"vocal music" unlver.:;ity enolr sprinklers induct new members A long-time tradition held in the woods for choir members seemed abnormal to some, but the same tradition was known to establish friendships and create memories for incoming members. The choir members took an overnight retreat to Greers Ferry Lake in Heber Springs Sept. 6-7. The upperclassmen slept in the pavilion, while the freshmen and new members slept on the grass. Around 1 a.m., while the students slept soundly, Dr. Arthur Shearin, music department chairman and choir director, turned on the water sprinklers. All of the new members woke up confused and wet and struggled to find dry land. "This outing is always an unusual experience for the new freshman members," Shearin said. Although choir members pulled a few pranks at the beginning of the year, they spent time socializing with each other in other ways as well The choir held an ice cream social, a burger cookout and a trip to the corn maze in Newport, Ark. The group also went Christmas caroling in December. "This is not only a performance group, but a social group as well," Shearin said. The choir helped make and maintain lasting friendships, junior Michelle Shankli,n said. "I feel like I get to know people more personally through choir and get to spend quality time with really great people/' Shanklin said. "I love the long bus rides because the trips force you to get to know one another, sometimes better than you want." The concerts benefited audiences and the choir. " I love singing in a small church setting where the atmosphere is very intimate," junior Colleen Kinsella. Shearin was proud of the talent in the group and the Christ– like attitudes members portrayed. "Watching the members grow, mature and learn the values of hard work are three favorite aspects of my job," Shearin said. "1 like to see the students take responsibility for their actions and be proud of their successes." - Natalie Wade 188 /I organizations Junior Melissa Ward warms up for the Good News Sing– ers' first performance of the year Sept. 26 at the Reynolds Center recital hall. The a cap– pella singing group toured throughout the country and appeared at programs for churches and commun~ies. (Photo by Russell ~eck)
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