2006 09 13

The Vol. 95, No. 6

IN THIS ISSUE CAMPUS

A look at the past

The musical comedy written by two alumni debuted this weekend at the Paramount Theater, page 6

Streets of art

This month’s downtown ArtWalk is geared more towards children than in the past, page 6

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OPTIMIST

1 section, 8 pages

WEDNESDAY

September 13, 2006

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www.acuoptimist.com

Centennial year closes with a bang Weekend events celebrate 100th birthday

Monday begins school’s second century

n The Centennial Task Force Committee planned nine events last weekend for alumni, students and the community that completed the year-long birthday celebration.

n More than 2,500 people from the community, university and country joined Dr. Royce Money in celebrating the university’s 100th birthday in Chapel on Monday.

By KELSI PEACE

By MALLORY SCHLABACH

After a year spent honoring its Centennial, ACU celebrated its birthday with a new sculpture, 9-foot birthday cake, carnival, concert and fireworks display during the weekend’s Centennial Birthday Bash.

“We all saw people we haven’t seen in years,” said Dr. Michelle Morris, Centennial Celebration director. “People drove into town for the birthday; some people flew into town for the birthday.”

Bob Woodward, founder of the Grace L. Woodward Memorial Endowment Trust and son of Grace Woodward, attended the Jacob’s Dream dedication with his wife, Mary.

Woodward surprised the audience by speaking about his mother and her generosity at the dedication, Morris said.

Woodward also met the artist who created the sculpture, Dr. Jack Maxwell, chair of the Department of Art and Design.

“It wasn’t just a piece of art; somehow for people, it’s an experience,” Morris said.

The ACU Century book signing drew a crowd that lined both sides of the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building and was constant for more than an hour, Morris said.

Jama Cadle, coordinator of alumni relations, said more than 260 wristbands were

After more than a year of celebration, the university’s 100th year came to a close Monday with the Second Century Convocation.

Delegates from 34 colleges and universities, more than 250 faculty members, alumni, and close to 2,100 students attended the hour-long ceremony that ended the string of events that began last August and totaled more than 68 guest speakers, concerts, art galleries, performances and dinners.

Before the convocation officially began, the audience had a moment of silence to remember the events that occurred five years ago on Sept.

11, 2001, in New York City at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and United flight 93

Features Editor

FEATURE

My Fair Abilene

Staff photographers capture the cultural variety the West Texas Fair brings to Abilene, page 4

SPORTS

Taking a swing

The Wildcat volleyball team’s conference play opens Thursday after the team went 1-2 in its final preseason tournament, page 8

ONLINE

See

BASH page 7

n J.B. Gibbs, a student, might have won $15,000 during the first Wildcat football game last Thursday at a pass, punt and kick challenge at Shotwell Stadium.

Managing Editor

The ACU football team enjoyed a drama-filled game Thursday, but J. B. Gibbs enjoyed his share of the spotlight also.

Shades step squad finished auditions last week for this year’s team, view the tryout online at www.acuoptimist.com

Building a dream

Jack Maxwell’s five-year project Jacob’s Dream was unveiled Saturday, view it at: www.acuoptimist.com

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Dr. Paul Corts, president of the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities, spoke during the Second Century Convocation Chapel on Monday, ending the university’s first century.

See

CONVOCATION page 7

KATIE GAGER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Left: Jack Maxwell, chair of the Department of Art and Design, speaks during the dedication of his bronze Jacob’s Dream sculpture, which was created at Deep in the Heart Foundry in Austin during the Centennial Birthday Celebration on Saturday afternoon. Right: The final event of the celebration included a concert by Caedmon’s Call and a firework display at Elmer Gray Stadium on Saturday.

Halftime challenge wins student cash at football game

By JARED FIELDS

Stepping to the beat

Editor in Cheif

Gibbs, senior history major from Abilene, kicked a 23-yard field goal for $15,000 during halftime of the game.

However, Gibbs has to wait for possibly three-weeks to hear if he will receive the money.

Gibbs caught a T-shirt in the stands for his chance to take part in the Punt-Pass-Kick challenge, along with another participant making a 50-yard field goal for $10,000.

The 50-yard field goal attempt fell short, but J.B. made things easy for himself after a 52-yard throw and an impressive 45-yard punt gave him his chance with the ball at the 13-yard line.

“I was nervous just because of the fact that it was so much money,” Gibbs said.

“I was fairly confident; I did kick and punt in high school.”

Gibbs also kicked for the Wildcats’ junior varsity foot-

ball team for a semester.

After Gibbs nailed the kick, the behind-the-scenes action began.

Odds On Promotions, the Nevada-based company that does promotions across the nation, is now investigating Gibbs’ story to determine if they will pay out the money.

Athletic director Jared Mosley compared the promotion to any special promotion at an event.

“It’s like an insurance policy that we buy,” Mosley said.

“It’s similar to what places use on car giveaways. Part of that agreement is to carry out the promotion guidelines.”

Parts of those guidelines involve the participant to be selected by a random process. At the football game, that process was by catching a T-shirt See

KICK page 7

Staph infections spread on campus, treatment needed n Dr. Tony Rector, medical clinic doctor, warns students to get clinical help to heal the skin infection spreading across campus caused by MRSA.

By MITCH HOLT Copy Editor

Staph infections have become a recent regularity on campus, and it’s taking the form of a new antibiotic-re-

Department of Journalism and Mass Communication

sistant skin infection.

Dr. Tony Rector, medical clinic doctor, said students and faculty need to be aware of the infection, which often takes the form of a pimple or growth and is not uncommon to locker rooms or other places with a high bacteria concentration.

The infection, also called MRSA, may rapidly grow in size, look like a pimple and

be warm when touched. The most common areas for the infection are heat-intensive places like the armpit or groin.

Skin to skin contact can, in fact, spread the infection from person to person, and the shaving of body hair increases the chances of receiving the infection. Rector said when one shaves, he or she creates a nic or scratch

that sometimes provides an entrance for the Staph infection.

Rector said the reason for awareness is because the number of cases at ACU has grown considerably since last year, with a total of 15 cases so far this school year.

“If you have a growth that is read, tender, large and/or warm, come in as soon as possible,” he said. “Two years

Abilene Christian University

ago, these cases were more common among athletes, but this year it has gone back and forth between athletes and non-athletes.”

According to MedScape Today, Staph is such a common bacteria that it hardly “raises an eyebrow within health surfaces,” but the bacteria is making a comeback in See

INFECTION page 7

Serving the ACU community since 1912

Chapel Checkup Credited Chapels to date:

Wednesday, March 29, 2006 Wednesday, September 13, 2006

13

Calendar & Events Wednesday

11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

SA elections Last day to vote for Students’ Association representatives for classes, buildings and dorms.

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Thursday

11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

SA election run-offs, if necessary ArtWalk downtown Local artist Ruth Jackson will show and sell original art by at-risk children from Haiti. Proceeds go to the children.

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 at jdj03e@acu.edu.

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.

Corrections - In the Sept. 8 edition about Hillcrest Church of Christ, the Optimist misprinted facts. Song and Supper takes place once a month on Wednesdays at 6 p.m., Hillcrest has a student-led worship time on Wednesdays and none of the services are exclusive to college students. We regret the errors.

- The Jacob’s Dream sculpture commemorates a $26.5 million gift to the university from the Grace L. Woodward Memorial Trust. It did not cost $26.5 million.

- In the Aug. 30 edition, Dr. Greg Powell was misidentified. He is a professor of chemistry.

Police Tip of the Week

Never prop open doors to buildings or residence halls. This makes the entire building and all residents vulnerable to intruders and theft.

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Friday

Social Club Bid Night

Purple Friday Prospective students visit campus.

Saturday

8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Last full day of West Texas Fair and Rodeo

Last day to withdraw from classes with 60 percent refund

Police Log Edited for space

Wednesday 09/06/2006 08:50 am Unlocked vehicle at Gardner Lot 12:30 pm Exposing person, EN16th/Avenue E. Case # 06-139.

Case Open 22:17 pm Escort from Campus Center to Barret Hall Thursday 09/08/2006 02:22 am Assist Abilene PD on disturbance at 800 EN 12th 10:00 am Parking violation at University Church Lot 13:29 pm Traffic stop at EN 18th & Campus Court for disregarding stop sign 13:49 pm Traffic stop at 1400 Cedar Crest for no seat belt 14:30 pm Medical emergency at Don Morris, subject transported to Hendricks 15:50 pm Vehicle accident WPAC Lot, case #06-142 21:35 pm Traffic stop at 2000 Campus Court for no headlight 22:11 pm Loud Music call at University Park Apartments, advised resident to turn down 23:15 pm Foot patrol of campus

Friday 09/09/2006 01:16 am Loud party at 625 EN 23rd 09:40 am Report of skunk near Zellner, contacted Physical Resources 10:30 am Vehicle accident at Ambler & Judge Ely 19:00 pm Assisted with traffic control on Teague Blvd Saturday 09/09/2006 02:00 am Placed barricades on ACU Drive 10:30 am Assisted Animal Control with dead cow in the median of Interstate 20 and Judge Ely 11:45 am Unlocked vehicle at 1900 Cedar Crest 12:42 pm Incomplete 911 at University Park Apartments, misdial 21:44 pm Report of suspicious subject at 600 College, contacted subject all okay Sunday 09/10/2006 19:45 pm Vehicle accident at Sikes Lot, case #06-144 20:40 pm Assisted with first aid at Elmer Gray Stadium

Credited Chapels remaining:

13 58

Announcements The Steak Express runs a booth at the West Texas Fair with the profits from the booth going to the Ben Richey Boys Ranch. Volunteers are needed to work after 5 p.m. for the duration of the fair. For more information, please contact Bob Camo at 325793-2828.

The Key City Kiwanis Club will have its annual fish fry on Saturday, Sept. 30, and volunteers are needed to help in a variety of ways. Shifts are from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Please contact the Volunteer Center in the Bean Sprout for more information.

What do Tupac Shakur, Lauryn Hill and Kanye West have to do with Jesus? Come find out Thursday evenings. We`ll be hosting “Jesus and the Hip-Hop Prophets” at 8:30 p.m. in Bible Room 128.

For more information contact Matt Worthington mrw03b@acu.edu.

Meals on Wheels needs volunteers to deliver lunch meals to those in need. This is a great way to serve in the Abilene community and you can get credit if your delivery time conflicts with Chapel. For more information, stop by the Vol-

unteer Center in the Bean Sprout.

Outdoor Club - Kick off the school year with Outdoor Club`s two-year anniversary on Sept.

23 with hotdogs and hamburgers, hammocks, s’mores, games, guest speakers and movies. Also find out what the club is about and plans concerning outings and other ideas for the year. Open to members and non-members.

Beginning this semester, The International Office will have walk-in times for students. Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you are not able to come during these times, please call 674-2710 to make an appointment. This arrangement will help our office devote uninterrupted time and attention for each student.

The office is located in Room 124 in the Hardin Administration Building.

ArtWalk - Thursday evening downtown, museums and art galleries have free admission. Local artist Ruth Jackson will display and sell art from her trip to Haiti during the summer. The art was created by children in Haiti, and the proceeds will go to help the children.

Volunteer Opportunities There is an immediate need for a trans-typist to assist a hearing-impaired student.

This will involve attending class with her and taking notes on her laptop during class. If you can assist with this need, please contact Mattia Bray at 325674-2554 as soon as possible.

Volunteers are needed to work four-hour shifts for childcare during Lectureship.

Dates and times: Sunday to Wednesday, at either 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., 1:30 to 5 p.m. or 6:30 to 9 p.m. For more information, please contact Dianna Evatt at 325-675-5642.

Students are needed to volunteer as ushers for the evening lecture each day of Lectureship. Dates and times: Sunday to Wednesday, from 6 to 8:15 p.m. in Moody Coliseum.

For more information, contact Kate Miller 325-674-3750.

Taylor Elementary Chess Club - Volunteers are needed to assist the chess coach for one hour each week in supervising elementary school students during after-school chess club meetings every Thursday from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m.

Wednesday, September 13, 2006

ADVERTISEMENT

Page 3

Wednesday, September 13, 2006

Page 4

Abilene: A fair to remember

By JEREMY POND Staff Writer

The Taylor County Expo Center hosts rodeo competitions and a carnival this week as part of the 107th annual West Texas Fair and Rodeo.

The fair, advertised as West Texas’ largest annual event, also features art exhibits, modern living competitions and a nightly rodeo.

Tony McMillan, Expo Center executive vice president and general manager, said even after 107 years, the event continues to grow.

“The carnival itself is bigger and better than ever this year,” he said. “We have six rides here that have never even been in Abilene before.”

Beyond the standard fair, McMillan said the event has brought in several new exhibits for this year’s event.

“This year we’ve brought in the Stihl IRONJACK

Timber Team show as well as an endangered cats of the world show. We even have a fellow name Wade Henry who rides a unicycle and juggles chainsaws,” McMillan said.

McMillan said the fair brings between $1.5 and $2 million to Abilene and the surrounding area each year.

He attributes the income to the thousands of people that attend.

“Over the course of the entire week’s events we should have about 120,000 people,” McMillan said.

“We’re estimating there were 12,000 to 15,000 people along the parade route Saturday. It was unbelievable.”

The week-long affair kicked off with a sneak peak on Thursday night, then hosted university students Friday during college night.

With the draw of free admission, hundreds of area university students went

out to enjoy the fair.

Caddie Coupe, senior communication major from Thousand Oaks, Calif., visited the fair with her friends.

“I guess I’m just a kid at heart,” Coupe said. “I’ve always loved the fair, especially the rides, and they only happen once a year.”

The event will also seek to raise breast cancer awareness, which McMillan said is a “critical issue.”

“Thursday night we hope that everyone coming out will wear pink,” he said.

“The local oncology group here will be donating money to the American Cancer Society for everyone that wears pink.”

The rodeo will take place at 9 p.m. every night through Saturday, and the fair’s final events will end Sunday morning.

E-mail Pond at: jlp04b@acu.edu

Katie Gager STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

The ferris wheel lights up the midway at the 2006 West Texas Fair and Rodeo.

KATIE GAGER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Drummers in the ACU Big Purple Band march in the West Texas Fair and Rodeo parade.

Rachel Lau STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Richard Rogge handles Trigger, who was used for pictures in the petting zoo.

KATIE GAGER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Colton Turner and Ashley Jackson, students at Cisco Community College, play the ring toss.

EMILY SMITH STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Christopher Nelson, age 7, observes a carnival game at the West Texas Fair and Rodeo. Nelson is a first grader at Jackson Elementary.

Rachel lau STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

A group sits on a bench near the carousel at the West Texas Fair and Rodeo carnival.

Page 5 The Issue:

ACU has completed the celebration of its 100th year, and it’s time to figure out an approach to the second century.

Our view:

ACU should continue to think missionaly and outside the ACU bubble as it approaches the next century.

The solution:

The university should not be complacent but continue to offer diverse classes and opportunities for students.

September 13, 2006

Observing ACU’s strength to build on the future The university officially concluded its year-long celebration of 100 years of teaching students in a Christian atmosphere and entered its second century of existence.

After attending the Second Century Convocation on Monday and listening to the speakers reflect on where the university has come since 1906 and where it will go, we too want to envision where the university might go in its next 100 years.

We want the university to continue to teach students to be missional and to think outside of the ACU bubble. The

The university should be mindful that as the world university and sells a product to has many the student body. changes, so do the people that populate it. organizaACU should contions that tinue to add courses do this by showing students from unique exercise science that challenge the student that outside Abilene is a huge courses like pickle ball to po- body’s thinking, as well as upworld in need of Christian lead- litical science courses that date current courses relevant ers from all fields of study. look at terrorism studies. to students today.

A few organizations that Students also have the opFinally, we think the univerdo this include World Wide portunity to gain hands-on ex- sity should continue to adapt Witness, International Jus- perience in their field of study. to future generations. The unitice Mission and Spring A few options include working versity had done a good job of Break Campaigns. at the university’s radio sta- keeping an open mind during We also want the univer- tion, television station or the this past century, and we hope sity to continue offering newspaper. Other majors offer it will continue to look forward both diverse and high-qual- courses that give students expe- in its thinking. ity courses in all fields of rience through classes like the The university should not study. These courses range marketing class that develops change the foundation it was

Let Loose

Cole Williams

Don’t complain about what’s free Recently, Facebook uploaded a new feature called the news feed. For the five people on campus not already familiar, this news feed gather all of the updated items from one’s friends’ profiles and display them in A Ripple in one location. the Pond It makes sense. PeoJeremy ple log on Pond to Facebook to find out about their friends and what’s going on in their lives. I certainly understand that users might appreciate this feature.

Then the storm broke.

Within hours, groups were created on Facebook in protest of the news feed. At last check, the largest such group had nearly 750,000 members claiming that the news feed was a violation of their priva-

We lose sight of everything we have been given in favor of complaining about that which we no longer have. cy and demanding that Facebook remove the feature.

My first question upon learning of this phenomenon was, “How much are we paying to use this site?”

Think about it. Facebook offers free profiles to students and a free venue in which to browse the profiles of everyone they know.

Since we are not paying for this service, do we have any right to complain about changes the proprietors choose to make?

It occurs to me that there is a larger issue here than a weird feature on an ultimately meaningless site. The reaction it brought is yet another example of our disgusting entitlement mentality.

You can see it among so many Christians who feel that God owes them something. They believe that if

they ask for anything, he is somehow morally bound to grant their wish. They then have the gall to feel slighted if he does not yield.

You can see it every time someone rich dies. The ensuing legal hassle makes everyone involved look like idiots as they scramble to lay claim to that which they did nothing to earn.

I saw it in myself the other day when the car my father allows me to use broke down, and I proceeded to curse at the vehicle. I did not pay for the car. My dad pays the insurance. All I pay for is the gas, and still I felt deprived when something I was given suddenly was not working.

The time has come for us to recognize ourselves for what we are. When things do not go our way, we become bratty toddlers, screaming

because big brother took our toy. We lose sight of everything we have been given in favor of complaining about that which we no longer have.

And it has to change.

What might it look like, if instead of complaining when things do not go our way, we held tight to the silver lining?

Might I be happier thanking my father for the thousands of miles I was able to drive his car rather than dwelling on the fact that it is temporarily broken?

Might we be happier remembering what a person meant to us rather than scrambling for their wealth once they are gone?

Might we be happier recognizing just how much God has done for us rather than shaking our fists at him when things get hard?

Might we be happier? Yes, I believe we would.

E-mail Pond at: jlp04b@acu.edu or optimist@acu.edu

built on nor the values and morals that have shaped it into the Christian institution it is today. Instead, the university should be mindful that as the world changes, so do the people that populate it.

As we begin ACU’s next 100 years, may the university continue to nurture, love and mold the future generations, as it has to the thousands of alumni who have passed through its doors this century.

E-mail the Optimist at: optimist@acu.edu

Prosperity isn’t always Godly It seems I am missing a sec- ing told that all you have do is tion of my Bible. You know, it’s tell God you want something the part where God says, ‘If you and he’ll give it to you. take up your checkbook and In this week’s edition of follow me, TIME magazine, the featured I will make article poses a question: ‘Does you richer God want us to be rich?’ than you ever The two writers reflect on imagined.’ Or some of Osteen’s teachings that maybe it’s the have led people from across the verse, ‘If you country to quit their jobs and don’t have move to Houston, simply bewhat you cause they believe Osteen will Face the want in life, help them find their fortune.

Facts ask God for Did I miss something? it because he Osteen isn’t in charge of Texas’ Mallory won’t deny lottery now, is he? How can he Schlabach you life’s promise thousands of people perks if he loves you.’ that God will grant them every After searching all after- heart’s desire? noon Sunday, I couldn’t seem Don’t be caught up in our to find these verses that pas- materialistic society to believe tors at megachurches across that God’s dream for us as huthe country are mans is to have evpreaching to their erything we want. congregations of Acquiring money Osteen isn’t in 30,000 or more. beyond my wildcharge of Texas’ est dreams would I’m talking about the idea of prospernot make me any lottery now, ity theology that happier than I is he? leaders like Joel am today, saving Osteen of Lakepennies so I can wood in Houston buy groceries this or T.D. Jakes of Potter’s House month. I can promise wealth in Dallas preach Sunday morn- won’t make you any happier ings. either.

This idea of giving God In 1 Tim. 6, it says: ‘But money in order to be in his godliness with contentment favor contradicts my view of is great gain. For we brought God. I find this theology a dis- nothing into the world, and tortion of the Gospel and an we can take nothing out if it. undermining approach to the People who want to get rich life of Christ. fall into temptation and a trap Growing up in church, I was and into many foolish and taught the characteristics of harmful desires.”

God: that he is faithful, loving, Sure, having money might merciful, just and compas- make life easier, offer you a sionate. I was also taught God comfortable life and even be a answers prayers, performs way to bless others. But don’t miracles, works through and get caught up in the idea that in our lives and blesses the money determines your own lives of his followers. No one worth. You are a child of God ever told me God was Santa and worth so much more Claus’ brother, or that heaven than any dollar can bring. had an ATM machine with the pin number: IWANT. But unlike my childhood E-mail Schlabach at: teachings of God, many are bemes02e@acu.edu or optimist@acu.edu

Student feels ripped-off by Centennial Celebration I’m a BAS student with four children who were all looking forward to ACU’s Birthday Celebration.

We received a flyer in the mail weeks in advance outlining the schedule for Saturday.

They were especially excited about the advertised Outdoor Birthday Carnival.

“Adults and children of all ages will enjoy the Birthday Carnival in the

Letter to the Editor An ACU student feels that the university should not throw a celebration party and charge unreasonable amounts of money in order for people to participate.

mall area of campus. Play games to win small prizes, bounce around on giant in-

flatables, grab a turkey leg and funnel cake, and catch up with friends to celebrate this landmark occasion.”

Imagine my surprise when we arrived at the event and my children were shooed off the “giant inflatable” they’d been waiting weeks for because they didn’t have a bracelet. A what? The attendant told me that for only $3 each ,I could buy bracelets

that would grant the kids access to the fabulous giant inflatables. I was stunned.

It wasn’t until then that I then noticed that everything had a price tag—food, inflatables, and even bottled water. I was afraid to even ask about the aforementioned funnel cakes and turkey legs. Under the pressure of shameless begging, I bought the bracelets. I felt like an

idiot; I felt ambushed.

Of course, only ACU would throw a birthday party, send out thousands of invitations and then charge you when you show up. I’ve looked at that flyer a hundred times— there are prices listed for the concert and the theater production, but the outdoor carnival— nada.

What exactly does my ACU student activity fee, which is

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

$70 a semester, pay for? As a professional designer and event planner, this is just unconscionable. Here’s a little advice, ACU: Don’t throw the party if you can’t afford it, and don’t you ever use my children to crawl deeper into my pockets again.

Kelli Pace BAS student kellipace@yahoo.com

Editorial and Management Board Mallory Schlabach

Published by the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication Newsroom: (325) 674-2439

Sports desk: (325) 674-2684

Lauren Sutton

Editor in Chief

Opinion Editor

Daniel Johnson

Jared Fields

Brian Schmidt

Sports Editor

Managing Editor

Chief Photographer

Michelle Jimenez

Mitch Holt

Kelsi Peace

Arts Editor

Copy Editor

Photo department: (325) 674-2499

Features Editor

Advertising office: (325) 674-2463

Subscriptions ($40/academic year): (325) 674-2296.

Christi Stark Advertising Manager

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Online: www.acuoptimist.com

CAMPUS NEWS

Wednesday, September 13, 2006

Page 6

‘Abilene 1906’ draws nearly 2,000 weekend viewers n ‘Abilene 1906,’ a musical comedy written by alumni, debuted Thursday through Saturday at the Paramount.

Almost 2,000 people attended.

By MICHELLE JIMENEZ Arts Editor

Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Paramount, musical comedy, Abilene 1906 brought audience members back to the time when the town of Abilene celebrated its 25th anniversary, and ACU took its original form as Childers Classical Institute.

Nearly 2,000 people attended the three performances as part of ACU’s Centennial Birthday Celebration, and Jennifer Ellison, coordinator of Centennial activities, said the turnout was better than expected.

“It was great seeing so many individuals from both ACU and the Abilene community support the musical,” Ellison said.

News of the musical even reached as far as Wichita Falls, bringing in a 50-person tour bus, Ellison said.

Dr. Ted Starnes, production manager of Abilene 1906, said despite the competition from other events that took place on Saturday, such as the West Texas Fair and Abilene’s Philharmonic Orchestra, the Paramount was still half to two-thirds full.

Ellison and Starnes both said the musical went well.

Starnes said the most significant thing for him concerning the musical was the affirming reaction received from the audience after the show.

“Each time, there were a lot of people who walked out talking about it or humming the songs,” Starnes said.

Abilene 1906 was not a precise historical account, said Dr. Jack Boyd, former ACU music professor and one of the writers of the play.

The two writers of the production, Boyd and Dr. Ed George, former ACU music professor, both said Abilene 1906 is their version of how they believe things might have taken place in the early 20th century in Abilene.

Boyd, writer of the book and lyrics for the musical, received his bachelor’s degree in music education from ACU in 1955, a master’s degree in music composition from the University of North Texas in Denton in 1959, and a Ph.D. in choral literature from the University of Iowa in Iowa City in 1971.

He was professor of music at ACU from 1968 to 1999, where he taught chorus, choral conducting, Music History, Introduction to Music and Church Music.

George first came to Abilene Christian College as a student in 1957 and received bachelor’s and

master’s degrees in music education from the university. George joined the music faculty in 1969 and in 1990 became the head of the Department of Music. George and his wife, Kathryn (‘73), have three children—Melinda Wilson (‘84), Glenna Miranda (‘86) and Greg (‘90).

Boyd and George have teamed up to write and compose more than six dramatic productions, including the musical Cedar Gap Homecoming in 1999, based on Boyd’s book, Cedar Gap Chronicles. Homecoming played to audiences in Abilene and spawned two subsequent plays, The Kids of Cedar Gap in 2001 and Christmas at Cedar Gap in 2002.

Mitch Holt contributed information and quotes to this story.

E-mail Jimenez at: mmj04b@acu.edu@acu.edu

KATIE GAGER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jarrod Bevills as Sam Rickenberry and Doug LoPachin as Chet Rickenberry perform in musical comedy Abilene 1906.

Sing Song duties split, changes made ArtWalk celebrates Abilene art and life n Tom Craig, former director of public relations, will help Kendall Massey, director of student productions, with the business and marketing aspects of Sing Song ‘06.

By ASHLEY ROBINSON Student Reporter

ACU’s annual Sing Song production is going through several changes, including a split between creative and marketing operations, theme announcements, scoring procedures and ticket purchases.

Kendall Massey, director of student productions, has previously been in charge of the entire Sing Song production, but this year his duties have been split with Tom Craig, new managing director of Sing Song and former director of ACU public relations.

Massey will oversee the creative portion of the 2007 production, and Craig will oversee marketing and promotions, linguistics, ticketing and working with volunteers.

Massey, director of Sing Song, calls the split “a great change.”

The change in operations affects the creative productions and the marketing aspects of Sing

Song, which has a yearly participation of about 1,500 people including students, acts and production staff, Massey said.

“The biggest challenge is rearranging how I do things. When you get used to something, that’s what makes it difficult to change,” Massey said.

Massey can now focus solely on the creative side of the production, while business market-

start planning and preparing over the summer,” Massey said.

Sing Song will take place Feb. 16-17 and the theme, “Shift into High Gear,” will incorporate 10 of the biggest changes that have happened in past shows.

“Kendall and I came up with this year’s theme together after a lot of brainstorming,” said Craig, former director of

“The changes that are coming are better for the university and for students.”

Kendall Massey, director of student productions

ing, advertising and promotions are all being handled by Craig.

“Tom is an excellent partner and has already done some awesome things,” Massey said.

“There are more changes on the surface and more that we are planning. The changes that are coming are better for the university and for students.”

Another change includes announcing next year’s theme the weekend of the show.

“This way people can

ACU public relations. “We wanted something that captured the excitement, energy and the spirit that, in year 101 of the university and year 51 of Sing Song, shows that things are stepping up a notch.”

Another change coming to Sing Song is bringing back past hosts and hostesses.

“We are calling it ‘Reunion Years,’ and it will incorporate those participants from every Sing Song ten and twenty years ago.”

This year, hosts and hostesses from 1987 and 1997 will be invited back.

Organizers have also made changes to scoring to give audiences more of a say-so in the process, Craig said.

“Friday and Saturday afternoon, the audience will be able to vote online, but we are still trying to figure out how to do that,” Massey said.

E-Tix, a new online ticketing system, will offer people the convenience of buying tickets online and printing them from home instead of having to wait for them to be mailed.

Craig said E-Tix will make the ticket-buying process easier because people will be able to look at the Web site, see which seats are still available and make purchases accordingly.

Tickets are sold out, but there will be more available as soon as the new ticketing system is ready.

An interest meeting will take place Thursday after Chapel in Cullen Auditorium.

E-mail Robinson at: optimist@acu.edu

n This month’s ArtWalk will take place at 5:30 p.m.

Thursday and provide special attention to all children attending the event.

By MEGAN LOWE Student Reporter

Area artists are gearing up for the chance to display their work at Abilene’s monthly ArtWalk, a familyfriendly, free celebration of the arts which will take place downtown Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

ArtWalk involves the cultural and business communities of Abilene, said Marianne Wood, curator of education and ArtWalk coordinator at the Center for Contemporary Arts.

This month’s ArtWalk will focus on the local children with “KidsWalk.”

Kid’s can enjoy a petting zoo at Frontier Texas, air castles at the State National Bank and face painting at the Grace Museum.

Although the theme focuses on children, there will be something for everyone such as a tour of the Abilene ReporterNews and exhibits from local and national artists at galleries downtown, Wood said.

The City of Abilene offers free trolley rides for all ArtWalkers, and the historical Paramount Theatre will feature the 2005 version of King Kong at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets will be available at the box office window and are $5 for adults and $4 for students, seniors and children.

Joie de Vivre, local folk band, will play in Minter Park.

“Anyone can be a part of ArtWalk,” Wood said.

“Volunteers are always needed to watch galleries or help at different events downtown.”

ArtWalk organizers encourage university faculty and students to enter their artwork for exhibition.

“It is a great chance for their work to be critiqued and even make some money,” Wood said.

Katie Freeman, junior graphic design and advertising major from Abilene, said she enjoys the community of artists that comes from the monthly ArtWalk.

“ArtWalk is a great opportunity for local artists to get together and see each other’s work as well as be inspired by each other,” Freeman said.

ArtWalk began in 1993 when the former executive director of the center decided to create an event to celebrate art in Abilene.

Sixty people attended the first ArtWalk, while about 2,500 people participated in June’s “CarWalk.”

“Art walk has been a community-building event, and it brings everyone together to support downtown and Abilene,” Wood said.

Those who are interested in participating should contact Marianne Wood at marianne@center-arts.com.

E-mail Lowe at: mrl04a@acu.edu

Wednesday, September 13, 2006

Page 7

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Bash: Weekend concludes Centennial Kick: Gibbs now Continued from page 1 sold at the carnival, and she estimated that about 1,500 people attended the event, including those who attended the birthday cake ceremony.

Cadle said about 30 student volunteers from the football team, U100 classes or individual interest helped at the event; 40 people volunteered in total.

“We had an abundance of volunteers,” Cadle said.

Feedback from students, staff, faculty and the community has been positive, Cadle said, but she said student participation was lower than she would have liked.

Dr. Royce Money, president of the university, and the Big Purple band led the audience in “Happy Birthday” at the cake ceremony.

A constant stream of film

from ACU’s history played Saturday in the Centennial Theatre.

Film clips were modern and historic, Morris said, and many clips were sporting events, including footage of three-time Olympic gold medalist and ACU alumnus Bobby Morrow crossing the finish line.

On Friday night, Abilene 1906 enjoyed a packed house, and Saturday and Sunday’s performances were full as well, Morris said.

The great-great granddaughter of Colonel Childers, ACU’s namesake, attended Saturday’s performance and posed for pictures with Childers’ character in the musical.

The Birthday Bash ended with a concert by Dove Awardwinning Christian band Caedmon’s Call and a fireworks

waits to receive cash Continued from page 1

Katie Gager STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Caedmon’s Call percussionist Garett Buell and drummer Todd Bragg perform during their concert Saturday at Elmer Gray Stadium. display.

“If I had to pick one thing that exceeded my expectations, it would be the fireworks show,” Jennifer Ellison, Centennial activi-

ties coordinator, said in an e-mail. “We couldn’t have picked a better way to end our Birthday Celebration.”

E-mail Peace at: knp04a@acu.edu

Convocation: Money ‘answers the call’ Continued from page 1 over Pennsylvania. A reflective picture presentation of images from the terrorist attacks was shown during that time.

Dr. Paul Corts, president of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities was one of the featured speakers, along with Dr. Royce Money, president of the university.

Corts began his speech, “A Call to Faith and Excellence for a Second Century,” by describing what Chapel might have looked like a century ago, when 200 faculty and students met for the first time at ACU, at that time known as Classic Childers Institute.

He spoke of the strengths of the university in keeping

its doors open throughout the World Wars and during the Depression. He also spoke of two well-known alumni, Max Lucado, international best-selling Christian author, and David Leeson, Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist, who he said illustrates what it means to be salt and light in the world.

“At ACU, you will find your role is to write your story,” Corts said. “The questions is what will your story be?”

He said the generation represented by the student body is one supposedly more spiritual than generations before it and that he and other Christian leaders are excited to see what it will do in the world.

“Your challenge as students is to love, nurture and

care for this place,” Corts said.

“Keep it anchored in the Lord Jesus Christ, and let us never be ashamed of the name of Christ in these walls.”

Money responded to Corts charge to the university to be salt and light in the world and said the university can no longer do business as usual in the second century.

“We need to create students who think critically, globally and missionally,” Money said. “We will continue to call students to gain a deeper appreciation of all the violence, fraud and darkness in the world and help them to believe that they can make a difference, even if it is in their own neighborhood. For someone to simply light a candle is far better than one cursing the darkness.”

In addition to guest speakers, the Acapella Chorus, led by Dr. Mike Scarborough, director of choral activities and associate professor of music, performed “Ye Shall Have a Song,” from The Peaceable Kingdom, and a video recap of images from the past year dressed by musical composition “Centennial Fanfare,” written by Dr. M. L. Daniels Jr., was shown to attendees.

Dr. Michelle Morris, vice president for university relations, ended the convocation by thanking everyone for their support, help and participation in all the Centennial events and for envisioning the start of the university’s next 100 years.

E-mail Schlabach at: mes02e@acu.edu

thrown into the stands.

“They threw shirts in the stands and I got one that had a note on it,” Gibbs said.

What happened before he got the shirt is what the company is reviewing.

“It fell to an older man, right off my friend’s hand and right to that guy,” Gibbs said. “So my friend said, ‘I’ve got this guy that can do it.’”

The man gave the shirt to Gibbs, and Odds On Promotions is investigating if this and Gibbs’ JV experience, violate the terms and guidelines of the promotion. A representative from the company called Gibbs on Tuesday to ask some questions about the event.

“They asked a bunch of questions, so I told him everything.”

Gibbs said the representative told him the investigation could take up to three weeks and didn’t give an indication about wheth-

er he would get the money or not.

The day after Gibbs made the kick, Mosley called the company to tell them that Gibbs made the kick and to confess that he played JV football.

“She said to go ahead and pursue it,” Mosley said.

Gibbs also hopes the money will be given to him. Gibbs said he was having financial trouble and wondered how he would pay for school.”

“I didn’t get as much in loans as I thought and then the next day I did this,” Gibbs said.

Gibbs doesn’t have the money yet but said it hasn’t stopped people from asking him for money.

“They’re always asking for it, and I’m still just as broke as before,” Gibbs said.

“If I get the money I’ll pay rent and stuff for the rest of the year and give some to church.”

E-mail Fields at: jrf03b@acu.edu

Infection: Methods in place to prevent MRSA Continued from page 1 the form of MRSA and poses a considerable health threat.

The bacteria is easily transmittable and can lead to serious infections.

Rector said several things can be done to prevent MRSA: avoid sharing towels and washrags; when shaving, be extremely careful and sanitary and don’t share razors; wash hands frequently; and practice ba-

sic personal hygiene.

He said he doesn’t want to cause hysteria, but it’s something that can cause pain and suffering, and people at ACU have gone to the hospital because of this.

“I just want people to be aware of it,” Rector said.

“People think it’s a hair infection, but they need to treat it immediately and treat it for what it is.”

E-mail Holt at: mah02f@acu.edu

Sports Wednesday

Wednesday, September 13, 2006

ScoreBoard Standings FOOTBALL

Team

WTAMU MSU ACU TAMU-K Angelo St. Tarleton ENMU

Team

Div. 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Overall 2-0 2-0 1-0 1-1 1-1 0-2 0-1

VOLLEYBALL

WTAMU Tarelton St. ACU TAMU-K ENMU Angelo St.

Div. 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Overall 7-2 3-3 4-7 3-8 3-10 2-9

Scores Friday

VOLLEYBALL

Ouchita Baptist 3, ACU 2

Saturday

VOLLEYBALL

Missouri Southern 3, ACU 0 ACU 3, Lubbock Christian 0

Upcoming Thursday

VOLLEYBALL

ACU vs. Texas A&M Kingsville, 7 p.m.

Friday

MEN’S TENNIS

New Mexico State Invitational, Las Cruces N.M.

WOMEN’S TENNIS

Baylor Invitational, Waco Tex.

Saturday

FOOTBALL

ACU at SE Oklahoma, Durant, Okla., 6 p.m.

Home streak snapped, conference begins n The Wildcat volleyball team won one of three games last weekend in its final preseason tournament.

ACU opens conference play against Texas A&M Kingsville Thursday.

By DANIEL JOHNSON Sports Editor

After unsuccessfully defending their 34 at-home winning streak, head volleyball coach Kellen Mock has a new challenge for her 4-7, conference-bound team: don’t make the same mistake twice.

The Wildcats’ mistakes and inconsistencies last weekend led to a 1-2 finish at the ACU Wildcat Classic on the heels of their first conference match against Texas A&M Kingsville.

ACU lost to Ouachita Baptist and Missouri Southern in its first two matches of the tournament.

“We’re going to have to learn how to play consistently and win as a team,” Mock said. “Now that we’ve experienced losing at home, we know we don’t want to let it happen again.”

The two losses during the tournament were the Wildcats’ first consecutive home losses since 2000.

Although ACU had 75 kills, 71 assists and 69 digs in the opening match against Ouachita Baptist, the team’s mistakes outweighed its successes.

The Wildcats’ 28 attack errors helped Ouachita outlast ACU and eventually win the match, 13-30, 30-22, 24-30, 3129 and 15-12.

ACU also lost to Missouri Southern 30-24, 30-18 and 3025.

The Wildcats’ only win of the tournament was a three-game victory over Lubbock Christian in the last match of the tournament. ACU overpowered LCU, winning 30-26 and 30-1. The win was the Wildcats fourth of the season and their first in less than five games.

Abbie Lowry recorded 20 kills against LCU in addition to her 34 in previous matches

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Outside hitter Abbie Lowry, defensive specialist Jessica Reyna, middle blocker Michelle Bacon, libero Liz Snoddy and teammates celebrate after scoring against Missouri Southern at the ACU Wildcat Classic, Saturday. ACU went 1-2 at the tournament after losing to Ouachita Baptist and Missouri Southern and defeating Lubbock Christian in three games.

Volleyball of the tournament. Red-shirt freshman Erin Curry had the second-most kills in the tournament with 12.

Mock said the biggest weakness she saw in her team this weekend was its inability to block the outside of the net, something they will try to improve before beginning conference.

“We came out playing like us—with our A game ready to go beat somebody,” Mock said.

“But they picked up their game and we didn’t know what to do.”

Junior libero Liz Snoddy doesn’t want to focus on the mistakes the Wildcats made this weekend and throughout

the preseason. She said she is ready to start over in conference play.

But the team’s inexperience might work against it.

ACU rotates eight girls who have never played on a collegiate level before this season.

“We do play a lot of younger girls, and they’re still learning the college game,” Mock said.

“College volleyball is very different than high school or club, and we’re still learning how to outsmart our opponents.”

Mock’s newcomers and the rest of the Wildcats will attempt to outsmart Kingsville at home Thursday in their first conference match.

E-mail Johnson at: djj04a@acu.edu

VOLLEYBALL

Flag football to kick off season

n Home games listed in Italics

Briefs

n Intramural flag football began Monday and may be the most successful season yet with increased participation from underclassmen and clubs.

n Senior outside linebacker Marcus Brown was named LSC South Division Defensive Player of the Week. Brown had nine tackles and made the game saving sack and forced fumble in the 24-18 victory over the University of Central Oklahoma.

By ZACH CUNNINGHAM Sports Writer

Intramural Round-up Upcoming

MEN’S CHAMP FLAG FOOTBALL You know who vs. Cobras, 8 p.m., Field 2 GSP (Blair) vs. Bannana Splits, 9 p.m., Field 1 G-1 vs. OTP, 10 p.m., Field 1

WOMEN’S REC FLAG FOOTBALL Bandits vs. Delta Theta, 9 p.m. Field 2

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Aina Rafolomanantsiatosika runs after a ball during the ACU Wal-Mart Invitational Open Saturday. Both the men and women finished on top of singles and doubles competition in their first tournament of the season and will be on the road this weekend in Las Cruces,N.M., and Waco.

Wildcats dominate weekend n The tennis team opened its season by dominating the ACU Wal-Mart Invitational. The ACU men and women both won singles and doubles competitions.

MEN’S REC FLAG FOOTBALL 2nd stringers vs. Frats (Q. Carter), 7 p.m., Field 1 Frats (Norman) vs. Starlight Bandits, 7 p.m., Field 2 Throttle vs. Outdoor Club, 8 p.m., field 1

WOMEN’S REC FLAG FOOTBALL Pink Ladies vs. Ramones, 6 p.m., field 1 Annexation of Puerto Rico vs.

Siggies, 6 p.m., Field 2

For complete intramural scores and schedules visit: w w w. a c u o p t i m i s t . c o m

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Setter Ericka Dickenson dives for a ball during ACU’s match against Missouri Southern Saturday.

ACU vs. Tarleton State, 2 p.m.

Thursday

Page 8

By MICHAEL FREEMAN Online Editor

The ACU men and women completed a successful ACU Wal-Mart Invitational Open Friday and Saturday.

“Basically, the men and women dominated the tournament,” head coach Hutton Jones said.

The Wildcat teams fought against players from HardinSimmons University, McMurry University, Collin County Community College, Howard Payne University, Texas Southern University, Cameron University and North Central Texas College.

On the women’s side, the Wildcats took the competition by storm. In the first singles flight, the ACU women tore

Tennis through the draw and occupied all four semifinal spots.

Sophomore Irene Squillaci won the flight. In the second singles flight, sophomore Sarah Drummond prevailed as the winner.

It was Drummond’s second consecutive year to win an ACU Wal-Mart Open flight title. The Wildcat women also controlled the doubles play. The duo of Squillaci and senior Lana Pavlin won the first doubles flight. And the doubles team of Drummond and junior Meagan Brown took the second doubles flight title.

The Wildcat men also did well. In the first singles flight, three ACU players, sophomore Juan Nunez, sophomore Ryan Hudson and senior George Carstens, made it to the semifinals. Hudson advanced to the finals before losing. The ACU men faired even better in doubles. The sophomore team

of Hudson and Brett Hicks won the first flight. And, the pair of freshman Luke Hawk and sophomore Hutton Jones Jr. captured the second doubles flight title.

Throughout the tournament, there were several instances where ACU players had to play each other in order to advance in the draw.

“We pushed each other. It’s hard to play one of your teammates,” Jones said. “But in the end, we’re trying to get better.

And, I think we came out in the place where we want to be.”

The ACU women will travel to Waco Friday to compete in the Baylor Invitational. Also on Friday, the Wildcat men will play in the New Mexico State Invitational in Las Cruces, N.M. “We’ll have our hands full,” Jones said. “But I expect us to hold our own.”

E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu

Intramural flag football is coming off a huge year and organizers are expecting another one this year.

As intramural sports begin during the fall semester, flag football is without a doubt the most popular one on campus.

“Last year, over 1,200 students participated in flag football,” said intramural sports coordinator Danny Kittley.

“That’s almost 25 percent of the entire student body.”

There is optimism that flag football will garner even more participation than last year because of the huge number of freshman that participated in Welcome Week, Kittley said.

“We had about 25 teams with the freshmen during Welcome Week this year,” said Kittley. “This gives us reason to be optimistic about this year considering we had about 12 freshmen teams last year, and the participation was above normal for then” Flag football has usually

Intramurals been one of the more popular intramural sports on campus.

It draws a bigger fan base and more participation from students in all classifications.

“Flag football just offers a higher level of stimulation and excitement for both the players and people watching,” said Jeramy Garner, a fan of intramural sports and junior psychology major from Kopperl.

“There’s a different level of involvement for both groups.”

Social club teams usually draw the biggest fan base with their pledges supporting them and their sister and brother club members as well, Kittley said.

“However, it isn’t unusual to see big crowds of students and family come out to watch non-club teams either. You’ll have grandparents, parents and other kids come out to watch the action. There can be a thousand students watching the games as the tournament moves on.”

Attendance is expected to be even higher as more and more students participate in intramurals overall, especially flag football, he said.

E-mail Cunningham at: zjc03b@acu.edu

Manning Tracker n In his NFL regular season debut, Danieal Manning had an interception and two assisted tackles in the Chicago Bears’ 26-0 opening win over the Green Bay Packers Sunday.

Manning’s first interception in the NFL was against veteran quarterback Brett Favre. The former Wildcat signed a $3.5 million, 4-year contract with the Bears on July 5, 2006, after being chosen 42nd by the Bears. At ACU, Manning was an 12-time NCAA Division II all-American selection.

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