Vol. 94, No. 48 1 section, 10 pages
WEDNESDAY April 12, 2006
www.acuoptimist.com
National showdown
Crash course
Making our call
The No. 6 Wildcats face No. 10 A&M Kingsville this weekend, page 10
Students helped in a simulated airplane crash Saturday, page 4
The Optimist endorses candidates for executive officer positions, page 7
Sub T-16 could be reinstated in months
Candidates up for debate
n The men’s social club aims to complete its selfstudy by the end of the summer to end its suspension, which was originally to last until the fall of 2007. By MALLORY SHERWOOD Managing Editor
Gary Rhodes/Contributing Photographer
Students’ Association candidates for executive president, Cameron Hartsell and Maher Saab, took part in Monday’s annual debates in a Chapel forum. Vice presidential candidates Eric Johnson, Manda Mosley, Brandon Smith and Jordan Williams and treasurer candidate Tyler Cosgrove also participated.
Chapel forum begins week of elections n Executive officer voting began in residence halls Monday night, and students can vote in three locations from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday. By JONATHAN SMITH Editor in Chief
Students had the opportunity Monday night to hear Students’ Association executive officer candidates discuss the issues and their campaigns hours before students could
“I’m excited that so many people got exposure to the candidates and the issues.” Melanie Booker, Students’ Association vice president and elections chair
begin casting votes. The seven candidates for the positions of president, vice president and treasurer participated in annual debates as part of a one-hour Chapel forum in Moody Coliseum. Presidential candidates Ma-
her Saab and Cameron Hartsell spent a majority of their time debating the necessity of a vision for SA and experience on Congress. “It’s one thing to have a vision — which is key — but it’s another to have experience to
back up that vision,” said Saab, who has served this year on Congress as an Administration Building representative. “I know what it’s like as a student; I know what it’s like on Congress … because I’ve been a part of both worlds.” Hartsell, who has not served on Congress during his three years here, said, despite his inexperience on Congress, he has See
SA page 8
The men of Sub T-16 may end their twoyear probation early, if they complete their required self-study soon. Dr. Wayne Barnard, dean of Campus Life, said in an e-mail that Sub T-16 has made progress with its self-study and that an earlier reinstatement would be contingent upon its work toward the evaluation process. Jared Davis, Sub T president, said the 29 men active in club were digging up information about the club’s Barnard history in hopes that they could complete their self-study by the end of the summer. “We’ve been interviewing Sub T alumni, researching our history, talking to our advisers and learning things about how the club works that we didn’t know,” said Davis, junior exercise science major from Cameron. He said in the seven months since the club’s deactivation, members now have a betSee
SUB T page 8
Participants demonstrate rodeo skills n Events at Tuesday’s rodeo included goat dressing and branding, and proceeds went for the hospital bills of a 2-year-old liver transplant recipient. By JAYME SMITH Staff Writer
Uncommon library renovation opens n After several delays, the new Learning Commons of the Brown Library, which features one of the first full-menu Starbucks, opened its doors to patrons Wednesday. By ANNA CARROLL Student Reporter
After months of construction, the Learning Commons is ready to facilitate a new style of learning. The recently renovated second level of the
Brown Library finally opened its doors with the rest of the library Wednesday. The Learning Commons features many new aspects not usually seen in libraries. A full-menu Starbucks, one of the first in the country, will serve breakfast, lunch and the usual drinks, eliminating the no food and drink rule found in most libraries. A large part See
LIBRARY page 8
Brian Schmidt/Chief Photographer
Employees for the new Starbucks in the Learning Commons of the Brown Library train as others from the university become acclimated to their new working environment April 4.
By KELSI PEACE Staff Writer
The university welcomed Robin Roberts, co-anchor of Good Morning America, to campus Saturday as part of the Centennial Speaker Series. Roberts spoke about “Putting Yourself in a Position for
Good Things to Happen” at a dinner in the Teague Special Events Center. Roberts attributed her success to her parents, saying they taught her the three d’s of life: “Discipline, determination, and de Lord.” She recalled stories of her father, Lawrence Roberts, sitting in his basement as a child with only a broomstick handle to act as his plane’s joystick, despite others’ insistence that he could never become a pilot.
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
Today, Roberts said her father is a retired Air Force colonel and former Tuskegee Airman. Roberts’ mother, Lucimarion Roberts, was the first in her family to attend college, Roberts said. “I could look across the hall and find my role models: my mother and father,” Roberts said. Roberts, who formerly hosted Prime Time and SportsCenSee
SPEAKER page 8
See
RODEO page 8
Breeding selected as dean of college
Roberts delivers message n Co-anchor of ‘Good Morning America’ Robin Roberts spoke Saturday as the seventh of eight presenters during this year’s Centennial Speaker Series.
ACU Rodeo participants showed off their steer branding ability along with several other talents at the university’s annual All-School Rodeo on Tuesday evening, hosted by the Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Club. Rodeo activities began at 6 p.m. in the Taylor County Expo Center Horse Barn. Rodeo spectators witnessed a series of men’s competition along with women’s, after purchasing a $3 ticket in advance or $5 at the door. Free admission was accepted into the Rodeo when purchasing a $20 Benefit Concert ticket for a 7:30 p.m. performance featuring singers Kina Lankford and Billy Joe Shaver. All proceeds went to the family of two-year-old, Canon Perkins, a liver transplant recipient.
STAFF REPORT
Anna Carroll/Staff Photographer
Good Morning, America co-anchor Robin Roberts speaks Saturday at a dinner as part of the university’s Centennial Speaker Series.
Dr. MaLesa Breeding was selected Tuesday as the dean of the College of Education and Human Services. Breeding was one of three candidates chosen to go through a five-step interview process this semester. She currently serves as the chair of the Communication Sciences and Disorders Department. Breeding holds degrees
Abilene Christian University
from ACU and Texas Tech University and has had experience in the Abilene Independent School District and Abilene State School. Dr. Jerry Whitworth, chair of the Education Department, and Dr. Donnie Snider, associate professor of education were the other finalists. Breeding will begin her position June 1. E-mail the Optimist at: optimist@acu.edu
Serving the ACU community since 1912
Chapel Checkup Credited Chapels to date:
Wednesday, March 29, 2006 Wednesday, April 12, 2006
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Calendar & Events Wednesday
Students’ Association Elections, 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Campus Center. Essence of Ebony elections, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows. Freshman Formal ticket sales, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows.
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14
Friday
Of Mice and Men, 8 p.m., Fulks Theater. Easter Holiday.
15
Saturday
Of Mice and Men, 8 p.m., Fulks Theater. Easter Holiday.
Thursday
Students’ Association Elections, 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Campus Center.
Announcements Casting Crowns tickets are available in The Campus Store at the price of $14.50 for student tickets. The show is at 7 p.m. on April 24 in Moody Coliseum. For more information, contact 6742772. Applications are available in the ACU Counseling Center for 2006-2007 Peer Health Educators. Students can make a difference on campus by helping to educate other students about health and wellness issues. Deadline for submission is April 21. Contact Heidi Morris at 6742063 for more information. Donations will be taken in Chapel on Wednesday for the Nias 2006 team. This summer a group of students from ACU are going to Nias, Indonesia on a medical mission trip to provide
medical relief and to spread the name of Jesus Christ in the largest Muslim nation in the world. Any questions regarding the trip or the special donation can be sent to jsb02b@acu.edu. Students can vote for Homer Hiccolm and the Rocketboys to compete to play at Cornerstone Festival in Bushnel, Illinois. Cornerstone is the largest Christian music festival in the world with an annual attendance of nearly 40,000 people. The 16 bands with the most votes will play at the New Band Showcase, and the band with the most votes will get to play on the main stage with Copeland, MeWithoutYou and Anberlin. Visit http://www. cornerstonefestival.com/ newbandshowcase.cfm to vote. Voting ends May 28.
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Sunday
Of Mice and Men, 8 p.m., Fulks Theater. Easter Holiday.
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Monday
IJM Awareness week, 11 a.m.4 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows.
Volunteer Opportunities Volunteers are needed to help with food preparation for Staff Appreciation Day sponsored by Family Association of Abilene State School on May 1, 2006. Fannin Elementary needs volunteers to do simple math games with 1st and 2nd grade children in groups. Tuesdays and/or Fridays 3-4 p.m. Thomas Elementary is seeking a number of ACU students who would be willing to assist our students in taking and grading a reading and math benchmark test at the student’s grade level. It begins April 17 and ends April 28 from 8-3 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Students can sign up to carry a flag in the Parade of Flags during Opening Assembly on Aug. 28. The Opening Assembly of 2006 marks the 101st official opening of another fall semester at ACU. Current students and employees for the fall 2006 semester who want to participate can contact the office of University Events at 674-2632 or send a message
to UniversityEvents@acu.edu. Applicants must include their name, e-mail address and which flag they prefer. Flags are assigned on first-come basis. The Volunteer and Service-Learning Center has received a request for drivers and baby sitters for a family from Burundi currently living in Abilene. Students who periodically can help in either of these areas can contact Susan Moellinger at abileneed@capitalsenior.com or call at 793-1144. American Heart Association need volunteers to prepare gift bags May 2 and 3. Abilene Cultural Affairs Council need volunteers to set up and conduct a survey of 50 event guests on April 22 and April 27. ACU for Abilene will be on April 22. Students can join staff and faculty in serving the community on the last planned service day of the semester.
Credited Chapels remaining:
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Police Log (edited for space) April 3 2:14 a.m. Loud music at 600 E.N. 18th St., subjects agreed to turn music down 4 p.m. Report taken for threats 6:15 p.m. Located suspect in threat case 06-048. Suspect was given criminal trespass warning and asked to leave campus April 4 10:10 a.m. Student reporting disturbance that occurred with another subject 1:27 p.m. Medical emergency at 600 E.N. 22nd St., female twisted ankle 5:10 p.m. Gave access to Cullen Auditorium to look for an iPOD, unable to locate April 5 10:37 a.m. Report of briefcase left on stairs of library. Checked area and item was gone upon arrival 11:29 a.m. Attempt to locate of go-cart driving on campus 11:46 p.m. Report of baby crying in the area of 500 E.N. 16th St., checked area and talked with neighbors, unsure if baby or possible cat, noise had stopped April 6 10 a.m. Placed boot on vehicle in library lot for numerous citations and unable to identify owner 1:30 p.m. Traffic stop at Ambler Avenue & Campus Court Road for expired stickers 9:25 p.m. Report of two vehicles throwing water balloons at Smith/ Adams lot. Contacted several high school students and advised to leave campus, they complied 9:30 p.m. Contacted suspicious vehicle at Zoe property on East North 10th Street, was a couple,
they did leave April 7 10:30 a.m. Theft report at Don Morris Center, case #06-050 2:30 p.m. Vehicle stalled at entrance to campus on Judge Ely Boulevard, owner is moving vehicle 2:50 p.m. Vehicle accident at East North 16th Street & Avenue D 2:45 p.m. Assisted Abilene Police Department with vehicle accident at 500 E.N. 16th St. 8:35 p.m. Turned on lights at Elmer Gray Stadium April 8 12:07 a.m. Checked residence at 1600 Ave D 1:08 a.m. Loud party at 500 E.N. 20th St. 1:36 a.m. Loud party at 400 College St., contacted resident, breaking up 10:46 a.m. Jumpstart vehicle on ACU Drive South 12:31 p.m. Locked gate at Physical Resources 12:50 p.m. Traffic stop at East North 10th Street & Treadaway Street 1:30 p.m. Assisted Abilene Police Department with locating phone number of student 8:09 p.m. Delivered message to University Park Apartments for student to contact family April 9 2:40 a.m. Assisted Abilene Police Department with fight at 500 EN 20th St., one subject was injured and transported to Hendrick Medical Center, non ACU student 12:30 p.m. Burglary of room at Mabee Hall, case #06-051 6 p.m. Assisted Abilene Police Department with vehicle accident at East North 20th St. & Avenue D
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, April 12, 2006
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Wednesday, April 12, 2006
CAMPUS NEWS
Percussionists hit right note
Singing down memory lane
n Members of the ACU Percussion Ensemble and the Steel Grooves steel drum band performed traditional songs from West Africa, Zambia and Guatemala on Monday. By NATHAN DRISKELL Student Reporter
emerald mcgowan/Staff Photographer
Shannon Lair, sophomore elementary education major from Apple Valley, Minn.; Anne Marie King, sophomore exercise science major from Clyde; Kristen Gaddis, sophomore exercise science major from Longview; and Andrea Lucado, sophomore English major from San Antonio, sing “Always Be My Baby” by Mariah Carey at Karaoke Night in the Bean Sprout on Monday.
Crash simulation meant to prepare n Students participated in a fake airplane crash Saturday, helping the Emergency Management Organization be prepared for a real crash. By WHITNEY MANN Student Reporter
The Abilene Regional Airport experienced what looked like an airplane crash on its runway April 5 at 10:30 a.m. Although it seemed completely realistic, the incident was planned. Every three years, the Emergency Management Organization for the city of Abilene stages a fake plane crash. This is its way of preparing the fire department and hospitals for emergency situations that could occur in real life. Cries and moans could be heard from participants of the simulated crash, while firefighters and medics worked their way around the site. Makeup was applied to people to make them look as if they had deep wounds or even broken bones. About 30 volunteers participated in the event; 15 of them were students.
The volunteers arrived a couple of hours before the fake crash scenario took place. They were given breakfast while people coated makeup on their bodies to create fake injuries. The volunteers were given specific instructions to act out the part of their injury. They were then taken to the crash site, where two separate parts of the plane lay on the runway. Some participants were taken into the plane, while others lay around it. Jordan Isom, senior English major from Abilene, was told to lie on the runway. She had a thick coat of red makeup applied to her arm. Isom said the entire experience was completely realistic. “When we first arrived, people began having their wounds painted on, and it looked so real I could not eat the breakfast they had provided for us,” Isom said. The volunteers immersed themselves in their particular role to create a realistic value for the crash scene, Isom said. The purpose of this simulation was to act out how an
actual plane crash might take place, said Jim Bryan, emergency management coordinator for the city of Abilene and Taylor County. People acted injured, and the fire department had to respond quickly and efficiently to get the victims out. “We have never taken the crash scene this far before; this is the most realistic it has ever been,” Bryan said. Firefighters and staff were told to pick their way through the victims, choosing which ones were in most need of a doctor, Bryan said. Once the victims needing to go to the hospital were found, they were sent on buses or ambulances, depending on their condition, to Hendrick Hospital or Abilene Regional Medical Center. “What is really important is to coordinate everyone’s actions together to save lives. The quicker people can do it and get to the hospital, more lives will be saved,” Bryan said. “This is why we do this.”
E-mail Mann at: optimist@acu.edu
The audience in Cullen Auditorium rose to its feet amid cheers and applause Monday night when the ACU Percussion Ensemble and Steel Grooves steel drum band sounded the final note of its spring semester concert. The ensemble, made up of 15 ACU students and one Hardin-Simmons University student, performed traditional songs from West Africa, Zimbabwe and Guatemala, as well as steel drum songs from the tradition of Trinidad. The concert included guest appearances by the Classical Youth Chorus of Abilene, the ACU A Cappella Chorus and Eagle Steel, Abilene High School’s steel drum band. Dr. Allen Teel, associate professor of percussion and world music and director of the Percussion Ensemble, said he was impressed with the group. “Nights like tonight make me think I have the very best job in the world,” Teel said Monday
after the concert. The steel drum song “Mambo Mindoro” combined members of ACU’s steel drum band and Abilene High School’s steel drum band on stage for a finale crowd pleaser featuring solos by Nathan Lambert, senior graphic design major from San Antonio, on congas; Brian Glass, HardinSimmons freshman music education major from Buffalo Gap, on timbales; and Philip Ellis, sophomore business management major from Van, on drum set. The song brought applause and a standing ovation from audience members. “The audience was awesome; they ate it up,” Ellis said. Throughout the semester, ensemble members have not only learned and rehearsed songs from other cultures, they have also studied the culture and background surrounding the pieces they play. Lambert said Teel has made the music more enjoyable by helping students understand the culture from which the music comes. “He makes it fun by allowing us to feel another culture, to understand the rhythmic language,” Lambert said. Ellis said he appreciates the level of expertise Teel brings to the ensemble.
Percussion Ensemble To receive e-mails about upcoming Percussion Ensemble and Steel Grooves events, e-mail Dr. Allen Teel at teela@acu.edu and request to be added to the Percussion Ensemble mailing list. “Dr. Teel is a genius,” Ellis said. “He’s the man. He’s one of the greatest drummers I know, and I think we’re lucky to have him here as a professor.” In the fall of 2001, Teel spent his sabbatical studying West African drumming traditions under Midawo Gideon Foli Alorwoyie at the University of North Texas in Denton. Teel said understanding music in the context of the culture that influences it is something he has always been interested in. “I’m interested in learning about the people, about the culture that creates the music, and a little bit about the context,” Teel said. “And I think that it’s important to help the students understand, too.”
E-mail Driskell at: optimist@acu.edu
Locals celebrate Founder’s Day n Many Abilenians turned out to celebrate the city’s 125th anniversary downtown Saturday, enjoying food, music and inflatable games for children. By DANI LINTHICUM Opinion Editor
Children’s laughter, country music and wafts of fresh barbecue float down Cedar Street in downtown Abilene. This weekend was the Founder’s Day Celebration, and members of the Abilene Preservation League rang in the city’s 125th birthday in style. The celebration featured, among other things, inflatables for children, a barbecue cookoff, art shows, country music concerts, and many other activities throughout the weekend. Jackie Love, event coordi-
nator for the Abilene Preservation League, said because this was a special year, more people attended the celebration than usual. “I expected a good year this year, but this was great,” Love said. “People had a lot of fun, and all of the activities were a big hit.” The Founder’s Day celebration traditionally happens every April in downtown Abilene. Organizers rope off parts of downtown streets for the festival and invite different activities and guests to come every year. “We evaluate what works and what doesn’t, and then we make decisions on what the next year will look like,” Love said. The festival had it’s beginnings in Buffalo Gap in the
early ’80s, but was moved into Abilene because of weather conditions, said Bill Minter, the interim executive director for Abilene Preservation League. The proceeds from Founder’s Day go toward the renovation of older buildings “in need of some tender loving care,” and the education of children in the appreciation of their West Texas heritage, Minter said. “The whole festival is just a lot of fun,” Love said. “We are so blessed here in Abilene to have such a pretty downtown and such old, beautiful buildings. “The point of events like Founder’s Day is to appreciate what we have and try to keep it that way as well as make it better.” E-mail Linthicum at: del01a@acu.edu
Calendar depicts world of ‘unseen’ angels n The Unseen Wings calendar has been sold nationally and internationally, raising money for groups including $50,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network. By TAKISHA KNIGHT Page 2 Editor
John Bunton, class of 1994, walked away from “corporate America” with nothing more than a vision. The result was Unseen Wings, a calendar featuring photographs of angels in everyday situations that in eight years has raised money for various groups, including $50,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network through the Wood Forrest National Bank. Bunton said the vision for the calendar came from his own encounter with the mysterious. One day, while traveling in Houston traffic moving
about 70 miles per hour, Bunton passed a massive wreck. A van carrying a family of five had overturned. None of the passengers wore seat belts. John Bunton and another man pulled over to help. “People have died in lesser wrecks,” Bunton said, but as he and the other man helped the family from their vehicle, each passenger appeared virtually unscathed. It was a moment that remained with Bunton. That night, he visited his grandparents and told them the story, wondering how the family survived the collision. His grandmother began to talk about angels, which sparked an idea. “I wonder what it would be like if we could see God’s angels working in our everyday lives,” Bunton said. “I looked at the world differently.”
Bunton said from then on he’d see kids playing in the park and their angels keeping watch nearby or construction workers at work while angels stood alongside them. Pretty soon, the images consumed his thoughts. “I wasn’t paying attention at the job,” he said. Bunton said he didn’t know how, but he had to capture the images, so he quit his job and moved back to Abilene. Without any art skills, photography training or experience, he set out to bring the images to life. “It was definitely a God thing,” Bunton said. Within two weeks, he had a great camera, angel robes and wings from friends who either gave him materials or told him where to get them. Soon, he began to shoot the calendars, a three-month process. He has used ACU stu-
dents, faculty and alumni to be in the pictures, as well as fans of the calendar who’ve e-mailed him or people he meets in malls or grocery stores. In the past eight years, the calendars have been sent nationwide and internationally. “It’s amazing to see how God is using Unseen Wings,” Bunton said. “So much about faith is believing in the intangible. My calendars are a tangible way to remember that God loves us.” Bunton said the calendars are more than a fundraiser; they are also a vehicle to spread the word of God’s love. Bunton said he hopes to find a publisher this year, adding he’s never been worried that things wouldn’t work out. “If I said I had a big publisher backing me,” he said, “I’d say it’d be God.” E-mail Knight at: tnk02a@acu.edu
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Grads take care of last-minute details n Seniors wanting to walk the stage during May Commencement must complete several important graduation documents for the Registrar’s Office by Thursday.
Graduation announcements can be ordered until May 5 in the Campus Store to ensure pre-commencement delivery, said Tim Evans, The Campus Store’s customer assistance manager. By MEGAN LOWE A graduation rehearsal Student Reporter will take place at 3 p.m. May Seniors who are graduat- 12, and all graduates must ing in May have a number of bring their escorts and caps deadlines and activities ap- to the rehearsal, but can proaching. leave their robes behind. They must complete “The graduates are esgraduation documents by corted by someone who is Thursday if they want to special to them, like a parwalk across the stage, in- ent or close friend; these are cluding gold the people who cards, finanwill be hoodcial aid paing them during pers and exit “The graduates are the ceremony,” interviews. escorted by someone Black said. Kathy RedGraduation who is special to man, degree is divided into them, like a parent audit coorditwo ceremonies, or close friend.” nator of the both on May 13. Registrar’s The first will June Black, record specialist Office, said be at 11 a.m. and graduation assistant in the all but 15 stuwith all graduRegistrar’s Office dents have ating students completed from the Coltheir gold lege of Biblical cards, which are documents Studies, the College of Busithat contain the name of ness Administration and the the senior and the depart- Patty Hanks Shelton School ment from which he or she of Nursing. is graduating. She said the At 3 p.m., graduates from 15 students have been e- the College of Arts and Sciencmailed and informed of es will take their turn to celtheir incomplete graduation ebrate their accomplishment documents. by walking across stage. June Black, record speAll graduates must report cialist and graduation assis- to their assigned location in tant in the Registrar’s Office, the Teague Special Events said students who haven’t Center 30 minutes before taken care of their financial their graduation begins. aid interviews should go to No receptions will folThe Depot immediately to low the ceremonies May 13. get them finished. These festivities will be inCaps and gowns will be cluded in the Graduation available to order at The Celebration events May 12. Campus Store during finals week, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. E-mail Lowe at: optimist@acu.edu
SA: Candidates describe goals Continued from page 1
lic speaker but expressed a willingness to do the behindtaken steps to develop con- the-scenes work of the vice tacts within the university’s president, while also touting administration that will help his two years of experience him represent the students’ on Congress. voice. He also likened himAlthough he also has self to average students, two years of experience on having been involved in sev- Congress, Brandon Smith eral student groups on cam- stressed the need to focus pus but never Congress. on what candidates plans Saab stressed the need for are for now and the future, networking among student not past accomplishments. groups, and Hartsell focused Manda Mosley, who is the on his desire to improve the only candidate with no precommunication, accessibil- vious experience on Conity and accountability of gress, said her experience Congress to students. as treasurer of Delta Theta Perhaps the most memo- social club plus her ability rable moment of the de- to bring fresh ideas to Conbates came minutes before gress would make her the the conclubest candidate. sion with TyCurrent vice ler Cosgrove, president Mela“I love it when running for nie Booker, who candidates get a his third term is in charge of chance to speak as treasurer, elections, said frankly to students” she was excited at the microphone. about the opporMelanie Booker, Students’ Running tunity to attend Association vice president unopposed the debates. for the sec“I love it when ond year in a the candidates row as treasurer, Cosgrove get a chance to speak frankly did not need to convince to students,” Booker said. “I’m students to vote for him. excited that so many people Instead, he used his few got exposure to the candidates minutes at the end of the and the issues.” forum to openly endorse Early voting began MonHartsell for president be- day night in freshman resicause of his vision for Con- dence hall lobbies. Regular gress. The endorsement sent voting began after Chapel on a murmur of various reac- Tuesday with voting booths tions through the crowd of in the Campus Center, Onstudents — some applauding stead-Packer Biblical Studies Cosgrove’s message, others Building atrium and Mabee disapproving, while some Business Building. Voting simply were shocked at what continues in those locations was happening. until 5 p.m. Wednesday. The majority of the deThe vice presidential elecbates went to questions for tion could necessitate a runthe four vice presidential off if none of the four cancandidates. Each candidate didates receive at least 50 brought a different message percent of the vote during the to students. first round of voting. In that Eric Johnson expressed case, the top two vote-gethis desire to meet each stu- ters will compete in a run-off dent and understand the election Thursday, with the concerns and desires of stu- winner of the run-off being dents for SA. named vice president. More than once, Jordan Williams acknowledged he was not the best pubE-mail Smith at: jvs02a@acu.edu
CAMPUS NEWS/FROM THE FRONT PAGE
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April 12, 2006
Students’ Association: here to serve The Issue:
The ACU Students’ Association is for every student, not just Congress members or executive officers.
Our view:
Students should take advantage of the opportunity that they have in SA to speak up about issues that concern them.
The solution:
Vote for executive officers, and make Congress and officers accountable for their duties. They are in their positions to serve the student body, but they need inspiration and support to get the job done.
On Sunday night, the Editorial Board of the Optimist interviewed the candidates for executive officer positions for our endorsements and one of the questions we asked was, “How do you think the student body views SA? “ The typical response was “What is SA? The students here don’t know the power that they have in SA and the fact that they can change things for the better. We just need to work together.” This is a concern among the candidates and those involved in SA. SA is for the students, and those on Congress are not the only ones who should benefit from it. The Students’ Association is not a bank, a clique or a select group of friends who get together to feel important and talk about legislation. It is an organization of your peers, who have
taken on this posiEvery undergraduate on this campus is a member c o n s t i t u e n t s , tion to serve you, and as such, of SA, and every student should care about the student body. they should what happens in SA meetings. Congress and take their restudents need to sponsibilities take their roles ect up because that is the only seriously. Beseriously and understand their issue students seem concerned ing a member of Congress is not jobs are to better this student about. There are bigger issues merely a status symbol or somebody and campus and help you at stake, but too few students thing to make students’ résumés to have a say in what goes on in know about or are concerned stand out among the rest, it is a the university. about these. job that needs time, attention and SA is designed to be a liaison Our Congress is available commitment in order to do well. between the students and the to you. The members are your Students need to understand university administration, and voice to the administration, that SA is about more than exas such, it needs to have open and with their help and input, ecutive officer elections, and it is communication with students students can accomplish great more than a club of elitists. Evso it knows what to bring before things for this campus. Don’t ery undergraduate on this camthe administration. let your Congress members get pus is a member of the Students’ When most students are away with slacking in their jobs, Association, and every student asked what they would like to not coming to meetings or not should care about what happens see changed on campus, the first representing your interests. If in SA meetings. response is something to do with they are not in meetings, your SA meetings are open to all the Bean and meal plans. While voice is not being heard. students. They are conducted such subjects are important, Senators and representatives in Onstead-Packer Biblical Studmany students bring that proj- have signed a contract with their ies Room 114 at 5 p.m. every
Let Loose
After reading the Optimist for about three years now, I have finally come to use one of its many resources. The “Letter to the Editor” section has always seemed very interesting to me because I enjoyed reading about what people really thought and what they were passionate about. I figure now was as good a time as any to share my own thoughts and feelings. After attending the Chapel Forum on Monday night that featured the executive officer candidates, I came away with a disgusted taste in my mouth. Everything seemed to be going well, until approximately the last five minutes of the forum
Letter to the Editor Student questions SA treasurer’s endorsement of candidates at Monday’s executive officer debates.
when our Students’ Association treasurer began speaking. As with the other candidates I expected him to tell us about what he has done in the past as treasurer, some changes he plans to implement, and why he would be good to continue on as treasurer. Instead, near the end of his speech he used his platform and position to boast his opinion on who we
should vote for as Students’ Association president, while blatantly bashing the other candidate with sly and harsh comments. Both, I feel, were very inappropriate and unacceptable for somebody in his position. One comment in particular stated something along the lines of “some people like to take credit for accomplishments that they only had a small role in.” It was obvious to me, as well as all the other people sitting around me, whom the comments were directed toward. I feel it was the general consensus that his remarks were somewhat classless in order to garner the support for another candidate. I view these
executive officer positions as positions of not only leadership of the student body, but also Christian example. I feel that these comments did not display these attributes. One thing I must make clear, I have nothing against the candidate he was supporting. The times that I have come in contact with him in class and other places, he has been nothing but respectful, nice, and generous. I truly do no think that our treasurer meant for his comments to be offensive, but they were questionable. Jarret Vickers senior secondary education major from Post
In Your Words Are you participating in the SA executive officer elections? Why or why not? “No, I don’t have a good reason to.”
“Yes. I didn’t get to vote for President of the U.S., so this is my chance.”
“Yes. Because if I didn’t, all of the great advertising would go to waste.”
Patrick Massey
Daniella Kohler
Ryan Hunter
junior exercise science major from Durham, N.C.
freshman communication major from Helotes
freshman biology major from Robinson
Why Iraq? will only come to fruition if That is the question mil- the Iraqi citizens and governlions of Americans are now ment choose to unite for the asking themselves in retro- good of their own country. spect of a The power to mend Iraq and t h r e e - y e a r halt an ensuing civil war is war that be- primarily in the hands of its comes more own people. compl i ca t The current administraed as time tion should do more than passes. weakly threaten the newly I fully established Iraqi governagree that ment with troop withdrawal Guest three years and claim success with a limColumn is not long ited number of trained Iraqi Daniel enough to troops. The President should Johnson r e d e s i g n instead present an ultimaa government, overthrow a tum to the local politicians dictator and liberate a peo- and legislators and threaten ple as Dani Linthicum wrote them to step into power and in her column regarding the prevent their country from American people’s eagerness falling into a violent civil war. to throw in the towel. But it The American people should is a long time for continue to presAmerican tax dolsure President That resolution lars to support an Bush to take unjustified cause. will only come if more substanWhen did tial steps toward the Iraqi America become effective diplogovernment the epitome of steps up and the macy in Iraq and democratic imnot prolong our United States perialism? When unpopular occusteps down. did America give pation. itself the right to So what does inflict its political this have to do and religious views on the with 18-to-21-year-old colrest of the world? lege students in Abilene? I guess the answer to those When approached with questions is March 20, 2003. that question, remember That is the day the Unit- the soldiers dying daily in ed States began bombing Iraq are men and women our Baghdad to liberate the Iraqi age. It is the responsibility people and find the alleged of our generation not to let weapons of mass destruction our peers die in the crossSaddam Hussein was hiding. fire of a civil war that is out That is the day the American of their control to resolve. people were forced to sup- We hold a moral obligation port a war with weak justi- not only as Americans but fications and even weaker as Christians, to find the preparations. most successful resolution Three years later, we now to the chaos in Iraq. That know no weapons of mass resolution will only come if destruction exist in the “lib- the Iraqi government steps erated” country of Iraq, and up and the United States the Bush administration con- steps down. tinues to deny ever claiming Why should we continue ties between Hussein and the to use our military resources Al Qaeda ring leader Osama where they have no effect? Bin Laden. When will this administraThe United States doesn’t tion admit they made a mishave the job to babysit a take and take responsibility country that is on the verge of for those mistakes? a civil war. In no way should These are questions that American soldiers continue we should all ask ourselves to police a nation that is sep- before supporting a war that arated by generations of dis- continues to escalate into the agreeing Islamic sects. realm of chaos. A successful country and truly liberated people in Iraq E-mail Johnson at: djj05a@acu.edu
Editorial and letter policy Unsigned editorials are the opinions of the Optimist and may not necessarily reflect the views of the university or its administration. Signed columns, cartoons and letters are the opinions of their creators and may not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of the Optimist or the university. The Optimist encourages reader response through letters to the editor but reserves the right to limit frequent contributors or to refuse to print letters containing personal
attacks, obscenity, defamation, erroneous information or invasion of privacy. Please limit letters to 350 words or fewer. A name and phone number must be included for verification purposes. Phone numbers will not be published. Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79699 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu
E-mail the Optimist at: optimist@acu.edu
Future of nation rests with Iraqis
Cole Williams
Endorsement lacks class, hurts SA
Wednesday, and the student body is encouraged to come and give input on issues that are important to them. This is the only way Congress will serve its purpose, and the executive officers you vote for will use their positions to make the largest difference possible on this campus. You are the future of ACU. Vote, talk to your congress members and representatives, and care about what happens on this campus. Be pro-active, and have opinions on what you think needs to happen in the university. Only by taking pride in our university and the action required, will we see the change we want to see at ACU.
Editorial and Management Board Jonathan Smith
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April 12, 2006
Page 7
Students’ Association presidential candidates have a vision for SA. Maher Saab I want to unify the student groups junior political on campus science major from with the adAbilene—Students’ Association ministrapresidential tion, so your candidate needs as students can be exceeded. As a student in a social club, I would like to I want to let you under- see a joint effort to reach stand how sincere I am in out to those who may running for SA president. not be a part of a group I have looked into this po- by networking with CAB sition for two years now and the administration to and I know what it takes. provide different activiI am currently a mem- ties here on campus. ber of SA Congress and I SA is not an event coam also a student like you. ordinator but our job is This SA that I have been still to be the voice of the a part of has brought to students. Therefore, we you more bike racks, an need to network with the endowment and, starting already existing groups next semester, the Bean and get things done. being open Sunday nights As president, I know and lunch instead of I can get the job done. I mornings. I not only have have a vision and experiSA experience, but I also ence.
Our endorsement The Optimist endorses Maher Saab for Students’ Association executive president. Saab has spent the past year as an Administration Building representative on Congress, working on practical projects and legislation that will benefit the student body. Through his experience, Saab has made connections with key administrative figures and worked with various offices around campus, knowing the inner-workings of SA and ACU and the right steps to take to achieve results. As president, Saab said he will aim to build networks among student groups and between students and administrators. He wants to involve
students in the legislative process, encouraging Congress to listen to the opinions of the student body, not just of those on Congress. While many of his ideas fall close to the realm of activity planning, which SA moved away from four years ago with the Big ShakeUp, Saab said he is aware that SA is not an event coordinator. Cameron Hartsell, has interesting ideas on how to “market” SA to students, but lacks the experience needed to fulfill all of his goals. Although some claim experience isn’t important, and at times it should not be the key determinant between candidates, Saab’s experience makes him a stronger candidate for president.
student body must become involved in the business junior political of SA governscience major from ment. Many Gilmer—Students’ feel shut out, Association and have no presidential idea whom candidate their representatives are. This needs to change, starting at the top. SA needs a Here’s a little known fact: capable president to steer Every student at ACU is a us towards our goals. I have member of the Students’ As- spent the last two weeks sociation. Most people con- meeting with as many indifuse SA with SA government. viduals and groups as posOur student government is sible and I have heard your seen as just a group, and an concerns. With the right exclusive one at that. This leadership, these concerns common misconception is can be addressed. I can proone of the reasons I am run- vide that leadership The ning for SA president. We outcome of this election will need to bridge the gap be- determine your student govtween students and govern- ernment’s course in the next ment, and ensure that rep- several years, so it is crucial resentatives are accessible that you cast your ballot. I and accountable. SA has the would greatly appreciate the potential to be a powerful opportunity to serve as the voice for our concerns, but next president of our stuin order to realize this, the dent government.
Cameron Hartsell
Students’ Association vice presidential candidates Our endorsement
bowling, parking and PowBrandon Smith ell gym memberships. I could go on, junior political but it doesn’t science major from matter. What Overland Park, matters is adKans.—Students’ Association dressing the vice presidential issues of tocandidate day. We have a history of triumphs and failures. We have a future of learning The role of the vice presi- and excellence. The time is dent is the director of inter- now. I believe that the stunal affairs, according to the dent government should SA Constitution. be focused on the needs I believe this means that of students now. We must the vice president should take advantage of every advocate, speak out for and moment. I believe that the engage student groups and student government is activities. For the past two elected by the students for years, I have served my class the students, not for the adin SA. Through my experi- ministration or for our own ence, I learned the impor- personal résumés. I am asktance of knowing the stu- ing for your vote because It dent body, groups, athletic is time for empowering stuteams, social clubs, produc- dents to achieve their goals, tions, and also adminis- as the Awake 3:18 and the trators. In this mindset, I Outdoor Club have. It is worked to provide emer- time to enable social clubs, gency funding for groups giving them a voice. It is and support new groups as time to engage student prothey achieve their dreams. ductions and athletics, givI spoke up for students ing them the support and about changes in required recognition they deserve. classes, and the decision As we stand on the edge of to raise the student activity the Centennial, the time for fee. I looked into changing SA to reengage the student policies about dancing, free body is now!
Eric Johnson junior finance major from Boerne —Students’ Association vice presidential candidate.
Hey, my name is Eric Johnson and I am running for Students’ Association vice president. My main goal is to get to know you and empower you to do great things. My goals are what you want to get done. Let your voices be heard. I know that sounds cliché, but it’s true. You can make a difference and I want to be the one that helps you. I mean, do you want me to prom-
SA treasurer Tyler Cosgrove senior finance major from Amarillo—Students’ Association treasurer
For the position of vice president, the Optimist endorses Jordan Williams. In a four-person race that features two very experienced candidates in Williams and Brandon Smith (two years each on SA), Eric Johnson with one year on SA and Manda Mosley with no previous SA experience, Optimist discussion centered around the two most experienced candidates. Williams separated himself from the other candidates with a combination of his experience on SA and his genuinely expressed desire to do the behind-thescenes work of the vice president. The job of the vice president requires much behind-the-scenes work such as running elections, working with student groups and coordinating with student leaders. This kind of work best fits Williams’ style, and he has expressed a true passion for committing to this work.
Williams has admitted to not being the best public speaker, and that is something he will need to work on and become more comfortable with as a student leader. However, we believe he should thrive in the smaller communication settings required of a vice president. Smith proved to be another strong candidate. However, his outgoing personality and strong skills as a nationally recognized debater seem to better suit him for a position that focuses less on behindthe-scenes work. His extensive knowledge of the constitution and bylaws (he helped rewrite both documents this semester) also makes him a strong candidate for SA’s chief development officer. This four-candidate race could likely be very close and come down to a run-off vote Thursday, but the Optimist believes Williams is best fit to fulfill the duties of vice president.
ise more snack machines and longer lunch periods or do you want goals that will make a difference? I can only make a difference when you allow me to. With your help, if elected I believe that together we can really step up to the vision of ACU. We can change the world, starting here with our campus.
Congress. I also have a Jordan Williams passion for seeing various student junior accounting groups start and finance major to interact and from Longview— collaborate Students’ Association with each othvice presidential er. We have a candidate number of excellent groups on this campus that I believe could yield better The vice president results if they worked toshould be somebody who gether on events and prounderstands not only the grams. relationship between the Part of that cooperation student body and Con- will come from a simple gress, but also between the knowledge of what all of various student groups and the groups are involved in. Congress. With two years I think it is the responsibilof SA experience, I have ity of the vice president to had ample opportunity to help the groups understand observe and participate in what other groups do and those interactions. My goal help them network in ways in the next year, if elected, that will be beneficial to all is to improve and grow the involved. communication between SA I think taking steps to and the student body. It is refine leadership programs the job of the student con- such as Invision will also be gress to represent and ad- critical for helping groups dress the concerns of their to network. I can honestly constituents. say that I would not be runAdmittedly, SA has been ning for this office if I did lacking somewhat in this not think I could be the best area in the past couple of candidate for the job. I feel years. It is time to build up compelled to help in this the relationship that needs capacity, and I hope that to exist between the stu- you will give me that opdent body and the student portunity.
Manda Mosley junior political science major from Corpus Christi—Students’ Association vice presidential candidate.
Mosley did not submit a campaign statement to be printed in the Optimist.
Our endorsement Cosgrove did not submit a campaign statement to be printed in the Optimist.
For the office of treasurer, the Optimist endorses Tyler Cosgrove. Cosgrove makes history this year as the first person to hold an executive officer’s position three years in a row. Cosgrove has been the treasurer for the past two years and has reversed the $30,000 debt
that SA accumulated two years ago. While doing so, Cosgrove has helped create an endowment for SA to use in the future. He sees where SA is headed and will be able to help the executive officers avoid reverting back to being an event-planning organization like Congresses four
years ago. Cosgrove will be working with a president and vice president with less experience, and it could hurt him in the end if he can’t respect the positions above him. Especially because Cosgrove has openly endorsed one presidential candidate,
he will have to be prepared to work with whomever students elect. The president and vice president’s positions aren’t more important than treasurer, but they rank higher up on the chain of command, and Cosgrove will have to deal with this appropriately.
Page 8
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Speaker: Roberts challenges audience to dream big Continued from page 1 ter, attributed much of her determination to her experiences in sports. In college, Roberts began working as the Sports Director at a local station, acting as a DJ at the affiliated country station on weekends. Despite offers to work in news, Roberts said, she decided to work as a sportscaster at a station in Hattiesburg, Miss., after college. Working only 30 hours a week and earn-
ing $5.50 an hour, Roberts said she continued working toward her goal. “I was making the sacrifices because I saw the big picture,” Roberts said. After working in Biloxi, Miss., Roberts was offered a job at ESPN four years after she graduated from college. Roberts turned the job down because she said she was not yet prepared. “Think big, dream big, focus small,” Roberts said. After working in Atlanta,
Roberts said she returned to ESPN to host NFL Prime Time. Roberts said she noticed her assignments moving from sports to human interest to news and said she thinks the reason for this shift was revealed in the events of Hurricane Katrina. Roberts, whose mother had remained in the path of Katrina, said Good Morning America sent her to Lafayette, La. to cover the storm. Roberts said in reality, she went to Louisiana to find her
mother. With the help of a local policeman, Roberts said she found her family. About 80 percent of Roberts’ hometown is destroyed, but Good Morning America is working with the Salvation Army and the Corporation for National and Community Service to rebuild the town. Roberts said she believes this is the reason she was moved from sports to news. “God’s delays are not his denials,” Roberts said.
Dr. Gary McCaleb, vice president of the university, read questions from the audience. Questions included how Roberts balances her faith with her high profile job and the person Roberts most enjoyed interviewing. Roberts named Michael Jordan and Arthur Ashe as her two most interesting interviews, but added, “I love the everyday person.” Roberts said she was taught not to idolize people, which made her interviews with high-
profile athletes like Jordan and Ashe enjoyable rather than intimidating. “As journalists, we are treated like celebrities,” Roberts said, “but we should not act like celebrities.” Roberts thanked the university for their persistence in securing her visit. “You are so proud of what you have here,” Roberts said. “You make me want to go back and share your light.” E-mail Peace at: knp04a@acu.edu
Sub T: Members continue self-study Library: Commons opens Wednesday Continued from page 1
ter understanding about what the club was like when it began and how it has changed. Since October, 16 members were elected to officer positions, which has helped bring a change in the club’s attitude, Davis said. He said he thinks people will see a difference both in attitude and behavior once the club is back on campus. “We want to show the school that we know what we’re about and where we are going,” Davis said. “I think its been good for everyone.” Barnard said their process
includes asking questions related to mission, purpose, goals, strategies, issues related to how groups develop and sustain themselves over the years, self-discipline, new member recruiting and pledging practices. Davis said the club wants to complete the self-study by the end of the semester or by August, if possible, so in the best-case-scenario, the club could begin rushing or pledging members next spring. “They didn’t say our probation was set in stone, so we’re trying to do this work as hard as we can to do this right,” Davis said.
This self-study process isn’t new to social clubs though and shouldn’t be new, Barnard said. “Ultimately, Sub T, like many ACU social clubs, needs to gain a keen awareness as to who they are in relation to their original charter,” Barnard said. “Furthermore, Sub T needs to analyze their original charter in light of who ACU is as a university in the 21st century. “No one can disagree with the fact that society, culture and the church has changed dramatically in the last 100 years. Social clubs and students organizations formed
in the early 1900s are not the same as the similar group formed or existing in 2006.” He said this process, which women’s social club Delta Theta recently completed, is important for all clubs. “I believe it is essential for every club to engage in the same process as both Sub T and Delta Theta,” he said. “These clubs will be better clubs for having engaged this process.” No specific timeline has been set yet for when Sub T can be reactivated.
E-mail Sherwood at: mes02e@acu.edu
Rodeo: Students participate in various events Continued from page 1 Mark Sigler, Rodeo Club president and agricultural business graduate student from Gainesville, said attending the rodeo was a good opportunity for students. “This helps us get back in touch with the old days and how things were when there was only cattle driving to do,” Sigler said. “The money also helps pay for Cannon Perkins’ hospital bills.” Before the rodeo, teams
signed up to compete in the activities. Some of the men’s events were team branding, wild cow milking and double mugging. The women participated in a wild stick horse race, goat milking, goat dressing and the calf scramble. “I’ve been to the rodeo every year since 2002, when I was bucked off of a bronco,” Sigler said. He said he has helped with the rodeo every year since then.
“My favorite part was bringing a little joy into people’s lives, watching them have fun and just the fact that I lived through the whole experience,” he said. Layne Sheets, sophomore animal science major from Muleshoe, said he enjoyed being in the rodeo. “I’ve participated in a couple events last year, and my favorite part was the steer saddling,” Sheets said. “This year I helped out, and it’s always fun to watch how much
students enjoy themselves.” The Rodeo has taken place for close to 50 years, said Lyndi Stuart, Rodeo committee member and junior outdoor education major from Roby. “One of the newer contests was the surprise queen event offered to the Rodeo women,” Stuart said. “Even if I wasn’t helping out, I would still attend the Rodeo.”
E-mail Smith at: optimist@acu.edu
Continued from page 1 of the Commons will be available for students to work in groups, raising the noise level above that of other libraries. One typical aspect of libraries will be scarce in the Commons: the only books Saltsman on the second floor will be reference materials available for research, said George Saltsman, interim director of the Learning Commons. The only part of the Commons that won’t be available Wednesday is the copy shop, Saltsman said. The desk that will be used in the shop needs to be refinished before it opens, he said. The Commons brings many aspects of academic life together. Academic help is available in areas such as research, paper writing, presentations and multimedia, while computer support is available from Team55. The idea is to make stu-
dent work more efficient, Saltsman said. All workers will have headset radios to assists students get the help they need. If a librarian is helping a student with research and the student discovers a computer problem, the librarian can radio a Team55 assistant and get the student help, he said. Many services are available to students. The speech lab will provide workers to assist students with presentations, the Writing Center is available for assistance with the writing process, and digital cameras and video cameras will be available for students to check out, Saltsman said. Multimedia software is offered for students to edit video or copy VHS tapes to DVD, he said. Students will also be able to receive help through 30 to 45 minute classes on topics like “how to start a research paper” and “how to find research,” Saltsman said. “We are rethinking the whole way libraries are done,” Saltsman said.
E-mail Carroll at: optimist@acu.edu
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Page 9
SPORTS JUMPS
Track: Teams split between two meets this weekend Continued from page 10 turning in a provisional time of 10.65 in the finals of the event. Freshman Gilbert failed to qualify in the event, finishing with a time of 10.75. Wildcat relay teams experienced success in several other events not to be run at the national meet. The men’s 1,600-meter sprint medley relay team — comprised of 100-, 200-, 400-, and 800-meter legs — took second in the event with a time of 3:21.32 in an event in which ACU still holds the meet record of 3:12.30, set back in 1995. The women’s sprint medley relay team managed a
ninth-place finish in the university division, a field made up mostly of Division I schools, with a time of 3:54.10. The women’s distance medley relay team of Olha Kryv’yak, Keva Wilkins, Denise Morgan, and Cox, placed third with a school record of 11:31.86. The 4x800-meter relay team also performed well, finishing a strong fourth in 8:58.63. Angie Aguilar had a good showing in the women’s collegiate pole vault Friday morning, placing third with a height of 12-5 ½. Cory Aguilar was sixth in the men’s competition with a height of 16-6 ¾. Both have qualified provisionally for the national
meet in their event. Training and competition the rest of the season will take place with one thing in mind: winning two national championships in May. Hood said the men will need to have everyone healthy, especially quarter-milers Montez Pride and Johnny Jacob. “The other thing is that we’ve got to get some more guys qualified in some more events,” Hood added. “We’ve got lots of real good relays, but we don’t have a lot of individuals qualified yet.” The Wildcat women have qualified 13 individual athletes in 13 events, plus both relay teams, which Hood says is al-
through Saturday at the Mt. SAC Relays in Walnut, Calif., where they will again see talented Division I competition. Hood said the focus at Mt. SAC will be qualifying more athletes in individual events. He said he expects distance runners Naimadu, Philip Birgen, and Serge Gasore to qualify in the 5,000- and 10,000meter runs. “It’s a great place to run a distance race. The wind is calm, it’s cool,” he said. “The competition is great.” Vladyslav Gorbenko and Yevgen Pashchenko will return to action for the Wildcats in the long jump and triple jump, as well as the men’s sprinters.
On the women’s side, the 100- and 200-meter athletes will compete, along with Shawna-Kaye Thompson in the 100meter hurdles. The women will compete in the 4x100-meter relay. Several ACU track and field athletes, however, will compete in the North Texas Invitational in Denton on Friday. April 21-22, the Wildcat men will compete for their 11th straight Lone Star Conference team championship in Stephenville, while the women will attempt to break a twoyear drought.
E-mail Holt at: smh00a@acu.edu
Baseball: Up to No. 6 in poll
Tennis: Team still expects top rank at LSC tournament
Continued from page 10
Continued from page 10 but I feel like we didn’t have the right overall attitude.” Despite the loss, Jones said he still believes that ACU will be ranked first in the upcoming Lone Star Conference Championships next week. “I think we’re the best team in the conference,” he said. “But we won’t be good enough if we don’t go out there with our best attitude.” The Wildcat tennis teams have another chance to prepare for the Lone Star Conference tournament this week-
ready the number of qualifiers he had expected to have going into nationals. The key for the women’s team, he said, will be to continue to improve in the individual events. “We’ve had a lot of people qualify, but we’re just not that consistent; we’ll have someone run 11.65 one week and 12.1 the next week,” he said. “We’ve got to be mentally tougher and physically more consistent. “Overall, we’re really good,” Hood said. “But when we’re off a little bit, we’re just pretty good, and in order to win a championship we need to be above par.” A handful of Wildcat athletes will compete Thursday
anna carroll/Staff Photographer
Elizabeth Korinek returns volley in doubles play against Central Oklahoma in the ACU April Invitational. The Wildcats will play Division I teams this weekend before competing in the LSC Championships next week. end. The women play Rice University and Texas Southern University in Houston this Friday. On Saturday, the women face Southern Methodist University, which is ranked 47th in the NCAA Division I national poll. The men take on Rice, ranked 34th in the NCAA Division I national poll, and Texas Southern on
Wednesday. Jones said that he is confident in the ACU teams, and has certain objectives for the rest of the season. “We want to win the conference titles, and then host the regional tournament here in Abilene,” Jones said. “That’s our goal.” E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu
Maynard in the eighth, striking out the remaining Ram hitters twice and forcing a ground out. Miller ran into trouble in the ninth after walking the first two hitters and pegging the third hitter to load the bases. Rivera took the mound and the save after striking out the first Angelo State batter and fielding a double play to finish the game at 4-2. Maynard recorded the win improving his record to 5-2. “Ben threw deep in the game, which is exactly how we needed him to,” said head coach Britt Bonneau. “We loaded the bases, and our bullpen was able to pick up the win after Rivera got the strikeout and double play.” ACU pitchers Jason Kennedy, Miller and Rivera successfully held the Rams to only two runs in the Wildcats’ second 4-2 win on Saturday. The Wildcats’ four
runs came from a Chris Walsh two-run single in the fourth and RBI from Johnny Zepeda and Wells in the fifth. The three Wildcat pitchers combined for seven strikeouts and gave up only seven hits in the final game. Kennedy was awarded the win, and Rivera picked up his second save of the day. “Our biggest achievements this weekend were winning on the road and putting ourselves in first place,” Bonneau said. “Right now we control our own destiny with the upcoming home games.” In order to retain their first place spot, the Wildcats will have to defeat the only other ranked Lone Star Conference team, Texas A&M Kingsville. The No. 16 Javelinas and the No. 8 Wildcats share identical overall records and are both
tied with West Texas A&M for first place in conference. With so much weight on this weekend’s series, Bonneau said he is thankful the Wildcats are playing at home. Both ACU and Kingsville are picked to make it to the postseason tournament, and this series could be an early look at what is to come. “This weekend we are facing a team we will more than likely face in the postseason, so we must perform well in order to remain in first and gain some confidence before we reach that point,” Bonneau said. ACU will take on A&M Kingsville beginning at 4 p.m. Friday.
E-mail Johnson at: djj04a@acu.edu
Page 10
April 12, 2006 Standings BASEBALL
Team ACU TAMU-K WTAMU Angelo St. ENMU Tarleton St.
Div. 5-3 5-3 5-3 4-4 3-5 2-6
Overall 30-10 30-10 20-19 27-14 21-22 13-29
SOFTBALL Team ACU TX Woman’s ENMU Angelo St. TAMU-K Tarleton St.
Div. 15-3 8-5 9-7 7-7 6-7 9-11
Overall 33-12 20-29 29-17 25-22 19-24 24-17
Scores Friday
softball ACU 10, West Texas A&M 0 ACU 15, West Texas A&M 6 baseball ACU 18, Angelo State 6 Angelo State 9, ACU 1
Saturday
softball ACU 3, West Texas A&M 2 ACU 15, West Texas A&M 4 baseball ACU 4, Angelo State 2 ACU 4, Angelo State 2
Upcoming Schedule Wednesday Men’s tennis ACU at Texas Southern, noon ACU at Rice, 7 p.m.
Thursday Softball ACU at Midwestern State, 5 p.m. (DH)
Friday softball ACU at Cameron, 1 p.m. (DH) Women’s tennis ACU at Rice, 9 a.m. ACU at Texas Southern, 2 p.m. track & Field ACU at Mt. SAC Relays baseball ACU vs. Texas A&M-Kingsville, 4 p.m. (DH)
Saturday Women’s tennis ACU at SMU, 2 p.m. baseball ACU vs. Texas A&M-Kingsville, noon (DH) track & Field ACU at Mt. SAC Relays ACU at North Texas Invitational
Sunday track & Field ACU at Mt. SAC Relays
• Home games listed in italics
Briefs Golf comes back for win at Subway Invitational The golf team stormed back from a 10-stroke, first-round deficit in the Subway Invitational to take home first place in Amarillo last Tuesday. The win marks the first time the Wildcats have won this season in field mostly comprised of conference opponents. Cian Daly, a junior transfer student from Ireland, came in second individually overall at a +1 (214), while Curtis Harris, a sophomore from Eastland, ended his tournament just one shot back of Daly’s pace at +2 (215). All five Wildcat players finished in the top 23, four of which finished in the top 11. The Wildcats will travel to Roanoke to play in the Lone Star Conference Tournament at the Trophy Club April 17-18th, where ACU hasn’t won the title in over 10 years.
Wildcats take series from Angelo n The baseball team will play No. 10 Texas A&M-Kingsville in a fourgame series at Crutcher Scott Field for the top spot in the South Division standings this weekend. By DANIEL JOHNSON Sports Writer
The Wildcat baseball team reminded Angelo State why they hold the nation’s No. 6 ranking after overcoming the former conference leaders three out of four games this weekend. In addition to extending their conference record to 5-3 and overall record to 30-5, the Wildcats are now in a three-
Baseball way tie with Texas A&M Kingsville and West Texas A&M for first place in conference. In a conference that is flooded with a long list of contenders for postseason success, the Wildcats overcame a tough Angelo squad despite being on the road for their third weekend in a row. Coming off a series split with Tarleton State, ACU surprised the ASU Rams with an 18-6 stomping in the first game. The Wildcats began their offensive onslaught after a third inning two-run homer from last week’s
LSC South hitter of the week Joel Wells gave them a 3-1 lead. Wells’ recorded his 12th home run of the season and tied the ACU single season record with former Wildcats Brad Massey and Brandon McNab. The Wildcats scored seven more runs in the fourth and fifth innings, including a solo home run from first baseman Alec Sowards. After scoring four more runs in the seventh and eighth innings, Sowards topped off the Wildcat’s big day with a three-run homer in the final inning. Pitcher Brian Kennedy destroyed any chance of a comeback, giving up 10 hits
and recording five strikeouts in seven innings pitched. Kennedy picked up his fifth win of the season as a starter. In game two, Angelo State pitcher J.W. Nastoupil froze the Wildcats’ bats holding them to only two hits, one run, and striking the Wildcats out six times in the 9-1 loss. Angelo State’s offense on the other hand scored eight runs off 10 hits off ACU pitcher Chris Wiman. Wiman gave up his third loss of the season, striking out only one ASU hitter. On second day of the series, it was a story of dependable pitching and defense rather
than an overwhelming offense that led to an ACU sweep. Sowards’ bat came through once more for the Wildcats in the first inning of Saturday’s first game, this time in the form of a two-run single. After another run scored in the fifth off an RBI single from shortstop Ruben Rivera, the Wildcats had a lead of 3-0. The Rams came within one run after scoring two in the seventh off of pitcher Ben Maynard, and another Sowards’ RBI gave the Wildcats a two-run lead. Stephen Miller relieved See
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Softball team stampedes Lady Buffs n The Wildcats swept West Texas A&M to remain atop the LSC South Division standings with a 15-3 record in LSC play, and hold a 33-12 overall record. By ASHLEY MOORE Sports Writer
The softball team dropped two non-conference games last Wednesday at home against Midwestern State. On Friday and Saturday, the women defeated West Texas A&M in a four-game series sweep to bring their conference record to 15-3. The Wildcats still have a strong lead in the LSC South with an overall record 33-12. Too many errors in both games against Midwestern State led the team to lose 6-1 the first game and 11-5 the second. “We had a couple of bad innings started by errors,” said head coach Chantiel Wilson. “You take those two innings away in those two games, and we were in each game. Midwestern’s first pitcher was tough, and we cannot allow too many runs against her and expect to win the game.” Jennifer Leal pitched the first game, in which Daisy Barcena scored the Wildcats one run. Amber Jankowski and Jessica Johnson both hit home runs in the second game. Sarah Vidalin and Kristine Beristianos both pitched in game two. The Wildcats blew out West Texas A&M in their first game Friday, 10-0, with an all-around
Softball well-played game. Leal pitched with no errors on her part and only allowed four hits. The Wildcats won the second game Friday 15-6. Allison Crouse hit a triple to right center to give the team ten runs in only the second inning. In the final inning, Jenna Daugherty hit a home run followed by Jankowski’s steal of second. “Melanie Smith stepped in during game two and pitched awesome,” Wilson said. Smith came in for Vidalin in the second inning and gained the win to improve her pitching record to 3-1. The third game was closer, with a 3-2 win by the Wildcats. Johnson homered in the second to give ACU the lead in the beginning. Heather Krumpols hit a triple and then scored off one of Crouse’s two RBI. Jankowski scored off her second. These four girls contributed to the win by “manufacturing the winning runs and executing their jobs perfectly,” Wilson said. Vidalin pitched the final game, helping the Wildcats to another big win Saturday 15-4. ACU scored in all five innings played and only had one error. Nicole Deel homered and Johnson hit an RBI to begin the game. Daugherty hit a two-RBI home run in the second. Deel and Jankowski both added another home run each in the fourth to maintain the lead.
brian schmidt/Chief Photographer
Senior Amber Garcia-Jankowski backhands the ball from her second base position against West Texas A&M the second day of the series. The Wildcats swept the series and remain in first place in the LSC South Division. Pitcher Allison Crouse said the women played as a team. “Hitting played a very important role this weekend,” Crouse said. “Our run production was way up, and we strung together more of our hits rather than sporadic hits here and there.” Wilson agreed. “Everyone hit the ball well and contributed in different ways,” Wilson said. “Amber Jankowski stepped in this weekend, as Jade Wilson was hurt, and hit the ball and played
solid defense.” The team has only two conference games remaining before the LSC tournament in Irving. “We are looking to get some of our pitching back on track and work on a couple things with our hitters and defense to tune up for our last conference series against TWU,” Wilson said. Crouse said the team needs to stay focused, “We are playing some very difficult teams as we start to
prepare for post-season, but first we have to focus on winning these next few games and staying bonded as a team,” Crouse said. ACU plays Midwestern again Thursday and Cameron on Friday. The team will complete LSC Division play in a four-game series against Texas Woman’s University on April 21-22 in Abilene.
E-mail Moore at: aem03e@acu.edu
Tennis teams defend home court in ACU Invitational n The Wildcat tennis teams faired well on their home court in the ACU April Invitational with only loss coming to the men’s team against Central Oklahoma. By MICHAEL FREEMAN Sports Writer
anna carroll/Staff Photographer
Senior Jason Ray smashes a backhand in his doubles match in the ACU April Invitational at the Eager Tennis Pavilion.
The Wildcat tennis teams defended their home court last weekend in the ACU April Invitational. The women defeated McMurry University 9-0, Western New Mexico University 9-0 and the University of Central Oklahoma 7-2. The men beat McMurry 8-1, Western New Mexico 9-0, but lost to Central Oklahoma 6-3. At the end of regular season conference matches, the
Tennis women’s record is 23-4. Friday, the women crushed McMurry University 9-0 and did not drop a set during the match against the Lady Indians. Nor did the Wildcats lose a set against Western New Mexico the next day, sweeping the team 9-0. Next ACU took on regional opponent Central Oklahoma University and won the match 7-2. “The girls marched right through the competition,” head coach Hutton Jones said. After the April Invitational, the Wildcat women finished with an undefeated record in regular season conference
matches. “I like where we are right now,” Jones said. “But, I hope we don’t get too settled. If we want to move on, we’ve got to create a ‘new hunger,’ and get after it.” The men also did well in the ACU April Invitational, and their record is now 17-8. On Friday, the Wildcats defeated McMurry University 8-1. On Saturday, ACU overwhelmed Western New Mexico 9-0. But the men fell 6-3 to the University of Central Oklahoma in their next match. “The men got a wake-up call,” Jones said. “I’ve got to give Central Oklahoma credit, See
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Relay teams, steeplechasers set records at Texas Relays n The men’s 4x100 and 4x400meter relay teams, Trina Cox and Nicodemus Maimadu highlighted the Wildcats’ performances at the Texas Relays. By STEVE HOLT Sports Writer
Wildcat distance runners were the ones being chased Friday night in the men’s and women’s 3,000-meter steeplechase, but not even the nation’s best athletes at the 79th Annual Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays in Austin could catch them. Several fallen records resulted along with the two best
Track & Field times in the nation this year, regardless of division. Senior Trina Cox won the university division steeplechase by a monstrous margin, setting meet, school, and Division II records with her time of 10:10.93. Cox’s performance also was an automatic qualifying time for the Division II Outdoor National Championships, to take place May 25-27 in Emporia, Kan. Not to be outdone, 30 minutes later sophomore Nicodemus Naimadu posted an equally memorable performance in
the same event, breaking the Mike A. Myers Stadium record with a time of 8:35.87. Naimadu’s time, which was just a fraction of a second off a school record, was almost 20 seconds ahead of second-place finisher Patrick Mutai of University of Texas-El Paso (8:54.38). Head coach Don Hood said the competition for the two athletes made the performances all the more impressive. “What was the most fun about it was that it was against Division I all-Americans,” Hood said. “That to me was just a great statement to the quality of talent they have, and that they
can contend with anybody.” ACU’s 4x100- and 4x400meter relay teams were the other highlights of the prestigious meet, placing first in the college division for the first time since 2001. The 4x400-meter relay team ran its best time of the season, placing first with an automatic qualifying time of 3:07.48. Freshman Brant Gilbert led off with a 47.6 first lap, followed by a 46.3 second leg by freshman Jordan Johnson. Elton Garus-Oab’s 46.9-second third lap kept the Wildcats in contention as anchor Delt Cockrell brought home the win with a final lap of 46.7. Before
Saturday’s performance, the ACU men had not captured a 4x400-meter title in Austin since 1996. The relay team’s time was the second-fastest in the event in the last eight years, but Hood said Gilbert is not even supposed to be the regular lead-off leg. “We still don’t have our ‘A team’ together yet,” Hood said. “Going into it, we told Brant, ‘Hey, get us anywhere close, and we’re going to do well.’ He ran a tremendous 350 meters and then just held on for dear life the last 50 meters.” In the 4x100-meter relay, ju-
nior Marvin Bien-Aime joined Cockrell, Gilbert and Johnson to place first with a time of 40.53. The Wildcat sprint tandem already has run a faster qualifying time this season, but the Texas Relays win was the first in the event since 1997. Shawna-Kaye Thompson bettered her 400-meter hurdles qualifying time with a 1:01.09 performance in the preliminaries, barely missing a trip to the finals. Bien-Aime added his name to the qualifiers list in the 100meter dash, finishing fifth and See
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