The Optimist - 01.20.12 by ACU Optimist

Angelo Rebound ‘Cats end losing streak against Rams vol. 100, no. 30

Friday, january 20, 2012

1 SECTION, 8 PAGES

Sports page 8

MARCHING for the

DREAM

Abilene residents gather to preserve the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Farron Salley Multimedia Managing Editor Forty-four years after the assassination of a civil rights icon, residents in Abilene residents march in a city where he never stepped foot to remember his legacy. Nearly two hundred people gathered Monday, the national holiday in his honor, at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Bridge on East Highway 80 to march and sing songs in tribute of the fallen leader. “It’s nice to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King,” said 14-year-old Jeremiah Dismukes, a member of the Carver Youth Council. “I think his dream was equality for everybody.” Dismukes said that the dream still isn’t complete, but it is a work in progress. “There’s more to go but a lot of it has been fulfilled,” said 24-year-old

Michelle Smith. “The fact that we’re able to come together as one: African Americans, White, Mexican, Chinese and all different nationalities.” For Smith, the greatest mark of success in King’s dream was the election of a Black president. “I can’t stress enough that we have made it to this point,” said Smith. She recalled listening to older Black people talk about how we would never have a Black president, “but now this is a historical moment for us. To be able to experience that in my generation is just great.” Along the march some carried flowers, others a banner and some a poster with a simple message “Keeping the Dream Alive.” As they marched from the corner of Cockerell Street, across the MLK bridge to Treadaway Boulevard and back, the crowd sang the words to the old spirituals We Will Overcome and Victory is Mine.

The afternoon march wasn’t the only way Abilenians could celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr. The Abilene Black Chamber of Commerce supports an MLK banquet each year, and the 2012 theme was “A Community in Service.” Two hundred people attended the banquet at the Abilene Civic Center including U.S. Representative Randy Neugebauer and Air Force Lt. Gen. Ronnie Hawkins Jr., the keynote speaker. Hawkins encouraged the audience to continue to push for what King stood for and not become complacent in everday individualistic affairs. More simply put were the words of Dismukes, “We still have to make sure we don’t stereotype or judge others. Treat them as equals.” photos by mandy lambright chief Photographer

contact Salley at Fls08a@acu.edu

Members of the Abilene community gather to march across the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Bridge in celebration of King’s life and legacy on Monday.

university

Schubert, Phillips detail Horizon team objectives Mark Smith Managing Editor Dr. Phil Schubert conducted faculty and staff meetings Wednesday to help dispel rumors around campus regarding the recently formed Horizon Team and it’s intentions. Schubert, president of the university, and Dr. Mark Phillips, associate professor of management sciences, led one meeting at noon and another at 4 p.m. to explain how the team aims to foster ideas around campus to help improve the university’s future. “The team’s purpose is to

facilitate campus-wide discussion to ensure ACU progresses despite the challenges it faces,” Schubert said. Schubert began the meeting by remembering some of the challenges the university faced, including the budget realignment plan and the bus accident in October. “I’m still amazed at how through the worst tragedies we can imagine God works to bring good out of a terrible situation,” he said. “Additionally, the budget realignment wasn’t easy but God continues to provide for us as individuals and what we collectively represent at ACU.”

He then introduced Phillips as the leader of the Horizon Team. Phillips named the rest of the team, citing their diverse abilities and interests as why he asked them to join the team. Phillips also said that George Saltsman, executive director of Educational Technology in the Adams Center for Teaching and Learning, and Bill Rankin, associate professor of English and director of mobile learning research, will also be consulting the team closely. “They are experts on the future of technology and higher education,” he said. “They are the best sources

on campus for the project.” Phillips explained the teams focal areas as well. The integration of faith, life and learning; pedagogy; technology; interconnectedness across areas; cost of delivery and basics of how the university is run will all be central areas for the team to evaluate. Phillips wanted to erase all traces of rumors that the team would be making cuts or any other changes to the university. “We have no power or authority,” he said. “We are the eyes and ears to bring information back to administration.” Phillips also addressed

Horizon Team Dr. Mark Phillips associate professor of management sciences Dr. Susan Lewis associate professor of journalism and mass communication Dr. James Langford assistant professor of information technology John Delony assistant dean for Residence Life Education Justin Brown budget assistant at KACU

past teams that had similar responsibilities, and explained this team has a broader scope, a leadership commitment and external pressures. “Our intention is that

there will be lots of talking,” he said. The team will communicate and work closely with the offices of the president, the provost and see Team page 4

inside arts

opinion

video

news

Shore Art Gallery to host first senior show of semester

Read why the Superbowl should be a national holiday

Rec Center rejuvenates complete wellness within ACU community

Debate duo finds national success through ideological differences

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page 6

Abilene Christian University

acuoptimist.com

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Friday 01.20.12

20 Friday

All Day - Men & women’s tennis Team Intra Squad Match at ACU

Saturday

All Day - Men & women’s tennis Team Intra Squad Match at ACU

All Day - Indoor Track at Texas Tech Invitational

11 a.m. Praise Day in Moody Coliseum

5:30 p.m. Women’s basketball at Angelo State

6 p.m. Senior art show in the Shore Art Gallery

7:30 p.m. Men’s basketball at Angelo State

Sunday

2 p.m. “Disney’s The Jungle Book Kids” performance at the Paramount Theater

Monday

All Day - Final day to check-in All Day - Last day of drop-add period 11 a.m. “Beware of Christians” documentary team in Moody Coliseum 8 p.m. Chapel Forum: “Beware of Christians” documentary

Around ABilene

Chapel checkup

Jan. 20

Jan. 21

Jan. 22

Jan. 23

7:30 p.m. The Abilene Community Theater presents “Love, Sex and the IRS.” Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 12 and younger and $8 for students.

2 p.m. local cast of children ages 8-14 will perform “Disney’s The Jungle Book Kids” at the Paramount Theater. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for students, seniors, military and children.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The 12th Armored Division Memorial Division museum will present “A Week in Remembrance” including seminars about the Holocaust, exhibits of concentration camp artifacts, tours highlighting the Division’s role in the Liberation and art by local artists and students. Admission is $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 7-12 and free for ages 6 and younger.

6-8 p.m. The Center for Contemporary Arts presents “Evolve,” a art show with a different twist including art, a dancer, a violinist, food and drink and performance art.

7:30 p.m. A local cast of children ages 8-14 will perform “Disney’s The Jungle Book Kids” at the Paramount Theater. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for students, seniors, military and children.

3 p.m. McMurry University’s jaz ensemble will host a Jazz Jam at Byrnum Band Hall on campus . Musicians of all ages and experience levels and listeners are invited.

04 69 @acuoptimist The Optimist optimist@acu.edu

Police Log Announcements The Study Abroad Office is accepting applications for all study abroad programs. Several departments will be taking students to locations around the world this summer. English, Psychology, Art and Design, COBA, CommuStudents in need of tutoring can visit nication, Music, Bible and Pre-Health www.acu.edu/tutoring to find tutoring majors are encouraged to apply. Programs are also open to non-majors. information for their department. For more information, email the Study Students interested in pledging this se- Abroad Office at study_abroad@acu. mester can register at www.acu.edu/ edu, call 325-674-2754, visit www.acu. socialclubs. Students must reister by edu/studyabroad or go to the Study Abroad Office in Room 124 in the HarThe SLVR office is looking for a part- Riot Studios will be showing their docu- midnight Friday night. din Administration Building. time grad student intern. The position mentary “Beware of Christians” at the requires a three semester commitment first Chapel Forum of the semester World Wide Witness is still receivand may be available during the sum- Monday at 8 p.m. Students earn 3 cha- ing applications for Summer 2011. For Students may now sign up for Recremore information visit www.acu.edu/ ation Classes for the semester. Classes mer. For more information, contact pel credits for attending. cost $60/semester and include a variworldwide-witness. slvr@acu.edu with the subject line “Inety of choices including kick-boxing, The last day to add/drop classes or terested in Grad Internship.” Students wanting to return textbooks yoga, ballet, Zumba, Capoeira, Circumcheck-in and is Monday. to the Campus Center for a full refund ference and many more. To sign up visit Summer Camp Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. in the Campus Cen- Students interested in participating in a must do so within a week of purchas- the main desk in the SRWC. Spring Break Campaign can sign up in ing. ter Monday. The ACU track team will compete at their first meet Friday and Saturday in Lubbock at the Texas Tech Invitational.

Submissions are now being accepted for the 5th Annual Student Art Contest for Summit. Any current ACU student is encouraged to submit their original Spring Vera Bradley colors arrived in the artwork, photography, drawing, paintCampus Store yesterday. Special Choose ing or other creation to communicate Your Gift promotion will be going on the Summit theme. The 2012 Summit theme is “intimacy.” Students need to from now until Feb. 1. submit their art digitally to summit@ ACU Leadership Camp staff applica- acu.edu by Feb. 15, 2012. One work will tions are now available in the Campus be awarded $100 and used to advertise Center basement. the 2012 Summit.

the SBC office located in Room 31 in the lower level of the Campus Center. For more information on campaigns that still need members, or to sign up, contact jls07e@acu.edu.

Volunteer Opp0rtunities Meals on Wheels Plus needs volunteer drivers to deliver afternoon meals to seniors and adults with disabilities Monday-Friday between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Training is provided. A Chapel exemption is available if delivery time conflicts with Chapel. Contact Jessica Stewart at 325-6725050 or email volunteer@mealsonwheelsplus.com. Oakridge Church of Christ needs volunteers to help with a children’s Bible class. The class will meet from 7 - 8 p.m every Wednesday night until Dec. 21. Volunteers will sing Bible songs, sanitize toys and play with kids. Free dinner is included with the service. For more information contact Emerald Lemmons at 325-370-1327 or email emeraldlemmons@gmail.com. The Big Brothers Big Sisters program is looking for volunteers to participate in Lunch Buddies. Bigs and Littles will enjoy lunch together at the child’s school once a week. Students can earn Chapel credit for each visit. Big Brothers Big Sisters is also looking for volunteers for its Community Based program. Bigs are matched with Littles in a one-on-one relationship and spend four to six hours per month together in the community. To sign up or learn more visit www. bbbstx.org or call 325-674-3113. The House That Kerry Built is looking for volunteers to assist in the day care of medically fragile children any day Monday through Friday from 8:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Contact Dave Kraly at 325-676-3104 or email medicalmoose@sbcglobal.net for more information. The Abilene Zoo is looking for volunteers to help with general labor such as grounds cleanup and painting any weekday at any time between noon and 4 p.m. The Zoo is located at 2070 Zoo Ln. Contact Joy Harsh at 325-676-6487 for more information. Access Learning Center is looking for volunteers to help elementary school kids with homework, reading, computers and games. The center is located at 2102 Ambler Ave. For more information contact Bret Hines at 325670-9727. Call ahead to schedule a time to volunteer. Rescue The Animals is looking for volunteers anytime between 1p.m. and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. They need help around the adoption center with general cleaning, socialization of the animals, helping potential adopters and other tasks. Contact Mindi Qualls at 325-698-7722 or email rescuetheanimalsvolunteers@ yahoo.com. The center is located at 5933 S. 1st St.

Breakfast on Beech Street is looking for volunteers to help set up, prepare and serve breakfast to homeless or lower-income visitors any weekday. The event begins at 5:30 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; 5 a.m. on Tuesday. Serving time is 6:30 - 7:15 a.m. B.O.B.S is located at First Christian Church on N. 3rd Street and Beech Street in Downtown Abilene. For contact information visit the www.acu.edu/campusoffices/slvr. Habitat for Humanity needs volunteers to help with various construction tasks including carpentry, painting, cleaning up, installing cabinets and other tasks. Volunteers are needed any day Monday-Saturday between 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Contact Steven Legget at 325-670-0489 or email sleggett@abilenehabitat.org. Young Life Ministries needs volunteers Mondays, Tuesdays and weekends from 6 - 9 p.m. Volunteers will hang out with kids, experience leadership roles, serve others and introduce kids to Christ. Young Life is located at 1917 S. 6th St. For more information contact Chuck Rodgers at 325-676-1211 or email clrodg@wrproperties.com. The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers for a variety of needs including sorting and pricing items in the thrift store, helping in the kitchen and/or doing yard work. Times are flexible. Volunteers are needed throughout the week Monday-Saturday. The Salvation Army is located at 1726 Butternut St. For more information contact J.D. Alonzo at 325677-1408 or visit www.satruck.com. Abilene Hope Haven Inc. needs volunteers to provide childcare while parents are in class, any evening Monday-Thursday from 6:45 - 8:15 p.m. Abilene Hope Haven is located at 801 S. Treadaway Blvd. For more information contact Kathy Reppart at 325-677-4673 or visit www.abilenehopehaven.com/volunteer. The Food Bank of West Central Texas needs volunteers to help sort and stock food and other items any weekday Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. The Food Bank is located at 5505 N. 1st St. For more information contact Janice Serrault at 325695-6311 or abfoodbk@camalott.com. The Abilene Boys and Girls Club needs help any weekday between 3:30 - 6 p.m. helping children of all ages with games, art, gym time, reading and computer skills. Locations are 4610 N. 10th St. or 1902 Shelton St. Contact Mark Denman at 325672-1712 for more information.

Medical Care Mission is looking for volunteers to assist medical or dental staff with patients any weekday from 8:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. For more information contact Dave Kraly at 325-676-3104 or email medicalmoose@sbcglobal.net. Abilene Nursing and Rehabilitation Center has various opportunities for volunteers ranging from visiting with residents to helping with Bingo. Volunteers are needed Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday from 2 - 3 p.m. The Center is located at 2630 Old Anson Road. For more information contact Rita Raymond at 325-673-5101 or email cameron.grad@hotmail.com. College Heights Friendship House needs child mentors Monday - Thursday from 3 - 5 p.m. Contact Dusty Garison at dusty@wecareabilene.org for more information. Christian Homes and Family Services is looking for volunteers to do minor landscaping, raking, trimming bushes, minor apartment repairs and general upkeep Monday - Saturday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information call Shaylee Honey at 325-677-2205 or email shoney@christianhomes.com. Care Inn of Abilene is offering various opportunities for working with the elderly and is looking for volunteers who can play a musical instrument and would be willing to perform in the evening. Care Inn is located on South 7th Street. For more information call Sally Diaz at 325-692-2172 . Child Protective Services needs volunteers for clerical work as well as volunteers who can organize a playroom. Volunteers are needed any weekday anytime between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Child Protective Services are located at 3610 Vine St. Background checks are required and are done at the center. Background checks usually are cleared in about two weeks. For more information call V. Danette Cummings at 325-691-8214. ACU Treadaway Kids is looking for volunteers to work with underprivileged kids Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the University Church of Christ. For more information contact Samantha Manski at 325-674-2828. The Betty Hardwick Center is looking for volunteers to participate in Special Olympics by helping mentally/physically challenged people play games such as basketball, track, and/or bowling Monday Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Center is located at 801 Cypress St. Contact Angel Seca at 325-6905235 for more information.

campus news

friday 01.20.12

education

Students lead workshops at conference Katie Jenkins page 2 editor Five students from the Department of Teacher Education led a workshop presenting science experiments at the Conference Advancement of Science Teaching/ Science Teachers Association of Texas annual conference in Dallas last November. “All five of us had to create a physical science experiment,” said Kristi Damon, senior education major from Amarillo. “We were in charge of designing the experiment, collecting all the data, and recording our hypothesis.” The students received the opportunity from Jenn Rogers, early childhood education professor. “She felt like it would be

a meaningful opportunity for us,” said Mariah Schultz, junior education major from Rowlett. “After deciding on who was going, we met up every other week to prepare and discuss the conference.” “I am so grateful for the opportunity to present at CAST and thankful that Mrs. Rogers believed my peers and I had the ability to do what we did,” said Olivia Noland, junior education major from Flower Mound. The students presented many elementary science experiments to current teachers from across the state from “ghouly hands,” showing a chemical reaction and the properties of gas, to boiled eggs to show how temperature changes expand and contract air molecules. “I enjoyed preparing an

major from Dennison. “It was great to be treated as a real teacher and to get ideas from other teachers from all around the country.” After bad experiences with science fairs as a child, Schultz said going to the CAST/STAT conference opened her eyes and mind. “Before taking the Science classes and participating in the conference, I was unsure of what I actually wanted to teach,” Schultz said. “Through Adrian Patenaude Staff Photographer the process, I have now come to the conclusion that I am in Students who participated in the Conference Advabcement of Science Teaching are junior Mariah Schultz from fact drawn to teaching SciRowlett, junior Olivia Noland from Flower Mound, senior ence and Math courses.” The students who preJessica Varner from Abilene and senior Melanie Catteau sented all agreed that the from Denison. Not pictured is senior Kristi Damon of CAST/STAT conference was a Amarillo, who is currently student teaching. meaningful experience. “Being a part of CAST experiment to present to ers we normally share our actual teachers as opposed ideas with,” said Melanie was a great way to begin my to the pre-service teach- Catteau, junior education professional career,” Noland

said. “Before the conference, I had no intentions of teaching any grade above third, and I certainly had no interest in teaching solely science. However, after my experience in CAST I am interested in possibly being a middle school science teacher. The students said the overall experience of the conference was encouraging and helpful. “This was my first professional education conference to attend,” Damon said. “Throughout the conference I felt welcomed and respected. I feel more prepared as a professional educator due to participating in the conference.” contact jenkins at kej11a@acu.edu

debate

Duo ranked among the top 15 in the nation David singer arts editor Jeff Craig and Jared Perkins form a collegiate forensics team that is ranked among the best in the nation. Craig, a senior journalism major from Granbury, has participated in debate since his sophomore year in high school. Perkins, a senior sociology major from Peru, Ill., has a slightly different history and began debating three years ago. “I know it was a lot about politics and current events, and it was a great way to stay up to date I also really enjoy arguing,” Perkins said. “I picked it up pretty quickly and I really enjoy it.” The two have been debating together for the past three years and have won six tournaments across the

country. They boast a record of 50-8 over the last year which places them first in the nation and they rank 13th based on the national point system. Many of these victories come against larger schools such as Texas Tech, University of Oklahoma and UCLA. “There is no Division 2 for debate. We sometimes compete against schools ten times our size,” said Craig. Craig credits much of their success to an environment that “encourages success,” something that has been developed by their coach, Dena Counts, director of forensics, who took the position when Craig and Perkins were freshmen. “[Counts] rebuilt the program from shambles and made it nationally competitive,” Craig said. “She has

given ACU Debate the recognition it deserves.” Counts initially decided the two would make a great team. Craig and Perkins represent almost exact opposites ideologically, but it is these differences, they say, that makes them so successful. “Jeff is more on the conservative side,” Perkins said, “and I am more on the liberal side. We balance each other out. It helps because we have to debate both sides of a lot of issues. It helps that we see things a little differently. We play on each others strengths and it has really helped us be as successful as we’ve been.” Craig and Perkins graduate this May and both plan on attending graduate school. Although they may not continue to formally debate, they believe the skills

local

ACU apparel on sale at Walmart superstore marissa jones contributing reporter Students can now show their Wildcat pride by purchasing ACU merchandise from Walmart. Walmart began selling Wildcat merchandise at the beginning of last semester after acquiring approval from their vender and ACU. The retail store on U.S. Highway 351 sells a variety of products sporting the ACU logo including athletic shirts, sweatshirts, umbrellas, and ponchos. The store manager, Kelly Greene, said she recognized the demand for ACU products, and she was glad Walmart finally decided to stock the merchandise. “This store sells a lot of it, now. We worked hard to even just get [products with] ACU colors, ” Greene said. “We’re mostly a college store and try to cater to the college students.”

ACU shirts are typically $12 a piece and can be found at the front of the clothing section. Other products, such as umbrellas or travel pillows, are stocked in their respective sections throughout the store. This merchandise is produced and sold independent from ACU. However, Walmart does not seem to be stealing customers away from The Campus Store, said Scott Harsh, director of The Campus Store. “I think it’s good for the ACU image to be out in the public, and I honestly don’t think it’s affecting the sales in the campus store,” Harsh said. “Walmart offers different products at a lower price, which usually means a lower quality.” Students recognize the advantages and disadvantages of both retailers. Mara Fleet, freshman graphic design major from

Abilene said, “The Campus Store sells nicer designs and has a lot of variety, but Walmart fits a college student’s budget a little better.” Walmart was required to receive a license from Strategic Marketing Affiliates before selling products carrying the ACU logo. SMA helps ACU monitor the use of the school logo in retail environments and protect the school’s image. In return, ACU receives payment for the use of their logo. Walmart will continue to sell ACU merchandise and also attempt to manufacture a wider variety of products. “We’re trying to get the vender to stock more ACU related things,” Greene said, “It’s possible to even get ACU fridges.” contact jones at mnj10a@acu.edu

they have acquired will help them in many aspects of life. “It really teaches critical thinking skills and always challenges the way you look at events and your opinion on them,” Perkins said. The multi-round format of tournaments forces competitors to handle multiple topics that range from domestic to international issues. They are only given 20 minutes to prepare a defense for their point of view before presenting. “The ability to communicate and think on your feet is beneficial for everyone,” Craig said. “We learn critical thinking skills and communication skills that you can’t learn in the classroom.” contact singer at dis08a@acu.edu

Destiny hagood Staff Photographer

Jared Perkins, senior sociology major from Peru, Ill. and Jeff Craig, senior journalism major from Granbury, are currently ranked 13th in the nation.

news

friday 01.20.12

bus accident

Victims return to class, continue recovery samantha sutherland features editor The students involved in the Nov. 4 shuttle bus accident during a Department of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences trip are returning to campus for the Spring semester. Many spent the break catching up on last semester’s missed assignments and are now on track to start a new semester. Pat Miller, a faculty spouse involved in the accident, was released on Wednesday afternoon. Naomi Cruz, freshman animal science major from

Richmond, returned to class for the first time since the accident on Tuesday. “I’m still in a walker and waiting to get off but I feel really good,” Cruz said. Cruz endured several fractures and broken bones after being thrown 45 feet during the accident. She was released from the hospital Nov. 18 and was out of rehab by Dec. 15. “They told me after my pelvic surgery that I would be in a wheelchair for four to five months and it’s been two months and I’m already almost off my walker,” Cruz said. Since Cruz began her physical therapy, she said

the doctors have been amazed at how little pain she has been experiencing. She said, throughout it all, she has tried to remain positive and her overall recovery has been good. “It makes you realize the small things,” Cruz said. “Like when I stood up for the first time, it was a really big deal.” Cruz said looking back at the videos and pictures of the accident coverage she could not believe she had survived. “I never thought that I would be strong enough to go through something like that,” Cruz said. “I think I’m more humble and open to things because of it.” Kendra Unamba, junior

nursing major from Midlothian, still feels physical discomfort from the accident. “I have to readjust the way I do things,” Unamba said. “I’m kind of ready for it to just be over and get back to normal.” Unamba said she returned to school a week and a half after the accident and finished out her semester while others, like Anna Watson, attended class from home via Skype. “I didn’t really want to come back as early as I did,” Unamba said. “But it’s cool to see people you don’t really know on campus who care about you and your wellbeing.”

“

I think I’m more humble and open to things because of it.” naomi cruz freshman animal science major from Richmond

Unamba said she is still processing what happened last semester. “When I got back, I had to put it aside and concentrate on school, which made it kind of easier to handle because I wasn’t really thinking about it,” Unamba said. “This is the time where things are kind of slow with the beginning of the semester so I’ve

been doing more stuff to deal with it emotionally now.” For some, memories of the accident will go away as things die down, Unamba said. Others, especially people directly affected by it, will never forget. “Everyone’s on this long journey, some people don’t have the casts and stuff but I wouldn’t necessarily say that they’re fully healed,” Unamba said. “Some of the ones without the visible injuries have the emotional part of it. Everyone’s on their own journey to full recovery.” contact sutherland at sns08a@acu.edu

mobile learning

ACU staff to attend Apple Education Event in NYC Guggenheim Museum in New York City Jan. 19. online managing editor Katie Freeman, mashable.com writer, predicted Apple has invited two rep- Apple is entering into the resentatives from ACU and publishing world, and onseveral media outlets to at- line textbooks could possitend an event announcing bly be in the works. “Mashable speculated its next step toward revoluearlier this month that the tionizing education. George Saltsman, execu- event would revolve around tive director of the Taskforce the publishing world. Perfor Innovation in Learning haps Apple will be asking and Educational Technology publishers to put textbooks and Dr. Bill Rankin, director on iOS devices,” said Freeof educational innovation, man in an article. is waiting to evaluate exwill attend the event at the

leigh foith

actly what Apple announces before ACU makes any changes towards the Mobile Learning Initiative. “Apple revolutionized numerous industries, so if they are releasing something major for education, then it very well could be something important to the students here at ACU,” Saltsman said. Saltsman and RankinRankin will be attending the event by request. They have done extensive research on print versus digital educa-

tion tools and feel that digital textbooks can provide numerous advantages to the student body. According to a recent article on Ars Technica, Rankin believes that digital textbooks will expand with tools that will enable social interactions among textbook users. “What we really believe is important is the role of social networking in a converged learning environment. Future digital texts should allow students to layer all kinds of other data,

such as pictures, and notes, and then share that with the class or, ideally, anyone,” Rankin said in an article. Stefanie Nicholas, junior math education major from Allen, prefers print textbooks as opposed to online textbooks. “I like having a book in my hands. Having to look at a screen to study for several hours is straining.” But Saltsman believes that we are about to see a widespread movement to digital texts and is excited to

see what lies ahead for the Mobile Learning Initiative on ACU’s campus. “At ACU, we’re really focused on making sure that we get it right. How soon that happens at ACU and how soon it happens elsewhere will depend on how companies like Apple assist,” Saltsman said. “We’re hopeful for major advances from a company like Apple.” contact foith at lmf08a@acu.edu

university

Team: Group created to help generate discussion continued from page 1 the staff and faculty senates. To help facilitate more discussion among faculty and staff, Phillips encouraged lunch and small group discussions as well as reading groups coordinated by

Dr. Nancy Shankle, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “The team is not the exclusive work of the team,” Phillips said. “We encourage comprehensive discussion to evaluate opportunities or ideas across

campus. I expect deans and other campus leaders to be heavily involved in the discussion.” The team is being funded by the President’s Venture Council, a group of external donors that provides opportunistic funding for

evaluating and pursuing opportunities. Schubert approached Phillips in October to ask him to form the Horizon Team, and after a few months of organizing the team and it’s responsibilities, the team just began

meeting last week. Phillips said the university has no intention to change its identity. “This is not an attempt to change who we are,” he said. “It’s an attempt to preserve and protect who we are.” For more information

about the team, it’s progress, and it’s members, visit blog.acu.edu/horizon or send an email to horizon@ acu.edu. contact smith at mds10a@acu.edu

arts

friday 01.20.12

FIF HEADLINE TH

OUT SOON

DIM ENS ION

Human Again Ingrid Michaelson January 24 via Cabin 24

The fifth studio album from the indie singersongwriter is her first in three years.

First show of semester displays seniors’ art David singer arts editor On Friday night the Shore Art Gallery will host an opening for the first senior art show of the spring, “Fifth Dimension.” Works by Sara Beth Almquist, interior design major from Spring, Michael McCarty, graphic design major from Grapevine, Hannah Barnes, graphic design major from El Paso, Briana Dinella, interior design major from McPherson, KS, and Zack Giuliani, 2-dimensional art major from Parker, CO, will all be displayed in the column. A great deal goes into preparing a gallery and this being the first of the semester presents a few difficulties. “It is a little bit hectic,” Giuliani said, “just because we get to jump in in the very beginning of the semester. We’ve already put about 20 hours in and we probably have another 20 more to go.”

Setting up a gallery requires selecting works, designing the space, framing and hanging pieces and organizing food, music and many other aspects

“

Old Ideas Leonard Cohen January 31 via Columbia

The Candian singersongwriter and poet responsible for “Hallelujah” delivers his first album in almost a decade.

It’s a cool experience to get to see how much work goes in behind the scenes.”

Zack Giuliani senior 2D Art major from Parker, CO

for opening night. “It’s a cool experience to get to see how much work goes in behind the scenes,” Giuliani said. “Usually you just go to a show and see the art on the wall without thinking of the food, the music or the setting. You have to take into account a lot more things that you don’t really think about.” However, the begin-

ning of the semester also marks one of the least stressful parts of the year. “I haven’t been stressed at all,” Dinella said. “It’s great not having to worry about finals. Over the break I was able to look at all my work and get it together and we actually had an extra day on Saturday to look at the gallery and see what we were going to do.” These five students represent a range of disciplines that include interi-

or design, graphic design, painting, illustration and sculpture that will bring a variety to the show. “I have tried to be broad with my art through drawing, painting, illustration, graphic design and sculpture,” Giuliani said. “I’m just trying to broaden my chances of finding a job in the real world.” The artists have friends from ACU as well as family and others from out of town visiting for a chance to see their work.

“My family will be able to see my improvements over the years and what my college degree is actually doing,” Dinella said. The set up began only on Monday and the students push on to finish before the gallery opens at 6 p.m. on Friday in the Shore Art Gallery. Admission free.

The Grey January 30

Liam Neeson leads a group of oil workers through Alaska after their plane downs in this classic survival tale.

contact Singer at dis08b@acu.edu

Jim Henson’s Tale of Sand Ramon Pèrez January 30

This graphic novel is the realization of a lost screenplay by Muppets creator Jim Henson.

mandy lambright chief photographer

TOP: Zack Giuliani, senior 2-dimensional art major from Parker, CO, paints a design on the wall of the Shore Art Gallery in preparation for their opening. MIDDLE: The show’s poster lays on a table while the artists prepare the gallery. BOTTOM LEFT AND RIGHT: The gallery will display works including packaging design, graphic design, illustration, painting, interior design and more.

20 EVENTS JANUARY 20

20 28

Love, Sex and the I.R.S. Abilene Community Theatre

Senior Show - The Fifth Dimension Shore Art Gallery

ArtGasm: Artist’s Uncut

The Center for the Arts

Abilene Philharmonic: Celebrations Abilene Civic Center

opinion

friday 01.20.12

Editorial

Study Abroad creates opportunities out, everything fell apart. My dear friend, Anabel Reid, Culture shock was killed in the ACU bus MELANY COX crash on Nov. 4. My excitement about leaving suddenly turned to fear, anxiety and hesitation. I began questioning Growing up, I only left During a break from Sing Song practice, last February, the country twice, and both whether I should still go to I walked into the Campus times were for youth group Oxford. I felt guilty about Center to check my mail. mission trips to Mexico. leaving my friends and I opened my mailbox and Naturally, I was excited for I wondered if I would be pulled out the long-expected the opportunity to travel able to handle the strain of envelope. Without hesitat- “across the pond” and visit adapting to a new culture ing, I tore it open and began a country I knew about on top of everything else reading. I made it through only through stories, his- I had just been through. the first sentence before I tory books and Harry Potter Then I remembered how excited Anabel was when she ran shrieking through the films. My excitement grew as learned I would be going to Campus Center to tell my friends the good news. I had our departure date ap- Oxford. She was the kind been accepted to the ACU proached. However, less of person who would never Study Abroad program in than three months before miss an opportunity to do we were scheduled to fly something amazing. Oxford, England.

Many people have said their ambition is to travel the world, but not many of them actually have the chance. If I let an opportunity like this pass, I would never be able to forgive myself. There might be other chances for me to travel and visit other countries, but each experience is “once in a lifetime.” Studying abroad is not the same as simply visiting a different country. Studying abroad means actually living in another country and immersing yourself in their culture. Learning how people in other countries live fascinates me, and I plan to use these next three and a half months as a learning experience.

Oh Dear, Christian College

There are many specific things that I am excited about doing: meeting new people, visiting Paris, riding the London Eye, trying new food, taking 5.2 billion pictures (more or less), sitting on the same bench where C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien sat, visiting the Harry Potter museum... the list doesn’t end. I’ve heard from Study Abroad alumni that the groups of students traveling together become like a family. This is one of the things I am the most excited about. Recent events taught me to never take friendships for granted and I am looking forward to beginning new relationships.

Ben miller

My excitement about leaving has been rekindled, but reality hasn’t sunken in yet. My bags are packed and I’ve said goodbye to most of my friends and family. My goal is to keep my mind completely open because I have no idea what to expect when I step off the plane. Great writers like J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis and J.K. Rowling would view this journey as a new adventure. Adventures might be unexpected, but in the end they are always worth the risks.

contact COX at MKC09b@acu.edu

column

Thanks for calling 1-800-BAD-GIFT WHOA! IS ME

DAVID SINGER

Column

America’s Next National Holiday well, this is awkward

mark smith

The Super Bowl. America’s unofficial holiday. The only day that brings the country together to eat great food, watch the same channel on TV and actually look forward to commercials. This is my push for the date of the Super Bowl to become an official national holiday. Whether it’s for the food, the commercials or the game, the Super Bowl is regularly one of the most watched event on television every year. Any annual event that people will rent the highest quality

televisions available for no other reason deserves to be a holiday. The Super Bowl is always on a Sunday. Banks are already closed on Sundays so they can’t complain that it would cut into their open business days. But the beauty of this idea is that it can if they want it to. If desired, companies can take a vacation day on a workday surrounding the Super Bowl weekend. If not, they don’t have to. I’m writing this as an unbiased sports fan. Yes, I

“

ing the game. As a fan of both the game and the ads, it makes going to the bathroom a dilemma because I don’t want to miss anything. I usually hold it until halftime. Keep yo hands off my mama, and keep yo hands off my Doritos! Football is my favorite sport. It’s arguably the most popular sport in the country. The Super Bowl is like Christmas and the Fourth of July for me. Six hours of love football, but even if my pregame show leading up opinion on the sport were to the biggest game of the neutral, I’d still advocate year is just icing on the the facilitation of the big- cake. If some schools get a gest football game of the day off for President’s Day, year as a national holiday. the Super Bowl deserves its The Super Bowl even has own holiday. the best commercials. It’s the one time a year I accontact Smith at tually want to watch the MDS10a@acu.edu commercials breaks dur-

The Super Bowl even has the best commercials. It’s the one time a year I actually want to watch the commercials breaks during the game.

“Thank you for calling the Sears’ Christmas Gift Return Service Hotline. Due to an overwhelming amount of customer gift returns this holiday season we have automated the return process in order to save you time and quell the recent assaults on Customer Service team members. (R.I.P. Tony M. from the Omaha Sears) “Please signify the type of useless, poorly thought out or inappropriate gift you were given by your estranged, unoriginal or just plain clueless family members. “If you received a gift intended for the opposite gender, please say ‘Yes.’ “I’m sorry, we could not understand your request. Please say ‘Yes’ once more but slightly louder and with a hint of irritation in your voice. “I’m sorry, we could not understand your request. Please yell, ‘DO YOU NOT SPEAK ENGLISH YOU COLD, LIFELESS MACHINE! I SAID YES!’ “On second thought, we will just use the keypad. Please select the number that corresponds to the gift you intend to return. “If you would rather receive a store credit of $13.27 than spend the next 11 months pretending that the board game Aunt Mae got you is fun, please enter “1.” “If you would like to return any Dallas Cowboys memorabilia due to a general disappointment in the franchise, please enter “2,” signifying the number of playoff games

hashtagACU I feel cool when I get a letter from a college #ACU

11:16 a.m. Jan. 18

$478 on books #ripoff #ACU

@jonesry05 @TheJ_CaB

“

I’m sorry, we could not understand your request. Please say ‘Yes’ once more but slightly louder and with a hint of irritation in your voice.”

“If you would like to return a handmade gift from your crafty aunt, too bad, smile and pretend you like it. She made that with love, you heartless materialist. “If you would like to return to a simpler time when Christmas was more about Jesus, family and avoiding cholera, please enter the year you wish to return to. “And finally, if you would like to return to school to avoid the political discussion about to ensue between two uncles who are four deep on the eggnog, well, that’s up to you.” contact Singer at dis08a@acu.edu

2:09 p.m. Jan. 18

1:35 p.m. Jan. 17 12:37 p.m. Jan. 14

they have won in the last 15 years. “If you would like to return an article of clothing that either drapes over your body like a Dalì painting or restricts blood flow to your main arteries, please enter the number of pounds you would have to lose or gain for your grandmother’s sweater to even remotely fit.

Getting an iPad for microeconomics instead of a textbook #ACU

7:59 p.m. Jan.1 7

And so it begins. 4 rehearsals a week 8-11. Sing Song 2012 #ACU

@tomevans74 @MollyMac21

8:41 p.m. Jan. 15

Headed back to Abilene today. #goodandbad #ACU

I also like hugging my professors because most of them are very soft. they hug a lot because they are christians. christians love hugs. #ACU

@michaelwwarren9 @definetta

8:23 p.m. Jan. 17

“I think it will either be incredible or incredibly offensive. Let’s hope for the first one.” @Nick_Tatum #singsong #ACU

@JaimeMetscher

2:37 p.m. Jan.18 9:29 a.m. Jan. 19

Seeing athletes in your classes is the best feeling!! You know it’s an easier prof!

@mad_seeks

@overheardACU staying as far away from Abilene as possible. :D

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.

published by the department of journalism and mass communication editorial and management board

Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79609 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu

11:09 p.m. Jan. 17

Is it May yet?

@makwass @davidpillen

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

5 PTs off final exam grade for every unexcused absence!? Only in CORE @ overheardACU #notokay

3:47 p.m. Dec. 20

newsroom (325) 674-2439

8:34 p.m. Jan. 18

@overheardACU Apparently back to school also meant back to twitter! #blowingupmyfeed

@jonesry05

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sports Jumps

friday 01.20.12

track and field

Track and field prepare for Lubbock meet bryson shake sports reporter Fresh off of being ranked No. 24 in the nation by the United States Track and Field and Cross Country pre-season rankings Tuesday, the ACU track and field team will look to defend that ranking Friday and Saturday at the Texas Tech Invitational in Lubbock. The meet will mark the team’s second meet of the 2012 season, and head coach Roosevelt Lofton is looking forward to seeing his group perform. “The meets at the beginning of the season are all about qualifying for nationals with your performance,” Lofton said.

“That said, it’s both exciting as to what’s ahead and important to put our best foot forward at all of the meets prior to nationals.” The ACU men’s team is the defending indoor and outdoor national champion, but the Wildcats lost 44 of the 49 points the team scored at last year’s indoor national championship with the quartet of athletes – Desmond Jackson, Ramon Sparks, and Nick Jones-known as the “Fab Four”, and will have to find ways to alleviate the loss of three of the four. “Finding ways to counteract the loss of three very special athletes like those were is a challenge,” Lofton said. “You can replen-

ish, but you can’t replace those guys. Those guys were on a different levelwe may never see that type of thing again. They left an incredible legacy for our program.” Jones is the lone returning member of the “Fab Four,” and his presence will be very important for the men’s team. “Having Nick back for his senior year is very important for us,” Lofton said. “He brings experience and leadership to our fairly young team, and is a great example.” Jones agrees and is excited for his senior campaign. “I guess you could say I’m the old guy,” he said. “We’re a young team but have lots of talent and lots to prove.”

Having won the national championship in both seasons last year, Jones said that other teams will be gunning for them all the time, and Lofton agrees. “Other teams are very aware of what we did last year, and they will be out to get us,” he said. “But we’ll use that as motivation and build off of it.” Senior Paris Robertson is poised to have a standout year on the track. The sprinter was a part of last year’s championship team and has already provisionally qualified for nationals 60-meter run. Levance Williams, senior, qualified provisionally in the 4x400 relay and the long jump at the Air

Force Academy’s Blue and Silver Open in December, the first meet of the indoor season. The goal for meets prior to Nationals on May 24-26 for track and field programs around the country will be getting their athletes to qualify provisionally or automatically for nationals based on their performances at the meets prior. “We try to schedule lots of meets so our guys have numerous opportunities to perform well and qualify,” Lofton said. On the women’s team, senior triple jumper Amanda Ouedraogo and long distance runner Chloe Susset headline a team that finished 22nd

at last year’s indoor national meet. “We have some great returning talent in Amanda and Chloe for this team, and I’m expecting big things out of them,” Lofton said. Sprinter Shennae Steele provisionally qualified in the 60-meter dash at the Air Force Meet, as did freshman hurdler Lexus Williams in the 60-meter hurdles. “We have so much potential around the board on this year’s team,” Jones said. “We also have a lot to prove. I’m excited to get this year off on the right foot in Lubbock.” contact shake at bxs09a@acu.edu

men’s basketball

Momentum: Wildcats rebound from slow start from page 8

Mandy Lambright CHIEF Photographer

Freshman guard Marcus Norman dribbles the ball up the court against ASU Tuesday night.

WOmen’s BAsketball

‘Cats drop to 2-8 in conference play Natalie Goin Sports Editor With the chance of attending the Lone Star Conference Post-Season Tournament one the line, the women’s basketball team fell short to Angelo State in a Tuesday night heartbreaker. After dominating the first half, the Wildcats quickly lost control of the game and an 11-point lead with only minutes on the clock remaining. Despite their early efforts, ACU left the court with a painful 82-74 loss. “There is so much talent on this team, but it has been a struggle for us to remain focused and to become consistent,” said head coach Lavender. Consistency could have changed the outcome of the game. Wildcat fans watched their team’s momentum fade away in the second half. But where ACU fell, the Rambelles picked

up the slack, scoring a season high of 82 points, and shooting 33 percent from the three-point range. ASU outscored the home team 50-37 in the second half, banking 13 of 27, while the Wildcats barely managed 14 out of 40. Within a 10-minute rally, the ‘Cats 52-41 lead and hope of defeat quickly melted as the Rambelles went on a shooting rampage, cutting the 11-point deficit and then some. Angelo State has struggled offensively all season, averaging just under 60 points per game, and making close to 30 percent behind the three-point line. But in a matter of minutes, ASU was up 70-61. Mack Lankford agreed on the lack of consistency. “It’s frustrating, but you have to get back up and prepare for the next game,” said the sophomore guard. “It just pushes us to practice even harder this week

in preparation to play them again this weekend.” Lankford led the ‘Cats with the game-high of 29 points, shooting 10 of 19 off the floor, followed by Kelsey Smith with 14 points and 7 rebounds. The Wildcats fell deeper in the LSC rankings following the loss, now staked out at ninth in of the conference of eleven teams, and playing with a 2-8 record. This game marked Angelo State’s fifth victory over the ‘Cats in the last six meetings, further brewing the rivalry. Coach Lavender and her team are eager to take on the now 7-3 Rambelles again this Saturday in hopes of a drastically different outcome. The rematch tips off this Saturday, Jan. 21 at 5:30 p.m. in the Junell Center at Angelo State. contact goin at nsg10b@acu.edu

ficult to play a rival like gelo State on Saturday, Jan. Angelo twice in one week. 21. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. a home crowd for the first It is a good chance to see if we can go out and win time in nearly a month. “You could see the a conference game on the contact sloaN at smiles on our guys faces road.” mes10b@acu.edu The team travels to Anwhen they came out two or three minutes before the game,” Golding said. “It’s been a little dead around here with all of the students gone.” The Wildcats will play the second half of their home-and-home against Angelo State on the road Saturday night. They have chance to climb back to .500 on the season and win consecutive games in the Lone Star Conference for the first time all year. “It is going to be a tough battle in San Angelo,” Golding said. “They will come out ready to play, and it is always dif-

sports

Friday 01.20.12

standings men’s basketball

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

TSU Cameron MSU WTAMU UIW TAMU-K ENMU ACU Commerce ASU

7-0 7-1 6-1 5-3 4-4 3-4 3-5 2-7 1-6 1-8

15-1 10-3 13-1 11-4 8-7 8-7 10-7 8-9 6-9 7-11

women’s basketball

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

TSU MSU Cameron ASU WTAMU UIW TWU ACU ENMU TAMU-K Commerce

8-0 8-1 8-2 7-3 7-3 5-5 4-6 2-8 2-8 1-7 0-8

11-5 12-3 12-3 9-7 9-7 10-6 9-7 7-9 4-12 2-12 1-13

briefings

FILE Photo by Daniel Gomez FILE Photo

Former head football coach Chris Thomsen announced he was leaving for Arizona State University on Friday, Dec. 16. Thomsen accepted an assistant coaching job under Todd Graham. Ken Collums replaced Thomsen. Collums was formerly the offensive coordinator for the ‘Cats.

football

Collums replaces Thomsen Austin Gwin sports director Usually a head coaching change is a sign of a broken football program, however when former head coach Chris Thomsen left ACU to be the offensive backs coach at Arizona State, a premier coaching opportunity in Division II football opened up. ACU is one of only four schools in Div. II to have made the NCAA playoffs six years in a row, and currently is home to one of the top offenses in the nation led by quarterback Mitchell Gale. As the saying goes, “if

it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” and ACU director of athletics Jared Mosley did little fixing as he hired former ACU offensive coordinator Ken Collums to be ACU’s 19th head football coach. “It made sense to me to go with Ken,” Mosley said. “He has been here since day one with Chris. Given their relationship, he was very much a part of the curriculum and vision of molding young men. I think he is one of the best offensive minds in the game,” said Mosley. “The talent comes in and out but the results have remained at an extremely high level.”

But the search process for a new coach wasn’t just restricted to the sidelines of Shotwell Stadium. Mosley considered many candidates before deciding on Collums. “At the end of the day when you look at everything, you have a great opportunity at a guy who has been responsible for big areas of your program. It just made a lot of sense. He knows these guys, and the players know him,” Mosely said. Collums, who came to ACU in 2005 with Coach Thomsen, has been the play caller for ACU’s successful offense. In five of the last seven

years, the Wildcat offense has ranked among the top seven in the nation, and has produced NFL talent in players such as Bernard Scott, Johnny Knox, and Edmund “Clyde” Gates. Although he is in a new role, Collums will continue to call plays for the offense. “There is no need for me to put my stamp on this program.” Collums said. “Number one, it’s not about me, it’s about continuing to build on what we have done here. There will be some changes, but nothing drastic.” Chris Thomsen leaves ACU as one of the most successful coaches in pro-

gram history. In Thomsen’s seven seasons, he was named the LSC Coach of the Year four times, including the 2010 season when he led the Wildcats to the program’s first ever 11-0 record. “I think Coach Thomsen did an unbelievable job of putting the right people around him and creating a culture that ultimately resulted in a lot of success on and off the field,” Mosley said. Thomsen leaves his alma mater with an onfield record of 61-21. contact GWIN at AGG07d@acu.edu

men’s basketball

‘Cats continue to build momentum Matthew sloan sports reporter

Mandy Lambright CHIEF Photographer

Senior guard Zach Williams rises for a shot against ASU.

During the winter break, the men’s basketball team got off to a slow start in conference play. They headed into Tuesday night’s action against Angelo State with a 1-7 record in conference play. However, the Wildcats looked nothing like a struggling team against the Rams, finishing up the first half of conference play with a dominating victory in Moody Coliseum 79-64. “This game really built some chemistry.” Junior Armani Williams said. “Our defense is getting better and we are gelling more on the offensive end.” Armani was a major

reason the ‘Cats played so well, finishing with 22 points, and went a perfect ten for ten from the charity stripe. Zach Williams chipped in 11, and Eric Milam dominated the paint, scoring 14 points in just 11 minutes of action. “I just wanted to come in the game and be aggressive,” Milam said. “I wasn’t really focused on anything except defense, but offense came easy for me tonight.” The Rams were frustrated early and often in this contest, turning the ball over nineteen times. Their tempers finally boiled over when a player was ejected for multiple technical fouls after committing a foul on the defensive end.

football

Although the final score showed a fifteen-point victory for the ‘Cats, the game was never that close. ACU went into the half with a double-digit lead, and did not look back. “We are looking to build some momentum off of this win.” Head Coach Joe Golding said. “We finally got everybody back, and we put together a good road win at A&M Commerce, and played well in Tarleton as well.” The Wildcats notched their first home win in conference play against the Rams to welcome students back, and the team could feel the buzz in Moody as they took the courts in front of

The men and women’s track and field teams have been ranked No. 24 in the nation in the United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches’ Association pre-season ranking released on Tuesday. Recently hired head football coach Ken Collums hired two new assistant coaches on Saturday, Jan. 7. Darian Dulin is now the defensive coordinator and Mark Ribaudo is the linebackers coach. Nathan Young, previously the offensive line coach, has become the running backs coach for the Wildcats. Sam Collins is now working with the offensive line. He was with the defensive line coach the last three seasons. Kendall Durant, Renata Marquez, and Eric Milam received Players of the Week honors for their basketball performances between Dec. 26 and Jan. 2.

EX- FACTOR Chicago Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox was injured in week 15’s loss to the Seahawks Sunday, Dec. 18. Knox was hit and hurt his lower vertebrae. He had to be carted off the field and later had back surgery. Knox will spend the offseason recovering from the surgery.

Danieal Manning, Texans safety, had five solo tackles, two assists, and one interception in the teams playoff game versus the Bengals. The Texans won, 3110. Manning recorded eight solo tackles, one see momentum page 7 assist, and one punt deflection in their playoff game against the Ravens. The Texans lost, 20-13.

Collums creates a new look for defensive staff next season edward isaacs sports editor Recently hired head football coach Ken Collums has already made several key changes to his coaching staff including hiring a new defensive coordinator, resulting in a different look for next season. Collums announced the hiring of two new assistant coaches on Saturday, Jan. 7. Darian Dulin, a former Tarleton State defensive coordinator and Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College head coach, is now ACU’s defensive coordinator/secondary coach. Former Eastern New Mexico head coach Mike

Ribaudo has been hired as the Wildcats new linebackers coach. Collums moved Nathan Young from being an offensive line coach to the running backs coach for the ‘Cats. It’s a move that gives Young more of a role in the overall game plan. Last season’s linebackers coach, Jason Johns, was said to have resigned in order to enter private business. Former secondary coach Cody Farrell has taken a high school coaching job in East Texas. Dulin was the head coach at Coffeyville from 2008-11. The Red Ravens recorded a record of 22-19 during that span. Coffeyville’s best season with Dulin was in 2011

when it lost to Hutchinson Junior College in the National Junior College Athletics Association Region VI semifinals. Dulin felt the position at ACU was exactly what he was looking for. “I think it’s a great opportunity for me,” Dulin said. “It was a no-brainer. I was at Tarleton for eight seasons playing ACU, so I knew the caliber of the program here. I felt it was something I needed for my life – a kind of refresher.” Dulin was the defensive backs and secondary coach for Tarleton from 2000-03. In 2004, he spent a season as the defensive coordinator at Butler Community Col-

lege before returning to TSU in 2005. Collums coached against Dulin when he was at TSU. “I’d coached against him before, so that’s an instant interview,” Collums said. “I only needed to get to know him as a person. He’s got a genuine heart and he’s very humble.” The TSU defense was stellar under Dulin. In 2005, TSU was No. 2 in the Lone Star Conference in scoring defense and No. 1 in pass defense efficiency. In 2006, Tarleton was ranked second in scoring defense, allowing 18.1 points per game. They were also the number one rushing defense, giving up

90.5 yards per game. Dulin plans to make things more simple for the defensive players. “I want to let our guys play and not make them think as much. We know we can get good players.” Collums had heard Dulin was both a good coach and recruiter. “He’s a bulldog recruiter,” Collums said. “Darian is very confident in what he does and I want those kind of people in our program. I was going after guys that truly had a heart for this place and for what ACU stands for.” contact isaacs at jei08a@acu.edu

Upcoming The men’s basketball team will play ASU in San Angelo on Saturday, Jan. 21 at 7:30 p.m. The women’s basketball team will face ASU in San Angelo on Saturday, Jan. 21 at 5:30 p.m. The men and women’s track and field teams will compete in the Texas Tech Invitational in Lubbock on Friday, Jan. 20 and Saturday, Jan. 21.