Vol. 94, No. 23 1 section, 8 pages
WEDNESDAY
November 9, 2005
www.acuoptimist.com
Falling short
Role reversal
Running in packs
The Wildcats lose another close game to finish the season at 4-6, page 8
Sadies Week begins Thursday and runs through Tuesday, page 5
Men’s and women’s cross country teams advance to nationals, page 8
KRBC returns for Cox cable subscribers n The agreement between Cox Communications Inc. and Nexstar ended a 10-month stalemate, which kept the NBC affiliate out of many Abilene residents’ homes. By JAYME SMITH Student Reporter
The NBC network and its local affiliate, KRBC-TV, returned to Cox Communications cable Channel 5 in Abilene on Oct. 20, ending a 10-month feud between Cox and Nexstar Broadcasting. Cox Communications Inc., Mission Broadcasting Inc., which owns KRBC, and Nexstar Broadcasting Group Inc., which manages aspects of KRBC, signed a retransmission consent agreement Oct. 20. Cox’s lineup has not included KRBC since Jan. 1. Abilene was not the only city affected. Sweetwater and Snyder cable is also connected with Cox Communications, according to the
‘A powerful testimony’
company’s Web site. The Cox cable system covers roughly 20,000-25,000 homes in this area. The university initially was affected because it “receives a direct cable feed from Cox to supply television programming on campus,” said Jim Trietsch, associate chief information officer for the university, but the university has been able to air KRBC since March. “We had received permission from Nexstar to rebroadcast KRBC on campus,” Trietsch said. “Thus, it was shown on ACU cable TV throughout most of the 10 months, but not on Cox Cable.” Cox cable subscribers had been without Channel 5, NBC television shows such as, Law & Order, The Apprentice, ER, The West Wing and Fear Factor. However, they could watch the channel by buying See
KRBC page 7
New law could affect university n If an appeal is not granted, a Federal Communications Commission law could force the university the change its network system at a cost of about $1 million. By MALLORY SHERWOOD Managing Editor
The Federal Communications Commission amended a 10-year communication law this fall, requiring universities, libraries and public institutions that provide Internet service to give the federal government the ability to wiretap Internet connections regardMassingill less of cost. This law, if it goes into effect, will force the university to revamp its Internet system, which could cost more than $1 million, said Dr. K.B. Massingill, assistant vice president for Information Services and chief information officer. Educational groups have opposed extending the law to apply to colleges and universities. He said the extent of the
financial burden depends on the specific requirements of the act. The law, called the Communication Assistance for Law Enforcement Act, originally was written in 1994 and provided rules for how telecommunication carriers would be required to allow access to law enforcement agencies to wiretap the public telephone network, the network that cell phones and most telephones work on, so they could watch for terrorist and criminal activity. Universities were exempted because they had private telephone networks. The university works on an extension program, meaning callers must dial “9” to get out of the private network and enter into the public telephone system. This is no longer true because new programs like Vonage now allow people, including students, to make phone calls over the Internet without ever connecting to a phone line, leaving no record of the call. Massingill said the law, See
INTERNET page 7
GARY RHODES/Contributing Photographer
Renowned NFL broadcaster Pat Summerall addresses the luncheon crown in Teague Special Events Center on Tuesday afternoon.
Summerall discusses his conversion to Christ By JONATHAN SMITH Editor in Chief
Members of the university and community came to Teague Special Events Center on Tuesday for a luncheon to hear renowned National Football League broadcaster Pat Summerall speak. Although some might have come to hear the former kicker for the New York Giants and sports broadcaster talk about his experi-
ences in sports, what they left with was Summerall’s testimony about his struggle with alcoholism and resulting conversion to Christianity at age 66. “We have heard a powerful testimony,” said Dr. Royce Money, president of the university in his closing remarks. “I’m going to venture a guess that you have not heard what you thought you were going to hear. But what you heard was far better.”
Summerall, 75, recalled his gradual decline toward alcoholism and the intervention his family, friends and colleagues staged to convince him to check into the Betty Ford Clinic for treatment. At the clinic, Summerall said he read the Bible for the first time, because it was one of only two books available for reading in the clinic. “I realized that there was a lot of things I had left
out of this life I had,” Summerall said. “I didn’t realize what was missing because life had been so good.” Summerall said he continued studying the Bible, which was mostly new material for him, and he described his conversation with a minister about his decision to be baptized at age 66. Because of his past alcoholism, Summerall said he See
SUMMERALL page 7
‘Noc’ takes home top awards at second annual FilmFest n The student film produced, directed and written by Brady Rector won the best film award, and students voted it as the firstever People’s Choice Award winner. By ANNA CARROLL Student Reporter
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Brady Rector, freshman electronic media major from Abilene, gives a speech with his crew after winning the best film award Friday night at FilmFest. Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
The student film Noc came away with the most honors at the second annual FilmFest, which featured 11 student-made films, Friday night at the Paramount Theatre. Judges presented the awards in traditional Acad-
emy Awards style. Milestones was the theme of FilmFest, and students worked the theme into their films however they wanted, said Robyn King, FilmFest co-chair and senior marketing and management major from Fort Worth. “We really kind of leave those open and vague for a reason because there’s so many different ways people can interpret that,” King said.
“Milestones means different things to everybody. In fact, our films were totally a reflection of that.” The lineup included three music videos, one action/thriller and seven dramas. Students submitted films for judging Oct. 14. The judges received a DVD with the films and evaluated each one before the premier night but had to wait, along with the students, until the award ceremony to find out who won.
Abilene Christian University
The judges presented awards for best film, producer, director, technical director, sound designer, production designer and writer. Noc, a film about a bank robbery produced, directed and written by Brady Rector, freshman electronic media major from Abilene, won the People’s Choice Award. This award was added this year and was judged by online voting. SATV, Channel 24, gave students the chance to view the films beSee
FILMFEST page 7
Serving the ACU community since 1912
Chapel Checkup Credited Chapels to date:
Wednesday, November 9, 2005
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Calendar & Events Wednesday
Shades ticket sales, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket window. Spring Break Campaign sign ups, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket window.
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Thursday
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Friday
The last day to withdraw from classes. Friday Night Frenzy The Quest, OSME treasure hunt, 7 p.m., Bible rotunda. Carmichael-Walling Lectures, 4-7 p.m., 130 Onstead-Packer College of Biblical Studies.
The ACU chapter of the NAACP interest meeting, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Bean Sprout.
Spring Break Campaign sign ups, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket window.
Spring Break Campaign sign ups, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket window.
Shades ticket sales, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket window.
Shades ticket sales, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket window.
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Sadies Week: Mr Gatti’s Pizza. Cracker Barrel recruiting table, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Campus Center.
Sadies Week: Coldstone Creamery.
Saturday
Sadies Week: Create-A-Date.
Volunteer Opportunities Students staying in Abilene for Thanksgiving have the opportunity to serve others, there will be three meals served on Thanksgiving day at different locations and volunteers at any of these would be very helpful. For a list of locations stop by the Volunteer Center located in the Bean Sprout. City Light Ministries will provide Thanksgiving breakfast at 336 Hickory St. Thanksgiving dinner will be provided by the Veterans Association at the Civic Center 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and by the Salvation Army noon-1:30 p.m. at 1726 Butternut St. For more information contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center.
The Neighborhoods In Progress group needs volunteers to help with installing a sprinkler system in some neighborhood housing Saturday mornings from 8:30 a.m. to noon until the project is complete. No experience is necessary, and all equipment is provided. For more information, contact the Volunteer and ServiceLearning Center in the Bean Sprout. Weekend Campaigns are open on the following weekends: Sunday through Nov. 18-20. For more information, contact Jonathan Wood at 210-273-1466 or e-mail him at jrw02i@acu.edu.
Shades ticket sales, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket window. Spring Break Campaign sign ups, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket window. Verastegul Glow Birthday Party, 3-5 p.m., Campus Center recreation.
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Sunday
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Monday
IJM table, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Campus Center. Sadies Week: The Skating Place. Vector table, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Campus Center.
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Tuesday
Sadies Week: Starbucks Coffee.
Nothing scheduled this day.
Announcements The ACU Chapter of the NAACP will have an informational meeting in the Bean from 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Thursday. Dr. Abraham J. Malherbe, Buckingham Professor Emeritus at Yale University, will give the 19th annual Carmichael-Walling Lectures Thursday. Malherbe will lecture on “Indispensable Intermediaries: Paul’s Co-Workers” at 4 p.m. and on “Mutual Ministry in the Pauline Churches” at 7:30 p.m. in Room 130 of the OnsteadPacker Biblical Studies Building. Lester Holt Centennial Speaker Series is rescheduled for Dec. 1. The Intercollegiate Community Celebration is Saturday. Students from Hardin-Simmons and McMurry will join for a united day of fellowship and service with local agencies and neighborhoods. The day will begin at 8:30 a.m. with worship. Service projects are from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner will be from 7-8:30 p.m. at the homes of faculty and staff from the three universities. The Students’ Association is looking for spirited young
men and women to be Moody Maniacs- rally leaders at home basketball and volleyball games. For more information, visit the S.A. office or call Paul Harshman at 325-738-4561. Sadies Week is from Thursday, through Tuesday. Thursday is a free evening at Mr. Gattis. Friday is a free Coldstone ice cream. Saturday is Createa-Date, where students go on a date, document it creatively, and submit documentation for prizes. Monday is The Skatin` Place from 8-10 p.m.. (No ticket needed for skating.) Tuesday pick is free Starbucks. T-shirts are on sale now. Six spaces remain to study abroad in Latin America next semester. Students could do their homework on the beach, have class in Brazil, spend weekends hiking through the rainforest or riding horses. There will be help available to help interested students work with their schedules and financial aid. E-mail Lauren Graham for more information, at Lauren.Graham@acu.edu, Study Abroad Alumni `03 and `05.
By LUKE HARRIS Staff Writer
Freshman will be able to do three of many students’ favorite things, bowl, eat and sing karaoke Friday in the Bean Sprout. From 8 p.m. to midnight, the Friday Night Frenzy will be in the lower level of the Campus Center for freshman to enjoy free food, free bowling and free entertainment and fellowship. Brooks Norman, freshman psychology major from Richardson, said he is very excited about the Friday Night Frenzy, and he and his friends plan to
Police Log (edited for space) Oct. 31 2:10 a.m. Checked Don Morris building 5 a.m. Checked Chambers 9:33 a.m. Alarm at bell tower, checked OK, maintenance work 10:30 a.m. Located vehicle involved in hit and run 1:20 p.m. Unlocked vehicle in Bible Lot 2:02 p.m. Unlocked vehicle on ACU Drive north 4:43 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at E.N. 16th St. & Campus Court 6:58 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at 1600 Campus Court 7:15 p.m. Checked welfare on student at Barret. Checked OK 7:16 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at 1500 Avenue E 9 p.m. Checked Barret Hall, found exterior door unlocked 9:08 p.m. Jumpstart vehicle at Administration Building 9:10 p.m. Unlocked WPAC Nov. 1 12:12 a.m. Found spare tire bracket on the ground at Morris Lot 12:50 a.m. Secured door at Singsong warehouse 1:25 a.m. Report of gunshots at Chambers, 05-190, checked area. Unable to locate any evidence 2:38 a.m. Locked Barret Hall 7:40 a.m. Walk through of Campus Center 9:45 a.m. Escort to Barret Hall 12:34 p.m. Booted vehicle in Teague lot, multiple citations/ unknown owner 1:10 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at Bible lot 2:47 p.m. Jumpstart vehicle Bible lot 4:45 p.m. Unlocked vehicle off campus 5:30 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at WPAC lot 5:40 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at Library lot 8:05 p.m. Monitored Moody Coliseum 8:15 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at Smith/Adams lot 8:30 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at Bible lot 8:50 p.m. Checked doors at Barret Hall
Nov. 2 12:46 a.m. Report of possible prowler off campus, checked unable to locate 1:35 a.m. Checked Singsong warehouse 1:45 a.m. Checked doors at Barret attend. same sentiments as Norman. Students attended the Fri- Hall, were unsecured The college experience is This is the second year day Night Frenzy last year, 8 a.m. Shuttle cart repair-Physical new to Norman, and he said for this event to take place, and several say that they had Resources he is enjoying every minute of and the turnout for last year, a pleasant experience. 8:30 a.m. Checked doors at Barret it, and opportunities like this while being very large, will Matthew Greenburg, soph- Hall are very exciting and fun. hopefully be matched and ex- omore political science major 8:45 a.m. Fingerprinted student at “It’s really cool being able ceeded this year, Hanner said. from Grand Prairie, said he the station to hang out had a great 9:21 a.m. Discovered unsecured with all kinds time last year vehicle with personal contents, was secured, and keys taken to of new peohanging out “It’s just a fun time to hang out, eat snacks and play ple and just with friends games, and it’s a cheap date.” have fun, and and playing the free food games. Jana Hanner, co-president of Wildcat Parents doesn’t hurt.” “It was reNorman said. ally fun to Norman hang out with said he has everyone, and The Optimist maintains this calendar for the ACU enjoyed meeting all kinds of Parents will volunteer this I love to bowl, so that was recommunity to keep track of new people this year, and he year to help with the event ally fun, too. Freshman should local social, academic and looks forward to being able to by serving snacks and drinks really try to make it because service opportunities. meet even more, through this and hanging out and playing it really is just a fun time to Groups may send event and afterwards as well. games with the students. hang out and play games, plus announcements directly to Jana Hanner, co-president “It’s just a fun time to everything is free, so that’s aloptimist@acu.edu or to the of the Wildcat Parents, who hang out, eat snacks and play ways a plus.” Greenburg said. Page 2 Editor, ACU Box 27892, is helping put on this event games, and it’s a cheap date.” Abilene, TX 79699. for the freshmen, shares the Hanner said. E-mail Harris at: optimist@acu.edu
Friday night is freshmen frenzy n Freshman students are excited about Friday Night Frenzy, a time for freshmen to enjoy free pizza, karaoke and bowling in the Bean Sprout from 8 p.m. to midnight.
Credited Chapels remaining:
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the station 9:40 a.m. Walk through of Campus Center 4 p.m. Removed boot from vehicle in Morris lot 5:11 p.m. Alarm at Maintenance, false alarm 5:30 p.m. Parking violation at Gardner lot 7:10 p.m. Removed boot from vehicle in Nelson lot Nov. 3 3:15 a.m. Traffic citation at Smith lot 4:25 a.m. Checked Barret Hall, unsecured 9:30 a.m. Secured door at Barret Hall 9:35 a.m. Booted vehicle at University Park, unpaid citations/ unknown owner 10:30 a.m. Foot patrol of Campus Center 1 p.m. Burglary at Mabee Hall 4 p.m. Burglary at Mabee Hall 7 p.m. Burglary investigation follow-up Nov. 4 12:30 a.m. Report of loud party on 200 College Ave., unable to locate 10:05 a.m. Burglary at Mabee Hall, interview of suspects 8:05 p.m. Escorted student from Barret Hall to Sikes Hall 8:15 p.m. Alarm at Smith Hall, burnt popcorn all OK 10:50 p.m. Checked Barret Hall, 3rd door unlocked 10:50 p.m. Escorted student from Mabee to Gardner Hall Nov. 5 7:15 a.m. Unlocked Family Consumer Science 7:20 a.m. Unlocked Business Building 7:37 a.m. Unlocked Bible Building 8:25 a.m. Unlocked Don Morris Center, KACU 10:06 a.m. Unlocked vehicle at WPAC Lot 1:39 p.m. Report of subjects handing out fliers. Contacted subjects and escorted all campus 3:02 p.m. Unlocked Zellner 15:50 p.m. Unlocked Shore Art Gallery 4 p.m. Locked Family Consumer Science 4:10 p.m. Locked Business Building 5:03 p.m. Locked Bible Building 6:56 p.m. Unlocked Shore Art Gallery Nov. 6 2:42 a.m. Locked Moody Coliseum 7:40 a.m. Unlocked Campus Center 11:25 p.m. Unlocked WPAC Alarm at McKinzie, false alarm all OK 1 p.m. Vehicle washed 3 p.m. Locked doors at Barret Hall
About This Page
To ensure that an item will appear on time, the announcement should be sent at least 10 days before. The Optimist may edit items for space and style. Corrections and clarifications of published news articles will be printed in this space in a timely manner.
Wednesday, November 9, 2005
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CAMPUS NEWS
Faculty can nominate December graduates for honor awards n Five awards are available for nominated December graduates who are involved both on campus and in the community in service and leadership. By RACHEL LAU Student Reporter
Faculty and staff members are encouraged to nominate December graduates for the Fall 2005 Honors Awards; they can do this online until noon Friday. The Campus Life Commit-
tee will review the nominees and make the final decision in selecting the recipients of these awards. Lisa Maloney, assistant to Dr. Wayne Barnard, dean of Campus Life, said the committee received 25 nominations last year. Brent Reeves, chair of the committee, said he wishes faculty and staff nominated more students. He said that the problem of low participation might spark from several reasonable as-
Prayer Room attendance steadily grows this fall n Students can join a group committed to prayer for individuals and broader communities for Chapel credit each Monday and Tuesday. By MICHAEL KNUTZ Student Reporter
Inside Room 230 of the Gibson Health and Physical Education Center, about 25 students sit in a circle. Each finds a spot on the floor after the desks are pushed to the walls of the classroom. As soon as the clock hits 11 a.m., the mood changes and takes on a more serious tone than the light-hearted greetings shared a minute before. This is when the prayers begin; they begin softly, but grow louder and more passionate as time progresses. The Prayer Room is an opportunity for students to pray with fellow students and receive Chapel credit on Mondays and Tuesdays. “We’re just open to the spirit and what God is trying to do,” said Jeremy West, one of the Prayer Room leaders. “People want to see the move of God in our generation.” This is the first semester attendance has been consistent, West said.
James Rhea, a leader of Prayer Room and sophomore English major from Abilene, said leaders wanted to make time available for prayer on a regular basis. On Mondays, the Prayer Room focuses on individual needs of those in attendance. Tuesdays focus on broader issues that face the world, nation, community and campus. Leaders provide prayer topics and serve as a guide for students who want something to pray about. West, junior English teaching major from Garland, said he would like to see hundreds come to the Prayer Room—not just students but faculty and staff as well. He said those interested should come. “You can just watch if you want,” he said. He said some people might feel uncomfortable, which is why he doesn’t force anyone into public prayer. West said he has seen the success of the Prayer Room through the individual growth of people who attend and through answered prayer, he said.
E-mail Knutz at: optimist@acu.edu
sumptions. Faculty members might not nominate a certain student because they assume someone else will. Reeves said faculty and staff might not have very much time to nominate students, but their nomination is still important. “Ten minutes can make a difference in a student’s life,” he said. “It’s not the biggest thing, but it’s neat. It shows honor where honor is due.” Reeves also said the awards aren’t just for the recipients.
He said the lives and testimonies of these students can influence the community and remind other students of their values. “The people we have a chance to change are the whiners,” he said. “I read about students who are overcoming all of these hardships, and it brings new perspectives. There are first generation students who are here because of others’ sacrifices. It’s a great opportunity for a reality check.” Maloney said she agrees that
the nominations are important. “[They] allow us to continue the important tradition of honoring students,” she said. “I think it’s extremely important to recognize the outstanding representatives of the student body.” Reeves said the 14 members of the Campus Life Committee read every nomination they receive and discuss each nominee. He also said he wants to encourage the faculty and staff to consider being on the
committee, which rotates its members every two years. “We get to read a bunch of great things about great students,” he said. “Lots of committees here deal with problems, but this one is awesome.” Nominations for the five awards can be made online at http://www.acu.edu/campusoffices/campuslife/honoraward.html.
E-mail Lau at: optimist@acu.edu
CAMPUS NEWS
Page 4
Wednesday, November 9, 2005
Alumnus to speak at Bible lecture n Dr. Abraham J. Malherbe, professor emeritus at Yale University, will speak Thursday about the apostle Paul and the formation of the early church. By MITCH HOLT Opinion Editor
This year’s CarmichaelWalling Lectures will feature Dr. Abraham J. Malherbe, alumnus of ACU and professor emeritus at Yale University, as guest lecturer Thursday in an annual series of New Testament lectures. The theme of Malherbe’s lectures is “Indispensable Intermediaries: Paul’s Co-workers.” This is a more intermediate topic aimed at scholars with some background or experience in the topic, said Dr. James Thompson, associate dean in the Graduate School of Theology. The lectures will explore the importance of Paul’s coworkers and the important roles they played in forming
the early church. Thompson said Paul didn’t form the church alone, and it is important to recognize those who helped him and their significance. The first lecture of the event will be at 4 p.m. Thursday in Room 130 of the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building. The second and last lecture will be at 7:30 p.m. the same day. Malherbe was selected because of his extensive dedication to educating and becoming educated, his affiliation with the university and his willingness to share his knowledge. According to a press release, he was a professor at Yale from 1970 to 1994, when he retired. Before that, he received a degree in Greek from ACU and a PhD in theology from Harvard University. He taught at ACU beginning in 1963, has authored many books and publications and is an expert on the relationship
between the New Testament and the Greco-Roman world. The Carmichael-Walling chair is the person who typically selects the speaker each year. This year, a collaborative decision was made because there wasn’t a chair at the time of the decision. Although everyone is invited, attendance will mostly be graduate students, Bible, missions and ministry majors, faculty and those interested in the specific topic, said Jennifer Ellison, coordinator of Centennial activities. Thompson said the purpose of the lectures is to bring in high-caliber speakers who have researched a given field and will present their findings on New Testament and early Christian literature. “We are simply bringing in an expert to share knowledge with those interested in hearing it,” he said.
E-mail Holt at: mah02f@acu.edu
‘Shinnery’ accepting submissions n ‘The Shinnery Review,’ the university’s literary magazine, is accepting submissions of art, poetry or prose for this year’s publication until Dec. 9. By DANI LINTHICUM Staff Writer
Since 1933, the Shinnery Review has showcased student talent and creativity, but this year’s Centennial edition will not only feature submissions from current students, but works that were printed in the past. The student magazine will also include a few color pages, to better show the art and photography of students, said Shinnery editor, Kayla Anderson. “We really do not have strict categories, so if students are experimenting in some unique types of writing and art, they should go ahead and submit,” said Anderson, junior English major from Waco. The Shin-
nery does not have a limit on submissions because the size of the magazine is flexible and largely depends on the amount of submissions. Some of the best examples of creativity from the past and present will be featured in the Centennial edition. In addition to printing the works of alumni, the Shinnery staff also plans to contact the authors and artists and request new submissions. “We’ve been looking through past editions to find the best few poems of each decade we’ve been in existence,” said Bethany Scroggins, senior English major from Hallsville. “One of the poems we chose as the best of its time period was actually written by an author who has since been nominated for a Pulitzer, which is really exciting.” Scroggins said she encourages students to submit creative works to the Shinnery
because this year’s magazine will be sold to students and alumni from the English Department, as well as put in the university library. Anderson also encouraged students to submit. “This is a great opportunity to get your work published for the first time,” she said. “All of the pieces are judged anonymously, so no one should be afraid to submit. Many students at ACU are interested in writing and art, and I know that not all of them submit. I would encourage them to go for it, because there is a good chance that it will get published, a lot better chance than if they submit to a national contest.” To submit art, poetry or prose for this year’s Shinnery Review, visit www.acu.edu/ shinnery and click submit. The deadline for submissions is Dec. 9. E-mail Linthicum at: del01a@acu.edu
Let me tell you a story
brian schmidt/Chief Photographer
David Leeson, class of 1978, talks to the crowd in Cullen Auditorium on Saturday during his lecture “The Future is Now,” a Chapel forum sponsored by the Adams Center for Teaching Excellence. Leeson won the 2004 Pulitzer Prize for his photography in Iraq and showed many photographs from his portfolio during the forum.
SIFE teaches responsibility n Students in Free Enterprise’s annual Enterprise City teaches elementary-aged students how to manage personal checking accounts and businesses. By SARAH CARLSON Arts Editor
Elementary school-aged children overtook the Hilton Room of the Campus Center Tuesday, throwing friends in jail and spending money on pizza and toys. What appeared to be barely managed chaos was actually Enterprise City, a mock city set up by Students in Free Enterprise to teach children how to balance checkbooks and run businesses. “It’s crazy,” said Jeremy Gudgel, junior communication major from Andrews and third-year SIFE member, as he answered the students’ questions and maintained order at the mock city hall. About 80 children from Taylor Elementary received checkbooks and accounts and had their choices of a pizzeria, a nail salon, a gift
shop or a café to buy treats. A bank, city hall, post office, newspaper office, arcade and a radio station were also in the city. Students’ teachers assigned them job positions to help them learn how to manage their business, coordinate their workers’ breaks and save money. Rules came with their freedom, however, and if students were caught running around or stealing, they were thrown in jail and had to stay there for five minutes or pay a minimum $3 fine. “We almost had a mob,” Gudgel said about when a student was caught stealing a newspaper. “But it quelled.” The biggest concern for most of the students was keeping up with their checkbooks and learning when it would be their turn to eat pizza. Tyler Cosgrove began Enterprise City in 2003 in SIFE’s first year on campus. Cosgrove, senior finance major from Amarillo, also
started the ACU Chapter of SIFE, an international organization made up of more than 1,800 teams in 39 countries. Cosgrove said SIFE’s purpose is to educate people of all backgrounds and ages the principles of free enterprise. Cosgrove said the program received a great response from the students and their teachers, with many students asking if they could come back to the city again. “What’s neat about it is to watch and see them actually learn things and apply it in a matter of a few hours,” Cosgrove said. “They can’t spend all their money on toys. Most of the students who come don’t get an allowance and their parents don’t teach them basic principles of money and responsibility. “It’s good to get them started young, and it’s a fun way to do it.”
E-mail Carlson at: skc02a@acu.edu
CAMPUS NEWS
Wednesday, November 9, 2005
Page 5
Sadies Week changes rules with role reversal n The Campus Activities Board is planning Sadies Week, a time when women ask men out on dates, taking advantage of free dates and even creating their own. By DANIELLE SPENCE-MORROW Student Reporter
The Campus Activities Board encourages students to reverse the role and participate in Sadie Hawkins Week from Thursday to Tuesday. Sadies Week is five days set aside when women are encouraged to ask the men out on free dates provided by CAB. Some of the free
dates include Mr. Gatti’s, Cold Stone Creamery, Starbucks and roller-skating. “I also want to encourage students to really participate in Create-a-Date on Saturday,” said Candace Williams, junior social work major from Garland and student coordinator of Sadies Week. Create-a-date is when the men are asked to go out on a dates creatively put together by the women. The women document the dates, and the most creative date or creatively documented date wins a gift certificate
to Chili’s, Williams said. CAB is an organization made up of student volunteers that plan free or low cost events, which are funded by student activity fees. Some of the CAB events include Bean Sprout Bash, The Black Tulip, free date nights, free movies in Cullen Auditorium, Party on the Patio, spades tournament and Sadies Week. These events usually attract many students. About 1,200 students attend movie night, and about 1,000 students participate in Sadies Week, said Amanda Spell,
Flying Cats gets late start n A noncompetitive gymnastic group on campus called The Flying Cats is preparing to perform now, after a death in the adviser’s family delayed practices.
coordinator of Student Organizations and Campus Activities. CAB is open to all students and is usually advertised during Passport and Welcome Week, Spell said. Sadies Week came from the concept of Sadie Hawkins Day. Sadie Hawkins Day made its debut in Al Capp’s Li’l Abner comic strip November 15, 1937, according www.lil-abner.com/sadie hawk.html. Sadie Hawkins was “the homeliest gal in the hills” who grew tired of waiting for the fellows to come a courtin’. Her fa-
ther, was even more worried about Sadie living at home for the rest of his life, so he decreed the first annual Sadie Hawkins Day, a foot race in which the unmarried gals pursued the town’s bachelors. During Sadies Hawkins Day the women are encouraged to ask the men out on dates. All students are encouraged to participate in the university’s celebration of Sadies Week, especially because it is free.
Sadies Week Nov. 10-15 Thursday: Mr. Gatti’s* Friday: Ice Cream* at Cold Stone Creamery Saturday: Create-A-Date Monday: The Skatin’ Place* Tuesday: Starbucks Coffee* *Dates are free with a ticket that can be picked up after Chapel on the day of the event.
E-mail Spence-Morrow at: optimist@acu.edu
Take a look, it’s in a book
“It’s self testing. People learn to do things with their body that you never thought they could do.” Ben Zickefoose, exercise science and health professor and advisor for The Flying Cats
By GARY RHODES Student Reporter
The gymnastics and tumbling group The Flying Cats got off to a late start this year when their adviser had a death in his family. The brother of Flying Cats advisor Ben Zickefoose, exercise science and health professor, died in August, and Zickefoose took a leave of absence to care for his mother. Zickefoose, who was a member of the Flying Cats when he was a student in 1951, moved his mother to Abilene and began teaching class and leading the Flying Cats again in October. The Flying Cats occasionally perform during halftime at basketball games, and are often invited to perform at elementary schools and at Boys and Girls clubs. During Zickefoose’s absence, several students helped organize some meetings to get the group ready for practice. William Hoisington, Flying Cats member and junior applied
studies major from Merkel, was one of those students. “I definitely wanted to get something organized,” he said. “The Flying Cats is something I really care about.” Hoisington, whose younger brother David Hoisington, sophomore communication major from M e r k e l , is also a member of the group, said he notices multiple benZickefoose efits from participating in the Flying Cats. “To me, not only do I get the physical fitness, but it’s a whole lot of fun, too,” he said. Gymnastics works the body differently than free weights. Gymnastics uses the gymnast’s own body weight Zickefoose said. “It’s self testing. People learn to do things with
their body that you never thought they could do,” he said. The Flying Cats is noncompetitive and open to anybody who is interested and willing to attend practice, regardless of gymnastic experience, he said. The group has a monthly event for friends and family called Super Stunt Thursdays, where members perform their favorite tricks and moves. Super Stunt Thursdays are different than a regular show, Hoisington said, because instead of longer routines, members perform single stunts. During a performance, the group creates routines using a mini trampoline, floor tumbling, the vaulting box and partner stunts, Zickefoose said.
E-mail Rhodes at: optimist@acu.edu
Show begins rehearsals n The 2005 Culture Show creators have finished the script and group try outs, and are now ready to begin rehearsals for Ethn05, which will highlight diversity. By LAUREN SUTTON Student Reporter
Catchy advertisements cluttering campus and international students rushing to Cullen Auditorium for late-night rehearsals remind students it’s time for Culture Show. Students involved with the 2005 Culture Show, which will be Nov. 18-19, have been working steadily to prepare a multicultural experience for the Abilene community. This year’s Culture Show, a performance put on by the International Students Association, has been in progress since last summer, when directors and producers began brainstorming for the produc-
tion, “Ethn05: It’s all about You.” “It’s a lot of work and is something that cannot be put off until the last minute,” said Marcela Gutierrez, senior business management major and from Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Writers have finished the script, the acts have been chosen and students have begun rehearsing for “Ethn05.” Evening rehearsals have lasted from 8 p.m. to about 10:30 p.m., and the main characters have already begun reading through their scripts. Gutierrez said she was surprised how smoothly things have gone so far. “Right now we’ve got a really great start. … Usually things run so late and are so unorganized, but this year has been really good.” “It hasn’t been stressful at all,” said Esmeralda
Silva, sophomore marketing major from Torreon, Mexico. Silva, one of the lead characters in “Ethn05,” said students involved in the Culture Show have been meeting once a week for the majority of the semester to prepare for the upcoming production. Laura Blake, coordinator of International Student Services, works closely with ISA and said she is impressed with the leadership and faithfulness of the students involved in Culture Show. Blake, who helps organize events involving international students, said in the past she has attended rehearsals before the Culture Show takes place, but the students run the show.
E-mail Sutton at: optimist@acu.edu
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Jessica Chisholm, sophomore English major from Memphis, Tenn., reads for her Literary Criticism class on a bench in the campus mall area, in front of The Sherrod Don Morris Building on Monday.
Coffee House reinforces Chapel n The Spiritual Life Core is working to increase spiritual growth through Coffee Houses, allowing students to discuss in depth issues posed during Chapel. By SHERRI SNYDER Student Reporter
The Spiritual Life Core is planning a Coffee House for fellowship and discussion on wealth, finance and what Christians should do with their blessings at 7 p.m. Thursday in the Campus Center. The Spiritual Life Core is a student organization with the primary purpose of contributing to the spiritual formation of students by encouraging
and challenging them to grow through Christ. One method of outreach and contribution is the Coffee House. Coffee House is a time of fellowship where students are led in discussions on various life topics. These topics are an extension of those begun in Chapel. Marcus Pittman, senior management major from Mineral Wells, is co-chair of Spiritual Life Core and said Coffee House is an opportunity to get more in depth with students about what’s going on; it’s a more intimate setting than Chapel. He said Coffee House is a fellowship that allows students to be put on
the path for answers. “We want students to seek answers to questions posed in Chapel, to have a better understanding of Christianity and to get answers they’ll need for their life,” he said. All Students are welcome to attend the Coffee House on Thursday. It will be in the Living Room of the Campus Center. Applications to be a member of Spiritual Life Core will be accepted during the spring, however student volunteers are always welcome to help coordinate activities.
E-mail Snyder at: optimist@acu.edu
Page 6
November 9, 2005
Spring Break Campaigns – celebration of service The issue:
As Spring Break Campaigns approaches its 30-year anniversary, the growing popularity of campaigns is bringing the Gospel to the world.
Our view:
SBCs provide students with an opportunity to leave the Abilene bubble and experience missions in another part of the country and world.
The solution:
If you already have plans for spring break, reconsider participating in a campaign this year. No matter when or where, someone is always in need of a helping hand.
ACU Spring Break Campaigns represents an active response to the Great Commission and benefits students, the university and communities around the nation and globe. Besides service and fellowship, campaigns allow students the opportunity for personal growth and development outside the ACU setting and a chance to avoid the complacency and comfort that comes with being surrounded by churches and believers. “It is important for students to get out the Bible belt and see how church is done when there isn’t a church on every corner,” said Katie Noah, senior English major from Midland and member of the Boston 2005 campaign.
Frozen pizza and TV aren’t college In the recent months, I’ve and simply being as typical observed a group that most as the next college student, people might know as “Bike that many wake up on graduClub.” The purpose of this ation day and somberly wongroup is to der where the last four years simply ride have gone. bicycles with College seems like it will friends and last forever. It seems like meet new next year will always be waitriders along ing for you, but it won’t. So the way. The many times, it’s easy to get group rides into the mindset of go to an average class or work, come home, Don’t Believe 12 miles per turn on the television and eat week and has frozen pizza until you fall the Hype been known asleep. This is not how a colMitch to top off lege experience is supposed the ride with to be. Holt a jump into Sure, we’re here to get a Catclaw Creek at Cal Young Christian education. Yes, we Park. The Tuesday night oc- are tired from our daily accurrence is loud, obnoxious tivities. Certainly we do have and irritating to anyone not girlfriends or boyfriends who riding, but in spite of these just want to hang out all the traits that most would deem time. But when do the excuses negative, the end? When Night Riders is the sitting It’s so easy to get have fun. around going caught up in spending to end? AfMore imp o r t a n t l y , money, going out to eat, ter college? they have fun you’re sitwatching movies and If in an original ting around being as typical as the in college, it way. Abilene won’t stop next college student. is a city when you graduate — I of roughly 125,000 people with few can promise you that. businesses on its north side, In the words of Thomas J. so much of the time students Watson, founder of IBM, “Folhave difficulty thinking of low the path of the unsafe, things to do around town. independent thinker. Expose But, I assure you, students your ideas to the dangers overlook so many options be- of controversy. Speak your cause they are too busy being mind and fear less the label typical to see them. of ‘crackpot’ than the stigma In the ACU community, of conformity.” it’s so easy to get caught up in spending money, going out to eat, watching movies every E-mail Holt at: night, hazing pledges (joking) mah02f@acu.edu, optimist@acu.edu
Student club response It is an injustice to place such rash judgment on social clubs without being more aware of the inner workings of each club. I am responding to this letter not because I want to argue that social clubs are wonderful and perfect, but only to ask that we, as followers of Christ, not judge so hastily. Perhaps we all should work harder at seeking ways and places where God is glorified and how we personally can make the name of Jesus famous, rather than placing judgment on the people and places where we think He is not being exalted. When I see people walking around campus, I don’t just immediately know by the T-shirt they are wearing what a passionate follower of
Your Voice In response to letter to the editor “Social club concern” in the Wednesday, Nov. 2 issue of the Optimist. Christ they are — I have to get to know them before I can see the desperate and deliberate love for Jesus Christ in their life. I would challenge us all to not be so judgmental. Don’t decide what you think of people by their Tshirts—know them first, and then search for the ways in which they glorify our Lord. Rebekah Duke senior psychology major from Mesquite
“Sometimes we of new spiritual Spring Break Campaigns represent one of get so insulatrelationships are the simplest aspects of Christian ministry — always present if ed in Abilene the drive to emulate Jesus through service. we reflect a Chrisand have the ability to slip tian life through in and out of the simple and the churches. Green, class of 1977, led the mundane tasks we take for “People in other parts of first Spring Break Campaign granted as a way to reach out the country have to work re- with 74 fellow students to to others. ally hard to be at church and Des Moines, Iowa, in 1977, beBeyond serving others, cherish the time they spend ginning a celebrated tradition campaigns provide an opportogether,” Noah said. “Cam- on campus. tunity for students to meet paigns allow students and Spring Break Campaigns each other and share experiour university to be con- represent one of the simplest ences that go beyond Welnected to so many places aspects of Christian minis- come Week, social clubs or and does incredible things try—the drive to emulate Je- Sing Song. Students are given to promote the community sus through service. the chance to form spiriof God.” Campaigns provide an out- tual relationships with likeIn 1976, a student commit- let for service and the con- minded peers working for the tee led by Max Lucado, class struction of the community same goals. of 1977, developed and rec- of God. A five day trip often “After participating in ommended the idea of send- isn’t enough time to plant heart-stretching ministry exing students out for service and cultivate the seeds of periences through SBCs, studuring spring break. Steve ministry, but the beginnings dents realize they are capable
Cole Williams
Let Loose
Thanksgiving tricky for picky eaters I always feel a little cheated around Thanksgiving. A little ripped off. I listen to people talk about their Thanksgiving experiences and their memories of smoked turkey, heaping piles of stuffing, Ask the fresh cut Question green beans Jonathan and cranSmith berry sauce. I wonder why my memories can’t be like that. Why do my memories have to be so bland? Oh, the opportunities were there. My parents, two sisters and I always made the yearly pilgrimage to my grandma and aunt’s house for the feast. But I am cursed — cursed with the worst holiday curse. I don’t like Thanksgiving foods. When the rest of my family members fill their plates with heaping servings of six or seven different items, my game becomes, “How can I concoct a Thanksgiving meal that doesn’t look embarrassingly small compared to the rest of my family?” With so many dishes from which to choose, my family never even tried to
Thanksgiving: one of my favorite holiday experiences that is one part gluttony, six parts strategic food placement and a whole lot of memories on the side. fit it all on a table. Instead it lined the kitchen counter, and we all took turns moving through the line in church-potluck fashion. The first stop is always the meat, and that is a crucial stop if I wanted to keep my plate of food from being too embarrassed compared to the rest of my family’s. You cannot go wrong with smoked turkey and ham, no matter what holiday it is. Put me down for five slices of ham and three slices of turkey. Just like that, half my plate is full and I have a head start on even second biggest meat lover in my family. But the pickings become slim now. Next comes stuffing — a true holiday mainstay for most and an item that really says Thanksgiving to many. I can’t remember how many times I have heard someone say how good my grandmother’s stuffing is. Doesn’t matter. Too many unidentifiable ingredients mixed together. To this day I cannot name one ingredient that goes into stuffing. I would just as easily
pass by the vegetable selections of long green beans and cooked carrots, but by this time, my mother has already finished going through the line and is coming back through to make sure the children have some color on their plates. If I did my job picking out meats, however, my plate can start to look full with four green beans and one baby cooked carrot, if I’m feeling really healthy. Finally we would pass by the canned cranberry sauce. I’ll admit to having sampled it some years, perhaps more out of curiosity about this purple, gelatinous cylinder that held the shape of its can even when dumped on to a plate. However, as my grandmother’s stuffing can testify, I don’t like eating things when I’m not exactly sure what I’m eating, so my final experience with the cranberry sauce came at age 17 when I realized I never had seen a real, whole cranberry growing anywhere. Back at the table I quickly spread out my slices of
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: optimist@acu.edu
of doing ministry beyond their comfort zones,” said Mark Lewis, director of Spiritual Life and Student Ministries. “They often find that the Lord has equipped, invited and even called them to things beyond what they may have thought they could do.” As Spring Break Campaigns mark its 30th year in 2006, the considerable contributions that it has made over the years should be recognized. Campaigns provide students with unique opportunities to minister and be ministered to and are an active part of what makes this university and its students an institution with a dynamic ministry to the world.
meat and fill in any gaps on the plate with four strategically placed rolls. And with that, I have a Thanksgiving plate, albeit less colorful and diverse, that I can be proud in my family’s eyes. After all, this is only the main course — just a vehicle to dessert. Pumpkin pie has been the one saving grace for Thanksgiving foods throughout the years. In fact, it might be the one thing that makes my meatand-bread Thanksgiving meal stand out from every other meat-and-bread meal I consume at least five times a week. And when the first bite of creamy pie filling hits my mouth, it doesn’t matter how many slices of meat I have to eat to be full or how many times I’ve been told I’m missing out on the best foods. I simply know that I have experienced a true Thanksgiving meal: one of my favorite holiday experiences that is one part gluttony, six parts strategic food placement and a whole lot of memories on the side — no matter how bland my plate.
E-mail Smith at: jvs02a@acu.edu, optimist@acu.edu
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FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Wednesday, November 9, 2005
Page 7
Summerall: NFL commentator speaks on campus Continued from page 1 discovered he needed a liver transplant three years ago. He received that transplant a year and a half ago but he said he began questioning why he was given another chance at life while others have to die. The answer he received to that question from ministers and friends was the same message he wanted to leave with members of the audience Tuesday. “Because God’s not through with you yet,” Summerall said. “You wouldn’t be here if God was through with you.” After the luncheon, Summerall said he now spends most of his time speaking to groups about his testimony, playing golf and attending a twice-a-week Bible study. As a man of faith working in the media and sports, Summerall said until he became a Christian, he never realized how many people in his fields were searching for something more out of life.
“There are more people searching than I ever realized,” Summerall said, “… that you would not know about unless you make it known you’re a spiritual person.” Members of the audience had the opportunity to submit questions for Summerall to answer. Questions ranged from his most memorable moments in broadcasting NFL games to what it has been like working with fellow NFL commentator John Madden. Jennifer Ellison, Centennial activities coordinator, said about 265 people attended the luncheon. Summerall is the second of eight speakers the university has invited to speak during its Centennial year. The last Centennial speaker this semester will be MSNBC anchor Lester Holt at 7 p.m. Dec. 1 in the Teague Special Events Center. GARY RHODES/Contributing Photographer
E-mail Smith at: jvs02a@acu.edu
Pat Summerall, an NBC broadcaster with John Madden, speaks at the Centennial Speaker Series during lunch Tuesday in the Teague Special Events Center. Summerall was the second Centennial speak to speak this semester. Six more are scheduled to speak throughout the year.
Internet: Network system might need upgraded soon Continued from page 1 known as CALEA, meant one thing 10 years ago, but with the rapid change in technology, everything must change. “Anyone with a good Internet connection and the right equipment can connect to the public telephone network anywhere an Internet connection is available,” Massingill said. He said this becomes a problem because the police can’t use caller identification to determine where a call is placed. That means the act must extend to include telephone carriers and Internet service providers. Law enforcement agencies depend
upon telephone identification to monitor activities of potential terrorists and former criminals, as well as to protect the security of the nation. If forced to comply with the act, the university will have 14 months to update more than 6,000 Internet connections with the capability required by the FCC. Depending on the number of records the university must maintain for the government, Massingill said a large amount of computer memory would be required to record Internet conversations in real time. Other technology also will be required. Two years ago, the uni-
versity installed switches in the residence halls that allowed technology support to pinpoint problems on the network, Massingill said. However, that technology would not provide the data the law would require. “Technology is changing more rapidly today then it has in the past 11 years, when the act was first written, meaning technology is still evolving, and that we are trying to comply to a moving target,” he said. He said the university always complies with the law, and whatever needs to be done in the allotted time would be complete, no matter the cost.
KRBC: Channel 5 returns to Abilene
E-mail Smith at: optimist@acu.edu
of information technology and has appealed the application of the act to college campuses. According to EDUCAUSE’s Web site, it filed a report Oct. 13 with the Department of Justice proposing different requirements that wouldn’t create such an unreasonable financial burden on universities, K-12 schools and libraries across the country. “The higher education community is sympathetic to law enforcement’s need to access Internet communications,” said Wendy Wigen, an EDUCAUSE policy analyst, in formal comments by EDUCAUSE sent to the FCC. “However, we feel it is
clear that Congress never intended CALEA to extend to the Internet and that the negative impact on the education and library community would far outweigh any benefit that law enforcement would gain by including them in this ruling,” she said. Massingill said he is reasonably confident that the appeal will be granted in the near future because of the work these organizations do to improve the higher education system.
E-mail Sherwood at: mes02e@acu.edu
FilmFest: Students enjoy show Continued from page 1
Continued from page 1
rabbit ears and disconnecting their cable connection. Some students don’t even watch NBC. “I haven’t even heard anything about NBC coming back,” said Steven Hollifield, junior financial management major from Ausin. Hollifield said he usually can’t find the time to watch television. “Even if I had more time, TV isn’t high on my priority list,” Hollifield said. Cable access isn’t available to some students off campus. NBC is then picked up on Channel 9 through the use of rabbit ears.
“Anytime you try to synchronize the capabilities of a complex technology system, you are going to have sunk costs, which means abandoning recently purchased equipment for everything to work,” Massingill said. He said the new act would be a huge burden on the education system with little value for law enforcement agencies because the government rarely investigates terrorists and criminals on university campuses. Other organizations agree. EDUCAUSE, a nonprofit association of which the university is a member, advances higher education by promoting intelligent use
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Grant Boone, the Emcee for Friday night’s 2005 FilmFest production, cracks a joke at the audience in between viewings of the films.
fore they voted. “People’s choice was a really good way to get people involved first of all because they’re seeing the films the whole week before,” King said. “Kind of a little bit of advertising, and it’s just a way for people to really get excited about it.” A Saturday morning symposium featuring six of the 12 judges followed the premier night. Judges spoke to about 25 students and people from the community. The symposium gave the judges a chance to interact with people, King said. Tabitha Vail, junior English major from San Antonio, had the chance to stop by the symposium and said she liked seeing the judges interact with each other. Vail helped with the marketing and communication aspect of FilmFest by getting support partners
FilmFest awards • Best film: Noc • People’s Choice: Noc • Best producer: Michael Breeden for Refils • Best director: Brady Rector for Noc • Best technical director: David Chisolm for By My Thundering Hordes • Best sound designer: David Hewell for By My Thundering Hordes • Best production designer: Scott Taylor for Noc • Best writer: Amanda McGee for Awake, You Dreamless Sleeper
to help make it financially possible. Through raising support she said she realized Abilene is a helpful community. She raised a total of $6,000 in comparable dollars in things ranging from discounts on T-shirts, to a check to help pay the $800 needed to rent the Paramount. Ryan Jones, freshman Christian ministry major from Tulsa, Okla., was the director and writer for They
Call You Holy and said FilmFest was one thing he liked about ACU when he heard about it last year. Jones said he plans to participate in the future and encourages other students to as well. “If you’re willing to put in the work, no matter if you win or loose, you will have a good feeling of accomplishment,” Jones said.
E-mail Carroll at: optimist@acu.edu
Page 8
November 9, 2005
Wildcats prepare for LSC tournament
Standings Football Team Conf. Overall 8-1 10-1 WTAMU Angelo St. 7-2 9-2 Tarleton St. 6-3 7-3 Midwestern 5-4 6-4 TAMU-K 5-4 6-4 ACU 4-5 4-6
n After winning against West Texas A&M and Eastern New Mexico last week, the Wildcats earned the right to host the LSC Tournament in Moody Coliseum. By JARED FIELDS Sports Editor
Volleyball Team Div. ACU 10-0 WTAMU 8-2 TAMU-K 6-4 ENMU 3-7 Tarleton St. 2-8 Angelo St. 1-9
Overall 27-3 26-8 11-19 8-19 16-17 9-23
Scores
From the last game of the 2004 season, the Wildcats have been looking forward playing the Lone Star Conference Tournament in Moody Coliseum. That desire became reality last weekend as the Wildcats defeated West Texas A&M and Eastern New Mexico to
Thursday
Sport finish conference play at 10-0 and earned the right to play the conference tournament at home. The tournament begins Thursday and concludes with the championship game Saturday at 7 p.m. Thursday the Wildcats went on the road to play West Texas A&M and came away with a close 3-2 victory. The Wildcat scores (26-30, 30-17, 20-30, 30-20) were all by big margins after the closely won first game. The Wildcats took the momentum from their fourth game and won the fifth
game 15-9 to win the match. “It was stressful, the momentum kept changing from one side to the other,” head coach Brek Horn said. “Going into the fifth game [the players] were pumped because we had won the fourth game, and then that momentum helped carry into the fifth game.” The win in Canyon clinched the LSC South Division Championship for the Wildcats, who headed to Portales on Saturday for their final match of the season. The Wildcats easily won 3-0 against Eastern New Mexico and set their sights
on the LSC Tournament. Because the Wildcats won the South Division, the team gets a first round bye and plays its first match Friday at 6 p.m. against the winner of the Texas Woman’s and Texas A&M-Kingsville match at 5 p.m. Thursday. “Right now we’re excited to be home, we’re excited to be in Moody,” Horn said. “Last year we won the conference title on the road, and we want to win it here in front of our home fans.”
LSC Tournament Pairings Thursday: 5 p.m.-TAMU-K vs. TWU 7:30 p.m.-MSU vs. WTAMU Friday: 6 p.m.-TAMU-K or TWU, vs. ACU 8:30 p.m.-MSU or WTAMU, vs. UCO Saturday: Championship match, 7 p.m.
E-mail Fields at: jrf03b@acu.edu
Ahead of the pack
Volleyball ACU 3, West Texas A&M 2
Saturday
FOOTball Midwestern State 35, ACU 30
Volleyball ACU 3, Eastern New Mexico 0
Upcoming Schedule Friday
VOlleyball ACU vs. TWU or TAMU-K, 6 p.m.
Saturday VOlleyball LSC Tournament Final, 7 p.m.
• Home games listed in italics
Former kicker gets chance at next level n Former ACU kicker, Eben Nelson, tried out for the Dallas Desperados arena football team and may have a chance to continue his playing career with the team next spring. By BRADY HILTON Student Reporter
Eben Nelson, the former Wildcat place kicker, on request was one of ten kickers who tried out for the Dallas Desperados on the weekend of Oct. 22. The Desperados, a franchise arena football team owned by Jerry Jones, contacted Nelson to try out for the 2006 season. Chavis McAllister, a friend and newly signed wide receiver, put in a good word with the team’s coaching staff. Nelson did very well in his time playing for the Wildcats, holding the school records for the most field goals in a career, most career points after touchdown (PAT), most field goals in one game (four), Nelson and most career kicking points. In 2002 he was awarded 3rd team NCAA Division II All-West Region honors and in the 2003 and 2004 was given Honorable Mention. Last year he participated in the National Kicking Camp, where NFL scouts observed him. Unfortunately, Nelson tore a hip flexor and was unable to complete the camp. “It is just one of those deals,” Nelson said. “It’s frustrating. I just need to get in the game and prove to them.” Nelson was the last of those trying out to be cut. He said he wasn’t cut because of his performance, but because the Desperados’ kicker, Carlos Martinez, still has a year left on his contract. However, if Martinez is put out of the season by injuring an already bad knee, or if his performance starts to go south, the team told Nelson they had his number and would be calling him. “I am going to keep kicking and stay in shape,” Nelson said. “I can’t give up.”
E-mail Hilton at: optimist@acu.edu
Gary Rhodes/Contributing Photographer
ACU runners (from left to right) Trina Cox, Olha Kryv’yak and Adeh Mwamba finished first, second and third respectively, all within about 30 seconds of each other at the regional meet.
n Both cross country teams advanced to the national meet after the men won and the women placed second in the regional meet last weekend. By STEVE HOLT Sports Writer
The last time the ACU men’s and women’s cross country teams went to nationals together, Bill Clinton was about to begin his second term as President – it was the fall of 1996. That drought ended Saturday, however, as the men finished first and the women second at the NCAA Division II South Central Region Championships, which took place at Sherrod Park in Abilene. Going into the meet, both teams knew they would need to place in the top two to advance to the NCAA Division II National Championships in Pomona, Calif., Nov. 19. The women’s team started off the warm day with some heat of its own, taking the top three places in the race to finish second only to Central Missouri State and earn its first bid to the NCAA Di-
Cross Country vision II National Championships since 1997. Senior Trina Cox claimed her first region championship with a time of 21:49.10 in the six-kilometer race, followed by Olha Kryv’yak (22:09.35) and Adeh Mwamba (22:22.25). The runners whose races helped clinch the birth to nationals, however, were a senior and a freshman, respectively – Abbie Waters and Mary Mwangi. Waters finished 34th overall, while Mwangi finished just behind her in 35th. Cox said she decided early this season that she would be in better shape when the region meet came than she was last year, a strategy that paid off Saturday. “I trained hard over the summer,” Cox said. “I wasn’t going to make any hard predictions. I said I was at least going to be stronger than I was last year.” Head coach Derek Hood said Waters, running in her last season of organized cross country, found Mwangi at around the half-way point in Saturday’s race and hung with
her until the end, edging her out at the line. “Those seniors wanted it so much, to qualify for nationals,” Hood said. “The first team meeting we had, we made that goal and some of them went, ‘Whoa, coach, that’s a pretty big goal.’ But the seniors, it was for them.” The men’s team dominated the competition with a total score of 21 points. Sophomore Nicodemus Naimadu defended his region title by running away from his teammates and opponents, finishing the ten-kilometer race in 31:13.90. Freshman Philip Birgen was second overall in 31:48.90, followed by LSC Freshman of the Year Serge Gasore in third (31:53.5). Senior Martin O’Kello finished seventh (33:12.7), while freshman Alberic Nkurunziza made spectacular improvements to finish eighth in the race (33:32.95). Hood got a scare Friday while he was setting up the course for the meet, however, when Naimadu called and said he wouldn’t be able to run in Saturday’s meet, he had crashed on his bike.
Brian Schmidt/Chief Photographer
Nicodemus Naimadu, Serge Gasore, Philip Birgen and Martin O’Kello run in a pack at the NCAA South Central Regional Meet held at Sherrod Park. The runners finished first, third, second and seventh, respectively. Naimadu received the care he needed for some scrapes on his knees and elbows and successfully defended his region title Saturday. “That just shows how much of a warrior he is, because no one would have ever known,” Hood said. “I’ve just got to confiscate that bike for the next two weeks.” In addition to Naimadu’s close call, Gasore had suffered from a stomach sickness for over a week before the South Central Championships, Hood said.
“The satisfaction of hosting the meet and having the team compete the way it did is just a real good feeling,” Hood said. Hood said he and the women’s team are not going to be content with “just going” to nationals. “I would love to finish in the top-five,” Hood said. “So, we just need to hold them together for two more weeks and turn ’em loose in Pomona.” E-mail Holt at: smh00a@acu.edu
Wildcats finish the year 4-6 after close loss n Under first-year head coach Chris Thomsen, the Wildcats finished the year with a 4-6 record after losing their final game to Midwestern State 35-30. By JARED FIELDS Sports Editor
The Wildcats lost their final game Saturday, 35-30. The team was down five points and needed to recover an onside kick with 2:17 left in the game. Instead, Midwestern State recovered the ball and ran it 38 yards to the ACU 7yard line and scored on the next play to put the Wildcats down by 12 points. ACU received the ball and marched down the field, but Nick Bird’s 8-yard touchdown pass to
Football sophomore Jerale Badon with four seconds remaining in the game was not enough, as the Wildcats finished the year with a 4-6 record. The Wildcats threw three interceptions and were only 215 on third down conversions, while the Indians’ running game controlled the game. “They made more plays,” head coach Chris Thomsen said. “They just beat us, they were a better team that day.” The Indians racked up 379 rushing yards and 534 total yards as their offense was too much for the Wildcat defense. Indian running back Ross Harrison and quarterback Daniel Polk combined
for 323 yards rushing and four touchdowns on 38 rushing attempts. For the Wildcats, Thomsen split time between his quarterbacks in an attempt to find someone on a hot streak. While the combination of Nick Bird and Billy Malone threw for 372 yards Minner and four touchdowns, the three interceptions hurt the most. Billy Malone threw back-to-back interceptions in the fourth quarter, while the team was down 28-17, which took away some of the momentum the Wildcats
had built up. Senior Robb Spells led the Wildcats with three touchdown receptions and 203 yards in the air. Malone and Spells hooked up twice for deep touchdown strikes to keep the Wildcats close, but the defense could not slow down the Indians offensive attack. With the season over, the focus for the team shifts to off-season duties. Senior players look to their future, returning players begin preparing for next season, and coaches put more effort towards recruiting. Thomsen will have a difficult challenge replacing some of the seniors on the team, but he knows it’s part of the game. ”It’s going to be tough.
Those guys were some good players,” Thomsen said. “We’ll definitely miss those guys, but we’ve got to move on.” After an impressive first season, redshirt freshman Taber Minner said he knows he’ll do even better next year. “Next year I’ll have a bunch more confidence in myself,” Minner said. “Hopefully, I’ll be able to do a lot better.” Thomsen and the other coaches are working on recruiting players for the February signing day. “We just need to recruit some more depth at every position,” Thomsen said. “Competition at every spot will be ideal.” E-mail Fields at: jrf03b@acu.edu