Vol. 94, No. 51 1 section, 8 pages
WEDNESDAY April 26, 2006
www.acuoptimist.com
Clenching the title Women’s track won the LSC Championship for the first time in three years, page 8
Mystery solved
Justified jam
The Honor’s Association will perform its fourth murder mystery Friday, page 3
Campus bands performed Thursday at the Jam for Justice concert, page 4
Young Alumnus honored Tuesday
Lending a hand
n A 1993 agricultural graduate was awarded with the Young Alumnus of the Year award during Chapel on Tuesday, instead of during the fall’s Homecoming like in previous years. By LUKE HARRIS Staff Writer
Hurley Miller, agriculture alumnus of 1993, received the Young Alumnus of the Year award Tuesday. Every year, one alumnus under the age of 40 receives the Young Alumnus of the Year award, but this year the timing has changed. Jama Cadle, Alumni Events coordinator, said the award is usually given
ALUMNUS page 5
See
ANNA CARROLL/Staff Photographer
Katie Ritter, sophomore nursing major from Louise, works on a house damaged from a fire for Habitat for Humanity during ACU for Abilene on Saturday. More than 300 students volunteered to serve throughout Abilene for the campuswide service day event. Students painted houses, picked up trash and cleaned gardens.
n Students cleaned gardens and lawns, painted houses, picked up trash and assisted Abilene neighbors throughout the city for the campuswide project ACU for Abilene. By TIFFANY GAUNTT Student Reporter
About 300 students volunteered Saturday to serve the city of Abilene through the campuswide project ACU for Abilene. Saturday morning, ACU volunteers painted houses, cleaned gardens and lawns, served at the Abilene Special Olympics and at Habitat For Humanity houses and assisted Abilene neighbors throughout the community at their homes
with a variety of chores. Before heading out into the city and neighborhoods, students and faculty met at 8:30 a.m. to eat breakfast and prepare themselves with a short worship service. Becky Hackler, co-chair of ACU for Abilene, said the worship service helped unite the volunteers and placed focus on the service events. “ACU for Abilene is what we as Christians are called to do, but it also gives students an opportunity to have fun and get to know the people who live around us,” said Hackler, sophomore undeclared major from Overland Park, Kan. After volunteers finished their service, the first ACU for Abilene Block Party took place in the
Wal-Mart traffic causes accidents n Abilene Police officers said an increase in traffic because of commercial development near the new Wal-Mart is causing more fender benders. By TAKISHA KNIGHT Page 2 Editor
Local authorities say that the increase in traffic near the new Wal-Mart on Ambler Boulevard is causing more accidents.
“The volume of traffic as well as the number of accidents is the greatest contributor to accidents due to failing to yield the right of way to those turning left,” said Doug Wren, Traffic Division commander for Abilene. He said in March there were six accidents at the intersections at Overland See
mall area on campus to continue the outreach to the residents of Abilene. The block party included free food and a carnival for the children to enjoy during the block party, said Lisa Hollingsworth, co-chair of ACU for Abilene. “Kids really enjoyed hopping around from the face painting booths, pie toss, ring toss, fishing booth, along with other kinds of activities,” said Hollingsworth, senior social work major from San Diego. Every resident who attended also received a free Starbucks coupon and heard about the many useful resources that can be found on campus. “The main point of ACU for
Traffic Stats • Six accidents occurred at the intersections at Overland Trails and the Highway 351 during March. • Most accidents have been categorized as fender-benders and have not been fatal. • Accidents are occurring outside the new Wal-Mart because of cars failing to yield the right of way to those turning left.
TRAFFIC page 5
Abilene was to allow our neighbors to feel comfortable coming to ACU and using the many resources available here on campus,” Hollingsworth said. Jordan Swim, co-chair of ACU for Abilene and senior Christian ministry major from Richardson, said the day was exciting for many people. “It will help broaden our education of the people around us and help break down the walls between our neighbors,” Swim said. Hollingsworth said the students initiated conversation and were able to come back with some great stories.
Senior class celebration to change n Seniors will no longer celebrate the night before graduation by colleges; the Office of Alumni Relations is now planning a centennial celebration that combines all departments. By MORGAN WILLIAMS Student Reporter
The Office of Alumni Relations decided to replace this year’s senior dinner with a Centennial Graduation Celebration to honor the newest class of alumni. The celebration will consist of dinner, entertainment, an awards ceremony and traditions that have long been a part of the university May 12 in the mall area outside the Campus Center.
E-mail Gauntt at: optimist@acu.edu
See
SENIORS page 5
Jazz band to finish year n The university’s 21-member jazz band will perform modern jazz and Latin tunes for the last time this semester at 8 p.m. on Thursday in Cullen Auditorium. By MORGAN WILLIAMS Student Reporter
The ACU jazz band will conduct its last performance of the semester at 8 p.m. Thursday in Cullen Auditorium. Greg Bush, director of the Jazz Band who originally is from Montreal, calls himself the
“Canadian who comes down to teach America about their own art form.” Bush said people should attend the concert because jazz is “America’s art form,” to support colleagues and because he said he anticipates a good concert with good sound. The performance will feature modern jazz and Latin tunes, big band-era vocal features and original pieces composed by Bush. One of the pieces he wrote was performed at this year’s Sing Song and will be
played again during the performance on Thursday. Bush also will play the trumpet in at least one of the numbers in the performance. “The students don’t need me hogging all the solos,” Bush said. “I think it’s important to showcase the students.” Along with the trumpet, the performance will also showcase saxophones, trombones, a piano, bass, drums, guitars and one singer, Lauren Bush, See
JAZZ page 5
Casting Crowns performs in Moody n Casting Crowns, Nichole Nordeman and Josh Bates performed in front of more than 3,500 people on Monday night as part of its Lifesong tour. By MALLORY SHERWOOD Managing Editor
Grammy-award winning Christian band Casting Crowns performed in Moody Coliseum on Monday night with Nichole Nordeman, newcomer Josh Bates and tour pastor Tony Nolan for the Lifesong tour, which began on the heels of Casting Crowns’
second release, Lifesong. The trio’s performance was the first major Christian artist performance to make it to the stage without canceling because of low ticket sales since 2003 in Abilene. Third Day canceled its Dec. 1, 2003, concert when only 500 tickets had sold the Tuesday before the concert was scheduled. More than 3,500 people from Abilene and surrounding areas attended the 7 p.m. concert, although most didn’t arrive until the headliner Casting Crowns took the stage. Twenty-three year old Josh
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
Bates opened the night with songs he co-wrote, including his hit single, “Perfect Day” from his debut album, Perfect Day. The Kentucky-native sang only four songs, but accompanied himself with the mandolin reflecting his Appalachian roots and interest in bluegrass music. Bates released his first album last fall under Beach Street Records, a new recording company that also carries Casting Crowns. Beach Street Records was created after Casting Crowns lead singer Mark Hall met Mark
Miller, lead singer of country group Sawyer Brown, and 50time Dove award winner and Christian artist Stephen Curtis Chapman. Nichole Nordeman, an eight-time Dove award winner, followed Bates and began her performance with “Legacy” from her third album, Woven and Spun. Nordeman accompanied herself on the piano along with her threeperson band and introduced each song describing why she ANNA CARROLL/Staff Photographer
See CASTING
CROWNS page 5
Melodee Devevo, violinist and vocals for Casting Crowns, performs with Chris Huffman during their performance Monday night in Moody Coliseum.
Abilene Christian University
Serving the ACU community since 1912
Chapel Checkup Credited Chapels to date:
Wednesday, March 29, 2006 Wednesday, April 26, 2006
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Calendar & Events Wednesday
Team Israel iPod raffle, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Campus Center.
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Thursday
Women’s Survey, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Campus Center.
Kirk Goodwin Fun Run sign-ups, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows.
Kirk Goodwin Fun Run sign-ups, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows.
Mr. and Miss ACU Elections, 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows.
Weekend Campaigns, 11:30 a.m.-noon, Campus Center ticket windows.
Weekend Campaigns, 11:30 a.m.-noon, Campus Center ticket windows.
Medical Mission Fundraising, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m, Campus Center ticket windows.
Medical Mission Fundraising, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m, Campus Center ticket windows.
Jazz band concert, 8 p.m., Cullen Auditorium.
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Friday
Purple Friday. CAB Free Movie: Glory Road, 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., Cullen Auditorium. Women’s Survey, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Campus Center. Kirk Goodwin Fun Run sign-ups, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows. HSA Murder Mystery Dinner, 7-10 p.m., Windsor Hotel Ballroom.
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Saturday
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Sunday
Die Fledermaus, 8 p.m., Paramount Theatre.
Abigaile Payne Senior Piano Recital, 8 p.m., William Performance Arts Center Recital Hall. Jordana Torrez Senior Vocal Recital, 3 p.m., William Performance Arts Center Recital Hall.
Die Fledermaus, 8 p.m., Paramount Theatre.
Women’s Survey, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Campus Center.
Announcements Volunteer Opportunities Volunteers are needed to help with food preparation for Staff Appreciation Day sponsored by Family Association of Abilene State School on Monday. For more information contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center. Thomas Elementary is seeking a number of ACU students who would be willing to assist students in taking and grading a reading and math benchmark test at the student’s grade level. It ends Friday. Hours are from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. on Monday through Friday. For more information contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center. 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. For more information contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center. The Volunteer and ServiceLearning 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 needs volunteers to prepare gift bags May 2-3. For more information contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center. Abilene Cultural Affairs Council need volunteers to set up and conduct a survey of 50 event guests on Thursday. For more information contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center. Volunteers are needed to help with an area wide 5thgrade track meet from 4-7 p.m. May 4th and with the Thomas Elementary School track meet from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. May 5 at Elmer Gray Stadium. For more information contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center or just show up at the awards table on the field to volunteer. There is an URGENT need for volunteers to help unpack a shipment and tag items for Eternal Threads on Wednesday, April 26. Help is needed from 1-4 p.m. at 101 Walnut St. (corner of N 1st and Walnut - white building with blue awnings) Contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center for more information or just show up at the site.
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. Students must send in applications to be a part of Campus Crew by Wednesday at the First Year Program Office in the Harding Administration Building Room 309.
Transfer Group Leaders are needed for Welcome Week 2006. For more information, email Casey Thomas at clt03e@ acu.edu. There will be an interview and a short information sheet to fill out. Abilene will host The Panda Cup 2006, an international soccer tournament 7:30 p.m. Friday. The Beijing BTV Sangao Football Club and 10 dignitaries will arrive in Abilene on Friday. Adult tickets are $5 and student tickets are $3. There will be a free soccer clinic with instruction from the Chinese Sangao players from 10 p.m. until noon Saturday. To attend, participants must present ticket stubs from the game on Friday night.
Credited Chapels remaining:
63 07
Police Log (edited for space) April 17 1:42 a.m. Traffic stop at Nelson lot, for driving without lights on 5:30 a.m. Report of suspicious male in front of Gardner Hall, unable to locate anyone 7:54 a.m. Traffic stop at East North 18th Street & Campus Court Road, for disregarding stop sign 8:27 a.m. Traffic stop at College & Campus Court for taillight violation 11 a.m. Checked welfare on staff employee at 500 E.N. 23rd St., all OK Noon Attempted to locate student with warrant 12:49 p.m. Contacted confused elderly female in Campus Center. She was contacted and assisted 1:30 p.m. Assisted Third Rock Ice Creamery with suspicious subject that had already left the area 3:30 p.m. Fingerprinted students at the station 5:10 p.m. Fingerprinted student at the station 9:30 p.m. Assisted student with flat tire in Gardner lot 10 p.m. Report of subjects throwing water balloons on Intramural Field, unable to locate April 18 3:32 a.m. Welfare check on student at University Park Apartments, student located all OK 4:40 a.m. Located door to University Church open. Checked and secured building 8:03 a.m. Traffic stop at East North 18th Street & Campus Court Road, for disregarding stop sign 10:44 a.m. Alarm at Mail Services, checked all OK 12:39 p.m. Traffic stop at Avenue D & Cedar Crest Road for disregarding stop sign 1:10 p.m. Vehicle accident at Morris lot, case #06-059 2:32 p.m. Report of suspicious subject on jogging track and East North 22nd Street & Campus Court Road, checked unable to locate 8 p.m. Unlocked Gibson Room 229 April 19 12:43 p.m. Traffic stop at East North 18th Street & Campus Court Road for disregarding stop sign 2 p.m. Bike Theft report 6:15 p.m. Skateboarders at Business lot, were asked to leave campus
April 20 3:30 p.m. Escort from McKinzie Hall to station 5:15 p.m. Assisted student that ran out of gas at Griffith & Marathon Road 5:28 p.m. Parking violation at Teague lot 6:30 p.m. Possession of drug paraphernalia at University Park Apartment, case #06-063 8 p.m. Contacted employee at The Bean and transported to Hendrick Hospital for Abilene Fire Department April 21 1:08 a.m. Escort from Don Morris to 1600 Cedar Crest Rd. 2 p.m. Unlocked vehicle at Hickory Street & Ambler Avenue 3:10 p.m. Welfare check at University Park Apartments, unable to locate after several attempts, case #06-064 4 p.m. Fingerprinted student at the station 5:15 p.m. Theft of bicycle 06-065 11:10 p.m. Loud music at 1500 Ave D, stood by with Abilene Police Department 11:55 p.m. Assisted Abilene Police with vehicle accident at 1900 Judge Ely Blvd. April 22 11:55 a.m. Attempt to locate overdue motorist student. Received call from parent to cancel. Student located 9:40 p.m. Checked 1000 Washington St., owner out of town 11:50 p.m. Assisted Abilene Police Department with disturbance at 1300 Newcastle St. April 23 12:50 p.m. Assisted Abilene Police with locating owner of vehicle that had license plate stolen 2:30 p.m. Theft reported at Gardner Hall, no theft, no report 2:45 p.m. Student reported possible criminal mischief to tires. Contacted student at University Park no criminal mischief was road damage, no report made 4:10 p.m. Suspicious activity in front of Administration building, contacted students conducting a class 6 p.m. Assisted student locked out of residence at 600 E.N. 23rd St.
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 26, 2006
Page 3
CAMPUS NEWS
Hopes for rock wall climb n Members of the Outdoor Club are raising interest for the idea of installing a permanent climbing wall on campus, preferably inside Bennett Gymnasium. By ERIC GENTRY Student Reporter
Once people arrive in Abilene, they notice a shortage of elevation change; no mountains, cliffs or even large boulders. But in the middle of campus Friday afternoon, students lined up to climb high into the air on a portable rock climbing wall, brought in by the Outdoor Club to generate interest for a permanent wall on campus. Outdoor Club president Dusty Vaughn, senior biology major from Nashville, Tenn., said before the portable wall was even brought in, close to 300 students had signed a petition for a permanent climbing wall somewhere on campus.
“We’re just trying to get as many people interested in it as possible,” Vaughn said. “We want to get the ball rolling on this thing because we know it can take a while to make these kinds of things happen.” The Outdoor Club, with the help of funds from the Students’ Association’s appropriations committee, spent $700 to have the portable wall brought in, and after a day open to free use on campus, nearly 400 people had signed the list for a permanent wall. Lance Ferguson, junior marketing major from Ontario, Calif., said as it is now, Abilene isn’t the best place for an aspiring climber. “I think a permanent climbing wall on campus would be awesome,” Ferguson said. “The more ACU can offer to its students and future students, the better, especially for those kids who want to try something more active, besides badminton and Pilates.”
Ferguson has been climbing since high school, but not everyone who scaled the wall Friday was an experienced climber. Mike Miles, freshman youth and family ministry major from Ann Arbor, Mich., said that although he had only climbed a few times before, he “loved it.” “Its great to have this wall on campus,” Miles said. “I really hope it influences them to have a permanent one.” Vaughn said that a climbing wall could cost as much as $20,000 or more. Several possible locations have been considered for the wall’s location, but the Outdoor Club is proposing Bennett Gymnasium. “Maybe someday we will have a climbing wall; maybe even a place students could rent gear, canoes and backpacks,” Vaughn said. “That is the big dream.” E-mail Gentry at: optimist@acu.edu
Murder Mystery tickets on sale n Students from the Honors Program planned this annual event, which will take place at 7 p.m. Friday in the ballroom of the Windsor Hotel downtown. By NATHAN DRISKELL Student Reporter
Emerald McGowan/Staff Photographer
Miranda Richardson, sophomore art history major from San Antonio, climbs a mobile rock wall in the mall area Friday. The Outdoor Club brought in the wall as a way to raise interest for a permanent wall.
Best-selling author discusses leadership n John C. Maxwell spoke at a luncheon Tuesday in the Teague Special Events Center, and the event marked the end of this year’s eight Centennial speakers. By KENNY McENTIRE Student Reporter
John C. Maxwell, New York Times best-selling author, spoke on campus Tuesday in the Teague Special Events Center as a part of the Centennial Speaker Series. Maxwell was the last in a series of eight professionals scheduled to talk to the ACU
community as part of the Centennial Speaker Series. John Maxwell is the founder of The INJOY Group and EQUIP, organizations he created to bring people together with other people by helping them to maximize their personal and leadership potential. He is an expert on leadership, speaking to more than 250,000 people a year about growth, leadership and personal development. “He is known as America’s expert on leadership,” said Kanaan Wells, administrative coordinator for
the Alumni Office. Along with being the founder of INJOY and EQUIP, Maxwell has w r i t t e n more than 30 books. Maxwell has founded the two Christian leadership Maxwell groups in hope of returning to the strategy of Jesus to develop leaders in the church. He says there is no limit to
what can be accomplished in fulfilling the Great Commission, if Christian leaders around the world are trained, resourced and encouraged. Maxwell was born to a pastor and homemaker in Ohio. Maxwell said at the age of 3 he knew he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a pastor. Maxwell attended Circleville Bible College in Ohio. Just three years into his first job as a pastor he said began to realize what a
force leadership was on the effectiveness of ministries. Shortly after, that became his goal: to study, practice, and teach leadership. Maxwell’s speech was “along the lines of an encouraging word, a testimony,” Wells said. Maxwell is known for his speaking on leadership. He’s in great demand around the country and has reached millions through his personal appearances, books, seminars and videos. E-mail McEntire at: optimist@acu.edu
Someone will be murdered Friday night. Until Wednesday after Chapel, students can buy $8 tickets to witness and take part in solving the crime. The Honors Students’ Association expects about 70 people to attend its fourth annual Murder Mystery Dinner on Friday, said Bethany Scroggins, president of HSA. The interactive dinner will take place in the ballroom of the Windsor Hotel at 7 p.m. The setting for the mystery will be a mock-up of a girl’s 21st birthday, during which student actors will perform a scripted murder mystery, giving clues to attendees as they eat their dinner, said Scroggins, a senior English major from Hallsville. Fazoli’s will cater the meal, and in birthday party fashion, HSA will serve a birthday cake for dessert. When guests have finished their dinners, they will be invited to solve the crime based on clues they have received. Attendees who correctly decipher the clues will win prizes, Scroggins said. The students planned the dinner, said Stephanie Smith, Honors Program adviser and administrative coordinator. And even though HSA is organizing the event, Scroggins said all students are invited to attend. E-mail Driskell at: optimist@acu.edu
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Wednesday, April 26, 2006
CAMPUS NEWS
Galaxy sponsors annual 5K run n Proceeds from the Kirk Goodwin Run on Saturday will go to local families in need of financial support to cover costs of expensive medical bills. By ANNA CARROLL Student Reporter
Organizers expect about 50 people to participate in the 22nd annual Kirk Goodwin Run sponsored by Galaxy. The men’s social club sponsors the 5K run to raise money for families needing help with medical bills. Registration costs $10, which includes a T-shirt, and will be open in the Campus Center ticket windows after Chapel through Friday. Runners can also register at the run. The run will start in front of the Administration Building at 9 a.m. Saturday. A “fun” run that is only one
mile of the course will also take place. The run honors Galaxy pledge Kirk Goodwin, a student who died in a car accident in 1984, said Shane Mayfield, senior psychology major from Texico, N.M., and director of the run. The club sponsors the run because
axy uses the money to help families with medical costs, although this year’s specific family has not yet been chosen, Mayfield said. The club receives names of families from Goodwin’s parents and anyone else who knows a family in need, he said. So far, the club has re-
“The help that Galaxy gives by donating the proceeds is a great gesture of Christian service.” Dr. Anthony Rector, director of the ACU Medical Clinic
Goodwin was on the track team, and running was something he was interested in, Mayfield said. Money raised from the run will be put into the Kirk Goodwin Fund. Each year, Gal-
ceived about $1,500 from selling ads to local businesses, and members expect to raise about $2,500, he said. Last year the run raised about $2,000. “People do it because they
like to run,” Mayfield said. Lindsay Gordon-Cumming, senior interior design major from San Antonio, will participate for her third year to support the fund and to have fun. “It’s a good opportunity to be outside with friends,” she said. “It’s a good opportunity to participate in a service activity.” Dr. Anthony Rector, director of the ACU Medical Clinic, also likes to support the fund. “Being an ACU event, I find some personal satisfaction supporting it,” he said in an e-mail. “Also, being a doctor, I know that medical costs can be overwhelming. The help that Galaxy gives by donating the proceeds is a great gesture of Christian service.” E-mail Carroll at: optimist@acu.edu
Bard brought to life through song, dance n Selected Shakespeare works have inspired members of the Dance Discovery Studio in their performances at the Paramount Theatre on Friday and Saturday. By ASHLEY ROBINSON Student Reporter
ACU students teamed up with the Dance Discovery Studio for Shakespeare to Slam, “S2S,” a Cultural Dance show put on by the Chameleon Performing Arts Company at the Paramount Theatre on Friday and Saturday night. Teri Wilkerson, director of the Dance Discovery Studio, is also the university’s choreographer for all musical productions. The show’s theme, “A ‘street’ of poetry from
Shakespeare to Slam,” was “an expressive journey into selected works of poetry interpreted through the power of dance and performance art,” according to flyers for the event. The show was for students, members of the dance studio, their families and the community. Tickets cost $7 for students and $12 for adults. Cortney Armstrong, senior integrated marketing communication major from Mesquite, performed in the show. “Opening night was big,” Armstrong said. Many of the performers were members of the Dance Discovery Studio and are students from various Abilene high schools and
colleges, but ACU students made up two of the dance groups. “All of the dances were high energy and very expressive,” Armstrong said. Atsumi Shibata, junior journalism major from Ibaraki, Japan, was part of a 13-member Japanese dance group. “We were so glad to be invited to join the show because we always love to experience new, exciting things,” she said. “And we love to show people our culture.” Shibata’s group performed a dance to a song called “Storm” by a Japanese artist. “We also performed the same dance in the Ethnos Cultural Show, which is presented by International
Students Association every fall semester, and it was very successful at that time,” Shibata said. In addition to the Japanese dance, an African dance was also presented at the show. Armstrong, who is also a member of Shades Step Squad, was a part of that group. “A lot of hard work went into the performance, and it definitely showed on stage,” Armstrong said. The show presented different dancing styles and poetry, monologues and narration in between each act. “I wouldn’t call it a variety show, but I would call it theatrical,” Armstrong said. E-mail Robinson at: optimist@acu.edu
Day focused on cleaning, protecting Earth n Dr. Jim Cooke’s environmental science class used last week to raise awareness about the environment by displaying posters in the Campus Center. By COURTNEE HEMBREE Student Reporter
An environmental science class celebrated Earth Week last week by participating in activities such as a poster session in the Campus Center on April 19 to raise awareness of the pressing environmental issues that apply to Americans. Dr. Jim Cooke, professor of environmental science, said Earth Day, which takes place April 22 every year, is a day when people throughout the country should help clean up in their neighborhoods and give back to God. Dr. Cooke’s Environmental and Technological Sciences class spent the
semester preparing presentations to help bring students’ attention to environmental issues. “Environmental science is a much broader topic than most people realize,” Cooke said, “These projects ranged from all different areas of our environment
ect. Howard said his next vehicle he purchases will be a hybrid because of the influence of his project. Some of the changes students experienced, however, were on a more personal level. Jon Andrews, senior marketing major from
“The way we treat this world is a reflection of how we treat God, and ... we need to set an example for others to follow.” Dr. Jim Cooke, professor of environmental science
and world, with issues such as illiteracy, organic food, poverty, solid waste and much more.” Joel Howard, freshman business management major from Ocoee, Fla., and his group, studied alternative fuel sources for their proj-
Midland, said his research affected many of his everyday decisions like turning off the water while he brushes his teeth, turning off lights when leaving a room and throwing away soda cans and bottles in the Zona Luce Building’s
Recycling information Those interested in finding out how they can help with ACU’s recycling program can contact Nelda Gilbreth at 674-2364. recycling bins. “The way we treat this world is a reflection on how we treat God and, as a faithbased university, we need to set an example for others to follow,” Cooke said. “Recycling is a full-circle process, meaning it’s not enough to simply recycle paper — we need to buy recycled paper, put it in the campus bookstore to purchase, recycle old issues of the Optimist, and teachers need to make an effort to use recycled paper in classes.”
E-mail Hembree at: optimist@acu.edu
gary rhodes/Staff Photographer
Death by Space Laser guitarist Darby Hewitt, sophomore physics major from Robinson, plays at Jam for Justice on Thursday night. The concert, part of International Justice Mission’s Awareness Week, raised $300.
Band Network, IJM raise $300 at concert n The ACU Band Network teamed with the IJM campus chapter to bring awareness about the organization to students and to provide entertainment. By MEGAN LOWE Student Reporter
Thursday night, a few hundred students gathered in the Bean Sprout of the Campus Center for live music and raised $300 to support the fight against injustice at the second annual Jam for Justice concert. Three local bands, Death by Space Laser, Streets of Simon Lee and Homer Hiccolm and the Rocketboys, entertained students who came to show support at the event, which was part of International Justice Mission’s Awareness Week. IJM partnered with the ACU Band Network for the concert because of relationships established with many student bands on campus. Jordan Williams, sophomore accounting and finance major form Longview and member of the ACU Band Network, was responsible for getting bands to play at the event. “Jam for Justice was a huge success this year,” Williams said. “There was a great turnout and a lot of awareness raised for IJM.” Lane Miller, freshman exercise science major from
Abilene, attended the concert, which he said helped him to better understand IJM and what the group does. “I originally went to just see the bands, but once I got there I learned about IJM and what they are doing,” Miller said. “It inspired me to donate to their cause.” Miller said he intends to be more involved in the fight for injustice and will attend other IJM events. International Justice Mission is a human rights organization that rescues victims of violence, sexual exploitation, slavery and oppression throughout the world, and its campus chapters help raise funds and awareness for the agency. Last year at Jam for Justice, IJM provided coffee and snacks as refreshments; however, this year the group was unable to do so. “I did not mind that there wasn’t any food; it was still fun just to hang out and watch the bands,” Miller said. Because of the good turnout and support shown at Jam for Justice and during the Awareness Week, Williams said these events will continue in the future. However, Awareness Week events might be moved from the spring to the fall semester.
E-mail Lowe at: optimist@acu.edu
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Page 5
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Casting Crowns: Award-winning group attracts crowd Continued from page 1 wrote it. Nordeman released her fourth album last May, Brave, her first in three years after the birth of her son, Charlie. Other songs she performed include: “Lay it Down,” “Brave,” “Hold On,” and “Holy.” By the time Nordeman had finished her performance, the audience was on its feet in anticipation of the night’s headliner, Casting Crowns. The Atlanta-based group led by Mark Hall has been performing for only three years. In the short time since the seven-member band hit the stage, Casting Crowns has swept the 2005 Gospel Music Awards and won a Grammy.
In 2005 the band won: songwriter of the year (Mark Hall), song of the year (“Who am I”), pop contemporary song of the year (“Who am I”), inspirational song of the year (“Voice of Truth”) and group of the year for its debut self-entitled album, Casting Crowns. In January, the group won a Grammy for best pop/contemporary gospel album for Lifesong, competing against Steven Curtis Chapman, Jars of Clay, Out of Eden, Michael W. Smith and Third Day. Casting Crowns was created after Hall, a youth minister for 12 years, began writing songs for his youth group bands in Atlanta. He said he never imagined performing his music himself because he
battles with attention deficit disorder and dyslexia, things he never thought he could conquer while on a stage. Hall and the group have managed to conquer his disorder, performing more than 70 concerts while on their tour thus far, with 22 more stops scheduled across the Midwest to end the tour Sept. 8. Casting Crowns performed 13 songs including: “Set Me Free,” “Praise You In This Storm,” “Does Anybody Hear Her,” “Who am I,” “Voice of Truth,” “What If His People Prayed,” and “Stained Glass Masquerade.” On July 21-24, Casting Crowns will travel to South Africa and Kenya to minister through its music and to partner with its spon-
sor, World Vision. The band members include: Hector Cervantes, guitars and vocals; Juan Devevo, guitars and vocals; Melodee Devevo, violin and vocals; Megan Garrett, piano and vocals; Chris Huffman, bass; and Andy Williams, percussion. The lyrics behind Casting Crowns’ second album, Lifesong, came from the stories and testimonies shared by fans on its Web site, Hall said. Hall wrote a book, Lifestories, which will come out in August that shares the “life songs” of the people the band has met while on tour. Hall shared one story while on stage. The song “Praise You in This Storm,” was written for a 10-year-old girl named Erin Browning who battled
severe bone cancer for three years before she died in November 2004. Browning had been a fan of Casting Crowns and had performed dances at school to the group’s music. They met while on tour just before she was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma. The song was inspired by the writings from her mother, Laurie, about Erin’s last moments. Laurie wrote Casting Crowns re-telling how she literally stood on the Bible as she read her daughter’s favorite Scripture while she slept the night she died. For many who attended the concert, including Dylan Easter, freshman youth and family ministry major from Gatesville, Casting Crowns’ lyrics are what made the band
stand out from other Christian artists. “My favorite song they sing is ‘We Are The Body,” because it is so true,” Easter said. “This song makes you realize that we as a church really aren’t doing the job we’re called to.” Hall said his lyrics come from his heart for the church. He said it all comes down to choosing God, which is something he wants his lyrics to encourage. “God does not need us — he wants us,” Hall said. “He is going to do what he wants to do; he just wants to know if we want to come along for the ride.”
E-mail Sherwood at: mes02e@acu.edu
Jazz Band: Last concert free Traffic: City most likely Continued from page 1 Greg’s Bush’s daughter. Lauren Bush, sophomore music major from Abilene, has been taking singing lessons since her junior year of high school, but has only been performing since her first year at ACU, she said. “The jazz band has worked so hard to learn some really
complicated music,” Lauren Bush said. “This performance will definitely display their amazing talents and efforts.” The past couple of years, the jazz band has attended ArtWalk, a monthly cultural event in downtown Abilene. This semester, the band has been too busy to attend, Bush said. The jazz band, which has 21 members, has been practicing
every Tuesday and Thursday since Sing Song to prepare for this week’s performance. “We have more and more people attend every performance we have,” Bush said. Like most musical performances on campus, no tickets are required and entrance to the concert is free. E-mail Williams at: optimist@acu.edu
Seniors: 700 RSVP for event Continued from page 1 The come-and-go dinner begins at 5:30 p.m., the entertainment at 7 p.m., and the grand processional event begins at 8 p.m. and will include blessings, prayers and awards. Dinners previously conducted by the colleges of Business Administration and Biblical Studies will also be replaced with the Centennial Celebration. Jennifer Ellison, Centennial Activities coordinator, said the Alumni Relations staff has been talking about revamping the Senior Dinner for several years, and the Centennial year provided an opportunity. “It seemed like the perfect time to enhance the events surrounding graduation and maybe start a new tradition,”
Ellison said. Live music will be provided for entertainment. Steel Grooves, the steel drum ensemble, as well as the Big Purple Band, will perform. Graduating students will also have opportunities to have their picture taken with Willie the Wildcat, Dr. Royce Money, president of the university, friends, family and other graduates. The Centennial Graduation Celebration will also have an awards ceremony. Awards such as Mr. and Miss ACU, Board of Trustees awards, Honor Man and Honor Woman, B Sherrod Scholars, V.W. Kelley Scholarships, recognition of valedictorians, and others will be presented. Dress attire for the evening is casual. Ellison said graduates, families and staff are en-
couraged to dress comfortably in jeans, shorts, T-shirts, flipflops, and tennis shoes. Seniors should bring their graduation robes to wear during part of the event. Ellison said feedback received so far has been positive. About 700 people have RSVPed online. “The campus seems to be excited about this new event,” Ellison said. Alumni Relations staff asks that all attendees, including graduates and families, faculty and staff RSVP online at www. acu.edu/graduationcelebration. “If all goes as planned,” Ellison said, “it will be a memorable and festive evening to celebrate this milestone occasion for our grads.” E-mail Williams at: optimist@acu.edu
Alumnus: Ag grad honored Continued from page 1 during Homecoming Weekend, but the award and the young alumnus receiving the award were being overshadowed during the weekend. Cadle said several different people and committees made the decision to award the honor to Miller. The Alumni Association Office solicits nominations from alumni, professors, friends of the university and others, and the nominations are then passed down to the Alumni Advisory Board. Thirty-six alumni from different parts of the country meet twice a year to decide who
will be the new recipient, whose graduating classes ranged from 1949 to 2002. This committee reviews all nominations along with the president’s cabinet, and a majority vote decides who the winner of the award will be for any given year. Foy Miller, chair of the Agriculture and Environmental Science Department, said he was involved with the nomination of Miller. “He was an excellent student while at ACU and an even greater contributor to society after graduation,” Foy said. Miller is the county executive director for Harris County, one of the largest counties in the
nation, Foy said, and he has received many state and national awards. Miller arrived on campus Monday and attended a pig roast, which was invitation only, said Cadle. On Tuesday, Miller taught several classes in the morning in the Agriculture and Environmental Science Department and received the award in Chapel. After the ceremony, a meet and greet took place in the Living Room of the Campus Center for people to stop by and give their congratulations to Miller, and the faculty took Miller for a lunch in his honor. E-mail Harris at: dlh03a@acu.edu
will not install new lights Continued from page 1 intersections at Overland Trails and the highway, not including accidents in front of Wal-Mart. Even with evidence of the increase of accidents and traffic in the area, Wren said that law enforcers can’t do a lot to control the right of way violations. ACU Police Chief Jimmy Ellison said people usually cause accidents by people either driving too fast or not paying attention to their surroundings While ACU Police regulates traffic along Ambler Avenue, Campus Court Road, and Judge Ely Boulevard where the increased traffic flow is noticeable, Ellison said he doubts more traffic lights or other traffic controls will be installed in the area anytime soon. He
said ACU Police will help regulate traffic violations with warnings and municipal citations — citations that go on the record and must be handled in a municipal court. Traffic signal supervisor Michael Matthews said installing more traffic controls in the area could actually have adverse effects, such as traffic jams and dysfunctional traffic flowage in the area. Adding a stop light is a process, he said. Light proposals must be approved by meeting several criteria, such as the number of accidents and seriousness of the accidents in the area. For instance, he said, the new traffic light to go up on South 14th Street was approved because there was evidence of a need; in that area, there had been fatali-
ties. Comparatively the accidents around the new WalMart have been more like “fender benders,” he said. “I think that there’s a mistake in believing that this is temporary, that the traffic is going to go back to normal,” Ellison said. “The traffic is going to stay like this as long as Wal-Mart is there, and the traffic is going to get even worse as there is commercial development in that area.” He said although the university area has been traffic heavy since the new developments on Ambler, he is doubtful that more traffic controls will be installed. “Everybody just needs to pay attention when they drive in the area,” he said. “People are just going to have to adapt to it.” E-mail the Knight at: tnk03a@acu.edu
Page 6
April 26, 2006
Everything you need to know: Graduation edition The Issue:
Graduation is just around the corner. Unfortunately, many seniors don’t know how to prepare or what is required in order to graduate.
Our view:
Graduation is a great celebration, but it won’t be nearly as fun or meaningful if you are caught unaware. Although new traditions are fun, the old ones also have a special place in our hearts.
The solution:
Here is your very own graduation todo list, courtesy of the Optimist.
In 17 days, graduating seniors will walk across the stage in Moody Coliseum, shake President Royce Money’s hand, and begin a new life. Until then, however, we find ourselves beleaguered with papers, projects, finals and the everlooming task of securing employment. Amid our busy schedules, several steps must be made before we can graduate. Unfortunately, not enough communication has occurred between the offices of the Registrar and Alumni and the senior class, leaving many who are graduating in the dark as to what they need to accomplish before May 13. With only one meeting, where seniors received a packet of information, and a flyer, little else has been communicated. Here is a list of what you need to know to prepare for graduation:
Rehearsal
advantages and disadvantages. The traditional receptions on the Mall after graduation have been axed and moved to Friday night, when seniors will have dinner in designated tents according to their major. Normally, the receptions on the Mall were paid for by the Registrar’s and Provost’s offices, but these responsibilities have been transferred to the Alumni Office. While we see the necessity to incorporate time for students to mingle, the traditional reception after the actual ceremony on Saturday still should take place. This is the time when we stand with our fellow classmates, those who now have the same degree as us and who we’ve spent time with the past four years. Our parents and professors meet, pictures are taken and goodbyes are said — all
Amid our busy schedules, several steps must be made before we can graduate.
This year, students will be split into two rehearsals according to their major. On Friday, May 12, graduating seniors in the College of Biblical Studies and the College of Business Administration will rehearse at 3 p.m. in Moody. Seniors in the College of Arts and Sciences will rehearse at 4:15 p.m. You and your escort need to be at rehearsal, you should both bring your robe, your hood and mortar board (hat).
Announcements Announcements can be ordered through The Campus Store, although it’s running pretty late to send them out. This information was only mentioned among other things on a sheet of paper seniors received in their graduation packet before spring break.
Advertising on behalf of The Campus Store would have been helpful; fortunately, word of mouth has reached many seniors who were able to place their orders. Order forms can be found at the store, and be sure to allow five to seven business days to receive your announcements.
Graduation Celebration In lieu of more traditional fanfare, the Centennial year brings with it a Graduation Celebration on a larger-than-average scale. From 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, seniors can enjoy a free festival and dinner, with the Grand Processional and Program beginning at 8 p.m. Incorporating all the events into one large extravaganza has its
Let Loose
Anyone who knows me knows that I am serious about my coffee. Whether it’s a latte, mocha, Americano, frappe, or just a plain ol’ cup of joe, caffeine is serious stuff. As an unabashed coffee devoSoapbox tee, you can Central imagine my ecstasy when Dani I heard that a Linthicum Starbucks was coming to campus. You see, I don’t mind paying ungodly amounts for a cup of good coffee. Carefully budgeted money seems to slip through my fingers quite easily at the sight of a coffee shop. However, once I spend my hard-earned cash, it had better be worth it. The thought of Starbucks brings to mind the cozy escapes of the Northwest, a perfect environment for catching up with friends or a good book. In contrast, the Starbucks employees on campus don’t seem to respect the fact that we really do expect Starbucks-quality coffee and service. You see, I have a background for my addiction and
A specialty coffee shop is selling more than a cup of coffee. subsequent pickiness. For two years, I owned my own coffee shop — Dani’s Coffee Cottage — and I hail from the Mecca of coffee (a.k.a. the Pacific Northwest.) It seems to me that my selfappointed role as coffee connoisseur is at least partly justified. My friends say I’m just a coffee snob. Whatever. I have been to the Learning Commons Starbucks on several occasions, and have even sent my friends on reconnaissance missions on my behalf. Bottom line: it should not take 10 minutes to get a mocha, and customers should be treated kindly, at least. Even when the only one in line, I have not gotten a drink in less than seven minutes, have waited as long as 35, and only rarely has the person behind the counter even bothered to say hello. When I showed up for a cup of coffee Tuesday morning, I was charged the same price as I would have at a high-quality coffee shop, only to receive a drink of inconsistent quality, accompanied by slow service and raised eyebrows when I asked for an extra shot of espresso. Sure, the Learning Commons
Starbucks has only been open a short time, but one of the reasons that the opening was delayed was to train the coffee shop staff. I have trained baristas; I was trained as one myself, and I know first-hand that it’s not that hard to get well-trained, competent staff. Besides, a specialty coffee shop is selling more than a simple cup of coffee. It is selling service, stress release, atmosphere and a feeling of well-being that quickly evaporates in the presence of slow, preoccupied service and coffee with a quality that is not consistent. While standing at the counter waiting for my drink (it took a while, so it gave me time to watch and reflect), I stopped one employee from mistakenly pouring a shot of espresso in a Chai tea and watched the line of students get longer and more disgruntled as the minutes ticked by. Just because a business is on campus should not be an excuse for lower quality service. The fact that it is on campus should call everyone to an even higher standard, as we all should strive to be the best that we can be in all areas of life,
even in something as simple as making a latte. Andre Allen, interim director for Dining Services, said he wants his staff to treat customers with respect as well as create quality beverages and food. Under Allen’s direction, I hope that the Learning Commons Starbucks will grow into a tasteful (pun intended) business. When I got my first job as a barista, my boss told me, “You may be the first person some people see in the morning — make their day better.” It may sound trite, but it’s true. I have learned that just shooting the breeze or giving people a smile is worth so much. Nobody is perfect; some people find it easier to make small talk than others, and catering to picky coffee drinkers when the line is out the door is undoubtedly challenging. However, even when workers feel stressed and under-staffed, customers will notice and appreciate it when employees go the extra mile, even in such small ways. At this time in the semester, coffee is pretty serious stuff to just about everybody on campus, so our Starbucks should start treating it that way. E-mail Linthicum at: del01a@acu.edu or optimist@acu.edu
Six seventh-graders were Princess Diana’s death, and arrested Saturday in North Spice Girls’ “Wannabe.” Pole, Alaska, for plotting In seventh grade, El Nino to murder classmates and was the biggest threat and t e a c h e r s Lindsay Lohan entered Hollyat North wood with her role in her dePole Middle but film The Parent Trap. School. Life seemed so simple Their ar- then. Sure, kids picked on rests came those smaller, fatter, dumbonly two days er and smarter than themafter five selves — but who hasn’t been high school picked on for something? Face the s t u d e n t s Some things never change. Facts were arrested It seems like the students in Riverton, who become sharp shooters Mallory Kan., hours in their school halls are the Sherwood before they ones who have been picked could pull off their plan to kill on, forgotten and neglected. fellow classmates and school Why are students now taking employees on the seventh an- out their aggression in the niversary of the Columbine form of violence? school shooting that killed 13 People point to the media, people in Littleton, Colo., in violent video games, Marilyn 1999. Manson’s music and lack of What is happening in the parenting among other facminds of children and stu- tors. I don’t have an answer dents that they feel the need to the increased violence to kill others as well as them- seen in youth today, but I do selves in an act of have a solution. retribution? Each person The middle on this campus I don’t have an school students should be here answer for the in North Pole had because they increased planned to diswant to make able the school’s a difference in violence in life — whether in power and teleyouth today, phone systems theirs or others. but I do have a so they could kill Most people resolution. teachers and felalize that those low classmates prone to act in who had bullied violence toward them and still make an es- others are usually the ones cape from the town of 1,600 that need love and a friend. people. Take this challenge and How would a seventh-grad- make a difference in the life er know how to disable a tele- of a child. Take five minutes phone and power system? out of your day to connect When I was in seventh with someone younger than grade, I didn’t know how to yourself and let them know use hair gel much less how the that someone is interested in power system for my school them. was set up. I worried about fitMake a point to invest in ting in with the popular girls, the life of someone who looks if the kid whose locker was up to you. Listen to a child, just up from mine liked me even if this means subjecting and how I was always the last yourself to rambling about person to finish running the boys, sports or video games. mile in gym class. Befriend a child because evIn seventh grade, I knew eryone on campus has already the lyrics to the top 10 popu- gone through middle school lar songs including: Hanson’s and high school and knows “MmmBop,” Shawn Colvin’s how hard it can be. “Sunny Came Home,” Puff What’s stopping you from Daddy’s “I’ll Be Missing You,” making a difference today? Dave Matthews Band’s “Crash Into Me,” Elton’s John’s “CanE-mail Sherwood at: dle in the Wind,” following mes02e@acu.edu or optimist@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
Combat school violence in love
Cole Williams
Starbucks performance disappoints
under the enthusiasm we gained from just graduating. The only way this scene can be recreated is if every senior attends the Friday night events and is able to find fellow majors. Taking pictures in the dark and not in full regalia is hardly an ideal way to commemorate graduation. Having one huge celebration is great, but we’d like to keep our traditions as well. Keep the Mall receptions after the ceremonies on Saturday and end the Centennial class’ time at ACU the right way. For more information on the Graduation Celebration, visit www. acu.edu/alumni/events/graduation_celebration.html. In addition, contact the Registrar’s Office at 674-2236 and the Alumni Office at 674-2622.
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Online: www.acuoptimist.com
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Page 7
SPORTS JUMPS
Track: Individuals clean up medals
Holloway: Colleagues recall former trainer Continued from page 8 partment of Orthopedic Surgery established the Dr. Holloway Resident Research Award in Orthopedic Surgery. And even later in life, Holloway served as the chief of staff at the Hendrick Medical Center and the Credentials Committee and Physician Review Board for the past three years. While his credentials and
Holloway demonstrated on a daily basis. Jack Kiser, a patient of Holloway, recalls his experience with the man. “I just remember whenever someone was hurt, he would let us in the back door and see them for free,” Kiser said. Recently, Holloway was on the sidelines of every Wildcat football game, sitting on a wooden stool
Continued from page 8
“I just remember whenever someone was hurt, he would let us in the back door and see them for free.” Jack Kiser, former ACU head football coach
accomplishments along his professional life might exhibit how great of an influence he had in his field, it would pale in comparison to the attention and care he showed to the people he was treating. Stories of his generosity to his patients are just one testament to the character
and awaiting his chance to serve. His dedication to the university and its players and the longevity in which he served ACU is something unparalleled and possibly may be something never to be reproduced again. brian schmidt/Chief Photographer
E-mail Holland at: beh03e@acu.edu
Redshirt sophomore Liga Klavina launches the javelin at the LSC Championships, placing third with a throw of 41.18 meters.
400-meter dash (54.17), Denise Morgan in the 800meter run (2:19.91), Olha Kryv’yak in the 1,500-meter run (4:44.07), the 4x400-meter relay team (3:41.41), Jessica Blair in the triple jump (38-4), and Angie Aguilar in the pole vault (12-0). Junior sprint star Marvin Bien-Aime was the big winner on the men’s side, dominating the 100-meter dash (10.43) and 200-meter dash (20.87), while also helping the 4x100-meter relay team run a winning time of 40.60. Freshman David Chirchir was also a two-time champion, winning the 800-meter run in 1:55.67 and the 1,500-meter run in 3:55.01, while placing second in the 3,000-meter steeplechase (9:43.83). Jordan Johnson led an ACU blitz in the 400-meter dash, which went 1-2-3 in the event. Johnson ran a season-best time of 46.68 to place first, followed by Johnny Jacob’s 47.5 and
Delt Cockrell’s 47.52. Senior Elton Garus-Oab was fifth in the race. That trio, along with Brant Gilbert, comprised the winning 4x400-meter relay team, which won one of the most exciting events of the day with a time of 3:10.41. Other winners for the men’s team included Nicodemus Naimadu in the 5,000meter run (15:10.94), Serge Gasore in the 10,000-meter run (31:54.48), Vladyslav Gorbenko in the triple jump (52-6 ¾) and Cory Aguilar in the pole vault (16-2). Next up for the Wildcats are the Penn Relays Wednesday through Saturday in Philadelphia. Penn will feature some of the top talent in the nation, giving ACU athletes another opportunity to post new or improved qualifying marks or times for the NCAA Division II National Championships, which will take place May 25-27 in Emporia, Kan.
E-mail Holt at: smh00a@acu.edu
Tennis: Women come back for win Continued from page 8 Lindloff fell in their hardfought matches. The match was tied at 44 when Lana Pavlin of ACU and Amanda Stone of Northeastern State remained on the court. After a tiebreaker and a Northeastern medical timeout, Pavlin won 7-6, 46, 5-2 (retired). Head coach Hutton Jones said he was proud of the women’s gutsy 5-4 comeback victory. “We dug ourselves a hole,” he said. “But we didn’t lie down and quit. It showed a lot of maturity to come back and get the win.” Jones also said he was satisfied that the year-long conditioning and workouts leading up to the marathon
championship match became a deciding factor in the win. “We’re never going to lose a match because the other team is in better shape,” he said. The women have a record of 28-6 after the conference tournament. The men received a firstround bye in the tournament and took on the University of Central Oklahoma in the semifinals, a team that had defeated ACU on April 8. The men got off to a quick start by winning all three doubles matches and polished off Central Oklahoma 5-2. Jones said beating Central Oklahoma in the tournament was both impressive and satisfying. The Wildcats then advanced to the final match
against Midwestern State University on Friday. The duo of Casper Steenkamp and George Carstens got ACU off on the right foot by winning a doubles match 8-5. Kevin Beedy and Juan Nunez followed up with a doubles victory of their own, winning 8-1. However, ACU lost its other doubles match. Heading into singles play, the Wildcats still held a 2-1 lead. But Midwestern State held out against the Wildcats. At the end of the day, Midwestern State took the championship with a 5-3 win. “I was pleased with the way we competed,” Jones said. “We played well, but not our best.” Despite the loss, Jones
said the Wildcats will be prepared if they meet Midwestern State again in the Regional tournament. “We’re not afraid,” Jones said. “Our matches are close, but there’s no lack of confidence of whether or not we can beat them.” The men’s record is now 20-10. The ACU Alumni Weekend match play is next on the tennis schedule. This Friday and Saturday, both tennis teams will take on ACU tennis alums in competitive matches. But, the main focus for the Wildcats is the NCAA Division II Central Region championship tournament on May 4-5.
to Dr. Gary McCaleb [vice president of the university] for giving me a chance to coach here.” Designated hitter Joel Wells continued his assault of ACU’s previous single season home run record this weekend, after blasting two more balls out of the park in the first game. Wells’ record is now 16 and with 24 homers in his career at ACU, he is two short of tying Brad Massey’s career home run record of 26, which was set in 2003. On top of three runs scored from Wells’ two homers, the Wildcats rounded the bases six more times in
the 9-3 game one victory. Defensively, lead off pitcher Brian Kennedy was awarded the win after picking up four strikeouts and allowing only one run in six innings. Kennedy continues to lead the starters with a 3.34 ERA. Wildcat pitcher Chris Wiman followed his one hit gem against A&M Kingsville with another clear victory in game two of the series. Wiman struck out eight of the first nine batters he faced and only allowed four hits in five innings pitched. The Wildcat bats supported Wiman with solid hitting in the 9-1 victory. Right fielder Minor Alexander hit two RBI singles in his first two at bats, contributing to an early
5-0 Wildcat lead in the first three innings. First basemen Danny Williams had three RBI himself, as the Wildcats scored four more times in the 9-1 victory. Saturdays’ first game resulted in the Wildcats’ only loss of the series. Despite a well-pitched game on Ben Maynard’s part, the Wildcats failed to facilitate any runs, losing 4-0. The Wildcats left 13 runners on base and only swung for six hits in the loss. Maynard picked up his third loss, even though he had three strikeouts and only walked three batters. Bonneau’s 400th career win came in the final game of the series. The Wildcats jumped ahead early and held
Softball: Wildcats clinch first-round bye Continued from page 8
E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu
Baseball: Wells closes in on home run record Continued from page 8
brian schmidt/Chief Photographer
Jenna Daugherty catches a pop-up in Friday’s second game against Texas Woman’s, which the Wildcats won, 8-6 at Wells Field.
on to their lead in the 6-1 victory. Alexander added to his offensive success with three more RBI in the win. Pitcher Jason Kennedy completed a weekend of great pitching after throwing five solid innings for the Wildcats. Ruben Rivera closed the final game after reliever Brandon Moore gave up the Greyhounds only run. Rivera closed a total of three games last weekend, combining for five strikeouts and only one hit in three innings. Rivera has five saves this season and has shined as the Wildcats’ go-to-closer so far this season.
E-mail Johnson at: djj04a@acu.edu
ahead in the beginning 4-0. Daugherty and Wilson then both hit another double to finish out the game. Leal didn’t allow any errors and scattered just four hits through the seven hits. She ended her season with a 23-4 record. In the final game, the Wildcats couldn’t seem to get the hits they needed, with a 2-1 final score. Vidalin and Smith each pitched for the Wildcats. Krumpols scored the only run for ACU off of Wilson’s fly to left field in the first inning. The Pioneers scored two in the fifth for the win. Although it was tough to lose the final game of conference play, Chantiel Wilson said, each player contributed their part, with Krumpols and Deel helping to “spark the offense.” “Sarah Vidalin pitched extremely well all weekend without picking up a win,” Wilson said. “But, she got us into the
fourth and fifth innings of the games she pitched. We just came up short at the plate the fourth game to earn her another victory. We had opportunities to score ... we just didn’t.” The Wildcats have a first round bye in the postseason tournament. They will start playing Friday morning. “We just have to play our game and play ACU softball like we know how,” said junior in-fielder Nicole Deel. “We also need to continue to string our hits together.” Wilson said the postseason is what the team plays for all year. “Everyone knows what we are capable of accomplishing,” Wilson said. “It is just a matter of whether we bring our game to Irving this weekend. The coaches and players know when we are playing our game there is no team in the region that can beat us without a good fight.” E-mail Moore at: aeh03e@acu.edu
Page 8
April 26, 2006
Women win conference title, men second
Standings BASEBALL Team Div. Angelo St. 12-5 ACU 8-4 WTAMU 9-7 TAMU-K 6-10 Tarleton St. 5-11 5-11 ENMU
Overall 36-14 32-14 24-25 31-18 16-34 23-29
n Women’s tennis won the LSC Championship in Wichita Falls against Northeastern State 5-4, but the men lost in the final’s to Midwestern State, 5-3. By MICHAEL FREEMAN Sports Writer
SOFTBALL Team ACU TX Woman’s Angelo St. TAMU-K ENMU Tarleton St.
Div. Overall 18-4 38-15 13-8 25-34 13-9 31-24 12-9 25-26 13-11 33-21 9-15 25-22
Last week, the women’s tennis team stormed the competition in its path to the Lone Star Conference tennis
Tennis championship with a 5-4 win over Northeastern State University. The men’s team lost in the final to Midwestern State University 5-3. On Thursday, the tennis teams traveled to Wichita Falls to compete in the Lone Star Conference Championships, both holding the No. 1 seeds in their respective draws. The
women demolished the University of Eastern New Mexico in their quarterfinal match, 50. ACU refused to surrender a single set against Eastern New Mexico. Next, the women took on the Lady Mustangs of Midwestern State University and also downed the team handily 5-0. With the victory, the Wildcats advanced to the championship match against
Northeastern State University. Northeastern State had handled East Central University 5-0 and Tarleton State University 5-3 on its way to the final match. ACU and Northeastern State squared off Friday for the conference title and the right to host the NCAA Division II Central Regional tournament on May 4-5. The Wildcats ran into trou-
Friday
baseball ACU 9, Eastern New Mexico 3 ACU 9, Eastern New Mexico 1 softball ACU 3. Texas Woman’s 1 ACU 8, Texas Woman’s 6 MEN’S TENNIS ACU 5, Central Okla. 2 Midwestern St. 5, ACU 3 woMEN’S TENNIS ACU 5. Northeastern St. 4
By BRIAN HOLLAND Sports Writer
baseball Eastern New Mexico 4, ACU 0 ACU 6, Eastern New Mexico 1 softball ACU 7. Texas Woman’s 0 Texas Woman’s 1. ACU 2
Tuesday
baseball ACU 12, Incarnate Word 0
Upcoming Schedule Thursday
Track & field ACU at Penn Relays Carnival, Philadelphia ACU at Drake Relays, Des Moines soFtBall ACU st LSC Tournament, Irving tennis ACU at Alumni Weekend, Eager Tennis Pavilion baseball ACU vs. West Texas A&M 4 p.m. (DH)
Saturday
Track & fieLD ACU at Penn Relays Carnival, Philadelphia ACU at Drake Relays, Des Moines Softball ACU at LSC Tournament, Irving tennis ACU at Alumni Weekend, Eager Tennis Pavilion baseball ACU vs. West Texas A&M noon (DH)
brian schmidt/Chief Photographer
Jon-Daniel Todd clears a hurdle during the 110 meter finals. Todd placed fifth with a time of 15.14 seconds in the LSC Championships on Saturday.
ACU dominates LSC meet n The women’s track team won the LSC title with a record 290 points and had 15 individual champions out of 21 events.
Track & Field
By STEVE HOLT Sports Writer
The Wildcats are back on top in the Lone Star Conference. The ACU men’s and women’s track and field teams swept the conference titles Friday and Saturday for the first time since 2003, when the women’s team won its last title. Nobody thought the women would win in such dominant fashion, however. Wildcat women won 15 of 21 individual events or relays en route to a new LSC Championship Meet record of 290 team points. Several women were multi-event winners. Freshman Jessica Withrow, after winning the heptathlon on
Tuesday, came back to win the high jump (5-7) and the long jump (18-0) on Saturday. Freshman Kim Prather took the conference titles in the 100 meters (11.73) and 200 meters (23.98), while running a leg on the winning 4x100meter relay team (47.04). Trina Cox also was a two-event winner, claiming titles in both the 5,000-meter run (17:30.60) and the 10,000-meter run (38:02.43). Junior Shawna-Kay Thompson swept the hurdle events, winning the 100-meter hurdles in 14.34 and the 400-meter hurdles in 1:01.63. Other winners on the women’s side included Keva Wilkins in the See
TRACK page 7
brian schmidt/Chief Photographer
Jessica Blair lands in the sand pit on a triple jump attempt on Saturday. Blair placed first in triple jump in addition to third place finishes in pole vault, long jump and high jump.
Softball wins program’s first LSC title By ASHLEY MOORE Sports Writer
With three more wins under their belt, the Wildcats are ready to travel to Irving for the LSC Softball Tournament this weekend. With help from a pair of home runs by Jade Wilson, the Wildcats swept Texas Woman’s in two games Friday. On Saturday, the teams split a pair of games, giving the Wildcats an overall record of 38-15 and 18-4 in conference play. The wins pushed ACU to the top as the LSC South Division champions. The Wildcats have never won this title outright since the program began in 1997 without sharing it with another team, said head coach Chantiel Wilson. “We are proud of this group for going after a goal they set for themselves at the beginning of the year,”
Softball Wilson said. “Since taking over the ACU softball program, we have recruited experienced and talented players who want to win and will pay the price to get the job done.” With just a few games before the postseason, the team felt a little more pressure as it went out to play their final games. However, the women concluded division play with a strong focus of what they needed to accomplish. “There is always a little pressure making sure we are playing the way we know how to play so we are in sync when the postseason begins,” Wilson said. “But we had a good weekend overall both offensively and defensively. Melanie Smith got the win in relief of Sarah Vidalin in Friday’s first game against the Pioneers to improve her record to 4-1 on the season. Wilson contributed her first home run since February for the 3-1 win. Daisy Barcena reached on an error, and
then Krumpols hit an infield single. Jade Wilson stepped up and hit a three-run homer to bring all three all back to the plate for the win. The second game was closer with an 8-6 win in eight innings. Nicole Deel launched the game with a solo home run in the second, her 13th of the year. Krumpols then came up with a three-run double giving the Wildcats a 4-0 lead. Although ACU scored two more unearned runs after that, the Pioneers found their way back scoring five runs of their own. The two teams were tied through the seventh until Jade Wilson scored the game-winning, two-run homer. Jennifer Leal only gave up one run, while striking out four batters. This pushes her season record to 22-4. The Wildcats grabbed a hold of the first game on Saturday 7-0. With an RBI by Jenna Daugherty and doubles by Barcena and Jankowski, ACU stomped See
SOFTBALL page 7
A man who dedicated his life for the well-being of the university’s athletic players died Friday. Dr. Shannon Holloway, 66 years old and a long-time physician and trainer for the wildcats lost his battle to cancer Friday. Born in Macon, Ga., on Nov. 18, 1939, Holloway found a passion for medicine, ACU and its players. Though he played tennis in college, he shared a wide array of interest away from medicine. He became a Holloway pilot and eventually served on the Board of Directors of Abilene Aero for 18 years. In 2005, Holloway was awarded the Change the World Award by ACU for his dedication and service to the university. Not only was he a trainer for ACU but for also for McMurry University, Hardin-Simmons University and other high schools in the area. His service in the medical field did not end there. In Feb. 2006, Texas Tech’s DeSee
• Home games listed in italics
n The Wildcats won the LSC South this weekend for the first time in the program’s history and will travel to Irving this weekend for the LSC Tournament.
TENNIS page 7
n Dr. Shannon Holloway, physician and trainer for the Wildcats, died of cancer Friday and was remembered at a funeral service Tuesday afternoon.
Saturday
Friday
See
Athletic trainer dies at age 66
Scores
Track & field ACU at Penn Relays Carnival, Philadelphia ACU at Drake Relays, Des Moines
ble early by losing two out of the three doubles matches. Elizabeth Korinek and Sarah Drummond gave the Wildcats their lone doubles win. Down 2-1, the women turned to their singles play. Irene Squillaci, Sara Baker and Sarah Drummond delivered three necessary victories for ACU, but Meagan Brown and Holly
brian schmidt/Chief Photographer
Starting pitcher Jennifer Leal winds up during Friday’s game one victory over Texas Woman’s University, 3-1.
HOLLOWAY page 7
Bonneau gets 400th win with Wildcats n The Wildcats fell a game behind Angelo State in the LSC South after winning three of four against Eastern New Mexico. By DANIEL JOHNSON Sports Writer
The fourth-ranked Wildcat baseball team continued its successful stride towards the LSC tournament this weekend after winning its fourth out-of-town series in the past five weeks. Despite falling a game behind conference leaders Angelo State, the Wildcats won three out four games against Eastern New Mexico last weekend. The Wildcats improved their conference record to 11-5 before heading into the final series of the regular season after a regional game against Incarnate Word on Tuesday. “We can only control what we do,” said head coach Britt Bonneau “We accomplished our goal of winning three out of four on the road, and we must continue to play good baseball as we approach the conference tournament.” The Wildcats’ final win of the series was Bonneau’s 400th in nine years at ACU. In addition to this accomplishment, Bonneau has led the Wildcats to five conference championships, five regional tournaments, and was at the helm for the Wildcats only appearance in the NCAA Division II College World Series in 2003. “It feels awesome to reach this milestone, mostly because of the players and people around me when I did it,” Bonneau said. “I am thankful See
BASEBALL page 7