2006 10 18

OPTIMIST

The Vol. 95, No. 16

IN THIS ISSUE CAMPUS Pumpkin patches

Cedar Creek Pumpkin Patch is open for the season and selling pumpkins and treats, page 4

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1 sections, 8 pages

n Holt Lunsford, an ACU alumnus, dedicated the Lunsford Trail in honor of his parents in Chapel on Monday. The 2-mile trail was completed earlier this year.

Copy Editor

Students have been studying the relationship between hip-hop lyrics and Christianity, page 3

Core classes

The university’s General Education Committee is piecing together a new core curriculum for students, page 5

October 18, 2006

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www.acuoptimist.com

Lunsford Trail dedicated by family

By MITCH HOLT

Hip-hop study

WEDNESDAY

The Lunsford family dedicated the Lunsford Trail to the university in Chapel Monday, almost a year after the November 2005 ground breaking.

“I think it’s important that we do this in Chapel, where all of you are gathered, because the gifts that brought this trail to campus were

given with you in mind,” said Dr. Royce Money, president of the university, to the student body in the ceremony’s opening remarks.

Money said the trail is a blessing because he used to see students jogging and cycling around campus “just inches from traffic,” and it worried him.

Representing the Lunsford family, Richard, Holt and Hayden Lunsford, three different generations within the family, presented brief descriptions of the family’s intentions behind the construction of the trail.

Holt Lunsford was the first

of the three to present, and he said the family was looking for a way to give back to the university that would directly benefit the students, faculty and campus for a long time to come.

“Our idea was to bring a place that builds community,” Holt said to the assembly.

“We wanted this to be a 24/7 environment where people could exercise during the day or the evening.”

The Lunsfords, Holt said, compiled each family member’s favorite scripture and placed each scripture on the See

TRAIL page 5

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Holt, Hayden and Richard Lunsford spoke in Chapel on Monday about the Bible verses they chose for the trailheads along the two-mile track.

ONLINE

Students to spend fall break in Louisiana

Pledge parade

Men’s social club Galaxy was voted best men’s float, and women’s social club Sigma Theta Chi won best float overall, view it at www.acuoptimist.com

n Sixty students who are members of Southern Hills Church of Christ and will travel to New Orleans to help a church during fall break.

By LAUREN SUTTON Opinion Editor

A year after Katrina hit the Gulf Coast, ACU students continue to travel to Louisiana to provide relief and encouragement for the people who experienced devastating losses from the hurricane.

Gary and Frances Green will take 60 students who attend Southern Hills Church to gut the homes of Katrina victims during fall break.

“I am absolutely amazed at students’ ability to serve,” said Shannon Williamson, junior psychology major from New Orleans. “ACU students gutted my home, and I was so excited to see their passion and willingness to serve people they don’t know.”

Jammin’ with the best

See

Student bands and individuals performed Friday at JamFest, view it at www.acuoptimist.com

SPORTS brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Lindsey Jessup, senior human communication major from Bakersfield, Calif., reacts to the news that she was named 2006 Homecoming Queen as she stands with her father on Saturday at the Homecoming football game at Shotwell Stadium.

Jessup named queen Saturday Traveling team

The Wildcat football team went 6-0 Saturday against Angelo State and will perform on national TV Thursday against West Texas A&M, page 8

WEATHER DAILY FORECAST WEDNESDAY mostly sunny

HIGH 79

LOW 47

n Lindsey Jessup, senior human communication major from Bakersfield, Calif., was named queen in a close competition at the Homecoming football game Saturday at Shotwell Stadium.

By MALLORY SCHLABACH Editor in Chief

Lindsey Jessup was focusing on smiling and clapping for the 2006 Homecoming Queen when she heard her name announced on the

loud speaker in Shotwell Stadium on Saturday.

“I had no clue that I would be named Homecoming Queen,” said Jessup, senior human communication major from Bakersfield, Calif.

“I had a delayed reaction because it took me several moments to process what the person actually said.”

Jessup said the first thing that came out of her mouth, was “Shut up!” She said a wave of excite-

ment hit her when Ashlie (Griggs) Stegemoller, the 1996 Homecoming Queen, crowned her.

“I definitely didn’t think that I’d be the winner Saturday,” Jessup said. “I was just honored to be standing on the field.”

Jessup, Delta Theta’s president, said the whole Homecoming Queen process has been fun and an honor.

See

QUEEN page 5

Student won’t receive money for win n Senior J.B. Gibbs will not receive the $15,000 he was told he won for his punt-passkick attempt a month ago because of past JV experience.

By JARED FIELDS Managing Editor

J.B. Gibbs’ month-long wait for $15,000 came to an end Sunday. After punt,

Department of Journalism and Mass Communication

pass and kicking his way to possibly winning the money in ACU’s first football game, Gibbs had to wait until Sunday to find out the insurance company denied his money.

When he made the money shot field goal, controversy arose after the insurance company, the Nevada-based Odds

On Promotions, found Gibbs had previous collegiate football experience playing on the JV team and did not originally catch the T-shirt to give him the opportunity. The selection process involved catching a T-shirt thrown into the crowd.

Gibbs, senior history major from Abilene, said

he found out he would not receive the money from a friend on Sunday. The insurance company has not contacted him to tell him.

“I never talked to the insurance company,” Gibbs said. “It kinda sucks, but I wish I could have heard it from them.”

See

MONEY page 5

Abilene Christian University

FALL BREAK page 5

University charters buses to ACU game n Students and members of SA have worked with the Athletic Department to charter six buses for the football game in Canyon.

By DENTON JOSEY Page 2 Editor

Ranking No. 20 in the nation and still undefeated, the ACU football team plays West Texas A&M University on Thursday at 7 p.m., who is also undefeated and ranked No. 4 in the nation.

For Homecoming, the Wildcat football team received the support of 13,369 fans. For its game in Canyon, organizers are piecing together a road trip to support the team against their toughest challenge and hope to bring 400 fans.

The game is in Canyon, about four and a half hours away, and tickets cost $6. However, for $5 more, ACU is providing six charter buses for transportation. The buses depart at 12:30 p.m.

Friday and will return about 3 or 4 a.m.

Saturday. Refreshments are in included in the bus fee and a dinner stop is planned.

The President’s Office and Anthony See

BUSES page 5

Serving the ACU community since 1912

Chapel Checkup Credited Chapels to date:

Wednesday, March 29, 2006 Wednesday, October 18, 2006

18

Calendar & Events Wednesday

5 p.m.

Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) meeting in COBA Room 315.

19

Thursday

12:30 p.m.

Charter buses depart for ACU football game against West Texas A&M. Students can sign up at the ticket booth in the Campus Center.

Tickets are $5 for the bus ride and $6 for the game.

20 Fall Break

Friday

Spirits Haunted Island Frater Sodalis presents a haunted tour from 8:30 p.m. to midnight.

Family hours are from 4 to 7 p.m.

21

Saturday

Spirits Haunted Island Frater Sodalis presents a haunted tour from 8:30 p.m. to midnight.

Family hours are from 4 to 7 p.m.

Credited Chapels remaining:

36 34

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.

ACU Police Tip of the Week Get to know a person as well as you can before having any dates alone with them. Discuss appropriate relationship and physical boundaries in advance so that there are no misunderstandings later.

Volunteer Opportunities The Salvation Army needs volunteers to interview clients for Christmas assistance, verify proper documentation and determine qualification. Until Nov. 10, volunteers are needed Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The Salvation Army is located at 1226 Butternut St. For more information, contact Cecilia Barahona at 677-1408.

Lee Elementary needs volunteers to play Scrabble with third, fourth and fifth graders every Thursday from 3:15 to 4 p.m. in the cafeteria. For more information, contact Jennifer Clapp or Andy Blessing at 671-4895.

Junior League of Abilene Christmas Carousel needs volunteers to help with the Christmas Carousel Style Show. The main task will be entertaining children models and helping them get dressed. The show is Nov. 3, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Abilene Civic Center. For more information, contact Holly Cowan at 823-3791.

Abilene Habitat for Humanity needs volunteers for their annual Mall-o-ween. Volunteers will

be manning doors and small game booths. There will be some set-up and clean-up, but it is incorporated into the time frame. Oct. 31, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Mall of Abilene Customer Service Desk. For more information, contact Shannon Wake at 670-0489.

FilmFest needs volunteers to help with the editing lab, located in the Mabee Library Auditorium. The volunteer does not have to have experience with film editing. The lab is open Monday to Friday from 5 p.m. to midnight and on Saturday from noon to midnight. FilmFest also needs someone to help with the budget to keep track of funds and donations. The premiere for FilmFest is Nov. 3, and ushers are needed as well as people to run the ticket booth. For more information e-mail filmfest@acu.edu.

G. V. Daniels Recreation Center will have its annual Fall Festival on Oct. 31 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. and volunteers are needed to help run the booths, give out candy and clean up afterward. If you can help, contact the Volunteer Center in the Bean Sprout.

Announcements What do Tupac Shakur, Lauryn Hill and Kanye West have to do with Jesus? Come find out Thursday evenings. “Jesus and the Hip-Hop Prophets” will take place at 8:30 p.m. in the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building Room 128.

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

Meals on Wheels needs volunteers to deliver lunch 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 Volunteer Center in the Bean Sprout.

Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) - Meeting Wednesdays at 5 p.m. in COBA Room 315 for those who are interested in sharpening their business skills, entrepreneurial and leadership skills and want to be of service to the community at the same time.

The FilmFest Lab is now open.

It is located in the Mabee Library Auditorium, which is by the old entrance to Brown Library. Hours are Monday to Friday, 5 p.m. to midnight, and Saturday, noon to midnight. Hours

to be extended as demand merits.

The lab is open to anyone interested in gaining knowledge about video editing or in need of video resources. For more information, contact Matt Maxwell at mam02j@acu.edu.

Habitat for Humanity is bringing an ice skating rink to Abilene for the holiday season. Volunteers are needed to work the front gate, ice skate rentals and concessions.

Also, anyone who would like to help build a house front with a fence to be used as the entrance, contact them ASAP. The ice skating rink will be open from Nov. 17 to Jan. 13. For more information, contact Karen Mendoza at 201-0250.

Girl Scout Troop #1550 needs young women who want to make a difference in young girls’ lives through Girl Scouting. The girls are from underprivileged homes, and they need positive Christian influences in their lives. Meetings are every Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.. This program will end in May. For more information, please contact Diltzie Andrews at 673-6379.

Police Log Edited for space

Monday 10/09/2006 09:15 am Located found box from back of pickup at EN 18th & Campus Court, item fell, contacted driver and returned item 10:00 am Assisted with stolen vehicle at 1200 Westheimer, report worked by Abilene PD 16:00 pm Incident report of improper e-mail case #06-178 Wednesday 10/11/2006 03:27 am Gave access to Don Morris Center to retrieve personal property Thursday 10/12/2006 22:07 pm Noise complaint at Intramural Field, checked area, no violation Friday 10/13/2006 01:09 am Report of suspicious vehicle at ACU Drive North, contacted driver all OK 18:18 pm Vehicle hit and run accident at Gardner Lot, case #06-185 23:30 pm Report of four males arguing in front of building six at University Park Apartments, subjects dispersed upon arrival

Saturday 10/14/2006 00:31 am Noise violation at Mabee Lot, contacted drum player and stated would quiet down 08:31 am Assisted with burglary at 600 EN 15th, handled by Abilene Police Department 09:00 am Directed traffic for ACU Homecoming Parade 17:00 pm Report of subject shooting gun at house at 500 EN 18th, 22:41 pm Loud music and odor of marijuana, University Park Apartments, Case report filed #06-186 Sunday 10/15/2006 11:40 am Assisted Abilene PD with information of students 15:20 pm Assisted Abilene PD with vehicle accident at N 13th & Almond 19:50 pm Report of two suspicious subjects at University Park Apartments, checked area unable to locate 20:10 pm Unlocked vehicle at United Grocery on Judge Ely

CAMPUS NEWS

Wednesday, October 18, 2006

Captain Kirk

Page 3

Students relate to hip-hop lyrics n Discussion group “Jesus and the Hip-Hop Prophets” is in the midst of its nine-week study that focuses on finding spiritual truths in hip-hop music.

By KATIE GAGER Student Reporter

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Kirk Thurmond, freshman music major from Aubrey, performs original music during JamFest on Friday as part of the Homecoming festivities. Nine acts performed at the event.

2006 reunion fails to gather alumni n Attendance at ACU’s first-ever zero-year reunion didn’t meet expectations, with only two of the 1,200 alumni attending the reunion for the class of 2006.

By ATSUMI SHIBATA Page Designer

The reunion of the class of 2006 took place in the Learning Commons Saturday, but only two alumni showed up.

This year, the Alumni Office and Homecoming Steering Committee planned the first “zero-year” reunion in ACU history, but the result was not as planners expected.

The reunion began at 7 p.m., but because of small attendance, it ended about 8 p.m.

Jama Cadle, coordinator for the Alumni Office, said she didn’t expect a large attendance, but the actual number of attendees was smaller than her expectation.

Cadle said she wanted to see between 15 and 20 people at the reunion, but she learned this zero-

year reunion came too early.

About 1,200 invitations were sent to the class, including students still in school, two weeks before Homecoming.

Cadle said promotion might have not been adequate or recent graduates were too busy to put the Homecoming reunion on their priority lists.

But the other nine reunions conducted this year gathered good numbers of attendees.

The largest of the ten reunions this year were classes of ’76, ’81, ’96 and ’01, each gathering about 150 attendees or more.

Cadle said usually five and 10-year reunions gather the largest crowd, followed by the 20 and 25 year reunions.

Stephanie Humble, junior elementary education major from Dallas and co-chair of the committee, worked on the steering committee for three years, and she said people are more excited to come back five or 10 years

after their graduation.

“Those people are looking forward to attending their reunion and seeing their old friends, their children and how their classmates have changed,” Humble said.

Members of Homecoming steering committee were ready to register guests and provide free coffee tickets to them at the reunion of the class of ‘06, but seeing only two attendees was unexpected, Humble said.

Cadle said she thinks reunions for recent graduates will not be conducted during Homecoming in the future, but she is seeking a more suitable way to reunite recent graduates.

“We always want to try new things to see what works,” she said. “It was the one that we tried and decided ‘there’s got to be a better way to serve them.’”

Cadle said she wants to gather focus group from recent graduates and investigate what she can do to keep them connected.

E-mail Shibata at: axs03d@acu.edu

Spirit Week rallies for school spirit n The Homecoming Steering Committee encouraged school spirit by assigning different themes for each day of the week during Spirit Week.

By EMILY SMITH Student Reporter

The student body mixed and matched its clothing last week for an updated version of the prelude to Homecoming: Spirit Week.

Spirit Week had not included themed days nor pep rallies in the past. This year, Monday was Camouflage Day, Tuesday was Decade Day, Wednesday was Mismatch Day, Thursday was Spirit Day and Friday was Purple Friday.

Nick Dyer, sophomore integrated marketing communication major from Coppell, was a co-chair for the Homecoming Steering Committee and in charge of the themed days.

“This was the first year

we asked freshmen what they wanted to see during spirit week,” Dyer said.

The Homecoming Steering Committee surveyed the freshman class about what it liked best from high school homecomings, and most of the classes reported their favorite part, beside mums, was themed days and pep rallies, Dyer said. He said he tried to think of days for Spirit Week that would stand out.

“At first people were timid and not sure how to react,” Dyer said, “but as the week went on I saw more and more people participate.”

Alyssia Ambrose, sophomore elementary education major from Killeen, said the themed days encouraged school spirit and reminded a lot of people of high school.

“We really tried to promote Homecoming and get people involved and excited,” she said. “Spirit Week

was just a great way for people to take pride in their school.”

Ambrose was also on the Steering Committee and was involved in getting the Blackout Pep Rally together.

She said she thought the rally might have been the first pep rally ACU had ever seen, or at least the first one that happened in a very long time. Spirit Week might have been more popular had there been more and better advertising before the start of last week’s Chapel, she said.

Ambrose said there would probably be one more year of themed days and pep rallies to test student reaction and involvement.

“It was fun and crazy and hectic trying to get everything organized,” she said, “but I hope everyone enjoyed it.”

E-mail Smith at: optimist@acu.edu

Tupac Shakur. Kayne West. Lauryn Hill. Jesus Christ. What is it that each one has in common?

ACU discussion group “Jesus and the Hip-hop Prophets” is in the middle of a nine-week study on the connection between these individuals.

The group meets every Thursday at 8:30 p.m. in the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building Room 128. The evening starts with a dinner and at about 9 p.m., the study begins.

Matt Worthington, junior English major from San Antonio, leads the discussion.

Worthington said the group usually has a solid turn out, between 20 and 30 people attending every week.

“My vision is to see other people that didn’t know each other from different cultures and ethnic backgrounds to come and hang out together,” Worthington said.

The group began by

asking what the idea of church means to them and then what hip-hop represents.

Hip-hop received a more positive response than the church did.

“Hip-hop was something that was expressive and liberating for people,” Worthington said.

The church, he said, held more of a judgmental and oppressive feel.

The first topic covered was “How do we, the church, see people?”

Worthington began by examining Kanye West’s song “The Roses” and Tupac’s poem “The Rose that Grew from Concrete.”

Worthington then directed the group to Luke 6, which commands Christian to love people even if they do not receive anything in return.

“It’s love that’s unconditional. People put conditions on love,” Worthington said. “The hip-hop culture is not afraid to face reality because they feel the direct effect of not being loved.”

Worthington has examined a variety of different topics with the group, all relating a song of a particular hip-hop artist to the words of

Christ. Struggling with sin, misrepresentations of Jesus and poverty are just a few of the topics that have been covered during the past few weeks.

Worthington came from an impoverished childhood and a difficult background. It was during those hard times that he began listening to hip-hop music. He was inspired by the lyrics of many songs and how they related to Christianity, he said.

“As a leader, I feel it’s my responsibility to be broken in front of people, not to appear as someone that’s perfect,” Worthington said. “Jesus is the only thing I’ve got to hold on to, the only reason I am redeemable.

God found beauty in me and redeemed me.”

For many, it is a new idea of looking toward hip-hop artists to find spiritual truths. Men like Kayne West and Tupac Shakur are not often seen as moral figures of our society.

“There really are good things behind people if you take time to find out,” Worthington said.

E-mail Gager at: optimist@acu.edu

CAMPUS NEWS

Page 4

Wednesday, October 18, 2006

Programs to improve Edwards n Edwards Residence Hall will begin programs like breakfast with faculty, pancake night and a candy cart to improve observance of rules and an open community.

By NATHAN STRAUS Staff Writer

Upon hearing sophomore students in Edwards Residence Hall were not as tight-knit as students in a freshman residence halls, changes were made to create better community.

Kevin Claypool, residence director of Edwards, said a few problems have contributed to this issue.

“Part of the problem is the no curfew rule,” Claypool said. “Students won’t be in their rooms. In addition, many students, for whatever reason, will keep their doors closed.”

In order to enhance the Edwards community, the residence hall has started a series of programs to get students to leave their doors open or to encourage incentives for staying inside the residence hall at night.

“One of the programs is a Monday morning breakfast at 6:30 a.m. at Cracker

Barrel,” Claypool said. The breakfast usually features a well known faculty member, such as Wayne Barnard, dean of spiritual formation, or Mark Lewis, director of Student Life and Spiritual Life and Student Ministries in Campus Life. Claypool said a breakfast with Dr. Royce Money, president of the university, has been scheduled for Oct. 30.

The breakfast takes place every Monday and is open only to Edwards Hall residents and faculty.

Another program is the monthly Pancake Feed.

Drew Laws, junior business management major from Houston, said the pancake night is his favorite event in Edwards.

“I love making pancakes for all the guys,” Laws said.

Claypool said though the Pancake Feed has only taken place once so far, about 160 residents showed up to get their fill.

Another Pancake Feed is in the works, but Claypool said he doesn’t know when it will occur. However, it will be soon after fall break.

The third program is

one designed to encourage students to keep their door open. It is called the Candy Cart.

“We found an old WalMart cart and [dorm assistants] filled it with candy, ramen and other food. On a random night we took the cart down the halls and stopped at rooms with their doors open,” Claypool said.

The cost of taking the contents of the cart is a prayer. Students must tell of one thing they are concerned about; those manning the cart will then pray about the issue with the student.

Claypool said though this is his first year, the programs seem to be netting an improvement.

“We’re trying to reach all personality types. We get some guys who don’t usually do stuff saying they’re stoked about the 6:30 a.m. breakfast,” Claypool said.

Law said the programs have seen a positive change in the Edwards community.

E-mail Straus at: nrs02a@acu.edu

Pumpkin patch attracts more visitors n The second-year pumpkin patch entertains people and provides various pumpkin products; the event is expected to be bigger than last year.

By TODD PIERSALL Student Reporter

The Second Annual Cedar Creek Pumpkin Patch is flourishing, said Gayna Johnson, wife of Stephen Johnson, assistant professor of Bible, missions and ministry, and grower of the pumpkin patch.

Last year, Johnson began a pumpkin patch that entertained families and school groups. This year, more children and families have stopped by to enjoy the pumpkin festivities.

“The attendance this year has been good and is up from last year, the first year for our pumpkin patch,” Johnson said.

Johnson said she thinks during October more than 600 children will visit the pumpkin patch from schools in the area. Although she is

busy with children visiting “every hour on the hour,” Johnson said she loves the opportunity to share stories with the children. The children get to hear Johnson read to them during an activity called Story Patch Time.

“I have a lot of kids coming,” Johnson said.

“That is my favorite part of the week.”

Kids haven’t been the only ones to see the pumpkins. There have been a variety of guests, including field trips for adults with mental disabilities as well as the fall grub for Sigma Theta Chi, which was the event , which kicked off the year for the pumpkin patch.

“On the weekends, there is always a steady stream of children, families and college students at the patch,” Johnson said Along with local residents, families visiting for Homecoming visited the pumpkin patch and took part in the activities that

Johnson had to offer.

There are yard games and wagon rides, Johnson said. Families “enjoy throwing a Frisbee, playing waffle ball, or playing football on the front lawn.”

Cedar Creek Pumpkin Patch is located on 1399 Austin St, and is open on Fridays from 4 p.m. until dark and Saturdays from 8 a.m. until dark; admission to the pumpkin patch is free.

Johnson sells pumpkins ranging from $1 to $8, with pumpkins that come in “different shapes, colors and sizes.” Also, hot drinks will be on sale for 75 cents.

Pumpkin bread costs $4 and pumpkin muffins cost $1. There will also be pumpkin spice candles and soaps available for purchase.

Johnson said she expects the pumpkin patch to be a fall tradition that will be back next year.

E-mail Piersall at: optimist@acu.edu

Squealing Squigs

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Sigma Theta Chi pledges, known as Squigs, celebrate after the announcement that they won overall best float during halftime of the Homecoming football game Saturday at Shotwell Stadium.

Police Department expands fleet n Police chief Jimmy Ellison said the addition of new SUVs increases police visibility, and the department has already received positive responses from neighbors.

By RACHEL DAVIS Student Reporter

The ACU Police Department recently added two Ford Explorers to the fleet, and an addition of more officers is soon to come.

The department already had two SUVs but decided to expand the fleet to four after retiring the old Chevrolet Impala, police chief Jimmy Ellison said. “ T h e percepEllison tion is that there’s a much higher level of visibility,” Ellison said. “The reality is we only added one car to the fleet.”

The new SUVs arrived just two weeks ago, and the police have already gotten several calls from

students, faculty and the surrounding community about how nice the new fleet looks.

“People think we got a whole new fleet, but we had two SUVs last year,” Ellison said. “All we did was get two others, and all of a sudden people are noticing the fact that we have them.”

“A visible, professional fleet helps the image of the university,” he said.

Though Ellison said it was too soon to tell if the new vehicles had been much of a crime deterrent, he did say, “In the grand scheme of things, the SUVs and having them all match will be more of a deterrent.

The SUV gives us a lot more visibility in the parking lots and especially at night,” Ellison said. “Another reason we like it better than the sedan is because it’s easier to go over the speed bumps around campus.”

Statewide, the average size of a campus police force for a school the size of ACU is 17 mem-

bers. ACU’s police force has nine officers. Ellison said he hopes to add two more officers to the force in the near future, and his long-term plan is to have a force of 14 members.

“We need 14 members to properly staff, to properly protect and to still allow officers the time off they need,” he said.

The police operate 24 hours a day and 365 days a year with day shifts, evening shifts, overlap shifts, and midnight shifts.

“Guys aren’t getting the time off they need or vacation days,” Ellison said. “The typical university day is from eight to five, and no one stops to think that we run a 24-hour operation.”

Ellison said the police patrol even on Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter because the campus is more vulnerable to crime when students and faculty aren’t around.

E-mail Davis at: optimist@acu.edu

Wednesday, October 18, 2006

Page 5

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Fall break: Students ready for break Buses: Thursday’s Continued from page 1 In response to last year’s hurricane, Southern Hills pledged to partner and support Carrolton Church of Christ in New Orleans for the next four years.

Until it can get back on its feet, students will continue taking contributions and gutting the homes of Carrolton church members and other people in the community.

“In New Orleans, what you have to realize is that only one in 10 homes have been gutted, and it is a health hazard situation,” said Gary Green, missions coordinator for Latin America.

“For a family to be able to clean up the mess will take several weeks and most people can’t do that,” he said. “But it is an incredible help for students to show up and accomplish

what they have not been able to do for months and months.”

In addition to providing physical relief to the citizens of New Orleans, students from Southern Hills will walk the city’s streets and pray.

“Some people are so far down in the pit of despair it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but most people are open to sharing their stories and are open to encour-

agement,” Gary Green said.

Williamson said since Katrina there is a feeling of hopelessness.

“You have no idea how to pick up the pieces,” Williamson said. “It is important for ACU students to come and say, ‘We can’t fix your problems, but we will try to help you, and we will pray for you’.”

E-mail Sutton at: les03c@acu.edu

Queen: Jessup wins by close margin Continued from page 1 Betsey Craig, coordinator for the Alumni Network, worked with the nominees during the past two weeks.

She said a normal amount of students voted for Homecoming Queen last week, and that the vote for queen was close between three of the

nominees. Jessup won with 22.8 percent of the vote.

Craig, who has been working with queen activities since 2000, said the Homecoming Queen event is a neat tradition on campus. She said there are no special duties the queen has to fulfill, just she, and the other nine nominees can return in 10 years for the

Money: Gibbs out of $15,000

Coming Home court.

“I really enjoy the Coming Home court as much as the queen nominees,” she said.

“It’s just a fun tradition that we can pass on.”

In the past several days since Jessup was crowned, she said she has had many people Facebook her, come up to her on campus, call her and tell

her congratulations.

“It’s just a huge honor for me because now I am a permanent part of ACU’s history. It’s great,” she said. “I’m excited for this opportunity and can’t express my gratitude for those that voted for me.”

E-mail Schlabach at: mes02e@acu.edu

Country comes to town

Continued from page 1 Williams are providing free T-shirts bearing the message, “6-0, 4 to go,” to everyone going on the buses. There are 400 seats near the 50-yard line reserved for ACU upon its arrival.

CSTV will broadcast the game nationally.

Brad Powers, senior education major from Clovis, Calif., pioneered the effort.

Powers said he became interested in organizing support for the game when he heard WTAMU had 18,000 fans at their last game.

“It’s quite depressing when there are 18,000 maroon fans going for the other team and you only have the players’ families in purple,” Powers said. Last year Powers was an assistant wide receivers coach and he noticed a significant decrease in fan support for away games.

Knowing fall break is Friday, Powers said the buses will help students that want to travel for fall break but don’t want to spend gas money for

both the game and their weekend travels.

Powers said he and Students’ Association president Maher Saab collaborated on the effort and went to Jim Holmans, executive assistant to the president. From there Saab was able to garner support from Campus Life, the President’s Office, SA and the Athletics Department.

“We presented it to administrators and they started running with it,” Saab said.

“There are a lot of people paying for it.”

Powers and Saab both mentioned the trip as an experience unique to college students because of the chance to go on a road trip and support the team. Saab said because it is during fall break, buses will be back after the game in time to give students plenty of chances to do what they want for the holiday.

“It’s going to be an awesome game,” Powers said.

“Why wouldn’t you want to go?”

E-mail Josey at: jdj03e@acu.edu

Trail: Track to be ‘place of reflection’

Continued from page 1 Because of the snafu with Gibbs, athletic director Jared Mosley changed the selection process of the next punt, pass and kick for the contest that took place at the Wildcats’ Homecoming game against Angelo State.

“We’ve modified [the contest]; it was too hard for us to identify who comes down with the shirt,” Mosley said. “Fans can fill out a card; we’ll draw a name and then call that individual to the press box to go over the rules.”

Gibbs said he did not get his hopes up because he told the insurance people everything that happened and had a feeling he wouldn’t get the money.

“I had a feeling they wouldn’t give me the money,” Gibbs said.

E-mail Fields at: jrf03b@acu.edu

game goes national

Continued from page 1

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Pledges of Gamma Sigma Phi, or Siblings, depict a western scene at the Homecoming Parade on Saturday.

different trailheads and stops throughout the path. He said these scriptures and the several elements along the way were designed to inspire in the trail’s users contemplation, prayer and the reading of scripture.

“We wanted it to be a place of reflection,” Holt said, “a place where students and faculty and members of the community could come and be quiet or read scripture or be inspired to develop not only the body, but the spirit of the body.”

The Lunsfords’ vision for the trail came at a time when the university struggled with funding the project, and it quickly became a project

about more than physical exercise. Holt said the family, which donated the funds for the Quiet Place in the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building, planned extensively the layout of the trail. Each verse and trailhead was carefully chosen and designed.

Money said the Lunsford family has a great legacy at the university and a “history of creating quiet, inspirational settings on campus.”

Planners are getting ready to give the go-ahead to connect the Lunsford Trail to Jacob’s Dream, providing another segment of the project for students, faculty and community members, Money said.

E-mail Holt at: mah02f@acu.edu

University’s core education requirements face changes n The core education requirements are under review to change the classes students take in their degree plans and could go into effect as early as the fall of 2007.

By SHELBY COATES Student Reporter

Two Fridays a month, Robin Seochting sits among deans from each college on the ACU campus. She listens to their planning and progress. She takes notes. Every once in awhile she is asked to speak on behalf of her fellow students and their needs.

“They just want you to go and talk to your friends,” said Seochting, junior nursing major from Katy.

At each meeting, she is asked to report and speak on behalf of the student body.

When the committee began to discuss possible changes of the core university requirements, Seochting was needed more so than ever.

Members of the General Education Review Steering Committee are finalizing a proposal to revise the current university general education requirements; the changes are planned to begin with the fall 2007 entering class.

“The idea behind it seems really neat,” Seochting said.

“They want everyone to have the same core.”

The 21st Century Plan, the semi-final report and proposal, was presented to faculty in May. The plan includes 13 major changes to the current university core and degree core, according to the proposed document.

“We’re working to put before the faculty a proposal for general education requirements that are appropriate to Abilene Christian University and our

culture here,” said Dr. Jeff Arrington, assistant provost for student learning, assistant dean of campus life and chair of the general education review steering committee.

The writing of the proposal was a three-year process, Arrington said. Along with work with the Steering Committee, Arrington researched several areas before writing and presenting the proposal. The committee also looked at the general education requirements of other schools similar to ACU, like Wheaton College, Texas Tech University and Seattle Pacific University, Arrington said.

Groups also were organized among faculty, academic departments and within the College of Arts and Sciences to discuss the new changes, Arrington said.

Changes One change the committee proposed is closing the door on University Seminar, or U100, and replacing it with a new course called Cornerstone. Cornerstone is intended to be a three-credit hour integrative, interdisciplinary course for first semester students.

“We feel like we need to develop a different way to introduce entering students to the university,” Arrington said. “We should close U100 and create a new course that is a rigorous introduction.”

The new Cornerstone course will cover topics of identity, reasoning, doubt, truth and practical campus knowledge like library research, he said.

“We probably wouldn’t have a traditional text,” Arrington said.

“Over half the stuff that we take we really don’t need with our majors.”

Jeff Follins, sophomore mathematics major from Garland

Instead, students might be required to read a text before arriving to school. The text could even be implemented into Welcome Week with guest speakers covering the book in the fall, he said.

Bible requirements may undergo revision as well.

The semi-final proposal requires students to take four three-credit hour Bible classes and one two-credit hour Bible class, totaling 14 Bible credit hours.

The order in which a student can take Bible classes may also change. The proposal calls for Message of the Old Testament to be taught before Life and Teachings of Jesus; Christianity and Culture would then be considered a junior level course with the completion of 45 hours as a prerequisite.

Two larger changes within the proposal are the SeniorYear Capstone Experience and the Integrated Core.

“Our goal is through Capstone and Cornerstone there will be additional work toward spiritual reformation,” Arrington said.

The Senior-Year Capstone Experience challenges senior students to reflect and write about their major from a Christian perspective. Seniors will answer the question “How do I respond to Christianity as a practitioner of my field?”

Shaking up the core With the Integrated Core, students will take three

courses with the same group of students to cover six subjects in one: literature, social sciences, history, nature and science, fine arts and religion. The Core will be taught and organized through historical periods by five teachers working as a group.

Members of the Steering Committee also plan to incorporate a cultural competency requirement through the Integrated Core requirement.

“We want to start talking about civil rights and cultural issues,” Arrington said. “We want to bring those questions up. It is going to be less and less possible for a person to be a productive and engaged person without being able to cope with other cultures.”

The requirement includes completion of a “cross-cultural experience,” which may be an internship or a student teaching assignment, according to the semi-final proposal.

“There’s a limit on what can be taught,” Arrington said. “It’s not the same comparison of what can be accomplished if you study about culture and what can be accomplished when you are the other culture.”

Other sections being revised include communication and speech, social science and humanities, science, foreign language and the number of exercise science requirements. The student’s core requirements will still

equal 128, despite predicted changes.

Reaction to change While the General Education Review Steering Committee works to finalize and present the proposal to the faculty in the spring, students have varying opinions about the current core education requirements.

“It’s alright to me. They shouldn’t be changed,” said Brooklyn Hunt, senior physical education major from Garland. “If you have to take the basics, you have to take the basics. ACU makes sure you get just enough to get your feet wet.”

While Hunt believes the current education requirements are fine for students, some students disagree.

“They should minimize the number of total hours it takes for the core,” said Byron Martin, sophomore psychology major from Mesquite. “I understand why they do it because of the liberal arts nature of the school. But they should make it more liberal.”

Martin also said if there were fewer predetermined core requirements students may be likely to declare a minor or double major.

Jeff Follins, sophomore mathematics major from Garland, agrees that too many core requirements are in place.

“Over half the stuff that we take we really don’t need with our majors,” Follins said.

“If you already declared your major you shouldn’t have to take some of those classes.”

On the other hand Jeremy Cox, junior family studies major from Houston, said the education revisions could give students a little taste of everything.

“Taking other classes helps you find something you have a knack for,” Cox said. Cox enrolled at ACU as an undeclared major. After taking an Introduction to Sociology class his sophomore year, his major changed.

“The intro class pushed me in a direction toward family studies,” he said.

The ACU faculty also has varying opinions when it comes to changing the core education requirements. Arrington said faculty respond in one of two ways.

“A majority think these are interesting ideas that seek to promise improvement,” said Arrington.

Others struggle with the logistics of the change and question whether there be enough faculty and who will train faculty on teaching newly integrated classes.

“These are very important questions,” he said. Arrington is working with Dr. Dwayne VanRheenen, university provost, to prepare faculty to teach new classes and appoint lead teachers to train and be a resource to others.

“Faculty as a whole has a responsibility for general education,” said Arrington.

“Our goal is to have a general education program to prepare students for the world they will encounter upon graduation.”

While Soechting studies the 21st Century Plan with the deans on the University General Education Council, she understands her position well. She realizes she will be the voice of the students as the changes to the core educational requirements are finalized and presented in the spring.

E-mail Coates at: optimist@acu.edu

Page 6 The issue:

NBC is cutting all religious references from Veggie Tale cartoons but leaning toward airing Madonna’s Confessions tour, which contains religiously offensive material.

Our view:

The media has a tendency to function by inconsistent standards if bending the rules benefits them.

The solution:

Express your opinion to the media through letters and don’t watch content that offends you.

October 18, 2006

NBC sheds light on double standard in media NBC’s recent decision to air musical pop legend Madonna’s 2006 concert tour has raised disapproving responses from the Christian community.

The part of the Confessions concert stirring the most controversy is at the point in her performance when Madonna, adorned with a crown of thorns, hangs from a mirrored cross.

Though the television network is in the process of deciding whether to edit out this portion of the special, the Associated Press reported that NBC Entertainment President Kevin Reilly said the crucifixion scene will probably be in the

NBC special bereligious point It’s ironic that telling children God loves cause Madonna of view, the Asthem is problematic but singing a song and “felt strongly sociated Press making fun of the crucifixion is OK. about it.” Airreported. ing Madonna’s This commitdisrespectful, provocative song he didn’t know until just weeks ment is good if it consistent may be disheartening and pos- before the shows were to begin across the board, but NBC’s sibly offensive to believers, but airing that all non-historical recent Madonna incident has the inconsistency of religious references to God and the Bible proven that the media will content in the media is the would have to be removed, the bend the rules to cater to weightiest issue at hand.

Associated Press reported. big name celebrities who can This fall, NBC began airing It’s ironic that telling children bring them publicity and revthe educational tape series, Veg- God loves them is problematic enue. gie Tales, as part of its Saturday but singing a song and making Let this controversy encourmorning lineup. Veggie Tales fun of the crucifixion is OK. age you to stay informed about creator Phil Vischer agreed to NBC said they were com- what is going on in the media the editing of particular Chris- mitted to reaching a broad Observe how newspapers, tian remarks made to his reli- audience with a positive mes- Web sites, radio and broadgiously oriented program, but sage without advocating any cast stations deal with touchy

Let Loose

Cole Williams

Don’t let depression defeat you How many times a week do you think about killing yourself? How many times a month, a year, even a day?

If you’re blessed, then not many times at all. For me, the average count this semesThe Mouth of ter seems to be two or Madness three times Cole a week.

Wiliams Welcome to the life of the depressed.

Most of the time, those thoughts aren’t too serious. But sometimes, they are. I’m not sure if it’s clinical depression or just part of being ADD, but I hate it. H.A.T.E. it. I don’t know what it’s like for other people who battle depression, worry and anxiety; but for me, it’s a daily struggle.

Sometimes I get so worked up over being behind in a school project that I feel like a huge failure, and if I can’t handle something as simple as a project, I won’t be able to handle anything

You are worthy. Don’t let one day’s failure make you think you are one every other day. else in life, so I might as well slit my wrists. Other times I feel like since I’ve never had a girlfriend I probably never will have one, and I’ll always be alone, and I should just administer myself a lead injection.

It’s hard, it’s grueling and no matter how nice the life around me may be or how many good friends and family members I have, sometimes I just feel like there is no God and there’s no good reason for putting up with life day after day.

And then, after a few minutes, maybe a few hours or even days, I’ll feel better.

I’ll realize that just because life sucks one moment doesn’t mean it always will.

That’s how I feel right now as I write this column coming off a day of feeling like crap.

And honestly, I’m sick of the day to day fight. I’m sick of battling myself, getting worked up over things that often solve themselves, and being on an emotional

roller coaster 24-7. I’m just tired; sometimes so tired I feel like ending my life just to get some rest.

But, I’m doing something about those feelings. And I want to do something about it for anyone else out there like me. So, here’s some advice that, thanks to God, has kept me alive for 23 years.

You’re not alone.

Yeah, I know that helps about as much as telling someone who’s been shot that “well, plenty of other people have been shot too.”

But the point is, plenty of people are depressed, and they continue living. If they can face it over their entire lives, then so can you.

Remember that no one is a complete failure.

Can you eat, drink, and breathe successfully? Well then there’s nothing else in daily life you can fail that will kill you. Worrying about it will, though.

Odds are, you’re blowing things way out of proportion.

Just take a few minutes to walk around, breathe, relax, and get your mind off your worries and onto something else. When you come back, you’ll be able to see your problems in a more reasonable light, and you’ll be able to handle your problems easier.

You are worthy. Don’t let one day’s failure make you think you are on every other day.

Seek help. Pray, talk to a counselor, for God’s sake and your own, ask for help.

You’re not weak for needing help. If anything, you’re stronger for having the guts to ask for it.

There’s lot more advice to be given and to ask for, so please help yourself and ask for it. Talk to the Counseling Center or anyone who will listen, and don’t defeat yourself.

No life is worth much if its cut short by the person living it.

E-mail Williams at: ccw02b@acu.edu or optimist@acu.edu

issues like religion and developed a skepticism for situations that are not handled with sensitivity.

The media’s job is to serve and inform the public. If you have a problem with a particular issue, don’t be afraid to voice your opinion through letters and blogs, and remember that you are not subjected to watch anything you find offensive.

A lack of response communicates to the media what viewers find important.

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

Guns: the new seat belt control I never like it when peo- seat belt. ple point guns at me.

I was sitting with four Of all the things you friends and they were all could point with, guns wearing theirs. I panicked are pretty and started searching much my but before I could find it least favor- the policeman found me. ite, espe- When I say policeman, cially con- don’t picture a friendly sidering all guy in blue; no, this was a the things man in full camouflage, a guns do. semi-automatic gun and a I think face that said he was havFour Word m o s t l y ing a rough day.

Letter Pt. II they shoot Next thing I know, I was Denton b u l l e t s , shown the exit because Josey though I the policeman pointed have seen with his gun after he them used as a club, like pointed it at me. He took on MacGyver. MacGyver me out side on the side of never shot people, but if the road and started yellhe had a gun in his hand ing at me in Swahili. I just he only hit people with listened, and tried to look it. I think guns are pretty repentant. much always packing a After a while the bus massive podriver spoke tential to hurt with the policeThe police someone or man and I was would inspect allowed something. back If you are on the bus. As I the bus and like me and then come see went to my seat I don’t like guns saw my buddies if everyone pointed at you, smirking at me. here’s my ad- was wearing a Confused, I sat seat belt. vice: down and startWear your ed to ask why all seat belt. the smiles when No one in Kenya wears I noticed I was sitting on a seat belt on the bus for my seat belt. That is when more than five minutes. my friend Mark told me That’s because for five through chuckles how he minutes the police come hid my seat belt before down the aisle and check the policeman came. to ensure everyone is I learned a lot that day. wearing one. I’ve only had Like how important it can a gun pointed at me twice, be to speak another lanand one of those times it guage, how important it is was for not wearing my to communicate with your seat belt. I was on a bus in friends what jokes are funKenya and the bus came to ny and what jokes could a police check. The police end with you in jail or would inspect the bus and shot. But mostly, I learned then come see if everyone to wear my seat belt. Since was wearing a seat belt. that day I don’t forget to This particular day I wear a seat belt. And I’d like was feeling a little defiant to point out that I haven’t and thought I would wait once been held at gunpoint until the last second, until for neglecting to click it the policeman was only a since then. few rows up, before I put on my seat belt. Only, on E-mail Josey at: this day I was missing my jdj03e@acu.edu or optimist@acu.edu

Athletic director encourages campus to keep supporting team I would like to take time to thank all of the Wildcat faithful who were in attendance at this weekend’s football game versus Angelo State. It was absolutely amazing to look throughout the stadium and see purple

Letter to the Editor Athletic director Jared Mosley responds to the turnout at Saturday’s football game.

and white packed on the home side and overflow in

the end-zones and on the visitor’s side. Your presence at our games means so much to the student-athletes, coaches and staff in the Athletic Department.

I specifically want to recognize all of the stu-

dents and social clubs for their participation throughout the weekend. Having the social club signs and a presence at games is always welcome and adds to the excitement and gameday experience for everyone

who attends.

As a former Wildcat student-athlete, it was awesome to see the excitement and support that would rival that of any other school in NCAA Division II. A sight not reserved to just one

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

weekend, but a sight I hope to see throughout the rest of the year. Thanks again for backing the cats.

Jared Mosley director of athletics jmb97a@acu.edu

Editorial and Management Board Mallory Schlabach

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

Sports desk: (325) 674-2684

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Online: www.acuoptimist.com

Wednesday, October 18, 2006

Page 7

SPORTS JUMPS

Basketball: Practice begins Continued from page 8 last season with a lot more depth,” Copeland said.

Last year the tallest player the Wildcats could muster was 6’4”. Not only does this year’s team have three players measuring at 6’8”, but center Marcos Hubner stands at a towering 6’9”.

Though this is only Copeland’s second season at ACU, he has some specific goals for this new team.

“Our goals for this season are to continue to improve, continue the building process. This is a team that can contend for the conference tournament,”

Copeland said. “We’ve got to be a cohesive unit that will continue to work hard and continue to get better from the start to the end of the year.”

Copeland started the official team practices on Oct. 15 and will have them sweating it out six times a week for about three hours at a time with a focus on team building and cohesion.

“We’re working out, trying to get accustomed to a new system and used to playing with each other,” he said. “It’s a slow process.

It’s a building process.”

However, Copeland isn’t

worried. He said the team is already pretty cohesive and doesn’t have the problems that are typical with teams that have large amount of new players like this one.

This will not be a team led only by one or two players, Copeland said.

“There are many solid players this year, not just one star. We’ve already got nine or ten guys that can play every night,” he said.

The Wildcats’ first game will be Nov. 17, after two exhibition matches.

E-mail Faris at: optimist@acu.edu

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Wide receiver John Brock out jumps Angelo State cornerback Kevin Lenford and hauls in the ball in the end zone for ACU’s first touchdown during the first quarter of the 35-7 Homecoming victory over the Rams on Saturday. brian schmidt FILE PHOTO

Football: Team to battle in Canyon

Wildcat outside hitter Lauren Leone gets low for a dig during practice on Oct. 10. The volleyball team will be back at ACU on Thursday for the first time in seven matches.

Continued from page 8

Volleyball: Cats back at home

with 225 passing yards and 233 rushing yards. Starting running backs Taber Minner and Chancy Campbell ran for a combined 198 yards and four touchdowns in the game, while quarterback Billy Malone threw for 211 yards and one touchdown to wide receiver John Brock.

“We don’t have to have 60 or 70 yard touchdown passes to win,” Malone said. “We play together; we’re a machine.”

That “machine” is first in the LSC in total defense, 22nd in the nation, second in total offense, 15th in the nation, and is tied for first place in conference with No. 6 West Texas A&M. The Wildcat defense af-

firmed its ranking atop the LSC after holding the Rams to only 187 total yards and sacking Angelo State quarterbacks Jay Immel and Trey Weishuhn five times for a loss of 31 yards.

Cornerback Corey Jordan recorded the Wildcats’ only interception late in the second quarter after stealing the ball in the end zone to shut down the Rams’ only threatening drive. The Ram’s only touchdown came late in the fourth quarter.

“These guys work so hard,” Minner said. “The whole team is working harder than anyone in the nation right now.”

The Wildcats’ work is far from over though, as they head to Canyon to take on LSC defending champions and

nationally ranked West Texas Thursday. ACU and West Texas are the only two teams nationally ranked in the LSC. ACU has the best defense in the conference, leading in total defense, passing defense and turnover margin, but will be facing the number one pass offense in the conference.

West Texas averages 330.9 passing yards and 32.1 points per game and have outscored their opponents 225-117.

The game will decide first place in the LSC South and will be nationally televised by College Sports TV and locally

by KRBC, ACU cable channel five at 7 p.m.

E-mail Johnson at: djj04a@acu.edu

Continued from page 8 15, while libero Liz Snoddy led the team with 27 digs in the match. Snoddy was named LSC South defensive player of the week after recording 63 digs and six assists in the two five game wins last week.

Although the Wildcats defeated Tarleton and Kingsville for the second time this season and extended their record to 6-1, Mock said she is eager for her team to find the dominating play that they had earlier in the season.

“We haven’t been on the emotional high that we’ve been on earlier this year, although we’ve been winning we need to get on a really hot streak,” Mock said.

The Wildcats have been unable to win in three games in their two South division games in the second half of the season, and Mock attributes that to how long they’ve been on the road.

“It wears you down mentally and physically,” Mock said. “It is hard to play well on the road especially af-

ter you’ve played as many as we did in a row.”

Mock said she is confident that returning to Moody Coliseum after so many games on the road will help restore the Wildcats and help them find ways to win earlier in their matches.

ACU and Angelo will play in for the second time this season at 7 p.m. in Moody Coliseum.

E-mail Johnson at: djj04a@acu.edu

Baseball: Team plays try-out game Continued from page 8 Bonneau gave most valuable pitcher honors to Trey Watten, sophomore from Coppell, who plays shortstop and just started pitching. Watten pitched 12 innings and posted a 1-0 record in two starts. He had 12 strikeouts and only surrendered one earned run. In addition to his strong pitching, he posted a .467 batting

average and had 4 RBI. Sullivan was also impressed with Watten.

“He was very effective and pretty much dominated hitters,” he said in an email.

Unlike previous seasons, this team will rely on solid pitching and defense rather than a 3-run home run.

“We just don’t have any one player that is going to carry this team,” Bonneau

said. “We have a bunch of team players that do a lot of little things right.”

The team begins the spring season Feb. 2.

E-mail Hansen at: optimist@acu.edu

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Wildcat third baseman Alec Sowards dives to catch a grounder and throws out second baseman J.J. Pachaco at first during the annual ACU Purple and White Scrimmage on Friday at Crutcher Scott Field.

SportsWednesday

Wednesday, October 18, 2006

ScoreBoard Standings Div. 3-0 2-0 2-0 1-2 1-2 0-2 0-3

WTAMU ACU Tarleton MSU Angelo TAMU-K ENMU

Team

Wildcats trample Rams, prepare for Buffs n After winning its Homecoming game, the 6-0 ACU Wildcat football team will put its unblemished record on the line against No. 4 West Texas A&M on Saturday.

FOOTBALL

Team

Overall 7-0 6-0 3-3 5-1 2-4 2-4 1-5

By DANIEL JOHNSON Sports Editor

VOLLEYBALL Div. 5-0 6-1 4-3 2-5 1-4 1-6

WTAM ACU Tarelton St. TAMK-U ENMU Angelo St.

Overall 23-3 15-8 11-12 6-18 6-20 3-19 brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Scores Saturday FOOTBALL ACU 35, Angelo State 7

VOLLEYBALL ACU 3, Texas A&M Kingsville, 2

Upcoming

Cornerback Corey Jordan intercepts a ball during the Wildcats’ 35-7 Homecoming win over Angelo State Saturday. Jordan leads the Wildcats in interceptions with three and helps lead the Wildcat in pass defense.

ACU at West Texas A&M 7 p.m.

VOLLEYBALL

By HUTTON HARRIS

FOOTBALL

ACU vs. Angelo State, 7 p.m.

Friday VOLLEYBALL ACU at St. Edwards, Austin, 6 p.m.

MEN’S TENNIS

Tyler Invitational, Tyler

Saturday CROSS COUNTRY LSC Championships, Stephenville

MEN’S TENNIS Tyler Invitational, Tyler

Briefs Snoddy earns weekly LSC Honors

n Libero Liz Snoddy was named LSC South Defensive Player of the Week after her performance in the Wildcats’ two come-from-behind victories over Tarleton State and Texas A&M Kingsville.

Snoddy had 63 digs in the two games and helped provide second chances for the offensive front line.

football Rankings Scoring offense Conference (2) National (9) Total offense Conference (2) National (11) Passing offense Conference (3) National (16) Rushing offense Conference (5) National (34) Scoring defense Conference (1) National (2) Total defense Conference (1) National (14) Passing defense Conference (1) National (11) Rushing defense Conference (3) National (54)

Intramural Round-up FLAG FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS Remaining games postponed until after Fall Break. See schedule and changes at intramural board in Moody coliseum.

The ACU Wildcat football team took only two-and-ahalf minutes to find the end zone in its Homecoming game against the Lone Star Conference’s best pass defense Saturday. ACU’s opponent and rival Angelo State answered more than 44 minutes later.

“We had a good plan and we executed it,” defensive coordinator Jason Johns said. “The way we controlled the ball on offense helped us shut them down.”

The No. 20 football team

Football dominated the Angelo State Rams to extend its record to 6-0 for the first time since 1950 at its 35-7 Homecoming victory in front of the 13,369 people who filled Shotwell Stadium.

The last time ACU was 6-0 was when the “Singing Christians” of 1950 went 11-0 for the only flawless season in the school’s history.

“Any win you get is good,” head coach Chris Thomsen said. “The bottom line is that we have prepared ourselves and all the credit goes to the players and assistants.”

Despite playing the best pass defense in the conference, the Wildcats continued their balance offensively, See

FOOTBALL page 7

Naimadu wins New recruits add talent seventh straight n The Wildcats finished third at the Chile Pepper Festival in Fayetteville, Ark., on Saturday. The meet was Nicodemus Naimadu’s seventh first place finish this year.

Thursday

Page 8

Sports Writer

For the seventh consecutive time, Nicodemus Naimadu captured an individual cross country victory. Returning to the course where he suffered defeat a year ago, the Wildcat junior from Kenya quickly proved Saturday why he belongs among national top-ranking runners; he led ACU to a strong third place overall finish at the Arkansas Chile Pepper Invitational in Fayetteville, Ark. The ACU men’s team had yet another strong outing by its top five runners led by Naimadu, who ran a course record 10kilometer 28:22. Wildcat Serge Gasore finished 24th, followed

by Julius Nyango (27th), Laurent Ngirakamaro (30th) and Phillip Birgen (36th).

“I was very pleased with how close our top five finished to each other,” said head coach Derek Hood. “Even though we finished third, it was a great indicator of what our guys can do in the conference meet next week.”

Namiadu impressed Hood, who said the junior “without a doubt” deserves to be considered one of the nation’s best.

The ACU women finished

n The ACU Wildcat men’s basketball team added ten to its roster and began practice on Sunday. ACU’s season will begin on Nov. 2 against Texas-San Antonio.

Cross Country

By BLAKE PENFIELD

25th overall and were led by Loice Cheboi who finished 66th overall with a 6-kilometer time of 22:06.

“I was proud how our women came out and competed even though we didn’t have our best race overall,” Hood said. “I know that they’ll use this race to be better prepared for conference.”

ACU competed against some of the top Division I programs in the nation, including home team University of Arkansas Razorbacks.

University of Texas at El Paso men’s team, ranked 11th in Division I, took home the team championship title.

“I think a lot of people were surprised that UTEP won the overall championship,” Hood said. “Arkansas was more surprised than anyone when they saw how well UTEP competed.

UTEP proved they belong up there with the country’s top programs.”

ACU will travel to Tarleton State University Saturday to compete in the Lone Star Conference Championship.

The ACU women, who will look to win their sixth straight conference championship, will run at 9:30 a.m.. The ACU men, who will look to win their 16th straight conference championship, will run at 10:30 a.m.

E-mail Harris at: optimist@acu.edu

Sports Writer

brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Guard Cameron Holson goes to the basket over transfer center Marcos Hubner during the first day of practice Sunday.

Towering athletes running the floor, the squeaks of tennis shoes echoing throughout the coliseum and the pungent smell of three-hour workouts coming from the weight room can only mean one thing: the ACU Wildcats men’s basketball season is approaching.

And with a whopping ten new players, the team hopes to bring a better record than last year’s 8-19 season.

Guard Philip Brooks, guard Elmo Williams, guard Cortnie Ross, guard Spencer Oestrich, guard Chris Hergenreter, guard Riley Lambert, forward Igor Vrzina, forward Marko Nikolic, forward Jon Ward and center Marcos Hubner are the new Wildcats trying to propel the team to a successful season.

However, the new team is not without experience. Seven of these new players are transfer students recruited by head coach Jason Copeland and assistant coach Joe Golding because of what they can offer in experience, skill and leadership. With this new lineup Copeland feels that this team has many advantages over last year’s team.

“We’re much bigger and stronger inside than we were See

BASKETBALL page 7

Purple and White Series serves as try-out game n The ACU baseball team began its preparation for the upcoming 2007 season by measuring and observing its talent at the annual Purple and White Series last week.

By CHRIS HANSEN Sports Writer

Two teams composed of 43 ACU baseball players finished

Baseball the Purple and White Series last week, the black team defeating the purple team three games to two.

Each fall, head coach Britt Bonneau’s assistant coaches pick two teams that play a bestof-five series. During the series coaches evaluate players to

help determine the 24 players that will make the varsity team and which players deserve to be on the junior varsity team in the spring.

“These last five games of the fall, for a little over 15 of them, is going to be make and break,” Bonneau said.

Ben Maynard, senior pitcher from Loveland, Colo., said if you

Wildcats return from road n The ACU volleyball team returns home after seven straight matches on the road Thursday.

ACU will take on rival Angelo State University.

By DANIEL JOHNSON Sports Editor

The 6-1 ACU volleyball team will take on conference rival Angelo State on Thursday in its first home game after seven consecutive matches on the road.

“It will be a big boost just to be back at home,” head coach Kellen Mock said. “Be-

Volleyball ing where we’re comfortable will allow us to just get the ball rolling and keep momentum on our side.”

A C U ’ s momentum the during the second half of the season has them ranked third in the Southwest NCAA Division II region and undefeated after

defeating both Tarleton State on Oct. 12 and Texas A&M Kingsville on Saturday. In both wins, the Wildcats came from behind and won in five games on the road.

“I’m proud of the girls for pulling out those wins after such a long stretch of road games,” Mock said.

Outside hitter Abbie Lowry, outside hitter Amy Silva and middle blocker Krystine Cethoute all led the Wildcats in kills against Kingsville with

See

VOLLEYBALL page 7

want a spot on the varsity team you have to earn it. He said he was as obligated as anyone else to earn his spot. Nothing is handed out on this baseball team, he said.

Of the players that impressed coaches was freshman William Uechi from San Antonio. Coach Bonneau dubbed Uechi the most valuable hitter

because of his consistency at the plate. During the series he batted .643 with five runs batted in, three runs scored, three stolen bases and two doubles.

Sophomore pitcher Matt Sullivan said Uechi gave 110 percent everyday and has a chance of earning a starting position as See

BASEBALL page 7

Manning Tracker

n Chicago Bears’ starting free safety Danieal Manning recorded two tackles in the Bears come-from-behind 24-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals on Monday. The Bears came back from a 20-point deficit to beat the Cardinals and did not score a single offensive touchdown.

After a bye week, the Bears will return to action Oct. 29 against the San Francisco 49ers.

COURTESY OF Chicago bears