Frosh Got Talent Freshmen display skills in talent show vol. 101, no. 3
INSIDE NEWS Part-time ACU police officer dies of heart attack Page 3
NEWS
friday, august 31, 2012
Arts Page 5
1 SECTION, 8 PAGES
You’re beautiful, it’s true ACU ranked 18th most beautiful campus by Newsweek
Camp volunteer robbed at gunpoint in Barret parking lot over summer Page 3
NEWS Study Abroad looking for new director Page 4
OPINION No one wants to see Welcome Week couples’ PDA on campus
page 6
OPINION Guest column remembers the 100th year of the Optimist page 6
SPORTS The sports staff predicts the outcome of the football game at McMurry
marissa jones managing editor
Page 7
SPORTS Ken Collums Show to air Saturday morning before football game
ACU was ranked the nation’s 18th most beautiful campus in a list compiled by Newsweek magazine. The rankings were based on ratings of campus aesthetics, sunny days per year, comfort index of weather and the student body’s attractiveness
on a point scale out of ten. Ratings came from the website, College Prowler, where students can write reviews and rate different aspects of campus such as academics, athletics, dining and weather. Dr. Robert Rhodes, provost of ACU, could see the campus benefitting from the high ranking. “Anytime that we have a chance to showcase the
great programs and facilities at ACU it is helpful for us,” Rhodes said. “We have a great story to tell and a great place to tell it from. In an ACU press release, Jean-Noel Thompson, vice president and dean of student life, said he thought the university’s high ranking runs see newsweek page 4
all photos by mandy lambright CHIEF Photographer ACU’ was ranked in the top 20 for most beautiful universities by Newsweek. Criteria included campus, people and weather.
mobile learning
iPad requirement still unconfirmed mark smith Page 8
SPORTS Softball team hires husband and wife as assistants Page 8
NEWS Construction on Sewell Theatre completed Page 3
NEWS Rec Center lowers class prices so more students will enroll Page 4
editor in chief The decision to require all full-time ACU undergrad students to have an iPad by August 2013 has still not been made yet. Dr. Phil Schubert, president of the university, created a new team to work together to come to a consensus on the direction the university will go with mobile learning. The educational innovations team, made up of many faculty and administrators from several different departments on campus, met Thursday hoping to make progress toward its goal.
NEWS
acuoptimist.com
toward a goal of digital textbooks by fall of 2013.” Saltsman said should students be required to have an iPad, he didn’t know if they would have to pay for it or if the university would provide it. “It’s possible we can get the price down to where the iPad and digital textbooks cost less than current textbooks, but there’s an assumption digital textbooks will ultimately save students money” he said. “We don’t know yet how they will be paid for.”
contact smith at mds10a@acu.edu
The educational innovations team Dr. Phil Schubert Dr. Robert Rhodes Dr. Allison Garrett Dr. Bill Rankin Dr. Greg Straughn Kay Reeves Dr. John Wever Kevin Roberts Dr. Rodney Ashlock Dr. Susan Lewis George Saltsman Dr. Stephen Johnson Dr. Mark Phillips Dr. Lesa Breeding
Theme to wrestle with questions of faith staff reporter
Welcome to Abilene gives new students condensed look at city
ing them to choose the iPad option from the Mobile Learning Initiative, because all full-time undergrads will be required to have an iPad in the fall of 2013. However, Saltsman said these emails were incorrect. Team 55 declined to comment. Saltsman said mobile learning wants to move away from handing out smartphones toward having only digital textbooks. “Our numbers indicate 83 percent of incoming student will already own a smartphone, so it would be better to be prepared for digital textbooks than to select a second smartphone,” he said. “We are working
chapel
allison phillips
ONLINE
However, George Saltsman, executive director of educational technology, said the members left the meeting confused. “We met to re-examine where everything is going with mobile learning,” Saltsman said. “There was confusion among the team because we’re unsure if one decision has been made across the campus, or separate ones among the different departments working on mobile learning.” The team will meet again in two weeks for further discussion. Team 55 sent two separate emails to incoming freshmen and rising juniors in May and June encourag-
This year’s chapel theme, “Who is God? Who am I?” is a 9-week study of Genesis that will cover most of the major stories found in the first book of the Bible. “Many of us have heard these stories, but we’re going to be looking through the big lens of who God is and what that means for me and my life,” said Mark Lewis, assistant dean for Spiritual Life and Chapel programs
In order to help communicate these stories, this semester’s chapel slate is filled with exciting guest speakers, Lewis said. One such speaker, Curt Cloninger, is coming as a part of ACU’s efforts to incorporate the arts into Chapel on a more regular basis. Cloninger, an actor and storyteller of sorts, will be performing a humorous, yet poignant skit taken from his video, “God Views.” In this skit, Cloninger will depict various stereotypical ways that God as perceived, in-
cluding perceptions of God as Santa Clause and God as a grandpa. Lewis believes that Cloninger’s performance will help students understand Chapel’s overarching questions of, “Who is God” and, “Who am I?” in a unique and creative way. “Cloninger’s skits give students a good way to take a broad look at the images we have in our minds as we pray and think about God,” Lewis said.
Abilene Christian University
see theme page 4
destiny hagood staff Photographer Mark Lewis. assistant dean for Spiritual Life and Chapel programs, speaks during Chapel on Tuesday. Lewis, also known as “The Chapel Guy,” leads Chapel in Moody throughout the semester.
Friday 08.31.12
31 Friday
1 11 a.m. ACU Volleyball vs St. Edward’s U
Saturday
2
1 p.m. ACU Volleyball VB vs. Colo. State Pueblo
Suniday
3
3 p.m. ACU Soccer vs. Our of the Lake U
Monday
4 p.m. RecFest 2012
All Day - Labor Day (Campus Open) 11 a.m. Mission Keepers’ Week
5 p.m. ACU Volleyball vs SE Okla. State U
7 p.m. ACU volleyball vs SW Okla. State U
2
6 p.m. ACU Football vs McMurry U
7:30 p.m. The 39 Steps - ACU Theatre
7:30 p.m. The 39 Steps - ACU Theatre
Chapel checkup
6 90 @acuoptimist The Optimist optimist@acu.edu
Announcements The ACU Roller Hockey Club Team is accepting new members who are interested in playing roller hockey. For more information post on the ACU Wildcat Hockey Facebook page or email acuhockey@gmail.com. Students interested in joining The Wildcat Reign can sign up at thewildcatreign.com. The Wildcat Reign serves to provide students the ability to facilitate Wildcat pride on campus and serves as a linking point between students and Wildcat athletic events.
ACU Theater presents their fall comedy, The 39 Steps, in Fulks Theatre. The play will be showing on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, call 325-674-2787 or purchase tickets online at acu.edu/theatre. The Royce & Pam Money Student Recreation & Wellness Center will be celebrating its first birthday with RecFest 2012 Aug. 31 from 4 p.m. to midnight. Come play in the dodgeball tournament, and join the Zumba Party.
Seekers of the Word, a drama ministry group, will be holding auditions Sept. 5 at 8:30 p.m. in Bible 130.
Students’ Association Congress will be hosting an interest meeting on Aug. 30 from 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
A general information meeting for Sing Song host and hostess auditions will be held in Cullen Auditorium on Sept. 6 at 11:30 a.m.
Join the ACU Service Action Leadership Team (S.A.L.T.) for the opportunity to serve in the Abilene community. Pick up applications in the SLVR office located underneath McGlothlin Campus Center.
ACU Speech and Debate Team is seeking new members interested in speech and debate. For more information email Dena Counts at dena. counts@acu.edu or text/call 325-428-6699.
Omega Dance Company will be holding an information meeting Sept. 4 at 9 p.m. in Bible 103.
Volunteer Police LogOpp0rtunities The Abilene Zoo is looking for volunteers to help with general labor such as grounds cleanup and painting any weekday at any time between noon and 4 p.m. The Zoo is located at 2070 Zoo Ln. Contact Joy Harsh at 325-676-6487 for more information. Child Protective Services needs volunteers for clerical work as well as volunteers who can organize a playroom. Volunteers are needed any weekday anytime between 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Child Protective Services are located at 3610 Vine St. Background checks are required and are done at the center. Background checks usually are cleared in about two weeks. For more information call V. Danette Cummings at 325-691-8214. Medical Care Mission is looking for volunteers to as-
sist medical or dental staff with patients any weekday from 8:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. For more information contact Dave Kraly at 325-676-3104 or email medicalmoose@sbcglobal.net. Abilene Hope Haven Inc. needs volunteers to provide childcare while parents are in class, any evening Monday-Thursday from 6:45 - 8:15 p.m. Abilene Hope Haven is located at 801 S. Treadaway Blvd. For more information contact Kathy Reppart at 325-677-4673 or visit www.abilenehopehaven.com/volunteer. Volunteers are needed to enjoy a free lunch with students at Bonham Elementary School on a weekly basis. This would be sometime between 10:00 a.m. and 1:15 p.m., and would involve spending lunch time
with students and having a positive impact on their lives. Contact Jason Shaw at 325-639-3745 or e-mail jason.shaw@abileneisd.org. Meals on Wheels Plus needs volunteer drivers to deliver afternoon meals to seniors and adults with disabilities Monday-Friday between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Training is provided. A Chapel exemption is available if delivery time conflicts with Chapel. Contact Jessica Stewart at 325-672-5050 or email volunteer@mealsonwheelsplus.com. For additional volunteer opportunities visit: www.acu. edu/campusoffices/ccsl/ministry-service/volunteeropportunities/
3
campus news
Friday 08.31.12
campus
Construction on Sewell Theatre finished Audrey Schaffner copy editor Construction and repairs on Sewell Theatre have been completed. The project to renovate some of the outdated features in Sewell began in July and was completed at the beginning of this week. Scot Colley, the executive director of Risk Management and Construction, said that the project consisted of an installation of new equipment in Sewell “We did an upgrade on
some of the systems in the Sewell Theatre, the bulk of which was an automatic sprinkler system, classroom remodel and some ADA enhancements,” he said. The auditorium, built in 1929 and located on the Southwest corner of campus, is currently by the theatre department as a home base for theatre design and construction. Colley believes the changes will benefit the Theatre department. Throughout the construction, Colley said a total of 7 sub-contractors
worked on the project with anywhere from three to fifteen employees working under them. Though the majority of the repairs were focused inside of Sewell itself, certain portions of the project were conducted outside. A trench for the sprinkler system was dug from Sewell to Campus Court near the front of the Hardin Administration building. The sprinkler system was tied into the water line on Campus Court and looped into Sewell. The surface repair of the road where they
connected the line is still to be completed. “The patch and repair of the street must be done by the City of Abilene. A request for this repair has been submitted,” said Colley. “We are on their schedule but no specific date has been given.” The traffic cones that are along the side of Campus Court will remain until the street repairs are finished by the city. Colley remarked that the traffic that normally runs through Campus Court had a minimal impact on the project.
brittany williams Staff Photographer
Physical resources is working on several projects throughout campus such as a new sign near the corner of Ambler Ave. and Judge Ely Blvd.
Obituary
Part-time police officer dies mark smith editor in chief Dennis Wesley, part-time police officer with the ACU Police Department, died Monday night of a heart attack. Wesley, 64, retired from full-time police duty two years ago but served in a limited capacity when he was needed. ACU Police Chief Jimmy Ellison said Wesley was a good man, a servant to the community and someone they could depend on. “Dennis was always there to help out,” Elli-
son said. “He was extremely quiet and mildm a n n e re d , but at the same time incredibly wesley knowledgeable and a very experienced police officer. Wesley was in law enforcement for more than 44 years. He worked as a patrol officer, detective, homicide investigator, SWAT team supervisor, patrol division supervisor, detective supervisor and detective division com-
mander in police departments in Texas and New Mexico. He began working at the ACU Police Department in September 2005. Ellison said Wesley was dedicated to his position, and had reached a high level of expertise in police work. “Dennis was a good example of the wealth of experience and prior law enforcement careers the majority of our staff have,” Ellison said. “He was an old-school veteran cop. We’ll miss how he came to work every day with a smile and an attitude of service for ACU.”
The funeral service for Wesley was at Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday. Other police officers at the department grew close to Wesley after working with him for about seven years. “He was a very reliable man and a great friend,” said Sergeant Bob Delony. “He and his wife were best friends. They did everything together.” The university flag was flown at half-staff yesterday in honor of Wesley. contact smith at mds10a@acu.edu
crime
Volunteer robbed behind Barret during summer mark smith editor in chief The ACU Police Department arrested three suspects in an armed robbery outside of Barret Hall on June 11. The arrests came that evening, less than 12 hours after the incident occurred. Devin Jerone Tate, 18, Joshua Lynn Jiminez, 22, and Anthony Jermaine Rocha, 17 were arrested and booked into the Taylor County Jail, according to an Abilene Reporter-News report. Each were charged
with aggravated robbery, a first degree felony. The three suspects drove into the Barret Residence Hall parking lot just after 7 a.m. Monday and burglarized a parked vehicle. One of the suspects then approached Rick Antwine, an ACU Leadership Camp staff volunteer from Waxahachie, who was standing in the lot and robbed him at gunpoint. The suspects left campus immediately after. ACU Police Department units immediately responded to check on Antwine, who was uninjured
in the robbery, inspect the area and begin the investigation. Jimmy Ellison, ACU police chief, said the university police worked with the Abilene Police Department to find that this incident was related to two other robberies in Abilene. Ellison sent an email to ACU students, faculty and staff Monday to warn people on campus to be alert and report suspicious activity to ACUPD. “Crimes of this nature are highly unusual on campus and in the area surrounding campus,” El-
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This is a good reminder that ACU is not immune to such incidents. jimmy ellison ACU police chief
lison said in the email. “While we are thankful no one was injured, this is a good reminder that ACU is not immune to such incidents.” contact smith at mds10a@acu.edu
Though the traffic did not cause issues during construction, Hilary VanSickle, junior communications disorders major from Mesquite finds the cones along Campus Court a little intrusive. “The construction is really tiring. I feel like I’m going to run into someone when I drive around it,” said VanSickle. “I just feel like not using that street at all.” Other students, like Laura James, junior elementary education major from Midland, find that the construction is just a part of campus life.
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I just feel like not using that street at all.” Hilary Vansickle communications disorders major from Mesquite
“As long as it’s something that is important to the advancement of the university, I can handle the slight disturbance for a short time,” said James.
contact schaffner at als09d@acu.edu
news
friday 08.31.12
4
Student life
Rec Center reaches one year anniversary kara stutesman staff reporter Saturday marks the one year anniversary of the Royce and Pam Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center. The Rec Center has been popular amongst students and faculty alike due in part to the multiple gyms and exercise classes offered. “They’ve done really well,” junior accounting major from Arlington Tino Angadicheril said, “They have changed some things like putting in lock systems for keys and wallets. It’s just an overall good place.”
Keys and locks aren’t the only changes the Rec has enacted within its first year. They also have a new executive director, Joel Swedlund. Swedlund has been a part of the Rec Center since the idea was conceived and was originally the director of Facility Operations. The former executive director, Brain Devost, decided that it wasn’t the best fit for him because he came from the corporate world, a very different atmosphere from university life. Though sad Devost is no longer here, Dr. Kerri Hart, associate director of the Rec Center, is very happy that Swedlund is in
this position. “He brings a very hands-on, student-friendly atmosphere. It’s going to be great.” Hart said. Swedlund is excited about this year and the new opportunities the Rec Center is offering students. One major add-on is the My Wellness Cloud app. There is an icon of each piece of equipment, and students can download the My Wellness app to their smartphone. Students can track their workouts and set goals for themselves on the app. In addition, the Wellness Key is now being released to the entire student population. The
Wellness Key is a device that students can purchase for $50. It comes with a fitness assessment from a personal trainer, two personalized workouts and a workout personality test. From there, the Key tailors workouts for the individual’s needs. If a student wishes to get a Wellness Key, they can submit a request and steps will be taken to ensure they receive one. The Rec Center pays attention to how many people are in certain classes
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and when the pool is beHe brings a very handsing used. They also use on, student-friendly student feedback. This accounts for the greater atmosphere. It’s going to variety of class teachers, be great.” adding more classes and dropping the price for Dr. Kerri Hart classes from $60 a semesassociate director of ter to $30. the rec center According to Dr. Hart and Joel Swedlund, the Rec Center administrators then do what we can to consider student feedback. improve on those.” “We’re always letting the numbers dictate what we do.” said Hart. “We contact stutesman at want to make sure we liskas10a@acu.edu ten to suggestions and
campus
Newsweek: Campus named 18th in nation continued from page 1 deeper than just the level of attractiveness of the campus and students. “We stand out for, among other things, having a beautiful campus and wonderful students,” Thompson said. “But it’s how everyone here is committed to making a difference in the world as a reflection of their commitment to Christ – that’s what
makes us truly special.” Some students were surprised to hear about the ranking because of the competition across the nation. “I was pretty surprised when I heard we were in the top 25,” said Brian Lang, freshman business major from Abilene. “It’s hard to believe we are so close to Pepperdine in ranking because Abilene is nothing like Malibu.”
Rhodes said the ranking is impressive and indicative of how the campus held up in the different criteria. “The multiple factors that went into the rating such as helped paint an attractive picture of us,” Rhodes said.
contact jones at mnj10a@acu.edu
chapel
Theme: Genesis survey to seek God’s identity continued from page 1 Because Chapel is considered a part of ACU’s curriculum, Chapel themes are set up in a four-year rotation. As a result, this semester is the only time Genesis will be a part of current students’ chapel experience. Stephanie Day, sophomore accounting major from Oklahoma City says that she is excited about the
opportunity for growth that this semester holds. “I think that Genesis is a key part of the Bible that we often overlook in our study of who God is,” Day said. “We tend to view God through the lens of Jesus and His time here Earth, when in reality we get our first view of God in the Bible’s opening chapter.” Lewis shares Day’s views, and believes this study is
critical. “Genesis is so foundational to the rest of the Bible,” Lewis said. “It’s where we’re first introduced to who God is. The way you read the other 65 books of the Bible is greatly affected by how you read Genesis.”
contact phillips at arp10d@acu.edu
5
arts
friday 08.31.12
BIGGER CLASS, BIGGER TALENT
2012 freshmen talent show rivals previous years
THIS WEEK
lindsay palmer Arts editor This year’s freshman class completely and utterly amazed all those who attended the annual freshman talent show. Because this year’s class is larger than the class of 2011, does it mean that the talent in the annual show was bigger too? After going to see the talent show myself, I believe it exceeded last year’s show. The incoming freshman class of 2012 had so many people attend, the event was moved to the Abilene Civic Center instead of normal location at the Paramount Theater. This change in location did not hinder the way the talent show was put together. Many freshmen have said that the show was one of their favorite parts of Welcome Week. Nicole Rolland, freshman accounting major said, “The talent show was really well put-on and there is a lot of talent in my class”. Though I commemorate all the freshmen that participated, a couple of acts really stood out while watching this year’s freshmen talent show. One of the most memorable acts included Cheryl Bell, Spanish major from Taylor. Don’t let Cheryl’s petite size fool you; this girl had a big voice. I was completely blown away by the power and emotion that her voice displayed.
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She (Cheryl Bell) had soul and blew my music mind. In mid song I leapt up and screamed ‘ROCK ON.’” Mary Carol Fox senior Vocal performance major from Waco
Mary Carol Fox, vocal performance major from Waco said, “She (Cheryl Bell) had soul and blew my music mind. In mid song I leapt up and screamed ‘Rock On!’” Fox was not the only who felt this way; many people stood up and gave Bell a standing ovation. However, Bell was not the only talent this year at the freshmen talent show. Notable performances include “Taylor the Latte Boy” performed by Rachel Hurst, pre-med major from Midlothian. Also, the trio of Tracy Richardson from Katy, Ryan Hawthorn from Roundrock and Bekah Smith from Katy, was definately crowd favorite. Another favorite was the acoustic performances of verious songs that
9/1- ACU vs. McMurry
Dont miss ACU’s first football game against McMurry University.
9/1- 39 Steps (last show)
You don’t want to miss your last chance to see this fast paced, mysterious, yet comedical performance of the novel “39 Steps” by John Buchan, from the movie by Alfred Hitchock.
PLAYING THIS WEEK
Premium Rush were played throughout the night. “I really enjoyed the acoustic players that sang and stuff; there are a lot of talented people at this school.” said Jackie Diaz, freshman nursing major from Murrieta, Calif. ACU has conducted its annual freshmen talent show for many years, and it has always been a sucess. This year was no different. It was once again a success that displayed the many talented freshmen of Abilene Christian University. Although most believe the show was better than last year’s, a couple things could have been done to improve the show. Some sophomores think there should have been more variety. “I would have liked to have seen some dancing or something like that,” said Sarah Taylor, sophomore exercise science major from Comanche. Although the singing was great, dancing, magic tricks and comedy were surprisingly not included in the show at all. Most would have loved to see some variety. Last year’s show featured some singers, but those types of performances were not the only acts in the show. There was a beatboxing act last year. Also, last year there was an impressionist who provided the crowd alot of enjoy-
Joseph GordonLevitt plays a bicycle messenger who picks up a mysterious letter that attracts the wrong type of attention. This is an action packed movie you will not want to miss.
The Odd Life of Timothy Green
All Cindy and Jim Green wanted was a child. One day they bury a box filled with all the things they wish for in a child and out comes Timothy Green. Though Timothy looks pretty normal, his parents soon learn that he is not at all what he seems. Brittany Williams Staff Photographer
The Freshman talent show MCs (Shown above) provided corny , yet excellent humor that added on to the entertainment of the show. Rachel Hurst (TP) performed her version of “Taylor The Latte Boy”. ment; however, there was success and an incredible hoping to see more talent no such act in this year’s experience for all of those displayed. talent show. who attended. We all look contact PAlmer at Overall, the freshmen forward to next year’s lsp10b@acu.edu talent show was a great show, and we will all be
Sparkle
A movie about a struggling star who has to overcome issues that are pulling her family apart.
Opinion
FRIDAY 08.31.12
EVAN’s marks
Editorial
6
evan marks
An open letter to Welcome Week relationships the issue Welcome week relationships are widespread among freshmen during the first week of school.
our take These relationships can prevent students from meeting new people and often result in very public displays of affection. And no one wants to see that.
You’re the guy who found the girl of your dreams in college. In fact, you found her and began dating her before your first college class started. You found your Welcome Week Wife. Welcome Week is the time to adjust to college life, have fun, and yes, meet people. You’ll meet many more people thoughout your collegiate
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It was not Jacob’s dream for you and your significant other to make out there.”
career than you have in Welcome Week. Don’t rush anything. You’re young. You will meet a significantly smaller number of people in your college career if your nights and weekends are filled with dates and couples lunches. Get out there and meet as many people as you can. Then you’ll have a quality base from which to choose your mate. In your short time on ACU campus, you may have already heard someone jokingly refer to “Ring by Spring.” That’s spring of your senior year. Remember that. As you continue to pursue this relationship that began days after meeting, you must understand that no one else really wants to see your PDA. The only thing more disgusting than your puppy love is your utterly obvious obliviousness as a freshman. So keep in mind that Chapel is not the time or place for you to make out. We’ve
seen this happen several times, and we don’t want to see it while singing, “I see a man, standing by the Jo-oordan…” It was not Jacob’s dream for you and your significant other to make out there, either. That’s where people go to pray and stuff. Wait until Thursday night from 6-11 p.m. But leave your door wide open and keep both of your feet on the ground. Or else. We have not come to just condemn, however. We are prepared with solutions. We propose creating “Makeout Zones” where you will not be penalized for smooching: The middle of the GATA Fountain. While running on treadmills in the Rec Center. Anywhere in the grass after it rains, but both of you have to be sitting down. The middle of the Lunsford. Don’t worry, no one will run over you. We promise. In front of the Chick-Fil-A line at 11:32 A.M. on weekdays. Don’t worry, no one will run over you. We promise. Or in the middle of the street. No one will run over you. We promise. If you are already in a relationship that began during Welcome Week, you are not being judged. We challenge you to prove us wrong as to the relationship’s longevity. Just know that she might not be the same person you met during Welcome Week now that classes have started.
contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu
column
Born to be wild(cat): keeping the tradition disappointed if it wasn’t spinning when I got there. As I grew up, the university seemed to grow with me. I remember visiting the Williams Performing Arts Center, the Hunter Welcome Center and Jacob’s Dream after they were constructed. When the time finally came for me to choose where I wanted to go to
DISTURBANCE IN THE FORCE MELANY COX
You might say I was brainwashed into coming to ACU. From the very beginning, I had “Future Wildcat” stamped on my passport of life. Yeah. I was “that kid.” The one whose parents and grandparents had gone to ACU. The one who grew up going to the homecoming parade and Sing Song every year. The one whose grandfather served on the Board of Trustees. The one who was expected by everyone at church to end up going to college at ACU. My grandfather even sent me a picture during my freshman year depicting me, about one year old, sitting on
the lap of Dr. John C. Stevens, eighth president of ACU. Now if that’s not destiny, I don’t know what is. Even though I didn’t grow up in West Texas, I have so many childhood memories from my numerous visits to Abilene. As we would drive into the city each member of the family would try to be the first one to spot the Tower of Light. We would always visit the Campus Store and go bowling on nights when the bowling alley was open. My favorite thing to see was the Missions Globe in Sowell Rotunda, a wing of the OnsteadPacker Biblical Studies Building. I was always
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As I grew up, the university seemed to grow with me.
And while they showed a great interest in my decision, they never put any pressure on me to chose their alma mater. I decided to take a campus tour as a prospective student, so I signed up for a Wildcat Preview Day. As soon as I stepped out of the car my mind was made up. Decision made. I belonged here. Done. The truth is: it wasn’t destiny (though there actually might have been a little brainwashing involved). In the end, it was my decision to make. I know God called me to be here. For that reason I can’t help but feel pride for my school.
college...well, it wasn’t even a choice for me. I’d known the answer since age three. My family made it very clear that they would support me no matter where I wanted to go.
contact COX at Mkc09b@acu.edu
column
Anniversary a reminder of creation story GUEST COLUMN
KENNETH PYBUS
“James Arthur Slater founded the Optimist in 1912.” I’ve heard that statement so many times and said it so often over the past 25 years, it’s easy to overlook the true and full story. In the summer of 1912, Jesse P. Sewell was named president of the Campbellite-founded Christian college in Abilene – the fifth president in seven years. He knew he had to accomplish several things – provide some greater stability, get the debt under control, change the
name from Childers Classical Institute to something a little loftier. He also knew every great institute of learning had to have a great student newspaper. And Sewell knew about a 22-year-old former student named Arthur Slater who was putting out a money-losing newspaper in nearby Clyde. Sewell approached Slater and told him to come back to Abilene and take more classes and finish his education. “I haven’t sufficient funds to pay my expens-
hashtagACU 3:18 p.m. Aug. 30
Skipping the last two days of the first week of school #senioritis #alreadylazy
10:06 p.m. Aug. 28
$5 for a parking sticker. Oh, dear Christian college, I love you.
@Lene_Botha @bpbailey
es in school,” Slater told him. “You don’t need money,” Sewell said. “Bring your printing outfit to Abilene and start a school paper.” Slater later described it this way: “I went on to become the founder of the Optimist. It was an eight-page paper devoted to the interests of Abilene Christian College, and to Christian education in general. I was not nominally the editor of this journal, but when I failed to get the proper editors to fill their allotted space, it was my task to fill it for them.” This August marked 100 years since Slater first printed the student newspaper at what’s now Abilene Christian University.
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.
Walked to get books by myself. A freshman mistook me for a freshman. She tried to befriend me. I had none of it. #nicetry
@Hwag12
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What strikes me looking back are not the stories and the columns written. Instead, it has been the stories of the people themselves.
president of the university, once called that the hardest student job on campus – and I would not argue. But that goes for the reporters, photographers, copyeditors, the page designers, cartoonists, the videographers and online editors.
The story of the Optimist is the story of the people who have made it what it is. People like Willie Pritchett Witt, who edited the Optimist in 1918. She wrote: “The publication of a school paper is one of the most vital things in school life, for nothing portrays the heart and inner soul of a school better than its paper.” I’ve been connected with the Optimist for only about a quarter of its existence, but I know Witt was right.
contact PYBUS at kenneth.pybus@acu.edu
6:57 a.m. Aug. 29
6:08 p.m. Aug. 28
And now begins my semester-long personal mission to get one of my tweets published in the ACU Optimist
@WallnerPaige
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
those who have had the fortune and opportunity to serve as editor. Dr. Royce Money, tenth
11:56 a.m. Aug. 30
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
And what strikes me looking back at the coverage of the university over the past century are not the stories and the columns written by Slater and the people who came after him. Instead, it has been the stories of the people themselves. These young, brash, selfconscious, bold, fragile, determined – occasionally mischievous – people who stepped into this larger story that is the Optimist. It is easy to get caught up in the amount of time that has passed and these arbitrary round numbers and to overlook the importance of the Optimist and the significance of the person after person who has made it was it is – and what it will be. And that’s not just
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12:50 a.m. Aug. 29
A little part of me dies every time I swip my alarm to “on” before 7AM.
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In light of NCAA Division 1 status, we’ll be giving chapel credits when 2 or 3 gather to exercise
@DrSchoobyDoo
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7
sports
FRIDAY 08.31.12
McMurry (0-0) vs.#10 ACU Game Preview
Offense
Defense
PICK:
ACU
PICK:
ACU
Fifth year quarterback Mitchell Gale and his army of receivers will undoubtedly be too much to handle for a McMurry secondary that struggled through much of last year even though they were a D3 team.
Linebacker Thor Woerner leads the Wildcat defense into battle for the first time this season. The purple and white will try to rebound from a tough year in 2011, but ACU has a more talented defense this year.
However, McMurry’s offense will create some problems for a Wildcat defense that gave up over 400 yards of offense last season. Look for veteran War Hawk quarterback Jake Mullin to hold his own in this star-studded QB matchup. McMurry’s offense is no slouch, as they threw for over 4,000 yards as a team in their twelve games. Other players to watch on the McMurry offense include wide out Eric Shaffer and offensive lineman Andrew Callaway.
The ‘Cats will be flocking to the ball this year under new defensive coordinator Darian Dulin. For the War Hawks, former Nebraska Cornhusker and Abilene High product, Chris Williams, will be manning the second level as a hard hitting linebacker. D.J. Baiza had five interceptions in 2011. Baiza will be a player to watch as he mans up against a talented ACU receiving corps.
Natalie Goin
Edward Isaacs
Taylor Langston
Matthew Sloan
With ACU preparing to move up to Divison I next year, and McMurry moving up to Division II this season, it’s safe to say that the Wildcats have a more talented team. But don’t be surprised when the War Hawks come out ready to fight. The Wildcats should come out with a W easily if they come focused and ready to play.
The War Hawks will come out of the locker room with plenty of energy on Saturday when they prepare to face the ‘Cats. However, it won’t take long for ACU’s overall talent to outshine McMurry’s. Mitchell Gale should put up big passing numbers against the War Hawks secondary and by the fourth quarter this contest won’t be close.
Being a nationally ranked team for seven consecutive years, the ’Cats have everything to lose. McMurry, a team with all to gain, will no doubt be expected to charge the field seeing red. But if we’re being real, aside from the Quarterback position, McMurry significantly lacks the talent ACU possesses.
A classic Big Country rivalry will be renewed Saturday night when the War Hawks and Wildcats face off in Shotwell stadium. Although the War Hawks are talented offensively, they will not be able to hang around in this Texas-sized shootout for more than a half of a football. ACU should win big and start 2012 with a convincing W.
Pick: ACU 59-21
Pick: ACU 56-30
Pick: ACU 56-14
Pick: ACU 52-24
Daniel Zepeda
The ACU ‘cats will take on their cross-town rival War Hawks and should feel confident heading into the season. With big expectations from QB Mitchell Gale, the Wildcats should be able to keep possession for the majority of the game and leave the defense in their rearview mirror . The game should be highly entertaining and ACU should start off the year 1-0.
Pick: ACU 56-35
mandy lambright chiief Photographer
Wide receiver Taylor Gabriel catches a pass and sprints past a defender during last season.
football
Show: Collums takes TV reins from page 8 and our goal is to make sure that ACU is getting out there into the community and having them be involved with what’s going on, on campus,” she said. The show is entirely student run and each week they put in hours of work to make sure the show is improving. “We are really fortunate to have the studio productions class that comes in and they record all of it for us,” Langston said. “I am also the writer and producer of it, which
basically means I write the script, the questions I’m going to ask and I’m responsible for the packages and features we do every week.” Before leaving ACU, the original name of the show was called the Chris Thompson show. Although it’s still fairly new, the show has greatly
improved in its production since it first aired on KTXS. “I think the production of it has come so far,” Langston said. “I have been involved with it for the past two years and it has seen so much growth. We made a huge jump this year going to HD so we’re all very excited about that.” The arrival of new coach Ken Collums has also brought much excitement to the set and the staff members. “There’s a lot more personality with the show and I think a big part of that is Ken Collums him-
self,” Langston said. “He’s got such a great, vibrant personality. He loves what he does and he makes doing the show a blast.” With a new head coach and a ready-to-succeed production team, the members of the show are ecstatic and ready to see what this season will bring. “The show will air every Saturday at 10 p.m. on KTXS,” Langston said.
contact zepeda at djz11a@acu.edu
sports
friday 08.31.12
standings
football
Football show back with a new face daniel zepeda sports reporter With the ACU campus and student body finishing out the first week of classes and the football season beginning this Saturday, that can only mean one thing: The Ken Collums show is back. The Journalism and Mass Communications
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studio productions class I believe the show was created mainly to promote has been working nonACU football and sports in general.” stop to ensure that this season will be one to remember. “The Ken Collums show covers and reviews taylor langston senior broadcast journalism major from lubbock the games we’ve played, previews future games, does feature packages for players and coaches and the Ken Collums show, involved are interested in repretty much covers ev- Taylor Langston. porting and broadcasting.” erything there is for ACU “It’s a student run producThe show serves as football,” said co-host of tion and most of the students an outlet to the Abilene
football
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ACU community, covering ev- ASU erything there is to know ENMU about Wildcat football. UIW “I believe that the show MSU was created mainly to TSU promote ACU football and Commerce sports in general,” said Langston, senior broad- TAMU-K cast journalism major WTAMU from Lubbock. “This is the fourth or volleyball fifth year it’s been around,
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see show page 7
football
CROSS-TOWN RIVALRY
RENEWED
Wildcats to play McMurry for the first time in 41 years.
Team
soccer
briefings On Wednesday Julie Coppedge, (soccer) Erik Forrister, (cross country) Kalynne Allen, (volleyball) and John David Baker (football) were chosen by ACU’s Athletic Department as student-athletes of the month for September. Students will be able to use their meal plan or Bean Bucks to pay for the pregame party this Saturday at the ACU football game. The pregame party is from 4-5:30 p.m. at Shotwell Stadium. Kickoff is at 6 p.m. Adults can get into the game for $4 while ACU faculty/staff/ students and families can get in for $3.
ex- factor Texans defensive back Danieal Manning forced and recovered a fumble Saturday night against the Saints.
mandy lambright chief Photographer
Junior running back Charcandrick West takes the hand-off and speeds past an offensive lineman. West will be one of the keys to the Wildcat’s running game this year. He had 1,194 all-purpose yards last year and scored five touchdowns.
matthew sloan sports reporter Tomorrow night the long awaited return of ACU football will come to an end, as the Wildcats take on the McMurry War Hawks in an intracity match-up. In an interesting juxtaposition, McMurry will be playing in their first ever Division II football game, while the ‘Cats are headed to the greener pastures of the Southland Conference when this season comes to a close. ACU has been a staple
in the Division II playoffs for the last few years, and will be looking to kickstart another successful season and prove that they are the best team Abilene has to offer. “They have a great coaching staff, those guys are really good,” head coach Ken Collums said. “They are a legitimate program, and if you are not ready to play them, you are going to get beat.” There will be no shortage of offense on Saturday, as both teams scored over 35 points a game in the 2011 season, largely because of
“
McMurray is going to be ready to play on Saturday.”
are the underdog anything is possible for us.” McMurry quarterbacks Jake Mullin and Stephen Warren split time last year, racking up over 4,000 yards Ken Collums and over 40 touchdowns. head coach However, Mullin took the acu football lion’s share of the snaps and scored 34 touchdowns their ability to move the ball in his junior campaign. across the field. “They are going to throw “We have that air raid the ball, and if Jake is on, offense and it’s no mystery they are a tough team to what we are going to do,” beat,” Collums said. “McMcMurry student Reid Murry is going to be ready Frazier said. “But we went to play on Saturday.” into UTSA last year and The key to the game for beat them in their own sta- ACU will be to not let the dium, so even though we War Hawks hang around.
The Wildcats have superior talent at nearly every position, and should be able to put this game away in the first half. There is nothing better than spending a Saturday night under the lights and taking in a college football match-up, especially when city bragging rights are on the line. Kickoff is at 6:00 p.m. on the field of Shotwell Stadium.
contact sloan at mes10a@acu.edu
softball
Husband, wife duo join ‘Cats staff Edward isaacs sports Editor The husband-and-wife team of Teddy and Debby Abbott were recently hired by softball head coach Bobby Reeves to serve as assistant coaches. Debby is taking over for Reeves’ daughter-in-law as ACU’s full-time assistant coach. Teddy is serving as a volunteer assistant coach. Debby worked with Reeves while he coached at Texas Tech University. She has not worked with a college team since 2003 although, she was a club
consultant and assisted involved her husband when he was a coach at the University of Tulsa and East Central University. Reeves said the hiring of Debby and Teddy was a no-brainer. “Anytime a head coach goes through the process of hiring assistants, you have to hire the people you know will help you be successful,” he said. “Having coached with Debby before, I knew exactly what she was about.” “Her and Teddy both are great people,” Reeves said. “It was an easy thought process for me.” Debby played softball for
the University of Oklahoma and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Northeastern State University. Before working with Reeves at Tech, she was a coach at Muskogee (Okla.) High School for five years. The Roughers played in five regional championships and two Large Division 6A State Championships during Debby’s tenure. Debby is happy to be reacquainted with Coach Reeves. “I am thrilled to get back to coaching with Coach Reeves,” she said. “It has been a good reunion. To be able to coach again with
my husband is great too.” Teddy’s college coaching experience includes three years assisting at East Central and then two years at Tulsa. He also coached at the high school level and worked for 20 years in the summer ball league and club team circuits. He was on ECU’s staff last season when they lost two of three games to the Wildcats. “I was somewhat familiar with ACU’s team already,” Teddy said. “We played them for three years while I was at East Central. I didn’t know what ACU had to offer until we got on campus. It’s a special place.”
Teddy and Debby have been married for over 30 years and have two children. Their daughter, Lindsey, played softball for Oklahoma and Wichita State University. The entire pitching staff will return to next year’s squad, in addition to allregion outfielder Keanna Winkfield and Lone Star Conference Newcomer of the Year Courtney Flanary. The ‘Cats begin their season Feb. 1 at St. Mary’s University. contact isaacs at jei08a@acu.edu
Daryl Richardson, running back for the Rams, led his team against the Cowboys Saturday with 10 carries for 51 yards and a reception for 9 yards. Bears defensive end Aston Whiteside played in the first game of his NFL career Friday in a win over the Giants.
Upcoming Football opens its season on Saturday, Sept. 1 against McMurry University at Shotwell Stadium. Kickoff is at 6 p.m. Soccer plays its first home game on Sunday, Sept. 2 against Our Lady of the Lake at 3:00 p.m. at the Wildcat Soccer Pitch. The volleyball team travels to the St. Edward’s / St. Mary’s Tournament in Austin and San Antonio on Friday, Aug. 31 and Saturday, Sept. 1 to begin its season. The Wildcats open up the tournament on Friday in Austin when they play St. Edward’s at 11 a.m. and Southwestern Oklahoma State University at 7 p.m. The men’s and women’s cross country teams travel to Waco to the Baylor Twilight Invitational on Saturday, Sept. 1 for their season opener.