OPTIMIST THE
FRIDAY November 9, 2007 Vol. 96, No. 21 1 sections, 8 pages www.acuoptimist.com
Man it feels good to watch a gangster
Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe star in the movie based on a true story, American Gangster, page 3
Bowl for kids sake
SA will sponsor two bowling teams this weekend to raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters, page 5
Final Countdown
ACU faces Midwestern State in the final LSC game to ensure a playoff berth, page 8
SA voices Chapel concerns
katie gager CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Vice president of student life, Dr. Jean-Noel Thompson, listens to feedback about Chapel from Students’ Association Congress and students at Wednesday’s meeting in Hart Auditorium.
Thompson fields questions over likes, dislikes of Chapel format By Kelsi Peace Managing Editor
The Students’ Association discussed Chapel, dipped into the Congressional discretionary fund and created a temporary Chaplain position on Wednesday in another marathon meeting.
Dr. Jean-Noel Thompson, vice president of student life, fielded responses from Congress members, telling them now is the time for change in Chapel. “We’re really trying to understand what will connect for you,” Thompson said. A recurring theme throughout
discussion was the need for speakers and messages to challenge the student body. “We need it to be worth our time,” sophomore senator David Vanderpool said. Some representatives lauded Tuesday’s campus conversations for the hard-hitting discussions, but
Vocal department receives $15,000 By Lauren Hyde Student Reporter
The Alumni Chorus has donated $15,000 to the ACU vocal department in the Williams Performing Arts Center. The Alumni Chorus is a group of people that graduated from ACU in the past two to 40 years ago. The group gives back to the vocal department at ACU by donating money mainly for scholarship purposes. The alumni have donated since the mid to late 1980s and would like to continue donating. The $15,000 donation was given to the vocal department for students who are singers and interested in joining the chorus at ACU but do not have the funds to do so. The money also helps the chorus go on tour throughout the semesters
and helps to buy the instruments needed for practice and performances. In the last four years the Alumni Chorus has donated $16,000 to $20,000, so the $15,000 donation this year is important for the vocal department, said Dr. Gregory Straughn, chair of the Department of Music and assistant professor of music. Because the budget has not increased in the last few years in the music department, the alumni are there to fill in the holes. “Without it we would be in very bad shape,” said Mike Scarbrough, director of choral activities. “All of the choral alumni care very much for the students,” Scarbrough said. “They would like to see them suc-
ceed and achieve a high level of education.” The Alumni Chorus congregates several times throughout the year. It has a reunion every two years and puts together CDs for people at ACU to buy. At the reunion last August, the chorus made a CD titled “Sweet Will of God” that is now available. The fees from that reunion, past CD sales and donations went toward the vocal department and will be the way the Alumni Chorus is able to donate each time. In January the Alumni Chorus and A cappella will join to record another CD to be an accumulation of old hymns, Scarbrough said. E-mail Hyde at: optimist@acu.edu
Student Reporter
Nineteen directors were chosen Nov. 2 for the 14 acts in Sing Song 2008, “World Tour.” The production will consist of customary performances by classes and social clubs in addition to a combined performance by Essence of Ebony, Hispanos Unidos and the Interna-
tional Students’ Association. One director, Rebecca Hopkins, said she loves this responsibility. “I heard about the director spot, and it just sounded like something I would love to do — organizing something this big,” said Hopkins, a communication sciences and disorders major from Edmond, Okla. According to Hopkins, 11 people applied for the two freshman direc-
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
See
CHAPEL page 7
katie Gager CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Rachel Harris, junior family studies major from Midland, receives two free tickets for free Starbucks coffee from Hannah Anderson, junior elementary education major from Waco, for Sadies Week in the Campus Center on Thursday.
tor positions, submitting a written application, interviewing and singing for the spots. Matt Greenberg, Sing Song cochair in charge of all stage activities, said directors who are chosen by class senators for class acts and by the clubs themselves for club acts, must complete significant See
ated there becomes an invaluable memory at ACU. Some blamed the stringent attendance requirements for the lack of attention, while others said the often-repeating messages and themes that skirt tough or taboo issues bores students.
Tall, dark and handsome ... coffee that is
Directors named for class, club acts By Laura Acuff
many agreed the constant change left them slightly baffled and feeling they had no place to go. “Chapel to me has become a moving class,” Rep. Tony Godfrey said. Representatives also called for a return to campus-wide Chapel more often in Moody Coliseum, agreeing that the sense of community cre-
DIRECTORS page 7
Sing song class and club directors n Freshmen — Rebecca Hopkins and Bobby Kelly
n Alpha Kai Omega — Josie Shepherd n Delta Theta — Erin Bracken
n Sophomores — Wade Huggins and Chris Herrington
n Frater Sodalis — Evan Anderson
n Juniors — Carrie Gallman
n Galaxy — Bradley Steele, Ryan Stephen
n Seniors — Jessica Jennings and Shaley Lucas
n Gata — Allyson Keker and Lyndsay Ice
n Sub T-16 — Sheldon Busch
n Gamma Sigma Phi — Cash Teague
n Ko Jo Kai — Jamie Lyn Spires
n Sigma Theta Chi — Randy Yeats
Abilene Christian University
Serving the ACU community since 1912
Chapel Checkup Credited Chapels to date:
Wednesday, March 29, 2006 Friday, November 9, 2007
09
Calendar & Events
Friday
Program deadline for the December Commencement. 7:30 p.m. The Paramount Theatre will show the classic film “Meet Me in St. Louis.”
10
Saturday
9:30 a.m. Virtuous African Heritage Sisterhood (VAHS) will meet at Nelson Hall for “Pancakes and Prayer.” Bring a Bible and sides like bacon, hash browns, eggs and various kinds of syrup. Come dressed in pajamas.
12
Monday
10 a.m. The Jostens Ring Event for seniors will take place in the Campus Store until 2 p.m.
13
Tuesday
10 a.m. The Jostens Ring Event for seniors will take place in the Campus Store until 2 p.m.
and Fashion Show on Tuesday in the Campus Center Living Room. Cost of attendance requires two meal plans. Not sure what to do this summer? How about spending the summer in New York working at Camp Shiloh? Camp Shiloh is a Christian summer camp where children from New York City’s toughest neighborhoods enjoy games, campouts and other activities that enrich their lives socially and spiritually. Camp Shiloh is now accepting applications for its summer 2008 staff. For more information or to download an application, visit www.shilohnyc.org or e-mail camp@shilohnyc.org.
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.
Be watching for the new ACU emergency alert system signup links coming soon. The service is free and helps get emergency information out to everyone immediately. Report all suspicious activity to the ACU Police Department at (325) 674-2305.
Police Log
8 p.m. An interest meeting will be held at Monks coffee shop for anyone interested in participating in mission work in Russia.
Sadies Week is this week. Pick up tickets in the Campus Center each day after Chapel. Thanksgiving holidays will begin at 8 a.m. on Nov. 21, rather than on Nov. 20 as the ACU student planner says. This means all Tuesday classes, including evening classes, will meet that day. The Intercollegiate Celebration Service Day is Saturday. Join Hardin-Simmons University and McMurry University in a service day for the community. Look for signups this week in the Campus Center. Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE) is holding an Etiquette Dinner
About This Page
ACU Police Tip of the Week
2 and 7:30 p.m. The Paramount Theatre will show the classic film “Meet Me in St. Louis.”
Announcements
Credited Chapels remaining:
50 20
Edited for space
Volunteer Opportunities Provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need. Collect donations and turn them into the Volunteer Service-Learning Center by Nov. 14. Meals will be delivered Nov. 19. Love and Care Ministries, in partnership with Arrow Ford, will hold its annual Mission Thanksgiving on Nov. 16. Volunteers are needed from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. to unload and load donations of food, clothing and money at the Arrow Ford dealership, which is located at 4001 S. 1st St. These goods will benefit the homeless and needy in the Abilene community. Volunteers are also needed from 8 a.m.-noon on Nov. 17 to help unload trailers at Love and Care Ministries, which is located at 234 Fannin. For more information, contact Aubi Martinez at (325) 692-9500, ext. 239. The Salvation Army needs volunteers to help with a Thanksgiv-
ing lunch on Nov. 22 from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Salvation Army. Volunteers will assist with setting up, serving lunch and cleaning up. For more information, contact Cecilia Barahona at (325) 672-1408. The Veterans Administration needs help with a Thanksgiving lunch on Nov. 22 from 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at the Abilene Civic Center. Volunteers will help serve lunch and clean up. For more information, contact Jim DeFoor at (325) 674-1328. Hendrick Hospice Care needs volunteers to accept donations at its “Light up a Life” tree, which will be located at the Mall of Abilene in the courtyard in front of Dillard’s for men. Shifts are available seven days a week in two-hour increments from Nov. 19-Jan. 5. For more information, contact Jennifer Forrest or Brooke Hearon at (325) 677-8516.
Mon., Oct. 29, 2007 2:51 a.m. Suspicious subject in the courtyard of University Park Apartments, was student cooking 1:30 p.m. Theft of a bicycle 4:45 p.m. Student reporting harassment at Smith Hall, no report made 5:15 p.m. Suspicious vehicle at 600 EN 16th, checked, no one around Tues., Oct. 30, 2007 3:59 p.m. Report of suspicious male at 2200 Campus Court Wed., Oct. 31, 2007 1 a.m. Report of noise violation at 500 EN 21st, checked unable to locate 8:18 p.m. Received call in reference to party at 500 College, checked, no party 10:28 p.m. Noise violation at 1400 Cedar Crest, contacted resident, did comply 11:47 p.m. Noise violation at 500 EN 20th, spoke to resident, did comply Thurs., Nov. 1, 2007 12:36 a.m. Discovered vehicle with door open at Sikes Hall, contacted owner 3:20 p.m. Vehicle hit and run accident at Sherrod Apartments, no report 3:30 p.m. Issued criminal
trespass warning to student at McKinzie Hall 4:45 p.m. Theft of bike at Mabee Lot Fri., Nov. 2, 2007 12:13 a.m. Report of suspicious vehicle at University Park Lot, unable to locate 2:55 a.m. Report of noise violation at courtyard of University Park Apartments, unable to locate 3:20 p.m. Burglar alarm at McKinzie Hall, checked, all okay 3:30 p.m. Report of alcohol law violations off campus 4:08 p.m. Assisted Resident Director at Mabee that was locked out of his room 5:10 p.m. Vehicle hit and run accident in the Campus Center Lot 11:10 p.m. Recovered stolen bike Sat., Nov. 3, 2007 2:19 p.m. Medical emergency at Campus Center Lot 3:37 p.m. Medical emergency at Mabee Hall 7:15 p.m. Report of open fire in the backyard of 600 EN 18th, fire was extinguished Sun., Nov. 4, 2007 8:50 a.m. Assisted Abilene PD with disturbance at Kentucky Fried Chicken on Judge Ely
November 9, 2007
ArtsFriday Optimist
‘American Gangster’ examines choices, character By Lydia Melby Contributing Writer
The question American Gangster, Ridley Scott’s newest film continuously asks its audience throughout its length of 137 minutes is “Who are you? When everything else is gone, when no one else is around, when all you have is yourself, who will you be?” The movie, based on a true story, chronicles the rise and fall of 1960s Harlem drug lord and criminal Frank Lucas (played by Denzel Washington), and the struggle of the outcast detective Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe) fighting to bring justice back to the streets. Scott tries to offer an introspective look into the crime and drug situation of the 1960s and the corruption of the enforcement system that lead to it. Nearly three-quarters of the men in the police force in New York City are unprincipled rats, taking drugmoney bribes and sides in the drug-wars, and Frank Lucas has no difficulty coming to power as the biggest drug distributor in New York in the midst of all the turmoil. One of the main themes running through this movie is one of identity. Washington’s character tells his brothers “You are what you are in this world... Either you’re somebody, or you ain’t nobody,” and this memorable quote highlights the stress the movie places on staying with your identity and values.
BOX OFFICE stats
Newly released movies and gross rates for Nov. 2- Nov. 4. n American Gangster (R): $46.3 Million
American gangster Directed by Ridley Scott, starring Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe and Josh Brolin. n Running time: 137 minutes. n Rated R for violence, pervasive drug content, language, nudity and sexuality.
Crowe’s character is a beaten-down detective and womanizing, absent father going through a divorce that may take away his son. His only redeeming quality is the honesty and justice he determinedly clings to. Within the first half-hour of the movie, Roberts and his partner discover $1 million of unregistered bills in the trunk of a drugrunner’s car and, despite his partner’s pleading that they keep it, Richie turns it in to his superiors, and the rest of his action in the movie is defined by this critical choice. It is frequently referred to, with many characters asking if he really did what they’ve heard and why. Though he answers sheepishly that he sometimes wishes he hadn’t turned in the money, he still holds that it was the right decision. The film also provides an interesting dichotomy between the two main characters, as it seems that Lucas is a great leader, caring son, brother and husband, a gentleman, a philanthropist and generally all-around nice guy whose only bad point is that he is a violent, stone-hearted crime-lord. However, for all Lucas’ family values and generosity, he loses his loved ones and ev-
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n Bee Movie (PG): $39.1 Million n Saw IV (R): $11 Million n Dan in Real Life (PG-13): $8.1 Million
Coming Soon
Movies opening Friday: n Fred Claus (PG), starring Vince Vaughn, Paul Giamatti, John Michael Higgins and Miranda Richardson. It’s not easy being the brother of a beloved saint, Nicholas Claus (Giamatti). Fred Claus (Vaughn) struggles for years to try to live up to his brother, but has finally given up. Fred ends up in jail for stealing and repossessing items. Nicholas will not stand for his brother in jail, so he agrees to set bail if Fred will go to the North Pole and help make toys for the upcoming Christmas season. Fred isn’t nearly as productive as any of the elves and decides to test his brother’s patience and how far the saint can be pushed before he reaches his breaking point.
Courtesy of Rottentomatoes.com
Denzel Washington plays Frank Lucas, a Harlem drug lord, in American Gangster. erything he was working for because of the choices he makes. Roberts, on the other hand, is eventually vindicated and triumphant because he chooses to be one thing above all — honest. This film is impeccably acted and capably directed. Washington turns in a solid performance with his usual controlled power and silent fury; Crowe is outstanding as a desperate, tenacious
detective on the edge and about to hit bottom. All the supporting cast is surprising and perfectly understated, especially Josh Brolin in his role as the sleazy, depraved Brooklyn cop. However, the running time is more than two and a half hours, and in some parts the pacing drags. Also, the film is meant to be a historically suspenseful drama, not some slick
mafia thriller, so someone looking for a gangster film like “Scarface” or “The Godfather” will probably be disappointed. Don’t go to Scott’s film expecting a fast ride with cheap thrills and shootem-up violence. Rather, go for a carefully crafted story of choices, redemption and justice. E-mail Melby at: optimist@acu.edu
n P2 (R), starring Wes Bentley and Rachel Nichols. A workaholic decides to work late on Christmas Eve to close one last deal before the holiday. Finished with her work and already late to her family dinner, she rushes down to the parking garage to race home. She tries to start the car but it will not turn on and she has no phone signal. Thankfully, a security guard appears and offers to help. During their conversation the security guard is flirtatious and invites her to have Christmas dinner with him in the parking office. The next thing Angela knows, she is tied up in the security office on level P2. Angela struggles to escape and make it out alive to live to the next Christmas. n Lions for Lambs (R), starring Robert Redford, Meryl Streep, Tom Cruise and Michael Pena. Two university students follow the inspiration of their professor, Dr. Malley (Redford), and do something important with their lives and join the battle in Afghanistan. Both students lives rely on the decisions made by the government. In Washington D.C., Senator Irving (Cruise) is about to give a bombshell story to a TV journalist (Streep) that may affect Afghanistan. All the stories impact each other.
CAMPUS NEWS
Page 4
Friday, November 9, 2007
Director dubs FilmFest a success, keeps hair – for now By Sara Snelson Arts Editor
“Too bad,” Doug Darby said, laughing, when asked about not having to shave his head after FilmFest. The FilmFest director promised he would shave his head if 25 complete films were ready and if the Paramount Theatre was sold out on the night of the awards show. Neither one of these conditions was fulfilled. Darby walked away with a full head of hair. “The show this year was smaller than in the past,” Darby said. “About 500
people attended the awards show, which is smaller than last year and only fills up almost half of the Paramount Theatre. There were also numerous other events, such as Freshman Social, that were going on around town at the same time.” Darby said the quality of the films was great and keeps getting better throughout the years. He has received positive and assuring feedback from the judges this year and judges from the past. “We did everything we needed to, to make this a great event. We just need more awareness and more university involve-
ment to make for the best FilmFest,” Darby said. But not all student-created films were permitted for competition. The film, “The Legend of Stormin’ Mormon,” which featured a Christian, a Mormon and a Jew comically fighting over their different religious beliefs, was removed from the running after it was previewed by members of the administration. “From my personal point of view, I did not have a problem with this film, but we, as a whole, have to abide under ACU standards and policies,” Darby said. Darby said when making
a film, they look for two things — does it fall within a G to PG rating, and does it follow ACU guidelines. “I understand why this film was not allowed in competition when looking at ACU’s guidelines, but I don’t like to hamper with the creative process,” Darby said. “Laughter is a healthy approach to positive dialogue.” In order to avoid situations like the “The Legend of Stormin’ Mormon,” those involved with FilmFest are planning to work on ACU’s and FilmFest’s guidelines that are more clear and distinct, Darby said.
Although last year FilmFest was not featured in the spring, this year a spring FilmFest is in the works and is planned to take place later so participants have time to make quality films. “Right now we do not have enough resources to put on a spring show, but we are hoping resources will come along, so we can put on another FilmFest,” Darby said. A formal announcement will be made sometime in November about the show next semester. Darby is not sure if he will continue to lead Film-
Fest for the 5th year in a row next year. “It is a passion and love of mine, but I want to give it my full attention and not just half-hearted,” Darby said. “It is something anyone can do. I want to make it successful in the years to come whether it is me running the show or someone else.” If you would like to help out with making FilmFest possible in the spring or next year send an e-mail to FilmFest@acu.edu.
E-mail Snelson at: sas04b@acu.edu
Bowling night to beget funds
Daily grind
By Beki Hamilton Student Reporter
Katie Gager CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
A small group of students including Brad East, senior Biblical text major from Austin, gives breakfast to Mika Shiga, senior psychology major from Japan, as an act of love to students passing by.
Saturday night, several ACU clubs will partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters to help raise funds for the organization by bowling. Students’ Association, the track team, the Bible Department and several social clubs from ACU are among those participating in Bowl for Kids’ Sake. Bowl for Kids’ Sake is one of Big Brothers Big Sisters biggest annual fundraisers. Students and clubs from ACU get together to form teams for this event and fundraise in the process. Teams will bowl from 4 to 6 p.m. or from 7 to 9 p.m Saturday at Abilene Bowling Lanes. It costs $75 per person to enter or $350 per team. The teams raise money individually and as a group. Last year, entry fees were $50 per person, but because of the event’s success, Big
Brothers Big Sisters decided to raise the entry fee. Elizabeth Russell, senior communications major from College Station, is involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters. “It costs about $1,000 per child for a 12 month period,” Russell said. Bowl for Kids’ Sake is a way to fundraise for those costs as well as raise awareness of Big Brothers Big Sisters. As for student involvement, Russell said they are always looking for more people to be a part of the organization. “We want to increase the amount of people involved in it,” Russell said. Right now, Big Brothers Big Sisters is preparing for the event by contacting sponsors as well as arranging with Abilene Bowling Lanes. The giveaways and T-shirts that all participants will receive are made possible primarily through donations. Russell said the event is
a way to say thank you to the student body and let them know they are “appreciated for their help.” “I’m glad SA can help out an organization such as Big Brothers Big Sisters,” said Spencer Hemphill, junior accounting major from Longview and the chief financial officer of SA. This is the first year SA is involved in the event. Hemphill said he heard about it through a friend and then proposed the idea to Congress. He asked if they wanted to donate, and they responded positively. Hemphill said SA does no fundraising because Congress sponsors SA’s two teams, but he believes Congress is using funds wisely by getting involved. Individual students can still be a part of Bowl for Kids’ Sake by contacting Elizabeth Russell at ear03d@acu.edu. E-mail Hamilton at: optimist@acu.edu
Hello Books accessible to all By Todd Piersall
“There is still something to be said about the convenience of having it right at your fingertips.”
For those who are jealous of computer savvy Internet surfers who can look up contact information on ACU students and faculty with ease — there’s hope. ACU’s Society of Professional Journalists will sell Hello Books for $10 in the Campus Center on Nov. 1216 from 10-2 p.m. Hello Books are designed to be a quick reference guide for contact information on current students and faculty. Information in the book includes name, hometown address, current address and e-mail address. Also in the Hello Book are several maps of surrounding areas and schedules for ACU athletic events.
Stephanie Carlton, administrative coordinator
Student Reporter
The book can be charged to your ACU account. Stephanie Carlton, administrative coordinator of the Journalism and Mass Communication Department, said about 880 Hello Books have been distributed so far. Although some contact information can be found online, Carlton says having hard copy information is still useful. “There is still something to be said about the convenience of having it right at your fingertips,” Carlton said. Hello Books are produced by ACU’s chapter of the Society
of Professional Journalists. Kelsi Peace, junior print journalism major from Whitefish, Mont., and president of SPJ, said the books are the only fundraiser for the organization. The proceeds help send members of SPJ to journalism conferences and competitions. SPJ is a national journalism organization that “promotes press, journalism ethics and Freedom of Information,” according to the SPJ Web site. The organization is based in Washington, D.C.
E-mail Piersall at: optimist@acu.edu
CAMPUS NEWS
Friday, November 9, 2007
Page 5
Spring Break Campaign office searches to fill openings By Scott Stewart Student Reporter
The 2008 Spring Break Campaign committee is looking for students to fill remaining openings. This year’s Spring Break is March 15-22. Among the locations that are still available are Laredo; Abilene; Libby, Mont.; Virginia Beach, Va.; and Washington, D.C., said Adam Dittemore, junior business
management major from Everett, Wash. Dittemore is a part of the SBC committee and is an SBC leader this year for the Nicaragua campaign. SBC is a fully student led organization ministry, Dittemore said. “We are looking to fill more spots, and we want them to be committed,” Dittemore said.” Pray and make sure it is right for you.”
“The purpose of SBC is to give students the opportunity to take on leadership roles and put the ACU mission statement into practice.” Adam Dittemore, junior business management major from Everett, Wash.
Last year, more than 500 students attended Spring Break Campaigns. Filling up driving campaigns is not as important as filling up flying campaigns because it is
Philharmonic orchestrates new show By Tanner Anderson Student Reporter
The Abilene Philharmonic’s annual Christmas performance, presented by a professional symphony orchestra at the Civic Center, has added a 3 p.m. matinee to its Dec. 1 performance because of an increase in attendance throughout the past two years. The Philharmonic is a Christmas concert that is comprised of professional musicians from all over the region. “Sixty percent of the people are musicians from outside of Abilene,” said Tim Graham, marketing and development director for the Abilene Philharmonic Association. The performance is currently in its 57th season and stands as one of the older non-profit organizations in Abilene. It has served to entertain the Abilene community throughout the years. “I went all the time growing up,” said Jenny
Dodd, sophomore marketing communications major from Abilene. “I remember hearing the different styles of music and learning to appreciate each of them through the show.” The concert continues to provide entertainment for Abilenians during the holiday season. “I really like going to a concert like this within the small Abilene community,” Dodd said. “It’s really enjoyable because it’s done by a group of musicians who are truly willing to devote their time to this performance.” Performances throughout the past two years have been sold-out, resulting in the Philharmonic adding its first matinee show. “With this concert, we’re opening it up to people who might not be able to see it otherwise,” Graham said. “People who aren’t willing to go to a later show can go in the morning, as well as people from all over the region.” This will allow those traveling to Abilene for the show more time to re-
Student Reporter
A new tanning salon in Abilene, Sun Seekers, has students curious about what this new establishment has to offer. Already in its fourth week of business, this two-story complex offers tanning, massage therapy, facials and other types of beauty treatments. “My roommate and I saw it at the beginning of the semester,” Caitlin McCurdy, sophomore integrated marketing communication major from Garland said. “We went in to get more information on it, and we were surprised, and also excited, by all that it has to offer.” Not only does Sun Seekers provide a variety of skin treatments, it also offers waxing options and distributes Bare Minerals cosmetics. Owner Jennifer Hallford said Sun Seekers is among
E-mail Stewart at: optimist@acu.edu
A Shinnery star
Megan Lowe STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER E-mail Anderson at: optimist@acu.edu
“We went in to get more information on it, and we were surprised, and also excited, by all that it has to offer.” Caitlin McCurdy, sophomore integrated marketing communication major from Garland
the few salons in Abilene to offer airbrush tanning. As opposed to tanning beds that have a 20-minute long tanning period, Sun Seekers uses 10minute, low-pressure beds. This results in the same kind of tan for half the amount of time. Sun Seekers is also the only salon in the state to offer the Acclaim high-pressure tanning bed. Since its opening a month ago, Sun Seekers has seen steady business so far. Although a majority of its customers have been female students, they are welcoming everyone. “We would like to see a range of people and ages,”
Christ-like service throughout the world.” Students interested in going on a Spring Break Campaign should either stop by the SBC War room located in McKinzie Hall Room 129 or check out the Web site at www.acusbc.org. There is also a Facebook group called Spring Break Campaigns.
turn home and, in turn, provide a more convenient commute. The matinee will also allow families to bring young children, whereas the evening show had an age requirement of six years. The matinee and evening shows will be the same, each consisting of classic Christmas music and guest performances. These guests include the 70 singers from the classical choruses of Abilene and Shuffles and Ballet II, a dance group from Arkansas. “It will be a comfortable concert with familiar music to inspire the soul,” Graham said. Both performances will cost $20 for adults and $10 for children and students. Tickets can be purchased at the Philharmonic office located at 402 Cypress, Suite 130, or by telephone at 325-677-6710.
Sun Seekers closer, more convenient By Katie Howerton
harder to get plane tickets, Dittemore said. The next step for SBC is SBC group Chapel, which begins Thursday. The purpose of SBC group
Chapel is to provide building and bonding among the campaigners that will be going together. “The purpose of SBC is to give students the opportunity to take on leadership roles and put the ACU mission statement into practice,” Dittemore said. “The purpose of Spring Break Campaigns is to impact lives through student-led, short-term missions that are dedicated to
Hallford said. Not far away from campus, Sun Seekers is located on 566 East Ambler between Hillcrest Church of Christ and Pizza Hut. Hallford said they chose this location because there aren’t many tanning salons on this side of town, and they knew having ACU close by would be good for business. Beginning in November, they plan on offering specials that will vary with each day. Sun Seekers also offers gift certificates for their services, which are a great gift idea for the upcoming holiday season. E-mail Howerton at: optimist@acu.edu
Lara Morgan, senior English major from Oxford, England, reads poetry at Monks Coffee Shop Monday for The Shinnery Review’s open mic night.
ViewsFriday Optimist
Page 6
Congress should support open records bill
The problem:
The government takes too long to respond to requests for copies of federal agency documents.
Our view:
A new bill proposed by two senators needs to have as much Congressional support as necessary.
The solution:
Write your Congressman, and let him know that this bill needs his support. Americans need to be able to hold their government accountable.
November 9, 2007
Our country stands on the right to know. Citizens can question the government and access certain federal agency documents. However, the government has allowed darkness to hover over these rights by not responding to such inquiries within a legally set time frame. Under The Freedom of Information Act, citizens can see federal agency documents unless they fall under the act’s nine exemptions. Legally, agencies must respond to a record request within 20 days, but unfortu-
nately they have said on his The government has allowed darkness to hover fallen short. Web site. over these rights by not responding to inquiries. Sadly, five Under the agencies have act, agencies requests 15 must put a years older or more, and 10 as) and Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) did tracking number on each reagencies gave Congress incor- something constructive about it quest, so the requester can folrect information regarding by introducing the OPEN Gov- low its progress. If an agency their oldest pending requests, ernment Act of 2007. fails to do this within 20 days, according to the 2007 Knight “This legislation will pro- it must face severe conseOpen Government Survey. vide the American people quences, which include the inCitizens need to know more information and make ability to assert any of the FOIA about the government’s se- our great democracy even exemptions except in the case vere lack of promptness be- stronger … that our govern- of national security and disclocause it marks the start of a ment is based not on the need sure of private facts. downward spiral. to know, but upon the fundaThe act offers hope that it Senators John Cornyn (R-Tex mental right to know,” Cornyn will illuminate the darkness.
Jordan Blakey
Cherry Waves
Sadies Week gives guys deserved break Although Sadies Week ends tonight with a free date at The Skatin’ Place, single or taken guys can still take advantage of the final activity of the week. The Campus Activities Fields of Board gives Dreams ACU girls free activities to Jared promote SaFields die Hawkins’ Week every year. And every year I look forward to it. As a single guy, I would look forward to Sadies Week every year in hopes some cute girl with a crush on me would approach me out of the blue to take me on a date. I love a
Regardless of my luck, or lack of it, it’s refreshing to see CAB giving the students something worthwhile with the date packages. gutsy girl who isn’t shy. Unfortunately, that never happened. At least a reason existed to get my hopes up. Even with a girlfriend, Sadies Week brings the same excitement, but more fun. Here’s why it’s fun to be a guy who has a gal. First, go to your Facebook page and unlist your relationship. It doesn’t mean it’s cancelled, it’s just that it doesn’t show up on your profile. This opens you up to getting asked to a date. If a girl wants to go skating and doesn’t know if you’re taken, she merely goes to your Face-
In Your Words Do you think Stephen Colbert should have been allowed to run for president?
Of course. Being funny and making up words are the only two requirements to run for office.
Ricardo Garay
Graduate student from Honduras.
book page, sees it say you’re not in a relationship and proceeds to ask you out. The likelihood of actually getting asked out is low, but that’s not the goal or the reward. The goal is to get your girlfriend to think she has some competition and needs to work for your devotion. Tell her you’ll accept the first offer you get for a date, and she will be the first person in line after Chapel to get a free date coupon to make sure no one else gets you first. It works perfectly. The guy gets four free dates four nights in a row and then
feels pursued. The girls don’t enjoy a benefit outside of the four possible free dates like the guys. Unless they plan out their dates with four different guys for the four different days. That’s a smart girl. Regardless of my luck, or lack of it, when it comes to Sadies Week, it’s refreshing to see CAB giving the students something worthwhile with the date packages. So girls, go take advantage of a free date. You don’t get the chance often. And guys, enjoy the one week you don’t have to pay.
E-mail Fields at: jrf03b@acu.edu, optimist@acu.edu
While ACU students trudge ness increases dramatically. back and forth between the Although Nov. 11 is a Campus Cen- day reserved for reverence ter and the and veneration of the men Administra- and women who protect our tion building freedoms, almost 200,000 Monday, the veterans are looking for a rest of the place to sleep and wondercountry will ing why no one cares about be celebrat- the sacrifice they made. We ing Veterans cannot let this continue. Opinion Day. A day to appreciate our And while country’s veterans is imporShouter the major- tant, but a handful of homeless Daniel ity of the mil- veterans want more than a day, Johnson lions of vet- they want a second chance. erans in this This war is unjustified and country are honored, 195,800 never should have been fought, will spend their national holi- but its soldiers do not deserve day on the streets — without a the fate of homelessness. We job, without a home and twist- should welcome our soldiers ed by the tragedy of war. with open arms, and our govAccording to a report re- ernment should do its duty: leased by helping the the Napeople who tional As...do we really want our are so damsociation to aged they soldiers to be forced to End Homecannot help scrounging for survival themselves. lessness (NEAH), After fighton the...streets? n e a r l y ing a war that 200,000 vetthe majority erans have of the counturned to the streets, and try does not back, do we really tragically little is being done want our soldiers to be forced to amend the situation. to scrounge for survival on Of the sample of home- our rich country’s judgmental less veterans, Texas is third. streets? Have we become so The NEAH counted 15,434 indifferent to the people sacrihomeless veterans in the Lone ficing for us? Star State in 2005 and 15,967 Do not let the homeless homeless veterans in 2006 — veterans be forgotten; tell .96 percent of the 1.6 million our congressman Randy veterans in Texas. Neugebauer to support iniIn the admissions depart- tiatives that make sure our ment terms, that would be veterans get a shot at having about three times the number a normal life. of students attending ACU. Monday when you’re The NEAH estimates the watching “Saving Private number of homeless veterans Ryan” and putting off your will increase dramatically with project due Thursday, rethe hoards of traumatized Iraq member our veterans. War veterans returning to their But more importantly, rehomeland. And because there member the abandoned solis a larger chance for post- diers living on the streets. traumatic stress disorder in our current war’s veterans, the E-mail Johnson at: chance for chronic homelessdjj04a@acu.edu, optimist@acu.edu
Christian protesting doesn’t cripple marketplace In the interest of clarifying your understanding of the Marketplace of Ideas Theory as you represented it in your Wednesday editorial “Golden Compass not so golden for Christians,” I rejoin the exchange in your forum. Your writer was informed before publication in a critique of the editorial for Opinion Writing about a problem in your declaration that “Christian groups
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
E-mail the Optimist at: optimist@acu.edu
Remember the forgotten veterans
… trying to stop the movie’s release cripples [sic] the marketplace of ideas.” In direct response to this observation, I wrote to the writer: “Illogical. The marketplace of ideas comes down on the side of releasing the movie and permits people to oppose the release of the movie. … The ideas are grappling in the marketplace. No one is going to stop the film. And no
one is going to stop people from trying to stop the film. That’s the way the marketplace of ideas work.” The editorial writer answered: “We’ve all looked over it … and think it’s okay. I don’t have time to fix it because I have an obligation to the Reporter-News in 45 minutes. …” You’ve shared your position on the Marketplace of Ideas Theory with the read-
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
The Senate has passed the bill, and Americans can take responsibility in holding their government accountable by writing their congressman in approval of the bill. To find your congressman, go to the House of Representatives Web site at www.house. gov, find his address, and encourage him to vote “yes” on this bill.
ers in your forum; I would like for you to share my position with your readers.
Charlie Marler, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus of Communication Law and Senior Professor of Opinion Writing marlerc@acu.edu
Editorial Board and News Staff Jared Fields
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Online: www.acuoptimist.com
Friday, November 9, 2007
Page 7
CAMPUS NEWS / FROM THE FRONT
Math club aims to make math fun, serves local kids By Sondra Rodriguez Student Reporter
Mu Sigma, ACU’s math club, is spreading their gift of math around Abilene by offering free tutoring to local Abilene Schools as a service project. Last Friday, the first service project was conducted. The project involved going to Abilene High School and tutoring during a study hall. Mu Sigma members hope to
travel to other local Abilene high schools throughout the year and continue to spread the joy of math. “We want to get the message around that you don’t have to hate math, and that math can be fun,” said Rachel Pinson, sophomore math major from Abilene and president of Mu Sigma. Pinson said the main reason lots of people struggle with math is because they are lacking to see the fun.
Mu sigma emphasizes that you don’t have to be afraid of math and that you can have fun. When math becomes enjoyable, it becomes less frustrating and from there the learning process can begin, Pinson said. Mu sigma members have been given a gift and they want to serve God with their talents, Pinson said. Mu Sigma has been inactive for a while and now the members want to get the
word out about their organization. Ryan Cloninger, sophomore math major from Cabot, Ark., and member of Mu Sigma, said the organization is open to any current student at ACU. Mu Sigma encourages students from all corners of ACU, not just math majors, to participate, Pinson said. Meetings are conducted once a month and Mu Sigma also participates in fun events. “We want this organization to
Student tutors, changes lives By Todd Piersall Student Reporter
A single volunteer is currently helping to tutor children after school at the Abilene Child Centered Educational Support Services. Brett Hines, senior elementary education major from Denver said he needs help with the after school tutoring program that tutors about 10 kids. Right now, Hines is the program’s only staff member. “The more volunteers there are, the more individual help the kids can get,” said Hines. “If there are nine kids in the room and all the kids need something different, it can be difficult.” Hines said he started volunteering at ACCESS as a freshman for a developmen-
tal psychology class. “I started out by checking homework and I did well enough that they asked me if I wanted a job,” Hines said. Hines said he was given the task of revamping a children’s tutoring program that had been dwindling due to lack of staff. “When I walked in my sophomore year the program had been dormant,” Hines said. “So I restarted it.” The tutoring program is free and offered to any students in third, fourth or fifth grade. Hines said usually a new student comes in about every two weeks, but only eight or nine kids come during a session. The majority of the students at the tutor program are from Ortiz Elementary School, Hines said. One of
grow, we want people to get involved, get the word out,” Cloninger said. Mu Sigma is a student led organization devoted to fostering a greater understanding of mathematics, encouraging undergraduate activity in mathematics research, providing service opportunities in the community, and enriching the social, intellectual, and spiritual environment for all students interested in
mathematics, according to the mission statement of Mu Sigma. By going around to local schools and tackling the issue at the core with one-onone tutoring, Mu Sigma is accomplishing its objective. For more information about Mu Sigma contact Rachel Pinson at rkp05a@acu.edu.
E-mail Rodriguez at: optimist@acu.edu
Up to Parr
those students is third-grader Jesus Mora. “We get to do fun things. We get to go to the computer and play games,” Mora said. Hines said at the end of every session the students are allowed to play on the computer for a little while. Although officially the program is for tutoring, Hines said it’s more of a mentoring program because the majority of the students who come in struggling with school also come in struggling at home. “Its not just academics it’s giving them social skills that they will need for the rest of their life,” Hines said. “The best way that you can help someone is prevention, and this is prevention.” E-mail Piersall at: optimist@acu.edu
Chapel: SA creates new position Continued from page 1 “You make each individual big Chapel be as powerful as it can be,” chief development officer Matt Greenberg suggested. “Those speakers that keep the crowd quiet – those are the ones you want.” Representatives suggested inviting more speakers from outside the university to speak, and members of Congress applauded when one representative suggested allowing women to take a larger role in Chapel. Thompson and Dr. Jeff Arrington, associate dean of campus life, will compile the responses and, Thompson said, plan to make adjustments for next semester as while as longterm. Administrators will meet Nov. 14 to discuss Chapel as well, Thompson said, part of what he called a continuing dialogue on Chapel. Congress created a temporary chaplain position to be implemented immediately and continue in the spring semester. President Matt Worthington will appoint the chaplain, who cannot fill any other position on Congress. Congress must approve the nomination by a two-thirds vote. Next fall, Congress will vote to keep the position, terminate it or make it permanent. The move comes after se-
nior senator Nathan McKenzie presented a bill to amend the Constitution and create a permanent Chaplain position. Congress tabled the bill until the next meeting, and after representatives raised concerns about a permanent position, McKenzie withdrew the bill. “I think this will be a positive thing,” McKenzie said, presenting the new bill to Congress. The bill created the position but did not include specific job duties, an ambiguity proponents say allows for experimentation. In previous discussions, McKenzie suggested the chaplain should work with class and club chaplains, and seek unity among the spiritual leaders. Several representatives expressed concern over the lack of structure given in the bill, and said they were unsure how Congress could evaluate the temporary position without a standard. “This can be a testing period,” Rep. Kyle Moore and an author of the bill told Congress. “But I think now you should look at this testing period to see what is for or what it can be.” “It will allow us to get a grasp on what this is going to entail,” said an author of the bill and senior senator Seth Copeland. Senior senator Perry Har-
rison also authored the bill, which passed with 34 votes supporting, one opposing and seven abstaining. In a festive move, Congress passed Rep. Charles Gaines’ bill to appropriate $300 from the congressional project fund to purchase Christmas lights for the trees skirting Edwards Residence Hall. As the Edwards Hall representative, Gaines will be responsible for the lights, which will then become property of the residence hall for future use. “The inside [of Edwards] is already decked out,” Gaines said. Congress passed the bill with 34 votes supporting, six opposing and two abstaining and with no debate. Keeping with the holiday spirit, Congress unanimously passed a bill to provide $220 from the discretionary fund to purchase Thanksgiving meals for four families through the Service-Action Leadership Team’s meal delivery project. Junior senator Kelline Linton and Rep. Samantha Popp initially requested $110 to sponsor two families, but Congress amended the bill. SA still has $3,500 budgeted for conferences with none on the horizon and the majority of the $250 class budgets. E-mail Peace at: knp04a@acu.edu
Adrian cruz-luyanda STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Jill Parr performs in the Bean Sprout Nov. 3. Parr was one of 13 judges invited to judge this year’s FilmFest, Revolutions. Parr’s latest album, Me Again, was released on Whiplash Records in 2006.
Directors: Act themes to be chosen Continued from page 1 groundwork well before the show’s performances Feb. 15-16 in Moody Coliseum. “There’s so much prep work, choosing songs, lyrics, coming up with costumes,” said Greenberg, senior political science major from Grand Prairie. “All that is done before Christmas break. The foundation is laid before Christmas, because when you come back, you start practicing immediately.
And then Sing Song is five weeks later.” Sophomore Linly Stowe, Spanish major from Nashville, Tenn. and the director of the combined act by Essence of Ebony, Hispanos Unidos and the International Students’ Association, attributes her position as director largely to her previous Sing Song experience as a freshman and plans to appoint assistant directors from each of the three groups her act represents.
“Now that I’ve seen how much support I’m going to get, I’m really excited about it,” Stowe said. “It’s not like I’m going to do everything by myself. I’m really excited, because it’s really a team effort with this [group].” Directors will decide group themes within the overall “World Tour” theme this weekend at a retreat through a bidding system and submit song selections by Nov. 19. E-mail Acuff at: optimist@acu.edu
SportsFriday Optimist
Page 8
ScoreBoard
Putting it on the line
Standings Scoreboard as of Thursday
Football
Team
WTAMU Tarleton St. ACU MSU Angelo St. TAMU-K ENMU
Team
Div. 5-0 4-1 4-1 3-2 1-4 1-4 0-6
Overall 10-0 9-1 8-2 8-2 2-7 2-8 4-6
Volleyball
Div. 12-0 11-1 10-2 8-4 6-6 TX Woman’s 6-6 Cameron 6-6 Tarleton St. 5-7 SW Okla. 5-7 Angelo St. 4-8 TAMU-C 3-9 SE Okla. 2-10 ENMU 0-12 WTAMU Central Okla. MSU ACU TAMU-K
November 9, 2007
Overall 29-7 29-5 27-4 14-13 14-11 15-12 13-15 13-15 14-19 6-21 9-19 7-20 4-25
Upcoming Friday VOLLEYBALL Lone Star Conference Postseason Tournament Semifinals, TBA
Saturday FOOTBALL ACU at Midwestern State, 1 p.m.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL ACU vs. Lubbock Christian, 2 p.m. (exhibition)
Thursday VOLLEYBALL NCAA II Southwest Regional Quarterfinals, TBA n Home games listed in italics
Briefs Five ACU volleyball players named to Lone Star Conference All-Conference Teams n The ACU volleyball team had five players named to LSC All-Conference teams this year. Senior outside hitter Abbie Lowry was named to the LSC first team. Sophomore outside hitter Erin Curry and freshmen Shawna Hines and Lowry Ijeoma Moronu all received the honor of being on the LSC second team, while junior middle blocker got a conference honorable mention award. Lowry and senior libero Liz Snoddy were also named to the LSC All-Academic team.
Intramural Round-up n The intramural schedule in the Optimist is subject to change and is not permanent. Any changes can be viewed on the intramural bulletin board in Moody Coliseum. n Intramural softball begins this Saturday. Games will be played on the south softball fields by the Edwards parking lot. All matches will be played during the day due to the absence of lights. Game times will be posted on the intramural bulletin board. FLAG FOOTBALL The Novas defeated the Siblings Monday to take the Men’s Pledge championship, while the Nunu’s beat the Biddies for the Women’s Pledge crown.
n Due to water damage to the Bennett Gym floor, free time and reservations will not be available for the fall semester. The Gibson double gyms are still open. For times, see the intramural bulletin board. For complete intramural scores and schedules visit: w w w. a c u o p t i m i s t . c o m
MATT NEWHOUSER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Junior running back Bernard Scott, who holds the ACU single-season and single-game records, drags along two Texas A&M-Kingsville defenders during ACU’s 59-31 win over the Javelinas on Saturday.
Playoff berth depends on regular season finale By Daniel Johnson
How they compare
Sports Editor
Travis Carpenter has played football since junior high school, and Saturday could be his last game. If the senior defensive end and the rest of the Wildcats do not win their final regular season game against Midwestern State in Wichita Falls, No. 17 ACU’s chances of making the playoffs may be over. “That’s eleven years of football, and to think it might be over, you’re going to do everything you can to make sure that doesn’t happen.” Carpenter said. ACU is ranked fifth in the NCAA Division Southwest Region and must win its final regular season game against the No. 19 Mustangs to secure a spot in the NCAA Division II playoffs by remaining in the top six of the regional rankings. Meanwhile, 8-2 Midwestern is ranked near the bottom of the regional poll at No. 10 and is also seeking to steal a playoff berth from the Wildcats. The playoff implications aren’t the only thing making ACU’s final game a highprofile one. Saturday’s game will be the meeting of the top two offenses in Division II football. ACU averages 543.4 yards a game and moved into the No. 1 spot after its 675-yard effort against Texas A&M-Kingsville last Saturday. Midwestern is
In ACU’s regular season finale Saturday, the nation’s top two offenses in NCAA Division II football will face off in Wichita Falls. Midwestern and ACU are both nationally ranked and seeking playoff berths.
No. 17 Abilene Christian
No. 19 Midwestern State
n No. 1 total offense (543.4 yards per game)
n No. 2 total offense (538.9 yards per game)
n No. 2 scoring offense (46.8 points per game)
n No. 3 scoring offense (44.8 points per game)
n No. 4 rushing offense (301.4 yards per game)
n No. 19 rushing offense (232.9 yards per game)
n No. 6 passing offense (310.5 yards per game)
n No. 44 passing offense (237.5 yards per game)
Football close behind at No. 2 with a game average of 538.9 yards. ACU and Midwestern are two of only seven NCAA teams — in any division — to record more than 5,000 yards this season, the two LSC teams are one of six NCAA programs that have scored more than 60 touchdowns this season, and each team averages more than 40 points per game. As high profile as the game may seem, head coach Chris Thomsen said his team is not focused on the pressure to win. “That’s the main thing as a coach, not to make this bigger than it is,” Thomsen said. “Just approach it like you normally would.” The main reason Midwestern’s offense is so potent is quarterback Daniel Polk. Polk leads the Lone Star Conference in total yards with 3,072 and is second in total yards per game with an average of 307.2.
Midwestern prefers the run — Midwestern is ranked No. 4 in the nation in rushing offense — and Thomsen said the Wildcats defensive goal is to slow down the Mustangs. “You don’t really go in trying to stop anything with an offense like this. You just try to limit their guys,” Thomsen said. ACU has the most productive offense in the history of the program. With one game left on the schedule, the Wildcats’ season total of 468 points already set an ACU single season record, ACU’s average of 7.8 yards per play set a new school record and the Wildcats’ total of 5,434 yards is the second-best single-season total in school history. “We know our offense is gonna score points,” Carpenter said. ACU running back Bernard Scott, who already broke the single-game and single-season ACU rushing records
this season, is the sixth best rusher in the nation with an average of 155.9 yards a game. The transfer is second in Division II and third in the NCAA overall in touchdowns (27) and points scored (162) and has scored at least one touchdown in every ACU game this season. Scott will face one of his toughest tests on Saturday though, as he takes on a Midwestern rush defense that is No. 1 in the LSC and No. 2 in the nation. Midwestern successfully held run-happy Eastern New Mexico quarterback Michael Benton to only 50 yards on the ground in a 63-7 win over the Greyhounds on Saturday and allows an average of 85.3 yards a game. “They have the No. 1 defense in the league and certainly have the potential to slow us down,” Thomsen said. ACU quarterback Billy Malone is only 22 yards away from breaking the 3,000 pass-
ing yard mark this season. If Malone throws for over 3,000 yards this season, he will be the first ACU quarterback to throw for more than 3,000 yards twice. Behind one of the most dominant offensive lines in the nation — ACU’s line has only allowed .5 sacks this season — Malone averages 297.8 passing yards per game and has thrown 26 touchdowns this season. Malone’s two favorite targets, senior wide receiver Jerale Badon and junior wide receiver Johnny Knox, both rank in the nation’s top 50 for receiving yards per game and catches per game. Badon is just 30 yards away from breaking the LSC record for all-time receiving yards. Knox, who has 51 catches for 12 touchdowns and 965 yards in his first season at ACU, could become the first ACU receiver to go over 1,000 receiving yards since 1977 when Cle Montgomery caught 57 passes for 1,168 yards. Regardless of the statistics and pressure, Thomsen said ACU should be in top form for its final regular season game. “It won’t be easy in any shape, way or fashion, but it’s a game number 11, so you should be playing your best,” Thomsen said. E-mail Johnson at: djj04a@acu.edu
Women test team in Lubbock Christian exhibition By Michael Freeman Assistant Sports Editor
The ACU women’s basketball team takes to the court in Moody Coliseum Saturday at 2 p.m. to play Lubbock Christian in an exhibition game. ACU officially begins its season next Friday on the road against Incarnate Word, but the team will be gaining some game experience before then. “It’s the first time we really get to put on our uniforms and play out game situations,” said head coach Shawna Lavender. “We’re definitely using it to get us prepared for the year, and we’ll treat it as if it’s a real game for us.”
Women’s Basketball The Wildcats were picked to finish second in the Lone Star Conference South Division this season after finishing last year with a 17-12 overall record. ACU fell in the first round of the LSC Post-Season Tournament to the University of Central Oklahoma last season, but is looking to improve with the return of stellar players such as senior point guard Alex Guiton and junior center Audrey Maxwell. Other returning players include junior forward Kristee Davidson, senior forward Ashlee Barr, sophomore guards Kat Kundmueller and Kelsey Darby and sophomore forwards Jamie and Jody Mey-
er. All of the returners have been practicing for Saturday’s game. “One of the things I’ve liked about practice this year so far is it seems like we work a lot harder every single day,” Lavender said. “Obviously, we’re nowhere near where we want to be, but we’re getting there every day.” During the offseason, the Wildcats added some freshmen players including center Jenna Simmel, forward Jamie Miller and guards Jensen Knickerbocker and Autumn Whitaker. “They’re just solid players. Shawna does a great job recruiting,” assistant head coach Lynsie Blau said. “They’re really sweet, nice girls. They’re going to get along really well
with the team.” Lavender is entering her fifth season as the ACU women’s head coach, and is eager to coach Saturday’s game. Lubbock Christian is ranked No. 10, according to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics preseason polls. Saturday’s game will count towards Lubbock Christian’s overall record, but not for ACU’s. Still, the Wildcats are going into the game looking to win. “It’s definitely not a game that we’ll take lightly,” Lavender said. “It sets a tone for how you want to start your year, I think.”
E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu
MATT NEWHOUSER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Junior center Audrey Maxwell lays it up over freshman center Jamie Miler during practice Wednesday.