OPTIMIST THE
WEDNESDAY March 30, 2005
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
Abilene Christian University
www.acuoptimist.com
Serving the ACU community since 1912
Holding down the fort:
Candidates make case for office:
On display:
Residence hall directors try to find a balance between discipline and mentoring. Page 8
The Editorial Board interviewed each candidate for Students’ Association executive office and endorsed one for each position. Page 7
A freshman ran the secondbest 5,000-meter time in school history. Page 10
McBryde joins Housing
Professors to discuss human nature in forum Graduate Students Association organizes panel for Thursday By DANIELLE LINTHICUM STAFF WRITER
How can people who advocate destruction, such as Hitler and Osama bin Laden, and others who encourage love, like Mother Theresa and Ghandi, both exist in the world? Is there such a
thing as human nature, and if so, what is it? These and other difficult questions will be discussed in the Graduate Student Associations upcoming forum “Human Nature.” The two-hour forum, planned for Thursday at 7 p.m. in Hart Auditorium, features Randy Harris, instructor of
Harris
See FORUM Page 9
Morris
New coordinator ‘in charge of organizing all housing details’ By JACI SCHNEIDER OPINION EDITOR
Scott McBryde knows the Office of Residence Life Education and Housing well. After serving as a resident assistant and spiritual life assistant before graduating last May, he
became the administrative coordinator for residence life in January. “I’m in charge of organizing all the housing details,” McBryde said. “I put people in residence halls and supervise the potluck process.” He’s also an administrative assistant to Dr. Mimi Barnard, director of Residence Life Education and Housing. He manages her schedule and prepares reports for Barnard,
My fellow students ...
Debaters place at national tourney STAFF WRITER
See DEBATE Page 9
By LACI ARMSTRONG STUDENT REPORTER
watch Hulk Hogan on TV all the time,” he said. JBL’s reign as WWE champion is the longest reign in more than a decade. He is a Sweetwater native and ACU class of 1989. During his years at the university, Layfield was a second-team allAmerican offensive lineman as
KACU-FM officials hope the phones will ring next week during their semi-annual pledge drive beginning Thursday. KACU, Abilene’s public radio station 89.7 FM, is asking listeners to call in and pledge money to fund the station. During the course of the pledge drive, which ends April 6, 100 guests from the Abilene community will come and tell what they like about the station in order to remind listeners why KACU is important and encourage them to pledge their money in support. “Public radio helps inform people, so it’s important to have members from our community come tell why they like KACU,” said Terri Peterson, membership director of KACU. In order to keep the radio station on air, KACU must raise at least one-fourth of its operating expenses during the pledge drive. KACU will air From the Top, which was recorded at the Paramount Theatre in February. The national broadcast of the show will go on air at KACU during the pledge drive on Monday from 2 to 4 p.m. The From the Top performance features Revolution, a local fiddle ensemble composed of 14 violinists from Cooper and Abilene high schools that is led by Darcy Radcliffe, orchestra director for the high schools. KACU has approximately
See WWE Page 9
See KACU Page 9
Photo illustration by BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Executive president candidates Justin Scott, Jonathan Wactor and Keith Robinson spoke to students Tuesday night in Moody Coliseum during a debate and Chapel forum. Each candidate was posed five questions with an opportunity to respond to others’ answers.
SA executive officer voting begins STAFF REPORT Candidates for Students’ Association executive office had the opportunity Tuesday night to address students in the form of a debate and Chapel forum, which turned into less of a debate and more question-and-answer time. After a short introduction by Dr. Wayne Barnard, dean of Campus Life, each of the five candidates had the chance to make opening statements.
Tyler Cosgrove, executive treasurer running for re-election, and Melanie Booker, executive vice president running for re-election, each responded to questions that mostly dealt with their time in office and what they had learned from it. Both Cosgrove and Booker are running unopposed. Executive president candidates Justin Scott, Jonathan Wactor and Keith Robinson then each had five questions of their own and a chance to
respond to the other candidates’ answers—of which no one took advantage. Scott stressed his desire to be about the work students find important through initiatives involving Project Abilene, meal plans and student parking. Wactor, having never served on SA, told students he wanted to be a new voice for the students to the administration, specifically mentioning improvements to the Campus Center as one
of his goals. Robinson, emphasizing his campaign slogan “New Horizons,” discussed his desire to build more community on campus through initiatives like encouraging more students to attend athletic and fine art events All candidates stressed a desire to continue service programs like Project Abilene begun by this year’s leaders. Students can vote online at my.ACU Wednesday through Friday at 5 p.m.
Wrestler cancels radio broadcast in Abilene Former student, WWE champion hosts syndicated show By BRANDON E. COOKS STUDENT REPORTER
A former student athlete who became a famous professional wrestler, radio talk show host and financial author can-
See HOUSING Page 9
KACU’s semi-annual pledge drive to run Thursday to April 6
By LAURA STORK The debate team placed sixth overall and third in debate against 71 schools in a national tournament in St. Louis on March 16-19. Andrea Schweikhard, junior communication major from Tulsa, Okla., and her partner Brandon Lemley, sophomore political science major from Abilene, placed third in the parliamentary debate and made it to the semifinals. Schweikhard and Lemley were undefeated in the preliminary rounds and won their first elimination round but lost in the semifinals. However, they received first place, or Top Superior, because they received additional awards based on how well partners debate in each parliamentary debate round. Schweikhard said she became involved with debate just for fun. “I took debate as a class last semester with Dr. Gary,” Schweikhard said. “I loved it so much that I let her convince me
McBryde said. Barnard said about half of McBryde’s job is supporting the work she does. “Everything from meeting with people about Barret Hall to our summer schedule to routine summer maintenance,” Barnard said. “Those are an example.” McBryde said although he faced a big learning curve in his
Campus radio station to raise money
Team earns sixth among 71 schools at St. Louis contest
Gasoline tips
Vol. 93, No. 45 1 section, 10 pages
celed his trip to Abilene last week. John “Bradshaw” Layfield, World Wrestling Entertainment champion for the past eight months, was set to arrive in Abilene to broadcast his nationally syndicated talk show The John Bradshaw Layfield Show in which he combines his love of politics, sports and current events.
Layfield’s plans to arrive in Abilene were canceled after an equipment malfunction. “I really wanted to come home because I haven’t seen some of my family in a couple of years,” he said. Layfield, who is known as JBL to the wrestling world, will showcase his talent during WrestleMania 21 on April 3. “He is certainly one of our
top superstars, and he is very charismatic,” said Kate Cox, manager of corporate communications for WWE. “As a WWE champion, he is extremely athletic, entertaining and has an incredible persona in and outside of the ring.” “This is more than I could’ve ever imagined,” Layfield said. “When I was at ACU, we use to sit in the dorms and
Gasoline prices fuel concern
As gasoline prices top $2 per gallon, drivers can take steps to improve their car’s gas mileage, according to the American Petroleum Institute Web site:
Price per gallon surpasses $2 in all states but New Jersey
• Have the vehicle tuned regularly. • Keep tires properly inflated. • Drive slower. • Avoid speeding up or slowing down rapidly. • Use the air conditioner sparingly. • Plan trips wisely, and run all errands at one time.
By MALLORY SHERWOOD FEATURES EDITOR
Theresa Smith stands behind the counter taking money from customers, who mostly only fill their cars halfway, coming through her station. Smith, the day-time gas attendant at Skinny’s gas station on the corner of Judge Ely Boulevard and North 10th
Street, said she hasn’t seen gas go this high before and sympathizes with her customers who come in complaining. Drivers across America have noticed the increase as prices have hit the $2 mark in every state except New Jersey. Prices are expected to stay at $2, simply because of supply and demand and taxes on gasoline. Today the price is $2.11. “There has definitely not been a decline in customers since this gas thing started,” Smith said. “People are just not filling their cars up very much
anymore. My average sale is $5 to $10.” Customers may continue buying gas, Smith said, but they also are complaining. “Most aren’t vicious about the prices rising; they just ask the questions we all do,” Smith said. “What are we going to do?” Students say prices are rising because of the war in the Middle East or disagreements with oil companies. Surprisingly, none of these See GAS Page 9
ROBIN WALLER/Contributing Photographer
Emily Vaughn, senior elementary education major from Fort Worth, pays for gasoline at the Shell station at the corner of Judge Ely Boulevard and North 10th Street, where gas was $2.11 per gallon. Gas prices have eclipsed $2 in all but one state across America.
CAMPUS
DAY
Chapel Check-Up Credited Chapels to date: Credited Chapels remaining:
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Wednesday, March 30, 2005
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Calendar&Events Wednesday
Campus Activities Board blood drive, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Hilton Room.
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Thursday
Graduate Student Association Human Nature forum, 7-9 p.m., Hart Auditorium.
Vendor Fair, 7 a.m.-4 p.m., Hilton Room.
Junior Lion’s Club interest meeting, 4 p.m., Mabee Library Auditorium.
Essence of Ebony elections, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows.
Weekend Campaign sign-ups, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes meeting, 9 p.m., Living Room.
Weekend Campaign sign-ups, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows.
Shane & Shane ticket sales, 11:50 a.m.-1 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows.
Gamma Sigma Phi Habitat for Humanity fund-raiser, 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Campus Center.
Study Abroad showing of Finding Neverland, 4-10 p.m., Living Room.
Shane & Shane ticket sales, 11:50 a.m.-1 p.m., Campus Center ticket windows.
Gamma Sigma Phi Habitat for Humanity fund-raiser, 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Campus Center.
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.
1
Friday
3 4
Sunday
Peer Leader training, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Hilton Room.
Monday
Women’s History Art Show, 7-10 p.m., Living Room.
The Campus Store garage sale, 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Hilton Room.
Big Brothers Big Sisters meeting, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Hilton Room.
Gamma Sigma Phi Habitat for Humanity fund-raiser, 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Campus Center.
Leadership Camps staff training, 47:30 p.m., Hilton Room.
National Treasure, 6:30 and 9 p.m., Cullen Auditorium.
2
Saturday
The Campus Store garage sale, 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Hilton Room. ACU’s Bible Bowl, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., Living Room. Gamma Sigma Phi Habitat for Humanity fund-raiser, 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Campus Center.
Volunteer Opportunities Volunteers are needed to help with children’s activity booths during Founder’s Day on April 9 in downtown Abilene. Volunteers will be assisting children with arts, crafts and games. Time shifts are 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 2 p.m..-6 p.m. For more information, contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center. The Mayor’s Roundup, a five kilometer run, needs volunteers on April 9 from 7:30-9:30 a.m. For more information, contact the Volunteer and ServiceLearning Center. KGNZ, Abilene’s Christian radio station, needs volunteers to answer phones during Sharathon 2005, taking place April 4-7. For more information, contact Doug Harris at doug@kgnz.com . Healing Hands International is in need of volunteers to help repair bicycles before they
are shipped to Zambia. For more information, contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center. The American Heart Association needs help decorating the Civic Center for the biggest fund-raiser of the year Friday. For more information, call Sharon Earnest at 627-0070. Senior Buddies needs volunteers to spend time playing dominos with residents at Christian Village, located on East North 19th Street. Volunteers visit Mondays at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call Nathan Grey at 677-6142. The International Rescue Committee needs volunteers to mentor families in Abilene through a refugee program. Volunteers will assist with transportation, tutoring or translating. For more information, call Debi Wheeler at 675-5643.
Announcements The spring dinner theatre is Pride’s Crossing, a memory play written by Tina Howe and directed by Adam Hester. The play is about 90-year-old Mabel Tidings Bigelow who, in 1928, swam the English Channel from Dover, England to Calais, France. Shows are April 7-9, 15-16 and 22-23 in Fulks Theatre. Shane & Shane is coming to ACU on April 7 in Cullen Auditorium with Amy Stroup opening. Tickets are $10 each and are sold in the
Campus Center ticket window from 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. weekdays or in the Campus Activities Board office. For more information call Ext. 2772. Applications for all paid Students’ Association staff positions and petitions for sophomore, junior and senior class senators are available in the SA office New phone books are available in the Team 55 office, Zellner 120. Old ones may be
brought in for recycling. Spring Break Campaign Committee applications for spring 2006 campaigns are now available. Anyone who is interested in applying should e-mail Rachel Klick at rek00a@acu.edu for an electronic application. Deadline for applications is Monday at 5 p.m. Applications to serve on the Spiritual Life Core during the 2005-2006 school year are due Tuesday.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Abilene to chunk its junk Spring Clean provides residents opportunity to dispose of garbage By EVAN BLACK
Springing into April with a bloom
Items accepted for recycling • appliances • wood • furniture
• bedding • home chemicals • clothing
also will include the “Don’t Mess With Texas Trash-Off,” an annual volunteer clean-up Spring is in the air, and with event, and two free lectures on it comes a word that terrifies Xeriscape, water-conserving men and women of all ages: ways to landscape yards. The cleaning. lectures will take place April 12 Organizers for the annual and May 17. Spring Clean for Abilene, howThe “Don’t Mess With Texas ever, are trying to make cleaning Trash-Off” is easier by offerSaturday ing a free-ofcharge disposal “Spring Clean allows people to get their bulky stuff with registration from of all unwanted out of the way for free by dropping it off with us.” 8:30 a.m. to items from 10:30 a.m. at April 5 through Bill Brock, recycling coordinator for Abilene the Kmart April 9 between parking lot 9:30 a.m. and on South First 4:30 p.m. Street. A free lunch will be proThe Environmental Recy- an old sofa.” Lesli Andrews, coordinator vided for volunteers from 11:30 cling Center, located at 2209 Oak St., usually accepts only of Keep Abilene Beautiful, a.m. to 1 p.m. “The Trash-Off is a great way recyclable items such as paper, agreed. “A lot of times when people for students to volunteer,” plastics and aluminum. During the five-day Spring get new items, they need to find Andrews said. “Students can Clean period, the center will a place for the old,” Andrews even use this for required volunaccept such items as appliances, said. “Unfortunately, those teer hours for classes or club.” Volunteers will be divided wood, furniture, home chemi- places are often alleys or illegal into groups ranging from 20 cals, clothing and yard trash, dump sites.” Spring Clean is just one part people to 50 people and will be said Bill Brock, recycling coordiof the annual Great Abilene cleaning up litter at various sites nator for Abilene. around town, Andrews said. “Spring Clean allows people Cleanup, Andrews said. The Great Abilene Cleanup to get their bulky stuff out of the way for free by dropping it off began March 1 and will end May 31, coinciding with the national with us,” Brock said. People who want to dispose Great American Cleanup. E-mail Black at: optimist@acu.edu The Great Abilene Cleanup of tires or computer equipment STUDENT REPORTER
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will be charged a fee of $3 to $5, Brock said. “Spring Clean is an opportunity for citizens to get that extra junk out of their yards and garages and dispose of it for free,” said Pam Percival, information coordinator for Abilene. “You can’t normally just bring
EMILY CHASTAIN/Staff Photographer
Miora Ravalomanana, freshman environmental science major from Madagascar, sets out flowers to prepare to plant for her work with the Physical Resources Department on Tuesday afternoon.
CAMPUS NEWS
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Social clubs elect officers Rest of semester to be spent working on spring rushes By TIFFANY WILLIAMS COPY EDITOR
Many social clubs are experiencing changes after electing new officers this month. Most social clubs conduct officer elections in March because it gives the newly elected students time to adjust to their positions and responsibilities, although several clubs choose to conduct elections at the end of the fall semester instead, said Mike Spell, adviser of social clubs and director of judicial affairs. “We ask that clubs have elections by the Wednesday following spring break so that there is some time during the spring semester for training,” Spell said. “Waiting until the fall would be problematic in that pledging begins close to the first week of classes.”
He said he is awaiting the results of one club, GATA, which will conduct elections Wednesday. Spell said the number of students who run for positions in each club and campaign strategies vary depending on the club. However, all nominees must meet a minimum grade point average requirement and not be on probation. Evan Lindsay, junior interdisciplinary studies major from Houston, said she was honored but not surprised by her election as president of Sigma Theta Chi. “I had put so much prayer into the entire process that I was only hopeful for being placed in the office,” she said, adding her campaign strategy was easy. “Once I decided to run, I tried to stay consistent with who I am,” Lindsay said. “I never tried to just go talk to girls to promote myself. I wanted to be voted for who I have been since they met me, not just the person I was a few weeks
prior to the election.” Lindsay, who served as the social director and rush director this year, said she ran against two other Siggies. When she was elected, current Siggie president Rosalyn Perry, senior interdisciplinary studies major from Abilene, gave her advice. “Rosalyn Perry made a great statement: ‘You have to be flexible, go with the flow of things and take every situation for what it is worth,’” Lindsay said. Matt Hurley, president of Pi Kappa, also offered encouragement to the newly elected Pi Kappa officers. “They are great,” Hurley said. “They complement each other well, and the pledge director, James [Jackson], has my full trust. He is a really smart guy, and he is always on top of things, so I look forward to seeing what kind of pledge season we have started.” E-mail Williams at: tnt00b@acu.edu
Bracelets benefit tsunami relief SA teamed with Pepperdine, plans to sell 2,000 By NATHAN STRAUS STUDENT REPORTER
Even though the tragedy of the tsunami occurred in a different part of the world, students in the United States can help the relief effort. The Students’ Association, in conjunction with Pepperdine University and 25 other universities, is selling tsunami bracelets. The money raised from the sale will go to the countries affected by the tragedy. Bracelets can be purchased for $3 at the Information Desk in the Campus Center, in the Students’ Association office or at the ticket windows in the
Campus Center from noon to 3 p.m. “These bracelets are a fashion trend, but they are also a direct way to help people affected by the tsunami,” said Susanna Drehsel, senior political science major from Heidelberg, Germany and chief communications officer of SA. The university is trying to sell 2,000 bracelets, Drehsel said. The company that makes the tsunami bracelets didn’t make enough for the 27 schools participating and had to make more. Drehsel received the bracelet shipment later than expected. “We were hoping to get the bracelets in February and to sell them within two weeks,” she said. SA finally received the bracelets March 17 and has sold more than 300.
Carl Kasalek, president of the student government association of Pepperdine University, is the one who organized the event. Kasalek said he decided to organize the fund-raiser after a student asked him if anything was being done to aid tsunami relief on campus. “We’ve viewed it as an opportunity to make a difference,” he said. “Something as small as a bracelet can help.” “This is another opportunity to serve,” Drehsel said. “Need is great in Southeast Asia, and help is always spontaneous.” She also said this is just the start of what could be a longterm plan to aid the relief effort. “This is an outcry for world support and an opportunity to come together,” Kasalek said. E-mail Straus at: optimist@acu.edu
Tour of homes connects with university Funds raised during event will contribute to WACU scholarships By EMERALD McGOWAN STUDENT REPORTER
Students interested in part of the university’s history can tour homes for $10 and contribute to the Women for Abilene Christian University scholarship fund. WACU will sponsor Open Houses on the Hill, a tour of homes connected to the university from 2 to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at any of the homes during tour hours, and refreshments will be served during the tour at the WACU Museum on the corner of Campus Court and East North 16th Street. The tour will begin at the home of Betty Shipp, 689 E.N. 18th St. J.E. McKinzie built the Spanish-Mediterranean style house, referred to as the McKinzie House, during the Great Depression. McKinzie was instrumental in moving the university to the present location and saving it from bank-
ruptcy. The home has remained family-owned since its construction. The tour will continue to the home of Chuck and Marisue Meyer, 1401 Washington Blvd. The house, built during the Depression, is also SpanishMediterranean style. Though some homeowners might be worried at the thought of strangers traipsing through their house, Marisue Meyer is not. “I have no apprehensions whatsoever,” she said. “There will be someone in every room pointing out interesting things and telling about its contents. My house is very interesting, full of nooks, crannies and alcoves.” The home of Drs. Wayne and Mimi Barnard, 1682 Newcastle Dr., will also be showcased. The home is the newest of the five homes on display, built three years ago. “My husband and I built this house so we could practice hospitality,” said Dr. Mimi Barnard, director of Residence Life Education and Housing. “We’ve had many people come in our home during the last three years, and we hope on April 3
to have many more.” The tour will conclude in the Radford Hills community at the homes of Dr. Jon and Darlene Ashby, 866 Canyon Court, and Eddie and Carole Mahanay, 610 Gill Dr. Those interested in the tour can start at any house and do not have to visit all the homes listed. “The first two homes are really worth the tour, and I’m not just saying that because I live in one of them,” said Betty Shipp. “They’re worth seeing because of the uniqueness of their style and their historical connection with ACU during its Centennial Celebration. If I only had time to see two houses that afternoon, those would be my two choices.” “This is a fund-raiser with a definite noteworthy effort in that all monies go back to ACU students,” said Shipp. Two WACU scholarships are available for $2,000 per year. More information about the scholarship can be gained through any department chair. E-mail McGowan at: optimist@acu.edu
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Time to cram
EMILY CHASTAIN/Staff Photographer
Aaron Forehand, senior marketing major from Ozona, studies for his marketing research class in the atrium of Mabee Business Building on Tuesday afternoon.
Ride proves bumpy for students Van troubles plague psychology research trip to Memphis
“Some of the other presentations spawned ideas for research in my head.” Debra Neil, freshman psychology major from Fairfax, Va.
By CIANA HARDWICK STUDENT REPORTER
A group of students traveled to the Southwestern Psychological Association in Memphis, Tenn., last Wednesday and on the way, two university vans carrying the students and professors were delayed because of a problem with one of the van’s wheel. After spending four hours in Little Rock, Ark., with the wheel still not fixed, one professor decided to stay behind with the van while the other 13 travelers crammed into the remaining 15-passenger van and continued on to the Southwestern Psychological Association’s 51st Annual Convention. Besides those in the two vans, other students traveled to the convention on their own. Three professors, 16 undergraduate students and five graduate students attended the convention, which began Thursday and ended Saturday in the historic Peabody Hotel. The students and professors attended SWPA to display posters and speak at symposia about research they had completed. Brandi Patton, senior psychology major from Fort Worth, presented with other students and Dr. Scott Perkins, professor of psychology, at a symposium titled “Psychotherapy for University Students.” This was Patton’s third year at SWPA and second year to present. She said she likes going to the convention because it “looks good to grad schools to present as an undergrad,” she said.
Perkins has taken students like Patton to the SWPA convention for about 17 years, he said. “I know they can have experience presenting at a professional meeting,” he said. Perkins said one of the highlights of this year’s SWPA convention was having Dr. Jeffrey Wherry, professor of psychology, travel with the students. This is Wherry’s first year teaching at ACU, and Perkins said he is glad Wherry is already involved with students in research. Wherry said he enjoyed his first year at SWPA and already is working on projects for next year’s convention in Austin. He would welcome more students working on research to present next year because “it is important for students going to grad school to get involved in research,” he said. For SWPA this year, Wherry worked with four freshmen undergraduate students to create posters displaying research they did together. The posters were exhibited for a one-hourand-15-minute session, during which time other students, professors and psychologists at the convention could read the poster and ask questions. One of the students Wherry worked with was Debra Neil, freshman psychology major from Fairfax, Va. Her group’s poster was “Identifying pathological dissociation using the Child Dissociative Checklist.” She said her first year at SWPA was a good experience and reinforced her interest in psychology. “Some of the other presen-
tations spawned ideas for research in my head,” she said. Other student research that was presented included a symposium chaired by Dr. Richard Beck, associate professor of psychology. The presentation was “Psychology of the Religious Mind.” Beck also worked with a student on a poster titled “Humor that bonds and humor that hurts: Personality, intimacy and humor styles.” The poster sessions and symposia all went well, but for those traveling in the ACU vans, the most memorable event of the trip might be the delay before the convention. The first sign of something wrong was a faint rattling sound from the rear of the van, noticed at a rest stop in Texarkana. Later, a loud bang startled the six passengers in the van. An hour later the van stopped at a gas station in Little Rock, Ark., and the six passengers gaped at the right rear wheel, which had three broken lug nuts and was missing its hubcap. The five other lug nuts on the wheel were loose, too, and eventually the wheel would have come off, said Dr. Scott Perkins, professor of psychology and driver of the van. The loud bang hadn’t warranted an immediate stop because it just “sounded like something hit the side of our van,” he said. Next year, they’ll be walking, Beck said. Austin isn’t too far away. E-mail Hardwick at: optimist@acu.edu
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
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VIEWSWEDNESDAY OPTIMIST
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Use your voice in SA elections
The issue: Elections for Students’ Association will be Wednesday through Friday.
Our view: Many students do not become involved in campus organizations and as a result, don’t feel connected to campus.
The solution: Students should take an interest in the elections and vote because the elected officials will represent them, even if students don’t vote.
March 30, 2005
In the 2004 presidential election, the voter turnout rate among 18-to29-year-olds was at 51.6 percent, a drastic increase from the 2000 election percentage of 42.3, according to voterunlead.org. Perhaps in the most recent election, young people chose to abandon previous thoughts that their vote wouldn’t matter or they weren’t represented by the candidates. The 9.3-percent increase should encourage students at every university to continue to participate in the democracy the United States established.
way students’ The Students’ Voting will take about as much time funds are spent, Association and energy as sending an e-mail. what kind of hopes to inspire service the stua positive redent body will sponse to elections in this week’s executive Optimist encourages every stu- engage in and which policies officer election. Voting will be dent to participate in the voting will be changed on campus. easier than ever before because system. Students who previousEvery semester, students students can vote online ly could not take the opportu- automatically pay $25 dues through my.ACU. With the nity to vote because of busy directly to Congress. When added convenience of electron- schedules no longer have an students choose not to vote for ic voting, students have no excuse. Voting will take about SA executive officers, they forexcuse for refusing to select a as much time and energy as feit the right to determine how sending an e-mail. their money will be spent. candidate. Students should take their Although every student might Previously, only about 30 percent of students voted for role of selecting a plausible not have the opportunity to officers in SA elections. SA candidate for SA seriously; the speak with the candidates runhopes 40 percent of students elected officers inevitably will ning for SA president, vice will vote this year, but the garner the most control of the president and treasurer, they
Chapel speech began uproar for reason As students and faculty True. It probably isn’t. filed into Moody Coliseum But when are we going to on March 15, they expected a stop basing our actions and normal two-song introduc- lifestyles around what is contion followed demnable and what isn’t? I’m by a routine almost positive that there C h a p e l isn’t just one straight line speech, a clos- that separates the acceptable ing prayer and from the unacceptable. Why a dismissal. do we need to toe the line? I Many students believe a barrier of justificahad no idea tion has been built by that they American Christians to blind would leave us from the seriousness of Don’t Believe the the premises the prevalent idolatry. I believe the uproar that quasi-disHype resulted from Parker’s gusted. Mitch Holt D a m o n Chapel talk is a resounding Parker, the speaker, deliv- chaos of people defending ered strong words (some their wealth. To give away would say uncalled for) half of your 15 pairs of shoes expressing his perspective on or settle for an ’82 Volvo the state of the church and wouldn’t be necessary for the rich Christians who are salvation, so why do it? I’m not trying to degrade prevalent in church commuanyone. I simply believe we nities. should sinP a r k e r ’s cerely and obwords, at times abrasive and But when are we jectively analyze our attiseemingly overgoing to stop tude about fiaggressive, focused on the basing our actions nancial matters and make overwhelminga considerable ly material on what is based world we live in condemnable and change on the results and the rapid emergence of what isn’t? Why do of our analysis. the justification we toe the line? that the exWe are all treme wealth of guilty, myself many Chrisincluded, of tians is OK because it is living luxurious lifestyles accepted by society and the that include cars, new church, and thus it is not a homes, overeating and condemnable sin. expensive clothing. After all, Because I am a member of America is a wealthy counthe Optimist staff, I have try. One could even use the received most of the response e-mails that have sur- argument that we live in a faced since that fateful day in free country, in which our Moody. Every letter has been money can be spent in any different in its own respect, way we choose, but I would but most of them have ulti- hope that Christians wouldmately been similar. n’t base their actions on what Many of these concerned is legal or illegal by the stanvoices expressed the point dards of the Constitution. I that there is no way Jesus would hope that Christians could have been talking to would look to the life of every last person of wealth in Jesus as a centerpiece for the story of the rich, young their financial decisions. ruler; he was simply talking to those who have created a life based around their wealth. These points are undoubtedly legitimate. Many of the response letters go on to say that being Respond to Holt at: rich isn’t a condemnable sin. mah02f@acu.edu or optimist@acu.edu
have many avenues to learn more about them through campaign speeches, brochures and letters in the Optimist. Explore ways to find out more information about the students running for SA president. Examine the candidates from a logical standpoint, instead of whether or not your friends told you to vote for them. And vote for the treasurer and vice president, even though the candidates are running unopposed. Thus the old saying rings true: Those who do not vote cannot complain.
Daniel Barcroft
In My Words
Editor abstains from endorsements As a journalist and private person, I always have prided myself in the ability to report on but stay out of the news. That allows me as a journalist to report on whatever stories I feel necessary without the appearance that my biases might Ask the affect my job. But now all Question of a sudden, I Jonathan find myself unSmith avoidably attached to a story on which I am expected to report. My roommate is running for executive president of the Students’ Association for next year — an area that I have been responsible for reporting this year. More conflicting than that, the Optimist Editorial Board — of which I am head — is expected to endorse a candidate for executive president. I am sure a good many of
I will reserve my endorsement until the time I go online to vote. I hope you all do the same. you could care less that one of the executive presidential candidate’s roommate is the Optimist editor or that he is the candidate the Editorial Board chose to endorse. To that group, you can continue to my.ACU where you can cast the same vote you would have three minutes ago. I realize, however, that some might be concerned with the potential conflict of interest issues that this problem creates. Please rest assured: The Editorial Board and I did everything possible to assure the Optimist responsibly did its job interviewing the three presidential candidates and choosing one to endorse. As head of the Editorial Board, decisions it makes reflect on me regardless of my involvement to a story. As such, I sat in on the interviews
of each candidate, but that is where my involvement ended. Other staff members asked all questions to the candidates, and I did not take part in the post-interview discussion or voting for the endorsement for president. Elections are always sticky things for journalists. On the one hand, journalists have the potential to be some of the most informed citizens eligible to vote. But if one wants to maintain a sense of neutrality in the eyes of the people they serve, journalists may participate much less than they are capable. Some journalists simply refuse to put political candidates’ campaign materials in their yards or on their cars. Some won’t register for political parties or vote in primary elections that make the voter declare a political affiliation.
Some don’t vote at all. It might seem like a great waste of political knowledge to sit back while the rest of the nation decides its future. If nothing else, this proves how seriously many journalists consider neutrality. I don’t for a minute equate SA elections to nationwide or statewide elections, but the Optimist would do this student body a disservice to expect any less neutrality in its reporting. My endorsement will not appear in the pages of this newspaper — this is not the place for any individual’s endorsement. I will reserve my endorsement until the time I go online to vote. I hope you all do the same. I also hope that the Optimist endorsement page can help you answer questions about the candidates and better prepare you to vote. That’s the sole reason it is there. Respond to Smith at: jvs02a@acu.edu or optimist@acu.edu
In Your Words Letters online Thank you for your response to Damon Parker’s Chapel speech on March 15 and the subsequent letters to the editor and columns printed in the Optimist. Because of the number of letters received on the topic, the Optimist will not be able to print them all. However, they have been posted at www.acuoptimist.com. Feel free to respond to the letters online, but because the Chapel speech was more than two weeks ago and the Optimist has now printed responses from both sides of the issue, no more letters regarding this topic will appear in the Optimist.
Are you planning to vote in the Students’ Association elections? Why or why not? “Well, of course I am because I am the campaign manager for Jonathan Wactor, and I want to make sure he gets elected.”
Missy Mae Walters
Kerbi DuBois
Becki Adams
Andrew Tuegel
senior political science major from Bentonville, Ark.
junior elementary education major from Austin
junior biochemistry major from Winterset, Iowa
sophomore political science major from Abilene
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
“Yes, because my friend is running, and I want to vote for him.”
“Probably not because I haven’t heard a lot about it, and I don’t know anything about it.”
“Yes I am because I want Justin Scott to win for president.”
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@acu.edu
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VOTEWEDNESDAY OPTIMIST
March 30, 2005
Page 7
SA executive office endorsements Justin Scott - president During my time at ACU, it has been my privilege to serve on the Students’ Association Congress for three years. I have been involved in SA from the beginning of my time on campus and part of the large-scale changes that SA has experienced in the past few years as we have made the transition from an activity-planning organization to an organization that goes to work on your behalf as your advocate to the administration. In the past, I have served you on the SA Congress by working to change the open-house policy in the residence halls and also as a member of the committee that
helped create the Leadership Scholarship. One of the main initiatives that I will pursue as your president is full support of the program that Layne Rouse spoke about in Chapel recently. If we focus service groups into an effort at the neighborhoods around campus, we will see big things happening. Another way that we can impact the ACU community and the entire world is through the creation of a Spring Break Campaigns endowment. Campaigns are one the greatest ways that ACU students can go out and make a difference in our
world, but sometimes students are not able to go on campaigns due to issues with money. I would like to do something to reduce this burden in the future so that students do not have to choose between campaigns or work. During this campaign, I have also heard many students talk about concerns with parking and meal plans, and you can be fully assured that your concerns will be my concerns. As we come to the end of ACU’s first century, we have the opportunity to make the next 100 years just as bright. Join with me on that journey.
Keith Robinson - president Experience isn’t everything. We’ve all heard people claim to be part of something because of a piece of paper, a title they have or a meeting they attended. These people claim to have “experience” because they were part of something great. Yet, these are the people who have only participated in a passive way. These people do not have experience; they have attendance stars. Sure, I served as a College of Business Representative — as a voting member of Congress. Sure, I served as a member of the executive cabinet — as the chief financial officer.
And sure, I know what it is like to sit on both sides of Congress. But my experience extends beyond just sitting on the sidelines or showing up to meetings. I have experience where it counts. While I was a congressman, SA treasurer Tyler Cosgrove and I put together a budget that gave student groups more money than ever. I didn’t just vote on it, I made it happen. While I was chief financial officer, I helped student groups stretch those funds even further. I was part of an executive team that helped reach people SA normally overlooks.
My perspective is unique because I know what it’s like working on both sides of SA; it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Each meeting takes an entire week of effort and cooperation from a well-managed team. To get things ready for that one hour, that one time a week, I know that it will take more than just congressional attendance policies to work. You have to hit the ground running every day, and you can’t take it on cruise control. Just showing up isn’t enough. It is crucial, then, that the experience we all tout be tested for quality and not quantity.
Jonathan Wactor - president Many of you have seen me around campus. If you’ve been here previous years, I’ve done things that have just made me stand out in a crowd. Wearing a yamecha, having a white-out contact, outlandish things like that. I’ve had a hand in many small organizations on campus, from Pi Kappa to Weekend Campaigns, and it was only recently that I’ve had the desire to do so much more by running for SA President. We have a lot on the slate this fall, it being the centennial year, and I’d like to put a
plan on the table to get the Campus Center expanded and improved. I’d also like to take Project Abilene to the next level. Community outreach is important, and building a relationship by continually serving the community on a regular, week-to-week basis will enhance spiritual relationships with people in need and bring many of them to God. SA has had a great year, but I think we can achieve so much more. With conservative budgeting and planning, I’d like to see small organiza-
Melanie Booker - VP
My name is Melanie Booker, and I am running for
re-election as SA vice president. I am so excited about the opportunity to serve in this role again, but I’m more ecstatic about the projects and programs that will be initiated as we prepare for the centennial. I can’t wait to improve upon the student involvement initiative Layne and I began last year. We’ve begun planning for a student group resource fair during Welcome Week. It is my goal to contact every student group this summer to make sure they are aware of SA’s budget procedures and the resources available to them as they plan for the year. As
in command to the executive president. She has given the role its own identity — a focus on communication with student groups and leaders. Booker has gained valuable experience this year as vice president and has several ideas on how to improve from this year, including creating a larger Congressional budget allotment to allow Congress to complete more projects and encouraging stricter enforcement and communication of the attendance policy. Not once did Booker hint that she wished she was running for president after serving a year as vice president — just the opposite in fact.
Instead of simply attempting to move up in the ranks of the executive cabinet, Booker clearly stated that she knows where her skills and passions lie — being able to focus on meeting student group leaders every week, not school administrators. Last year, Booker won her election with about 80 percent of the vote. She rewarded the students for their overwhelming support by establishing a new standard for the position of vice president. The Optimist expects nothing less. There is a reason she is running unopposed.
The Optimist endorses Justin Scott for Students’ Association executive president. Scott, junior political science major from Whitehouse, has three years of experience as a residence hall representative and class senator, a solid understanding of the inner-workings of SA and reasonable expectations about the future of the university’s student government. Scott said among his plans for the future of SA is working to find a solution to one of many students’ main concerns — meal plans — and also helping communicate to students t h e guidelines administrators use when making decisions regarding such campus policies. He also wants to work to create some memorable projects in the centennial year that will continue to influence ACU students in the future, as well as spread SA’s money through many projects instead of spending it all on one large endeavor. Scott has displayed his ability to tackle and complete projects in his years of service. He worked to change the policy for open house in residence halls, increasing the number of times it’s offered each month. He petitioned Abilene movie theatres to offer student discounts, and he helped create a student leadership scholarship this year. This record of listening to students’ concerns and working to make changes where needed demonstrates his abilities as a leader. Scott also said he would be more aggressive in leading Congress and encourag-
ing members to make decisions about the structure of the congressional body, rather than stepping back and allowing decisions about issues such as impeachment to always be the will of Congress, as has been the case this year. This takecharge attitude demonstrates he will lead SA well and resist being a passive executive officer. Keith Robinson, junior finance and management major from Indianapolis, Ind., had some of the same ideas for improving SA and the university as Scott did, but we feel many of his plans for building community and relationships b e tween s t u dents and faculty on campus would be better left to the Office of Spiritual Life. Robinson has done well this semester in his role as SA’s chief financial officer, and in his campaign, he has spoken a lot about working with the treasurer on the budget and creating a system that will help future SA treasurers. The Optimist believes he again could excel as CFO rather than leading the government next year. Jonathan Wactor, junior political science major from Tucson, Ariz., has never served on SA and lacks the experience and knowledge needed to lead the student government. The Optimist applauds his efforts to hear what students have to say by discussing their concerns when they signed his officer petition, but his plans, ideas and understanding of SA policies are unclear, and we believe he would do well as a senator or representative where he could work more closely with students.
Tyler Cosgrove - treasurer
Project Abilene gets into full swing, I encourage student groups to get involved, and I will work hard to prepare avenues of service for students. I want you to know that I pledge to continue working hard for the students, and I will do my very best to equip and empower student groups to do the great work they have been called to do. The centennial will be an amazing year of celebration, and as students, we have an amazing opportunity to step up and get involved, so bring it!
Booker right choice again The Optimist endorses Melanie Booker in her re-election for executive vice president. Even if another candidate opposed Booker in this year’s election, Booker would still be the favorite to receive our endorsement because of the excellent job she has done as vice president. With each new candidate, the role of vice president seems to take on a different look. Re-electing Booker will bring some continuity to the position that seemed to be searching for an identity ever since SA restructured itself in 2002. Booker doesn’t seem to consider her role to be second
tions like the Shinnery Review and Wildcat Kids, as well as all organizations, feel like SA is serving them. I want to be a president who serves you, whatever your interests. I’ll be your ear, and most importantly, your voice. I have my own ideas and many others I’ve collected from you, and I’d like to hear many more. I will be there to hear your voice and to support you and make your ideas a reality.
Scott best pick for president
The past academic year has been one where SA has overcome hurdles such as the $30,000 deficit, but SA has also made strides in positive directions. As treasurer, I made it possible for student organizations to receive $88,000 for the
two semesters, which is the largest amount ever given. Stewardship is a principle given to us in scripture, and good stewardship is one of the tenets of my ideology. SA has many resources at our disposal — hard-working representatives, cooperation with administration, an active student body and effective interfacing with groups, but none of these would be as effective as they are if it were not for the SA treasury. A quote that sits on my desk from Margaret Thatcher reads, “No one would remember the Good Samaritan if he’d only had good intentions—he had money, too.” SA has many good intentions (such as a new parking lot entry by Sikes, bike racks, electronic bowling), but these would not come to fruition without financial support. I encourage people to
remember that many parties are vying for the funds SA has, and these funds seem large, but they are miniscule compared to their needs. This is why fairness must be taken into account when these funds are appropriated. All organizations on campus provide special opportunities for members and often provide service to the campus or the community. How should these be evaluated? Can we evaluate these organizations? Each have different components and serve different needs. I have attempted to distribute funds to organizations fairly and to provide for their needs as well as to make sufficient funds available to Congress for projects. Next year, I intend on continually dedicating my time to ensure that any financial responsibilities of the student treasury are fulfilled.
Cosgrove shows consistency The Optimist endorses Tyler Cosgrove in his re-election for executive treasurer. In his first term as treasurer, Cosgrove brought a level of professionalism to the position unparalleled in recent history. It could not come at a more vital time—on the heels of an administration that mysteriously left a $30,000 bill unpaid in the spring of 2004 for Cosgrove and this year’s Congress to cover. Cosgrove solved that problem within days of first discov-
ering the problem, taking out a loan that could be paid back over four semester instead of crippling one semester’s budget. Aside from allotting the largest amount toward student groups ever, Cosgrove also instituted budgetary principles for determining student group funding that made the system more fair and less arbitrary. He said he looks to build on that success this year. Cosgrove began his first term amid uncertainty. Having
never been on SA, Cosgrove failed to earn the Optimist’s endorsement as treasurer last year and won election with just 51 percent of the vote. The Optimist staff has been thrilled to be proven wrong. Past administrations put Cosgrove in a hole to begin the year, and he still managed to have a successful term. The Optimist is excited to see what he will be able to do without the unsuspected burdens of past mismanagement.
FOCUSWEDNESDAY
Holding down the fort
Page 8
OPTIMIST
March 30, 2005
Story by Brian Roe
Photography by Emily Chastain Design by Mallory Sherwood Steve Sargent sleeps peacefully in his bed. The clock ticks closer to 1 a.m. when the loudest and possibly most annoying sound known to mankind will rudely awaken him. He quickly gets out of bed, dresses and runs out the door. The fire alarm has gone off again. Sargent is the director of McKinzie Residence Hall, and when fire alarms go off in the middle of the night, he is expected to deal with them. Sargent and his staff gather the 100-plus students from the men’s freshman residence hall and escort them outside where it is cold, raining and it is noisy from the half-dressed freshman talking to each other. Experiences like this are typical for a university residence hall director. “Fire alarms go off, and I have to deal with things in the middle of the night, but what gets me is guys not getting their laundry out of the laundry room,” Sargent said. “That’s just an odd thing; I never really understood that.” ACU currently houses students in 10 different residence halls. Each residence hall has a residence director, an assistant director, resident assistants, spiritual life assistants and desk workers. All directors and resident assistants live in the dorm with the students. The specific duties vary between residence halls, but all directors carry certain responsibilities. The directors are expected to find a balance between being a spiritual leader to the students and being a disciplinarian to the students. “The discipline is part of it,” said Aaron Echols, assistant director at McKinzie Hall. “We handle a lot of curfew, checkout procedures and other business formalities.” Another important aspect of being a residence director is connecting with the students. Directors are expected to learn most of the students’ names and have an “open door” policy with all students. Echols said the directors are responsible for the students in
their residence hall in many different ways. “We really have to make sure we maintain an environment where people can grow in a positive manner spiritually, socially and academically,” Echols said. Directors also care for the business side of the residence halls. When something breaks, the director is expected to fix it; when a problem arises, the director is expected to solve it; and when paperwork arrives, the director is in charge of filing it. The directors also organize regular residence hall meetings involving the resident assistants and spiritual life assistants. The majority of residence hall staffs meet every night. “We meet every night at 10 p.m. for 60 to 90 minutes,” said Cami Brunts, Morris Hall assistant director. “We change the format of the meetings. We will usually spend one night talking about business, one night in Bible study and one night in prayer. It just depends exactly what is going on.” Echols said McKinzie Hall meetings always start with spiritual focus and prayer before addressing the business side of things. “Steve does a great job of making sure we keep the first half of the meeting spiritually focused,” Echols said. “We encourage one another, pray together and then close with business items.” One unique aspect of serving as a residence director at ACU is the spiritual expectations. Many directors cite ministry as the reason for taking the job in the first place. Brunts said ministering to students is a vital part of being a residence director. “As directors, we are supposed to be spiritual leaders,” she said. “We guide residents if they need it, we pray with them, we have a Bible study with them. We are expected be there if they need anything.” Directors are also expected to connect with the students as a friend, mentor, spiritual
leader or any other role a student may need. “One of my jobs is to get to know every resident in our dorm,” Brunts said. “You can’t help them if you don’t know them, or know what they’re struggling with or what they need.” Echols, who served as a resident assistant last year in McKinzie, said students look up to the staff whether they realize it or not. Echols said an athlete came into his room last year and broke into tears telling Echols how he was dealing with depression. “This was a guy I never would have expected to approach me, but he just came in one night and bawled hysterically,” Echols said. “People don’t realize the magnitude or the impact you can have on another person’s life. If someone has a problem, you are the first one to know about it, you have to be prepared to help any way you can.”
Brunts added that people don’t realize how much time, energy and prayers are dedicated to the students in a dorm. “A lot of people don’t realize how much the staff loves the residents,” Brunts said. “We work hard to get girls involved and to make sure they are doing OK. If we don’t know them particularly well, then we make an extra effort to see them or meet them. A lot of people probably don’t see that.” Fire alarms may not go off every night, but something is always happening in ACU residence halls, Sargent said. “I still walk into this hall and into this apartment, and I can’t believe that God has answered my prayer at this point in my life,” Sargent said. “I’m getting paid for a job that I love to do. I don’t care about just doing a job but being amongst these guys … I love it.”
Top right: Steve Sargent, graduate student from Mesquite, works at his computer in his apartment in McKinzie Residence Hall. Above: Pam Carroll, senior composite interdisciplinary major from Hampton, Va., is the assistant dorm director of Gardner Residence Hall. Bottom left: Steve Sargent stands outside McKinzie Residence Hall on Monday afternoon. Bottom right: Pam Carroll, assistant dorm director of Gardner Residence Hall, visits with Benay Dennis, freshman music major from Rio Vista, and her roommate Allison Kuskie, freshman biochemistry major from Colorado Springs, seen reflected in the mirror.
During the next several weeks, the Optimist will feature stories about the daily lives of some of the most active but unseen members of the university’s staff.
JUMPS
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Page 9
Gas: Students remain optimistic that prices soon will decrease Continued from Page 1 answers are correct. “The price of gasoline is a complex combination of global supply and demand, of technological and environmental change, and of shifting consumer wants and needs,” according to the American Petroleum Institute Web site. The game of supply and demand causes grief in countries like the United States, which imports more than 60 percent of the gasoline consumed.
Gasoline is no longer imported into the United States from the Middle East; instead, the biggest foreign suppliers are Canada and Mexico. Even though they border the United States, gas is still not cheap. The price has gone up because crude oil, the main component of gasoline, now costs more because its price is determined by the global supply and demand for it, placing the United States in competition with the rest of the world. Gasoline markets are tighter because more consumers are
driving than ever before. Gasoline also is expensive because of taxes. According to the API Web site, Americans pay for a federal and state tax on gasoline that can add up to 56 cents on every gallon. This causes the fluctuation of prices across the country and even between chain gas stations in the same town when city and county taxes are added. Abilene remains below the state average with the most common price of gas at $2.10, but other states have much higher prices: $2.38 in Cali-
fornia, $2.31 in Nevada and $2.19 in Ohio. Michael Maxwell, senior business management major from Grapevine, said he is keeping an eye on the pump after prices rocketed past $2.10 at several gas stations in Abilene last week. “People really can’t do much about it, but they could go to Sam’s,” Maxwell said. “It’s always cheaper there.” Maxwell said the price of gas will have to hit $2.15 before he’ll consider driving less. Although students might be
able to afford spending less time in their cars, some Abilene residents cannot. “We probably still have 400 to 500 cars come through here every day,” Smith said. She said close to 70 percent of patrons will purchase gas. Joel Crane, sophomore computer management major from Atlanta, is not concerned about the rising gas prices. “I think Americans are finally getting what they deserve,” Crane said. “Americans should just suck it up and stop complaining.
“The rest of the world doesn’t get to drive huge Suburbans and nice cars. It is time we thought environmentally conscious like they do.” Despite how everyone feels about the gas prices lately, Smith thinks it will go down soon. “I’m not an expert, but from watching gas prices rise and fall with the holidays and warm weather,” Smith said, “I wouldn’t be surprised if gas prices started to fall a little bit.” E-mail Sherwood at: mes02e@acu.edu
Debate: Team enjoys competition Housing: Coordinator settling in Continued from Page 1 to join the team this year.” Shelby Coates, freshman broadcast journalism major from Clarksville, Tenn., said she has been involved with debate since her freshman year in high school. “I have a great passion for speaking, performing and debating,” Coates said. “I still get a rush at every competition. As long as I see it as fun and exciting, I will never stop.” Schweikhard said she also feels the rush. “I have so much fun debating. It’s like an adrenaline rush for your brain,” Schweikhard said. “You get to just think on
“I still get a rush at every competition. As long as I see it as fun and exciting, I will never stop.” Shelby Coates, freshman broadcast journalism major from Clarksville, Tenn.
the spot, trying to come up with an argument. “It uses so much of your mind to decide what is logical or illogical or to think of examples from history, movies, current events, etc.,” she said. “Anything to support what you are arguing for and to disprove what your opponent is arguing for.” Both debaters plan to continue with the team. Coates said she loves the people on the team and enjoys
traveling with the students. “ACU debate is giving me the opportunity to do and see things that I would never get to do and see,” Coates said, Schweikhard agreed. “I’ve been on the team just this semester,” Schweikhard said. “But really, my friends and family and teachers would argue I’ve been involved in debate for much longer.” E-mail Stork at: las00f@acu.edu
Forum: Panel to discuss nature Continued from Page 1 Bible, ministry and missions; Dr. Richard Beck, assistant professor of psychology; Dr. Bill Rankin, professor of English; and Dr. Paul Morris, professor of physics. “We wanted to get a wellDodd rounded panel to answer these questions,” said Aaron Metcalf, president of GSA. “We got speakers to represent different departments and
points of view.” The two main schools of thought on human nature believe that humans are good, wholesome beings who are created in God’s image and naturally good, Metcalf said. The opposing view is that humans are by nature depraved and sinful and have no goodness except for the work of Christ in their lives. Dr. Carley Dodd, professor of human communication, will moderate the forum. The panelists will give their views on the issue and answer a few prepared questions, and then the floor will be open to a question-
and-answer time, which will allow students to ask the panel any related question. “We hope that students will come and engage,” Metcalf said. “It’s a great opportunity to explore an intricate issue.” Metcalf said the GSA tries to have a forum every semester, which is well-received by students. “We always have pretty good turnout,” he said. Admission is free and open to all students, and refreshments are provided. E-mail Linthicum at: del01a@acu.edu
KACU: Station to accept pledges Continued from Page 1 8,000 area listeners and a membership list of more than 1,000. The station is a nonprofit organization and needs members to pledge not only to keep the radio station running, but also because during the pledge week broadcast,
KACU is beginning a new theme: “Abilene Public Radio.” KACU employees want to keep the station publicly owned. “You are the public of public radio,” said Kim Seidman, development director at KACU.
Seidman said the pledge drive is important for KACU because public radio is used as an educational tool. “Public radio is a media for the people,” she said. E-mail Armstrong at: optimist@acu.edu
Continued from Page 1 position, he enjoys the process of placing students in halls. “It’s like a game. How many students can you plug into a residence hall before 5 p.m.?” McBryde said. He also said he enjoys being a resource to students who need help with housing. He usually receives phone calls from parents who are concerned Barnard with their child’s roommate situation, and sometimes students will come to him with difficult roommate situations. To assign students to a hall, he sifts through stacks of housing request forms and examines when students go to bed, how messy they are and
“I think he’s probably the nicest person on the planet.” Dr. Mimi Barnard, director of Residence Life Education and Housing
what kind of study habits they practice. He said he’s already gone through about 75 percent of the housing requests. “I think that knowing how well I do my job can really impact a student’s semester is intimidating,” McBryde said. “It’s a good fear; it keeps my on my toes.” Barnard said McBryde has done well in his new position so far, and he seems to get along with people he works with. “I think he’s probably the nicest person on the planet,” Barnard said, adding McBryde did a good job working through the frenzy of sophomore housing sign-ups last week. McBryde said he plans to
remain in his new position until the fall of 2006 when he will enter graduate school for marriage and family therapy full time. He is currently a part-time graduate student, studying Christian ministry and marriage and family therapy. Since he began working in the Office of Residence Life Education and Housing, McBryde said he’s learned a lot, especially about the administration of the university. “I have so much more respect now for the institution and the people who work here,” he said. E-mail Schneider at: jrs02a@acu.edu
WWE: Layfield’s trip canceled Continued from Page 1 a junior and a consensus allAmerican his senior year. He left ACU to play professional football with the Los Angeles Raiders and later joined the World Football League. Three years later, Layfield’s football career ended after he experienced chronic knee problems. He eventually took up wrestling in Japan, Mexico and Europe. Layfield arrived in the WWF in the mid-90s, where he quickly made his mark. At first, he used the name Justin Bradshaw. Then he changed his ring name to Justin “Hawk” Bradshaw and eventually formed a tag team with fellow Sweetwater native Barry Windham as the “Blackjacks.” Layfield earned a reputation as tag-team wrestler and
became a well-known superstar in the WWF. Alongside his gained fame and prominence in the WWF, Layfield became a three-time tag-team champion, one-time European champion, and 16-time Hardcore champion, which is a championship earned through extreme noholds-barred rules. Finally in 2004 in a famous wrestling event titled Survivor Series, JBL defeated superstar wrestler Booker T to retain the WWE championship. The WWF was changed to the WWE because of legal issues. Although Layfield has found success, he said he has had to overcome adversity on his road to fame. “At ACU I broke my leg twice, but I still became an allAmerican both my junior and senior years,” he said. Layfield also wrestled for more than a decade before he ever came to be known as the
top WWE champion. He also is a self-taught financial guru and has written a book, Have More Money Now. He has been a guest on financial television stations like Fox News, MSNBC, CNN, CNNFN and other financial programs. Layfield also has visited troops in Iraq four times in the past two years. “He gives a lot of support to the troops in Afghanistan, Kuwait and Iraq,” Cox said. “He sees it as an honor and privilege.” “It’s an inspiration to me, and it’s amazing to hear these guys stories,” Layfield said. “I hope what I’m doing is an inspiration to them also; a lot of these guys watch us on TV and support us. It’s my way of giving back.” E-mail Cooks at: optimist@acu.edu
Track: Team to compete at home this week Baseball: Conference Continued from Page 10 weeks ago, qualified provisionally in the same race, where she was sixth in her heat. Freshman Trina Cox finished sixth in the 3,000-meter steeplechase, posting a provisional qualifying and nationbest time of 10:26.28. Murray praised the performances of his women’s distance runners.
“It’s probably the best depth we’ve had in the women,” he said. “They are just all getting in there and competing well, and doing that as a group.” A handful of athletes also competed Saturday amid rainy conditions at the Baylor/Dr. Pepper Invitational in Waco. Sophomore Angie Aguilar led a 1-2-3 ACU finish in the women’s pole vault, posting a provisional qualifying mark of
12-5. Cory Aguilar won the men’s pole vault with a provisional height of 16-0, while Delt Cockrell ran a provisional time of 47.53 in the men’s 400meter relay. Freshman Shawna-Kaye Thompson finished third in the women’s 100-meter dash with a provisional time of 11.73, while Marvin Bien-Aime ran a provisional qualifying
time in the 200-meter dash on his way to a second-place finish. On Saturday, ACU will play host to the Oliver Jackson Invitational at Elmer Gray Stadium in preparation for the 77th annual Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays in Austin April 7 through 9. E-mail Holt at: smh00a@acu.edu
play to begin this week Continued from Page 10 two runs in six innings in game two. On Saturday, Maynard pitched a complete-game shutout for his fifth win of the year, and Moore gave up one earned run in 5 1/3 innings to improve to 4-0 on the year.
The Wildcats will take the same rotation and what they hope will be the same offense to Canyon this weekend for the opening of Lone Star Conference play against West Texas A&M. E-mail Gray at: weg02a@acu.edu
SPORTSWEDNESDAY OPTIMIST
Page 10
Wildcats pound Bulldogs in weekend sweep
LSC South Standings current through 03-29-05
Baseball Team ACU A&M-Kingsville Angelo State E. New Mexico Tarleton State West Texas A&M
Div. 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Tot. 23-10 19-10 13-15 12-16 13-19 10-23
Softball Team Angelo State Texas Woman’s ACU A&M-Kingsville Tarleton State E. New Mexico
Div. 7-1 5-3 5-3 3-5 3-5 1-7
March 30, 2005
Tot. 28-8 17-9 21-14 22-18 15-17 14-17
Team extends streak with four wins against SW Oklahoma State By WARREN GRAY SPORTS WRITER
The baseball team extended its winning streak to a seasonhigh nine games with a fourgame sweep of Southwestern Oklahoma State last weekend. The four wins in Weatherford, Okla., came one week after the Wildcats swept Southeastern Oklahoma State in Abilene. “We kept doing what we did
the weekend before,” Coach Britt Bonneau said. “We got good pitching, guys that went five innings or more, and then we hit the ball.” And hit the ball they did. The ACU offense continued on a torrid stretch and raised its team batting average to .339, while improving its overall record to 23-10. The Wildcats scored 39 runs in the four games. “We have guys that can hit,” Bonneau said. “Our team average, I expect it to be up in the .330s, .340s. That’s not too much to ask for from these guys.”
The closest call of the series came in the final game. ACU led 3-2 heading to the seventh and final inning before putting six runs on the board to seal a 9-3 win. The Wildcats coasted in Friday’s games, winning 14-6 and 9-2, and opened Saturday’s play with a 7-0 shutout. “We never let the other team get close to us,” Bonneau said. Designated hitter Joel Wells had three hits in six RBI in the first game of the series to get the Wildcats’ offense going. Leftfielder Johnny Zepeda went eight for 14 on the week-
end to raise his average to .405 for the season, and centerfielder Cody Cure added 10 hits in the four games to crank his average up to .381. As the Wildcats offense continues to roll, the pitching staff seems to be taking shape as well. The Wildcats were successful for the second straight weekend with a four-man starting rotation of Ben Brockman, Justin Whitlock, Ben Maynard and Brandon Moore. “We’re going to stick with that plan; we feel like those starters give us an opportunity to win,” Bonneau said. “We also feel like, with [Coy] Polk
and Kade Simmons in the bullpen, we’ve got guys that can come in, throw strikes and get out.” Whitlock picked up his third win of the season in the first game, but again ran into trouble as the game wore on, and he continues to make the transition from the bullpen to the starting rotation. He left in the fifth inning after giving up four runs in the game, but Polk pitched two scoreless innings to finish off the win. Ben Brockman moved to 7-0 on the season after giving up See BASEBALL Page 9
Watch out, here it comes!
Scores Wednesday Softball ACU 8, Incarnate Word 2 ACU 6, Incarnate Word 5
Thursday Baseball ACU 14, Southwestern Oklahoma State 6 ACU 9, Southwestern Oklahoma State 3 Softball Southeastern Oklahoma State 9, ACU 8 Southeastern Oklahoma State 10, ACU 2
Friday Baseball ACU 7, Southwestern Oklahoma State 0 ACU 9, Southwestern Oklahoma State 3
Upcoming events in Wildcat sports... (home events in italics) Friday, April 1 BSB: West Texas A&M, noon SB: Eastern New Mexico, noon MTN: East Central, 8:30 a.m. Central Okla. 2:30 p.m. WTN: April 1-3, Cal Poly-Pomona Invitational Saturday, April 2 BSB: West Texas A&M, noon SB: Eastern New Mexico, noon TK: Oliver Jackson Invitational MTN: Drury, 2 p.m. WTN: Cal Poly Pomona Invitational Sunday, April 3 MTN: Rockhurts, 1 p.m. WTN: Cal Poly-Pomona Invitational
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Sophomore Holly Lindloff hits a forehand during her doubles match with Lana Pavlin against St. Edwards players Andrea Adamson and Sophia Adamson. The Wildcat pair won its match 8-4, helping the women’s tennis team to a 6-3 victory over the Hilltoppers on Thursday at the Eager Tennis Pavilion.
Women lose two games to Savages
Wildcats succeed against nation’s best Track individuals post qualifying times for outdoor nationals By STEVE HOLT SPORTS WRITER
On showcase at the most prestigious collegiate meet in the world Friday and Saturday, the Wildcat distance runners once again demonstrated their ability to perform with the best in the nation. Friday night, ACU freshman distance runner Nicodemus Naimadu ran the second-best 5,000-meter time in school history and the No. 2 time in collegiate track and field. His time of 13:39.37 at the Stanford Invitational in Palo Alto, Calif., was just seconds behind Notre Dame’s Kurt Benninger (13:33.05), who has the top time in the world this year. The ACU freshman won the 5,000-meter run with ease at the Division II indoor national meet just two weeks ago and appears to improve with each meet. Naimadu’s nearest Division II competition, Western State’s Oliver Bodor, finished 20 seconds behind him in the race Friday, which featured many of the nation’s top collegiate and professional distance runners. Naimadu’s time qualified him automatically for the NCAA Division II Outdoor National Meet, which
will take place at ACU’s Elmer Gray Stadium May 26 through 28. Head coach Jon Murray said Naimadu has great potential to even improve on the times he’s posted already. “If we continue to challenge him in practice, find him some good competition, I think he’ll rise to the occasion,” Murray said. “I don’t think he’s come close to reaching where he can be.” Another freshman who performed well at Stanford on Friday was freshman Laurent Ngirakamaro, who ran a provisional qualifying time of 29:26.25 in the 10,000-meter run, finishing 31st in a stacked field of runners. Lucky Hadebe — the reigning indoor champion in the 800-meter run — finished fifth in the 1,500-meter run Saturday with a fine automatic qualifying time of 3:44.03. Two ACU women made their marks at Stanford as well. Addeh Mwamba finished third in her heat of the 1,500-meter run behind 2004 Olympian Nicole Teter and Wisconsin senior Anne Shadle. Mwamba’s time of 4:21.61 easily qualified her automatically for the national meet. Teammate Olha Kryv’yak, who won the women’s mile at the indoor national meet two See TRACK Page 9
Team drops to 21-14 overall after losses last weekend By JARED FIELDS SPORTS WRITER
BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer
Junior transfer Lucky Hadebe uses the hurdles to warm up during practice Tuesday. Hadebe was one of three ACU track members who posted automatic qualifying times at the Stanford Invitational on Friday for the 2005 NCAA Division II Outdoor national meet to be conducted at Elmer Gray Stadium in Abilene on May 26 through 28.
Last Thursday the Wildcat softball team dropped two conference games to Southeastern Oklahoma State University. The losses came after the Wildcats won seven of their last eight games. The team lost the first game by a score of 9-8 and the second game 10-2, bringing them to 24-14 overall. The Wildcats were down six runs in the first game going into the fifth inning when Jade Wilson’s grand slam helped propel the team to an eightrun fifth inning. The Wildcats took that lead into the bottom of the seventh, but couldn’t hold on as SOSU rallied for three runs to take the win. The momentum carried on to the second game, and SOSU scored five runs in the first inning. Katie Bryan hit a tworun home run to provide the lone two runs for the Wildcats. Despite the games’ outcome, head coach Chantiel Wilson thinks her team will get back to their winning ways. “Those were tough losses to take, but the players will bounce back and not dwell on
them,” Wilson said. ACU also hosted a doubleheader March 22 against Incarnate Word. The Wildcats won both games, with scores of 8-2, and 6-5. In the first victory, Jennifer Leal led her team by pitching the entire game and only allowing two runs. Junior Danielle Faulk had a three RBI double in the second inning, and senior Katie Bryan hit a three run home run in the fourth to lead the Wildcat offense. The second game wasn’t as easy for the Wildcats. The team used a four-run fifth inning sparked by a three-run home run by Katie Bryan to keep the lead and pull out the win. Allison Crouse threw five innings for the Wildcats and picked up the win. Jennifer Leal threw the final two innings and preserved the win, while gathering a save. After Thursday’s games, the Wildcats have a week without any games. “I think a good week of practice [will] get us going in the right direction,” Wilson said. The Wildcats’ next games are this weekend at Eastern New Mexico University and Tuesday at Hardin-Simmons University. E-mail Fields at: jrf03b@acu.edu