OPTIMIST_2005-04-15

OPTIMIST THE

FRIDAY April 15, 2005

Department of Journalism and Mass Communication

Abilene Christian University

Vol. 93, No. 49 1 section, 10 pages www.acuoptimist.com

Serving the ACU community since 1912

Rams up next:

Saving Facebook:

Pleasant out:

The Wildcats will take on Angelo State’s first-year baseball program Friday.

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Formerly known as ACU Facebook, the Web site has now merged with the national networking site College Facebook.

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Men’s basketball coach Klint Pleasant resigned Monday to go home to Rochester, Mich.

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Officers appoint executive secretary

Power steering

Jeffrey says he will ‘be all right’ even though he’s new to SA

By LORI BREDEMEYER MANAGING EDITOR

BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer

Jeremy Gudgel, sophomore environmental science major from Andrews, wrestles a steer in the Chute Dogging event at the ACU Rodeo on Tuesday night at the Taylor County Expo Center. Students competed in such events as barrel racing, goat dressing and steer saddling. For more pictures, see page 8.

Students compete in rodeo contests Club donates profits to charities, agriculture endowment fund

By SHAVONNE HERNDON STUDENT REPORTER

ACU Rodeo spectators saw their peers participate in events like calf scrambling, barrel rac-

“I gave it my best effort and am very proud to be the winner. I feel like I am a true cowgirl now.”

Kelci Young, ACU Rodeo Queen winner

ing, wild steer branding, steer wrestling and goat dressing on Tuesday to raise money for the Aggie Club and an endowment fund.

Programs honor graduating seniors Colleges, departments organize events to bless outgoing students

By APRIL WARD and JOSH HARRIS SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS

With a prayer, a scripture and the confidence of a host of professors and faculty members, the class of 2005 will walk across the stage to enter a new phase in life. While students across the nation may receive a diploma and a handshake, the university offers its seniors more than a piece of paper to carry with them as they depart.

Thanks to the special blessings and honors every department gives to its graduates, seniors know their mentors have prayed for them. They also know the faculty they are leaving of teachers and mentors have become colleagues and friends.

While the traditions vary, many colleges and departments have special ways of honoring their graduating seniors and blessing them before graduation. Professors in the College of Business Administration take an entire day to honor seniors before they depart.

“We’ve had a tradition for the past 15 years of holding a daylong Senior Blessing,” said Terry Pope, associate dean of the

College of Business Administration.

Pope said the event gives seniors a chance to spend the day in fellowship with each other and the faculty without the stresses of going to class. However, they also spend time reflecting on what it means to be a Christian in the professional world.

“We spend the day in student- and faculty-led devotionals, sessions focused on Godly leadership and the marketplace, and we have some play time,” Pope said.

At the end of the day, the seniors receive a blessing from the department.

Pope said it is Pope an important moment for the students and the faculty.

The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication organizes Senior Sanctuary each spring to bless seniors, honor their accomplishments and give them a chance to enjoy fellowship with the faculty.

Dr. Cheryl Bacon, chair of the department of Journalism and Mass Communication, said the event was created about 10 years ago.

See SENIORS Page 9

The Aggie Club organizes the event annually so students can participate in a time of fun competition, said Stuart Bozeman, social director of the Rodeo Club

and senior agricultural business major from Idalou.

To raise money for the club, members sell hams in the fall and sponsor the rodeo in the spring.

After paying expenses, the group donates the remainder of the funds to charities and the agriculture and engineering endowment fund.

See RODEO Page 8

With executive officer elections behind them, the Students’ Association leaders have completed their first order of business: appointing a new executive secretary.

The officers chose Ben Jeffrey, junior theatre major from Kansas City, Mo., on Wednesday to fill the position for the 200506 school year.

Jeffrey said although he has no experience on SA, he feels he’s ready to meet the new challenge head-on.

“It’s like any job where you just put yourself into it,” he said. “I don’t like to get really anxious about things, and I don’t see how this is different from any other leadership position.”

Justin Scott, SA’s president-elect, Melanie Booker, vice president, Tyler Cosgrove, treasurer, and Sarah Woodroof, secretary, conducted the interviews. Scott said Jeffrey’s leadership on campus made him stand out from the other applicants; he has been active in the Theatre Department and recently perSee SA Page 9

Ministers to gather at Summit Third annual event to focus on role of missional leadership

Keeping their sanity

By SARAH CARLSON ARTS EDITOR

BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer

Jace Yeats, sophomore accounting major from Tulsa, Okla., and Jon Bruner, junior business management major from Carbondale, Ill., play ping pong by the intramural field Thursday less than three hours before the men of Gamma Sigma Phi began their world-record-breaking attempt of a 60-hour softball game. Club members have tents, beds and chairs set up by the field to sleep and relax in when not playing in the game.

Church leaders will come together to discuss missional leadership at the fourth Ministry Summit on April 21-22.

Dr. Mark Love, assistant professor of ministry and director of Ministry Events, said the summit is a chance for people in ministry positions either in the church or in the university to come together for conversations on ministry. Elders, children’s and youth ministers, both New and Old Testament scholars and others will contribute to ministry discussions, focusing on their respective areas and how misLove sional leadership plays a role.

Love said many programs people attend are large and unfocused, but the Ministry Summit offers a chance for smaller groups to gather and engage in ministry discussions.

See SUMMIT Page 9

Speech students lobby against bill Legislation to limit training needed for speech pathology

By MITCH HOLT STAFF WRITER

Two speech pathology students went to the state capital to lobby against Senate Bill 311, which passed unanimously in the Senate last week. The bill limits the amount of training a person must have to treat individuals

in speech therapy.

The students lobbied because they were taking a class offered at the Texas Speech Language Hearing Association annual convention, which took place March 31 through April 3 in Austin.

Amber Cardot, senior communication sciences and disorders major from Abilene, and Kimberly Zamarripa, senior communication major from Harlingen, traveled to Austin with about 15 students to attend the TSHA convention.

Cardot is president of the ACU chapter of the National Student Speech-Language Hearing Association.

The class focused on communication with senators, but the students’ cause was legitimate.

“There are over 8,000 master’s degree-licensed speech-language pathologists in the state with appropriate credentials to work with language disorders, but only 300 individuals refer to themselves as academic language teachers and therapists,”

said D’Lyla Kirby, assistant professor and clinic director in the Communication Sciences and Disorders Department.

Senate Bill 311 does not give any stipulation for the credentials of the 300 individuals other than a limited number of contact hours in training and supervision after training, Kirby said.

While at the capital, Cardot and Zamarripa were able to meet with Rep. Bob Hunter, See CAPITAL Page 9

CAMPUS Friday, April 15, 2005

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Calendar&Events Friday

Pride’s Crossing dinner theatre, dinner at 6:45 p.m. and play at 8 p.m., Fulks Theatre.

Computer auction, 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Hilton Room.

Emily Chastain art show, 7-9 p.m., Living Room.

Purple Friday, 7 a.m.- 2:30 p.m., Living Room.

Gamma Sigma Phi Habitat for Humanity fund-raiser, 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Campus Center.

ACU for Abilene sign-ups, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Campus Center.

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Saturday

Pride’s Crossing dinner theatre, dinner at 6:45 p.m. and play at 8 p.m., Fulks Theatre.

ACU for Abilene service day, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

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DAY

Sunday

Campus Center book sale, 3-11 p.m., Campus Center.

The Ministry concert, 8 p.m., Chapel on the Hill.

International Justice Mission, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Campus Center.

Pride’s Crossing dinner theatre, dinner at 6:45 p.m. and play at 8 p.m., Fulks Theatre.

Leadership Camps staff training, 4-7:30 p.m., Hilton Room.

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Campus Activities Board Free Night Out, 5-11 p.m., Starbucks.

Monday

Greg Bush jazz concert, 8 p.m., Williams Performing Arts Center Recital Hall.

Gamma Sigma Phi Habitat for Humanity fund-raiser, 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Campus Center.

Society of African American Brotherhood meeting, 9-10:30 p.m., Hilton Room.

Sing Song interest meeting, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Living Room.

Police Department recruiting, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Campus Center.

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Tuesday

Book sale, 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Campus Center.

Freshman Formal sign-ups, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Campus Center.

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.

Wednesday

Freshman Formal sign-ups, 11 a.m.2 p.m., Campus Center.

International Justice Mission, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Campus Center.

Book sale, 7 a.m., Campus Center.

University Park saves new residents money Sophomores receive current rates if lease signed by Friday

By DANIELLE LINTHICUM

International Justice Mission, 8 a.m.-5 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.

Habitat for Humanity sign-ups, 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Campus Center.

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STAFF WRITER

Most sophomores are already thinking about where they will live next year, and to some, University Park Apartments is an attractive option.

All sophomores who live in a residence hall are eligible to receive current rates for the apartments if they sign a lease

by Friday. They can save up to $180, said Patricia HailJackson, managing director of UP. Depending on the type of unit they choose, students are also eligible for the ACU subsidy, which can save them at least $352.

This is the first year UP has offered to let sophomore hall residents sign a lease without a rate increase, and 181 students are already signed up to live in UP next school year,

Hail-Jackson said.

“Most importantly, students enjoy all of the amenities that UP has to offer,” HailJackson said.

She said students in UP have free Internet service, cable, water and trash pick up. Other perks include UP’s convenience to campus, financial aid deferment plan, community of students, individual lease liability and social and educational programming, she said.

“Also, anyone who signs a lease will receive a free Tshirt,” Hail-Jackson said.

If students miss the Friday deadline for current rates, they can still receive the ACU subsidy as long as they sign a lease by May 6, Hail-Jackson said.

For more information about UP housing, call Ext. 4300 or e-mail acu@campushousing.com.

E-mail Linthicum at: del01a@acu.edu

Ministry to perform second concert Singing group uses ministry to support teenage mothers

By EVAN BLACK STUDENT REPORTER

Demetria Thompson walks into her 10 a.m. Spanish class with a wide smile and a hand full of tickets.

Thompson, senior history major from Charleston, S.C., is a member of the singing group The Ministry; she is selling tickets for the group’s concert.

Members of The Ministry will perform their second concert, titled “Give My All Part Two,” 8 p.m. on Sunday at Chapel on the Hill. Tickets can be bought for $3 and will be $4 at the door.

The Ministry consists of eight members — three wo-

men and five men — who have performed in Chapel on praise day this semester.

“It is such a blessing that we get to go out and minister into the community through our music,” Thompson said.

Thompson, who has only been involved with The Ministry this semester, said the group usually practices twice a week.

“People coming should expect a good night of praise and worship to God,” Thompson said. “And musically, they can expect some good harmonies.”

The eight members include four recent ACU graduates and four current ACU seniors.

Marie Thomas, Resident Director for Nelson Hall and member of The Ministry, graduated from ACU in 2002 with a master’s degree in psychology.

“I hope a lot of people

come out and support us,” Thomas said.

She said she expects about 300 people to attend the concert.

Proceeds will go to The Ministry and Young Lives Teen Parent, a local organization that lends support to teenage mothers.

Thomas is the coordinator of Young Lives Teen Parent and said half of the money raised will help send some of the young women to a Christian summer camp in Windy Gap, N.C. “It will edify the people, and at the same time, they can help these girls go to camp,” she said.

Thomas said the other half of the money will help pay for the traveling The Ministry has been doing, which includes trips both in and outside of Abilene.

Fans of the group will be able to hear more than one hour of songs by The Ministry at the concert.

“The Ministry is a fantastic group with sweet harmonies and soulful sounds,” said Joshua Deschenes, junior communication major from San Antonio. “They give the spirit rest and relaxation while also uplifting the heart.

“I always look forward to when The Ministry is leading Chapel. I feel like the strong voices of the women create a more balanced sound than what we normally hear in Chapel.”

The group will perform songs and sell tickets on Friday in the Campus Center immediately following Chapel.

E-mail the Black at: optimist@acu.edu

Chapel Check-Up Credited Chapels to date: Credited Chapels remaining:

61 10

Volunteer Opportunities Volunteers are needed to help build a house with Habitat for Humanity on April 23. For more information, e-mail Bethany at baa02a@acu.edu.

Abilene State School needs volunteers to escort residents to dances and sponsor parties for the home, preferably during the

Christmas season. For more information, contact Janie Chase at 7953386.

Volunteers are needed to coach or referee flag football, soccer or basketball on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club. For more information, contact Jacob Hutson at 672-1712.

Announcements Students can enter the Hello Book photo contest. The winning photo will be published on the cover of the 2005-06 Hello Book. The contest’s theme is Triumphant, and all photos must be vertical. Deadline for submission is April 29. For more information, call Christi Stark at Ext. 2463 or e-mail her at christi.stark@acu.edu.

University Events is beginning to organize students interested in participating in the 2005 Centennial Parade of Flags. Flags are assigned on firstcome basis. Reply to the office of University Events at Ext. 2632 or email UniversityEvents@acu.edu.

Students should include name, email address and the flag he or she would like to carry.

The ACT Peer Health Educa-

tion Program is accepting applications for Peer Health Educators. Applications are in the University Counseling Center in the lower level of McKinzie Hall.

For more information, call Heidi Morris at Ext. 2063.

More Summer I sessions have been opened. Students now can register online for new sections of Message of the Old Testament and Major British Writers I. Greg Bush, director of jazz studies, and his jazz quartet are performing a concert at 8 p.m. on Monday in the Williams Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. Admission is free. Also featured is ACU professor Dr. Allen Teel on drums, Dave Keown on bass and Michael Henry Martin on guitar.

CAMPUS NEWS

Friday, April 15, 2005

Page 3

Students win press awards

Next best thing to a tree house

Competition offers chance for contestants to compare abilities

By TIFFANY TAYLOR PAGE 2 EDITOR

BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer

Nicole Maxwell, freshman youth and family ministry major from Akron, Ohio, works on her English paper while Andrew Larson, junior history major from Redding, Calif., keeps her company.

Sing Song preparations begin Interest meeting scheduled for students wanting to host show

By RACHEL LAU PAGE DESIGNER

Students who want to audition to be a 2006 Sing Song host or hostess can attend an interest meeting Monday in the Living Room after Chapel.

The meeting, which is usually in October, is to prepare early for next year’s 50th anniversary Sing Song, said Kendall Massey, director of student productions.

Massey has already chosen three co-chairs for the 50th Sing Song: Kaitlyn Whitlock, Sophomore theatre major from Garland; Jenny Robinson; and Holly Whited, Junior vocal performance major from Abilene.

Students will have a general idea of what “they’re getting themselves into,” Massey said.

“This is the 50th show. There’s quite a bit to get done.”

Singing ability is the number one criteria for a host or hostess, he said.

“Anyone who can sing

should try out and see what happens,” Massey said.

However, students must match other criteria to become a host or hostess. Students must have 60 credit hours, a 2.7 grade point average and be in good standing with the university.

Knowing hour requirements can help students plan ahead for next year. They can take summer courses to reach credit hour requirements, said Darren Curry, senior marketing major from Oklahoma City and former Sing Song host.

The chosen hosts and hostesses will do more for next year’s Sing Song than groups in the past. Organizers are planning to construct ways for the students to participate in activities outside of Sing Song production, in the Abilene community.

“Many people feel like [Sing Song] is not for them; we want to draw the community in,” he said.

The hosts and hostesses will work together and learn through this experience as they work closely for at least 10 weeks. Curry said he loved the experience.

“It was a milestone in my life,” he said. “The people were wonderful to work with.”

Rodrigo Macias, junior biology major from Torreon, Mexico, is interested in auditioning to be a host next year.

“I like to perform, sing and dance,” he said. “I know I’m going to be really close to the other five. This is my last chance to be involved in Sing Song, and I know it will be a really memorable experience at ACU.” Massey said he hopes each host and hostess will gain something from his or her experience.

“My wife and I always hope that anyone who makes it gains something as a performer, as an individual and as a Christian. It’s a life-building experience,” he said.

The next interest meeting will be in early October, when auditions will take place. If successful, Massey may consider having a meeting every spring for students who are interested.

E-mail the Lau at: rhl02a@acu.edu

Journalism and integrated marketing communication students won nine awards Saturday for pieces completed during live competition at a statewide press convention, with KACU winning the radio sweepstakes and the Optimist winning second place in best in show.

The Texas Intercollegiate Press Association organized the annual convention where students competed in public relations, yearbook, photography, radio and newspaper.

Rachael Campbell, senior integrated marketing communication major from The Colony, won first place for public relations news releases; Blake Farmer, senior journalism major from Nashville, Tenn., won second place in TV announcing; Adrianne Jewett, senior integrated marketing communication major from Abilene, won second place in yearbook design; and Lori Bredemeyer,

senior journalism major from Winters, won second place in copy editing and third place in headline writing. In addition, Jaci Schneider, junior journalism major from Central Point, Ore., won a $500 scholarship.

ACU students, some who have graduated, collected 41 awards from works submitted.

“It just continues to give our journalism program as good of a name as any other journalism program out there,” said Jonathan Smith, junior journalism major from Tyler and the Optimist editor in chief.

Farmer, the only student from KACU to attend, said he enjoyed seeing the radio station excel.

“We were surprised, but certainly we understand our radio station is a notch above other stations,” Farmer said.

Participants said performing live was nerve-racking.

“Live contests make me nervous because I feel like there’s a lot of pressure on you and your creativity,” said Melody Willingham, senior integrated marketing communication major from Mansfield.

Campbell said she felt pressure because she placed first in

public relations news releases last year at TIPA. Live competitions in most categories except sports took place Thursday afternoon. Radio, television and print sports writing and sports action photography events happened Friday. Smith, Bredemeyer, Tiffany Williams, senior journalism major from Temple, and Brian Schmidt, sophomore photojournalism major from Austin, attended a Dallas Desperados game, where the reporters took notes and Schmidt was allowed to take pictures during the first quarter and overtime.

“If we didn’t see who made a play, what number, what player, we’d help each other out,” Smith said.

Students who received honorable mentions included Emily Chastain, senior photojournalism major from San Antonio, in feature photo; Schmidt and Rachel Lau, sophomore photojournalism major from Penang; Malaysia, in two-person photo; Williams in sports radio and Willingham for public relations crisis management.

E-mail the Taylor at: tat04a@acu.edu

ARTSFRIDAY

Fiesta!

OPTIMIST

Page 4

The Box Office Figures are for the weekend of April 8-10 and are in millions. Total grosses in parenthesis.

¡Viva la

1 Sahara—$18.5 (new) 2 Sin City—$14.1 ($50.7) 3 Fever Pitch—$13 (new) 4 Guess Who—$7.1 ($51.1) 5 Beauty Shop—$7.1 ($26.4) 6 Robots—$4.7 ($111) 7 Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous—$4.1 ($37.5) 8 The Pacifier—$3 ($100.5) 9 The Ring Two—$2.9 ($72.3) 10 Upside of Anger—$2.6 ($12.4)

Today’s Movies The Amityville Horror (R)— Starring Ryan Reynolds, Melissa George; directed by Michael Bay A remake of the 1979 film and based on true events, the film focuses on a 1970s plotline of two families and one house.

On November 14, 1973, police in Amityville, Long Island, received a frantic phone call that led them to the Defeo residence. Six members of the family were methodically killed by one of the sons, Ronald.

One year later, George and Kathy Lutz (Ryan Reynolds and Melissa George) move into the house with their three children but only last 28 days, finding themselves living in their very own horror story.

Next Week’s Movies The Interpreter (PG-13)—starring Nicole Kidman, Sean Penn; directed by Sidney Pollack King’s Ransom (PG-13)—starring Anthony Anderson, Jay Mohr; directed by Jeff Byrd A Lot Like Love (PG-13)—starring Ashton Kutcher, Amanda Peet; directed by Nigel Cole

Video Releases New this week: Hotel Rwanda (R) — starring Don Cheadle, Nick Nolte; directed by Terry George Ocean’s Twelve (PG-13)—starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, Matt Damon, Bernie Mac, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Don Cheadle, Andy Garcia; directed by Steven Soderbergh The Woodsman (R)—starring Kevin Bacon, Kyra Sedgwick; directed by Nicole Kassell Out Tuesday: Meet the Fockers (PG-13) — starring Ben Stiller, Robert DeNiro, Dustin Hoffman, Barbara Streisand, Blythe Danner, Teri Polo; directed by Jay Roach A Love Song for Bobby Long (R) — starring John Travolta, Scarlett Johansson; directed

by Bob Yari

April 15, 2005

April 15-24, 2005

Saturday, April 16

By Sarah Carlson Arts Editor Fiesta: A week of parades, carnivals, mariachi bands, Mexican food and cascarones (confetti eggs). The 10-day celebration in San Antonio every April commemorates the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, as well as the city’s rich culture, bringing in millions of visitors from across the country. Fiesta, in its 114th year, has much to offer.

Fiesta is basically one big party that is hard to explain to those who did not grow up with it. From an early age, residents of San Antonio learn about the event, and school children decorate their own floats with paper flowers and march in their own parade down the halls. They even get a day off of school for Battle of Flowers — a great benefit to growing up in San Antonio.

The city is the eighth largest in the country, as well as one of the oldest, and is also home to many of the top Texas tourist attractions such as the Alamo and the River Walk. During Fiesta, downtown practically shuts down for the wide variety of fanfare, such as parades with the king and queen of Fiesta, and everywhere you look are brightly colored streamers and confetti.

Fiesta activities last from sunup to sundown and range from carnivals to block parties to art exhibits. A few of the more notable events to attend include Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary’s University on Friday and Saturday, Night in Old San Antonio Monday through April 22 and the Battle of Flowers parade April 22.

Listed here are events worth noting if you feel like making the three-and-a-half-hour (or four, depending on how you drive) trip down south. For a complete list, please refer to www.fiesta-sa.org.

Friday, April 15 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Fiesta San Antonio Official Opening Ceremony Alamo Plaza Noon -1 a.m.

Fiesta Carnival (runs every day at same time) Dolorosa Street between Flores and Santa Rosa The carnival consists of various rides, booths and food and has been expanded this year to include a Family Fun Zone, fenced off and alcohol free.

5 p.m. - 10p.m.

Fiesta Oyster Bake St. Mary’s University campus. Friday is family night, and during the event visitors can enjoy more than 50 food booths of fajitas, sausage on a stick, hamburgers and chicken on a stick, as well as more than 100,000 oysters. Four entertainment stages with rock, Latin and country music, 30 beverage booths, a children’s area with games and a fireworks finale round out this Fiesta staple. Admission is $15 at the gate and $11 in advance, and children under 12 are admitted free.

8 p.m. - midnight Incognito: Fiesta’s Masked Ball La Villita Assembly Hall. A masked ball with live music from Brazil, the Carribean and South America. $17.50 per person.

10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

San Jacinto Memorial Ceremony The Alamo 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

“Trails to Trains: Roads to Fiesta” Exhibit Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Fiesta Oyster Bake

Sunday, April 17 1 p.m. -5 p.m.

Family Funday Sunday Leon Springs Dance Hall, IH-10 West at Leon Springs Exit

Monday, April 18 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Texas Cavaliers River Parade San Antonio River Walk

Wednesday, April 20 8 p.m. -10:30 p.m.

Coronation Of The Queen Of The Order Of The Alamo Municipal Auditorium, 100 Auditorium Circle

Thursday, April 21

town. For information on admission, visit www.battleofflowers.org.

Saturday, April 23

Friday, April 22 – Battle of Flowers

9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

King William Fair King William Historic District, which comprises of stately Victorian homes preserved to a tee. Entertainment stages, booths, great food and many activities for children. $2 for adults, free for children under 17.

11:50 a.m.

Battle of Flowers Parade Vanguard

7:35 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade Parade Route

6 p.m. - midnight Fiesta San Fernando San Fernando Cathedral, 115 Main Plaza

12:45 p.m.

Battle of Flowers Parade The first parade took place in 1891 to honor the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto and to commemorate the day Texas won its independence on April 21, 1836. Flowers decorate vehicles and giant helium balloons fill the sky throughout down-

Sunday, April 24 Noon - 10 p.m.

St. Luke’s Fiesta Finale St. Luke’s Catholic Church, 4603 Manitou E-mail Carlson at: skc02a@acu.edu

Tuesday, April 19 – Friday, April 22 5:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

A Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA) Set in the historic downtown village of La Villita, more than 100,000 visitors attend each night to celebrate the diverse heritage of San Antonio. More than 240 food and drink booths and more than a dozen entertainment stages can be found throughout the 15 heritage-themed areas.

Attend early if you are bringing children. $8 in advance, $10 at the gate, $2 for children six to 12 and children under six are free.

Tuesday, April 19 10 a.m. -5 p.m.

Fiesta River Art Show (Tuesday through Thursday, same time) San Antonio River Walk 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Mariachi Festival (Tuesday through Friday, same time) River Walk, River Bend and extension of Paseo Del Rio

Bringing Fiesta to Abilene If you can’t make the trip to San Antonio but are in the mood for celebrating, here are several options to bring the party to a not-near-as-exciting West Texas: 1. Make cascarones (confetti eggs).

Cascarones are confetti-filled eggs decorated similar to Easter eggs. They show up during Easter and afterward for fiestas and Cinco de Mayo. Having a cascaron broken on your head is said to bring good luck.

You can make your own cascarones by poking a small hole in one end of an eggshell, draining the contents, rinsing the shell and letting it dry. Once dry, dye or paint the egg and fill it with confetti, spooning it in using a small funnel. To finish, seal the opening by gluing on tissue paper. If you don’t feel like making your own, cascarones can be purchased at H-E-B and Wal-Mart (at least at the ones in San Antonio).

2. Eat great food.

La Popular is one of the best Mexican food places I’ve found in Abilene, and the bakery items represent the taste of the Fiesta culture. Other staples in the Fiesta diet include barbecue, chicken legs, oysters and any type of food that can be found at carnivals.

3. Take a break.

The key to Fiesta is to relax and have fun (after all, fiesta means ‘party’ in Spanish). So leave your schoolwork behind and celebrate something—it doesn’t matter what.

CAMPUS NEWS

Friday, April 15, 2005

Students attend date rape skit Peer Health Educators provide information on safety, statistics

By LAUREN WARE STUDENT REPORTER

Students performed a skit about date rape Tuesday night in the Hilton Room as a part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Peer Health Educators, students who work in the Peer Health Education Program, performed the skit, and the ACU Police Department helped to co-organize it.

“It was our first experience as a program to use a skit, and I was happy with the way it turned out,” said Heidi Morris, therapist for the University Counseling Center and director of the Peer Health Education Program.

The skit was based on an actual experience of one of the Peer Health Education members, Stephanie York, junior psychology major from Missouri City. York spoke to the audience after the skit about the way the incident changed her life.

“It’s been something I’ve been praying about all year,” York said. “I wanted it to not be about me. The closer it got

to time to perform, it became more about the Lord and how God has worked in my life through this.”

Before the skit, Jimmy Ellison, chief of ACU police, and Diane Dotson, executive director for the Regional Crime Victim Crisis Center, spoke about the different kinds of sexual assault and about safety precautions students can take.

“I’m always shocked and amazed at the number of students who don’t really know what their options are on campus,” Ellison said. “The most important thing is that these victims know that there is help out there available to them.”

Students who have been victims of sexual assault can speak to professionals at the University Counseling Center, the ACU police or the local Crime Victim Crisis Center, Ellison said.

“The bottom line is that we just want people to hear the message and to know how to prevent themselves from being a victim, and if they are a victim, know what their options are,” Ellison said.

Different sources estimate that only 25 percent to 37 percent of sexual assaults are reported, Ellison said.

“If you are the victim of a sexual assault and you choose not to report it, then that person is free to sexually assault somebody else,” Ellison said.

“You stepping up to the plate and reporting it could mean the difference between somebody getting victimized later down the road. If it goes unreported, I can’t do anything about it. I can only act on things I’m made aware of.”

One in four women will be victims of sexual assault during their college career, Ellison said.

“On college campuses, date rape is a huge problem,” Ellison said. “From a campus safety standpoint, I wish Sexual Assault Awareness Month was earlier in the year, now that the school year is almost wrapped up.”

Dotson encourages victims to seek counseling even if they decide not to press charges.

“Get help to deal with feelings,” she said. “It’s not something you can just get over unless you get help to get over the trauma of it.”

E-mail Ware at: optimist@acu.edu

When will we be able to follow the yellow brick road?

Sexual Assault Awareness Month Personal Safety Tips • Decide your feelings early and communicate them with your date.

• Do not give mixed messages. Say “yes” when you mean yes and “no” when you mean no.

• Stay aware of the situation.

Do not put yourself into situations where you are uncomfortable or out of control.

• Avoid secluded places.

• When possible, go with a group or go on a double date.

• Trust your gut feelings.

Sexual Assault Statistics • One in four women nationwide on college campuses will be the victim of some form of sexual assault during her college years.

• Of those college age victims, 84 percent know their attackers.

• 57 percent of those rapes occur while on a date.

EMILY CHASTAIN/Staff Photographer

Members run, raise money for families Galaxy men sponsor run in memory of former member

By DANIÈLE NTAHONKIRIYE STUDENT REPORTER

The men of Galaxy are sponsoring the 21st annual Kirk Goodwin 5k Victory Run at 9 a.m on April 23rd.

The cost is $10, and pre-registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. in the Campus Center on the day of the event. Participants will meet in front the Administration Building before the run.

“The purpose of this race is to raise money for local families and for anybody who is having problems paying medical bills,” said Justin Kincaid, sociology major from Falls Church, Va. and co-director of the event.

Kincaid said the Kirk Goodwin Run began in 1984

when Kirk Goodwin, a member of Galaxy, was involved in a fatal car accident. He passed away after he was rushed to the hospital.

“It used to be a local thing with faculty and staff running, but now we have people coming from Oklahoma,” Kincaid said.

He said anyone who wants to participate in the race is welcome to run.

“We are more focused on getting sponsorships and getting prizes for people who are running in the race just to get more participation,” Kincaid said. “We want this race to be an Abilene thing, not just a Galaxy thing.”

Clark Chance, junior communication major from San Antonio and co-director of the Kirk Goodwin Run, said encouraging more people to become involved will help Galaxy men meet their goal.

“We want to spread out to Dallas so we can have more peo-

ple coming here,” Chance said.

“What we do is add money to the fund and wait for a need to arrive.”

Chance said the fund will help families associated with ACU and the local area. He encourages people to attend this race because it benefits everyone.

Terri Aldriedge, a longtime friend of Kirk Goodwin’s parents, said she just moved to Abilene and plans to run in the race this year.

“I’ve known Don and Peggy Goodwin for 21 years,” she said.

“I remembered them establishing this run, but I have never been able to participate because we’ve always lived far away.

“It’s just a great opportunity.

My heart feels like I need to come and show my support in the memory of their son.”

E-mail Ntahonkiriye at: optimist@acu.edu

Servant seniors honored in Chapel Eighty-four students nominated by peers recognized in April

By BRANDON E. COOKS STUDENT REPORTER

Eighty-four students will be recognized in Servant Leader Chapel on Wednesday for their service in the community.

SA president Layne Rouse, senior human communication major from Midland; Laura Russell, senior biochemistry major from Abilene; Nathan Gray, senior biochemistry major from Collierville, Tenn.; and Tara Studer, senior biology from Seymour; are among the students who were selected to be honored.

“Although this may seem like an election, this is not a competition,” said Rita Harrell, administrative coordinator of the Volunteer and ServiceLearning Center. “All those who are nominated will receive recognition.”

According the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center Web site, a servant leader at ACU focuses on three types of service: in the community, at ACU

and in the church.

Servant Leader Chapel began in the spring of 1999, and the tradition has been carried on since.

Faculty from departments across campus decided which students should be recognized for their service.

“This is an opportunity where graduating seniors can be nominated by their peers, staff and faculty for exemplification shown through their characteristics and traits within their service leadership,” Harrell said.

She said when considering servant-leader nominees, administrators look for students who serve and lead others to follow.

“Many of them serve in forms of labor for other people,” Harrell said. “Some of the students work very closely with children and have inspired many of them.”

“There are many forms of service. It’s more than just performing an act of labor service, but it’s leading others through example and the way that you live your life.”

E-mail Cooks at: optimist@acu.edu

Facebook receives facelift Students contacted by strangers with newly merged program

Gilbert Lara (left) and Roy Resendiz from Lara’s Concrete are busy tearing and repouring the concrete outside Moody Coliseum on Thursday afternoon.

Page 5

merged with College Facebook, the concern has been eliminated.

“The use of the university's name is of particular concern if the owners of the site allow inappropriate information or photographs to be posted, or if the information students provide is used inappropriately,” said Michelle Morris, vice president for university relations.

“Any time a business chooses to link to ACU in some way, our Creative Services and legal offices should have the opportunity to approve that usage or to request that our name not be used.”

received an instant message from someone he didn’t know.

“It wasn't harmful, just awkward,” said Johnson, who joined ACU Facebook to talk to friends and to “have someBy EMERALD MCGOWAN thing to do other than homeSTUDENT REPORTER work.”

When he asked the person ACU Facebook, an online how they knew his screen networking community that name, they told him through drew mixed reactions over past Facebook. weeks, no longer exists.

“I put my AOL screen name ACU students who access on my Facebook profile, so I their Facebook accounts will have to expect things like this; be redirected to a national netit's just strange having people I working community of more don't know randomly asking than 200 colleges and universime what I'm doing and if I ties, and the Web site does not want to hang out.” carry many refHowever, erences to Katelin ACU or any Corbin, “It’s just strange having people I don’t know u n i v e r s i t y. sophomore randomly asking me what I’m doing and if I want n u t r i t i o n However, it does carry admajor from to hang out.” vertisements, Portland, unlike the oriOre., disEric Johnson, sophomore finance major from Boerne ginal ACU agrees.

Facebook Corbin Web site.

Campus leaders have dis- received an inappropriate No indication exists for the cussed Facebook but are not instant message from an reason for the switch, nor is taking any action regarding the unknown male who had seen there any clue as to the former networking service, Morris her picture on Facebook. administrator's identity given said.

“It creeped me out,” she “Students have many ways said. “I asked him how he got on the new Web site: www.acu. collegefacebook.com. to access outside communica- my information, and he said More than 1,800 ACU stu- tion groups, and the university from Facebook.” dents and alumni are registered doesn't try to control all those To prevent this, students on ACU' s section of College groups,” she said. Though the can limit what they include.

Facebook. The members are merger has eliminated some Dr. Wayne Barnard, dean of able to view information and legal concerns, it does not Campus life said, “Students contact any person among eliminate concerns about the should be aware that any inforCollege Facebook's nationally misuse of information posted mation shared by e-mail or on registered users. on Facebook. Some ACU stu- a Web site has the potential of One of the concerns campus dents have already experienced being abused.” leaders had with the network- unwanted communication ing community was the use of from other Facebook users. the university’s name. Now Eric Johnson, sophomore E-mail McGowan at: optimist@acu.edu that ACU Facebook has finance major from Boerne,

VIEWSFRIDAY OPTIMIST

Page 6

Social clubs show class by serving

The issue: Two social clubs will spend part of the next week in various and innovative service activities.

Our view: Social clubs have a positive influence on campus by making service a priority.

The solution: Clubs should continue serving in innovative ways and show the difference of a Christian university and Christian clubs.

April 15, 2005

On Thursday, 40 members of the men’s social club Gamma Sigma Phi began a 60-hour continuous softball game that will last until Sunday morning and break a world record. They will also sponsor a carnival and entertainment. The members of the club hope to raise $68,000 for Habitat for Humanity to build homes for people in need in Abilene.

On April 23, the men of Galaxy will sponsor the Kirk Goodwin 5k Fun Run for the

should not be 21st year in a Service activities show the university and the overlooked. row. The event raises money community that clubs are more than just “social.” Even throughout the pledgfor families of ing process, students who need assistance with medical bers of social clubs volunteer at clubs include meaningful servbills. nursing homes, participate in ice activities for the pledges to Last semester, the members service days and give time to participate in.

At many universities across of the men’s social club Frater their community. On Saturday, Sodalis raised money for the members of some social clubs the nation, fraternities and sornew Larry “Satch” Sanders will volunteer all over town for orities are known for drinking and partying, and it is refreshIntramural Field and dedicated ACU for Abilene.

These are just a few exam- ing that clubs at ACU are it to the university. Hundreds of people have enjoyed playing ples of the service social clubs known for more than that.

For a social club to receive and watching games on the do throughout the year.

Although social clubs are the highest ranking in the fivefield since then and will continoften the target of scrutiny and star rating system assigned by ue to for years to come.

Throughout the year, mem- criticism, the service they do Campus Life, members of the

Taboo topics shouldn’t dispel discussion In recent weeks, the Optimist has reported on some pretty sensitive issues: We’ve run stories about the discussions on abortion that have been led in Chapel; we have reported on the legal, medical and ethical repercussions of Lori’s Story the Terri Schiavo battle; and Lori this week, we Bredemeyer wrote about how United has begun selling alcoholic beverages.

Before we published each of these stories, and many others throughout the year, the staff and advisers discussed how the stories could be constructed in the most sensitive way possible, who the reporter could talk to in order to have a balanced article, and how people might react to the stories — then we would wonder and joke about how many letters we might get in response.

Of course every paper on every campus and in every city has to take extra precautions when preparing to dis-

cuss a delicate issue because more people will have stronger opinions about those issues.

And sometimes when the Optimist publishes an article on a sticky subject, we expect a rush of angry feedback, but many times we get nothing. It ends up not being as big a deal as we had perceived it to be.

However, the ACU community, myself included, seems to worry too much about what people are going to think if we even mention issues like abortion, homosexuality, drinking, pornography, and the list goes on and on.

A Campus Life staff member and I joked the other day during an interview about whether we were allowed to say the words “Planned Parenthood” on this campus, and that maybe we should have closed the window before we started discussing abortion. Sure, it was a joke, and we laughed about it, but deep down I knew it’s partial-

ly true.

What will our alumni think if they find out we’re addressing abortion in Chapel for several weeks? Will donors retract their contributions if they hear we’re talking about homosexuality in forums, or even worse, in the Optimist?

This year, Campus Life has taken steps in the right direction by initiating discussions on abortion, pornography and eating disorders. If we as graduates of this university are to go out and change the world, we have to be aware and acknowledge what’s going on in that world, and also acknowledge that those things are happening on this campus, too.

It’s time for the university and those connected to ACU to realize that we’re living in a time when these sensitive kinds of topics aren’t taboo in other places. These issues can’t be swept under the carpet or forced back into the closet; this bubble over stu-

“No, I’m actually not because a bunch of my friends are going to the lake for the day.”

Respond to Bredemeyer at: lmb00g@acu.edu or optimist@acu.edu

Matthew Jean Rouse is a 31- increase attendance at sporting year-old man who, like most events, specifically baseball Americans, doesn’t like his games. middle name.

They make it fun.

Like most Nicknamed the Hecklers by o b n o x i o u s head baseball coach Britt middle names, Bonneau, most wear Bonneauit’s a family bought, tied-died shirts with name, handed “Hecklers” across the chest, down from and all bring their voices to generation to every game.

In the Wildcats’ 14-2 win generation.

Rouse is over Tarleton on Saturday, they Gray ready to put an held a mock funeral for the end to that death of a Texan’s rally. Every Matters time Bonneau, who doubles as process.

Warren Gray He is selling the ACU third base coach, runs the naming rights to his middle from the dugout to his box on name on eBay, and the high bid the third-base line, they give is currently $2,175. Seems a lit- him a rousing standing ovatle steep. But then again, cor- tion.

Then they try their hardest porations spend hundreds of millions to slap their name on a to help him out.

As the Wildcats ballpark, so why were piling up not drop a couple runs against Tarthousand on a guy’s middle name, a Man, would the leton, Ryan Bell that name he insists he Hecklers have suggested Bonneau needed will use whenever some Icy-Hot behe gets the chance. fun with a cause his shoulder His wife, howevmiddle name was “getting tired er, is not worried about corporations like “Poophead.” of doing this,” he said while twirling taking the name; his arm around as she has other conif pitching in softcerns.

“If he wants to walk around ball, the worldwide sign for with ‘Fool’ as his middle name, runners to keep running.

Then there are the Heckler that’s his problem,” Rouse’s wife, Corinna, told CNN.com. constants. They research the “If someone changes his name players, from stats to biographto ‘Poophead,’ he may decide ical information, and use the it’s a little more important than information as ammo during games. And if an opposing he thought.”

Man, would the Hecklers player is running slow, it’s have fun with a middle name “Heckle speech” to comment that the player should “learn to like “Poophead.”

The Hecklers at ACU base- play that piano you’re dragging ball games have been in full behind you.”

So, political representatives, force for quite some time.

Baseball’s version of Section F, need an answer for how to the group’s numbers have increase support at ACU sportgrown over time, and they now ing events? First of all, show fill an entire section — a section up yourselves. It would seem conveniently located right next much more genuine if the peoto the visitor’s dugout to make ple begging others to go were the heckling even more effec- actually there cheering themselves. Also, go to have a good tive.

During the recent student time. Too many times students elections, an interesting bump go to the games, sit on their sprung up along the campaign hands, then complain that the trail. It seemed almost trendy game was boring.

Ask any Heckler if baseball for candidates to express their outrages over the lack of atten- games are boring. I don’t think dance at ACU sporting events. you’ll get many yes votes.

The Optimist ran a story stating the item had been brought before SA and that various ideas to increase attendance were enunciated.

Respond to Gray at: But one group of students weg02a@acu.edu or optimist@acu.edu has already found a way to

“I haven’t signed up yet, but I’m planning to because I haven’t participated in any of the service days this year, and I’ve been meaning to.”

“No. My parents will be in town for the Shades show, and I’ll be spending time with them.”

“No. I’ve got to go home and check on an interview thing for the summer.”

Anne Marie King

Tracy Schiebel

Cody Maynard

Audrey Bales

freshman exercise science major from Clyde

junior nutrition major from Fort Collins, Colo.

freshman youth and family ministry major from Gatesville

freshman business management major from Washington, D.C.

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

dents’ heads doesn’t last forever.

I hope future ACU students won’t have to speak in hushed voices about abortion or wonder why no one will address them candidly about same-sex attraction. I hope they won’t have to worry about voicing their opinion in class about the right to die or declare that they agree or disagree with Massachusetts’ marriage law.

Current events alone show us that these are the ways of this world we live in; if the university hopes to truly develop and train students to change the world, hopefully for the better, then students must be prepared for what will bombard them once they depart this campus.

An open mind, an accepting attitude and the courage to address any issue, regardless of the sensitivity of the subject, will truly help train students so that we all can make a difference in this world.

These issues can’t be swept under the carpet or forced back into the closest.

In Your Words Do you plan to participate in ACU for Abilene on Saturday?

Hecklers have fun cheering team home

Daniel Barcroft

In My Words

club must average three hours of service per semester. This rule places emphasis on service and shows that clubs value having a meaningful role in university life. Service activities like “Insanity for Humanity” and the Kirk Goodwin Fun Run show the university and the community that clubs are more than just “social.”

The Optimist thanks social clubs for their contributions and hopes the clubs and all students will continue to look for opportunities to serve the community.

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

OPTIMIST THE

The Optimist Editorial Board

Published by the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Abilene Christian University

Editor in Chief

Opinion Editor

Arts Editor

Faculty Adviser

Jonathan Smith

Jaci Schneider

Sarah Carlson

Dr. Cheryl Bacon

Managing Editor

Copy Editor

Chief Photographer

Ad Manager

Lori Bredemeyer

Tiffany Williams

Brian Schmidt

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

CAMPUS NEWS

Friday, April 15, 2005

Page 7

Marketing major manages to mix in modeling job Full-time student poses as part-time model; balances work, school

By SHELBI WATTEN STUDENT REPORTER

At 18, Lucy Palmer Braaten recently learned how to walk— down a runway.

Braaten, freshman marketing major from Abilene, is a model, and walking down a fashion show runway is part of her job.

She began modeling her junior year in high school and continues to model part time while attending ACU. Braaten mostly works in editorial, commercial and runway modeling. Editorial modeling includes modeling for magazine articles like a feature section on fashion or makeup. Commercial models are filmed or photographed specifically for advertisement purposes. Braaten said runway modeling is her favorite because of the beautiful selec-

tion of clothing she is able to wear.

While learning to runway model, Braaten had a teacher who demonstrated how to walk on the runway.

“Even though he was a guy, we would both strap on our high heels, and he would teach me how to walk,” Braaten said.

Modeling does not come naturally, she said. She has had to learn to be comfortable in front of the camera and discover her best angles and poses.

Braaten has modeled for brand names such as Chanel, Levi’s and Bloomingdale’s and has appeared in magazines such as Elle, Vogue and Teen Vogue.

She also has met several celebrities and designers. She has been to a party for designer Tommy Hilfiger and has sat at a table with Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey, the couple best known for their singing careers and MTV show Newlyweds.

Even actress Ashley Judd noticed Braaten at a runway

show and complimented her on how well she did, Braaten said.

Despite the advantages, Braaten said modeling is not an easy job.

Her boyfriend, Sam Vinson, senior accounting major from Clyde, changed his perspective about modeling when Braaten began her career.

“I always thought of model-

“Even though he was a guy, we would both strap on our high heels, and he would teach me how to walk.”

Lucy Palmer Braaten, freshman marketing major from Abilene

ing as just smiling and looking pretty, but after seeing the process first-hand, I realized that it was something completely different,” Vinson said. “The actual process is much more complex and time-consuming.

With things like early morning travel, two to three hours of

Design specialist to speak Leibrock to focus on aging population in presentation Tuesday

By LACI ARMSTRONG STUDENT REPORTER

Abilene citizens have the opportunity to hear an internationally known specialist on designing for the aging population. Cynthia Leibrock, professional designer, will lead the presentation. Leibrock’s mission is to improve the lives of older and disabled people through design.

She will give two presentations on campus at 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Tuesday in Hart Auditorium; both are free and open to the public.

Leibrock’s first presentation is called “Designing for the Future: Universal Design,” and her second is “Aging Beautifully: Design Research on Aging.”

The event is cosponsored by the interior design program and the Pruett Gerontology Center.

Leibrock’s presentations will educate the public in

ways to make the quality of life better in the homes and institutions serving aging and disabled people, said Kitty Wasemiller, interior design professor and program director.

Wasemiller said Leibrock’s presentations are important for the university because a broad spectrum of students could learn from her experience.

“Leibrock’s lectures will expose students to something other than the stereotypical views of elderly care, and students can expect to see ways in which their careers can affect people in meaningful ways,” Wasemiller said.

The lectures are intended to attract interior designers, architects, social workers, therapists, hospital and retirement community administrators and other health professionals from the Abilene community.

Leibrock is an award-winning author, international lecturer and designer and has taught for 10 years at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design. She also is

designing an $87 million dollar project in Toronto, where a rehabilitation institute is being built to provide special health care to aging people.

Leibrock works to create environments that allow people with special needs to age in a home that provides health care but appears to be less institutionalized. She has researched the psychological effects that institutionalized housing creates on the elderly or disabled, and she aims to create homes with a more comfortable design.

“She is not only specialist in her field, but also a committed Christian; she’s got a true passion for serving the elderly,” Wasemiller said.

Leibrock is the second speaker in an Art Department-sponsored designer series. The first guest was Randall Whitehead, a lighting designer who specializes in commercial lighting. The series will continue next fall.

E-mail Armstrong at: optimist@acu.edu

Alumni Relations to expand Office to add space after city approves rezoning request

or denial by the City Council.”

Members of the City Council will vote on recommendations for the house in mid-April, Watson said. Until then, it’s not rezoned.

Watson said once the house is rezoned and reconstructed, it will make for a better working environment.

“I am looking forward to helping the Alumni Office be

makeup, four to six hours of actual pictures and too many other things to mention, modeling becomes a long tedious process that would drive me crazy.”

Aside from being on call 24 hours a day, Braaten said in the past, she has had to work from 6 a.m. to 3 a.m. the next morning.

“It is such a hard job,” she

“They are currently in the process of taking down the vacant house across the alley from our office,” Peck said. “We plan to take in the driveway, adding additional offices for our

By LAURA STORK team.”

STAFF WRITER Peck, who is happy about the The Alumni Relations Office, new addition, said the new located in a house on East North office will be large enough for 16th Street, is being expanded to five offices and a restroom. accommodate the staff, which is Watson said the construction currently sepashould not afrated into two fect the staff, different workand the team “I am looking forward to helping the Alumni ing locations. will still be Office be able to be more efficient and have Construction able to use will be completthe original an improved work environment.” ed by August. workspace Kevin Watuntil everyKevin Watson, associate vice president for administrative services son, associate thing is comvice president plete. for administraPeck said tive services, said the house is in able to be more efficient and the new addition will make for a the process of being rezoned. have an improved work envi- better working environment, “It is a two-step process,” ronment,” Watson said. and the entire Alumni Relations Watson said in an e-mail. “We Amber Peck, director of staff will be under the same roof. have to petition the Planning Alumni Relations, said the and Zoning Committee from the vacant house next to the Alumni city. Once they have reviewed it, Relations Office is being torn E-mail Stork at: las00f@acu.edu they can recommend approval down right now.

said. “No one will ever understand how hard it is.”

She has had to miss school in order to take a modeling job.

Last semester, she missed a week of school to go to a photo shoot in Sicily, Italy, for a clothing catalog. Braaten said her professors were supportive and

helped her make up the work she missed.

Braaten’s career began accidentally in 2003 when she tagged along with her younger sister to a talent convention in Dallas.

Her sister wanted to become an actress, but Braaten, who had no intention of pursuing a modeling career, walked away with nine different contract offers and eventually chose to sign with Elite modeling agency.

Braaten was the only person to leave the convention with a contract, she said.

During her senior year of high school, Braaten had an apartment in New York City so that she could model full time.

Although her parents would visit some of the time, Braaten said she would often stay in New York City for three to four weeks at a time and return to Abilene for about a week before heading back again.

She had to motivate herself to finish her high school cours-

es online and eventually received her diploma from Abilene High School.

Braaten said modeling and living in New York City taught her to appreciate Abilene and stand up for what she believed in.

“I was often put on the spot about my beliefs and about Christianity,” she said. “It made me grow up and learn how to make big decisions.”

In the future, Braaten said she will continue to model as much as she can but will probably never go back to modeling full time. She also hopes to base her career in Dallas so she will not have to continue commuting from New York City “I am extremely proud of what Lucy has done,” Vinson said. “She has had enormous successes modeling, but when asked about it, she has a great ability to keep herself humble.”

E-mail Watten at: optimist@acu.edu

Lines of communication

EMILY CHASTAIN/Staff Photographer

Ashley Berres, freshman psychology major from Lakeville, Minn., checks her e-mail and talks on her cell phone inside the Campus Center on Thursday afternoon.

Step squad to ‘Go Postal’ Shades to present lively performance this weekend in Cullen

By SARA SCHAEFER STUDENT REPORTER

The men and women of Shades are going postal.

The ACU step team is using the theme “Go Postal,” meaning become a little crazy, at the annual spring show.

Shades bases each show around a different theme. The spring show’s costumes and routines will focus on a combination of insanity and the postal service.

Shades will perform Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. in Cullen Auditorium. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket windows in the Campus Center for $3 or at the door for $4.

This will be the first time for Shades to perform two nights in a row. The group

decided to add another show because past shows have completely sold out, forcing many audience members to sit on the floor.

Because of scheduling conflicts and miscommunication, the group’s last show’s date was canceled in the fall and changed to January, giving members less time to practice for this show.

Shades members have been practicing for this show since the middle of January. They have practiced four times a week, each practice lasting for about an hour and a half.

“It’s been a little high stress, but I know it has brought the guys together,” said Brent Hines, sophomore international relations major from Belton. “We’ve never been more focused and more committed.”

Nichelle Wall, senior psychology major from Abilene, is the captain of Shades. Wall

and Danielle Spence, junior integrated and marketing communication major from Mt. Vernon, N.Y., are also cocaptains of the women’s group of Shades.

The co-captains of the men of Shades are Brandon Jones, junior art major from Abilene, and Kyle Lagunas, sophomore missions major from Milwaukee, Wis. A total of 23 members make up Shades.

“We’ve gone through a lot of changes and have had a lot to deal with,” said Julie Piwiec, junior integrated marketing communication major from Mesquite. “Luckily, we have been blessed with great sponsors.”

The sponsors of Shades are Kendall Massey, director of student productions, and Marie Thomas, director of Nelson Hall.

E-mail Schaefer at: optimist@acu.edu

Page 8

FOCUSFRIDAY

Rodeo rides into town OPTIMIST

Continued from Page 1 This year, organizers wanted students to attend because many are unaware of the agricultural life, said Bozeman.

Although the number of attendees was about the same as last year, organizers were still pleased, he said.

“I expected a little bit more than what we had, but overall, I was extremely satisfied with the students and participants that came out,” Bozeman said.

Students who attended the rodeo could participate in events with friends or solo.

“After participating in the goat dressing, my fellow Delta Theta team mem-

April 15, 2005

bers and I have a newfound appreciation for goats and the rodeo in general,” said Manda Mosley, sophomore political science major from Corpus Christi.

Mosley said the rodeo was surprisingly thrilling and entertaining. Her fellow club members also had a great time, minus the smell.

They could also watch a queen contest, where women who were chosen by their social clubs competed in a flag race, yee-hawing contest, rescue race and cow-pie tossing event.

“I was a little nervous at first because of the physical activity, but I gave it my best effort and am very proud to be the winner,” said ACU Rodeo Queen Kelci Young, junior integrated marketing communication major from Franklin, Tenn. “I feel like I am a true cowgirl now.”

Overall, organizers were happy with how the Rodeo benefited from the hard work they had put in since the beginning of the year.

“It was run smoothly,” Bozeman said “Although it was one of our shortest ever, it was still fantastic.”

Photos by Brian Schmidt, chief photographer Design by Jonathan Smith, editor in chief

Top: Whitney Ramsey rides her horse around a barrel in the barrel racing event.

Above: Jeff Duncan, Jeremy Shipp, Devin Calhoun and Jonathan Jergins prepare for the steerbranding event.

Far left: Stacy Hasse, Amanda Dalgleish, Corrie Crosby and Molly Paulsen try to put a halter around a calf in the calf scramble.

Left: Clayton Farrell, Travis Carpenter, Kevin Hatcher and Nick Anthony pull a steer across the line in the steer-saddling contest.

JUMPS

Friday, April 15, 2005

Page 9

Seniors: Faculty, staff honor students at end-of-the-year events Continued from Page 1 “We felt like it was very appropriate to honor their significant accomplishment,” Bacon said. “We want our graduates to know we’re proud of what they’ve achieved, and we expect great things from them.

That’s why it’s important to give them the blessing of the faculty.”

This year’s Senior Sanctuary, called Santuario Maggiorenne, featured an Italian dinner served poolside in a candle-lit setting.

Seniors received a gift as a reminder of their time in the

department, and they participated in a night of games and entertainment. They also had the chance to learn more about their faculty and friends.

Although the theme of Senior Sanctuary varies from year to year, Bacon said the individual blessings of students from faculty members are the focal point of the event.

“Some things change as time passes, but a scripture and prayer for each student is important for us,” she said.

“I’m not sure state schools do anything comparable to this. It’s a unique opportunity for us because of our

Christian environment.”

For students in the Department of Bible, Missions and Ministry, Senior Blessing is a

spend time praying for students and sharing stories from their own experiences.

“After worship, we get to-

“We want our students to know we will be among their greatest fans wherever they go.”

Dr. David Wray, chair of the Department of Bible, Missions and Ministry

day of fellowship as well.

David Wallace, associate chair of the department, said Senior Blessing is a ceremony that is close to the heart of the faculty. Faculty members

gether and have the faculty tell stories about some of their most embarrassing times in missions and ministry,” Wallace said. “The students have fun hearing about some of our

Summit: Ministers to speak on various issues Continued from Page 1 “This is more focused, and I just think it fits a niche that ministers are finding very helpful,” Love said.

He said the past three years have been well attended and received, and because of the program’s popularity, coordinators opened it to the public Oglesby this year.

This was done to avoid creating situations of comparing who is invited and who isn’t, Love said, as well as to help offset the expense of the event by charging admission.

This year’s main speaker is Alan Roxbourgh, president of the Missional Leadership Institute and core member of the

Gospel and Our Culture Network. Roxbourgh will give two presentations on missional leadership, at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday and at 8:30 a.m. on Friday.

Aside from the main presentations, those attending the summit will have the opportunity to hear from various ministers and church workers discussing issues in their respective areas.

Dr. Robert Oglesby Jr., instructor of Bible, missions and ministry, will present during the first breakout session at 11 a.m. on Friday. During his presentation, titled “How’s Your Youth Ministry Performing?,” Oglesby will present an evaluation program for churches to use to analyze their youth ministers and ministry programs, focusing on 13 competencies the department of Bible, missions

and ministry uses to evaluate students preparing for ministry.

Oglesby said the program looks at areas such as teaching, organization and people skills, as well as use of technology in ministry, conflict resolution and one’s general work ethic. Churches can use the program online, and Oglesby will write a report and send it back to the church. He said five churches have used the program so far to evaluate current youth ministers and their deficiencies, helping them see what needs changing.

“I think it’s a tool that should be used by every youth minister to see how they are doing, what they need to change, etc.,” Oglesby said.

He said the program is primarily a preventive tool and can be used to analyze youth

greatest blunders.”

At Senior Blessing, faculty members write only their first names on nametags.

David Wray, chair of the Bible, Missions and Ministry Department, said the event signifies a new era in the graduates’ lives.

“We want our seniors to make the transition from being students to being colleagues and friends,” he said.

“As faculty, we want them to know that we are always accessible to them as friends and desire to continue sharing our lives together in any way possible.”

The event concludes with a time for faculty to verbally express blessings and affirmations to students. Students can also bless peers and faculty, and Wallace said the event is meaningful for all involved.

“We want our students to know we will be among their greatest fans wherever they go and whatever their future holds,” he said. “This is a time of passing the baton to the next generation of missionaries and ministers in whom we have great confidence.”

E-mail the reporters at: optimist@acu.edu

Patient painting

ministers before they are hired instead of during their ministry when problems are already arising.

The program is ready to be used by churches and during his presentation, and Oglesby said he will be looking for feedback from other ministers and is always looking at how to adjust and sharpen the evaluation tool. Churches who are interested in the tool should contact Oglesby directly.

“We’re getting pretty close to feeling pretty satisfied with it,” Oglesby said.

The general registration fee for the summit is $60, and doctorate of ministry students and alumni can pay $30. Faculty, staff and graduate school of theology students are admitted free.

E-mail Carlson at: skc02a@acu.edu

Capital: Students lobby against Senate bill Continued from Page 1 whose headquarters are on the university campus, and tell him why they oppose Senate Bill 311.

“Dr. Hunter was very impressed that we were undergraduate students there lobbying for our future profession,” said Cardot.

Cardot said Casey Kelly, Hunter’s chief of staff, guided the students to Hunter’s office and allowed them to explain their objection to the bill while he highlighted the main points on the handouts the students gave him.

Kelly was going to put the information into the computer so Hunter can look at how

many people opposed the bill when it is time to vote again, Cardot said.

Cardot is glad she was able to experience the event at the capital.

“It is important for students to get involved in the politics that will eventually affect the futures of our professions,” said Cardot. “It is

also important that our state and national leaders realize that, even as college students, we are aware of how we can make a difference while they are making decisions that affect our futures.”

EMILY CHASTAIN/Staff Photographer

E-mail Holt at: mah02f@acu.edu

Missy Lusk, senior art major from Hanford, Calif., paints her pottery piece Thursday afternoon in the Don H. Morris Center.

Golf: Conference tourney next week SA: Executive secretary chosen Continued from Page 10 spring, Samples then finished seventh at the Pepsi Crawford/ Wade Invitational before Byerly’s individual title two weeks later.

Carlos Alvarez, senior management major from Spring, hasn’t consistently seen the low scores of Byerly and Samples, but he is looking for that to change at the conference tournament. Alvarez said he was

“We’re all very confident. ... We feel like we’ve played well this semester.”

Carlos Alvarez, senior management major from Spring

very busy with school during the first part of the semester and didn’t have much time to work on his game. But in recent weeks, Alvarez said he has practiced more and feels prepared.

“I’m feeling a lot better,”

Alvarez said. “We’re all very confident. Finishing second twice, we feel like we’ve played well this semester.”

E-mail Gray at: weg02a@acu.edu

Resign: Group looks for new coach Continued from Page 10 begin the formal interview process at the end of next week.”

Committee members hope to have a new coach named during the last week of April or the first week of May so the new coach can talk with returning players before they head their separate ways for summer vacation.

As for assistant coach Clayton Bissett and graduate assistant Brian Thrift, the new coach will have the opportunity to bring in a new staff, but Mosley said he encourages new coaches to visit and interview the existing staff to see if they could continue in their roles.

Mosley said the search committee will look for a coach who

fits the description in the ACU mission and who has the ability to choose players with skill and character.

Mosley said he also looks for a people person who can relate to the alumni and community to boost interest in the program.

E-mail Robarts at: kdr00c@acu.edu

Continued from Page 1 formed as Sing Song host in February.

“We chose Ben because he is very engaging, and he’s a very, very good people person,” Scott said.

“He has the ability to put people at ease, and I think as secretary, that’s a huge gift. … He’s the first person people see when they come to the office, and we thought he’d make it feel like a comfortable place to be.”

Other applicants for the position were Sametria Turner, junior psychology major

and current junior senator, and Olivia Hodges, sophomore Christian ministry major from Raleigh, N.C. Scott said the secretary is responsible for coordinating SA activities and meetings, keeping records up-to-date and organized, and making sure Congress members fulfill their responsibilities. Scott said the officers felt Jeffrey would do well with these tasks and also bring a positive attitude to the job.

“I think the thing is that with Melanie and Tyler and I, we’re all really work-oriented,

and we need someone who’s really personable and outgoing,” Scott said. “We think he complements us and brings different elements to the table.

“I think he’s going to be a really good secretary,” he said.

“A lot of people know him on campus, he’s a very gifted guy, and he’s going to do a great job.”

Jeffrey said he also has high expectations for the role.

“Next year I’ll definitely be on my toes,” he said, “but I’ll be all right.”

E-mail Bredemeyer at: lmb00g@acu.edu

SPORTSFRIDAY OPTIMIST

Page 10

LSC South Standings current through 04-13-05

Baseball Team ACU A&M-Kingsville Angelo State E. New Mexico Tarleton State West Texas A&M

Div. 7-1 6-2 5-3 4-4 2-6 0-8

Tot. 32-11 29-12 21-19 19-20 18-26 11-31

Softball Team Angelo State ACU A&M-Kingsville Tarleton State Texas Woman’s E. New Mexico

Div. 13-3 11-5 8-8 8-8 6-10 2-14

Tot. 40-10 28-16 27-25 20-19 21-19 17-26

Upcoming events in Wildcat sports... (home events in italics) Friday, April 15 BSB: Angelo State, 2 p.m.

SB: Angelo State, 5 p.m.

TK: Angelo State Relays

April 15, 2005

Search for new head coach begins Committee to conduct interviews next week; coach chosen by May

By KYLE ROBARTS SPORTS WRITER

One man’s return to his home paves the way for a new men’s basketball coach at ACU. Klint Pleasant resigned as the school’s 15th men’s basketball coach Monday, finishing the season with a 33-48 record.

Pleasant accepted a job as the associate vice president for Special Projects at Rochester College in Rochester, Mich.

Rochester is a familiar place for Pleasant; his father Garth is the men’s basketball coach and has been for more than 30 years.

“I grew up at that campus,” Pleasant said. “A lot of people don’t know this, but my grandfather was one of the founding members of the school and

served as president at one time.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to go home,” he said.

“It’s kind of like I’m joining the family business after being away for 13 years.”

Pleasant’s new job responsibilities will include working closely with the president of the university in preparation for his travel and speaking schedule as well as helping with fund-raising projects.

One project he’ll be involved with is Rochester’s new basketball arena. The school has never had a consistent place to play ball games from year to year, but it has raised the money and hopes to break ground in October, Pleasant said.

The arena will be named after his father, but an official name hasn’t been decided at this point.

Before acquiring the head coaching position at ACU, Pleasant spent time as an assistant at the NCAA Division I

File Photo by BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer

Former men’s basketball head coach Klint Pleasant watches a game from the sidelines this season. Pleasant announced his resignation on Friday and will return to work at Rochester College in Michigan. level at Kent State, University of Tennessee-Martin and Wayne State. Next season will be the first in nine seasons that he hasn’t had a team to work with, but he doesn’t seem to

mind yet.

“When November and December roll around, I’ll find out the extent of how much I will miss it,” Pleasant said.

“But I know that I will miss the

relationships with players and the staff, and I’ll miss ACU — it was a big part of my life.

Coming here as a student was the defining moment in my Christian walk, and as far as coaching goes I’d really like to thank Jared [Mosley], Dr. McCaleb and Dr. Money for the opportunity to come and coach at the job I always wanted.”

Mosley, director of athletics, said he has received at least 20 calls and e-mails from coaches interested in the vacancy. The selection committee — Mosley, Dr. Gary McCaleb, vice president of the university and Dr. Royce Money, president of the university — will decide who will replace Pleasant.

“We’ll be taking resumes and applications through the weekend,” Mosley said. “We hope to have narrowed it down to three to five candidates and See RESIGN Page 9

Saturday, April16 BSB: Angelo State, noon SB: Texas Woman’s, 1 p.m.

TK: Angelo State Relays Sunday, April 17 MTN: Lamar, noon Rice, 6 p.m.

Thursday, April 21 TN: LSC championship Friday, April 22 BSB: Texas A&M Kingsville, 3 p.m.

SB: April 22-23, LSC tournament Tk: April 22-23, LSC Championship meet

Briefs Track and field individuals continue to qualify for NCAA Division II nationals After a successful outing at the 78th annual Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays last weekend, select Wildcat track and field athletes will be back in action this weekend at the David Noble/Angelo State Relays in San Angelo, attempting to post new or improved qualifying times for the outdoor national meet. After last weekend, 16 men had qualified either provisionally or automatically in 11 events, while 13 women had qualified in nine events.

The meet, which will run from Thursday through Saturday, will feature the heptathlon and decathlon competition on Thursday and Friday, followed by the running and field event finals on Saturday.

Several ACU athletes who have not qualified for nationals, including three multi-event athletes, will compete in the threeday meet.

ACU will host the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field National Championships May 26-28 at Elmer Gray Stadium.

—Steve Holt, Sport Writer

BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer

C.J. Goularte, junior second baseman, dives across the field for a ground ball during the 8-6 victory game against Tarleton State on Saturday. The men remain No. 1 in the Lone Star Conference south division at 7-1, 32-11 overall. They will play Angelo State University for the first time at 2 p.m. on Friday at Crutcher Scott Field.

Wildcats set to take on first-year ASU Rams Baseball team reaches stretch run of conference schedule

By WARREN GRAY SPORTS WRITER

The baseball team is preparing to do something an ACU team has never done — take on Lone Star Conference opponent Angelo State.

The Rams’ baseball program is in its first year, and the early results are good. ASU is 21-19 for the year and 5-3 in conference. The Rams are

third in the South Division, two games back of 7-1 ACU. Coach Britt Bonneau said like all conference opponents, ASU will be tough.

“You don’t know what kind of ball they play, what style they play,” Bonneau said.

Pitcher Ben Maynard likes the idea of Maynard having a shot at hitters he has never seen.

More important, he said, is

Golf team prepares for tourney Men look to continued success at tournament Monday, Tuesday

By WARREN GRAY SPORTS WRITER

As the golf team prepares for the Lone Star Conference tournament, coach Mike Campbell said he is hoping the team’s improved play over the course of the semester will continue on Monday and Tuesday as they play for the conference title.

“I think we’re starting to peak at the right time,” Campbell said. “If we play the way we’re capable of playing, we’ve got a good chance to compete with whoever is there.”

With a young roster that includes no seniors and no player with more than one

year of varsity level experience under their belt before this season, the Wildcats have predictably shown improvement each time out as they continue to gain experience.

The Wildcats finished better each time in their first three tournaments of the spring, finishing fifth, third and second.

The squad then hiccuped with a 10th place showing in Samples Edmond, Okla., but rebounded for another second-place finish in the most recent outing.

“We had a good tournament,” Campbell said. “There were brutal weather conditions. We tried to do our best; you can’t worry about the

things you can’t control.”

The weather was so bad the second day that the third round had to be canceled, leaving the leader after the second round, ACU’s Matt Samples, as the tournament champion. Samples’ win marked the second time this semester an ACU player took home the individual title.

Kyle Byerly accomplished the same feat in Byerly Pinehurst, N.C., at the St. Andrews Invitational.

Byerly and Samples have consistently been the Wildcats’ top players this season.

In the first tournament of the See GOLF Page 9

that the hitters have never seen him.

“I think I have the edge,” Maynard said. “You have so many pitches that they don’t know about.”

Lately, Maynard has not been letting anyone have the edge on him. Maynard has thrown four straight complete games to improve to 7-1 on the season. Maynard and Ben Brockman anchor a Wildcat pitching staff that will be called upon to stifle a Ram team that Bonneau said is aggressive and hard-working.

ASU’s pitchers also will be

looking to deal with an aggressive ACU offense. The Wildcats are hitting .345 as a team, led by Johnny Zepeda’s .441 average. Ryan Barker leads the LSC in runs scored, and Cody Cure is just two back with 43. Cure is also third in hits, first in doubles and tied for second in stolen bases.

Bonneau is hoping the veteran leadership of seniors like Barker and Cure will lead to another strong weekend.

“Hopefully, our experience as a team will carry us over the top,” Bonneau said.

The experience of a seniorladen squad helped the Wildcats recover from a rough midseason stretch to put a 15game winning streak together and see the Wildcats climb to No. 9 in the latest Collegiate Baseball magazine poll.

Maynard said it also helped them string three more wins together last weekend after the streak was snapped.

“We knew we had to get back on the horse,” Maynard said.

E-mail Gray at: weg02a@acu.edu

Right foot lunge, left foot lunge

BRIAN SCHMIDT/Chief Photographer

Junior shortstop Daisy Barcena lunges for a grounder during practice Wednesday. The women have a shot to overtake LSC defending champion Angelo State for the division lead during their last series of the season on Friday and Saturday at 5 p.m. and 1 p.m., respectively.