OPTIMIST
The Vol. 95, No. 7
IN THIS ISSUE CAMPUS Austin art
Art professor Dan McGregor opened a solo art gallery last weekend at Concordia University in Austin, page 3
ARTS
FRIDAY
1 section, 8 pages
September 15, 2006
www.acuoptimist.com
Professors tenured after tedious application n ACU gave eight professors from the university tenures and promotions. Tenure gives professors more educational freedom and trust. By SHARON RAPELJE Staff Writer
Eight faculty members from different departments received tenure and promotions this year.
When Dr. Bill Rankin, associate professor of English, was asked to define tenure, he used this example. Socrates was forced to drink poison because his teachings influenced his students to question their government. Socrates was killed because he dared to explore and question, but these are the things that tenure promotes, he said.
“A university is based on intellectual freedom that we should be able to talk about and think about anything,” Rankin said. Tenure is a pass from the college saying that it trusts the teacher and will allow him or her to discuss and examine things that the dominant culture or university culture may not agree with, Rankin said. However, he said, not ev-
eryone agrees with this freedom. “A lot of people think it is strange or even unfair, but if you think what a university is based on, it is pretty crucial,” Rankin said. The process is something both Rankin and Laura Baker, associate professor of the Brown Library, spent months preparing for. Baker said to apply you must have a port-
folio consisting of six categories: teaching/librarianship for librarians, scholarship, service, curriculum vitea, a statement about how we integrate faith with our work and collegiality. She defined collegiality as “cooperation and interaction with other departments on campus, being able to serve other departments See
TENURE page 5
Bid Night returns Superman returns again Stellar performances by Ben Affleck, Diane Lane and Adam Brody give ‘Hollywoodland’ a good review, page 4
SPORTS
All-nighter to unify woman pledges n Despite an early start to the rushing and pledging season, women’s club leaders said they feel prepared to begin the pledging activities Friday. By ATSUMI SHIBATA Page Designer
Hitting the road
The Wildcat football team has its first road game of the season Saturday against No. 10-ranked Southeastern Oklahoma State, page 8
ONLINE
Your future leaders
Elections took place this week for Students’ Association representatives and class senators. See the results at www. acuoptimist.com
SPEED READ Facebook frenzy
Facebook.com creator Mark Zuckerberg announced Wednesday the social networking Web site geared towards students will soon be open to the public. Outraged members formed groups with more than 2,300 members protesting only hours after the announcement was made. Members accused the creators of trying to compete with MySpace.com, a public networking Web site with more than 100 million members. With the news of the coming change, many members have vowed to leave the Web site once it goes public.
Women’s social clubs and pledges will have a devotional together at University Church of Christ on Friday at 5 p.m.; then Bid Night begins. Between 300 and 350 students are members of women’s social clubs, and about 250 female students participated in rushes this year. Women’s social club presidents have mixed emotions about the change of schedule this year, but they are mostly pleased with this rushing season’s turnout. “It was very stressful,” said Shelbi Watten, senior broadcast journalism major from Coppell and president of Ko Jo Kai. “We had to have everything ready before school even started. If we would have done Bid Night next week, it will be one or two weeks for Homecoming. That’s not enough time for girls to build a float.” Another women’s social See
WOMEN page 5
brian schmidt FILE PHOTO
The pledges of Gamma Sigma Phi hold watermelons last fall as one of their rituals that all pledges must go through on the steps of the amphitheatre.
Physical activities, initiation planned for men n To learn about club traditions, history and ‘to build boys into men,’ male pledges will endure a night of rigorous activities and secret traditions, unique to each club. By DENTON JOSEY Page 2 Editor
Bid Night is Friday, and men’s social clubs have prepared for a long night of initiation activities.
Because much of what social clubs do during Bid Night is secret, only so much can be learned without going through pledging. However, there seems to be only two sides to it: the pledges and the club’s current members. Brady Hilton, senior visual communication major from Abilene and president of Frater Sodalis, said Bid Night is one of the more important
things the club does, and he expects about 15 graduated members to show up for the event. “Bid night is a big deal for us, and the whole club comes and other guys from the past,” Hilton said. “Pledging is so you can teach traditions and build boys into men. You can teach them the values that we hold dear to us.” Bid Night is the only night
clubs are allowed to keep pledges out all night. Hilton said Frater Sodalis usually ends between 6 and 6:30 a.m., depending on the number of pledges. This year he expects to have between 20 and 30. “I would assume men’s pledging is more physically demanding than girls pledging,” Hilton said. “I don’t See
MEN page 5
Nine-week study looks at Jesus and hip-hop artists n Junior Matt Worthington created a Bible study for students that looks at the lyrics of hip-hop artists and how it relates to the life of Christ. By LAUREN SUTTON Opinion Editor
When Matt Worthington attended the student mission conference Urbana during
summer 2003, two of his passions collided. After hearing authors John Teter and Alex Gee speak on their book, Jesus and the HipHop Prophets, Worthington made a connection between God and the role of hip-hop music in modern culture. “If you don’t scream out, then the rocks will cry out,” Worthington, junior English
major from San Antonio, said of the scripture recited in hiphop legend Tupac Shakur’s eulogy. “You know, in a very real sense, hip-hop artists are the rocks that are crying out for truth in the world. It’s interesting because all truth is God’s truth, and it’s as if truth is desperate to be heard.” Students are “seeking the
Prophets could be implemented here. I thought of it as a means to develop cross-cultural relationships because there are so many different people who listen to hip-hop music.” When Mark Lewis, director of Spiritual Life, approached See
PROPHETS page 5
Fall enrollment exceeds record
Playing with fire
n Dr. Money, president of the university, announced Wednesday the 12-day enrollment count set a new record this year, with nearly 100 more students attending. By JARED FIELDS Managing Editor
brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Firefighters from the Abilene Fire Department demonstrate the dangers of lighting candles in residence halls Tuesday in the mall area.
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
truth” by meeting weekly in a small-group setting to tell the story of Jesus through the poets of the day: hip-hop artists. Worthington’s idea to begin a small-group discussion on Jesus and the Hip-Hop Prophets was sparked by the cultural diversity at ACU. “I was wondering how the idea of Jesus and the Hip-Hop
ACU released official 12thday record-high enrollment numbers Wednesday for the fall semester with 4,796 students. This fall’s enrollment beats the previous record of 4,786 in fall 2004 and is an increase of 93 students from
last year. The enrollment includes 632 graduate students, 958 freshman and 4,164 undergraduates of students from 51 states and territories and 57 nations. ACU president Dr. Royce Money said, “This is a great way to end our Centennial year and begin our second century.” Robert Heil, assistant vice president for enrollment and strategic marketing operations, said in a press release that incoming freshmen are strong students and attracted to the programs here.
Abilene Christian University
“ A C U Enrollment c o n t i n u e s by numbers to attract an increas- The top three record enrollments ing numoccurred in the ber of stu- past six years: dents with high ACT n Fall 2006: 4,796 and SAT test scores, n Fall 2004: 4,786 strong high n Fall 2000: 4,761 school records and high involvement in their schools and churches,” Heil said. E-mail Fields at: optimist@acu.edu
Serving the ACU community since 1912
Chapel Checkup Credited Chapels to date: Credited Chapels remaining:
Wednesday, March 29, 2006 Friday, September 15, 2006
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.
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
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.
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Calendar & Events Friday
Social Club Bid Night
Purple Friday Prospective students visit campus.
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Sunday
Lectureship Eighty-ninth annual ACU Bible Lectureship inspired by the Gospel of John 9-21
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Lectureship
Monday
The Steak Express runs a booth at the West Texas Fair with 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 325-7932828. The Key City Kiwanis Club will have its annual fish fry 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 at 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 the children.
Tuesday
Lectureship
4 p.m. Learning Commons dedication
Last day to withdraw from classes with 60 percent refund
Announcements
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1:30 p.m. Gaines Stanley Reading Room dedication
Volunteer Opportunities Volunteers are needed at Lee Elementary School on Thursday afternoons from 3:15 to 4 p.m. to help with the Scrabble Club. Third, fourth and fifth graders use their spelling words to play the game of Scrabble, and volunteers will assist them. For additional information contact the Volunteer Center in the Bean Sprout. The Old Town Abilene Neighborhood Association needs volunteers on Saturday, beginning in the morning to help with its second annual neighborhood clean-up. There will be a variety of clean-up tasks, and some residents may need assistance with their property. If you are interested in helping with this opportunity, contact the Volunteer Center in the Bean Sprout. Dreamnight at The Zoo needs volunteers. Saturday, Sept. 30, a special event will take place at the zoo for handicapped and chronically ill children. Help is needed from 2 to 5 p.m. to set up, run events from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and clean up from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. If you can help, contact the Volunteer Center in the Bean Sprout.
Alzheimer’s Association needs volunteers to help with set up and tear down of Memory Walk, Saturday, Sept. 30, from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Nelson Park. For more information please contact Libby Connally at 325-672-5839. Beltway Park Baptist Church needs volunteers for the setting up and removal of tables and chairs, working children’s activities and inflatables, staging for Ministry Fair, volunteer recruiting and other jobs on the following dates: Saturday, Sept. 30, from noon to 3 p.m.; Monday, Oct. 2, from 8 to 11 a.m.; Friday, Oct. 6, from 6 to 9 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 7, in the afternoon; and Monday, Oct. 9, from 8 to 11 a.m. For more information please contact Marilyn Smith at 325-6926540. The Texas Family Institute needs two babysitters for toddlers every Thursday in September during a parenting class from 6 to 9 p.m. The Texas Family Institute is located at 1166 North 3rd St. downtown. For more information, please contact Suzanne Perkins at 325-676-2915.
Students given more food options on campus n The Bean and The Bean Sprout were given more food options during the summer, including items that cater to student health concerns. By JOHNNY BAUTISTA STUDENT R EPORTER
Many students have noticed The World Famous Bean and the Bean Sprout, which are owned by Aramark, have undergone several changes since spring, and several new food items are available in each. Anthony Williams, director of Retail and Purchasing, said this change is only the begin-
ning. Last year, students, faculty and staff received online surveys asking what kinds of changes they would like to see in The Bean. More than 1,200 online surveys were submitted, and there were seven focus groups that met to discuss the new offerings The Bean and Bean Sprout would provide. Williams said at least threefourths of the students, faculty and staff wanted on-campus restaurants to provide some healthier food choices. Andre Allen, interim food service director, said Williams has been one of the main peo-
ple instrumental in these dining changes. Some of the changes have been the addition of a vegan section, a new pizza section and a revamped salad bar. Allen also said that the Mexican food section now offers homemade tortillas. Williams said along with the complaints about food, students complained about prices in the Bean Sprout. As a result, students now have more food options like barbecue sandwiches, grilled chicken sandwiches and Philly cheese and steak sandwiches—all for $5 per meal. The Sprout also has an assortment of other items, such as half and full racks of ribs, salads, milkshakes and malts and ice cream. “The Bean and the Bean Sprout are going through a lifestyle change, and we are
trying to get away from the old-fashioned cafeteria style,” Allen said. “We’re trying to go outside the box and find better ways to get students to eat on campus, and we think that these new changes to the Bean and the Bean Sprout will attract students.” Allen said in addition to food renovations to The Bean and Bean Sprout, a Quiznos Subs will be one of the new restaurants available to students in January, and it will replace Reservation’s Only. “The dining service is very excited because we think that we have a good grasp of what students want,” Williams said. “We are confident that we will be able to exceed the expectations that students have requested.” E-mail Bautista at: optimist@acu.edu
CAMPUS NEWS
Friday, September 15, 2006
Professors use iTunes U in classroom n Apple’s iTunes U provides students across the U.S. with a new way to study. ACU graduate professors have implemented the program into several classes. By SHELBY COATES Student Reporter
Students no longer study the way they use to do. Apple has created a new way to study with its new program, iTunes U. Several ACU graduate professors are implementing iTunes U in their class sections this fall for a trial run. The program will be tested on several sections of undergraduate classes in the spring, said George Saltsman, director of education technology. “There are a lot of different voices in the classroom now,” Saltsman said. Professors are using iTunes U much like Blackboard and online drop boxes. The program acts as a learning tool where content is distributed through
Apple’s iTunes program. According to the Apple Web site, “iTunes U is a free, hosted service for colleges and universities that provides easy access to your educational content, including lectures and interviews 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.” ACU is one of two Texas schools that applied for the iTunes U program and were accepted. While the program is still new to ACU, the potential benefits are already being weighed. The Center for Teaching and Learning is looking to add class lectures and audio textbooks through iTunes U so students can study as they go, Saltsman said. iTunes U allows students to view in-class interviews and discussion. Whatever the professor posts for his class in iTunes U, it will appear on iTunes for the students. It is like an archive
of notes that you can take with you, he said. This fall professors are trying several different techniques with iTunes U. Music professors can record student performances on iTunes U. In psychology classes, students can record role-plays and watch their own methods. Some professors are using iTunes U for audio blogs and podcasts of world news and distance learning instructors. Publicity for ACU can be gained from iTunes as well, Saltsman said. “It is an interest to ACU because people can download and look at ACU from afar,” he said. iTunes U can focus in on prospective and current ACU students. Through iTunes U, viewers can download podcasts of visiting keynote speakers, ministers and student bands and entertainment. “You can go through one
main interface and everything is in one place,” said Cade White, instructor in the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication. Nothing is stopping a professor from putting lecture notes on iTunes, White said. Students can upload podcasts on iTunes, view Optimist online videos and all ACU-related content can be in one place. Students do not have to search for information. “iTunes U helps ensure if someone wanted to find ACU content, they can find it,” White said. Saltsman said students do not need an iPod to connect to iTunes U. iTunes U works through iTunes, which is available on campus. iTunes is free to download, said Saltsman. For more information, visit http://www.apple. com/education/solutions/ itunes_u/. E-mail Coates at: sac04at@acu.edu
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Poster Child
LACI ADKINS STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Landon Black, senior marketing major from Flower Mound, browsing posters at the Campus Center Tuesday.
Art professor’s work featured at gallery in Austin n Dan McGregor, professor of art, is featured in a solo exhibit in Austin. The exhibition is called “Martyrs Mendicants Machines, relics for modern man.” By KELSI PEACE Features Editor
After a summer spent immersed in his art studio, Dr. Dan McGregor, professor of art and design, emerged with a solo exhibition at Concordia University in Austin to show for his efforts. McGregor’s exhibition, “Martyrs Mendicants Machines, relics for modern man,” is on display in the
Gallery at Concordia, located in the Louise T. Peter Center. The exhibition began Sept. 8 and will end Oct. 10. An opening reception, which McGregor attended, took place Sept. 9. McGregor said he felt that everyone who viewed the exhibit enjoyed it. “The best parts of the reception were being blessed by all these people who traveled a long way … and second, the food. Art was the third,” he said. McGregor won his solo exhibition in the 2005
Arte Sagrado competition, which is “Concordia’s national juried exhibition of contemporary sacred art,” according to the Concordia University Web site. “It’s a good show to enter, especially if you have kind of spiritual themes in your work,” McGregor said. McGregor’s winning piece, “Cinderella and Death (Beauty for Ashes),” combines an oil painting on canvas with wood. It is both two- and three-dimensional and uses wood or other altered pieces, he said.
Peet’s Coffee offers music and study time n A coffee shop near campus, Peet’s Coffee, offers live music every week and special coffee prices for studying students, Sunday through Thursday. By NATHAN STRAUS Staff Writer
Peet’s Coffee, a shop attached to United Supermarkets on Judge Ely Boulevard, is trying to increase sales by finding people to play music for customers. Lanae Dycus, barista at Peet’s, said she was put in charge of locating and booking musicians who may want exposure, although no one famous is scheduled to perform. “We started this mainly to attract students from the area,” Dycus said. The shop is in its sixth week of booking musicians to play, and performances are usually on Thursdays.
Dycus said she is trying to get performances moved to Fridays. Amanda Dunn, sophomore marketing and communication major from Abilene, said she will be performing Friday from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. “I’ll be playing original songs I’ve written,” Dunn said. “It’ll be mostly contemporary and folk music.” Dunn also said she was contacted by Peet’s because her father had performed there, and Peet’s wanted to hear from her. Dunn said she plays the piano and the guitar and has recorded one CD. “Take a break from studying and come down to Peet’s on Friday,” Dunn said. Dycus said the shop is a nice, smoke-free environment with lots of food to eat. “There’s food for sale
in the coffee shop and in the burrito restaurant right next to it,” Dycus said. “Students can even buy something from United and eat it in Peet’s.” Dycus said people can find something to keep themselves happy at Peet’s. There are even table games customers can enjoy while listening to music. There are other events Peet’s puts on, Dycus said. The study hour special is every week from Sunday to Thursday. It lasts from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. and students who attend can get two cups of coffee for the price of one. “I encourage people to come and stay for a while,” Dycus said. “There is free internet access for anyone who brings a laptop.”
E-mail Straus at: nrs02a@acu.edu
“I’m really influenced by medieval and renaissance, technology and art,” McGregor said. His exhibit is composed of 18 pieces, although he originally intended to incorporate 20 pieces, McGregor said. A 7-by-4-foot painting McGregor included in the exhibit occupied the majority of his time this summer, he said. “I really didn’t have much of a summer in terms of recreation,” he said. “I pretty much spent it all here in my studio. [Art is] like showing up
for a job and coming and doing your work, not just waiting until a lightning bolt strikes and you feel inspired. Sometimes you don’t feel inspired, and you need to work anyway,” he said. After his artwork was complete, McGregor said he borrowed a van and transported his work to the gallery himself. Once there, McGregor left it to others to display his artwork for the exhibit. “I didn’t totally like how they hung it; I would have made some different
choices,” McGregor said. McGregor said he is ready for a break from art to dedicate time to restoring a balance to his life that was lost in preparation for the exhibit; however, he said he has a notebook filled with ideas for future pieces, and sketches his ideas on the paper nearest to him whenever an idea strikes. “It’s fun working on a goal and working on a cohesive body of work. It’s just really exhausting.”
E-mail Peace at: knp04a@acu.edu
Page 4 Box Office Stats Latest movies and gross rates for the weekend of Sept. 8-10. Total gross in parenthesis. n The Covenant: $8,852,458 ($8,852,458) n Hollywoodland: $5,926,177 ($5,926,177) n Invincible: $5,630,126 ($45,500,634) n The Protector: $5,034,180 ($5,034,180) n Crank: $4,904,308 ($19,962,812) n The Illusionist: $4,514,306 ($17,963,845)
cOMING sOON Movies opening on Sept. 22: n All the King’s Men, starring Sean Penn, Jude Law and Kate Winslet. Adaption of the novel All the King’s Men by Robert Penn Warren. A southern politician becomes corrupted by the system. n Bandidas, starring Penelope Cruz and Salma Hayek. Two women become wild bank robbers to save their town from terrorization. n Flyboys, starring James Franco and Jean Reno. The story of 38 American men becoming the world’s first combat pilots in WWI, known as Lafayette Escadrille. n Jet Li’s Fearless, starring Jet Li. Based on the life of Chinese martial arts legend, Huo Yuanjia, who became the most famous fighter in China after fighting a skilled Japanese competitor.
September 15, 2006
Movie exposes the life and death of TV’s Superman n ‘Hollywoodland’ looks into the life of George Reeves, star of the 1950s TV show ‘Adventures of Superman,’ at the onset of his death by suicide. By COLE WILLIAMS Cartoonist
This has been a good year for Superman: first came the terrific, yet underappreciated, Superman Returns, and now Hollywoodland. George Reeves (Affleck) is an actor desperate for work in 1950s Hollywood. His career started with a bit part in “Gone with the Wind,” but is now reduced to starring as Galahad in cheap, kiddie serials. One day at a party, Reeves meets Toni Mannix (Lane), the wife of MGM vice president Eddie Mannix (Hoskins) and falls fast in love with the older, married woman. Soon after, he gets a starring role as Superman in the hugely popular “Adventures of Superman” TV show, which lands him fame and recognition. But when his quest for better acting gigs, independence and fulfillment failed, the depressed actor headed
Movie theaters around town: n Westwood Twin Theatre: 3440 N. 1st St. 672-1288 n Town & Country Twin Drive-In: 2902 Vogel Ave. 677-9899 n Carmike Park Central: 3234 S. Clack St. 915-698-3540 n Century Abilene 12: 3818 John Knox Dr. 915-793-9191 n Premiere Cinema 10 Mall of Abilene: 4310 Buffalo Gap Rd. 695-2122
mother to his agent—he begins to see disturbing similarities between himself and the deceased actor, which compels him to find the truth. Hollywoodland maintains a slow burn of intrigue and intelligently written characters. Brody is great as the downtrodden, sleazy Simo, a man who makes a living uncovering dirty secrets, but discovers he wants to
do the right thing. Also excellent are Lane as the smoldering older woman Reeves loved, and Hoskins as a burning ember of anger and passion who is her husband. But the piece de résistance is Affleck as Reeves. Turning in an uncanny performance, easily the best of his career, Affleck embodies Reeves—from his slight accent and large frame to
his vulnerability and desire to live outside of Superman’s red and blue tights. His weaknesses, as well as his strengths, are perfectly handled by Affleck in great scenes. The direction and music perfectly accompany fine performances with subtle, moody costume and set design, along with appropriate period music. Unfortunately, the movie’s main flaw is that it is a bit slow, often focusing too much on the supporting characters rather than on Reeves. And because Reeves dies at the beginning, the film is hardly a fast-paced thriller. But ponderous pace aside, Hollywoodland is a superb, engaging film. A rich take on a flawed actor, the equally flawed people around him and the mysterious events surrounding his death. It touches on many themes: fulfillment, identity, desire, fiction and reality. A solid film to capture the life and death of a solid actor.
Photo courtesy of ROTTENTOMATOES.COM
George Reeves, played by Ben Affleck, and Toni Mannix, played by Diane Lane, flirt while sitting on a bench after meeting for the first time at a Hollywood party.
E-mail Williams at: cww02b@acu.edu
FilmFest equips students for ‘unReel’ n FilmFest provides students of all experience levels in filmmaking with the opportunity to express themselves in a unique format this year. By DENTON JOSEY Page 2 Designer
lOCAL ABILENE tHEATERS
into his bedroom one night and shot himself. Or did he? That’s the question “Hollywoodland” poses. Reeves’ mother hires detective Louis Simo (Brody) to investigate her son’s death fearing it may be murder—or hoping it is—so suicide won’t be her son’s lasting legacy. As Simo meets the people in Reeves’ life—from the women he loved to his
In its third year, FilmFest seems to be making several changes. Last year 90 students participated on 12 teams, and organizers expect even more involvement this year. Doug Darby, creative and media specialist at ACU and FilmFest’s creator and executive director, said changes made for this year make it more attractive for participants. “This year’s theme appeals to more people; a lot of incoming students are into it,” he said. New to this year’s event, themed ‘Unreel,’ is a fiveminute time limit. This will allow for more films to be viewed and it should make things easier for teams, Darby said. Teams can submit movies in four categories: music
videos, entertainment, informational (documentaries and commercials) and nontraditional/special. Video iPods are what winners will take home this year. The top producer, technical director, director, sound design writer and production designer will each be a candidate for the prizes. Darby said he is also working on a way to recognize actors for the first time. Matt Maxwell, senior electronic media major from Abilene, is student director of FilmFest for the third year. He and Darby aspire to enable students to make a movie regardless of the background in film they have or if they have any equipment. “All they have to have is an idea, and we provide everything else,” Maxwell said.
There is a computer lab open through Oct. 15 with 10 stations and a lab assistant to help with editing. Video equipment is also available to be checked out, and there are workshops to help contestants better understand how to make their movies. “ T h e workshop is more streamlined and easier to digest,” D a r b y said. “It will be m o r e beneficial to the teams.” A l though check-in and the creative workshop take place on Sept. 16 during pledging, Darby said students shouldn’t let that stop them. He said they should let him know about their involvement ahead of time and get the information later. With the final list of judges incomplete, Darby said
several judges have confirmed: Randy Brewer, Monica Jiminez-Grillo, Nelson Coates, Stephen Bailey and Cary Roberts. The panel has had increased involvement each year, and this year there will be a reception for judges and participants so there can be more dialogue and feedback for the filmmakers from the judges. “What we do is very unique,” Darby said as he refers to FilmFest as “an odd creature.” He said the goal is to provide students and ACU the opportunity to explore and be creative with media. “Locally, there is no other school that does anything remotely like this,” he said. Compared to other events such as Freshman Follies or Sing Song, FilmFest is young, and Maxwell said he loves “seeing how it is growing and how students are becoming involved.” “FilmFest is right up my alley,” Maxwell said. “I love managing FilmFest because I get to work with fellow students and the camaraderie
that comes between the cochairs.” The premiere for FilmFest is Nov. 3 at the Paramount Theater. Between now and then Maxwell and Darby have a considerable amount of work to do, but despite the long hours he puts in, Maxwell said coordinating the event is worth it. “The big payoff is premier night; it is incredible,” he said.
FilmFest sTATS n Sept. 16, a creative workshop will be offered for students interested in learning about filmmaking. n Sept. 18 and 19, FilmFest will be part of Lectureship with two special extended classes, taking place at 2 p.m. n Nov. 3 is the official premier night in the Paramount Theater located in downtown Abilene. E-mail Josey at: jdj03e@acu.edu
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Friday, September 15, 2006
Page 5
Men: Challenges bring about bonds for pledges Continued from page 1
know exactly what they do.” Last year, Hilton said, there was a pledge that de-pledged 10 minutes before it ended. “With guys it’s a little harder to get your point across unless there’s incentive,” Hilton said. “They want it to be hard because you feel like there’s accomplishment if it’s hard.” Going into Bid Night, Hilton said he would advise pledges to not have
any expectations and to not give up. “There’s a purpose in everything we do,” Hilton said. “They may not know that purpose, but they’ll learn in time.” For Pi Kappa member Daniel Gray, senior social work major from Memphis, Tenn., Bid Night was “a challenging but uplifting experience,” he said. “It was good way to start out getting to know and build relationships with guys in the club.” Pi Kappa, Gray said, em-
ploys activities on Bid Night the founders of the club created, though there are some changes. For Gray, Bid Night shows a potential pledge’s commitment to the club and its pledging process. “Our club doesn’t ever reject bids,” he said. “We defy the typical club characteristics of clubs on campus.” Gray said while some clubs focus on physical activity, Pi Kappa is different. “What we do with our club, based on the seven commitments of the Promise Keepers, focuses on ac-
tivities. They’re still physical, but usually we have a spiritual point to our activities.” Another difference in Pi Kappa’s Bid Night process is they don’t keep their pledges up all night. “We actually let them sleep. The way we look at it is our bid night is like a retreat,” Gray said. “It’s kind of a camping trip and retreat; it’s not your typical bid night.” Social club hopeful Tyler Goudeau, sophomore business management ma-
jor from Colorado Springs, Colo., has wanted to be in a club since he came to ACU. “I’ve heard about it from other people, and my parents did it, and it’s something I always wanted to do,” Goudeau said. Goudeau said he expects pledging to be time-consuming. “It should be a fun experience and a challenging experience,” he said. Goudeau rushed Gamma Sigma Phi and hopes to get a bid from the club. “It’s just the guys that I
met that fit my personality the best,” he said. “Hopefully I can have their qualities as I get older and as I go throughout school here.” Though he said he heard Sub T-16 has the most challenging Bid Night experience, Goudeau thinks each club’s event is similar in difficulty now. “I’m a little nervous. I don’t know if I want to stay up all night or if I want to hold a watermelon for three hours,” he said. E-mail Josey at: jdj03e@acu.edu
Women: Members, pledges face Bid Night anticipation Continued from page 1
club, Alpha Chi Omega, also began preparing for rushing right after school ended in May. It was hard for them to get to know the prospective pledges because of a short period of rushing, said Miranda Griffith, senior math education major from Mes-
quite and president of Alpha Kai Omega. Griffith said Bid Night is a time for bonding with other social club sisters, and the secrecy of the night makes it more fun. “I remember getting my bid, and I hugged the girl who gave me my bid,” Griffith said. As they are in a position
to vote and bid this year, Griffith said voting is the worst part of the process. However, this process is necessary to keep each club to a manageable size. “You don’t want an organization in total chaos. That’s not really efficient,” said Lindsey Jessup, senior human communication major from Bakers Field,
Calif., and president of Delta Theta. “It’s not personal. It’s just efficiency.” After Bid Night, social clubs and new members will go through a four-week pledging period. “We have always viewed pledging as a time to come together in unity as the pledges work towards a common goal,” said Han-
nah Williams, senior elementary education major from Boerne and president of Sigma Theta Chi. “And we intend to uphold this standard.” The purpose of social clubs, according to the social club handbook, is “to fulfill the need for close, personal contact and for social interaction.”
Jessup transferred to ACU and pledged in 2004 because she wanted to meet people. “And I found a group that I fit in with 100 percent,” Jessup said. “I don’t know what my college life would be without it, and I don’t want to think about it.” E-mail Sutton at: axs03d@acu.edu
Prophets: Group focuses on Tupac lyrics, Christ’s story Continued from page 1
Worthington earlier this year about leading a small-group Bible study, and Worthington proposed the idea of leading a study on Jesus and the Hip-Hop Prophets as well. The study met for the first time Thursday in Room 128 of the OnsteadPacker Biblical Studies Building; approximately
15 students attended. The fellowship began with a meal at 8:30 p.m. and discussion followed. “I thought it was great,” said Kenneth Dinkins, sophomore youth and family ministry major from Toledo, Ohio. “It is informative and will help us expand our idea of things.” The study will convey the story of Christ by contemplating the lyrics
of well-known artists like Lauryn Hill, Tupac Shakur and Kayne West. “The whole premise is Paul’s approach to the Grecians and the gentiles,” Worthington said. “He uses their own poets to tell the story; he quotes their own poets.” Students will also use Jesus and the Hip-Hop Prophets as a way to observe how music is a gift from God.
Tenure: Difficult process for professors Continued from page 1
and not staying within your own.” Not only do teachers have to meet this criteria, but they also need good student evaluations. Rankin said that a significant portion of his portfolio is dedicated to evaluations of past students. These show those reviewing the portfolio what the students think about him and his teaching methods. When professors apply for tenure, they usually apply for promotion as well. A professor can apply for each
separately but normally they will submit one portfolio that fits the criteria of both. Once the portfolio is turned in, it goes through several channels. It is first reviewed by the tenured faculty in the department. If they approve, it goes to the committee of the department. It then goes through the committee of the college, a university level committee made up of all the colleges, the provost and finally the president. If the president approves, the teacher receives his or her tenure. If teachers don’t get ap-
proval, they may reapply. A portfolio is something that can always be improved upon, Rankin said. The process of improvement is “a way of helping the person make sure that he or she is living up to the expectations of the larger university community,” Rankin said. “Tenure is not just so you can do whatever you want to, we want people who can think and explore to help students to think through and become more mature thinkers.” E-mail the reporter at: optimist@acu.edu
“Hip-hop music is a form of expression and a cry from people who have no voice,” Dinkins said. “Music is inherently an expression of who we are and what God has given us.” Jesus and the Hip-Hop prophets will meet for about nine weeks. The study has received positive feedback from students but has also encountered conflict as
people have encouraged the use of Christian rap instead secular music for discussion. “This isn’t a venue for Christian sub-culture because to me Christianity encountering culture is not substituting the uncomfortable things of culture for the things that make me feel comfortable about my Christianity,” Worthington said. Despite disagreements,
students will continue to meet and look at hip-hop as a means to unite people in the quest for truth. “I think about wisdom shouting in the streets in Proverbs, and she is going to keep shouting in the streets even if nobody listens,” Worthington said. “She’s going to do whatever she can to shout.” E-mail Sutton at: les03c@acu.edu
Page 6 The issue:
The Optimist misquoted someone but wants to reiterate its commitment to accurate journalism.
Our view:
The Optimist does not excuse mistakes and has a desire to voice strong opinions on the Views Page.
The solution:
We will continue to write interesting, accurate stories and expect students to respond.
Friday, September 15, 2006
The ‘Optimist’ owns up to mistake, moves on You interact with us twice a week when we hand you the newspaper after Chapel. You see our faces on columns and our names under headlines. And as one of your local news sources, the Optimist staff finds it crucial to tell readers several of our expectations. The Optimist staff’s purpose is to communicate cultural and current events to the ACU community through stories. In fact, most of our staff writers are journalism majors, studying how to become better at the craft of
writing. The Optimist staff’s purpose is to communicate professionalism for Our goal our work, mistakes cultural and current events to the ACU is to be inare inevitable. We community though stories. formative, do not justify this objective mistake, but want to and accurate reporters and want to apologize to those tell you, as readers, that we writers. who were offended. We also are committed to factual and Because the Optimist want to inform the student truthful journalism. strives to be a forthright pa- body that the mistake was The staff also wants to per, our staff will write thor- nothing more than a gram- re-emphasize the purpose ough and possibly contro- matical error on our part. of the Views Page is to exversial stories, express our We in no way meant to press opinion through colopinions through editorials misconstrue the words of umns and editorials. With a and columns, and occasion- the source or to change the desire to help readers think ally make mistakes. message’s context. outside the box, this page Last Friday, the Optimist We are a student news- will unashamedly supply printed a story that con- paper, and though we set a different convictions about tained a misquote, and we standard of excellence and a variety of topics.
Let Loose
Cole Williams
Fees for celebration not unreasonable It’s not often I read a letter to the editor and laugh out loud, but I did just that when I read Kelli Pace’s letter of Sept. 13. She was offended because attractions at ACU’s birthday carnival such as food, drink and inflatables were “pay-as-you-go.” One sentence in her letter says, “only ACU would throw a birthday party ... and then charge you when you show up.” Another sentence says “as a professional designer and event planner, this is just unconscionable.” I laugh at this. I have coordinated major events in Abilene for 15 years. To say it’s “unconscionable” to charge such fees is ridiculous.
Letter to the Editor Husband of Betsy Craig from the Office of Alumni Relations responds to Pace’s letter and supports the fees required for the Centennial Celebration. For several years I was the coordinator for Celebrate Abilene, a downtown street festival celebrating Abilene’s birthday. We had the same format ... food, drink, inflatables, entertainment. And guess what? We charged for all those activities. But instead of $3 for unlimited play on inflatables, we charged $10. Our concert tickets cost more, too. ACU’s car-
nival prices were anything but unreasonable. Looking at the prices of each attraction across the board, it’s obvious ACU wasn’t crawling deeper into Ms. Pace’s pockets as claimed. I called the Alumni Office and asked. The money made from the ACU carnival helped defray costs, not recoup all expenses. And, it definitely was not a money maker. It’s understood at community events like this that you have to pay for food and entertainment. It was nice, though, that there were several free attractions ... the dedication of Jacob’s Dream, the booksigning event, the birth-
day cake celebration with free cupcakes. I’m amazed anyone would think any organization could throw a party for 2,000-plus people and expect it all to be free. Ms. Pace was liberal in her critical advice for ACU, but she should heed some advice herself: be judicious of when, where and why you decide to pitch a fit. You claim you “felt like an idiot.” By what you say in the public arena, some people might just assume you are.
Tom Craig Managing Direcor of Sing Song antiquecraig@aol.com
We will not shy away from sensitive subjects in fear of stirring controversy among students and faculty. Rather, we see the Views Page as a place where the voice of culture can be heard and debated. The Optimist staff welcomes any encouragement or criticism people have about topics we address. We enjoy the letters you have written and hope you continue to speak your mind.
E-mail the Optimist at: optimist@acu.edu
Enjoy freedom of freshman year When I was a freshman, I people leave early who think thought life was tough. they will get credit. Some days I couldn’t take I also want to take some naps, and I had to write a preventative measures to couple of save freshmen embarrassr e s e a r c h ment when the weather cools p a p e r s . down. Your high school letter Since then, jackets may have been cool at I’ve learned your high school, but as you some les- might notice, we’re not in sons I want high school anymore, Doroto pass thy. The same goes for your down. class rings. Fields of T h e For all of you sports fans Dreams f r e s h m a n out there, a freshman wearJared class has ing a high school letter jacket Fields survived for looks like a pro athlete bragthree weeks ging about what he did in colnow on it’s own, and its time lege—it doesn’t matter. it started to figure it out. Last of all, don’t be too Ignorance and naivety cool for school. This may quickly gave way to being sound hypocritical coming young and not knowing ev- from what I’ve just said, but erything. So I’m be open up to here to help all those around Like I said, it’s those freshmen in you. Like I said, not highschool the ignorance and it’s not high naivety departschool anymore, anymore. ment, if they even so no one cares know what the about what you Optimist is yet. think or do. Let My first bit of knowledge I your guard down a little, have would like to drop on you is some fun and see what hapthis: it’s not that hard to slide pens. your card at Chapel. Let your freshman year I know you may not believe be the time you enjoy. It’s me, but you can slide your the college equivalent of kincard before the light goes off. dergarten. You get to take And it helps if you don’t slide easy classes, hang out with it as quick as you can. Slow friends, play a sport or two and steady wins the race in and take naps any afternoon this situation. you want. But this alone does not get I remember those days; you credit; you have to slide just don’t tell upperclassmen again when Chapel’s dis- about them. We don’t want missed. Here’s what happens to be reminded of all the free when Chapel ends. Shane time you have. Hughes, or a Chapel official, swipes a card when you are officially dismissed. If you slide before that, you don’t E-mail Fields at: jrf02b@acu.edu or optimist@acu.edu get the credit. I love watching
Chapel adjustments suggested to benefit the university The Centennial Celebration has come to a close; a year of celebration has taken place. We have spent a year of reflection looking at the past 100 years. We have looked at traditions that ACU students look at and participate in with pride. We have reaffirmed what we like, but we have not looked at what we do not like.
Letter to the Editor Chapel is less effective because it is mandatory. Student suggests respecting speakers by changing Chapel policies.
By far, the largest point of conflict at ACU is Chapel. Once a day, for 55 days, we enter the
doors of Moody and sit for 30 minutes listening to Chapel speakers or Chapel attendants. It is supposed to be a time of reflection, but it is just a 27 hour chore for many students. I am actually writing this from Chapel because I have heard this same speech every year that I have been here. This will be my fourth time to
hear this speech. I know that freshmen have not heard these speakers before, but they will be listening to them for the rest of their time in college. It gets to the point that most students read, play on cell phones, study, sleep or just flat-out talk to their friends during chapel. We all know that at some point, we are going to get chastised for being
too loud and disrespectful in Chapel. I think it is a little disrespectful on ACU’s part to invite speakers knowing what is going to happen. If Chapel was not mandatory, or at least cut back on required attendance, the speakers we invite could get the respect that they deserve for taking time from their lives to come speak to an atten-
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
tive group of students. Reduction of Chapel will probably never happen. It is rooted in our history and our beliefs. After 100 years, we should at least reassess Chapel with regards to the current and future generations of students. Richard Keker senior accounting major jrk02
Editorial and Management Board Mallory Schlabach
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SPORTS JUMPS
Friday, September 15, 2006
Page 1
Football: Golf: Team to Wildcats play Monday go on the road Continued from page 8
Continued from page 8 to rely on his defense to carry all the weight this week. “We can’t wait on the defense to make plays,” said Thomsen “Your offense has to control the ball.” ACU’s offense controlled the ball in the air and on the ground in its first victory. The offensive production Smith was balanced as quarterback Billy Malone threw for 220 yards and one touchdown while running backs Taber Minner and Chancy Campbell combined for 155 yards and a touchdown each. The Wildcats’ two most productive plays were a 74-yard touchdown by Minner and a 43-yard grab by receiver Jarale Badon. After playing Southeastern Saturday, ACU will return home Sept. 23 to take on SW Oklahoma in its second home game of the season.
Football StAtistics Total Yards n 375 Total Rushing Yards n 155 Total Passing Yards n 220 Total Yards Allowed n 262
E-mail Johnson at: djj04a@acu.edu
working hard, and I’m proud of their win at home. It’s always nice to win on your home course.” This was the team’s first win in Abilene since 2002 and Campbell’s first Abilene win since he’s been here. Wildcat top shooter Curtis Harris, who was also the medalist winner at the tournament, shot a 69 the first day and a 68 the second day. Coach Campbell was proud of Harris’ accomplishment. “I’m glad that it came together for Curtis because he has been working hard all summer and I’m proud of him,” Campbell said. ACU’s junior varsity team, which also competed in the
tournament, shot a combined 600, which put the team at 12th place overall in the tournament. Stephen Knight, junior transfer from San Diego State, shot a pair of 73s in the tournament, placing 21st overall, tying with him with John Wrast from Central Missouri State. “I think we have the talent for nationals,” Campbell said. “The sky is the limit for this team. We have been building every year, and I’m looking forward to see how we do in the future.” With Wildcats shooting in the sixties and 70s Coach Campbell has high hopes, but for now he is focused on the task at hand, the Territory Classic in Duncan, Okla., which starts Monday. E-mail Mcdonald at: nxm04a@acu.edu
Cross Country: Competes Friday Continued from page 8 Head coach Derek Hood says that while winning the race is important, he sees this race as a warm-up for the monster meet the team will go to next at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla. “The main thing we’re going to be looking for throughout the race will be our runners running faster splits,” Hood said. He went on to say this meet will help evaluate his roster for the upcoming Division I meet and the conference season, as the 3, 4 and 5 runners being Hood’s main question. Hood will be focusing mostly on the women’s race, featuring the unattached winner of the ACU Invitational, Loice Cheboi, who is now running for the lady Wildcats. Right behind the firstplace finisher was ACU senior,
Olha Kryv’yak, who will duel with Cheboi for first place again this weekend. On the men’s side, Nicodemus Naimadu is once again heavily favored to win the men’s race. Naimadu recently sat down with Hood to set goals for this season and decided on an undefeated individual season as the highest goal. Hood praises Naimadu as being humble and realizes there’s always pressure with pushing the nation’s top distance runner. “He’s so humble, sometimes I have to remind him how good he really is,” Hood said. “It’s these kind of [athletes] that rise to the top.” With the excruciating practices and the rough road ahead, the Wildcats have quite a climb ahead of them.
E-mail Holland at: beh03e@acu.edu
Tennis to battle D-1 teams n The men’s and women’s tennis teams will play in separate tournaments this weekend against Division I competition in New Mexico and Waco. By MICHAEL FREEMAN Online Editor
The ACU tennis teams are gearing up for two tournaments Friday. The Wildcat men are traveling to Las Cruces, N.M., to play in the New Mexico State Aggie Invitational; The Lady Wildcats are competing in the Baylor Invitational in Waco. The Abilene Christian teams will be the only Division II teams to compete in the tournaments. “We’re going up against some tough competition this weekend,” said assistant coach John Walker. “But, I like the way our teams look.” The New Mexico State Aggie Invitational will feature Division I schools such as the University of New Mexico, Northern Arizo-
Brown
na University, Texas Tech University and New Mexico State University. The Baylor Invitational will showcase teams like Sam Houston State University, the University of Wyoming, Texas Christian University and Baylor University. ACU players may be going up against Zuzana Zemenova from Baylor, who is the No. 4 singles player in the nation. The role of the underdog potentially could be placed on the Wildcats’ shoulders, but the ACU coaches are planning otherwise. “We’re not going into these tournaments with a label on our foreheads that says we’re Division II,” coach Hutton Jones said. “We’re going to work hard.” Last weekend, the ACU tennis teams hosted the annual ACU and conquered the competition. For the women, sophomore Irene Squillaci won the first flight. And in the second singles
flight, sophomore Sarah Drummond won a singles flight for the second consecutive year. The doubles teams of Squillaci and senior Lana Pavlin, and then Drummond and junior Meagan Brown won the doubles flights. For the men, the duo of Ryan Hudson and Bryce Hicks won doubles flight. As did freshman Luke Hawk and sophomore Hutton Jones Jr. The tournaments this weekend will prepare the ACU tennis teams for the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Regional Championships that will be held on Sept. 22. After playing in the upcoming weekend tournaments, coach Jones anticipates the Wildcat teams will be ready for regional competition. “Nothing can shock us in regionals after playing against some of the highest levels of competition you can get,” Jones said. E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu
brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Stephen Knight chips during qualifiers that determine who will play in the Territory Tournament in Duncan, Okla., on Monday. Knight finished tied for 21st at the Charles Coody West Texas Classic.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Sports Friday
Quality support beats quantity
ScoreBoard Standings FOOTBALL
Team
Div. 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
WTAMU MSU ACU TAMU-K Angelo St. Tarleton ENMU
Team
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 3-4 4-7 3-8 3-11 2-9
Upcoming Friday
MEN’S TENNIS
New Mexico State Invitational, Las Cruces N.M.
WOMEN’S TENNIS
Baylor Invitational, Waco
Saturday
FOOTBALL
ACU at SE Oklahoma, Durant, Okla., 6 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL
ACU vs. Tarleton State, 2 p.m.
Saturday
FOOTBALL
ACU at SE Oklahoma, Durant, Okla., 6 p.m.
n Home games listed in Italics
Intramural Round-up Upcoming Monday MEN’S CHAMP FLAG FOOTBALL You Know Who vs. GSP-Cody Blair, 10 p.m., Field 1 Scallywags vs. Cobras, 10 p.m., Field 2
WOMEN’S CHAMP FLAG FOOTBALL Alpha Kai-Blue vs. Bandits, 9 p.m. Field 2
Tuesday WOMEN’S CHAMP FLAG FOOTBALL Asian Invasion vs. EOX-Ashley Hunton, 9 p.m., Field 2 Kojies vs. Delta Theta, 10 p.m., Field 1 The Justice League vs. Second Wind, 8 p.m., Field 2
Thursday MEN’S CHAMP FLAG FOOTBALL OTP vs. Bannana Splits, 9 p.m., Field 1 G-1 vs. Frats 1-Booby Miles, 10 p.m., Field 1
WOMEN’S CHAMP FLAG FOOTBALL Siggies-Jordan Reese vs. Asian Invasion, 9 p.m., Field 2
Scores Tuesday
brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Cornerback Patrick Ellison runs down field after intercepting a ball during the 24-18 win over the University of Central Oklahoma. Ellison returned the interception 38 yards and started a 24-yard touchdown drive. The rest of the Wildcat secondary and defense will have it’s hands full Saturday against LSC Pre-season Player of the Year and quarterback Jason Pitrucha.
ACU defense faces offensive ‘Storm’ n The 1-0 football team will travel to Oklahoma to take on No. 10 ranked Southeastern Oklahoma State, who beat them 42-24 last season. By DANIEL JOHNSON Sports Editor
The Wildcat fourth quarter defensive pressure saved the game in the 24-18 season opening win over the University of Oklahoma. But it will take more than a last-minute defensive stand to get a win in Durant, Okla., Saturday against the best offense in the conference. “This team will expose you if you are complacent,” Thomsen said. “To be successful we need to get more intense and maintain focus.” ACU’s first away game will be against nationally ranked two-time LSC North Division champions Southeastern Oklahoma. If the Wildcats win on the road this weekend, it will be the first time ACU started a season 2-0 since 1997. The No. 10 ranked Southeastern Savage Storm has already reached the 2-0 mark after defeating Northwestern Oklahoma State and Tarleton State, and leads the confer-
WOMEN’S CHAMP FLAG FOOTBALL Bandits def. DT 12-7 Kojies def. The Justice League 18-0
MEN’S REC FLAG FOOTBALL Hardin-Simmons def. Dynasty 19-12 G2 def. Lucky Quarterback 12-0 Cuddle Soft Dryer Sheets def. Andrew Stokes’ Team 19-0
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
Running back Taber Minner rushes a ball during the Wildcats opening win against the University of Oklahoma. Minner ran for 118 yards against UCO.
Football ence in total offensive production with 956 total yards and 478 yards per game. In addition to having home advantage, the Savage Storm has history on
its side. On top of last season’s 42-24 loss, Southeastern Oklahoma defeated the Wildcats four of the last five times the two have met. The key to shutting down Southeastern’s offense is controlling the LSC North
Division Preseason Offensive player of the Year and starting quarterback Justin Pitrucha. Pitrucha has thrown 510 yards and four touchdowns in the Storm’s two wins and already has one LSC North Division title under his belt. ACU’s biggest weapon against Pitrucha will be LSC South Defensive Player of the Week, outside linebacker Marcus Brown. On top of last week’s game winning sack and forced fumble, Brown recorded nine tackles and helped hold the UCO offense to 262 total yards. University of Texas transfer free safety Bobby Tatum led the secondary with 10 tackles in his first game as a Wildcat. Despite the success of the defense in the opener, Brown is unwilling to be overconfident. “We are still hungry and want to prove ourselves by doing something we’ve never done before at ACU,” he said. The defense was the spark that lit the Wildcats’ offense against UCO. After a scoreless first quarter, a Patrick Ellison interception paved the way for the Wildcats’ first of three touchdowns. But Thomsen is unwilling See
FOOTBALL page 7
Golf swings well in first tourney n ACU’s golf team won the Charles Coody West Texas Intercollegiate Golf Tournament at Diamondback Golf Club, it’s first in-town tournament win since 2002. By NATHAN MCDONALD Sports Writer
The ACU golf team started its crusade for Division II golfing glory by winning The Charles Coody West Texas Intercollegiate Golf Tournament at the Diamondback Golf Club in Abilene on Monday. ACU competed against eighteen teams, seven from the Lone Star Conference. The list also includes Cameron, last
MEN’S CHAMP FLAG FOOTBALL Frats def. Scallywags 18-12
Page 8
Golf year’s tournament winner that beat ACU by only six strokes. That didn’t happen this year. ACU defeated runner-up Saint Edward by three strokes and Cameron by 11 strokes. The combined winning score of 566 was because five varsity players kept under 160 strokes for the entire tournament. ACU golf coach Mike Campbell was pleased with the team’s performance. “Overall, all nine played well,” he said. “They all are See
GOLF page 7
brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Michael Andruchek chips a shot onto the green Tuesday during qualifiers to decide which ACU players will travel to the Territory Classic in Duncan, Okla., on Monday.
ACU students don’t care about ACU sports. That rumor simply isn’t true. Although it is true that a majority of the students on campus would rather spend their time participating in Sporty student orSportaheimer ganizations, planning a Daniel Bible study or Johnson hanging out with friends, there are a few who wouldn’t want to be anywhere other than an ACU volleyball, football, baseball or any other game, screaming their lungs out for the purple and white. And I’ve seen them. Whether it is the purple mohawked volleyball fanatic or the springtime hecklers ripping our opponents on the baseball diamond, they are there. Now I know what you’re thinking. “Here it comes, the yearly sports column chastising the student body for not being more supportive of our sports teams.” Well you’re wrong. This is praising the people who have supported our teams no matter the outcome in the end. This is for the fans that know ACU’s single season home-run record holder (Joel Wells) and can remember the last time our football team won a national championship (1977). It is no secret that our stadiums and gyms have seen bigger crowds in the past, but I would rather have two die-hard fans than 20,000 apathetic bystanders. The quality of fans, not the quantity, is what will be remembered. Nobody remembers the number of people at a game; everybody remembers the crazy guy on the court acting like a fool for his favorite team. And ACU has its fair share of quality fools that know when to cheer and when to scream at the referees. Sure, an enormous screaming mob of purple and white college students has its benefits—benefits that were obvious at the football team’s season opener. The larger-than-usual crowd of students and faculty decked out in Wildcat attire at Shotwell Stadium helped re-amp our worn-out defense during the game’s final moments. The screaming crowd witnessed the last minute sack by outside linebacker Marcus Brown and game-saving fumble recovery by defensive lineman Willis Hogan. And it was beautiful. ACU sports are going to be here whether the stands are filled or not. And I’ll be there with my notepad next to the guy with the mohawk.
E-mail Johnson at: djj04a@acu.edu
Cross Country climb n The nationally ranked men’s and women’s cross country teams will run in their final home meet before heading to Oklahoma State to take on Division I teams. By BRIAN HOLLAND
Assistant Sports Editor
The men’s and women’s cross country teams face their first uphill climb of the season in both training and the chase for another Lone Star Conference Championship. The men’s team, ranked
Cross Country No. 5 in the nation, and the women’s team, ranked No. 9, will look for a strong showing this weekend as they compete in the inaugural ACU Jon Murray Invitational. With recent rankings placing both Wildcat teams first in the South Central Region among Division II schools, the teams look to flex that muscle in their final home meet of the early cross country season.
The meet will include teams from conference rival Angelo State University, along with teams from West Texas College and Northwood. The race will take place at Sherrod Residential Park, the park behind Adams & Smith Residence Halls and alongside East North Tenth, Friday at 6 p.m. beginning with the women’s race and ending with the men’s at 6:45 p.m. See
CROSS COUNTRY page 7
brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
ACU runners Nicodemus Naimadu, Philip Birgen, Laurent Ngirakamaro and Serge Gasore run during the ACU Cross Country Classic.