The Optimist - 11.09.12

Sneaking In Volleyball team reaches playoffs with losing record vol. 101, no. 21

friday, November 9, 2012

Sports Page 6

1 SECTION, 6 PAGES

INSIDE NEWS Beyond 31 to focus on beauty found in Proverbs 31 Page 3

NEWS Pi Kappa conducts “Childhood Heroes” grub after pledging ended Page 3

OPINION Blane Singletary explores technology’s impact on elections Page 4

OPINION President Obama won the election. Now he must deliver

mandy lambright chief photographer Football Coach Ken Collums lets Rex Fleming, 10-year-old son of ACU’s sports information director Lance Fleming, call the first play of the gane against University of West Alabama. Rex was diagnosed with a form of brain cancer, and was honorary captain for the Wildcats’ last home game of the season.

FACING HIS GIANTS

page 4

SPORTS Men’s and women’s basketball teams to open season on Saturday

Page 6

NEWS Smith-Adams kitchen renovated after smoke bombs ruin appliances

At 10, Rex Fleming confronts his cancer with bravery beyond his years taylor langston sports video director Ten-year-old Rex Fleming nervously bites his fingernails as he sits among 80 grown men, fully padded and towering over him.

The men stand to their feet, have one final moment in the home team locker room of Shotwell Stadium and turn to the 4’5” boy to lead them onto the field of play.

Flanked on each side by the

Wildcat team, Rex steps foot onto the turf. He turns to the press box to send one final smile to his dad, sports information director Lance Fleming, before setting out to midfield to represent the team in the pre-game coin toss.

But Rex is facing a challenge far greater than any of the offensive linemen and defensive backs the Wildcats have encountered over this year’s bruising season. Rex is two years into a battle against brain cancer that has included two cranial surgeries, countless che-

motherapy treatments and rounds of radiation.

Through it all, said his parents, he has showed the lively spirit of an average pre-teen kid and the bravery of someone far older.

“We’ve just tried to keep on living, try to stay as normal as possible,” said his mother, Jill Fleming.

“He goes out and plays every night with his friends in the street. He goes to school. We’ve just wanted to keep things normal.”

His journey began when he was just 8 years old, when his parents

discovered the source of his severe headaches and vomiting. It was a golf ball-sized tumor in the center of Rex’s brain.

For weeks, the family attributed the symptoms to a sinus infection or the flu, treating the cancer as an everyday illness. But an MRI in November of 2010 began a season of Rex’s young life that would not soon end.

“Life keeps going,” Lance said.

“You either get in a boat and go

service

see rex page 5

academics

Senior named Marshall finalist

Page 3

ONLINE NEWS SA gives funds to Morris Hall for recycling bins Page 5

NEWS Piano majors to conduct recital next week

brittany williams staff photographer

acuoptimist.com

NEWS Students continue volunteer service with United Way of Abilene acuoptimist.com

VIDEO FilmFest attempting new production timeline process

acuoptimist.com

VIDEO Watch the 10th episode of The Ken Collums Show

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Deanna romero staff photographer ACU partners with love and Care Ministries for Season of Caring. Students are encouraged to bring donations to the truck located in the center of campus.

Caring season begins drive tyler salter staff reporter The annual opportunity for ACU students, faculty and staff to give back to the community is here with the arrival of Season of Caring.

The charity drive kicked off Monday with a Chapel announcement from Bob Strader, director of ACU Leadership Camps and Mark Hewitt, founder of Love and Care Ministries.

Strader and Hewitt said the first way to serve is to help volunteer and donate various items to the dropoff truck located outside the McGlothlin Campus Center in the mall area. The truck will be there until the start of Mission Thanksgiving next Friday.

Mission Thanksgiving is an annual collection that consists of food, clothing and monetary donations

and is sponsored by Love and Care Ministries. Next Friday, all of the items will be sent to Arrow Ford for the Mission Thanksgiving cause.

Mission Thanksgiving has been growing since it began 14 years ago. At the first service of Mission Thanksgiving, one tractortrailer full of items was donated. Last year, the service ended with donations filling 14 tractor-trailers.

Hewitt believes Mission Thanksgiving will continue to grow with the help of Season of Caring, but he measures success of this project from a different perspective.

“Mission Thanksgiving is always a success, whether you get one item or a hundred,” Hewitt stated.

“One item alone can help somebody. You would always like to see more, but one item helps.”

Thanksgiving Meals is a similar event supported by the Season of Caring. This program is an event that takes donations to give meals to needy families at Taylor Elementary School.

Donations are taken until Nov. 16.

Season of Caring is also organizing several Christmas service events, including the Adopt-anAngel program that sponsors children in the ACU Treadaway Kids program.

Students can donate a gift by picking up a paper angel in the McGlothlin Campus Center anytime from Nov. 26 to Dec. 4. Also on Dec. 4., Christmas Slam is an event where the ACU community can bring an unwrapped toy for a needy Abilene child during ACU’s women’s and men’s basketball games in Moody Coliseum.

Strader believes that

Abilene Christian University

Season of Caring has done a good job of giving back to the city of Abilene and helping the community.

“ACU partners with over 180 different organizations in Abilene to help give back, and Season of Caring is only a part of that,” Strader said. “ACU does a great job in serving its community, and anyone can help volunteer and serve with the cause.”

Season of Caring started Monday, and there are multiple ways to get involved during it’s one month of service for the holidays. For more information on helping out with Season of Caring, visit www.facebook. com/seasonofcaring or contact seasonofcaring@acu. edu to volunteer.

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

The Marshall Scholarship and a spot in the Fulbright Scholar Program may soon be filled by ACU students.

Brittany Partridge, senior political science major from Annandale, Minn., has applied and is a finalist for the Marshall Scholarship and was scheduled to interview in Chicago on Wednesday.

“The draw for me to go there is to be able to study in Europe, which is where I would like to work eventually, and address policy and organized crime, in relation to human trafficking,” Partridge said.

According to their website, the Marshall Scholarship is available to students who are United States citizens who hold a degree from an accredited fouryear college or university in the United States with a minimum GPA of 3.7.

Partridge is the first ACU student to apply for the Marshall Scholarship.

“A lot of students that win these are Ivy League students, and you don’t really see students coming from outside of that, so I think it speaks highly to the university and for students it is a phenomenon opportunity,” Partridge see scholarship page 4

friday 11.09.12

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friday

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saturday

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sunday

7 p.m. Volleyball at Cameron University

2 p.m. Men’s basketball at Dallas Baptist U.

7:30 p.m. Ethnost: Culture Shock

6 p.m. Volleyball at Midwestern State

8:30 p.m. Free Movie Night by CAB - It’s a Wonderful Life

7 p.m. Barn Dance hosted by the Ag Club

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monday

11 a.m. Veteran’s Day tribute in Chapel

8 p.m. Freshman Devo in Chapel on the Hill

3 p.m. Sophomore registration

7 p.m. Football at Incarnate Word 7:30 p.m. Ethnos: Culture Shock 7:30 p.m. Women’s basketball vs Texas A&M Int’l

Chapel checkup

79 26 @acuoptimist The Optimist optimist@acu.edu

Announcements Students interested in joining The Wildcat Reign can sign up at thewildcatreign. com. The Wildcat Reign aims to provide students the ability to facilitate Wildcat pride on campus and serves as a linking point between students and Wildcat athletic events.

The IRC in Abilene is collecting items such as towels and toiletries through Sigma Delta Pi on ACU campus in the Admin Building, Chambers Hall and the Campus Center throughout the month of November.

ACU Swing Cats is hosting lessons for beginner and intermediate levels of swing dancing Thursday nights in SRWC Studio B. Intermediate lessons are at 8 p.m, and Beginners are at 9 p.m. Social dancing begins at 9:30 p.m.

Leadership Summit is having an interest meeting Nov. 16 from 11 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. in COBA 201. Chapel credit will be provided.

Summit Student Committee meetings occur the first Friday of each month. Students interested in joining can email summit@acu.edu.

Ethnos Cultural Show: Culture Shock will be Nov. 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. in Cullen auditorium.

Tickets are $10 at the door and $7 online.

Freshman Devo will be Nov. 11 at 8 p.m in Chapel on the Hill.

Dylan Benac will be speaking.

The Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Department is having a barn dance Nov. 10 at 7 p.m. at ACU Rhoden Farm.

Tickets will be on sale Nov. 9 in the Campus Center.

The men of Pi Kappa are hosting the fourth annual Turkey Throwdown 2012 Nov. 15-18.

Sign-ups begin Nov. 5 in the Campus Center. The cost is $8 per person, and each team is required to have a minimum of 8 players. For more information email turkeythrowdown2012@gmail.com.

Police Log Police log 10/31/2012 1:41 a.m.

A WFF employee reported four possible students dressed in black attire roaming around the mall next to the temporary concert stage. Officers could not find the people. A short time later the same WFF employee reported finding two empty dishwashing soap bottles; the contents had been poured into the GATA fountain.

11/02/2012 4:30 p.m. An ACU student reported the theft of his tan Giant brand bicycle from the west bike rack at the Campus Center between 11/01/12 6 p.m. -11/02/12 8 a.m.

11/5/2012 2:31 p.m. An area resident reported a suspicious van parked in the street. ACUPD investigation revealed the van belonged to ACU and was being used to drop off students.

Weekly Stats For Week of Oct. 31-Nov. 06, 2012 - Total Events: 326 911 CALL 1 ACCIDENT 2 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITY 18 ALARM 2 ASSIST 6 ATTEMPT TO LOCATE 1 BUILDING LOCK/UNLOCK 8 CHECK BUILDING 100 DIRECT TRAFFIC 1 DISABLED VEHICLE 1 DISTURBANCE 2 FOOT PATROL 7 FOUND PROPERTY 6 INFORMATION REPORT 4 INVESTIGATION FOLLOW UP 4 MAINTENANCE: UNIVERSITY ASSETS 1 MENTAL HEALTH CONCERN 1 MONITOR FACILITY/LOT 7

MOTORIST ASSIST: INFLAT TIRE 1 MOTORIST ASSIST: JUMPSTART 14 MOTORIST ASSIST: OTHER 1 MOTORIST ASSIST: UNLOCK 18 NOISE VIOLATION 4 OTHER 6 PARKING VIOLATION 7 PATROL VEHICLE MAINTENANCE 5 PATROL VEHICLE REFUEL 8 RANDOM PATROL 41 REPORT WRITING 9 SOLICITING 1 SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY 4 SUSPICIOUS PERSON 5 THEFT 2 TRAFFIC STOP 8 WELFARE CHECK 1

Police Tip of the Week: Reduce opportunities for thefts – never leave your backpack, laptop or cell phones unattended. It only takes a few seconds for someone to walk off with your belongings.

Volunteer Opp0rtunities The Center for International Education is looking for conversation partners for international students to practice English, conversations and cultural learning. Partners meet for one hour at a time each week at a location of their choosing. For more information contact Laura McGregor at 325-674-2821 or laura.mcgregor@acu.edu.

St. John’s Episcopal School is seeking volunteers to paint metal playground equipment anytime Monday-Friday after 3 p.m. and Saturday anytime. For more information contact Rebecca McMillon at 325-695-8870 or flores@ stjohnsabilene.org.

Center for Contemporary Arts needs a gallery assistant to greet patrons, answer phones and answer basic questions about the Center and its programs. This opportunity is open Tuesday-Friday. The Center for Contemporary Arts is located at 220 Cypress Street. For more information contact Jessica Dulle at 325-677-8389 or visit: http://www. center-arts.com/ Rescue the Animals is seeking volunteers to take pictures and videos in preparation for the launching of their new website as well as maintenance of the site after the launch. This opportunity is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. For more information contact Kathy Walker at 325-677-7722 or rescuetheanimalsvolunteers@yahoo.com.

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 325-673-4586 or visit: http://www.nccil.org/index.htm The Christian Ministries of Abilene: Food Pantry is searching for volunteers to greet and interview neighbors, do computer entries, shop with neighbors, take groceries to vehicles, bag, stock and pick up orders on Mondays and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. The Food Pantry is located at 701 Walnut St. For more information contact Becky Almanza at 325-673-1234 or cmapantry@aol.com.

The Christian Service Center is seeking volunteers to help assist with filling requests for items such as clothing, bedding, kitchen utensils, etc. from the donation center,

sort and organize donations and occasionally pick-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 or robertabrown51@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 any weekday 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.

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 The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers for a variety of needs including sorting and pricing items in the thrift store, helping in the kitchen and/or doing yard work. Times are flexible. Volunteers are needed throughout the week Monday-Saturday. The Salvation Army is located at 1726 Butternut St. For more information contact J.D. Alonzo at 325-677-1408 or visit www.satruck.com.

The House That Kerry Built is looking for volunteers to assist in the day care of medically fragile children any day Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. or 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Contact Keith Loftin at 325-672-6061.

The International Rescue Committee is seeking volunteers to work with refugees who recently moved to the U.S., teaching English, helping with homework and mentoring. Contact Susanna Lubango to make an appointment at 325-675-5643.

The Covenant Place of Abilene is seeking volunteers to lead singing and/or play piano for residents. For more information contact Ann Erwin at 325-793-1144.

University Place is seeking volunteers to help with the resident birthday party for residents the third Wednesday of each month at 2:30 p.m. For more information contact Linda Tijerina at 325-676-9946.

Breakfast on Beech Street is seeking volunteers to help set up, prepare and serve breakfast to homeless/lower income folks any Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 5:30 a.m. or Tuesday at 5 a.m. B.O.B.S is located at First Christian Church on 3rd St. and Beech St. Service times must be scheduled in advance. To serve on Mondays contact Jody Depriest at 325-669-3312 or jody.depriest@ gmail.com. To serve on Tuesdays contact Allen Daugherty at 325-660-6949 or ale.al@suddenlink.net. To serve on Wednesdays contact Jane Harvey at 325-695-0092 or jharvread@aol.com. To serve on Thursdays contact Margaret Beasley at 325-692-4149 or mbeasley5@suddenlink.net. To serve on Fridays contact Rachel Brown at rdb08a@acu.edu.

The Abilene Zoo is looking for volunteers to help with general labor such as grounds cleanup and painting any weekday at any time between noon and 4 p.m. The Zoo is also seeking volunteers to help clean/feed animals, assist zookeepers and assist with educational classes any weekday 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.

Eternal Threads is seeking volunteers to help with packing and organizing shipments, labeling products, 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 MondaySaturday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information contact Shaylee Honey at 325-677-2205 or Shoney@ ChristianHomes.com.

Hill Resources is seeking volunteers to encourage and entertain mentally delayed individuals Monday through Friday any time between 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information contact Michelle Espinoza at 325-673-3346 or mespinoza@hillresource.com.

For additional volunteer opportunities visit: www.acu. edu/campusoffices/ccsl/ministry-service/volunteeropportunities/

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campus news

Friday 11.09.12

campus

students’ association

SA votes to give Morris Hall recycling bins sity and administrative buy-in for recycling initiatives, students have to prove it is an issue they The Students’ Associa- care about.” tion passed a bill to proCongress ultimately vide funding for recycling chose to fund the request. bins in their meeting on Only one student, Junior Wednesday evening.

Class Treasurer Bo BradThe bill allocated dock, voted against the $550 of the congressional bill. Braddock, junior biolproject fund to purchase ogy major from Deer Park, recycling bins for A.B. said he disagrees with the Morris Hall. Residents current approach to recyhad approached Maddie cling on campus and does Pickle, Morris represen- not want to spend money tative, with requests for recycling bins. She then Several representatives received approval for the did not attend the addition of recycling bins meeting on Wednesday from Erin Daugherty, Morris resident director, before introducing the Spenser Lynn bill to Congress.

Senior class president The university does not have a consistent Gabe Elorreaga form of on-campus recySenior class vice cling. Types of recycling president bins vary from building to building, as does money Simon Jowett set aside for recycling. SA Senior class treasurer will provide all of the necessary funding for Morris Kaitlyn Warton Hall and residents will McDonald Hall have the responsibility of representative managing the recycling themselves.

Blair Agan Pickle said she considEdwards Hall ers recycling to be an imrepresentative portant university activity.

Alex Falcon “It’s a great way ACU Harding Administration can take more steps torepresentative ward being green, which is something that we’ve been working on a lot this year,” said Pickle, sophomore biology and premed major from Colorado on small projects.

Springs. “It’s something “Historically, recyI think the student body cling programs here have cares about.” not been very effective,” Some students ex- Braddock said. “In my pressed reservations opinion, our recycling about the cost of the proj- programs need to be more ect - about $550 - or won- campus-wide. Right now dered why generic plastic it’s more of a grassroots bins could not be used in effort, and I think in most place of recycling-specific institutions where recybins. SA President Rebec- cling programs work, it’s ca Dial said the recycling a top-down approach.” bins were chosen for their SA meetings are open durability in outside use, to all students. Meetwith plans to place them ings are conducted on in the Morris courtyard.

Wednesdays at 5:15 p.m.

“These are better qual- in the Onstead-Packer ity and we can use them Biblical Studies Building continuously,” said Dial, Room 114. senior political science and finance major from contact Garcia at Lexington, S.C. “In order jtg10b@acu.edu for there to be univer-

Josh Garcia

Staff reporter

resLife

Smith-Adams rennovated after smoke damages Audrey Schaffner Copy Editor Renovations in the kitchen of Smith-Adams Hall have been completed after a fire caused by smoke bombs last month.

The fire occurred Oct. 15 when Sean Branchaw, sophomore finance and math major from Derwood, Md., was in the kitchen making smoke bombs. Two fire trucks responded to the call around 11 p.m. and residents were forced to evacuate when the fire alarms went off as smoke was spreading from the kitchen.

The renovations included painting a back wall, repairing the ceiling, buffing out damage on the cabinets and restaining them, replacing portions of the Formica and purchasing and replacing the vent-a-hood and the stove/oven, said Angela Neal, area coordinator of Smith-Adams and Barret Halls.

The whole process took about three weeks, Neal said. The paperwork and estimation process took about two-and-a-half weeks, while the repairs were fixed in a one-week period.

Along with the repairs, students now have a brand new stove/oven and an extra microwave in the vent-a-hood to use in the shared kitchen.

During the day, resi-

“

Our old oven was pretty janky, and I’m convinced it hated me.”

Kim Panther Sophomore animal science major from southlake

dents were discouraged from coming down and cooking while the workers were repairing the damage, but at night the workers would clean up the best that they could so students could use the kitchen as normally as possible since the only thing that wasn’t repaired was the stove/oven, said Neal.

“I think our facilities management crew did an incredible job bringing it back up to standard and making it look nice as quickly as they could,” Neal said.

Kim Panther, sophomore animal science major from Southlake, said she enjoys the renovations.

“From what I’ve noticed, I like the kitchen renovations,” Panther said. “Our old oven was pretty janky, and I’m convinced it hated me. The new oven is really nice and actually bakes things in a timely manner. I’m not sure why we need two microwaves though.” contact Schaffner at als09d@acu.edu

Deanna Romero Staff Photographer

Evan Webb, junior management major from Houston, has his head shaved by Courtney Martin, junior family studies major from San Antonio, as part of Beyond31’s White T-Shirt Revolution.

Students go beyond Proverbs Maggie Marshall student reporter White T-shirts have been dotting the ACU campus in a movement called Beyond 31. Young women all over campus participate in this movement which focuses on modeling the woman described in Proverbs 31.

The movement was started two years ago in Gardner Hall as Project 31 until the Nelson Hall staff took over and renamed the movement Beyond 31.

Asia Todd, junior multimedia major from Thailand, said the name was changed because the daily life of the Proverbs 31 woman was not relevant to all women today. Instead, they decided to go “beyond the Proverbs 31 woman and focus on character.”

“Beyond 31 is about educating ourselves on what it means to be a woman of God in the 21st century,” said Elizabeth Koepke, junior political science and

international studies major from Dallas.

The movement has now spread across campus and is involved with Chapel and intramurals.

“It’s one of the biggest small group Chapels,” Todd said.

Beyond 31 Chapel meets in Nelson Hall on Thursdays.

Many of the girls involved are participating in a “vanity fast”. During this time, the girls wear white Tshirts for two weeks.

“Beyond 31 is rooted in Proverbs 31,” said Deanna Romero, freshman education major from Sioux Falls, S.D. “The white Tshirt revolution is a vanity fast mainly to remind ourselves that we are beautifully made in God’s image without make-up and fancy clothes, just the way we are.

We want to find our identity in Him, not in society’s description of artificial beauty.

Most girls, myself included, are giving up make-up and doing our hair, and we are

wearing white T-shirts for two weeks straight.”

Participants often give up makeup, social media and meat among other things. Some participants also engage in new habits such as spiritual disciplines and exercise.

“This movement so far has shown me my insecurities,” said Sara Williams, freshman undeclared major from Abilene. “It has shown me that I know I’m beautiful and blessed when it comes to my appearance, but putting it into practice is what’s hard. I have to truly believe it and realize that I don’t need to find my worth in what others think about me and the way I look but I need to truly find my worth in the Lord.”

Some of the young men on campus got involved as well.

“A bunch of guys shaved their heads in support,” Todd said.

The movement is involved with different activities and has something for

everyone.

“If you have an interest, there is going to be a pocket for you to go into,” Todd said.

“We formed service days in the Abilene community, a Chapel on Thursdays, the White T-shirt Revolution, intramural teams and movie nights,” Koepke said.

Every activity within the movement focuses on becoming a Godly woman.

Even the intramural team focuses on not complaining and often bakes cookies for the opposing teams.

“My favorite part has been intramurals,” said Lauren Land, senior social work major from Prosper.

“It has been a blast to play with a group of girls who just want to have fun and glorify the Lord using the many different gifts we have been given.”

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

social clubs

Pi Kappa grub finishes last Destiny Hagood student reporter Weeks after the other social clubs, the men of Pi Kappa postponed their grub because of scheduling conf licts.

Pi Kappa’s grub theme was “Childhood Heroes” and took place on Nov. 1 in the University Church of Christ’s family room.

Members came dressed as everything from SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Madea and more.

Brandon Bolden, se-

nior psychology major from St. Louis, attended Pi Kappa’s grub for the first time.

“This was my first grub and I thoroughly enjoyed it and it was fun,” Bolden said. “We all came, relaxed and enjoyed each others company. I went as my favorite person in the world, Madea.”

Robert Hull, Pi Kappa president and junior piano performance major from Riton, Calif., said the late date worked out better for the club.

“It wasn’t how we originally planned it, but we just had to push it back to

make it work and it ultimately gave us more time to make it work,” Hull said.

The men of Pi Kappa didn’t mind if the pledges had to serve the members or not.

“We were trying to find a date where the majority of us could be there and we didn’t want to have an event and then half of us not be there,” Bolden said.

“A lot of members are involved with a lot of activities around ACU.” The new late date didn’t affect the quality of the event.

“Grub was a lot of fun,”

Hull said. “It’s always kind of stressful planning and everything, but it all comes together and everyone had a good time.”

The next event Pi Kappa will be sponsoring is the Turkey Throwdown, a f lag football tournament that will take place the weekend before Thanksgiving, starting Nov. 15 and ending Nov. 18. For more information contact turkey t hrowdow n2012@ gmail.com

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

Opinion

FRIDAY 11.09.12

4

EDITORIAL

Second term brings need for compromise the issue The election is over and despite who you voted for, we can all take a sigh of relief. You may not have voted for him but he is our president and the next few months brings major issues that will effect us all.

our take With the fiscal cliff looming and the deficit in need of a major reduction, politicians need to step away from the pre-election stalemate and be truly willing to meet in the middle.

The votes have been counted (except for Florida). The balloons fell from the ceiling. The gracious speeches were given.

America chose President Barack Obama for four more years.

And now we can all breathe a sigh of relief.

You either got what you wanted, or you can at

least appreciate the end of the political commercials, tweets and tension.

Without the focus on reelection no longer commanding his time, Obama can hopefully now fulfill the promises he made on the campaign trail.

The election process not only sifts time from the president and other

politicians, but it can often be counteractive to compromise. Candidates begin to fear that a compromise will appear weak or as a departure from their party’s platform.

Democrats and Republicans have and will always have problems agreeing, and an election decided by 3 million votes doesn’t exactly help this relationship.

If Obama wants there to be any forward movement, he needs to honor his promise to build bridges across the divide.

A promise that is only possible if politicians on both sides can step off the campaign trail and begin to seriously work

towards solutions that will settle our country’s growing list of problems.

The first problem on this list will not only have great ramifications on the economy but is also paired with a very palpable deadline. The fiscal cliff is a set of legislature that will result in massive, widespread spending cuts and an end to Bush-era tax cuts that could stunt economic growth and increase unemployment. Assuming no other plan is agreed upon, these changes will begin on Jan. 1, 2013.

This very real and tangible deadline is hopefully what Washington needs to force politicians to-

EVAN’s marks

ward the center, willing to find a middle ground.

Along with this immediate decision, Obama has also promised to solve problems such as reducing the deficit, reworking the tax code, revising immigration laws

“

The election process not only sifts time, but it can often be counteractive to compromise.”

a chance to continue working toward laws and policies that he began in the last four years. The continuity in the White House will hopefully lead to some order and experience that will result in change toward what we all believe America can and should be.

While the respective parties have no doubt started thinking about 2016, we as American’s can begin to forget about this candidate or that candidate and get behind our president and our country.

and reducing dependence on foreign oil.

A second term offers

evan marks

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

COLUMN

Online ads a new must for politics ONES AND ZEROS BLANE SINGLETARY

Column

A film studio far, far away really shined. Dozens of authors and comic artists were able to interMARK MY WORDS pret their own little slice EVAN MARKS of Star Wars lore with mostly great results. Now it’s time to see those stories in the big screen! The As you may or may not legend for originally cre- newly announced trilknow, the Star Wars ating Star Wars, but it’s ogy is taking place after brand was recently sold long overdue for someone the events of the origito Disney for a measly else to take the reigns. nals, a time period that four billion dollars. Along And who better than Dis- has some fantastic novwith this came the an- ney? They’ve constantly els and stories attributed nouncement that there funded the brilliant Pixar to it (the Thrawn Trilogy would be a new Star Wars films, and more recently being the highlight). As film, Episode VII, coming the Marvel movies (rein only two years. Now, member Iron Man? Or When it comesdown to some people we’re wary, how about The Avengit, if a movie has even angry, with Disney ers?). The fact is Disney taking over their favorite has a ton of money, and a lightsabers, I’ll be in line brand. I, however, am not ton of desire to fund great opening night.” one of those people. I am products. And remember, incredibly excited, and Disney has four billion here’s why! invested in this, so they First off, let’s be hon- probably want to see it est: the latest entries succeed. into the Star Wars saga If you’re awesome like far as we know, as script have been…lacking. Epi- me, you’ve probably read has yet to be decided on sode III: Return of the your share of Star Wars for the Episode VII, but Sith might be the worst EU novels (that’s Extend- it’s reported that veteran movie I’ve ever seen (and ed Universe, for those not screenplay writer, and trust me, I’ve seen a lot in the know). The movies Oscar winner, Michael of movies). George Lu- were great, but it was in Arndt has a script ready cas will forever remain a the novels that the world to show to potential di-

“

hashtagACU 1:06 p.m. Nov. 8 1:01 p.m. Nov. 8

Sometimes I cry a little bit when I pass Harold’s

@carlyyruth

Everytime I do Insanity, I throw some glitter & make it rain #IAmKe$ha

@GingerJewley 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.

@acuoptimist Very impressed with today’s super up to date Optimist! Your staff must have stayed up all night putting it together.

@Sports_Soapbox

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

contact MARKS at edm10a@acu.edu

8:55 a.m. Nov. 7 11:49 a.m. Nov. 7

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

rectors. Even if Arndt’s story is an original idea, we could easily see him pulling characters and themes from established stories, perhaps giving some shout-outs to those of us who know a little too much.

Finally, and this is the most important, is more Star Wars. When it comes down to it, if a movie has lightsabers, I’ll be in line opening night. More Star Wars means more story, more characters, more toys, more games; pretty much everything that I could want. Knowing how terrible Episodes I, II, and III were and yet how successful they did financially, Disney would have to try very hard to mess this up. But as of now, it looks like they’re going in the right direction.

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Whenever a presidential election year comes around, I can’t help but think back and wonder where I was at the last election.

I was a bright-eyed college freshman. I was still working at Chuck E. Cheese’s, but quickly realizing that I needed to find a job more suited to my chosen field. I was still using MySpace, admittedly less and less as more of my friends moved to Facebook, and I didn’t yet have a twitter handle (@SmaMan, by the way). I, like most tech-savvy people then, were watching closely the infancy of Apple’s iOS platform. Remember when fart apps were the “it” thing?

Four years ago was the first election I was eligible to vote in, and in the months and weeks leading up to the election day, I felt I was getting more cognizant of political ads, and more importantly, where they were showing up.

Back then, Facebook wasn’t particularly known as a powerful advertising tool, and Twitter was little more than a web-based offshoot of IRC (kudos if you know what I’m talking about). However there were still viable ways to advertise online.

I recall seeing tons of Obama’s “Join Us” ads emblazoned on the tops and sides of many websites I was browsing. Ads for McCain, not so much.

I personally don’t agree with Obama’s policies, but I have to admire his use of the then infant social media, and the already established banner ads through Google AdWords and other platforms. He understood the Internet, and that was the pivotal difference that endeared him to many young voters.

Over the course of Obama’s first term, the

GOP and other political groups realized they had to advertise online as well.

The rapidly growing Twitter became an important rallying center for the “Tea Party” that burst onto the scene on Tax Day in 2009, and let’s not forget the Occupy movement.

Fast forward to today, in our very much social media-driven world, having a social media presence is basically a requirement if you even want to have a chance.

One number thrown around a lot in the election night coverage was 9,000: the number of tweets sent out from both major can-

“

I personally don’t agree with Obama’s policies, but I have to admire his use of the then infant social media.”

didates’ twitter accounts.

However, about 8,000 of them were from Obama.

The other thousand were from Romney. As the Republican party takes a deep breath and begins to determine what went wrong, this 8:1 social media presence is sure to be something heavily scrutinized.

Over the past four years, social media has evolved from being “the hip new thing the young un’s are using” to something that connects all demographics across all spectrums.

As more of our lives move to the Internet, having a political campaign infused with this technology isn’t just a good idea, it is essential.

contact SINGLETARY at sbs07a@acu.edu

11:45 a.m. Nov. 8

A HUGE thanks to Dr. Schubert for defending ACU students’ rights to freedom of speech and taking the heat from the media firestorm this week

@megankateteel

Romney spent $800 million to not become the next president. I spent 0$ to also not become the next president. Who’s the better businessman?

@sampet413

1:33 p.m. Nov. 8

I really enjoy the looks I get from people when they realize I’m carrying a bucket of tea. #chickenexpress #jumbosize

@peymos21

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news/sports

friday 11.09.12

ACU (6-4) at Incarnate Word (2-8) Game Preview

Offense

Defense

PICK:

ACU

PICK:

ACU

Intangibles ACU PICK:

Mitchell Gale needs 301 yards to get to 12,000 career yards, and he should get more than enough against the Cardinals. Despite some key injuries on offense, the ‘Cats should hit the ground running tomorrow night.

The Wildcat defense will be saying goodbye to one of the premiere safeties in the LSC when senior L.B. Suggs plays his final game. Look for Suggs to make big plays and create a turnover or two in his final game in purple and white.

ACU has set a goal to go 3-0 in its last three games after a 4-4 start, and they are right on track with one game to play.

The Wildcats will be motivated to finish the season with three straight victories and give their program some

One key for the Cardinals offense will be to get short fields via a talented group of returners. Incarnate Word has two explosive returners in Marcus Wright and Juan Asencio who can put their offense in a position to be successful. The real interest of this game offensively is if Gale will break the LSC record for yards, and by how much.

The rest of the Wildcat defense should be able to hold Incarnate Word at bay and dominate at every position. The Cardinals have tallied 10 interceptions on the season, so Incarnate Word will be looking to take the ball away early and create some momentum for their team.

momentum heading into the off-season. Incarnate Word will be fired up to play as well, but the ‘Cats will have more talent at nearly every position, and should be able to f lex their muscles and finish up with another successful season at 7-4.

Edward Isaacs

Taylor Langston

Matthew Sloan

Daniel Zepeda

The score of the Incarnate Word game won’t be what everyone pays attention to Saturday. Mitchell Gale is on the verge of becoming the all-time passing yards leader in the Lone Star Conference. He’ll do that against the Cardinals. He’ll also lead the ‘Cats to their final victory as an LSC member. ACU wins this one big.

Incarnate Word has no chance against Mitchell Gale and the Wildcat defense. Mitchell will have plenty of time to air it out to his receivers. He should get over 300 yards passing along with the passing record.

ACU ends their disappointing season on a good note.

The Wildcats want to finish the season 7-4, and they will be able to do it.

A historic night will be on tap when Gale should be able to set an LSC record and lead his team to victory for the last time. The ‘Cats will be able to send their seniors off in style with a big win against future Southland Conference foe Incarnate Word.

The ‘Cats should finish out the season on a bright note with a win Saturday night. The main headline for the game will be that QB Mitchell Gale has a very realistic shot at becoming the record holder for most passing yards in LSC history. With a win and record setting night, the ‘Cats should finish out the year on a high note.

Natalie Goin

The Wildcats and Cardinals will face off this Saturday in what will be their last game as Division II programs. I think ACU will easily come away with a convincing win. I expect Mitchell Gale to lead the offense and throw for over 350 yards againt a poor Incarnate Word defense.

Pick: ACU 45-10

Pick: ACU 49-14

Pick: ACU 35-10

Pick: ACU 48-12

Ken Collums show continues this Saturday The final Ken Collums Show of the season will air at 10:30 a.m. this Saturday on KTXS.

Pick: ACU 38-15

column

The NBA always carries plenty of parity write so hard university matthew sloan

The NBA has always been known as a league with the least parity in American sports. As we saw in Oakland, any baseball team can make a run at the playoffs.

Half of the teams that make the playoffs in football every year do not play in January the next year, and the L.A. Kings were a perfect example of Cinder-

ella in hockey. But this year, the western conference is as wide open as any basketball conference has been in recent memory.

Last year’s western conference champs traded one of their best players, and the best beard in sports down to Houston. OKC now has some issues to work out, and the Rockets have an exciting backcourt that will give them a chance.

The Lakers have one of the best players since Michael Jordan, a great point guard, and the best defensive player in the league. However, they are

“

The West will provide some much-needed parity to a sport that has been searching for a wide open race for years.”

struggling offensively in the beginning, and teams traditionally need a year to mesh before they make a true title run. They might not even be the best team in L.A. The Clippers, aka Lob City, have an outstanding leader at the point that will keep

them in games, while the size and athleticism in their frontcourt will cause problems for anyone in the NBA. With hardened vets such as Chauncey Billups coming off the bench, the Clippers may have a chance to be a legitimate threat in the west.

Of course San Antonio

academics

Scholarship: Students apply for Fullbright Scholar Program Continued from page 1 tunity,” Partridge said, “I think there is a lot of qualified students at ACU, I just think they don’t know about it.”

Partridge, along with Marissa Marolf, senior biochemistry major from McKinney, have also both applied for the Fulbright Scholar Program.

According to their website, the Fulbright

Program awards approximately 8,000 grants annually. Roughly 1,600 U.S. students, 4,000 foreign students, 1,200 U.S. scholars, and 900 visiting scholars receive awards, in addition to several hundred teachers and professionals. It is the f lagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government.

The scholarship pro-

grams are scheduled to begin next fall.

Marolf submitted her application to the Fulbright Program to work in Laos in Southeast Asia.

Marolf described the program as a “cultural exchange program”.

“I think the purpose of the Fulbright is to get young professionals and students more familiar with a particular region of the world, so in doing

local

Rex: 10-year-old continues to fight cancer Continued from page 1 with it or you stand on the side and watch as it passes and we’ve tried not to let that happen. He’s lived a lot of life in two years.”

But during that time Jill said the family has refused to remain in crisis mode.

“He gets up, gets ready for school, takes his medicine, goes to school, goes to his grandparents, plays with his friends in the yard. He rarely does his homework,” she said.

Rex’s first brain surgery, shortly after his diagnosis, showed that while 85 percent of the tumor was benign, the remainder was malignant, and doctors gave him a four-to-fiveyear survival rate.

“He knows that his tumor is back, he knows that it’s serious,” said Lance.

“But he also knows that he’s taking medicine for it

and we hope that works. He knows that he could lose his life because of this.”

Lance and Jill have wrestled to keep Rex’s childhood as normal as possible. They maintain responsibilities and activities for Rex – baseball, helping with his younger brother Ryan and attending a few Texas Rangers baseball games along the way.

“In times like this you discover that you can’t let yourself curl up in a corner and just watch your son try to do this by himself. That’s something that we talked about early on, two years ago. We can’t let him do this by himself. He can’t.” Lance said.

Rex’s most recent MRI did not provide the hope the family had anticipated.

The tumor he has fought for two years has shown a frustrating persistence.

But in addition to rely-

ing on routine and their son’s doctors, Lance and Jill also leaned fully into their faith. Members of their home church at Pioneer Drive have been a source of encouragement amidst the tidal wave of emotion. And they know other churches around Abilene and elsewhere in the nation continue to pray for Rex daily.

Jill says that even with the help and encouragement offered by those surrounding their family, the reality of Rex’s condition is a battle that exists in all areas of her life.

“Knowing that my son could die, I could lose him, he could die before I do, said Jill. “Parents aren’t supposed to outlive their child.” contact langston at ltl10a@acu.edu

so, they serve as kind of an ambassador to get people more familiar in the U.S.,” Marolf said.

To learn more about the scholarships and how to apply, visit w w w. cies.org and w w w.marshallscholarship.org.

contact williams at bnw11a@acu.edu

has been a force in the NBA since the big fundamental came into the league in the 90s. With Tony Parker coming off of a career year, and the youth of the Spurs off the bench, they are also an interesting squad to watch.

And last but not least, the Dallas Mavericks are looking poised to make another run after an abysmal season last year. The addition of O.J. Mayo gives them a guy that can absolutely fill it up on the outside.

Mayo coupled with Dirk gives Dallas a one-two punch that is explosive and

efficient, which will give them a good chance to play meaningful games again.

The NBA has the reputation of having five good teams, and 25 bad ones.

But this year, even if the East will come down to the Heat, Celtics and maybe a team from New York; the West will provide some much-needed parity to a sport that has been searching for a wide open race for years.

contact sloan at mes11a@acu.edu

sports

friday 11.o9.12

6

standings

volleyball

football

WILDCATS SNEAK INTO LSC TOURNEY

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

MSU WTAMU TSU ASU TAMU-K ACU ENMU UIW Commerce

7-1 6-1 4-3 4-3 4-3 3-4 2-5 1-6 1-6

8-1 8-2 5-4 5-5 5-5 6-4 3-6 2-8 1-8

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

ASU WTAMU TWU TSU Commerce TAMU-K UIW ACU Cameron MSU ENMU

17-1 14-3 14-4 13-5 11-7 7-10 6-11 6-12 4-14 4-14 1-16

24-3 24-4 21-6 20-8 20-8 15-12 9-18 10-18 10-20 6-22 6-21

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

WTAMU UIW ASU MSU ACU TWU ENMU Commerce

10-4 9-5 8-5-1 6-5-3 6-7-1 6-7-1 4-10 4-10

13-6-1 9-8-1 11-7-2 7-10-2 8-10-1 7-10-2 5-13 5-12

volleyball

soccer

briefings

curtis christian Staff Photographer

Sophomore outside hitter Rachel Riley extends for the ball up at the net. Riley has 91 kills for the season and a .222 hitting percentage.

The Wildcats are 10-18 overall this year. They will finish with a losing record for the first time since Kellen Mock took over as head coach.

edward isaacs sports editor The Wildcats are headed to the Lone Star Conference tournament no matter what the results are this weekend.

Although the team is going to finish with a losing record in the conference (6-11 currently), they have done just enough to qualify for the tournament. The top eight finishers in the LSC move on to the tourney. The ‘Cats are currently tied for seventh in the standings with University of the Incarnate Word.

That does not mean the

squad is less concerned with winning their last two matches of the regular season.

“Wins this weekend would give us a lot of momentum moving forward,” junior Madelyn Robinett said. “I think we’re going to get more confidence since the tournament is like a whole new season. When we get done with conference play it will be like we have a new slate.”

ACU’s first opponent this weekend is Cameron University. The match is Friday at 7 p.m. in Lawton, Okla.

The last match of the regular

season is Saturday at 6 p.m. against Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls.

Live statistics will be available for both matches on the ACU Sports website.

“We’re playing both of these teams at their place,” head coach Kellen Mock said. “You can’t ever underestimate anyone at their own place.”

The Wildcats beat both the Aggies and Mustangs earlier in the year in Moody Coliseum. Cameron was defeated 3-1 (26-28, 25-23, 25-19, 27-25) while Midwestern lost 3-0 (25-14, 2725, 25-23).

Coach Mock and her team have kicked up the intensity in practice the past two weeks to prepare for the final stretch of the season.

“We had a rough practice last week,” senior Kalynne Allen said. “It was a reality check for some of the younger girls who never had a practice where you run until you can’t go anymore.

We had to pick up each other’s slack and that put a new perspective on things.”

“Everyone has the same mindset right now,” Robinett said.

It is the first time the ‘Cats will finish the regular

season with a losing record since Mock took the reigns in 2006.

Despite the up-anddown season, the squad still knows they have something to play for.

“If we have the mindset that we’re going to win every point, we do really well,” Robinett said. “We have all the talent in the world we just have to put it together.”

“It would be awesome if we could go out with a bang,” she said. contact isaacs at jei08a@acu.edu

Senior soccer players Julie Coppedge and Arielle Moncure were named to the Capital One Academic AllDistrict 6 First Team selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America.

It includes all studentathletes within the Great American, Heartland, Lone Star and MidAmerica conference.

Junior volleyball player Caley Johnson was named to the Capital One Academic AllDistrict 6 First Team by the College Sports Information Directors of America. She is one of eight DII volleyball players selected.

ex- factor Houston Texans defensive back Danieal Manning had four tackles on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills. The Texans won 21-9.

women’s basketball

Former ACU wide reciever Raymond Radway joined the Chicago Bears. Radway is a member of the Bears’ practice squad. senior Kelsey Smith said. Dustdevils on defense. posted by the Wildcats, game. They look to gam- Johnny Knox is also on “We put major focus on “We have a fast-paced who were 7-13 in confer- ble for steals and push the the Bears.

‘Cats to dance with Devils in Moody daniel zepeda sports reporter The ACU women’s basketball season commences this Saturday, at 7 p.m. on their home court at Moody Coliseum.

They will face Texas A&M International and its high-powered offense in a game that could be determined by whoever can stop the other on defense may produce the victor.

“We are going to push them into a track meet and hopefully have the edge conditioning wise,”

our defense in practice and it is going to be one of our strengths. Again, we want to dictate what we let them do on offense, and take away as we can.”

“It all comes down to defense,” senior Emily Miller said. “Playing defense should be personal.

If your girl scores on you, you should get mad. If we can each keep our girl off the boards, I think we’ll be OK.” The Wildcats will look to run up the scoreboard and try to contain the

offense and defense,” Miller said. “We’ll get back on defense and won’t let them run their transition on us which will shut down some of their offense. I am 100 percent positive that there is not a team who is better conditioned than we are.”

Along with sharing a similarly paced offense, the Dustdevils also are welcoming in a new head coach. TAMI posted a 3-9 conference record last year, compared to a 12-14 overall record last year

ence play. The Lady ‘Cats are determined to get off to a fast start and feel they are very prepared for the season.

“I think we are pretty confident going into the game Saturday,” junior Mackenzie Lankford said. “We just have to play our game and execute. If we execute our offense and defense, we should do great. Doing all the little things right will be a big factor.”

TAMI plays a very high energy-intense defensive

ball in transition.

“As long as we run all of our offensive sets correct and work together to get each other open shots, we shouldn’t have a problem with their defense,” Lankford said.

The Wildcats will play again next week on Tuesday against The University of Texas of the Permian Basin.

contact zepeda at djz11a@acu.edu

men’s basketball

Golding ready for new year, team natalie goin assistant sports editor Featured on this year’s mens basketball roster are 11 new players, an entirely different team by head coach Joe Golding’s standards.

“It’s the Joe Golding era of basketball,” said assistant coach Brian Burton.

“We’re all familiar with ACU now as a staff, so we know the league and what’s to be expected.”

The only returning letterman player from last year is Desmond Woodbury, who was red-shirted last season due to injury.

Also returning are walkons John Lewis, L.C. Alexander and Trevor Wait.

After a long off-season of recruiting, Golding and his team of coaches are bringing in five Division I transfers, one junior college transfer and five straight from high school.

Among the new players is Steven Werner, a senior transfer from Sam Houston State. Werner led his Division I team in rebounds last season, and was second in passing. He has the potential to be one of the best in the conference.

Elliot Lloyd and Eric Lawton are also on the to-watch list. These two

guards could be exactly what ACU needs to bring back a winning program.

Lawton played for Golding when he was the assistant coach at the University of Arkansas-Little Rock before accepting the head coaching job at ACU. Lloyd is transferring from the University of Northern Colorado.

Also among the transfers are Cornelius Cammock, a junior forward from Paris Junior College.

“Desmond is a really tough defensive player so we’re excited about having him back,” Burton said.

“Then we’ve got Steven Werner. He’s probably has

the chance to be the best five man we’ve had here since our athletic director Jared Mosely played.

He’s a phenomenal passer, definitely a dominant low post presence, and he can really rebound. We expect him to be a force to be reckoned with.”

Freshman Parker Wentz has also already made an impression on the program. A recent graduate of Trinity Christian High School in Lubbock, Wentz was recognized as one of the top players in the state.

“We think we got a really good one in Parker,” Golding said. “I think he’s a tough kid and a motor

that’s constantly going.

He’s the kind of kid who can affect your team.”

The Wildcats will begin their regular season on the road, as they travel to The metroplex to play Dallas Baptist University Saturday at 6 p.m.

“These guys have gelled so quickly,” Burton said.

“When people watch us early on it won’t be perfect because we’re still working out the kinks, but the chemistry is very high with this group, and I think that’s really important.” contact goin at nsg10b@acu.edu

Upcoming Football will travel to San Antonio to face the University of Incarnate Word in their last game of the year. Kickoff is Saturday at 7 p.m.

The volleyball team will be on the road this weekend as it travels to Lawton, Okla. to play Cameron at 7 p.m. Friday, and then to Witchita Falls to face Midwestern State University at 6 p.m.

The men’s basketball team will head to Dallas to play Dallas Baptist University Saturday at 6 p.m.

The women’s basketball team plays Texas A&M International in their season opener at Moody Coliseum Saturday at 7 p.m.