many hours of research and viewing the availablesites, including the dairy operation at C of O, plans weredrawn for the new company.

After making the final decision to go in to business,Luke and Paul spent a great deal of time talking with Cof O faculty. Two of the men who provided generoushelp, according to the Kensingers, were Tom Smith, asso-ciate professor of agriculture and General Farm andDairy Manager, and Herb Keith, associate professor ofagriculture.

“All the [agriculture] professors at the College arereally nice. They’ll help you out with anything and tellyou anything you want to know. Tom especially gave uslots of good advice and helped us get everything start-ed,” said Paul.

The family brainstormed to come up with the name“Memory Lane” and logo “Fresh from Udder Country.”They also discussed how they could compel people tobuy their milk and make the business compete withnational milk companies. All the marketing had to bedone by the family, and they admit none of them knewanything about it. “We’re just farmers,” said Mrs.Kensinger.

They may not have known much about professionalmarketing techniques, but they did know what they per-sonally liked. They wanted to make a quality productthey would buy for their own families. If this were done,the Kensingers thought they would most likely be mak-ing a product others would buy. As a result, they chosenot to use the growth hormone BST in their cattle, or putadditives or preservatives in their milk. They wanted tocreate an “all natural, good for you” milk.

It seemed to them producing good milk was feasible,but how would they draw customers to it over what wasalready setting on the store shelves? This is when the ideaof bottling their milk in glass bottles came about. Whenasked exactly why they thought glass bottles would be amarketable idea, Mrs. Kensinger counters with her ownquestion. “If you were going to pour a glass of iced teaand you reached in the cabinet to get a glass, would yougrab a real glass or a plastic cup?” she asked. She saidshe’s found most people prefer a real glass.

It’s that preference of glass that was used as the ini-tial idea when deciding on glass bottles. Since there wereno local manufacturers that made the bottles needed,they were ordered from Canada. The bottles require aspecial washing process, a need that creates a large

amount of work. Mrs. Kensinger adds, “The glass [bot-tle] keeps the milk fresher and colder. It’s labor intensivebut worth it.”

Labor is one thing the family says they are not afraidof. Not only do they milk about 110 head of cattle a day,but they also do all their own pasteurizing, homogeniz-ing, bottling and distributing. Mrs. Kensinger said, “Weall work hard here, everyone in the family, and that’show it’s been from the beginning.” Sometimes friendscome to help during the bottling process and those daysthat can last from 12 to 15 hours. “This is family businessall the way. We’d like to hire more help, but for right nowthings are still simple,” adds Mrs. Kensinger.

The family is looking to expand the business, butsaid it will be a while before they can do that. There areonly about 19 places, including the Memory Lane Dairystore, where the public can purchase Memory Lane milkin Central and Southern Missouri. But about a dozenstores are on a waiting list to stock the product. “Wewant to expand but it takes time to be able to do that,”said Luke.

Though they’ve encountered many unexpectedthings along the way, the Kensingers said they are happywith their decision to start the business. Paul counts hiseducation at C of O as invaluable to helping the business,and says he’s glad to help out the family. Mrs. Kensingeradvises anyone who is thinking about starting a businessto “think long and hard.” She said, “It’s hard but it’s alsoan adventure. We just take it day by day.”

C of O alumnus Paul Kensinger prepares the bottlingequipment.

Photo by Hannah Sparks

Paul, who graduated in 2001 with abachelor’s degree in Agriculture Busi-ness, was able to help the family withbusiness skills he was learning at col-lege.

“All the [agriculture] professors at theCollege are really nice. They’ll helpyou out with anything and tell youanything you want to know.”

8 THE OZARK VISITOR

SPORTS SHOTSNAIA Championship Tourney at C of O

Coach George Wilson encourages the Lady Cats duringa time out during their game in Sioux City. The LadyCats lost by a heartbreaking two points in first-roundaction to Grand View College of Iowa.

The Saints from Siena Heights, Michigan, congratu-late the Bobcats after the Ozarks’ victory in first-round play at the men’s tourney. C of O lost insecond-round action to Warner Southern of Florida.

The Swedes of tiny Bethany College in Lindsborg,Kansas, exult as their team prepares to win their semi-final game. The unseeded Swedes were this year’sCinderella team, making it all the way to the finals.

Editor’s Note: College of the Ozarks played host to 32teams from California to Maine and Oregon to Flori-da March 12-18 for the NAIA Division II Men’s

National Basketball Championship. This was the fourthyear for C of O to be home to the tourney. NorthwesternCollege of Iowa defeated Bethany College of Kansas tobecome national champs, after a week of fast, exciting play,heart-stopping overtime action and many, many three-point shots, including a last-second 30-footer by C of Ostandout Josh Hume.

During the same week, the Lady Cats traveled to SiouxCity, Iowa, where they also played in the national tourney.The photographs on these pages celebrate both the tourna-ment in Point Lookout and the Lady Cats’ appearance inIowa.

Lady Cats Heather Henson (L) and MariaHenry get ready to head to their “ship”(championship) in Iowa.

C of O supporters packed the stands to watch theirBobcats win in first-round action.

SPRING 2003 9

NAIA NEWSThousands Enjoy the “Little Dance”

Fans of the Foresters from HuntingtonCollege, Indiana, traveled from theirhome state to support their team.Brandon Woudstra of Northwest

College, Iowa, hugs a fellowplayer after winning the nationalchampionship. Woudstra tookhome both the tourney’s MostValuable Player award and theNAIA Player of the Year award.

This young fan cheers on herfavorite team, the University of Vir-ginia at Wise.

Color man Doug Elstun of Midwest SportsTelevision speaks with C of O men’s coachSteve Shepherd (L) during the finals.

Northwestern fans filled thestands for the final game andbrought all sorts of props to thecontest, including this cow.

Honorary Coaches Karen Hall andCraig Richards of Ozark MountainBank in Branson are jubilant after Cof O’s opening-night victory at themen’s tourney.

The Lady Cats board the bus fortheir trip to Sioux City.

Photos byKim Cooper, Camille Howell,

Linda LeNeve and Hannah Sparks

10 THE OZARK VISITOR

IN THE NEWSC of O Featured in Washington Post Travel Story

By Camille Howell

College of the Ozarks was featured in a recentWashington Post travel story on Branson. Titled“The Hipster’s Guide to Branson,” the feature,

which appeared on December 29 of last year, focused onthe many activities younger people can enjoy in theOzarks.

Writer Andrea Sachs, who didn’t give her age butdid admit to not knowing who Bobby Vinton is, took asweet, tongue-in-cheek look at Branson’s not-so-youth-ful music culture, but then pointed out the many thingstwenty-somethings can do in what she termed “that liv-ing museum of easy-listening entertainment.”

Between catching shows at the Jim Stafford andShoji Tabuchi theatres, Sachs found her way to College ofthe Ozarks, which she described as having “deeply reli-gious roots and Ivy League study habits.” She also wroteabout how C of O students work for, rather than pay,tuition.

In her story, Sachs mentioned C of O’s motel, RalphFoster Museum, cafeteria and Friendship House restau-rant. She quizzed students on what they liked to do inBranson and came up with answers such as mountainbiking, horseback riding, going to the lake, shopping atthe outlets and barn-swinging, which Sachs tried andenjoyed during her visit.

Sachs liked the food in the cafeteria (which is nor-mally not open to the public) and was impressed withthe College Motel’s inexpensive price tag. Her story inthe Post included a photo of three C of O students, KevinJones, Chuckie Eastman and Amanda Hanson, plus aquote from an additional student, Sarah Farris.

“We love publicity, and are very pleased that Ms.

Sachs chose to spend part of her time in Branson on theC of O campus, “ said President Jerry C. Davis. “Gettingout the word about the College, whether it’s in a travelpiece or any other type news story, is always importantto us. We appreciate Ms. Sachs representing us in such agood light as part of a story that features Branson in anew and appealing way.”

The Washington Post feature has been reprinted inother papers around the U.S., and the C of O motel hasgotten calls from readers in both Minnesota and Texasinquiring about booking rooms for their upcomingvacations, according to Debbie Meyer, who oversees themotel.

C of O students featured in a recent Washington Poststory about Branson include (L to R): Chuckie Eastman,Amanda Hanson, Sarah Farris, and Kevin Jones.

Photo by Matthew Fulkerson

College of the Ozarks says goodbye to alovely lady and a longtime friend, EdithMay Gittinger. Mrs. Gittinger died Febru-

ary 1, 2003. Together with her husband, Dr.Leonard Gittinger, who survives her, Mrs. Git-tinger was very active in the life of College of theOzarks.

As a young woman, Edith taught for threeyears in a one-room schoolhouse, then shereturned to school to become a nurse, a profes-sion she practiced for more than 30 years. Boththese interests served her well after she and Leonardretired to the Ozarks in 1972: she was an Elder in the Cof O Presbyterian Church, and was active in the Ameri-

can Red Cross, various prayer groups andwomen’s organizations. She also worked withher husband in the Gideons Internationalorganization.

The Gittingers endowed the C of O Com-munity Convocation Series and presently havetwo buildings, which will house the Music andCampus Ministries departments, under con-struction on campus. They have also donatedto many other programs at C of O. Every mem-ber of the College family has benefited from

Leonard and Edith’s generosity, and Mrs. Gittinger willbe truly missed.

In Memoriam – Edith May Gittinger, 1909-2003

SPRING 2003 11

SPORT-LIGHT ON ALUMNITwo Inducted into C of O Sports Hall of Fame

By Camille Howell

Apair of standout athletes fromthe 1980s are the latestinductees into the C of O

Sports Hall of Fame. Dee Dee YoungBarber and Mike Essick were hon-ored at a luncheon on February 15and at a basketball game followingthe luncheon.

Barber was a four-year letterwin-ner in cross country and track from1985 to 1989. In cross country she wasAll-Conference for four years, All-District for three years, and compet-ed in the NAIA Nationals all fouryears.

In track, she was an All-Districttwo-miler three years, held theschool record in the 10,000 meter runand competed in the NAIA OutdoorTrack and Field Championships in1987. She also received the Coach’sAward in cross country in 1988 andthe Coach’s Award in track in 1988and 1989. Barber was named MVP ofthe track team in both 1986 and 1988.

Essick was a four-year lettermanin baseball from 1980 to 1984 andserved as captain his senior year. He

was All-Conference his junior andsenior years.

During his senior year, when hehelped lead the Cats to the NAIADistrict 16 Title, Essick was namedAll-District, All-Tournament, District“Player of the Year,” All-Area, and

NAIA Honorable Mention All-Amer-ican.

Also during his senior year,Essick led the team in at-bats (147),hits (61), batting (.415 average), dou-bles (16) and triples (4.) He ended hiscareer with an incredible .398 battingaverage.

Barber thanked the crowd forcoming to see her receive this honor.She talked about how much C of Ohad meant to her, both during her col-lege career and in the years following.

Accompanied by audiencelaughter, Essick thanked Barber forher brief remarks, saying she had“given him more mike time.” Hethen regaled the crowd with storiesfrom his college days, especiallyregarding Coach Bobby Smith andsix old friends he had invited to theceremony.

Attendees heard many amusingtales regarding Essick’s teammatesMark Kelley, Dale Gilchrist, VinceElfrink, Frank Gallant, Rod Hemphilland Larry Schmitt. Essick joined Kel-ley, Gilchrist and Schmitt, who arealready members of the Hall of Fame.

Waller Enshrined in Missouri Hall of FameBy Camille Howell

Just one day after the C of O Sports Hall of Fame, Athletic Director AlWaller became an inductee, rather than an inductor. On February 16,Waller became a member of the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in Spring-field.

Called “one of the good guys” by local media, Waller earned his placeof honor by virtue of his long and successful career. Among the high-lights, Waller served 25 years as C of O’s men’s basketball coach; he had550 total victories, 458 of which were at C of O; he accumulated a 104-47high school coaching record; he was responsible for 12 conference cham-pionships and 12 20-win seasons; he took his team to three Elite Eightappearances at the NAIA national tournament; his team was runner-up inthe NAIA national championship in 2000; and he won the Central OzarkConference championship as a high school coach in Branson before hecame to C of O in the ‘70s.

Waller retired as men’s basketball coach at C of O last year, but hecontinues his duties as Athletic Director and as tournament co-directorfor the NAIA national men’s basketball championship.

Mike Essick, seen here with AlWaller, accepts his plaque upon hisenshrinement into the C of O SportsHall of Fame.

Photos by Camille Howell

Dee Dee Young Barber accepts herHall of Fame plaque from AthleticDirector Al Waller.

12 THE OZARK VISITOR

FAR AND NEARFulbright Scholar Home from Finland for Christmas

By Camille Howell

Shelly Compton, C of O’s first Fulbright Scholarand a December 2001 graduate of College of theOzarks, visited C of O during Christmas holidays

on a trip home from graduate school.Shelly is living and studying at the University of

Kuopio, Finland. She will receive a Master of PublicHealth degree when her studies are completed.

After first visiting Finland on a C of O Hotel/Restau-rant Management trip several years ago, Shelly returnedin the summer to work and study there as part of anexchange agreement between College of the Ozarks andSavonia Polytechnic University, also located in Kuopio.She enjoyed her time in Finland and began to look for away to return.

The Fulbright Scholarship has provided Shelly thefunds necessary to live and study there for one year. Shewas one of only 10 Americans chosen to study in Finlandfrom dozens of applicants.

This prestigious scholarship was established in 1946,at the end of World War II. For more than 50 years, theFulbright committee has endeavored to promote a“mutual understanding between people of the United

States and other countries, through the exchange of per-sons, knowledge and skills.”

Shelly is the granddaughter of James and Mary Tay-lor of Republic, MO.

Shelly Compton is pictured here with College of theOzarks President Jerry C. Davis, on a recent trip to C ofO. Shelly is a Fulbright Scholar, studying in Finland.

Photo by Camille Howell

By Camille Howell

Anyone who’s been past the entrance to C of Oknows The Keeter Center for Character Educa-tion is growing physically day by day. The two

buildings, which will house a lodge, restaurant, audito-rium and classroom space, are taking shape nicely andwill be dedicated in the Fall of 2004.

The Keeter Center’s online presence, however, isgrowing as well. A newly-designed website, found atwww.keetercenter.edu, focuses on the Center and its com-ponents.

Beginning with the philosophy of “Head, Heart andHands,” the Center’s website covers The CommunityConvocation Series, The Character Academy, The Citi-zenship Academy, The Work Ethic Academy and TheKeeter Report.

The site is full of photographs and video clips ofevents associated with The Keeter Center and providesan easy-to-follow guide to everything it represents.

Larry Cockrum, Dean of Administration, oversawthe new website, but he said the bulk of the credit for itsdesign and completion should go to Kent Pettit, C of O

webmaster, his student staff and the Computer Center,and to Sara Franks, Cockrum’s secretary and C of Ograduate.

Keeter Center Gets New, Improved Website

The word “Character” forms the opening page of thenew Keeter Center website. Access it at www.keeter-center.edu

By Kyle Calvert

Jazz Band students from College of theOzarks traveled to the University of NorthTexas, located in Denton, in early April to

____participate in that university’s annual jazzfestival.

Dr. Joe Hardin, assistant professor ofmusic, took his 12 Jazz Band students to thefestival. The band had sent in an audition tapein December of 2002, and members were elatedto be chosen over many other colleges to par-ticipate.

After long hours of rehearsal to be in tip-top shape for its performance, the band presented threetunes: “Rio,” by Victor Feldman, “Farmer’s Market,” byArt Farmer, and the classic “Summertime,” by DuBoseHayward and George Gershwin.

While at the university, the C of O band gotthe chance to perform with other bands fromaround the nation. The band also took masterclasses from North Texas School of Music fac-ulty members, which Hardin said were inform-ative and helpful, both to student bandmembers and to him as well.

Hardin was thrilled his students had thisopportunity. “This was a tremendous experi-ence,” he said, “something they won’t forgetfor a lifetime. They all benefited from every-thing they saw and heard.” Hardin added thatthe band continues to be enthused about its

performance, and that he plans on having members con-tinue to audition for performances, both nationally andlocally, for many years to come.

SPRING 2003 13

STUDENT HONORSC of O Jazz Band Jazzes Up North Texas University

By Kyle Calvert

ACollege of the Ozarks student recently tookhome the highest honors at a Phi Alpha Thetahistory competition held at Drury University in

Springfield, MO. C of O senior Cheri Williams beat out20 other students to receive the Best Paper Award.

Williams wrote about “Soaring on the Forefront ofthe Environmental Movement: Rosalie Edge’s Fight toPreserve Hawk Mountain and Create Olympic NationalPark.” Her essay received a “Best Paper Award,” asjudged by the Drury history faculty and other Phi AlphaTheta sponsors at the conference.

As a key to her research, Williams incorporatedEdge’s unpublished autobiography from Hawk Moun-tain Preserve in Pennsylvania, which spoke on Edge’sactivism and energy. C of O history professor Dr. SteveKneeshaw, Phi Alpha Theta sponsor, said, “Williams wascertainly well-deserving of this award.”

To date, 190 members have been enrolled in PhiAlpha Theta at College of the Ozarks, where the UpsilonNu chapter began in the fall of 1973. History majors initi-ated into Phi Alpha Theta have a distinguished record ofaccomplishments. On three occasions, the chapter hasreceived recognition in the national Best Chapter compe-tition, and several of its initiates have won national PhiAlpha Theta scholarships for graduate studies.

Members have gone on to a variety of professions –

their careers include high school and college teachers,principals, superintendents, published authors and edi-tors, lawyers, ministers and government service.Throughout the years, members of Phi Alpha Theta havebrought great credit to themselves and to the College ofthe Ozarks.

Kneeshaw was both proud and honored to have hisstudents represented at the conference. Other C of Ostudents who presented their works were Kimmy Bess,Dana Tabor and Kelly Wisecup.

History Honor Society Scores High at Regional Meet

Professor Joe HardinPhoto by Kyle Calvert

Members of Phi Alpha Theta include, from left to right:Kimmy Bess, Kelly Wisecup, Cheri Williams (who wonthe Best Paper Award) and Dana Tabor. At far right istheir sponsor Dr. Steve Kneeshaw.

Photo by Hannah Sparks

14 THE OZARK VISITOR

DECEMBERMEMORIAL SCROLLS

LUPE ADAMS FROM MR. JAMES L.ADAMSHarlan Allison from Mrs. Mary JoyceLongstaffMabel Allison from Mrs. Mary JoyceLongstaffJules Aubry from Mrs. Julia AubryPaul E. Bakenhus from Mr. Robert L.VedellFrank Beattie from Mrs. Barbara B.MercerMary Ann Beattie from Mrs. Barbara B.MercerMattie Beattie from Mrs. Barbara B.MercerReverend William E. Beattie from Mrs.Barbara B. MercerElizabeth Bennett from High IslandPresbyterian ChurchMrs. Everett B. Best from Mr. & Mrs.John C. MollCharles Brown from Mrs. Betsy B.BrownAlfred G. Cameron from Mrs. Ina F.Cameron G. Adrian Chalfant from Mrs. AdrianChalfantCarolyn Combs from Mr. & Mrs. John M.Graves

MR. & MRS. GLENN A. DAVIS FROMMRS. TRULA D. DAVISProfessor Kirk Denmark from Mrs.Jean AmundsenJohn Dickson from Mr. & Mrs. RoyUttingerG. Stanley Druhot from Mrs. AdrianChalfantMyra Druhot from Mrs. Adrain ChalfantEdgar C. Foss from Foss Family TrustLucille G. Foss from Foss Family TrustPaul E. Fritzemeyer, Sr. from MissRuth J. SchroederPaul E. Fritzemeyer, Jr. from MissRuth J. SchroederDr. Robert M. Good from SutherlandFoundationConnie Halbrendt from Ms. Oral E.SellikenAnna Jane Harrison from Mrs. Mary JoFreemanJohn P. Heights from Mr. John A. HeitzJames A. Herrin from Mr. Robert L.VedellCoral Crandall Hodde from Mrs. Kathlyn FlatenRuth Holland from Mr. & Mrs. Bill F.Wright, Mrs. JoAnn LargenJoann Hunt from Dr. & Mrs. E.R. WalkerHELEN JOHANNES FROM MRS.MARIE H. WINKLERPETER C. JOHANNES FROM MRS.MARIE H. WINKLER

Frank Jones from Mrs. Harriet J.WallaceJane Jones from Mrs. Harriet J. WallaceJerry Jones from Mr. & Mrs. Bob GravesW.O. Kellum from Mrs. Evelyn KellumARGIL P. KILLINGSWORTH FROMMRS. DOROTHY R. KILLINGSWORTHW.W. Lee from Mrs. W.W. LeeMAGGIE FROM MRS. MARIE H.WINKLEREdward J. McCarroll from Ms. BeverlyJ. GinochioEdwina McCarroll from Ms. Beverly J.GinochioJohn Julia McMahan from Mrs.Raymond BergstromMr. & Mrs. Richard F. Moll from Mr. &Mrs. John C. NollBarton Moore from Mrs. Elaine Barton Clem Moore from Mrs. Elaine BartonMrs. John F. Moore from Mr. John A.Moore Josephine Murray from Mr. Robert L.VedellLoyd Musick from Mrs. Marjorie Lock-woodNellie Musick from Mrs. Marjorie Lock-woodRussell E. Neiswander from Mr. & Mrs.William H. VinsonLinda Nottle from Mr. Arthur C.Schuchardt, Jr. Marvin Oetting from Mr. & Mrs. DavidE. Sorrell Mary J. Oliver from Ms. Ruth SatchellRay Owen from Mr. & Mrs. F. RussellZartlerDr. Charles Row from Mr. & Mrs. Don E.Baker, Mr. Arthur R. Cahill, Robert &Johnna Welch, Mr. & Mrs. Kevin J. Riley, Ms. Mary H. Leslie, Dr. & Mrs. WilliamKohl, Dr. & Mrs. Rex Mahlman, Mr. &Mrs. Paul McIntire, Ms. Marjorie M. Sevi-er, Mr. & Mrs. James H. McPherson, Jr. Louise Rosado Saunders from Ms.Rosado WisemanJoan W. Sears from Mrs. Nancy W. Avery Mrs. Frances Setser from Mrs. Carole J.JonkerEarle E. Shiner from Mrs. Margaret E.ShinerWayne Sprague from Mrs. Maxine M.SpragueWinnie Teutenberg from Mr. Elmer Van-dergriff Edward S. Thomas, Sr. from Dorothy &Louise MileyKelly Urso from Mr. Robert L. Vedell

Memorial Gifts

A GIFT ANNUITY is a means of providing yourself with a guaranteedincome for life at the same time you provide financial support for College ofthe Ozarks. Many friends of C of O over the years have created Gift Annu-ities which eventually result in a gift to the College as a Memorial to them-selves or friends and relatives that they may designate.In brief, you give C of O a specific sum of cash, securities or other property.In consideration of this gift C of O guarantees to pay you a fixed annualincome for life. This income is based on the amount of your gift and your age(ages) at the time the gift was made. If you are considering a survivor bene-ficiary or a two-life gift annuity the income is based on the information forboth lives. At the time of your death the principal of your gift is used in sup-port of our program here at Point Lookout.The Gift Annuity offers many advantages as a way to make a contribution.It insures a guaranteed, fixed annual income for life, and in the year youmake your gift a large percent is deductible from your Federal Income TaxReturn as a charitable contribution. If the deduction exceeds the amountallowed by law in any one year, you may apply the deduction over a periodof as many as five years. In addition, a large portion of your annual incomefrom the annuity paid to you by C of O will be tax free. It frees you of anymanagement or investment worries, and you will have the satisfaction ofknowing that you have contributed to the education of young men andwomen who otherwise could not aspire to a college degree.

SPRING 2003 15

Vernon L. Valentine from Mr. Robert L.VedellCaptain Robert Van Der Maaten fromMrs. Robert Van Der MaatenMR. & MRS. WILLIAM A. VINTONFROM MR. WALTER H. VINTONCalla Wandling from Ms. Nelle F. ZieboldMr. & Mrs. Arthur A. Wetherill fromMrs. Kathryn McPheeDr. Beulah Winfrey from Mr. William E.HessMAYER L. WINKLER FROM MRS.MARIE H. WINKLERRolly Wood from Mrs. Myrtle L. WoodJean Wyatt from Mr. J. Brian WyattArt Yehlen from Mr. & Mrs. William G.KnopfStella Yehlen from Mr. & Mrs. William G.Knopf

DECEMBER HONOR SCROLLS Miss Lamar Louise Curry from Mrs.Blanche Blackwell Ballew and HelenBlackwellMiss Lamar Louise Curry’s 96thBirthday from Mr. & Mrs. Richard J.Feinstein, Mrs. Jean P. SomanTim & Barbara Grasseschi from Mr. &Mrs. Chuck Easdon Harvey & Sherri Gysbers from Mr. &Mrs. Paul J. GysbersDr. Roy Johnson from Mr. & Mrs.Francis C. Rockey, Jr. JAMES P. KEETER FROM MR. & MRS.W. JERRY TIDWELLDr. & Mrs. Richard Killough from Mrs.E. S. HickmanAlvena Kurrelmeyer from Dan & LeonaKurrelmeyer, Lyle & Marilyn Frisbee,Kelvin & Kathy Kurrelmeyer, Richard &Janet HallBill & Joan McCarthy from Mr. & Mrs.Chuck EasdonMr. & Mrs. Dixon Moseley from Mrs.Jane HaderJane Moseley from Mrs. Jane Hader Judi Naeter from Mr. & Mrs. GeorgeOnnybeckerMr. & Mrs. Stuart L. Pierson from Mr.& Mrs. Harry O. MuellerCarl Schiffman from Mr. & Mrs. JimSchiffmanDr. George A. Schumacher from Mrs.Jane HaderEleanor Blue Smith from Mrs. JackieSmith Cockrell Mr. & Mrs. Jim Smith from Ms. Hilda W.MoellerDr. & Mrs. A. P. Soldanels from Mrs.Jane HaderJackie Soldanels from Mrs. Jane HaderCharles B. Wright from Mr. Michael F.Mullins

JANUARY MEMORIAL SCROLLSDoris C. Braisted from Ms. Margaret G.Porter, Ms. Margaret N. LanktonMarian L. Brostrom from Mr. Donald

BrostromG. WARREN BURNS FROM MR. &MRS. CONRAD MARTINMrs. Joan Chambers from Mr. Robert L.BenningJudy Chickering from Dr. George E.KiserJoan Dowell from Mr. & Mrs. Neil S.EwingTom Edmondson from Mrs. Marilyn A.MadduxReverend & Mrs. R. W. Furkin from Mr.& Mrs. Harold E. DavisMr. & Mrs. Henry Griffith from Mr. &Mrs. Myron J. GoldsworthyJack Griffith from Mr. & Mrs. Myron J.GoldsworthyKen Griffith from Mr. & Mrs. Myron J.GoldsworthyVALARIE GRAY GRUBS FROM MR. &MRS. CONRAD MARTINCoral Crandall Hodde from Mrs. Kath-lyn FlatenWilliam “Buddy” Leonard from Mr. &Mrs. Conrad MartinCalvin C. Massey from Mrs. BettyMasseyCalvin F. Massey from Mrs. BettyMasseyGertrude C. Massey from Mrs. BettyMasseyVictor Glen McBride from McNairyCounty Farm BureauRobert Mees from Mrs. Leola J. Thom-senClaire Truett from Miss Josephine H.SpiveyTHOMAS “DUTCH” WEEMS FROMMR. & MRS. CONRAD MARTIN LUCILLE WILSON FROM MR. & MRS.CONRAD MARTIN

JANUARY HONOR SCROLLSJudi Harris from Mrs. Rosemary Nobles

FEBRUARY MEMORIAL SCROLLSThea A. Anderson from Mr. Oscar O.AndersonDoris C. Braisted from Ms. MaryEleanor Pratt, Mr. Don F. Hogue, Mrs.Linda Suchman, Ms. Elizabeth McCauleyLarry Carman from Dr. & Mrs. E. R.WalkerDorothy DeMiller from Mr. KarlDeMillerMarguerite A. Garrity from Mr. & Mrs.Jack DrydenEdith Gittinger from Koch Hydrocarbon,LP, Dr. & Mrs. P. B. Pattison, Mrs. Irene S.Lewis, Mr. Arthur R. Cahill, Drs. Michael& Camille Howell, Mr. & Mrs. EugeneYoungblood, Dr. & Mrs. Paul Slicer, Mr. &Mrs. Donald G. Perkins, Mr. & Mrs. Her-bert Kieth, Mr. Curtis F. Metzler, Mr. &Mrs. Scott Mier, Presbyterian Women ofWilliams Chapel, Dr. & Mrs. CourtneyFurman, Robert & Johnna WelchEDITH GITTINGER FROM DR.

LEONARD B. GITTINGER, JR. Margaret Hardy from Dorothy Miley,Louise Miley Coral Crandall Hodde from KathlynFlatenOliver H. Myers from Ms. Mary M.GillilandMary Louise Pearson from Drs. Michael& Camille HowellHarold Reed from Mr. William J.Timmons, Ms. Ruth M. Jones, Mr. & Mrs.John G. Hillenbrand, Mrs. Frances L.Hutter, Mr. & Mrs. David A. Breece, Ms.Sue Smith, Mr. & Mrs. H. Ross Coleman,Mr. & Mrs. Robert H. McKee, Mr. & Mrs.Vernon Lockwood, Mr. George F. Brown,Mr. Charles H. Roach, Mr. & Mrs. Wade P.Shindlebower, Mr. & Mrs. Frank D.Kramer, Ms. Jackie S. Eli, Mr. & Mrs.John Allen Ivy, Mr. & Mrs. James Q.Houston, The Village Green Men’s Club,Mr. & Mrs. Fritz E. Brady, Ms. DorothyM. Glessner, Village Green HomeownersAssociation Board, Mr. & Mrs. Karl Hal-wes, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Elpers, Ora &Catherine Williams, Mr. & Mrs. Robert D.Halstead, Mr. & Mrs. Arnold Geiselman,Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Blackard, Mr. & Mrs.Kent Butler, Mr. & Mrs. Doyle W. Oursler,Ms. Lucille LowenkampFrances Rice from Ms. Mary EllenMealiff, Loreta Wynne, Robert & SueWynne, Mabel Cervenka, Jeff & KathyBuckman, Heather Buckman, JessicaBuckman, Ethan Buckman, Tanner Buck-man, Chuck & Martha Wood, Jim & Deb-orah Heavner, Kim Wiggans, Judy Clark,R. Phillips, Ms. Joann Wood, Mr. & Mrs.Wayne Hackman, Mr. & Mrs. TerryEchternacht, Mr. & Mrs. Ronnie Hayes,Mr. & Mrs. Glenn DeMoss, Mr. & Mrs.Ernest Mealiff, Mr. & Tony Killen, Mr.Glen Bixenmann, Ms. Gladys Larrick, Mr.& Mrs. Kevin Blew, Mr. & Mrs. DavidHayes, Mr. & Mrs. Bob Smith, Mr. & Mrs.Craig DeMoss, Ms. Janice Rice, Mr.Richard L. Kemp, Mr. & Mrs. John H. Lar-rrick, Ms. Vena Gregory, Mr. & Mrs. GaryDeMoss, Mr. & Mrs. Clay L. Foster, Ms.Carol L. Walker, Ms. Dolares White, Mr.& Mrs. Keith Killen, Mr. & Mrs. LloydTimbrook, Ms. Dorothy VanWinkle, Mr. &Mrs. Rod VanWinkle & familyMildred Roden from Noralee Faulkner,Elk Horn Prairie Chapter DARDr. Charles Row from Mr. & Mrs. BobStimsonMarion E. Russell from Mrs. AlanEckhartLaura Sodowsky from Elk Horn PrairieChapter DARMarian Stokes from Dan Stokes, RhodaFairchild Chapter DAR

NAMES IN CAPITAL LETTERS REP-RESENT GIFTS OF $1,000 OR MORE.

16 THE OZARK VISITOR

College of the Ozarks®

P.O. Box 17Point Lookout Missouri 65726

Incorporated in 1906 as The School of the Ozarks

Periodicals Postage Paid www.cofo.edu

The C of O Press is busy filling orders of programsand other promotional materials. The Press often workslate nights on short deadlines to complete tournamentprograms on time. Sometimes it is not known who orwhat to print in the programs until five days before theevent due to the timing of some of the other conferencetournaments.

The Bonner Community Service Program even helpsout during the national tournament. “We are responsiblefor taking tickets and making sure that everyone whocomes through the front doors has a ticket,” said JerriArnold-Cook, Bonner Community Service director.

The Student Alumni Association is responsible foracting as the team hosts during the week. The membersof SAA make sure the locker rooms are cleaned for eachteam. They also sit behind the teams during the games incase they happen to need anything. SAA is also respon-sible for manning the souvenir stands.

Area schools support the NAIA National Tourna-ment in many ways. Many of the participating teamscannot afford to bring their pep bands, so C of O hasenlisted the services of local pep bands to play through-out the tournament.

This year, College of the Ozarks and the NAIAteamed up to sponsor the first ever “Champions of Char-acter” Essay Contest. The NAIA’s Champions of Charac-ter initiative focuses on creating an environment inwhich every NAIA student-athlete, coach, official andspectator is committed to the true spirit of competitionthrough respect, integrity, responsibility, servant leader-ship and sportsmanship.

Area schools are always invited to bring their fourth,fifth and sixth graders to the tournament free of charge.For the first time this year, however, Ozark MountainBank sponsored an essay contest for students attendingthe tournament. Students were encouraged to put intowriting their thoughts about character and sportsman-ship.

One winner was selected from each grade level fromevery school that participated. Each winner was award-ed a $50 savings bond provided by Ozark MountainBank and their essays were displayed in Keeter Gymna-sium during the tournament.

“The essay contest was a unique way to unite theNAIA’s Champions of Character program with the Col-lege and the youth in our area, said contest coordinator,Dean of Admissions Marci Linson. “We’re pleased to beworking with Ozark Mountain Bank on such a reward-ing project.”

The C of O faculty and administration are also downin the trenches working during the tournament week.Registrar Fran Forman is in charge of getting all theteams checked in and registered; Rodney Arnold, Deanof Development, helps out in the ticket booth; HelenYoungblood, Director of Alumni Affairs, is in charge ofsouvenir sales; and Gabe Miller from the Computer Cen-ter organizes ticket sales and any other computer issuesassociated with the tournament.

For months beforehand, the C of O communityworks hard to put the finishing touches on the NationalTournament. By the time the championship ends, stu-dents, faculty and staff are definitely ready for a much-needed Spring Break.

Staffer Janet Miller at the console of the computerizedscoreboard that encourages spectators to get fired up forthe game, as well as presenting scores and statistics.

TODAY’S TOP STORY continued from page 3