The Optimist Print Edition: 02.20.11

acuoptimist.com

Optimist the

Sing it Out, page 9

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Vol. 99, No. 38

1 section, 12 pages

quick facts Judges choose overall winners by a combined score of five categories:

Overall Winners:

Men’s Division: • 1st: Gamma Sigma Phi • 2nd: Galaxy • 3rd: Trojans Women’s Division: • 1st: Ko Jo Kai • 2nd: Sigma Theta Chi • 3rd: GATA Mixed Division: • 1st: Sophomore Class • 2nd: Freshman Class • 3rd: Senior Class

Originality: Men’s Division: • 1st: Trojans • 2nd: Gamma Sigma Phi • 3rd: Galaxy Women’s Division: • 1st: Ko Jo Kai • 2nd: GATA • 2nd: Sigma Theta Chi Mixed Division: • 1st: Graduate Class • 2nd: Sophomore Class • 3rd: Freshman Class

Appearance: Men’s Division: • 1st: Gamma Sigma Phi • 2nd: Galaxy • 3rd: Trojans Women’s Division: • 1st: Ko Jo Kai • 2nd: Sigma Theta Chi • 3rd: GATA Mixed Division: • 1st: Graduate Class • 2nd: Sophomore Class • 2nd: Freshman Class

JOZIE SANDS // Online Editor

Above: Carolina Williams, senior communication major from Frisco, celebrates Ko Jo Kai’s first -place Sing Song victory. Right: The men of Gamma Sigma Phi grasp the first-place trophy.

Sweet taste of Victory

Audience Favorite: Men’s Division: • 1st: Gamma Sigma Phi • 2nd: Trojans • 3rd: Galaxy Women’s Division: • 1st: Sigma Theta Chi • 2nd: Ko Jo Kai • 3rd: Alpha Kai Omega Mixed Division: • 1st: Sophomore Class • 2nd: Senior Class • 3rd: Junior Class

After two nights of competition, Ko Jo Kai, Gamma Sigma Phi and the Sophomore Class take home Overall Winner trophies.

T

Entertainment:

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MITCHELL MCLEAN // Contributing Photographer

STAFF REPORT

he men of Gamma Sigma Phi won their ninth men’s Sing Song title in the last 10 years, while the women of Ko Jo Kai secured their third title in the last four years and the sophomore class captured the mixed voices title.

Kojie directors Rachael Webb, senior marketing major Beaumont, and Lauren Ash, junior exercise science major from Sugarland, said they were proud of their group of women and the effort they put forth.

These guys are my brothers. A broken jaw and some lost teeth aren’t going to stop me from coming back and winning Sing Song.

JASON RASCO // junior criminal justice major from Abilene

“We had a great group; the whole group worked hard,” Webb said. “I’m so excited, I’m really proud of the girls.”

The winning acts will donate their $1,000 prize to a charity of their choice as they did last year. The Kojies will donate their winnings to benefit ACU

student Samantha Bahl, who is battling cancer.

The winning sophomore act also has said it will donate its winnings to Bahl. Director Nick Tatum, sophomore family studies major from Lubbock, had a special message for Bahl and her family after the performance.

“We’re praying that she’ll get better,” Tatum said. “We did this all for her.”

Sophomore performer Katherine Yarbrough, education major from Fort Worth, said she enjoyed her Sing Song experience and the chance to give back.

“It was the best part of the year; we put a ton of time into this,” she said. “Our No. 1 goal was to get the money to Samantha Bahl.”

The men of GSP have committed to donate their see CUP page 4

Men’s Division: • 1st: Gamma Sigma Phi • 2nd: Trojans • 3rd: Galaxy Women’s Division: • 1st: Sigma Theta Chi • 2nd: Ko Jo Kai • 3rd: GATA Mixed Division: • 1st: Sophomore Class • 2nd: Graduate Class • 2nd: Junior Class

Vocals: Men’s Division: • 1st: Gamma Sigma Phi • 2nd: Galaxy • 3rd: Trojans Women’s Division: • 1st: Ko Jo Kai • 2nd: GATA • 3rd: Sigma Theta Chi Mixed Division: • 1st: Freshman Class • 2nd: Sophomore Class • 3rd: Senior Class

SING SONG

Kinsmen perform despite Sing Song accidents feet from the stage during Friday’s performance, and Managing Editor Jason Rasco took a hit to Two Kinsmen club mem- the face when one of the bers suffered mishap in club’s air cannons went Gamma Sigma Phi’s Revo- off unexpectedly before lutionary War heroes Sing Saturday’s 2 p.m. show, Song act this weekend. Ja- breaking his jaw, knocking cob Groves plummeted 10 out six teeth and requiring

Jeff Craig

of the stage. The curtain was acting as a makeshift roof over a makeup room behind the stage.

“I took a different route to my prop and stepped through a curtain that looked level and fell to the ground,” Groves said.

website

inside photo spread Find out what members of class and club acts were doing behind the scenes in the Sing Song tent to prepare for performance. page 6-7

eight stitches during a trip to a local hospital.

Groves, junior marketing major from Lubbock, fell off the right side of the stage while adjusting a cannon prop. Groves said he stepped on a curtain he thought was part

news The AT&T Learning Studio is giving a sneak peek to students Thursday in preparation for its grand opening. page 5

“I landed on my butt, and on impact I bit my tongue.

I was in a lot of pain for about 30 seconds.”

GSP director Colin Barnard, senior political science major from Washington D.C., said he saw Groves fall.

“It was on the front of the stage that has a curtain below that separates the band and stage, it looks like there is a place to stand there, but it’s just air below,” Barnard said. see FALL page 4

weather videos See how the hosts and hostesses react and prepare for Friday’s show.

Keep an eye out for other Sing Song related videos throuought the week.

Abilene Christian University

Sun.

Mon.

Tues.

82° 52°

66° 38°

68° 49°

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Campus Sunday, February 20, 2011

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Day

calendar & events Sunday

12 p.m. Softball Southeastern Oklahoma Crossover tournament vs.

University of Central Missouri

21

Monday

Presidents’ Day 11 a.m. Chapel in Moody Coliseum

22

Tuesday

Casanova Week: Free Coldstone ice cream coupons

23

11 a.m. Chapel

2 p.m. “Viva Flamenco!” concert featuring Ron Radford at the Williams Performing Arts Center Recital Hall

1 p.m. Softball vs.

Midwestern State University

4 p.m. Softball Southeastern Oklahoma Crossover tournament vs.

Newman University

3 p.m. Softball vs.

Midwestern State University

2 p.m. Baseball at St. Edwards University

Wednesday

Casanova Week: Free Sharky’s coupons 11 a.m. Chapel in Moody Coliseum 6 p.m. Women’s basketball at Tarleton State University

about this page The Optimist maintains this calendar for the ACU community to keep track of local social, academic and service opportunities. Groups may send announcements directly to optimist@ jmcnetwork.com.

To ensure an item will appear on time, the announcement should be sent at least 10 days in advance. The Optimist may edit items for space and style.

Corrections and clarifications of published news articles will be printed on this page in a timely manner.

Chapel Checkup 24 49

Credited Chapels to date

Credited Chapels remaining

8 p.m. Men’s basketball at Tarleton State

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volunteer opportunities

announcements

International Rescue Committee Students can work with refugees who recently moved to the United States, teaching English, helping with homework and mentoring. Volunteer times are flexible. Call Daina Juryka-Owen at 675-5643 ext.

16 to make an appointment. For more information on the International Rescue Committee, visit www.theirc.org.

Meals on Wheels Volunteers are needed to deliver meals to seniors and adults with disabilities. Routes are available 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Monday-Friday. Volunteers must be at least 18, with a valid driver’s license, auto insurance and a desire to serve. Training is provided.

Students may be exempted from one Chapel per week if delivery time conflicts with Chapel. Contact Samantha Barker at 672-5050.

Betty Hardwick Center Volunteers are needed in several departments at the Betty Hardwick Center, specializing in mental health. Students can help mentally-andphysically challenged people play games, run track and go bowling.

Students can volunteer from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on Monday-Friday. Contact Angel Seca at 690-5235 for more information.

The Salvation Army Volunteers are needed at the 1726 Butternut St. Salvation Army to sort and price items and help with kitchen or yard work. Volunteers are welcome any time Monday-Saturday.

Contact J.D. Alonzo at 6771408, or visit www.satruck. com for more information on the program.

Breakfast on Beech Street Students can help set up, prepare and serve breakfast for the homeless at First Christian Church on Third Street and Beech Street.

Serving time is 6:30-7:15 a.m. on Monday-Friday.

Visit www.fccabilene.com for more information.

The Center for Contemporary Arts needs a gallery assistant to help with exhibit setup and preparation. The work can be done any time from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday. Call 677-8389 or e-mail info@ center-arts.com.

National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature Students can greet patrons, assist with art activities, sell books and welcome visitors from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or 1-3 p.m.

Tuesdays-Saturdays.

For more information, contact Debby Lillick at 673-4586, or visit www. nccil.org.

“Viva Flamenco!” The Spanish Flamenco concert will feature Ronald Radford at 2 p.m. on Feb. 20 at the Williams Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for regular admission.

Civil Rights Tour Students can receive academic credit for Summer Session I by joining the ACU Freedom Ride on May 15-21. The seven-day, 1,800-mile guided bus tour will visit significant sites of the American Civil Rights Movement. Registration begins Feb. 23.

For more information, contact Dr. Richard Beck at beckr@acu.edu, Dr. Jennifer Dillman at jennifer.dillman@acu. edu, Dr. David Dillman at dillmand@acu.edu or an academic adviser.

All-school Chapel The Chapel Office encourages students to participate in “Bring Your Professor to Chapel Day” and invite their professors to Chapel as a part of the campus-wide effort to attend Chapel every Monday.

ACU Connected Summit 2011 Steve Wozniak, cofounder of Apple, Inc., and the Rocketboys will be at the ACU Connected

Summit at 7:30 p.m., Feb. 28, in Moody Coliseum.

Admission is free for all students, faculty and staff with a current ACU ID card.

Online Summer Courses Registration opens Feb. 23 for online summer courses. Students can choose from 15 courses, and each course is three weeks long. For more information, visit www. acu.edu/summeronline.

Career Expo Current students and alumni have the opportunity to meet with employers from a variety of industries about potential full-time positions and internship opportunities from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Feb. 24 at the Abilene Civic Center. The event offers résumé reviews and mock interviews. Professional attire is required.

A Walk Through Black History Students can celebrate Black History month at the Walk Through Black History banquet at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 26 in the Williams Performing Arts Center foyer. There will be performances, and attire is semi-formal. All proceeds go to Da-Cipher Kids.

Contact exj08a@acu.edu for more information.

Springboard Ideas Challenge The minibusiness plan competition offers students the opportunity to get their business up and running and the chance to win cash prizes. Students must register at www. acu.edu/springboard by March 4 to compete.

FCA The ACU chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes meets at 9 p.m. every Thursday in the Campus Center Living Room.

ACUltimate The university’s ultimate frisbee club meets at 6 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Interested students can contact Kyle Thaxton at krt06d@acu.edu.

FilmFest Entry forms for the 2011 FilmFest can be found in McKinzie Hall, Room 122, at www.acu.edu/filmfest or acufilmfest.tumblr.com.

CAMPUS NEWS

February 20, 2011

LOCAL

Monks partners with ministry

‘‘ ’’

Erin James-Brown, a barista at Monks, said the Page Designer staff at Monks had heard Through the month of Feb- about The Red Thread Moveruary, Monks coffee shop ment and determined that will be supporting the ACU the non-profit shared many student-formed non-prof- of the same beliefs Monks it organization, The Red tries to promote.

“At the coffee shop, we Thread Movement, by selling red bracelets in its shop. only serve direct trade orSamantha Sutherland, ganic coffee, but it’s a prisophomore advertising and ority for us to help those public relations major from that need it,” James-Brown Brownwood and founder of said. “It’s the mentality built the Red Thread Movement into the idea of Monks. We said Monks approached her want it to be a place that is a about the possibility of set- great place to hang out, but ting up a display in the cof- is also a place to give back, fee shop for Valentine’s Day accomplishing two goals at one time. With that mentaland the rest of the month.

“I love partnering with dif- ity in mind, we try to think ferent things, like Monks, and of ways to recycle better, the bands that we partner provide better for the enviwith, and even schools and ronment and give back to other non-profits. I think it’s the Abilene community.”

Sutherland said since really beneficial,” Sutherland said. “I really feel that with The Red Thread Movement’s connections and with part- Chapel forum last semester, nerships, there are so many the organization has gotten a lot of buzz, with more ways to mutually benefit.”

Bailey Neal

Page 3

Tree Topper

I really feel that with connections and with partnerships, there are so many ways to mutually benefit.

SAMANTHA SUTHERLAND // founder of the Red Thread Movement

volunteers, business opportunities and publicity, which she feels was vital to starting the organization.

“I have a huge vision of what could happen in Nepal, Sutherland said. “We went there in January, and I think that raising money, just having a little bit more money each month, can have a huge impact.

It can add another border unit to the whole system.

It can open another safe house that can house 20 more girls. There are just so many things that could happen, in small steps, so it would be great to see that expand.”

“I think it’s a really taboo subject people want to ignore or pretend it doesn’t exist, because it’s pretty unpleasant to think about,” James-Brown said. “It’s terrible, but just because it’s hard to talk about doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be addressed.”

Red Thread bracelets cost $3. One dollar from each sale contributes to the cost of making the bracelets, and the other two go directly toward a safe house in Nepal for women who have been victims of human trafficking. contact Neal at

bmn07a@acu.edu

JOZIE SANDS // Online Editor

Dr. Royce and Pam Money attend a “topping out” ceremony, an event where construction workers placed a tree atop the highest point of the Royce and Pam Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center. This celebration occurs when workers have placed the last beam on a building underconstruction. The ceremony symbolizes having a safe and productive work site.

CHAPEL

Chapel forum discusses exploitation of child soldiers Marissa Ferguson Staff Reporter

For the third time in two years, Invisible Children will be a Chapel forum topic on Tuesday.

A group of roadies from the organization will join Tony Bazilo, who grew up in the Uganda war zone, in the telling of his story and the mission of Invisible Children.

Joleah Stiles, Invisible Children’s East Texas regional manager, said Bazilo will be attending only one of the 17 stops on the roadies’ tour this semes-

ter, and hearing his story is a treat.

“Getting the chance to hear Tony speak is really, really rare,” Stiles said. “Meeting him and hearing his story to where he is now is astounding. People make it a priority to be there.”

Invisible Children is an organization dedicated to combating the use of child soldiers in the northern area of Uganda.

Their many chapters, nationwide, educate college students about the Lord’s Resistance Army, a rebel group that has been ab-

ducting children for the past 25 years.

Stiles said it’s time for college students to get involved.

“We appreciate and believe in the youth,” she said.

“We believe that spreading the idea of global citizenship and humanitarianism is incredibly important with talking to college students.

There is a lot of power in college students in that they leave school to be some of the most powerful people in the world.”

Mark Lewis, assistant dean for spiritual life and Chapel programs, said the

campus was glad to invite the organization back.

“In the midst of sharing their story, they provide tangible ways for students to get involved, and that’s something that is really important to us,” Lewis said. “You can make people aware of a situation, but if you don’t provide some way for them to respond, [the audience] will just leave sort of frustrated and won’t know what to do.”

This semester, the organization has developed two outlets for those wanting to get involved.

“The best way for people to get involved is through helping us with our new protection plan and the Democratic Republic of Congo,” Stiles said. “It is a plan in a place where literally no organizations are working because it’s too dangerous and too remote.

It protects some of the most vulnerable people on the face of the earth, in all honesty, in one of the most forgotten humanitarianism crises of this time.”

Stiles also said students can get involved without even leaving the states.

“They can sign up for ‘Try,’ which is a reoccurring donation program, or they can sign up for ‘25,’ an international event where we ask people to be silent for 25 hours and to raise $25 for all of those initiatives.”

Two credits will be given to those who attend the Chapel forum. To learn more about Invisible Children and ways to get involved, visit its website, www.invisiblechildren.com.

contact Ferguson at

mlf10a@acu.edu

Page 4

CAMPUS NEWS

February 20, 2011

SING SONG

Cup: Kinsmen, Kojies win club act awards of the work his group put into the performance.

“I’m speechless right now; winnings to the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation, this is the greatest I’ve felt a group that helps those since being in college,” Barwho suffer from a genetic nard said. “And being with bone disorder often called friends is the best part.”

GSP performer Jason brittle bone disease.

GSP director Colin Bar- Rasco, junior criminal scinard, senior political sci- ence major from Abilene, ence major from Washing- suffered a broken jaw ton, D.C., said he felt relief during preparations for and a sense of pride for all Saturday’s show. He susContinued from page 1

tained the injury after an air-compressed cannon backfired during warmups. Rasco returned for the show after a trip to the hospital earlier in the day.

“I wasn’t going to put in all that effort and then not show up, Rasco said. “These guys are my brothers. A broken jaw and some lost teeth aren’t going to stop me from

‘‘ ’’ ‘‘ ’’

coming back and winning Sing Song.”

Tom Craig, director of student productions, said he was pleased with the show and the diversity of clubs that won awards for their acts.

“Overall, it was great.

There was more talent and more great acts and more numbers of people involved,” Craig said. “Awards were scattered like never be-

SING SONG

Awards were scattered like never before, which is a testament to the effort all groups put in.

TOM CRAIG // director of student productions

fore, which is a testament to the effort all groups put in.”

Sing Song 2011 featured 17 upstage acts, a record number. The Kojies, Kinsmen and soon-to-be juniors

will look to defend their titles in 2012, when the theme will be “Wild at Heart.” contact Staff at

optimist@jmcnetwork.com

Fall: Kinsman injured Continued from page 1

“He stepped in front of the cannon, and there was nothing there.”

Sing Song hostess Carlee Cagle, senior musical theatre major from Arlington, was backstage getting ready for a duet when Groves fell.

“I was getting ready, and then – Oh my gosh – I saw a guy lying on the floor in his colonial soldier suit,” Cagle said.

“He fell off the stage and was just lying there. We couldn’t freak out because we had to keep doing our performance.”

Tom Craig, director of student productions, said extra measures were taken to ensure no more accidents occured, and the production team staffed people on stage to help performers stay away from the edge.

“We have taken every precautionary measure you can imagine,” Craig said.

“We’re going to be ramping it up even more now.”

Barnard said he went back to see Groves after their act and said Groves was lucid and talking.

Groves resumed his role, working with the cannons

He was so far off to the side, and he fell so quickly; I don’t think many people saw it.

COLIN BARNARD // director of the GSP Sing Song act

for Saturday’s show, when Rasco would experience fresh calamity.

One of the air cannons used in Friday’s show had to be replaced, Barnard said. But as Rasco, junior criminal science major from Abilene, was filling the new tank with compressed air, the cannon’s side split, causing the recoiling prop to hit Rasco’s face.

The incident left Rasco with a broken jaw, missing six teeth and requiring eight stitches, and “there was a lot of blood,” Barnard said.

Despite the incidents, GSP managed to claim second place for originality on Friday and first place for appearance during Saturday’s afternoon performance.

Barnard said he did not think very many people saw Groves fall, and so any effect on the club’s show was minimal.

“I know for the people close to his side, it was probably very distracting,” Barnard said. “He was so far off to the side, and he fell so quickly; I don’t think many people saw it.”

While Barnard had worried Rasco’s accident might shake the club’s performance, he said the club perservered admirably, singing one of its better shows.

“I had worried that it would be discouraging, but despite that, we came through,” Barnard said. “Jason’s ok. He’s doing great, and we’re ready to go.”

After the Saturday afternoon show, GSP replaced its air cannons with a more controllable prop.

“We’re trying something different and much safer,” Barnard said. contact Staff at

optimist@jmcnetwork.com

CAMPUS NEWS

February 20, 2011

Page 5

LOCAL

Experts say, graduates must employ creativity in job search Christy Lewis

Senior Reporter

Freshmen and seniors alike may need tips for polishing their resumes. The Federal Reserve chairman said jobs probably will be scarce for the next decade.

According to a BBC article published earlier this month, Ben Bernanke predicted it would take would take about 10 years to beat back the unemployment rate to the 5-6 percent seen before the recession at current economic growth rates.

Tim Johnston, assistant dean of the College of Business Administration, said Bernanke was not introducing any new

ideas in his statements.

Bernanke has always has cautioned that recovery would be slow.

“He wants us all to know that recent unemployment improvements should not be taken out of context,” Johnston said. “We would all like to see this problem go away, but the issues that created and exacerbated the problem will take some time to resolve.

Jozell Brister, associate professor of management, said unemployment recently has dropped from a height of 9.8 percent to 9.0 percent, but the jobs added to the labor market are just enough to meet those entering it.

Brister said she was unsure unemployment ever would

reach 5.5 percent again, as that may not be a normal balance of markets. But she said she’s more optimistic about American’s creativity and productivity than Bernanke is.

“I’m hoping it will come down to around 8 percent in a year,” Brister said. “I’m not sure it will do even that, but I just can’t believe it will be ten years.”

Unemployment is a result mainly of the country’s heavy foreign debt, said Ian Shepherd, associate professor of management.

“Rather than creating new products and new services, we’re paying off the old debt,” Shepherd said.

“The more heavily we get in debt, the more we trade out the future of our kids.”

The money America owes goes to foreign countries, causing a net loss of American spending power, Shepherd said. He said he worries that foreign countries will stop lending to the United States if it continues to spend more than it earns.

Shepherd said the best way to speed up economic recovery is to reduce the national debt by cutting spending. But Brister disagreed.

“In the long term, we have to do something about the deficit,” Brister said. “But I don’t see it as a good idea to dramatically reduce the deficit right now when we’re just coming out of the worst recession since the great depression.”

For now, students will certainly feel the impact of high unemployment, Shepherd said. Johnston said some businesses that used to hire recent graduates have been unable to over the past few years.

But that shouldn’t stop students from making as many contacts as possible.

“Networking has always been critical to any job search, but this job market puts a premium on networking,” Johnston said. “You need insiders who can let you know about opportunities that are not being promoted.”

Bradon Owens, employer relations manager, said it is taking graduates from all universities

longer to find jobs, so it is important for students to persistently seek out employers before their senior year. Internship experience will increase students’ competitiveness as well.

Students may have to be flexible during the economy’s lean season.

“Graduates have had to adjust their expectations for their first out-of-college jobs, in some cases accepting things that aren’t their ideal job,” Owens said.

Students can find guidance and resources for building their careers at the Career Center, Owens said. contact Lewis at

cll09a@acu.edu

CONSTRUCTION

AT&T Learning Studio readies for ribbon cutting Christy Lewis

Senior Reporter

Representatives from AT&T and the Abilene community are invited to join the ACU family in celebrating the grand opening of the AT&T Learning Studio with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Feb. 28.

The 2:15 p.m. ribbon cutting will mark the official completion and opening of the much-anticipated AT&T Learning Studio, located on the third floor of Brown Library.

Kyle Dickson, director of the digital media center, said he believes this is an energizing time to be at ACU. “I feel like this is a natural extension for ACU and the project we’ve been so involved in for the last several years,”

Dickson said. “We’re trying to create the tools that we’ll use to teach students and help in learning for the future.”

Before the ribbon cutting, students can get a sneak peak of the AT&T Learning Studio from 7-9 p.m. at the Red Carpet Premiere on Feb. 24. There will be food and prize give-aways.

Dickson said he wanted to make sure students were welcomed into the space.

“The premiere will let them see what rooms, equipment and staff will be available to support them in creating messages with a global impact.”

The AT&T Learning Studio is equipped with high-end iMac computers, supporting software for web development, design and media creation. The center includes a

main media lab, small group rooms and several studio rooms, with high-quality audio and video equipment for recording podcasts or practicing for speeches and interviews. Media specialists also will be at hand to answer all users’ technology questions.

Students also will have the opportunity to check-out audio and video equipment for personal use, in addition to campus projects.

“We recognize students are learning many things beyond the curriculum of the class,” Dickson said.

“The Learning Studio is designed to help students in building confidence using digital media, so personal projects are welcomed.”

David McMichael, senior English major from Abilene, works in the Digi-

tal Media Center and said he is excited for the new third-floor renovation.

“The location is better,” McMichael said. “The new space upstairs is going to look a lot better and will be inductive to creative thought processes. There’s much more space to utilize the technology.”

Students will have the opportunity to interact with the featured technology this spring, as the studio plans to house tutorial classes and focus groups.

“Partnering with AT&T is a big deal,” McMichael said. “Working with a big company like AT&T legitimizes what we’re trying to do here at ACU.” The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place in conjunction with the ACU

SING SONG

Sing Song costumes support group themes Jeff Craig

Managing Editor

‘‘ ’’

For Sing Song directors, the development and creation of imaginative costumes and distinctive sets is just as vital as coaching strong vocal performances.

A record 17 upstage acts performed at Sing Song 2011, with themes ranging from barnyard animals to pilots. Trojan’s director Matt Bowman, sophomore music education major from Brookhaven, Miss., said finding an original costume is key to communicating a group’s theme.

“It’s always been said that the theme is what you make it,” Bowman said. “You have things like pigs and skunks that don’t sound that great at first, but can add so much. A costume can really make or break a theme.”

Bowman said the Trojans came up with their theme “No Strings Attached” through brainstorming sessions. They ultimately decided to use the character Pinocchio for their costumes, which consisted of red shorts, a yellow shirt, a black vest, a blue bow-tie and a red hat with a green feather.

“We were sitting around trying to come up with different themes. We looked through old Sing Songs and random things,” Bowman said “We wanted to come up with something not super-manly and fun for everyone.”

The men’s social club Pi Kappa competed in Sing Song for the first time since 2003 this year. Direc-

A costume can really make or break a theme.

MATT BOWMAN // Director of Trojan’s Sing Song Act

tor Luke Burnham, junior vocal music education major from Mesquite, said a well-done costume could make a good act great.

“I think costumes are really important. They can really make the difference in the acts,” Burnham said. “They can also probably save your act if it’s not very good.”

Burnham’s group adopted the theme “Potatoes O’Brien.” They dressed as leprechauns, adorned in khaki shorts, a glittery emerald-greed shirt, a green hat and a green coat. Burnham said a good Sing Song costume is original and flashy.

“We tried to really look like a leprechaun,” Burnham said. “We figured shiny vests would add some pop and pizazz.”

The class acts also have to find a way to create uniformity in their acts, apart from the natural bonds that class acts have. Junior class director Julie Neill, junior advertising and public relations major from Irving, said she tried to keep her act’s costumes affordable. The junior act performed as cats.

“Since it’s a class act, we get money from Students’ Association, so we were on a tight budget, Neill said.

“My friend and I designed a shirt together and that’s part of the costume, and we

pinned a sparkly cat stomach on it. We just wore black sweatpants and white socks on hands and feet. We tried to keep it pretty cheap.”

Neill said a good Sing Song costume should be flashy and eye catching.

However, she said having good facial expressions is just as important.

Part of the costume is your Sing Song face,” Neill said. “Good facial expressions gives you energy and makes your act more entertaining.”

For some groups, the costumes have special meaning. The International Students Association, Essence of Ebony and Hispanos Unidos combined to create the IEH act. Each of the members dressed as crayons, emphasizing that individuals are truly fulfilled when they exhibit their “true colors.”

IEH director Rebekah Hernandez, junior psychology major from San Antonio, said the group’s costumes tell a story.

“The theme is that it is only when you show your true colors that you come to life,” Hernandez said.

“The crayons all start gray and change to color. That’s the special meaning behind our costumes.” contact Craig at

jrc07d@acu.edu

The AT&T Learning Connected Summit 2011 on Feb. 28. Conference Studio will be open to the visitors will have the op- ACU community for daily portunity to tour the AT&T use beginning March 2.

Learning studio and hear more about ACU’s push for contact Lewis at educational innovation. cll09a@acu.edu

Page 6

Page 7

February 20, 2011

photos by JOZIE SANDS // Online Editor

Kevin Riley, junior exercise science major from San Antonio livens up the tent while waiting to perform Friday night.

Left: Allison Fowler, junior English major from Amarillo, paints the famous Sing Song face on members of the junior act. Below: Arielle Moncure, sophomore advertising and public relations major from Leakwood, Kans., cringes as another member of GATA ties the ribbon that will secure her wig.

Life under

the Big top

Sing Song participants eagerly await performances in the big white tent outside of Moody Coliseum

Above: Ashley Ham, senior art major from Abilene, wears costumes from both of the acts in which she participates while she walks through the tent. Above Left: Duck costumes line the Alpha Kai Omega section of the tent.

Above: A group of GATA members huddle before returning to Moody Coliseum for the finale Friday night. Right: Evan Hernandez, senior social studies education major from San Antonio, dances with other members of the Trojan act.

Opinion

Page 8

February 20, 2011

EDITORIAL

Egyptian activism should inspire youth As demonstrations rage on in Egypt, American young people should be inspired and motivated by the high level of civic activism demonstrated by Egyptian youth.

Unemployment among young people in Egypt hit an astronomical 25 percent, according to The Economist, and adolescents became fed up with inaction from President Hosni Mubarak and his cabinet.

Youth across the nation took to the streets in response to what they believed to be lapses in democracy and incompetence in their government. They shouted

from the rooftops, calling for Mubarak’s resignation.

Their voices were heard.

One activist group gaining a voice across Egypt is the April 6 Youth Movement, a group that earned its name for supporting a work protest on that date, according to NPR. The April 6 Youth Movement is not controlled by a headquarters or a board.

The group actually is structured around a staple of “youthdom” around the world: Facebook.

The group’s Facebook page has almost 100,000 members and claims they fo-

cus on three key tenets: Democracy, social justice and free and fair elections.

In the shadow of Egypt’s internal strife, a vital question must be asked: Would America’s youth do the same?

Rather than imploring America’s young people to violent uprisings, we urge self-examination. Unfortunately, young people in the United States are far too ambivalent towards perceived injustices.

A 2010 Harvard study found that only 27 percent of people between ages 18 and 29 said they definitely would vote. The Chronicle of Higher

Education reported that just 20 percent of people under age 30 voted in the 2010-midterm elections.

Young people in the United States must become more socially aware in their own nation and around the world. Civic activism starts at the ballot box, but it most certainly does not end there.

America’s youth must make a concerted effort to become aware of the candidates for whom they vote, the issues for which they stand and the processes by which decisions are made.

It’s for our own good.

By Morgan Davis

The Funny Funnies

the issue

After weeks of protests in Egypt, President Mubarak has decided to step down from office.

our take

While American young shouldn’t riot in front of the White House, they should be more aware and involved in politics.

The Egyptian people recognized that they were not reaping the intended benefits of democracy, so they reacted.

The youth of any nation is a powerful voice, but only if it chooses to exercise its right to speak up. Unless Americans make the effort to educate themselves on those processes, we will continue to be a nation that disregards its youth vote.

And without that youth vote, we may well fall victim to the same political stagnation plaguing democracy in Egypt; we may find ourselves requiring the same degree of change and political revolution.

The only difference: We may not do anything about it. contact the Optimist at

jmcnetwork@acu.edu

COLUMN

Memories linger, hangover clears Your Average Jozie

By Jozie Sands

COLUMN

Church service soothes stress Barbarossa

By Matthew Woodrow Sunday morning church service is a time filled with communion and connecting with God and with our fellow man.

It’s a time to rest from the week, but sometimes we feel like we’re too busy to rest.

Woodrow It’s common knowledge that on days like Easter and Christmas, church attendance booms. But on the other side of the coin are days when the crowd thins considerably.

On Super Bowl Sunday, the evening service is sparse or sometimes even canceled. The morning when the elders give the “State of the Congregation” lesson, attention is lax. But I believe the one day a year it’s most difficult for ACU students to get up in the morning is the day after Sing Song.

Preachers this morning will look out from the pulpit and see one of two

things: The section where the All of these things have filled my college group week with stress upon stress, but normally sits one thing helped: going to church completely empty, or a sleeping on Wednesday night. college student next to their visiting parents, who rousted tundra two weeks ago, have “a shelter in the time of their child out of bed to made this past week one of storm.” All of those are tithe longest I, personally, ever tles that help us carry on attend service. through our struggles.

Last night’s show start- have ever experienced.

I knew that this mornI fought with people I ed at 8:00, and after twoand-a-half hours of acts respect and argued with ing I would be going to there were awards, clean- roommates, friends and church with my girlfriend’s coworkers. My girlfriend family. But now instead of up and celebration.

I’m sure the members of and I even postponed feeling obligated to go, I’m Gamma Sigma Phi stayed Valentine’s Day to a more looking forward to the refreshment I will find there. up all night celebrating convenient time.

I’m taking my troubles All of these things have their victory, while the fun did not stop for Ko Jo Kai. filled my week with stress to him.

And then maybe apoloAnd sophomores must have upon stress, but one thing been on cloud nine. They helped: going to church gizing to some of the people I referenced above for probably went to bed after on Wednesday night.

I didn’t feel like making the way I acted this week. this paper was printed.

I know that for many of Meanwhile, other the time to go. I attended teams’ wishes were not mostly out of obligation. you reading this, it will be too granted and pipe dreams But the hour I was there late to attend Sunday mornwent unfullfilled. They are was a time of relaxation ing services, or even Sunday most likely wallowing in and freedom from the night church. But maybe when you do, you can set defeat and won’t feel like worries of the day.

True, after that hour, aside some time to be thankgetting up this morning.

The busyness of Sing it was directly back to ful for getting through the Song, in addition to the the grindstone, but that past week, and spend a little time with your father. massive workloads placed time did help.

Jesus is called the on students by teachers compensating for Abilene’s “Prince of Peace,” “the contact Woodrow at transformation into an arctic rock of my strength,” mrw08a@acu.edu

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.

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mester, and a portion of their sanity, to the greatest show on campus.

Although four years of Sing Song experience might not look good on a résumé, Sing Song memories can mark peak moments of the college experience. There isn’t anything better than an elementary school program on steroids to bring friends closer.

Students stay up late into the night putting the final touches on their homemade costumes and sets. And finally, after many nights of practice with Tom Craig rocking the role of the music teacher, it’s time to perform.

Students may not wake up to find a tiger in their bathroom or their matress on the roof, but they may greet the Sunday after Sing Song still sportSands ing crimson cheeks and brightly colored tights. And that, my friends, is a Sing Song hangover.

Other symptoms include spontaneous choreography, an affinity for white Although four years of gloves and Sing Song experience conversing via rewritten chart might not look good on toppers from a résumé, Sing Song the past three memories can mark decades.

Some may peak moments of the suffer from college experience. the prolonged condition, Parents, grandparSing Song Syndrome, in which victims find their ents and siblings fill the faces permanently frozen coliseum to watch their in expressions of what twenty-something yearappears to be painfully olds show off their newest intense joy. This symp- knowledge, acquired at a tom often accompanies high-dollar price at a pria compulsion to inject vate university, by singing “jazz hands” into every- exuberantly and executing perfectly choreographed day gestures.

Loss of sleep, prolonged arm movements with 50 exposure to pep and a glit- of their peers. And no ter overdose will leave one knows why, but the even the most weathered parents are so proud of Sing Song veterans fum- this accomplishment that bling for an Advil and a they proceed to purchase cup of coffee as they try to the production DVD. 20 years from now, the kick the hangover and drag themselves to church after lost sleep, blown GPA and struggle to stay awake durthe Saturday night finale.

A production with the ing church will be forgotgrandeur of Sing Song ten. The only memories comes with a price, and that will remain are the it isn’t the $24 ticket that same memories of the enmade ACU “the singing ergetic, overgrown elemencollege” fifty-four years tary school program that ago, when the campus has brought generations of was young and treeless. ACU students together.

Love it or hate it, it’s Sing Song is bought with the blood, sweat, tears Sing Song. and GPA points of the students who dedicate contact Sands at the first month of the sejgs07a@acu.edu

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February 20, 2011

Focus

Page 9

photos by JOZIE SANDS // Online Editor

Left: The women of Ko Jo Kai perform as popcorn in their act, “Once you Pop, the Fun Don’t Stop.” Below: Nathan Healy, sophomore exercise science major from Plano plays the role of a nervous suitor in the sophomore class act, “Shot Through the Heart.”

Sing it out

Six hosts and hostesses, 17 class and club acts and hundreds of student participants make this year’s Sing Song the biggest in its 55-year history.

Top left: Jeff Cawyer, junior finance major from Carrollton, directs the men of Galaxy. Bottom left: Hosts perform “Footloose” with Sanctify. Above: Sing Song hostess Carlee Cagle, senior theater major from Arlington, sings and dances to “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree.”

Page 10

CAMPUS NEWS

February 20, 2011

FROM SPORTS

Page 11

TRACK AND FIELD

February 20, 2011

COLUMN

Final: Sang, others stay home Fan: Oaks act as AU symbol Continued from page 12

In the men’s triple jump, Timothy Jones finished second, posting a jump of 14.01, a slim .39 meters behind the provisional mark of 14.4. On the women’s side of the event, Amanda Ouedraogo hit the provisional qualifying mark, jumping 11.99 meters.

Karla Hope provisionally qualified for nationals in the 400-meter race, posing a solid time of 56.76, good for fourth at the Nebraska meet.

Sydney Smith ran a 25.74 in the 200-meter dash, nar-

BASEBALL

‘‘ ’’ ‘‘ ’’

rowly missing the provisional mark by .04 seconds.

The decathletes were at a “last chance” meet in Lubbock, but no one qualified there. At the meet, there were only six people competing.

None of the ACU decathletes had gotten to post times yet because of the weather that caused their meet to be canceled two weeks ago.

“It was a rough meet for all of us,” decathlete Caleb Gregory said. “We hadn’t had a chance to get qualifying times yet, so this was our only chance to do so, which was a bummer that we had to wait so long.”

I was very pleased with our meet. I knew it would be really important to post good times.

DESMOND JACKSON // junior sprinter for ACU track and field

Amos Sang set an automatic qualifying time of 14:05.82 in the 5,000-meter run in New York two weeks ago. Triple jumper Ramon Sparks chose to play it safe as well. He already had qualified for Nationals in the men’s long and triple jump, and Tyler Fleet hit a provisional qualifying mark of 57-11.75 in the weight

throw at the Texas Tech Invitational two weeks ago.

The team now will prepare for the final meet of the indoor season, the NCAA Division II National Indoor Championships, March 10-12 in Albuquerque, N.M. contact Shake at

bxs09a@acu.edu

Wild: Crazy finish dooms ECU Continued from page 12

After the game, Calhoun said the series sweep field. Watson scored on a has his team headed in the throwing error. The Wild- right direction.

“We’re on the right track,” cats tacked on two more runs to their total in the Calhoun said. “We have a lot fifth inning and added of work to do, but it’s early, we’ll figure some things out.” one run in the seventh.

The next game for the ECU came back in the top of the ninth to tie the Wildcats will be Tuesday game, but the Wildcats in Austin. prevailed in the bottom of the ninth on a walk-off STACY ACTON // Staff Photographer contact Craig at wild pitch, 6-5.

Zach Sneed throws a pitch in Saturday’s game against ECU. jrc07d@acu.edu

Continued from page 12

know this is arguably the biggest college football rivalry in America, but to do something like that is just wrong. Instead of fighting for his team, this man publicly disgraced Alabama and all it stands for.

Really man, what were you thinking?

He mentioned in his phone call that some Auburn fans placed a Cam Newton jersey over a Paul “Bear” Bryant statue before this year’s game, and that some students rolled Toomer’s corner after Bryant’s death in 1983. Whether or not that’s true, this man’s actions still are not justified, not even close. What would coach “Bear” Bryant say to you about your actions if he was still alive? From what I have heard about Coach Bryant, I don’t think he would approve.

The man will face felony charges under criminal mischief in court someday. However, regardless of what happens to the man, the damage has been done. It is a sad day for War

What would coach “Bear” Bryant say to you about your actions if he were still alive?

Eagle nation, but Auburn had the last laugh after winning this year’s National Championship trophy.

This just goes down as another terrible mark and reason for these two schools to hate each other. Although, Auburn will not be as good next season without Cam Newton, I would be pretty surprised if they didn’t beat Alabama next year.

Even if they are not better than Alabama next year, they definitely will have a score to settle on the field, which is what makes rivalries and college football great. contact Cantrell at

jrc07f@acu.edu

SOFTBALL

Shootout: Lack of consistency troubles Reeves Continued from page 12

definitely something we need to work on,” Reeves failing to score a run, de- said. “We have to bring spite loading the bases runners in scoring position home. Our pitchers need with no outs.

“We left 28 runners on to get ahead of the count. base in two games. That’s We need to play better de-

fense. But we’ll get better as the season goes on.”

On Saturday, the ’Cats defeated Southern Arkansas University 6-1, and Brittany Rexroat got the win. But the women fell

to University of NebraskaOmaha later in the day 7-0, as Hall failed to win her second pitching matchup in as many days.

“We’ve had some ups and downs; we’ve had

some good games and bad Newman University to fingames,” Nolan said. “But ish the Shootout.

The next home game we’re really coming together as a team, and we have will be Tuesday at 1 p.m. some great potential.”

Sunday, the Wildcats contact Smith at face Central Missouri and mds10a@acu.edu

Page 12

Standings MEN’S BASKETBALL Team

Div.

Tarleton St. 8-1 MSU 6-3 WTAMU 6-4 ASU 6-4 UIW 5-5 ENMU 4-5 TAMU-K 3-7 ACU 1-10

Ovrl.

17-4 18-5 19-4 10-12 16-6 9-12 8-14 9-14

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Team Div. Ovrl.

Tarleton St.9-0 WTAMU 7-3 ACU 7-4 6-4 ASU MSU 4-5 UIW 3-7 ENMU 2-7 TAMU-K 1-9

19-2 14-9 10-13 13-9 8-13 7-15 4-17 3-19

Briefs n The

volleyball program has announced plans for its first Volleyball Alumni Weekend on April 16. An alumni match will take place after the completion of the 2011 Spring Volleyball Tournament.

n Tickets

for the Lone Star Conference Basketball Championship now are available for purchase. The tournament will take place March 2-6 in Bartlesville, Okla. Tickets cost $35 and can be purchased through the ACU Department of Athletics online at www. lonestarconference.org.

Call 674-6853 for more ticket information.

n The

men’s basketball team dropped a heartbreaker 79-77 to the Eastern New Mexico University Greyhounds.

The ’Hounds nailed three three-pointers in the last minute to rally against the ’Cats in another tough loss this season for ACU. The Wildcats are 1-11 in the conference.

n The

women’s basketball team won a close contest 67-64 against the Zias from Eastern New Mexico University. Mack Lankford led the Wildcats with 25 points including six three-pointers. The Wildcats are now 8-4 in the conference and have almost clinched a playoff berth.

BASEBALL

Sports

February 20, 2011

Walk-off sweeps Tigers Jeff Craig

Managing Editor

The Wildcat baseball team swept a weekend series against East Central University on Friday and Saturday at Crutcher Scott Field, outscoring the Tigers 13-8 for the series.

After dropping the first two games of the season against Texas A&M Kingsville, Head Coach Britt Bonneau’s ’Cats rallied to win the next four.

“I thought we pitched real well in the series,” Bonneau said. “We’re not there yet with our hitting, but this is a team that can hit, it’s just going to take some time to get disciplined.”

In the first game, ACU and ECU engaged in a tight pitcher’s duel until Wildcat slugger Will Calhoun ripped a two-out, two-run double to break a 1-1 tie. Junior pitcher Brent Bray picked up the win, giving up just two hits in two innings of relief work. The Wildcats took the contest 4-1.

In game two, the Wildcats scored three runs in the first four innings and held on to edge out the Tigers 3-2. Senior pitcher Zach Sneed came within one out

STACY ACTON // Staff Photographer

The Wildcats swept the East Central University Tigers over the weekend at Crutcher Scott Field. Saturday night featured an exciting contest that was decided by an East Central wild pitch. The ’Cats took the win 6-5 to finish off the sweep. of a complete game, tossing 6.2 innings of four-hit baseball. He struck out two Tigers to earn his first win of the season.

The Wildcat bats started the third game cold. Howev-

er, the Wildcats still scored the first run of the game.

Designated hitter Cameron Watten drew a second inning walk, advanced on a balk, moved to third on a groundout and scored on a

J.R. Roland groundout. The ’Cats did not record a hit until the fifth inning.

The Tigers took a 2-1 lead with runs in the fourth and fifth innings, but the Wildcats came right back when

TRACK AND FIELD

n The

softball team will play at home against Midwestern State University in a two-game series on Tuesday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

n The

baseball team will travel to Austin to take on St. Edwards University on Tuesday at 2 p.m.

n The men’s ten-

nis team will travel to Colorado Springs, Colo. on Friday to play Metro State University and the Air Force Academy.

see WILD page 11

COLUMN

Jackson qualifies for nationals Alabama Bryson Shake

Assistant Sports Editor

With the NCAA Division II Indoor National Championship meet a mere two-and-a-half weeks away, the ACU Track and Field team split up into four groups Friday in an attempt to try and get as many athletes either provisionally or automatically qualified or to improve their already qualified times for better national standing for the impending national meet.

And several athletes did just that on Friday.

Desmond Jackson stole the show for the ACU squad as he set the NCAA automatic qualifying mark in both of the events he ran: the 200-meter dash and the 60-meter dash.

Jackson finished first in the 60-meter dash, running a 6.73, eclipsing the national automatic qualifying time of 6.75. Paris Robertson ran it in 6.97.

Jackson also ranked first in the 200-meter dash, posting a mark of 21.26, 0.03

seconds better than the national qualifying time of 21.23. Jackson already had qualified for nationals in the 60-meter dash, but that was his first time to run the 200, and the results speak for themselves.

“I was very pleased about our meet,” Jackson said. “I knew it would be really important to post good times going into nationals in three weeks for better positioning. That was my first time to run the 200, and I was very happy with my time. I had

a slight hamstring injury that I had been nursing, so I wasn’t really sure how it was going to affect me. I guess it turned out okay.”

Long distance runner Anais Belledant finished in fourth place in the women’s 1-mile run but, more importantly, improved upon her personal best of 5:00.84 that she ran in New York two weeks ago. With her time, she provisionally qualified for nationals.

see SHOOTOUT page 11

see FAN page 11

DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer

Senior Ashley Calles waits for the pitch from her shortstop poistion. The Wildcats split a weekend series against blabbity blah.

’Cats split opening four games Sports Reporter

Two days through the South Central Regional Shootout in Durant, Oklahoma, the ACU softball team has split their first four games, with two left to play on Sunday.

Friday, the ‘Cats defeated Washburn 5-4 and lost to Henderson State 6-8.

In their first game of the Shootout, ACU took

a 5-4 lead in the top of the seventh inning on a two RBI single by junior infielder Sarah Martinez.

Sophomore Shelby Hall pitched the complete game, closing out the bottom of the inning to secure the Wildcat victory, denying the Lady Blues of their first win of 2011.

The ‘Cats left 15 runners on base, a statistics that easily could have left the team on the losing end,

had Martinez’s timely hit not brought home freshmen Kaylee Crozier and Ashley Nolan. Senior Candice Miller and Nolan both batted 3-4, and the team record moved above .500 for the first time since the first game of the season.

“We’re really swinging the bats well,” said Head Coach Bobby Reeves.

“Nolan hit 6 for 9 on Friday, and the team averaged .367 and .380 in

Just a Bit Outside Ryan Cantrell

those two Friday games respectively.”

It was a different story for the Wildcats later on Friday afternoon during the game against Henderson State. ACU stranded 13 runners on base and only struck out three State batters, falling to the Lady Reddies 6 runs to 8. The ‘Cats lost a huge opportunity in the sixth inning,

see FINAL page 11

SOFTBALL

Mark Smith

fan takes rivalry to extreme

College rivalries are one of the greatest parts of sports.

Rivalries escalate games to a higher level and lead to a greater level of competition. However, sometimesrivalries turn into hatred off the Cantrell field and the worst in people comes out.

Thursday a man was arrested in Alabama after poisoning two trees on the Auburn University campus. These were not just any ordinary trees however, as they both are 130-year-old live oaks trees ,that have become a part of a huge Auburn tradition. For generations, fans have thronged to Toomer’s Corner after victories and “rolled” these trees. Fans would throw toilet paper over the trees in celebration of the victory.

After a football game between Alabama and Auburn this season, a bitter Alabama fan drove to Auburn’s campus and used a herbicide poison to kill the trees and end this tradition. His actions succeeded, as both trees were poisoned and have very little chance of living. The man was picked up and arrested Thursday after calling in to a radio show and boasting about his actions.

I am not a fan of either one of these school, but this action sickens me. I

Upcoming n The men’s and women’s basketball teams will play at Tarleton State University on Wednesday. The women’s game will start at 6 p.m., and the men will follow immediately after.

shortstop Reed Watson cracked a single to rightcenter field. Right fielder Cameron Bankston followed with a bloop single to right