Vol. 94, No. 25 1 section, 8 pages
WEDNESDAY
November 16, 2005
www.acuoptimist.com
Season’s greetings
New arrival
Regional competition
The Wildcats play their first game this week; season preview coming Friday
Books-A-Million had its grand opening in the Mall of Abilene on Friday, page 3
The Wildcats will play in the regional tournament this weekend, page 8
Drivers notice $2 gas at area pumps n Gasoline can be bought for as cheap as $1.97 in Abilene, but prices are expected to rise as travel increases for Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.
Awareness weeks Members of an Honors colloquium class are promoting National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, and members of International Justice Mission raise money to fight injustice. • Students can sign a petition in the Campus Center asking Rep. Randy Neugebauer, R.-Lubbock, for increased federal funding to fight poverty. • IJM has a table in the Campus Center to raise money for its campaign.
Students raise funds for IJM n International Justice Mission’s campaign “Loose Change to Loosen Chains” aims to raise awareness and money to help victims of oppression around the world. By DANI LINTHICUM Student Reporter
This week, students will walk around campus carrying fast food cups with the label: “Loose Change to Loosen Chains.” These students are involved with the campus chapter of International Justice Mission and are participating
in IJM Awareness Week by collecting money from their classmates and professors for the cause of justice. IJM is a human rights agency that rescues victims of violence, sexual exploitation, slavery and oppression. The campus chapter is designed to educate others about justice, pray on behalf of the victims and IJM staff and raise money for IJM to help rescue victims of oppression. “We are the modern-day See
IJM page 7
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Joey Halbert, senior political science major from Austin, talks to Derrick Wilson, sophomore political science major from Houston, about International Justice Mission on Tuesday at the group’s table in the Campus Center.
Scraping for service
By NATHAN STRAUS Student Reporter
The price of gasoline in Abilene is declining. Some gas stations in Abilene now sell gas for $1.97 per gallon, when just a few days ago, the price was more than $2. Clay Bush, manager of the Murphy USA near the Wal-mart Supercenter, said the price of the gas at gas stations depends on how much gas corporations are selling the gas. “We try to be the cheapest,” Bush said. The Web site www.texasgasprices.com, shows gas prices per gallon in Abilene going as low as $1.97. This is a welcome change from prices of more than $2.50. According to www.fueleconomy.gov, gas prices per gallon in Texas have almost reached last year’s. The price of gas today is also more than 40 cents cheaper than last month. The price of gasoline in Texas is lower than the national average, according to www.consumeraffairs.com. This is mainly because Texas has a greater supply of gasoline than other states. Conway Jordan, president of Red Star Fuels, said the current price of gasoline in Abilene can be attributed to several factors. “We are actually selling gas under cost right now in order to keep people from stealing our volume,” Jordan said. Jordan said stealing volume refers to other gas companies attracting customers. Selling gas under cost means Red Star Fuels is selling gas for less than it pays for it, resulting in a net loss in order to convince customers to use Red Star Fuels for gasoline needs. Jordan said another reason for the cheap gasoline is many refineries are now operational after being shut down after hurricanes Katrina and Rita. “It’s a matter of supply and See
GAS page 7
Students sign petition for hunger n Honors students in social justice colloquium spread news about National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week in Campus Center. By TAKISHA KNIGHT Page 2 Editor
Honor students said they hope to increase student awareness about poverty as they circulate a petition to combat hunger and homelessness this week. Since Sunday, the first day of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, a group of honor students have been promoting the cause through flyers, posters and video clips as part of a class assignment. Students can visit information booths about the issues in the Campus Center and sign a petition at the ticket windows. Dr. Jason Morris, director of McNair See
HUNGER page 7
University to plant trees soon n About 150 pecan trees have been ordered and will be planted across from the entrance of the university after the winter’s first hard freeze. By DANNY GAMBERO Student Reporter
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Debbie Ortiz, senior social work major from Mesquite, and Sybil Vess, sophomore psychology major from Mesquite, scrape loose paint off of a house on Grape Street before repainting the house Saturday. Students from ACU and Hardin-Simmons and McMurry universities worked together in service for this organized Intercollegiate Community Celebration. See page 7 for an article about the event.
The university will plant 90 pecan trees in December or January after the first hard freeze of the winter. The pecan orchards will be near the entrance of the university on Judge Ely Boulevard. The orchard will be on the west and east sides of the road. “When complete, the trees will be planted approximately 50 feet apart, Nevill irrigated, and grass will be planted in the remaining area,” Bob Nevill, director of Physical Resources said in an See
PECANS page 7
Jogging track construction begins n Bontke Brothers Construction estimates the track will be complete by late January, but wet weather and students writing in the concrete could delay the project. By TIFFANY TAYLOR Features Editor
The university’s new jogging track is about two months away from completion and will be two miles
long, six inches thick and nine feet wide. Bontke Brothers Construction company has laid about 285 feet of the jogging track along Campus Court and said construction will continue to travel more inward on the university campus. Although plans are for the project to be finished in mid to late January, Rick Bontke, project manager, said weath-
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
er and students could delay the process. Wet weather can delay construction, Bontke said, and below freezing temperature cracks cement, which contains water. However, the most frequent and severe delay thus far in the process has been students writing in the cement, Bontke said. “The men are really working hard, and it does get them
frustrated to have to go back and fix it,” Bontke said. “We know that some people don’t understand that what they’re doing is causing problems, but it is.” Figures drawn into the wet concrete have to be filled in with a thinner, sand mixture, Bontke said, and the filler mixture will not last as long. See
TRACK page 7
EMERALD McGowan/Staff Photographer
A Bontke Brothers Construction crew works on the framing to pour concrete for part of the jogging track around the university Thursday.
Abilene Christian University
Serving the ACU community since 1912
Chapel Checkup Credited Chapels to date:
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
16
Calendar & Events Wednesday
Adopt an Angel, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Campus Center ticket window.
17
Thursday
A 2005 studio premiere of Inspecting Carol, 8 p.m., Culp Theatre.
Recycle Day, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Campus Center.
Town Hall Meeting, 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m., Hilton Room.
Culture Show ticket sale, 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Campus Center ticket window.
Adopt an Angel, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Campus Center ticket window.
National Hunger and Homelessness Week petition, 11:30 a.m.-noon, Campus Center ticket window. Essence of Ebony, 11:45 a.m.4 p.m., Campus Center ticket window.
Culture Show ticket sale, 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Campus Center ticket window. National Hunger and Homelessness Week petition, 11:30 a.m.-noon, Campus Center ticket window.
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 location. Volunteers at any of these would be very helpful. For a list of locations stop by the Volunteer and Service-Learning 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 for this weekend. For more information, contact Jonathan Wood at 210-273-1466 or e-mail him at jrw02i@acu.edu. Love and Care Ministries needs help with its Mission Thanksgiving campaign unloading donations (food, clothes, blankets, etc.) as received to Arrow Ford, 4001 S. 1st St. Friday from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. They also need help unloading semi trucks with donations from Friday on Saturday 9 a.m. until it is finished. Volunteers can meet at Love and Care Ministries, at 234 Fannin St. just east of Mockingbird off of N. 3rd Street.
18
Friday
19
Saturday
ISA Culture Show Ethnos U, 8:05 p.m., Cullen Auditorium.
Purple Friday. ISA Culture Show Ethnos U, 8:05 p.m., Cullen Auditorium. A 2005 studio premiere of Inspecting Carol, 8 p.m., Culp Theatre. National Hunger and Homelessness Week petition, 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m., Campus Center ticket window. Rich Folk Poor Folk, 7 p.m., Bean Sprout.
A 2005 studio premiere of Inspecting Carol, 2 p.m., Culp Theatre.
20
Sunday
Junior Class Sing Song interest meeting, 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m., Living Room.
Announcements The power will be out in McKinzie Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. for physical resources. Students can help fight hunger by signing a student lead petition that will go to government officials proposing more federally funded programs to aid the homeless and hungry at the Campus center ticket windows. A new upper level American Literature course will be available during the summer 2006 semester. It will be held from 10-11:50 a.m. Monday through Friday. Lester Holt Centennial Speaker Series is rescheduled for Dec. 1. The Students’ Association wants spirited students to be Moody Maniacs—rally leaders at home basketball and volleyball games. For more information, visit the SA office or call Paul Harshman at 738-4561. Four spaces remain to study abroad in Latin America next semester. There will be help available
to work with student schedules and financial aid. E-mail Lauren Graham for more information, at Lauren. Graham@acu.edu. The Center for Contemporary Arts will be closed for the Thanksgiving Holidays Thursday, Nov. 24 and Nov. 25. The Center will re-open Saturday, Nov. 26 at 11 a.m. Some repair, maintenance and construction projects from The City of Abilene may result in temporary street closures and/or traffic detours and slow-downs this week. The work includes: Asphalt repair at Cherry Street from South 6th Street to South 3rd Street; South 3rd Street from Willow Street to Locust Street; South 4th Street from Willow Street to Locust Street, and concrete repair at North 13th Street from Walnut Street to Mesquite Street, and the alley entrance at 726.5 E. North 13th will be closed on Nov. 14 for about seven days.
Abilenians, Zambians mourn Hamby n Former professor and organizer of Zambia medical missions died from a heart attack and brain hemorrhage Saturday at age 66. By TIFFANY TAYLOR Features Editor
Dr. Kelly Hamby died Saturday at the age of 66. A former English and applied studies professor at the university, Hamby died from a heart attack and brain hemorrhage. His visitation was Monday and the funeral was Wednesday at Hillcrest Church of Christ, where Hamby was a member. Although Hamby taught at ACU from 1975 through 1983 as a professor of education, and again beginning in 1989 in the Applied Studies Department, those close to him remember more about his work in Zambia. “He would risk personal injury, risk professional marginalization to help
those who were sick or needy,” said Dr. K.B. Massingill, chief information officer of the university. During the six years between his work at ACU, Hamby was headmaster for Nam Wianga, a school in Zambia, and continued to organize medical missions every summer since his return to Abilene, acting as general superintendent for the school. Because of Hamby’s close ties to Zambia through his mission work, the funeral was also broadcast in Zambia, Massingill said, where news of his death has been broadcast on television and radio programs. Zambians, who have come in contact with Hamby through his six-year stint as headmaster and through the medical missions, have been mourning Hamby’s death since Saturday, Massingill said. When someone passes away, the village women will
enter the home and mourn with the family, while the men will stand outside, Massingill said. “They’ll remember, and they’ll tell stories, and they’ve been doing that in Zambia since Saturday, when they got the word that he passed,” Massingill said. Hamby began his professional life working as a basketball coach and math and science teacher after graduating college. He then received a doctorate in education administration from the University of Texas and began working for Southwest development laboratories, where he developed mass curriculum for the children of migrants. Eleanor Hamby, his wife, said he wanted to be a senator, so he went to work for former Texas Gov. Dolph Briscoe writing education legislation and speeches. However, a closer look at politics revealed to Hamby the job a senator was not for
him, Eleanor Hamby said. Instead, his next job was as professor of education at ACU. The chair of the Education Department at that time, Gentry Fritts, recruited Hamby. During that time, Fritts said Hamby was a leader in his field and always ahead with his teaching styles, introducing a more interactive classroom. When discussing what would happen in the next several days, Massingill said Eleanor Hamby had asked him to send an e-mail ensuring everyone that the Zambia mission would still take place. “In anyone else that would be crass,” Massingill said “But the truth is, that’s exactly what Kelly would have wanted and exactly what I expect from [Eleanor].” Kelly Hamby is survived by his wife Eleanor Hamby, three children and seven grandchildren. E-mail Taylor at: tat04a@acu.edu
Credited Chapels remaining:
61 09
Police Log (edited for space) Nov. 7 8 a.m. Parking violators on Campus Court in construction zone Noon Assisted student with flat tire 1 p.m. Jumpstart vehicle at business lot 2:09 p.m. Booted vehicle at Morris Hall lot reference to unpaid citations/unknown owner 2:07 p.m. Theft of bike, report # 05-198 3 p.m. Booted vehicle at library Lot reference to unpaid citations/unknown owner. 4:20 p.m. Removed boot from vehicle at Morris lot 5:40 p.m. Removed boot from vehicle at library lot 7:40 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at Barret lot 9:15 p.m. Theft of bike at Foster Science Building, case #05-200 10:10 p.m. Escorted student from Sikes Hall Nov. 8 Midnight Placed barricades at Teague lot 9:45 a.m. Motor Vehicle theft (service cart) ARAMARK/ Campus Center dock. 10:03 a.m. Report of possible burglary at Gibson. Gym. Checked, no burglary 10:40 a.m. Assisted Judicial Affairs with unruly student at Campus Life 11:10 a.m. Vehicle accident at Campus Center 1:30 p.m. Follow up on case work 3:15 p.m. Report of debit card theft, referred to Abilene PD. Occurred off campus 6:23 p.m. Vehicle accident at EN 16th Street & Avenue F, both vehicles were gone upon arrival 11:50 p.m. Parking violations at Barret lot Nov. 9 12:02 a.m. Parking violations at west campus north lot 12:08 a.m. Parking violations at Big Purple lot 12:21 a.m. Parking violations at Gardner lot 12:26 a.m. Parking violations at Nelson lot 1:10 a.m. Parking violations at Smith/Adams lot 10:54 a.m. Unlocked vehicle at Gardner lot 6:30 p.m. Foot patrol of main campus 7:05 p.m. Foot patrol, Moody Coliseum, volleyball tournament. 8:25 p.m. Recovered stolen property (bicycle) at 500 E. Ambler Blvd., old case # 05-103 Nov. 10 10:30 a.m. Booted vehicle at University Park lot for unpaid citations/unknown owner 1:10 p.m. Removed boot from vehicle at University Park Apartment lot
1:40 p.m. Assisted APD with vehicle accident at Campus Court & Ambler Boulevard 4:20 p.m. Bike Theft report 05-205 4:40 p.m. Removed boot from vehicle at business lot 9:15 p.m. Medical emergency at Campus Center, Case# 05-206 11:50 p.m. Monitored fire drills on campus Nov. 11 1:05 a.m. Unlocked Business Building 8:15 a.m. Booted vehicle in Sewell Lot for unpaid citations/ unknown owner 9:20 a.m. Removed boot from vehicle at Sewell lot 10:20 a.m. Booted vehicle in library lot for unpaid citations/ unknown owner 10:30 a.m. Disturbance with two ARAMARK workers at Campus Center, Case #05-207 10:45 a.m. Booted vehicle in Mabee lot for unpaid citations/ unknown owner. 10:55 a.m. Removed boot from vehicle at library lot 11:08 a.m. Removed boot from vehicle at Mabee lot 11:50 a.m. Checked welfare of Mabee Hall student whose vehicle was found at Kirby Lake. See case # 05-208. Located student at room, all OK 12:40 p.m. Jumpstart vehicle at south parking lot 3:40 p.m. Jumpstart vehicle at Gardner lot 7:20 p.m. Unlocked McKinzie 9:30 p.m. Mabee Hall, Issued Criminal Trespass Warning to dismissed ACU student. 9:30 p.m. Theft of purse from Nelson Hall, Case # 05-209 11:15 p.m. Locked Bible building Nov. 12 Midnight Locked WPAC 1 a.m. Medical emergency at University Park Apartments, Apt # 213, no transport 2:15 a.m. Checked gate at Maintenance, it was unsecured 2:35 a.m. Fire alarm at Edwards Hall, all OK, burnt popcorn 2:36 a.m. Escorted student from Sikes Hall to Barret Hall 11:33 a.m. Assisted subjects out of gas at EN 16th Street & Avenue F 12:31 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at 800 Vista St. 1 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at 1200 Washington Blvd. 6:30 p.m. Monitored volleyball game at Moody Coliseum 12:10 p.m. Locked Bible building 11:05 p.m. Traffic stop at EN 18th St. & Campus Court, vehicle had no taillights 11:47 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at Ambler Boulevard & Pine Street Nov. 13 7:45 p.m. Student unable to locate her vehicle. Vehicle located, no offense
About This Page The Optimist maintains this calendar for the ACU community to keep track of local social, academic and service opportunities. Groups may send announcements directly to optimist@acu.edu or to the Page 2 Editor, ACU Box 27892, Abilene, TX 79699.
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 16, 2005
Page 3
CAMPUS NEWS
Student works as bounty hunter and investigator n Jeremy Gudgel works as a private investigator, bounty hunter and bail bondsman when he is not involved in club activities and classes. By LUKE HARRIS Staff Writer
While many students spend their weekends thinking up things to do for fun, others work at restaurants and stores, and one student scouts Abilene, capturing fugitives, following cheating spouses and writing bail bonds.
Jeremy Gudgel, junior communication major from Andrews, is out on the streets hunting down fugitives as a bounty hunter. Gudgel first thought about this career last year when he became head of security for Sing Song, and began speaking with ACU Police Chief Jimmy Ellison. Ellison told him where he could find Russell McDaniel of TNT Bail bonds and possibly get a job as a bail bondsman. Gudgel then started training with McDaniel, and in June was out on the streets in action,
writing bonds and, at the end of June, making his first arrest. Since that time Gudgel has made 28 arrests and is still working as a bounty hunter and bail bondsman.
“I go in everyday outfits and just talk the people into coming with us.” Jeremy Gudgel, junior communication major from Andrews
“I don’t carry any guns or mace or even wear special clothes,” Gudgel said. “I go in everyday outfits and just talk
Bookstore arrives in Abilene n Books-A-Million offers students a place to study until 11 p.m., a discount card to receive 10 percent off all purchases for $10, and a wide selection of books. By SHELBY COATES Student Reporter
Abilene welcomed BooksA-Million, the third largest book retailer in the nation, to the Mall of Abilene at an official ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday. Music by the Abilene High School band, Clifford the Big Red Dog and Sassy the Clown greeted store visitors. Firefighters from the Abilene Fire Department passed out stickers and candy to children, and ChikFil-A gave away coupons for free food. Chamber of Commerce representatives and other government officials also attended. Although Books-A-Million officially opened Oct. 17, the grand opening was celebrated last weekend with story time with Clifford, five-minute massages by the Abilene Institute of Massage, book signings and performances by local bands. “Books-A-Million mainly has books and other reading material, but there is a great variety,” said Christine Paul, co-manager of special lines for the store. “The store does not sell a lot of popular DVDs and only has seasonal CDs.” As Books-A-Million plans to expand more westward, the Abilene location is the farthest west in the United States. The company wanted to open a store in Abilene because of the city’s demo-
graphics of needs, availability and interest, Paul said. Books-A-Million is the only full service bookstore in Abilene other than Waldenbooks. “Books-A-Million is kidfriendly. We want to make the readers feel welcome,” Paul said. “Books-A-Million is also for those that just want to get away. The store is easy to relax and browse and read.” College students can get away and study because Books-A-Million is also open late, Paul said. The store is
Books-A-Million • Location: Mall of Abilene 4310 Buffalo Gap Road • Phone Number: 691-0019 • Store Hours: MondaySaturday 9 a.m.- 11 p.m. Sunday 9 a.m.- 9 p.m.
also a great place to meet people, study and have book clubs. The Abilene Writers Guild now meets in the store, Paul said. “There aren’t really any student specials or college discounts,” Paul said. However, Books-A-Million offers a discount card that gives cardholders 10 percent off all purchases for a payment of $10 a year. Cardholders also receive a coupon book and e-mail promotions with the discount card. Several students have noticed the new bookstore in the Mall of Abilene. Ashley Hammerstein, sophomore Biblical text and English major from Manteca, Calif., said she has heard about
to people into coming with us. If you take an aggressive approach with these guys, they will react aggressively, so it’s easy because they are pretty level-headed if you just
and seen the new bookstore, but she has not been inside. “We don’t have a decent bookstore here. And as an English major, I love books,” Hammerstein said. Hammerstein wanted a bookstore with a Barnes & Noble atmosphere, where she could hang out and take her time looking through books. “I want discount books that fit my budget,” Hammerstein said. “I want a new discovery every time I go in.” Kylea Schmid, freshman social work major from Tuscon, Ariz., visited Books-AMillion for the first time two weekends ago. “It’s in between Barnes & Noble and Borders,” said Schmid. “It’s better than the other bookstore in the mall; I really like it.” Schmid did not buy anything but she browsed through the cats and cookbook section. “They have a great selection,” she said. ‘I just wish it was closer. If it was, I would spend more time there.” Books-A-Million has begun to involve itself in the Abilene community. Store employees have started visiting local nursing homes to read to and encourage residents. The store has also contacted local schools and daycare centers to gather books and required reading lists. Story time is offered at Books-A-Million on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.
E-mail Coates at: optimist@acu.edu
talk to them.” Gudgel also worked as a private investigator this summer. He said it included, “mostly
watching people cheat on their spouses and writing a report about it.” The world outside of the university was a very eye-opening experience, Gudgel said. He said he had a lot of fun doing his job this summer, but that hasn’t stopped him from having fun at school as well. Gudgel is also a member of the social club Frater Sodalis. Mac Leavell, senior management major from Abilene and president of Frater Sodalis, said Gudgel is active in club and still spends time hanging out with
all of his friends. “He is really active in intramurals and club and comes to most everything and always hangs out with everyone,” Leavell said. “You would never know that he has a full plate. Gudgel may have a full plate now, but he isn’t done adding to it. In January, he plans to become a certified home inspector, and Gudgel said after graduation next May, he plans to join the military.
E-mail Harris at: dlh03a@acu.edu
It’s all Greek to me
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Doug Johnson, graduate student from Clyde, talks on his cell phone while working on homework for his Greek class Tuesday in the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building Hall of Servants.
CAMPUS NEWS
Page 4
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Dress code discussion continues n Dr. Royce Money, president of the university, received numerous e-mails suggesting various ways to deal with the dress code on campus. By MONICA SMITH Staff Writer
One month ago, Dr. Royce Money, president of the university, called for thoughts and ideas on how to best address the issue of dress code, and through a letter to the editor printed in the Optimist, invited respondents to e-mail him personally. Money said he received many e-mails in support of action to ensure the practice of following the dress code. However most of the letters were from faculty, not students. Money said he has not come up with a new way of addressing the issue. “There were no really creative ideas that would support a new way of addressing the issue unless it is self-regulated or regulated by peers,” Money said. “There is nothing that will beat that approach.” One respondent shared how her circle of friends used the peer-regulated approach. They explained they hold each other ac-
“For Christians, our commitment to Christ needs to have an influence on our appearance. It is a matter of appropriateness and taste.” Dr. Royce Money, president of the university
countable for what they wear and how they appear. This group includes both females and their male friends, who have also agreed to be accountable. “The awareness level has been raised, and I would emphasize part of the solution lies in raising the level of awareness of what is appropriate and what is not appropriate,” Money said. Ongoing discussion, particularly among faculty and staff leaders, has come to the conclusion that dress code must become a matter of education and awareness rather than a matter of regulation. “The approach we are hoping for is not the enforcer,” Money said. “We’re appealing to higher motives than that. We want this to be a lifestyle not conformity to rigid rules. We are educating the whole student and that includes making wise choice about the appropriateness about our appearance.” Until a new approach to dress code arises, change through enforcement
seems the only means, Money said. Enforcing a dress code has a particular problem sensitive with male faculty and staff dealing with female students. Male faculty and staff find it uncomfortable to approach female students and fear being sued for sexual harassment, Money said. “The fact that dress code is a sensitive area does not mean that we have no responsibility or we can neglect it,” Money said. “One of the things we’re considering is developing appropriate ways and settings to not embarrass students. “We cannot escape the fact that what we wear and our appearance in general sends a message, but you can determine what message you send,” Money said. “For Christians, our commitment to Christ needs to have an influence on our appearance. It is a matter or appropriateness and taste.”
E-mail Smith at: mxs02a@acu.edu
NBS students win awards in Austin n Members of the National Broadcast Society won awards at a regional convention last weekend, with one student winning two first place prizes. By BLYTHE THOMPSON Student Reporter
Students competed in Austin at a National Broadcast Society regional convention last weekend; some came home victorious, while others are still awaiting results. Nine members from the ACU chapter went to the convention to compete with about 100 other NBS chapter members. Members of various universities’ NBS chapters learned more about their majors, competed with other members and heard several renowned speakers. Sherri Snyder, senior broadcast major from Abilene won two first prizes with a radio news piece, and “one news before noon” piece, which is a segment run at 11:45 a.m. She submitted on-air selections
Cheering on their team
from her work at KACU radio, which were about two minutes long. Members could enter pieces in different categories such as audio, radio/ TV, electronic media, and other journalistic pieces. “Competition was tough,” Snyder said. This convention was only for universities located in Texas and surrounding states. Competitors included: Oklahoma Christian University, Stephen F. Austin University, Sam Houston State and Texas State. West Texas A&M sent about 53 members to compete. Members who traveled to Austin had the opportunity to attend sessions to learn more about their particular major in the journalism and mass communication field, said ShaVonne Herndon, senior broadcast journalism major from Houston. Potential future journalist had the opportunity to listen to, meet and establish network connections with several keynote
speakers Among those to attend were MTV’s former vice president, John Miller; KVUE reporter Shelton Green; former KRBC news director Paul Brown; and ACU alumna Sarah Gibson. For the second year in a row, ACU’s NBS chapter was in charge of the event because of Hurricane Katrina’s effects on McNeese University, which was supposed to be leader of this year’s convention, Herndon said. Two conventions take place every year. A fall convention was organized only for the universities in their surrounding regions and a spring convention that consists of all universities that have a NBS chapter. This spring convention will be in Washington, D.C. “Overall, it was a great learning experience and very beneficial to students who are looking for ways to start their careers off on the right track once they get out of school,” Herndon said in an e-mail. E-mail Thompson at: optimist@acu.edu
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Willis Hogan, junior physical education major from Sundown, and Josh Luongo, junior sociology major from Plano, celebrate the Wildcat volleyball team’s victory in the Lone Star Conference tournament semifinals.
About 400 sign up for SBCs n The estimated number of participants is down from previous years, which was usually at about 500 students, campaign officials said. By MITCH HOLT Opinion Editor
Students put their interest to practice and signed up for Spring Break Campaigns in the Living Room of the Campus Center last Thursday, filling all of the spots in many of the campaign groups. Students paid a $25 sign-up fee that covered some administrative costs and then took part in a sign-up process different from other years, said Eric Hurst, chair of the Spring Break Campaigns committee. All students received a sticker with their names on it, and they walked around the room and put the sticker on the sign-up sheet of the trip they wanted to go on. Each campaign had a designated number of spots, so all
the students did not necessarily get their first-choice trip. Students were provided with an orientation session the Tuesday before sign-ups to become familiar with each campaign. This was helpful so students wouldn’t walk into sign-ups and blindly pick a campaign, Hurst said. “Each campaign has something different to offer each student,” Hurst said. “The location, the leaders and the type of ministry are unique to each campaign.” Jonathan Diaz, junior electronic media major and Spring Break Campaign leader of the Columbus, Ga., group, said he is looking forward to returning to Columbus, so he can see faces from last year and because the group is more organized this year. “Campaigns bring the university out into more than the surrounding community and into the world,” Diaz said. “We really have a chance to make a difference in people’s lives.”
A precise number of participants has not been tallied, but an estimated 400 students are participating in campaigns this year, and more are expected to sign up as spring break nears. The number is usually around 500 students, so organizers are hoping to get at least that many to participate, Hurst said. The campaign to El Salvador has the most participants of all the trips. Hurst said he was expecting trips to areas affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita to gain the most participation, but they surprisingly didn’t. “Campaigns give students a wonderful opportunity to serve God during spring break,” he said. “We hear about people doing negative things over spring break, and it’s refreshing to be a part of a group that uses their spring break to serve God and others.”
E-mail Holt at: mah02f@acu.edu
ISA presents annual food festival n Food at the event represented more than 10 countries such as Israel, Hong Kong, Nigeria, Japan and Ivory Coast, and about 120 students and faculty attended. By ANNA CARROLL Student Reporter
Students representing more than 10 countries prepared food for about 120 students and faculty to sample at the annual International Food Festival at the Hilton Room on Tuesday. Students prepared food from Israel, Hong Kong, Nigeria, Japan, Ivory Coast and other countries. The International Students Association and the Office for Student Multicultural Enrichment worked together to bring a taste of different cultures to the Hilton Room. Students decorated the room and played festive music as hungry guests
walked through the lines of food. About 40 more people visited the festival this year than last year, and by the end of the festival, some cooks ran out of food. The officers of ISA asked each student volunteer to prepare enough food for about 100 people, and OSME reimbursed students up to $50 for their food expenses, said ISA secretary Esmeralda Silva, sophomore marketing major from Torreon, Mexico. The purpose of the food festival is to give students the chance to encounter other cultures, said ISA president Marcela Gutierrez, senior business management major from Tegucigalpa, Honduras. “Many people here have no idea what other cultures are like,” she said. Volunteers prepared enough food for guests to eat second
helpings, Gutierrez said. Allen Min, junior biochemistry pre-med major from Seoul, South Korea, prepared a Korean dish that turned out to be popular with the guests. He made a typical Korean dish called Bulgogi. This marinated barbecue-type dish is made from roast beef sliced paper-thin that was from Dyess Air Force base grocery store, he said. The dish was so popular that he had none left over. “The Korean one was my favorite,” Silva said. “I ate so much; it was fantastic.” ISA will present its annual culture show Friday and Saturday in Cullen Auditorium at 8:05 p.m. Tickets cost $3 and can be purchased at the ticket windows in the Campus Center or at the door.
E-mail Carroll at: optimist@acu.edu
CAMPUS NEWS
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Page 5
Faculty artwork displayed n Faculty and students in the Department of Art and Design will display work, with the faculty exhibit open to Dec. 9 and more senior shows planned. By Demarcquez Rembert Student Reporter
The Department of Art and Design opened its faculty show in the Virginia Shore Art Gallery on Friday. The faculty art exhibit will be on display until Dec. 9. The faculty of the Department of Art and Design has its own exhibit in the art gallery annually. The theme for the faculty show this year is “And He Said: The Spoken Words of Jesus.” “The art gallery will display many different kinds of art, from paintings to sculp-
tures,” said Nil Santana art gallery director and graphic design instructor. Five times a year, the Department of Art and Design also has a senior show. Seniors of the Department of Art and Design display their work in the art gallery and so far three senior shows have taken place this semester. “I think it’s neat, especially the seniors’ work because some of them are my friends” said McKenzie Mason, senior integrated marketing major from Oklahoma City. The Department of Art and Design also displays its work in other places on campus other than the art gallery. “We are trying to get some space downtown to display our work,” Santana said
On the Web
nil.santana@acu.edu
At the end of the school year the Department of Art and Design has a student competition. Each year, students enter more than 250 entries in the student competition. Less than 90 are chosen to be displayed. Faculty members vote on which pieces they want to be displayed in the gallery. This year’s student competition will be the university’s 25th. For more information about the art gallery contact Nil Santana at nil.santana@ acu.edu ANNA CARROLL/Staff Photographer
E-mail Rembert at: optimist@acu.edu
Class of 2000 offers financial aid n Deadline for the Class of 2000 Scholarship is Nov. 30, when juniors who meet the scholarship’s requirements have to turn applications in to CAB. By LACI ARMSTRONG Student Reporter
One junior student will be selected to receive a $500 award to be used toward the expense of his or her senior year at ACU. This award, called the Class of 2000 Scholarship, is an endowed scholarship, given annually to a junior who meets the qualifications. Students can pick up an application in the Campus Activities Board office in the Bean Sprout, Room 30 in the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center. Some students are applying for the scholarship with
the hopes of using the money to help pay off the rest of their tuition. “I’d use it to pay for school; ACU is not cheap,” said Ashley Jefferson, junior social work major from Austin. Heidi Kopf, a junior education major from Oklahoma City, is student teaching next year. “I will be doing the work of a full-time teacher and not getting paid for it, so it would be great to have a little bit of extra money or at least know all my tuition is covered while I’m student teaching,” Kopf said. To qualify for the Class of 2000 Scholarship, students must have a minimum grade point average of 3.25 and must be a current member of at least two on-campus organizations. All applicants must have completed 60 hours of course
work or have been a member of the ACU student body for at least four semesters, but not more than five, and have taken 12 hours each semester. All applicants must have borrowed more than 50 percent of their tuition and not have more than 50 percent of their tuition costs paid by scholarships from ACU or outside sources. To be reviewed as a possible recipient of the scholarship, students must complete a “Class of 2000-Applicant Information” form, provide an essay about educational experience at ACU, and have two letters of recommendation from people affiliated with the university. The Class of 2000-Applicant Information form and essay are to be turned in by 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 30 to the CAB office. E-mail Armstrong at: optimist@acu.edu
Workshop prepares for life in field n Broadcast journalism majors will receive advice from professionals on being a Christian in thier field at the Broadcast Journalism School in Los Angeles. By JAYME SMITH Student Reporter
Seven members of the Broadcast Journalism class plan to travel to Los Angeles to attend the Broadcast Journalism School on Dec. 3-4. The school is open to college students throughout the nation interested in broadcast journalism. In past years, the school was outside of Washington D.C.; however, this year, the students will travel to Los Angeles. The workshop helps students prepare for the broadcast journalism job market, said Dr. Larry Bradshaw, professor of broadcast journalism. The anchor for the NBC affiliate in Pittsburgh teaches the workshop, Bradshaw said. The Broadcast Journalism School is sponsored by the
Leadership Institute out of Arlington, Va. The institute pays for all travel and lodging expenses, Bradshaw said. “In addition, if a student secures an internship with a broadcast news station, the Leadership Institute will pay the student up to $3,000 to cover his or her internship expenses,” Bradshaw said. Some of the activities students participate in are attending lectures on how to learn better interviewing and fieldwork skills, said Rachel Klick, senior broadcast journalism major from Fort Worth. Klick traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend the school in 2003 and plans to travel to Los Angeles with this year’s class. “It was very beneficial— hearing someone speak who is currently working in the field and from a Christian aspect,” Klick said. “I’m excited to go back and polish up on everything I’ve already learned in the past few years.” Bradshaw encourages stu-
dents to attend because of its benefits, Klick said. “A couple years ago, there were around five to six different schools that attended the workshops,” Klick said. “Most of the schools are Christian affiliated.” The university has sent students in the broadcast journalism class to the school before. “ACU has sent more than 20 students to this workshop,” Bradshaw said. “The students have been impressed with the school and the interest shown by the Leadership Institute in developing more Christian journalists. “The Leadership Institute that sponsors the Broadcast Journalism School was founded by Morton Blackwell,” Bradshaw said. “He’s a philanthropist who wants to encourage more Christians to work in journalism.”
E-mail Smith at: optimist@acu.edu
Leslie Leseman, freshman interior design major from Fort Worth, and Bud Archer, freshman pre-architecture major from Fort Worth, study faculty art work at the Virginia Shore Art Gallery on Friday.
Percussion performs concert n The Music Department planned the annual fall event, giving the campus a free concert, featuring a percussion ensemble and steel drums, in Cullum Auditorium. By NATHAN STRAUS Student Reporter
Drums sounded at 8 p.m. Monday in Cullen Auditorium as the Music Department sponsored a percussion concert for all interested students. Admission to the percussion ensemble and steel drum band concert was free. Allen Teel, professor of percussion and world music, said the percussion concert appeals to a wide range of audience members. “We traditionally have a really good crowd from the ACU community and from the Abilene community,” Teel said. Teel said as many as 400 people show up to listen to
the sounds of the universiy’s Music Department. Teel also said the concert’s setting is a fun setting and is informal, so students didn’t have to wear suits or ties. “The music is great fun for us to play and for the audience to hear,” Teel said. Teel also said the instruments being used in the concert included drums and xylophones, as well as other, lesser-known percussion instruments. Teel said he has conducted about 40 similar concerts at ACU. Casie Hardin, junior music education major from Abilene, said the type of music played at a percussion concert might be a type of music some don’t often listen to. “The music is different,” Hardin said. “It’s not something you’d hear in a jazz
concert or in a normal concert. It’s very upbeat, and students seem to enjoy it.” Hardin played the double seconds in the percussion concert. Double seconds are a type of steel drum built to play higher pitched sounds than normal steel drums. Teel said this percussion concert is an annual fall event. The Music Department conducts one major concert for the campus each semester. Teel also said preparations for the concert were not difficult. Those involved in the Music Department rehearse for each concert, and the Music Department views each concert as a chance to share its work with the rest of the campus.
E-mail Straus at: optimist@acu.edu
Page 6
November 16, 2005
Pat Robertson disgraces Christians once again
The issue:
Pat Robertson condemned the city of Dover, Penn., because it voted eight school board members out of office after they tried to institute the teaching of intelligent design theory into the curriculum.
Our view:
Statements like the ones Robertson has made in the past should never be said, especially in front of the mass media. This statement does not accurately reflect Christianity.
The solution:
First, Robertson should learn to consider what he says before proclaiming it to a national audience.
The residents of Dover, Penn., lost their right to prayer Thursday, according to one man. Pat Robertson, religious broadcaster and former presidential candidate, spoke to Dover residents on his national television show, 700 Club: “I’d like to say to the good citizens of Dover: If there is a disaster in your area, don’t turn to God. You just rejected him from your city.” Robertson spoke these words after residents voted eight school board members out of office. This former school board had recently tried to introduce the theory of intelligent design—the idea proposing the universe is so complex it must have been created by a higher power—into the
Accept the faults of others, kill prejudice Sometimes, God has a funny inside, risking a cliché. And way of getting your attention. when I see things like The Sunday night, for example, Boondocks, white supremaI was watching Adult Swim, cists or vitriolic politicians, and the eve- I’m reminded of that more ning’s shows and more. seemed to We are generally obsessed have a race with fleeting things like what’s theme. on the outside: skin color, First was beauty and youth. the premier Fear, selfishness and hatred of The Boon- are what’s inside us, and that’s docks, the car- why racism exists. Because of toon adapta- our insecurities, we take our Guest tion of Aaron aggression out on others who Column M c G r u d e r ’ s are different from us. controversial And if you think I’m wrong Cole comic strip, about some of these things, Williams then the don’t hate me. Respectfully short superhero spoof Minori- tell me what you think. Underteam and finally some race stand that most of us in life issues on Squidbillies. Even are trying to do the right thing, when I changed the channel, but we’re not perfect. Be comthere was passiontalk about ate about I’ve been insulted more racism on your fellow Drawn Toman’s imfor my ideas and gether. perfections. personality than for my God got Tell me, skin color — maybe that’s tell them my attention. true prejudice. And after and don’t some deep be hateful thought and about it. soul searching about the isI doubt that we’ll ever reach sues of racism and prejudice, I a place in life where racism and came up with some ideas. strife don’t exist. We’re human. I’m white, and I don’t care. We’re imperfect. It’s probably But I would care if someone not going to happen in this life. else disliked me because of But let’s at least work at being my skin color, although that more civil and understanding doesn’t happen as much in our of each other. mostly white country. If that doesn’t work, I’m But what I do care about is more than willing to set myself being a geek. I’ve been insulted on fire and burn my skin off. and made fun of for my ideas At least then there won’t be a and personality more than for skin color to hate. my skin color. Maybe that’s true prejudice. It doesn’t matter what’s on E-mail Williams at: cww02b@acu.edu, optimist@acu.edu the outside but what’s on the
1838 speech riles student The “1838” chapel in Moody today marks a milestone in my life: the first time I have been ashamed to be an ACU student. As Damon Parker stood before students and shared spiritual thoughts about wealth and its dangers, he was pummeled with ridicule and derision. I have never seen a Chapel speaker so disrespected (and I’ll just go ahead and say it: that’s saying a lot). I am sickened at not only the disrespect shown to Mr. Parker, but that it’s not until we are asked to give up our wealth that we get riled up. The AIDS crisis doesn’t inspire such fervor, we don’t roar indignantly in the face of oppression, but have someone question our attachment to
Your Voice A student response to Damon Parker’s speech in 1838 Chapel on Thursday.
material possessions and suddenly everyone has something to say. If we cannot express disagreement in a pure and loving manner, we have failed our brothers and sisters in Christ. Furthermore, we have absolutely failed the world if we spend more time and energy defending our wealth than using it for God’s glory. Julie Barcroft Sosebee senior English major from Arlington
public school made during a live Robertson needs to learn a lesson himself: classrooms as broadcast. our physical actions have consequences, too. an alternative Words should be He should choose words more judiciously. to the theory of spoken carefully. evolution. Many Christians For a Chrisput much stock in tian man to suggest that people Robertson has been an out- what Robertson has to say and not turn to God during difficult spoken voice in Christianity. see him as a leader in their times seems out of character. People listen when he speaks— faith. Nonbelievers see him in But Robertson has been in not just a single church con- this capacity as well, but when trouble like this before. gregation but millions of peo- Robertson revokes a city’s right In August, he created a ple watching his weekly 700 to pray or calls for an assassifuror when he suggested the Club TV show on the Christian nation attempt, this only makes United States, if given the op- Broadcasting Network. it easier for people to discredit portunity, should assassinate Figures with such a follow- everything he has to say. Hugo Chavez, president of ing cannot afford too many Not everything Robertson Venezuela. Robertson apolo- moments of frustration. has to say about politics or regized for the comment and Robertson should know ligion seems to contradict the said he made it in a moment the media will broadcast his faith he claims, but his recent of frustration. But he also ap- comments to people who will comments only work to dipeared to try to justify his interpret and sometimes mis- minish the voice he has spent statement by saying it made interpret them. He does not years developing in religion many people finally look at a have the luxury of carefully and politics. subject long ignored. editing ad-libbed comments In clarifying his remarks
Cole Williams
Let Loose
Nona offers valuable change of view I made a new friend this week named Nona. She doesn’t come from a background like mine, and she doesn’t even know where Ohio is. Nona’s mom died of cancer when she was young, and she loves dogs so much it makes Face the her that she Facts doesn’t have one. She has Mallory two older Sherwood foster sisters, and both are mentally retarded. She is in her 60s and one of more than 25 older adults in Abilene who regularly attend the Operation Lighthouse Adult Daycare Center. Nona arrives every day by 7:30 a.m. when the center opens and greets with a smile whoever brings her a warm breakfast. Only four center clients, including Nona, are mentally retarded. Each fills a special place in the hearts of the caretakers, including mine. The highlight of Nona’s week so far was shopping for bathroom supplies with her foster mom. Nona doesn’t know, but the center will take a field trip to Big Lots!, one of her favorite places, on Friday. I’ve never seen anyone more excited about buying paper towels than Nona, and I realized I had stepped out of
Hanging out with Nona was like hanging out with an 11-year-old girl, anxious to gossip about purses, puppies and boys. my own backyard into a world I know little about. Although I am no medical professional, I would guess Nona has mild retardation, meaning she can work and succeed at tasks explained in detail. She has a good attendance record, deep loyalty and pride in her work. Nona and I hit it off, even after I spilled milk across the table when serving her Cheerios and a waffle for breakfast. She immediately asked my name, went into a monologue describing her evening out to buy bathroom supplies, and then paused to ask if I could help her during daily bingo, the next activity. My new friend doesn’t seem mentally retarded; in fact you would hardly be able to tell unless you asked her about something she loves: dogs or purses. But, Nona probably has an IQ no higher than 6th grade level, something hard to imagine in a woman old enough to be your grandma. Everywhere she goes she carries a white purse with a small stuffed-dog keychain, one you would receive at a fast food restaurant in the kid’s meal. Naturally, I asked about her favorite types of
dogs, which are Chihuahuas or Scottish Terriers. Her eyes lit up when she talked about the two Terriers she used to have and remained lit even when I told her about my own black Labrador, Abby. She begged me to bring Abby the next time I came to visit, a task difficult to fulfill because she lives in Ohio. Soon she moved on to tell me about her favorite purses, which I agreed that I love, too. She questioned everything from the style to color and wanted to see the one I had brought that day. She patiently waited until after lunch when I could retrieve it, and clapped her hands with glee when I handed her my own favorite purse. Hanging out with Nona was like hanging out with an 11-year-old girl, anxious to gossip about purses, puppies and boys. During Bingo we had our next juicy discussion: finding a boyfriend for Nona. Most of the clients at the center are women, and the few men who come in don’t stay long or aren’t her age, which doesn’t matter to Nona. In between rounds of bingo she asked me random questions from my favorite color to whether or not I had a sis-
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
about the city of Dover, Robertson said he wanted to show “our spiritual actions have consequences.” We do not disagree. But Robertson needs to learn a lesson himself: our physical actions have consequences, too. Robertson has faced these consequences week after week, standing by comments, apologizing for some and offering clarifications for others. Instead of always facing the consequences and offering clarifications of his remarks, Robertson should choose his words more judiciously. And, by saying less, he can have a more powerful and meaningful voice for the Christians he represents.
ter. I told her about my brother, and her first question was, “Is he single?” The women around the table laughed, all listening to hear what I would say. I told her “yes,” he was single, “no,” he wasn’t a blond, and he is 18, none of which mattered. She said age 18 isn’t too young, and she likes younger men, too. What a topic for bingo. Mental retardation develops before a person turns 18 and can be caused by many factors. Among the most common are: genetic conditions, problems during pregnancy or at birth, and health problems while growing up. I don’t know if Nona was born with this condition. It can’t be considered a disease or a mental illness because no cure exists, according to the American Association on Mental Retardation. People with this condition can live full lives and learn to do many things; it just takes more time and effort. In fact, three of every 100 people in this country are mentally retarded. I made a new friend this week named Nona. She wants to pet my dog, will willingly trade purses, and has a crush on my 18-year-old brother. Who knows who else I’ll meet the next time I step out of my own backyard. E-mail Sherwood at: mes02e@acu.edu, optimist@acu.edu
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FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Page 7
Students serve Abilene on Saturday Gas: Abilene welcomes prices Continued from page 1 demand,” Jordan said. “There wasn’t any fuel, and now there is an abundance of it.” Jordan also said people are not traveling as much this time of the year, and this affects demand for gasoline.
Jordan said the fuel price is 30 cents below pre-hurricane levels but is expected to rise once people begin to travel around the country during the holidays.
E-mail Straus at: optimist@acu.edu
n More than 100 students from ACU, Hardin-Simmons and McMurry universities served Abilene on Saturday by cleaning neighborhoods and doing odd jobs. By MITCH HOLT Opinion Editor
The Intercollegiate Community Celebration, an annual event that brought together more than 100 Hardin-Simmons University, McMurry University and ACU students together for a day of worship and service, took place Saturday. Nancy Coburn, director of
the Volunteer and Servicelearning Center, adviser for Service Action Leadership Team and co-planner of the event, said that the purpose of the day was to build fellowship among Christian college students in Abilene and to give back to the community at the same time. The day kicked off at City Hall where a McMurry band led worship for the students. After worship, students split into service groups and performed various tasks around the city, such as neighborhood and private residence clean-ups, odd
jobs for businesses and other activities. ACU played host to a dinner after the day of service, where students and adults discussed the events of the day. The day ended with a celebratory get-together at McMurry. SALT spearheaded the annual event and was assisted by several faculty members and student volunteers. “[ICC] was wonderful this year,” said Nikki Nangauta, student organizer and service group leader. “We had the best representation of students from each univer-
sity that we’ve ever had.” Mayor Norm Archibald and presidents from each of the universities attended part of the event and were very supportive, Nangauta said. She said this event stren gthened the Christian student community in the city. “This is a wonderful opportunity to get to know each other while serving others,” she said. “We get to share in our common values of helping others while serving God.”
work every time he reaches an intersection has slowed down work, Bontke said. Beginning work on Campus Court was necessary, though, because Bontke said he wanted to begin at the zero mile marker. Marking the designated quarter mile markers would be easier and more accurate if his crew began at zero, he said. Mile markers are being placed in the cement as it is poured, so Bontke said measuring the correct mark as the pouring process takes place is important. In addition, Bontke has to be aware of the lighting of the jogging track, which he has subcontracted. Lights will be placed ac-
cording to a pattern the cement crew needs to keep in mind, Bontke said. Including the lights, Kevin Watson, director of physical resources, said other items near the jogging track will be erected for the students’ safety. Emergency phones will be available along the track, Watson said in an e-mail, and signs will remind people to be cautious when crossing the intersection. He said the jogging track had been placed away from the road whenever possible. “We want to encourage them to not run on the roads, but to use the path that has been created for
them,” Watson said. Watson said he hopes the track will encourage activity and create a safer environment for those who do work out. Concrete was chosen to make the jogging track because it is good for jogging, walking and bike riding, Watson said. However, motorized vehicles, except university carts, will not be allowed on the track. “Hopefully students and the community will use it instead of the roads,” Watson said, “creating a safer activity and encouraging physical activity.”
Pecans: Trees will arrive in December Track: Construction slowed by students Continued from page 1 e-mail. According to the construction section of the ACU Web site, “150 pecan trees for the orchard have been ordered for delivery in December 2005.” “There is no plan for the resulting pecan crop at the moment: it will be a year or so before the trees begin producing significant quantities of fruit,” Nevill said. Students are look forward to the new scenery. “I think it’s a great idea that the trees are going to be planted. We need more scenery on Judge Ely,” said Jonathan Strong, senior business man-
agement major from Saudi Arabia. Some students seem optimistic, but others aren’t so happy. “There is no point for ACU to be planting pecan trees. We need more parking on campus, not more trees,” said Dustin Sims, senior business and marketing major from Redwood City, Calif. In addition to a pecan grove, other landscaping plans include: a small lake with a lily pond and a trail along the lake. However, Nevill said a start-date has not been set for these additional plans. E-mail Gambero at: optimist@acu.edu
Continued from page 1
Students guarantee cracks by writing in wet cement, Bontke said. While the crew began the project pouring cement in the mornings and evenings, they found students wrote in the wet cement after they left in the evenings. So now the crew only pours cement in the mornings and clean up the area during the rest of the day. The new schedule, Bontke said, will slow progress. Plans for the track require construction to move away from the roads closer to campus, which Bontke said will increase progress. The city’s requirement to inspect his
E-mail Holt at: mah02f@acu.edu
E-mail Taylor at: tat04a@acu.edu
IJM: Campus chapter educates students about injustice Continued from page 1 abolitionist movement,” said Brandon Smith, sophomore political science major from Fort Worth and member of IJM. “Our goal is to raise awareness of IJM here at ACU and abroad, as well as raise money to donate to the IJM headquarters.” More than 20 million people in the world are enslaved today, Smith said, and about 6,000 of those slaves are sold across international borders every day. “God has commanded his people to seek justice, and there are over 2,000 verses
in Scripture calling us to seek justice,” Smith said. “What we do here at ACU may seem small compared to the giant we are attempting to take on. We have hope in a God of justice, compassion and rescue.” The purpose of IJM Awareness Week is to give the campus chapter of IJM an opportunity to educate the student body and faculty about social justice issues and the importance of Christians being involved in fighting injustice, said Sarah Carlson, senior journalism major from San Antonio and co-chair of the campus chapter of IJM. Students who would like to
help with “Loose Change to Loosen Chains” can go to the Students’ Association office and pick up a donation cup. The campaign was begun by a 7th grader in Virginia and is aimed at raising awareness of modern-day slavery, Carlson said. “It’s estimated that in South Asia alone, as many as 15 million children are held in bonded slavery, a fact that is hard to believe and sobering to hear,” she said. “There are more slaves in the world today than at the height of the American slave trade in the 1800s … but all students need to do is contribute just a few
coins to help make a difference in the life of a victim.” It is important for students to be educated on what is happening in our world, even in our own country, said Andrea Gallman, senior history major from Houston and cochair of the campus chapter of IJM. “We often focus on poverty and hunger and medical needs but forget injustice,” Gallman said. “These are all linked — poverty, health issues and injustice — and we must address them all in order to end problems with any.” Gallman also said prayer is important to the cause of jus-
tice. To sign up to be a prayer partner, visit www.ijm.org. “They will send weekly emails with prayer concerns about specific people in IJM and projects they are working on,” Gallman said. “They will also send news updates when something major happens —a like a successful raid on a brothel.” Any student interested in becoming more involved with IJM is encouraged to come to IJM Small Group Chapel every Thursday in Administration Building Room 219.
E-mail Linthicum at: del01a@acu.edu
IJM Awareness Week • Purpose: to give the campus chapter of IJM an opportunity to educate the student body and faculty about social justice issues and the importance of Christians being involved in fighting injustice. • Issues it addresses: Poverty Hunger Medical Needs Injustice Child Slavery Forced Prostitution
Hunger: Honors class organizes Hunger and Homelessness week Continued from page 1 Scholars and acting director of the Masters Program in Higher education, taught an honors colloquium that focused on social injustice and human suffering earlier in the semester. He assigned the students a project that called for engaging the campus in a cause for fighting social injustice on a national and international level. Jenna Grime, senior English major from Archbold, Ohio, and one of the organizers of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, said she was
moved to pitch the NHHAW project to her honors group after spending the summer aiding homeless and hungry children in inner-city Washington, D.C. “This week is about educating ACU students about hunger and homelessness,” Grime said. “It’s about setting straight misconceptions, and it’s about empowering students to take an active role in fighting the injustices of unnecessary poverty, hunger and homelessness.” The group plans to send a petition with a letter to Rep. Randy Neugebauer, R.Lubbock, and other state
officials. The letter aims to emphasize concerns about the homeless population in Abilene and gain increased federal support for programs for the homeless in West Texas, she said. The group is also asking students to sign the ONE Declaration, a petition to raise the federal budget for aid to developing countries. Grime said she and her group thought it was an important alternative to donating money as “charity fatigue” seems to be a threatening inhibitor to such projects. If they chose, people can contribute financially by
joining Bread for the World for a $10 donation, Grime said. The donations support lobbyist who try to persuade appropriate government officials to offer more support to fighting hunger. Brett Deaton, senior physics major from Virginia and organizer of the week said he wouldn’t have guessed so at first, but helping the homeless and hungry is fighting injustice. Deaton said he met some people under serious financial burden at a county jail recently. In some cases, people who have committed crimes find it difficult to recover
financial stability and often commit more crimes, he said. “The system is hard to get out of once in a situation,” he said. “There are a lot of situations when people lose a job, house and family, then end up on the street.” People who have become homeless are stigmatized, he said. He said he hopes people will want to get to know them instead. “There are two things we hope to create,” Deaton said, “a personal understanding of homelessness and hunger and getting people to sign the petition.”
Grime said Christians must follow Christ’s command to help the helpless. “As Christians we must follow Christ’s command to feed the hungry, house the wanderer and clothe the naked, Grime said. “It wasn’t an option when Jesus walked on this earth, and it isn’t an option now. It’s a commandment that we had better take seriously.” Though it began as a course assignment, the group plans to continue raise awareness about hunger and homelessness next year during hunger week. E-mail Knight at: tnk03a@acu.edu
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November 16, 2005
American Volleyball Coaches’ Association Top 25 1 Nebraska-Kearney (31) 2 Concordia-St. Paul 3 North Alabama (2) 4 Hawaii Pacific (2) 5 Minnesota Duluth 6 Tampa 7 Truman 8 Washburn 9 Cal Poly Pomona 10 Florida Southern 11 ACU 12 Cal State L.A. 13 Central Missouri St. 14 Cal St. San Bernardino 15 Central Washington 16 Seattle Pacific 17 BYU-Hawaii 18 UC San Diego 19 Lock Haven 20 Cal State Bakersfield 21 Grand Valley State 22 Rockhurst 23 Nebraska-Omaha 24 Minn. St.-Moorhead 25 Florida Gulf Coast
33-1 28-4 35-1 23-3 25-4 25-3 29-5 34-2 24-2 32-3 29-3 24-2 24-9 19-7 22-4 22-5 20-4 19-8 30-5 20-8 26-6 27-6 19-7 25-5 25-3
Wildcats win back-to-back titles
NCAA Division II Regional Rankings 1 NE-Kearney (33-1) 2 Metro State (21-8) 3 Abilene Christian (29-3) 4 West. New Mexico (26-4) 5 Mesa State (22-6) 6 Central Oklahoma (27-7) 7 West Texas A&M (27-9) 8 Colorado Mines (20-10)
Scores Friday
Volleyball ACU 3, Texas Woman’s 0
Saturday
Volleyball ACU 3, Central Oklahoma 0
Monday
Men’s Basketball ACU 82, UTEP 53 WoMen’s Basketball ACU 64, Lubbock Christian 59
Upcoming Schedule Friday
VOlleyball ACU at Central Oklahoma, noon Men’s basketball ACU at Northeastern State, 5 p.m. women’s basketball ACU at Incarnate Word, 2 p.m.
Saturday
VOlleyball NCAA Regional Semifinal, 5 p.m. cross country Women: NCAA Division II Championships, 11 a.m. Men: NCAA Division II Championships, 11 a.m. Women’s basketball ACU at St. Edward’s, 6 p.m.
Sunday
VOlleyball NCAA Regional Final, 3 p.m.
• Home games listed in italics
Briefs Wildcats defeat Lubbock Christian in final exhibition game before season Ashley King scored 13 points and Kierstan Barbee 11 to guide the Wildcats to a 64-59 win Monday in Moody Coliseum. The game is that last preseason game for ACU. The team begins its season this weekend with games against Incarnate Word and St. Edward’s.
Brian Schmidt/Chief Photographer
Senior middle blocker Amanda Slate celebrates a point with senior Lindsey Martin and sophomore Abbie Lowry during Saturday’s LSC Championship match against Central Oklahoma.
n The Wildcats won the LSC Tournament for the second year in a row and advance to the regional tournament in Kearney, Neb. By JARED FIELDS Sports Editor
Once the Wildcats jumped out to a 14-2 lead in the first game of Saturday’s LSC championship match against Central Oklahoma, the team knew the match was over. “That first 10-point run just killed them,” said senior middle blocker Amanda Slate. “We got rid of their momentum, and they had nothing left; we took it from there.” The Wildcats swept the Bronchos in three games: 30-12, 30-19, 30-19. The win gives ACU an automatic bid to the NCAA Division II Southwest Region tournament, which will be in Kearney, Neb., on Nov. 18-20. The Wildcats’ first match will be Friday at noon against Central Oklahoma. If the team wins, the second round game is Saturday at 5 p.m., and the regional final is Sunday at 3 p.m. “I think if we’ll get that first win under our belt, even a first game win under out belt, then everything will be fine,” said head coach Brek Horn. Nebraska-Kearney, the school playing host to the regional tournament and the No. 1 seed, is currently the No. 1 team in the country, according the latest AVCA top 25 poll. ACU enters as the third seed in the region behind No. 2 seed Metropolitan State, which beat the Wildcats in August at the Tampa Classic. Michele Bernhardt was named tournament MVP after Saturday’s
Tough shot
Volleyball game. She led the team with 29 kills in the two games and hit .469 in the Central Oklahoma game. Bernhardt added 11 digs and six service aces. “Just sitting there getting introduced was a blast,” Bernhardt said after the game. “I think we got real excited, and after that you can’t stop us.” Slate, who was named to the alltournament first team, had 12 kills in the win over the Bronchos and hit a team-high .500 in the game. As a team, the Wildcats hit .342 in the game. Senior setter Lindsey Martin and sophomore outside hitter Abbie Lowry were also named to the all-tournament team after the team celebrated its second straight Lone Star Conference Tournament championship. On Monday, conference officials released LSC all-conference teams. ACU placed five players on South Division teams and won three other special awards. Slate led the list by South Division Player of the Year and being a first team selection. Bernhardt and Martin were right behind Slate in votes, gaining the second and third most votes, respectively. Senior rightside hitter Ashlee Motola was the fourth Wildcat selected to the first team. Abbie Lowry was named to the second team after receiving honorable mention last year as a freshman. Seventh year coach Brek Horn was named LSC South Division Coach of the Year for the second time in her
By BRADY HILTON Student Reporter
brian schmidt/Chief Photographer
career. The previous time was during the 2003 season. Rounding out conference awards for the Wildcats was freshman middle blocker Lauren Leone, who was named the South Division’s Freshman of the Year. The last time the Wildcats had a player earn that honor was in 1998 when Lindsay DeHoff earned the honor. Saturday’s match marked the last match for four seniors, Slate, Bernhardt, Martin and Motola, in Moody Coliseum. “I’m not sad because we’re not
done,” Slate said about playing her final match in front of the fans in Moody. “What I’m excited about is that we still have a long way to go. We’re not close to being done.” That sentiment is echoed by Horn, who said she feels like everything is in the Wildcats favor. “Confidence is really high right now, with me, with the team,” Horn said. “I’m just real pleased with how everything’s going.”
E-mail Fields at: jrf03b@acu.edu
JV gains experience for next step n Junior varsity basketball teams are playing games against other JV teams and small colleges. Players get time on the court while trying to get to varsity.
Freshman Audrey Maxwell goes up for a shot while being guarded by LCU’s Carlie Henson in the second half of ACU’s 64-59 win Monday.
brian Schmidt/Chief Photographer
Freshman Lauren Leone blocks a shot with senior Ashlee Motola in Saturday’s 3-0 LSC Championship match victory against Central Oklahoma in Moody Coliseum.
The junior varsity basketball teams’ fast-paced seasons are well on their way. With a record of 1-2, the men are off to a slow start, but the women’s team is doing well with a record of 2-1, beating Wayland Baptist JV on Saturday 18-71. The women will play three games in the next week, and the men play at the same pace. This fast paced game
JV Basketball schedule is much like the National Basketball Association; playing more than practicing. However, unlike the NBA or even college varsity players, these teams have more responsibilities on their own shoulders, with none of the incentive. These players do not receive scholarships, their practice schedules are last priority, and if their coaches are gone with other teams, they have to take the responsibility to practice on their own. Few incentives to playing exist, other than the chance to be seen and moved to varsi-
ty, and for the pure love and desire of the game. “I am really impressed, they play and practice on their days off just to get out there and get better, said Teri Twilligear, head coach for women’s JV. “They are out here for the love of the game.” The JV basketball programs have been around for the past three years and bring in walk-ons from all over. These teams are good tools for the varsity teams and the university. With the JV teams playing many junior colleges that ACU could recruit players from, its a great opportunity to see a wide range of players including its own,
said Brian Thrift, head coach for the JV men. “I think it is a great recruiting tool for the school, as far as allowing us to see players from all the junior colleges we play as well as our players,” Thrift said. “We get to see how they play, their attitudes on the court and how they work with the team that you can’t see from the stands.” Each team will play about 14 games this season, playing teams such as: Cisco Junior College, Wayland Baptist, Lubbock Christian’s JV and others. E-mail Hilton at: optimist@acu.edu