Optimist the
a product of the JMC
network
Pg. 8 ACU jumps to No. 4 rank with opening-day win
Wednesday, September 3, 2008 :: Vol. 97, No. 4 :: 1 section, 8 pages :: www.acuoptimist.com
Inside This Issue:
Pg 3
Pg 6
Among the best: ACU ranked high by ‘U.S. News & World Report’
Pg 5
Read the rundown on the presidential nominees’ vice-presidential picks
Seasoned chefs: Three men bring their experience to the grill
Gustav’s strong winds, rains affect some ACU students By Michael Freeman Managing Editor
Although Hurricane Gustav made landfall about 700 miles from Abilene on Monday, the effects of the storm hit close to home for some ACU students. “Baton Rouge probably has more damage than they’ve
really seen from a storm in a couple of decades,” said Shannon Williamson, graduate student in psychology from New Orleans. Hurricane Gustav knocked out power for nearly 1.4 million households, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal said Tuesday. Michelle Guillory, graduate student from Port
Williamson’s father works as a manager for a Louisiana electrical power company. “He had to work all weekend in preparation for the storm,” Williamson said. “And he’ll be working 12hour, maybe 15-hour days for the next few days.” Almost two million people evacuated Louisiana as
Allen, La., is one of those without power. She said she is working on her ACU degree online from home. “I lost power around 11 a.m. [Monday morning],” Guillory said. “We could have a couple of days without power.” The process of restoring power will take some time.
the hurricane approached, according to CNN.com. But many students’ families decided to stay in their homes. However, they will be without groceries, gasoline and water in addition to being without power. “Everybody is closed down,” Guillory said. “Gasoline stations are closed. In
Students ‘Rush’ in
Potential pledges treated to food, fun
fact, a lot of places are completely out of gas. If you didn’t get your gasoline yesterday [Sunday], then you’re out of luck.” As Louisiana officials and residents begin to return to normalcy, Gustav treks northwest. Experts from See
Gustav page 4
Readers relocated, structure of Chapel unchanged By Michael Freeman Managing Editor
By Molly Byrd Page 2 Editor
ACU social clubs are preparing for another semester of pledging by encouraging interested students to register online by 5 p.m. Wednesday, so they can participate in the upcoming activities. An informational meeting Thursday discussed details regarding student eligibility, rushing requirements, the benefits of pledging and financial responsibilities for those who want to participate in the pledging process. In order to be considered for membership in a social club, a student needs to meet four requirements. The student must have completed two full semesters, be enrolled as a full-time student (12 hours for undergraduate, 9 hours for graduate), be a high school graduate from 2007 or earlier and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. Once students have verified they meet all the requirements, they need to go online and register at www. acu.edu/socialclubs before 5 p.m. Wednesday. After completing registration, students also must print out the medical form and pledging contract to turn in Sept. 12 when
Zak Zeinert :: chief photographer Katie Barnard, junior history major from Abilene, and Liz McClellan, sophomore family studies major from Austin, grab some hot dogs at the baseball-themed Sigma Theta Chi rush Monday. Social clubs will sponsor rushes for the next two weeks as an effort to let potential pledges preview their clubs.
acuoptimist.com: Log on to see a video focused on the pledging process, changes to this year’s process and interviews with students considering pledging. they rank clubs. To keep track of the number of rushes attended, students will be given a rush card, which also will need to be returned the day of ranking. “If you register, it does not mean you are required to pledge,” said Mauri Westbrook, director of Student Organizations and Activities. “But if you don’t register on time, you won’t be able to participate in the pledging process because late registration isn’t allowed.” Current club members said in a recent survey that being in a social club gives them a chance to develop deep and
Pledging Dates To Remember n Wednesday : n Sept. 12 : n Sept. 18 : n Sept. 19 :
Register online by 5 p.m. Rank in Living Room of the Campus Center. Bids delivered by social clubs Bid night from late afternoon until 5 a.m.
For more information about pledging a social club visit www.acu.edu/socialclubs
meaningful relationships, encourages them to participate in service opportunities and provides them with a place to feel accepted and loved. Suzanne Langston, Sigma Theta Chi president, said her experiences in a social club have far surpassed her ex-
pectations and she has been blessed beyond measure by the friendship and opportunities she has received by taking part in a club. At the informational meeting, Eric Gentry, Gamma Sigma Phi president, told the audience they might find some-
thing really great in a club they had not expected. His words mirrored those of the Social Club Handbook: choose a club based upon personal decision and not on stereotype. The rush process lasts two weeks, leaving an event-free week before Bid Night. Each student will then rank his or her favorite clubs; potential pledges will be placed in the club in which they receive a bid and is closest to their top ranked. Bids will be delivered Sept. 18. Men receive their bids in their residence halls, See
Rush page 10
Returning students may not notice many changes to Chapel. Not many alterations were made because of the positive feedback from last year’s Chapel program. “The two surveys that we had data from in fall of 2007 and the spring Lewis of 2008 gave us good validation that what was going on in Chapel was a good thing,” said Mark Lewis, assistant dean for Spiritual Life and Chapel Programs. “But everything is always up for evaluation and consideration.” One aspect of Chapel that received evaluation and change during the summer was the card reader program. To aid in the flow of traffic in and out of Chapel, new card readers were installed on the handrails inside Moody Coliseum. The old card readers, which were located at the base of the stairwells entering Moody, were deactivated. Currently, 23 card readers are active, one more than was active last year. “We really want to avoid the
Chapel page 10
See
Rent rises for nearby apartments, houses By Tanner Anderson Page Designer
The dream of off-campus living may seem far away to some, but when the dream becomes reality, students who are looking for new means of shelter may find themselves in a housing predicament. In recent months gas prices were not the only thing on the rise in Abilene — several apartment complexes and houses around campus have been gradually increasing rent prices. And
with the growing student population, it may become more difficult to locate ideal living quarters. “Prices have been going up every three months; I think you’ll find that all over town,” said Riatta Ranch manager Bill Chatham. Riatta Ranch offers an apartment with one bedroom and one bath for around $554. At Riatta, residents can use the complex’s swimming pool, fitness center and volleyball area. According to University
aCU WeatHeR
Park apartment’s Web site, students who live in UP pay between $379 and $696 a month. Students who lived there last year paid $459 for a two-bedroom apartment and $369 for a four-bedroom. These prices don’t include the subsidy price, which is a small portion of the rent that is covered by ACU. The rent includes an electricity allowance, cable TV, high-speed Internet, furniture, water/ sewer and access to all onsite amenities. The Grove, an apartment
complex on Ambler Avenue where several ACU and Hardin Simmons University students live, offers furnished apartments between $470 and $495 a month. Those rates are up from a year ago when students paid between $420-$465 a month. All the apartments at the Grove are fully furnished and include cable television, utilities and $30 a month to help pay students’ electricity bill. “The best thing to do is to See
Rent page 10
More from the
20% Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
High: 83 Low: 66
High: 88 Low: 66
High: 91 Low: 68
JMC
network:
Zak Zeinert :: chief photographer A sign advertises a house for sale on East North 16th Street. Apartment rates and rent at houses around campus have recently gone up.
What do you think about the new Chapel card readers?
Online Poll :
Webcast Log on to www.youtube.com/acuvideo to see Wednesday’s newscast from the JMC Network Newscast staff. This weeks webisode includes stories about changes to Chapel, ACU parking tickets and the pledging process.
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication ::
Abilene Christian University
a. They work great. b. They’re fine. I love waiting in line. c. It is a horrible idea. d. Students should quit whining.
acuoptimist.com ::
Serving the ACU community since 1912
2
ACU Police Tip of the Week
Campus Day Wednesday, September 3, 2008
3
Calendar and Events Wednesday
10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Service Expo in the Campus Center’s Mall Area. Representatives from area agencies will set up displays and be present to talk with students about service opportunities. Contact: Rita Harrell, Ext. 2932 8 p.m. – 10 p.m. Shades try-outs in Gibson Gym.
4
5
Thursday
8 a.m. - 11 p.m. West Texas Fair & Rodeo with exhibits, rodeo, livestock shows and carnival at the Taylor County Expo Center. Call the Expo Center at 677-4376. 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Service Expo in the Campus Center’s Mall Area. Contact: Rita Harrell, Ext. 2932
9 p.m Seekers of the Word try-outs in Biblical Studies Building Room 130.
acuoptimist.com
07
Credited Chapels remaining:
58
student body in service and work to establish relationships with the neighborhoods surrounding the campus. Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5 with interviews to follow from Sept. 8-10.
Corrections /Clarifications In the article titled “Mosier, Headrick remembered for impact at ACU”, which ran Aug. 29, a mistake was made as follows: “Mosier is survived by her husband Bert and brother Charlie; she also
8 a.m. - 11 p.m. West Texas Fair & Rodeo
is survived by two children and two grandchildren.” Bert actually passed away several years ago, and Martha was the last living of her siblings.
Saturday
10:30 a.m. West Texas Fair and Rodeo Parade in downtown Abilene.
7 p.m. “Circle of Laughs” comedy featuring Chonda Pierce at Southern Hills Church of Christ.
7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Connecting Caring Communities Talent Show at the Paramount Theatre. Contact the Office of Multicultural Enrichment.
7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. ACU comedy Moonlight and Magnolia’s in Fulks Theater. Call 674-ARTS (2787) for tickets.
7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. ACU Fall Comedy Moonlight and Magnolia’s
Webcast
Online Newscast
Announcements Applications for SALT, Service Action Leadership Team, are available in the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout. This group of students organizes events throughout the year that engage the
Last day to request C/NC or P/F.
Check out a short newscast on ACU ticketers, changes to Chapel and women’s social club teas this past Sunday.
ChapelCheckup Credited Chapels to date:
6
Friday
Log on to www.youtube.com/ acuvideo to see a video about pledging and a few interviews with current members.
Volunteer Opportunities The Taylor Elementary Chess Club is seeking volunteers to help with the club on Thursday afternoons from 3:15 p.m.-4:15 p.m. Volunteers do not need to know how to play chess. Sanctus Real Concert needs volunteers Sunday, Sept. 14 to help with a variety of tasks from loading vehicles and providing security to selling merchandise anytime during the day from 9:00 a.m. until midnight. The concert will take place at the Paramount Theatre. ACU’s Summit (Lectureship), Sept. 21 – 24, needs volunteers for a variety of jobs. Someone is needed to answer phone call requests for shuttle pick-ups, and 21-year-old drivers are needed to drive 15 passenger vans for the shuttle service (training required through ACU Physical Resourc-
es). Male students are needed to serve communion Sunday evening, volunteers are needed to work the registration tables in Teague Center and baby sitters are needed during the day and evening to assist with child care. The Alzheimer’s Association is seeking volunteers to help in a variety of ways with its annual Alzheimer’s Walk at Nelson Park. The walk takes place Saturday, Sept. 20, and help is needed from 6 a.m. – noon. They also need help on Sept. 18 and 19 to haul tables to the park. Louis Thornton, husband of Lynda Thornton who works in the Applied Studies Department, is hospitalized and has an urgent need for blood. He can receive Type B-positive, B-negative, Opositive or O-negative. If you can
If you walk, jog or bike, use the lighted ACU Lunsford Trail. If possible, always go with a group and carry a cell phone with you.
Police Log Tuesday, Aug. 26 12:55 a.m. Fire alarm at Smith Hall Room 104. 3:07 p.m. Disturbance at the Campus Center with terminated ARAMARK employee. 5:53 p.m. Contacted subjects selling books in the University parking lot, and they were advised to leave and did comply. 6:45 p.m. Contacted students playing football on the soccer field with the “keep off” signs. They moved to another field. 7:35 p.m. Contacted students that had burned a chair at 2400 Madison. The fire was out, and the subjects were warned about the violation. Wednesday, Aug. 27 2:00 a.m. Assisted Abilene PD with traffic stop at E.N. 22nd Street and Cedar Crest. K-9 was called to the scene to check for narcotics; subjects were then released. 5:12 p.m. Assisted subject locating lost dog at 500 E.N. 23rd Street. 10:09 p.m. Report of children playing on the ACU Pond wall; checked and all was OK. Thursday Aug. 28 9:29 a.m. Report of female threatening suicide near library; located and subject was OK. Notified ACU Counseling Center. 11:41 a.m. Student attempting to enter the Bean without paying. Subject advised. donate, please go to the Meek Blood Center, 1150 N. 18th St., and donate in his name. The Volunteer & Service-Learning Center will host a Service Expo on the main floor of the Campus Center on Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 3 and 4. From 10 a.m. to noon representatives from area agencies will be available at their displays to discuss with students various volunteer opportunities. An ESL teacher at Abilene High School needs volunteers to help in her class with one-on-one
7:20 a.m. Assisted elderly subject with changing tire at 2400 N. Judge Ely Blvd. 10:10 p.m. Assisted employee with found property (drugs) off campus; items were brought to the station for disposal. 10:23 p.m. Report of students throwing water balloons from West Campus North parking lot; unable to locate. Friday, Aug. 29 7:00 p.m. Cut lock off of a bicycle at Sikes Hall. 10:25 p.m. Report of a stolen wallet and phone. Saturday, Aug. 30 3:00 a.m. Assisted APD on DUI arrest at College Drive and Avenue D. 11:50 p.m. Loud party outside at 500 E.N. 20th Street; contacted resident and took party inside. Sunday, Aug. 31 3:20 a.m. Report of suspicious vehicle at 800 E.N. 12th Drive; unable to locate. 4:50 p.m. Saw smoke coming from 2400 Rountree Drive; contacted subjects burning wood in the yard and informed them of burn ban. Always report suspicious activity to ACUPD at 674-2305 or 674-2911.
tutoring in core subject areas for non-native speakers of English. This can be done Monday-Friday anytime between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Find out volunteer opportunities by visiting the Volunteer and Service-Learning Web site at www.acu.edu/vslc and clicking on Volunteer Opportunities. For more information or to sign up to help, contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout.
CAMPUS NEWS
September 3, 2008
Page 3
East North 10th construction takes toll on students By Zak Zeinert Chief Photographer
If students are tired of road construction and miles of never-ending cones, they may be out of luck for some time. Students may be displeased to learn road construction on East North 10th Street is only the first of three phases, and the project will continue throughout the year. Cody Marshall, city of Abilene design engineer, said the work is currently in the first of three stages. “It mostly just has to do with drive quality. The pavement is 25 years old and in pretty bad shape. We’re going back and totally reconstructing it so that it will last another 25 years.” Marshall said. Construction started Aug. 4 and stretches from Judge Ely Boulevard to Treadaway.
The first phase is expected to continue for at least two more weeks. The following two phases are expected to last 4-6 weeks and end in early January. The second phase will stretch from Treadaway to Pine Street, and the third will go from Pine Street to Grape Street. The construction is the result of a bond election that was passed by taxpayers in 2006. Taxpayers approved $19 million for construction to be spread out over a fouryear period. A committee was then assembled to review and propose which streets to repair. The project is currently in its third year. Some people, though, have had enough of the endless lines of cones stretching down the road. Tila Beason, an employee at Shell gas station at the intersection of Judge Ely
Boulevard and East North 10th Street, is tired of all the construction. “It’s crazy. I don’t know why they’re doing it at this street. And the timing is bad, right when all the kids are coming back,” Beason said. Andrew Cramer, senior marketing major from Houston, used to take East North 10th Street to work. “Its ridiculous; the cones are so close to your car. I wish they would do it during the summer when no one is here,” Cramer said. Despite this, Marshall said most citizens have responded positively to the construction. “The only drawback is having to deal with traffic, and traffic having to deal with the construction.” Marshall said.
E-mail Zeinert at: zaz05a@acu.edu
Zak Zeinert :: chief photographer Cars drive down East North 10th Street in a single file line; construction on the street began Aug. 4 and will continue for the next few weeks.
ACU honored as ‘Up-and-Coming’ Service Expo begins Wednesday school, rankings bring attention By Colter Hettich Features Editor
By Laura Acuff Opinion Page Editor
U.S. News & World Report stationed ACU in the top tier of its “America’s Best Colleges” rankings list, which hit newsstands in Monday’s issue of the magazine. Statistics including graduation rate, facultystudent ratio and entrance exam scores determine rankings in conjunction with a peer assessment survey. Specifically, ACU tied with Chapman University (Calif.) as the No. 1 “Up-and-Coming” school in the UniversitiesMaster’s western region, placed 21st in quality for the western region and ranked 12th in its region for “Great Schools, Great Prices,” according to an ACU Web site press release. Admissions counselor Krystina Bruner said she appreciates the professional acknowledgement U.S. News & World Report’s attention brings. “I think it really reflects positively on just the efforts
“
It’s everyone on campus; I think the people here are what really make ACU distinctive. :: Krystina Bruner, Admissions counselor.
that we’re putting forth to make ACU a distinctive place and let people know what we’re really about, so I’m really excited that they’re finally giving us credit for the hard work that we put in over the past year,” Bruner said. While the new Mobile Learning Initiative surely played a role in earning ACU’s spot in the national magazine, Bruner said she believes the credit truly belongs to the people behind the technology. “It’s everyone on campus; I think the people here are what really make ACU distinctive,” Bruner said. Jonathon Dobermecki, a prospective student from Georgetown who visited the ACU campus this week for Purple Monday, said he knew about U.S. News & World
”
Report’s rankings, but they would not affect his decision on whether or not he would join the freshman class next fall. Dobermecki’s top priority remains finding a “good Christian college,” and he said he wanted to visit campus to verify firsthand the reputation ACU has both spiritually and academically. “It looks like a really good school here,” Dobermecki said.“I want to see it for myself. That’s why I came here to check it out. [Rankings are] a good thing to have, but I want to experience it myself.”
E-mail Acuff at: lka06a@acu.edu
A handful of service opportunities will surface this Wednesday and Thursday, less than two weeks after the service-themed Opening Day Ceremonies. More than 20 organizations will fill the Campus Center Sep. 3-4 for this year’s Service Expo. California Sen. Jack Scott challenged the opening Chapel crowd to live lives of service. His speech set the tone for what the administration hopes will be a year underlined by service. Nancy Coburn, director of Volunteer and ServiceLearning Center, was pleased with the senator’s charge. She expects his words will draw slightly more student attention to departments like the VSLC.
“Whenever I hear that kind of thing, I get excited; but on the other hand, it never surprises me because that’s just who we are,” Coburn said. “To call a Christian institution to serve just makes sense to me.” Representatives for more than 20 local volunteer and service-based organizations will be available to talk to students in the Campus Center from 10 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. both days. Rita Harrell, VSLC administrative coordinator, explained the Expo’s purpose. “This is a time when we offer to our local agencies and non-profits an opportunity to come, set up a display and visit with students about service opportunities at their locations,” she said. Organizations like Big Brothers, Big Sisters and Habitat for Humanity, both of which
will be present for the Expo, have annually set up displays on campus for 10 years. Other organizations in attendance include Boys & Girls Club of Abilene, Care Inn of Abilene, Communities in School Day Nursery of Abilene, Herald of Truth, March of Dimes, Meals on Wheels, Texas Special Olympics and Young Life. Harrell has noticed a growing trend: professors are requiring service hours for course completion. The Service Expo benefits not only those students looking for required hours, but those just looking to help people. “We also have a lot of students who just want to be involved in serving,” Harrell said. “They’re just looking for a way to give back to the community.” E-mail Hettich at: clh05d@acu.edu
CAMPUS NEWS
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Page 4
Chapel: Readers to be added Continued from page 1 backup as much as possible,” Lewis said. “I’ve noticed consistently that by five minutes after Chapel is concluded, the floor readers are virtually empty. But the ones that still have the longest lines are on either side of Section F. And not that we can commit to get everybody out in five minutes, but it’s a worthy goal,” he said. The Office of Spiritual Life and Student Ministries has been entertaining the idea of adding more card readers in Moody within the next few weeks, Lewis said. Another change the office has considered is forming a Chapel advisory team, which will consist of faculty, staff and student leaders. Once the team is formed, it will meet monthly to discuss themes and problems in Chapel and seek out solutions by taking ACU students’ suggestions
acuoptimist.com Log on to see a video of what students think of the changes to Chapel this year.
and researching other schools’ Chapel programs. “It’s one more way of punctuating the point that Chapel doesn’t belong to this office,” Lewis said. “It belongs to the university. And we want it to be communicated in every way possible, and this is an important part of that.” The number of Chapel credits for this semester will remain the same; about 70 credits will be offered. However, 23 Chapel credits will be available during Summit (Lectureship) from Sept. 21-24. “We wanted to help bring the students back,” said Brady Bryce, director of Ministry
Events. “We want to let them have a voice, and let this be their event in much the same way that Homecoming and Sing Song are student events.” The university will sponsor five Chapel forums, which will start after Summit and throughout the remainder of the semester. Campus Conversations and small group Chapels that were developed last year will also occur this year. The schedule and topics of the forums and Campus Conversations can be viewed on the Spiritual Life tab on the myACU Web site. “Our purpose of Chapel is not just to do Chapel,” Lewis said. “We want it to be purposeful. We want it to bless the students and the faculty and staff that come. We want it to be a part of the bigger effort to form Christ in all of us.”
E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu
Emily Jorgenson :: staff photographer A student slides his card through one of the new card readers in Moody Coliseum Tuesday. The Office of Spiritual Life and Student Ministries plans to install more readers in the next few weeks.
Rushing: Pledging begins soon Rent: Students suggest questions Continued from page 1 but off-campus students pick them up in the Campus Center from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Women meet in Hart Auditorium, where they will each receive a card directing them to the location where they will be introduced to their club. “I can’t wait to round that corner at our location and see our new pledge class,” Langston said. Bid night begins Sept. 19 in the late afternoon and lasts until 5 a.m. Pledges have a long day but must be back in their campus housing no later than 5 a.m. If anytime during Bid Night pledges feel hazing has occurred, they have the responsibility to report it because it is against state laws, Westbrook said. Pledging has two different phases. The first is the initiatory phase, where the activities work on building relationships within each pledge class; the second is the provisional member phase, which focuses on the relationships within the club as a whole. “I like to see how the new guys bond together because our pledging process is difficult,” said Taylor Sturgis, president of Galaxy. “It forces them to lean on each other, and the relationships they end up building last forever.” Pledging is a six-week process, and each club has a 15-hour limit for activities per week. In order to complete the pledging process, all prospective members need to complete a list of requirements that are made by each club. Jon Sharp, sophomore
to ask about off-campus housing
Upcoming RUshes n Men interested in joining a club must attend at least one rush for three of the six clubs. Women interested in joining a club must attend at least one rush for four of the five clubs. Wednesday, Sept. 3 Gamma Sigma Phi 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 665 E.N. 20th St. Lunch Rush Pi Kappa 9 – 10 p.m. Zona Luce grass area Ultimate Frisbee Thursday, Sept. 4 Alpha Kai Omega 8 – 9 p.m. Hart Auditorium Superhero Rush
GATA 9 – 10 p.m. ACU Bowling Alley Ninja Bowling Sigma Theta Chi 7 – 8 p.m. Hart Auditorium Siggie Cinema Sub T-16 9 – 10 p.m. 601 Gill Late Night Wiener Roast Monday, Sept. 8 Sub T-16 6 – 7 p.m. Will Hair Park Gamma Sigma Phi 8 – 9 p.m. 2693 Garfield Ave.
Continued from page 1 start early, ask lots of questions and don’t settle for the first thing that comes your way,” said Hamilton Doty, senior advertising public relations major from Paris. Monthly rent is a question no potential buyer forgets to consider, but other questions to ask concern general bills and the overall efficiency of the house. Several ACU stu-
Frater Sodalis 7 - 8 p.m. Prime Time, 4541 Loop 322
Ko Jo Kai 9 – 10 p.m. World Missions Globe and Hart Auditorium (Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building) To see a complete rush schedule, visit www.acu.edu/social clubs
Galaxy and Ko Jo Kai 6 – 7 p.m. Nelson Park Pavilion
communication major from McKinney, is interested in pledging this semester. “I know some people who are already in club, so I think it’ll be fun even if it is timeconsuming because it’s a good thing to be involved in,” he said. Once prospective members have been inducted into a club, they will be responsible for a certain amount of money toward their dues. The dues pay for different
activities throughout each semester. Other costs include socials, T-shirts and Sing Song. Pledges can talk individually to the club presidents if more information is needed regarding dues. If students have any questions or want more information, they can contact Mauri Westbrook at 674-2069 or e-mail her at socialclubs@acu.edu.
E-mail Byrd at: mab07d@acu.edu
able to cover expenses such as leaky faucets, air conditioning and other necessities that are vital to comfortable living. “If you’re living close to campus, realize that you may have to pay a little more,” said Ben Klein, graduate student in psychology from Fredericksburg, Va. “There’s probably a greater demand for the house if it’s next to campus.” E-mail Anderson at: ts04a@acu.edu
Gustav: Storm soaks Louisiana, stirs up worries about damage Continued from page 1
Delta Theta 5 – 6 p.m. 1917 Cedar Crest
dents who live off campus say it is smart to ask if the house uses lots of electricity during the winter and summer months. Students say those interested in living off campus should ask the landlord, but they could ask the current residents for another opinion. Students say people also should also ask about the pet policy for the building as well as maintenance and yard care policies. Some landlords are
the National Hurricane Center predicted six to twelve inches of rain could fall over Louisiana, northeastern Texas, western Mississippi, Arkansas, southern Missouri and southeast Oklahoma by Thursday. However, the winds have died down since the storm hit Louisiana. “The wind was just insane. We have trees down everywhere,” Guillory said. “I was here for Katrina and Rita, but for whatever reason there is a lot more wind this time around. It’s just very strong.” Many students who are from Louisiana or have family living in the state said they were concerned, especially considering what happened when Hurricane Katrina battered the state in 2005.
“I mean, I was really worried,” said Bonni Wattigney, sophomore graphic design major from Keller. “Because this hurricane, they were predicting that it would hit the West Bank where my family is from.” The hurricane came ashore near Cocodrie, La., about 80 miles from West Bank. West Bank is a metropolitian area in New Orleans, which is on the west side of the Mississippi River. “It can be a really lifethreatening thing, especially while the levees aren’t prepared,” Wattigney said. “If they break and it floods, there is not a lot you can do to escape from rushing water.” The levees in New Or-
leans held strong against Gustav, but some water did spill over parts of New Orleans’ Industrial Canal floodwall Monday, causing minor flooding, according to the Associated Press. Louisiana’s government and people are receiving accolades for their preparation of the hurricane. “Everyone had a plan,” Williamson said. “People were really scared, and because of that they really had to plan. I think that was a good thing. It’s better to be overprepared.”
E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu
September 3, 2008
FocusWednesday
Page 5
Taste the Globe
The Bean’s culinary masterminds have cooked up an array of sensational, international dishes. Story by: Colter Hettich, features editor Anyone who frequents the Bean has heard impromptu singing and laughing from students in line for international cuisine. Ethnic diversity among ACU students has been widely recognized, but not many realize the diversity behind the Bean’s international grill. John Smith, a.k.a. Big John, Willie Pichittanabodeekul and Antjuan Gant man the immensely popular international station. Smith grew up in Louisiana and attended
Louisiana State University. Gant, who proudly claims a Spanish father and African-American mother, hails from St. Louis. Pichittanabodeekul was born to Chinese parents but grew up in Thailand. These three men now serve dishes from a different country everyday. But students need not worry about getting tired of the same old thing — they won’t repeat a dish for eight weeks. Smith has worked at ACU for 10-12 years. He
Photos by: Zak Zeinert, chief photographer has had a passion for food for as long as he can remember. As a child, Smith would look forward to homemade pastries, his mother’s specialty, almost every night. “My mom was more of a pastry chef than anything else, and she made some good stuff,” he said. Smith traveled the country and the world before focusing on his career. He spent more than a year as the cook for rock bands such as Pantera and Kid Rock. After that,
Zak Zeinert :: chief photographer Gant and Pichittanabodeekul work around the new, Mongolian-style grill, while Smith, a.k.a. Big John, prepares the front counter. Smith said “it’s like a circus” when students flood the Bean after Chapel. of
he moved to Hollywood to work. Eventually, Smith ended up working in the Bean’s kitchen. After a confrontation with his superior, ACU and Aramark sent him to New York for professional training. “I attribute everything to ACU helping me way back when and that chef who expected more out of me,” Smith said. He graduated from the Culinary Institute of America, a 2.5-year program. The application process typically takes a full year, but thanks to help from ACU and Aramark, he was accepted in three months. Smith said at the time he attended, the school was considered the WestPoint of culinary schools. In fact, an instructor took his class to the United States Military Academy at WestPoint to show them the level of discipline he expected. That discipline has followed Smith ever since. He keeps a clipboard full of lists at all times and makes certain his crew stays at least three days ahead in preparations. Despite a world-class training, Smith continues to learn from his peers.
“I learn more from a guy like Willie than I could ever learn from a school,” he said. “He’s amazing; he really is.” Willie Pichittanabodeekul started cooking with his mother at the age of 12. “I didn’t have time to play soccer or anything like that,” he said. “I was born in a poor family and I had to help take care of us.” After graduating from Sukhothai University with a B.B.A, Pichittanabodeekul moved to Abilene in 2001 and joined the Bean’s staff. Thanks to new and more available equipment, Pichittanabodeekul can serve students dishes he learned to cook from his mother, like shrimp egg drop soup and egg fu yong. “I knew I wanted to work in a kitchen,” he said. “I like working with these guys ... and [the new station] is great.” The pride and joy of the international station is its Mongolian grill. The circular grill allows all three chefs to cook at the same time and walk 360 degrees around it. Antjuan Gant joined the Bean’s staff 16 years ago after serving time in the military. Gant holds a sautee
Zak Zeinert :: chief photographer Pichittanabodeekul puts together some spicy chicken wraps for lunch Monday. of the
degree but never expected to cook on the calibur of equipment he now uses. “When I first walked in, I couldn’t believe my eyes,” Gant said. “I’ve been cooking most of my life … It is my passion, and I love it.” Although he enjoys cooking, serving others is what really puts a smile on his face. “It’s not just work; it’s fun,” Gant said. “What makes me feel good is to see people enjoying something I’ve prepared.”
E-mail Hettich at: clh05d@acu.edu
ViewsWednesday
Page 6
September 3, 2008
Vice presidency adds dimension to election “ J
ohn Garner (vice president under Franklin Dealano Roosevelt) once said to a friend seeking office, “The vice presidency isn’t worth a pitcher of warm spit.” Ironically, the man who was the recipient of this bitter advice was Lyndon B. Johnson, the same man who in a few hours on November 22, 1963, went from humble vice president to leader of the free world after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Johnson became president of the United States during a
ing to the 25th Amendment, the vice president is first in the line of presidential succession “in case of the removal of the President from office or of his death or resignation.” The vice president also is president of the Senate whose vote breaks any ties. Originally, the vice presi-
dent was the person who received the second most electoral votes. This naturally led to severe infighting when the candidates were from two separate parties, as was the case with Federalist President John Adams and Democratic-Republican Vice President Thomas Jefferson. After the 1940 election, the power to select a vice president shifted from party leaders to the candidates themselves. Now running mates are chosen to balance the ticket either geographically, ideologically or,
Vice-Presidential Preview
Vice-Presidential Preview
For an office that at first glance seems unimportant, the vice presidency has had a powerful impact...
tumultuous period in American history that included the Civil Rights Movement, the “War on Poverty,” the “Great Society” and the Vietnam War. For an office that at first glance seems unimportant, the vice presidency has had a powerful impact on the course of the nation. Accord-
Sen. Joe Biden
”
With more than three Age: 64 decades in the senate Representative State: Delaware (he was first elected at age 30), Sen. Joe Biden Party Affiliation: Democrat from Delaware brings experience to the Obama campaign. With a forSource: www.ap.org eign policy background matched by few in Congress, Biden is well known on the hill. He is current chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and addresses and potentially alleviates Obama’s less experienced foreign policy credentials. As a senator known for taking the Amtrak back home every night and having roots in Scranton, Penn., Biden resonates with bluecollar voters Obama needs to win. Now, after a second run at the Democratic nomination for the presidency (he first ran in 1988) and as Obama’s running mate, Biden is a well-known figure not only in Washington but all across America. Unlike Palin, with 35 years in the Senate Biden tarnishes Obama’s image as “a new brand of politics.” While Biden may help Obama’s weaker foreign policy credentials, he also highlights the fact Obama has little experience in foreign relations. However, perhaps most worrisome to the campaign is Biden’s mouth. He often finds his foot in his mouth, which could cause trouble for a campaign that has kept strong control over its image.
The issue:
Voters sometimes think candidates for the vice presidency are unimportant adendums to their presidential candidate’s ticket.
Our view:
Past vice presidents have taken office at crucial times in the nation’s history. Thus, the office deserves due consideration.
The solution:
Voters should examine their preferred presidential candidate’s vicepresidential nomination to ensure their views still align. in recent years, to counteract a candidate’s experience or persona. The selection process has changed dramatically since the days of Adams and Jef-
ferson. The two current nominees for vice president represent just another evolutionary step in that process.
Gov. Sarah Palin
As the first woman to run as a Republican Representative State: Alaska vice-presidential candidate, Palin may apParty Affiliation: Republican peal to independent women voters and dejected Hillary supportSource: www.ap.org ers. At 44 years of age, the Alaskan governor with only 2 years under her belt brings needed youth and diversity to the Republican ticket. With her staunch opposition to abortion and support for gun ownership, she is very appealing to steadfast Republicans who might otherwise be weary of McCain. Palin, who was ethics commissioner of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission and boasts an impressive background on energy policy, also has strongly promoted more drilling in her native state, which has been a serious issue in the current election. McCain and Palin, however, do differ on the issue of drilling in Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Although as a first-term governor, she may appear as an outsider and therefore “uncorrupted,” unlike those who served in Congress for decades; her youth and inexperience may bring trouble to the Republican ticket. Since McCain has persistently branded Obama as “dangerously unprepared to be president,” selecting a running mate who is younger and less experienced than Obama “takes the whole experience issue off the table,’’ according to former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle. Age: 44
Drawings by Alex York
Pledging-induced Annual campus crusade against crickets delayed stress unwarranted “
I’m not ready to be blinded by bright yellow skirts or run over by skipping girls, but pledging season has arrived, and rushes already began Tuesday. Last Sunday, I spent my afternoon at teas, explaining to potential pledges the merits of my club. I was surprised by the number of women I met who claimed to be “open Got Your minded” Grammar Talk about their choices. This By Kelline was a very Linton welcome attitude, one many should take to heart, especially this year. The numbers tell a story—a good tale for men, but a daunting one for women. Fewer men registered to pledge this year
“
Rushing should be a fun, relaxed time...
”
than seen in a long time, but about 250 women registered to pledge. That’s more than the pledging figures for the two previous years. The university has six men’s social clubs, but only five women’s social clubs that are active
this year, and the new rules limit each women’s social club pledging class to 48 members. So how many women are going to get their first choice bid? Or even their second choice bid? Not many. Pledging rules state women must attend at least one rush sponsored by four of the five social clubs. This is commendable. It allows women to explore their options and open their horizons. This is particularly important this year with so many hoping to pledge into only five social clubs. But my recommendation goes beyond the rule: attend at least one rush from all five clubs. Why try more than the required number? Because rushing should be a fun, relaxed time before the hectic pledging process begins. Make a point to enjoy yourself while meeting club members and focus on finding the right fit for you. Each club offers something different and unique, but each also offers friendship and sisterhood. Above all, pray about your options. The greatest quality a potential pledge can have this year is an open mind. So whether you get a bid for your first choice or fifth choice, don’t pass up the chance to enter into a family of sisters where not only memories, but also friendships, last a lifetime. E-mail Linton at: krl04b@acu.edu
Editorial and letter policy Unsigned editorials are the opinions of the Optimist and may not necessarily reflect the views of the university or its administration. Signed columns, cartoons and letters are the opinions of their creators and may not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of the Optimist or the university. The Optimist encourages reader response through letters to the editor but reserves the right to limit frequent contributors or to refuse to print letters containing personal attacks, obscenity, defamation, erroneous
information or invasion of privacy. Please limit letters to 350 words or fewer. A name and phone number must be included for verification purposes. Phone numbers will not be published. Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79699 E-mail letters to: jmcnetwork@acu.edu
You should be worried. One of ACU’s most hallowed traditions has been delayed this year. Without failure, this event sweeps the c a m p u s annually, sending students into a frenzy of revulsion, exasperation The Fro Knows and trepidation. By Michael I speak of Freeman the yearly battle against the crickets (yes, those little black insects that chirp at night). Every fall, crickets descend upon ACU in a plague of Biblical proportions. But this year, the little winged creatures have yet to appear. It’s a shame, really. If the crickets never show, this year’s freshman class will not be able to witness the utterly disgusting sight of thousands of the repulsive pests crawling all over each other on the north side of the Brown Library, a scene that would make Jack Bauer shudder. They will not smell the stench of hundreds of cricket carcasses decaying on hot sidewalks, a scent that rivals the mixture of rotten eggs and the body odor of an overweight Hungarian wrestler. And they will not know the thrill of taking out their school-related frustrations on the wretched bugs by stomping out a few of their meaningless lives, a feeling
It’s almost as much of an ACU tradition as Sing Song or Homecoming...
that would even put a smile on Dick Cheney’s face. Fighting crickets every year has become commonplace for most students. It’s almost as much of an ACU tradition as Sing Song or Homecoming, and freshmen should not miss it. Only two possible reasons can account for why the crickets have not shown yet: one, the university dispersed some type of toxic cricket repellent into the air over the summer, or two, the little devils are preparing for a massive attack on
Published by the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
Newsroom: (325) 674-2439
Sports desk: (325) 674-2499
E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu
Lebensgefahr
Optimist the
”
the school, possibly with the intent of storming the residence halls, swarming students into submission and feasting on human flesh and blood. Apocalyptical fantasies aside, the absence of crickets in Abilene could be a significant sign. It may finally provide some tangible evidence for Al Gore’s global warming theory. Personally, I have no idea how carbon dioxide emissions would relate to the West Texan cricket population, but I’m sure the Environ-
mental Protection Agency will concoct some rationale connecting the two. So until then, be happy ACU’s sidewalks and air space are void of any pesky critters this week. The only possible reason you should worry is if you are the type of person who studies the behavioral and social patterns of insects, thinks the plot of a SciFi channel original movie could happen in real life and considers killing crickets to be an actual ACU tradition. Unfortunately, I may be that type of person.
By Alex York
Editorial and Management Board Cody Veteto
Kenneth Pybus
Laura Acuff
Grant Abston
Editor in Chief
Opinion Page Editor
Sports Editor
Chief Videographer
Adviser
Michael Freeman
DeLaina Parker
Cade White
Daniel Johnson-Kim
Zak Zeinert
Lydia Melby
Managing Editor
Chief Photographer
Arts Editor
Sommerly Simser
Colter Hettich
Kelline Linton
Mult. Managing Editor
Photo department: (325) 674-2499
Features Editor
Advertising office: (325) 674-2463
Chief Copy Editor
Multimedia desk: (325) 674-2463
Broadcast Manager
Adviser
Molly Byrd
Christi Stark
Page 2 Editor
Subscriptions ($40/academic year): (325) 674-2296
Advertising Manager
E-mail: jmcnetwork@acu.edu
Sports Jumps
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Page 7
Volleyball: Cats head Soccer: Wildcats to to Colorado undefeated face Permian-Basin Continued from page 8
Continued from page 8
Upcoming Games
Upcoming Games we were a better team and more prepared than our opponents, but it also takes a lot of mental toughness to get out there and play at high level. I was really pleased with how the girls performed.” Moronu and Hines both were named to the all-tournament team for their outstanding performances. “We did really great just as a team pulling together,” Hines said. “I think we all learned to trust each other,” Moronu said. “We also learned how to close a match.” “We have had a lot of adversity so far, so to play this
Opponent Dixie State
Date/Time Fri., 10 a.m.
Palm Beach Atl.
Fri., 4 p.m.
Montana St.-BIllings
Sat., 10 a.m.
Fort Lewis
Sat., 2 p.m.
well, it says a lot about our character and integrity,” Mock said. “It builds momentum heading into next week.” The Wildcats will play four more games this weekend, two Friday and two Saturday, at the Fort Lewis College Invitational in Durango, Colo. E-mail Harris at: tch05f@acu.edu
Courtney Wilson who had the lone Wildcat shot on goal. Wilson, who returns to the team after leading the Wildcats in offense and assists last season, also addressed areas in which they could improve. “We could work on moving as a unit and finishing our chances,” Wilson said. Defensive captain Micah Merrill-Johnson said the team was, “very good at keeping possession of the ball, had a great depth of talent, meaning every player on the team was really equal in abilities, [and was] able to stay strong through the entire game and always play with a ton of heart
Opponent TX Permian-Basin
Date/Time Wed., 5 p.m.
Incarnate Word
Fri., 6 p.m.
John Brown
Sept.12, 1 p.m.
Our Lady of the Lake Sept. 13, 1 p.m.
every moment [they were] out on the field.” Merrill-Johnson also said they needed to build “team chemistry” in order to improve with such a young program. The Wildcats travel to Odessa Wednesday to play TexasPermian Basin. The Wildcats and the Falcons will square off at 5 p.m. E-mail Cantrell at: jmcnetwork@acu.edu
Emily Jorgenson :: staff photographer Midfielder Kendall Cooper goes for the ball in practice Tuesday. The Wildcats will play Incarnate Word on Friday.
Football: ACU jumps to No. 4 in nation after weekend win Continued from page 8 Adams’ PAT was blocked, and the Wildcats’ lead remained at nine. The Wildcat special teams then responded with one of the biggest plays of the game, recovering a bobbled kickoff and giving the offense the ball on the 10-yard line. “The third quarter was the difference,” Thomsen said. “We got off to a slow start, and the crowd noise was a factor, but then we got a chance to settle in.” Malone connected with wide receiver Johnny Knox on the second play for a 7-yard touchdown to extend the lead to 37-21 at the end of the third quarter. Malone finished with four touchdowns on 18-25 passes for 293 yards, earning LSC South Division Offensive Player of the Week honors. The Bearcats pulled within 10 after a touchdown with 13 minutes remaining and stopped the Wildcats three straight series for a comeback. But the Wildcats put the game away after stopping the Bearcats on a fourth down, scoring immediately on their next drive, a 47-yarder that ended with a Scott 14-
“
The third quarter was the difference...
”
:: Chris Thomsen, head football coach
yard scoring run, ending any hope of a Bearcat comeback. Scott finished with two touchdowns, 177 yards on 29 carries and two catches for 36 yards. Edmund Gates led all receivers with five catches for 122 yards; he also had two rushed for 24 yards. Knox, Holloway and Ferguson each finished with three catches and a touchdown. Defensively, linebacker Eric Edwards and safety Nick Fellows headed the Wildcats. Edwards led the team in tackles with nine and had a forced fumble; Fellows finished with seven tackles and a fumble recovery. “Defensively, we played solid but we had a few breakdowns,” Thomsen said. “Eric Edwards had a solid game for us and led our team in tackles. Fred Thompson
Zak Zeinert :: chief photographer Members of the ACU football team run during practice last week in preparation for their game against Northwest Missouri State. The Wildcats beat the Bearcats 44-27 and jumped to No. 4 in the nation.
played well, and Nick Fellows had some big hits for us in the secondary.” Linebacker Thompson
finished with four tackles. Defensive ends Vantrise Studivant and Aston Whiteside combined for two sacks and
provided pressure late in the game to help seal the victory. The Wildcats will have a bye week before playing
Texas A&M-Commerce home Sept. 13 at 6 p.m.
at
E-mail Abston at: gda04b@acu.edu
Singh: Golfer finishes 9th at 90th PGA championship Continued from page 8 When Singh arrived at the practice range for the first time, Coach Jarrett noticed his clubs had indentations the size of quarters on the sweet spot. “His clubs looked like they were 20 years old, so I asked him when was the last time he received new clubs, and he quietly responded, ‘last year.’ I couldn’t believe it; he‘d worn down those
irons to the bone in just a year,” Jarrett said. “That’s proof of his will to be the best he can be.” Singh, who was inducted into the ACU Sports Hall of Fame in 2007, would go on to become a model for ACU golfers for years to come. He led the team to its first Division II National Championship in 1993 for both individual and team categories. Singh led the team to a 36-shot victory over the
“
...I’ve never seen a player work harder...
”
:: Vince Jarrett, Singh’s former coach
closest opponent. “Although we took the team title rather easily, Jeev showed what a tremendous
competitor he was when he had to birdie five of the last seven holes to win the individual national title,” Jarrett said. Singh was inducted into the ACU Sports Hall of Fame in October of 2007. “Jeev truly considered being inducted as one of the greatest honors of his career,” Jarrett said. Fifteen years later, his work ethic and passion for the game of golf has continued to pay off. Singh has won 17
professional tournaments in his fifteen years as pro, earning a little over $4.3 million in career earnings. Singh has become one of the most recognizable figures in India as well. He was knighted to Sir Jeev Milkha Singh in 2006; his father Milkha Singh was given the same honor for his Olympic achievements 48 years earlier. Singh has competed in all four PGA majors in the last two years with his best finish
coming just three weeks ago at the 90th PGA Championship in Detroit when he finished tied for ninth place. “He’s the hardest worker I’ve seen and he loves the game so much that I could see him playing for ten more years,”Jarret said. “He’s the type of player that will only get better as time goes on, and that’s really exciting.”
E-mail Harris at: jmcnetwork@acu.edu
SportsWednesday
September 3, 2008
Opening Statement
SCOREBOARD Standings Football Team ACU Tarleton St. WTAMU MSU Angelo St. ENMU TAMU-C
Div. 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Overall 1-0 1-0 1-0 0-0 0-1 0-1 0-1
Div. 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
WTAMU ACU MSU SE Okla. TAMU-C
Cameron * 6 of 14 LSC Teams
Sports Writer
Overall 5-0 4-0 4-0 3-0 2-1 2-2
Women’s Soccer Team
Div. 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 SE Okla. 0-0 ACU 0-0 TX Woman’s 0-0 East Central 0-0 MSU 0-0 ENMU 0-0 Cent. Okla. WTAMU NE St. TAMU-C Angelo St.
Ex-ACU golfer makes mark on PGA tour By Hutton Harris
Volleyball Team
Page 8
Overall 2-0 2-0 1-0 1-0 1-1 1-1 0-1-1 0-1 0-2 0-2 0-3
Scores Friday Women’s Soccer Missouri Southern 2, ACU 1 (2OT)
Volleyball ACU 3, Fort Hays State 1 ACU 3, Texas A&M International 1
Saturday Soccer ACU 0, Drury 0 (2OT)
Football ACU 44, Northwest Missouri State 27
Volleyball ACU 3, Findlay 1 ACU 3, New Mexico Highlands 0
Upcoming Wednesday Women’s Soccer ACU at Texas Permian-Basin, 5 p.m.
Friday Women’s Soccer ACU at Incarnate Word, 6 p.m.
Volleyball ACU vs. Dixie State, 10 a.m. ACU vs. Palm Beach Atlantic, 4 p.m.
Saturday Volleyball ACU vs. Montana StateBillings, 10 a.m. ACU vs. Fort Lewis, 2 p.m.
Cross Country ACU Classic, 11 a.m. :: Home games listed in italics
Photo courtesy of Creative Services
Quarterback Billy Malone throws a pass during ACU’s 44-27 victory over Northwest Missouri State. Malone threw for 293 yards and four touchdowns.
Wildcats defeat No. 3 NWMSU in first game By Grant Abston Sports Editor
The ACU football team knew it would be tested early when it was slated to play Northwest Missouri State at the beginning of its 2008 season. NWMSU was ranked No. 3 in the nation, had been to the national championship the last three seasons and had not lost a home football game since October of 2005. The Wildcats passed the test after winning, arguably, one of the biggest games in school history, beating the Bearcats 44-27 to end their 15-game home winning streak. The Wildcats jumped from No. 8 to No. 6 in the American Football Coaches Association Poll and all the way up from No. 8 to No. 4 in
Football the d2football.com poll. “It’s certainly one of the bigger wins since we’ve been here because of the quality of the opponent and because they hadn’t lost at home since 2005,” said head coach Chris Thomsen. Thomsen’s Wildcats got off to a slow start and looked like they were in for a long night after falling behind 21-7 at the end of the first quarter. The Bearcats scored the first two touchdowns to take a 14-0 lead before the Wildcats responded with their first score of the season. Quarterback Billy Malone hit tight end Ryan Keeling for a 3-yard touchdown pass to cut the lead in half, but the Bearcats scored again to ex-
no matter what the score is. No situation is as good or bad as it seems.” The Wildcat defensive players shut out the Bearcats in the second quarter and continued their play into the second half, allowing the offense to score 20 points in a crucial third quarter that saw the Wildcats get their first lead and extend it to 37-21. Malone threw his third touchdown of the game when he hit tight end Kendrick Holloway for a 1-yard touchdown pass to take a 24-21 lead with 10:20 remaining. ACU extended its lead after running back Bernard Scott scored on a 1-yard touchdown run after the defense stopped the Bearcats. Matt See
Football page 7
See
Singh page 7
Soccer team begins second season with loss, tie By Ryan Cantrell Sports Writer
The Wildcat soccer team began its second season Saturday with a pair of games in Missouri. The women went 0-1-1 on the road, losing their first game 2-1 against Missouri Southern and bounced back to tie a strong Drury University team in game two. The Wildcats were only minutes away from escaping with a victory against Missouri Southern when midfielder Nikki Llewellyn scored for the Lady Lions to force overtime. The first overtime period went scoreless, but in the second overtime period,
Soccer Llewellyn scored again and handed the Wildcats their first loss of the season. “Last year our goal as a new program Wilson was to make the playoffs, but this year we feel that we can compete and battle with every team we face,” said head coach Casey Wilson. “We hope to be able to compete with everyone we face in the Lone Star Conference.” The first half went back
and forth, but the two teams headed to halftime scoreless. The Wildcats jumped out early in the second half after midfielder Jackie Gentile scored the game’s first goal two minutes into the second half; she was set up on the play by offensive captain Jordan Reese. Llewellyn would later tie the game in the 88th minute, sending it to overtime. In the second overtime, she once again scored with only 1:05 left on the clock, crushing the Wildcats’ chances at winning their season opener. The Wildcats had a quick turnaround the next day against the Drury Panthers. The Panthers entered the
match ranked No. 12 in NCAA Division II. The Wildcats’ defense stepped up and fought Drury to a 0-0 tie after another double overtime game. ACU had only six shots in the game with only one going on goal; however, the Wildcats’ defense was just as strong against Drury, holding them to nine shots, four of which were on goal. Goaltender Crissy Lawson made some key saves to post her first shutout of the season. “Our strengths are passing, communicating and building each other up,” said forward and co-captain See
Soccer page 7
FRESH BUNCH The Wildcat soccer team features six new freshmen for the 2008 season. With 21 total players on the roster, only two are seniors. FRESHMEN
n GK- Elliott London n F- Brooke Magers n D- Kaleigh Johnson n MF/F- Rachel Patchen n MF- Alyse Ritchie n F- Tina Greigo SENIORS
n MF/D- Micah MerrillJohnson n MF- Jackie Gentile
Volleyball team posts best start since 1994 By Chandler Harris
News
Assistant Sports Editor
n Billy Malone was selected as the LSC South Division Offensive Player of the Week after the quarterback guided the Wildcats to a victory over previously ranked No. 3 NWMSU. Malone went 18-23 for 293 yards and four touchdowns. n Middle blocker Shawna Hines earned LSC coDefensive Player of the Week honors after leading the Wildcats to a 4-0 record in the Lady Bluff Classic. Hines had 18 total blocks and 31 kills. It was Hines’ first LSC Player of the Week honor.
tend their lead to 21-7 to close out the first quarter. What looked like a long night for the Wildcats turned into a dominating performance over the next two quarters as the Wildcats outscored the Bearcats 30-0. The offense got things rolling with a 61–yard touchdown pass from Malone to wide receiver Jonathan Ferguson to cut the lead in half just one minute into the second quarter. The Wildcats then cut the lead to 21-17 after placekicker Matt Adams hit a 34-yard field goal with 6:10 to play, becoming the highest scoring kicker in school history with 230 points. “One thing we try to instill is that the scoreboard doesn’t matter,” Thomsen said. “We just need to play
Work ethic, a phrase that is accompanied with nearly every great athlete of the sports world. Competitors go above and beyond in their preparation off the field to get the slightest edge. Sports figures such as Michael Jordan, Jerry Rice or Jeev Milkha Singh. That’s right. The 36-yearold from Chandigarh, India, not only has had a 15-year career on the European and PGA Tour, but is the most successful golfer in ACU history. “In 25 years of coaching golf, I’ve never seen a player work harder than Jeev,” University of Houston head Singh golf coach Vince Jarrett said. Jarrett was the ACU men’s golf coach from 1986-1996. Singh came to the United States in the late ‘80s to attend high school for a short time but then committed to Houston Baptist University to play golf. Not long after Singh dedicated himself to Houston Baptist, the golf program was disbanded, leaving Singh open to play golf elsewhere. Fortunately, Coach Jarrett and ACU were informed of Singh’s availability. “I had heard of his talents through a close friend but had never seen him play,” Jarrett said. “We decided to take a chance on the kid, and boy am I glad we did.” Jarrett’s risk turned into a major reward for ACU.
Emily Jorgensen :: staff photographer Junior outside hitter Michelle Bacon goes for a ball in practice Tuesday. The 4-0 Wildcats will travel to Colorado this weekend.
The Wildcat volleyball team won its first four games of the season for the first time since 1994, going 4-0 over the weekend at the Grapevinewoods.com Lady Buff Classic in Canyon. The ACU women defeated Fort Hays State 3-1 (25-19, 2025, 25-18, 25-21) Friday. The team had a .389 hitting in its season opener, led by sophomore middle blocker Shawna Hines and freshman outside hitter Jennie Hutt; both finished with 11 kills. Sophomore middle blocker Jordan Schilling also added nine kills in the winning effort. “I think this weekend was a big confidence booster,” said head coach Kellen Mock. The defense was just as impressive as it held Fort Hays State to a .122 hitting percentage. Sophomore setter Ijeoma Moronu showed her versatility on offense and
Volleyball defense, contributing 36 assists and 15 digs. Junior defensive setter Amy Wilson had a team-high 17 digs for the Wildcats. In its second game Friday, the Wildcats defeated Texas A&M-International 3-1 (25-17, 25-14, 20-25, 25-11). The Wildcat defense was outstanding, holding TAMUI to a .050 hitting percentage. Wilson again led the team in digs with nine, followed by junior outside hitter Erin Curry, junior setter Emily Dickinson and Hutt, each adding seven apiece. Moronu posted her second consecutive game with 36 assists. The Wildcats’ hitting percentage was .299 for the game, led by Hutt with 13 kills. Things would only get better for the Wildcats on Saturday as they earned their first sweep of the season, defeating New Mexico Highlands’ Cowgirls, 3-0
(25-22, 25-15, 25-17). Wilson’s 18 digs once again led the team, while Moronu added 24 assists. Hines’ eight kills and Hutt’s seven kills led the team with a .222 hitting percentage. The Cowgirls posted .039 hitting percentage in the loss. In its final match of the tournament, the Wildcat team came back from a 1-0 deficit to defeat Findlay 3-1 (16-25, 25-16, 25-20, 28-26). Curry’s 15 kills led the offense, while the defense had nine team blocks to hold Findlay to a .101 hitting percentage. Moronu’s 37 assists was a season-high, and the team finished the tournament with a .230 hitting percentage overall. Head ACU volleyball coach Kellen Mock earned career victory No. 37 with the win over Findlay. “It was a great start to our season,” Mock said. “I think See
Volleyball page 7