OPTIMIST THE
FRIDAY August 27, 2004
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
Abilene Christian University
Vol. 93, No. 3 1 section, 10 pages www.acuoptimist.com
Serving the ACU community since 1912
Barefoot opens:
Students intern in multicultural office:
Football preview:
The Theatre Department’s production of Barefoot in the Park opened Thursday. Page 7
Seven students are working in the Office of Student Multicultural Enrichment with different cultural affinity groups. Page 4
See a position-by-position breakdown of the team, whose first game is Sept. 4. Page 10
New residence hall approved Construction could begin next month; done by August 2005 By JONATHAN SMITH EDITOR IN CHIEF
The Board of Trustees approved plans for a $6 million residence hall Saturday, and construction could begin by mid-September. Jack Rich, executive vice
president, said the project’s budget is still being finalized, and officials are looking to see if the hall can be ready for students next August. If it cannot be ready, the project could be delayed. Kevin Watson, chief administrative services officer, said construction could begin by the middle of September, and Rich said it would have to begin by the end of September to be done by next year.
The hall, which will be built on the student parking lot across from Brown Library, will house 176 students. Although it will be one connected structure, the hall will be comprised of four self-contained pods — students would have to go outside to get from one pod to another. Each floor of the three-story hall will have a separate common living area for residents, Watson said.
Because of the structure, the new hall could adapt every year, and each pod could house a different gender or classification of students, depending on the needs. Although the new hall will be built on a student parking lot, Watson and Rich said they believe there will be enough parking. “We know we’ll hear some See HOUSING Page 7
TITTLE LUTHER PARTNERSHIP/Courtesy photo
A site plan (above) and front elevation (below) show the details for the proposed residence hall across Campus Court from Brown Library.
Magazine scores Texas universities Some administrators say review was unfair, not very thorough BY LORI BREDEMEYER MANAGING EDITOR
EYAKEM GULILAT/Staff Photographer
Students from Madagascar sing in the Sowell Rotunda of the Biblical Studies Building at a reception for them Aug. 4—their first full day at ACU.
‘Act of God’ brings Malagasy students University welcomes 22 from Madagascar earlier this month By SARAH CARLSON COPY EDITOR
When Tiana Andriamanana arrived in Texas for the first time, she not only was overwhelmed by the heat and confused by the accents, but she noticed something about Americans. “They eat a lot of food — too much for us,” Andriamanana said. “I ordered a hamburger, and it was too large to eat.” Andriamanana is one of 22 students from the Republic of Madagascar, an island nation off the coast of Africa, attending ACU this fall on a special scholarship. Almost 100 faculty members and students welcomed
the students at a reception in Sowell Rotunda in the Biblical Studies Building on Aug. 4. Dressed in matching ACUpurple polo shirts, the students wound their way up the stairs to an echoing applause from the crowd. Dr. John Tyson, vice president for development, welcomed the crowd and described the arrival of the Malagasy students, as people from Madagascar are called, as a journey. “What a powerful testimony to the influence of 98 years here at this university,” he said.
Students recruited Tyson took part in both the first and second U.S.-Madagascar Business Council trade missions in November and April, respectively, as the only representative of higher edu-
Departments, offices begin trading spaces Offices, classrooms fill holes left by LEC, Music Department By DEE TRAVIS ARTS EDITOR
At the dawn of a new semester, students aren’t the only ones adjusting to new homes. Several changes have been made to the campus, including closing the Learning Enhancement Center. Dr. Dwayne VanRheenen, provost, said in an e-mail that students will still receive tutor-
ing, just not in the LEC. Instead, VanRheenen said, the academic departments will hire tutors, and they will work in spaces provided by the departments. “This approach will closely link tutors to the needs of the department as defined by the faculty who are teaching the courses,” VanRheenen said. VanRheenen also said that although the LEC has moved out, the space beneath the library is still being used by the University Writing Center and See BUILDINGS Page 7
cation. He met with Madagascar President Marc Ravalomanana, whom he described as a successful Christian businessman who wants to help bring his country out of poverty. The ambassador to the United States from Madagascar, Rajaonarivony Narisou, visited the campus in March in order to assess the university for the president. A plan was developed to send Malagasy students to ACU on a four-year, fully paid scholarship funded by the government of Madagascar, called the Madagascar Presidential Scholars Program. Advertisements for the scholarship appeared in May on national radio, television and newspaper ads in Madagascar. Tyson said only students who finished their high
EYAKEM GULILAT/Staff Photographer
A Malagasy student speaks to a faculty member at a welcoming reception Aug. 4.
Jack Rich, executive vice president, said Texas Monthly got one thing right in its review of ACU: The university prides itself on its Christian values. The magazine published its 2004 Guide to Texas Colleges and Universities, in which it reviewed 59 of the 130 schools in Texas from a student’s point of view. Reporters spent time at each school talking to students and spending time on campus, and Rich said that portrayed ACU in a slightly altered light. “I think in general that Texas Monthly didn’t do a very thorough job of looking at the schools in the way that they approached it,” he said. “I think it was unfair to many schools, and there were a lot of things they could have said that would have been very positive that they missed the opportunity.” The article said the campus is “full of supernice students who are having a darn great time,” and “there is much fun to be had, even if it is wholesome fun.” It also joked about how students will enjoy the school “as long as you don’t mind keeping the door open and both feet on the floor.” “I thought they were poking a little fun,” Rich said, “and I thought that was OK in the context of saying that we take our Christianity seriously.” The article also cited several of the best and worst aspects of ACU, such as the best tradition, Sing Song, and the worst on-campus food, the Bean. Dr. Jonathan Wade, assistant professor of English, was credited with teaching one of the best classes. “It was an honor; it did make me feel good about it,” said Wade, whose humanities class was recognized. “I do my best to make it something we can all enjoy and learn.” The review mentioned two departments, also. Journalism and Mass Communication was acknowledged as one of few accredited programs in the state, and the Physics Department was mentioned for allowing its students the opportunity to work in national nuclear laboratories. Dr. Donald Isenhower, department chair, said undergraduate physics students at ACU have been doing research for more than 30 years. “The students do work which has been very important,” he said. “It gives them a lot of expeSee REVIEW Page 7
See STUDENTS Page 7
Building shuffle • Learning Enhancement Center: After the LEC closed, a classroom, computer lab, writing center, seminar room and TRIO offices now occupy this space underneath the Brown Library.
Plans for water park on hold Dispute over finances, land ownership stall construction of park By CHRISTY GOWER FEATURES EDITOR
• Office of Career and Academic Development: This office moved to the newly renovated lower level of McKinzie Hall. • Burford Music Center: What used to house the Music Department until the Williams Performing Arts Center opened, will soon be occupied by the education department.
Hopes for a water park near campus are being put on hold until the business partners settle a dispute. Charlie Wolfe and Chris Young have been working to build a smaller version of Hurricane Harbor near campus between East North 10th and Interstate 20, just west of Loop 322, Wolfe said. Had the disagreement not occurred, Wolfe said they looked at hav-
ing it completed in April 2005. “The whole thing is up in the air,” he said. “It’s all on hold.” Wolfe is suing Young to gain the title to the land he purchased for the park. “One partner has control of the land and didn’t pay for it,” Wolfe said. Young said settling out of court hasn’t worked, but they do not have a court date as of yet. He said he could not discuss details of the case or his reaction to possible outcomes of the case under advice of his attorney. Wolfe said the clash was over a “significant” difference in the percentage of the com-
pany each thought a stockholder should have. He estimated the park should take eight to nine months to build after gaining ownership of the land. The park could bring numerous employment opportunities to students in particular, he said. The park will be similar to NRH2O in Richland Hills and will have different attractions added every couple of years, Wolfe said. “There is a need to have something like that in Abilene,” he said. E-mail Gower at: cng02a@acu.edu
CAMPUS
Chapel Check-Up Credited Chapels to date: Credited Chapels remaining:
Friday, August 27, 2004
Calendar&Events 27
Friday
Freshman Follies sign-ups, 10 a.m.2 p.m., Campus Center ticket window. Intramural sign-ups, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., Campus Center ticket window. Graduate School of Theology Back to School Dinner, 4-9:30 p.m., Hilton Room.
28
Saturday
Professional Development Day for student teachers, 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Hilton Room. CPR training for intramural sports, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Living Room.
29
Sunday
MFI Research project, 5-8 p.m., Hilton Room.
30
Monday
Information night for prospective pledges, Hart Auditorium, men at 6 p.m., women at 7 p.m. Students’ Association election speeches, 7-9 p.m., Hilton Room.
31
Tuesday
Students’ Association elections, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Campus Center.
1
Wednesday
Friday, Aug. 27 Freshman Follies sign-ups, 10 a.m.2 p.m., Campus Center ticket window. Intramural sign-ups, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., Campus Center ticket window. Graduate School of Theology Back to School Dinner, 4-9:30 p.m., Hilton Room.
2
Thursday
Study Abroad fair, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Campus Center.
Campus Activities Board interest meeting, 5-6:30 p.m., Hilton Room.
Freshman Follies sign-ups, 10 a.m.2 p.m., Campus Center ticket window.
Study Abroad Welcome Back Dinner, 6-9 p.m., Living Room.
FilmFest sign-ups, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Campus Center.
Announcements The ACU Roller Hockey Team is seeking experienced players. They represented ACU last year at the National Collegiate Roller Hockey Tournament and want to continue their winning tradition. For information, e-mail crb00c@acu.edu. Synchronized Swimming is looking for more girls to participate. The club will begin in September, and no previous synchronized swimming experience is necessary. Being able to swim
200 yards is the only requirement. For more information, e-mail clm02e@acu.edu. Bowling will be free for all students next week, Aug.30-Sept.3, because of an agreement between the Students’ Association and the Recreation Center. Students must present an ACU ID Card. Mascot tryouts will be held Aug.28 at 3 p.m. in Moody Coliseum. For more information, e-mail rvw02a@acu.edu.
Volunteer Opportunities The counseling center needs a volunteer to copy edit the Dear Grace column that appears in the Optimist and possibly other documents. It takes about 30 minutes to an hour a week and can probably be done by e-mail. For more information, contact Helen Marshall at Ext. 2119 or by e-mail at marshallh@acu.edu. Day Nursery is seeking volunteers to work shifts at its food booth Sept. 10-18. Workers will be serving food and drinks, but they will not be required to cook. Many different shifts are available during both day and evening hours. Visit the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout for more information. The Student Resources Office needs 20 volunteers to help with the faculty and staff event “Under the Big Top.” The event will take place in the Teague Special Events Center 5-8:30 p.m. Thursday. For more information, contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout. Wildcat Kids is looking for volunteers. Applications can be picked up at the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout. Completed applications are due Sept. 10.
About This Page The Optimist maintains this calendar for the ACU community to keep track of local social, academic and service opportunities. Groups may send announcements directly to optimist@jmc.acu.edu or to the Page 2 Editor, ACU Box 27892, Abilene, TX 79699.
To ensure that an item will appear on time, the announcement should be sent at least 10 days before. The Optimist may edit items for space and style. Corrections and clarifications of published news articles will be printed in this space in a timely manner.
04 67
CAMPUS NEWS
Friday, August 27, 2004
Page 3
Halls get new leaders Four fill head positions in residence halls, begin multiple roles
“I’m here to mourn with those who mourn and rejoice with those who rejoice.” Bob Booth, McDonald Hall residence director
By JACI SCHNEIDER OPINION EDITOR
Four new directors have made ACU residence halls their homes this semester. The Office of Residence Life and Housing filled the four openings in residence halls this year with Jacquetta Etheridge in Gardner Hall, Marie Thomas in Nelson Hall, Bob Booth in McDonald Hall and Steve Sargent in McKinzie Hall. Callie Brown is also new in University Parks Apartments. “I’m exceptionally pleased with the staff we have,” said Dr. Mimi Barnard, director of Residence Life Education and Housing. Former residence hall directors simply moved on in life, Barnard said. Two of them lived in the halls for nine years. “That’s just a really long time to live in a building with college students,” Barnard said. The new directors will fill many roles over the course of their employment, including
administrator, mentor, security officer, host and disciplinarian. With all the roles they will fill, the job is mainly one of ministry, said Bob Booth, director of McDonald Hall. “It’s a unique ministry in that it’s very close to the model in which Christ ministered,” Booth said. “Christ ministered by living among the people.” Booth said college students go through a lot of new expeBarnard riences and changes in their first year at school, and he wanted to be there for them. “I’m here to mourn with those who mourn and rejoice with those who rejoice,” Booth said. “We’ve already had some pretty intimate conversations.” None of the residence hall directors’ duties have changed
since last year, but the regulations will be better enforced, Barnard said. “If it’s on our [contract], then we’re going to be doing these things,” she said. “Things like going to Chapel and really managing the building and not just the people inside it.” For Booth, the job may be daunting, but he said it will be rewarding. “It can be quite a bit of work; you’re pretty much always on call,” he said. “But I love working for the school.” Residence directors tend to be recently graduated students with master’s degrees or students working on their master’s, Barnard said. “The apartments aren’t big enough to hold a growing family,” Barnard said. “Three to five years is a good amount of time to serve.” E-mail Schneider at: jrs02a@acu.edu
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY EMILY CHASTAIN/Staff Photographer
Marie Thomas, an ACU graduate with a master’s in psychology from Redondo Beach, Calif., is the new residence director in Nelson Hall. Other new directors include Jacquetta Etheridge in Gardner Hall, Bob Booth in McDonald Hall and Steve Sargent in McKinzie Hall.
CAMPUS NEWS
Page 4
Friday, August 27, 2004
Student Multicultural Enrichment office adds seven cultural student advisers Office adds, expands programs to increase awareness BY CHRISTY GOWER FEATURES EDITOR
Because of the budget cuts last semester, the Office of Student Multicultural Enrichment made one large change; it switched from having two coordinators to having seven student interns. La Shae Sloan, director of Student Multicultural Enrichment and Student Services, said she is looking forward to working with the student interns, called cultural student advisers, because they will have a better perspective than she and former coordinators Bob Gomez and Dave Merrill had. “There are pros and cons to it,” she said, “but I am really looking forward to their working and the things we have
planned together. “The con to it is I haven’t had their presence for that planning purpose,” Sloan said. “But I think the pro is they will have a connection with other students that Bob, Dave and I never really could, just because they live in the same world and understand issues about schedules and what students actually want to know, and what they want to learn, and what they want to experience.” Each adviser will work with a cultural affinity group and plan a specific event throughout the year. “I think that having so many workers and all of their energy and interest and desire for this job is going to make things go very well this year,” Sloan said. Sloan has several new activities planned this semester, along with expanded versions of familiar activities. A new program Sloan and Aracely Velasquez, senior histo-
ry major from Houston, are working on is MyPEEPS, or Minority Peers Encouraging Excellent Performance Successfully. MyPEEPS is a mentoring program matching freshmen with upperclassmen in the same cultural affinity group. “What we’re trying to do is make sure all students are connected to someone,” Sloan said. “There’s a lot of opportunities on campus … but we wanted to make sure we connected students according to cultural affinity groups to make sure they have someone who’s older and successful to look up to and maybe ask questions of.” Workshops on time and money management and how to be successful in college are also part of the program. Velasquez will be working only for the fall semester as part of a practicum. Jennifer Fuentes, junior marketing major from Abilene, and Kathleen Pina, junior political
science major from San Antonio, will help plan Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. Another program planned for the year is Sundaes on Mondays, monthly discussion groups conducted the last Monday of each month. “It’s really an opportunity for people to start talking, talking about issues,” Sloan said. “If it’s a hot issue, you get to get cooled off with ice cream.” The first Sundaes on Monday is Sept. 27, and Noel Cothren, sophomore business management major from Albuquerque, N.M., and Monica Smith, junior journalism major from Fort Worth, are planning the events. Takisha Knight, sophomore journalism major from Lake Charles, La., and Rachel Lau, sophomore undeclared major from Penang, Malaysia, are in charge of Global Awareness Month. The Culture Show is one of many activities during
the month, which is an expanded version of Cultural Awareness Week. “It’s talking about issues that are bigger than the United States and what’s going on in the rest of the world,” Sloan said. The last event planned for the year is Tri-University First Friday, an opportunity for students from ACU and HardinSimmons and McMurry universities to get together and mingle. The first First Friday is Sept. 3 and is planned by Cothren and Smith. Sloan chose the seven interns out of 10 applications she received last semester. She said she received no male applicants. “I trust these young women and their ability,” Sloan said. “They come from different backgrounds, so they will give different perspectives. It’s a very diverse group.” E-mail Gower at: cng02a@acu.edu
Cultural Student Advisers The cultural affinity group and event assigned to each adviser is also listed. • Noel Cothren: white students; Sundaes on Monday, First Friday • Jennifer Fuentes: Native American students; Hispanic Heritage month • Takisha Knight: black students; Global Awareness Month • Rachel Lau: international students; Global Awareness Month •Kathleen Pina: Hispanic students; Hispanic Heritage Month •Monica Smith: Asian students; Sundaes on Monday, First Friday • Aracely Velasquez (fall semester): not assigned; MyPEEPS
Friday, August 27, 2004
CAMPUS NEWS
Page 5
Nursing school to have new building Building to have more space, clinical simulation laboratory APRIL WARD PAGE 2 EDITOR
Plans to replace the Abilene Intercollegiate School of Nursing building with a new structure are underway. The structure, which will be called the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing, will have amenities for students and faculty, said Dr. Jan Noles, dean of the Shelton School of Nursing. “The building will hold faculty offices, classrooms and a clinical simulation laboratory,” she said. “We’ll have new faculty furniture, furniture in the
classrooms, monitoring equipment and supply cabinets.” Noles said the clinical simulation laboratory will be set up like a critical care unit with nursing in the center. The new facility is being built in the north parking lot of the current building, and construction is expected to be completed by Fall 2005. After completion, the current building will be destroyed. The school has been raising funds for a year and a half, and the money has come from those who want to see the program grow, Noles said. She said the building will be named after Patty Shelton, wife of Stormy Shelton, a wellknown philanthropist in the
Abilene area, and that the Shelton Foundation contributed to the building. With new classrooms, a larger student lounge and a bigger computer lab, many nursing students say they are looking forward to the added space the building will provide. “The building we have now is fairly new, but there are only a few classrooms in it,” said Jennifer Calvert, senior nursing major from Austin. “They’re not really big enough, so we’re kind of crammed in there. Since I’m graduating, I won’t get the benefit of the new building, but I think it will be great.” E-mail Ward at: alw02b@acu.edu
VIEWSFRIDAY OPTIMIST
Page 6 The issue: The university was given approval to push ahead with plans for constructing ACU’s first new residence hall in 26 years.
Our view: Because of increased enrollment, there could not be a more appropriate time for a new hall.
The solution: We support the university’s decision to move ahead with the project but urge them to study the student parking situation before construction begins.
August 27, 2004
New residence hall will benefit students The university chose to move ahead with plans for a new residence hall Saturday—a plan put on hold because of financial pressures last year. The plan calls for the construction of one hall made of four self-contained pods, which could house a total of 176 students. We applaud the university for seeing the need for more housing and taking the steps to alleviate the problem by next year. With likely the largest freshman class in ACU history enrolled this year, Jack Rich, executive vice president, said if a simi-
H o w e v e r, lar-size class The residence hall mix-and-match has gone quite far because the were enrolled enough. This new hall will alleviate that problem. hall will be next fall, the built in the university student parkwould be about ing lot across from Brown Lito University Park Apartments. 100 beds short. The residence hall mix-and- brary, the hall, which will house The solution in the past has been to move several students match has gone quite far enough. 176 students, will eliminate from overcrowded freshman This new hall will alleviate that about that number of parking spaces during construction. halls to empty rooms in sopho- problem. Kevin Watson, chief adminisBecause of the design of the more halls until rooms opened new hall, Residence Life Edu- trative services officer, and Rich up. This year, however, because of cation and Housing can choose have both said they believe there the large freshman class, 25 each year which gender and clas- will be enough parking elsefreshman women were housed in sification of students will live in where. Although parking at ACU is Sikes Hall until spaces in fresh- each pod. This flexibility will allow the not nearly the problem it is on man halls opened. To free up room for them, 20 sophomore halls to shift and accommodate some university campuses, we women were moved from Sikes each year’s changing enrollment. urge the administration to take
Daniel Barcroft
In My Words
Freshmen: Don’t be ‘too cool’ 5. Don’t think it matters who Freshmen have invaded my you were or what you did in section in Chapel. A row of annoying freshmen high school. Honestly, no one sat behind my cares. This is a chance to start friends and me over; take advantage of it. 6.Don’t complain about on Wednesday, and it was al- classes and meal plans if you most unbear- aren’t the one paying for them. 7. Don’t complain about Uable. They had the attention 100 or core classes within earspan of gnats shot of an upperclassman. Enand would not joy the easier courses while stop talking. I they last. I am the Things to do: even heard enemy* 1. You can slide your card words escape a Sarah Carlson few lips that for Chapel before the little you only hear green light goes off. 2. Learn to deal with Bean on HBO. Um ... yeah ... that’s pretty food. 3. Get involved with organiinappropriate. My friends had to turn zations on campus! (Freshman Action Council, around and tell them that in order College is a SA, International Student’s Associto sit in our section, it is imperative they unique experi- ation, InternatJustice Misnot be so distractence, so take ional sion, Service Acing. Now I’m not tryadvantage of tion Leadership Team, etc.) ing to pick on all 4. Do Freshman freshmen. I was your time here. Follies and try out once a freshman and remember with fond and for Sing Song. 5. Go to class. Just because almost bitter longing the days I was able to take naps every your mom isn’t here to wake afternoon, watch movies and you up does not mean you can disregard your education. spend hours with my friends. 6. You’re going to have to But as an upperclassman now, I feel I should pass down learn to deal with curfew. College is a unique experisome knowledge to ACU newcomers on how to limit annoy- ence, so take advantage of your time here. Have fun being a ing tendencies. carefree freshman. Some of my Things not to do: 1. Don’t loiter in the con- favorite college memories are course of Moody or in the from the stunts we pulled our Campus Center mailbox area first year and the great times we had hanging out. Make the before and after Chapel. 2. NEVER drive to class and most of it. take parking spaces away from (*If you haven’t seen Almost those who live off campus. 3. Don’t act like you know Famous, go out and rent it.) everything. 4. Don’t be “too cool.” (You E-mail Carlson at: optimist@acu.edu or skc02a@acu.edu know what I’m talking about.)
McDonald: modern-day segregation In 30 years, I’ll come back for Homecoming, and I’ll say Bible the same thing about McDonald Hall that I’ve heard a million times about McKinzie: “When I was in school, it was a girls’ dorm.” I’ll always remember it as where I used to go to pick up my sweetie for a date, but it’s been changed to a guy’s resiNo pun for dence hall with a twist: it’s specifically set aside Barcroft for business and Bible majors and whatever friends Daniel they choose to bring Barcroft along. Now that is what I call a great idea. Up until now, they’ve had the odd problem. I mean, the vast majority of Bible majors have kept pretty strictly to only associating with their own kind, but then you’d have the odd guy who’d get all evangelical and actually make friends from other courses of study. Same with business. Most of them
And who knows? If, in the next couple of years they can do the same thing with a woman’s hall, we may be able to combine that plan with ACU’s “marriage factory” and couple Bible and business majors up for life. And their children may even be able to provide us with a nice little “master race” to lead ACU into the 22nd century and beyond. I think this decision shows a lot of thought and really works into the best interest of a more unified ACU. Oh, sure it may not look more unified now, but in the next couple of decades, as all the other academic departments are slowly phased out, you’ll see what I mean. ACU is gearing its students up for success, and if there’s one thing history has taught us, it’s that segregation makes it happen.
majors won’t have to talk to any of the rest of us outside a pulpit. stay isolated nicely in the COBA building, wondering what other campus all those pre-1980 buildings belong to. But every now and then one of them will run for office in SA, and before you know it, everybody is acquainted with them. Even theatre majors. But with the new setup, there won’t be that temptation. Business majors need not fraternize with the people who will be working for them when they own their Fortune 500 companies, and Bible majors won’t have to talk to any of the rest of us outside a pulpit. And it’s not only good for students; it brings great things to the university itself. Within one residence hall, ACU is combining its two most visible departments (indeed, two full colleges) into one unstoppable juggernaut of power, leaving the obviously weaker “Arts and Sciences” folks as easy pickings in the battle of natural selection.
In Your Words E-mail Barcroft at: optimist@acu.edu or dwb99a@acu.edu
If you could be in the summer Olympics, what event would you compete in and why?
Christians have responsibility to vote In the August 25th edition of the Optimist, Steve Holt states, “Their [Dr. James Dobson’s and others’] tactics [on encouraging Christians to vote] are underhanded and deceptive, however, mixing religion and politics into a thick soup of guilt, responsibility and legalism.” Holt asserts that “they [Christian voters] [are] even being told that they’re sinning if they don’t show up at the polls.” Holt seeks to undermine Dr. Dobson’s and others’ charge for Christians to show up at the polls in November to vote (mind you, these claims are
hidden.” What is Jesus implying here? He is implying that we as Christians have a civic duty to be involved in the culture and the political process. If we are carrying out this responsibility, then we have no need to be guilty. Moreover, if we don’t elect officials with Biblical values to lead our country, then who will? Two key Web sites for the body of Christ as the elections draw closer are www.redeemthevote.com, and www.ivotevalues.org. Both encourage Christian voters to express their
YOUR VOICE also devoid of any documentation). He states, “What I hate is when polarizing forces like Dobson make one’s politics a spiritual issue.” In Matthew 5:13-14, Jesus says, “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be
Editorial and letter policy Unsigned editorials are the opinions of the Optimist Editorial Board 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, its Editorial Board 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 less. A name and phone number must be included for verification purposes. Phone numbers will not be published. Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79699 E-mail letters to: optimist@jmc.acu.edu
some time over the next month before construction could possibly begin, to study the current parking situation and how it will be affected once that lot is unavailable. If parking does turn out to be a bigger problem than anticipated, do not hesitate to convert the university-owned property around campus into more student lots. The university’s first new residence hall in 26 years could not come at a more necessary time. The Board and administrators made the right call in recognizing a need and taking steps to solve the problem.
“Swimming, of course, because swimming is America’s favorite sport!”
“Four-square. They have that right?”
Re: The Optimist, August 25. “Radio Personalities Help Voters Decide” by Steve Holt, sports writer.
Nicolas Acosta
Lexi Foster
junior history major from Abilene
junior marketing management major from Ulysses, Kansas
voice and values in the coming election. May God grant us the grace to carry out our civic duty and responsibility as biblical Christians, and not Christians “in name only.”
OPTIMIST
Patrick Noland senior psychology major from Abilene
THE
“Gymnastics because I think it’s one of the ultimate sports. It tests your psychological and mental skills to the extreme.”
“Archery, because I like Zelda.”
A.J. Smith
George Carstens
junior political science major from Pampa
sophomore finance major from Stellenbosch, South Africa
The Optimist Editorial Board
Published by the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Abilene Christian University
Editor in Chief
Opinion Editor
Jonathan Smith
Jaci Schneider
Managing Editor
Copy Editor
Lori Bredemeyer
Sarah Carlson
Faculty Adviser Chief Photographer Brian Schmidt
Dr. Cheryl Bacon
Ad Manager Christi Stark
Optimist contact information Newsroom: (325) 674-2439
Sports desk: (325) 674-2684
Photo department: (325) 674-2499
Advertising office: (325) 674-2463
Subscriptions ($45/academic year): (325) 674-2296
Online: www.acuoptimist.com
ARTSFRIDAY OPTIMIST
August 27, 2004
The Box Office Figures are for the weekend of August 20-22 and are in millions. Total grosses in parentheses. 1 Exorcist: The Beginning — $18.1 (new) 2 Without A Paddle — $13.5 (new) 3 Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement — $13.1 ($61.2) 4 Alien Vs.Predator $12.4 ($35.6) 5 Open Water— $11.4 ($14.5) 6 Collateral — $10.2 ($69.7) 7 The Bourne Supremacy $6.4 ($21.1) 8 The Manchurian Candidate — $4.02 ($54.5) 9 The Village — $3.72 ($107) 10 Yu-Gi-Oh! — $3.25 ($15.5)
Top Selling Albums Numbers indicate: current position, last week’s position and total weeks on the chart. 1/1/4 Ashlee Simpson, Autobiography 2/2/3 Various Artists, Now 16 3/-/1 Shyne, Godfather Buried Alive 4/-/1 Mobb Deep, Amerikaz NightMare 5/-/1 Alter Bridge, One Day Remains 6/4/21 Usher, Confessions 5 7/3/5 Jimmy Buffet, License to Chill 8/5/14 Gretchen Wilson, Here for the Party 2 9/7/17 Prince, Musicology 10/6/12 Avril Lavigne, Under My Skin
Page 7
Barefoot succeeds with laughs, sincerity By DEE TRAVIS ARTS EDITOR
Sometimes falling in love just isn’t enough. It can certainly be the start of a wonderful relationship, but only the start. In Neil Simon’s Barefoot In the Park, characters learn how to live and love, two fairly simple tasks; it’s getting them to coincide that’s the problem. The play features two newlyweds, Corie (Katie Eason) and Paul (Eric Harrell) that have just moved into a typically crummy first apartment. There’s no bedroom, no bathtub, and as Paul is quick to point out, “There’s a northeasterly wind blowing through the room!” because of a hole in the skylight. They quickly grow tired of climbing up five flights of stairs to their apartment, although the marathon of a stairwell does discourage visitation from parents. Just as Corie and Paul are adjusting to married life, in bursts Victor Velasco (Adam Hester). Velasco, the eccentric frenchman who lives above Corie and Paul’s apartment, bursts at the seams with an energy that appeals to Corie’s wild side, while making Paul exhausted and miserable. It’s this triangular relationship between the newlyweds and Velasco that causes the first sparks of Corie and Paul’s marriage to fly; if they’re so divided on what constitutes fun, what are they doing living together? The performances are good all around; everyone seems extremely comfortable. Eason is always delightful to watch, largely because of her facial expressions. Her character’s emotions never fail to leap off her face, and this attribute fits Corie perfectly. Harrell, on the other hand, brings a sardonic
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Paul (Eric Harrell, right) reluctantly meets his eccentric neighbor, Vicor Velasco (Adam Hester, center) in Neil Simon’s Barefoot In the Park. Paul’s adventurous wife Corie (Katie Eason, left) watches with great interest. serenity to Paul that makes a very realistic contrast. I had no trouble at all believing in these two. They know what makes Simon’s dialogue special, and their timing is right on. The script calls for a fairly wide spectrum of emotion and character development, and both Eason and Harrell deliver. Donna Hester gives a solid performance as Corie’s mother, and all the supporting cast proves more than adequate, but it’s Adam Hester who nearly steals the show. His Velasco is over the top and outrageous but rarely outside the realm of believability. The very nature of the character is scene-stealing and potentially dangerous,
but Hester settles nicely into a performance that complements his scenes instead of stealing them. Neil Simon wrote a fun character when crafting Velasco, and the play goes slightly more in depth with him than I expected, making him more and more of a real person as the story unfolds. The technical aspects of the show are smooth, and it features a well conceived and well structured set. The ultimate strength of any play is on paper, though, and part of what makes Neil Simon one of America’s greatest playwrights is his ability to make comedy seem so natural. Real life is funny, and he knows why.
Some of Simon’s lines carry big laughs, but most of his dialogue evokes big grins. He knows how to write relationships of all kinds, and the characters in Barefoot In the Park are fun to get to know. They’re likable, even lovable, and that’s huge in a show like this. The ultimate message of Neil Simon’s play speaks pretty loudly and is more than relevant in today’s climate. Love isn’t easy. Even when two people are perfect for each other, there has to be some give and take. Otherwise, the relationship can only end in frustration. After all, what is a free spirit like Corie to do when the love of her life won’t even
walk with her barefoot in the park?
Tickets are on sale by calling (325) 674-ARTS Monday through Friday 1-5 p.m. The production plays Friday and Saturday, Sept. 3-4, 10-11, in Fulks Theatre. Dinner and show is $25; performance only is $12. Tickets may be charged to your ACU account. Student Rush provides half-priced tickets (performance only) on the day of the show after 6 p.m. for ACU students with a valid ID.
E-mail Travis at: dxt02a@acu.edu
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Page 8
Friday, August 27, 2004
Students: Malagasy government sends 22 to attend ACU Continued from Page 1 school diplomas in 2003 were eligible to apply because the 2004 final exams in high school were not completed until mid-July. Applications from 1,031 people came from all over the nation for the program. The requirements for the scholarship are that the students complete their degrees in four years and return to Madagascar for at least two years upon graduating. Applicants also had to have a basic understanding of the English language, Tyson said, and all 22 students are at different levels of proficiency, especially because they come from different regions of the nation. Many of the students, like Moustafa Assany, arrived with
only clothes. Tyson said part of the scholarship included a package of basic necessities for students here, such as toiletries, linens and laundry hampers. Members of the Hillcrest Church of Christ are helping by buying the students other items, Tyson said, and he said he thinks members from University Church of Christ are helping as well. He said all the students are getting on-campus jobs in order to help pay the cost of living.
Adjusting to West Texas Tyson said President Ravalomanana met with the students before their departure to the United States to describe his vision for the country and a belief that the
“They’re going to be with us for four years, then they’re going to go back and change the world.” John Tyson, vice president for development and alumni relations
keys to overcoming poverty are Christianity and education. Dr. Dwayne VanRheenen, provost, told the students at the reception they are joining a wonderful community and described Ravalomanana as a caring individual working to better his country. “He cares not only about the development of the mind and the intellect but also the development of the heart,” VanRheenen said at the reception. One thing the students love to do is sing, Assany said, and the group sang at the reception
as well as the freshman talent show during Welcome Week. Tyson said the group sings out of joy and were even singing in the airport and in customs during their journey to Abilene. Assany said he likes America and ACU but said life here is a lot busier than back home. “Here, there is a lot more homework,” Assany said. He said it is exciting being in the United States because of the nation’s power and that it is more developed than Madagascar. Assany is only taking
courses to better learn the English language this semester, and he said he plans to major in business administration and management so that he can return to Madagascar and help improve the economy. Davi Rakotonarivo Herintsoa said he is excited about coming to America and attending ACU to study political science. He said he wants to work with Madagascar’s government in the future and help improve the economy. “I thought that it will be an advantage for our country if we go to the United States,” Herintsoa said. “We can learn here and bring the knowledge we learn back home.” America has surprised him, and it is not what he expected it to be, Herintsoa said. He said it is beautiful, green and
calm, and the people are nice. Andriamanana said the only trouble is trying to understand what West Texans are saying because of their accents. Tyson said he is glad the Madagascar government has made it possible for the students to come to Abilene for an education. He said many students from different countries want to come to places like ACU; they just lack the funding. “There is no question it is an act of God” that the students are here, Tyson said. “They’re going to be with us for four years, then they’re going to go back and change the world.” E-mail Carlson at: skc02a@acu.edu
Housing: Board approves hall Buildings: Vacancies occupied Continued from Page 1 concern about [parking],” Rich said. “However, we think there’s plenty of parking on campus. It’s not always at the front door where people want it, though.” Rich said the student lot and the adjacent lot are never full, even at the busiest times of day. With the Big Purple marching band now practicing by the Williams Performing Arts Center, the lot where they used to practice behind Edwards Hall is now available for parking. If parking becomes a serious problem once construction begins, Rich said the university owns some houses and property around campus that could be converted into parking. Plans for a new residence hall have been underway for
“If we have a similar size class next year, we’ll be short about 100 beds.” Jack Rich, executive vice president
several years. The Optimist first reported on it in 2002 when it was being called a 2-3 year plan. Last year, because of financial pressures on the university, the timeline was pushed back until the financial situation was alleviated. However, after the university’s largest freshman class enrolled this fall and enrollment was projected into next year, the need for more housing became apparent, Rich said. “We feel like we need the beds to give us housing for freshmen and sophomores next year,” Rich said. “If we
have a similar size class next year, we’ll be short about 100 beds.” Although the new hall— the first new residence hall built since Smith and Adams halls were built in 1976 — could open in the university’s centennial year, Rich said that is only a coincidence. “It would be here for the Centennial, but it wasn’t planned because of that,” Rich said. “It was planned because we have a need.” E-mail Smith at: jvs02a@acu.edu
Continued from Page 1 the TRIO programs. Another campus change is that the Office of Career and Academic Development has moved from the Administration Building to a larger space in McKinzie Hall. Dr. Jeff Reese, director of the Office of Career and Academic Development, said the lower level of McKinzie was renovated in July. “We like to joke that if the quality of our service can keep
up with the quality of our office, we’ll be okay,” Reese said. Changes are also being planned for the future. The Education Department soon will be moving to what was previously the Burford Music Center. The Education Department is currently in Chambers Hall, and Dr. Jerry Whitworth, department chair, said the move will improve its services. The Music Department was previously in the Burford Center but moved when the Williams Performing Arts Center opened
two years ago. “In Burford, we will be able to do a better job at recruiting and a much better job integrating our programs,” Whitworth said. “We’re really looking forward to the move.” Other changes to the campus include the International and Intercultural Education and the Student Success offices moving to the Administration Building. E-mail Travis at: dxt02a@acu.edu
Review: Texas Monthly rates ACU Continued from Page 1 rience because they do work that graduate students usually do. “I think it’s nice we’re getting attention. It gets ACU attention, and people know who we are.” Rich said the magazine could have highlighted other departments to give a better overall picture of the university. “They could have talked about a lot of places and had very positive things,” he said. “I
think the way they approached it, they had a very limited view of what ACU is really about.” Although Rich said he was not satisfied with the article’s portrayal of the university’s academic programs, he said he is thankful ACU’s review was more positive than HardinSimmons University’s. Its students were described as “a rowdy group, and they’re well on their way to earning their college an unofficial ‘party school’ reputation.”
Rich said these articles probably will not affect any of the schools very much. “I don’t think it hurts us at all,” he said. “I don’t know that it makes much difference in terms of helping us. Now in terms of recognizing that we are a Christian school with Christian values, I think that’s valuable in terms of letting people know we’re serious about that.” E-mail Bredemeyer at: lmb00g@acu.edu
CAMPUS NEWS
Friday, August 27, 2004
Online courses overcome glitches About 150 take part in first online undergraduate courses BY JACI SCHNEIDER OPINION EDITOR
About 150 students earned English and Bible credits while enjoying their vacation this summer. The students took Major British Writers I and Message of the Old Testament online during their summer break. The inaugural session for online courses went smoothly, said George Saltsman, the director of educational technology and distance education. “We definitely learned a lot, but overall it was extremely successful,” Saltsman said. “There were a few minor glitches that everybody expected.” Glitches such as difficulty setting up an instant messaging program for some students' computers for live discussions,
and confusion about textbooks caused minor difficulties, but nothing too terrible to deal with, Saltsman said. A team of faculty developed the courses beginning last Christmas, he said. Before classes could begin, faculty had to be trained, Banner Web had to be set up for billing, technological issues had to be worked out and courses had to be developed. All aspects of campus were involved, Saltsman said. “It was absolutely a teambased approach,” he said. “Everyone did a phenomenal job.” Although many aspects factored into the online courses, two played very important roles in their success, said Dr. KB Massingill, chief information officer and director of the Adams Center. Massingill said Team 55 made the courses possible. “I’m pretty proud of Team 55,” he said. “If you donít have tech support, a tech-based
course is not going to work.” Another key to the success of the program was the unique mentor/teacher relationship built into the courses, Massingill said. Rodney Ashlock, instructor of Bible, ministry and missions, and Dr. Kyle Dickson, assistant professor Saltsman of English, developed the content of the courses in their department and mentored the prof e s s o r s throughout the summer. Massingill “Very rarely do you have that dynamic opportunity,” Massingill said. “It was kind of exciting, really. “It takes the quality level of the courses up.”
Dr. Jonathan Wade taught a five-week English class online over the summer. He said he really enjoyed teaching online. “It is quite a different experience for students and for the teachers,” Wade said in an email. He added that he had more time to keep up with grading, student concerns and discussions rather than focusing on classroom experiences. “One misconception some students had was that the online classes would take less time than a regular summer class,” he said. “Summer school, no matter what the format, is pretty grueling for everyone involved. Students had to read a good bit of material and write a great deal. “ However, he added that online courses have some positives. “The online format does allow for a bit more flexibility,” Wade said. E-mail Schneider at: jrs02a@acu.edu
Page 9
Window dressing
EMILY CHASTAIN/Staff Photographer
A worker paints the trim on the upstairs windows of Zona Luce Tuesday afternoon. Window trims were also painted on the Administration Building.
SPORTSFRIDAY OPTIMIST
Page 10
August 27, 2004
Baseball team looks to regain form from 2003 Schedule has Wildcats opening against defending D-II champs By BRIAN ROE SPORTS WRITER
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Junior middle blocker Amanda Slate spikes the ball past Southern Colorado defenders Cara Dunsmoor and Samantha Connelly during the exhibition game Wednesday night in Moody Coliseum. Slate was named team captain along with senior libero Kellen Morrow last week.
Volleyball begins first tournament Home opener will be Tuesday against Wayland Baptist By BRIAN ROE SPORTS WRITER
The volleyball team starts its season Friday in Canyon, participating in four matches at the Lady Buff Classic tournament. ACU opened the tournament Friday at 9:30 a.m. against Western New Mexico. The Wildcats will also compete against New Mexico Highlands at 4 p.m. On Saturday, ACU will meet Adams State at 9:30 a.m.
Volleyball and close the tournament against nationally ranked Metro State at 6 p.m. “Western New Mexico is the only one that is not a regional match," Horn said. "We wanted to play them first to try and get the first-match jitters out of the way.” ACU returns five starters from last season, including a pair of first-team all-Lone Star Conference players in junior outside hitter Michelle Bernhardt and junior middle blocker Amanda Slate. Four freshman players will
experience their first taste of ACU volleyball this weekend. Outside hitter Abbie Lowry, outside hitter Allie Watts, outside hitter Liz Snoddy, libero Ashley Baird and middle blocker Terrah Brown make up the Wildcats volleyball freshman class. Horn said she expects contributions from first-year players. “We have some freshmen fighting for positions on this team, and that’s the way it should be,” Horn said. “Abbie and Allie have both been hitting the ball really well.” Horn also added that Baird, who plays the same position as senior Kellen Morrow, also
impressed her in practice. “I am pleasantly surprised by Ashley’s progress so far,” Horn said. “She is a defensive player and she played well in our intrasquad game last week.” Brown will not have the opportunity to contribute this weekend. She recently had minor knee surgery and will miss at least the first two weeks of the season. The Wildcats play their home opener Tuesday against Wayland Baptist. It begins at 7 p.m. in Moody Coliseum. E-mail Roe at: bpr00a@acu.edu
The Wildcat baseball team will waste no time trying to regain its 2003 form that led them to the NCAA Division II College World Series. After a disappointing season last year that ended in a loss to Southeastern Oklahoma State, the Wildcats open the 2005 season against the defending NCAA Division II national champion Delta State (Miss.). The game will be played in Austin at St. Edwards University. ACU and longtime rival Delta State will play Saturday, Feb. 4, at 10 a.m. and the Wildcats will battle against St. Edwards at 2 p.m. the same day. Both games are non-conference doubleheaders. The Wildcats and the Statesmen of Delta State have met 12 times since 1996. Each team has won six games; however, ACU has won the last two series. The Wildcats eliminated Delta State at the 2003 NCAA Division II South Central Region Tournament to win the region and advance to the 2003 Division II College World Series. The opener against Delta
Baseball State is just the beginning of a difficult early season schedule for the Wildcats. In its first six games, ACU will compete against three of the four teams that reached last year’s NCAA Division II South Central Region Tournament. “I want to see how we match up against those good teams,” head coach Britt Bonneau said. Last season was not a complete disappointment as the team produced another winning season, going 30-23. The team’s success in 2003, however, raised the bar for the Wildcat baseball team. One intriguing difference about the 2005 schedule is that the Lone Star Conference has canceled its post-season tournament because none of the 12 schools in the LSC could agree on a date that would not interfere with final exams. The tournament is expected to be reinstated in 2006 when the NCAA gives an automatic bid to all conference champions and expands the regional tournament from four to six teams. ACU will play each LSC South Division foe in a fourgame series, meaning the total number of division games increases to 20. E-mail Roe at: bpr00a@acu.edu
Wildcats open season against No. 9 team in nation Football team looking to fill several holes left by graduating seniors By KYLE ROBARTS SPORTS WRITER
Wildcat football will wrap up its third week of practice today, and things are beginning to take shape as they prepare to face the No. 9 team in the nation. The Wildcats will play in Edmond, Okla. as they face Central Oklahoma at 6 p.m. on Sept. 4. For the most part, the team will be able to rely on experience, as it returns 14 starters and 27 lettermen. However, lack of experience has left weaknesses at the offensive line and the linebacker position for ACU. Though linebacker Randall Webb was the team’s leading
Offense
Football tackler with 90 tackles last year as a junior, he will not return for the Wildcats in 2004. Linebacker Cliff Compton and defensive lineman Brad Walton each left shoes to fill after they graduated. Compton was second on the team with 77 tackles, while Walton added 38 and led the team with nine quarterback sacks. The secondary continues to be the strong point throughout the preseason because of their speed and depth. Kendrick Walker was the only starting player that won’t return to the team this year. Walker has since graduated and is currently playing semipro arena football in Amarillo. On the offensive end, the team will look to replace running backs Richard Whitaker and Willie Williams who com-
bined for more than 1,300 yards and 12 touchdowns. Mark Gaines is the only Wildcat on the roster returning with carries under his belt from last season as he collected 180 yards on 40 carries. Dillon Cobb is virtually the only Wildcat player returning to catch passes at wide-out this season as last year’s club struggled with dropped balls and a failure to reach the end zone. Cobb, who led the team in receiving with just 265 yards and a touchdown, will try to lead a young group of receivers as they attempt to provide service to new starting quarterback Greg Wiggins. Below is a position breakdown for the 2004 Wildcats.
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
E-mail Robarts at: kdr00c@acu.edu
Freshman wide receiver Johnathan Ferguson hauls in the catch while being hit by redshirt senior defensive back David Jones during goalline drills in practice on Wednesday.
2003 Team offensive statistics G 10
Rushing 1,564 yds.
Passing 1,557 yds.
Quarterback
Running Back
With the departure of Colby Freeman (4,132 career passing yards; 21 career passing touchdowns), Greg Wiggins will enter the season as the starting quarterback for the first time since his arrival in 2000. Wiggins has proven worthy of the task at hand; in fact, he led the team in passing in 2001 as Freeman’s broken foot allowed Wiggins to Wiggins start five games under center. He finished the season with 1,342 yards and six touchdowns while throwing 17 interceptions. Wiggins had minimal work in 2002 as he passed for 261 yards and one touchdown in two games. In 2003, Wiggins started two games when Freeman broke his hand and led the Wildcats to two wins over LSC South opponents Midwestern State and Texas A&M-Commerce. He finished the year with five appearances, 251 passing yards, one touchdown and an interception.
Sophomore Mark Gaines has the leg up on all the Wildcat running backs as he is the only back to carry the ball last season. However, coach Gaines said that Mark Gaines will split time with seniors Rashon Myles and Charles Williams. “All three backs have their strengths, but we only have one ball,’ coach Gaines said. “The positive is that we Gaines have depth so fatigue shouldn’t be a problem.” While Mark Gaines and Williams are speed backs with frames of 5-8, 185 and 5-6, 195 respectively, Myles is a strong back at 6-1, 215. With the differences, the “running back by committee” could see success as the team will be able to change up the pace on their opponents.
Wide Receivers The receiving corps is the most inexperienced group to take the field in 2004, but the
Total 3,121
Avg. 312.1
TD 28
Pts. 22.2
Wildcats can only look up from a disappointing year in 2003. Dillon Cobb will see time in his senior season and will be joined by freshman Jerale Badon who caught the only touchdown in the Purple and White Scrimmage on Saturday.
Offensive Line The five up front could serve as the team’s offensive weakness because of the lack of depth and experience. Three of the five players will be starting their first collegiate games, and three of the listed backups have only had experience at the high school level. The left side of the line will be the only returning starters from last year’s team as junior Charles Mock (6-4, 310) will play left tackle and sophomore Cody Savage (6-4, 290) will return at left guard. Center Cody Stewart broke his foot in the preseason, leaving redshirt freshman Nathan Young (6-3, 285) to pick up the slack. John Douty (6-4, 295) is also a redshirt freshman and will start opposite Savage at right guard, while Josh Lively (6-5, 320), a junior, will start for the first time at right tackle.
Defense Defensive Line The defensive line will be in good hands with preseason All-American Clayton Farrell at defensive end (45 tackles, 8 sacks & 1 FR in 2003), second-team all-LSC South defensive tackle Joe Edwards (23 tackles, 1 sack in 2003), and letterman Mark Malunowe (33 tackles, 2 FR in 2003) leading the way. Junior transfer Daryl FreeFarrell man will help Edwards plug up the opposing run-game as the Wildcats look to build upon a defense that allowed only 124 rushing yards a game last year.
Linebackers Even though the linebacker position has the least experience on the defensive end this season, Shawn Taylor will return to middle linebacker and Matt Allen will come back to the outside as well. Taylor is the only returning member of the Wildcats to score defen-
2003 Team defensive statistics G 10
Rushing 1,240 yds.
Passing 1,748 yds.
sively last year as he picked off a pass and returned it for a touchdown against Central Arkansas in the season opener. Taylor finished with 44 tackles and a sack, while Allen recorded 28 tackles and one sack. Junior transfer Greg Yeldell will join sophomore Brandon Henry in the move from the secondary to linebacker this season. Both Henry and Yeldell should see time this year, and Gaines said they will add to the defense’s team speed.
Defensive Backs If this group of players stays injury free, it has the potential to be the best secondary the team has had in a long time. Preseason All-American Danieal Manning (6 interceptions, 56 tackles, 2 receiving touchdowns, 1 punt return for a touchdown) and second team all-LSC South selection Dawon Gentry (74 tackles, 1 interception) return at strong and free safety, respectively. Seniors David Jones and Adam Black, as well as juniors Jaime Bueno and Omar Tejada, should all see time in the secondary as the latter three combined for 63 tackles last sea-
Total 2988
Avg. 298.8
TD 25
Pts. 19
son. Jones sat out last season because of an injury but has 141 tackles in his three-year career.
Special Teams Eben Nelson will return for his fourth and final year with the team at p l a c e k i c k e r. Nelson is tied for the school’s all-time leading kicker with 163 points and already holds the school record for most Nelson career field goals with 30. Chase Fishback will serve double duty on special teams this season as he returns for his junior year as both the punter and place holder for Nelson. Fishback averaged 38.5 yards a punt last year with a long of 61 and will replace graduate Bryson Galloway as the holder. T.A. Martinez goes into the season as the team’s No. 1 long snapper and will be backed up by senior Nick Anthony.