The Optimist - Aug. 27, 2008

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Pg. 10 Record Breaker: How Bernard Scott arrived at ACU

Wednesday, August 27, 2008 :: Vol. 97, No. 2 :: 1 section, 10 pages :: www.acuoptimist.com

Inside This Issue:

Pg 3

Pg 5

Study Abroad hires new on-site directors for Uruguay program

Pg 8

Drs. Wayne and Mimi Barnard leave ACU; Dr. Rector done at ACU Clinic

Biden decision may damage Obama bid for White House

ResLife moves to McDonald, applies equal dorm fee

By Michael Freeman Managing Editor

When Kyle Shirey heard he was going to live in Edwards Hall instead of Mabee Hall, he was understandably happy.

“We’ve got our own bathroom, and I’ve seen my friends’ dorm rooms, and they’re a lot smaller,” said Shirey, freshman marketing major from San Angelo. “It’s

pretty nice.”

Two floors of Edwards Hall occupied by freshmen is not the only new change in residenDelony tial life this semester. The Office of Residence Life Education and Housing made dozens of ren-

ovations and policy changes over the summer. One change included moving its offices from McKinzie Hall to McDonald Hall, a building closer to the main streets that encircle the campus.

“I love this building, [McDonald Hall],” said John Delony, director of Residence Life Education and Housing.

“I wanted to give parents and prospective students a

prominent place to come and meet with Residence Life. It made sense to me to move over here.”

Also during the summer, renovations were made to most of the residence halls.

McKinzie Hall’s lobby was completely redesigned and refurbished. McDonald Hall received new carpet, paint and vanities. Computers and furniture were installed in Ed-

wards Hall. Parking lot lights were set up near the SmithAdams Halls, and Gardner, Sikes and Nelson Halls all received minor renovations.

“Physical Resources came in and did an incredible job,” Delony said. “They have just been unbelievable.”

Policy rules also got a facelift. After Monday residents in sophomore residence halls, instead of getting a second

‘World Famous’ Renovation

Editor in Chief

Before the 2008-09 school year, university policy forbode any ACU student — 21 or older — to possess, consume or distribute alcoholic beverages off campus.

All that changed when university officials reexamined and amended the ACU Alcohol Policy so all students of legal drinking age could now have a sip of beer off campus without looking over their shoulders.

“I think it shows that ACU trusts their students more,” said Sara Potter, senior Advertising/Public Relations major from Fort Worth. Potter added she saw no conflict with her faith and having a glass of wine with her dinner. “I can claim to be a Christian and I can claim to enjoy alcohol.”

Jean-Noel Thompson, vice president and dean of Student Life, said that although students of legal age are now allowed to drink off campus, the policy change makes it easier to maintain a dry campus. Thompson said the office of Student Life would take an active role in making sure students of all ages know the dangers of alcohol and will

Head Copy Editor

Zak Zeinart :: chief photographer Freshmen Jeff Bartosh, finance and accounting major from Dallas, Greg Hunt, wildlife management major from Dallas and Lauren Ferguson, nursing major from Dallas, get to know each other during lunch in the “World Famous Bean” on Aug. 23.

dining hall is a digital menu at each station that displays the food items being served and the nutritional breakdown for each item. This will be ready by Oct. 1.

“Students can choose an entrée and be educated about what they put in their bodies,” Williams said.

Although the university budgeted $3.6 million for the total Bean initiative, it ended slightly under budget after the majority of the construction was completed.

The process of conceiving the new Bean took two and half years of consideration and planning

acuoptimist.com

“World Famous Bean” Hours

Log on to see the new Bean and student reactions to the renovations through 4,000 online student surveys, seven focus groups, 423 palm pilot surveys and numerous visits to other campuses.

Improvements in the Bean have been governed by the feedback of those the Bean serves, Williams said.

See

acuoptimist.com: Video of ACU’s 103rd Opening Day Ceremony online.

Bean page 47

Monday-Friday n Breakfast — 7-9 a.m. n Continental Breakfast — 9-10:30 a.m. n Lunch — 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. n Dinner — 5-7 p.m.

Saturday n Breakfast: 8-9 a.m. n Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. n Dinner: 5-6 p.m.

Sunday n Breakfast — 8-9 a.m. n Lunch — 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. n Dinner — 5-6 p.m.

See

Opinion Page Editor

By Colter Hettich Features Editor Zak Zeinart :: chief photographer Dennis Podryadchikov, graduate student from Sosnogorsk, Russia, holds his country’s flag during the 2008-09 Opening Day Ceremonies Monday.

than 100 flags represented the diversity of this year’s student body.

ACU President Dr. Royce Money welcomed the crowd,

aCu WeatHer

and then recognized and thanked all the international students. Money expressed See

Opening page 4

ACU Theater’s Moonlight & Magnolias opens Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in Fulks Theatre, located in the Williams Performing Arts Center.

The comedy details the efforts of producer David O. Selznick, screenwriter Ben Hecht and director Victor Fleming to write the screenplay for Gone with the Wind in the late 1930s. Locked in an office, eating only bananas and peanuts until the screenplay’s completion, the three work to save what would be the most expensive movie ever made at the time

More from the

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

High: 94 Low: 72

High: 94 Low: 71

High: 92 Low: 71

JMC

Alcohol page 4

‘Moonlight’ shines on ACU Theatre

By Laura Acuff

In keeping with the Olympic spirit and ACU tradition, the 103rd Opening Day Ceremony commenced with a Big Purple rendition of Olympic Fanfare and Theme. Faculty filed into Moody Coliseum, followed by the traditional Parade of Flags in which more

ResLife page 4

By Daniel Johnson-Kim

By Kelline Linton

ACU begins 103rd year as Christian Institution

See

University amends drinking guidelines

Dining facility reshaped with health, variety as inspiration The new Bean pulsated with hungry crowds as students poured into line after Opening Day Ceremonies on Monday.

Delia Lopez, a Bean employee who has worked in the new facilities since the beginning of the summer, said customer numbers were more than usual.

“I heard a lot of ‘it’s amazing’ and ‘wow’ from students,” Lopez said.

The new Bean opened Aug. 9, and its first customers were football players who were in town for ACU’s summer drills.

“It had all sorts of food you could eat, and the pizza, burgers and barbeque chicken was good,” said football player A.J. Miller, freshman undeclared major from Mansfield.

Construction officially began on the Bean in the last week of April and was almost complete by Aug. 1. The general contractor who oversaw construction of the Bean in a timely 76 days was Scot Colley, an in-house employee who works at Physical Resources.

“Scot did an outstanding job at putting things together,” said Anthony Williams, Chief Auxiliary Services Officer of ACU. One part still to come to the new

lottery, will receive a one-time opportunity to personally switch roommates as long as the switch occurs within the same dorm.

Juniors, seniors and graduate students also will have the chance to live in SmithAdams Halls.

Visitation now will be held every Thursday in every hall

network:

of its release.

“The good thing about this play is that it lays the history out for you,” said Katie Hahn, junior theatre major from Abilene, who plays the role of Miss Poppenghul, Selznick’s secretary, in the play.

“People who’ve seen the movie will definitely see things and be like, ‘Oh, I remember that from the movie,’ but the good thing is, this is a true story, and it does lay out what happened,” she said.

Beside Hahn, Will Christoferson, senior theatre major from Abilene; Matt Worthington, senior

Moonlit SHOWTIMES The ACU Theatre Department will perform Moonlight & Magnolias as its first show in the fall. n Aug. 28-30 n Sept. 5-6 n Sept. 12-13 Tickets - $12

theatre major from San Antonio, and Jeremy Varner, junior theatre major from Abilene, round out the four-member cast.

Christoferson, Worthington and Varner remain onstage See

Moonlight page 4

do you like Online Poll : How the new Bean?

Webcast Log on to www.youtube.com/acuvideo to see a short newscast from the JMC Network Newscast staff.

Wednesday’s Newscast will cover the Opening Day Ceremonies, the changes to the “World Famous Bean.”

a. Better than ever. b. New look, same old food. c. Haven’t been there yet. d. Great, but doubt it will last acuoptimist.com

Department of Journalism and Mass Communication ::

Abilene Christian University

::

Serving the ACU community since 1912

2

Campus Day Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Wednesday

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ACU-Cockerell Art Gallery presents the ACU Student Printmaking Show: a collaborative exhibition by ACU students. Free admission through Aug. 31. Contact 325-674-2085

Saturday

Friday

HHRB Tour Stop is at 7 p.m., featuring Homer Hiccolm & the Rocketboys at the University Baptist Church on the corner of Grape Street and Ambler Avenue.

Edited for space

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Thursday

Last day to register for fall classes.

Electronic Check-In closes.

Last day to withdraw from a class for a 100% refund.

Football at Northwestern Missouri at 6 p.m.

Moonlight & Magnolias plays Aug. 28-30 at 7:30 p.m. in Fulks Theater. Directed by Gary Varner.

Call 325-674-ARTS (2787)

acuoptimist.com

Online Videos

Webcast

See a video of Monday’s Opening Day Ceremonies and video about the newly renovated “World Famous Bean.”

Log on to: www.youtube.com/acuvideo to see a short newscast from the JMC Network Newscast Staff.

Volunteer Opportunities

ChapelCheckup Credited Chapels to date:

02

Credited Chapels remaining:

63

Announcements Labor Day holiday on Sept. 1 is not a day off for ACU. All offices are open and every class is in session.

Wildcat Preview Day will be on Monday, Sept. 1. It is a chance to meet prospective students. Call 1-800-460-6228 for more information.

A free playing of Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skulls will be in Cullen Auditorium at 8 p.m. Students can get in with an ACU ID. Admission for those without an ID is $1. Cokes will be 50 cents, and candy will be 25 cents.

H.E.R.O., Hendrick Equine Rehabilitation Opportunities needs volunteers to assist children with physical challenges by walking alongside a horse as the client rides.

The task requires one hour weekly commitment for eight weeks from Sept. 30 – Nov. 20. as well as a brief training session. Volunteers do NOT need to have experience with horses, just not be afraid of them.

The Alzheimer’s Association is seeking volunteers to help with their annual Alzheimer’s Walk at Nelson Park. The walk takes place on Saturday, Sept. 20, and help is needed between the hours of 6 a.m.- noon. They also need help on Sept. 18 & 19 to haul tables to the park.

ACU’s Lectureship Summit, Sept.

21–24, needs someone to answer phone call requests for shuttle pick-ups. 21-year-old drivers are needed to drive 15 passenger

High gas prices means more scooters and mopeds on campus. Remember that these must have a parking permit and are prohibitied from being driven or parked on sidewalks.

Police Log

Calendar and Events

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ACU Police Tip of the Week

vans for the shuttle service. Male students are needed to serve communion on Sunday evening.

Volunteers are needed to work the registration tables in Teague Center and baby sitters are needed during the day and evening to assist with child care at the Hillcrest Church of Christ and the Gibson P.E. Center (on ACU campus).

G.V. Daniels Recreation Center needs volunteers to help staff with games and to assist kids with homework. Help is needed any afternoon, Monday through Friday, between 3:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

For more information regarding any of the above opportunities, contact the Volunteer and Service-Learning Center in the Bean Sprout.

Monday, Aug. 18 8:04 a.m. Parking violation on Campus Center Road 8:45 a.m. Incomplete 9-1-1 at call box behind Nelson Hall, no one around 3:50 p.m. Vehicle accident in Mabee Lot, no report 4:15 p.m. Theft at McKinzie Hall.

6:45 p.m. Theft at WPAC, case Tuesday, Aug. 19 1 a.m. Burglary alarm at the Calling Center, discovered door open, contacted employee to secure the building 8:30 a.m. Assisted Abilene PD at 900 N. Judge Ely 10:32 a.m. Assisted Abilene PD with burglar alarm at 800 Scott 12:31 p.m. Fire alarm at Teague, checked, all okay 5:20 p.m. Medical emergency at the Campus Center, student taken to Hendrick Hospital by private auto 8:26 p.m. Jumpstarted vehicle at Chicken Express on EN 10th 10 p.m. Refueled vehicle 10:05 p.m. Assisted Abilene PD with loud party report at 1600 Cedar Crest, unfounded Wednesday, Aug 20 1:47 p.m. Theft report at A.B. Morris Hall.

2:15 p.m. Theft report at the Business Building.

2:20 p.m. Jumpstarted vehicle at West Campus North Lot 4:25 p.m. Report of suspicious subject in the alley of 700 EN 14th, checked, unable to locate 19:04 p.m. Jumpstarted vehicle at Morris Lot, cancelled before arrival Thursday, Aug. 21 8:00 a.m. Report of stranded motorist at Judge Ely and Teague Blvd, vehicle gone upon arrival 8:21 a.m. Traffic stop at EN 18th and Campus Court for disregarding

stop sign 10:25 a.m. Theft report at Mabee Lot. 11:15 a.m. Escorted subject to Wal-Mart 11:30 a.m. Theft report at Gardner Hall.

Friday, Aug. 22 8:41 a.m. Burglary at the Library.

10 a.m. Indecent Exposure.

10:25 p.m. Report of subjects throwing water balloons at the Intramural Field, unable to locate Saturday, Aug. 23 1:36 a.m. Assisted Abilene PD with loud party at 700 EN 14th 7:37 a.m. Report of disturbance in alley of 500 EN 18th, unfounded 9:41 a.m. Report of suspicious subject at Edwards Hall, contacted subject, and he was arrested by Abilene PD for outstanding warrants 11:25 a.m. Burglar alarm at Campus Center, set off by employee 11:56 a.m. Incomplete 9-1-1 at University Park office, misdial 9:28 p.m. Fire alarm at Smith Hall, set off by smoking materials Sunday, Aug. 24 2:28 a.m. Report of loud party at The Grove-Bldg 6, resident was warned, complied.

2:57 a.m. 2nd Report of loud party at The Grove-Bldg 6 , final warning issued 10:50 p.m. Placed barricades at Teague Lot Always report suspicious activity to ACU Police at 325-674-2911.

CAMPUS NEWS

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Page 3

Local businesses struggle through summer slowdown

By Colter Hettich Features Editor

About mid-May every year, thousands of ACU students generally welcome the summer months with open arms, but not everyone in Abilene shares their excitement.

Many businesses in the surrounding area know with the summer comes necessary shifts in business strategy.

Tammy Barber, Peet’s Coffee and Tea manager, watched business drop this summer.

“I’d say at least half of our customers are college students,” Barber said. “A lot of them come in before 8 a.m., especially before class.”

Though many are customers, university students affect both sides of the counter.

Of the nine current Peet’s employees, five are university students, and Barber could not confirm but believed all five to be ACU students.

Barber said customer traffic has increased in the last week.

Sharky’s Burrito company manager Willie Valencia said Sharky’s suffered a 20 percent drop in customers.

Lowering the labor costs by maintaining fewer employees is one way Sharky’s minimized losses during the summer.

“Everything just goes down without the college students,” Valencia said.

Joel Harris, founder of Box Office Video and owner and operator of the rental store for the past 11 years, has worked in the business world since 1980 and said significantly lower consumer spending over the past three months affected more businesses than just his own.

“Business this summer was the worst I’ve seen since I’ve been in business,” Harris said. “It was a tough summer.”

Though college students made up a large percentage

of his customers, Harris said their absence was not to blame for the slump. Typically, families who monitor their kids’ television exposure during the school year rent two to three times more often during the summer.

Economic strains on middle class families have restricted spending, especially in his line of trade, he said.

“Once class starts, families slow down. Even though students are back, it takes a few weeks minimum to pick that business back up,” Harris said.

In such a unique, collegeoriented area, Harris and other business owners have developed strategies to compensate for seasonal fluctuation. Such strategies include additional advertising during the first weeks of school and the hiring of fewer summer employees.

E-mail Hettich at: clh05e@acu.edu

Fresh Talent

Zak Zeinert :: chief photographer Crystol Newton, senior exercise science major from Rowlett, and Cody Maynard, senior accounting and finance major from Gatesville, wait in line at Sharky’s Burrito.

Walker ready to teach in Montevideo

By Michael Freeman Managing Editor

The Study Abroad Latin America program had a changing of the guards Aug. 21 as new onsite directors Wimon and Rosalinda Walker left for Montevideo, Uruguay.

Wimon Walker, instructor of Bible, missions and ministry, and his wife Rosalinda, who for the past three years taught bi-lingual fourth grade classes at Fannin Elementary in Abilene, will be taking over for Rhonda Collier, professor of English, who was the Latin America director for the past two years.

“I’m excited about it,” Wimon Walker said. “We’re looking at a three-year commitment. But certainly, if it works out well, it could be longer than that.”

While in Montevideo, the Walkers will serve as faculty

Emily Jorgenson :: staff photographer Ben Miller, a freshman physics major from Houston, displays his “fresh” talents on the keyboard during the Freshman Talent Show held in Moody Coliseum during Welcome Week on Saturday.

members, residence life coordinators, student advisers and excursion planners.

“It’s a whole lot of hats to wear,” said Lauren G r a h a m , Study Abroad Coordinator.

“It’s a big job, but very fulfilling.”

T h e Walker Walkers have plenty of foreign experience. Rosalinda spent part of her childhood living in Argentina; Wimon was an intern with the MARK program, which was a missionary program 30 years ago. They both lived in Buenos Aires as missionaries for two years before marrying and spending 15 years in Botswana doing mission work.

And in 2006, Wimon taught a short course in Montevideo.

“You put those things

together, along with the academic interest and abilities that they have, and they stand out,” said Kevin Kehl, director of the Center for International and Intercultural Education.

The Walkers both are fluent in Spanish, but they also are fluent in mission work. Wimon, along with Gary Green, founded World Wide Witness, a missionary group on campus. Wimon also was an elder at Minter Lane Church of Christ in Abilene. “[The Walkers] are a good fit for ACU,” Kehl said. “They are interested in students’ intellectual and spiritual development.”

ACU students enrolled in the fall 2008 Study Abroad program will leave for Montevideo Aug. 27. The Walkers will be ready to receive them, Wimon said.

E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu

FROM THE FRONT

Page 4

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Bean: Service, food Opening: Scott urges students to serve provide fresh aura Continued from page 1

Continued from page 1 “We asked what we could do to create an exceptional dining experience, and the result is the dining hall we have now,” Williams said. “The new Bean represents three things— it is exceptional, innovative and a part of an authentic culinary experience.”

The Bean consists of several food stations such as international cuisine, produce, pizza, grill, home cooking and sandwiches.

Williams himself loves the international station, “but my wife would want me to say the produce market is my favorite,” he said.

“The Bean offers something Anthony Williams would like and John Q or Susie Q would also like,” Williams said.

The international and home cooking stations have a fourweek menu, which means main entrees will not repeat for at least four weeks, but the grill and pizza stations basically serve the same food each day.

Beside the quality in food, the service also has improved.

The Bean now boasts Abilene’s only Culinary Chef of America; this experienced chef prepares the food at the international station.

“Culinary School of America is the Harvard of culinary schools,” Williams said.

It also has other experienced chefs on staff, like a graduate from the New England culinary school, a certified sous chef and a Food Service Director who also graduated from a culinary school.

“If you looked at a school our size and tried to identify another school that has those kind of qualifications, I think you would come up with an impressive appraisal of our food service operation,” Williams said.

The new Bean implements an innovative concept when it comes to food preparation— Real Food on Campus. RFOC is where workers prepare fresh food in front of students. This was done in direct response to student surveys, Williams said.

“Today’s students don’t want a cafeteria, they want a restaurant; we have gotten rid of the cafeteria, and now we have a restaurant,” Williams said.

The new Bean also creates an opportunity to experience community with secluded seating and group seating.

The added square feet is

convenient for crowded lines of hungry customers.

“This place has expanded, and more space is the best part,” said football player Tony Metoyer, junior criminal justice major from Taylor.

Joel Swedlund, Campus Williams Center manager, ate at the old Bean on a regular basis and thinks he may eat at the new Bean even more because it’s convenient, affordable and the variety and quality of food has improved.

“It’s always nice to upgrade things a little bit,” Swedlund said.

The new Bean hours also may change in the future as the administration considers expanding them, Williams said.

Students now can eat at the Bean during operational hours if they have a meal plan. Although the meal plan prices are higher this year, they have been adjusted to reflect the increased price of food. Base essentials like corn, dairy, bread and eggs have increased in price by nearly 18 percent, but the meal plan cost was not augmented enough to cover this increase fully. Students who want to purchase a meal plan can go to www.acu.campusdish. com or can sign up at the Meal Plan table in the Campus Center. Anyone who buys a meal plan by Sept. 5 will be entered in a drawing for a $125 Target gift card. The winner will be announced at the Grand Opening of the Bean Sept. 8.

The Grand Opening is themed “A Texas-sized Celebration of Food.” After the ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon, a giveaway will take place from 1-5 p.m. in the Campus Center.

Prizes will include T-shirts and free passes for the nighttime celebration in the Bean from 5-7 p.m. The celebration will include Texas-themed food, a Wii tournament, chef showdown and talent showcase. Students can sign up for the tournament or talent show at the Meal Plan table in the Campus Center.

“I challenge anyone to locate a dining hall in the Southwest that looks and acts like our dining hall,” Williams said. “Even nationwide, you would be hard pressed to identify a dining hall like the one we have here.”

E-mail Linton at: krl04b@acu.edu

his excitement regarding the coming year and the amount of global attention this year’s freshman class has received.

“More than 1,000 new students are sitting here today, … and they have been scrutinized by media across the world,” Money said.

After the traditional singing of All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name and scripture reading, Students’ Association president Daniel Paul Watkins welcomed all in attendance, officially announced his cabinet and delivered a few words of encouragement, urging his listeners to seize the present to better themselves.

“Unlike fine wine, I don’t just naturally get better with age,” Watkins said.

Many distinguished guests joined Monday’s crowd, including ACU’s ninth president Dr. William J. Teague, his wife Margaret, the featured speaker, California Sen. Jack Scott (D — Altadena) and his wife Lacreta.

Scott, ’54, has served as senator for California’s 21st District since 2000 and will assume the role of statewide chancellor of the California

community college system when his second term expires on Jan. 1, 2009.

Scott holds a Master of Divinity from Yale University and a doctorate in American history from Claremont Graduate University. After 10 years as a teacher and administrator at Pepperdine, he spent five years as dean of Instruction at Orange Coast College, and in 1978 became the president of Cypress College, the third largest community college in the nation.

Scott spoke on citizens’ responsibilities to God and country. He not only stressed the importance of service but also the importance of voting by commenting on the current violence in Zimbabwe.

“If the right to vote means so much to them, then surely we should take the time to vote and do it with a great deal of thought,” Scott said.

“This is an important election, and I want you to weight [the] issues carefully.”

Scott continued encouraging students to be involved in public office, but made clear that “responsibility to God is the primary loyalty.”

“If good people refuse to

Zak Zeinert :: chief photographer President Royce Money delivers his speech to the audience during the 103rd Opening Chapel Ceremony Monday.

seek office because of the possibility of conflict, then whom do we leave the public office to?” Scott said. “But I can guarantee you…in the long run, it’s not going to be what you get,

it’s going to be what you give.

And so my parting words are simply these: serve, serve and serve again.”

E-mail Hettich at: clh05d@acu.edu

Alcohol: Policy encourages responsibility Continued from page 1 encourage students to make “Godly” decisions.

“We hope that all decisions they make will honor God,” Thompson said.

The language of the new policy clearly supports ACU’s stated desire to maintain an alcohol-free campus. Anyone caught consuming, possessing or under the influence of alcohol on campus, at a student organization event or at a University-sponsored event is subject to one or a combination of sanctions.

In addition to a fine rang-

ing from $100-250, violators may have to attend an alcohol education program or counseling, may be placed on disciplinary probation or be indefinitely suspended.

“The ACU community cares deeply about the health and safety of our students, and is committed to educating students about the physical and spiritual dangers of alcohol abuse,” the policy reads. “ACU … discourages students from attending establishments such as dance clubs, bars and private parties where the principal pur-

pose is known to be the sale and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages.”

But the policy change is no reason to throw a block party; alcohol-related disturbances by ACU students off campus may incure disciplinary action if students cause a disturbance or are charged with an alcoholrelated crime, according to the policy.

“I’m OK with having a dry campus, but I feel students should have the freedom to buy alcohol if you’re of age,” said Emily Taege, ju-

nior art and Spanish major from Lincoln, Neb. Even though Thompson said he is confident the new policy is here to stay, he said anything is possible, and the policy can be changed in the future.

“I’m going to be honest with you; you have to step back after you make changes and look at ways to improve upon it,” Thompson said.

E-mail Johnson-Kim at: djj04a@acu.edu

ResLife: Changes Moonlight: Serious made for fairness social issues in show Continued from page 1 in order to build a sense of community, Delony said.

All halls will be locked 24 hours per day, so any student wanting to get into the dorms will need card access.

Finally, all residence halls will cost the same price.

Freshman dorms will cost $1,400 per semester, while all sophomore dorms will cost $1,750, according to the ACU Web site.

“I want to make sure that I’m fair to the ACU community,” Delony said. “I didn’t want students picking a hall based on what they could or could not afford. What

I want students to do is to begin thinking past what’s the coolest hall or the most expensive hall, and thinking about which hall is best for them and which one they’ll really like better,” he said.

Residence Life moved all the resident directors from last year into different halls after an extensive training program over the summer.

Six new resident directors were hired this semester.

“ACU is one of the best universities at being on the front end of residence halls,” Delony said. “They want them to be continually improved.”

E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu

Continued from page 1 the entire play for the complete one-hour-and-40-minute duration.

“That’s hard; I mean they fill that stage, and you’re never off,” said Gary Varner, the director of Moonlight & Magnolias and associate professor of Theatre. “For that one hour and 40 minutes, they are constantly on, and it’s draining.

At the end of rehearsals, they were exhausted,” he said.

Despite the play’s comedic façade, Hahn said it contains portions of seriousness that deal with social issues of the late 1930s.

“I would say that it’s a light-hearted show, but there are parts of it that deal with some really difficult things, some things that really were a big deal at the time,” Hahn said. “It’s interesting to see the kind of things that were going on socially in 1939 versus where we are now.”

Although the comedy may seem over-the-top, research shows most of the play’s events and characters are true

to history, Varner said.

“It’s just that these people in the movie business, they are bigger than life,” Varner said.

“I mean, Selznick was nuts; he was a crazy man when he was trying to produce a movie.

He’d do whatever it takes to try to get the movie done, and this one he was going to do without any compromises.”

However small his cast, Varner said he believes the actors will hold their own, and the students will appreciate the play’s comedy.

“They’re all worth seeing onstage,” Varner said.

“They’re really funny guys.

It’s got a lot of improvisational moments built into it, and these guys—they run with it. And it’s just fun to watch them eat that many bananas.”

The show will play Aug. 28-30 and Sept. 5-6 and 12-13, with performances starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets purchased in advance cost $12 each, while tickets purchased at the door cost $6.

E-mail Acuff at: lka06a@acu.edu

CAMPUS NEWS

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Page 5

Athletic field house construction begins

By Colter Hettich Features Editor

Construction permeates the Edwards parking lot, but ACU women’s soccer and softball players do not need to complain because the demolition work will soon lead to the university’s newest athletic facility—the one-story soccer/ softball field house—soon to be located, this spring, in the old intramural field across the parking lot from Edwards Hall.

Plumbing and sewage construction for the field house began in Edwards parking lot two weeks ago and, if weather permits, should be completed next week.

“As soon as it quits raining

and dries up a little bit, probably next week, the lot will be reopened, and construction will begin in the grassy area,” said Bob Nevill, director of Physical Resources. “We don’t know just yet when we’re going to resurface that portion of the lot, but it will be drivable.”

Nevill also said recent heavy rains have significantly delayed progress and pushed back the original completion date.

“Until the weather did us in, we were planning on finishing it by the start of the spring semester,” Nevill said.

“But it will certainly be finished in the spring.”

Athletes and fans have much more to look forward to in the new field house than just locker

rooms and showers.

Jared Mosely, director of athletics, said in addition to locker rooms for women’s soccer and softball players, the structure will house a team classroom for meetings and film study, a satellite training room for treating injuries on location, two offices per sport, restrooms and a concession stand.

“This is a major facility we’ve had on our radar for a long time,” Mosley said. “We’ve done a lot of renovations and facility work. This is one project we’ve discussed needing and wanting to do for a long time, and several years ago, we felt we needed to move forward with it.”

All building and construction plans have been approved

and finalized, and the funding is in place, Mosley said. Mosley is confident the needed funds are available, although project coordinators are not sure how much of the final cost will be covered by fundraising and how much by “sources within current budget structures.”

“That’s still kind of a moving target,” Mosley said.

“There’s a possibility we could have the entire project funded by donors, or it could be a combination. We’re continually fundraising for this project, and the university is comfortable with the plan that is covering [the costs].”

E-mail Hettich at: clh05d@acu.edu

Zak Zeinert :: chief photographer Construction equipment sits in Edwards parking lot. A one-story soccer/softball field house will be built nearby.

Barnards accept positions in China, D.C. Health Services copes

By Lydia Melby Arts Editor

Faculty changes have characterized the 2008 school year, with some professors retiring and others beginning their new careers at ACU, but two noticeable faces missing in action are those of Drs. Wayne and Mimi Barnard, two longstanding members of the ACU community, who will not be returning this year.

Wayne Barnard is temporarily moving to China to spend ten months teaching at the International Academy of Beijing, a Christian International K-12 school for expatriates living in China. He accepted this position last July, and he also has been offered the position of director for Harmony Outreach, an organization founded by John and Lisa Bentley that serves special needs orphans. He plans to leave the U.S. for this position Sept. 5.

Also in July, Mimi Barnard took the position of vice president of Professional Development and Research with the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities in the District of Columbia.

ACU has Wayne Barnard not yet chosen a successor to Mimi Barnard’s previous position as director of Faculty Enrichment.

Dr. Dwayne Mimi Barnard VanRheenen, the Provost, said administration will “conduct a national search for the director of Faculty Enrichment, reviewing both internal and external applicants.”

Student Life will absorb Wayne Barnard’s former position as Mark Lewis assumes the

title of assistant dean for Spiritual Formation and Chapel.

Both Wayne and Mimi Barnard are currently in the District of Columbia and had to be reached by e-mail. Both said they are looking forward to the new positions they have felt called to take and they are excited about the things God will do through them in these places.

Wayne Barnard said he expects the biggest challenge he will face during his time in Bejing will be the separation from his family but he has high expectations for his time in China.

“I want to learn as much as possible about the Chinese culture so that I can be a responsible guest in this great country,” Barnard said. “I’ve grown very fond of the Beijing International Christian Fellowship and I look forward to being part of this great church and becoming involved in its various ministries.”

Mimi Barnard, who has

already started working with CCCU, said, “I am most excited about the platform and scope of my role. I will be leading and participating in initiatives to advance the cause of Christ-centered higher education…; I’m also looking forward to traveling and meeting other Christian leaders,” she said.

Wayne and Mimi Barnard said they are looking forward to moving back into a larger community, something they had been considering since spring 2007.

“Working at ACU has helped us form a global perspective—we don’t just want students to live the 21st Century Vision—we want to live it, too,” Wayne Barnard said, adding he trusts God will “continue to bless us as we are faithful, seeking to lead and serve where we are called to do so.”

E-mail Melby at: lgm05e@acu.edu

after Rector’s departure

By Michael Freeman Managing Editor

Dr. Anthony Rector, physician and former director of the ACU Medical Clinic, left the university in late July to pursue a career in private practice and mission work. Health Services since has entered into a contract with Dr. Jeff Jackson, a local family practice physician, to help fill the void, while the university searches for a permanent replacement.

“We’re still searching,” said Kathy Stokes, Health Services office manager. “But how we’re going to provide care here isn’t going to change.”

Rector now is practicing holistic medicine in the Dallas area. He also is working on a fellowship with the University of Arizona and planning to do some mission work in Thailand with single mothers.

With Rector gone, Health Services will have two physicians and two nurse practitioners working under contract for three days per week.

Women’s health clinics and family planning for married students will be new services available for students.

For more serious cases during the days the contracted doctors are not working, Health Services recommends students go to Hendrick Medical Center or walk-in clinics such as Dr. J’s Express Care, which is located by Wal-Mart on State Highway 351.

“Actually, we’ll be able to treat more students because we’ll have two physicians instead of one,” Stokes said. ”But I know it’s going to be hard for some students who’ve been seeing Dr. Rector since their freshman year.”

E-mail Freeman at: mxf04b@acu.edu

FocusWednesday

Page 6

Pete Koehn :: staff photographer

August 27, 2008

College Cuisine

Photos and story by: Laura Acuff safety tips

Here are a few things for the beginner chef to keep in mind: n Wash hands with soap and water after handling raw meat of any kind. n Check the temperature of meat with a thermometer before serving to ensure it is fully cooked.

Microwave Meals Baked Potato: Microwave 10-12 minutes on full power, flip halfway through and add your favorite toppings.

Pasta: In a deep bowl with plenty of water, microwave pasta on full power until it is cooked through and top with canned or jarred sauce of your preference.

Pre-packaged meals: Foods like Ramen noodles and frozen or refrigerated dinners offer quick solutions, but check food labels and watch for high amounts of sodium.

Jarred soups: Soups can provide hearty, quick meal options.

Eggs: Scramble and microwave eggs until desired consistency. Add vegetables or meat for variety.

Instant Oatmeal: Microwave instant oatmeal in water or milk. The filling grain comes in a variety of flavors.

Steamfresh fresh, frozen vegetables: These vegetables finish cooking in minutes, come in a variety of types and combinations and also are available in single-serving packages.

n Be careful not to crosscontaminate raw meat and ready-to-serve items, like produce or already cooked sides. n Avoid temperatureabusing food that requires refrigeration.

eating Efficiently A few ideas for keeping your stomach and your pocketbook full: n Inexpensive, filling foods: Potatoes, beans, pasta, cheese and bread. n No cooking required: Tuna or chicken salad, sandwiches, guacamole, salad (fruit or vegetable), fruit smoothies, cereal (top with fruit for breakfast) and granola bars.

Healthy Snacks Fruit: Opt for fresh fruit and branch out—try new or exotic produce, or try freezing an old favorite, like grapes or bananas, for a cool treat.

Nuts: Add protein to your diet. Mix granola and dried fruit to make your own trail mix.

Vegetables: Some vegetables, like carrots, even come pre-cut for quick snacking.

Alternative Cooking Appliances Irons: They’re not just for clothes. Cover cheesefilled and buttered tortillas or bread with foil, and iron until bread is crisp and cheese is melted. Add vegetables or meat for variety.

Hot Water Heaters: These electric appliances boil water, which can be used to make hot chocolate or apple cider and to speed cooking for dry soup mixes.

Cast-Iron Skillet: These heavy-duty fryers require minimum cleanup following an initial “seasoning” (essentially, baking cooking oil onto pan), since food may simply be wiped out with a paper towel following use.

Easy Cooking Omelets: While eggs will eventually lose baking qualities, they’re still safe to turn into omelets or scrambled eggs after a semester in the fridge. Add favorite vegetables or meat for a personalized plate.

Spaghetti: Perfect for feeding groups, spaghetti can be as simple as cooking pasta and heating a jar of premade sauce.

Casseroles: These potluck staples have a bad reputation, but breakfast or king ranch casseroles can be crowd-pleasing and often only require layering and baking in an oven-safe dish.

Brownies: Spice up regular brownie mixes by adding nuts or chocolate chips, or melt mint chocolates over the top of baked brownies.

CAMPUS NEWS

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Signing on to write on

‘Vision’ invests in new Honors College

By Lydia Melby Arts Editor

Emily Jorgenson:: staff photographer Jessica George, senior English major from Abilene, works at the Shinnery Review booth during the student involvement fair Saturday

On the university’s one hundred-year anniversary, it released its 21st Century Vision, an outline detailing its plan to “become the premier university for the education of Christ-centered, global leaders.” Part of this vision included “invest[ing] in a fully-developed Honors College and create[ing] highly-attractive academic programs that set the university apart.” The transformation from a mere Honors Program to a true Honors College will begin this semester and be fully implemented over the course of the next three years.

“ACU has some big things they want to accomplish,” said Stephanie Smith, the administrative coordinator

of the Honors College. “The new Honors College is a good way to improve [the university’s] academic quality.”

Dr. Chris Willerton, director of the Honors Program and professor of English, said, “The first outlay of money will go towards hiring more faculty and staff to improve our services.”

He explained the first position the Honors College would hire is an event director and recruiter, who would, in addition to the Honors faculty, be a mentor to students.

The 21st Century Vision states, “The new initiative will include developing a stronger Honors curriculum,” and while the Honors Program is planning on building a stronger curriculum, it will not be creating new courses but rather revising the core curriculum

HHRB goes full time, tour and all

By Tanner Anderson Page Designer

With all the members equipped with college degrees, Homer Hiccolm and the Rocketboys now have established themselves as a full-time band; outfitted with a 15 passenger van, a trailer and determination, the band is looking to leave their mark not only in Abilene but across the U.S. “We could all be out in the real world, working with our degrees, but we’re passionate about our music and want to spread it as far as we can. It’s necessary, so we can reach our goal to become an international band,” said Mitch Holt, 2007 ACU graduate, guitar player and singer for the band.

Local Concert Homer Hiccolm and the Rocketboys to play in their hometown: n Thursday, Aug. 28 n University Baptist Church n 7:00 p.m. n $5 door charge Also featuring Dignan and the Gazelles

HHRB is accomplishing this goal by touring wherever and whenever possible. Starting May the band begins touring around the U.S. with its van and trailer, going three weeks and playing in areas as far as Florida before taking a three-week break in order to

Page 7

collect finances.

“Our biggest problems are getting financial guarantees; we’re not starving or anything, but it takes money to tour. The hardest thing is gas prices,” said Holt.

After a summer of touring under their belt, the Rocketboys launched their new tour Aug. 25, traveling to Houston and stopping by several Texas locations for the first half of the tour. Thursday the band members and two other indie rock bands, Dignan and the Gazelles, will play at the University Baptist Church in Abilene.

“These two bands are Texas’ premiere indie rock bands; it will be a great showcase of legitimate bands,” said Holt.

The University Baptist

Church is located across from Hardin Simmons University at the corner of Grape Street and Ambler Avenue. The entrance fee is $5 per person, and the concert will begin at 7 p.m. and ends around 11:30 p.m.

Even though the bands are performing in a church space, they don’t subscribe to the explicitly ‘Christian label’. The Rocketboys decided to play there because the area can hold many people and still give out great acoustics with the fully wooden concert hall.

“We’re hoping that this will be our biggest touring event in Abilene,” Holt said. “It’s going to be a great concert with great music.”

E-mail Anderson at: tsa04a@acu.edu

already in use.

Another planned investment will be an increase in funding for honors student trips, starting with day and weekend trips to various exhibitions and events. The new Honors College also will add a program called StudyAmerica, where students will be able to study stateside in places like Boston or San Francisco—historic U.S. cities students may never have seen or explored in depth. Willerton also said that the Honors College hopes to go abroad, if StudyAmerica goes according to plan.

In 2009-10, the Honors College plans to begin awarding money for research projects, internships and travel grants. Willerton said this will not be in the form of “just blanket honors scholarships” but will be more “targeted scholarships and grants for students who are

willing to do the research and study abroad, willing to do special projects.”

Traditionally, honors programs have stressed research, service, international involvement, and leadership. The ACU Honors Program always has been consciously looking at other honors programs across the country in an effort to be comparable with the best, Willerton said. In the past, the Honors Program has encouraged service training and research projects, but the new Honors College also wants to make a conscious effort to encourage leadership opportunities, he said.

“We have a clear agenda,” Willerton said. “We want more students doing research, more students studying abroad, more students taking on civic leadership.”

E-mail Melby at: lgm05e@acu.edu

ViewsWednesday

Page 8

August 27, 2008

Mobile Initiative presents opportunity, challenge “ A CU’s motto challenges its administration, faculty and students to “change the world.”

With the Mobile Learning Initiative implemented this fall, the university changed the world in one fell swoop.

More than 120 news outlets from six continents have covered the university’s plan to distribute iPhones and iPod touches to its freshmen. ABC News TV station, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, Forbes Magazine, BusinessWeek and the Sydney Evening News TV station are only a few of the news programs that have published the story.

This small, private Christian college of almost 5,000 students in the middle of West Texas has delved into the status of superstardom.

The world has its eyes fixated on ACU and waits to see how the school will use mobile technology.

ACU should be applauded for its willingness to pioneer into new and innovative technologies that may transform the way students experience college life.

Naysayers doubt a cell phone can be incorporated into the realm of academia, but the truth is multimedia products are becoming more and more engrained into every successive generation’s lives.

ACU realized this fact and jumped on the opportunity to integrate mobile devices into its students’ curriculum.

However, some naysayers’ arguments contain cre-

”

dence. Despite the university’s deserved accolades, challenges still lie ahead that need to be addressed.

First, many students worry about the technical support on campus. Students still will need help registering their computers, connecting to the wireless network and setting up their cable televisions. Those with iPhones should not receive first priority. No student should be ignored.

Nor should professors be ignored. Faculty members need to have the resources available to properly utilize

iPhones and iPod touches in their classes. Some classrooms may have to be upgraded, and the administration, faculty and students should acknowledge this and be patient as necessary improvements occur.

Most importantly, everyone at ACU needs to responsibly establish a healthy campus culture that mixes education with technology.

Freshmen need to recognize iPhones and iPod touches were not solely meant to be used as toys and should use them appropriately. Upperclassmen ought to recognize the university’s efforts to create a new educational tool and must not become bitter just because they did not receive an iPhone or iPod touch. Faculty need to recognize mobile technolo-

Lebensgefahr

Obama’s popularity influx worrisome

“

...In the first stages of the primaries, I had as bad a case of Obama fever as anyone.

“uber-conservative” family — including grandparents, aunts and uncles via e-mail.

But much has changed since the spring.

Obama went overseas and, through everything from meticulously planned photo ops with notable world leaders to addressing around 100,000 listeners at Victory Column, won the hearts of the world. Obama’s people wanted him to speak at the Brandenburg Gate, but Berlin authorities denied that request for obvious reasons.

Granted, Barack Obama is the first black man to make it

In Your Words

“I think the iPhones are an interesting way to use technology in education.”

What’s your take on the Mobile Learning Initiative? acuoptimist.com View videos of student responses for the “In Your Words” questions online at a later date at www.acuoptimist.com

Alexandra Gosnell Biology major from Warsaw, Ill.

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 attacks, obscenity, defamation, erroneous

”

even close to this far in a presidential race. That is historic; no doubt about it. I can’t believe it happened in my lifetime. But the unashamed aggression with which Obama’s staff has pursued media coverage forces me to wonder, “How much of his popularity and approval has been fabricated by sheer exposure?”

Yes, the Bush administration delivered the worst eight years our country has seen in a long time, but in the past two years, President Bush made significant efforts to right many, not all, of his administration’s wrongs.

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: jmcnetwork@acu.edu

From a middle-class, white male’s perspective, I understand Obama’s appeal. He has been more than vocal about Bush’s mistakes and how a near 180-degree change is in order.

We’ve seen the damage a president can cause in one term, but how much damage can be repaired in another one term? I dare say it takes exponentially longer to repair something than it takes to break it.

So, is Obama everything we hear he is? I sure hope so. But even if he is, Americans need to have realistic expectations of what Obama can turn around in one or even two terms. It feels good to believe in a savior, but I hope we aren’t putting the fruition of equality, capitalism and democracy on one man’s back.

E-mail Hettich at: clh05d@acu.edu

“I think the iPhones are a great opportunity for the freshmen.”

“I think that the iPhones are silly but only because I don’t understand it.”

Brandon Pierce

Tamara Wobig

Psychology major from Mansfield.

Theology graduate student from Abilene.

Optimist the

Published by the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication

Newsroom: (325) 674-2439

Sports desk: (325) 674-2499

ACU made state-of-the-art technology available to faculty, staff and students.

Our view:

ACU, as a whole, needs to utilize the opportunities made available by new technology.

The solution:

Administrators, faculty, staff and students should keep an open mind and collaborate, so the Mobile Learning Initiative benefits all. gy can be an incredible asset in the classroom, and they should decide how to best utilize the iPhone or iPod touch, whether it be sparingly or abundantly. And the administration needs to recognize the significance of its actions when it comes to how it deals with the Mobile Learning Initiative.

The world has its eyes fixated on ACU and waits to see how the school will use

mobile technology on its campus. Everyone at ACU now will have his or her opportunity to live up to the university’s motto—change the world one ‘i’ at a time.

E-mail the Optimist at: jmcnetwork@acu.edu

Biden bid borrows trouble for Obama

By Alex York

I’d call it a fever. It began sweeping the states months ago. Thanks to a carefully planned, well-staged tour, it seems to have swept Europe.

It might be the cynic in me or maybe my gag reaction for the mainstream, but the height to which Barack Running of Obama has the Bull risen makes me hesitate.

By Colter I will be Hettich the first to admit that in the first stages of the primaries, I had as bad a case of Obama fever as anyone. I spent an embarrassing number of hours arguing issues to the death with my

The issue:

People don’t vote for vice presidents. Best case scenario: a good VP selection wins a few wavering voters. Worst case scenario: a bad VP selection obliterates an entire campaign.

That said, you’d think presidential candidate Barack Obama Conscientious would have Conjecture balked at the idea of

By Laura inviting DelAcuff aware Sen. Joe Biden to join his crusade for the White House. Instead, Obama offered Biden the vice presidency, despite the fact that they’ve stood in opposition since the 2008 presidential race commenced.

Biden, who ran against Obama in the Democratic primaries, expressed his minimal faith in the young Illinois senator early on, citing his lack of experience and calling “on the job training” inappropriate for the presidency. Yet now that he’s on the ticket, Biden seems to find Obama’s shortcomings much less objectionable, and the former competitors expect America to view them as a united team.

Assuming they have, in fact, settled their differences, one viable reason for Obama’s vice president pick surfaces. Perhaps his selection of a former naysayer signifies a gutsy move to combine their skills and address the very objections Biden himself raised.

For example, international inexperience forms one of Obama’s primary, largely accepted weaknesses. Conversely, Biden claims substantial global know-how.

However, unfortunately for Obama, Biden’s most wellknown international incident, from his 1988 bid for the presidency, involved the severe plagiarizing of a prominent British politician’s speech—ironic, considering that both Biden’s 1988 and Obama’s current platform hinge on bolstering international relations.

But then, maybe plagiarizing is exactly the way to represent the United States to the global community. After all, “imitation is the highest form of flattery.” And isn’t it encouraging to know people who commit the same transgression that

can get a student kicked out of ACU can still go on to be leaders of the free world?

Biden’s impressive credentials don’t end there. Even when he finally endorsed Obama’s campaign, he called Obama “the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy.”

Supposing Biden was more well-intentioned than he sounded, and supposing people like Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson never took offense to a statement that might disparage their cleanliness, the statement still cannot be ignored when paired with yet another incriminating remark.

“

Maybe plagiarizing is exactly the way to represent the United States.

”

Describing Delaware’s substantial Indian-American population, Biden commented, “You cannot go to a 7-Eleven or a Dunkin’ Donuts unless you have a slight Indian accent.”

And the tactless wonder strikes again.

It’s interesting that Obama, a man who is supposed to be making such strides for racial equality, would invite a widely known, however unintentional, bigot onto his ticket.

Republicans should take note and capitalize.

Inflicting the donkey-emblazoned Democratic Party with a persistent case of “hoof in mouth disease” since his 1988 bid for the presidency, Biden just can’t seem to keep his mouth shut.

And while I’m not naïve enough to believe Obama’s vice president selection will singlehandedly lose him the election, I am optimistic enough to hope Obama’s clear disregard for the credibility of his running mate will weaken his own.

As the saying goes, sometimes life hands you lemons. The Obama campaign just handed his Republican competitors a tall, cool glass of lemonade.

E-mail Acuff at: lka06a@acu.edu

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SPORTS JUMPS

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Page 9

Baseball: Wildcats living out dream Continued from page 10

his team, the Helena Brewers. Watten is currently 3-2 with a 5.29 ERA and has been working as a relief pitcher to keep his number of innings pitched down.

After the season ends, Watten will get a week off before heading to Arizona where he was invited for instructionals, and then will participate in a six-week winter workout program.

“The margin of error is a lot smaller,” Watten said. “If you leave the ball over the plate here, the more they hit it and the farther it goes. It’s been hard, but good, and it’s made me better,” he said.

Elkerson signed a freeagent contract with the Atlanta Braves after having one of the best offensive seasons in ACU history.

Elkerson, a senior outfielder, finished the season batting .424 with 22 doubles, three triples, 21 home runs and 86 RBIs. Elkerson set new LSC records with 111 hits and 202 total bases.

His 86 RBIs, 21 home runs and 202 total bases set new ACU records, and his 27 career home runs broke the old mark of 26.

“When I first got there, I was really quiet because there were a lot of new people,” Elkerson said.

“I’ve had a great time meeting new guys and going to new places; it’s been a great experience.”

Elkerson earned first team all-LSC honors as well as winning Player of the Year on his way to winning first team allAmerica honors. But after the season, he went un-

drafted before signing a free-agent contract. After signing with the Braves, Elkerson flew to Virginia and started mini camp with the Danville Braves, where he is currently batting .228 with one home run and 11 RBIs. “I enjoy it a lot,” Elkerson said. “The coaching is really good, and they have a lot of experience themselves, but I hope to progress and keep going higher up in the league.”

Watten and Elkerson will finish their first season in early September and will either attend instructionals or begin offseason training soon after. To follow Watten and Elkerson, go online at mlb.com.

E-mail Abston at: gda04b@acu.edu

Todd Piersall :: file photo Mike Elkerson set ACU records in single-season home runs (21), hits (111), RBIs (86), total bases (202) and career home runs (27). Elkerson now is playing for the Danville Braves in the minor leagues.

Basketball: Maric comes highly recommended Continued from page 10

Zack Zeinert :: chief photographer Scott practices in preparation for ACU’s first game. The Wildcats will travel to Missouri to take on Northwest Missouri State on Friday.

Scott: Higher expectations after record-setting ‘08 Continued from page 10

of energy that rubs off on the team.

“He’s a fierce competitor,” Thomsen said. “The guys know how productive he is, and people follow that. He was voted one of our team captains, and that says a lot; people look up to him in a number of ways,” he said.

To add to Scott’s accomplishments, he was nominated for the Harlon Hill Award, which is given to the top player in NCAA Division II football. Scott finished runner-up to Chadron State’s running back Danny Woodhead, who won the award in consecutive years and was the NCAA all-division career rushing leader. Scott finished 53 points behind Woodhead and received only 11 less first-place votes.

“He’s a catalyst,” Thomsen said. “That’s what I think of when I think of Bernard Scott. When you got that type of player, it rubs off on the other players.”

While the ACU team enters this season ranked No. 8 in the nation, according to the American Football

Coaches’ Association NCAA Division II Pre-season poll, Scott knows the expectations are high for the team and himself.

“I think people are always going to say something, but I use it as motivation in the weight room and during training and try to push myself to the limit,” Scott said.

While Scott has put his team’s goals above everything else for the 2008 season, Scott also will be playing to show he belongs at the next level, a goal Scott has had his whole life.

“I’ve had a couple of teams talk to me, but it’s just been a goal since I first started playing,” Scott said. “It’s a challenge, but I like that and hopefully I can make that dream a reality.”

With high expectations in 2008, Scott has the opportunity to accomplish two dreams: winning a national championship and putting himself into a position to fulfill his NFL dream.

E-mail Abston at: gda04b@acu.edu

players and two all-American selections.

“Coach Maric has played an integral part in the recruiting process over the past two seasons,” said Jason Copeland, ACU men’s basketball head coach.

“He has an understanding of what we are trying to do with our program. I am a big believer in promoting people who do a

good job and he has done that,” he said.

Maric was referred to Coach Copeland by college basketball coaching legend Bob Knight back in 2006.

“I was visiting with Bob Knight, and he wanted to know if I had room for a graduate assistant,” said Copeland. “He told me he thought ACU would be a good fit for coach Maric. I met with him [Maric] and

brought him in,” he said.

As a basketball assistant coach, Maric will be heavily involved in scouting the team’s opponents, recruiting and player development, said Copeland.

Maric, a native of Bosnia, moved to the United States after his freshman year in high school, following a stint on the Bosnian Junior National Team. At his high school in Elgin, Ill., he blossomed

into an all-conference and all-state player.

Maric played collegiately for Northeastern Illinois and Rockford College, where he graduated with a degree in mathematics in 2000. He now is working on his master’s in higher education at ACU.

E-mail Harris at: tch05f@acu.edu

Volleyball: Wildcats return five starters Continued from page 10

“She is going to be one of the biggest threats to each opponent in the conference,” Mock said.

“If we can get her the ball, she is one of our best offensive players.

She has also really come along in the past year in her blocking ability,” she said.

The final two returning starters are libero Amy Wilson, senior nursing major from Abilene, and outside Erin Curry, junior biology major from Arlington.

The Wildcats will face off against two regional opponents in the tournament Friday: Fort Hays State and Texas A&M International.

“Both teams had good seasons last year and should be good competition despite being ranked lower in the region,” Mock said.

On Saturday the Wildcats will play the University of Findlay, a highranked team from Ohio.

“A win against Findlay would be a great way to get our season off and

rolling,” Mock said.

Coach Mock said her goal for the season is to get back to the top of the conference.

“I don’t think that is unattainable,” Mock said. “It will take a lot of hard work, but I think we can get there.”

E-mail Harris at: tch05f@acu.edu

2008 Volleyball schedule Opponent

Date & Time

Grapevinewoods.com Lady Buff Classic Aug. 29-30 Fort Lewis College Invitational Sept. 5-6 Heartland/LSC Crossover Sept. 12-13 Texas-Permian Basin Sept. 16 @ 7 p.m.

Tarleton State Sept. 18 @ 7 p.m.

Texas A&M Kingsville Sept. 20 @ 2 p.m.

Eastern New Mexico Sept. 25 @ 7 p.m.

West Texas A&M Sept. 27 @ 2 p.m.

Dallas Baptist Oct. 1 @ 7 p.m.

Pittsburg State Invitational Oct. 3-4 Angelo State* Oct. 9 @ 7 p.m.

Texas A&M Commerce* Oct. 16 @ 7 p.m.

Texas Woman’s* Oct. 18 @ 2 p.m.

Texas-Permian Basin Oct. 21 @ 7 p.m.

Southwestern Oklahoma State* Oct. 23 @ 7 p.m.

Central Oklahoma* Oct. 25 @ 7 p.m.

Dallas Baptist Oct. 28 @ 6 p.m.

Cameron* Oct. 30 @ 7 p.m.

Midwestern State* Nov. 1 @ 6 p.m.

St. Edward’s Nov. 4 @ 7 p.m.

Southeastern Oklahoma State* Nov. 6 @ 7 p.m.

East Central* Nov. 8 @ 11 a.m.

n Italics denote home games * Denote conference games

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

SportsWednesday

Page 10

SCOREBOARD

Former players gaining experience in minors

Standings

By Grant Abston

Football Team Tarleton St. MSU ENMU WTAMU ACU Angelo St. TAMU-K

Div. 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Overall 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Volleyball Team WTAMU TAMU-K Tarleton St. ACU ENMU Angelo St.

Div. 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Overall 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Women’s Soccer Team

Div. Angelo St. 0-0 MSU 0-0 ACU 0-0 WTAMU 0-0 Central Okla. 0-0 East Central 0-0 ENMU 0-0 TAMU-C 0-0 NE St. 0-0 TX Woman’s 0-0 SW Okla.

0-0

Overall 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Sports Editor

Former ACU baseball players Mike Elkerson and Trey Watten proved they belong during their time at ACU, but now the two must prove they belong on a bigger stage.

Watten and Elkerson received minor league contracts in June and are getting a chance to fulfill their dreams after leading the Wildcats to a 44-17 record and their fourth straight 40-plus win in 2008.

“I just enjoy playing, but it

Baseball is a different experience because you are playing against the best of the best,” said Watten. “I don’t know what I would be doing if I wasn’t playing; I don’t regret it at all.”

Watten was drafted on the second day of the Major League Baseball’s first-year player draft in the seventh round by the Milwaukee Brewers. Watten became the second highest Wildcat drafted behind Bill Gilbreth, a pitcher for the Wildcats who was

Elkerson

Watten

drafted in the third round by Detroit in 1969.

Watten was drafted as a pitcher after only pitching for two seasons for the Wildcats. He went a perfect 10-0 his sophomore year with a

3.00 ERA and was second on the team with 75 strikeouts.

Watten was voted first team all-LSC South Division as both a pitcher and a utility player and earned LSC South Division Player of the Year honors.

Watten improved his draft stock by following up his sophomore year with a stellar senior season. Watten led the Wildcats with a 10-3 record and a 2.56 ERA and topped the LSC lead with 113 strikeouts. Watten was voted first team all-LSC as a pitcher and earned co-pitcher of the year

Friday Women’s Soccer ACU vs. Missouri Southern State, 7 p.m.

Volleyball ACU vs. Fort Hays State, 10 a.m.

ACU vs. Texas A&M International, 2 p.m.

Saturday Volleyball ACU vs. New Mexico Highlands, 2 p.m.

ACU vs. Findlay, Ohio, 4 p.m.

Football ACU vs. Northwest Missouri State, 6 p.m.

Soccer ACU vs. Drury, Mo., 7 p.m. :: Home games listed in italics

Intramural Round-up Upcoming n The intramural schedule seen on the Optimist Scoreboard is not the final schedule and is subject to change. Any lastminute changes can be viewed on the intramural bulletin board in Moody Coliseum.

Team Tennis Starts: Friday, Sept. 12 Sign-up Deadline: Thursday, Sept. 11 Cost: $40 per team

Football Starts: Tuesday, Sept. 16 Sign-up Deadline: Thursday, Sept. 11 Cost: $275 per team

4-on-4 Soccer Starts: Tuesday, Oct. 28 Sign-up Deadline: Thursday, Oct. 23 Cost: $125 per team

3-2 Softball Tournament

Starts: Saturday, Nov. 8 Sign-up Deadline: Thursday, Nov. 6 Cost: $80 per team

NOTES The women’s cross country team is inviting any interested runners to come out and run. If anyone is interested, please contact Coach Hood or go by his office in the Teague Special Events Center.

acuoptimist.com Check online for intramural schedules throughout the year

See

Baseball page 9

Great Scott: Bernard leads ACU Wildcat running back leads one of the top offenses in Div. II

By Grant Abston Sports Editor

Upcoming

honors. He also was voted first team all-America as a designated hitter after hitting .377 with five home runs and 45 RBI. “They called me before the draft but did not call me on draft day,” Watten said. “I got a call early on the second day, and they told me I was going to be picked, so I got online and watched it on the computer.”

After signing his contract, Watten flew to Arizona and participated in mini-camp before heading to Montana to join

Coming from a small town, it would have been hard for Bernard Scott to imagine being named runner up for the Harlon Hill. Yet after just his first season at ACU, Scott found himself in Florence, Ala., after being nominated for Division II’s equivalent of the Heisman Trophy.

“It was a real good experience being in Florence, Ala.,” Scott said. “I ran into a lot of good people and other candidates and got to participate in different charity events. It was just crazy how you can make a kid smile when they are going through bad times,” he said.

Scott kept Wildcat fans smiling throughout last season as he led ACU to its first home playoff victory in 30 years before losing in the second round to Chadron State.

Scott helped give ACU’s offense a boost as they boasted one of the top offenses in the nation and broke numerous school offensive records.

“Last season, I really just wanted to be part of the offense and find my role,” Scott said. “I knew there were two good backs already, and I just wanted to do whatever it took to win.”

Scott grew up in Vernon and played football, basketball and ran track before moving to Wichita Falls his senior year. At Vernon, Scott played running back and was named to the first-team all-state team

Assistant Maric adds experience to Wildcat staff in ‘08

By Chandler Harris Assistant Sports Editor

ACU hired Josip Maric as the new men’s basketball assistant coach for the 2008-09 season to help the Wildcats improve their 20-9 record from last season, in which they reached the semifinals of the LSC Post-Season Tournament.

Maric has spent the past two seasons on the ACU staff as a graduate assistant. This will not be Maric’s first attempt at assistant coaching; he spent the 2003-04 and 2004-05 seasons as the assistant coach at Kishwaukee College in Illinois.

At Kishwaukee, he successfully coached three all-conference players, two all-region See

Baseketball page 9

Brian Schmidt :: file photo Scott set NCAA Division II records in touchdowns (39) and points (234) last season in his first year at ACU.

for class 3A by the Associated Press after rushing for 2,424 yards and 19 touchdowns and recorded 150 yards receiving and two touchdowns.

Scott was also named by the Wichita Fall’s Times Record News as the Red River 22 Offensive Player of the Year. But after getting looks by several Division I football schools, Scott transferred to Wichita Falls High School and sat out his senior season, seeing the Division I scholarship offers fade away.

Despite sitting out his senior season, Scott received

a scholarship from Division II Central Arkansas, where he received Gulf Conference Freshman of the Year honors at running back after rushing for 1,026 yards and 11 touchdowns. However, after just one season, Scott transferred to Blinn Junior College and sat out the next season before leading Blinn to a 13-0 record and a NJCAA national championship the following season after. Scott finished his only junior college season with a junior college best: 1,892 yards and 27 touchdowns.

“It was a good experience;

there was a lot of talent, and I had a bunch of good coaches,” Scott said.

After receiving all-conference and all-America honors at Blinn, Scott once again transferred. This time, he headed to ACU after talking with ACU head coach Chris Thomsen, who had been with Scott as the offensive line coach at Central Arkansas and also helped Scott transfer to Blinn.

“I really contacted him about playing at Blinn, and he was interested,” Thomsen said. “I had a good con-

nection there and knew the coaches and felt they would do a good job of developing his talent.”

Transferring to ACU was something Scott considered; his decision was made easily after talking with Thomsen and seeing the facilities and other players.

“I knew I was going to go to ACU and wanted to be around some guys I could trust,” Scott said. “The facilities were much better, and I knew about it from the coaches.”

At ACU, Scott did not know what to expect in his offensive role but stepped in and made an immediate splash.

In his first game at Central Oklahoma, Scott rushed for 120 yards and started a string of 100-yard games in which he finished with 100plus yards in 11 games out of ACU’s 13. Scott finished the season averaging 166 yards a game and set numerous NCAA Division II records.

“After the season, individually-wise, I felt I had a good year,” Scott said. “But overall, it’s about winning a national championship, so it left a bitter taste in my mouth.”

Scott set NCAA Division II single-season records in touchdowns (39), rushing touchdowns (35) and points (234) and also set the LSC single-season record with 2,165 yards rushing. Scott also helped the Wildcat offense become the first offense in NCAA history to feature a 3,500-yard passer (Billy Malone), a 2,000-yard rusher (Scott) and two 1,000yard receivers (Johnny Knox and former wide receiver Jerale Badon). Scott also set the ACU single-game rushing record when he rushed for 302 yards in the season-ending playoff loss to Chadron State.

But while Scott brings talent to an already loaded Wildcat offense, he also brings a level See

Scott page 9

Volleball fourth in preseason rankings

By Chandler Harris

Volleyball

Assistant Sports Editor

The ACU volleyball team opens its season at the Grapevinewoods.com Lady Buff Classic Friday in Canyon.

The team, which finished fourth in the LSC last season, is ranked fourth in the LSC preseason poll.

West Texas A&M is ranked first overall, followed by Central Oklahoma and Midwestern State. The poll is made up of coaches, sports information directors and media members in the region.

Coach Kellen Mock is returning for her third season as the ACU head volleyball coach.

“I think the fourth place rank is reasonable,” said Mock. “The rankings turned out exactly as the final standings ended last year, so I can see why the coaches would place us fourth. However, I don’t think the ranking is at all indicative of the returning talent level and the girls’ ability to play.”

The Wildcats return with

five starters from last season, including two LSC All-Region players: Shawna Hines, junior marketing major from Aurora, Colo., and Ijeoma Moronu, sophomore exercise science major from Ft. Worth.

“Shawna is one of the best blockers in the nation,” said Mock. “She was ranked in the top ten in the nation in blocks last season in Division II. Ije [Moronu] is one of the most athletic and dynamic players ACU has ever had on its volleyball team.

She is doing some really good things getting the ball around to everyone,” she said Mock said Moronu‘s defense, blocking and ability to control the team’s court is at a really high level.

Other retuning starters include middle blocker Lauren Leone, junior exercise science major from Arlington, in her fourth season on the team. Mock said Leone consistently performs at a high level.

See

Volleyball page 9

Emily Jorgenson :: staff photographer Ericka Dickinson, junior setter from Keller, sets up for a serve in practice.

The volleyball team will begin their season Friday when they play in the Grapevinewoods.com Lady Buff Classic in Canyon.