acuoptimist.com
Optimist the
Self Expression, page 5
Friday, September 10, 2010
Vol. 99, No. 7
1 section, 8 pages
ENROLLMENT
ACT scores climb despite lower enrollment Linda Bailey Editor in Chief
Enrollment numbers are down by about a hundred students, but average ACT scores of incoming freshman and enrollment num-
bers in ACU’s graduate program are at a record high. The university announced Wednesday a total enrollment of 4,728 students for the fall semester, with 3,806 undergraduate students and
922 graduate students. Total enrollment was 4,838 students last fall and 4,984 students last spring. The average ACT scores of this year’s freshman class is 24.7, compared to last year’s average of 23.2.
President Phil Schubert said ACU could have added more freshmen, but instead chose to tighten academic standards to form the most talented academic class in the history of ACU.
“Our 21st century vision calls for more stringent academic standards and a more talented – academically – student body,” Schubert said. However, that standard presents the university
with challenges when it comes to minority student enrollment. Buck James, associate vice president for enrollment, said that the average ACT score see STUDENTS page 3
CAMPUS
Carbon Challenge
Students anticipate TOMS weekend Kelsi Williamson Arts Editor
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
Michael Maeker, junior biology major from Lubbock, rides his bike through the center of campus Thursday.
Claiborne asks students and faculty to change their energy habits to offset his carbon usage during travel to Abilene
E
Story by Linda Bailey
very year, featured Summit speakers challenge ACU faculty, staff and students in their lectures. This year, Shane Claiborne is challenging students before he even arrives on campus. Claiborne, author of Irresistible Revolution, is asking students and faculty to change their habits and reduce their carbon emissions in an effort to offset the carbon footprint his jour-
ney to Abilene will create, said Brady Bryce, director of ministry events. “This ends up being a unique request,” Bryce said. “Where most speakers are going to worry about their travel expense or meeting their fee, this is a speaker saying, ‘I care about what you do, I would like to see if you will change your habits just by me coming.’ It wasn’t a hard request at all – it was one I really admired.”
Dr. Jim Cooke, professor of agricultural and environmental sciences, said carbon is released into the atmosphere when people burn fossil fuels. This increase in carbon can cause global climate changes. He said conserving fossil fuels by not using as much energy is good for the planet. see CARBON page 3
A simple pair of shoes is bringing a big name and a big event to campus next week. TOMS Shoes, a company that for every shoe purchase donates a pair of shoes to a child in need, began in 2006 under the inspiration and direction of founder and “chief shoe giver,” Blake Mycoskie. Since then, Mycoskie has spoken on numerous college campuses and put TOMS “on track to give the one millionth pair of new shoes to a child in need this month,” according to the company’s website. “We wanted to try to find and speaker we wouldn’t have to beg students to come hear,” said Amanda Pittman, marketing associate for the College of Business Administration. Pittman said COBA originally wanted to invite Mycoskie as a part of its distinguished speakers series, but realized it would take the efforts and resources of several departments to finally bring the entrepreneur to campus. “It just got bigger, and more people wanted to participate and could participate,” Pittman said. see TOMS page 3
LOCAL
Abilene Zoo opens new exhibit Jeff Craig
Managing Editor
The Abilene Zoo hopes to prove that diverse and unique wildlife can be found here at home, without having to travel across the globe. The zoo’s new exhibit, Elm Creek Backyard, opened Saturday and displays animals native to
Texas. Among the more than 30 species of animals that now call the exhibit home are raccoons, opossums, cougars, an otter and a bobcat. “The wildlife of Texas is unique because Texas is unique,” said general zoo curator Vonceil Harmon. “We have 10 to 11 ecosystems, and you can go from mountains,
ened species and species going extinct. You don’t have to go to Africa to support conservation.” The $1.5 million project was paid for with funds from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Grover Nelson Foundation and a bond approved by Abilene voters in 2006. see ZOO page 3
website
inside sports Find a preview of Saturday’s big football game as the Wildcats take on the Northeastern State Riverhawks. page 8
to forest to desert.” She said the zoo wanted to demonstrate the variety of animals found in the state and the dangers they face. “We wanted to highlight that zoos are about conservation and education,” Harmon said. “ The United States has some of the highest levels of endangered species, threat-
opinion The editorial board looks at the cost and effectiveness of recycling at the ACU and city level. page 6
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
The new Abilene Zoo exhibit, Elm Street Backyard, features a cage full of cougars.
weather video A new exhibit at the Abilene Zoo, Elm Creek Backyard, features 30 species of animals native to Texas.
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Campus Friday, September 10, 2010
ACU Police Tip of the Week
Day
calendar & events
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Friday
8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Men’s social club rankings in the the Living Room of the McGlothlin Campus Center.
Saturday
7 p.m. ACU Football at Notheastern State University.
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Sunday
2 p.m. Men’s social club coffees will be held in various locations around campus.
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Monday
11 a.m. Study Abroad Fair in the McGlothlin Campus Center.
6 p.m.-10 p.m. Jamfest Auditions in the Living Room of the McGlothlin Campus Center.
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announcements Friday, Sept. 10 is the last day to withdraw from classes with a 60% refund. Blake Mycoskie, founder of TOMS shoes, will speak during Chapel on Sept. 13 in Moody Coliseum. SALT, ACU’s Student Action Leadership Team, is accepting applications until Sept. 10. Students can pick up applications in the McGlothlin Campus Center. Omega Dance Co. will hold a workshop at 6 p.m. on Sept. 9 at University Church of Christ and 6 p.m. Sept. 10 at the Williams Preforming Arts Center lobby, prior to auditions at 10 a.m. on
Sept. 11 at University Church of Christ. Sing Song host and hostess informational meeting will take place at 11:45 a.m. on Sept. 25 in Cullen Auditorium. Men’s social club coffees will take place at 2 p.m. Sept. 2 in various locations around campus. Meningitis shots are now available in the ACU clinic located in McKinzie Hall. Call (325) 674-2151 for more information. Study Abroad Fair will take place 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Sept. 13 and Sept. 15 in the McGlothlin Campus Center.
volunteer opportunities Meals on Wheels needs volunteers to deliver noon meals to seniors and adults with disabilities. Routes are available 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday - Friday. Volunteers must be at least 18, with a valid drivers license, auto insurance and a desire to serve. Training is provided. Contact Elizabeth Rodgers at erodgers@ mealsonwheelsplus.com. Day Nursery of Abilene needs volunteers to help with their annual Putt Fore Children Miniature Golf Tournament from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Oct. 2 at Prime Time Family Entertainment Center. Contact Sheila Cory at 325-673-
1110 or e-mail scory@ daynurseryabilene.org Mesa Spring Healthcare Center needs volunteers 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. any day of the week to help provide fun activities for the residents. Any help is appreciated. Please contact Laura Reynolds at (325) 692-8080 or lgreynolds@ sears-methodist.com Ortiz Elementary School Library would like volunteers Monday - Friday to help check in and shelve books, and help with some special projects. Contact Nancy Hartline at 325-671-4945 or e-mail nancy.hartline@abileneisd.org.
Do your part to maintain pedestrian safety. Pedestrians should use designated crosswalks, and drivers are required by law to yield to pedestrians in a designated crosswalk.
Police Log Edited for space
Monday, Aug. 30 12:30 p.m. Someone reported losing an iPhone while walking on the Lunsford Trail. The phone was later turned in to the McGlothlin Campus Center and returned to reporting party. Tuesday, Aug. 31 8:30 a.m. ACU Police assisted Abilene Police on a narcotics search warrant in the 2700 block of N. Judge Ely Blvd. Abilene Police arrested three subjects for Class A possession of marijuana. 9:09 p.m. ACU Police stopped a vehicle for speeding in the 2100 block of N. Judge Ely Blvd. The driver was identified and a citation was issued. Wednesday, Sept. 1 2:15 a.m. ACU Police assisted Abilene Police with an alarm at the Bank of America ATM in the 900 block of N. Judge Ely Blvd. Officers checked the ATM and everything was found to be OK. Thursday, Sept. 2 9:24 a.m. ACU Police responded with Abilene Fire Department to a general fire alarm at Nelson Hall. AFD and ACU Police checked the building, but were unable to determine why the alarm went off. The alarm was reset. 1:10 p.m. ACU Police backed up Abilene Police on a fam-
ily disturbance call in 3300 block of West Lake Rd. 4:45 p.m. ACU Police received a call about a suspicious woman on the Lunsford Trail near Nelson Hall asking students for money. Officers checked the area and were unable to locate the subject. Friday, Sept. 3 8:03 a.m. Someone reported a student passed out in the men’s restroom at the north end of Moody Coliseum. MetroCare Ambulance responded. 11:19 a.m. ACU Police assisted Abilene Police in dealing with an armed suspect on N. Judge Ely Blvd. The suspect was attempting to steal items out of a vehicle and had pulled a knife on the owner of the car. Officers placed the suspect in custody. Sunday, Sept. 5 12:25 a.m. Someone reported loud music and party noises from a house on EN 14th. Officers located the house and advised the tenants to turn down the volume. The tenants complied. 11:07 p.m. ACU Police made a traffic stop regarding a vehicle with no headlights in ACU’s South Lot. The officer identified the driver and gave a verbal warning. Report all suspicious activity to the ACU Police Department at (325) 674-2305.
Chapel Checkup 15 79
Credited Chapels to date
Credited Chapels remaining
STUDENT LIFE
Fair runs through Sept. 18 Alan Cherry Page 2 Editor
The highly-anticipated 111th West Texas Fair and Rodeo started Tuesday at the Taylor County Expo Center. ACU students and Abilene residents alike are getting ready for a fun weekend at this classic fall event. “The fair is the coolest thing that happens in this town,” said Josh Tumblin, senior theatre major from Nashville, Tenn. “Everyone should go, or they’re losing out.” The fair is in town until Sept. 18, and will be open each day from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. General admission is $7 for adults and $4 for children. The cost to at-
tend rodeo events is $15 Tuesday-Thursday and $20 Friday and Saturday. Fair-goers can purchase an armband for $20 that gives the wearer unlimited rides for the day, or they can pay per ride. Several discount days will occur throughout the week. College Day on Friday gives university students free all-day admission with a current student ID Military and Student Day on Sept. 14 gives free admission to anyone with a school day pass or a military ID, and Cantastic Night on Sept. 16 offers free admission to anyone in exchange for six cola cans. The West Texas Fair and Rodeo Parade will march through downtown Abilene beginning
at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 11. The parade will start at Cherry street and end at the Abilene Courthouse. Judge George Newman will be the grand marshal of the parade, which will feature marching bands, floats, classic cars and clowns, according to the website. Special exhibits, livestock shows and food exhibits will also be set up throughout the week. “It will be something college-aged kids will enjoy,” said Julie Bryant, secretary for the Expo Center. “There will be great carnival rides and plenty of different, neat food. It’s a safe place. It will be a lot of fun. contact Cherry at
arc07a@acu.edu
FROM THE FRONT
September 10, 2010
Page 3
CAMPUS
TOMS: 700 shoes sold for charity event Continued from page 1
ACU Board of Trustees member Gary Skidmore also made a connection that helped turn the possibility of a visit from Myscoskie into a reality. Skidmore heard Mycoskie speak at a conference in spring 2009 and had the opportunity to speak with the TOMS founder. “He clearly has the capabilities of running a big business. He saw a need during his personal travels
and acted on it,” Skidmore said. “I was very impressed and moved by the story that he told.” Although he knew nothing about the shoe company before the conference, Skidmore said he has since become an evangelist for TOMS shoes because he believes in the message Mycoskie is trying to spread with his “one for one” philosophy. “He is showing how you can blend great business skills with philanthropy
and social justice – and be successful in the process,” Skidmore said. On Monday, Skidmore will introduce Mycoskie before he addresses the entire ACU body in Chapel. Mycoskie will also speak at an Honors College luncheon in a more questionand-answer setting, Pittman said. He will conclude the day with a discussion in Hart Auditorium proctored by COBA. ACU’s administration will follow Mycoskie’s visit
LOCAL
on Monday with a campus-wide “Style your Sole” party on Tuesday. These events, which vary in size, are hosted nationwide and allow participants to customize a plain pair of TOMS. ACU has sold almost 700 shoes for the event, Pittman said. “As far as we know, this is one of the biggest [events] that’s ever happened that is university sponsored,” Pittman said. The party will not only recognize TOMS’ mis-
sion, but will also showcase products from other nonprofits like Eternal Threads. Each nonprofit will have its own tent to display its work and any products it has for sale. “We kind of will have this bazaar atmosphere going on,” said director of strategic marketing Kris Evans. The university is also supplying all decorating supplies for the event, and there will be a limited selection of shoes available Tuesday for those
who still want to purchase a pair. Music group Thus Far will provide music at the party, which begins at 3:00 p.m. in the mall area outside the McGlothlin Campus Center. “Mycoskie strikes a chord that runs deep across all college campuses about social justice,” Skidmore said. “I think everyone will find it a very unique experience.” contact Williamson at
kkw07a@acu.edu
FACULTY
Zoo: Visitors enjoy exhibit Political science professor Harmon said the zoo created the new exhibit with two goals in mind – to Harmon said the exhibit has be both fun and educationbeen met with enthusiasm. al. Patrons said the new exShe said 2,300 patrons vis- hibit met both goals. “I really like the cougar ited the zoo on the exhibit’s opening day – the same size because they are not norcrowd the zoo usually sees mal,” said Katie Rogers, a student at Wylie Elemenduring spring break. “We were really excited to tary School. “I like the cats present Elm Creek Backyard,” because they come in difHarmon said. “We knew this ferent sizes.” The Abilene Zoo houses was totally different than anything Abilene has ever seen.” 500 different animals and Continued from page 1
160 different species. “Elm Creek Backyard was voted on by the city of Abilene. We really wanted to tell the story of Texas,” Harmon said. The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for senior citizens and $2 for children. Zoo memberships are also available. contact Craig at
jrc07d@acu.edu
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
A red-tailed hawk perches itself on a branch in Abilene Zoo’s newest exhibit, Elm Street Backyard.
attends Washington briefing This is not the first time ACU faculty members Contributing Reporter have participated in events While most ACU students at the White House, State and faculty were going Department, or Executive about business as usual Buildings in Washington, on Thursday, Dr. Caron D.C., according to Dr. Neal Gentry, associate profes- Coates, associate professor of political science, sor of political science. It was spending the day at may, however, be the first a White House briefing in time faculty members have been invited to a briefing of Washington, D.C. Gentry is one of 40 this nature by the National evangelical leaders and ac- Security Council and seademics selected to attend nior White House officials, a briefing on U.S. policy Coates said. Gentry has done extenin Iraq hosted specifically for religious and politi- sive research on human secal science scholars. The curity issues including, but event was intentionally not limited to, female terorganized to closely follow rorism. She earned a docPresident Obama’s recent toral degree in internationannouncement that all al studies at the University combat forces have been of St. Andrews in Scotland, withdrawn from Iraqi soil. writing a thesis on “WomGentry is not alone in rep- en in Revolutionary Orgaresenting ACU at the White nizations,” and has since House. Other ACU affiliates continued her study of inwho attended the event in- ternational issues. “It is a great honor, clude Dr. Mark Hamilton, associate dean of the Gradu- and I am excited to be a ate School of Theology, and part of the discussion,” Dr. Shaun Casey, an ACU Gentry said. Gentry describes much alumnus currently teaching at Wesley Theological Semi- of her work as answering hard questions, such as nary in Washington, D.C. Laura Gasvoda
SUMMIT
Carbon: Simple steps reduce footprint Continued from page 1
To measure progress on this request, Bryce encourages students and faculty to fill out a form on the Summit website under the tab, “C02 Claiborne.” The form provides students and faculty with a list of measures they could take to reduce Claiborne’s footprint, including: car pooling, biking, replacing regular light bulbs with more energy efficient ones, being conservative with the amount of heat or air conditioning used in homes or buildings, buying fair trade coffee, investing in Plant with Purpose (plantwithpurpose. org) and investing in wind energy (newwindenergy.com).
‘‘ ’’
Cooke also suggested walking or riding a bike to and around campus, switching electricity to a renewable energy source (powertochoose.org), making sure to turn off lights, unplugging electronics or turning off power strips when appliances are not in use, taking shorter showers, using cold water to wash clothes and dishes, using a programmable thermostat and recycling everything possible. Emily Siegler, a graduate student from Prescott, Ariz., said she completed the form in a matter of minutes. She said she filled out the form because she began carpooling to school. Siegler has read several of Claiborne’s books, and
He’s not just talking about it; he’s actually living it. EMILY SIEGLER // graduate student from Prescott, Ariz.
said she was excited to hear him speak. “I think it’s really good because a lot of times public speakers for the environment take advantage of it,” Siegler said. “He’s bringing awareness to the environment in the way he lives. He’s not just talking about it; he’s actually living it.” Cooke said Claiborne’s idea was a good plan to help students become aware of their responsibility to conserve natural resources. “I’m grateful to Shane for not just talking about this,
ENROLLMENT
Students: Large class enters Continued from page 1
of an African-American student is below 20. “We know across the nation that students from minority groups tend to do not as well on those kind of standardized test scores and so forth, so it does present some challenges for us,” James said. “One of the things we’ve been sure to do is to improve our admissions process and look at many factors – not just test scores, but to look at overall
performance, difficulty of classes taken in high school, writing examples and other sorts of things to help us to get a broader picture on the incoming students.” To maintain diversity in the student body while tightening academic standards, Schubert said the university must seek out minority students who are prepared to be successful. He also said it was important for all incoming students to strive for success. “It’s not just that we are wanting to improve or
strengthen our academic standards – we want to ensure that students we are accepting into ACU are here to be successful,” Schubert said. “Our goal is to graduate students and put them into the world to make a difference. Obviously, we’re prohibited from doing that if they’re not prepared to be successful academically in the classroom.“
contact Bailey at
ljb07a@acu.edu
but for changing lifestyles and being a better steward of what we’ve been given,” Cooke said. Claiborne will speak at 3 p.m. Wednesday in Moody Coliseum, followed by an extended question-andanswer session in Cullen Auditorium beginning at 4 p.m. He will also join a discussion in Brown Library with Bryce and Derek Webb on Wednesday evening after Webb’s concert at 8:30 p.m. contact Bailey at
ljb07a@acu.edu
“how we as Christians can better respond to human security, and how to garner responsibility to human security.” Human security, as Gentry explains it, encompasses much more than military issues and includes health, economic, structural, and environmental issues affecting people as well. “Dr. Gentry has written widely on terrorism and the role of suicide as a strategy, and has also spoken and written about Christianity and international relations,” Coates said. “Because of this, her perspective in this gathering will be very valuable.” “The purpose of the briefing is to obtain feedback from Christian academics on past acts and current U.S. policy in Iraq,” Coates said. Coates said he hopes there will be ample time for questions and discussion following White House officials’ presentations. contact Gasvoda at
optimist@acu.edu
Page 4
CAMPUS NEWS
September 10, 2010
Arts
September 10, 2010
Page 5
Abilene Events FRIDAY Paramount Film Series, Nine 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m. Paramount Theatre
THURSDAY Smoke on the Mountain 5:00 p.m. Abilene Community Theatre
ACU Events
Jozie Sands // Online Editor
Above: David Leeson (‘78), explains his creative process during a gallery talk at his exhibit, “Creative Alchemy.” The exhibit is free to the public and will run through Sept. 20. Right: A stained backdrop frames Leeson’s matted self-portraits. The backdrop contains the remains of the numerous materials Leeson uses in his self-portraiture work.
TUESDAY TOMS Style Your Sole Party 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
THURSDAY Girl’s Night Out: Kerry Walters & Denise Parr-Scanlin 8:00 p.m. Recital Hall Williams Performing Arts Center
FRIDAY, SEPT. 17 Freshman Follies: ACU Rocks! 8:00 p.m. Cullen Auditorium
App of the Week I am T-Pain Music
HHHHI
Photo courtesy of www.davidlesson.com
This self-portrait, entitled November 11, 2009 (4:09:19 A.M.), is one in Leeson’s series of 26 images on display at the Center for Contemporary Arts located on Cypress Street. Leeson creates all of his self-portraits in his home studio in Dallas.
Understanding David Leeson Lizzy Spano
Contributing Writer
U
nderstanding David Leeson’s photography means understanding his entire philos-
ophy on life. For Leeson, an ACU alumnus and photojournalist of more than 30 years, it’s not about his photographs – although they are vivid, emotional and unforgettable. It’s not about skill or impressing others – although his 2004 Pulitzer Prize for photojournalism suggests others are very impressed with his work. Instead, it’s about the process. The creative “moment.” Transparency and vulnerability, despite fear. It’s a life view Leeson finds so necessary to a worthwhile existence that he is impassioned to share it with others. “Creative Alchemy,” which opened this week at the Contemporary Arts Center in downtown Abilene, is Leeson’s way of doing just that. Leeson unveiled his work Tuesday with an artist’s discussion and explanation of this photographic “experiment.” The exhibit features a collection of self-portraits that greatly contrast his well-recognized photojournalism style (and every style the Arts Center has previously featured), telling a story of expressive freedom and transformation. “Alchemy” is the first public showing of Leeson’s self-portraiture and a product of over two decades of artistic selfdiscovery. Through a wide variety of images – complete with baby powder, glitter, paint and real blood – Leeson attempts to
encourage others to share his emotional and physical journey – and find one of their own. Each photo, titled solely by the date and time it was taken, tells a unique story. In one, titled January 31, 2009 (11:23 PM), a green-skinned Leeson spews white liquid across the frame, producing an image that almost looks like lightning. Another photo shows Leeson coated in glitter, dark shadows highlighting his outstretched arm. He is caked in baby powder; he is bleeding from razor blade cuts on his chest; he is floating facedown in dark, mysterious water. His body and face are twisted, or reflectively calm and smooth – always a somewhat uncomfortable, yet mesmerizing, depiction of movement, darkness, pain and simultaneous joy. And in every photo a skillful use of shadow and light. Leeson says each photo is minimally edited. Every color, splatter of paint and shadow are untouched in an effort toward complete realness. Despite each image’s individual impact and personal meaning, the real value to viewers lies in the collection of photos as a whole. Viewed out of context and without Leeson’s passionate explanation, a single portrait loses its meaning and appears simply to be a result of a talented photographer having fun with arts-and-craft supplies. Yet Leeson’s intent is that “Creative Alchemy” be more than just a visual presentation. He has recorded videos of his exhausting self-portrait pro-
cess, in which he flings baby powder violently in front of a splattered cloth backdrop, all in time with a fitting Led Zeppelin song. He takes time to describe that rare “moment” when a photographer’s shutter click becomes a shared internal experience with the subject. His emphasizes the importance of the artistic process, with or without a concrete end product. “Some say art is therapeutic,” Leeson said in his discussion Tuesday. “I don’t know about that. I think it’s revealing.” And somehow, with thick coats of paint, clouds of glitter and potentially offensive displays of self-inflicted pain, Leeson succeeds in revealing himself. In what he describes as a 20-year process, he learned to overcome fear of criticism and rejection and simply do what he wanted to do, even if that meant setting up his studio at 3 a.m. to photograph himself in some fairly awkward and even dangerous positions. These self-portraits, while clearly distinct from his past work, are not Leeson’s first photographic interpretation of human emotion. As a photojournalist, Leeson has captured graphic and compelling images of numerous wars and social conflict around the world. The reality of the Iraq War is no more accurately represented than in Leeson’s fearless photos of the action, pain and desperation of soldiers and innocent people caught in the crossfire. His photography and video work for The Dallas Morning News has earned him the Pulitzer Prize and many other esteemed awards.
Leeson admits that he wants to be known for something more than war. And while his self-portraits seem to represent both an internal war with our own selves as well as with the world around us, “Creative Alchemy” transcends that. Anyone can pour milk over his head or slather paint over his body – granted, few of us could capture such a moment with Leeson’s expertise and visual effectiveness. But how many of us actually do something like that for ourselves, just to experience it? Or how many of us take time to soak life in, even if it’s just appreciating a smile from a stranger or a tender moment with another person? How many of us completely ignore self-consciousness and embrace transparency? That’s the question Leeson asks in “Creative Alchemy.” And his hope is that his own “process” of self-discovery will inspire you to ask yourself the same question. Leeson’s exhibit will be open all month at the Contemporary Arts Center on Cypress Street. His podcasts, photo galleries and biography are also available online at www. davidleeson.com. No longer working as a newspaper photographer, Leeson continues to pursue art photography, and has already produced more self-portraits since “Creative Alchemy” opened.
Cher needed it to Believe, Faith Hill counts on it for a good performance and T-Pain’s made it famous. Auto-Tune, the ability to alter voice pitch either slightly or drastically, is a well-known tool in the music industry and it’s now available for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad owners. I am T-Pain, allows users to record and Auto-Tune their voices to virtually any beat. A video option also lets you to capture your performance before sharing it over e-mail or social media such as Facebook. Finally, T-Pain wannabes can unite across the globe through the broadcast and search options included in the app. Available for $0.99 from the iTunes app store.
Art Exhibits ALICE’S GARDEN Alice Wright 10:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday The Grace Museum
LINDA3 Linda Fawcett, Linda Murray, Linda Stricklin 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. The Center for Contemporary Arts
CREATIVE ALCHEMY David Leeson 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. The Center for Contemporary Arts
THE PORCELAIN REFORMATION Ginger Geyer 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. The Center for Contemporary Arts
New Releases I’m Still Here
Sept. 10
The Romantics
Sept. 10
Legendary
Sept. 10
Expecting Mary
Sept. 10
Never Let Me Go
Sept. 15
Easy A
Sept. 17
(Magnolia Pictures) (Independent)
(Samuel Goldwyn)
(Rocky Mountain Pictures)
(Fox Searchlight)
(Sony Pictures)
Now Playing The Other Guys Century Abilene 12
Inception contact Spano at
eas07a@acu.edu
Century Abilene 12
Salt
Carmike Park Central
Opinion
Page 6
EDITORIAL
September 10, 2010
Recycling change must come from top Last semester we voiced our concern over the lack of a recycling initiative on campus. Today, we would like to turn our attention to specific reasons why “green” is a color often overlooked at ACU. Both regional and institutional norms make recycling (along with reducing and reusing) more a hassle than a solution. This means that if recycling is to become a part of campus culture, it is going to take both administrative efforts and a university-sanctioned budget. Let’s begin by looking at the city parameters surrounding our university. Because the City of Abilene does not have
a reprocessing recycling facility, city collectors must ship all recycling to other locations in the state, country and even the world. This takes money, energy and time. While Bob Ervin, manager of the Abilene recycling center, boasts a successful city recycling program, he also says money for upgrades is limited. A budget for building a reprocessing center currently exceeds the budget to transport reusable materials. Despite cost and time factors, Ervin says the city prefers recycling. While taxpayers and the city pay to haul trash to city landfills, individual companies will often invest
in shipping reusable materials to their own locations – greatly reducing the financial burden of transporting recyclable materials. Recycling in mass quantities also takes the efforts of everyone involved in the process. It might make some people feel good, but voluntary recycling efforts won’t go very far. Reusing materials must be seen more as a business venture, with consequences and benefits, to give manufacturers an incentive to reuse materials and consumers an incentive to not just dump their waste. Despite different opinions about recycling and various
efforts to recycle, the limited supply of our earth’s resources remains an indisputable fact. Reducing, reusing and recycling helps keep us from exhausting the resources entrusted to us. After looking at the benefits and consequences in the process itself, we must ask if the benefits and possible consequences of not recycling are enough to get ACU headed in a greener direction. We believe they should be, but we also believe that lasting changes to campus waste management must come from the top. Dr. Jim Cooke, professor of environmental sciBy Morgan Davis
The Funny Funnies
the issue
Recycling on campus faces many obstacles, including time, money and location.
our take
If changes are to remain permanent, implementation must be mandated by the adminstration. ence, believes the ACU recycling program will continue to have weaknesses as long as it is voluntary. Without administration-sanctioned bins, advertisements, reminders and, most importantly, budgets, the recycling fervor of a handful of concerned students with only four years on campus will have little impact on a student body of 4,728.
Changes in policy are not easy. They take time and dedication, and they can be a hassle. We don’t want to ignore the obvious costs and problems that come with recycling, but we would like the administration and the student body to thoughtfully research and consider the benefits of going green. contact the Optimist at
jmcnetwork@acu.edu
COLUMN
Differences will irritate, educate Barbarossa
By Matthew Woodrow
letter to the editor
Gardner hall decorations misinterpreted
I am the Gardner RA who so inex- and-a-half years. As the year began, cusably decorated my hall with a I was actually very concerned that “Brides of Christ” theme. I appar- the girls on my hall would think ently failed to communicate well that my engagement fell under what my actual intentions were the outrageous “Ring by Spring” for the decorations, although most philosophy. I do not believe that it seem to understand when they is a wise way to go about relationread the Bible verses on the wall ships, because it creates a lot of and realize who decorated it. With unwanted pressure for both parall due respect to the author of the ties and develops the mindset that original letter, I am not sure that an engagement is necessary after a she accurately examined the deco- very short courtship. What amuses me is that I agree rations in the hall. Admittedly, the hall is complete with tulle, with the principles behind what rose petals, and wedding cake- the original author is saying. There a lot ofitdangers in to thesee “Ring by shaped nameplates. However, the I liked candlelight devo are because was cool Spring” philosophy. In reality, I was hall is themed “Brides of Christ,” all of the lights and listen to the speaker. trying to address these dangers in promoting the Biblical idea of TYLER PINKERT business management from Red Oak a tongue-in-cheek way through my Christ beingFreshman the center and love major of an individual’s life, as well hall decorations to get my girls talkup discussions as the groom of the a ingIand I liked thechurch serviceasproject. got open to know a lot of about what’s actually important in this whole. Therepeople are numerous scripand my group and I had a blast. tures on the wall pertaining to the vulnerable time of their lives. I conlove Christ has for His church and cur entirely with the letter writer’s His people. The decorations are statement: “Students come to colmeant to be uplifting to the girls, lege to get an education.” Agreed. reminding them that their Creator Not an “Mrs. degree.” Not to find a husband or wife, despite the numloves each one of them dearly. I am a sophomore family stud- ber of amazing men and women ies major, and I was engaged this God has placed in this institution summer to my boyfriend of two- that, by His will, will find each
other. However, I have witnessed too many times precious men and women of God coming to college and being heartbroken because they are seeking their identities in a soul mate. I believe that identity should only be found in our Lord, and that we should be reminded that as the church, we are the bride of Christ. Earthly satisfaction will not be found in a soul mate. She is also correct when she voices that, as a Christian university, ACU should be promoting Christian and Biblical values. The ResLife staff members who dedicate so much of their lives to the ministry of working in the residence halls also seek to uphold these values. In no way do the decorations even suggest “Ring by Spring,” let alone encourage the idea. I would have appreciated it if the original author had confronted me about my decorations, so that I could have explained my reasoning in a less public forum. If she or anyone else would like to discuss these issues with me, I would be glad to speak with them on an individual basis.
Bradye Waddell, sophomore family studies major from Abilene Response to the letter to the editor on Sept. 1
editorial and letter policy Unsigned editorials are the opinions of the Optimist and may not necessarily reflect the views of the university or its administration. Signed columns, cartoons and letters are the opinions of their creators and may not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of the Optimist or the university. The Optimist encourages reader response through letters to the editor but reserves the right to limit frequent contributors or to refuse to print
letters containing personal attacks, obscenity, defamation, erroneous information or invasion of privacy. Please limit letters to 350 words or fewer. A name and phone number must be included for verification purposes. Phone numbers will not be published. Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79699 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu
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would never work out – but we managed to survive the entire year together and remain good friends afterward. I’ve had many wonderful memories with each of these guys, from traveling Europe together to games of beach volleyball and neck-and-neck Mario Kart races. The best part of living with them, however, was the late night conversations we had. I’ve enjoyed several of these – many lasting long into the wee hours of the morning – where we discussed everything from politics, religion, classes and, most importantly, girls. (Maybe I should have said religion was most important ... whoops.)
This is my third year at ACU, and in the past three years I’ve had three different roommates. A perfect record! Or not, depending on how you look at it. Each of my roomWoodrow m a t e s has been extraordinarily different from the others and, more importantly, from me. My first was one of the snappiest dressers on campus, and yet our room was an absolute pigsty. The second, whom I roomed with while studying abroad When I got the in Oxford, name of my new is one of dorm roommate, the the smartest guys I first thing I did was know, with a Facebook-stalk him. k n ow l e d g e and love of At the same time, differthe past that would shame many history professors. ent people have different Yet even with an incredible opinions, and we had sevaptitude for school, he still eral. Sure we got angry, inmanaged to completely sulted each other and even fail at making a box of Kraft walked out of the room a few times, but we always macaroni and cheese. I’m not going to say worked things out. While I have at times anything about my current roommate, because he has considered my roomthe power to make my life mates to be immature, self-righteous completely miserable if I obtuse, and hypocritical, I have accidentally offend him. I came to college know- always thought of them ing two other freshman as good friends I could males – a cousin and a best turn to whenever I needfriend from my church ed a listening ear. We all have someone back home. I could have roomed with either of we have to put up with: those guys, but decided a professor, a sibling, the instead to go potluck, as I next door neighbor’s yapwanted to remain amiable ping chihuahua – or a roommate. But as bad as with those two. When I got the name of they may seem at times, my new dorm roommate, I always try to remember the first thing I did was Fa- that they also have to put up with me. cebook-stalk him. After looking at his profile pictures and list contact Woodrow at mrw08a@acu.edu of interests, I thought it
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FROM SPORTS
September 10, 2010
Page 7
FOOTBALL
Preview: ACU to duel ’Hawks in Oklahoma
vs.
the Washburn game last weekend. On the offensive side big passing plays, allowing the Ichabods to stay of the ball, the Wildcats showed the progress that close in the game. “We probably tried to do coaches and fans had a bit too much with them been hoping to see since last week,” Thomsen said. last year. Mitchell Gale “Most of them are new, and completed 80 percent of helping with that commu- his passes for 247 yards nication back there should and three scores. While the stat line looks good go a long way.” The defensive backs for Gale, he knows there did create some momen- are things he will have to tum by changing inter- do better if the Wildcats ception in the first half of want to get another win. Continued from page 8
Offense With Mitchell Gale finally coming into his own last week, the Wildcats put up big numbers through the air. Gale went 24-30 for 247 yards and three touchdowns. In the Riverhawks’ win last weekend quarterback Kenny Davis threw for 180 yards but didn’t have a touchdown. Davis did have a one yard rushing TD. Advantage: Wildcats.
Defense The Wildcats faced one of the toughest offenses in the country last weekend and bent but did not break. Northeastern State University, on the other hand, let an average Tarleton State University offense gain over 400 yards last Saturday. ACU features defensive end Aston Whiteside and linebackers Kevin Washington and Courtney Lane. All three cause havoc when they are out on the field. Advantage: Wildcats.
Special Teams Both the Riverhawks and Wildcats made big plays on special teams last weekend. ACU return man Darrell Cantu-Harkless had two big returns – one for 93 yards – and gave the Wildcats great field postition all game. Riverhawks safety Nate Robinson had a 95-yard return for a touchdown and was key in their season opening win. Advantage: Push.
Coaching Wildcat head coach Chris Thomsen has been at the helm for five years now and has the trophies to prove his worth. He has led the Wildcats to a combined 30-7 record with three striaght trips to the NCAA Division II playoffs. At Northeastern State, Kenny Evans is in his third year but has been to an Orange Bowl and a Fiesta Bowl with Oklahoma University as a graduate assistant. Advantage: Wildcats.
38
Optimist Prediction
24
The Wildcats offense will prove to be too much for Northeastern State’s porous defense. Gale and Gates will have another big night, and running back Daryl Richardson will be a nice complement to help ACU cruise to victory and push their record to 2-0.
VOLLEYBALL
Travel: Capital awaits for Wildcat volleyball Continued from page 8
split their first four games and will try to get their season on track with a few wins this weekend. None of the teams the WIldcats and Kellen Mock will see this weekend are nationally-ranked, but that doesn’t mean the a’Cats will take this tournament lightly. “This tournament is a big deal for us,” said freshman Madelyn Robinett. “These games count towards our overall record and conference stadings and such.” The Dallas Baptist Lady Patriots started the season off strong, going 3-1 in their opening tournament with their only loss coming against the nationally-
ranked West Texas A&M University. The Lady Patriots lost their home opener earlier this week and now sit at 3-2 overall. The Missouri Southern State Lions will come into the St. Edward’s Invitational with a swagger in their step after starting their season 4-0, having won all four games at the Quincy University Tournament. ACU will look to douse the flames of the red-hot Lions. “We are pretty much going to have to go out there and play our game,” junior Jennie Hutt said. “Last weekend we focused on our side of the court, and this weekend we want to focus more on our opponent’s side of the court.”
The second-day nightcap will see the Wildcats take on host St. Edward’s. The Hilltoppers have already seen a big chunk of the Lone Star Conference in their four-game set last weekend, as they saw four different LSC teams and split the games with two wins and two losses. These four games will be critical for the Wildcats with conference play looming on the horizon next week. “This weekend is huge for us,” Hutt said. “Wins against regional opponents are a big deal, and we would love to come out of this weekend with four more wins.” contact Gwin at
agg07a@acu.edu
SOCCER
Road: ’Cats fight on down in San Antonio son. The Wildcats are led by goalkeeper Elliot London, Freshman midfielder Jamey who did well in her first two Coronado, who scored all games. London has one inthree of the Rattlers’ goals dividual shutout and also against Southwestern Okla- helped with a combined homa University, leads St. team shutout. The Wildcats started off Mary’s team. Coronado’s hat trick earned her Co-of- the year well in their two fensive Player of the Week opening games. Freshman honors for the Heartland Andrea Carpenter provided a great offensive spark, Conference. ACU’s defense has scoring two of the five stepped up, as they haven’t goals for the Wildcats. Jugiven up a goal this sea- nior Ashley Holton added Continued from page 8
a pair of goals for the Wildcats as well. The Wildcats were supposed to play Hardin–Simmons University on Tuesday, but the game was canceled because of the rain. A makeup game is to be rescheduled sometime next week. ACU and St. Mary’s will play in San Antonio at 4 p.m. Friday. contact Cantrell at
jrc07f@acu.edu
“I think I ran too much,” Gale said. “I know that I won’t last long if I keep doing that.” Overall, the matchups look favorable for the Wildcats at most of the positions. Edmund Gates and Mitchell Gale will need to be on the same page – just as they were last week – to give the Wildcats the win. contact Tripp at
bjt07a@acu.edu
FOOTBALL
Coach: Kiser returns to sideline as assistant Continued from page 8
valuable tool, said director of athletics Jared Mosley. “Jack’s experiences over the course of time are going to be very beneficial, not only to the program, but to our student-athletes as well. His résumé speaks for itself. He’s going to come in quickly and fit right in,” Mosley said. Head coach Chris Thomsen, who secured his first job at ACU in 1994 under Kiser’s leadership and eventually became an offensive coordinator, echoed Mosley in saying that Kiser’s experience with the clipboard will pay big dividends for ACU football.
“Jack is a seasoned, proven coach who knows what it takes to win. He’s worked at large programs such as Texas and Texas Tech and has seen it all. He knows what he’s talking about and will be a valuable tool for us,” Thomsen said. Kiser, a 1971 graduate of ACU, began his coaching career at the University of Texas, where he was the graduate assistant coach. He then moved on to high school coaching jobs in Palestine, Lockhart, and Midland. Kiser joined ACU as a volunteer coach from 1980-82. After a short break from coaching, Kiser returned to the gridiron
and landed a job at Texas Tech University in 1986, but then returned to the University of Texas as a defensive assistant in 1987. He left the Longhorns in 1991 to become the defensive coordinator at Southwest Texas State University before returning to ACU. When asked why he believed Kiser wanted to return to coaching, Thomsen commented that Jack possesses two qualities that can withstand the test of time: passion and a desire to succeed.
contact Shake at
bxs09a@acu.edu
Sports
Page 8
SOCCER
Standings
Wildcats on the road again to face St. Mary’s
FOOTBALL Team
Div.
Ovrl.
ACU Angelo St. MSU Tarleton TAMU-K WTAMU UIW ENMU E. Central
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
1-0 1-0 1-0 0-1 1-0 0-1 0-1 1-1 0-1
Ryan Cantrell
Assistant Sports Editor
VOLLEYBALL Team
Div.
ACU 0-0 WTAMU 0-0 Tarleton St. 0-0 TAMU-K 0-0 MSU 0-0 Angelo St. 0-0
Ovrl. 2-2 3-1 5-0 1-3 2-3 2-2
WOMEN’S SOCCER Team Div. Ovrl. ACU Angelo St. MSU WTAMU Cen. Okla. E. Central ENMU NE St.
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
2-0-0 1-0-1 2-0-0 2-0-0 1-1-0 2-0-0 1-1-0 1-0-1
Briefs n ACU women's soccer
game against HardinSimmons UniversityTuesday was postponed because of rain. The game date will be reevaluated this weekend and could be rescheduled for Monday of next week. n ACU football moved up in two different ranking this weekend. In the AFCA poll ACU moved up to No. 5 from No. 6 and in the D2football. com poll moved up from No. 5 to No. 4.
Player Profile n Junior
goalkeeper Elliott London has spent the past two seasons backing up Chrissy Lawson. This season, London, from Austin, has started in two games and has yet to London surrender a goal. London was named the Lone Star Keeper of the Week for her performance last weekend in leading the Wildcats to two shutout victories. She has recorded 12 saves in her two games, with eight coming against Colorado State University–Pueblo.
DANIEL GOMEZ // Staff Photographer
Goalkeeper Elliott London jumps for a save during practice.
The Wildcats will travel to San Antonio this weekend to take on the St. Mary’s University Rattlers in a non-conference match. The Wildcats will look to improve on a great start to the season, having gone 2-0 last weekend in Colorado.
Knox will start at wide receiver for the Chicago Bears this season, while former ACU teammate Danieal Manning will start at free safety. The Bears will open up its NFL season at home against the Detroit Lions.
that we are fit and ready to go this weekend,” Coach Casey Wilson said. “They are a very physical team and are going to be tough. We have to play 90 minutes with them, but I feel we have a good enough defense to play with them.” see ROAD page 7
FOOTBALL
ACU-Angelo rivalry lands Coach State Farm sponsorship comes back home
State Farm will sponsor a Kick for Cash Contest Assistant Sports Ediitor at both schools for each One of the Lone Star home game, givConference’s biggest ri- ing one participant valries will be even more the chance to win significant this season, $10,000 at every game. as State Farm Insurance home has agreed to sponsor the State Farm will rivalry football game be- also recognize tween ACU and Angelo student-athletes from each instiState University. The sponsorship will tution and will highlight this year’s Oct. make a finan30 game between the two cial contributeams. Named the “Big tion to the genCountry-Concho Valley eral scholarship Shootout,” State Farm funds in each aims to market this game university’s department of athletics. across Texas. “We are extremely excit“We have signed a contract with Abilene Chris- ed about this opportunity to tian and Angelo State for enhance the rivalry game a football rivalry game for with Angelo State and what
Ryan Cantrell
Bryson Shake
Assistant Sports Editor
fully as this relationship matures and continues over time.” This year’s game will be played at Shotwell stadium in Abilene. Angelo State has the lead in the overall series We are extremely excited with a 28-18-1 record. Howabout this opportunity to ever, ACU has had the Rams enhance the rivalry game number recently winning with Angelo State. seven of the last eight, inJARED MOSLEY// director of athletics for Abilene Christian University cluding four in a row. “We plan on having a two years,” said State Farm it is going to mean for long relationship with both marketing manager Ronnie our student-athletes, our schools, and hopefully this Lee Vandiver. “Involved with coaches and fans,” direc- thing blows up into one of that is a kick for cash at every tor of athletics Jared Mos- our bigger rivalries such as home game of Angelo State ley said. “I am extremely Texas A&M and Texas,” Vanand ACU for $10,000, mean- excited about the increase diver said. “The rivalry has ing a student could kick a we will get in visibility and been there for a long time field goal and win $10,000.” the brand recognition, hope- – we just want to give it a
‘‘ ’’ VOLLEYBALL
name to make it more exciting and more media friendly.” The State Farm sponsorship of the ACU–ASU game is the newest in a long list of great rivalry games around the country, including: the State Farm Lone Star Showdown (University of Texas vs. Texas A&M University); the DFW Duel: The Battle for the Iron Skillet (Texas Christian University vs. Southern Methodist University) and the Arch Rivalry (Missouri University vs. Illinois University).
Riverhawks loom on ACU horizon
HEATHER LEIPHART // File Photo
Senior Jordan Schilling goes for a bump in a game last year. Schilling and the rest of her Wildcat teammates will head to Austin this weekend for a tournament at St. Edwards.
’Cats head to Austin versity, Missouri Southern State University, and the Assistant Sports Editor host, St. Edward’s University. Unlike last week’s The Wildcat volleyball team tournament, the Wildcats will look to bump its record will see some familiar jerover .500 for the first time seys on the other side of this season when it travels to the net. Last year, the ’Cats Austin to participate in the played Dallas Baptist St. Edward’s Invitational. In the tournament, ACU and Southern Missouri will face off against North- State and were successwest Missouri State Uni- ful against both, shutversity, Dallas Baptist Uni- ting them out in all three
see COACH page 7
FOOTBALL
Sports Director
Austin Gwin
The ACU football coaching staff added some depth to its numbers Monday when head coach Chris Thomsen announced the addition of Jack Kiser, an assistant coach for the Wildcats who will coach the defensive line. Kiser, a household name on the ACU campus, joined his alma mater after a brief time in the business world, and will begin his second stint of coaching the purple and white. Kiser, a seasoned coach with more than 15 years of coaching experience, was under the helm for the Wildcats as head coach from 1996-1999, where he led the ’Cats to a 21-20. One factor that Kiser instantly brings to the table is coaching experience, and that is a
contact Cantrell at
jrc07f@acu.edu
Brandon Tripp
n Bernard
n Johnny
The Rattlers enter the match with a 1-1 record. After losing their opener against Northwood University 1-0, the Rattlers bounced back and defeated Southwestern Oklahoma State University 3-1. “We have been trying to clean up our game and just have been making sure
FOOTBALL
Ex-Factor Scott will open up the season as the backup to Cedric Benson on the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals open the season on the road against the New England Patriots.
September 10, 2010
match-ups 3-0. This isn’t the first time ACU has seen St. Edward’s either – in the last four years the Wildcats have played St. Edward’s three times and won all three, dropping only one game. Northwest will come in to its match-up against ACU in the same boat as the Wildcats. The Bearcats see TRAVEL page 7
After a season opening victory against the number nine team in the country, the Wildcats hit the road again this weekend – this time in an Lone Star Conference crossover game against the Northeastern State University Riverhawks. The Wildcats came away with a 34-26 against Washburn University last weekend to begin 1-0 for the third straight season. Quarterback Mitchell Gale and wide receiver Edmund Gates came up big for ACU. Northeastern pulled a surprise victory on Tarleton State University last week, beating the Texans 31-23, thanks to Nate Robinson’s 95-yard kickoff returned for a touchdown. Robinson received LSC North Special Teams Player of the Week honors for his performance against Tarleton. “In a way it surprised me, in a way it didn’t,” said head coach Chris Thomsen.
Northeastern is the only LSC North team to remain undefeated over the weekend. The Texans outgained the Riverhawks in yardage by over 200 yards, but costly turnovers gave Northeastern the edge as they sailed out to a 31-16 lead and never looked back. ACU will look to avoid the same fate as their fellow LSC South team by not looking past a dangerous Northeastern team. “We look at every team as a challenge,” said senior wide receiver Edmund Gates. “We are going to do everything in our power to win – regardless of whether they beat Tarleton or the Cowboys, we are going to do our best to win.” To get that win, ACU needs a more stifling performance than it had in the Washburn game. Last week the Wildcats’ defensive backs gave up 316 yards of passing offense and a number of see PREVIEW page 7