The Optimist Print Edition: 09.07.11 by ACU Optimist

Soccer Wildcats begin year 2-0 for the fourth time in five years vol. 100, no. 4

friday, september 7, 2010

Sports page 8

1 SECTION, 8 PAGES

board

“

Vote with your dollar. It’s easier to buy things when you know the people behind them.”

Trustees add four members christina burch multimedia managing editor ACU’s Board of Trustees welcomed four new members this fall, including a Midland businessman, a travel industry player, the former dean of the College of Business Administration and a returning trustee. These new members will help the board establish university policy, said Slade Sullivan, general counsel and secretary to the board. Among the special topics currently being discussed by the board is ACU’s connection to its Church of Christ heritage as well as its possible move to a NCAA Division I in athletics.

“

They represent the stakeholders of the university, meaning the students, employees and alumni.” slade sullivan general counsel and secretary to the board

Daniel Gomez Chief Photographer

Randy Hunt, design director of Etsy, spoke to Art and Design students on Monday, Sept. 6. Hunt discussed the similarities patterns share with the routine of life. Etsy is an online marketplace for vintage and handmade items that began in Brooklyn, NY in 2005. They now have offices around the world, including locations like Berlin, Germany, San Francisco Calif. and London, England.

rec center

Students flock to new Rec Center Mark smith managing editor The Royce and Pam Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center, referred to by Dr. Money as “the Bank,” opened last Friday with the grand opening celebration, RecFest. Now that the celebration is over the facility is getting into a regular schedule. Kendyl McEachran, junior elementary education major from Albuquerque, had a frantic night Friday in her new position of desk worker at the Bank. “RecFest was very busy but also extremely fun,” McEachran said. “It was crazy all night through six o’clock in the morning.” As the facility transitions from the grand opening to the regular schedule of the school year, students are deciding which opportunities are most interesting to them.

Brady Kile, a finance and marketing major from Ft. Worth, has explored the Bank more than five separate times since RecFest, Kile said. “I’ve used a lot of the weights and cardio equipment, and I did the bouldering wall, which was a lot of fun,” Kile said. “I’m really looking forward to playing racquetball and checking out the pools.” The 16-month project was a long-awaited addition to campus. “I used to have to hunt for open basketball courts,” said Jared Edwards, a sophomore business marketing major from Frisco. “But now I always have this available to me. It’s so much more convenient.” For some students, the amount of space available in the 113,000 square-foot facility and the number of different activities it has to offer is the most enticing aspect of the new Rec

Center, said Erik Soulek, a sophomore accounting major from San Antonio. “I’ve walked around the entire building; it’s huge,” Soulek said. Student traffic has been a concern for those working at the facility, McEachran said. McEachran advises students to visit in the morning, which is much less busy than afternoon. “We’ve adjusted to the new influx of students coming in, improving and upgrading and buying more equipment to prepare for that,” McEachran said. “We’ve been running out of racquetball equipment a lot, and basketball and the bouldering wall have been really popular too.” For more information on the Rec Center, please visit acu.edu/srwc.

daniel gomez chief Photographer

Bronwyn Blume, sophomore nursing major from Porto Alegre, Brazil, scales up the bouldering wall at the Royce and Pam Student Recreation Center during the late night RecFest event.

contact Smith at mds10a@acu.edu

The 29-member board that governs the university inducted Tod Brown, Belinda Harmon, Dr. Jack Griggs and Ralph Draper. Sullivan said each of the new members brings a strong passion for the university. “They love students and have strong connections – as alumni, parents and grandparents of students,” Sullivan said. “They represent the stake-holders of the university, meaning the students, employees and alumni.” The four members joining the board come from diverse backgrounds. Tod Brown, from Midland, has experience in the real estate business and is the son of former trustee Dale Brown. Belinda Harmon, from Aledo, works for Emerald Travel and Cruises and is the granddaughter of ACU legacy, Dean Walling. Dr. Jack Griggs, from Abilene, has experience in corporate governance and has served a term as ACU trustee. Ralph Draper, from Houston, is the superintendent of the Spring Independent School District and an involved member of the ACU community. The board will hire, evaluate and delegate university operations to the president. Members serve three-year terms and can be re-elected up to for four times, see trustees page 4

honors

Johnson takes helm of Honors melany cox page 2 editor

destiny hagood staff Photographer

Stephen Johnson, the new dean of the honors college, brings new skills and experiences to benefit the program.

Dr. Stephen Johnson, associate professor of preaching, was named dean of the Honors College June 1, replacing Gregory Straughn, who was named assistant provost for general education at the end of last semester. Johnson said the Honors College is unique because it includes students with majors from all across the university in an interdisciplin-

ary environment. Founded as the Honors Department in the 1980s and developed into its own college two years ago, the Honors College has been a place of academic innovation benefitting all students, Johnson said. He said he was privileged to serve the Honors College. “Honors allows the space for us to hold academic excellence and the pursuit of a life of faith to be held together closely,” he said. Johnson also believes

ACU’s mission is that all students would take up vocations as followers of Jesus. His new position in the Honors College will enable him to further this mission. Jeanine Varner, provost, said she saw “an enormous capacity of leadership” in Johnson during the interview process. “He’s highly creative, highly innovative and an outstanding teacher in his own right,” Varner said. “We thought his skills and abilities and experiences

were very much a match for what we needed in the Honors College.” To fill the position, Varner formed a search committee last fall. The finalists – including Johnson – were interviewed on campus by the search committee, Varner, other deans on campus, the Honors College staff and several Honors College students. contact cox at mkc09b@acu.edu

inside features

opinion

video

news

Creative dorm room ideas to help you enrich your hangout

Meet ACU’s surprising new star athlete (according to Ben Miller)

Catch the second edition of The Chris Thomsen Show of the season

Service Expo opens potential opportunities for students

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page 6

Abilene Christian University

acuoptimist.com

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Wednesday 09.07.11

07 Wednesday

2 p.m. ACU Women’s Soccer at Central Oklahoma

Thursday

10 a.m. Service Expo in the Campus Center

Friday

10 a.m. Service Expo in the Campus Center

Saturday

12 p.m. ACU Volleyball at Edinboro

7 p.m. Gamma Sigma Phi Rush

5 p.m. GATA Rush; Trojans Rush

12 p.m. ACU Volleyball at St. Edwards

6 p.m. ACU Volleyball at Texas-Permian Basin

9 p.m. Sub T-16 Rush

7 p.m. Galaxy Rush; Ko Jo Kai Rush; Sigma Theta Kai Rush

5 p.m. Delta Theta Rush

7:30 p.m. Jill Nelson Senior Recital

9 p.m. Seekers of the World Drama Ministry Auditions in BSB 130

6 p.m. ACU Volleyball at A&M International

9 p.m. Alpha Kai Omega Rush; Pi Kappa Rush

8 p.m. Movie in Cullen

Around Abilene

chapel checkup

Sept. 07

Sept. 08

Sept. 09

Sept. 10

11 a.m. Artwork by Latimer Ramsey will be shown in her show “Mighty” at the Center for Contemporary Arts.

5 p.m. The West Texas Fair and Rodeo will take place at the Taylor County Expo Center. Thursday night is Sneak-a-Peak Night - Carnival Rides only.

8 a.m. The West Texas Fair and Rodeo will take place at the Taylor County Expo Center.

The Abilene Christian University Walmart Tennis Tournament will take place at ACU.

10:30 a.m. The West Texas Fair and Rodeo Parade will take place in Historic Downtown.

5 p.m. The Hero ArtWalk will take place in Historic Downtown. Live performances and attractions. Costume contest at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free.

7:30 p.m. The Paramount Theatre will show Lawrence of Arabia as a part of the Classic Film Series. Tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for students.

08 63 @acuoptimist The Optimist optimist@acu.edu

announcements The Hero ArtWalk will take place Sept. 8 from 5 - 8 p.m. in Downtown Abilene. Costume Contest will take place in Everman Park at 6:30 p.m. For more information go to facebook.com/HeroArtWalk.

An informational meeting for Weekend Campaigns will take place Sept. 13 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. in the Campus Center Living Room. Weekend Campaigns serve destinations across Texas.

The Omega Dance Company will conduct auditions Sept. 10 at 10 a.m. in the Rec Tryouts for Seekers of the World Dra- Center. An informational meeting will ma Ministry will take place in Room take place Sept. 6 at 9 p.m. in Bible Build130 of the Bible Building at 9 p.m. on ing Room 103. A workshop will also take Sept. 6. For more information find the place Sept. 9th at 6 p.m. in the Rec Center. group on Facebook. Auditions for the Chapel Praise Team Voting for the Student Association Con- will take place Sept. 11 at 2 p.m. in Moody gress will take place in the Campus Cen- Colisium. For more information e-mail ter Sept. 7 and 8 from 11:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. worship@acu.edu.

A Part-Time Job Fair will take place at the Hardin-Simmons University Pond Area on Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. This casual fair will provide students with the opportunity to apply for jobs all over Abilene. For more information contact the Career Center at careers@acu.edu.

Anyone interested in event planning can attend Career Connect: Event Planning Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. in the McCaleb Conference Center in the Hunter Welcome Center. Event is hosted by COBA. For more information e-mail amanda.pittman@acu.edu.

Anyone interested in pledging a social club can register online at acu.edu/socialclubs. Women should have already registered. Men must be registered by Sept. 18. Anyone interested in joining the ACU Table Tennis club can e-mail bph08a@ acu.edu for more information. The ACU FCA will meet every Thursday at 9 p.m. in the Campus Center Living Room. For more information follow them on Twitter: @ACUFCA or join their mailing list: http://eepurl.com/eGEOI

The Service Action Leadership Team (SALT) is accepting applications un- Anyone interested in joining the Wildtil Sept. 16. SALT is for anyone with a cat Hockey Team can find the group on heart for service. Facebook at www.facebook.com/ACUWildcatHockey or contact the team at Flag Football sign ups will take place Auditions for Sanctify Hip Hop Comthrough Sept. 7. Cost is $125 per team. For pany will take place Sept. 12 at 9 p.m. “Identifying ME,” an Equine-Assisted ACUHockey@gmail.com. The team repin Cullen Auditorium. Learning Workshop, will take place at resents ACU in the Southwest Collegiate more information visit imleagues.com ACU Rhoden Farm Sept. 16 from 3 - Hockey league as a club sport. The team An informational meeting for anyone Shades will conduct auditions Sept. 12- 4:30 p.m. Space is limited. E-mail steve. meets daily for practice and competes interested in being a Sing Song Host or 16 from 8 - 10 p.m. in room 115 in the Bi- eller@acu.edu to reserve your spot or from October to March. Tournament locations include Denton, Houston, AusHostess will take place in Cullen Audi- ble Building. No experience is necessary. ask questions. tin, New Orleans, and Richardson. torium on Sept. 7 at 11:30.

Volunteer Opp0rtunities The Service-Learning & Volunteer Resources office will host a Service Expo on Thursday and Friday, Sept. 8 - 9, from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. on the main level of the Campus Center. Representatives from area agencies will be available at their displays to discuss ways that students can volunteer and serve in the Abilene community. Abilene Youth Sports Authority needs volunteers for the Big Country Mudslinger Fun Run on Saturday, Sept. 10, in shifts between 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Volunteers will help with parking, water stations, helping runners with various obstacles and clean up at the end of the day. The event will take place at Seabee Park, FM 600 or Westlake Rd. Contact Katie Miller at 325-692-2972. The Old Town Abilene Neighborhood Association is looking for volunteers on Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. to help with their annual cleanup. Lunch will be provided. Contact Lydia Long at 325-676-4068 or 325-733-8345 or e-mail drlongbailey@yahoo.com The Walk to End Alzheimer’s will take place on Sept. 24 from 7 a.m. - 12 p.m. Volunteers are needed to help set up tables, serve refreshments, register walkers, etc. The event will take place at the Rose Park Senior Activity Center located at S. 7th & Barrow Streets. Contact Libby Connally at 325-6722907 or e-mail libby.connally@alz.org. HERO is looking for volunteers to walk alongside a horse while supporting and assisting a client Oct. 4 - Nov. 17 in one hour shifts from 1 - 5 p.m. at the Taylor County Expo Center. Volunteers must attend training sessions either Sept. 22 at 4:30 p.m. or Sept. 27 at 2:30 p.m. Allow 2 hours for training session. Contact Beth Byerly at 325-660-3465 or e-mail herocoord@netzero.com for more information.

Disability Resources Inc. is looking for volunteers to help with their annual Pumpkin Patch. They need help unloading pumpkins at 5 p.m. Sept. 29. They also need help with the kids arena and selling pumpkins through Oct. 31. Shifts will vary between 10 a.m. - dusk Monday - Saturdays and 1 p.m. - dusk Sundays. The Pumpkin Patch is located at 3602 N. Clack St. For more information contact JoAnn Wilson at 325-673-7829 or e-mail jwilson@driabilene.org. The Office of Ministry Events is looking for student workers to help during Summit. Volunteers are needed to help with childcare, technology support, registration, labor and rePlay recording. Shuttle service drivers (must be 21 or older) and receptionists/dispatchers are also needed. For more information or to sign up visit the ACU website. The AISD Early Childhood Program needs volunteers to work in the children’s area Oct. 13 from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. This includes air castle supervision, face painting, etc. Program will be at the Abilene Civic Center located at 1100 N. 6th St. For more information contact Mary Mcleod at 325-794-1368 or e-mail mary.mcleod@abileneisd.org. The Big Brothers Big Sisters program is looking for volunteers to participate in Lunch Buddies. Bigs and Littles will enjoy lunch together at the child’s school once a week. Since visits are during Chapel, students will receive Chapel credit for each visit. Big Brothers Big Sisters is also looking for volunteers for its community-based program. Bigs are matched with littles in a one-on-one relationship and spend four to six hours per month together in the community. A background check is required. To sign up or learn more contact www.bbbstx.org or call 325-674-3113.

Meals on Wheels Plus needs volunteer drivers to deliver afternoon meals to seniors and adults with disabilities Mondays through Fridays between 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid drivers license. Training is provided. A Chapel exemption can be obtained if delivery time conflicts with Chapel. Contact Jessica Stewart at 325-672-5050 or e-mail volunteer@mealsonwheelsplus.com. Rescue The Animals is looking for volunteers anytime between 1-5pm, Monday through Friday afternoons. They need help around the adoption center with general cleaning, socialization of the animals, helping potential adopters and other tasks. Contact Mindi Qualls at 325-698-7722 or e-mail rescuetheanimalsvolunteers@yahoo.com The center is located at 5933 South 1st St. Treadaway Kids is a program that focuses on showing God’s love to local children through supportive relationships. Applications will be online soon for anyone interested in joining Treadaway Kids. The program is a one year commitment. Participants will be required to attend the weekly Wednesday Treadaway Kids chapel. For more information, or to sign up contact Sean Marmolejo (sdm10a@acu. edu), Gloria Paul (gep10a@acu.edu), or Samantha Manski (ssm06@acu.edu). The program can also be found on Facebook. The Abilene Zoo needs help with general labor such as grounds cleanup, painting, etc. any weekday at any time between 12 - 4 p.m. They also need help cleaning/feeding the animals, assisting the zookeeper and assisting with educational classes. Also, help is needed on the weekends with special events. The zoo is located at 2070 Zoo Lane. Contact Joy Harsh at 325-676-6487. For more information visit the Abilene Public Zoo web site.

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campus news

Wednesday 09.07.11

local

Expo to give students access to nonprofits Meagan freeman Staff reporter The university is offering a chance for a positive lifechanging experience. Local agencies and nonprofits including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Hendrick Equine Rehabilitation Opportunities (H.E.R.O.) and Young Life will be available to students 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Thursday and Friday in the Campus Center. “We hope that it will expose students to service opportunities that they might not otherwise have and therefore create in them that heart for service,” said Rita Harrell, administrative coordinator for service-learning and volunteer resources.

The Service Expo educates students on the values of volunteering and the resources available in the community. Sponsored by the Service-Learning and Voluntary Resource, the annual event stands for more than just finding a way to meet service requirements. “Many students are from out of town, out of state, out of the country,” Harrell said. “The expo gives them an opportunity to be exposed to the community in which they are now residing.” Harrell said she hopes this exposure will inspire students to reach out to the community through service. Some students said volunteering opened their eyes to look at the world and their lives differently.

“

It was like God was showing me what He was wanting to use my talents for. I would do anything for this group.” Sean Marmolejo sophomore psychology major from china spring

Sean Marmolejo, sophomore psychology major from China Spring, began working with Treadaway Kids a year ago and now serves as president of the organization. “The one thing that I have gotten out of this experience so far is the realization of how much I do love kids,” said Marmolejo. “I have always loved work-

ing with kids, but it was like God was showing me what he was wanting to use my talents for. I would do anything for this group.” Brie Buschman, sophomore communications major from Amarillo and volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters, said she has also gained new insights on life. “It allows us to serve others and gain a new appreciation for community,” Buschman said. The act of volunteering and serving others is embedded in the university’s mission statement of “training students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world.” One way ACU accomplishes this mission is by offering a number of courses and on-

campus organizations that require service hours. Serving the community is part of the curriculum in Curt Niccum’s courses. Niccum, associate professor of Bible, missions and ministry, believes volunteering occasions serve as something more important than fulfilling class demands. “I find myself fighting against the idea that Christianity is primarily a book religion or that faith is just an activity of the mind,” Niccum said. “Some have lost how Christianity is a transformed life that is actively involved in transforming the lives of others.” He recalled witnessing past student’s life-changing experiences through work

with these agencies. “I’ve had students change their majors because they felt called to work with the blind for the rest of their life,” Niccum said. “Occasionally you just have those few students that really, really catch on, and it is transforming.” Treadaway Kids advisor Samantha Manski agrees that students gain something more beneficial than credit hours. “Volunteering and service is a part of who I am,” said Manski. “Serving others makes us healthier people, in mind, body and spirit.” contact FREEMAN at mkh05a@acu.edu

region

State, community suffer through drought Christianna lewis copy editor

Sunday’s cold front brought Abilene brief relief from a grueling summer of both above average temperatures and below average precipitation. This summer Abilene experienced 78 days of triple-digit temperatures – the most days since 1886, according to the National Weather Service. The current conditions constitute the second most severe drought recorded in Texas since the 1950s, according to the National Drought Mitigation Center in Lincoln, Neb. This drought has caused difficulties for Abilenians and ACU, said Zane Dennis, executive director of facilities and campus development. “It’s been an extremely difficult summer,” Dennis said. July set the record for Abilene’s hottest month with an average temperature of 90.1 degrees. August beat that record with an average temperature of 90.3. June through August was about seven degrees hotter than normal for Abilene, according to the National Weather Service. The Abilene summer was

Daniel Gomez chief Photographer

Hot and dry weather aroud Texas has dried up a lot of the water around the state, leaving the land parched and barren.

so hot that Sandy King, administrative coordinator for the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, said her dog did not want to go on walks until 10 p.m. This summer King’s electric bill increased by about $150 per month and ravished her plants. “I tried to keep a garden,” King said. “It just burned up.” High temperatures were paired with low rainfall. After an unusually dry June, July had only trace precipitation. The end of July marked 40 consecutive days without rain, tying that month with the Julys of 1970 and 1946 for lowest precipitation, ac-

cording to the Abilene Reporter-News. Abilene finally felt rain again on Aug. 13 when a summer storm brought 3.53 inches of rain with it. This storm almost single-handedly gave August greater than normal precipitation and saved Abilene from having one of the driest summers in its history. Mike Johnson, forecaster with the National Weather Service of San Angelo, said while Texas experienced the highest temperatures along the I-35 corridor, the heat wave began closer to Abilene. “The western half of the state began to heat earlier in the summer,” Johnson said.

“It spread East later.” The early onset of heat spelt trouble for ACU, Dennis said. The first triple-digit day occurred in May, far sooner than normal. The continuous heat of the summer evaporated a half inch of water every day, Dennis said, leaving the landscaping and grounds crew to hustle to keep the grass moist and the lake filled. The lake caused some of the greatest challenges, Dennis said. The lakes pump only pushed in 320 gallons of water per minute, which was too little to keep up with the parched land and air. “You could see the lake going down and down and down,” Dennis said. The low water level in the lake brought about rise in snails and algae, Dennis said, which threatened to contaminate water in ACU’s sprinkler system. To solve the problem, the university replaced the old pump with one that could supply the lake with 800 gallons per minute. The weather did not have much impact on the construction of the Royce and Pam Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center, but it did prevent the annual employee barbeque that customarily takes place

state

State raises nightime speed limit people’s right to drive on the roads is going to become increasingly under attack in the next few years. “We’re pleased that the legislature did this,” Stowe said. “But we have more work to do to restore sanity in urban areas.” To learn more about the NMA, visit www.motorists. org.

Samantha sutherland Features editor The Texas Legislature eliminated the differentiation between daytime and nighttime speed limits on Sept. 1, eliminating the 65-mile-per-hour limit. The law was changed due mainly to the prevailing speed of traffic, or 85th percentile speed, where traffic accident involvement is statistically the lowest, said Henry Stowe, activist for the National Motorists Association. Limiting motorists’ speed at night to 65 mph was causing problems and confusion because of the difficulties in defining when night begins, said Stowe. “The nighttime limit was basically entrapping a lot of people,” Stowe said. Stowe said the change will encourage drivers to check their headlights, thus creating a safer driving environment. “It creates a uniform set of rules for driving across the state of Texas,” Stowe said. “Headlight technologies have improved drastically since the 1960s when the night limits were first set.” Jimmy Ellison, ACU chief of police, said he did not think the nighttime speed limit of 65 mph statistically caused fewer accidents than driving 70 mph. “But people still need to be more cautious and alert at night because sight restrictions are greater,” Ellison said. To ensure safer driving at night, Ellison gave the following tips:

contact Sutherland at sns08a@acu.edu

mandy lambright Staff Photographer

Interstates everywhere will soon be experiencing change, as a new law eliminates an enforced night speed.

• Drive the speed limit. • Drive a speed that is in accordance with the weather conditions. • If there are multiple drivers in a vehicle, change drivers every 2-3 hours to avoid driver fatigue. • If you are driving alone, take frequent rest breaks. • Be wary of obstacles in the road, particularly wildlife. “I think it’s great that the state legislature made this change to the speed limit laws,” Ellison said. “I’d like to see the citizens of Texas handle the changes responsibly and not take advantage of them.” The Texas Department of Transportation is also

considering raising highway speed limits from 70 to 75 mph. Stowe said the DOT is starting to conduct studies now, concentrating first on major routes that would probably not go into effect until 2013. “It would turn more people into law abiding drivers instead of law breakers,” Stowe said. “Compliance goes up and speed differentials drop. There’s not that gap between the fastest and slowest drivers.” Stowe said the NMA is also involved in issues such as red light cameras, Fourth and Sixth Amendment violations, vehicle inspection laws and environmental speed limits. He said the

midway through the summer because of fire risk, Dennis said. To make up for the loss, Human Resources invited all employees to come out of the heat and enjoy an ice cream sundae one afternoon, Dennis said.

“All the guys got to go in and sit in the cool and eat ice cream,” Dennis said. “I thought it was pretty nice of HR.” contact LEWIS at cll09a@acu.edu

news

wednesday 09.07.11

events

Job fair offers opportunity to unemployed farron salley staff reporter Unemployed college students from Abilene Christian University and Hardin-Simmons University are in luck with the upcoming Part-Time Job Fair on Sept. 14. Students will have the chance to meet and interview with local employers on the campus of HardinSimmons from 11 a.m. -1

p.m. Many students who want to work while they are at ACU stay in constant contact with Daniel Orozco, assistant director of Career Services. “We’ve been pushing to let students know that there are people looking to hire,” said Orozco. He suggests students visit www.acu.edu/hr first to explore the listing of available jobs on campus. But he added, “there

are not enough jobs to go around, so look for something near.” Hardin-Simmons has hosted part-time job fairs for several years, but this is the first time the two universities have collaborated for the endeavor. David Hunt, HSU’s assistant director of Career Services, hopes the change will increase attendance and opportunities for students on both campuses. “I think a lot of students

are discouraged and are aware there aren’t many jobs out there,” Hunt said. “But there are jobs out there, and we’re trying to raise that awareness.” For the first time, the fair will be a casual outdoor setting to attract more people. Instead of hunting for a building, students can follow the music playing at the HSU pond to find tables with local businesses prepared to meet prospective employees.

Although Hunt said previous fairs have attracted only about 50 attendees, close to 200 are expected this year. Along with an influx of those seeking employment, employers expanding across a wider range of career fields are on the roster. So far, 18 businesses have scheduled to come, many with the potential to hire for multiple positions. Among those attending are FedEx Ground, YMCA

of Abilene and Hendrick Medical Center. Given the current economy, expectations are high for both ends participating in the fair. The best piece of advice that Hunt has for students: “You can’t find anything unless you try and apply.”

contact gasvoda at jrc07d@acu.edu

rec center

Nicknaming Rec Center to be a student exercise staff reporters Rec Center is too boring. SRWC sounds like secondrate football conference. And the official name of the Royce and Pam Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center leaves one as winded as after working out at the facility itself. Former university president Royce Money said as much in Chapel Friday speaking to students before the building’s dedication. After jogging through a throng of students in Moody Coliseum to explosive applause, Money took the stage and encouraged students to come up with their own nickname for the new 75,000-squarefoot fitness facility Among the potential monikers bouncing about – and noted by Money to student ovation – is the Bank, which has the ad-

“

Just don’t call it the ‘Money Pit.’” royce money former university president

vantage of the personality and brevity of the Bean but also retains the connection to Money’s ironic name. Other options are The Rec or Pam’s Place, which gives credit to the woman behind the man. The Bank or Pam’s Place hasn’t officially stuck, and students eventually may settle on the less clever Money Building or Wellness Center. But one thing is certain - it’s up to them. “It’s the was built for the students. You should get to name it,” Money said. “Just don’t call it The Money Pit.”

contact Optimist at optimist@acu.edu

daniel gomez chief Photographer

Students line up and wait to receive a slice of pizza after burning a lot of energy at the new Royce and Pam Student Recreation center during RecFest.

Trustees: Board adds new members continued from page 1 potially serving up to 15 years. “It’s a constant cycle,” Sullivan said. “Most years there are some members leaving the board and some members joining.” Dr. Barry Packer, chairman of the Board of Trustees, said his service on the board has been rewarded by the ACU graduates he has seen go on to make a difference in the world. “Most of the trustees are

former students who were deeply impacted by their years on the campus,” Packer said. “Their service on the board is one way of giving back to the university that changed their lives in significant ways.” Kelly Brown, executive assistant to the general counsel, said the Board of Trustees regularly shows students special attention and respect. As a part of the orientation process, new board members personally engage students and fac-

ulty members to hear their experiences and concerns. Brown said she encourages students to welcome any visiting board members, some of whom plan to sit in on classes in November. “The board sincerely cares about what happens for the university,” Brown said. “Students should know that they have some great men and women in their corner.” contact gasvoda at jrc07d@acu.edu

featureS

wednesday 09.07.11

LAVISH LIVING

Students use creativity to turn dorm rooms into unique hangouts Samantha sutherland features editor

One of the most memorable elements of the underclassmen years at ACU is the dorm experience. While many struggle to make the cramped space and stark white walls work, some freshmen have stepped up to the challenge. These three pairs of roommates pulled their resources together to tackle their dorm make overs. A room in Gardner radiates the glam worthy of a magazine feature. An Edward’s room doubles as a Thursday night (or every night) club. And two more Edward’s residents manage to cram a five-piece sectional into their room at the expense of being able to climb into their beds. Nevertheless, the rooms display originality and inspire other campus residents to get creative. contact sutherland at sns08a@acu.edu

Mandy Lambright staff Photographer

ANTHROPOLOGIE Photos: top right, above and below. Residents Morgan Watten, freshman graphic design and photography major from Coppell, and Danielle Dendy, freshman nursing major from Coppell, have styled their room with an eclectic mix of rich colors, bold designs and rustic furniture. “Our goal for the atmosphere was very shabby-chic, plus trying our best to make it look like an Anthropologie store,” said Watten. “The basis behind how the room was set up and decorated was making college feel like a home away from home.”

Daniel gomez chief Photographer

THE LOUNGE Photos: above, right and below. Residents Cameron Cox, sophomore youth and family ministry major from Sweetwater, and Greg Ponder, sophomore agribusiness and missions major from San Angelo, chill on the five-piece sectional they lugged up to their room. The large seating area required sacrifices of space in other areas, leaving them little room to access their bunk beds or to open the drawers by their sink. However, that proved to be a relatively small price to pay for the comfortable hangout gained.

Mandy Lambright staff Photographer

Daniel gomez chief Photographer

CLUB 213 Photos: right, bottom right and below. Residents CJ Wells, freshman Biochemistry major from Ft. Worth, and Chandler Amador, freshman psychology major from North Richland Hills, show off the dorm room that they have transformed into a night club, complete with laser lights. “I just wanted to create a fun place for everyone to hang out, and everyone likes music and dancing,” said Wells. “My friends have loved it.”

Daniel gomez chief Photographer

Daniel gomez chief Photographer Daniel gomez chief Photographer

Opinion

wednesday 09.07.11

Editorial

Budget troubles burst ACU bubble The university didn’t pick a great time to raise tuition. A hurting economy paired with a $787 per credit hour price tag doesn’t leave a line of college-prepped students waiting at the door. It actually leaves fewer than 900 students wanting in, which doesn’t meet the university’s recruiting goal. It is easy to get trapped in what has been dubbed the ACU bubble. Life on campus sometimes feels detached from the rest of the world. Students, faculty and staff create

their own social hierarchy, meal plans and student accounts create a currency that can only be spent on campus and the campus store allows for the purchase of any necessities. However, tuition increases, low enrollment, and budget cuts are forcing ACU students to realize that our university is not the hermetically sealed environment that it seems. With less tuition money coming in than what was expected, the loss of the $700,000 Texas Equaliza-

tion Grant and the stillfeeble economy, the university has implemented significant budget cuts. And those cuts affect everyone on campus. Class sizes are growing – especially in general education, and class selection is taking a hit. Department chairs have become more strict about the number of students who have to be enrolled in a class for it to make. Departments aren’t offering some specialized classes with only four or five students because the cost of the class isn’t cov-

ered by the students in it. Sometimes the effects from this are more severe as students are unable to complete a required class or have to substitute another class in its place. Every department on campus has had to make cuts in its budget, some up to six percent. Student worker positions are scarcer, making it hard to find work on campus. The rest of the economy is popping ACU’s bubble, and ACU is experiencing the same trends sweeping through the rest of the country’s uni-

Oh Dear, Christian College

the issue A hurting economy and low enrollment leave ACU in a tough budget situation.

our take ACU must realize that it is part of a large system and cannot continue to pretend seclusion.

versities. Average tuition has roughly tripled since 1980 – at private and public universities – in inf lation-adjusted dollars. We have to remember that it is easy to fall into the mindset that issues affecting the world are not relevant to ACU. It is easy to get consumed within the life of classes,

Ben miller

friends and social clubs. These things matter in the moment, but ultimately, ACU is a part of the much larger picture of the nation’s economy.

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

column

Workaholic lifestyle cannot be sustained Vagabondage

samantha sutherland

column

Politics and faith butt heads Farron height

Farron Salley

Our political platforms reflect many of the pillars of our Christian faith, because Christians are taught to seek first the kingdom of God. Yet what boundary have we crossed when a Christian judges the strength of another’s faith because of differing political ideologies? “How can you claim to be a Christian and a Democrat?” An arrogant tone asked me while I was passing through the library. Late for a morning class I wore a t-shirt because I didn’t have time to iron the button down blouse I intended to wear. The white tee featured the words “Christian Democrat” and underneath “Taking Jesus at His word.” Many students on this fairly conservative campus may not agree with some of my more liberal views, but only one had the audacity

to insult the relationship I share with my Savior by asking such a question. That sparked a conversation that made me late for class – well, later. Maybe she didn’t know the level of my political awareness and that I’ve never voted straight party in any election. Maybe she didn’t realize that not everyone in a party agrees on all pieces of legislation. Or, maybe she just didn’t take the time to realize that her question was an accusation. While church and state are rightly separated by the Constitution, all too often we find ourselves graying the lines between the two, especially as Christians. Quarrels regarding matters of the state are insignificant to an eternal charge. Paul dealt with a similar

problem when he wrote to the Corinthians, “We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.” Christians have a higher calling of maturity. I’m often disheartened to learn of the perception of the Church from those outside the body of Christ. They say we are hypocritical, judgmental and over-political, to name a few. I want to support the notion that we’re merely misunderstood, but that becomes harder to uphold on the opposite end of the spectrum. I can recall girls in my freshman dorm crying about the outcome of the 2008 election. Others changed their facebook status’ to let the world know they would move to Canada – which operates on a nationalized healthcare system they are so adamantly against. But I most vividly remember when a white hallmate patted my cheek and said

“I’ll pray for your people.” Christians must be mature enough in our faith to comprehend what bound-

“

How can you claim to be a Christian and a Democrat?” An arrogant tone asked me while I was passing through the library.

aries must and mustn’t be crossed. Non-believers alike generalize that today’s political climate correlates with corruption. At least we agree on one thing. In preparing for upcoming presidential primaries and a general election next year, I urge students to be vigilant that their political mission never overshadow the mission of Christ.

contact salley at fls08a@acu.edu

Dear Overworked Students, There comes a time in all of our lives where we realize that our society is shaping us to be workaholics. Multi-tasking is not only encouraged, but expected. Busyness is esteemed. Resumes appear flat without quantity and variety. And enjoying frequent rests is labeled as laziness. It is no wonder we feel stress levels that deteriorate our health as we frantically rush from activity to activity. However, this attitude may very well be a result of the expanding opportunities made available to us, which can be a positive thing. Although I am guilty of having a busy lifestyle myself, I am a passionate advocate of slowing down and making sure you do not waste your life on an overabundance of pointless activities. There is a difference between just staying busy out of obligation and staying busy because you are filling your time with activities that actually enrich your life. College is unique in that it offers many great opportunities for students to further themselves all in one place. You already have access to many resources; you might as well take advantage of them during your time on campus. Utilize the facilities, seek guidance from faculty, attend events put on by student organizations, join a club that shares your interests, join a program that lets you travel and network with the large and diverse community surrounding you. If part of the money you use to pay for school is already being spent to run a recreation center, go ahead and climb the bouldering wall instead of sitting in front of the TV in your dorm room.

It is not so much how much of your time you fill, but the lasting quality of the things you fill it with. Recognize what activities will mean the most to you in the future. Dare to invest in things that excite you, that energize you, that are worth your time, and watch your busy life take on a

“

College is unique in that it offers many great opportunities for students to further themselves all in one place.

drastically different tone. God gave us time on this world to use for His glory, and He opened up a large array of opportunities for us to utilize. Do not live your life to impress others, but welcome an attitude of humility. Others will not remember you for how many clubs you were president of if you are only doing it for recognition. But if you accept God’s guidance and find yourself involved in something that you are not only passionate about but excited to learn from, you will emerge from the experience with so much knowledge and so much drive that you will radiate God’s glory through the effective use of the talents He has blessed you with. Take a day off to focus on God and fast from busyness; I can guarantee it will not be wasted.

contact sutherland at SNS08a@acu.edu

hashtagACU 11:23 a.m. Sept. 2

3:45 p.m. Sept. 3

Who else thinks that there should be Royce Money plush dolls sold in the campus store? #openingday @ACUChapel

Here at ACU u are not allowed to breathe in the laundry rooms. It’s so hot in a tiny room that it feels like there’s no oxygen @overheardACU

@brriittaannyyk

@pr0cl1v1ty

2:30 a.m. Sept. 2

“I will personally kill you if you cite Wikipedia as a source.” -Dr Money in class Wednesday

@zachwulf

11:00 a.m. Sept. 5

9:55 a.m. Aug. 29

Now that people aren’t 11:02 p.m. Aug. 23 afraid to eat because of the new Rec Center, The Bean needs more seating. @overheardACU

Wildcat preview today means one thing: chapel 23 will4:32 be p.m. extraAug. white and sure to ruffle no feathers 2:26 a.m. Aug. 24 #ACU

@kesha_lea

@SpenserLynn

7:40 p.m. Sept. 4

if you ain’t seen an Abilene sunset then you ain’t met my Texas yet.

@shelbyshipley

Send your tweets @acuoptimist, or #ACU, to get your tweets printed in the Optimist. 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

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

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sports Jumps

wednesday 09.07.11

soccer

Win: Schoch scores first college goal from page 8

daniel gomez chief Photographer

Junior defender Lexi Stirling moves the ball up the field during a practice last week. Stirling was a first team allconference player last year and was part of a defense that held Texas A&M International to only four shots Sunday.

volleyball

Three: Loss spurs on ‘Cats from page 8 carry that momentum into their next opponent however, as they fell to Regis College 25-20, 25-16, 2517. Despite senior outside hitter Jennie Hutt’s strong performance (11 kills and 14 digs), a .136 team hitting percentage hindered the ACU squad. Regis hit a whopping .272 and had two teammates in double figures in kills (Christina Henzgen with 11 and Gina Morgan with 10). “Regis did a better job of communicating. They had better ball control,” Mock said. “They also took better

control of the overall game then we did.” This loss wouldn’t slow down ACU in the second day of the tournament though. The Wildcat bunch regrouped to take a pair of matches from East Central University (15-25, 25-22, 2511, 25-21) and Pace University (25-18, 25-23, 25-21). “We talked a lot about playing as a unit,” said Mock. “They did that on Saturday after losing to Regis and the results were favorable.” Mock made some changes after the first day, which paid off afterward. The ‘Cats raised their hitting percentage by .100 in the

two games (.245 combined versus ECU and Pace). Johnson managed the offense and accumulated 81 assists on Saturday. “Caley really played well for us and played the catalyst role for us. We moved from running a 6-2 offense to a 5-1 after the first day and let Johnson run the floor by herself,” Mock said. “Just having one setter can clear up any communication issues” In the win over ECU, Hutt had 14 kills along with 11 digs. Borger had 10 kills, two service aces, and eight blocks. Although the Tigers defeated the Wildcats in the

first game, the ’Cats finished off the Tigers in the next three to claim the victory. Pace couldn’t change their fortune at St. Mary’s against ACU as they lost all four of their contests. Hutt, Kalynne Allen, and Oxford performed well in the win. Hutt finished with 14 kills and 12 digs, while Allen and Oxford each had 10 kills. Pace hit a lowly .112 in the match. “To go from 1-1 to 3-1 gives a young team a lot of confidence,” Mock said.

contact isaacs at jei08a@acu.edu

column

Clutch: ACU proves resilient from page 8 but, facing a two-touchdown deficit with about 17 minutes to go, the Cats scored four touchdowns including one with a minute to go when Richardson found some running and sprinted 28 yards to the endzone to ultimately seal the deal. What’s the common

theme in these three close victories - other than the obvious fact that Daryl Richardson is the go-to player in crunch time? It’s that the Wildcats were resilient enough to come back and win in highpressure situations. For those of you out there that think that ACU football has been dominant forever,

you would be wrong. In fact, as late as 2005, Coach Thomsen’s first season, the ‘Cats limped to a 4-6 record. As I sat in the press box during Thursday night’s game and watched as Tarleton looked like the better team for three quarters, I was reassured by the fact that Coach T and his ‘Cats had been in this situation

golf

Season: Youth to help continued from page 8

to work hard on their game, encourage other teammates and remember it’s only a game and to have fun,” Johnson said. “We have to start now if we want to make it to nationals and prepare both mentally and physically.” Carpenter said he sees teamwork as ACU’s biggest strength going into the season. “We all get along great, and there’s definitely a sense of team chemistry,” Carpenter said. “We work hard, and we push each other.” Wildcat golf will continue to grow as a program

“

We all get along great and there’s definitely a sense of team chemistry.”

younger brother Luke Carpenter and his classmate Corbin Renner will help the team’s game and be contributors, Johnson said. “We have some freshman alex carpenter junior golfer from and transfers that will help little rock, ark. round out the team and make with athletes like Carpenter, a solid push to nationals,” Johnson and sophomore Johnson said. “Unlike what lots of people think, golf is a Trey Sullivan. Sullivan finished in the team sport in this context.” The Wildcats’ 2011-12 seatop 25 of last year’s national tournament and was named son will take off September the Lone Star Conference 12-13 as ACU hosts their first tournament at the Charles Freshman of the year. “I expect Trey to have a Coody West Texas Intercolbreakout year,” said Carpen- legiate at Diamondback Golf ter. “He was really there when Club in Abilene. we needed him last season.” contact goin at Even new team memnsg10b@acu.edu bers like Alex Carpenter’s

before and pulled it out. Sure enough, as Bailey caught the ball and kneeled down at the twoyard line, I breathed a sigh of relief knowing that again the purple and white had made my heart race but not break. contact gwin at agg07a@acu.edu

from Carpenter into the net, making the score 2-0. From there, the Dust Devils’ chances of making a comeback began to look grim. Lone Star Conference Offensive Player of the Year and All-American forward Andrea Carpenter joined the scoring act in the 66th minute after receiving a pass from Coppedge. “I honestly didn’t think my goal was going to go in, so that was a surprise for me that it squeaked past,” Carpenter said. “But a goal’s a goal, so I’ll take it.” Carpenter’s three-point effort Sunday moves her career total to 51, which is a school record. Schoch, a freshman from Amarillo, got her young career off to a stellar start, scoring her first collegiate goal in the 70th minute on a free kick from Womack that she headed into the back of the net. The midfielder acknowledged the relief and sense of calm that the goal brought her. “I feel like a weight has been lifted off of my shoulder since I’m a freshman, and I feel grateful that I had the opportunity to contribute to this game,” Schoch said. “Lyndsey kicked the perfect ball, I saw the ball arch over my head, and then natural instinct just kicked in. I’m fortunate that things turned out the way they did.” Wilson added: “It’s exciting for Sarah to get the confidence she needs to play on the field. She set an example for all of the freshmen and provided a spark for our whole team today.

I’m very proud of her and glad she scored her first college goal today.” As the game progressed and TAMU-I’s fate seemed even more hopeless, the contest became more lively with both teams combining for 11 second-half fouls. Referees handed out three yellow cards were handed out in the final ten minutes, and things got a little bit chippy. There was a definite physical nature present in the contest as the Dustdevils initiated quite a bit of contact and physicality to the game. “This was definitely a battle and I think we handled their physical nature really well,” Carpenter said. “We didn’t really let the physical aspect pose much of a problem against us and how we played. We kept our cool on the field, and I think that played to our advantage.” The weather, primarily the wind, seemed to provide an extra element of concern for both teams, as gusts reached upwards of twenty miles per hour at times throughout the game and had a direct impact on the ball’s travel. “The wind is something you just have to deal with. We play in West Texas, where it is prevalent, so the question becomes ‘How can we use it to our advantage,” Wilson said. The Wildcats return to action Wednesday afternoon at 2 p.m. against Central Oklahoma in Edmond, Okla. before traveling to San Antonio to play Truman State Sunday at 11 a.m. contact shake at bxs09a@acu.edu

sports

wednesday 09.07.11

golf

standings

Golf tabbed No. 1 to start season Natalie goin sports reporter

Last week’s release of the Golf World/Nike Golf Division II preseason coaches’ poll named ACU named No. 1 in the nation. After last May’s third place finish at the NCAA National Championship Tournament, this year’s team is on track to finish what they started. Last year’s team won five tournaments, never

placed worse than fourth in any given tournament and made the NCAA Final Four. ACU fell to Cal StateMonterey Bay 2-2-1 on a tiebreaker of six strokes in the National Semifinal match. It was ACU’s best golf season since 1997 and their second appearance in the National Tournament since 2007. ACU’s golf team has many advantages even after losing coveted seniors Cyril Bouniol (2010 individual national cham-

pion and 2011 first team all-American) and Tyler Sheppard (2011 third team all-American). Junior Alex Carpenter acknowledged the effect of their loss. “Losing those two is definitely something that we’re not too happy with, but their time was up, and they were terrific assets to this program and a huge part of the process of making it what it is today,” Alex Carpenter said. With players like junior first team all-American Alex

“

We fell short at nationals last year, and it’s motivating going into the new season.” alex carpenter junior all-american golfer at ACU

Carpenter, the Wildcats should find themselves in the national spotlight and in the mix for a national championship. Carpenter broke the ACU wins record, raking in four as a freshman and add-

ing seven as a sophomore. He was thrilled to hear that the ‘Cats will start this season off at No. 1. “I was so excited,” Carpenter said. “We fell short at nationals last year, and it’s motivating going into the new season.” Senior Morgan Johnson was also pleased with the poll’s results, but knows it will take effort to maintain such status. “In order to keep us at No. 1 everyone will have see season page 9

soccer

Wildcats sweep up Dustdevils bryson shake sports editor Behind the leadership of junior Krysta Grimm, the No. 21 ACU women’s soccer team rolled to a 4-0 victory Sunday afternoon against Texas A&M-International University at the Wildcat Soccer Pitch. Grimm accounted for half of the team’s goals, scoring one goal each half for the Wildcats (2-0) en route to the statement win. Andrea Carpenter, sophomore forward, and freshman midfielder Sarah Schoch were the other contributors for the ’Cats. Head Coach Casey Wilson praised his offense and their performance after the game and talked about their goal as an offensive unit and how it worked against TAMU-I. “We possessed the ball very well this afternoon, and the forwards created a lot of opportunities for us,” Wilson said. Senior Lyndsey Womack served as a catalyst for two goals as she had a pair of assists in the contest. Julie Coppedge and Car-

daniel gomez chief Photographer

Forward Andrea Carpenter dribbles the ball during a practice. Carpenter scored one goal in the TAMU-I game on Sunday. penter followed suit, each providing one assist each as well. “Our goal as an offense is to create space by passing the ball and taking opportunities when they are presented to us, and we did that well today,” Wilson added.

The game started off at a snail’s pace offensively, but with 39 seconds remaining in the first half, Grimm put the ball in the net following a pass from Womack, and took the goose eggs off the scoreboard. “As many opportunities

that we had and as well as we played in the first half, everyone was hoping we’d come into the locker room with at least one goal. It was nice that we fought all the way down until forty seconds to go and put that goal in,” Wilson said.

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volleyball

Women’s Soccer

“That was great to see for our team going into half and provided a muchneeded boost.” Less than 10 minutes into second half, Grimm put the finishing touch on a perfectly placed cross pass see win page 9

The Wildcat volleyball team tied Regis University for the 25th spot in the Week #1 poll released Monday by the American Volleyball Coaches Association. The Wildcats were ranked No. 23 in the preseason but dropped two spots after the St. Mary’s Classic where they finished 3-1. ACU lost to tournament champion Regis (4-0).

EX- FACTOR

Cowboys wide receiver Raymond Radway suffered a broken fibula and tibia against the Dolphins Thursday in the Cowboys last preseason game. This injury keeps Radway from making the 53-man roster. He had ball games. The last time three receptions for 62 the Wildcats lost a reguyards in the loss.

Cardiac ’Cats continue legacy austin gwin

daniel gomez chief Photographer

The volleyball team celebrates after winning a point last season at Moody Coliseum.

Wildcats win three in San Antonio The Wildcat volleyball team had a successful weekend as they beat three out of four of their opponents in the St. Mary’s Tournament at San Antonio to open up the season. Head coach Kellen Mock was very happy with her team’s results in San Antonio. “I’m pleased with the tournament. I wish we could’ve beat Regis but we did a good job of overcoming adversity,” said Mock. “Our offense came together well. Our blocking and ball control needs to improve, however.”

Div.

ACU Angelo St. TAMU-K ENMU UIW TSU WTAMU Commerce MSU

Defensive end Ryan Smith has been selected as the Lone Star Conference Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in ACU’s win last Thursday at Tarleton St., 27-24. In his first collegiate start, Smith recorded 12 tackles and 3.0 sacks. In addition, he had 3.5 tackles for loss and one forced fumble.

The Sports Jedi

assistant sports editor

Team

briefings

volleyball

edward isaacs

football

ACU’s first match-up pitted them against the University of Illinois at Springfield on Friday, whom they defeated 2725, 25-20, 25-23. Sophomore middle blocker Neely Borger and freshman middle blocker Sara Oxford both shined versus the Prairie Stars. Borger had nine kills and two blocks, while Oxford had eight kills and five blocks. Underclassmen setters Caley Johnson and Haley Rhoads also had big games with Johnson recording 17 assists and Rhoads adding 14. The Wildcat volleyball

team totaled 41 kills in the match among nine different players. Illinois-Springfield had a .100 hitting percentage and only one player finished with more than six kills (29 total team kills). On the other hand, the ‘Cats hit .153 and four players achieved over six kills. Regarding her young players Mock said, “I was very pleased with our two middles (Borger and Oxford). They are both forces to be reckoned with. The underclassmen did a wonderful job this weekend.” The Wildcats couldn’t see three page 9

“They’ll break your heart, kid.” It’s what Jimmy Fallon’s uncle told him in the movie Fever Pitch as Fallon grew up a Boston Red Sox fan. I know the feeling of heartbreak when it comes to sports teams. I have been a fan of the Tennessee Titans since the team moved to Nashville from Houston. I remember vividly the final play of Super Bowl XXXIV when receiver Kevin Dyson’s arm was a foot too short as the Titans literally lost the Super Bowl by the length of the football. I don’t think I have ever been more depressed after a sporting event. My entire family didn’t really talk the entire way home from our friends’ house where we watched the game. You can’t count on many things in the wide world of sports, but something you have been able to count on lately is the ACU Wildcats winning regular season foot-

lar season game was November 7, 2009. Sometimes the wins come easy, and sometimes, like last Thursday night against Tarleton State, the wins will push ACU fans to the emotional limit. In case you have been living under a rock, the Cardiac ‘Cats scored a touchdown in the last minute to go ahead 2724. Then on the last play, Wildcat cornerback Nate Bailey intercepted a potential winning touchdown pass in his own endzone to seal the win. This win wasn’t the first like it in “the streak.” Last year, ACU pulled out two of these kind of wins. The first was a comeback win against Midwestern State at Shotwell where Mitchell Gale found running back Daryl Richardson out of the backfield to score with a little over two minutes left to preserve a 31-28 win on Homecoming afternoon. The second thriller of the 2010 season was maybe the best ACU game that I have ever seen. The game went back and forth,

see clutch page 9

Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox had two receptions and one touchdown in the 24-14 win aganist the Browns. Knox finished the preseason with five receptions and one touchdown. Trevis Turner, offensive lineman, was signed to the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad after being drafted and playing in the preseason with the Steelers.

Upcoming The men’s tennis team plays in the New Mexico State Invitational beginning on Friday, Sept. 9 in Las Cruces, NM. Volleyball will travel to Kingsville to take on the Javelinas at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6. Soccer faces the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmund, Okla. on Wednesday, Sept. 7 at 2 p.m. They play Truman State University in San Antonio at 11 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 11.