Sports Page 8
A big upset ACU volleyball shocks Texas Tech in Moody vol. 102, no. 7
Friday, September 13, 2013
1 SECTION, 8 PAGES
Deanna Romero Staff Photographer
Mary Melissa Keil Staff Photographer
INSIDE NEWS Freshman Follies reduces number of shows Page 3
ARTS Food trucks gain following in Abilene
Page 5 Garon goodspeed Staff Photographer
Jarred Scheutze Staff Photographer
NEWS ACU welcomes the new African Students Association to campus Page 4
OPINON The Editorial Board gives advice on how to obtain a bid
Top left: Miranda Palmer, senior nursing major from Flower Mound, talks to potential pledges at GATA’s Red, White and You rush. Top right: Seniors Kara Stutesman, convergence journalism major from Carl Junction, Mo., and Sarah Pelfrey, psychology major from Sherman, bump bellies at Zeta Rho’s Duck Dynasty rush. Bottom left: Beau Carter hits golf balls at the Sub-16 ‘Hits the Green” Rush on Wednesday. Bottom right: At the Frater Sodalis Dodgeball Rush, David Powell throws a ball at his competitor. Page 6
SPORTS Charkandrick West is motivated to make it to the NFL
Large numbers seek women social clubs Kirsten Holman Staff Reporter
Page 8
NEWS I Am Second series was invited to share during last week’s Chapel
Page 3
About 40 percent more women and about 17 percent more men plan to pledge social clubs compared to last year, according to the Office of Student Organizations and Production potentially increasing the competition among potential pledges for limited club spots in some clubs. The 325 women who have registered to pledge
Editor in chief
Our sports staff predicts the outcome for Saturday’s football game Page 7
OPINION Read Marissa Jones’ column on the big question: to pledge or not to question Page 6
SPORTS Corbin Renner wins the Charles Coody West Texas Intercollegiate at Diamondback Golf Club Page 8
ONLINE VIDEO Watch highlights from the ACU vs. McMurry football game
acuoptimist.com
number of women interested in pledging after some club-hopefuls aren’t invited back to Sigma Theta Chi and Ko Jo Khai rushes. “We don’t want anyone to drop, that is the main thing,” Jackson said. “We want girls to check out all five clubs and go to their rushes.” Jackson said if the number of female pledges remains the same, the number of pledges each women’s club can accept will likely
SOCIAL CLUBS Women’s
Men’s
Alpha Kai Omega
Frater Sodalis
GATA
Galaxy
Ko Jo Kai
Gamma Sigma Phi
Sigma Theta Chi
Pi Kappa
Zeta Rho
Sub T-16 Trojans
see clubs pagE 4
Retention, graduation rates at all-time high Marissa Jones
SPORTS
this year is almost 100 more than those who registered in 2012. And so far, 133 men have registered to pledge, surpassing last year’s number by 20, and that number is expected to increase over the next few weeks. Those increases in interest, particularly among women, likely will force social clubs will have to adjustments, said Mark Jackson, associate director of student organizations and programs. However, Jackson does anticipate a drop in the
The university’s freshman-to-sophomore retention rate and five-year graduation rate is the highest in ACU history, barely missing a goal made five years ago. Kevin Campbell, chief enrollment officer, said 79.4 percent of last year’s freshman returned this semester compared to 75.1 percent the year before. This year’s percentage was .6 percentage points below the goal of 80 percent set five years ago. Looking back at the 2008 class, the five-year
graduation rate is 60 perWith 1030 students, building on last year’s incent, meeting the goal set the incoming class also crease of 11 percent. Total by the university. increased by 7.6 percent, enrollment is 4,461 students compared to last year’s 4,367. Campell attributes the continued rise in student enrollment to ACU’s increasing prominence as a quality and unique institution. “ACU provides a distinct education,” Campbell said. “We combine exceptional academics in a faith based setting. Very few schools accomplish that, and our story is getting told by more people.” This year’s incoming class is also the most ethnically diverse class ACU has seen. Thirty-seven
percent of freshman are ethnic minorities, topping last year’s record-breaking percentage. “We’ve been working very diligently on diversity the last couple of years, so we’re very excited to see that we’re actually making progress,” Campbell said. More than half of college students in Texas are ethnic minorities, and ACU historically has been 30 percent below the state’s average. Campbell said the enrollment office has increased its focus on potential students’ performance in high school when looksee Rates page 4
Summit dicusses faith through the fine arts Brittany Jackson Copy editor Summit has enriched its conference through multiple artistic class sessions, activities and coffeehouses. The art and faith track of Summit was created to help attendees understand how art can affect and influence individual and worldly faith. Dr. Brady Bryce, director of ministry events, said he is looking forward to what these activities will bring to the students and attendees. “I really love providing something that people are able to come to for free and have so many options that allows them to be around
different kinds of people,” Bryce said, “and be exposed to ideas that challenge them and stretch them past a comfortable faith into a really transforming faith.” Multiple concerts are scheduled in the evenings throughout the week. Those performers include the Acappella, The Brilliance and The Hemingways. Acappella is a contemporary Christian musical group consisting of all-male performers. Founded in 1982 by Keith Lancaster, the group has gone through many members and has increased its popularity through vocal experimentation over the past three decades. They will perform this Sunday at 8:30
p.m. in the Fulks Theatre of the Williams Performing Arts Center. The Brilliance is a relatively new Christian band. They have opened for Gungor and their popularity is on the rise. They use complex instruments to produce simple music with a Christian message. The performance will be at 8 p.m. Monday in the WPAC’s Recital Hall. The Hemingways, who have an acoustic sound, will perform 8:30 p.m. Tuesday at Chapel on the Hill. The lead singer and guitar player is Amy McLaughlin-Sheasby, a graduate student here at ACU. Bryce said that this year is the Students’ Association
Abilene Christian University
first year to fully fund one of the concerts. They chose The Brilliance as their debuting band. Dylan Benac, president of Students’ Association, said that SA has helped in the decision of bands for Summit for many years. The officers are responsible for figuring out the expenses and booking the bands. “The Brilliance came up as something that was both reasonable and also really exciting,” Benac said. “They’re an up and coming band that we felt was going to provide something for the students and the people that attend summit as well, the adults.” In an attempt to portray tactile and aesthetic expres-
sions of faith, Summit is bringing in Nancy Harbron, an active potter and creator of The Peaceful Pottery Ministry. She will show off her ceramic talents while simultaneously connecting the art of pottery to a relationship with God. Her presentation consists of three parts that will take place throughout the week. All three sessions, God Prepares Us, God Shapes Us and God Finishes Us, are at 4-4:45 p.m. MondayWednesday in room 117 of the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building. contact Jackson at bkj12a@acu.edu
friday 09.13.13
13 friday
14 4:30 p.m. VB at Northern Arizona University 12 a.m. Midnight Worship at UBC
saturday
15
sunday
11 a.m. Freshmen Follies 1:30 p.m. Freshmen Folliles
16
7 p.m. Summit Begins with Jonathan Storment
monday
7 p.m. Ko Jo Kai Rush 7 p.m. Sigma Theta Chi Rush
8:30 Opera- A New Nation
7 p.m. Sub T-16 Rush
3:30 p.m. Freshmen Follies
7 p.m. Trojans Rush
6 p.m. FB vs. New Mexico Highlands University
9 p.m. Alpha Kai Omega Rush
Announcements
Chapel checkup To date:
2
Remaining:
19 81 @acuoptimist The Optimist
Join Scope Film Interest Group for a screening of Road to Perdition, followed by critical discussion at 8 p.m. on Sept. 13 in the Honors College Living Room in Zellner. The Crossings Cafe is having its grand opening Sept. 16. It is now serving kolaches, donuts, and more! Follow the cafe on Facebook or Twitter for the chance to win daily prizes.
Students interested in step are invited to audition for the Shades Step Squad. Auditions will be 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Sept. 2327 in Room 103 of the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building.
The ACU Swing Cats host their annual event Fall Stomp featuring the ACU Jazz Band on Oct. 4th in the Elks Ballroom. Admission is free and there will be beginner dance lessons!
Students interested in buying used computers for a great price are invited to attend the ACU Computer Auction at 1 p.m. on Sept. 28 in Cullen Auditorium.
The ACU Theatre is now selling tickets for the homecoming musical Les Miserables. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Oct. 18-19 and 2 p.m. Oct. 20. Tickets may be purchased online at acu.edu/ theatre or at the box office 1-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.
The deadline to register for men’s pledging is 12 a.m. Sept. 22.
optimist@acu.edu
Coming to ACU this fall is the Jeremiah Project. For more information, contact Kaitlin Pegoda at kep10d@acu.edu The Sing Song Host and Hostess Auditions will be Oct. 7 and 8. Students interested in joining a League of Legends team with other ACU students are encouraged to email dla10a@ acu.edu for more information.
Police Log Police log SELECTED ACUPD CALLS FOR THE WEEK 09/04/2013 5:10 p.m. A concerned parent feared daughter was missing. Officers determined missing student had been arrested earlier and was in Taylor County Jail. 09/06/2013 5:30 p.m. Desk clerk reported suspicious elderly man trying to enter McDonald Residence Hall. The man was using the Lundsford Trail and was in need of a restroom. 09/07/2013 2:50 p.m. ACUPD responded to a student found to in possession of marijuana in Nelson Hall. Investigation continuing, case pending. 09/08/2013 1:00 a.m. ACUPD responded to a noise complaint on the 400 block of College. The tenant was warned and he terminated the party. 09/08/2013 2:10 p.m. ACUPD investigated a report of a hit and run accident in the SIkes Hall parking lot. No suspect information known.
911 CALL 2 ABANDONED VEHICLE 1 ACCIDENT 3 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITY 6 ALARM 2 ALCOHOL INCIDENT 1 ANIMAL CALL 1 ASSIST 4 ATTEMPT TO LOCATE 1 BARRICADES 3 BICYCLE/SKATEBOARD CALL 1
Weekly Stats For Week of Sept.3-Sept.10, 2013- Total Events:295 BUILDING LOCK/UNLOCK 20 MENTAL HEALTH CONCERN 1 BURGLARY (MOTOR VEHICLE) 1 MOTORIST ASSIST: INFLATE TIRE 1 CHECK BUILDING 122 MOTORIST ASSIST: JUMPSTART6 CITATION ISSUANCE 1 MOTORIST ASSIST: UNLOCK 9 CRIMINAL TRESPASS MISCHIEF 1 NOISE VIOLATION 1 DRUG ACTIVITY/OFFENSE 1 PARKING VIOLATION 9 FINGERPRINTING SERVICE 2 PATROL VEHICLE: REFUEL 9 HIT AND RUN 1 PROWLER 1 INTOXICATED PERSON 1 RANDOM PATROL 20 INVESTIGATION FOLLOW UP 3 REPORT WRITING 7 MEDICAL EMERGENCY 4 SUICIDE (ATT AND ACTUAL) 1
SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY 1 SUSPICIOUS PERSON 4 TRAFFIC STOP 3 Police Tip of the Week: Help ACUPD increase the odds of your stolen property being recovered: Keep a record of all brand/model names and serial numbers to valuables such as laptops, iPads, Xbox, bicycles, etc.
Volunteer Opp0rtunities Alliance for Women and Children is seeking volunteers to care for children weekdays from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. To learn more contact Toni Brown at 325677-5321 or info@afwconline.org. The Center for Contemporary Arts needs volunteers to greet patrons, answer questions about the gallery and answer phones. Volunteer opportunities are avaliable Tuesday-Friday between 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and the second Thursday of every month for Artwalk from 5 p.m.8:30 p.m. For more information contact Jennifer Parks at 325-677-8389. The Noah Project is seeking volunteers to help with tasks such as answering phone calls, providing child care and doing maintenance and housekeeping. To volunteer, call 325-676-7107. Love and Care Ministries is looking for volunteers to help with sorting clothing, stocking their food pantry, assisting in prayers in their prayer room and serving food to the homeless. For more information, call 325-670-0246. Volunteers are needed at the BCFS Abilene Transition Center for event planning and setup, assisting in teaching life-skills classes, accompanying transport, visiting homes and/or assisting in construction of facilities for assisting in the betterment of male and female youth ages 15-25. This opportunity is open each morning Mondays through Fridays. Students interested must contact Johnny Nguyen at 325-692-0033 or jnguyen@bcfs.net. The Betty Hardwick Center is seeking volunteers for the Human Resources Center to help with filing and organizing. This job requires someone with attention to detail who wishes to learn more about Human Resources. The job is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. If you are interested, please contact Martin Walker at 325-6905235 or mwalker@bhcmhmr.org.
House of Faith is an organization that seeks to take Jesus to neighborhood children. Volunteers are needed to help with the various programs they do throughout the week. Backyard Bible studies are hosted Mondays and Wednesdays and a youth program takes place on Thursday evenings. The organization is seeking volunteers who can commit to a specific day a week. House of Faith lasts from 3-5:30 p.m. To volunteer or gain more information, contact Amy Jeffers at abj09a@acu.edu or call 832-331-5324. The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers for a variety of needs such as helping in the kitchen and/or doing yard work. Times are flexible and volunteers are needed Monday-Saturday. For more information contact J.D. Alonzo at 325-677-1408. Meals on Wheels Plus needs volunteer drivers to deliver afternoon meals to seniors and adults with disabilities Monday-Friday between 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Training is provided. For more information contact Samantha Barker at 352-672-5050 or visit http://mealsonwheelsplus.com. Rescue the Animals is seeking volunteers to work at the adoption center performing a variety of tasks, from playing with the animals to working in the office. For more information visit their website at http:// www.rescuetheanimals.org/volunteer. The National Center For Children’s Illustrated Literature is looking for volunteers to greet patrons, assist with art activities, sell books and make visitors feel welcome. Help is also needed for special events like Artwalk and exhibit openings. The NCCIL is located at 102 Cedar St. For more information on times and dates contact Debby Lillick at 325673-4586 or visit http://www.nccil.org/ index.htm.
The Center for International Education is looking for English speaking students to be paired with international students for English practice, conversation and cultural learning. Partners meet for one hour each week at a time and place determined by their partners. To volunteer contact Laura McGregor at laura.mcgregor@acu.edu. Volunteers are needed to help with daily activities organized by the staff at Chisholm House. This could involve playing board games, doing arts and crafts and helping with a walking club. For some of these tasks, volunteers may be asked to lead a group or work along side a staff coordinator. Volunteer opportunities are from 2-4 p.m. or 6-8 p.m. daily. Contact Larissa Blankenship at 817-578-9296. The International Rescue Committee is seeking volunteers to work with refugees who recently moved to the U.S. by teaching English, helping with homework and mentoring. Contact Susanna Lubango to make an appointment at 325-675-5643. The Christian Service Center is seeking volunteers to help with filling requests for items such as clothing and bedding from the donation center, sorting and organizing donations and occasionally picking up donated items. Volunteers are needed every weekday and the first Saturday of each month between 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1 p.m.-4 p.m. For more information contact Roberta Brown at 325-673-7561 orrobertabrown51@hotmail.com. For more information on the program visit http://www.uccabilene.org/ministries/csc. htm. The Food Bank of West Central Texas needs volunteers to help sort and stock food and other items Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. The Food Bank is located at 5505 N. 1st St. For more information contact Janice Serrault at 325-695-6311 or abfoodbk@camalott.com.
Eternal Threads is seeking volunteers to help with packing and organizing shipments, labeling products, running errands and cleaning any weekday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information contact Pam Early at 325-672-6000 or pam@eternalthreads.com. Christian Homes & Family Services is seeking volunteers to do minor landscaping such as raking, trimming bushes, minor apartment repairs and general upkeep Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information contact Shaylee Honey at 325-6772205 or Shoney@ChristianHomes.com. Big Brothers/Big Sisters offers two volunteer programs. Lunch Buddies pairs volunteers with a little brother or sister to have lunch with once a week for 30 minutes. Lunch Buddies has a preferred time of 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The Community Based program pairs volunteers with a little brother or sister that they will hang out with two to four times a month. Both programs require committment to the program for 12-18 months. To sign up stop by the Big Brothers/Big Sisters office at 547 Chestnut St. or contact Randy Woods at 325-674-3102. Pregnancy Resources of Abilene is looking for volunteers to perform tasks such as help at the front desk, answer phone calls, teach sexual integrity classes and silent witnessing for STDs and ultrasounds. For more information contact Mary Bone at 325-672-6415. The Abilene Zoo is looking for volunteers to help with general labor such as grounds cleanup and painting any weekday at any time between 12 p.m.-4 p.m. The Zoo is located at 2070 Zoo Ln. Contact Joy Harsh at 325-6766487 for more information. For additional volunteer opportunities visit: www.acu.edu/campusoffices/ccsl/ ministry-service/volunteer-opportunities/
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news
friday 09.13.13
I Am Second series shares with campus Kirsten Holman Staff Reporter I Am Second aimed to leave an enormous impact on the ACU campus through the testimonies that were shared during Chapel this week. Guest speaker Lisa Luby Ryan and the coordinators in the Chapel office hope to bring I Am Second back next year. The guest speakers included former U.S. Army Ranger Chris Plekenpol, artist Marc Eckel who introduced students to “The Splat Experience,” entrepreneur Lisa Luby Ryan, former U.S. Navy Seal Remi Adeleke, hip hop artist Cliff Watkins and ACU student Ryan Flores. Dallas resident Lisa Luby Ryan has many strong connections to ACU, including her son Casey Luby who graduated from ACU in 2012. Ryan was the first to reach out to ACU and ask if I Am Second could speak in Chapel. “Lisa Luby Ryan has been a friend of ACU for many years,” said Mark Lewis, assistant dean for spiritual life and Chapel programs. “She was in conversation with both our president and our former vice president for advancement, Phil Boone, a few years back about the
idea of having I Am Second. There were some on and off conversations, and then a year ago this past summer is when we all decided, lets do this.” Ryan, along with the other I Am Second participants have shared their testimonies with many people and have made an impact with their turbulent, but redemptive stories. “The very first time I gave my testimony for Council for Life, a friend told me about a new ministry that had just launched called, I Am Second. I had a hunger to share my story so others would learn from me, that they would know they weren’t alone,” said Ryan. “I want everyone to know they too can have an abundant Life even with a story. I Am Second has been an amazing tool to reach out to so many who need to hear they are not alone, there is hope, redemption, and that they are loved despite their situation. Sharing my story on I Am Second has given me the opportunity to reach so many throughout the world that otherwise would never hear God’s Grace.” Lewis said he enjoyed seeing students come up to the speakers after Chapel to talk with them. “Lisa had quite a few
very tender, tear-filled conversations with students both here after Chapel and over in the campus center,” said Lewis. “We didn’t even get into eat until nearly 1:00 p.m. but she was willing to be there just to talk with them.” Lisa Luby Ryan connected with many students after Chapel and during Chapel as well. Lewis said, “Some folks have a very strong connection with her story because they have similar stories and some folks may not have a specific, direct connection but still they have heard her story of great brokenness and through the power of the Holy God, there has been restoration and there is hope in that and people just want to connect with that. It’s beautiful.” The other I Am Second speakers also encouraged hope and restoration through their testimonies this week. Marc Eckel who brought “The Splat Experience” painting demonstration to chapel also made a lasting impression. “When we took the painting off of the frame, the paint had bled through and there was a second image,” said Lewis. “Physical resources was just going to throw away the wood but
Paige otway Staff Photographer
Lisa Luby Ryan speaks in Moody Coliseum as a part of the “I Am Second” chapel series. after they saw what came through it, they thought, ‘we can’t throw that away.’” The painting will be donated to ACU and will be kept downstairs in the Campus Center. The plan is to put it at the bottom of the center stairwell with a description of how it was created so that students can enjoy it. Lewis and other coordinators hope to invite I Am Second back again. “Our hope and prayer is that we do this again soon,” said Lewis. “It’s just so freeing to hear
people’s honest life stories. My hope would be that it would help us as a community to be able to be that honest and open and know that in the body of Christ it should be safe and when you unburden you are set free.” Lisa Luby Ryan leaves students with a few words of hope and encouragement. “We all make choices we shouldn’t make, but we have to remember God still loves us, he will never forsake us or leave us,” said Ryan. “A huge revelation for me was when I realized that
I was the one that separated myself from God. God never separated himself from me. I still constantly tell myself, ‘God you didn’t lead me to the desert to abandon me, I know you have a plan and I am going to trust you’ I would also say that God loves you so much that if we let Him, he will meet us right where we are no matter what the circumstance is. We just have to ask.”
contact Homan at keh09c@acu.edu
Freshmen Follies adjusts show times around Saturday’s football game rachel fritz staff reporter This year, Freshman Follies will have three showtimes as opposed to the usual four. Hopefully, this will make it easier for students and parents to utilize their time more effectively. Freshmen perform in Freshman Follies during Family Weekend each year. In past years, there has
been one show on Friday night and three more the following Saturday. Tom Craig, director of Student Activities and Productions, decided to change it this year. “We looked at making the change internally because we wanted students to be able to participate in as many activities as possible,” Craig said. “It will allow them to do more during the weekend and the
same goes for parents.” Last year, students participating in Freshman Follies were not able to attend the football game because of conflicting times, but this year students will be able to participate in, attend and finish the show in time to attend the football game. Family members and guests who come to watch the show should also benefit from the change. Show-
times will be at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Saturday. “There will be no show on Friday because most of the audience is available to go to the Saturday shows,” Craig said. Last year, students who participated in the show had limited time to spend with family and friends who came to watch the show because of the show schedule.
Amy Sloan, sophomore advertising and public relations major from Houston, was a co-chair for Follies last year. “I saw my parents during the nights of the shows and at lunch,” Sloan said. “I think it will be easier for students to see their families on Friday because there is no show, but not on Saturday.” Showtimes are not the only thing that has
changed this year, though. Instead of four co-chairs there are now five. Cullen Auditorium received a makeover too, due to the summer flooding. Sloan said the new stage and fresh paint job will help add to to the student’s experience of Follies.
contact Fritz at @acu.edu
news
friday 09.13.13
4
Summit sessions include coffee house style forums melany cox online managing editor Three coffee houses will take place next week as part of ACU’s annual Summit. They will meet Sunday, Monday and Tuesday from 8:30 - 9:30 p.m. in the Brown Library Commons. Coffee houses are in-
teractive discussions centered around topics involving faith and theology. Dr. Brady Bryce, director of ministry events, said the intention of coffee houses is to be a neutral space to talk about areas where faith and culture overlap. The first coffee house, “Beyond the Barricade:
Exploring the Theology of ‘Les Miserables,’” will take place Sunday night and will be led by Dr. Richard Beck, professor of psychology. The conversation will focus on the theology found in the classic musical and the film. Monday night’s coffee house will be led by Dr. Steven Moore, assistant pro-
fessor of English. The conversation, “On the Edge: Protest Prose and Poetry,” will feature prose and poetry from different writers addressing social issues and today’s controversies. During the session, the audience will have a chance to share their thoughts and questions. The final coffee house
will take place Tuesday night and will be led by Jerry Hendrix, founder of Monks Coffee Shop. The conversation is titled “The Gospel According to Monks Coffee Shop: Nurturing Faith Through Serving Coffee.” Hendrix will discuss his ministry in the Abilene mission field. Bryce said one of the
purposes of the coffee houses is to get college students and church leaders involved in the same conversation. “I think we have a lot to learn from all age groups,” he said. contact Cox at mkc09b@acu.edu
Students from Africa create new OME organization istry major from Freetown, Sierra Leone [West Africa], was elected president of the ASA. He had an idea for the orgaAfrican Student’s Associa- nization at the end of the fall tion is now an official student 2012 semester. group at ACU and meetings “Our main goal is to help began this fall. each other nourish our idenAbout 20 students met last tity here on campus - to reApril to elect officers and plan member and celebrate our for the upcoming year. culture,” said Yoon. “We want Soo Hun Yoon, biochem- to be a family, because our
James eldred
student reporter
culture is centered around a family that’s there for each other.” Yoon said the ASA also wants to share that familycentered culture with the greater student population. “At the same time, we want to raise awareness of our cultures and the different things that are going on in Africa.” Byron Martin, director
of multicultural enrichment and support., said the ASA plans to extend its reach beyond ACU students. “Abilene has a large African refugee population,” he said. “The ASA is in the process of partnering with some other institutions for some large-scale tutoring in the school districts.” Yoon said membership
is not exclusive to students from Africa. Anyone interested is welcome to join. “If you’re just interested in the ASA, or you’re learning about the different cultures, or if you’re getting ready to go abroad and you want to know more of our culture, we’re open to that,” he said. Upcoming events include the ASA chama, or barbecue,
and an African Awareness Week scheduled for the end of November. “It’s the events, it’s the awareness, it’s the community. It’s all that rolled into one,” Martin said.
contact eldred at jfe11a@acu.edu
Clubs: Sophomores show more interest in clubs from page 1 increase across the board. He said each woman should have a back-up club because, with the increase of pledging numbers, she will have a 1-in-6 shot of getting into her first choice. “We’ve seen a lot of second choices become a great fit for them, and it’s exactly where God wants them, and they didn’t maybe see that at the beginning but
they see it now,” he said. “We have had individuals who have gotten their second choice that have become officers and even presidents.” For the first time ever, women pledges were allowed to text in questions at the Tuesday night pledging information meeting. Questions came up about the cost of pledging and curfew as well as why each
club must limit the number of pledges admitted every year. Jackson said an unlimited number of pledges would create issues with activities such as intramurals and Sing Song. One of the reasons they keep a strict number on acceptances is to keep equal involvement in campus activities. Some sophomores have embraced the situation
and are feeling blessed by the community this large pledge class provides. Cassie White, sophomore family studies major from Abilene, registered to pledge and shares the same view as many of her fellow rushes. “I’m not going to lie, it is pretty intimidating to know that you’re rushing with 325 other girls, but it is so exciting to be a part
of this whole process,” said White. “I’ve loved rushing so far, from meeting new people to making all of the costumes and just the idea of getting to be a part of one of the social clubs here is so exciting.” Women will rank the clubs from 8:30-11 a.m. and noon-5 p.m. Wednesday in the Students Association office. They will also rank the clubs again on Sept. 25.
Women’s call night, otherwise known as acceptance night, will be 5:00 p.m. Sept. 26 in Hart Auditorium. The men will receive their bids under their dorm doors if they live on campus, those living off campus will need to pick up their bids in the Campus Center. contact Holman at keh09c@acu.edu
Rates: Freshman class increases number of students from page 1 ing at admissions and scholarships rather than ACT and SAT scores. Ethnic minorities are one group that has benefitted from this change, he said. As a consequence, this
freshman class’ ACT and SAT scores have decreased compared to last year’s. “The primary reason we’ve changed our emphasis is we’ve seen that high school grades are more predictive of how students
are succeeding at ACU,” Campbell said. “So we’ve put more emphasis on that than on ACT scores.” The number of graduate students has dropped slightly to 734 from last year’s 741.
ACU received 27 more transfer students than last year, a trend Campbell said the enrollment office wants to continue. “We’re hoping there are some opportunities for us to increase the number of
transfer students we are bringing in,” Campbell said. “Over the next couple of years there will be a stronger emphasis on growing our transfer population.” Campbell said enrollment’s current goal is to
maintain the number of new students and continue to gain higher retention rates. contact Jones at mnj10a@acu.edu
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arts
friday 09.13.13
This Week Friday, September 13 Paramount Film Series presents “Out of Africa” at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5. studets. Brad Sanders performs at Mezamiz. Saturday, September 14 Freshman Follies in Cullen Auditorium 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30p.m Paramount Film Series presents “Out of Africa” at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 for students. Stevie G. performs at Mezamiz. Sunday, September 15 Menopause the Musical at the Abilene Civic Center. Tickets range from $37$62. Show starts at 3:00 Benevolent Music Corporation presents “A New Nation” 8:30 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre. The first 1,000 tickets are free. Monday, September 16 Benevolent Music Corporation presents “A New Nation” 8:30 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre. The first 1,000 tickets are free.
Deanna Romera Chieff Photographer
Downtown Abilene takes part in the street food trend by inviting food trucks to serve their cuisines at ArtWalk.
KEEP ON TRUCKING Food trucks creating community alikay wood Arts editor
Nothing is more valuable in our culture than time and businesses are adapting to offer customers unique experiences in a timely manner. One of the ways Abilene is striving to achieve this goal is through mobile food units, otherwise known as food trucks. The food truck trend has been steadily sweeping across the country for several years and is just hitting its stride in Abilene. Joel Trueblood, the head chef of Gypsy Blu, a local food truck that is tied to Bonterra Blu believes that with the growing popularity of food trucks, America is joining a long lasting global movement.
“Street food happens all over the world,” Trueblood said. “It just took a little while for America to catch on.” One of the most popular food trucks in town is The Smokery, a barbecue truck run by Anna and Garrett Risley who graduated from Hardin Simmons University in 2009. “Being mobile was the best option for us,” Anna said. “We liked the idea of being able to follow the fun.” Eating at a food truck doesn’t mean customers lose out on the dining experience. The Risley’s usually set up tables at their locations and team up weekly with Big Country Coffee Co. and The Winery at Willow Creek to enhance the eating experience with an artistic atmosphere. Trueblood has a similar approach to his business. He strives
to provide a unique dining experience in conjunction with quality food. He calls Gypsy Blu a mobile food circus as opposed to a mobile food unit. Food trucks are especially unique in a small town like Abilene where they are just now becoming popular. Gypsy Blu was started in conjunction with a restaurant and catering business. The restaurant has since closed but Gypsy Blu, with its smattering of Southwest cuisine, continues to bring in business and provide Trueblood with a creative outlet. Food trucks are an especially relevant trend for college students. College kids are a little more experimental in their approach to life,” Trueblood said. “Their natural instinct is to try something different and food trucks
are a great opportunity for college kids to start experimenting with food.” Anna Risley adds that food trucks are unique because they provide an opportunity for customers to be actively involved in their communities. But, like any aspect of community, the food trucks will disappear without support. “Abilene’s behind the curve on everything but especially food,” Trueblood said. “We’re just trying to make a living. Support is the biggest part.” Students can stay up to date on where The Smokery and Gypsy Blu will be next by following them on Facebook and Twitter. contact wood at arts@acu.edu
“Living Letters” with Broadway performer Stephen Trafton. Q&A to follow. 8:30 p.m. in Fulks Theater. Free admission.
OUT
NOW Movies
contact Wood At akw10a@acu.edu
Insidious Chapter 2
RESTAURANT REVIEW
Abilene’s Asian food to Thai for Richard Lyne Arts reporter All along South 1st St. students looking for an oriental culinary experience might feel overwhelmed by the barrage of restaurants. With a little patience, however, it’s not long before Ann’s Thai Kitchen pops up at 3309 South 1st St. . For those who long to escape the Bean on a Friday night but don’t want to subject their stomachs to burgers, Ann’s is little short of a godsend. Departing from the stereotypical Asian fare of fried rice and noodles, Thai food consists mainly of creamy curry dishes. Much like Indian cuisine, a typical Thai dish found here is a succulent sort of stew with the consistency of white gravy and flavored with coconut, tomato, spices, herbs and any number of other addictive tastes. The guest can choose from chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, vegetables and other dishes, that are usually served alongside a generous mound of rice. What should a first time visitor
consider having? One might begin with authentic Thai Iced Tea, a chilled Asian tea mixed with milk and sugar that tastes more like a gourmet coffee house drink than typical Texan iced tea. Students who frequent Ann’s recommend trying the Panang Curry, a richly flavorful classic that mixes coconut, coriander and other enticing ingredients. Diners are given the chance to determine the spiciness of their meal, choosing three out of five stars allows plenty of the intrigue without scorching the taste buds. If there’s time to spare afterwards, visitors can order a bottomless pot of steaming Jasmine Tea, a wonderfully fragrant and subtle beverage that will appeal even to non-tea-lovers. Regardless of how much experience a student has with Asian food, even first-timers can treat themselves to some delicious variety. Ann’s Thai Kitchen is refreshingly tasty, authentic and cultured, it is sure to please newcomers and connoisseurs alike. contact the optimist at arts@acu.edu
AM
The Family
Music
Leslie Lewis Staff Photographer
Ann’s Thai Kitchen offers a variety of Asian dishes.
The Verdict Go! Ann’s is a great option for students looking to expand their palates and experience a new culture. The food is delicious and the prices are reasonable.
Arctic Monkeys AM
Opinion
Friday 09.13.13
6
editorial
Rushing season: The hunt for the bid the issue As pledging rapidly approaches, hundreds of students are participating in the rushing process.
our take There are several steps rushes can take to increase their chances of getting a bid.
Fewer topics receive as much discussion among ACU students as social clubs. Love them or hate them, the fact is it’s rushing season and hundreds of sophomores, juniors and even a few seniors are fighting for a spot in club. Rushing is an opportunity for students to get to know the various clubs and de-
cide which one they want to pledge. Those selected will spend five weeks pledging and then be initiated as members. In order for any of this to happen, however, rushes must first get the all-important bid. A bid is the invite rushes receive to pledge a club. Each club is limited in the
number of bids they are allowed to extend. The most important thing a rush can do to ensure their place in a club is to have a relative in their club of choice. If a rush does not have an immediate relation it is highly advisable to find a distant cousin or, in extreme cases, name drop club members who are, “like your sister.” Save room for dessert, especially Oreo balls. Rushing is all about food and demonstrating an impressive appetite is important. With that in mind, bring mints. No one wants to be remem-
bered as the “peanut butter breath guy.” Facebook friend request every club member you have ever heard of.
Facebook does not equal a friendship in reality. Know who the club’s officers are. It won’t look good when someone asks if you have met the It’s important to remember president and the only reidentity is found in Christ sponse you can come up with is, “Who?”. and a strong sense of Rushes should reself...” member that rushing is a lot like dating. At some point you have to define the relationship and become exclusive. Be careful playing hard to get, because there are plenty of other fish in the sea. The importance of this Obviously, rushstep cannot be overstat- ing and pledging are all ed. However, it should be about God. So rushes noted that a friendship on should get themselves
“
DAILY doodle dosage
Ben Todd
right with God before Bid Night. Seriously though, if God isn’t involved, club is pointless. It’s important to remember identity is found in Christ and a strong sense of self, not belonging to a certain social club. Prayer puts everything in perspective. Behind all the politics and parties, club is about community. Clubs should be chosen based off of experience and genuine relationships, not stereotypes or the inf luence of other people. contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu
column
Does God get to vote? THE ORRACLE MADELINE ORR MANAGING EDITOR
God sits back in his throne-shaped cloud and sighs as he closes his MacBook. “Man, I’ve got to get off Facebook. There’s no way I’ll remember all their names by Wednesday’s vote, anyway.” God has had a busy week. ACU students have all been requesting that he put them in the club that he thinks they belong in. Talk about pressure. “Seriously do they think I am some kind of Sorting Hat?” he grumbles as he accidentally knocks over a bucket of lighting bolts.
“
column
It’s OK not to pledge, I promise THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID
MARISSA JONES EDITOR IN CHIEF
Small talk is hard. I’ve never been good at it. When I’m at a loss for how to continue a conversation, I usually just make an excuse to awkwardly walk away - or maybe run. From early on, I’ve understood joining a social club was not for me. I went to the All-Club Rush my sophomore year. I walked away positive joining a social club was not for me. It’s almost impressive how much small talk was crammed into such a short amount of time. It might have been my nightmare;
swarms of upperclassmen surrounding me and continuously passing me to another person for more small talk. Now, I understand that the All-Club Rush is an unfair way to judge social clubs. It’s awkward for everyone involved, and it was not my final determining factor of the big question: to pledge or not pledge? But it was clear to me that certain parts of my personality (my need to compare myself to others, my slight rebellion of being labeled, my
distaste of crowds) didn’t line up with pledging. I knew myself, and I knew joining a social club would cause me to focus an unhealthy amount of time on myself and would generate a large amount of worry. It didn’t seem worth it. I remember as more of my friends decided to pledge, I began feeling less sure of my decision not to. It wasn’t long before my unwieldy imagination created a future where all of my friends had new friends and I was left with none. This wasn’t true at all, however. I actually had a good number of friends not pledging. So I stuck to my guns. I decided not to pledge. I did it realizing I might regret not being in a club and feel left out sometimes. A year later, I still don’t regret it, and my
friends who did pledge don’t regret it. Pledging isn’t for everyone. It is good for a lot of people, but if you know that being in a social club isn’t for you, don’t force yourself because you think it’ll be good for you or make you more likable. The majority of the school is not in a social club. Seventy-five percent of girls are not in a social club, and seventysix percent of guys aren’t either. They still have friends and are still able to have fun. And if you’re worried about having too much free time if you don’t pledge, come join the Optimist. We’ll give you plenty to do.
...be careful not to think that God is the one handing out bids on call night. Doing so only dilutes his holiness.”
Okay, I realize some people think that putting words in God’s mouth can quickly become sacrilegious. There are entire books written on the ideas of God’s discernment and free will and theories of the like that I have absolutely no authority to discuss. But I am in a social club so I feel that I do have a place to speak when it comes to the practice of creeping on Facebook and narrowing down a list of names every year around rushing season.
contact Jones at MNJ10a@acu.edu
Along with these decisions come certain phrases that members and hopeful pledges alike casually toss around. Phrases like, “I hope God puts me in the club he wants me in,” or “I just pray that the Lord chooses the girls he wants in our club.” And not to disagree with the belief that God cares about who you are surrounding yourself with or that he chooses times and places for certain relationships, but when I hear those phrases I just can’t help but think, God isn’t the one voting. Perhaps God doesn’t actually care to vote. Yes, pray to God for wisdom when looking for new members. Yes, ask for this odd ACU-specific system of communities to be led by the Spirit. But be careful not to think that God is the one handing out bids on call night. Doing so only dilutes his holiness. It cheapens the discernment he offers us. It is assuming that God is making decisions that are actually made by a room full of sleep-deprived twentysomething-year-olds. Whether you are in a club, you want to be in a club, or you don’t have any desire to find out what “Bid Night” actually means, continue to seek God’s guidance. But do not use his wisdom to justify giving or not giving someone a bid.
contact ORR at MCO10B@acu.edu
hashtagACU Sept. 10 11:42 p.m.
Sometimes the names of people in the Old Testament remind me of Pokemon. #MelchizedekIChooseYou #BibleMajorProbz #MyLife #butreally
Sept. 10 10:25 p.m. Sept. 12 11:17 a.m.
Once again we’ve got that ACU swag in chapel.. #justlikedrake
@phoebehead
@lwk1993
Sept. 11 12:59 p.m.
Sept. 10 4:05 p.m.
Whoever’s idea it was to only put restrooms on the 1st and 3rd floor. Not. Cool. @ACUProbs @acuoptimist
@iFollowJesus__
A freshman just raised her hand, interrupting Dr. Beck... to tell him he had a typo in the previous slide. #no #acudifference
@darbyrich
Sept. 12 11:10 a.m.
Rapper in chapel worship. Thank you.
@tr3ys0ngz15
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.
STOP MAKING OUT IN THE LOBBY. THIS IS MY HOUSE TOO.
@HollyG_6
@megankateteel
Shout out to all my friends that go to Texas Tech. ACU just beat y’all in volleyball today... So this is really awkward
@laurpay
Sept. 11 10:34 a.m. Sept. 10 11:51 p.m.
To the couple making out on top of the coba building: ...why
@t_money754
published by the department of journalism and mass communication editorial and management board
Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79609 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu
Sept. 11 2:28 p.m.
Sept. 10 12:55 p.m.
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
Sept. 10 10:39 p.m.
Shout out to all the woo girls doing their thing loud enough for me to hear from my bedroom half a mile away
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Sept. 11 12:24 a.m.
The freshman texting that almost ran me over in the parking lot <<<< #ACUdifference #stoptexting
Did your roommate just make you ice cream from scratch? No? Mine did.
@_keaster
@morgsasmith
Do you hear anyone else talking loud or playing videos? No? Just you? Then maybe you should shut up! #upstairsisquite #socialhourisdown
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7
sports
friday 09.13.13
Game Preview
N. M. Highlands (1-0) vs. ACU (2-0) Offense
Defense
PICK: ACU
The two offenses feature talented quarterbacks that can run and pass. In the Cowboys’ first game, their quarterback Emmanual Lewis ran for 78 yards and also threw the ball for over 180 yards. Baker has proved to be more explosive in the passing game, and the Wildcats have superior talent at the skill positions, giving ACU an advantage.
Kara Stutesman
PICK: ACU
The Wildcat defense is giving up only 11.5 points per game and the Cowboy defense surrendered 28 points last week to Eastern New Mexico. However, New Mexico Highlands will be the first team that will come out and try to run the ball against an ACU defense that has faced two air raid teams in a row. The Wildcats should be able to rise to the challenge.
Matthew Sloan
Collin Wieder
This weekend will be ACU’s first true test as the Cowboys of New Mexico Highlands will try to tame the Cats. However, wildcats cannot be tamed.
ACU hasn’t been tested all season, but the offense will build on its great start and dominate the Cowboys behind John David Baker.
N.M. Highlands will clearly be the best team ACU has played so far this season. However, the Wildcat offense will overpower the Cowboys and score consistently.
Pick: ACU 35-24
Pick: ACU 34-21
Pick: ACU 48-24
Shera Niemirowski
Daniel Zepeda
Jimmy Isbell
If our offense was playing any better, we’d be perfect. Highlands will be our most challenging opponent yet, but look for another blowout Satruday night from Chark and JD Baker.
So far ACU has come out on top easily. N.M. Highlands will give us a challenge, but John David will keep the Wildcats on top.
I believe Charcandrick will keep his legs moving in pursuit of the TD record. Our running game should wind up being the difference maker. Our secondary will have to step up though.
Pick: ACU 52-17
Pick: ACU 49-13
Pick: ACU 28-24
Brittney Johnson
Price Bahcall
ACU has shown that we are all in this season. I think they will continue their dominance against New Mexico Highlands.
ACU finally gets some competition, but the offense is on a roll and won’t be stopped. Another big win is coming soon for Wildcat nation.
Pick: ACU 63-15
Pick: ACU 31-20
Wildcats to hunt down the Jackrabbits Brittney Johnson sports reporter The women’s soccer team will travel to Plainview on Saturday, where they will match up against the Wayland Baptist University Jackrabbits. “This weekend I expect us to come out strong and do well against Wayland,” senior forward Andrea Carpenter said. “Practice this week will be important. We need to focus on the things we need to fix and then Saturday we need to implement what we worked on in practice into the game.” The Wildcats are off to a hot start, coming out of the gate with a 4-0-1 record. The team currently has a three-game winning streak, with the most recent 1-0 win coming against Midwestern State University, a former Lone Star Conference competitor. Junior midfielder and defender Emily Sumrall scored the only goal of the game, and her second goal of the season, early.
Great defense on ACU’s side held Midwestern as the Lady ‘Cats were able to pitch a shutout on the road at Witchita Falls. Along with celebrating another victory, the Wildcats had another reason to smile. Sept. 10 senior defender Brie Bushman and Carpenter were honored with selection of the Southland Conference’s weekly list of honorable mention performers. Bushman has been a starting defensive player since joining the team her freshman year. Upon her list of honors is Second Team All-South Central Region, two Lone Star Conference Commissioner’s Honor Roll selections and the Lone Star Conference Championship AllTournament Team. Like Bushman, Carpenter has been receiving honors since her freshman year on the team, setting a new record for ACU soccer with a 22 career goals and 48 points in a single season. In 2010, she was awarded the Paul Goad award, which is given to ACU’s most valuable fe-
male student athlete. She now has countless Lone Star Conference titles including recognition by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America as a First Team All-America and All-South Central Region selection. “I hope to leave behind a team culture that fosters love and passion for not only the game but for each other. We cannot function properly unless there is a level of selflessness and love for your fellow teammate” Bushman said. “The opportunity we have to play as a group of Christian girls is very unique and allows us to worship the Lord in a whole different medium than we would often expect.” The Wildcats will host their second home game and first Southland Conference match Friday, Sept. 20 at the Wildcat Soccer Pitch. The team will take on Sam Houston State University at 4 p.m.
contact johnosnat baj12a@acu.edu
DEAMMA ROMERO Staff Photographer
Junior defender Tiffany Ysassi prepares to pass the ball up at the ACU soccer pitch.
sports
friday 09.13.13
No Tech support: ‘Cats make history Volleyball takes down Red Raiders collin wieder sports reporter The Wildcat’s volleyball team defeated Texas Tech 3-1 Tuesday night in front of a crowd of more than 1,300 ACU fans. It was their first time playing a Div. I opponent, and they made history. The ‘Cats jumped out to a quick 2-1 lead behind and all-around stellar play from the team, moving to a 3-2 record on the early season. The fourth set tests the Wildcats as the Red Raiders rally to tie the game at 24-24. Tech would soon fall prey to their own errors when
their serve sailed out of bounds to give ACU a 25-24 lead. Freshman Lexi Mercier would decide the game point as sophomore Sarah Siemens set her for the final kill, sending the crowd into an uproar of cheers. The record-breaking crowd of 1,300 attempted to storm the court as the game reached its conclusion. ACU’s success on attacks would come from sophomore Jennifer Loerch who had 16 kills on the match. Texas Tech’s height was equalized by Loerch. “Practicing on swinging high and around the block this past week has really helped me in preparing for this game,” Loerch said. The Wildcat’s key to success this week was staying away from Tech’s libero junior Rachel Brummit. ACU would also be lifted
by a great performance from sophomore libero Madison Hoover, digging out a game high 22 attacks. “Our fans were unbelievable, playing at home was great and we got to do our thing,” said Hoover.“It feels absolutely amazing. It brought tears to my eyes, I love my team so much.” ACU’s defense played exceptionally well considering Tech easily had a height advantage over the Wildcats. The defense also dominated at the net by recording 9 blocks to Tech’s 2. The atmosphere during the game raised the team to another level. The crowd for the previous game in Lubbock was only 645, less than half of the crowd in Moody. The record-breaking crowd mixed with a Div. I win has already made this ACU volleyball season one to
8
standings Soccer
mandy lambright chief Photographer
The ACU volleyball team members celebrate their first home victory of the season after beating Texas Tech in Moody Coliseum Tuesday. remember. The Wildcats’ next The volleyball team will home game will be on play in the Comcast Lobo In- Sept. 26 against McNeese vitational this weekend. State University. They will compete against Northern Arizona University, contact wieder at University of New Mexico cpw11a@acu.edu and Towson.
WEST’S QUEST
Team
Div.
Ovrl.
UIW ACU Nicholls St. MSU ORU SELU SFA Lamar UCA SHSU TAMU-CC HBU NSU
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
4-0-0 5-0-1 5-0-1 5-1-0 4-1-0 4-1-1 4-1-1 3-2-0 2-2-1 1-2-1 1-3-0 1-4-0 1-5-0
Team
Div.
Ovrl.
UCA ORU SFA HBU MSU ACU UIW TAMU-CC SELU Nicholls St. SHSU NSU Lamar NOU
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
6-1 6-1 6-2 5-3 5-3 3-2 3-2 2-5 2-6 2-4 2-5 1-6 1-8 0-8
Team
Div.
Ovrl.
ACU MSU NSU UCA Lamar Nicholls St. SHSU SELU SFA
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
2-0 2-0 2-0 1-1 1-1 1-1 0-1 0-1 0-2
Volleyball
football
ex- factor New York Jets wide receiver Clyde Gates played against the New England Patriots on Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. St. Louis Rams running back Daryl Richardson will compete against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday at noon. Houston Texans safety Danieal Manning will play against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday at noon.
mandy lambright chief Photographer
Charcandrick West is only 13 touchdowns away from tying former running back Daryl Richardson’s regular season touchdown record..
Running back Charcandrick West keeps his eyes on a spot in NFL jimmy isbell sports reporter They call him by many names: Moose, Moosey, Shark and Lance Barrow’s new nickname for him, Land Shark. Charcandrick West, Abilene Christian’s premier running back, is just 13 touchdowns away from tying former running back Daryl Richardson’s regular season touchdown record. West has made five trips to the end zone thus far in the Wildcats’ first two games. He seems on pace to break the record come game No. 8 against Incarnate Word. West is in his last season suited in the purple and white, and dreams of traveling up north to Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis Colts stadium) to showcase his speed and agility to NFL scouts at the combine. Richardson, who is now the St. Louis Rams starting running back, has a close relationship with the West, who says they speak on the phone daily. “He tells me I have the abil-
ity to be a starter in the NFL, but the key is to stay healthy and keep those legs chopping,” West said. In head coach Ken Collums’ air-it-out offense, it may be tough for West to hear his number called in the huddle this season, but West is certain will make the most of the few touches he will receive. With just nine games to go, and a number of worthy opponents to face this season, West knows he will have to get on his horse if he wants to even come close to being one of ACU’s notable running backs. “No disrespect to my boy Daryl, but I’m going for his record because I believe I need to have the scouts turning their heads in Abilene’s direction again,” West said. West said he was surprised to see he was just a few away from breaking into ACU’s top 10 touchdown leaders when he scrolled down his Twitter news feed to see announcer Grant Boone’s tweet Saturday night. Collums speaks highly of
“
I believe I need to have the scouts turning their heads in Abilene’s direction again. Charcandrick West Senior Springhill, La.
West and his pure running ability and dreams of becoming an NFL premier back. “When you have a running back who is as dynamic as Charcandrick who can run the ball, catch the ball and sit in there to pass block, you have something special,” Collums said. “We’ve had several good running backs come through this program, and Charcandrick seems to fit the mold of those young men who have gone on to the next level.” West is a fun-loving type of guy who always seems to find a way to relish in the game of football. His wide-eyed demeanor while being chased by defenders expresses his performance on the field. He’s a guy who loves and respects his teammates
from season to season, making sure they have a fun time on the field as well. With Mitchell Gale throwing bombs up into thin air for the Toronto Argonauts, a new face lines up next to West. The San Angelo native, John David Baker, tied an ACU touchdown pass record in the team’s home opener against Concordia College. West feels confident in Baker to give him some rest between plays. “We talk every day, have fun with each other in the backfield, text each other and, since we have been practicing together for four years now, our chemistry is good on and off the field,” West said. “As long as he keeps throwing the ball down the field, I’ll keep running and blocking for him” So whether they call him Moose, Moosey, Shark or even Land Shark, Charcandrick West appears to have a good chance at becoming one of ACU’s alltime great running backs. contact isbel at jri10a@acu.edu
Renner shoots 65 for tourney win said. “To get a win is a huge confidence booster.” sports director Renner battled a back injury for most of the sumThe ACU golf team hosted mer, and fired off a one-unthe Charles Coody West der-par 70 in the first round Texas Intercollegiate Mon- to put him in the top five. day and Tuesday at DiaFrom there, Renner hit 17 mondback Golf Club. ACU’s of the 18 greens in regulaCorbin Renner stole the tion and made some clutch show with a final round putts to take over the final six-under-par 65 to win the round and seal the victory. tournament. “Going into the day “I have been talking to all I wanted to do was hit coach about doing any- fairways and hit greens,” thing I can to be a team Renner said. “We play out at leader this year,” Renner Diamondback a lot playing
matt sloan
in the wind. It was really to our advantage out there because we know where to miss hit. If you are going to miss a shot, you know where to still get up and down for a par.” Renner’s round of 65 beat everyone else on the course by at least three strokes. The rest of the Wildcats also put together a nice tournament, finishing fourth as a team. Luke Carpenter shot a three-overpar 146 for the tournament
to tie for 16th place. ACU entered two teams into the tournament, which meant that all 10 of their golfers were able to compete in the tournament. The ACU second five finished the tournament in 10th place, but still beat a couple of schools and put together an extremely impressive round Monday. “The first day I thought we played really solid,” head coach Mike Campbell said. “All ten of our players played really well. Overall I
Cincinnati Bengals running back Bernard Scott was placed on the physically unable to perform list last week. Scott is trying to recover from a torn ACL he suffered last season.
briefings The football team will wear a special ribbon decal on their helmets for their games in September to raise awareness for pediatric cancer. The men’s basketball team participated in Street Feed, a program that gives out meals to people in low income parts of Abilene, on Monday. The baseball team schedule was released Wednesday afternoon. ACU will play against top teams such as Arizona, Arizona State, Texas A&M and Oklahoma.
Upcoming
Football hosts New Mexico Highlands at Shotwell on Saturday was very pleased, especial- at 6 p.m. ly with having five freshman out there.” The ACU second five only trailed the first five by a combined four strokes after the first round. The Wildcat golf team will be back in action in a couple of weeks when they head to Houston to play the HBU Huskies Intercollegiate Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. contact Sloan at mes10b@acu.edu
Cross Country will compete in the Texas Tech Red Raider Open in Lubbock today at 5:30 p.m. The tennis teams will play in the Racquet Club Collegiate invitational through the weekend.