Optimist Print Edition 03.01.19 (Volume CVIII, Issue XXII)

OPTIMIST

@acuoptimist The Optimist @acuoptimist

PICKLEBALL The intramural pickleball tournament is Saturday in the SWRC from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

A student publication of Abilene Christian University since 1912

Volume CVIII, Issue XXII

Friday March 01, 2019

News

Sports

Hispanos Unidos is gathering students for their first-ever “Beyond Stereotypes” event, where they will highlight different stereotypes that affect Hispanic and Latino communities.........................Page 2

The men’s basketball team avoided consecutive losses for the sixth time this season, defeating the Islanders on Wednesday evening, and the women extended their winning streak to four games..................................Page 6

F S S M T

W

T

Feature Weston Weast never thought he would want to pursue a career in the music industry, but has now released two singles, “Something Different” and “Kiss Kiss,” from his in-house studio...........................................Page 4

Alumna donates swing to honor late husband LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

The white swing that popped up near the Campus Center after Sing Song was donated by Lauryn Lewis Hines and her family to honor the legacy of her late husband, Kris Hines.

The two met through mutual friends at a church in Dallas and married at the beginning of 2014, and less than a year-anda-half later, Kris was diagnosed with cancer. For two years, he endured treatment and died in October of 2017.

“After some time had gone by, my family was trying to think of a way we could honor him and his memory,” Lauryn said.

“We wanted to also give something back to ACU.” Lauryn, who graduated in 2008 with a degree in integrated marking communications and English, said ACU is a special place to their family: it’s where they made a lot of meaningful memories, friends and lifetime relationships. Since they knew they would be spending much time on campus, they thought it would be nice to do something in Kris’ memory.

The swing, Lauryn said, is part of their love story – from dating to engagement.

Kris was a graduate of Harding University, where white swings are a common feature across campus.

“They have this tradition there that is ‘three swings and a ring,’” Lauryn said. “The idea is, if you sit with someone three times on one of those swings, you’re going to get married.”

When the two were dating, Lauryn was an admissions counselor at ACU and visited the Harding campus twice –sitting in a swing with Kris during both visits.

“It was really just a coincidence,” Lauryn said. “I don’t think he planned it.”

Though he didn’t propose at Harding, he still did so by a white swing at her family’s house in Colorado.

“We had so it was like our ‘third swing’ even though it wasn’t on campus.”

As the family was considering how to honor Kris, Lauryn said there were other recommendations – naming a room after him and donating something to the pre-medical program – but none of them felt right.

“Our journey with cancer

Photo by LAUREN FRANCO | EDITOR IN CHIEF Makenna LaSueur, junior psychology major from Lubbock, and Jessica Guajardo, sophomore psychology major from San Antonio, swung together on the new bench outisde the Campus Center. The swing was donated by Lauryn Lewis Hines to honor her husband, Kris Hines, who died from cancer in October of 2018. was about so much more,” Lauryn said. “It was about sharing our faith and the joy Kris had throughout that battle. It wasn’t about the medical stuff.”

Though her husband was a Harding alumnus, Lauryn’s family continues to maintain close ties to ACU. Her father, Guy “Mojo” Lewis, serves on the board of trustees, and they often return to campus for Homecoming and Sing Sing. So when the family began discussing was to honor Kris, it made sense to honor him on campus.

After brainstorming more, the family thought it would be nice to have a swing to tie ACU and Harding together and offer students something different to enjoy on campus.

The process started last summer, working with architects and Corey Ruff, associate vice president of operations, to put together a design. Though it is meant to resemble the swings at Harding, Dr. Jim Orr, vice president for advancement, said there are certain themes that tie it in with the university, one being its arches.

“It was specifically designed for campus,” Orr said.

Lauryn said they were thrilled when administration recommended the spot near the Campus Center.

During Homecoming weekend, there was a dedication ceremony for the spot. Lauryn said that initially, it was supposed to be just her family and close friends, but as the coming home queen, some class-

mates and other women on the court showed up to be part of it.

Dr. Royce Money, chancellor of the university, spoke at the dedication about the joy-filled life Kris lived and how the spot would always be a reminder of his legacy.

“It was a beautiful, very meaningful time for our family,” Lauryn said.

The next step is to add a dedication plaque to the swing so people will understand why it’s there.

“I’ve already gotten so many pictures from friends and family,” Lauryn said. “That makes me so happy.”

The Lewis family plans to continue working with Orr to consider placing more benches around campus.

“I am super honored and excited that there is so much interest. I can’t express how much that means to my family. One of the purposes of

my life is to tell Kris’ story and the story of what we went through and how the Lord was faithful to us in that adversity.”

Photo courtesy of KALEB TURNER One of many white swings on Harding’s campus.

Accreditation warning lifted from Dallas, Abilene campuses LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

After 18 months of probationary period, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools voted to remove the accreditation warning for the institution.

Robert Rhodes, provost, said the warning applied to the institution as a whole, both the main and branch campuses. During this time, the university was limited in its ability to introduce new programs.

“We weren’t restricted from doing so, but it was best that we focused our attention on addressing the warning,” Rhodes said.

“We didn’t feel like we could introduce new programs when the previously identified weren’t fully addressed.”

As the university launched ACU Dallas approximately three years ago, Rhodes said they went through different levels of program review, one of which looked at individual

programs and the way they were structured.

About a year later, SACS reviewed the branch campus, looking at it as a whole.

“If you were to consider Abilene Christian University as an umbrella, underneath that is the main campus in Abilene and a branch campus in Dallas,” Rhodes said.

The main campus had no recommendation for change.

The warning was issued after a site team from SACS visited the Dallas campus and identified con-

“

We didn’t feel like we could introduce new programs when the previously identified weren’t fully addressed.”

DR. ROBERT RHODES PROVOST

cern about the number of students compared to the number of faculty. Rhodes said they were hiring faculty after students were admitted but before the classes were taught. Instead, it was recommended that they

acuoptimist.com

hire faculty before students were admitted.

“No student faced an issue regarding the number of faculty,” Rhodes said.

Though Rhodes said he thought there would be a recommendation for follow-up conversations or visits, the warning was fully removed without either.

Rhodes clarified that the university was accredited the entire period, but the warning identified a significant element that needed to be addressed.

“What we chose to do was prioritize addressing student enrollment,” Rhodes said. “Then we would move toward focusing on program expansion.

Now we will turn our attention to new program development.”

SACS offers primary accreditation for the university, and separate secondary accreditors provide specific program approval underneath the primary accreditation SACS provides.

Page 2 | Campus News Events

Friday 03/01 1. Justice Week 2. Admitted Students Day 3. Softball vs. Maine 4. Baseball vs. Hartford 5. Softball vs. Maine Saturday 03/02 1. Baseball vs. Hartford 2. Softball vs. Maine 3. Bands concert Sunday 03/03 1. Wing Ens tour 2. Baseball vs. Hartford Monday 03/04 1. Wind Ens tour 2. Spread the Word to end the Word Week 3. PK Rush Tuesday 03/05 1. Wind Ens tour 2. Spread the Word to end the Word Week 3. Men’s Basketball vs.

Stephen F. Austin 4. NKP Rush

7

days until Spring break

Friday, March 01, 2019 ABILENE NEWS

KACU shares Monks coffee with listeners “

Last summer we had a 16-year-old student come, and he is a listener to the station and heard that we were having these coffees.

He just showed up on his own. He got himself here.”

HANNAH JOHNSON STAFF REPORTER

The event takes place from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at the station on the first floor of the Don H. Morris Center.

Cara Lee Cranford, KACU development director, said all listeners throughout town are encouraged to come.

Cranford has planned the event and has set up the announcements on Facebook, on the air and by email to promote Coffee with KACU. The turnout varies, but 20-25 listeners typically attend.

Staff members at Monks Coffee Shop are KACU fans, said Cranford. They bring their coffee, muffins and pastries to share with attendees.

Cranford said she got Monks to help them by approaching them.

“They were really excited about it,” Cranford

HEATHER CLABORN KACU NEWS DIRECTOR

Photo by RILEY FISHER | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER Cara Lee Cranford, KACU’s development director, speaks to guests about the purpose of KACU and the JMC department.

said. “They were on board from the beginning, and it’s been a really good benefit for them and us as well.”

Heather Claborn, KACU news director, said she attends the event to interact with the participants.

Some topics of conver-

sation include getting to know the listeners, KACU’s programming and listeners wanting certain shows. Wells Wetherell, one audience member, came to ask KACU to keep a show called The Moth, a storytelling show to which listeners submit stories

of their own experiences, which can range from funny to sad, Claborn said.

When KACU made changes for its programming, the members of the station kept The Moth because staff members noticed the show had interest among local fans.

Claborn said another memorable experience for her at Coffee with KACU was when a teenage-listener named TaLen Arberry came.

“Last summer we had a 16-year-old student come, and he is a listener to the station and heard that we were having these coffees,” Claborn said. “He just showed up on his own.

He got himself here.”

Claborn said she found it nice to talk with a student who likes classical music, is interested in the news and appreciates public radio.

“It was impressive,” Claborn said.

ABILENE NEWS

Air It Out Elite Academy returns to Fieldhouse Abilene BRIAN SWEETS STAFF REPORTER

The Air It Out Elite Academy conducted a spring camp session last weekend at The Fieldhouse Gym in Abilene.

The Elite Academy is a branch of Air It Out Passing Camp and has been around for six years. The camps take place three times during the winter, spring and summer.

Twenty-five middle and high school quarterbacks and 20 receivers attended camp. Quarterbacks were able to work on their footwork and throwing motion techniques while wide receivers worked on their agility and route running techniques.

“

We’re going to try to create really good habits that are going to separate these kids from their peers back at home.”

GABRIEL GARCIS OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR FOR MCMURRY UNIVERSITY

The quarterbacks received a bonus lesson on how to throw the ball in very windy conditions due to the weather on Saturday afternoon.

In between workout sessions, the players received lessons about leadership and character from Col. Craig Flowers.

Air It Out also has multiple summer camps in the summer for football players as well.

The summer camps

have become popular throughout Texas they have expanded the camps to Dallas, Houston, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin, and Amarillo.

Air It Out Passing Camp started in 1990 by Alan Wartes, former Hardin Simmons University offensive coordinator, and has taught quarterbacks, wide receivers, tight ends and running backs the proper fundamentals for their position for over two decades in Texas.

Current pro-football players from Texas have attended the summer camp including Washington Redskins quarterback Colt McCoy, Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill and Denver

Broncos quarterback Case Keenum.

Wartes said high school athletes who attend the camp are usually in the process of being recruited by universities to play football, and that college coaches are not allowed at his camps due to NCAA rules.

“The college guys have their own rules,” Wartes said. “They aren’t allowed to go to things like this.”

Gabriel Garcia, offensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator for McMurry University, said this camp is different from the other football camps in the state.

“We’re going to try to create really good habits that are going to sepa-

Photo by BRIAN SWEET | STAFF REPORTER Air it Out elite academy quaterbacks and receivers warm up with throwing exercises Saturday morning.

rate these kids from their peers back at home,” Garcia said.

Wartes said it’s been a blessing to see how his camps have grown in the last 29 years.

“You never know what

to expect but it’s been really good and I’m thankful for it,” Wartes said.

“Not only this camp but our summer camps have been huge around the state so we’ve been pretty fortunate.”

CAMPUS NEWS

Hispanos Unidos hosts first-ever ‘Beyond Stereotypes’ event

“

BRYCE LURKENS STAFF REPORTER

In its first organized event of the Spring semester, called Hispanos Unidos Beyond Stereotypes, the club gathered students and spoke about community last Thursday.

The event was organized to highlight all the different stereotypes that affect the communities. Many students from different Hispanic and Latino countries were represented during the event.

According to Hispanos Unidos’ president, Cynthia Rangel, the event was

The officers of Hispanos Unidos.

inspired by the American Statistical Association’s Misconceptions event from last year.

She said that a lot of people automatically assume that every Hispanic and Latino is Mexican, but that this could not be further from the truth.

“I believe this event

There are so many beautiful and wonderful cultures outside of the Mexican culture that are really overshadowed, and this event will highlight other cultures and how students from those different cultures live.”

CYNTHIA RANGEL PRESIDENT OF HISPANOS UNIDOS

will help students see that there are Hispanics and Latinos from countries other than Mexico,” said Rangel. “There are so many beautiful and wonderful cultures outside of the Mexican culture that

are really overshadowed, and this event will highlight other cultures and how students from those different cultures live.”

Through events like Hispanos Unidos Beyond Stereotypes, Rangel and her officer team hope to engage the Hispanic and Latino students on campus in order to bring a part of the culture to ACU. HU’s goal is to authentically represent the Hispanic and Latino civilizations to other students who may not be as educated in their culture.

The Hispanos Unidos Beyond Stereotypes event

attracted an audience of more than 50 attendees.

According to Rangel, it was the perfect crowd.

“We had about 50 people in attendance and it was wonderful. I would have loved to have a bigger audience, but I know that all the people attending loved what the panel was saying,” said Rangel.

“Although it was not a big audience, it was great for it being the first time we hosted this event.”

Rangel believes that this event will be the only one of its kind for the semester, but she says that her officer team loved it and is

looking forward to making an annual tradition of it.

Through experiences like this, Hispanos Unidos hopes to make others feel welcome in their community.

“I love how much of a family we are and how much everyone cares about each other,” said Rangel. “I really want others to feel the community that I felt when I first joined, and I also want others to feel open to express who they are and where they are.”

Hispanos Unidos meets in a Chapel small group every week at 11 a.m. in room 120 of the Bible building.

POLICE LOG SELECTED ACUPD CALLS FOR THE WEEK 02/19/2019 12:20 a.m.

An off-campus resident reported that someone broke a window and climbed inside their residence. The unknown suspect(s) rummage through dresser drawers and threw items on the floor and were gone prior to the homeowner returning.

02/20/2019 7:15 p.m.

A student reported that her laundry was stolen from the Nelson Hall laundry room. Case being investigated.

02/20/2019 9:00 p.m.

A student reported that her laundry was stolen from the Gardner Hall laundry room. Case being investigated.

02/25/2019 1:00 p.m.

Officers responded to the Library Lot in reference to male subjects yelling rude comments to females. The suspect(s) were located, identified, and advised.

911 CALL............................................................0 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITY.......................................................40 ADVICE.............................................................0 ALCOHOL INCIDENT.............................1 ANIMAL CALL.............................................0 ASSIST................................................................3 ATTEMPT TO LOCATE..........................0 BARRICADES..............................................6 BOOT/UNBOOT VEHICLE...............2 BUILDING LOCK/UNLOCK.......................................16 BURGLARY(RESIDENCE).................2 CART PATROL.............................................3 CHECK BUILDING............................343

DIRECT TRAFFIC........................................1 DISTURBANCE...........................................0 DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE............0 ESCORT.............................................................2 FIRE.....................................................................0 FOOT PATROL............................................0 FOUND PROPERTY................................1 HIT & RUN.......................................................2 INFORMATION REPORT...................3 INVESTIGATION FOLLOW UP...............................................19 LOST PROPERTY......................................2 MAINTENANCE: UNIV ASSETS............................................26 MENTAL HEALTH CONCERN.........1

MONITOR FACILITY/ LOT......................................................................7 MOTORIST ASSIST: INFLATE TIRE................................................1 MOTORIST ASSIST: JUMPSTART..................................................9 MOTORIST ASSIST: UNLOCK...........................................................8 OTHER...............................................................2 PARKING LOT PATROL...................30 PARKING VIOLATION..........................7 PATROL VEHICLE: MAINTENANCE........................................12 PATROL VEHICLE: REFUEL.............................................................7

RANDOM PATROL................................16 REPORT WRITING................................19 REPORT WRITING FOLLOWUP..........................1 SEX OFFENCE..............................................1 STAND BY.......................................................0 SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY.........................2 THEFT...................................................................1 TRAFFIC HAZARD....................................1 TRAFFIC STOP............................................4 TRAINING........................................................3 VEHICLE COLLISION..............................1

TOTAL...........................................................665

Chief Ellison’s Weekly Tip Please remember to report all crimes immediately to ACUPD. This helps with trend analysis, investigation, and prevention. We are here 24/7, contact us at 325-674-2911

Friday, March 01, 2019

News | Page 3

SPORTS NEWS

Football welcomes back pads, takes field for 2019 spring practices MAX PRESTON SPORTS DIRECTOR

The football team began its road to the 2019 season as it took the field at Wildcat Stadium Tuesday for spring camp.

ACU will look to build off a its first winning season in 2018 since transitioning to Div. I. The Wildcats finished 6-5 over-

all and 5-4 in conference at the conclusion of last year’s campaign.

Head coach Adam Dorrel said he’s looking forward to piecing together his team this spring.

“It feels great to get out of the office and get back out on the field,” Dorrel said. “I feel good about our team and the work they put in during

January and February.”

As the Wildcats prepare to establish chemistry for the 2019 season, there are a considerable amount of returners the team can lean on from both sides of the ball.

Offensively, standout returners include redshirt sophomore quarterback Luke Anthony, junior running back Billy McCrary and junior wide

receiver Josh Fink.

On defense, the Wildcats will welcome back junior linebacker Jeremiah Chambers, junior defensive tackle Cole Burgess and redshirt junior safety Bolu Onifade.

Spring practices will also be the first time new defensive coordinator Clint Brown will see the Wildcats in full contact. Brown has

been with the team for three weeks and will now begin to incorporate his style of defense on the field.

Dorrel said he trusts Brown and knows he’ll make an impact on the team this spring.

“Clint’s a professional and he’s been in this profession a long time,” Dorrel said. “He’s a really good

recruiter, he’s a great teacher and he cares about these young men. I’m looking forward to getting all these aspects out of him.”

The Wildcats are scheduled to practice 14 times during spring camp which will last up until April 3.

ACU’s Purple-White game will cap off spring practices on April 5.

Photos by MEDA BOW | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

An offensive squad trots onto the field and prepares to take reps as a unit. The players are beginning to learn their offensive schemes for the upcoming season.

FOR RENT VERY LARGE, VERY NICE HOME, FURNISHED, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, laundry. 1/2 block from ACU for lease June 1, 2019-May 31, 2020. $1600/month plus utilities. NO PETS, NO SMOKING. Call 325-513-6572.

CUTE, COZY, ONE BEDROOM CABINS, and NEW EFFICIENCY APT, 1/2 block from ACU, for lease June 1, 2019- May 31, 2020. NO PETS, NO SMOKING. Call 325-513-6572.

HOUSE FOR RENT

1033 Piedmont Drive

Football players started practicing for spring ball Tuesday afternoon at Wildcat Stadium.

The team is preparing to take on North Texas at the beginning of next season.

NEAR ACU! Nice 3-4 bdrm, 2 bath, 1713 sq. ft.

Appliances and some furniture provided. 2 car garage, fireplace, fenced yard, covered patio.

Safe, quiet neighborhood. No Pets. Lease June 1, 2019 - May 2020. Call Nancy 829-1595.

Sign-up Now for Summer and Fall 2019 Housing!

Reserve your off campus house now with deposit or get on the waiting list! House showings begin March 2019.

Rent is charged to student accounts just like the Dorm (a semester at a time).

Utilities are included along with yard care, maintenance, filters, smoke detector batteries, and regular bug treatment. www.acu.edu/community/student-life/residence-life/off-campus-housing

Call (325) 674-6817 Student Media of Abilene Christian University | Part of the JMC Network

Contact Terry Bowman Director of Off-Campus Housing bowmant@acu.edu

Page 4 | Feature

Friday, March 01, 2019

GOD-GIVEN TALENT Weast produces ‘bops’ for Spotify, Apple Music

LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

If you asked him where he would be at this point in his life, middle-school Weston wouldn’t say making music.

Weston Weast grew up mocking the way artists on the radio would sing.

“I pulled it off in a way where I kind of sounded good doing it,” said Weston, a junior music major from Oklahoma City,.

Though he only took piano lessons, his mom eventually encouraged him to start experimenting with his voice.

After middle school, he started learning guitar and fell in love with the process of creating.

“In high school, I came to the realization that music was the only thing I’m the best at,” he said. “I might as well pursue that if it’s something I want to do.”

Weston said he knew his musical abilities were god-given talents, and it was a blessing to realize that at such a young age.

As he transitioned to college, he was unaware of the music scene in Abilene, so he bought his own equipment for a home studio. As a resident assistant in Mabee, he makes most of his music in his room and records in the Williams Performing Arts Center. One of the downsides to being an RA, Weston said, is the loud air conditioning unit.

“There’s something more free, having my own equipment, because I control the placement of things and the comfort of how long I can take on whatever I’m working on. It’s perfect for me where I am right now.”

From beginning to end, the process takes a few months. Typically, he thinks of a certain series of lyrics or melody line and bases the rest of the song around them.

“For me, singing in the shower has always brought the best tunes,” Weston said.

“A lot of these songs that I write come from one certain aspect that I love.”

When he finishes the lyrics, he takes time to play the guitar or piano to figure out which fits best. As he puts together the song, he tries to recreate what’s in his head and loop it. Finally, he goes through the recording process.

Weston said he calls his songs “bops” because when people can dance to them, the lyrics get stuck in their heads.

His first, “Something Different,” came out in August of 2018.

“For me to put something out there that is tangible and people can get to is

Photos by MCKENZIE BONAM| STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Weston has a home recording studio in his dorm room as an RA in Mabee Hall, though he records music in the WPAC.

really nice,” Weston said.

“Kiss Kiss,” his newest single, came out on Valentine’s Day. Weston said it was his interpretation of the most generic romance pop song because for the past 20 years, most of pop has been about romancing something.

Weston built the entire song around the chorus, “make me want to kiss your face off.” He said when he came back for the spring semester, he had a lot of free time, so it took him three days to complete the song.

“With Kiss Kiss, I was on such a roll because I had the lyrics weeks before I started recording.”

The song is family friendly, and Weston wanted to make sure his wordplay was good enough for the people who really listened to it.

His approach was to make the song more about how it sounds rather than how it is spoken out.

“I don’t think I tried making it different as far as lyrics and beat,” Weston said. “From a face value, there’s nothing different.”

Weston said the song is unique because his listeners know him and his personality.

“I don’t come across as someone who fits the stereotype of today’s pop artist,” Weston said. “Imagine

Weston said he ejnoys the piano more than the guitar because of the ambiance of the way it sounds.

someone like Ben Rector trying to be in romance pop, that’s the personality I bring.”

As he makes more songs, Weston said he wants to fit into the category of alternative rock, though when he performs live with an acoustic guitar, he finds himself sounding more singer-songwriter and American folk.

“Through my music process, I try to find a way to blend them together.”

Weston said his vision of who he wants to be as a performer and his presence around people, is what sets him apart.

Right now, he’s working on his third single to put out around March 29 when he opens for Willow City on campus. All three singles will be on an ep he plans to have out before summer when he works as a camp counselor.

“I’m in this place where God is good and I’m able to be very creative with what He’s given me,” Weston said. “For me to hold that back for myself and not give anybody music is kind of a waste with what he’s doing in my life.”

When he performs in front of people or he’s recording by himself, Weston said he finds himself caught

in the moment, knowing he wouldn’t be able to do so well if it weren’t for God. Weston performed for an art show in the Shore Gallery this semester, closing his set with “Reckless Love”

by Cory Asbury. Andrew Godfrey, an ACU graduate and worship leader at Radiant Life, introduced himself because he was impressed with how Weston sang.

Since, Godfrey has been mentoring Weston to

lead worship.

“At that point I was performing but I felt like I was worshipping by myself,” Weston said. “I continue to be blessed with opportunities the more I sit down and create music. It’s proof of God in my life.”

Weston said one of the most frequent questions he gets is why he chose to go by the name, “Weston & the Evergreen” instead of his name. Because there are

people he wants to perform with, he used a band name in hopes that musicians would join him on his journey.

“The evergreen is not a collection of people, it’s a state of mind,” Weston said.

“Someone can go through all different seasons of life, but abiding in God’s love keeps you evergreen. For me to be Weston in the evergreen, I can be residing in that idea that God’s love is enduring.”

The junior music major from Oklahoma City learned to play guitar after middle school.

He plays primarily guitar when he performs live.

Friday, March 01, 2019

Opinion| Page 5

STAFF COLUMNS

What the true NBA MVP looks like MVP are Harden, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Paul George. Two of these MAX PRESTON players go against what I SPORTS DIRECTOR think should be considSenior convergence journalism major from Amarillo ered when voting for this award.

Harden is the epitome of what I’m against.

More than any other sport Westbrook take and miss There’s no question that today, it seems that NBA so many shots that lead to he’s displayed a lethal scorfans and analysts have been a loss on certain nights. ing season, as he’s averbegging the question all To me, efficiency needs aged 36.3 points per game season: who is this year’s to be discussed a lot more to this point. That’s exactly most valuable player? in the MVP conversations what you’ll average when I’ve been a true fan of each year. I get that some you have the opportunity the NBA ever since I could positions won’t have the to take 24.3 shots and 13.4 understand basketball and I best of shooting percent- three-point attempts each have to say, the standards and ages, especially guards, night, though. Harden’s 24 qualifications for the MVP since they tend to take shots per game are three have become confusing. more distant shots. Some more than the second Each night, players are players, however, get to most, (George, 21) and his praised for putting up big shoot an excess amount of 13.4 threes are nearly two scoring numbers and are shots certain nights, and more than Stephen Curry, seen as heroes by their need to know when to look who has 11.7. teams. This might be true, for other scoring options.

The defending MVP is as some of them pull off Efficiency doesn’t just shooting 44 percent from buzzer-beater shots to win stop at at shooting statis- the field, which isn’t bad the game, or lead sequenc- tics, either. MVP voters for a shooter, but his three es in bringing their teams have every right to look at point percentage (37) is back from deep deficits. which player is making a lacking to me. Harden finThe one thing some of statistical impact, but they ished Monday night’s game these athletes lack, howev- also need to consider which with 28 points, snapping er, is consistent efficiency. guy is consistently making his 32-game streak of scorThis is definitely a sub- his team better and leading ing at least 30 points. The tweet at players relating to them to victory each night, stat that stood out to me, James Harden and Russell instead of selfishly padding though, was going 0-10 on Westbrook. I can fully ad- their stats. threes. This is a perfect exmit I’m an Oklahoma City As of now, the three ample of a player needing Thunder fan, but I can also players who rank at the to find other options after agree that it pains me to see top as favorites to earn finding out it’s not their

HOT OFF THE PRESTON

night.

He tries too hard to force his stats each game and I can tell he always wants to score each possession. When he carries the ball up the court and gets to the top of the arc, Harden sometimes doesn’t think twice about passing as he bends down to dribble side-to-side and hit defenders with a step back three. If you watch him play, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

After completing a game this season, Harden was asked whether he was motivated to win MVP again to which he said, “I need it. I need it for sure and I’m going to get it.”

This shows his mindset is not on championships but rather individual awards. A true MVP is focused on leading his team to wins and making important plays game after game.

When talking about George, his case is similar to Harden’s. As I already mentioned, George averages 21 shots a night which is also a high number for anyone in the league. Percentages are a bit better as he’s shooting 45 percent from the field and 40 from

behind the arc. Again, these percentages aren’t terrible, with 40 percent from three actually being decent, but they aren’t incredibly efficient.

He understands that wins are important and takes smarter shots. Many fans think he has a legitimate chance to win MVP, but Antetokounmpo is my favorite candidate for the award.

Bleacher Report posted odds to win the MVP on Twitter Monday afternoon and Antetokounmpo emerged as the favorite. To me, they got it right, and he’s my front runner for many reasons.

When you look at his performance this year, he’s averaged 27.2 points per game, good enough for seventh in the NBA and is only half a point from being fourth best in the league. He’s also 12.7 rebounds per game (fifth in the league), six assists per game (18th in the league) and 1.45 blocks per game (15th in the league). His numbers are good, so that checks off the first box.

Next, is he efficient?

Antetokounmpo is shooting 58 percent from the field, and ranks ninth best

in the league. He shoots 24 percent from three but only takes 2.5 per game, obviously meaning he’s not attempting from beyond the arc often. In terms of field goal percentage, he’s efficient, and therefore meets another requirement.

Finally, is he winning?

He’s actually doing more than winning with his team. They happen to have the best record in the NBA as of now. The last time the Bucks won a regular season conference title was the 1973-74 season and as for the entire league, 197071. He’s not just helping his team win, he’s leading them to one of the best seasons they’ve had in a long time. An obvious check goes on the last box.

While Antetokounmpo isn’t necessarily having a historically statistical season, his case across all requirements begs for the MVP to be put in his hands at the end of this year.

A true NBA MVP binds together impressive stats, percentage efficiency and winning season that ranks towards the top of the conference at the conclusion of each season. Antetokounmpo does just that.

If 55 is so important for students, why not once for visitors?

QUITE FRANCO-LY LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Senior convergence journalism major from Euless

A few years ago, tour guides stopped bringing prospective students to Moody Chapels during campus visits.

Leslie Hayes, director of campus visits, said all admitted student and senior tours stop at Chapel, but daily visits and other preview days do not. Because the latter two are shorter,

Hayes said trying to pack all necessary information into one day can make fitting Chapel in an issue.

“We also have had some negative feedback about Chapel from visiting families,” Hayes said via email.

“We did stop including Chapel in some types of visits a few years ago, but the campus visits team

wants to be very clear that we value the Chapel experience as an important part of the ACU culture.”

I remember being so uncomfortable visiting campus for the first time as I walked through the doors in Moody, sat in a chair on the floor and observed. I’d never been around a Church of Christ environment, so it was confusing to me that there was no music, and I had no idea what the songs were.

During my freshman year, I loved Chapel. I would see people swipe in and out and get so frustrated that they wouldn’t take

advantage of this opportunity to worship every day.

Now, it’s not so much the same story, but that doesn’t change the fact that Chapel isn’t an optional experience.

For something ACU pours a lot of attention into, it surprised me to hear that it was also something they were so willing to let slide away from potential students.

Scott McDowell, vice president of student life, said 90 percent of a student’s time is spent outside the classroom, and ACU’s religious affiliation is its No. 1 differentiator from other universities.

Because we pride ourselves so much on our spiritual formation (and yes, it was a convincing factor for me), the opportunity to grow in faith through worship and community, primarily at 11 a.m. every weekday, should be at the forefront of campus tours.

Cyrus Eaton, the new campus chaplain, also said one of his goals coming to the university has been to make Chapels more intimate. This semester, Eaton decided to eliminate small group Chapels on Mondays, appropriating 30 minutes each week to cultivat-

A cappella groups offer more than just music STAIRWAY TO EVANS CALEB EVANS ASSISTANT VIDEO DIRECTOR

Freshman computer science major from Tumwater, Washington A capella is the foundation for community at ACU. From the winter performances to Sing Song, I have seen a cappella groups take root and flourish throughout ACU. While performing with Foundation, the freshman a capella group, there hasn’t been a single time that I have regretted my decision to join. Both the family environment and strong relationships we have with one another couple together to make an amazing experience.

Considering that Foundation is only a year old, Nick Tatum has done an outstanding job giving our group opportunities to perform and impress the student body.

Without Foundation, Gracenote and Hilltop, events like Sing Song

wouldn’t be the same. In both situations we get to sing in harmony and melt hearts all throughout the crowd.

A cappella is at the heart of Church of Christ and it’s only fitting that our three developing a cappella groups stand firmly as cornerstones to our university.

Performing at Sing Song gave us the opportunity to incorporate faith and community into an environment of competition and humor; which makes an amazing night for anyone watching.

After Sing Song, there was no shortage of parents, alumni and students raving about how well the A cappella groups performed.

From the rustic tones of “Jolene” to the upbeat

vibes of “Try Everything” and the soothing sound of “Because He Lives,” the impact that a cappella choirs have is broad – from getting a song stuck in your head to having a moment in worship. That was proved by the dynamic range of songs we covered during Sing Song.

Though it might seem like you have to be passionate about music and have a great voice to sing, I’m a prime example that you only need a hard-work ethic to succeed.

Starting off this school year, I was only comfortable singing the bass parts, but because of a cappella, and singing background vocals, I’ve found parts of my range I didn’t know were there, and have grown alongside other singers that are now my best friends.

As cliche as it may sound, when you spend time harmonizing with other people it won’t be long until you begin living in harmony as well.

I met my girlfriend

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 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 79609 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu

“

When you spend time harmonizing with other people, it won’t be long until you begin living in harmony as well.”

CALEB EVANS FRESHMAN COMPUTER SCIENCE MAJOR FROM TUMWATER, WASHINGTON

Rachel through a cappella, and one of the best groups of guys I could know. Now, we’re scheming to start a male a cappella group.

Whether or not you enjoy or have interest in singing alongside community, a cappella is undoubtedly the perfect opportunity.

Trying out might be uncomfortable, but it gives you the opportunity to change the community on campus for the better and make a mark on ACU history.

There is no reason why we haven’t had multiple a cappella Choirs up until this point, but now that we do, they are most definitely here to stay. Maybe it’s time to reach out and join one.

THE

ing community among the whole student body.

“Our goal in the overall Chapel program is that it helps us find our place in the story that God is writing,” Eaton said.

If tours are meant to give prospective students a feel of what being a Wildcat looks like, skipping Chapel should not be an option.

Whether an avid Chapel-goer or a slide and glider, Chapel is a (required) part of every student’s experience for all four years. If current students have to go 55 times, it should be a priority that visitors go once.

TWEETS Canela @kanelakimm “I got $200 bean bucks and I’m not afraid to use them on you.” = LOVE Austin Linehan @AustinLinehan stop posting how you wash your face at night on your IG story of you have less than 1k followers Jessica @jesselessica Why are these white girls playing Sicko Mode without headphones in the library?!?!

Carson Wright @itscarsonguys Get Right Church is a Christian banger Andrew Thompson @Andrew_thomp_ If i had the choice to listen either SICKO MODE, Mo Bamba or Unwritten by Natasha as my last three songs ever, id choose Unwritten all three times makayley lyn @makaleyy_lynn this temperature drop is kinda rude what the heck Ashlynn McKay @AMCrand I’m mentally preparing myself for the happiness I’ll feel when getting a smoothie today. So I’ve peaked Whitney Isbell @WhitneyIsbell1 I miss the days when my biggest fear was getting shampoo in my eyes in the bath Charlie @ChahhlieReaduhh Roses are red, Violets are blue, It don’t always be like that But sometimes it do.

O PTI M I ST

published by the department of journalism and mass communication staff and management board

Lauren Franco Editor in Chief Dillon Daniel Manging Editor McKenzie Bonam Social Media Manager Max Preston Sports Director

newsroom (325) 674-2439

Owen Simpson Assitant Sports Director Amber Chavez Video Director Caleb Evans Assistant Video Director Riley Fisher Chief Photographer

sports desk (325) 674-2684

Ernesto Guajardo Cartoonist William Heyen Graphic Designer Kalena Modgling Graphic Designer Zac Tolleson Graphic Designer Emma Conatser Copy Editor

photo department (325) 674-2499

Allison Harrell Staff Reporter Hannah V. Johnson Staff Reporter Bryce Lurkens Staff Reporter B.J. Maxwell Staff Reporter Brian Sweet Staff Reporter

Breven Campbell Staff Reporter Lexi Kirgan Sports Reporter Rachel Poe Sports Reporter Abby Lee Videographer Tavian Miles Videographer

advertising office (325) 674-2463

Avery Teichman Videographer Meda Bow Photographer Emily Tiras Photographer Lexi Walter Photographer

multimedia desk (325) 674-2463

Kenneth Pybus Faculty Adviser Cade White Visuals Adviser Celeste Kinkade Advertising Manager

subscriptions ($20/Year) (325) 674-2296

Page 6 | Sports

Friday, March 01, 2019

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Late surge gives Wildcats win over TAMU-CC MAX PRESTON SPORTS DIRECTOR

The men’s basketball team faced Texas A&M-Corpus Christi on the road Wednesday evening and outscored them 46-31 in the second half which helped the Wildcats earn a 73-64 victory.

ACU’s victory pushed itself back into second place of the Southland Conference with an improved record of 11-4 in conference and 22-6 overall. It was also the sixth time the Wildcats avoided consecutive losses this season.

In the first half, the men trailed almost the entire time and went into halftime down 33-27. The Islanders remained with the lead to start the second half, however, ACU eventually grabbed it outscoring Corpus Christi 17-8 up to the 12:10 mark.

After jumping ahead by one, the Wildcats went on a 13-4 to take an even bigger lead (56-47) with 5:55 left to play. For the rest of the game, ACU never let the Islanders back within less than eight of its lead and claimed the 73-64 win.

Senior forward Jaren Lewis said his team has always kept its head up and bounced back this entire season.

“This team is very spe-

Photo by RILEY FISHER | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER Junior guard Payten Ricks locks down opponent on defense.

cial,” Lewis said. “We have bounced back after losses and the coaching staff has done a great job keeping us on edge and making sure we stay locked in.

This team has been great with staying positive and

taking one game at a time.

We move on quick after losses and try to improve on our mistakes.”

The Wildcats shot 41 percent from the field in the game which was less than the Islanders’ 46. At

the free throw line, however, the men more than doubled Corpus Christi’s 14 attempts with 31 of their own and made 21 of them (68 percent).

Lewis and senior guard Jaylen Franklin were the

team’s top scorers as they finished with 16 points each. Lewis also ended with an impressive stat line of nine rebounds, six steals and four assists.

Freshman forward Joe Pleasant saw more action off the bench tonight as he played 25 minutes. He finished with 10 points and eight rebounds.

Senior forward Hayden Farquhar also scored double-digits with 12 points as well as junior guard Payten Ricks who had 11.

ACU’s next challenge will be against Central Arkansas on the road Saturday. The Wildcats welcomed the Bears to Moody back in January and defeated them 79-56 in a lopsided game. UCA now hosts the men in Conway as they sit in tight eighth place with three other teams that have the same conference record as them (6-9).

Lewis said what his team will have to improve when facing the Bears.

“Against the Bears on Saturday we know we have to take care of the ball and execute offensively,” Lewis said. “Defensively we have to stay locked in and rebound to finish out possessions.”

Tipoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. in the Farris Center and coverage of the game will air on 98.1 FM.

STANDINGS Women’s Basketball Team

Ovrl.

Lamar SFA ACU Nicholls SHSU TAMU-CC UNO UCA NSU SLU McNeese UIW HBU

22-5 23-4 18-8 17-10 15-11 13-13 11-14 11-14 9-17 9-17 6-20 4-22 7-18

Div. 15-1 14-1 11-4 11-4 10-6 7-8 7-9 6-9 4-11 4-11 4-11 4-11 2-13

Men’s Basketball Team

Ovrl.

SHSU ACU UNO SLU Lamar SFA TAMU-CC UCA NSU HBU Nicholls McNeese UIW

20-9 22-6 16-11 14-14 17-12 14-13 11-17 11-17 11-17 10-16 12-16 9-19 6-22

Div. 15-1 11-4 11-5 10-5 10-6 7-8 6-9 6-9 6-9 6-9 5-10 5-10 1-14

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Basketball

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

ACU grabs fourth consecutive win, takes down Islanders OWEN SIMPSON SPORTS REPORTER

It was all but over early as the Wildcats took down Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Wednesday night in Moody Coliseum. ACU won every quarter of the outing finishing with a convincing 72-55 win.

Junior forward Dominique Golightly once again led the way for her team after scoring 19 points on Saturday. She repeated a great performance Wednesday night leading the team with both 17 points and eight rebounds.

She also contributed passing the ball with five assists.

Golightly said her team is trying to prove they can best Southland teams twice in a year.

“The team is just really excited right now,” Golightly said. “We’re at the end of this season where we’re playing teams we’ve already played and our focus is showing them who’s the better team.”

With a postseason-like matchup coming next week against Stephen F. Austin, Golightly said her team is confident and ready to see them again.

“We’re gonna keep staying consistent and true to our scout,” Golightly said.

“They’re definitely beat-

able and we know that. We played them in a close game last time and we know we can beat them.”

With the Wildcats’ win tonight, they remain in contention for a double-bye in the Southland Conference tournament. ACU has to win its final three regular season games, while SFA will have to lose all three.

The Islanders were without their top two scoring leaders, junior guard Dalesia Booth and junior forward Alexes Bryant against ACU and didn’t travel with the team due to violation of team rules.

TXAMCC was led by junior guard Emma Young

who tallied 14 points and five rebounds. The preseason all-conference player also contributed defensively with four steals.

At the half, ACU led 3925 largely in part to how well they shot the basketball. In the first quarter, the Wildcats shot over 70 percent from the field, and it didn’t stop there. In the second quarter, freshman guard Madi Miller drained two three-pointers in rout to a 7-12 quarter from the field for the Wildcats.

After the game head coach Julie Goodenough said her team needs to keep this energy up as the postseason nears.

“The grind of the season is wearing on everyone now and every team across America, but this is where you see your real basketball players rise to the occasion,” Goodenough said.

“You’re getting ready to go to postseason play and you can’t get stagnant and tired of winning.”

The Wildcats now just have three games remaining on the season. Up next, ACU travels east to play Central Arkansas this Saturday at 2 p.m. Meanwhile the Islanders look to bounce back when they head to San Antonio to face up against Incarnate Word this Saturday at 1 p.m.

MEN’S BASKETBALL PREVIEW 2019 SEASON STATS

74.8

POINTS PER GAME

72.5

32.8

REBOUNDS PG

35.4

15.0

ASSISTS PG

13.9

64.0 POINTS ALLOWED PG 76.8 UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS (11-17)

ABILENE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY (22-6)

MAX PRESTON SPORTS DIRECTOR

OWEN SIMPSON SPORTS REPORTER

BREVEN CAMPBELL SPORTS REPORTER

RACHEL POE

SPORTS REPORTER

The matchup between the Bears and Wildcats has always been interesting to watch since ACU stepped into the Southland Conference. Although the Wildcats blew them out at home 79-56 last game, viewers can expect a much more close and thrilling finish this time around. The dismissal of B.J. Maxwell and Jalone Friday was an obvious gut punch to ACU and the team has been trying to solve distribution of minutes to the remaining players. Losing two starters this late in the season is obviously a nightmare for any team around the country, but the Wildcats still have a roster filled with talent. Seniors Jaylen Franklin, Jaren Lewis and Hayden Farquhar will look to keep the team fired up as they play their final three regular season games.

Saturday, the Bears will be playing with the support of their home crowd and the motivation of trying to earn a postseason spot as they sit just outside of the eighth seed. With struggles to get on a roll this season, however, I don’t think the Bears can find a way past ACU despite losing Maxwell and Friday. The Wildcats take this one in a game decided in the closing minutes.

After a loss for the Wildcats last Saturday, it’ll be interesting to see who starts for the ACU. Senior forward Hayden Farquhar came off the bench for Abilene Christian in their loss against Southeastern Louisiana, but played a phenomenal game. He led the team shooting 6-7 for 16 points and 3-4 behind the arc. The core three for the Wildcats, Franklin, Lewis and Ricks struggled in the loss Saturday.

They shot a combined 10-36 and losing B.J. Maxwell and Jalone Friday has put a big issue inside for ACU as they struggled to get rebounds versus the Lions. Earlier in January, ACU throttled Central Arkansas behind Maxwell and Friday’s combined 33 points. The game plan will certainly be different this time for head coach Joe Golding. I’ll look to see Farquhar with a possible start for the Wildcats with a lot on his shoulders for the remainder of his final season. Abilene Christian held Central Arkansas to just 30 percent shooting and forced 20 turnovers in the January blowout.

Defense will be key for the win, but don’t expect an easy victory for ACU. The Wildcats trail at half, but bounce back in the second to grab their 22nd win of the season.

UCA is on a losing streak and one of the worst teams in the conference.

The Wildcats have a good match-up against the Bears and are looking to keep their NCAA tournament hopes alive.

Hayden Farquhar stepped up in a big way during the heartbreaking loss to Southeastern Louisiana last Saturday, leading the team in scoring. Farquhar will need to continue to step up for the team to be successful for the rest of the season, along with, junior guard, Payten Ricks. Both of these players have the ability to score from behind the 3-point line efficiently. The Wildcats need to come out with intensity, not just against Central Arkansas, but the rest of the season if they want to extend their season. Seniors, Jaren Lewis and Jaylen Franklin, need to lead by example by providing extra-effort plays this team needs to win these final games of the season.

The Bears are not going to just give the Wildcats a win, but even with the recent problems with the ACU team, Central Arkansas will not make this team too difficult. The Wildcats will pull ahead late in the first half after struggling at the start of the game.

After a very unexpecting week of losing two valuable players and their second home loss of the season, the men’s basketball team still managed to clinch a spot in the Southland Conference tournament this past weekend after Nicholls beat Central Arkansas, 10057. It will be very interesting to see who will start for ACU after a tough loss against Southeastern last weekend. This Saturday, Abilene Christian will come home with a win, if they show up ready and prepared to play.

No doubt in my my mind that the Wildcats will add another win to their record if Farquhar leads the Wildcats with 16 or more points again to shutout seniors like Tanner Schmit, who scored the most points for UCA last weekend. However, it will not be an easy win like the last time the Wildcats faced the Bears.

FINAL SCORE: ACU 72 UCA 68

FINAL SCORE: ACU 69 UCA 64

FINAL SCORE: ACU 76 UCA 71

FINAL SCORE: ACU 67 UCA 65

Lewis Senior forward Jaren Lewis stepped this last week for the Wildcats against Southeastern Louisiana and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. Despite a loss to the Lions, Lewis ended with 12 points, five rebounds and three steals. In the bounce back win over the Islanders, he finished with 16 points, nine rebounds, four assists and an impressive four steals. He also converted on nine of his 12 free throws in the game. Lewis and the men will be on the road for the last time this season against Central Arkansas Saturday at 4 p.m.

Basketball

Golightly Junior guard Dominique Golightly had a productive week for her team. When welcoming Southeastern Louisiana to Moody last Saturday, she was the team leading scorer with 19 points and contributed to an 86-66 blowout win. She also went 6-9 from the field and 4-6 from beyond the arc.

Against Texas A&M Corpus Christi, She was also the highest scorer with 17 points. She also added eight rebounds and five assists in the game.

The women will next play their first of a two-game road trip against Central Arkansas Saturday at 2 p.m.

Baseball

Randle Junior infielder Ryne Randle turned in an impressive performance against Arkansas-Pine Bluff last Sunday. Randle came to the plate six times and connected for five hits in the game. One of his hits was a grand slam which put the Wildcats up 16-4 in the seventh inning. He also totaled seven RBIs in the game as well four runs accounting for 11 of the 16 ACU scored. The baseball team will remain at home and face Hartford in a three-game series this weekend.

For more visit acuoptimist.com