By Jacob Greene The swim team for Simpson University competed in the Logger Invitational at the University of Pudget Sound from Dec. 1-3. The team had a successful meet. Four swimmers set multiple PRs (personal records). Junior, Liam Schroeder had a huge meet. He set 2 personal records with 4 season bests. In the 200-yard fly, Schroeder’s time was 2:11.80 (in prelims). In the finals, it was 2:11.68. Which improved his previous time by 6.98 seconds. “I feel like everyone did really well. Everyone was rested. Everyone was suited up. Everyone put their best in it,” Schroeder said. A big part of the team's success is Coach Logan Friesen. “With the change in coach over the past year, it really showed how well his coaching style works for us–it’s great,” Schroeder said. Sophomore, Alannah Lucin set a new personal record in 4 events. Her biggest time difference was in the 100-yard fly, beating her time by 3.48. Lucin’s second-biggest improvement was in the 50-yard fly with a 2.5-second difference. Freshman, Teo Barthelemy set 4 personal records. His biggest time difference was in the 100-yard breaststroke with a 1.69-second improvement. One of his other personal records was in the 50-yard breaststroke with a final time of 27.44 seconds–improving his time by 1.48 seconds. Cloe Barthelemy broke two school records in the women's 100 butterfly (101.87) and backstroke event (1:04.37). She made the National provisional cut in the women's 100 freestyle. She is ranked 61st in the nation in the 100 butterfly, 42nd  in the nation in the 100 freestyle, and 35th for the 50 freestyle (All according to the SU Athletic page). On Dec. 8–less than a week later–Simpson had their first “home meet” ever.  The meet was vs. Shasta Community College at Shasta’s Redding campus. It was a scrimmage, not an official meet. Head coach Logan Friesen offered his thoughts on the scrimmage. “It just kinda gauges what we can work on for February,” Friesen said. There is a lot to look forward to going into the second half of the season. “We had a great midseason meet. It was good to see where everybody is at going into the second half of the semester. We got a couple of weeks coming up, just some rest before we get back into some hard training in January. Then we’ll be back on the grind,” Friesen said. There were positive takeaways from the scrimmage. “I think everyone did pretty well. Doing every single event took a toll. But you know, it was fun, a lot of fast swims. Just an all-around good time,” Schroeder said. The whole team did well, given the circumstances. “Even though we’re all tired and finals is like taking a massive mental toll getting in the water, swimming is always fun to do–just to relax and take like a mental break from school,” Schroeder said, “[And] just to see where you’re at post-midseason.” The team’s next meet is Jan. 6 in Santa Barbara at Westmont College.

By Ruby Churchill Questions were answered and cookies were eaten at the Fireside Chat. On Nov. 8, 2023, students gathered in the Student Union to have their questions about housing, faith, parking, and more answered by President Norman Hall. There were also plenty of cookies with accompanying drinks from the Bean Scene to enjoy. The Student Union was enveloped in the aroma of coffee. Students engaged in animated conversations as Hall and others settled onto couches positioned on the stage. I was curious to know why students were there. Three said they wanted to socialize. Six had been enticed by the cookies. Hall may be the president, but he’s married to the baker, Alison Hall. As the night commenced, students took their seats. Hall shared updates on sports. He expressed optimism about the teams' future endeavors. Exciting changes at Simpson were also unveiled, including potential additions like women’s flag football, an aviation major, and a new engineering building. “Engineering went from 2 or 3 majors to 22 majors. We've raised 6 million dollars, committed 3 million in the bank for our business engineering building,” Hall said, as he circulated plans for the building around the room. The floor then opened to questions. A student brought attention to concerns with spiritual matters. “So, you spoke a lot about the cool athletic and academic improvements we’re making on campus, I’m just curious to know if there’s anything new we’re looking at for improving the spiritual nature on campus?” Dr. Hall nodded in thought, acknowledging the importance of the question. “The strategic plan calls for a definite increase in mission and outreach…our goal has been that every team on campus go on a mission trip every other year. That’s a massive change agent for a small Christian college,” Hall said. Sitting next to Hall was the Dean of Students, Mark Endraske, who also had things to say. “I have been really happy with the spiritual formation office this year, especially in the space of chapel and worship,” Endraske said. Then a request for more water fountains on campus came forward, with Hall concurring that they were a priority, but also outlining some caveats. “Those were far more expensive than I anticipated because there wasn’t water fountains there already, so now you’re talking about bringing a pipe through the wall…They’re looking at now these things that you plug into the water in the kitchens, and it can give you filtered water, or filtered hot water,” Hall said. Another student mentioned issues about Simpson’s housing policies. “I’ve been a student here for 4 years…I have a concern that Simpson is not upholding its commitment to being Christ-centered. In the case of housing, contracts with Bethel and Cal Fire, I feel like Simpson is placing a higher importance on making money before housing and provisions for its own students, Simpson students…Because of Simpson’s recent choices, I feel like I am not a part of the Christian community here. When I voiced this concern to a member of the Res Life faculty, I was cut off and [they] said, ‘Don’t give me that. You know we are a business.’” Hall listened attentively and addressed the statement. “Housing for a private Christian liberal arts institution is unquestionably about philosophy and finance…research shows very clearly that students who live in housing are more satisfied, succeed academically, persist longer, and graduate at a higher level when they live on campus in the community. So, we want students to live on campus…I haven't known until now of any concern about Cal fire people misbehaving,” Hall said. Hall also expressed concern that the student did not feel valued as a person and apologized for that. He asked the student how his response was, and she replied that it was a good start, but she wanted a follow-up. Student President Brandon Hall was called upon to address parking. He explained the issue and the complaints while acknowledging that they are not unique—many college campuses have parking that could be better. Dr. Hall also added his own observations of the situation. “You have to be careful what you want to legislate, because if this goes much further it becomes assigned parking, then the people that don’t go into their assigned parking, they get fines, and then all of a sudden we become this police state on parking. So, I would urge you guys to study this as a student group, student leadership, and come back and tell me if there is a problem,” Hall said. Many other topics were discussed, including healthcare, trainers on campus, reusable boxes in the cafeteria, and issues with the weight room. The night concluded with an announcement about the Student Satisfaction Inventory survey, offering students a platform to voice their opinions until December. The Fireside Chat not only addressed pressing issues but also nurtured a sense of community, transcending the confines of the Student Union.

OPINION By Jacob Greene PARKING Simpson University and William Jessup University are compared often. They both are private Christian universities with a smaller student body. Jessup’s undergraduate enrollment (as of fall 2022) is 1,169 according to usnews.com. That same site has Simpson’s undergraduate enrollment amount (as of fall 2022) at 729. Of the enrolled students 37% of Jessup students live on campus while 65% of Simpson students live on campus. According to those statistics 432.53 Jessup students live on campus and 473.85 Simpson students live on campus. Image: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Jessup+University/ These figures show the parking lot distance from the dorms. If the problem is that there is not enough parking–students are mistaken. Even with commuters, staff, and visitors, there are still open spots. If the Science and Nursing building (approx. XX feet away from living areas) is too far then you should go to school online so you do not have to walk to and from things. Jessup is 126 acres while Simpson is only 92 acres. MEMES A meme account was created on Instagram to poke fun at the bad parking here. The first post was on Oct. 3. Whoever runs the account is anonymous, there are no names attached to it. Right around the time the meme page was created a petition was submitted to ASBSU President Brandon Hall and Vice President Jacob Vincent. A student made the petition, it was signed by many. Vincent told me what the “parking situation” is according to the current ASBSU administration. “Parking is a difficult issue, the petition got turned in to us. We talked about it with people who are involved,” Vincent said. “The difficult thing is that there’s a lot of people involved in these decisions. You can’t just like push something through because there’s problems that need to be solved before you can solve other problems. The root of the issue is different than people realize. “The main problem as we talk to the people involved in it–we’ve realized–is that we need to start doing a better job of registering vehicles and being able to keep account of what vehicles are in our parking lot,” Vincent said, “While we do the parking passes, not everybody actually gets those, and we don’t have a very strict policy on what happens with that as of the moment.” LEGISLATION Dr. Hall’s fireside chat got a little heated at some points. One of Dr. Hall’s best responses was to the parking concern. The Slate’s brief quoted Dr. Hall who said, “You have to be careful what you want to legislate, because if this goes much further it becomes assigned parking, then the people that don’t go into their assigned parking, they get fines, and then all of a sudden we become this police state on parking. So, I would urge you guys to study this as a student group, student leadership, and come back and tell me if there is a problem.” The Slate published a summary of the event. Some highlights included a student who said, “I’ve been a student here for 4 years…I have a concern that Simpson is not upholding its commitment to being Christ-centered.” True or not–it is bold. That is the beauty of these fireside chats. Dr. Hall wants students to ask questions like this. This is not a Dr. Hall show and tell. This is for students to bring their concerns forward to the administration. It is also for students to ask questions or bring concerns directly to administrators. When the student size increases abruptly housing will be more difficult than before–it’s math. Drinking fountains–for filtered water–were another item brought up at the fireside chat. This is a recurring topic because students do not have easy access to fresh drinking water–they have to walk to the cafeteria or Owens Center. Water bottles do not fit under sinks in the dorms. The other option is to use the tap water in the kitchen [of the dorms] which is not filtered. Thompson kitchen: First floor Irwin kitchen: First floor Morgan kitchen: Second floor Currie kitchen: Second floor Cooper kitchen: Filled with BSSM students, second floor UPGRADES Additions are nothing new for Simpson. They are constantly adding new things—that is never the complaint. The standard gripe is that there are things that need fixing or could be better, but instead that money goes to something new, such as a sports team, sports bubble, or engineering building. It took an entire football program to get the weight room expanded, but even that is not finished yet. A wall got taken out so there is more floor space, but no additional equipment. LOOKING AHEAD I am all for looking ahead. I am a college student–I have been looking ahead. Not only looking ahead but planning, dreaming, and praying about what is ahead. I have to do something with my degree. I need to think about what that is now so when I graduate I know what steps to take next. The same thing goes for other things in life. You think ahead. You plan. But, you also need to take into consideration the things in your current situation that need fixing. Rome may not have been built in a day, but it had to be maintained and upgraded. Of all the things that need to be upgraded or fixed—I do not think parking is at the top of that list. I am not blind, the lines are crooked, and the parking lot layout is not the most efficient, but so far it works. There are more pressing matters to attend to. SOLUTIONS A solution I can offer is to deal with it. We live on a small campus, it is not far. Assigned parking, freshman not having cars, or “adding another parking lot” as if it is that easy to do. There is no place to expand parking or add another lot. The “overflow parking” areas are by the science and nursing building or the gym. To reiterate, it is not that there is not enough parking. It is that students are going to find something to complain about. A couple hundred more feet will not kill you–no matter how sore or tired you are. If your legs are sore from walking, talk to someone from Jessup or UC Davis, where they have to walk farther, much farther. UC Davis does not even allow freshmen to have cars. Take notes from them–invest in a bicycle or scooter. I suppose if you are really sore it could be motorized.

Photo from Simpson University Website By Jacob Greene Facilities at Simpson University need to be improved before adding new programs and buildings to the campus. Simpson University has 18 sports teams, plus 3 co-ed, which includes a club team. Out of these teams [Men and Women’s] soccer, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, swimming, track and field, and cross country–at some point–must travel off campus for practice and “home” games. OFF CAMPUS CULTURE The Men’s and Women’s soccer teams switch every week between using the Simpson soccer field and the Redding Soccer Park. “If I have to go to class and we’re practicing at the soccer park, I have class at 6 [p.m.] so I am usually 15-20 minutes late to class,” Sophomore soccer player Christian Valdez said. ASBSU Freshman representative and swimmer Lana Lucin said that the swim team practices 6 days a week. This means each member must travel off campus 6 times a week for practice. Some teammates choose to carpool to practice to save gas and money. But not all students have access to vehicles. “It’s just inconvenient–it kinda sucks. If it was here, it’d just be easier. Even though it’s just a 10-minute drive,” said Lucin who does not have access to a car, “It's still just an inconvenience because that 10 minutes could be used studying or finishing up the last sentence or two on homework.” FOOTBALL Football would be the same. Practice would have to be off campus. Games too. Simpson added a “football team” that it plans to start by the Fall of ‘23. This is in addition to a competitive cheer team. However, there are major things that need to be done on campus beforehand. The plan is to change the soccer field on campus to a turf field. This allows it to be multi-functional for soccer and football. “With turf, the ball moves a lot faster. But, when you’re sliding to make a tackle you always get scraped up on your legs on turf. Personally, I prefer to play on grass. When you slide you don’t get all scabbed up and bloody–it slices you up really good,” Valdez said. Many players—football with 60 plus and soccer with 30 plus—on any turf have the potential to thrash a field. “Football players, they will beat the crap out of the field,” Valdez said, “That’s a lot of kids out there. There’s probably gonna be 40-50 and you know if they’re pushing those [push sleds] on our field. It’s gonna mess up the field.” According to nrpa.org, “Brigham Young University found that ‘The surface temperature of the synthetic turf was 37° F higher than asphalt and 86.5° F hotter than natural turf.’ And, as neuroscientist Kathleen Michels points out: ‘Any temperature over 120° F can cause skin burns with skin contact in two seconds.’” Valdez, [from Madera, California] agreed. “I heard someone say it’s up to 15 degrees hotter on a turf field,” Valdez said, “You’re just standing there, running around sweating profusely more than usual. Which sucks.” THE WEIGHT ROOM It is not just the fields, it is the weight room, too. The weight room at Simpson is small. It has a few machines, 2 sets of free weights, 1 treadmill, and 5 squat and bench racks. This cozy shoe-box-size weight room is not large enough for Simpson, even before a football team, which could bring in as many as 60 players the first year. According to the Shasta Community College website, their football team has 87 players, including 2 reserves. Valdez works out 5-6 times a week. Due to the small size of the gym on campus, Valdez must travel to an off-campus gym if the Simpson gym is full. “Sometimes I want to focus on specific muscles,” Valdez said, “Machines are the best for that. There’s one treadmill in there. I’ve seen the line be as big as 4 people to get on the treadmill.” Most athletic teams have time reserved throughout the week. Baseball, a team of about 60 players, has two groups that do weights throughout the week. Senior baseball player Eric Winchester said, “Monday, Wednesday, and Friday the pitchers use the weight room from 5-6 p.m.” “We [position players] lift every morning Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 7-8, there is a second group that lifts Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-7 a.m.” senior baseball player Jared Gibbs said (via text message). HOME BUT AWAY And then there is the matter of “home” games. The current plan is to play home games at a local high school. Not all students can travel and go to games off-campus. Last year, when baseball and soccer played off campus, there were about 50 fans for each game off campus. Women’s and Men’s soccer, volleyball, golf, swimming, wrestling, track, and field, as well as cross country occasionally must travel off campus for practices, but also for games. Last season, the Simpson Baseball team had to play games at Tiger Field–a 13-minute drive time and approximately 7 miles away, according to Google Maps. The soccer teams also play a lot of their games off campus at the Redding Soccer Park. “There’s parents that take their kids to play with their youth teams. A lot of them will stop to watch games. Which is actually super cool for the kids to see a college program,” Valdez said. CURRENT PROJECTS The planned engineering/technology and business center will be a great addition to the campus. The 2-story building—with an auditorium—will be built where the 2 modular classrooms were–next to Grubbs Learning Center. According to bestcolleges.com, “The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects engineering occupations to grow 6% between 2020 and 2030. The roughly 146,000 new jobs created in the field over the next 10 years will include positions for professionals specializing in infrastructure, robotics, and renewable energy.” Another on-campus project is the globe in front of Owen’s Center. It is supposed to spin. However, due to a plumbing issue, it does not. “We hope to have it installed and running by August ‘23, the project is a little over $100K,” Director of Operations, Paul Davis said via email. The Simpson globe represents our motto, “Gateway to World Service.” The baseball field is also under construction. Workers are currently working on the baseball field. Crews have been working on the Red Hawk’s baseball field for over a year. Just this week, the lights and scoreboard went up. Next, a fence and dugout roofs need to be added. ANTICIPATED PROJECTS Another addition is the sports bubble. That will be built where the outdoor basketball courts are currently. Air Structures American Technologies Incorporated (ASATI) is one of the top companies that make these sports domes. The ASATI website explains how these structures work; “This unique safety network of vinyl-coated cables can withstand the most severe environmental conditions, while the air-tight anchorage system provides even greater stability. Angle bars anchor the cable net and the structure envelope.” This bubble will contain 3 basketball/volleyball courts. Additionally, it will contain a running track and cage for track and field events. Redding in late summer and early fall is hot, with an average temperature of 86 degrees (Fahrenheit) according to weather-us.com. The dome will include a Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. THOUGHTS FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF The bubble is a short-term answer to a long-term problem. We have many sports teams that need a gymnasium for practice. We have a gymnasium. Why not improve it rather than building a projected $10 million sports bubble. I appreciate what Simpson is doing as they look forward to a bright future for all Red Hawks. In terms of the football program, it is hard to build a culture around something that takes place off campus. Football creates an inviting and infectious culture on college campuses. However, with the program taking place off campus—mostly—it is difficult for students to come together and bond over Red Hawk football. But, bring on a marching band. If Simpson were to build a football stadium—since we are going to change the soccer field anyway—why not put that project at the top of the list? If Simpson wants to rise, we should rise as high as possible. We have the capability and determination to reach the highest levels of success in our programs. According to bizjournals.com, the average life span of a sports bubble is 15-20 years. In an article written by Brian Rich of The University of Washington, he talks about the life and building integrity of gymnasiums. These buildings—when built and maintained correctly—are expected to last 200 years. This includes slight renovation when needed. According to costhack.com, it can cost around $900,000 to build the simplest of designs, which would be 4,000 square feet. California Baptist University recently committed $20 million to its athletic facilities. That includes CBU’s Soccer Stadium, baseball and softball fields, Totman and Funk Stadium and new baseball and softball clubhouses. Also under remodel, a CBU Events Center, Van Dyne Gym, and Lancer Aquatics Center according to cbulancers.com. Numbers do not lie. But Simpson dreams. If this university is going to dream, let us all work toward being on the same playing field as these other schools. The regime of Simpson is to build up and innovate. Public or private, NAIA or Division I, Simpson has the capability to get where they are because of what Simpson has always done and what they have always been—Simpson Rising. There are positives and negatives to teams traveling for practices and games. To reach the full potential of Simpson’s facilities, it would be best to improve the current ones before adding new features. Simpson strives to look ahead to the future and plan accordingly for what will come. However, some new projects may be best for the future of Simpson–but not necessarily Simpson currently. The regime of Simpson is always adding new ideas and projects that will further the overall appeal of the university. Simpson should work on improving the current facilities before adding new ones. If we work toward long-term goals, we will succeed eventually. By improving Simpson today, it means that tomorrow will always be a great day to be a Red Hawk.

By Jacob Greene Freshman quarterback leads by example. Kaleb Anderson started playing football at the age of 6. Anderson played for the Tracy Bulldogs. Anderson moved to American Canyon, CA when he was in 3rd grade. The Anderson family wanted to be closer to family. “It’s great, man. Quiet,” said Anderson. Anderson’s even tone and calm demeanor embody the small town. “I actually fish, play video games, and then just any sports, basketball, baseball, whatever–just be outside,” said Anderson. Anderson played varsity track and football. He ran the 100m, 200m, and 400m for track. His 40-yard dash was 4.7 seconds. Anderson's love of football began with his dad. “My dad played in college, my older brother is in college right now playing football,” Anderson said. Anderson’s biggest influence has been his dad. “For sure my dad, he’s taught me the game of football. He’s taught me everything I know–even in life. Whatever I can do to make him and my parents proud,” Anderson said. Anderson looks up to Miami Dolphin quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. “He’s always been criticized a lot. He’s been doubted and right now he’s proving everyone wrong. So I think that correlates to me. Not always being the big man, but being doubted,” Anderson said. Anderson looks up to Tagovailoa for more than his mentality. “At the QB position, he’s very accurate, and I would say that’s what you want in a quarterback. I feel I have that. Just taking completions, not always trying to make the big play. Just asking the right decision and putting your team in the best position to win,” Anderson said. Anderson leads by example, with more than words. “I’m more of a lead-by-example kind of guy. I don’t really talk a lot. I’m not like the one to give speeches or anything, but I always try to do the right thing and keep my teammates on track too,” Anderson said. Anderson had nothing but praise for his teammates–especially the more vocal ones. “Marc gives the best speeches, he’s always up talking–he really grew well in that role,” Anderson said. The excitement in Anderson’s even-toned voice grew as he talked about his team. “I mean the guys we have now–they're great. Some of the best players I've ever been on a team with and ever seen play. We’re also bringing in high-quality guys, transfers, and freshmen,” Anderson said. From a small town of 21,605 Anderson still has big dreams. “Of course like win championships and stuff. But, I would just say be a winning quarterback–like what I said earlier, putting my team in the best position to win, and then following through with winning too. Just being a winner,” Anderson said. A winning mentality begins with coaching. It also begins with the locker room culture. “Coach Daniel is not like any other coach I’ve ever seen, very loving God. Always told the truth. Also, Coach Garrett, [he] was on my visit. It made it comfortable just being someone I can talk to about anything, like not just a coach, but like almost a friend,” Anderson said. An additional factor for Anderson was chapel. It was something he enjoyed about his visit to Simpson University in March of 2023. “There was a little chapel service and then, I liked [it], that’s something I could fit into,” Anderson said. The first taste of football on campus was a showcase on Oct. 21. After the showcase, Anderson talked about how he felt moving ahead with the team. “To play with my teammates one last time this year was good. Defense kinda got us right now, but we’ll work on it.” Anderson also gave credit to the great defense they played during the showcase. “It’s a great thing, you know. It makes the offense better every day we go up against them and then in the game, we know they’ve always got our backs. Despite their good defense, Anderson displayed his veteran-like poise. “I could’ve done better, there’s definitely things to improve on for me–but that goes for everyone. I’m not worried about that we’ll get to work in spring and everything, so we’ll be back.” Anderson emphasized–yet again–how much his family means to him. “Every time I see them it makes me happy they come down 3 hours, you know–that's not an easy drive so every time I get to see them I’m thankful,” Anderson said. That is special.

By Ruby Churchill Financial aid plays a crucial role in your college journey. College is a thrilling period of self-discovery. It also involves navigating the complex world of student finances. Fortunately, higher education offers an exhilarating adventure in the form of financial aid. Like a treasure hunter, you will embark on a quest to uncover elusive grants and scholarships while staying vigilant to avoid potential scams. The first step in this journey is to engage in a patience-building exercise called the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). In addition to providing financial information, you must submit essential documents like tax returns. There are online resources within the application to guide you through the process. According to savingforcollege.com, there are new changes coming to the FAFSA for the 2024-2025 school year. The form will have less questions. The date the application opens is also delayed. “The 2024-2025 FAFSA will become available in December 2023 instead of on October 1, 2023. The FAFSA is expected to return to an October 1 start date with the 2025-2026 FAFSA.” The FAFSA can seem like a large task to complete. However, Senior Michael Bray regards filling it out as a worthy undertaking. “The FAFSA process is done in a manner that makes it simplistic for almost any individual that wants to do that process. And it also works in the favor of individuals in any background or situation to give them the best access to as many benefits as possible,” Bray said. With the FAFSA successfully completed, it is time to embark on the legendary quest for scholarships and grants. Financial aid can be found for everyone from left-handed, red-haired, accordion players to those who have a passion for collecting gum wrappers. SU has several scholarships and grants available for students. Upon completing the FAFSA, you become eligible for grants like the Pell Grant. State Grants include the Cal Grant, which requires maintaining a minimum GPA. Another is the Chaffee Grant for individuals who have been in foster care. You can find information on these grants at the California Student Aid Commission website. Additionally, various private scholarships await. For instance, nitrocollege.com offers a variety of drawings that are simple to enter. Simpson University also has institutional scholarships like the NorCal Promise, Mosaic, Legacy Alliance Scholarship, as well as ones for sports or music. If none of these apply to you, fear not, for the treasure hunt is far from over. These grants are just a fraction of the vast resources available. For more information on financial aid, consider visiting Simpson University’s financial aid website. You can explore other scholarship opportunities at scholarships.com or fastweb.com. After you have hunted down scholarships, consider student loans—cautiously. While they promise knowledge and opportunity, they can lead to a lifetime of debt that rivals a Shakespearean tragedy. Ensure that you understand them clearly before taking them on. Another option for financial aid in college is the work-study program. Some fortunate individuals are able to have a part-time job, with earnings going toward tuition expenses. Remember, the financial aid office is available to help. Freshman Nathan Palacioz shared that the financial aid advisors provided necessary support. “They helped when we called, they helped us get through whatever it was that we needed help on. Everybody here is super friendly, super nice. They help you get through whatever your situation is,” Palacioz said. The world of college financial aid is much like a treasure hunt. It may require research, but it can be well worth the effort. Thus, don your adventurer's cap, sharpen your wit, and embrace the challenge. May the FAFSA forms be ever in your favor.

By Jewelia Zaragoza Football at Simpson University is in full motion. The newest sports team has added some new spunk to campus. They have competed in 2 scrimmages and a showcase. One against George Fox University and one against Pacific Northwest Christian College. Lebron Thomas is a freshman from Red Bluff, California. He has been playing football for 14 years. Thomas said being a part of the team is very fun. “I think the team is very family-like,” Thomas said. With Simpson being such a small school the team you are a part of becomes your family. “The atmosphere is very competitive. Everyone wants to play at any cost,” Thomas said. Head Coach, Shawn Daniel, put many hours into the recruiting process. He worked at finding some of the best athletes near and far. “The recruiting process was fun, I think. I was ready to ball out and play football. Coaches were very ecstatic.” Thomas expressed. These athletes are putting in their best efforts to play and to get that starting spot. “We’ve been in the lab,” Thomas said. Freshman from Tracy, California, Raymond Corral Jr. has been playing football for 14 years. Corral said that his experience with the whole team has been amazing. “We really became one, not just as a culture but as a unit. [They are a] Very supportive coaching staff and school, somewhat,” Corral Jr. said. The coaches want the best for their players. Simpson University professors, staff, and students want good things to come out of the football program. “[We] not only play but we all want to win,” Corral said. A culture change was bound to happen on campus. Over 60 football players came into the Fall 2023 semester. The culture is going to continue to change. It will grow as our football team and student body does. “[We] want to start something that is going to be here for a long time,” Corral said. The duo expounded on their eagerness to show the talent the team has. “We’re excited and ready to showcase what we’ve been practicing,” both Thomas and Corral said, “[The] team chemistry has been growing.”

By Elizabeth Aleo The Simpson cheer program gets into a new rhythm under Coach Niki Burbank. The cheer team has a diverse group of athletes. Ranging from dance backgrounds to competitive cheer backgrounds. Elisa Heidebrecht is one of the cheerleaders with a competitive dance background. Coach Niki Burbank has many years of coaching experience under her belt. Coach Burbank has many years of cheer and coaching experience. “I started cheering in 5th grade and cheered off and on through high school. I danced before, during, and after my cheer years! I started coaching cheer in 2003 at Leland High School in San Jose, California,” said Burbank via text. Heidebrecht danced most of her life before cheering. “I come from a competitive dance background, which I have done most of my life, but did not actually become involved in cheer until I was recruited my senior year. I was recruited my senior year of high school because of my competitive dance background and started working on skills specific to cheer at that point,” Heidebrecht said via text. Trinity Brown and Valerie Negrete are two of many cheerleaders with competitive cheer backgrounds. Negrete has been involved in competitive cheer most of her life. “I started competitive cheer at 7 years old and have been doing it ever since. I picked this sport because I love the feeling of getting new skills and the adrenaline rush before competing,” Negrete said via text. This year's team is looking way different than last year’s team. Brown, who is a freshman, explains this year’s potential. “The team this year is looking good. It has a lot of potential, and I think we can progress to winning competitions because of the time and hard work we’re giving,” Brown said via text. Heidebrecht compared last year’s team to this year’s team. “We had a challenging start last year for several reasons, but I feel that going through these situations helped bond those of us who returned and created a solid foundation for this year’s team. We definitely have a lot of potential and as we keep working together, I see us constantly growing and becoming stronger,” Heidebrecht said via text. She also expressed how this year’s team is looking. “This year’s team is very special. The dynamic is one that cannot be found on every team, and I think we have a foundation that can take us far,” Heidebrecht said via text. Coach Burbank has some exciting things for the team to look forward to. “I’m looking forward to taking the team to compete for the first time! We’re working hard to make a name for ourselves in the NAIA cheer world. We get to take the competition mat in February for the first time in Simpson history,” Coach Burbank said via text. The cheer schedule is looking busy so far. “We’re cheering for men’s and women’s basketball while preparing to compete. We will also cheer for men’s volleyball which will be new for us this year!” Coach Burbank said via text.

By Bobby Rutledge The Simpson Scholar program is a new program only open to new students who excelled in academics and have a desire to grow in discussion. This program is spearheaded by Dr. Timothy Orr. It was released alongside the football program. The program became balanced in some ways to increase athletics and academics. This program hopes to increase professional discussion. The group also hopes to grow Simpson University leaders who would develop the school environment. Only 12 incoming students were allowed to join this program to maintain an efficient environment this beginning year. As this program grows, the desire is also to provide limited internships for companies who desire a refined candidate. They are also researching “The Six Conversations” by Heather Hollemn in this class. This book discusses different ways to engage in conversations and discussions meaningfully. This program is fresh, it is difficult to determine how this new scholar program will go in the long term. Nevertheless, Simpson Scholars has a promising hope to ignite a set of engagements on campus to grow. These students have an opportunity to grow in conversational skills while interacting with essential Simpson and community members. This group hopes to engage to not just talk about change but actualize change for Simpson. Michael Lee, a Simpson Scholar Student who wanted to speak on how the program has been proceeding. “This program teaches us to think critically, and prepare us for extensive discussion,” Lee said. Freshman Jonas Bramwell, another Simpson Scholar student, highlighted the individual growth of the program. “I think the Simpson Scholars program is a great tool for academically minded individuals who have a desire to better not only themselves but the community and environment they are a part of,” Bramwell said. The Simpson Scholar program is new. It is still working out everything. With this new program, we must wait to see how this new program will progress.

By Jacob Greene Simpson University football is here. Non-athlete, female-only flag football, too. Mark Endraske was appointed the head coach of one team. Athletic Director Rob Harley was the coach for the opposing team. The first practice for Endraske’s team took place on Oct. 17 inside Humphries-Collard at the whiteboard with an overview of the basic rules of football. Next, Endraske explained an 8-man formation on offense, with a 3-man line. Blocking strategies were discussed. “[It’s] Getting in their way not physically moving them,” Endraske said. After, the team did an overview of defense they headed outside. “I want to get a sense of our team,” Endraske said as he assigned positions in formation. He had plays drawn up already. But they were not printed before the practice. Endraske got them into their offense formation. He told each player what to do. As he explained each play–walking through it with each player–the whole team started to find a role that fit them well. After practice ended Morgan Wilson was named tailback, Jewelia Zaragoza was named the starting quarterback. Endraske said both were easy position choices as Zaragoza showed off a strong, accurate arm. Wilson displayed fast acceleration with an ability to get around the offensive line and outrun the defense. Endraske offered his thoughts after the first practice. “I feel like we have the best powderpuff team ever. Jewelia and Morgan are like Allen and Diggs,” Endraske said referring to the duo's chemistry after the first practice. The quarterback offered her thoughts on the team. “It’s pretty cool, all that time with my brothers playing football really paid off,” Zaragoza said. The next 3 days the team repeated most of what they did in their first practice. Endraske slowly added more elements to prepare his team for Friday’s game. He had drawn up several trick plays including a bubble screen, flea flicker, and multiple versions of a reverse. On Oct. 20 at 4 p.m. the first ever Simpson powderpuff football game began. Rob Harley’s team was referred to as the yellow team. Endraske’s team was referred to as the red team. It was a defensive game after yellow’s opening drive. Red would score only once. Zaragoza threw a perfect pass to her younger sister–Jessie Zaragoza–who broke the plane after her reception. The yellow team got another touchdown in the second half—on yet another rushing play. A strategy the red team could not stop consistently. The turning point in the game was an interception by Isabella Balsano in the last 3 minutes of the game. A one-touchdown difference was enough for Harley’s team to win the first inaugural powderpuff football game.

By Jacob Greene The marching band began. Cheers erupted as Simpson University football players were introduced for the first time. As each name was announced, the players waved to the crowd. Smiles all around. Football is finally here. As the marching band picked up the tempo, the public address announcer tried to reach the helicopter pilot. Radio static. Then the crowd heard the incoming chopper. The whirring of the blades became louder as it circled around–dropping in altitude. “Dominique Ruff, will you please make your way to mid-field,” the PA announcer said. A ball is dropped from the helicopter. Ruff caught it–the first reception outside of practice on campus. The wind from the helicopter was as strong and exciting as the crowd present. The Star-Spangled Banner is sung. The crowd erupted again. Unity is present–unwavering. Students, alumni, family, and friends come together for football. A 7 on 7 showcase for the ages. Music played, “Centerfield” by John Fogerty. “Put me in coach I’m ready to play.” The first play was called from the sideline. Perfect pass–reception. Next play. Not so perfect this time, incomplete. The ball snapped again. Post route. Caught. Touchdown–the first one at Simpson University. Horns blew. Signs waved. There was no contact–yet. Long passes. Fast plays. “30-yard line left hash. Inside rush,” Coach Shawn Daniel said. Light contact was now allowed. Even with light contact, there was comradery between the scrimmaging sides. Another play was called. “Ace left ugly.” This play was not up the middle–it’s a quarterback-keeper. “No way you kept it, Dev,” the defense chirped from the sideline. After about 30 plays on the afternoon, the defense came through with an interception. Bring on the cheer squad–it’s halftime. The crowd cheered with every move of the stunt routines. Second half. Full contact. First down drill now. But where are the chains? Horns continued to blow. Coach Daniel kept calling plays. A rushing touchdown for Romeo Clark. Handoff–another rushing play, a huge truck by the tight end. The whole defense piled on top of Julian Nessi and tried to tackle him. The whistle blew. Red zone drill. Coach Daniel shouted above the noise. “Hurry!” As the receiver ran his route, he caught the ball in stride. He was quickly tackled by the 5 players on the defense–a shoe flew off. A helmet came off. The pylon was knocked over. Touchdown. Now the 2-minute drill–the offense with one timeout remaining. They decided not to use it. Move the chains. No huddle. A “hurry-up offense.” An audible was called by the quarterback, Devin Anderson. From the 3-yard line, the last play of the afternoon. The clock was ticking down. “4, 3, 2…,” Coach Daniel says. The ball was snapped–passed. Touchdown, Red Hawks. Friends and family in attendance embraced the players after the game ended. The crowd intermixed with the players as more pictures were taken. Smiles were on everyone’s faces. Chatter increased. Families took pictures with their player as the crowd slowly dispersed.

By Elizabeth Aleo Simpson Graduates find their why working in Student Development. Noah Bryerton said that he is a Graduate student director of events who loves God, people, and Simpson. Kia Flack said that she is the event coordinator who loves people, creativity, hospitality, and nature. David Miller said that he is a Graduate student director of housing and commuters. He also said that he is compassionate and understanding. Bryerton said what his big "why" was. “Good question! I am still figuring this out, but I will say ‘Making Christ known through my actions by being a blessing to other people,” Bryerton said. Miller’s why is centered around making people known at Simpson. “My ‘Why’ is because there are students old and new here at Simpson that feel lost, and I have an opportunity to make their experience here at Simpson a good one no matter how small it may feel some days,” Miller said. Flack has a big why that is centered around loving people and making a better world. “My big ‘why’ would probably be to see and love people for who they are and, to collaborate with each other to make this world a better place,” Flack said. They were then asked why they chose this position and why here at Simpson. “The chance to plan events and create spaces where people can connect and enjoy themselves doing crazy stuff, they wouldn't do anywhere else,” Bryerton said. He fell in love with the campus when he visited 4 years ago. “I had people who I knew would be willing to invest in me and my potential as a person and a leader. We are in a gorgeous part of the U.S. and serve a school that wants to make Jesus known across the world. Sounds pretty dreamy to me,” Bryerton said. Miller, who is familiar with the campus and student life, wants to help students adjust here at Simpson. “I chose to be a grad assistant in student development because I knew that I could help new students adjust to Simpson as I did here. I am very familiar with the campus and area as well as the student life” Miller said. Flack, who has been a part of student leadership, helps find opportunities for connection and growth for students at Simpson. “I chose this position because I loved the team I was joining, and I was excited to help provide fun opportunities for connection and growth for our students. I love Simpson because the staff and faculty are incredibly invested in being a part of students' lives. I was excited to continue to be a part of this culture of investment and care. I have greatly enjoyed working with the CAB team and being a part of their lives as we also put on events for the rest of the student body.” Flack said. Different advice was given to students here at Simpson. “I would encourage students to bring their teammates and classmates to events and get to know different groups. It’s so fun when we are all interconnected and are able to journey the college experience together,” Flack said. Miller had different advice for students. “Get out of your room and explore the campus and area around. If you do not get involved, you will have a hard time growing and experiencing all that Simpson and the world has to offer,” Miller said. Bryerton expressed how important it is to find someone to look up to. “Find someone who is more mature than you or that you look up to and ask them to mentor/disciple you through your time here. This has been so transformational for me!” Bryerton said. Bryerton, who is very well-known on campus, has encouraged students to show up to different events. “I would say choose to just show up at things on campus. Just showing up gives you the opportunity to meet new people (possibly life-long friends or future spouse) while making amazing memories. Once you start showing up to things, you will know more people and feel more known at Simpson,” Bryerton said.