OPTIMIST
The Vol. 95, No. 47
IN THIS ISSUE CAMPUS Kojie or Siggie?
Students thinking about pledging next fall met Monday evening to learn what to do, page 3
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1 section, 10 pages
Despite claims that the bowling alley would be torn down for the Campus Center renovations, Anthony Williams said it won’t because of cost, page 3
FEATURE
Being bold in China
Ryan Campbell spent a year teaching English at a university in China. His experience changed his view and made him want to live across the world in part three of our Christianity in China series, page 5
SPORTS
Setting the pace
Intramural soccer for men and women began April 2 with several changes added this season, page 10
CAMPAIGN
n The Theatre Department’s Spring Dinner Theater begins Thursday with ‘Little Shop of Horrors,’ a tale of a plant gone wrong set in the 1950s. By CASSIE LEHMANN The cast and crew of “Little Shop of Horrors” are polishing up and ready to lift the curtain Thursday for their opening night.
The university’s Theatre Department chose “Little Shop” to be the show for its Spring Dinner Theatre as a fun, light-hearted end-ofthe-semester performance, said director Dawne Swearingen, assistant professor of theatre. “Little Shop,” set in the late 1950s, is the story of a young man, Seymour Krelborn, played by Seth Bazacas, who works in a flower shop
April’s Easter snow sets records
www.acuoptimist.com
and falls in love with his co-worker, Audrey. But Audrey, played by Alyssa Vidos, freshman theatre major from Waxahachie, has a boyfriend dentist named Orin Scrivello, played by Caleb Todd, senior theatre major from Mesquite. In the flower shop, Seymour finds a strange plant and names it Audrey II. Seymour nurtures the plant that becomes large enough to speak, move and sing. Audrey
II convinces Seymour to kill by promising him everything he always wanted. But the plant is not an average botanical wonder; it came from space with a plan for world domination. “It’s a fun spoof on those ’50s monster movies,” Swearingen said. “You can escape for a couple of hours. ‘Little Shop’ appeals to all ages, but See
PLAY page 8
cast & crew Seth Bazacas : Seymour Alyssa Vidos : Audrey Caleb Todd: Dentist Orin Josh Martin: Plant voice Jake Harbour: Mushnick Jazz Richardson: Ronette Jessica Patterson: Ronette Michelle Alexander: Ronette Terence Lindeke: Plant Jeremy Varner: Every Man Gary Varner: Set Design Travis Eason : Plant Designer Sandy Freeman: Costumer Ashley Sutphen: Hair and Make-up Shae Candelaria: Stage Manager Katelyn Whitlock: Asst. Stage Manager
The great debate
n Abilene weather set new records this weekend with the coldest temperatures in April, although the temperature drop may not be the last cold front the Big Country sees. By NATHAN STRAUS Staff Writer
Over the Easter weekend, Abilene was hit with a rare spring sight: snow and recordlow temperatures. White powder drifted softly to the ground most of the day Saturday and perhaps startled some who were settling into warmer spring weather last week. Dr. Donald Isenhower, professor of physics, said every few years something like the recent spring chill happens. “There’s an old saying,” Isenhower said, “Climate is what you expect; weather is what you get.” While the drop in temperature was forecast, the recordbreaking nature of the chill was not easy to peg. Dan Edwards, chief meteorologist for KTAB, said the front produced two records Saturday. The first was the lowest high temperature, 36 degrees, ever in April. The second was the lowest, 28 degrees, ever recorded in April. Simply put, the record maximum high, set Saturday morning at 12:01, was the warmest it got on a really cold day. The record low for April was set just 12 hours later as temperatures fell throughout the morning. “The lowest we got in April was 28 degrees, occurring just past noon at 12:05,” Edwards said. See
SNOW page 8
Counting down
As the race for a Students’ Association position ends this week, each candidate spent a lot of time and effort on their campaigns, page 4
emily smith CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Daniel-Paul Watkins, running for vice president, talks about what he wants to do if elected at the Students’ Association Debate on Monday night in Chapel on the Hill. Treasurer candidate Kyle Moore and president candidate Brandon Smith wait their turn.
Six candidates discuss goals, platforms n Voting for the Students’ Association election ends Wednesday. Candidates informed students of their views at the debate. By KELSI PEACE Features Editor
SA executive office candidates spent a lot of time agreeing with one another and laying out their accomplishments at Monday’s debates in Chapel on the Hill. When treasurer candidate Kevan Kirksey, sophomore finance major from Tyler, said the budget that is currently in place does a good job of utilizing the limited funds, his opponent agreed.
brian schmidt CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
what the other said. “I know what it takes to love a community, a community that has problems, issues that you can’t fix overnight,” said Matt Worthington, junior English major from San Antonio, citing his experience as creator of Jesus and the Hip Hop Prophets. Presidential candidate Brandon Smith, junior international relations major from Kansas City, countered that a president is not judged by his or her personal achievements but by the vision they present to the body they govern. See
DEBATE page 8
Students begin Gmail switch
iTunes U offers podcasts
n Wednesday marks the first day students and faculty can switch their accounts from the Sun Java System to Google’s e-mail system, Gmail.
n Apple’s new program allows universities to utilize podcasts by posting interviews and lectures online. The distance education program uses it now.
Student Reporter
Fenohasina Randrianjafy, senior environmental science major from Madagascar, takes a break from her deck job in McDonald to enjoy the snow on Saturday.
“We do have a great process,” said Kyle Moore, junior management major from Double Oak. “But I think we need more.” This seemed to be the theme for much of the debate. When vice presidential candidate, Daniel-Paul Watkins, sophomore political science major from Fredericksburg, Va., said he plans to be in “constant communication with all student groups,” his opponent, Ryan Stephen, sophomore finance major from Spring, countered. “I’ve already made those connections.” Even the presidential candidates began the debates by building off
Tech support launches programs
By KARIE SCHMIDT
Endorsements
The Editorial Board on the Optimist staff interviewed each candidate and choose to endorse one for each position, see who was selected and why on page 7
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April 11, 2007
Cast debuts ‘Little Shop’ Thursday Student Reporter
Have no fear
WEDNESDAY
Seniors only have a year to access ACU e-mail accounts once they graduate, but after joining Google’s email system, Gmail, alumni might have the opportunity to stay connected to the ACU family. Google has offered educational institutions the chance to join its new email service to universities, and the best part is that the services are free, said Kay Reeves, director of technol-
ogy support services and customer services. ACU will be one of the first universities in the nation to use Gmail. Reeves said they did not plan to switch because of more data space and additional storage, but the simple fact that, Google is an “e-mail expert.” In joining Google’s Gmail, Dr. James Langford, director of Web Integration and Programming, said, “We’ve wanted to offer either lifetime e-mail or an @acu.edu alias to alumni for a long time. This may provide the opportunity to do that.” Elizabeth Tarrant, class See
GMAIL page 8
Abilene Christian University
By KRISTA MEYER Student Reporter
ACU launches its public side of iTunes U on Wednesday. With Wednesday’s launch, students will be able to view the SA debates that took place Monday night incase they missed the opportunity to view them or if they just want one more opportunity to hear each side before casting their votes. On Jan. 25, 2006, Apple announced it’s release of iTunes U; a program its Web site calls a “free hosted ser-
vice for colleges and universities that provides easy access to their educational content, including lectures and interviews, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.” Doug Darby, creative and media specialist at ACU, said the World Wide Distance Education program has already been using iTunes U as it’s sole means of distributing content. “iTunes U is meant to work as a companion tool with programs such as Blackboard,” Darby said. “Blackboard has more of a learning format where as iTunes U is designed as a means to distribute content quickly and easily.” See
PODCAST page 8
Serving the ACU community since 1912
Volunteer Opportunities
Wednesday, March 29, 2006 Wednesday, April 11, 2007
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Calendar & Events Wednesday
‘G-Day’ transition begins. Students, faculty and staff may now switch from the current ACU e-mail service to Gmail. With this new service, Google Apps for Education may be utilized. New available features will include Gmail to manage e-mail accounts, the Google calendar, documents and spreadsheets and Google talk.
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Thursday
6:45 p.m. Dinner begins for Spring Dinner Theatre. Tickets for dinner and the ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ show are $25. 8 p.m. ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ is performed in Fulks Theatre. Tickets for the show alone are $15. 8 p.m. Abilene Bands Spring Concert in Cullen Auditorium. The ACU Wind Ensemble and Concert Band will both perform.
Chapel Checkup Credited Chapels to date: Credited Chapels remaining:
55 17
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@acu.edu or to the Page 2 Editor at mxe06a@acu.edu.
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.
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Friday
Purple Friday 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. The softball team plays Eastern New Mexico at Wells Field. 6:45 p.m. Dinner begins for Spring Dinner Theatre. Tickets for dinner and the ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ show are $25.
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Saturday
6:45 p.m. Dinner begins for Spring Dinner Theatre. Tickets for dinner and the ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ show are $25. 8 p.m. ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ is performed in Fulks Theatre. Tickets for the show alone are $15.
8 p.m. ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ is performed in Fulks Theatre. TIckets for the show alone are $15.
Announcements A golf scramble will be held Thursday at Maxwell Golf Course. There will be a 1 p.m. shotgun start. A team consists of 2 players, and it costs $40 per team to play. This includes 18 holes and a golf cart. The deadline to sign up for the scramble is Thursday. The April ArtWalk will be Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in downtown Abilene. Contact Marianne Wood at (325) 677-8389 for more information. Spring Break Campaign Committee applications for the 2007-08 school year are available in Room 129 of McKinzie Hall. The deadline to turn in applications is Friday. Make sure to sign up for an interview time when turning in applications. For more information, contact Jennifer King at jjk04a@acu.edu. The last day for students to withdraw from a class for the fall semester is Friday. Students who want to receive a “W” for a
course must have the withdrawal from class form turned in by that date. The forms are available in the Depot, the Registrar`s office, or in each advisor`s office. The 23rd Annual Kirk Goodwin 5K Run will be Saturday at 8 a.m. and will begin at the intersection of Campus Court and College Drive. The Kirk Goodwin Run is a charity run sponsored by the men of Galaxy that raises funds to help out community families in need of financial assistance with medical bills. There will be door prizes along with prizes for the overall winners. Registration will begin Monday in the Campus Center ticket windows. The cost to register is $10 and will include a T-shirt. Seniors, come to Joe Allen`s Lytle Bend Ranch on April 19 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m for free food and fun. Enter the drawings to win prizes including gift certificates and a digital camera. Wear a crazy hat and compete for a prize. RSVP to (325) 674-2737 or seniorexperience@acu.edu by Friday. For more information, go to www.acu.edu/seniors. Residence Life is looking for bands for the Backyard Bash on April 28. If interested, contact Jae Webb at jkw02a@acu.edu or at (325) 260-7347. The First Annual 5k Saving Babies Race will be April 28. This race will be held by March of Dimes in conjunction with Walk America. The race will start at 8:30 a.m. Check in at 7:30 a.m. at Redbud Park. The Entry fee is $25. Awards will be given to the top overall runners and the top-three males and females in each age category. For more information, e-mail sks06k@acu.edu or call (325) 672-0566. Download an entry form at www.abilenerunners.com.
Local Christian radio station, KGNZ, has a couple of opportunities for volunteers. They need help answering phones and entering data for its annual fundraiser between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. every day this week until Friday. Volunteers are also needed Saturday from noon until midnight to help with their “Thank You” event for the radio station. Contact the Volunteer Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout. ACU for Abilene is coming April 21. Students, staff and faculty will join together to serve the Abilene community in a variety of ways at a number of locations. Watch for more information and make plans now to join in this time of service. I-CAN, Interested Citizens of Abilene North, need help with community clean up Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Volunteers will cut yards, trim hedges, plant gardens, pick up trash and help with household tasks. Contact the Volunteer Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout for more information. Freedom Fellowship Church needs volunteers to assist with a variety of after-school activities for at-risk youth, such as tutoring, basketball and air hockey Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. and Fridays from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Contact the Volunteer Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout for more information. MOPS at Highland Church of Christ is having its annual Great Moms Walk and family day out April 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Nelson Park. For more information please contact Julia Stewart at (325) 690-9023. Volunteers are needed to be peer visitors or in a support group for amputees. Both men and women are requested to help. For more information, contact Wayne Briggs at (325) 691-1672 or (325) 829-1961. Meals on Wheels needs volunteers to deliver meals to seniors and adults with disabilities. This usually takes about an hour,
and students can have one day of Chapel per week excused for this service. Contact the Volunteer Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout for more information. Big A Club of City Light Community Ministries has an urgent need for volunteers to ride buses and vans with elementary-age children and to help with Bible studies. This takes place on Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Contact the Volunteer Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout for more information. Girl Scout Troop #1550 needs young women who want to make a difference in young girls’ lives through Girl Scouting. The girls are from underprivileged homes, and they need positive Christian influences in their lives. Volunteers will help conduct meetings, including arts and crafts. Help is needed every Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. until May. For more information, contact Diltzie Andrews at (325) 673-6379. Big Brothers, Big Sisters is looking for young women willing to volunteer time and energy mentoring in a program called Y-teens. Through activities and service projects, this program will empower young girls with knowledge about life skills and will build self-confidence while creating an atmosphere for learning and emotional growth. Help is needed every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Franklin Middle School and Lincoln Middle School. For more information, contact Erin McMullen or MC Jennings at (325) 677-7839. Wesley Court needs volunteers to work in the gift shop and to assist with inventory anytime Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Two- to four-hour shifts would be very helpful. For more information, contact Susan Conwell at (325) 437-1184. Abilene Zoo needs help with general labor such as grounds cleanup and painting any day during the week from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call Doug Hotle at (325) 676-6451.
ACU Career Corner Upcoming Career Events and Workshops ACU CAREER DAY Deal Or No Deal: Just In Case... You have not yet landed a job, or you don’t know where to look, or you don’t know what to do, or (Career-related fill-in-the-blank.) April 19 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. ACU Campus Center Featuring: -Gifts for graduating seniors -Networking with 20 employers -Resume, Cover Letter, and Job Search Advice -One-on-one with career counselors -Free food and drinks IT’S NOT A JOB IF YOU LOVE IT: Recent Jobs Posted on ACU CareerLink (www.acu.edu/careerlink) Job ID #5276 History Internship with Lopez Garcia Group Job ID #5300 Community Outreach Specialist Internship with Gilda’s Club North Texas Job ID #5421 Customer Services Operations Coordinator Cadbury Schweppes
Upcoming On-Campus Interviews April 19: J-W Operating Human Resources Internship Interview Open Schedule Sign-up deadline: April 15 April 10: District Manager Trainees and Interns Recruiting all majors Sign-up deadline: April 16 April 24: Association Member Benefits Advi sors (AMBA) District Manager Trainees and Interns Recruiting all majors Sign-up deadline: April 16 To schedule an on-campus interview, go to www.acu.edu/ careerlink or contact Bradon Tharp at (325) 674-2653. This Week’s CareerLink Statistics: Number of Part-Time Jobs: 137 Number of Internships: 284 Number of Full-Time Jobs: 769 Number of Employers in Directory: 3,078 Number of Employers Added This Week: 15 Hosted By: The Office of Career and Academic Development www.acu.edu/ocad
CAMPUS NEWS
Wednesday, April 10, 2006
Page 3
Plans to tear down bowling alley scrapped because of high cost n As high cost forces officials not to tear down the McGlothlin Campus Center bowling alley, students show support through Facebook petitions. By DANIEL JOHNSON Sports Editor
Five-hundred and thirty seven ACU Facebook protesters can put their worries on hold — the McGlothlin Campus Center bowling alley is here to stay. The original plans of tearing down the bowling alley in the basement of the Campus Center as part of a renovation plan for a new
food court were scratched after a committee, made up of various ACU departmental representatives, chose to leave the bowling alley untouched. “As far as I know right now, there are no plans to get rid of the bowling alley,” said Joel Swedland, Campus Center manager. The decision was made April 2 — one day after Evan Black, senior integrated marketing and communication major from Denison, created a Facebook group to protest tearing down the alley.
Although the group rallied more than 500 students and alumni against tearing down the alley, it was the original plan’s high cost, not the group that changed the committee’s mind. “I don’t think it had anything to really do with [the group],” Swedland said. Students’ Association president Maher Saab, who sat on the deciding committee as the student body’s representative, said the decision was made based on cost efficiency of tearing down
the alley. And because of the high cost, the committee decided to leave the alley alone for now. Black said he created the group to raise awareness of the demolition plans and create an online petition to show the number of student body members against removing the alley. Black’s plan appears to have worked and Andy Slone, evening supervisor of the Campus Center, said he hopes the online support will lead to an increase of customers at the alley.
“I was really impressed with the amount of students that joined the group,” Slone said. “I think that it is a sign that a lot of people really do care about it.” Slone said rumors of the bowling alley being a waste of space and unprofitable are untrue, and the alley has made significant changes to raise interest in the appeal. Some of the most recent changes include the pool tables and other nonbowling activities being free with a student ID, free bowling on Tuesday nights
from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and new black lights and a better sound system to compliment the lanes. Slone also said the alley is beneficial in building a good image of ACU, since it is often rented out for birthday parties and other non-ACU functions. “I’m definitely for the ACU bowling lanes,” Slone said. “I think that it’s cool that some ACU students are willing to wrap their arms around it and fight for it.” E-mail Johnson at: djj04a@acu.edu
Senior Cookout offers free food, prizes Live music showcased n The Senior Experience program will host a cookout, prize drawing April 19th for all seniors, senior friends and spouses for a final farewell. By ERIN JOHNSON Student Reporter
The Senior Experience program is sponsoring a free Senior Cookout on April 19 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 pm at Lytle Bend Ranch. It will feature drawings for many prizes such as a digital camera, as well as ways for seniors to relax and have fun. All seniors, their senior friends and spouses are encouraged to attend. “This is the final event
to send them off and just to say we appreciate you,” said Kristi Thaxton, Development Program manager. Seniors are asked to come hungry and wearing their craziest hats for the crazy hat contest. The top five who wear the craziest hats will win gift certificates, which were donated by local vendors, Thaxton said. There will be many events, such as smashing a piñata filled with candy, cash prizes and many other opportunities for seniors to win prizes. This event not only allows seniors a chance to fellowship and re-
ceive a free dinner, but it also provides seniors a chance to give a contribution of any amount toward the senior gift, the ACU insignia. Seniors will also be given the opportunity to leave their mark on ACU by making a donation of $100 or more, which can be done through a payment plan. In return they will receive a brick engraved with their name and class year, which will be placed in the Alumni Walk on campus. Their $100 donation will also go toward the senior class gift. Any seniors who have not received a invitation
can view one on the senior Web site at www.acu. edu/seniors or pick one up at the Hardin Administration Building, Room 305, Thaxton said. All seniors are asked to RSVP by Friday by calling (325) 6742737 or by e-mail Thaxton at klt99k@acu.edu All seniors should know that a few changes have been made to the spring Senior Experience newsletter; the new updates and other valuable senior information can be found at www.acu.edu/seniors.
E-mail Johnson at: optimist@acu.edu
Future pledging to require higher GPA n Students who wish to pledge will be required to maintain better grades as GPA requirements increase to 2.5 with some leeway in the fall. By MALLORY EDENS Page 2 Designer
The spring rush begins Monday for those wishing to pledge in the fall. Students may attend scheduled formal and informal rushes for each social club to determine which club they might wish to pledge for. An informative meeting about pledging was held Monday for those interested. A spring rush schedule was issued to students, and guidelines for pledging were introduced. As in previous years, to pledge students must have completed two full semesters, must have graduated in 2006 or earlier and must be enrolled as a full time student at ACU. One requirement for pledging will change next
year, though. While a student must still remain in good academic standing with the university, the GPA minimum will be 2.5 rather than the 2.0 that has been expected in the past. This change will not apply to students during pledging fall 2007 because next school year will stand as a transition. Students will be allowed some leeway in this matter and will be able to disregard their GPA for the fall 2006 semester. As long as a student achieves a 2.5 minimum GPA this semester, they may pledge in the fall. Along with this transition, there will be other changes in pledging next year. While these changes have not been announced yet, Mauri Westbrook, coordinator of Student Organizations and Activities, said in Monday’s pledging meeting that social clubs will in fact be different next year. “Social clubs have
been in a period of review for the past year,” Westbrook said. “Both the rushing and pledging process have been evaluated and recommendations are being made.” The new social club handbook will be posted online this summer at www.acu.edu/socialclubs for students to review before they pledge. Students who are looking to pledge should consider several factors before pledging. For one, pledging and dues both require money. Typically, $200 to $400 is due on bid night. Dues for each club range from $60 to $150. Also, students should consider more than one club in case they do not get into the club of their first choice. “With this large a number of people pledging, most of you will probably not get the club you want,” Westbrook said. “It’s not a personal thing. It’s just a reality. Consider going to at least one rush for each
club and avoid stereotypes. Every club has people from every walk of life. You may think you know what you want now, but you may change your mind. The important thing is to consider all options. It’s really about being in the social club system as a whole, not being in ‘x’ club.” Students must register to be a part of the pledging process. Online registration is scheduled to be Aug. 31 at 12 p.m. No late registrations will be accepted. Westbrook said rushing will probably start Sept. 3 and will last approximately three weeks. For more information about rushing and pledging, or to get a copy of the rush schedule, go to www.acu.edu/ socialclubs. This Web site will be updated regularly. Students may also contact Mauri Westbrook at (325) 674-6818, go by McKinzie West, Room 130, or e-mail socialclubs@acu.edu. E-mail Edens at: mxe06a@acu.edu
Thursday at ArtWalk n This month’s ArtWalk theme, ‘Music for ArtWalking’ is set to have live music from Joie de Vivre and classical piano selections from Sharla Van Cleave. By KACI FLORES Student Reporter
Enjoy free art activities, live music and entertainment at The Center for Contemporary Arts’ monthly ArtWalk this Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. located downtown. This month’s theme is “Music for ArtWalking,” which highlights the musical arts. Some of this month’s features include artists from the Abilene Acoustic Music Association, along with live music performances by Joie de Vivre. Also Sharla Van Cleave will perform classical music selections on the piano, followed by a performance by the Celebration Singers, an Abilene Community Choir. Kim Berry, executive director of Center for Contemporary Arts, emphasizes the diverse offering of arts and entertainment ArtWalk has to offer to the community. “ArtWalk provides an educational as well as cultural experience,” Berry said. Along with listening to music, ArtWalkers are also given the opportunity to “meet” famous composers and hear their music and stories while making a book. The composing and writing takes place at 102 Pine St., Suite 2. The Center for Contem-
porary Arts, located at 220 Cypress St., will have four galleries open to the public featuring exhibits from Sarabeth Clevenger, the Omani Society for Fine Arts, the Creative Arts Club and Hartley King. New to ArtWalk is the Clint Hamilton Foundation, which will host a preview celebration of the life and work of Clint Hamilton at the Second Street Gallery. Marianne Wood, ArtWalk coordinator, said this is the first exhibition of Hamilton’s work since his death. “Students will enjoy his unusual take on the world,” Wood said in an e-mail. During ArtWalk, visitors can also stop by restaurants and specialty shops downtown. Monks Coffee Shop at 223 Cypress St., will feature live music by Takisha Knight starting at 7 p.m. followed by Open Mic at 9 p.m. Monks will be serving drinks until midnight. For more entertainment, Tsotsi will be playing at the Paramount Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 for adults and $4 for students. Hardin-Simmons University will offer carriage rides from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Abilene Trolley rides are free for ArtWalkers. “If you have not come to an ArtWalk, you are missing an important Abilene experience,” Wood said. “Find out why this is such a great town in which to live and work.” E-mail Flores at: optimist@acu.edu
CAMPUS NEWS
Page 4
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Candidates explore new means of campaigning n Changes in technology have created new venues for campaigning but traditional tactics still play an important role as candidates vie for an office. By KELSI PEACE Features Editor
Daniel-Paul Watkins coined his opponent’s campaign slogan. For Watkins, sophomore political science major from Fredericksburg, Va., and his opponent, Ryan Stephen, sophomore finance major from Spring, the race for SA executive vice president has been friendly — especially because the two are good friends. Stephens said he was joking with Watkins about his jealously over Watkins using his initials in his campaign slogan, DP 4 VP, when Watkins suggested Ryan use his own initials, R.S., to make R.S.V.P. “Both of us had a look of recognition all the sudden,” Stephens said, “I said, ‘I’m using it.’” Now, campus has been plastered with Watkin’s Dr. Pepper and DP 4 VP flyers and Stephen’s R.S.V.P. flyers, along with flyers from candidates vying for SA executive president and SA executive treasurer for the 2007-2008 academic year. And while not all candidates are trying to balance friendship and competition with their opponents, each is trying to balance classic campaigning tactics like meeting constituents with newer venues like iTunes U and Facebook.
Computer-age campaigning This year, campaigns increased the technology involved with Facebook, iTunes U and Internet campaigning. For the second consecu-
tive year, candidates created groups for support on Facebook, a venue candidates agree is beneficial more for name recognition than accurate polling. “People just join groups to join groups,” said Kyle Moore, candidate for SA executive treasurer. However, Moore, junior management major from Double Oak, has a Facebook group — as does every candidate in this year’s race, with numbers ranging from about 120 to 400 members. Tyler Cosgrove, this year’s SA executive treasurer, endorsed treasurer candidate Kevan Kirksey, sophomore finance major from Tyler, in a wall post on Kirksey’s group profile. But Facebook is just one venue for the computer-savvy. Stephen created a Web site, www.fixacu.com, that displays his biography, vision, platform issues, a forum for debate and a place to volunteer to help with his campaign. As of April 4, Stephen planned to allocate half of his Wednesday Chapel speech to a video, which will essentially be a digital version of his platform. In a similar move, presidential candidate Matt Worthington, junior English major from San Antonio, has his platform available on YouTube. Moore said he was considering buying a flyer on Facebook, which will be displayed 10,000 times for $5. And the university’s latest technological update, ACU on iTunes U, offers students a chance to see the Monday night debates online, adding a new element to the debates — the words, gestures and composure of the candidates will be on record at www.acu.edu/itunes. Despite the convenience
of mass-Facebook messages and e-mail at the candidates’ fingers, all stress the importance of more classical campaigning tactics as well. Candidates say face-to-face interaction shows what they stand for as candidates and builds relationships that will be important if they are elected to office. “Like a comic book character, my skin gets see through when I’m up in front,” Worthington said.
Some things never change emily smith CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Campaigning can’t begin until candidates receive signatures from 10 percent of the student body, which is about 430 signatures. Once Maher Saab, SA executive president and this year’s elections co-chair, verifies the signatures, candidates can begin campaigning — with materials pre-approved by Saab and elections co-chair Madison Saniuk, sophomore political science major from Arlington. Flyers, banners and chalk advertisements represent each candidate with slogans like “Start the SA Revolution” from presidential candidate Brandon Smith, junior international relations major from Kansas City, or simple “Kevan Kirksey for SA treasurer.” Their goal is the same: name recognition. Another big concern candidates have is getting students to vote. “The best tactic is holding [students’] hands and walking to a polling place,” Watkins said. Smith said he has asked supporters to each get 10 students to agree to vote; less formally, candidates say they are always talking to people, building relation-
Vice president candidates Daniel Paul Watkins and Ryan Stephen sit together in Chapel on the Hill on Monday during the SA candidates’ debate. ships and strengthening ones they already have. “I don’t think you can be SA president and not have relationships with student group leaders,” Smith said. Over the past few weeks, candidates have addressed social clubs and student organizations, presenting their platforms and taking questions, all in an effort to gain support from what is seen as a voting bloc. Kirksey, a member of men’s social club Galaxy, said he thinks clubs will act as a voting bloc. Stephen, also a member of men’s social club Galaxy, said he expected about 300 votes overall from students in social clubs, a number he said is significant but will not determine the outcome. Moore, a member of men’s social club Frater Sodalis, said he has been encouraging fellow members to vote. Candidates can spend up to $200 on their campaigns, including monetary or supply donations, and are expected to present documentation of their campaign expenses by 5:30 p.m. Tuesday. Campaigners who violate these rules receive a warning or are removed from the race at the discretion of the election chair. The candidates face the student body in Chapel on Wednesday to present threeminute speeches they hope will gain them support. Both treasurer candidates said it is difficult to speak on a behind-the-scenes, generally defined position. But for president and vice president candidates, the speech is a chance to display their leadership skills. All the candidates said they would prepare a speech in advance, though some prefer bulleted points and other fully written speeches. Tactics vary from candidate to candidate, and it is, undoubtedly, more than a little personal.
Personal politics Saab said this year has been problem-free, and his experience campaigning last
year did not involve smear campaigns (intentionally tarnishing an opponent’s image with slander) or other dirty political tactics. In both cases, Saab credited the character of everyone involved for the clean campaigning. But, Saab said, he has heard horror stories about past campaigns. “Politics are dirty,” Saab said. “[You have to] try to make sure you’re not part of the shadiness.” Both candidates for vice president said they discuss more about their campaigns with one another than normal. But for the treasurer and presidential candidates, that is not the case. Worthington said he and Smith do not discuss the campaign at all, and Moore and Kirksey said they do not know much about their opponents. While all candidates agree that smear campaigns are not a part of their campaign tactics, both presidential candidates said they have heard rumors about themselves. Saab said often the candidate’s campaign team becomes overzealous, turning to out-of-control tactics that reflect poorly on the candidates, who are held accountable for the actions of their teams. Smith estimated he spends six to eight hours per day on his campaign, making signs, talking to people, making phone calls and meeting with his campaign staff. Kirksey doesn’t have a concrete campaign team, but he said he assigned jobs to volunteers. Stephen has a core team of eight that he said put in about 65 hours the first week in April going over campaign strategy; he said about 20 to 25 people volunteer. Worthington’s campaign team made his posters and helped him put on a campaign rally featuring student bands presenting poetry, rap, hip-hop, indie and acoustic music. Worthington said his team of 12 to 15 consistent students and 20 to 30 fluctuating students sometimes stay until 2 a.m. working on material; he stays with them. Moore got a late start to
campaigning because he was out of town at a conference for SA. He completed his petition April 4, getting 100 signatures in 15 minutes, he said. “I really almost gave up,” Moore said. Campaigning is time consuming and sometimes exhausting, candidates say. Watkins said he is often questioned about his motives for serving, with people asking, “Are you just doing this for my vote?” Stephen said he has had the same issue, for instance, when he helped some students carry boxes to the Volunteer Service-Learning Center. “You have to second guess yourself,” Stephen said. “One, for your own motives, and second, how are you at portraying yourself. You don’t want it to be a self-love fest.” Smith also said campaigns can be very self-focused. “I hate campaigning. Absolutely hate it.” Smith said. As campaigns draw to a close, some candidates grow nervous while others become calmer. “It’s not consuming my life,” said Watkins, who later said, “I might not win.” Watkins said he will be OK with either outcome. “I’m getting less nervous,” Stephen said. “Because in the end, it will come down to who campaigns best.” “Yeah I’m nervous,” Moore said. “Of course I’m nervous. This plans the next year of my life.” At the end of the week, students will have decided which candidate’s campaign portrayed the leaders they want. As of April 3, Watkins said he planned to have the Wildcat mascot hold up a campaign sign after Chapel; he also planned to give away Dr. Pepper to accompany his DP 4 VP slogan — one last chance at name recognition on the last day of voting. When it’s all over, it’s safe to say that Stephens and Watkins will still be sitting around, talking about SA. Maybe Watkins will share a E-mail Peace at: knp04a@acu.edu
April 11, 2007
Page 5
‘I was very bold in
China’
Ryan Campbell spent his time in China teaching English, but his real purpose was to share his faith. Story by Mallory Schlabach Design by Kelsi Peace
R
yan Campbell wants to return to China and spend the rest of his life there. He spent 15 months in China teaching English at Wuhan University of Technology in 2002 after he graduated from ACU and fell in love with the country and its people. Ryan, a third-year master’s of missions graduate student from Thousand Oaks, Calif., said all he can do is hope and prepare to go back to China. “That is my prayer,” he said as he smiled, “that our Father sends me back to China long term. I can try to make all kinds of plans and preparations, but nothing seems to go quite as planned on my own.” Ryan taught English by speaking in conversation with 40 students at the Chinese university in Wuhan. “It was challenging to keep my students interested and make the lessons educational and entertaining,” he said. “But I always like a challenge.” That of course, was not the real reason he was in China though, he said with an air of secrecy. “I was there to tell people about Jesus. I taught English in the classroom, but I was really using it as a springboard to get my students interested in coming to my apartment in the evening hours to study about the Good Book, our Savior, our Father, my joy,” he said and paused. “Notice that I am phrasing all of these words in not so, quote-on-quote, religious terms, but safe terms; terms that won’t get me in trouble.” He talks with a slow Southern drawl, something he is still surprised to hear others comment on since he considers himself a Californian. As one of 50 students sent to China in the summer of 2002 through China Now, an organization that seeks to spread the Gospel through dialogue, Ryan would commit with three others on his team to stay in Wuhan and teach Chinese college students how to speak English for 11 months, the length of
their school year. From 8 a.m. to noon, Ryan and his teammates taught. In the afternoons they spent time hanging out with the students, meeting other faculty at the university and playing Ping Pong, a favorite sport of most of their students, he said laughing. The late part of the afternoon was spent preparing a Bible study, and praying a few of his students would come. Photo Illustration by Laci adkins STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER “We met from 6:30 to Ryan Campbell, master’s of missions graduate student from Thousand Oaks, Calif., spent 15 months in China. about 8 every evening, but the funny thing was that most of the people who came were not my in their apartment each week. After a while students but people I had met in life around Ryan said he and his English partners would the university,” he said. let the Chinese lead the church once they saw Although he couldn’t actually teach from who was comfortable teaching and preaching the Bible in the classroom, Ryan used a forum about God to others. called the English Corner to tell his students “I immersed my friend Jim, um, I forget This is the third installment in a series that will run about God. his Chinese name, in Christianity,” he said in the ‘Optimist’ over the next several weeks “It was this incredible thing that they let wrinkling his face as he tried to remember documenting Christianity in China and various me do,” he said, still in amazement of what his friend’s official name. “Jim became our mission fields where people associated with the he discussed. “They would let native English preacher, and then my friend Fu Qiang, a mean university serve. speakers choose whatever topic they wanted Ping Pong player, led us in the Lord’s Supper to talk about on a platform in front of stu- and eventually co-led the house church.” way of life: thinking, speaking, eating, readdents for 30 minutes uninterrupted. Ryan’s friend Daiyan, and his girlfriend ing in Chinese,” he said. “Just functioning as a “We could talk about anything because while in China, was the worship leader at the Chinese. What draws me to China is the need. the Chinese students just needed to hear first house church. She eventually helped The people are like blank slates in China. They our English and be able to practice some- run a house church out of her own home have no previous knowledge of Jesus or of dething when they went to their rooms. I al- once he and the other missionaries left for nominationalism or church strife. They don’t ways spoke about our Father, our Savior, the summer, he said. even know what church is.” true joy and a family in America, which is After traveling around the world many While many Chinese Christians may not really the church.” times on mission trips before arriving in Chi- know the American meaning of church, they Before he left for China, Ryan said he wasn’t na, Ryan said he was expecting a warm wel- do know what the Bible is now. much of an evangelist. come from the people, although he wasn’t ex“There are increasing signs that Chinese “I was very bold in China, or rather our Fa- pecting to be so loved. people are having more and more access to ther transformed me into a public evangelist “If this knowledge I have, of how wonder- Scripture,” said Larry Henderson, missions cowhile I was there,” he said. “Most of my Chi- ful it is in China, could get out to the public at ordinator for Asia. nese friends came to know I was a Christian ACU or Abilene, college kids would be flockLooking at an e-mail he had received earbecause of what I would tell them and talk to ing to places like China after they graduate lier in the morning from a Chinese friend them about.” because it is such a wonderful life over there,” he read, “The Bible has been on the top 10 Ryan and his partners led a house church Ryan said. “Not only are you given automatic list for this Web site that has hundreds of validity because you are a Westerner, but you thousands subscribers.” are treated as a celebrity. They look up to us The Web site, www.douban.com, lists the and value what we say.” Bible as No. 5 on the list. He is looking for a team of Christians “This is all new. You’ve no doubt heard about that want to serve in China, but said so far, people smuggling Bibles into China; you don’t he hasn’t found students willing, much to have to do that anymore,” he said. “They are his surprise. not available in every store like they are here, “I want to live there in the normal Chinese but Bibles are printed in China and they can be found. The government thinks it is better to fight something that they know instead of something that they don’t know anything about.” While Article 7 of the revised Regulations on Religious Affairs requires all religious materials including Bibles, Korans and other sacred texts to be published by state-sanctioned organizations, it at least permits religious groups to publish religious material, a change from the past decade.
Christianity inChina
PHOTO COURTESY OF RYAN CAMPBELL
Campbell taught 40 students at the Chinese university in Wuhan. Campbell was not allowed to teach from the Bible, but he did tell his students about his faith during a 30-minute forum.
LACI ADKINS STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
In China, Bibles and other religious materials must be printed by state-sanctioned organizations.
Read about an ACU student from Hong Kong’s experience with Christianity next week in Part IV. E-mail Schlabach at: mes02e@acu.edu
ViewsWednesday
Page 6 The issue:
Though students will vote for new SA officers this week, many are unaware of the role SA plays on campus.
Our view:
SA officers and the student body have potential for a great relationship but both must take more initiative for this to happen.
The solution:
SA officers should hold to their campaign promises, and students should approach SA on pertinent issues.
April 11, 2007
Elect officers who will communicate to you It’s that time of year again when students become familiar with the select group of faces that cover campaign signs mounted on windows and sidewalks across campus. This week, these individuals will stand up in Chapel to present lofty goals and visionary promises that will benefit the student body, and in return, the student body will choose the best candidate for the positions of Students’ Association officers for the coming school year. Though ACU students are responsible for electing SA officers who will make the best choices for the student body as a whole, many are unfamiliar with the role SA plays on campus. What goes on be-
hind the glass Though ACU students are responsible for electing formed students, doors of the and each presentSA officers who will make the best choices for the ed their personal SA office under the Bean student body as a whole, many are unfamiliar with solutions as how next to the they could provide the role SA plays on campus. Bean Sprout, better communicaand most tion between the importantly, student body and who is SA? Despite all the beneficial SA. Ideas like providing stuStudents’ Association is a services and changes SA has dent forums, weekly posting representative body that has provided for the ACU commu- of information presented at SA been elected to provide servic- nity, there has been a discon- meetings online and working es for the student body. The nect between the SA office and harder to advertise SA around new bike racks on campus, the its student body as SA hasn’t campus were all talked about. more convenient Bean hours, effectively communicated its As students empowered to the creation of Welcome Week capabilities to help students, vote for the most qualified SA and the establishment of Fall and students’ often apathetic candidates, choose individuals Break can all be attributed attitude has kept them from who will bridge the communito the efforts of SA. Also, SA seeking SA’s help. cation gap between students works with and among all stuIronically, as the Optimist and officers. Elect the candident groups on campus, pro- editorial board interviewed date with the strongest platviding them with representa- this year’s SA candidates, each form and hold them accounttion and financial support. addressed the problem of uni- able to their promises. Don’t
Let Loose
Cole Williams
Treasurer argues SA advocates for change Letter to the Editor A letter to the editor in response to a column headlined “SA needs to focus on all ACU students” in the April 4 issue of the Optimist.
I appreciate that you have opened a dialogue about SA, but I have some concerns with your claims about what SA has or hasn’t done. First, I’d like to address the three examples you said would affect the majority of students on campus. Tuition freezes: This issue has been in the works for years, and this year’s SA administration has made more progress than any other administration in the past on seeing a tuition freeze implemented. It is a lengthy process requiring SA to work through both the administration and the
Board of Trustees. At this point, the proposal is essentially out of our hands, but I should point out — and I don’t have room to give this issue the space it deserves — that the freeze is not as glamorous of a savings as students might imagine. Extending library hours: SA has been responsible for extending the hours during finals week. Extending them again is something we can look into, but keep in mind the amount of overhead (e.g., cost to staff the library later into the night or all night). You want your tuition to decrease, but you’re asking for more perks that will require more money. Where will that money come from? Chapel decisions: What kind of decisions? The overall direction of Chapel, or the speakers and song selection? SA should be the voice of student concerns, and
In Your Words What do you think SA’s most important job is?
can take those to the administration, but it is also a legislative body. There’s only so much say we have in the goings on of Campus Life. A quick list of things this “do-nothing” SA has accomplished this year: We participated in the process for the renovations of the Campus Center, lobbied the administration for a new recreation center (which is in the works), applied for grants that will impact large numbers of the student body, successfully lobbied the administration for Presidential Scholars to have the right to live off campus without significant penalty, and worked with the provost to provide a co-curricular transcript (which puts service learning on your transcript), to name a few. I agree we need to be working on issues that students care about, but there are very few solutions that will impact
the “majority of students.” Most of what SA can accomplish is helping various segments of the student population, and one by one we’ll reach every segment. Just because a project does not affect you personally doesn’t invalidate its accomplishments — they’re helping your peers. I’d be amiss to say this administration has been perfect, or any administration for that matter, but we’re making a concerted effort to remain a strong advocate for the students of ACU. It’s my hope that the next administration will do the same.
Tyler Cosgrove senior finance major from Amarillo tmc02a@acu.edu
E-mail the Optimist at: optimist@acu.edu
Convince your SA congress you care My high school student With so many changes occouncil always seemed to curring on campus right now, serve one purpose: battling it is more important than the dress code. To me, it only ever for students to be advoseemed to cates for themselves. About further em- 50 members of Congress and phasize our eight members of the Cabinet immaturity were elected or appointed for when the is- the very purpose of listening sue we most to their peers. Are they hearing wanted to anything? Probably not. discuss as As members of the ACU stua student dent body, we should be speakThoughtful body was if ing up about how we want the Ramblings our shorts Welcome Center to look, who Kelsi could be we want in the leadership poPeace two inches sitions that are available and shorter than what we want the pledging proour fingertips. But, to be fair cess to look like. But 4,000 stuto those who participated in dents can’t sit on the commitstudent council, no one ap- tees discussing these issues. proached them with a more However, someone from Conworthwhile isgress or the Cabisue — includnet can approach Rarely do I see ing myself. the administraAs the Opstudents in the SA tion on behalf timist reporter of students — if office vocalizing who covers problems they see they are given the Students’ something to say. and issues that Association, I True representaattend week- touch their hearts. tives will act as ly meetings, the voice of the where I obmajority, and if serve who para representative ticipates, who skips, who votes doesn’t, the job falls to Conand who abstains. I have been gress and the student body to at every meeting this semester hold them accountable. and seen each resolution and The SA office is downstairs, bill presented to SA — about by the Bean Sprout. Suggestion one per week, in fact. Do you boxes are all over campus. Give know how SA is spending the your representatives something portion of your student activity to say. Hold them accountable fee it receives? If the answer is to show up at general and comno, something is wrong. mittee meetings and be aware As candidates prepared their of what they are doing. campaign speeches, slogans If you don’t, they may be and platforms, they had to ask forced to spend their time passthemselves what the student ing the college-equivalent of body wanted. And I can’t help resolutions calling for a change but wonder how in the world in the hemline rule. they ever came to a conclusion. Rarely do I see students in the SA office vocalizing problems they see and issues that touch their hearts. Few attended the debates; many are likely to skip E-mail Peace at: out on voting altogether. knp04a@acu.edu, optimist@acu.edu
To make sure our opinions are heard.
To donate money to Dustin Reed for Silence Sessions
They do a good job at voicing student opinions to the administration.
To provide activities for students.
Kimberly Hogan
Jason Cunningham
Richard Keker
Carmari Carter
freshman elementary education major from Abilene
senior international studies major from Fairfax, Va.
senior accounting major from Sugar Land
Editorial and letter policy Unsigned editorials are the opinions of the Optimist and may not necessarily reflect the views of the university or its administration. Signed columns, cartoons and letters are the opinions of their creators and may not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of the Optimist or the university. The Optimist encourages reader response through letters to the editor but reserves the right to limit frequent contributors or to refuse to print letters containing personal
be apprehensive about approaching SA with your needs and concerns. SA has been put in place to serve you. Likewise, if or when you are elected SA officers, don’t back down from the things you committed to the student body because the race is over. Make communication your priority. Though you have always encouraged students to go to you with their concerns, historically, they have not. Go to them. Host forums, post information online. But don’t let another year pass where students don’t know how to approach you for help.
attacks, obscenity, defamation, erroneous information or invasion of privacy. Please limit letters to 350 words or fewer. A name and phone number must be included for verification purposes. Phone numbers will not be published. Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79699 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu
junior political science major from Los Angeles
Editorial and Management Board Mallory Schlabach
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ENDORSEMENTS
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Page 7
SA Candidate Endorsements President: Community thinking shines Treasurer: Fundraising For the office of executive president, the Optimist endorses Matt Worthington. Worthington has served on the Students’ Association as both a representative and on the executive cabinet as secretary this year. His ideas of branding SA by going out to the people instead of waiting for students to go find their SA representative could change the campus perception on
what SA does and who it is. He acknowledged that attendance by Congress was a large problem this year and is willing to step up and be an enforcer to hold Congress members responsible if they do not show up to meetings. Although Worthington’s ideas are not as concrete and visionary as his opponent, we feel like his leadership style by example will provide an effective balance be-
tween that of vice president-elect, Ryan Stephen, who has entered the race with 10 propositions he’d like to see happen next year. Brandon Smith, also a qualified candidate, has many ideas for how to make ACU a better place for all students, but his talents would be more effective from a position where he can make legislation, create resolutions and send ideas through Congress to be implemented.
Matt Worthington
Brandon Smith
Running for: president Position: secretary Junior English major from San Antonio
Running for: president Position: junior senator Junior international relations major from Kansas City
I would like to say very much that I appreciate the support I’ve received from many people on campus. However the race turns out, it has been a blessing to me to receive support, which has many times served as a backbone for me in the lowest times of this election season. Throughout my entire life, there have been many dark nights, and one thing has been proven to be true again and again: it takes a community and not an individual. This still proves true today. I know in many ways people are wondering why I’m not specific about what I’m getting done. If I am not a person who gets things done, how did my entire campaign come together? In fact, without me making phone calls and getting people to collaborate as a community for this project, nothing would have been accomplished. I never told people my plans; I just did it and the task of campaigning is now near completion. This is what I am about: it took an entire community to make this happen. I was aware of this and pursued this relentlessly. When you lend your support my way, know that I’ll be using the same know-how and resources to get things done. Just like I always have.
After three years in Congress, I decided to run for president because I believe that SA can be more than a group that just talks with students. I am thankful for the relationships I have been able to build with students, faculty and administrators. I decided to run for SA president because my experience and my passion have led me to do so. It is time to start the SA Revolution; we must fight the temptation of apathy. I promise to work toward my goals with all of my strength. I am willing to give up sleep, give up my time and give up my energy for this. I may be an idealist, but I believe that SA can plan fun events, engage students, work on policy initiatives and reach out to the Abilene community. I will fight for a tuition freeze, changes in attendance policies and increased communication between students and SA officers via forums and reports. I also promise to fight, alongside HSU and MCM, for student-priced movie theater tickets. Most of all, I promise to be there, to listen, to engage and to equip students to accomplish their goals. I ask once again for your vote. Thank you.
Ryan Stephen
Vice President: Passion, vision key For the office of vice president, the Optimist endorses Ryan Stephen. Stephen spent this past year serving as Chief Advancement Officer, a trial position on the executive Cabinet created to increase the SA endowment and SA operating budget. Stephen attended a grant-writing conference earlier this semester and began working on opening the south entrance to the library. He also led the committee that worked with the administration to allow Presidential Scholars to move off campus with a 33 percent decrease in the scholarship. Stephen demonstrates true passion and vision for the vice president’s position, and his enthusiasm will spur Congress to action and keep the president moving forward. Stephen will have to be sure to temper his enthusiasm and vision so it does not conflict with the president’s, and to remember that he serves under the president. Watkins is a strong candidate as well, emphasizing the importance of serving the student body and seeking out its feedback. Watkins lacks Stephen’s specific vision and definite goals. Both candidates are solid, but Stephen’s eagerness to address tough issues and clear passion for the position make him the best candidate for vice president.
Running for: vice president Position: chief advancement officer Sophomore finance major from Spring A unified student voice is the most powerful, yet underestimated, resource available to our community of ACU students, and I am thrilled about the opportunity to represent that voice. As a student paying tuition at ACU, you are a consumer who has the opportunity to enhance the product you are purchasing. The Students’ Association is your tool to make sure your college experience is worth every penny. It is the microphone through which the student voice speaks, and that voice is demanding some changes. In the past few months, I’ve heard that voice crying out for a new recreational center, a standardized attendance policy and a tuition freeze. I’ve heard that voice ask for fair pricing on campus, more flexibility in our meal plan systems and a support for helping our athletic department achieve D1-AA status. These sound like lofty goals, but I would not put them on paper if my experience as an SA Cabinet member did not convince me that big change is possible. I have the experience, the connections and the passion to get some big things accomplished next year, and I would appreciate your support to make that possible.
Daniel Paul Watkins
Running for: vice president Position: Sophomore senator Sophomore political science major from Fredericksburg, Va.
I was born in San Angelo, but because my dad has served the past twenty five years in the United States Marine Corps, I currently live in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Service with direction. That is my vision for the Students’ Association. This past year I served as sophomore class senator, and I realized that the desire for improving ACU is there, but it lacks focus. I keep hearing great ideas floating around without realistic ways to accomplish them. As it is today, the Students’ Association has so many great resources that
are often rendered useless because of the disconnect between the student body and SA. If elected SA vice president, I will bring direction and focus in executing the desires of the student body. I will accomplish this through frequent conversation with the many groups here on campus. My advocacy for students will make the many resources that SA has more readily available to you. I am not making any unrealistic promises just to get your vote. Service with direction is the way to enrich Abilene Christian University.
ideas give Moore edge
For the office of treasurer, the Optimist endorses Kyle Moore. Moore and his opponent, Kevan Kirksey, are each familiar with the financial inner workings of SA and each understand the need to follow the precedent set by three-year incumbent Tyler Cosgrove. Both candidates realize the importance of a treasurer who establishes strong relationships with all student groups, and each realize they would be stepping into a role that doesn’t need any revolutionary or radical amendments. Based on these qualities, either of these candidates would make a more than suitable successor of Cosgrove. But it was Moore’s willingness and eagerness to find funds beyond the more than $100,000 provided by the student activity fee that exposed him as the slightly stronger candidate. Moore is confident in his ability to find outside grants and swears to fervently consider all options of finding outside donors to fund student groups without abandoning the frugal responsibility of appropriating the already established funds. Although Moore appears to be less qualified than Kirksey on paper — Kirksey worked directly with Cosgrove as Chief Financial Officer during the 2006-07 school year — his role on the SA finance committee is experience enough. Cosgrove reversed SA’s notoriety for debt, mismanagement and abuse of funds and created a fair and balanced system of appropriating funds to various student groups. But some student groups felt Cosgrove’s approachability was hurt by his “by-the-book” approach to the office. That is why the next treasurer should actively work with each student group on meeting their financial needs within reason and not let any student group slip through the cracks.
Kyle Moore Running for: treasurer Position: junior senator Junior management major from Double Oak
Students all around campus need funding for their organizations, their activities and their abilities to change the world. As treasurer I want to be there to make sure this happens. I am willing as the next SA treasurer to take the extra time to help everyone meet their goals. My vision is to see an increase in the spending of organizations across campus. This may be in part to some small spending cuts on SA’s behalf, but most likely it will be through empowering you students and you leaders to request and receive grants and to work together on fundraising projects and growing as a whole to change the world. I also want to directly help with some of the expenses of Spring Break Campaigns. Students, you already work hard to make SBCs happen. Therefore, I do not see a reason why SA cannot help with funding. This will not be help for a single student but for SBC as a whole. I will not be able to do this by myself. Now I ask you for your support and for your help in making all of this happen throughout the next year.
Kevan Kirskey Running for: treasurer Position: chief financial officer Sophomore finance major from Tyler
Some may believe that the treasurer is the least important executive officer position, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. As the current chief financial officer, I’ve had the opportunity to work beside and observe the current treasurer. I’ve learned that the treasurer is a behindthe-scenes officer with an incredible amount of responsibility. I worked on budgets for this school year, learned how SA’s financial system works and how to complete day-to-day operations. The processes are intricate, and only after a year of training do I feel well-equipped for the position. As CFO, I had the opportunity to build relationships with officers in each student organization and more clearly understand their vision and needs. However, these dreams are larger than our student activity fee can provide for. As treasurer I will continue to seek out alternative sources of funding and fortify the areas of advancement that have proven successful. With all my experience throughout the year I have come to the conclusion that the treasury position could improve immensely if it focused more on three areas when it comes to student organizations: communication, timeliness and accountability. However, without experience, these all amount to nothing.
FROM THE FRONT
Page 8
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Play: ‘Little Shop’ includes deep themes of war and sin Continued from page 1 the families may want to explain to the kids about the plant not being real.” Under the silliness of the story there are a few deep and meaningful themes. “It deals with the late ’50s scare of nuclear war — that paranoid feeling,” Swearingen said. Based on the opera “Faust,” “Little Shop” also deals with what Swearingen called “making a deal with the devil.” “The three street urchins,
the Ronettes, act like a Greek chorus commenting on the story,” Swearingen said. “As Christians we relate to it because we’re imperfect, and we know what a blessing it is to have grace.” Bazacas, sophomore theatre major from Ocean City, N.J., said, “It’s interesting to see how quickly — if you’re not grounded in morals and faith — how a little sin spins out of control. The show answers [the question]: Is getting everything you ever dreamed worth what it takes to get there?” The technical aspects
of the show have been the main hardships. “It’s deceptive in its simplicity,” he said. “It’s a technical beast. There are four incar-
a small rowing boat.” The show started production right after spring break. “The whole department pulled together in three
“As Christians we relate to it because we’re imperfect, and we know what a blessing it is to have grace.” Dawne Swearingen, assistant professor of theatre
nations of the plant through its development. Travis Eason spent months building them from scratch and researching. The largest is the size of
weeks in a real team effort,” Bazacas said Swearingen said she was pleased with how it turned out. “The whole cast is passion-
ate, talented and hardworking,” she said. “That’s evident in the product people see.” After the first night showing, there will be a talk-back session held by faculty and Amy Simpson, the dramaturge of the show. As dramaturge, Simpson, senior theatre major from Denver, Colo., researches and studies the show’s history to aid in production. The talkbacks have become a recent tradition for the past few years, which Swearingen said are very successful. With “Little Shop,” the de-
partment is also holding a closed high school showing for education purposes. “Little Shop of Horrors” will be shown Thursday - Friday, April 20-21, and 27-28. Tickets for dinner and the show are $27 each; tickets for the show only are $15 each. The theatre box office is open weekdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. “We’re hoping for a soldout house,” Swearingen said.
E-mail Lehmann at: optimist@acu.edu
Snow: Cold spell hits Abilene Gmail: System changed by fall Continued from page 1 Abilene received only about a quarter inch, while other counties received as much as five inches, Edwards said. “Typically right around Easter we get a little bit of a cold snap,” Edwards said. Just over a decade ago, Abilene took in almost 10 inches of snow on Good Friday. Also, it set the Abilene record for the most snowfall
recorded in one day. Dr. Rusty Towell, associate professor of physics, said he couldn’t say whether Friday’s front was the last cold spell of the spring. “Weather is obviously a very complicated system to model and predict,” Towell said. Isenhower said there are many conditions going into the climate. “Does the front come straight down from Canada
or across from the northwest? When fronts come from Canada there is almost nothing to stop or slow them down. When they come from the northwest there are mountains to go through,” Isenhower said. Towell said a tiny change in conditions can yield two completely different results. It’s always best to consult weather forecasts to stay prepared. E-mail Straus at: nrs02a@acu.edu
Debate: Platforms announced Continued from page 1 During the closing arguments of the debate, Smith and Worthington directly addressed one another’s platforms. Smith named three issues he plans to address if elected: the attendance policy, a tuition freeze and student-priced movie tickets. Smith also said issues will arrive that he can’t predict now. Worthington agreed.
“I can’t predict what the student body is going to look like next year,” Worthington said. He plans to offer monthly student forums for students to talk to SA representatives if elected. Smith countered, “You don’t build community by planning direct events.” Smith also said he is scared that Worthington hasn’t offered a direct, specific platform. “I’m just going to do it,”
Worthington said, concluding the debate. While students who attended the debate did not receive any Chapel credit, about 50 students attended and entered to win one of 15 iTunes or Starbucks gift cards. Voting booths will be set up in the McGlothlin Campus Center until 5 p.m. Wednesday.
E-mail Peace at: knp04a@acu.edu
Continued from page 1 of 2006, said, “I think it would be awesome to be able to keep my ACU account. Since I just graduated, the only people I really e-mail are my friends from ACU. Changing my address that I have had for four years is not only difficult on myself but also my friends because they are all changing their e-mail addresses.” Connecting with Google opens a lot of windows for students to utilize for back-up in case students’ hard drives fail.
“We used to put money in a can under the bed, and now we have decided it’s better in a bank than our own house, and that is what we are trying to do by joining Google,” Langford said. The alumni offices, Langford said, have a vast amount of information on our alumni, so it should not be too difficult to contact the alumni. Langford and Reeves are both expecting great success with Gmail. Starting Wednesday students are permitted to join Gmail. By
September all ACU students are to convert to the new email system. For an easy transition from using Webmail to Gmail, there will be several ways to receive help. There will be a new Webmail tab in myACU with PDF instructions and video instructions. There will also be a specific number to call: (325) 674MAIL for further services.
E-mail Schmidt at: optimist@acu.edu
Podcast: iTunes to improve site Continued from page 1 ACU’s public side of iTunes U will be the place where students can download content from classes as well as general information about the university at their leisure. “Whether it be students, parents, alumni or friends, we want to make all aspects of ACU available to anyone,” said Carmen Foster, Webmaster and strategic marketing director. “In one section you can explore ACU’s current academic programs, sentimental traditions and historical video and speeches dating back to the 1930s. In the campus life section you can browse through student life activities, students bands, news, events,
speakers and lectures. They can experience life at ACU in a rich media format, and the best part is they can stay connected anytime, anywhere by downloading audio or video on their iPods, PC or Mac.” Navigation of iTunes U will be an almost natural process for students and most faculty members who are acquainted with using iTunes. Using iTunes U is much like using the iTunes store so it won’t be difficult for students and some faculty to become accustomed to using it. “After having looked at a couple of the pilot universities, I tried to make the ACU site more personal than other sites,” said Ben Hernandez, graphic design and creative services specialist. “I wanted
to give it a look unlike other universities. [I want] people to access iTunes U and see real students using the products instead of seeing the buildings; seeing the outside of Moody isn’t going to be able to capture what ACU is all about.” When students return next fall there will be a contest opportunity to explain the real U — what ACU life is for them. Along with this contest, students are encouraged to send information and content they wish to have distributed through iTunes U such as student bands, news, events, etc. “Our goal is to make the ACU community available to anyone, anywhere,” Foster said.
E-mail Meyer at: optimist@acu.edu
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Page 9
SPORTS JUMPS
Wildcats finish third in Alabama Baseball: ACU splits with Rams n The ACU golf team finished third at the North Alabama Spring Classic after shooting a team score of 593. ACU tied with No. 1 in the nation West Florida at the tournament. By NATHAN MACDONALD Sports Writer
The Wildcats headed east to the Heart of Dixie and competed in the North Alabama Spring Classic last week. Hosted by the University of North Alabama, the Wildcats tied for third with University of West Florida, which is ranked first in the nation according to the Golf World/NIKE Fan Poll. ACU and West Florida walked away from the tworound tournament each having a combined team score of 593 strokes. ACU Golf coach Mike
Golf
Campbell said he was proud to do as well as they did. “Like last week, it’s hard to be disappointed with not winning the tournament because we did so well,” Campbell said. “You have to be proud to be Harris tied with the No. 1 team in the nation.” Lone Star Conference rival Central Oklahoma won the tournament by being the daily leader during the second round; however, ACU was on its coat tails for the majority of the tournament. The Wild-
cats were within one stroke of Central Oklahoma in the first round and were only five strokes behind in the second round. Hugues Joannes came out even during the tournament, shooting a 73 the first round and an impressive 71 the second round, which landed him in a tie for third individually. Curtis Harris shot a pair of 74s for the tournament, and he ended up in the No. 15 spot. Stephen Knight did well the first round with a 72 and then put up a solid 78 in the second, putting Knight six over and 26th in the tournament. Patrick Hanauer wasn’t too far behind Knight with his 71 and 83 at 43rd. Kyle Byerly shot a combined 156 for the tournament which set him at
the 55th spot for the tournament. With post-season tournaments within the next week, Campbell said he felt this was an important tournament for the Wildcats since the team is planning on being there in May for the NCAA Division II South Central Regional tournament. “The main reason we went to the classic was to get extra practice at the course,” Campbell said. “It was a difficult course. We learned a lot about the course like where to land the ball that would be effective.” The Wildcats will take a trip down I-20 and play at Bear Creek in Dallas for the LSC conference championship Monday and Tuesday. E-mail MacDonald at: optimist@acu.edu
Split: Southeastern rallied to tie series Continued from page 10 two earned runs. The second game was tied 4-4 until the last inning, when Southeastern Oklahoma scored to win it 5-4. “The second game we just were not able to stay focused to get the job done. We were in the game until the very end,” Wilson said. “Kim Partin stepped into right field and had a great day for us during both games. She had great at-bats and drove in some key runs.”
The split doubleheader moves ACU’s overall record to 20-17, and the team’s conference record remains at 6-10, keeping them at fifth place in the LSC South. The team was not able to play three of its scheduled games last weekend because of bad weather in Dallas, but Wilson said she didn’t think not being able to play those games affected the team very much. “I think we came out and played well after not playing
as many games as we had been playing earlier in the month,” Wilson said. “It helps to have enough players to inter-squad during the week to simulate regular games.” So far, this year’s team has struggled offensively compared to past years. With a batting average of .265, Wilson said the offense hasn’t done as well as past teams. “But we have really come on lately and started to hit the ball,” Wilson said. “I can
only hope that we really peak these next two weeks.” Wilson said the team’s ERA is hard to compare to previous teams because past teams have scored more runs. “This year’s pitching staff has been solid in terms of keeping us in games,” Wilson said. The Wildcats return to action this weekend with a fourgame series against Eastern New Mexico.
E-mail Davis at: optimist@acu.edu
Relays: Kryv’yak, Naimadu win races Continued from page 10 “I think we’re about a week or two from getting everyone back to full strength,” Hood said. “I’m hoping by the TCU meet that we’re back to strength.” Naimadu was not the only Wildcat to shine in the steeplechase this weekend. Ohla Kryv’yak won the women’s race with a time of 10:38.35. “Ohla took the lead after two laps and opened up a seven-second lead,” Hood
said. “She just got stronger and stronger, and it was impressive.” Hood said her time in Austin would have placed her in the top three at nationals last year. “Her fitness level has improved. I think she’s turned a corner,” Hood said. Athletes who didn’t compete at the Texas Relays stayed in Abilene to run at the McMurry Relays. There, Loice Cheboi ran the steeplechase in 11:07.93, a time Hood said
will qualify her for nationals. Also at McMurry, Liga Klavina threw 48-06.25 feet, which ranks third in the country. Cory Altenberg provisionally qualified in the pole vault with a height of 16-02.75 feet. In Austin, the women’s 4x800-meter relay placed sixth with a time of 8:47.47 and seventh in the sprint-medley relay with a time of 3:58.91. Hood said they began with the lead in the 4x800 relay but just couldn’t hold it.
“We were so far out front it was ridiculous, “Hood said. “I don’t know what happened; nobody ran their best.” But with the weather and following a successful meet a week prior, Hood said he is accustomed to weeks like this one. ”We had a real good meet at UTEP the week before, so there’s always a down after a high.”
E-mail Fields at: jrf03b@acu.edu
Changes: ISA favored to win men’s outdoor soccer title Continued from page 10
brian schmidt SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER
Tim Doty, sophomore English major from Midland, and Preston Rampy, senior psychology major from Austin, battle for a ball during an soccer game April 2.
Gibbs said smaller fields were more suited for the 7-on-7 format of the ACU intramurals, and he pushed for the change before the season began. The International Student Association team is the favorite to win the men’s champ league, Gibbs said. ISA came in second in the men’s champ league last year behind defending champions Gamma Sigma Phi. “Last year we had a lot of players from one area,” said Eddy Borera, junior computer science major from Bealanana, Madagascar. “That was one of the reasons that we didn’t win.” But the variety and diversity in the ISA team is one of the
reasons Borera said he is confident about winning the title this year. One other reason Borera is confident is because of his team’s experience together. The same ISA team already won this year’s intramural indoor soccer tournament, and his team also plays in a city league outside of ACU. The intramural outdoor soccer regular season will continue until April 24 when the playoff singleelimination tournament begins.
E-mail Matai at: optimist@acu.edu
brian schmidt SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER
Shortstop Trey Watten tags out Angelo State outfielder Drew Caraway for the second out of the first inning of Friday’s first game. Continued from page 10 was unable to match an Angelo run in the top of the ninth that ended the game 3-2. ACU won the Friday’s games behind the pitching of starters Chris Wiman and undefeated starter Trey Watten. Wiman and Watten each recorded their sixth wins to help extend ACU’s home record to 22-3. Wiman received all the run support he needed in game one after an early five-run inning in the third. Wiman rallied behind his run support and kept Angelo’s lineup silent for four straight innings before giving up three runs late in the game. But Angelo’s rally proved too little too late as the Wildcats scored consistently in the last four innings of the game, eventually winning 10-3. Watten’s win came after matching Angelo pitcher
Michael Gunter in a pitcher’s duel to keep his team in the game. The only hit that ended up counting for the Wildcats was a RBI single by right fielder Mike Elkerson in the fourth inning as Watten shutout Angelo in his six innings on the mound. Closer Jameson Maj continued to be consistent for the Wildcats and recorded his 10th save in game two. Maj, who now holds the single-season and career saves records with his conference best total, struck out nine batters and only gave up five hits and two earned runs in five innings of work. ACU is now 6-2 in LSC South play and 31-10 overall. The Wildcats continue to lead the conference in numerous offensive and defensive categories including batting average, RBI and hits.
E-mail Johnson at: djj04a@acu.edu
Sweep: Women win all matches Continued from page 10 called after ACU built its lead to 5-1 and technically won the match. “5-1 does sound good,” Jones said. “But I think 72 sounds better because it shows the decisiveness of that victory that day.” The ACU women also won their matches Friday. The Wildcats defeated conference opponent Eastern New Mexico 9-0. The closest match Eastern New Mexico came to winning was senior Holly Lindloff’s 6-4, 6-1 victory over Alex Taylor. “It was decisive,” Jones said. “I’m just totally impressed with them stepping up and taking on just whoever comes in there.” The women swept Cameron, the No. 3 team in the
region, by 9-0. The loss combined with a loss to East Central on April 3 dropped the Cameron women from No. 15 in the nation to No. 29. “We’ve been pretty strong,” Jones said of the women who will be in Houston on Thursday to take on Lee College, the No. 2 junior college in the nation. On Friday, the women will face Division I opponent Rice University. The Wildcat men will play St. Edward’s, the No. 13 team in the nation, in Austin on Wednesday. “It should be a dead-even match,” Jones said. “Let’s see what happens.”
E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.
SportsWednesday
Page 10
ScoreBoard Standings Scoreboard as of Thursday
Team
BASEBALL Div. 6-2 5-3 5-3 2-4 2-4 1-5
ACU Angelo St. TAMK-U Tarleton ENMU WTAM
Overall 31-10 28-12 22-19 17-23 17-23 9-27
SOFTBALL
Team
Div. 15-1 11-1 7-5 5-7 6-10 TX Woman’s 2-10 WTAM 2-14 Angelo St. TAMK-U Tarleton ENMU ACU
Overall 36-6 28-10 26-10 20-20 20-17 14-27 12-31
Scores Friday SOFTBALL
April 11, 2007
ACU moves to No. 12 despite pair of losses n ACU lost its last two games against Angelo State Sunday but is still first in the Lone Star Conference South Division and moved up to No. 12 in the nation.
Baseball swept Sunday’s games 14-13 and 3-2 for the first series split between the two. “I’m am not disappointed with being 2-2 against Angelo,” said head coach Britt Bonneau. “We set out to possibly win the series, and we put ourselves in a position to do just that.” ACU had two opportunities to win the series Sunday but failed to get the winning hits when needed in both of Sunday’s games. The Wildcats battled back from a 14-2 deficit in game one with a 11-run rally late in
By DANIEL JOHNSON Sports Editor
ACU moved up five spots from No. 17 to No. 12 in Division II national rankings and remained in first place in the Lone Star Conference South Division, despite splitting a four-game series with defending LSC South champions Angelo State this weekend. ACU swept Friday’s games 10-3 and 1-0, and Angelo
the game but failed to score the needed runs in the bottom of the ninth inning. “When you’re down 142 and you fight back to get within a run, I would hate to say we should have won it,” Bonneau said. ACU’s second chance to win the series ended similarly as the Wildcats fell on the short end of an extra-inning pitchers’ duel between the LSC South rivals. After squeezing out two runs a piece for a 2-2 tie in the seventh, which sent the game into extra innings, ACU left two runners on base and See
BASEBALL page 9
brian schmidt SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER
Starting pitcher Chris Wiman celebrates with right fielder Thomas Bumpass after crossing home plate in the bottom of the fifth inning of game one Friday.
Weekend sweep
ACU 6, Southeastern Oklahoma 3 ACU 4, Southeastern Oklahoma 5
BASEBALL ACU 10, Angelo State 3 ACU 1, Angelo State 0
Runners succeed at Texas Relays n ACU track and field athletes Nicodemus Naimadu and Olha Kryv’yak each won the steeplechase at the Texas Relays in Austin this weekend.
Sunday BASEBALL ACU 13, Angelo State 14 ACU 2, Angelo State 3
By JARED FIELDS Managing Editor
Upcoming Wednesday MEN’S TENNIS ACU vs. St. Edwards 2:30 p.m.
Friday WOMEN’S TENNIS ACU vs. Texas Southern, Houston 10 a.m. ACU vs. Rice University, Houston, 4 p.m.
BASEBALL ACU vs. Texas A&M-Kingsville, Kingsville, 4p.m. (DH)
SOFTBALL ACU vs. Eastern New Mexico, Portales, N.M., noon (DH)
Briefs Leading the pack n Both the men’s and women’s ACU tennis teams lead the Lone Star Conference with undefeated records against conference teams. Both teams are nationally ranked and have more than 20 wins at this point of the season.
Intramural Round-up Upcoming n The intramural schedule and points seen on the Optimist sports page are not final and subject to change. Any lastminute changes can be viewed on the intramural bulletin board in Moody Coliseum.
Thursday OUTDOOR SOCCER Men’s champ league ISA vs. ISW, 5 p.m. field one of Larry “Satch” Sanders intramural fields. G-1 vs. Hispanic Panic, 6 p.m. field two of Larry “Satch” Sanders intramural fields. VOLLEYBALL Men’s and women’s champ league began Tuesday, see intramural bulletin board in Moody Coliseum for schedule. SOFTBALL Softball began Monday, see intramural board for team names and schedule. GOLF SCRAMBLE Team golf scramble will be at Maxwell Golf Course starting at 1 p.m. Thursday.
brian schmidt SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER
Aina Rafolomanantsiatosika returns a hit near the net during the Wildcats match against Cameron University on Friday. ACU beat Cameron 9-0.
n Both nationally ranked ACU tennis teams swept all three of their opponents this weekend. The women are now 21-3 and the men are 21-8. By MICHAEL FREEMAN Online Editor
The ACU tennis teams cruised over three teams Friday including conference rivals Cameron and Eastern New Mexico. The Wildcat men defeated Cameron, ranked No. 14 in the nation, 5-1, and beat New Mexico Military Institute 9-0, while the ACU women outplayed both Cameron and Eastern New Mexico 9-0. “There’s no doubt that good competition makes you better if it doesn’t break your spirit,” said head coach Hutton Jones. The Wildcats’ spirits should be high since their weekend wins improved the men to 21-8 on the season and the women to 21-3. In the Division II national polls, the men are ranked No. 28 and the women are No. 6. On Friday, the ACU men played against New Mexico
Tennis Military Institute. Nursing a sore shoulder, sophomore Juan Nunez sat out in singles against New Mexico Military Institute, and sophomore Hutton Jones Jr. took his place in the No. 1 match against Chris Toli. Jones Jr. took the match 6-3, 2-6, (10-8). “It just showed the depth of our team,” Jones said. “That was a big win for him. A guy who is right there battling for a line-up spot on our team is able to go out and pick up a good win.” The Wildcats followed a 9-0 victory over New Mexico Military Institute by taking on the No. 2 team in the Central region, Cameron. Sophomore Ryan Hudson and senior Kevin Beedy teamed up to take down Jordi Mullor and Tin Hinst, the No. 1 doubles team in the region, by the score of 8-5. The rest of the matches went the Wildcats’ way as well. ACU was on track to a 7-2 win, but the match was See
SWEEP page 9
See
By BLESSED MATAI Sports Writer
Even the snow in late spring can’t stop them. The intramural outdoor soccer started April 2 with three significant changes from the past: one women’s league, smaller goals for the rec league teams and smaller playing fields. A total of 32 teams are competing in the 7 vs. 7 outdoor soccer season. There are seven men’s teams in the champ league, 16 men’s teams in the rec and nine
RELAYS page 9
Wildcat softball splits series n The ACU softball team split its two-game series with Lone Star Conference North opponent Southeastern Oklahoma State on Friday. ACU is now 20-17 overall. By RACHEL DAVIS brian schmidt SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER
Bryce Hicks crouches down to return a ball during his doubles match against Lone Star Conference rivals Cameron University.
Intramural soccer starts with changes n Intramural outdoor soccer began April 2 with three significant changes from past seasons.
A week after setting the year’s best time in the 10,000 meters, Nicodemus Naimadu defended his 3,000-meter steeplechase title at the Texas Relays in Austin with a time of 8:38.71. “To follow a 10,000 with a steeplechase is the hardest thing to do,” said head coach Don Hood. “I was really proud of just his effort. He’s just as tough as he has to be.” The cold, wet weather in Austin kept the Wildcats out of competition Saturday, which Hood said was probably for the best. “We didn’t run because of weather,” Hood said. “With the injuries we’ve had we didn’t want to risk it.” With the injuries the teams have sustained, the move proved wise; no Wildcats left the relays injured.
Intramural soccer teams in the women’s league. The first of the three changes is only one women’s league. Unlike the past, when the women had a champ and rec league like the men, a lack of teams signing up forced the intramural department to create only one league, said J.B. Gibbs, senior history major from Abilene and intramural official and crew chief. The other difference some teams are facing this year is the fact that in the rec league the goals are smaller and not regulation size like the goals in the champ league.
“The reason to have small goals in the rec leagues is because we don’t have enough goals for both leagues,” Gibbs said. “But so far nobody complained and seems like everybody is having a good time.” The last significant change is the size of the playing fields. Although the width of the fields is the same as in the past, the fields are now 80 yards long instead of 100 yards. “Last year it just became too much of a breakaway game,” Gibbs said. “That field was way too big for 7 on 7,” Gibbs said. See
CHANGES page 9
Soccer changes This year there were three significant changes for the intramural outdoor soccer tournament: n One league for women. n Smaller goals for the rec league. n 80-yard fields instead of 100yard fields.
Sports Writer
The Wildcats split a doubleheader with Southeastern Oklahoma State in a Lone Star Conference crossover matchup in Oklahoma this weekend, ending a four-game winning streak. Before the defeat, ACU won games against Tarleton State, East Central and Southeastern Oklahoma to create the winning streak. In the first game, ACU won 6-3, scoring in each of the first three innings. “The first game we played well every inning by scoring consistently and playing solid defense,” said head coach Chantiel Wilson. “Kim McDonald pitched a great game and was able to get out of some tough situations.” McDonald pitched all seven innings, struck out four and only gave up six hits and See
SPLIT page 9