The Optimist Print Editon: 11.30.11 by ACU Optimist

Musical Mission Red Thread movement finds help through musicians vol. 100, no. 26

Features page 5

wednesday, November 30, 2011 1 SECTION, 8 PAGES

university

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The fashion show brought people together of all nationalities to raise awareness for breast cancer. -Charena Camacho, Senior ad/pr major from waco

Straughn to serve as interim provost hannah barnes editor-in-chief Dr. Phil Schubert, president of the university, appointed Dr. Greg Straughn as interim provost Monday, November 21, he announced in an email to faculty and staff. “He brings incredible inside experience, served as interim dean of college of arts and science,” Schubert said. “I remember during that time frame being very impressed with his understanding and appreciation for the academic side of what we do, as well as his ability to traverse over into the administration side.” Straughn has served in various positions at ACU within the last ten years, including associate professor of music, chair of the department of music, interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and most recently as assistant provost for general education. “He has enormous credibility among his colleagues, which I think is also a necessary ingredient,” Schubert said. “I think that is because he’s demonstrated very proficient leadership in a number of different roles.” Schubert said the search for a permanent provost will be under way immediately. “We have appointed a 10 person search committee,” Schubert said. “Our hope is to name someone in the early to mid-summer; we want to be able to have them on the ground for fall 2012.” Straughn will not be excluded from applying for provost. If he desires to apply for the position, he will have the flexibility to do so, Schubert said. Straughn will work with Dr. Jeanine Varner, current provost, through the end of 2011 and will focus on ACU’s key academic priorities.

adriane patenaude staff Photographer

contact barnes at hab07a@acu.edu

Lyudamyla Baron poses on runway at the Chinese Student Scholars Association fashion show “Be Stylish, Be Casual, Be Smart.” The show raised funds for the Hope Fund, a program that supports the well-being of women in Abilene.

budget

Smith and Adams Halls to be closed temporarily the overall plan to save the university budget nearly managing Editor $10 million. As a part of that plan, the only offcampus resident halls will Smith and Adams halls shut down. Schubert said that since will temporarily close for at least the 2012-13 school the current freshmen enyear as part of the univer- rollment and future enrollsity’s budget realignment ment projections are lower plan announced before than in previous years, the decision to close Smith and Thanksgiving break. In a meeting with facul- Adams halls made the most ty and staff on Nov. 17, Dr. logical sense. “We’d rather have students Phil Schubert, president of the university, announced in resident halls that are phys-

Mark Smith

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Dr. Jean-Noel Thompson, vice president and dean for student life, said the decision was purely based on strategy and efficiency. “We realize that most communities become speDr. Phil Schubert President of the cial to the students who University live there and we don’t feel see one hall as more or less ically on campus,” Schubert important than another,” said. “We had already decided Thompson said. “We made that in the event that enroll- this decision based on the ment trends allowed us to numbers, strategically the take a dorm offline, it would pipeline of students coming in as sophomores.” be Smith-Adams.”

We’d rather have students in resident halls that are physically on campus.”

John Delony, director of Residence Life, said Angela Neal, the resident director of Smith and Adams halls, will see her other role as assistant director of Residence Life expand. “We’ll be increasing the administrative responsibilities she’ll have, she just won’t be over the halls too,” Delony said. The closing of Smith and Adams halls will save the university about $350,000 next school year. Thomp-

son said the move wasn’t just to save costs but also to be more efficient in sophomore housing. “It makes sense strategically to close Smith-Adams because of the halls’ distance from campus and gender balance,” he said. “We will have enough space in the rest of the residence halls on campus to house this year’s freshmen next year, and we expect community to grow since the see closing page 4

obituary

Community mourns death of former student who battled cancer hannah barnes Editor-in-pierce Samantha Bahl, former ACU art and design student who battled adrenal cancer for more than two years, died last week at age 21. She was diagnosed on Oct. 1, 2009, and

fought until Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2011. Jackie Hughes, Sam a n t h a ’s mother and Bahl former ACU faculty member, said Samantha had a very strong

relationship with God, which was evident through her encouraging and bright spirit. “Samantha said, ‘If this brings people to God, then bring it – I’ll take cancer,’” Jackie said. Her friends are a testament to her utter selflessness and

encouraging spirit. Hayden Richardson, sophomore marketing major from Nashville, Tenn., found Samantha to be “bubbly, fun to be around and super encouraging.” “She found something positive and encouraging to say when you were going through something,” Richardson said.

According to Richardson, Samantha was a talented artist. “Her dorm room was covered in all of the stuff she’d drawn,” Richardson said. “It was covered in all of her work.” Samantha’s roommate, Melissa Lozano, junior

psychology major from Arlington, witnessed her humor, her boldness and her unique laugh. “[Samantha] was the person that would go sit next to someone sitting alone in class and become their friend,” Lozano said. see bahl page 4

inside sports

opinion

video

news

Lady ‘Cats fall short in late rally in basketball game at UTPB

Chalk policy change brings to question the university’s rule-keeping

CSSA creates fashion show for fundraiser

Budget cuts affect Study Abroad, athletics, mobile learning and CORE

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Abilene Christian University

acuoptimist.com

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Wednesday 11.30.11

30 Wednesday

All Day - Season of Caring

Thursday

All Day - Season of Caring

Friday

All Day - Season of Caring

11 a.m. Come to the Quiet in Moody Coliseum

11 a.m. Small group chapel

11 a.m. Praise Day in Moody Colisium

11 a.m. Sophomore class chapel in Cullen Auditorium

7:30 p.m. Amahl and the Night Visitors in the Williams Performing Arts Center Recital Hall

11 a.m. Mandatory meeting for Leadership Summit in COBA 301

Saturday

All Day - Season of Caring 10 a.m. Zumbathon in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center 1 p.m. Season of Caring Family Portraits

8 p.m. Ethnos After Party in the Campus Center Bowling Alley

Chapel checkup

Around Abilene Nov. 30

Dec. 01

Dec. 02

Dec. 03

8 a.m. Christmas on the Streets, part of ACU’s Season of Caring, will take place throughout the day. Volunteers can bring new toys to the McGlothlin Campus Center to donate. Volunteers can also help wrap toys in the President’s Dining Room.

8 a.m. The Desdemona Christmas Store will be open until 5 p.m. at the Desdemona Activity Center in Desdemona.

10 a.m. A Christmas store will take place at Grace United Methodist Church at 1402 Grape St. The store will be open until 4 p.m. Crafts, toys and baked goods will be sold.

9 a.m. The Dyess Spouses Club Holiday Bazaar will take place in the First Baptist Church Family Life Center. Admission is $2 for adults, $1 with the donation of a nonperishable food item.

7:30 p.m. Hardin-Simmons University Theater will present A Christmas Carol in Behrens Auditorium on the HSU campus. Ticket prices vary.

64 07 @acuoptimist The Optimist optimist@acu.edu

Police Log Announcements Students not cleared for commencement by today will not be included in the commencement program. Students not cleared for commencement by Dec. 13 will not be allowed to participate in the commencement ceremony.

day at 7:30 p.m. in the Williams Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. Tickets cost $5 for students and $10 for adults and will be available at the door. All proceeds from the Sunday performance will be donated to the Abilene Christian Service Center.

The Christmas Vespers Concert will is located at the northeast entrance of take place at First Baptist Church lo- the Royce and Pam Money Student Reccated at 1333 N. 3rd Ave. Dec. 10 from reation and Wellness Center. 7:30 - 9 p.m. Admission will be free. Students who have registered for classThe Student Recreation and Wellness es for Spring 2012 can begin reservCenter will offer free group exercise ing their textbooks. There is no extra classes all day Dec. 12. Classes include charge, and students will receive a free Circumference, Yoga, Zumba, Boot- bag with their order. Students must orcamp, Capoeira, and more. der before Dec. 31. Books will be available for pick up the week before spring Students interested in participating in Spring semester classes begin. For more inforBreak Campaigns can sign up in the SBC of- mation visit the Campus Store web site. fice located in Room 31 in the lower level of the Campus Center. For more information Students in need of tutoring can visit about campaigns that still need members, or www.acu.edu/tutoring to find tutoring to sign up, contact jls07e@acu.edu. information for their department.

There will be a mandatory meeting for the A Zumbathon will take place Saturday 2012 Leadership Summit at 11 a.m. today from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. in the Royce and in COBA 301. There are 10 spots remaining. Pam Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center. Tickets are $10 in advance, ISA will host an after party for every- $15 at the door. Tickets can be purchased one who participated in Ethnos, as well in the Campus Center. The Zumbathon as those who came to see the show. The will feature seven instructors from around party will take place Thursday from 8 - 11 Abilene. The Zumbathon is a fundraiser p.m. in the Campus Center Bowling Al- for the ACU Student Dietetic Association. ley. The party will be come-and-go, and The ACU Bands Winter Concert will take there will be free drinks and snacks. place Dec. 8 from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. in Cul- Flu shots will be available in the Medi- World Wide Witness is still receiving applicacal & Counseling Care Center for $15. tions for Summer 2011. For more informaACU Opera will present Amahl and the len Auditorium. Admission will be free. The Medical & Counseling Care Center tion visit www.acu.edu/worldwide-witness. Night Visitors Thursday, Friday and Sun-

Volunteer Opp0rtunities Volunteers are needed Saturday from 1 - 5 p.m. to help low-income families receive free family portraits for the holidays. For more information visit www.facebook.com/seasonofcaring.

ing, computers and games. The center is located at 2102 Ambler Ave. For more information contact Bret Hines at 325-670-9727. Call ahead to schedule a time to volunteer.

Volunteers are needed for Christmas on the Streets, a part of Season of Caring. Christmas on the Streets partners with Love and Care ministries to bring toys to Abilene children. Volunteers will bring new toys to the Campus Center through Friday, help wrap toys in the President’s Dining Room or help deliver toys during Christmas on the Streets Dec. 12 - 14. For more information or to sign up visit www.facebook.com/seasonofcaring.

After-School Reading Group needs volunteers to read to/with Taylor Elementary School Children Monday-Thursday from 3:15 - 4:30 p.m. at University Church of Christ. For more information call C.G. Grey at 325-668-2842. Volunteers can chose one or more days a week to come.

Windcrest Alzheimer’s Care Center needs volunteers to help decorate the center for Christmas through Friday, anytime between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. For more information contact Chris Stephenson at 325-692-1533 or email activities@windcresthc.com The International Rescue Committee is collecting coats, hats, jackets, gloves and blankets for refugees in Abilene who came to the U.S. with few possessions and who will need warm clothing. Donations can be dropped off daily from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at 3303 N. 3rd St., Suite D. For more information contact Aly Shanks at 325-675-5673 ext. 19 or email aly.shanks@rescue.org. Oakridge Church of Christ needs volunteers to help with a children’s Bible class. The class will take place every Wednesday night until Dec. 21 from 7 - 8 p.m. Volunteers will help with singing Bible songs, sanitizing toys and playing with kids. Free dinner is included with the service. For more information contact Emerald Lemmons at 325-3701327 or email emeraldlemmons@gmail.com. The Big Brothers Big Sisters program is looking for volunteers to participate in Lunch Buddies. Bigs and Littles will enjoy lunch together at the child’s school once a week. Students can earn Chapel credit for each visit. Big Brothers Big Sisters is also looking for volunteers for its Community Based program. Bigs are matched with Littles in a one-on-one relationship and spend four to six hours per month together in the community. To sign up or learn more visit www.bbbstx.org or call 325-674-3113. The House That Kerry Built is looking for volunteers to assist in the day care of medically fragile children any day Monday-Friday from 8:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Contact Dave Kraly at 325-676-3104 or email medicalmoose@sbcglobal.net for more information. Access Learning Center is looking for volunteers to help elementary school kids with homework, read-

Rescue The Animals is looking for volunteers anytime between 1-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. They need help around the adoption center with general cleaning, socialization of the animals, helping potential adopters and other tasks. Contact Mindi Qualls at 325-698-7722 or email rescuetheanimalsvolunteers@ yahoo.com. The center is located at 5933 S. 1st St.

anytime from 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Contact Steven Legget at 325-670-0489 or email sleggett@abilenehabitat.org. Young Life Ministries needs volunteers Mondays, Tuesdays and weekends from 6 - 9 p.m. Volunteers will hang out with kids, experience leadership roles, serve others and introduce kids to Christ. Young Life is located at 1917 S. 6th St. For more information contact Chuck Rodgers at 325-676-1211 or email clrodg@wrproperties.com. The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers for a variety of needs including sorting items in the thrift store, helping in the kitchen and/or doing yard work. Times are flexible, and help is needed 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.

ACU Treadaway Kids is looking for volunteers to work with underprivileged kids Thursday evenings from 6 7:30 p.m. at the University Church of Christ. For more information contact Samantha Manski at 325-674-2828.

Abilene Hope Haven Inc. needs volunteers to provide childcare while parents are in class, any evening Monday-Thursday from 6:45 - 8:15 p.m. Abilene Hope Haven is located at 801 S. Treadaway Blvd. For more information contact Kathy Reppart at 325-677-4673 or visit the Abilene Hope Haven website.

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. A Chapel exemption is available if delivery time conflicts with Chapel. Contact Jessica Stewart at 325-6725050 or email volunteer@mealsonwheelsplus.com.

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 325695-6311 or abfoodbk@camalott.com.

The National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature is looking for volunteers to work Tuesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. or 1 - 3 p.m. Volunteers will greet patrons, assist with art activities, sell books and make visitors feel welcome. Help is also needed for special events like exhibit openings. The Center is located at 102 Cedar St. For more information contact Debby Lillick at 325-673-4586 or visit the NCCIL website. Breakfast on Beech Street is looking for volunteers to help set up, prepare and serve breakfast to homeless or lower-income visitors any weekday. The event begins at 5:30 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; 5 a.m. on Tuesday. Serving time is 6:30 - 7:15 a.m. B.O.B.S is located at First Christian Church on N. 3rd Street and Beech Street in Downtown Abilene. For more information visit the First Christian Church website. Habitat for Humanity needs volunteers to help with various construction tasks including carpentry, painting, cleaning up, installing cabinets and other tasks. Volunteers are needed any day Monday-Saturday

The Abilene Boys and Girls Club needs help any weekday between 3:30 - 6 p.m. helping children of all ages with games, art, gym time, reading and computer skills. Locations are 4610 N. 10th St. or 1902 Shelton St. Contact Mark Denman at 325-6721712 for more information. Medical Care Mission is looking for volunteers to assist medical or dental staff with patients any weekday from 8:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. For more information contact Dave Kraly at 325-676-3104 or email medicalmoose@sbcglobal.net. Abilene Nursing and Rehabilitation Center has various opportunities for volunteers ranging from visiting with residents to helping with Bingo. Volunteers are needed Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday from 2 - 3 p.m. The Center is located at 2630 Old Anson Road. For more information contact Rita Raymond at 325-673-5101 or email cameron.grad@hotmail.com. College Heights Friendship House needs child mentors Monday - Thursday from 3 - 5 p.m. Contact Dusty Garison at dusty@wecareabilene.org for more information.

campus news

wednesday 11.30.11

university

Mobile learning to be evaluated, altered meagan freeman student reporter Amidst budget woes across campus, rumors of cuts in the mobile learning initiative have surfaced. Initially, local media outlets reported that the program would stop giving incoming freshman iPhones and iPods beginning in 2012. Director of Educational Innovation and associate

professor of English Bill Rankin, said this story is not true. He said the program has not decided if they will stop the distribution of the devices in the future. “It is not 100 percent guaranteed that we will stop. First, we need to assess what is going on with students,” Rankin said. “We may be able to do other things with the initiative.” Rankin said there will be

a meeting in mid-December during which important decisions will be made. President Phil Schubert also said there will not be any changes made until 2013. “For fall of 2012, nothing will be different.” When the mobile learning initiative began, most students did not have access to these types of devices. Rankin said the idea was to be able to provide students with these mo-

bile devices. Now 40 percent of students already own one when they come to the university. Rankin said the university has striven to provide students with access to the latest technology. “Back before computers were widespread, the university provided tons of computer labs,” Rankin said. “Then at a certain point every student had a computer with them, so the expense didn’t make

sense anymore.” Schubert said he believes the investment in devices needs to be reconsidered, but the mission of the mobile learning initiative will stay the same. “This will not change the focus of our mobile learning efforts to innovate the classroom and provide a more rich learning environment.” Whatever the decision is, Rankin said the initiative will continue to move

forward and continue its advancements in enriching education at ACU. “We continue to be excited about what we are discovering. We really see ourselves as completing the first stage of many in the program,” Rankin said. “We are not pulling back on this initiative, simply moving forward.” contact freeman at mkh05a@acu.edu

study abroad

Overseas locations to change christina burch multimedia managing editor Among the many changes proposed in the new budget plan, the study abroad program may grant students more choices. Although the changes have not been finalized, Dr. Phil Schubert, university president, confirmed Tuesday that the study abroad program is planning to offer students more study abroad destinations. “We recognize there are a lot of different ways to go about studying abroad,” Schubert said. “So we’re committed to providing increasing opportunities for students.” Although the university provides students the opportunity to study in a variety of countries, it currently utilizes three permanent facilities: Oxford, England; Montevideo, Uruguay and Leipzig, Germany. However, students may no longer have to travel to these permanent sites leased by ACU. “We’re looking at study

abroad models that don’t rely as heavily on permanent sites but offer increase in flexibility in terms of geographic areas of the world,” Schubert said. “It’s a reevaluation of the philosophy with an eye toward doing something different and more cost efficient than we’ve done in the past.” Schubert said the ongoing debate has continued for a number of years. A team of faculty members currently is looking into utilizing multiple facilities from around the world that are not owned by ACU. He said this was an attempt to match the students’ interest of studying in different locations and for different durations of study. Schubert also said this would save money because the university would not be leasing permanent sites that are only used for a portion of the year. Jenny Valenzuela, junior psychology major from El Paso, said she is interested to hear of the new changes. “As of now, I’m not able

to study abroad for financial reasons, but I’m hopeful that could change,” Valenzuela said. “It’s definitely something I have always wanted to do.” Valenzuela said she believes studying abroad is a great opportunity for all students, no matter what major. “It gives you so much more opportunities and life experiences,” Valenzuela said. “Who wouldn’t want to be able to study in a foreign country?” With the proposed tweaks, Valenzuela said the study abroad program would be even better because students would have more of a say in choice destinations. “If we had more options, I would love to study abroad in Italy,” Valenzuela said. “The country is so beautiful and filled with history.” Schubert said the finalized plans can be expected by the end January, and the changes possibly could take effect fall 2012. contact burch at clb10a@acu.edu

mandy lambright Staff Photographer

ACU students participate in a gingerbread house-building contest in Bennett Gymnasium to help the interior design department raise money.

athletics

Budget plan to cut recruiting scholarships

CORE

Faculty to consider curriculum revisions melany cox page 2 editor Several changes affecting the Core curriculum will go into effect beginning in the fall semester. Dr. Gregory Straughn, assistant provost for general education, said that the changes reflect both budget concerns as well as concerns related to the topics in some of the Core classes. Stephanie Smith, administrative coordinator for general education, said that Straughn has been working on making changes to the Core curriculum all semester and that he saw the need for changes after the first full year of the program. Staughn said that the assessment of the Core curriculum began in Sept. 2010, after the first Cornerstone classes were in place. As the new General Education plan was being crafted several years ago, Straughn said, it included a provision for regular

monitoring and assessment of student learning. Smith said that some of the proposed changes were promoted by the need to cut the budget in order hire faculty. Straughn said the current revisions to the Core curriculum are part of this ongoing process. The current revisions were developed during the fall of this year after time was spent conversing with faculty teaching CORE 110, 120 and 220, reviewing student data from the previous semesters, conversing with deans and other administrators, and surveying the faculty at large. “The Core, like every other area on campus, has been affected by budget reductions. The proposed changes reflect both budget concerns as well as pedagogical concerns related to the topics of some of the Core classes,” Straughn said. Straughn said one of the proposals suggests combining CORE 120 (Human Person and Identity) and

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It would reduce the number of CORE-prefix classes needed to be taught by professors.” Dr. Greg straughn interim provost

CORE 220 (Community) into one class. “Doing so would allow for the topics of identity and community to be considered in a single class, since they are closely related. It would also reduce the number of CORE-prefix classes needed to be taught by professors, which would provide a budgetary savings,” Straughn said. Straughn said the proposal passed the University General Education Council and the University Undergraduate Academic Council and will be considered by the full faculty in the coming weeks. contact cox at mkc09b@acu.edu

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In order to increase the amount of money dedisports reporter cated to individual sports, some head coaches have resorted to doing their own Budget cuts threaten to fundraising to increase slow down ACU success on the sports field. jared mosley their budget. athletic director Cuts in the athletic deAs the university conpartment fall in line with tinues to make cuts camwhat Schubert called for pus-wide, the athletic department will have ap- come from athletic scholar- earlier this month. “Obviously we are goproximately $180,000 cut ships for new players and renewed scholarships for ing to be focused on those from its budget. areas where we can save While some departments returning players. “When deciding where money and reduce cost are losing staff and resources, this department is los- to make the cuts, you have that don’t have an adverse ing those who have not yet to see which areas you are impact – on the student excalled ACU home because most flexible. When you get perience, on learning in the they are losing their recruit- to a certain point, beyond classroom and on the heart the scholarships, you cut of what we do here at ACU,” ing scholarships. Phil Schubert, president into the biggest portion of Schubert said. of the university, said in an our budget which is travel interview with the Optimist and our having our teams contact langston at last month that the uni- compete on the road,” Mosltl10a@acu.edu versity carefully evaluates ley said. where cuts are made. “We realize the sensitivity, and we will do everything we can to try and minimize the impact on jobs,” Schubert said. “This is a place where personnel is at the heart of what we do.” In total, ACU is expected to shed close to $4 million dollars during this round of budget cuts. According to athletic director Jared Mosley, the athletic department will see the bulk of its cuts

taylor langston

We are going to be focused on those areas where we can save money and reduce cost.”

news

wednesday 11.30.11

organizations

Wishing Well to raise support with Poetry Slam curtis christian student reporter Students will be able to experience more of the slam poetry they have been exposed to this semester at Wishing Well’s “Speak Up” slam poetry event at 8 p. m. on Thursday in the lobby of Edwards Hall. Sarah Fatheree, marketing director for Wishing Well on the ACU campus, said slam poetry is about

personal expression. “I think it is all about people standing up and saying what they are passionate about, and with that passion comes rhythm and movement,” said Fatheree, junior advertising and public relations marketing major from Wethersfield, Conn. Fatheree said nine ACU faculty and students are scheduled to perform. Faculty performers include Dr. Steven Moore, assistant professor of English, and Dr. Al

Haley, associate professor of English and writer in residence. Students performing include Matt Preston, whose stage name is M.A. Double, and Sheridan Forte. Forte, a senior English major from Dallas, will perform his signature slam poetry. Preston, sophomore ministry major from Abilene, will present a poem in addition to his normal hip-hop musical performance. Preston also performed at a concert for

Wishing Well last spring and is involved with the organization apart from performances. “The event will make sure that the clean water crisis is seen and understood by more people,” Preston said. “Poetry and hip-hop style are good for sparking inspiration, and I hope to do that for Wishing Well. ” Fatheree said the purpose behind “Speak Up” is to continue to promote Wishing Well and what it stands

for. Wishing Well wants to encourage students to use their gifts and talents to help in any way they can. “No matter what your talents or passions are, they can be used to bring clean water to people and bring glory to God,” Fatheree said. Preston agreed the purpose of the show is to encourage others to take part in using talents to help others. “This is opening opportunities for people to help out with their own gifts,” Preston

said. “Whether that’s poetry, music, art, you can lend a hand and help out with not only this situation, but other situations, too.” Admission to “Speak Up” is free, and merchandise will be sold in support of the Wishing Well cause. For more information about Wishing Well, visit www. wishforwater.com contact christian at cpc08a@acu.edu

community

Season of Caring transitions to Christmas julie coppedge student reporter Students and staff worked together to feed the hungry this Thanksgiving and are now partnering with several ministries to bring Christmas gifts to underprivileged children throughout Abilene. Last year’s Season of Caring surpassed all initial goals even though it was the first ACU event of its kind, said Nancy Coburn, director of service-learning and volunteer resources. She said she believes this year’s initiative is on track to success as well. Students and faculty volunteered before Thanksgiving break to provide Christmas gifts for about 60 at-risk kids who live around Abilene. All of the kids in “Adopt-An-Angel” are involved in ACU’s Treadaway program. Those who picked up an angel Christmas ornament will drop off a wrapped clothing item and a toy for their angel this week. Season of Caring is also partnering with Love & Care Ministries’ campaign, “Christmas on the Streets.” The ministry aims to collect

600 toys for children from low-income families ranging from newborns to 13-yearold kids. Thus far, Season of Caring has collected approximately 100 toys. Volunteers will wrap and distribute the gifts Dec. 12-14. Season of Caring and Love & Care Ministries are also partnering to put on a family portrait event on Saturday. Volunteer photographers will provide families with digital copies, and possibly prints, of their professional photos for the holiday season. “This is just a way for professional photographers to give back to families who cannot afford to have professional Christmas photographs made of their family,” Coburn said. Daniel Gomez, senior English major from San Antonio, served as a photographer last year and plans to serve again this year. “It was amazing to photograph the families who came out,” Gomez said. “I can’t wait until this year’s event.” Season of Caring kicked off its season Nov. 14. It has since collected non-perishable food donations, gently used clothing and household goods for a program

Love & Care Ministries calls “Mission Thanksgiving”. This year’s “Mission Thanksgiving” was the most successful of all 13 years it has existed, said Mark Hewitt, executive director of Love & Care Ministries. Love & Care filled 14 semi-trailers compared to last year’s 11. ACU supported “Mission Thanksgiving” by collecting donations in a truck parked in front of the Williams Performing Arts Center over four days. ACU students and faculty were able to fill two-thirds of the floor in the truck with donations, which were delivered to Mission Thanksgiving at Arrow Ford a few weeks ago. Volunteers also delivered 57 Thanksgiving meal boxes to families in need with children at Taylor Elementary School. Season of Caring has a three theme areas: Pray, Donate, Volunteer, Coburn said. For more information on Season of Caring activities, students can visit the Facebook page, www.facebook. com/seasonofcaring or direct questions via email to seasonofcaring@acu.edu. contact coppedge at jac08b@acu.edu

adrian patenaude Staff Photographer

SHADES performs at the CSSA Fashion show Nov. 18 in Teague Special Events Center.

Obituary

Bahl: Former student’s life impacts others continued from page 1 “Whenever it would rain, she would be the first person out there dancing.” The two met their freshman year, when Samantha popped into her room, dancing to the music playing on Lozano’s computer. “She was one of my dearest and closest friends,” Lozano said. “I confided in her for everything – she was my go-to person. Samantha was born on April 13, 1990, and grew up in Big Rapids, MI. When she was about 11 years old, her family moved to Texas. Upon coming to college, Samantha began to experience health problems. “We knew something was wrong in August, two days before she moved into the dorms,” Jackie said. “She had a pain in her side, and we couldn’t figure out what was wrong with her.” After receiving news of her illness in October, Samantha continued to attend school off and on while becoming a figure of endurance and hope for the ACU community. Richardson, as well as many other ACU students, witnessed Samantha’s upbeat nature, even during the most difficult times. “Going through as much

as she had, she was still so concerned with me and what was going on with other people,” Richardson said. “It was almost as if her illness was nonexistent.” Jackie saw the same strength in her daughter that other friends did. “Samantha does not like to talk about sad or upsetting things,” Jackie said. “What she does is take anything that is sad and twists it and makes something positive out of it.” According to Hughes, Samantha’s life has brought relatives to Christ. Last year, the family decided to move back to Big Rapids and transferred Samantha’s healthcare from M.D. Anderson to the University of Michigan, which specializes in treating the type of cancer Samantha had. Through this time, Jackie saw that it was “totally the Lord” that carried them. “The Lord will always send people,” Jackie said. “The ACU community has been insane.” Contributions were made to Samantha by the the winners of Sing Song 2011 – Gamma Sigma Phi, Ko Jo Kai and the sophomore class. Proceeds from the 2011 Kirk Goodwin Run also went to cover Samantha’s medical expenses. ACU’s Omega Dance

Company also donated a portion of their first show’s proceeds to Samantha’s family last year. “God has provided for us financially when we have needed,” Jackie said. As Samantha’s life was coming to an end, she continued to praise and glorify God. “She couldn’t breathe because the cancer had filled up her lungs, but it was like she would do ‘breath prayers,’” Jackie said. “She was trying to be strong for her brother and boyfriend, even though in her head she was ready to go.” “One in a million people get [adrenal cancer],” Jackie said. “I always told Samantha she was one in a million.” Samantha is survived by her parents, Jackie and Franklin Hughes and Jchon Sr. and Wendy Bahl, and her five brothers: Jchon, Isaac, Langston, Dalton and Noah. The memorial service took place Saturday, Nov. 26 at the Grandville Church of Christ in Big Rapids, Mich., where Samantha attended church. Richardson is planning a memorial to celebrate Bahl’s. The date will be listed at acuoptimist.com once set. contact Barnes at hab07a@acu.edu

budget

Closing: Residence hall temporarily shut down continued from page 1 class won’t be as spread out.” The closing is only a temporary one, and Smith and Adams halls could re-open as soon as the 2013-14 school year, Thompson said. “We have to make strategic decisions based on student demand and freshman

retention,” Thompson said. “We may decide that it’s time to re-open Smith-Adams.” Thompson also said the other change to Residence Life outlined in the budget realignment plan is a reduction of desk manager hours across campus. “A majority of the change, from a budget standpoint, is we’re backing

off on some of the daytime hours desk managers will work,” he said. “We’ll still have a system that provides assistance and monitoring, but not have students working desks every hour of every day.” contact burch at clb10a@acu.edu

featureS THE MAKING OF A wednesday 11.30.11

MOVEMENT

samantha sutherland features editor Two years ago, I was beginning my first year at ACU. My potluck roommate, Brittany Partridge, junior political science major from Annandale, Minn., and I were looking to get involved somewhere and began volunteering two days a week at the Eternal Threads warehouse downtown. What started with hours of burning DVDs and importing data into a computer turned into discussions about a new product we wanted to start trying to sell to college kids: a red bracelet from Nepal that would help raise funds to rescue girls out of sexual slavery. From these meetings, the Red Thread Movement began, and Partridge and I were given the chance to try and make a difference. Two years later, Partridge and I are now juggling a global organization that has vastly outgrown us. Our initial expectation was to raise a modest amount of revenue to support Eternal Thread’s projects in Nepal, and we now are considering our capacity for expansion into new areas of relief, rehabilitation and awareness. We took a trip to Nepal in January of this year and were able to survey the great work being accomplished there by our partners. We were blessed with a chance to spend some time with the girls in the safe house, teaching them to play UNO and painting their nails with purple polish as we heard bits and pieces about their lives and their struggles. We were moved by their stories and strength, and it spurred on our work with the Movement to an even greater capacity.

of Red Thread happened so quickly that much of what God had done through it hadn’t really sunk in. One thing I did realize in January, though, was how much the coming together of people could strengthen the victims of trafficking and abuse. I made a scrapbook of what the Red Thread supporting members were doing here to show the girls in the safe house. Their faces brightened as they realized that so many people back in the U.S. cared about them. However, my most touching experience was not on my trip to Nepal. It was the faces I saw in my own society that were deeply moved by this project that made me begin to realize just how much God was doing with this Movement. People who were stopping by our booth Two years later, Partridge and I are now related to Red Thread in a way that ran even than their genuine compassion for juggling a global organization that has deeper the girls being rescued in Nepal. It struck vastly outgrown us. the hearts of victims of sexual abuse in the U.S., too. I first realized this through two new bands that joined the Movement mid-way samantha sutherland features editor through the tour. I could see an intense passion behind the guys’ desire to join. dise in my car, and we almost succeeded, I later found out that members in both returning home with only a few hundred bands had experienced sexual abuse in bracelets out of the 5,000 I began with and their childhood. They planned on using the Movement as a means of sharing their selling out of many other items. Red Thread Music started the summer testimony alongside the testimonies of the with 60 supporting bands and ended with girls in Nepal. At other festivals, I met two 120. Our Facebook “likes” doubled in three other first-hand victims of trafficking here months, and we developed relationships in the U.S. The Movement wasn’t only spreading with hundreds of Red Thread’s incredible supporters. Excitement among current and awareness about issues abroad, but was new members was stirring considerably. also opening people’s eyes to what was goOpportunities were opening up for growth ing on in the bars and massage parlors in their own cities. I was surprised at the numand expansion. Everything involved in the start-up ber of people who took the time to stop and In June, I loaded my car full of merchandise and set out on a two-month nationwide tour to expand and cultivate the music section of Red Thread. Kelcie Silva, a junior psychology major at Texas Tech, accompanied me for the first half of the tour, and my older brother, Andrew Sutherland, took a train up to Illinois to join me for the second half. In 8,200 miles, we hit four major Christian music festivals, hopped on and off of Warped Tour, spoke at a couple of Red Thread benefit shows and added on some smaller fests and supporting bands’ shows to fill the gaps in between. My seemingly far-fetched goal for the summer was to sell all of the merchan-

“

Photos by: Samantha Sutherland Photographer

Top Left: Kelcie Silva selling merchandise at Ichthus Festival. Top Right: Aaron Gillespie performing at Sonshine Festival with his Red Thread bracelet. Above: Red Thread’s display on Warped Tour. Above Right: Band members of Seabird spreading awareness at Alive Festival. Right: Members of Divide the Sea showing their support of the Movement at Cornerstone Festival

talk about what they had learned about trafficking all over the world. A wealth of knowledge was surfacing and spreading. People I crossed paths with on the road only reaffirmed my part in the Movement. It was not just about raising money anymore. It became largely about the stories: stories of girls in Nepal and of sexual abuse and trafficking worldwide. It was these stories that linked together a very passionate group of people through Red Thread who had taken the Movement and made it their own. The Movement was expanding its outreach, festival by festival, person by person, and affecting lives of an entire group of people here in my own country that Partridge and I had not planned for or expected. The whole Movement is an incredible example of how one message can appeal to such a variety of people from a skate shop in Chicago that gave out Red Thread stickers to kids to put on their skateboards, to a conservative church in Columbus that used a Red Thread benefit concert as a step toward breaking down walls of silence surrounding an issue that extended past their comfort zones. God took a seemingly simple symbol – a red bracelet – and put it on the wrists of tens of thousands of individuals across the world who, whether they were aware of it or not, contributed to a Movement that unveiled stories, brought healing, offered encouragement and raised support. For more information about Red Thread, visit: www.redthreadmovement.org.

contact sutherland at sns08a@acu.edu

opinion

wednesday 11.30.11

Editorial

Breaking rules gets policies changed On the Friday before Thanksgiving, SA announced the university had reversed its chalk policy. Though this was an action that had been progressing for several weeks, we can’t help but notice the rule change occurred after seeing chalk use several times during the semester by different students, groups and organizations on campus. What kind of message could students take from this? A rule was broken more than once, then eliminated. Can this sug-

gest to students that some rules aren’t necessary and if they are broken by certain people or enough times, the university will do away with the rule altogether? Each time the policy was broken, every student, faculty, staff and visitor on campus saw it. Many students didn’t even know ACU enforced a ban on chalk until SA announced the rule was changed. The chalk policy wasn’t strictly enforced, and now chalking is actually encouraged by the

university. SA organized and sponsored Chalk It Up to encourage students to take advantage of the end of the two-year ban. SA will also have a supply of chalk for students and organizations to use for free throughout the school year. SA, with their new enthusiasm, can’t pretend that they’ve always supported chalking, that no rules were broken. If students ignored the outright ban, can administration really expect them to follow this relaxed rule

that still bans chalk writing on brick, vertical surfaces and the Lunsford Trail? Students could find other rules they deem unnecessary or restrictive to break next. We applaud the university and SA’s efforts in meeting the needs and preferences of the student body by ending a restrictive rule that wasn’t completely necessary. This new rule and the availability of chalk will give organizations an effective medium to adver-

Oh Dear, Christian College

Ben miller

the issue SA announced the campus-wide chalking ban, though students were already chalking campus.

our take This sequence of events implies that the university will change rules if they are broken often enough.

tise events or causes. It provides students with a new, possibly fun activity, and we look forward to seeing some intense hopscotch competitions. However, the rule change occurring soon after the rule had been broken several times

sends students the wrong message that they can eliminate a rule by not following it.

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

column

Speaking the language of a Disney generation Farron height

Farron Salley

Growing up, I thought the kids who could watch Rrated movies in elementary school were savages, barely even human. Now, I just feel sorry for them, because they can’t relate with the songs and one-liners we all know best. But it wasn’t until I was humming a song and a friend shouted out “we must be swift as the coursing river, with all the force of a great typhoon,” that I realized she knew the song. Disney gives us a common ground, which is saying a lot because every rock and tree and creature has a life, spirit and name. But that common ground is probably a good thing, because I proposed an sicals that had found a new most of the songs teach home in the spanking new us on a basic level how to Raymond fullerton arrangement in which Abilene Civic Center. The be good people. Your reCentennial Column the newspaper would not paper generously covered f lection should always be theater department, someone you know, and advocate campus turmoil the while bringing attention should show who you are while the administration to lesser known depart- inside. and activities. Enrollment was up, a stuAlong with a great melwould refrain from ments I had been away from ody, the songs were facdent center replaced the meddling.” campus for more than tually informative, too. lovable and creaky Grill, five years before return- I got stumped on a date and newly installed presiing as an older fresh- while taking the TAKS dent John C. Stevens folman in the fall of 1969. test, but then rememlowed the legendary Don champ were there. RepThe Optimist’s annual bered in 1607 we sailed H. Morris who has led the resenting the Optimist I spring spoof, Pessimist, the open seas, for glory, proposed an arrangement college for 29 years. Abilene Christian Col- in which the newspaper scheme that snared sev- had become so contro- God and gold and the Virlege was on the move would not advocate cam- eral ACC students before versial during those five ginia Company. I never during the 1970-71 school pus turmoil while the ad- the attorney general ran years that school officials took French, but I can say year when the editorship ministration would refrain Tussey & Associates out canceled it. In advance bon jour properly – it’s of April Fool’s Day 1971 I just often followed by the of the Optimist fell into from meddling. The two of Texas. The Wildcat football discussed resurrecting it baker with his tray like my lap. Knowing little men and I shook hands, about newspapering I and the arrangement was team was on the move, with Dean Beauchamp, always, with the same old too. Sports Illustrated was who approved the idea. bread and rolls to sale. surrounded myself with honored all year. Meanwhile in the world in town to cover the Wild- As the paper was distrib- Everyone knows the two bright people like Romona Butler, Mark Cunning- beyond Campus Court cats-Arkansas State game uted after Friday chapel words that mean no worham and Karen Hughes. Salvador Allende was played before a standing- students read this head- ries for the rest of your Hardin-Simmons days. But who needs to Linda Jo Brown was on elected president of Chile; room-only crowd at Public line: hand, and Millie Herbert Ford introduced the Pinto; Schools Stadium. Although Merges With ACC. learn math when you can The year’s coda from go from zero to hero just was one of those who sup- cigarette advertising was ASU won 14-8, ACC gained our point of view came in like that? plied art. Bob Woodroof banned from television; major recognition. We – the 1970-71 Opti- the form of a tagline used was sports editor, and and Idi Amin became dicSome songs didn’t have mist staff – decided that in the Pessimist: This is a the best lines. I try not the advertising job was tator of Uganda. Students in the In- our mission was to inspire great day for the school, to steal what I can’t afin Robert English’s caReporting the campus community, the city and the entire ford, because that’s evpable hands. A few days terpretative after being named editor classes were required to promote dialogue and to brotherhood. erything. It’s true that if I went to a meeting in the provide weekly copy to have fun. you walk the footsteps Ancient Sewell Auditothe Optimist staff. From president’s office. of a stranger, you’ll learn contact the optimist at Dr. Stevens and dean that exercise a story idea rium no longer hosted the things you never knew, jmcnetwork@acu.edu of students Garvin Beau- emerged exposing a Ponzi annual homecoming mubut that doesn’t mean go

Column

Editor sought to inspire campus

“

follow one. As exclusive as the Disney circle may seem, sometimes the non-Disney kids can relate. At ACU, everybody wants to be a cat, because a cat’s the only cat who knows where’s it’s at. Freshman year we brushed up on looking down, but by senior year we’re working on our roar! The ring by springers sweep the room and imagine that in the room is someone that they’ll love and will find danc-

“

Along with a great melody, the songs were factually informative too. I got stumped on a date while taking the TAKS test, but then remembered in 1607 we sailed the open seas for glory, God and gold and the Virginia Company.”

ing to the tune. But we’ve all matured together because we know we have a brand of magic that never fails; we’ve never had a friend like Jesus. I hope the love and joy of Disney songs spreads throughout campus. It opens our eyes and takes us wonder by wonder, over sideways and under, if you let it. Do you trust me? Did you get all 15 references?

contact salley at fls08a@acu.edu

hashtagACU 9:07 p.m. Nov. 28 4:10 p.m. Nov. 26

“We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns, and syrup.” #Elf

@haleybojaley

10:24 p.m. Nov. 17

Someone just broke up with me over email, but it’s okay, ‘cause we weren’t dating that long & I made him up.

@MrsRupertPupkin

3:22 p.m. Nov. 29

Facebook creeping my teacher in class while he is lecturing on Facebook. haha #core @overheardACU

@jroberts1125 @jacobkp90

editorial and Letter Policy Unsigned editorials are the opinions of the Optimist and may not necessarily reflect the views of the university or its administration. Signed columns, cartoons and letters are the opinions of their creators and may not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of the Optimist or the university. The Optimist encourages reader response through letters to the editor but reserves the right to limit frequent contributors or to refuse to print letters containing

personal attacks, obscenity, defamation, erroneous information or invasion of privacy. Please limit letters to 350 words or fewer. A name and phone number must be included for verification purposes. Phone numbers will not be published.

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

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sports Jumps

wednesday 11.30.11

men’s basketball

Wildcats continue quick start to season matthew sloan sports reporter The ACU men’s basketball team continued in their winning ways during the thanksgiving break, improving their record to 4-1 in the young season after a couple of wins against UT Permian Basin and a tough loss to a talented A&M International squad. “Overall it went well.” Senior Ben Warton said. “The win over UTPB was a good win, to go into their place and hang on is a good win. Against international we just let our defense slip in the second half, but it is good to see that we were able to stay in the game even with a lapse in defense.” The Wildcats started the UTPB classic by taking on the Permian Basin Falcons in their first road game of the season on November 18th and took care of business on the road, winning 65-60. “It is very important to be able to win on the road.” Junior Armani Williams said. “It is a process, and I’m glad we are winning and staying together.” The next night, ACU suffered their first loss of the season in heartbreak-

ing fashion against the A&M international Dustdevils 71-69. The Wildcats played an incredible first half of basketball against A&M International, scoring 44 points and shooting well over 50% from the floor. Unfortunately, in the second half the Wildcats could not knock down many open looks, and the Dustdevils were able claw their way back into the game, and with 13 seconds left, the game was all knotted up, 69-69. Then Dustdevil guard Armando Brito made a jump shot at the buzzer to oust the Wildcats hopes of winning two straight games away from Moody Coliseum, and handed ACU their first loss under head coach Joe Golding. I think we should have won both of our games, but we ended up losing on a buzzer beater.” Williams said. “That game showed us that we have to finish games earlier and not get ourselves in those situations.” Last Tuesday, while most of the ACU community was headed home to spend for a thanksgiving feast, the Wildcats were handing UT Permian Ba-

sin their second loss in five days, this time in Moody Coliseum 80-69. “It’s always hard to beat a team two times in a row.” Warton said. “The two teams are pretty familiar with each other so it was a big step for us.” The Wildcats torrent first half scoring continued in this game, as the Wildcats scored 45 first half points and looked to be in control of this game from the start. Four Wildcats were in double figures in this game, including Erik Kibi, Kendall Durant, Zach Williams, and Antonio Bell with a game high 21 points. The balanced scoring of the Wildcats has caused problems for opposing defenses all year. “We definitely have a lot of weapons.” Williams said. “We also have depth at every position, which will be a great advantage for us down the stretch.” The Wildcats’ next home game is against Southwestern Adventist University this Saturday, December 3rd, at 7 p.m. in Moody Coliseum. DANIEL GOMEZ CHIEF Photographer contact sloan at mes10b@acu.edu

Senior forward Eric Kibi jaunts through the manmade tunnel made by fellow teammates during a home game at Moody Coliseum.

WOmen’s BAsketball

‘Cats’ late rally falls short against Falcons cats. After immediately falling behind 8-0, the sports reporter ‘Cats caught a break when ACU’s women’s basketball Cecilee Perez banked two team, led by Mack Lank- free throws. Lankford pitched in ford, made a quick comeback after trailing UT- a layup, giving ACU a Permian Basin for three chance at 15-12, but periods. However, the the Falcons responded late rally attempt was not with a quick rally ending enough for the Wildcats to 17-point lead. Kelsey Smith helped to overcome the Falcons’ 7767 lead by the final buzzer. bring the Wildcats within “They were just con- range, scoring 6 out 7 free tinually more consistent throw attempts making than we were,” Lankford the score 36-27 just before said. “That’s where it re- the half. ACU returned to the ally hurt us.” The first half was a second half, barely manrough stretch for the Wild- aging to close in on UTPB.

natalie Goin

volleyball

“

When we focus and work hard, everything continues to fall into place.” Mack Lankford sophomore gaurd acu women’s basketball

However, with just over 15 minutes remaining on the clock, Lankford sought to minimize the 12-point deficit. After scoring a 3-pointer, the sophomore nailed 12 more straight points in less than five minutes. In addition, Hillari Adam shot two 3-pointers, bringing ACU within four points at 53-49.

Lankford added back to back 3-pointers leaving the ‘Cats trailing by one with 3:42 to go, followed by a jumper in the paint giving the Wildcats their first lead since tip-off. ACU’s 63-62 lead unfortunately did not last as UTPB answered back with a 15-4 series of baskets, including several points scored from freethrow attempts. The Falcons made 21 of their 26 shots from behind the free-throw line. Mack Lankford’s performance Tuesday night led her to receive the

Lone Star Conference’s Offensive Player of the Week award for her consistent scoring of at least 30 points in the first two games of the season. “Mack is definitely a leader on this teams,” said Head Coach Shawna Lavender. “Her efforts don’t stop until the end of the game every time.” Lankford finished the game with 33 points, her second highest-scoring game. Last season she scored her 35 points against Southeastern Oklahoma State, her career-high. Lankford has scored in

the 30’s in several games, including 32 against A&M Commerce and 31 against Eastern New Mexico. Junior Kelsey Smith followed Lankford in overall scoring with 13 points. “We just keep looking forward,” Lankford said. “When we focus and work hard, everything continues to fall into place.” The Wildcats resume play on Thursday for its home opener against St. Mary’s at 5:30 p.m.

contact Goin at nsg10b@acu.edu

soccer

Strong: ACU loses to UCM Loss: Field, rain hinder play from page 8 Central Missouri wasn’t going down without some kind of a fight. The Jennies showed why they’re ranked No.6 in the nation by outscoring Abilene Christian 6529 in the final three sets. Kelsie Edwards said the team played with confidence in the first two sets. “We played well. We had a calm confidence about us that attributed to our success in the two games we won. Central Missouri played almost perfect in sets three, four and five.” Sophomore Caley Johnson agreed with Edwards. “It was exciting to come out on fire in the first two sets. I was sad we lost but they were a tough opponent.” The ‘Cats finished the second half of the season on a much better note than the first part. Through the first 17 matches, ACU was 9-8 (4-3 ), meanwhile the squad had a dominating 12-6 (103) record to end its season. When asked to summarize the season, Edwards said, “It took awhile for us to click. The Regional tourna-

ment at Washburn was the peak of our season. I felt we played the best in October. One of our goals was to end on a high note, and we did.” “This year was a good learning experience,” Johnson said. “It was a good year to grow from all the success we had this season.” The turning point for ACU was when the girls upset then No. 25 Emporia State University in the Washburn Regional Crossover tournament 3-2. Exactly one month later, the Wildcats defeated No. 16 Angelo State. “That win (against ASU) was what propelled us into the regional tournament,” Johnson said. “To beat that good of a team in front of our fans was fun.” The ‘Cats will be losing three seniors from this year’s team. Hutt, Aubree Vick, and Edwards all contributed major roles in reaching the playoffs. Johnson said of the seniors, “All three seniors were great leaders on and off the court. They stepped up and helped the younger players on numerous occasions.” contact isaacs at jei08a@acu.edu

from page 8 been played,” he said. “Then when the officials stopped it with 11 minutes left in the first half, it never should have been resumed. It should have been stopped in the second half.” Wilson said that the sloppy playing conditions prevented the teams from playing soccer on the field. “We played on a field that was the ultimate equalizer,” he said. “We were not able to see what kind of team Chico State was because both teams were not able to get the ball

out of the standing water the entire game.” Sophomore forward Andrea Carpenter echoed Wilson, saying the team could not establish an identity on the playing surface. “It was hard to do what we do best, which is move the ball on the ground,” Carpenter said. “The puddles were so deep that the ball couldn’t be passed or dribbled by either team.” The loss marks the end of three seniors’ collegiate careers: Elliott London, Lyndsey Womack and Ashley Holton. “We will miss all three very much,” Wilson said. “They are

all special players and have done a significant amount on the field to get our program where it is today.” “We had an amazing season and it wouldn’t have happened without

every single girl who was a part of that,” Carpenter said. “I’m blessed to be a part of that kind of team.” contact shake at bxs09a@acu.edu

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sports

Wednesday 11.30.11

standings

football

Rally not enough on roadtrip

men’s basketball

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

MSU ENMU TSU ACU WTAMU ASU UIW TAMU-K Cameron

0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

5-0 6-1 5-1 4-1 3-1 4-2 4-2 5-3 3-2

women’s basketball

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

UIW TWU Cameron MSU ACU TSU Commerce TAMU-K WTAMU

0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

4-0 4-0 2-1 3-2 1-1 2-5 1-3 1-3 1-3

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

ACU MSU ENMU Commerce ASU WTAMU UIW TWU

13-0 9-4 6-5 6-6 5-6 5-8 3-7 1-12

20-2 14-6 8-8 8-9 6-9 9-10 5-7 1-14

women’s soccer

DANIEL GOMEZ CHIEF Photographer ACU quarterback Mitchell Gale is taken to the ground by a Washburn defensive lineman during the Wildcats’ heartbreaking 52-49 loss to the Ichabods Saturday, Nov. 19. Gale threw for 506 passing yards on 29 completed passes and accounted for five touchdowns in his best game statistically as a Wildcat.

Austin gwin sports director They have had plenty of second half comeback’s this year, but the 24 point lead midway through the third quarter was too much for the ACU Wildcats to overcome as their season ended with a 52-49 loss at Washburn University. The Ichabods rode 38 first half points, scoring on all six first half offensive possessions, to victory. The Wildcats, down 4521 at one point in third quarter, rallied to close the

gap at 45-42, but couldn’t take the lead behind Gale’s 506 passing yards. It was Gale’s best game ever as a ‘Cat from a yardage standpoint. He completed 29 of his 48 passes to eight different receivers. Gale threw for four touchdowns and also ran for one, but was haunted by three critical second half interceptions. Those three turnovers were the difference in the game as ACU out-gained Washburn by 140 yards and had three more first downs. The Wildcats had all the momentum after run-

ning back Daryl Richardson scored to bring the ‘Cats within three points at 45-42. The defense then held the ‘Bods to a three and out setting up the Wildcats with a chance to tie or take the lead. After a combination of Gale and Richardson took the Wildcats inside Washburn territory, the Ichabods got back-to-back sacks of Gale stopping the drive and the ‘Cats momentum. On the ensuing Ichabod drive the ‘Cats defense seemed to have stymied Washburn again as the home team had a 3rd and

23, but quarterback Dane Simoneau delivered a perfect pass just outside the reach of defensive back Darien Williams. Receiver Ronnell Garner caught the pass and took it 61 yards for the score. That touchdown gave the Ichabods a ten point lead with four minutes left. Gale’s third interception gave the ball back to Washburn on the next Wildcat drive. The Wildcats did get one more chance to try and pull off a miracle as they got the ball with one minute left, and no tim-

eouts, down ten points. Gale quickly led the ‘Cats down the field and Charcandrick West found the end zone with 37 seconds left on the clock. Down three, kicker Morgan Lineberry booted an onside kick that was recovered by Washburn, sealing the Ichabods win. The loss puts ACU’s final record for 2011 at 8-3. Washburn will play Pittsburg State next Saturday.

contact gwin at agg07a@acu.edu

soccer

briefings Jennie Hutt was announced as a Honorable Mention All-America by the American Volleyball Coaches’ Association on Monday, Nov. 28. Hutt is the fifth Wildcat since 2005 to earn the award. She was also named to first team all-region on Tuesday, Nov. 22. Mack Lankford received the Lone Star Conference’s Offensive Player of the Week award for averaging 30 points per game in women’s basketball’s first two games this season.

No. 17 ’Cats fall in rainy heartbreaker bryson shake sports editor

DANIEL GOMEZ CHIEF Photographer

Sophomore defender Brie Buschman attempts to keep the ball away from a attacking offensive player at the Wildcat Soccer Pitch early in the season.

The Abilene Christian women’s soccer team reached an unfortunate end to their season Sunday, Nov. 20 in Los Angeles on a dreary, rainy day as the team fell to Chico State 1-0 in the quarterfinals of the NCAA Division II Championship. The team finishes the year with a record of 20-21, which is the best in the program’s five-year history. Chico State (13-6-5) retains the role of Cinderella in the tournament and will face Grand Valley State, twotime defending national champion, Dec. 1 in Fla., in the NCAA semifinals. Forward Alyx Williams scored in the 14th minute and goalkeeper Brianna Furner recorded her 10th shutout of the year en route to the win. The loss marks the first time the Wildcats have been shut out since Oct. 29, 2010, and only the second time in two seasons. ACU women’s head soccer coach Casey Wilson expressed his gratitude and

Sara Oxford was voted the Region Freshman of the Year by the American Volleyball Coaches’ Association appreciation for his players’ efforts all year and the joy on Tuesday, Nov. 22. he got from coaching them. “I’m happy with our overall season and won’t take any of our success for granted,” Wilson said. “Going into the season, I knew we had a great team and would go far. By getting here, I feel that’s a step up from last year’s conference title. Improvement is always good.” The weather conditions surrounding the afternoon game were the headline throughout the game. Rain began to fall late in the morning and continued to do so throughout the game, completely submerging the playing field’s surface with water. Action was stopped 11:11 before halftime so that the standing water could be cleared from the field. Following one hour of delays, play resumed, although conditions worsened as the game progressed. Wilson said the game should have never been started or played due to the weather conditions. “From the very beginning, it should have never see loss page 7

volleyball

Wildcats end season on high note round and Washburn University in the third round. assistant sports editor The team will play Concordia University in St. The Wildcat volleyball Paul, Minn, in the quarteam’s season ended in terfinals on Dec. 1. Head coach Kellen Mock’s disappointing fashion on Thursday, Nov. 17 at the ACU squad finished the 2011 UCM Multipurpose Build- season at 21-14 and 14-6 in the LSC. UCM improved to ing in Missouri. The ‘Cats lost 3-2 to the 28-4 on the year. The Wildcats looked as University of Central Missouri in the first round of though they would cruise the NCAA Division II South to a first round upset after Central Region tournament. winning sets one and two Central Missouri went 25-22 and 25-21 respecon to beat Lone Star Con- tively. ACU controlled Cenference foe Angelo State tral Missouri with a .325 University in the second hitting percentage and 28

edward isaacs

kills versus only five attack errors during that span. The ‘Cats never trailed in the first set. Kalynne Allen ended set one with a kill. UCM scored the first eight points of the second game, then led 15-8 off a kill by Taylor Goodness. However, ACU managed to outscore the Jennies 17-6 in the remainder of the set. Central Missouri wasn’t going down without some kind of a fight. The Jennies showed why their ranked No.6 in the nation by out-

Chicago Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox had a huge game against the Raiders on Sunday, Nov. 27. Knox had four receptions for 145 yards and one touchdown. The Bears lost 20-25 to the Raiders. Cincinnati Bengals running back Bernard Scott had four rushes for one yard and no touchdowns Sunday, Nov. 27 against the Browns. The Bengals won 23-20. On the year, Scott has 78 carries for 264 yards and a lone touchdown. Dan Wolken wrote an article in The Daily newspaper about the ACU football program. The story talked about the five players it has produced who have gone on to play in the NFL.

Upcoming The men’s basketball team will play Southwestern Adventist University in Moody Coliseum on Saturday, Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. The women’s basketball team will host St. Mary’s University on Thursday, Dec. 1 in Moody Coliseum at 5:30 p.m. The team will also play Texas Woman’s University on Saturday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m.

DANIEL GOMEZ CHIEF Photographer

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EX- FACTOR

Jennie Hutt and Neely Borger block an ensuing kill attempt.