acuoptimist.com
Optimist the
Budget Brief, page 3
Friday, February 11, 2011
Vol. 99, No. 34
1 section, 8 pages
ENROLLMENT
ACU boosts retention despite lower enrollment Jeff Craig
Managing Editor
The university saw an 8 percent decrease in student population with the release of spring enrollment numbers on Wednesday, a normal decrease. The university reported 4,358 students enrolled, a
decrease from the 4,728 total enrolled students in the fall. Kevin Campbell, acting chief enrollment officer, said most universities typically see lower enrollment numbers in the spring semester. “Most every university in the spring sees that decline,” Campbell said. “We typically see lower numbers
for two reasons: We have a December graduation, and almost all freshmen start in the fall, so you don’t see an influx to replace the graduating class.” The total number of students enrolled this spring actually is lower than in spring 2009. A total of 4,984 were enrolled last spring.
However, Campbell said the total number of degreeseeking students is higher this year. Last year, the university saw a record number of students enrolled in dual-credit classes, inflating enrollment numbers. “This year, we have 3,464 degree-seeking undergraduates, and last
quick facts The total number of students enrolled at ACU has declined in the last three semesters. • Spring 2011 - 4,358 students • Fall 2010 - 4,728 students • Spring 2009 - 4,984 students Campbell also said the year, we had 3,436. So we actually have 28 more stu- university saw one of its dents than we did a year see STUDENTS page 4 ago,” Campbell said.
UNIVERSITY
Officials decrease campus spending Linda Bailey Editor in Chief
JOZIE SANDS // Online Editor
Mark Coley, athletic director and secondary principal, scrolls through the home screen of his iPad.
ACS creates iCampus Abilene Christian Schools initiate iPad technology in the classroom
W
hen Mark Coley turns on his iPad, he sees a picture of the Abilene Christian High School football helmet with his team praying in the background. “I put it on there, so everyone would know it was mine,” Coley said. Coley, principle and athletic director at ACHS, made sure to put his mark on his iPad because two weeks ago, all Abilene Christian Schools faculty, administration and staff received the devices free of charge.
Story by Linda Bailey
Randy Hill, ACU alumnus and Abilene businessman, donated the money for the faculty iPads and plans to do the same for all ACHS students starting in the fall. All younger grades will have access to iPads in a mobile lab that students can use in the classroom. ACS has been considering bringing more technology on campus in recent years, and President of ACS Craig Fisher said these devices, as well as other technology, in the class-
room will enhance instruction and give students tools for the future. “It’s going to give us more options to expose our kids to great learning tools and put devices in their hands that are going to be part of the future,” Fisher said. “Preparing them now, utilizing them now, will prepare them for a stronger future.” Before giving iPads to ACS, Hill gave the devices to all students at Dallas Christian
The university faces a $6.2 million shortfall for the fall of 2011 after lowering its expected enrollment. As part of the five-year plan enacted two years ago as part of the 21st Century Vision, the university estimated to sell 126,000 credit hours in the 2011 fall semester. However, now the university is budgeting for 118,000 credit hours – creating a shortfall of money from the 8,000-hour difference. Credit hours cost $712. Stacey McGee, associate chief financial officer, said to make up for that shortfall, cuts have been made in divisions across the board, in areas such as academics, staff divisions and capital expenses, such as construction costs. Phil Schubert, president of the university, said a combination of factors led to cuts in the university budget. Some of the factors were the economic downturn’s effect on the endowment, a sharp reduction in the number of non-traditional students enrolled in the Bachelor of Applied Studies program, students bringing in more hours from other universities and a drop in the retention rate
see ACS page 4 see BUDGET page 4
LOCAL
Abilene Zoo opens scaly exhibit Bill Gersonde, Zoo Director, said he is proud Opinion Page Editor that Abilene Zoo is one of The Abilene Zoo opened a the few zoos in the counnew reptile exhibit by the try to house a Coahuila Elm Creek Back Yard ex- box turtle. “It’s the most aquatic of hibit on Jan. 28. The exhibit consists of all box turtles and is found two windows containing only in a specific lake area a common iguana found in Mexico,” Gersonde said. in South America, two “We participate in a manred-footed tortoises and a agement program for that species and are one of ten Coahuila box turtle.
Matthew Woodrow
“We’ve had these reptiles for a while in the back. They were reserve animals, and people couldn’t see them,” Baez said. “Now they’re right here in the open, so people can.” Baez said the space was not being used, and after a few renovations, the animals were “plopped in.” see SCALY page 4
website
inside news The Students’ Association approved its spring budget Wednesday during its first meeting of the semester. page 3
zoos in the United States that exhibit the Coahuila Box turtle.” The zoo has housed the reptiles for a while now and even has successfully bred and raised the turtle’s offspring, but they haven’t been on display until now. Reptile Keeper Tony Baez said he was happy that the iguana, turtle and tortoises finally would be visible to zoo visitors.
arts After winter weather delayed opening night, the cast of Eruydice continues working to finish sets. page 5
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
A coiled green viper sits in its tank as part of the newly opened reptile exhibit at the Abilene Zoo.
weather videos Find archived Optimist Sing Song videos from years past on our website, www. acuoptimist.com.
Abilene Christian University
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Campus Friday, February 11, 2011
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calendar & events Friday
11 a.m. Praise Day in Moody Coliseum
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Last day to receive a 60% refund for a dropped course
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Saturday
10 a.m. Table Tennis Tournament in the Campus Center Living Room
4 p.m. Softball vs. Texas Woman’s University
1 p.m. Baseball at Texas A&M University - Kingsville
6 p.m. “Framed” Senior Art Show 6 p.m. Baseball at Texas A&M University - Kingsville Women’s tennis vs. Tarleton State University
Sunday
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6 p.m. Softball vs. Cameron University
Monday
Valentine’s Day 11 a.m. Chapel series on Proverbs with student speaker Robert Lilly
6 p.m. Autoharp Concert at Central Baptist Church
2 p.m. Women’s basketball at Texas A&M-Kingsville
follow us on Twitter: @acuoptimist // become a fan on Facebook: The Optimist
volunteer opportunities
Breakfast on Beech Street Students can help set up, prepare and serve breakfast for the homeless at First Christian Church on Third Street and Beech Street. Serving time is 6:30-7:15 a.m. on Monday-Friday. Visit www.fccabilene.com for more information. National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature Students can greet patrons, assist with art activities, sell books and welcome visitors from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or 1-3
Global Samaritan Resources Volunteers are needed to sort through clothing and repack boxes Monday-Thursday at any time. Volunteers should
window of a black Jeep parked at A.B. Barret Hall. The officer identified the subject and released him.
1:57 p.m. An ACU Police officer stopped a speeding vehicle in the Thursday, Feb. 3 12 p.m. The Abilene Police 2200 block of Campus A logDepartment of the ACU Police Court. The officer idenrequested the Dehelp of ACU police for a tified partment’s daily activities willthe subject and issued a written warning. traffic accident on 750 N. of be printed on this page Judge Ely Boulevard. the Optimist. The first Police Someone report- Monday, Feb. 7 Log 5:46 willp.m. appear Friday. ed a suspicious man walk- 12:15 p.m. An ACU stuing out of the construction dent reported a stolen walarea at the Gibson building let from a residence in the and into the Teague Spe- 800 block of EN 16 Street. cial Events Center. ACU Police officers checked Report all suspicious acthe area but were unable tivity to the ACU Police Department at 674-2305. to locate the man.
Feb.1-8
6 p.m. Men’s Tennis vs. Prairie View A&M University and Rice University in Houston
International Rescue Committee Students can work with refugees who recently moved to the United States, teaching English, helping with homework and mentoring. Volunteer times are flexible. Call Daina JurykaOwen at 675-5643 ext. 16 to make an appointment. For more information on the International Rescue Committee, visit www.theirc.org.
Wednesday, Feb. 2 1:03 p.m. An ACU student slipped and fell on the ice in the South Lot. The student needed stitches after sustaining a laceration by her left eye.
1 Abandoned Vehicle 4 Accidents 5 Alarms 1 Animal Call 13 Building Lock/ Unlocks 15 Check Buildings 1 Criminal Mischief
6 p.m. Softball vs. West Texas A&M University
The Center for Contemporary Arts needs a gallery assistant to help with exhibit setup and preparation. The work can be done any time from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday. Call 677-8389 or e-mail info@ center-arts.com.
Edited for space
Weekly Stats
4 p.m. Softball vs. St. Mary’s University
p.m. on Tuesdays-Saturdays. For more information, contact Debby Lillick at 6734586 or visit www.nccil.org.
Police Log
Sunday, Feb. 6 4:58 a.m. An ACU Police officer observed a suspicious subject looking through the front
3 p.m. Baseball at Texas A&M - Kingsville 4 p.m. Men’s basketball at Texas A&M-Kingsville
The Dyess Youth Center needs help with a Ping Pong Exhibition from 4-6 p.m. every Friday. Volunteers will preside over tournaments and help with an exhibition for the students. Transportation will not be provided, and volunteers cannot have any sexual assault charges or charges pending. For more information, contact Sheri Frisby at 696-4797, or e-mail sheri. frisby@dyess.af.mil.
ACU Police Tip of the Week Never keep your PIN number with your purse/wallet or your debit/credit cards to prevent debit/credit card abuse.
call ahead. Contact David Catalina at 676-9991 for more information. The Salvation Army Volunteers are needed at the 1726 Butternut St. Salvation Army to sort and price items and help with kitchen or yard work. Volunteers are welcome any time MondaySaturday. Contact J.D. Alonzo at 677-1408 or visit www.satruck.com for more information on the program. Mesa Spring Healthcare Center needs volunteers from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. any day of the week to help with fun activities for the residents, including playing instruments, calling bingo and sitting and talking. All help is appreciated. Contact Laura Reynolds at 692-8080 or lgreynolds@ sears-methodist.com. Betty Hardwick Center Volunteers are needed in several departments at the Betty Hardwick Center, specializing in mental health. Students can help mentally and physically challenged people play games, run track and go bowling. Students can volunteer from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on Monday-Friday. Contact Angel Seca at 690-5235 for more information.
Meals on Wheels needs volunteers to deliver noon meals to seniors and adults with disabilities. Routes are available 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Monday-Friday. Volunteers must be at least 18, with a valid driver’s license, auto insurance and a desire to serve. Training is provided. Students may be exempted from one Chapel per week if delivery time conflicts with Chapel. Contact Samantha Barker at 672-5050 or sbarker@ mealsonwheelsplus.com. Aimee’s Art Studio is seeking volunteers from 9-10 a.m. or 1:30-2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, to assist with homeschool fine arts classes. No formal art skills or training is required. The studio is a five-minute walk from ACU’s campus. For more information, contact Aimee Williams at 672-9633. HERO Hendrick Equine Rehabilitation Opportunities needs volunteers from March 22-May 5 to help with its horse therapy program. Volunteers will walk or jog alongside horses and provide safety for clients as they ride. No horse experience is necessary. Volunteers must attend one of two training sessions offered prior to the beginning of the program. Contact Beth Byerly at 660-3465, or e-mail herocoord@netzero.com.
1 Motorist Assist: Inflate Tire 9 Motorist Assist: Jumpstarts 8 Motorist Assist: Other 2 Motorist Assist: Unlocks 1 Traffic Hazard 2 Traffic Stops 2 Welfare Checks
3 Parking Violations 1 Prowler 2 Public Service 1 Random Patrol 4 Suspicious Activities 1 Theft (Non Vehicle) 2 Medical Emergencies 3 Escorts
Chapel Checkup 19 54
Credited Chapels to date
Credited Chapels remaining
announcements Married Students Retreat Registration for the Married Students Retreat is now open. The retreat is Feb. 11-12 and is $65 per couple. Register at www. acu.edu/retreat or contact Steve Eller at steve.eller@ acu.edu or the Counseling Center at 674-2626. Table Tennis The ACU Table Tennis Club is hosting a free Table Tennis Tournament at 10 a.m. on Feb. 12 in the Campus Center Living Room. Students do not need to own their own paddle to participate. For more information, contact Benjamin Hayes at bph08a@acu.edu. Online Summer Courses Registration opens Feb. 23 for online summer courses. Students can choose from 15 courses, and each course is three weeks long. For more information, visit www. acu.edu/summeronline. Career Expo Current students and alumni have the opportunity to meet with employers from a variety of industries about potential full-time positions and internship
opportunities from 10 a.m.2 p.m. on Feb. 24 at the Abilene Civic Center. The event offers résumé reviews and mock interviews. Professional attire is required. ACUltimate The university’s ultimate frisbee club meets at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Interested students can contact Kyle Thaxton at krt06d@acu.edu. Civil Rights Tour Students can receive academic credit during Summer Session I by joining the ACU Freedom Ride on May 15-21. The seven-day, 1,800-mile guided bus tour will visit significant sites of the American Civil Rights Movement. Registration begins Feb. 23. For more information, contact Dr. Richard Beck at beckr@ acu.edu, Dr. Jennifer Dillman at jennifer.dillman@ acu.edu, Dr. David Dillman at dillmand@acu.edu or an academic adviser. FilmFest Entry forms for the 2011 FilmFest can be found in McKinzie Hall, room 122, at www.acu. edu/filmfest or acufilmfest.tumblr.com.
CAMPUS NEWS
February 11, 2011
Page 3
STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION
SA allocates spring funds to student groups
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
Students’ Associaton treasurer Chris Shim presents the spring budget to the SA Congress in Hart Auditorium on Wednesday.
SING SONG
Winter storm impedes Sing Song practices Matthew Woodrow Opinion Page Editor
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questing $8,800. The largest portion of the funds Managing Editor allocated to FilmFest went The Students’ Association to hiring and supporting approved its spring 2011 judges. Shim said the large budget proposal on Wednes- award was justified, conday, allocating $33,636.53 to sidering how many students participate. 39 student groups. “FilmFest is a really large Combined, the student groups requested a total production that’s open and of $68,747.47. In the fall, available to all students,” SA awarded $37,785.04 to Shim said. “We are talkthe groups. SA treasurer ing about hundreds of stuChris Shim, senior finance dents who come to watch. major from Lawrenceville, It showcases students’ Ga., said he believes SA did work and the amount of a good job helping groups man hours put in.” The only amendment to with limited funds. “I wish it could be the budget cut funds from more,” Shim said. “Over- Students in Free Enterall, I think the hardest part prise. Senator Scott Adrian, is not being able to fund all senior political science and communications major student requests.” Student groups submit- from Glendale, Calif., preted their budget proposals to sented the motion to cut $150 from the group, which Shim earlier this semester. FilmFest received the sends toys to Honduras. Adrian said he apprecilargest allocation from SA, receiving $5,710 after re- ated the motives behind Jeff Craig
quick facts
Sing Song will offer three performances and a With classes canceled and dress rehearsal. the university shut down, • Feb. 17, 8 p.m., dress rehearsal several Sing Song Acts • Feb. 18, 8 p.m., opening night: tickets $16 had to postpone or cancel • Feb. 19, 2 p.m., Saturday matinee: tickets $18 • Feb. 19, 8 p.m., Final show, awards presented: tickets $24 practice last week. Preparations for Sing The Trojans decided not to adapt,” Barnard said. “This Song already must be quicker than normal, with the se- to reschedule any practices whole semester was all about mester starting at a later date but instead to work harder adaptation. What with the than in past years. Clubs and at their remaining meet- construction and us having to class acts have one less week ings said director Matthew be in tents, the shorter practo practice than was avail- Bowman, sophomore mu- tice time; the bad weather was sic education major from just one more thing. But even able last year. with all that, I still believe it’s Despite the shortened Brookhaven, Miss. “The snow definitely going to be a great show.” time, directors remain confiNot all the acts are worried dent they’ll be able to put on cut into our rehearsal time, which was already shorter about the lost time, however. a good show. Arielle Collier, junior vo- this year than normal,” Bow- The junior class act, directed cal performance major from man said. “We’ll still be able by Julie Neill, junior advertisMesquite, is directing the to do everything we wanted ing major from Irving, will women of Alpha Kai Omega to going in, but we’ll just have not miss the rehearsal time and said she is proud of her to work harder and faster. much, she said. “We only missed one club’s hard work in the face of Since there is less time to get things done, we’re all a little rehearsal, but our act is time constraints. kind of silly, and so we re“My girls have risen to the bit more focused.” Bowman also added that ally didn’t need that day too occasion and, knowing there is less time to practice, they because of the time con- badly,” she said. “As long as really prepared well.” Collier straints, the club had to work everybody in our act is hapsaid. “In order to win, you harder to pull its act together, py with their performance have to work harder, and we’re so the snow actually encour- and had a great time. That’s really our only goal.” aged efficiency. going full force this year.” Sing Song performances Director of Gamma Sigma Alpha Kai had to cancel one practice, but the club decided Phi, Colin Barnard, senior begin with a dress rehearsto give up part of its weekend political science major from al on Thursday night at 7 Abilene, said every club is feel- p.m., with shows through to get back on schedule. “We couldn’t practice ing the pressure of the short- Saturday evening. Tickets on Wednesday night due to ened time, but the weather are available at the door weather, but we were able to was something to which the for Thursday’s show. Friday and Saturday show tickets make it up by rescheduling club had to adapt. “Every group is struggling are available online at www. for Thursday and Friday,” Collier said. “We just made sure with less practice time, but acu.edu/events/singsong. we could have rehearsal at a knowing that we would have location where the girls could less time going in made gave contact Woodrow at us more heads up and time all walk to and from safely.” mrw08a@acu.edu
I wish it could be more. Overall, I think the hardest part is not being able to fund all student requests. CHRIS SHIM // SA Treasurer
the funds. However, he said appropriations should be used exclusively for student activities. “We encourage groups to go out and do good, Adrian said. “We support fundraising events, but we cannot use student funds for charities that take and distribute it among other groups.” Overall, 10 groups received at least $1,000 dollars in appropriations from SA. A total of 18 groups requested at least $1,000. Shim said Congress did a good job of meeting most of the groups’ needs. Alpha Epsilon Sigma, SHADES Step Team,
Shinnery Review and the Locavore Club all received allocations of at least $2,000. “I think Congress did the best they can, representing their constituency and trying to look out for the student body as a whole,” Shim said. “They did a good job of being stewards with what they have.” A complete list of all student group requests and SA allocations can be found on on the SA website at acustudents. com/?page_id= 622. contact Craig at
jrc07d@acu.edu
CAMPUS NEWS
Page 4
February 11, 2011
ACADEMICS
Students, professors recover from snow break Christy Lewis
Senior Reporter
Four days stuck indoors was too many for Ashleigh Banda, senior nursing major from Dallas. “The first two days, I celebrated. The night of the second day, I was ready for it to be over,” Banda said. “You couldn’t leave. You couldn’t even go out to eat with your friends.” Professors and students alike have had to grapple with the cost of four free
days. Dr. Brad Crisp, assistant professor of information systems, said this was the longest period of snow days he has experienced – and he taught for five years at Indiana University. “There was some good family time and some stir-crazy time,” Crisp said. “Obviously, it was a big disruption to the teaching schedule.” Crisp chose to move a test review outside of class time and condense some of his material. He said he
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worries students will not have the time to adequately reflect on the material that has been compressed. “We had to move at a pace that is not my preference,” Crisp said. “We’ll still make sure they get all the concepts they need to know.” David Kneip, instructor of Bible, missions and ministry, said missing almost a whole week of classes so early in the semester broke his classes’ routines before they had time to be established.
classes, I’m ready for another break.” After a few days of Pascal Lacoss, sophoclasses, I’m ready for more management maanother break. jor from Surbiton, United ASHLEIGH BANDA // senior nursing Kingdom, said he hoped major from Dallas for another snow day as well. He had wanted “It feels like we have to piled up over the break. Banda said some of her Thursday classes to be start over again,” Kneip said. Kneip has had to com- professors assigned online canceled, so one of his press some essential mate- work and scheduled ad- tests could be pushed rial, especially for his fresh- ditional lectures outside of back again. “No such luck,” Lacoss said. class time in addition to postmen classes, he said. Kristin Pitney, freshman poning projects and tests. “My memory is refreshed Bible major from Abilene, said she was a little over- why we liked breaks,” Bancontact Lewis at whelmed by the work that da said. “After a few days of clb09a@acu.edu
LOCAL
Scaly: Abilene Zoo opens new reptile exhibit Continued from page 1
Although Abilene Zoo was closed Tuesday-Sunday last week because of the weather, it normally is open seven days a week except for Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Year’s. “We were shut down for public safety, but of course, the staff did come in to take care of the animals,” Gersonde said. “I’m happy to report that all the animals fared well in the storm.” Abilene Zoo will continue its Two-buck Tuesdays for the month of February, a move Gersonde said he hopes will encourage more visitors during the winter months. “All the animals have access to heated facilities, but the lions and the cubs really enjoyed the snow and resulting mud,” Ger-
sonde said. “Many people aren’t thinking about coming to the zoo right now, but in fact, the animals, especially the cats, are more active in the cooler weather.” General admission to the Abilene Zoo costs $5 for adults, $4 for seniors age 60 and older and $2.50 for children under age 12. Children under age 3 get in free. The Abilene Zoo is located at 2070 Zoo Lane and is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m daily and 9 a.m to 9 p.m. on Thursdays during the months of June, July and August. For more information on special events, new exhibits, volunteer opportunities or zoo news, call 676-6085 or visit abilene. zoo@abilenetx.com. contact Woodrow at
mrw08a@acu.edu
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
A native Texas cichlid swims in its tank at the Abilene Zoo. The zoo recently opened a new exhibit devoted to reptiles.
ENROLLMENT
UNIVERSITY
Students: Online programs Budget: Lower enrollment report increase in students to result in budget shortfall Continued from page 1
highest retention in years. He said 90 percent of freshmen who enrolled in the fall returned for this spring semester, an improvement as compared to last year’s the 86 percent retention rate. “We are definitely pleased with the spring enrollment numbers,” Campbell said. “We saw
a very good retention rate for our freshmen. Those who are here are obviously pleased with their experience at ACU.” The university’s online school numbers actually saw an increase in enrollment. A total of 469 students are enrolled in ACU’s online school, compared to 459 in the fall. Campbell said increases in online program enrollment
in the spring are normal for most universities. “Online programs actually have six different times when our students can start throughout the year,” Campbell said. “The ability to have students start at six different times means more students. So it’s not uncommon to see some slight growth.” contact Craig at
jrc07d@acu.edu
Continued from page 1
from fall 2009 to spring 2010. “As we progress down the road and are able to see more clearly what the active results are, we’ll make adjustments,” Schubert said. “We’ve got some pretty aggressive goals, and with aggressive goals comes the need to constantly reevaluate and readjust, and I expect we’ll continue to have
very similar conversations on a very routine basis.” About $1 million of the shortfall will come out of the academics budget, with about a third of that coming through postponement of Vision projects and about half through salary reductions. Dr. Jeanine Varner, provost, told faculty that the university will not renew the contracts of seven or eight faculty members for next
fall, but Schubert said those cuts were not necessarily budget-related, and some of those transitions already were naturally taking place. “There may be other issues involved where we haven’t achieved certain levels of growth and, therefore, don’t need as many faculty,” Schubert said. contact Bailey at
ljb07a@acu.edu
LOCAL
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ACS: School integrates technology into classrooms Continued from page 1
JOZIE SANDS // Online Editor
Mark Coley, athletic director and secondary principal, works on an iPad.
School. Giving the iPads to ACS, Hill said, is part of a broader vision to help encourage technology in the classroom in all schools, K-12, in America. “This was not about us deciding to give a gift of some iPads to a school. This was about us changing the way that we are educating our kids,” Hill said. “It’s got to start somewhere, and it might as well start in our backyard, and so Abilene Christian Schools was the right place; it was the right fit.” And Abilene Christian Schools already is on the forefront of iPad use. Daniel Austin, junior at ACS, said his honors physics class already uses the iPad for research and presentations. He said he enjoyed using the iPad but anticipates next year, when he’ll be able to take the device home. Hill said he thinks technology like the iPad and iPod touch challenges the
This was about us changing the way we are educating our kids RANDY Hill // ACU alumnus and Abilene businessman
minds of young people and accelerates learning at a high, rapid pace. “I believe this technology stimulates learning, and I believe that you can read and learn more on this iPad than you can out of print text,” Hill said. For now, ACS faculty are learning how to implement the iPads in the classroom for students next semester. Fisher said faculty will attend summer training sessions at ACU’s K-12 Digital Learning Institute, and some faculty members traveled to Austin this weekend to a technology convention. “There’s a very strong buzz of excitement from faculty right now, from first learning the tools that are a part of the device and
how it can impact learning and how they can share that with their students,” Fisher said. Coley also teaches speech at ACU and said he plans to use the iPad in class to download topics and complete more assignments electronically, allowing more time for speaking. Kay Robbins, director of curriculum and teacher at ACS, said the school also plans to look into using digital textbooks and other digitized books for book reports – an idea Austin said he was all for. “I definitely think they’d use that eventually,” Austin said. “It would be a lot more convenient.” contact Bailey at
ljb07a@acu.edu
Arts
February 11, 2011
Page 5
Abilene Events FRIDAY
Examining Eurydice
Seven Brides For Seven Brothers 7:30 p.m. Historic Paramount Theatre
FRIDAY Words in Windows, Hungry, Mother and Why Waste Good Fire 8 p.m. Monks Coffee Shop
SATURDAY
“What happens to us after we die? What parts of us can we take with? What parts of us are perishable?”
An Evening For The Expo 7 p.m. Taylor County Expo Center
SATURDAY Valentine’s At The Grace 10 a.m. The Grace Museum
SATURDAY Chautauqua Learning Series 11 a.m. Buffalo Gap Historic Village
Emily Rankin, Director
App of the Week Instant Poetry HD Lifestyle
HHHHI
Laura Wetsel (right), senior theatre major from Fort Worth, and Bill Rankin, associate professor of English, portray Eurydice and her father in a plain-clothes rehearsal.
Instant Poetry HD gives its users the ability to produce a short poem with just a few swipes. Users choose a theme (love, sadness or passionate), and the app provides a selection of vivid words that users rearrange into unique pieces of poetry. After creating their poem, users can customize the font and text colors and choose a background image from any picture in the photo library. Poems can be emailed to people as a friendly message or a declaration of love just in time for Valentine’s Day. Instant Poetry HD costs $1.99 and is compatible with the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad.
New Releases IN THEATERS Justin Bieber: Never Say Never (Paramount Pictures)
Just Go With It (Columbia Pictures)
Feb. 11 Feb. 11
Gnomeo and Juliet (Touchstone Pictures)
Feb. 11
The Eagle Feb. 11
(Focus Features)
Cedar Rapids Feb. 11
(Fox Searchlight)
DVD I Spit On Your Grave (Anchor Bay Films)
Photos by SANDRA AMSTUTZ // Arts Editor
Josh Tumblin, senior theatre major from Nashville, Tenn.; Melanie Godsey, junior theatre major from San Antonio; and Ashley Kelly, junior theatre major from Denton, portray the three stones.
Latest theater production provides provocative entertainment Sandra Amstutz Arts Editor
Eurydice’s captivating dialogue and eerie ambiance will provide an evening of entertainment and inevitable discussion. Based on the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, the performance explores themes of memory, love and death. This version tells the story from Eurydice’s point of view as she dies and her lover, Orpheus, travels to Hell to rescue her. Eurydice finds her father in the underworld and must decide between the two men she cares about most. The Department of Theatre’s production of Eurydice delivers a unique story that will leave audiences intrigued. Emily Rankin, senior theatre major from Abilene and director of the play, earned her role in the show
early last semester. Auditions took place at the end of the semester, and rehearsals began on the first day of school in January. Originally planned to open on Feb. 10, the show’s opening night was delayed after inclement weather resulted in missing almost a full week’s worth of rehearsals and set work. “The set is really demanding. The play uses a lot of height and depth imagery,” Rankin said. “We have the image of the overworld versus the underworld, and then we have things that are called for, like the elevator. It has been a challenge, but it has also been exciting to get to work with such a unique set.” Coves, mountains and river banks made out of aluminum mesh screen create eerie curves that catch and release light. A majestic, working elevator amongst
rain and pools of water hints the promise of mysticism. The small, yet skilled cast seems completely settled into characters. Laura Wetsel, senior theatre major from Fort Worth, and Nick Palmiere, junior theatre major from Amarillo, who play Eurydice and Orpheus, respectively, enchant the audience as characters who have loved and lost each other. Sebastian Karlsson, senior theatre major from Stangsmala, Sweden, portrays the Lord of the Underworld, an unsettling villain who feeds off the desperation of others. Josh Tumblin, senior theatre major from Nashville, Tenn.; Ashley Kelly, junior theatre major from Denton; and Melanie Godsey, junior theatre major from San Antonio, play the three stones. All three effortlessly flow between being unearthly, humorous and poignant.
Wild Target
(Freestyle Releasing)
Feb. 8 Feb. 8
The Romantics Feb. 8
(Independent)
Unstoppable Nick Palmiere, junior theatre major from Amarillo, portrays Orpheus playing music in the underworld.
(Fox)
Kites
Feb. 15
(Big Pictures)
Finally, Bill Rankin, associate professor of English, depicts Eurydice’s father. His performance tugs at the heart as he wistfully reminisces about his past life. “I have loved watching this cast discover these characters and these characters’ connections to each other,” Rankin said. “So much of this play is about absence and longing for somebody who is not there. To get to see them discover those moments of connection with each other has been really exciting.” Amidst all the adept performances, the script steals the show. Written by Sarah Ruhl, Eurydice provides the cast and director with relatable ideas. “This play asks a lot of interesting questions that I’ve asked for a long time,” Rankin said. “What happens to us after we die? What parts of us can we
take with? What parts of us are perishable? Do our thoughts stay with us? Do our memories stay? What part of us makes us, us?” Wetsel, as a college senior with graduation looming, said she and her character struggle with similar personal issues. “Eurydice is trying to hold onto her youth, but then she is also trying to decide whether to grow up,” Wetsel said. “It’s the same point I’m at in my life. I’m about to graduate and be on my own. Like her, I have to start making hard decisions.” The show opens on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and also will run on Friday and Saturday at the same time. Tickets can be purchased at the Williams Peforming Arts Center Box Office for $12 each.
Feb. 15
Waiting for Superman (Paramount Vantage)
A Man Within
(Oscilloscope Laboratories)
Feb. 15 Feb. 15
You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger (Sony Pictures Classics)
Feb. 15
MUSIC Chamberlin Bitter Blood
Feb. 14
P.J. Harvey Let England Shake
Feb. 14
Gruff Rhys Hotel Shampoo
Feb. 14
Beans End It All
Feb. 15
Bright Eyes The People’s Key
Brown Recluse Evening Tapestry
Feb. 15 Feb. 15
Cowboy Junkies Demons
Feb. 15
The Dears contact Amstutz at
sla07a@acu.edu
Degeneration Street
Feb. 15
Deicide
To Hell With God
Feb. 15
Sonic Youth Simon Werner a Disparu
Feb. 15
Opinion
Page 6
February 11, 2011
EDITORIAL
Singles prepare to survive Valentine’s The ACU campus may have recently survived the “snowpocalypse,” but there still looms an event that many on campus are wishing to avoid. For some, it is one of the most romantic days of the year. But for many, the date is a dreaded one. For singles on campus this Valentine’s Day, the Optimist proposes a survival guide for how to put the “victory” back in “V-Day.”
logging on. The status updates and proclamations of love would drive any well-adjusted individual to down an entire package of those chalk-flavored candy hearts. Gone are the days when going to school meant receiving a cardboard valentine from every member of the class. Now, Facebook and Twitter only serve to make loneliness more acute.
nally reunite with her high school sweetheart, only to find he’s about to ship off to war is unlikely to lift the spirits. “Singles Awareness Day” also happens to fall on a Monday this year, the day of the week “The Bachelor” airs. Don’t do it. Exotic dates in pursuit of love, however frivolous and futile, won’t make your own isolation any more appealing. Just say no.
evening. Go to a movie with a group, or hang out with others who view Feb. 14 as just another date on the calendar. Most singles aren’t hoping to spend that evening waiting for their roommate to come in and gush about a homemade valentine or stale box of Russell Stovers from “the most wonderful person in the world.”
1. Avoid Social Media Singles on Valentine’s Day, do not even consider
3. Phone a Friend There’s strength in num2. Channel Surf with Care Avoid Lifetime at all costs. bers. Find a band of singles Watching a D-list actress fi- with whom to spend the
4. Don’t forget, It’s Still Monday The most important thing to remember is, By Morgan Davis
The Funny Funnies
the issue
Singles often approach Valentine’s Day with trepidation of a lonely day in a culture fraught with couples.
our take
The Optimist presents four simple steps for singles struggling to get through this sentimental holiday. Valentine’s Day is just that: a day – nothing more. It’s still Monday. We all still will attend work, class and, yes, even Sing Song practice. While some may see it as an opportunity to express affection for loved ones, others may be relieved they aren’t obligated
to plan a special evening and can relax instead. Valentine’s Day can be a lonely holiday, but only if we let it. Enjoy the time with others, whether it’s that special someone or just a group of friends. contact the Optimist at
jmcnetwork@acu.edu
COLUMN
Love requires no distinction Your Average Jozie By Jozie Sands
COLUMN
Message’s heart matters most Conscientious Conjecture By Laura Acuff
Feb. 14, 2008. My 19th single Valentine’s Day. All things considered, I was doing pretty well. While the rest of the ACU population obsessed over candy hearts and red roses, I Acuff was on my way to Bible class, just like any other Thursday. I already had received a grade-school-reminiscent paper Valentine and some candy from a friend back home, and I knew my father would send his traditional gift of Godiva chocolates some way or other. People cared about me; I didn’t need a significant other to feel loved. Only an innocuouslooking letter from my mom awaited me in my mailbox that day, and I didn’t think anything of it. Already planning how to balance my homework and Optimist assignment for
the next week, I walked into Hart There’s something especially Auditorium, demeaning about someone pointing grabbing a seat out your singlehood on Valentine’s dead center, on the third row or Day – all in Christian love, of course. so, and absentmindedly tore open the envelope encas- Day—all in Christian aging, not patronizing. love, of course. Receiving And maybe it really is the ing Mom’s letter. Unfolding the multiple that letter transformed thought that counts. My choices: wallow in sheets of Xeroxed paper, the tone of my day. Suddenly, a pleasant perceived pity or brush I slowly began to realize this wasn’t just any let- morning became a drea- it off and continue my Thursday. ter. Staring up at me from ry, depressed afternoon. Honestly, I probably I had to consider the the crinkled sheets was a headline and subsequent facts: I was single, in a wallowed more than I’d article reassuring read- ring-by-spring culture, at like to admit on that parers, “It’s ok to be single an age when my parents ticular Valentine’s Day. on Valentine’s Day; God already had been dating But from that year on, I for months, on what eas- strove to remember that loves you.” In slight disbelief, I ily could be considered generous gestures, howquickly scanned the arti- the loneliest day of the ever poorly placed, represent a loving intention. cle, making sure its mes- year. I learned it’s more Although the letter sage was, in fact, what I’d sought to console sin- valuable to appreciate already perceived. It was. The article’s message gles with the assurance the sender than critique of God’s love, it glaringly the message. wasn’t untrue. Well, that, and I vowed But it also wasn’t a proclaimed a cross to bear message any normal sin- what only moments before never to open another gle person wants to read I’d considered a perfectly letter from Mom on Valentine’s Day. Sometimes, on the one day a year normal, fulfilling life. even the most well-inLove you too, Mom. that so ostentatiously celAt the end of the day, I tentioned messages just ebrates couples. There’s something especially had to remember we were need to wait. demeaning about some- coming from two difone pointing out your ferent perspectives. She contact Acuff at singlehood on Valentine’s had meant to be encourlka06a@acu.edu
editorial and letter policy Unsigned editorials are the opinions of the Optimist and may not necessarily reflect the views of the university or its administration. Signed columns, cartoons and letters are the opinions of their creators and may not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of the Optimist or the university. The Optimist encourages reader response through letters to the editor but reserves the right to limit frequent contributors or to refuse to print
letters containing personal attacks, obscenity, defamation, erroneous information or invasion of privacy. Please limit letters to 350 words or fewer. A name and phone number must be included for verification purposes. Phone numbers will not be published. Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79699 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu
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Then, at 3:05 p.m., I’d head home with my backpack crammed full of cheesy cards and cheap candy to a house where the only variance from a normal day was the small, heartshaped chocolate cake my mother baked every year. The recipe came from an ancient index card, written in the elegant handwriting of some church lady years ago. It was called “Nobody Loves Me Cake”. It was the cake we always had when someone wanted a chocolate cake for a birthday or a good report card. After dinner, my mom would cut the cake into four pieces. My
Growing up, Valentine’s Day went pretty much the same way every year: I went to school and did all the normal Valentine’s Day stuff. I exchanged cards with my friends, watched for the Sands hourly interruptions when candygrams would be delivered and hoped for the big deliveries from the main office. These always were bouquets of flowers or baskets of candy, guaranteeing breaks of at least 15 minutes per gift from class There isn’t a soul lectures. It on this earth who’s took that long heart doesn’t skip because we had to guess a beat when served who the gift a compartment of was from, and rosy applesauce somebody always had to with the rare treat steal the card. of red and pink The same stuJell-O squares for dents always received the dessert. gifts, and the gifts always sister and I each drank were from their parents. But it was middle a big glass of milk and school; drama had to ate our annual share. My parents had coffee. come from somewhere. That was Valentine’s Lunch always brought a predictable change Day. Just cake. There was not any from the ordinary. There isn’t anything fanfare. Nobody talked like a good Valentine’s about crushes or candyDay cafeteria lunch to grams. We enjoyed the spread the love. Noth- company of each other, ing screams romance just like any other night. like cupids and hearts And that’s exactly how cut out of appropriately we preferred it. Valentine’s Day is colored construction paper and scotch-taped said to be a day to celeon the salad bar sneeze brate love, but romance guard. And there isn’t a really steals the show. soul on this earth who’s For those who love year heart doesn’t skip a beat round, Valentine’s Day is when served a compart- nothing but a reason to ment of rosy applesauce have dessert. with the rare treat of red and pink Jell-O squares contact Sands at for dessert. jgs07a@acu.edu
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FROM SPORTS
February 11, 2011
Page 7
TENNIS
Tennis teams serve up spring season openings
‘‘ ’’
“We were happy just to get in some matches finalSports Director ly,” said senior Bryan Joiner. Both tennis teams have “We got moved back from gotten their seasons un- Friday to Sunday, and we derway during the last were just happy to play.” week, after having to adThe women had betjust schedules because of ter luck getting in all of weather delays. their matches after the The men were sched- delays. The Wildcats conuled to have four teams ar- tinued with both weekend rive and play matches dur- matches and then another ing the weekend, but the on Monday, finishing the winter storm allowed only weekend 1-2. Trinity University to make it ACU got off to a tough to Abilene. The men ended start against Division I up playing a double header opponent University of against the No. 10 team in New Mexico, falling to the Division III. Lobos 5-2. The Wildcats dominated “I know we were caboth matches, winning the pable of winning those first in a 9-0 sweep of the matches,” said Head Cardinals and the second in Coach Hutton Jones. “We an 8-1 win. just didn’t get it done.”
Brandon Tripp
We know we are capable of winning those matches. We just didn’t get it done. HUTTON JONES // Men’s and women’s tennis head coach
Micah Hermsdorf and Lauren White picked up the only doubles win for the Wildcats, handing the New Mexico pair of Oldani/ Richardson an 8-1 loss. The Lobos fought back to claim the remaining two matches with 8-5 wins over Julia Mongin and Jaclyn Walker and Hannah Kelley and Cassie Carver to give the Lobos the doubles point. New Mexico continued its momentum in singles play, taking four of the six singles matches from the
Wildcats. Micah Hermsdorf picked up a point for ACU with a three-set thriller that went into a tiebreak in the final set. Hannah Kelley earned the only other point for the Wildcats, beating Kristin Eggleston in straight sets 6-1 and 6-3. ACU rebounded well in its second match of the day against Western New Mexico, picking up a 7-0 sweep. The Wildcats managed to win every match without dropping a set and won
TRACK AND FIELD
eight of the 12 singles sets without losing a game. “It was a very good showing for us,” Jones said. “We played well every match.” ACU made a stop in Las Cruces, N.M., before heading back to Abilene to take on another Div. I team, New Mexico State. The Wildcats were unable to pull out a win, falling 4-3 to the Aggies. After dropping the doubles point by losing two of the three doubles matches, the Wildcats dropped three of five singles matches. At the No. 1 singles spot, Julia Mongin beat Isabela Kulaif when Kulaif retired just three points into the second set with an injury.
Kelley and Hermsdorf also picked up wins for ACU. Both the men’s and women’s tennis teams will be back on the courts this weekend. The women are at home this weekend against Div. I Louisiana Lafayette University and LSC opponent Tarleton State. Both matches will take place on Friday. The men will travel to Houston for three matches against Texas teams, including Div. I opponent No. 34 Rice University. “Rice is a top Div. I team, but I think we have a real chance to play with them,” Joiner said. contact Tripp at
bjt07a@acu.edu
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Sang: Team preps for nationals Win: Lankford rallies Wildcats Continued from page 8
Sang said. “It was a huge meet and a great experience.” Sang’s teammate, Cleophas Tanui set a new personal record as well in the 5,000 meter, posting a time of 14:30.05, seventh best among Division II runners at the meet. Triple jumper Ramon Sparks jumped 51’10’’, a jump which garnered him 5th place behind 4 Division I athletes and also moved him to the top spot in the Division II triple jump national rankings. Anais Belledant ran the mile race in 5:00.84, a mere 2 seconds behind her personal best. Amanda Ouedraogo also made a provisional-qualifying triple jump of 39’6.5”, her second best jump of the year. Thrower Nick Jones placed eighth in the shot put with a throw of 55’9.75”. In the 60 meter hurdles, Kevin Johmson ran his second best time of the year, 8.21, yet missed the finals by a slim three one thousandths of a second.
Continued from page 8
FILE PHOTO // Kelsi Williamson
The track and field teams traveled to New York for chance to compete at the famous Armory. “I was very proud of our guys in New York,” Sang said. “It was a very competitive meet, and we had a solid showing [in New York].” At the Texas Tech Invitational, Tyler Fleet set a per-
sonal record and provisional qualifying throw of 57’11.75” in the weight throw. Fleet’s throw was the only national qualifying performance for ACU at the meet. Sydney Smith tied her personal record in the 60-meter dash,
only six one hundredths off the provisional time. The track and field team’s next meet will be the Nebraska Tune-Up on Feb. 18. contact Shake at
bxs09a@acu.edu
COLUMN
Love: Sports have always been there College basketball is coming down to that crucial day is great. If they lose, don’t point in the season when eveven talk to me. ery single game matters, and For those of you who are a loss can be the difference curious, I do have a beauti- in playing in the lofty NCAA ful and understanding girl- Tournament or the laughfriend, but even she knows able NIT tournament. Questhat sometimes I have a void tions start to fly as to who the that can only be filled with next mid-major Cinderella sports, and there is no better story will be, or which teams time of year to fill that void already are a lock to make it than this. to the playoffs. Continued from page 8
Hockey and basketball are just beginning to hit the home stretches of their respective seasons, with teams fighting for playoff seeds. And, if none of that sounds appealing, you always can revel in the fact that the countdown to the NFL Draft has begun, with the Super Bowl now over. I can’t get away from sports, nor would I ever want
to. I love sports, every nuance and detail of each. I will get a present from my girlfriend this year, and she will get one from me; but the true gift this season is knowing that I am in the midst of a sports lover’s fantasy, and I never want to leave.
MEN’S BASKETBALL
Loss: ’Cats face tough road for conference playoff spot Continued from page 8
‘‘ ’’
inside presence and shut down the Wildcats defensively. “They were the aggressor, and they brought it to us tonight,” Head Coach Jason Copeland said. “I attribute that to our leadership. We need to have some kids step up and play with a sense of urgency down the stretch.” The Buffaloes used a balanced attack, with six players who scored double digits. West Texas A&M also scored 40 points off the bench, shooting the ball well all night. Courtney Carr led West Texas and all scorers with 15 points.
We just need some guys to step up and take leadership. JASON COPELAND // Men’s basketball head coach
Zach Williams led the Wildcats, adding 14 for ACU in the losing effort. ACU fell to 9-11 overall and 1-8 in the Division, while West Texas improved to 18-4 overall and 5-4 in the division. “We came out and started decent with them, but then we got in foul trouble and ran into a lull,” Copeland said. “We let them get away from us early and then we fought back. We just need some guys
to step up and take leadership.” The Wildcats will travel this weekend to take on Texas A&M University-Kingsville. The Javelinas have struggled in conference play at 7-14 overall and 2-7 in Division play. The Wildcats and Javelinas are set to tip off Saturday at 4 p.m. contact Cantrell at
jrc07f@acu.edu
contact Gwin at
agg07a@acu.edu
‘‘ ’’
and Lankford’s free throw was good as the Wildcats came back to tie the game. West Texas missed a jumper with a little less than half a minute to play. ACU got the rebound and quickly called a time-out to regroup before the final possession of the game. The Wildcats got the shot they wanted with about seven ticks left on the clock, but Marquez couldn’t connect from the foul line. Fortunately, sophomore guard Cecilee Perez grabbed the offensive rebound and was fouled, giving her two chances to win it from the free throw line. Perez made the first of two, putting the ’Cats up 67-66. An errant pass for WT ended its shot at a miracle comeback after Perez’s second free throw banked off the rim, and ACU took home it’s biggest win of the season. “I was thinking I only need to make one of the
My coach said it was a perfect miss. They had wanted me to miss, so good thing I did.
CECILEE PEREZ // sophomore guard on women’s basketball team
two to pull this off,” Perez said. “My coach said it was a perfect miss. They had wanted me to miss, so good thing I did.” The win puts the Wildcats at 5-4 in the Lone Star Conference and still in position to get a spot in the conference tournament. The Wildcats’ next two games will be on the road as they travel to Kingsville to take on the Javelinas on Saturday at 1 p.m. contact Gwin at
agg07a@acu.edu
Sports
Page 8
Standings
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Moody Magic
MEN’S BASKETBALL Team
Div.
Ovrl.
Tarleton St. 6-1 ASU 5-3 MSU 4-3 UIW 4-3 ENMU 4-3 WTAMU 4-4 TAMU-K 2-6 ACU 1-7
15-4 9-11 16-5 15-4 9-10 17-4 7-13 9-11
February 11, 2011
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Team Div. Ovrl. Tarleton St.7-0 WTAMU 6-3 Angelo St. 5-3 5-4 ACU 3-4 UIW 2-5 MSU ENMU 2-5 TAMU-K 1-7
17-2 13-9 12-8 8-13 6-12 6-13 4-15 3-17
Briefs The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association ranked ACU’s baseball team eighth in the nation’s latest poll, released on Tuesday. ACU was the only LSC team ranked in the top 25 of the poll.
n
JULIE COPPEDGE // Staff Photographer
Top: Autumn Whitaker (center) celebrates the come-from-behind victory with her teammates. Left: Mack Lankford drives to the basket during the victory. Lankford scored 17 points in the win.
Perez caps stunning rally with free throw to upset West Texas Austin Gwin Sports Editor
n Tickets for the Lone
Star Conference Basketball Championship now are available for purchase. The tournament will take place March 2-6 in Bartlesville, Okla. Tickets cost $35 and can be purchased through the ACU Department of Athletics online at www. lonestarconference.org. Call 325-674-6853 for more information.
Player Profile n Valentina
Nabayna, junior infielder from Carson, Calif., was named to St. Mary’s College Softball Classic all-tournament team for her perNabayna formance last weekend. Nabayna was a big reason why the Wildcats’ offense scored 26 runs in four games. She hit .667 with two homeruns and five RBI’s. Nabayna scored six runs and drew two walks last weeknd as well.
Upcoming n The men’s and
women’s basketball teams will play Texas A&M-Kingsville on Saturday. The doubleheader will begin with the women playing at 1 p.m., followed by the men at 4 p.m. n The
softball team hosts St. Mary’s University at 4 p.m. followed by West Texas A&M at 6 p.m. Saturday.
n The baseball team
will play Texas A&MKingsville at 3 p.m. on Friday and then play in a doubleheader on Saturday starting at 1 p.m. n The
women’s tennis team will host Tarleton State on Friday, and the men will play Rice University in Houston.
The Wildcats led for a total of 2.7 seconds in the second half. But it happened to be the last 2.7 seconds of the game as ACU rallied past West Texas A&M 6766. The win tops last year’s 69-67 victory over the Buffs, marking the second straight season the Wildcats have defeated their archrival in Moody Coliseum.
Throughout the second half, the ’Cats were down by as many as 12 points and by no fewer than six until four minutes left in the game. That was when freshman phenom Mack Lankford drove to the basket and got an old-fashioned, threepoint play, a layup and an “and 1,” to bring ACU within four at 61-57. But West Texas wouldn’t go down easy as its sharpshooter, Lacee Logan, answered with a conventional three ball to extend the lead back to seven. Lankford wouldn’t be outdone though, coming back
down the court and immediately scoring three more points of her own. With 1:25 left, the Lady Buffs hit a basket that extended their lead to 66-61. A Renata Marquez lay-up for the ‘Cats pulled them within three. After a defensive stop, Lankford again drove to the basket and was fouled on the floor while scoring. The refs, fortunately, didn’t see it that way and said she was in the process of shooting during the foul. The basket counted, see WIN page 7
TRACK AND FIELD
Sang wins as four set personal records Bryson Shake
Assistant Sports Editor
In a week dominated by the spontaneity and unpredictable nature of the weather, there remained one constant on the ACU campus: the continued and unrivaled success of the ACU track and field team. The team, minus the multi-athletes, split into two groups, with one group traveling to compete at the New Balance
‘‘ ’’
Invitational in New York City and the other competing at the Texas Tech Invitational in Lubbock last week. The multi-athletes (men’s heptathletes and women’s pentathletes) were scheduled to compete at Wichita State University, but were unable to attend because of Mother Nature. As a result, they will have to find another meet in order to post their first marks of the indoor season.
COLUMN
Sports summon valentine spirit The Sports Jedi Austin Gwin It’s that time of year again: Cupid is floating around on his cloud, bow in hand, waiting to shoot some poor soul with an arrow of infatuation. If you lived at Gwin Hogwarts, you might be mixing up a love concoction in Potions class to give to that special someone, making them fall madly in love with you. For me, this is the time of year when bracket bubbles are burst in college basketball, the contenders are separated from the pretenders in hockey and everyone starts to realize that Lebron James will indeed win the MVP award in basketball...again.
I may sound crazy, but hear me out. When I come home from a long day and need something to distract me from the stress of Sing Song, some sporting event always is on TV. When I get out of bed and need something to do while I eat my bowl of Rice Krispies, Sportscenter is right there to tell me everything that happened the day before and preview me for the coming day. Sports have been there for me during the ups, the downs, and everything in between. My greatest memories of all time each has involved sports in some way. I live vicariously through my favorite team, whether it’s the Nashville Predators, the Florida Gators or the ACU Wildcats. If they win, my see LOVE page 7
All-American long distance runner Amos Sang My goal in that race was set a new personal record to just run fast and use and an automatic qualithat opportunity to train... fying time of 14:05.82 in AMOS SANG // long distance runner the 5,000-meter run in on ACU track and field team the process of winning the “Obviously, we were Coach Roosevelt Lofton championship-level race on Friday. fighting a losing battle said on Wednesday. “My goal in that race The group that traveled with the weather last weekend. It’s unfortunate to New York had the op- was to just run fast and that some didn’t get to portunity to compete at use this as an opportupost times, but there’s not The Armory, a nationally nity to train with some of a whole lot you can do in famous indoor facility, the best runners around,” regard to that situation,” and run against athletes see SANG page 7 Head Track and Field from all divisions.
MEN’S BASKETBALL
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
Forward Giordan Cole chases after a loose ball in Wednesday night’s loss to West Texas A&M.
Second-half woes continue Ryan Cantrell
Sports Multimedia Editor
‘‘ ’’
The Wildcats fell to 1-8 in the Lone Star Conference South Division as West Texas A&M defeated ACU 77-65 in Moody Coliseum Wednesday night. The Wildcats fell behind by as much as 20 in the first half before battling back to cut the lead down to seven with only five minutes left in the game. However, the Buffs were
If we don’t wait to the second half like we did, we win this game.
GIORDAN COLE // seinor forward on the men’s basketball team
able to close the game out for the 12-point victory. “We waited too long before we picked it up,” said Giordan Cole, senior forward. “We played well in the second half. If we don’t wait to the second half like we did, we win the game.”
ACU was out-rebounded in the game, 32-19, only managing seven offensive rebounds and limiting most of its possessions to only one shot. West Texas would establish a solid see LOSS page 7