Sports Page 6
One Step Back
vol. 101, no. 33
friday, february 1, 2013
1 SECTION, 6 PAGES
Men’s basketball falls behind in playoff race
accident INSIDE OPINION The family of Jeffrey Davis writes an open letter to ACU Page 4
OPINION
Cherniss to undergo surgery mark smith editor in chief Rebekah Cherniss, one of the freshmen injured in the fatal accident last Friday night, will undergo surgery Friday morning on her back and jaw to repair injuries from the accident. Cherniss, freshman Ad/ PR major from Katy, has
been in Hendrick Medical Center since Friday night. She improved to fair condition on cherniss Tuesday, but has several fractures on her L4 and L5 vertebrae, located in her lower back. Her mother,
“
Susan, said the surgeons Everybody here has been will fuse the two vertebrae absolutely amazing. We’ve together, using a bone graft. While she is still under, they been blown away with the will also repair her the right whole community.” side of her jaw, near her wisdom teeth, with a plate to susan cherniss replace her damaged skull. rebekah’s mother Deanna Romero, the other student injured in the accident still in the hospital, remains in good condition. has seen significant imSusan Cherniss said she provement in her daugh-
ter’s condition. “She’s engaged, having conversations, making silly remarks,” Susan said. “She still gets confused, but she’s remembering more and more.” The doctors told her family that if everything goes as planned, Rebekah could be able to be discharged in see cherniss page 5
memorial J.J. Abrams could restore Star Wars’ original legacy
Family, service remember Smith’s life
Page 4
NEWS Recent graduate auditions, makes the cut for American Idol Page 5
NEWS
staff report
BSA brings back ‘Sundaes on Mondays’ after long absence
More than a thousand p e o p l e packed Oakwood Baptist Church for Lindsey Smith’s mesmith morial service in New Braunfels at 11 a.m. on Thursday. Smith, 20, died in the car crash on Friday night. She and five friends, all injured, were headed to two-step in Oplin. The other driver, Jeffrey Davis, also died. Friends and family picked up pink bracelets that read “Loving Lindsey.” Seekers of the Word, the on-campus religious drama group Smith was involved in, performed two skits before her mother, Linda, shared her love of laughing with “The World According to Lindsey.” Her childhood friend, Michael Lehman, played a song he wrote. Then her dad, Todd, spoke about her passion and her impact, and he challenged everyone in attendance to use the bracelet as a testimony to someone else. Mark Smith and Elizabeth Weiss contributed to this report.
Page 5
NEWS Mike Cope leaves ACU for Pepperdine University Page 3
SPORTS Baseball team to begin season in Minute Maid Park Page 6
ONLINE PHOTOS
For photos from the accident site and events in remembrance, visit: flickr.com/acuoptimist
VIDEO JMC students ‘pay it forward’ to community acuoptimist.com
VIDEO Accident survivor Callie Kerbo describes the crash in exclusive interview
acuoptimist.com
VIDEO Watch video reports about the accident and local response
mandy lambright chief photographer Luke Sorrell, senior biochemistry major from Coppell, goes up for a layup during intramural basketball. For more on intramurals, see page 6.
contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu
Crime
Suspicious door-knocking reported melany cox online managing editor The ACU Police Department has received three calls in the past 10 days about a suspicious male knocking on doors of students living off-campus and asking the residents strange questions. Lt. Randy Motz of the ACU Police said they were first notified of a suspicious male knocking on a student’s door on E.N. 13th St. on Jan. 19. They received two more calls, one on Fri-
day from College Drive and another on Tuesday from Washington Boulevard. Motz said ACU Police has an agreement with the Abilene Police Department: when a call comes from within a one-mile radius around campus, APD will call the ACU Police to respond, because they are closer and can arrive faster. Motz said an unidentified male knocked on students’ doors and offered to do odd jobs, then began to ask personal questions. The man would ask the students
if they lived alone, about their schedules, if they were married, if they were students, if they lived with their parents and other personal questions. The students became suspicious and called APD, who immediately informed ACU Police, who quickly responded. “Always be cautious about opening your door to strangers. I know it’s hard in a Christian community where we are called to help people,” Motz said. Motz said the suspect was described by several
witnesses as tall with brown hair, skinny and “grungy looking,” possibly in his 40s. He said if anyone sees a man fitting the description knocking on doors, they should immediately call APD or ACU Police. “Get a good, detailed description of what this person looks like,” Motz said. While the man had not threatened or hurt anyone, Motz said “common safety tips” such as locking doors and vehicles should be observed. He said people should pay attention to sur-
roundings and never give out personal information to strangers. Motz said the priority of ACU Police is the safety of ACU students, including those living off-campus. He said the department is increasing off-campus patrols and there are “a lot of eyes around campus.” If anyone sees anything suspicious, they should call the police immediately. contact cox at mkc09b@acu.edu
social clubs
Pi Kappa pulls out of Sing Song late katie greene page 2 editor acuoptimist.com
OXFORD Marissa Jones, our Oxford correspondent, updates us on her experience theoxfordcommablog. wordpress.com
Pi Kappa dropped out of Sing Song a week before the Spring semester began. The men’s social club intended on having a Beach Boys theme to fit in with the overall theme of Sing Song Vacation. The set list is normally made permanent in early
“
We decided that rather than throw something together with not enough people, it would be better to pull out altogether and focus on other things.” robert hull pi kappa president
November so that each act will be given the proper amount of time on stage. After that, acts are not al-
lowed to drop out. Tom Craig, Director of Student Activities and Productions, said that usually, if clubs
Abilene Christian University
are having trouble, they are able to talk with the club to help them work it out. Pi Kappa was an exception to this rule. Robert Hull, junior piano major from Ripon, Calif., and president of Pi Kappa, said the officers discussed it over break. “We decided that rather than throw something together with not enough people, it would be better to pull out altogether and focus on
other things,” Hull said. This will be the second year in a row that Pi Kappa has not had an act in Sing Song. Last year Pi Kappa served as Sing Song security, keeping participants in designated areas and helping to direct acts, telling them where to go and when. They hope to serve in a similar capacity this year. see late page 5
friday 2.01.13
1
2
friday
3
saturday Bid Night for Spring Pledging 10 a.m. Basball vs Arkansas Monticello 10 a.m. Softball vs Texas A&M International
The Optimist optimist@acu.edu
All Day - TRK New Balance Invite/Texas Tech Open
All Day - TRK New Balance Invite/Texas Tech Open
10 a.m. Softball vs St. Edwards
7 p.m. Baseball at Incarnate Word
4 p.m. Baseball at Texas A&M Kingsville
4 p.m. Men’s Basketball at Eastern NM U
9 p.m. Scope screening of Children of Men
@acuoptimist
monday
4 p.m. Softball vs UTPB
7:30 p.m. ACU Choirs Concert at WPAC Recital Hall
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4
sunday
2 p.m. Women’s Basketball at Eastern NM U
12 p.m. Softball vs Lubbock Christian
Chapel checkup
2
7 p.m. Baseball at Central Missouri
Announcements ACU Leadership Camps is looking for college students to serve on summer staff. Pick up an application in Room 10 in the lower level of the Campus Center. ACU Theatre presents its winter musical comedy, [title of show] in Fulks Theatre Feb. 8-9, 15-16 and 22-23. For tickets call 325-674-2787. Participate in a matchmaking test fundraiser for ACM Computer Club at http://www. acucupid.com. Pick up your results for $1 Feb. 14 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in the Campus Center.
The 6th annual Student Art Contest for Summit is open for submissions. The ACU Ministry Events Office calls any current ACU student to submit their original artwork, photography, drawing, painting or other creation to visually communicate the 2013 Summit theme: Margins. Submissions must be received digitally to summit@ acu.edu by Feb. 15. One select work will be awarded a cash prize of $100 and used to advertize the 2013 Summit.
Abstract submission for the Undergraduate Research Festival is now open. The 5th annual ACU Undergraduate Research Festival will be Apr. 4-5. To submit your abstract or get abstract writing tips and information on the review of abstracts go to the Research Festival Blog at blogs.acu.edu/researchfest. Scope, a community of storytellers, will be screening Children of Men Feb. 1 at 9 p.m. in the Campus Center Living Room.
The OME is having Cultural Crossover during the men and women’s basketball games Feb. 9. There will be food, decorations and music from different cultures. Sign up to host a table before Feb. 7 on the link found in the annoucements part of my.acu. edu. Spots are still available on Spring Break Campaigns going to various locations. For more information contact Liz Lurz ar evl09a@acu.edu, Wilson White at www09a@acu. edu or stop by the SBC office in Bible 322.
Police Log Police log
Weekly Stats for week of Jan. 22-Jan. 29
01/24/2013 12:15 a.m. APD requested ACUPD’s assistance at a noise disturbance call. Officers found a small number of people in a garage; they were notified of the complaint and immediately quieted down.
Accident Administrative activity Alarm Assist Building lock/unlock Check building Direct traffic Disturbance Escort Fireworks violation Foot patrol Found property Hit and run Incident report Information report Investigation follow up Monitor facility/lot
01/28/2013 4:57 p.m. In response to community complaints about speeding vehicles on Cedar Crest, an ACUPD officer observed a speeding vehicle being driven in the 2100 of block Cedar Crest Dr. The driver was cited for speeding, not having a drivers license, no 01/24/2013 1:20 a.m. insurance, and was arrested for three outACUPD assisted APD in locating an intoxi- standing municipal warrants. cated male who had been found sleeping in a driveway. The male was located Police Tip of the Week:This week’s tip is at McDonald’s and arrested for public in- about general vehicle safety. So far this toxication. winter we’ve avoided the usual amount of inclement, freezing weather customary 01/26/2013 11:28 p.m. for this time of year. While it’s still warm, ACUPD received calls of possible shots check your car to make sure the battery fired in the area near 800 EN11th Street. terminals are clean; “crusty” terminals are Investigating officers talked to witnesses a “jump start” call in the making. February who had seen an artillery-style firework usually provides several deep freeze days device explode in the sky. Assignment and after each bout ACUPD sees a big completed. increase in calls for assistance. To avoid being stranded on the road or away from your dorm or home, check those batteries!
1 Motorist assist: 21 Jumpstart 1 Other 9 Unlock 11 Noise violation 105 Other 1 Parking lot patrol 4 Parking violation 3 Patrol vehicle: 1 Maintenance 16 Refuel 1 Public service 1 Random patrol 1 Report writing 3 Suspicious activity 2 Suspicious person 10 Traffic stop Warrant service Welfare check
5 3 17 1 2 18 8 2 9 1 3 6 1 3 2 1 1
Total Events: 274
Volunteer Opp0rtunities The Center for International Education is looking for conversation partners for international students to practice English, conversations and cultural learning. Partners meet for one hour each week at a time and place determined by the partners. For more information contact Laura McGregor at 325-674-2821 or laura. mcgregor@acu.edu. St. John’s Episcopal School is seeking volunteers to paint metal playground equipment anytime MondayFriday after 3 p.m. and Saturday anytime. For more information contact Rebecca McMillon at 325-695-8870 or flores@stjohnsabilene.org. Center for Contemporary Arts needs a gallery assistant to greet patrons, answer phones and answer basic questions about the Center and its programs. This opportunity is open Tuesday-Friday. The Center for Contemporary Arts is located at 220 Cypress Street. For more informa tion contact Jessica Dulle at 325-6778389 or visit: http://www.center-arts.com/. Rescue the Animals is seeking volunteers to take pictures and videos in preparation for the launching of their new website as well as maintenance of the site after the launch. This opportunity is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. For more information contact Kathy Walker at 325-677-7722 or rescuetheanimalsvolunteers@yahoo.com. The National Center For Children’s Illustrated Literature is looking for volunteers to greet patrons, assist with art activities, sell books and make visitors feel welcome. Help is also needed for special events like Artwalk and exhibit openings. The NCCIL is located at 102 Cedar St. For more information on times and dates contact Debby Lillick at 325-673-4586 or visit: http://www.nccil.org/index.htm. The Christian Ministries of Abilene: Food Pantry is searching for volunteers to greet and interview neighbors, do computer entries, shop with neighbors, take groceries to vehicles, bag, stock and pick up orders on Mondays and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. The Food Pantry is located at 701 Walnut St. For more information contact Becky Almanza at 325-673-1234 or cmapantry@aol.com.
The Christian Service Center is seeking volunteers to help assist with filling requests for items such as clothing, bedding, kitchen utensils, etc. from the donation center, sort and organize donations and occasionally pick-up donated items. Volunteers are needed every weekday and the first Saturday of each month between 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. For more information contact Roberta Brown at 325-673-7561 or at robertabrown51@ hotmail.com. For more information on the program visit: http://www.uccabilene.org/ministries/csc.htm. 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 325-695-6311 or abfoodbk@camalott. com. Meals on Wheels Plus needs volunteer drivers to deliver afternoon meals to seniors and adults with disabilities Monday-Friday between 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Training is provided. For more information contact Samantha Barker at 352-672-5050 or visit: http://mealsonwheelsplus.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 325-677-1408 or visit: www.satruck.com. The House That Kerry Built is looking for volunteers to assist in the day care of medically fragile children any day Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. or 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Contact Keith Loftin at 325-672-6061. The International Rescue Committee is seeking volunteers to work with refugees who recently moved to the U.S., teaching English, helping with homework and mentoring. Contact Susanna Lubango to make an appointment at 325-675-5643. The Covenant Place of Abilene is seeking volunteers to lead singing and/or play piano for residents. For more information contact Ann Erwin at 325-793-1144.
University Place is seeking volunteers to help with the resident birthday party for residents the third Wednesday of each month at 2:30 p.m. For more information contact Linda Tijerina at 325-676-9946. Breakfast on Beech Street is seeking volunteers to help set up, prepare and serve breakfast to homeless/lower income folks any Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 5:30 a.m. or Tuesday at 5 a.m. B.O.B.S is located at First Christian Church on 3rd St. and Beech St. Service times must be scheduled in advance. To serve on Mondays contact Jody Depriest at 325-669-3312 or jody.depriest@ gmail.com. To serve on Tuesdays contact Allen Daugherty at 325-660-6949 or ale.al@suddenlink.net. To serve on Wednesdays contact Jane Harvey at 325-695-0092 or jharvread@aol.com. To serve on Thursdays contact Margaret Beasley at 325-692-4149 or mbeasley5@suddenlink.net. To serve on Fridays contact Rachel Brown at rdb08a@acu.edu. Eternal Threads is seeking volunteers to help with packing and organizing shipments, labeling products, errands and cleaning any weekday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. For more information contact Pam Early at 325-672-6000 or pam@ eternalthreads.com. Christian Homes & Family Services is seeking volunteers to do minor landscaping such as raking, trimming bushes, minor apartment repairs and general upkeep MondaySaturday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information contact Shaylee Honey at 325-677-2205 or Shoney@ ChristianHomes.com. The Abilene Public Zoo is seeking volunteers to help clean/feed animals, assist zookeepers and assist with educational classes any weekday any time between 12 p.m.-4 p.m. They are also seeking volunteers to help with general labor such as grounds cleanup and painting any weekday at any time between noon and 4 p.m. For more information contact Joy Harsh at 325-676-6487. The CAC Department is seeking volunteers to participate in Special Olympics, by helping mentally/physically challenged people play games and sports Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. For more infomation contact Angel Seca at 325-690-5235. For additional volunteer opportunities visit: www.acu. edu/campusoffices/ccsl/ministry-service/volunteeropportunities/
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news
friday 02.01.13
local
HMC event to support heart health mark smith editor in chief Hendrick Medical Center will conduct its annual “A Day to Take Heart” event on Tuesday to raise awareness for heart health. February is National Heart Month, and the local hospital will offer screenings and educational information and services free to the public
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stephen reyes Staff Photographer
Taeyanna Pannell, first-year grad student from Burleson, donates blood in one of the bloodmobiles parked outside of the Brown Library on Wednesday.
tery, pulmonary function, cholesterol and diabetes measurements. Additionally, the first 100 people to attend will receive free electrocardiograms, which will check heart rhythms. Bruton said several registered nurses and educators will be available there to answer any questions about risks and concerns. A cardiologist will provide a special presentation at 6
This is one of the community services we provide because we want people to understand the risk of heart disease.”
to encourage people to take care of their heart. “This is one of the community services we provide because we want people to understand the risk of heart disease,” said Lynne Bruton, public relations coordinator for Hendrick. “It is always wellreceived. We usually see several hundred people every year.” Some of the screenings to be offered at the event will include testings on blood pressure, body mass index, carotid ar-
lynne bruton public relations coordinator
p.m. called “Risk and Romance,” which will educate on the symptoms of heart disease in women and how to reduce the risks. The event will take place in the Shelton Building, free-standing from the medical center but on the Hendrick campus, located at 2000 Pine St., from 4-8 p.m.
contact smith at mds10a@acu.edu
faculty
Cope leaves ACU for Pepperdine full-time joshua Garcia managing editor Bible instructor Mike Cope began working exclusively at Pepperdine University, a Church of Christ-affiliated school in Malibu, Calif., earlier this semester. For 15 years, Cope was an adjunct professor at ACU, teaching a freshman Bible class per semester. Last semester, he taught his last course at ACU while beginning work at
Pepperdine full-time as its director of ministry outreach. Cope is no longer officially on staff at ACU. Cope said teaching at ACU was a great privilege and joy, but his travel schedule made the commute too difficult. “For now, I just can’t manage both that class and my travel schedule for my new job with Pepperdine,” Cope said. “Just got impossible to get back every Monday and Wednesday.” Cope was a minister
“
For now, I just can’t manage both that class and my travel schedule for my new job with Pepperdine.” mike cope Director of ministry outreach at pepperdine
for 27 years, 18 of which were at Highland Church of Christ in Abilene. He is the author of five books and has been the editor of the Christian magazines Wineskins and 21st Century Christian. As
Pepperdine’s director of ministry outreach, Cope delivers the university’s Bible lectures and speaks at churches on Pepperdine’s behalf. Mike’s son Chris is an ACU student. Chris, soph-
social clubs
Clubs welcome spring pledges staff report Three social clubs are preparing for spring pledging to begin with Bid Night on Friday night. Men’s clubs Frater Sodalis and Pi Kappa will join women’s club Zeta Rho in the abbreviated spring pledging season. The three clubs had the smallest pledge classes of the 11 clubs on campus last fall. On fall Bid
Night, which was Sept. 28, eight men pledged Frats, 10 pledged Zeta Rho and 14 joined Pi Kappa. Pi Kappa was the only club to increase its pledge class from the fall of the previous year. Becca Clay, senior speech pathology major from Salt Lake City and Zeta Rho president, said Sing Song doesn’t seem to have lowered the number of spring pledges. “In fact, we are going to have a bigger pledge class this spring than we did in
the fall,” Clay said, “which has blown us away.” Spring pledging lasts for three weeks, instead of the five weeks of fall pledging. Robert Hull, Pi Kappa president, said the shorter amount of time is the main difference between spring and fall pledging. “We still try to do most of the same pledging activities, but we have a shorter period of time in which to do them, so some things get cut out,” said Hull, junior piano ma-
Chapel
Office cracks down on exemptions madeline orr copy editor Students are seeing an increased number of denied chapel exemption requests this semester due to the Chapel Office’s effort to stand firmly behind university policy. The ACU Board of Trustees Policy Manual, policy number 2.7.4, states, “In keeping with the mission of the university, daily Chapel will be held as a part of the curriculum. Regular attendance by undergraduates is required.” Previously the Chapel Office allowed exemptions for students who did not have class until the afternoon or would not be on campus in time for Chapel. Now, the Chapel Office reiterates that attending Chapel is part of the curriculum, whether a
student has morning classes or not. Katheryn Cansino is a grad student pursuing her masters of accountancy and works in the Chapel Office as an administrative assistant. “We’ve had several conversations with Mark Lewis and other people within Student Life and it just came down to needing to stay with the ACU policy,” Cansino said. “So unless you have a work or a Faith in Action exemption, we’re having to be a lot more strict.” Faith in Action exemptions allow students to receive Chapel credit by participating in service work during Chapel time in the Abilene area. A number of students receive credit for volunteering with Meals on Wheels or Big Brothers Big Sisters. Although class schedules are no longer valid criteria for receiving exemptions, the
policy still remains that only full-time students taking 12 or more hours are required to attend chapel. When several part-time students returned to school for the semester, they discovered they were still being held responsible for attaining 55 credits. They had taken January short courses before the spring semester started, meaning those extra hours were being included into their semester hours. In response to this problem, Dr. Jean-Noel Thompson, vice president of Student Life, gave approval to allow students who had January short courses completed by Jan. 14 to be exempt from Chapel if they were below the full-time student requirement. contact orr at mco10b@acu.edu
jor from Rippon, Calif. Hull said the club’s goal for Bid Night remains consistent with its goal last semester. “It also gives us a chance to improve on things that maybe didn’t work so well last semester,” he said. Mark Smith and Elizabeth Weiss contributed to this report. contact smith at mds10a@acu.edu
omore Biblical text major from Abilene, said Mike and his wife Diane plan to stay in Abilene. “A major reason why my parents are not moving to Malibu is because they have two grandchildren here in Abilene,” said Chris, who is studying abroad in Oxford this semester. “My brother and his wife, Matt and Jenna Cope, have two daughters, Reese and Ellie, and live here in Abilene.” Chris said his father’s position at Pepperdine is
a good fit. “I think this new job is a great opportunity for my dad, and a great way for him to use his gifts,” Chris said. For more on Mike Cope, visit his blog at preachermike.com.
contact garcia at jtg10b@acu.edu
Opinion
Friday 02.01.13
4
Editorial
Disney invites Abrams to join the force the issue
EVAN’s marks
evan marks
Disney’s track record of poor sequals throws the future of the Star Wars franchise in doubt.
our take The selection of J.J. Abrams to direct episode VII eases misgivings about Disney’s involvement.
George Lucas captured the imaginations of multiple generations with his epic adventures. Star Wars and Indiana Jones are some of the most iconic franchises in the United States and the world. Lucas also offeneded multiple generations by revising the classic Star Wars trilogy repeatedly. No take backs George. Han shot first. Dabbling in prequals and crystal skulls did not help the situation either. In fact, Star Wars episodes I, II, & III cheapened the overall quality of the franchise. The magic wrought by the original trilogy became overshadowed by merchandising. We are not stupid. We know Luke Skywalker piled sacks full of gold into Lucas’ lap. But fans perceived a love of storytelling at the core of the original trilogy. The prequals did not instill the same feeling. In October of 2012, George Lucas announced that he sold the rights of the Star Wars franchise. This was a surprising decision. What is Star Wars
without George Lucas? The idea was an interesting one until Disney revealed themselves as the buyer. A cold, sickening despair struck through the hearts of every Star Wars fan. Disney is notorious for its poorly produced sequels of
“
What is Star Wars without George Lucas?”
dearly loved films. Mulan 2, Little Mermaid 2, George of the Jungle 2, High School Musical 2, Disney Channel. The list goes on. Fans were further disturbed when Disney outlined immediate plans for a sequel trilogy, Star Wars episodes VII, VIII, IX. Even with the announcement of Michael Arndt as writer, Little Miss Sunshine and Toy Story 3 (a spectacular sequel), the sense of foreboding was not lifted. Then a bright, shining lens flare of hope appeared
on January 25th, 2013. Disney hired J.J. Abrams to direct the next installment of the Star Wars saga. Bravo, Walt would be proud. Abrams is a talented director well loved for his work on Lost, Mission Impos-
sible, and the recent Star Trek reboot. The phenomenal launch of the new Starship Enterprise indicates that J.J. is up to the task. He demonstrated his ability of remaining faithful to the Star Trek legacy while also
adding something new to J.J., may the force be the franchise. This is the with you, live long and type of person that needs prosper. to handle Star Wars. J.J. Abrams already respects the franchise and we can contact the optimist at expect him to treat it with jmcnetwork@acu.edu all the love it deserves.
letter
Open letter to ACU from Davis’ family By Lynn Marderosian, ing lament praying for the Jeffrey Davis’ mother. students involved in last Friday’s terrible accident, To the Editor: for the tragic loss of LindLast Sunday, several sey Smith, and most gramembers of our family ciously for the family of attended the evening de- my son Jeffrey Davis, who votional service for a mov- also died. I want to ex-
press how deeply I, and all the members of Jeff’s family, grieve with each of you and all of the ACU families involved, especially the Smith family. The ACU Community that we witnessed
last Sunday night, where you gently folded us into your family, was truly inspiring. The grace that has been extended has touched us to the core and has given us comfort as we travel this difficult path.
No words can adequately guide and comfort all of us express our sorrow for the in the days ahead. loss of life and injuries Thank you for your sustained; we are heart- kindness. broken for Lindsey Smith’s family. contact the optimist at We join each of you in jmcnetwork@acu.edu praying that the Lord will
guest column
Respecting those who continue to mourn By Rebecca Dial, SA president. After we learned of the wreck a week ago, there have been varied reactions. There are some who want to hold their friends and be held by them. Some are angry at what happened and can-
not comprehend why Lindsey was taken from them. Others look to the words of hope that are found in scripture. The ways people react to such news and loss are different as we each find our way to mourn the tragedy. I personally have felt an ache in my heart that has
yet to be fully comforted. I hurt for our community and especially for the families of Lindsey and Jeff. There is a sense that time should stop for a while but classes and work continue for all of us and we struggle to get back into a routine. May we never get into a routine that
hardens our hearts or dulls our compassion when friends are grieving and need our comfort. Let us be aware of the different types of impact this has had on our community and strive to understand how others are reacting. I leave you with this Comfort Blessing by Kirsti Dyer:
May you see the light in the darkness during these challenging times. May you feel the loving presence of those who hold you in their thoughts and prayers. May your spirit find what it needs to sustain you on this journey.
May you discover your inner strength and face all difficulties with dignity and grace. May you be filled with comfort, love, strength, grace and a lasting sense of peace. contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu
column
The Cowboys aren’t popular with the Brits, either THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID
MARISSA JONES
A normal person is 80 percent water. I’m now 80 percent tea. Instead of having holidays like Columbus Day and President’s Day, the British have enough tea breaks to replace them. Studying abroad feels a bit like they dropped us on
an island with some matches and shelter and waved goodbye. Except maybe not at all. Life without the Bean or food court or parents means learning how to fend for ourselves. Already, most of us have cooked more in one week than we have in our en-
tire lives. This means a lot of sandwiches and pasta. Grocery shopping is an experience of its own. Converting pounds to dollars is impossible to do under stress. In my head: £10 pound = £10 pound. In reality: £10 pound = $15.72. Most of the time math does not work in my favor. I had an awkward first encounter with a checkout lady when I realized, pretty late in the game, I was supposed to bag my own groceries.
hashtagACU 6:34 p.m. Jan. 28
“Call you tomorrow babe!” -guy on bike hopefully using bluetooth
@treytres3
10:04 a.m. Jan. 30
Listening to backstreet boys in class... Confirmation that God hears my prayers.
@leannekawa
2:46 p.m. Jan. 30
“Which ad experience do you prefer?” *throws computer across room*
@leigh_foith
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.
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
newsroom (325) 674-2439
sports desk (325) 674-2684
It’s the little things that, even if your accent hasn’t given you away, as soon as you walk into the room everyone knows you’re an American. Texas manners are not the same as British manners. In Texas, it’s normal to smile at strangers when you make eye contact. In Britain, not so much. People are surprised when I hold the door for them. And “how ’bout them Cowboys?” is not the best way to engage in small talk. But the British aren’t mean, just reserved. They can be extremely friendly.
It’s not just a stereotype– the British truly enjoy discussing the weather. If you want to talk to a stranger, that’s the best way to engage them. Or about history. I’ve been given many history lessons from native Oxfordians, about both English history and American history. Who knew there were actually two presidential inaugurations? It can make a person feel pretty inadequate. There’s also small language differences like bathroom (water closest), takeout (take-away) and truck
11:07 a.m. Jan. 30
1:25 p.m. Jan. 30
They added a new “Ooh” to “I Will Call Upon the Lord.” That’s as good as a new song! Won’t need another for 5 years now. #churchofchrist
I was going to give blood, but I’m pretty sure there is a rule against donating if you have consumed Little Panda in the last 24 hrs. #LP
@whatsCookin68
@williamfrogers
(lorry) which get us strange looks. Wars have almost been started by our reckless use of the word ‘pants’ which is in fact underwear. That’s a hard American habit to kick. An even harder habit to kick? Y’all. My continuous use of the word ‘y’all’ is pretty embarrassing because I somehow manage to use it in every sentence in every public sphere I go. I’m learning. Slowly. contact jones at mNJ10A@acu.edu
12:38 p.m. Jan. 30
All of my motivation to study for class is completely gone, and it is just the 3rd week of school... #100DaysTillGraduation
@Nick_Tatum
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sports/news
friday 02.01.13
sport clubs
ACU club lacrosse team at a crossroads matthew sloan assistant sports editor The men’s lacrosse team is preparing for their season next year and a tournament in the spring, but they are in need of financial help. The club team is about $18,000 short of being able to participate in their sport for the next year, and needs the money in order to represent ACU across the state as a team. “I know it sounds like a lot of money but that’s what we need,” lacrosse player
Parker Tennet said. “We need to equip players, pay league dues, and get the necessary equipment such as goals. We have a tournament this April in Huntsville, and our first actual full season would not start until the next spring.” The lacrosse team has tried to get started before, but the lack of donations by the public has made it difficult to play. The team held an interest meeting last semester in which they attempted to get some potential players together. The team was able
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“It is a great team building sport that gives high school athletes that are here an opportunity to get involved in a team sport again.” Parker Tennet Freshman nursing major from houston
to get a couple dozen players to come to the meeting. Because the team is a club team and not sanctioned by the NCAA, much of the fiscal responsibility falls on their shoulders. The team is hoping to enter a conference that
would allow them to face off against teams such as Sam Houston State, Stephen F. Austin, and the University of Houston. All of these schools have established club teams that would give ACU competition within throughout the state.
The sport of lacrosse is taking the nation by storm, leading young men to pick up the sport in high school or even earlier. However, most southern colleges do not have an organized team because the sport’s popularity is growing more quickly than schools can react. Although the sport was initially popular on the east coast and the northeast, the fast-paced nature of the game has attracted players from all over the country to try out the sport. In Texas, the game’s pop-
ularity is growing each year to the point where teams are sprouting up in the southern states as well. “It is the fastest growing sport in the nation,” Tennet said. “It’s also the fastest game on two feet. It is a great team building sport that gives high school athletes that are here an opportunity to get involved in a team sport again.”
contact sloan at mes10b@acu.edu
organizations
BSA brings back ‘Sundaes’ tyler salter staff reporter
mandy lambright chief photographer Cameron Stapp, junior business management major from Decatur, dribbles down court during an intramural basketball game.
The Black Students Association has brought back “Sundaes on Mondays,” an “at ease” environment in the Living Room to simply discuss and collaborate on issues in the world, all while enjoying some ice cream sundaes. Byron Martin, director of Multicultural Enrichment, believes Sundaes on Mondays is doing well after a several-year absence. “We had this when I was
in school, and I thought it was something that we should bring back,” Martin said. “I think it’s growing and continually going to get bigger as we move along.” There are ground rules on how to discuss or argue between each topic, but the idea is to get everyone to sit down and talk about some subjects most people would decide not to be confrontational about. These discussions include the current culture, elections, interracial dating, Martin Luther King Jr.’s significance, and on Feb. 4, immigration.
alumni
Recent grad makes Idol cut Kirsten holman staff reporter A recent graduate is going to Hollywood. ACU graduate Collin Pittman from Wichita Falls traveled to Los Angeles in November to try out for American Idol season 12. The results of his audition aired Wednesday night at 8 p.m. Even though the cameras didn’t show him singing on American Idol, Collin announced that he made the cut. Three years ago Pittman received some shocking news. He was diagnosed with colon cancer. The doctors detected it early on and they were able to treat it. Pittman is cancer free today. “The doctor wasn’t even going to give me a colonoscopy because he said I was too young for it, but he said he’d do it just to make sure,” Pittman said. “He said if we wouldn’t have found it I probably wouldn’t be alive in 4-6 years. So I am very thankful we found it early. And it made me appreciate life more and know that God has kept me here for a reason.” Pittman graduated from ACU in May of 2012 with a major in marketing. During his time at ACU he invest-
ed himself in the Hillcrest Church of Christ college group. Pittman is still currently living in Abilene and has put his job search on hold to pursue his passions. “God is easily my biggest passion,” Pittman said. “I have a big passion for mission work and just being a loving brother to my Christian family.” Pittman also has a passion for football, and he has a passion for singing. Collin has been singing his whole life. He started singing in choir when he was in elementary school, but was not a part of the ACU choir. “I come from a family of singers,” Pittman said. “My parents were wedding singers, my aunt writes broadway music and performs, and my uncle sang professionally with Keith Lancaster’s a cappella group in the 80s.” Pittman didn’t decide to try out for American Idol. His parents, Dik and Angie Pittman said they secretly nominated him online. Pittman was surprised when he got a phone call from one of the producers of American Idol. During his audition he sang renditions of the songs “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” by Bonnie Raitt and “Sunday Morning,” by Maroon 5. Pittman said,“My fam-
ily wants me to follow my http://www.youtube.com/ dream and my talents. They w a t c h ? f e a t u re = p l a y e r _ know that God gave me embedded&v=PVsjU5atliU the gift of singing and they want me to share it with as contact holman at many people as I can.” keh09c@acu.edu Pittman shared one of the things he has enjoyed most about American Idol. “One of my favorite moments from AI is all of the other contestants,” Pittman said. “I met a lot of great people, and it actually shocked me a bit. I expected to get there and have to deal with a bunch of selfcentered hotheads, but I quickly found out that the majority of the people there were so kind and fun to be around. I can say I made some great friends from being there.” Pittman said being a part of American Idol has already been an amazing experience, and he has learned a lot along the way. “I hope to gain more understanding of who I am and where I want to go in life,” Pittman said. “I also hope to build my relationship with God even more, and to share the Gospel and be a shining light to anyone who hears me.” Pittman will be singing the National Anthem at the ACU Relay for Life event April 26th. To see the American Idol video interview, go to:
accident
Cherniss: Freshman could go home next week “Everybody here has been absolutely amazing: three or four days. She may the school, the students, have to go to a rehabilita- the hospital staff,” she tion center or do outpatient said. “We’ve been blown rehab from her home. away with the whole comSusan said the commu- munity.” nity’s outpouring of supSusan wants all the stuport has made the difficult dents at ACU to know how situation better. special the university is. continued from page 1
“You all should be very proud of the school you go to,” she said. “It’s very unique. Most places aren’t like this.”
contact smith at mds10a@acu.edu
social clubs
Late: Pi Kappa’s exit affects Sing Song plans continued from page 1 Pi Kappa was not the only group affected by this decision. The set list for Sing Song had to go through some revisions because of the dropped act. “It’s a domino effect, so when one thing goes away another has to go away,” Craig said. The downstage acts, involving hosts/hostesses, dance teams and Freshman Krewe, are timed so
that the upstage acts, involving traditional Sing Song acts, have enough time to set up and tear down each act. When Pi Kappa dropped out of Sing Song, a downstage act also had to be dropped. The dropped downstage act was chosen by looking at what numbers are planned, who sings what and which acts are the strongest and weakest elements of the show.
Pi Kappa hopes to grow in numbers and commitment so that they can participate in next year’s Sing Song show. “I said last year that we’d like to participate,” Hull said. “Obviously that didn’t happen but hopefully next year we can do it.”
contact greene at keg09b@acu.edu
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I think it’s growing and continually going to get bigger as we move along.”
fect us, or simply society as a whole.” Occasionally, there are a panel of professors or faculty from ACU that attend the event, to put different byron martin perspectives and points of director of multicultural view at the table for discusenrichment sion of that particular topic. The panel holds no specific Martin says the gather- aisle, but rather are usually ings are safe places for hard split on the topic, or have discussion. completely different out“Sundaes on Mondays looks on it. is a place where they can learn how to correctly have a constructive, hard-nosed contact salter at conversation on these toptas11b@acu.edu ics, and how these topics af-
sports
friday 02.01.13
6
standings
men’s basketball
‘Cats fall in second half
men’s basketball
Team
Div.
Ovrl.
MSU UIW Cameron TAMU-K WTAMU ENMU TSU Commerce ACU ASU
8-2 8-2 6-4 5-5 5-6 5-6 4-5 4-5 4-7 2-9
12-5 12-6 10-6 9-8 13-6 8-11 11-6 11-8 10-9 5-14
women’s basketball
Team
Div.
Ovrl.
ACU MSU TSU UIW WTAMU Commerce ASU TWU Cameron ENMU TAMU-K
10-2 9-2 9-2 8-3 7-5 5-6 5-7 4-8 3-8 2-10 1-10
15-3 14-3 13-4 12-5 11-10 7-9 8-10 6-12 4-13 3-17 3-14
briefings Tickets for the men’s and women’s Lone Star Conference basketball championships in Allen are now on sale. It costs $32 to buy tickets to all seven sessions for students and $45 dollars for adults.
Who’s Hot
stephen reyes Staff Photographer
Senior guard Eric Lawton attempts to dribble past a West Texas A&M defender in Moody Coliseum Tuesday night. The Wildcats led 43-40 at halftime, however the Buffs surged in the second half and came away with the victory, 78-69.
Team loses lead after halftime despite Lloyd’s 18 points matthew sloan assistant sports editor The men’s basketball team slipped up Tuesday after winning five of their last six games, dropping a home game to West Texas A&M, 78-69. ACU got off to a hot start, taking a 43-40 lead into halftime. In the second half, the ‘Cats had the game slide through their fingers and were not able to overcome a double-digit deficit in the last ten minutes. “I thought the game was close, but I don’t think we played that well,” head
coach Joe Golding said. “I don’t think we played with a sense of urgency. I thought WT was the tougher team tonight and we couldn’t find a way to get it going.” The Buffaloes were aggressive off the dribble and in the post, scoring 54 points in the paint. Donald Sims had a great game against the normally stout ACU defense, making 8 out of 9 shots, blocking three shots and getting four steals. “Sims hurt us, going 8-9 from the floor,” Golding said. “Most of his shots were uncontested layups he got from the offensive
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I don’t think we played with a sense of urgency.”
joe golding head coach acu men’s basketball
glass. I think the telling stat of the game is that they outscored us 54 to 18 in the paint. That’s a toughness stat, they got what they wanted inside.” The Buffs shot 59.6% from the floor in Moody, making it difficult for the Wildcats to keep up because of their blistering
field goal percentage. Despite the loss, the ‘Cats still had five players in double figures. Elliott Lloyd lead the way with 18 points, followed up by Eric Lawton’s 13 points and Parker Wentz’s 12 points. Post players Steven Werner and Dosh Simms had 10 and 11 points respectively. Early in the second half, the ‘Cats were able to force WT to commit several fouls early, getting ACU into the bonus quickly. However, ACU missed three consecutive one and one opportunities from the charity stripe. ACU finished the game
shooting only 62.5% from the line. The Wildcats are still in the middle of the cluttered Lone Star Conference standings, and a win on Saturday against Eastern New Mexico would help them close in on a post-season birth. “We just have to come out and have a strong practices,” center Cornelius Cammock said. “This loss is in the past now so we have to work hard and get ready for Eastern New Mexico this weekend.” contact sloan at mes10b@acu.edu
intramurals
New sports to be featured in spring daniel zepeda sports reporter Intramural sports have always been a great way for students to stay active and involved at ACU. They are also one of the best ways to meet people, especially as a freshman. After a successful past semester of f lag football and volleyball, ACU’s intramural league looks forward to offering students a great spring as well.
“You can end up gaining lifelong friendships, plus you get to meet new people that you may not come across usually,” Director of Intramural Sports Kenli Edwards said. “It provides a way to let off some stress from classes or just life. You can come and play, and just have a great time with your friends, hallmates, RA’s, whoever.” As basketball continues, more and more students are either playing
or coming to watch their friends. “Right now, basketball is going on and it is doing very well with the students,” Edwards said. “This year, we have fiftythree teams and 589 participants across all four leagues. It’s a little bit surprising with the turnout we’ve had.” Students can continue to expect many different sports and tournaments to sign up for as the semester continues.
“Soccer will be offered after spring break,” Edwards said. “Then, we will have many tournaments such as tennis, dodge ball, kickball, maybe disc golf and another handball tournament. We are also thinking about doing 5-on-5 f lag football, and some other sports.” Above all, Edwards and her team want to be sure that students are offered a variety of sports and given the opportu-
nity to make long lasting memories. “We want to get feedback from the students on what they want to play,” Edwards said. “We are always looking for students to let us know what they want to see offered, what changes they wish to see, and what new sports they want in future semesters.” contact zepeda at djz11a@acu.edu
baseball
Squad to take Minute Maid mound edward Isaacs sports editor The Wildcats will get a taste of Major League Baseball Heaven this weekend. The baseball team begins its final season as an NCAA Division II program Friday at the Astros in Action D-II Invitational in Houston. The ‘Cats will play four games at Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros. The team’s opening game is against the University of Arkansas at Monticello Friday at 10 a.m. ACU will play a night game against NCAA Division II powerhouse Uni-
Senior Dosh Simms has dominated from the forward position simms in the last two weeks. Simms has four straight double doubles, and has been tough to handle since rejoining the team for conference play. Simms is second on the team in rebounds and is averaging 12 points per game in the last two weeks. Simms has scored in double figures five straight games, and his strong defense has caused problems for opposing teams because of his ability to guard several different positions on the floor.
Upcoming The men’s tennis team hosts Oklahoma Christian, Tyler College and Trinity University Friday and Saturday. The women’s tennis team will be split over the weekend. Friday, they play Centenary College at 9 a.m. at home. They also play at Northwestern State University at 1 p.m. Saturday, the women face Tyler Junior College at 9 a.m. and play at Sam Houston State at 1 p.m. Both ACU basketball teams travel to Eastern New Mexico. The women play the Zias on Saturday 2 p.m. The men play at 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Baseball plays in The Astros in Action D-II versity of Central Missouri true for a lot of these guys,” er guys out,” he said. start at catcher, Schuetze, Invitational over the on Saturday at 7 p.m. head coach Britt Bonneau “We have a lot of sol- Duarte and Seth Spivey weekend in Houston at Sunday, the Wildcats said. “What a great way id guys back,” Bonneau are all expected to start Minute Maid Park. face University of the Incarnate Word at 1 p.m. and Monday the squad closes out the invitational with a 4 p.m. contest against Texas A&M University-Kingsville. The invitational will also host Emporia State University, Arkansas Tech University and Tarleton State University. Senior infielder ChuckDuarte cannot imagine a better way to start off the season. “For us seniors it’s a chance of a lifetime,” he said. “All the seniors are in awe. It hasn’t really hit us yet.” “This is a dream come
for the seniors to start off their last year.” The Wildcats finished under .500 last season (26-28) after going 24-23 in 2011 and 50-15 in 2010. The team returns a majority of last year’s starters including Duarte, outfielder Tyler Eager, catcher Rodge Macy, utility man Travis Schuetze and pitchers Aaron Lambrix and Austin Palmer. Duarte led the team offensively last year. He hit .358 with 38 RBI and four home runs. “I want to keep my momentum going from last year and help those young-
said. “We have some core guys that can really make a difference. They can teach the younger guys the ropes.” “We have a little different team compared to last year,” Duarte said. “We’ve got more senior leadership than we had last season.” The newcomers on the squad include catcher/ infielder Matt Patterson, right-handed pitcher David Dillard, outfielder Heath Beasley, right handed pitcher Colin Firmin, infielder Brandon Keck and infielder/outfielder Cameron Bonifant. Macy is expected to
in the infield, while Kyle Conwell and J.R. Rowland will be splitting time as the designated hitter. Junior transfer Ty Taylor, Eager and Reed Watson will be expected to anchor the outfield. Bonneau said he plans on starting right-hander Jordan Herrera on Friday, southpaw Ty Taylor on Saturday and righty Carter Hahn and lefty Palmer on Sunday and Monday respectively.
contact isaacs at jei08a@acu.edu
Softball competes in the St. Mary’s Spring Invitational on Friday and Saturday in San Antonio. Track and field is split over the weekend between the New Balance Invitational in New York, N.Y. and the Texas Tech Open in Lubbock.