The Optimist - 05.01.13

Features Page 5

Sweet Teeth

vol. 101, no. 54

wednesday, may 1, 2013

1 SECTION, 8 PAGES

Students cooking up Finals Week desserts

INSIDE OPINION A few reminders and guidelines to have a good Finals Week

Page 6

NEWS Card readers installed in Cullen Auditorium, Chapel on the Hill Page 4

CATTLE

NEWS Art students compete for scholarships

CHAOS

Page 3

SPORTS

Students get their hands dirty at the ACU Rodeo on Thursday night

Women’s tennis team hosts, wins regional tournament Page 8

SPORTS Baseball team drops 3 of 4 to Angelo State, falls to fifth place in LSC Page 8

NEWS Runners cheer on, remember and fight for cancer survivors Page 3

ONLINE NEWS Freshman creates local gymnastics program acuoptimist.com

VIDEO ISA provides common ground, unity for students far from home acuoptimist.com

VIDEO Get an exclusive inside look at the ‘Optimist’ newsroom

acuoptimist.com

PHOTOS See more shots from the ACU Rodeo

flickr.com/acuoptimist

OXFORD Marissa Jones, our Oxford correspondent, details her latest experiences abroad theoxfordcommablog. wordpress.com

photos by mandy lambright chief photographer Top: Jimmy Isbell, junior convergence journalism major from Euless, and Curtis Christian, senior interdisciplinary major from McKinney, bring down a steer during a rodeo event. Left: Emily Schuster, junior animal science major from Red Oak, herds calves in the arena. Right: Savannah Smith, junior business management major from Pampa, and Keslie Bernard, senior elementary education major from Coleman, run a “second place victory lap” after one of their events.

administration

CFO preparing to leave post melany cox online managing editor Chief Financial Officer Kelly Young will take a new role with Abilene Christian Investment Management Company, the endowment management arm, as soon as a new CFO is chosen.

Yo u n g serving in senior adminsaid he will istration at ACU and Pepmost likely perdine University, he was b e c o m e ready for a change. the Vice “Last summer I asked President Dr. Schubert if he would or Managagree to me changing roles ing Director and gave him some projyoung for Direct ects in which I am interestInvestments for ACIMO. ed,” Young said. “Gratefully, He said after 15 years of he supported my desire to

stay at ACU and we agreed that trying to develop some of the land surrounding ACU could benefit ACU, our students and the city of Abilene.”

Young said he, President Schubert and Jack Rich, chief investment officer, have all had the desire to improve the land around

ACU, but have had difficulties finding time to move projects ahead. He said his new role will allow him to devote more time to making plans for a more exciting and attractive area around campus a reality.

He said his primary dusee CFO page 4

fundraising

30th KGR raises more than $10K emmett niland student reporter Students, teachers and community members participated in the 30th annual Kirk Goodwin Run on Saturday. Every dollar that was donated will go toward helping the ACU students who were involved in the fatal car accident this past January.

The event, put on by members of Galaxy men’s social club, took place in memory of Kirk Goodwin who was a Galaxy member in 1983 while he ran as a member of ACU’s track team. Goodwin passed away in 1984 after he was involved in a car accident in the fall of 1983.

The event was organized this year by co-directors

“

It seemed like it was a really good time for everyone.” brie buschman junior communications major from Amarillo

Aaron Brooks and Keith Carroll.

“This year’s run was a huge success,” said Brooks, junior marketing major from Burleson. “We had 200 participants this year and because of that we were able to exceed our goal of raising $10,000. We also expanded the race for the first time to include a 10k option as a trial run for the future and it went really well.”

This year’s race surpassed last year’s donation total of

$7,000, which went towards benefiting the victims of the Nov. 4, 2011, bus accident.

“We had more runners than last year and sold almost 400 shirts and 80 tank tops, which was much more than past years,” said Carroll, senior marketing major from Abilene. “The overall atmosphere was what really made the event great this year. It was a lot of fun for people to show up and run or walk a 5K with their friends.”

Galaxy members have been organizing the event for the past 30 years to benefit a variety of causes in the Abilene community. It also acts as a positive way to remember the life of Goodwin while continuing to bring the community together

[paige otway staff photographer Runners take off at the beginning of the Kirk Goodwin Run.

around a cause.

“It was really cool to get out and see the community and build relationships while being active and supporting a good cause,” said Brie Buschman, junior communications major from

Amarillo. “Whether you were running or walking it seemed like it was a really good time for everyone.” contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

fundraising

Students to donate unused Bean Bucks be collecting food donations bought using students’ left over Bean Bucks during finals week.

The student organization, “Rather than just using For the Least of These, will up our excess Bean Bucks

madeline orr copy editor

to buy candy or soda, we can use them for a greater purpose,” said Julie Brinkman, sophomore vocal music education major from McKinney.

Abilene Christian University

As one of the founders of For the Least of These, Brinkman said last year they were able to donate $1,700 of food, provide 100 sack lunches and help stock

the shelves of Love and Care Ministries. Lunches included chips, a Chick-filA sandwich, a cookie and a see least page 4

Wednesday 05.01.13

1

2

Wednesday

3

Thursday 3 p.m. Students’ Association Budget Year in Review in Bible 114

Chapel checkup

97 2 @acuoptimist

4

Friday 7:30 p.m. A Cappella and Orchestra Concert in Cullen Auditorium

2

Saturday All Day - Track - Lonestar Conference Championships

All Day - Track - Lonestar Conference Championships

All Day - Baseball Conference Tournament

All Day - Baseball Conference Tournament

All Day - Softball Conference Tournament

All Day - Softball Conference Tournament

11 a.m. Brown Bag Band Concert at Cullen Auditorium

2 p.m. Latin Dance Workshop hosted by Hispanos Unidos in SRWC

Around Abilene May 1

May 2

May 3

May 4

6:30 p.m. The Key City Squares will sponsor a square dancing workshop at the Wagon Wheel in Tye. Beginning lessons will be 7:30-9 p.m.

6:30 p.m. The Wagon Wheel Squares will sponsor a square dancing workshop at the Wagon Wheel in Tye. Beginning lessons will be 7-9 p.m.

7 p.m. Wylie’s Show Choir, Vocal Point, will be at the Paramount Theatre May 3.

Enjoy music from the decades including today’s modern pop music. Admission is free.

8 a.m. The Zombie Run will begin at 133 N. William St. in Buffalo Gap. For more information call 325-572-3365.

The Optimist optimist@acu.edu Announcements The ACU Career Center is now on Pinterest. Go to pinterest.com/acucareercenter to begin following the boards from the ACU Career Center Pinterest today.

Scriptwriter needed for Ethnos Culture Show 2013. This is a chance for real-life writing experience and seeing your work performed in International Students’ Association biggest event. Pitch your idea to ISA at officers@isaculture.org or ask Look for recycling bins near the back for more info. doors of the Campus Center. Every can, Police Log bottle, or paper scrap makes this world a Relax on the last day of classes in the better place. cool space of Cullen Auditorium. The Wind Ensemble would like to invite you Hispanos Unidos is hosting a Latin dance to attend the Brown Bag noon concert workshop May 4 from 2-4 p.m. in Studio on May 3 at noon as they perform their A of the SRWC. There is a $5 entrance final concert for an elementary school fee. audience. Admission is free.

The final large ensemble concert of the year for the Music Department will be May 2 at 7:30 p.m. featuring the ACU Orchestra and A Cappella Chorus performing one of the great masterworks, Mozart’s monumental Requiem, featuring student soloists. Also on the concert is Manuel De Falla’s exciting “Suite No. 2” from his ballet The Three Cornered Hat. Admission is free.

The ACU Center for Speech and Language Disorders is hosting a clinic for those with Parkinsons and their loved ones at the Area Agency on aging of West Central Texas from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

June 10-14. The cost is $25. For more information call 325-674-6670.

Join COBA & JMC in New York this fall break and tour the NY stock exchange, Johnson & Johnson and other major Win one of ten $30 gift cards by com- financial and Ad/PR organizations! For pleting the Student Relationship Assess- more information contact Joyce Hayley ment administered by the Department of in the JMC department at haleyj@acu.

Marriage and Family Studies. Find the link edu or Dr. Jonathan Stewart in COBA at in the myACU login ads. stewartjo@acu.edu.

Volunteer Opp0rtunities The Center for International Education is looking for conversation partners for international students to practice English, conversations and cultural learning.

Partners meet for one hour each week at a time and place determined by the partners. For more information contact Laura McGregor at 325-674-2821 or laura.mcgregor@acu.edu.

St. John’s Episcopal School is seeking volunteers to paint metal playground equipment anytime Monday-Friday after 3 p.m. and Saturday anytime. For more information contact Rebecca McMillon at 325-695-8870 or flores@ stjohnsabilene.org.

Center for Contemporary Arts needs a gallery assistant to greet patrons, answer phones and answer basic questions about the Center and its programs. This opportunity is open Tuesday-Friday. The Center for Contemporary Arts is located at 220 Cypress Street. For more informa tion contact Jessica Dulle at 325-6778389 or visit: http://www.center-arts. com/.

Rescue the Animals is seeking volunteers to take pictures and videos in preparation for the launching of their new website as well as maintenance of the site after the launch. This opportunity is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. For more information contact Kathy Walker at 325-677-7722 or rescuetheanimalsvolunteers@yahoo.com.

The National Center For Children’s Illustrated Literature is looking for volunteers to greet patrons, assist with art activities, sell books and make visitors feel welcome. Help is also needed for special events like Artwalk and exhibit openings.

The NCCIL is located at 102 Cedar St. For more information on times and dates contact Debby Lillick at 325-673-4586 or visit: http://www.nccil.org/index.htm.

University Place is seeking volunteers to help with the resident birthday party for residents the third Wednesday of each month at 2:30 p.m. For more information contact Linda Tijerina at 325-676-9946.

The Christian Ministries of Abilene: Food Pantry is searching for volunteers to greet and interview neighbors, do computer entries, shop with neighbors, take groceries to vehicles, bag, stock and pick up orders on Mondays and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m.

- 11:45 a.m. The Food Pantry is located at 701 Walnut St. For more information contact Becky Almanza at 325-673-1234 or cmapantry@aol.com.

The Christian Service Center is seeking volunteers to help assist with filling requests for items such as clothing, bedding, kitchen utensils, etc. from the donation center, sort and organize donations and occasionally pick-up donated items.

Volunteers are needed every weekday and the first Saturday of each month between 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

For more information contact Roberta Brown at 325-673-7561 or at robertabrown51@hotmail.com. For more information on the program visit: http:// www.uccabilene.org/ministries/csc.htm.

The Food Bank of West Central Texas needs volunteers to help sort and stock food and other items any weekday Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. The Food Bank is located at 5505 N. 1st St. For more information contact Janice Serrault at 325-695-6311 or abfoodbk@camalott. com.

Meals on Wheels Plus needs volunteer drivers to deliver afternoon meals to seniors and adults with disabilities MondayFriday between 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Training is provided.

For more information contact Samantha Barker at 352-672-5050 or visit: http:// mealsonwheelsplus.com.

The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers for a variety of needs including sorting and pricing items in the thrift store, helping in the kitchen and/or doing yard work. Times are flexible. Volunteers are needed throughout the week MondaySaturday. The Salvation Army is located at 1726 Butternut St. For more information contact J.D. Alonzo at 325-677-1408 or visit: www.satruck.com.

The House That Kerry Built is looking for volunteers to assist in the day care of medically fragile children any day Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. or 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Contact Keith Loftin at 325672-6061.

The International Rescue Committee is seeking volunteers to work with refugees who recently moved to the U.S., teaching English, helping with homework and mentoring. Contact Susanna Lubango to make an appointment at 325-675-5643.

The Covenant Place of Abilene is seeking volunteers to lead singing and/or play piano for residents. For more information contact Ann Erwin at 325-793-1144.

Breakfast on Beech Street is seeking volunteers to help set up, prepare and serve breakfast to homeless/lower income folks any Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 5:30 a.m. or Tuesday at 5 a.m. B.O.B.S is located at First Christian Church on 3rd St. and Beech St. Service times must be scheduled in advance. To serve on Mondays contact Jody Depriest at 325-669-3312 or jody.depriest@gmail. com. To serve on Tuesdays contact Allen Daugherty at 325-660-6949 or ale.al@ suddenlink.net. To serve on Wednesdays contact Jane Harvey at 325-695-0092 or jharvread@aol.com. To serve on Thursdays contact Margaret Beasley at 325692-4149 or mbeasley5@suddenlink.net.

To serve on Fridays contact Rachel Brown at rdb08a@acu.edu.

Christian Homes & Family Services is seeking volunteers to do minor landscaping such as raking, trimming bushes, minor apartment repairs and general upkeep Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information contact Shaylee Honey at 325-677-2205 or Shoney@ ChristianHomes.com.

The Abilene Public Zoo is seeking volunteers to help clean/feed animals, assist zookeepers and assist with educational classes any weekday any time between 12 p.m.-4 p.m. They are also seeking volunteers to help with general labor such as grounds cleanup and painting any weekday at any time between noon and 4 p.m. For more information contact Joy Harsh at 325-676-6487.

Hill Resources is seeking volunteers to encourage and entertain mentally delayed individuals Monday through Friday any time between 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information contact Michelle Espinoza at 325-673-3346 or mespinoza@ hillresource.com.

For additional volunteer opportunities visit: www.acu.edu/campusoffices/ccsl/ ministry-service/volunteer-opportunities/ The Oaks at Radford Hills is seeking volunteers to participate in activities, go on outings and provide social stimulation for residents any day at any time. For more information contact Michelle White or Sonia Serrato at 325-672-3236.

Rescue the Animals is seeking volunteers to work at the adoption center doing a variety of tasks including cleaning, socializing and grooming the animals Monday - Saturday from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. For more information contact Mindi Qualls at 325698-7722 or rescuetheanimalsvolunteers@yahoo.com.

The CAC Department is seeking volunteers to participate in Special Olympics, by helping mentally/physically challenged people play games and sports Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. For more infomation contact Angel Seca at 325-690-5235.

Communities in Schools at Ortiz Elementary school is seeking volunteers to set up games and snacks, be in charge and play games with students and clean up afterwards. They are looking for volunteers that will have fun playing with children and be willing to offer praise and encourage the children for having perfect attendance and no tardies during the last six weeks of school. For more information contact Sheila Ashford at 325-6714945 x 5351 or sheila.ashford@abileneisd. org.

For additional volunteer opportunities visit: www.acu.edu/campusoffices/ccsl/ ministry-service/volunteer-opportunities/

3

news

Wednesday 05.01.13

Local

Runners compete for cancer victims Brittany Jackson student reporter Participants were called to “Celebrate. Remember.

Fight Back.” at Relay for Life this past Friday and Saturday, which is precisely what they did. Through 12 hours of rallying and relaying, Taylor County residents took a stand against cancer.

According to the Relay for Life website, more than 60 teams participated in this year’s event, raising $130,034.85. The event lasted from 6:30 p.m. on Friday to 6:30 a.m. Saturday on ACU’s soccer fields.

During the event teams are asked to keep at least one of their members on the track, because “cancer never sleeps.” The absence of a finish line also served as a symbol in the walk, showing spectators that activists wouldn’t stop fighting until there was a cure for cancer.

Many ACU students took initiative and created their own teams for this year’s event. Courtney Martin, junior youth and family ministry major from New Braunfels, organized a team with her residents of Nelson Hall 2nd East. Through a bake sale set up in the Campus Center they earned $200. They also sold t-shirts with their team name, “The Mighty Ducklings,” for more money to put towards cancer research. As of last Thursday, the team had earned $1,725, beating their goal by $725.

Ali Stratton, freshman nursing major from Beaumont, heard about the relay and decided to join The Mighty Ducklings in its campaign.

“I’ve never been to this before, but it’s really

cool seeing a tragedy like cancer bringing people together,” Stratton said.

“This lets people connect with others that have been affected as well, so people know they’re not alone.”

As a Relay for Life tradition, the event started off with the celebration of the Survivor Lap. That lap, along with the silence lap

“

This lets people connect with others that have been affected as well, so people know they’re not alone.”

ali stratton freshman nursing major from beaumont

for those who passed away, are favorites to many participants, including Destinee Martinez, sophomore nursing major from Tomball, who organized team Laps on Laps on Laps.

Dystanie Douglas, freshman Ad/PR major from Fort Worth, walked alongside Martinez with team Laps on Laps on Laps, in remembrance of her close friend who lost a battle to brain cancer in 2010.

“I thought the survivor walk was the coolest part so far,” Douglas said.

“It showed other spectators who had survived the fight, and served as a sign of triumph in the battle against cancer.”

Later, in the Luminaria Ceremony hundreds of decorated bags lit up the track course in remembrance of loved ones people had lost. This allowed

BritTany Jackson Student Reporter

Crowds gather on the Wildcat soccer field to Zumba during Relay for Life Friday night. younger kids or older family members that couldn’t make it to the walk to participate by writing on a bag that would be displayed later in the ceremony.

Martin said the bags usually spell out a word, and is “probably the most moving moment” of the entire event.

The relay filled the north side of campus with laughter, people strolling hand in hand, social clubs

art and design

Students compete for scholarships Joshua garcia managing editor Students received thousands in scholarships as part of Friday’s Student Art Competition.

The Student Art Competition is conducted annually. All students who are members of the Department of Art and Design are required to submit an entry. Professors then determine which entries will be featured in the show. Partially based on the show, professors decide how they will grant certain monetary awards or scholarships for the next semester.

The department provided 25 awards ranging from $500 to $4,000. Michael Ferguson, sophomore interior design major from Campbell, Calif., had one of his architectural models featured

optimist@acu.edu

“

At first I was excited just to have my architectural model selected for the show. To be given an award on top of that was quite an honor.

Michael ferguson sophomore interior design major from campbell, Calif.

in the show and won an award for excellence in architecture. He said this year featured an especially competitive batch of work.

“At first I was excited just to have my architectural model selected for the show,” Ferguson said.

“To be given an award on top of that was quite an honor.”

The artwork is on display in the Shore Art Gallery. Mike Wiggins, department chair, said the art will remain showcased throughout the summer.

“We have a lot of new freshmen coming in over

The Optimist

“At first I was excited just to have my architectural model selected for the show,” Ferguson said. “To be given an award on top of that was quite an honor.” the summer,” said Wiggins, associate professor of art and design. “It’s great to have a lot of really excellent work showing for them.”

For a complete list of winners, visti acuoptimist.com.

@acuoptimist

contact garcia at jtg10b@acu.edu

ACUOPTIMIST.com

gathering for a greater cause and children selling homemade lemonade or candy bars for a few cents.

Even if it was only for a night, the ACU community extended beyond its staff and students to gather those affected by cancer in a heartfelt embrace of support and participation. contact the optimiist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

news

wednesday 05.01.13

4

fundraising

Least: Students give away extra Bean Bucks continued from page 1

Mandy lambright chief photographer

Taylor Langston, senior broadcast journalism major from Lubbock, and Layne Sharp, senior interdisciplinary major from McKinney, two-step in the arena at the Taylor County Expo Center as they await the start of their event.

bottle of water and were then passed out to homeless people around Abilene.

“Our Bean Bucks don’t get refunded so we might as well do something with them,” said Janessa Beach, sophomore math education major from Van Alstyne. “As college students we don’t have a lot of means financially, but especially freshmen and sophomores with meal plans, we have this opportunity to do something for the least.”

Brinkman and Beach are working with Anthony Williams, chief auxiliary services officer, to create a way in which students can swipe their Bean Bucks directly into an account that goes to the organization’s bulk purchases. Donations will be collected at a table in McGlothin Campus Center towards the end of finals week.

“If that doesn’t work out, then we will have a Facebook group where students can pledge how much money they wish to donate and then they will have a time to come to the Campus Center and buy the food that we have pre-ordered,” Brinkman said.

Beach said For the Least of These is inspired by the passage in Matthew 25 and Jesus’ parable of the sheep and the goats, where he encourages his followers to serve “the least of these.”

“This is something that us as ACU students don’t have to go very far out of our way to help,” Brinkman said.

Beach said this is an easy way for students to serve.

“It’s a simple concept, but a big way to help,” she said. contact orr at mco10b@acu.edu

chapel

Cullen, Chapel on the Hill get card readers linsey thut student reporter Much to the joy of students and faculty alike, new card readers have been installed in both Cullen Auditorium and the Chapel on the Hill.

Mark Lewis, assistant dean for Spiritual Life and Chapel Programs, said the new card readers will make signing in and out of Chapel forums easier.

“It’s a lot more effi-

cient than having to hand enter them or physically upload the physical readers,” Lewis said. “It’s just smoother.”

Lewis said the card readers were installed in Cullen and the Chapel on the Hill because these are the two most frequently used venues for Tuesday/ Thursday Chapels and forums, and also because the old methods of signing in were inefficient.

“The portable readers and signing in by hand just take longer,” Lewis

said. “With these built-in dedicated readers, it will just be so much quicker for the students.”

Jack Hodge, freshman political science major from Dallas, said the old portable card-readers were annoying.

“It was just kind of a hassle because you’d have to wait in line and sometimes they wouldn’t work,” Hodge said.

Caroline Gafford, sophomore biochemistry major from Dallas, said she became worried be-

cause it took so long for the office to manually enter all the students that all of her Chapel credits were not showing up.

“I was like ‘Where are all my Chapel credits?’”

Gafford said. “I’ve been going every day.”

The portable readers and sign-ins were not only interfering with students trying to get to Chapel on time, but it also affected those leading Chapel.

The Seekers of the Word Drama Ministry

ran into troubles during their Chapel forum, because students were not aware of the new card readers and had to sign in manually.

Gafford, who is a member of Seekers, said they started the forum late because students were still signing in when it came time to start.

“We had planned for an hour performance, but we started late so we went over,” Gafford said.

Meghann McLeskey, junior nursing major

from Burnet, said she views the new card readers as a chance for more fellowship among students.

“With more chances to swipe in, you won’t be crowded around the door at the front,” McLeskey said. “You’ll get to sit down sooner and you’ll get more time to talk to your friends.”

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

administration

CFO: Administrators conducting interviews continued from page 1 -ties with ACIMO will be finding four or five large parcels of land owned by ACU that are near to campus.

“Our vision for these developments varies depending upon the land and the location,” Young said. “Some we hope to develop into ‘mixed-use,’ including dining, retail and, perhaps, entertainment. Some will likely be developed as residential and some commercial/ professional.”

He said the guiding principles are to enhance the land around ACU, turn

undeveloped land into income producing assets and partner with the city of Abilene to create a “vibrant first-impression” for the city while improving economic development on the north side of town.

As CFO, Young is responsible for all of the university’s financial operations, facilities, risk management, construction and business services. He said the new CFO must have a strong financial background and success in leading the financial operations of a large organization.

“He or she will need excellent communica-

tion skills to be able to express complex financial strategies to diverse audiences,” he said. “Perhaps most especially, they will need to be creative as they work through the challenges and opportunities currently found in higher education.”

Young said these challenges include making tuition rates more competitive, bringing down student debt and becoming more productive and efficient.

Dr. Allison Garrett, executive vice president of the university, said ACIMO has been “very understanding” while the uni-

versity searches for a new CFO. “They’ve allowed us to continue our search while we try to find the right person to take Kelly’s place,” she said.

Garrett said the position has been advertised in the Chronicle of Higher Education, on the human resources website and through the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities.

“We’ve received a number of applications,” she said. “So far we’ve brought four people to campus to interview, and we have another one or two who we’ll be interviewing over

the next few weeks.”

Garrett said she hopes the position will be filled over the summer, but timing is flexible and based on when the right person is identified.

“The ideal candidate would be someone who is a CPA, who also has a master’s degree and who has a substantial amount of supervisory in high education experience,” she said.

Garrett said a number of individuals have interviewed each candidate and provided feedback.

Candidates will be narrowed down by comparing feedback, then she

and Schubert will confer about the final selection.

“I have been really grateful to Kelly because he has been so helpful with candidates and talking with them about the staff and the duties of the position, challenges, areas where things are going really well and areas where we need to do some additional improvement,” Garrett said. “He’s been so gracious to spend his time helping candidates get up to speed, and I appreciate that a great deal.” contact cox at mco10b@acu.edu

reslife

Sophomores take a gamble at housing lottery laura benson student reporter Last Thursday all ACU freshmen were required to participate in the sophomore housing lottery.

The mood in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center at 9:30 p.m. was chaotic. Almost 800 soon-to-be sophomores pushed and shoved their way through the halls to feel closer to the front of the line. The line wound its way through the gyms and up the stairs like a fat python.

However, no matter how close the students pushed towards the door, they were still held back by their little lottery number, whose digits determined their fate for next year. Although they all knew that the number determined where they must stand in line, they all forged closer to the door.

There was a shared vibe that one could only describe as sheer anxiety.

It could be felt in the air.

The building was dripping with distress. It was contagious.

The front of the line,

however, was more at peace. Some students were sitting, some standing, listening to iPods or watching movies on their laptops, waiting for the process to begin. Smiles on their grim faces, knowing karma was in their favor on the night they pulled their tickets.

However, towards the tail of the fat python, the faces changed. Eyebrows were lower, smiles upsidedown.

Elise Brimberry, freshman social work major from Austin, drew number 259 for her lottery ticket.

She was going for one of the most popular dorms, Barret Hall.

“Because my number wasn’t super low, the whole time we were freaking out because we thought we weren’t going to get it,” Brimberry said. “We ended up getting the last two rooms in Barret, so that was kind of crazy. We got really lucky … it doesn’t seem like the most efficient way, but it’s definitely fair. No one can complain about it being unfair because of how random it is. I don’t think there’s any other way to do

it that would be as fair.”

Brimberry was at the housing lottery until 11:20 p.m.

Sikes Hall was the most popular dorm for the girls and it filled up the fastest.

Barret was the most popular for the boys, and it too filled up first.

Brimberry knew of few people who didn’t get the housing they wanted.

“It was especially hard for girls because most girls wanted to live in Sikes, so Sikes filled up really fast,”

she said. “If you didn’t have a really low number then you basically had no chance of getting into Sikes. I knew of a couple people who didn’t get what they wanted, but if they didn’t get their first choice, then most of them got their second choice. It really all just depends on your number.”

Addie Schmitz, sophomore family ministry major from Grapevine, is a resident assistant in Gardner Hall. She was put in

charge of the back of the line during the housing lottery.

“It was fine during the first part but then as dorms started to fill up, people started getting sassy because their first picks and even second picks weren’t available anymore,” Schmitz said.

“I had someone tell me that they would not live in Smith-Adams over their dead body… I had to leave a little early, but apparently I missed all the cry-

ing.”

Schmitz said if she could describe the housing lottery in one word she would call it “hectic.”

However, Schmitz also thinks it’s the fairest way.

“There’s going to be people that argue that its not fair, but how else are we supposed to do it? I think it’s the best way.”

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

5

wednesday 05.01.13

..

....

featureS

SWEET ESCAPE F

inals Week aproaches, bringing with it the longing of the summer life, a sweeter life. Next week, campus will overflow with over-caffeinated, over-worked and underfed students.

To combat all that is academic, some find comfort in food. Two such students, Beth Goodall, junior special education major from Irving, and Samantha Martinez, freshman man-

agement major from Houston, avidly enjoy baking in their free time and share their recipes for a week where free time will be limited. Put away your flashcards and preheat the oven.

CHOCOLATE-BANANA MARBLE BREAD INGREDIENTS

WW

¾ c of sugar 1 1/2 cups mashed banana 2 eggs 2 cups flour 1tsp baking soda 2tsp vanilla ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt 2 tablespoons cocoa powder About 3 tablespoons boiled water

M

ix together in a medium mixing bowl the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt.

In a large bowl, mix the eggs, sugar, vanilla and oil.

Slowly add the mashed bananas to this mixture. Add the flour mix to this bowl slowly until a smooth batter forms.

Divide this batter into two small bowls, placing an equal amount in each.

In a small bowl, place the cocoa powder and add water a tablespoon at a time until it forms a smooth paste. The consistency should be thick, but should slide off a spoon with relative ease.

Pour the chocolate mix into one of the bowls of batter and mix thoroughly. You should have a banana batter and a chocolate-banana batter.

Spray a bread pan with oil and spoon batter from both mixes in sporadically. Once all the batter has been put into the bread pan take the spoon and swirl the mix to create a marble effect.

Place the pan in the oven and bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes. At 30 minutes, put a toothpick into the bread, if it comes out clean the bread is done, if not, add about 10-15 more minutes.

Recipe from: Samantha Martinez

ULTIMATE S’MORES CAKE INGREDIENTS Brownies: 2 sticks unsalted butter 2 1/4 cups sugar 4WW large eggs 1 1/4 cups Dutch-process cocoa 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon espresso powder 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour 2 cups chocolate chips

Marshmallow Frosting: 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow fluff 1 stick butter, room temperature 1 cup powdered sugar 1 tbsp vanilla extract

G

oodall came across this recipe from Pinterest, but says it has become a family favorite in her household.This cake includes layers of brownie, chocolate chip cookie, cheesecake, graham cracker, marshmallow frosting and chocolate frosting. “It’s perfect for chocolate lovers of the world and even better for a study break to share with your friends.”

First, make the brownies: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a saucepan set over low heat, melt the butter, then add the sugar and stir to combine. Return the mixture to the heat briefly, just until it’s hot, but not bubbling; it’ll become shiny looking as you stir it. While the sugar heats a second time, crack the four eggs into a bowl, and beat them with the cocoa, salt, baking powder, espresso powder and vanilla until smooth.

Add the hot butter/sugar mixture, stirring until smooth.

Add the flour and chips, again stirring

Cookies: 3/4 cup butter 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup sugar 1 egg 1 1/2 ts vanilla 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1 cup mini chocolate chips 2 cups flour Chocolate Frosting: 6 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled 4 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar 3 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature 6 tablespoons milk 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

until smooth.

Grease two round pans, pour in the batter, and bake in oven for 30 minutes.

When done baking, remove and let cool.

Then, take them out of the pan and put them on a cooling rack.

Next, make the cookies. Goodall used the following recipe, but any cookie recipe could be substituted, she said.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

In a bowl, beat the butter and sugars for about three minutes.

Add the egg and vanilla and mix in remaining ingredients.

Grease two round pans again, split dough into the two pans and bake on 350 for 10-12 minutes. When finished, let them cool and place on cooling racks to cool some more.

Next, prepare the cheesecake.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese on medium until fluffy, scraping down side of bowl. Then add the remaining ingredients.

Grease your pans, pour half of the fill-

ing in each pan. Bake for 15 minutes, then turn the oven temp down to 325 and bake for an additional 45 minutes.

Remove pan from oven, let cool 20 minutes. Run a knife around edge of the pans to loosen from the sides; let cool completely. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze until ready to use.

To make the marshmallow frosting: Beat together the marshmallow fluff and butter, on medium speed, until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Reduce the speed to low, add the powdered sugar and vanilla, and beat for another minute. Increase speed to

medium and beat for another 3 minutes until frosting is light and f luffy.

Now the chocolate frosting.

Place all the ingredients in a food processor and process until the frosting is smooth.

To assemble the coMponents, start from the bottom and alternate between a layer of brownies, marshmallow frosting, cookie, cheesecake, chocolate frosting and graham cracker Lastly, cover it all with the chocolate frosting and decorate if you’d like.

Opinion

wednesday 05.01.13

6

editorial

How to survive your final week of school Well gang, it’s that time of the semester again- when sleep is a distant memory, caffeine is being administered via IV drips at a Starbuck’s near you and trying to get an open computer in the library is like trying to beat all of the other Districts into the Cornucopia.

That’s right, everyone. It’s time for finals.

Now, we all know how stressful finals week can be. It’s that rare point in the semester when it’s socially acceptable not to eat, sleep or shower...well, maybe not that last part. That being said, we’ve decided to use our combined wisdom to compile a list of tips on how to survive the dreaded finals week.

First, start off your week the right way. Don’t spend all of Dead Day indoors studying. Yes, it’s good to set aside some of that Monday to be studious, but keep in mind that this is your last week before summer hits.

At the end of finals, we will all disperse to our various corners of the country for three long months. So set aside some time to relax, sleep in and spend some quality time with your friends. Go outside and play football, go to the pool or go to a movie. But for goodness sake, whatever you do, don’t go to the library.

Now let’s talk health is-

sues. Chances are, your automatic response is probably to stay up late studying, sleep in until noon on the days that you can, and stuff your face full of McDonald’s or Taco Bell on those rare occasions that you remember to eat. That’s a terrible idea, and shame on you for for thinking it. Instead, set aside some time to cook a real meal.

That’s right, we said it...cook.

Lay off the burgers and fries and settle in for something that feeds your brain as well as your body.

After you’ve finished your delicious homecooked meal (or bowl of cereal for those of you who don’t know how to operate a stove), settle in for a little more study time before hitting the hay at a decent hour. Staying up late every night to cram won’t do you nearly as much good as maintaining a well-rounded sleep schedule. So set a date with your pillow. It deserves some face time this finals week.

Amidst all of the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to get lost in the moment. Just don’t get so lost in your studies that you forget to call home at least once during the week.

You know that Mom is probably pacing the floor, imagining you lying in a gutter somewhere because you “never call.” (In reality, you probably called twice last

EVAN’s marks

evan marks

week. But hey, she worries.)

So humor her and pick up the phone. Let her know that you’re surviving ... so far.

When it comes to studying, avoid the library at all costs. The second floor is

where study habits go to die. Find a quiet place that’s free from distractions like talkative friends, loud coffee machines and that awkward couple in the corner booth, settle in with a nice

cup of coffee and a motiva- appreciation. So good luck, tional playlist and get down fellow test takers. May the to business. odds be ever in your favor.

If all else fails, bribe... uh...flatter...no no...give contact the optimist at your professor a juicy red jmcnetwork@acu.edu apple, as a token of your

column

It’s time to add another acronym to our vocabulary BETWEEN THE BOXES LUCIUS PATENAUDE

We all know those people.

That guy who openly digs for gold up a nostril then examines his find. Your roommate who never washes the dishes. The fellow student that corrects every statement verbalized in class. They require

a more than average effort for us to deal with. These are extra grace required (EGR) individuals.

That guy with the booger on his fingertip totally deserves to be tackled to the ground for his crime. It

would be nice to smash a few of your roommate’s dirty plates over his/her head. But we don’t do that. It’s just not ladylike. Also, our culture and a book called the Bible doesn’t exactly encourage these types of interactions.

Regardless of who you are or how mature one is there will always be that someone who will have you searching for body disposal locations on Google.

EGR individuals don’t make our lives very easy, but

neither is it their purpose in life to torment us. On many occasions, they are oblivious of the grief they cause. So what is the solution? Ignore reality? No! What are you, a masochist? Treat the bane of your life with the respect they deserve and just tell them the truth. “That thing you do, it bugs me. Sorry for being petty.” Otherwise emotions will only fester and one day erupt in an awful display of furious vengeance.

Honestly, people usu-

ally appreciate when others are real with them and gently present their concerns.

Deeper respect and camaraderie can be the fruit of a conversation like this. And you could also get over your picky self and chill out a little.

During end of semester crunch time though, we should seriously consider applying EGR to ourselves.

Papers, projects and procrastination is piling up. Professors have become demons (EGR). We need to remem-

ber that we require grace as well. Does this give us license to be jerks? Nope. But it does give us license to pray and lean on our friends and family for encouragement.

Embrace EGR and punch these final weeks in the face... figuratively.

contact patenaude at lrp09b@acu.edu

column

The tale of a simple sports reporter turned Chief WELL, THIS IS AWKWARD MARK SMITH

I have a confession to make.

During my first semester at ACU, I rarely read the Optimist. I didn’t find it too interesting. I didn’t care about administration changes, campus events or what the editorial board thought about iPads in the classroom.

I was happy to be an ignorant, social freshman journalism major with visions of ESPN employment dancing in his head and friends who weren’t allowed to dance.

Journalism could wait. The

Optimist could wait.

I didn’t go to class enough and I complained about how busy I was. Truly, I wasn’t busy, I was just bad at studying when I needed to study and sleeping when I needed to sleep. I brought home straight Bs to begin Christmas break, which put my scholarship in jeopardy.

Then, the Optimist came to the rescue.

I got an email from the Optimist in February of freshman year. The publica-

tion was looking for sports writers. I figured, “Eh, why not.”

It ended up working out.

The best part about writing for sports was also the worst part: the pressure to turn a story around quickly and consistently twice a week. I usually got my assignment about 24 hours before it was due, which meant I needed to work around my “busy” schedule. I had to turn in my story by 5 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday, and I did.

Homework would come after, or sometimes during, and I did it. I slept better and studied harder because I now had a limited amount of time to do so.

My grades went up.

The Optimist adviser, Dr. Kenneth Pybus, emailed me soon after I started writing, inviting me to something called TIPA. I went to the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association convention on a whim, and mostly to be excused from classes for two days.

It ended up working out.

I won one contest and got second in the other. Afterward, as I continued to write sports, I expected to move up to assistant sports editor the next semester.

Then Kenneth emailed me again to talk about working on staff. He asked me if I would want to be managing editor. I was flattered because I didn’t realize he only asked me because no one

else had wanted to do it. So I accepted.

It ended up working out.

It was definitely a learning experience. I needed a big learning curve in the news writing, newsworthiness deciphering and page designing areas. But I got good at it and decided I’d apply to be editor-in-chief for the 2012-13 school year.

It ended up working out.

Not that this school year has been easy. Not at all. But if I had to do it all over again, I’d do it all again (Yogi Berra).

I have truly enjoyed working here and serving the student body the best way I could, by bringing it the best college news coverage we could. I couldn’t ask for better advisers or coworkers. I’m proud

of them and the publication, especially after winning overall excellence and best all-around contests in state and regional competitions.

The Optimist has given me and many others more than a job and a resume makeover, though. It’s given responsibility, knowledge, experience and good time management. It prepared me for the real world better than most classrooms have. JMC majors, apply. Work here, even if it’s unpaid. It’s a good teacher, a good environment and good experience worth the late nights and last-minute assignments.

12:43 p.m. March 20

3:02 p.m. March 5

contact smith at mds10a@acu.edu

hashtagOptimistStaff 2:02 p.m. April 15

“I just really want to thank you for wearing pants on a Christian campus” -an elderly woman to a girl in jeans as I walk by in shorts

@madelineorr

2:22 p.m. Jan. 13

To whoever left the big bag of m&ms in the newsroom: a crazy guy just ran in, grabbed it, ran out, then returned it mostly empty. Wasn’t me.

@MarkSmith850

12:58 p.m. April 25 8:43 p.m. April 11

Have you ever questioned the meaning of life while studying for a racquetball test? Yeah me too...

@Only1EdIsaacs

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.

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

Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79609 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu

newsroom (325) 674-2439

sports desk (325) 674-2684

Freshmen whining about their workload. I bet it’s terrible working around that Xbox live schedule. Call me when you take your 40th final.

@CurtisChristian

Snapchatting while teaching lab. Because life is too short to separate work and play.

@Twtrless_Mandy

Watching couples trying to walk through a door while holding hands is pretty hilarious

@MelanyCox

Mark Smith

taylor langston

Deanna Romero

Denzil Lim

cheryl bacon

editor in chief

sports video director

staff photographer

staff videographer

faculty adviser

josh garcia

john edward isaacs

curtis christian

Stephen Reyes

cade white

managing editor

sports editor

staff photographer

staff videographer

faculty adviser

Mark Smith

Matt sloan

Paige Otway

evan marks

cara lee cranford

opinion page editor

assistant sports editor

staff photographer

editorial cartoonist

melany cox

Madeline Orr

Adrian Patenaude

marissa jones

online managing editor

copy editor

staff photographer

oxford correspondent

asia todd

Cara Kramar

Lucius Patenaude

Wyatt morgan

design editor

copy editor

chief videographer

arts writer

lindsay palmer

katie greene

Brance armstrong

anne-marie coffee

arts editor

page 2 editor

staff videographer

page designer

gabi powell

mandy lambright

JP Festa

features editor

chief photogrpaher

staff videographer

photo department (325) 674-2499

advertising office (325) 674-2463

multimedia desk (325) 674-2463

advertising

subscriptions ($40/Year) (325) 674-2296

7

sports

wednesday 05.01.13

softball

Wildcats shocked by walkoff jimmy isbell sports reporter The Abilene Christian softball team suffered an upsetting 7-8 extra inning loss at the bat of Midwestern State’s No. 6 batter Christina Roosmalen, who belted a shot to left field just missing the foul pole.

The loss brings the team’s overall regular season record to 28-25 and 12-15 in their last season competing in the Lone Star Conference.

“In our conference anyone can beat anyone, so it is tough losing when we all played the game we know we can play,” said centerfielder Keanna Winkfield.

In game one, the Wildcats were sitting pretty with eight unanswered runs in between the fourth and sixth innings to seal their 8-1 victory.

Starter Caitlyn Crain (14-12) threw a complete game recording six strikeouts with only eight hits, allowing only one run in the fourth from two doubles by Katelyn Vinson and Courtney Bingham.

Lyndi Smith finished 3-for-4 with three runs and two RBI, while Heather Peacock went 2-for-3 with three RBI. In game two, the ‘Cats walked off the field heads bowed when a solo shot sailed just right of the leftfield foul pole ending the extra-inning game 7-8(9).

“The Midwestern series showed us how much we have to prepare for in the conference tournament,”

mandy lambright Staff Photographer

Outfielder Keanna Winkfield prepares to toss a ball in from left field at home last weekend. ACU lost two of three games this weekend at home Poly Wells Field. ACU will play West Texas A&M this weekend in the Lone Star Conference tournament. said starting pitcher Shelby Hall.

Senior Shelby Hall started the nightcap off losing the lead twice, but her offense rallied to build her confidence as they quickly scored three runs

in the first from Peacock, Keanna Winkfield and Sara Vaughn.

The lead was later lost an inning later on a two-out rally led by the bats of Haley Howerton and Bingham.

The triple from

Bingham gave the Mustangs a 5-3 lead.

Later in the fourth, Keanna Winkfield dashed down the third base line toward home after a throwing error from MSU’s right fielder

to knot the game 5-5.

Earlier in the first inning, Winkfield made an acrobatic catch hitting the centerfield wall.

The Wildcats are locked into seventh place in the LSC, which means their

next opponent will be against second-place West Texas A&M University this Friday at 2 p.m. contact isbell at jri10a@acu.edu

track & field

Hudson hurls his way to personal record daniel zepeda sports reporter The Wildcat track and field team traveled to Lubbock this past weekend to compete in the Texas Tech Red Raider Open. The team registered a total of eight individual season bests, led by junior Andrew Hudson and freshman Johnathan Farquharson.

“I was very pleased with our overall performance at Texas Tech,” Head Coach Jerrod Cook said. “I think we are on a great track for conference. There are still so many athletes that are close to having a break

out performance and conference is the perfect time and place to do it.”

Hudson really stood out in the discus throw, as he registered a 181-1/55.19m.

The throw finished fifth at the open and currently ranks fourth in Division II. Hudson’s mark was more than three feet better than his previous season best of 177-06 recorded at last week’s Michael Johnson Dr. Pepper Classic.

In the hammer, Hudson missed the NCAA provisional standard by a mere six feet as his best throw landed at the 171-10 mark (52.37m), which was good for third place.

“I was very thankful that I threw well at the meet, but I am more excited to see our team coming together at the right time,” Hudson said. “It was a good meet that gave everyone a little confidence.”

Amelia Mitchell attained a personal record in the javelin (145-4/44.28m), as did Shalaina Lakey, who won the hammer with a toss of 168-7 (51.39m). Mitchell’s effort ranks 10th nationally, which should be enough to get her to nationals. Lakey’s mark ranks her 21st.

“I feel our performances are a testament to what all the athletes do on a daily basis to prepare for every

moment in competition,” Cook said. “Everybody is pushing and elevating their performance to the next level each week and it is very exciting to see.”

Farquharson recorded a 10.36 second time in the 100-meter dash to finish third overall. His time was a season best by .18 seconds and currently ranks him fourth in all of Division II. Farquharson also ran the third leg for a 4x100meter relay that placed second with a 17th-ranked provisional time of 40.94.

“I felt really good about our teams performance overall,” Hudson said. “It was a very good meet for us.

A lot of people are peaking at the right time and that is exactly what you want to see heading into the conference meet.”

On the women’s side, senior Chloe Susset recorded a personal record in the 800m of 2:15.88 and won the 1500 with a time of 4:38.66.

The women’s 4x400 ran for the first time of the season, bolstered by the return of Elea Diarra, and posted a provisional mark of 3:48.34 that ranks 19th in Division II. Shennae Steele, Karolyn Palmer and Ayesha Rumble ran the first three legs prior to Diarra’s anchor lap.

Diarra placed eighth in the 200m at 25.12 for her lone individual race.

“Many of my teammates did really well at this meet,” Susset said.

“The throwers Amelia and Andrew, Jay on the 100 and 200, and Darian on the long jump and others, everyone contributed and helped out.”

The team will compete at the Lone Star Conference Championships at West Texas A&M in Canyon, TX this upcoming weekend.

contact zepeda at djz11a@acu.edu

baseball

Bats: ACU offense shut down by the Rams Schuetze and Ty Taylor both got on with bunts when they were trying to sacrifice.

First baseman Tyler Eager beat out an infield hit with the bases loaded which plated Emmett Niland.

The ball then rolled past the second baseman allowing Schuetze to score the go-ahead run on the error.

Following a sacrifice bunt by Chuck Duarte, Kyle Giusti hit a single to center field driving in Taylor to make it 3-1.

Kyle Conwell whacked a sacrifice f ly that plated Eager for the final run of the inning.

“Friday, we got good pitching and hit the ball a lot,” Schuetze said.

“The next three games we didn’t hit as well as on Friday.”

In the finale Sunday, mandy lambright chief photoprapher the ‘Cats led the Rams 2-1 Centerfielder Ty Taylor catches a fly ball and prepares to throw it back to the infield. going into the eighth and from page 8 There were a couple of hitters we had two strikes on, had closer Brady Rodriguez on the mound. we just weren’t able to get that pitch we wanted.

Rodriguez, who has win. He tossed seven inbeen lights out all season, nings while scattering six allowed three runs with hits and did not give up two outs which gave ASU an earned run. a 4-2 advantage they He also struck out five would not relinquish.

Britt Bonneau Head coach batters.

Rodriguez gave up acu baseball The offense brought back-to-back singles with across four runs in the one out then with two third inning of that con- 1-0 going into the bot- the first three batters of outs, he hit a batter to test. The Wildcats trailed tom of the third before the inning reached base. load the bases.

“

The next hitter caused coach Britt Bonneau. “We all the damage with a just weren’t able to get bases-clearing double to that pitch we wanted.” deep left-centerfield.

“There were a couple contact isaacs at of hitters we had two jei08a@acu.edu strikes on,” said head

sports

wednesday 05.01.13

8

standings

women’s tennis

Arizona, here we come

men’s tennis

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

Cameron UIW ACU MSU

19-2 11-5 12-14 16-5

3-0 1-2 1-2 1-2

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

ACU MSU TSU UIW Casmeron TAMU-K

21-5 15-5 11-10 10-8 14-7 1-9

5-0 4-1 3-2 2-3 1-4 0-5

Team

Div.

TSU TAMU-K ASU WTAMU ACU UIW ENMU Cameron

21-7 18-10 17-11 15-13 15-13 12-16 8-20 6-22

Ovrl.

women’s tennis

baseball

32-14 35-15 33-17 29-19 28-22 26-24 21-27 12-33

softball

Team TWU WTAMU ASU MSU UIW TSU ACU Cameron ENMU TAMU-K

curtis christian Staff Photographer

Sophomore Brittney Reed leaps up to hit a ball in a regional matchup against Tarleton State University Monday afternoon at the Eager Tennis Pavilion. Reed was playing a doubles match with teammate Julia Mongin. They won their match 8-1.

ACU advances to Round of 16 after winning region brittney johnson sports reporter The No. 5 nationally ranked women’s tennis team is ending their Lone Star Conference (LSC) and Division II term with a bang.

Monday, the team hosted the Tarleton State Tex Anns in the NCA A Division II South Central Regional Tournament here at home, at the Eager Tennis Pavilion.

The team easily dominated with doubles being played first. Right

away, they proved once again that the Wildcats will always protect their house, winning all three of their doubles and both of the singles matches that were played.

At this phase of the season, most of the singles matches have gone unfinished in an effort to keep the pace of the day and rest the players.

With her return to the court from an injur y, Julia Mongin was paired with Brittney Reed as they defeated Alicia Perez and Karla

Martinez-Hamda 8-1.

Duo Micah Hermsdorf and Hannah Kelley took on Melanie Barnes and Ivana Zecevic 8-2.

The pair of Laura Mongin and Kaysie Hermsdorf gained the last team point for doubles, challenging Makenzie Mitchell and Marina Rull 8-3.

Before the matches went unfinished, the singles matches were looking bright for the Wildcats.

The match of Julia was strong with 6-4, 2-2, Micah and Kelley was serving 6-4, 0-1, and

Reed was going 6-1, 2-0, before their matches were decided to be left unfinished.

Senior Laura Mongin gained a team point for her finished match where she defeated with Tarleton’s Zecevic 6-0 straight.

Kaysie Hermsdorf also gained team point for her finished match against Silvia Nieva-Garcia 6-1, 6-1.

This 5-0 victory against Tarleton is the second time the Wildcats have triumphed against them this season.

With their record

currently 27-5 overall, the 13th straight win for the team sends them to the NCA A Round 16 Tournament, where they will face off Columbus State University May 8 with hopes of advancing to the quarterfinals.

The team has nothing to fear as this is their 26th regional title and its 18th appearance in a NCA A Divison II Tournament.

contact johnson at baj12a@acu.edu

Wildcats win 22 post-season awards Assistant sports editor The ACU tennis team capped their last year in the Lone Star Conference by compiling 22 post season awards for their play in the regular season.

“I think it says we are very deep and everyone is a vital asset to the team,” Brittney Reed said. “It means a lot to me. I am thankful to be selected on a team of such great players.”

Hans Hach and Julia Mongin each grabbed Player of the Year Awards

for the third time in as many years.

Head coach Hutton Jones also came away with coach of the year honors for the fourth time after coaching the women’s team through another undefeated season in conference play.

The Wildcats also collected plenty of allall conference selections as Mongin and Hach were joined by Guiherme Gesser, Jason Proctor and Borja Cortes on the men’s side.

“I think it is not only a proud moment for the team but also for the

school,” Micah Hermsdorf said. “To end our last season in Division II by winning all of these awards in preparation for going Division I is a great accomplishment.”

Joining them were Hermsdorf, Hannah Kelley and Reed on the women’s side.

“It is exciting to find out that you won an honor without tr ying for an award,” Hersdorf said. “It is exciting for not only me but for all the players on the team that received one.”

ACU also swept freshman of the year

honors, with both Kaysie Hermsdorf and Nicklas Wingord representing the women’s and men’s team respectively.

The Wildcats also earned awards for their academics and sportsmanship, as Micah won Academic Player of the Year. Emily Conrad and Hach were also honorees.

“I think it is more important to get awards based on attitude,” Hermsdorf said. “Our coach is really big on attitude and not just about winning and losing. It is nice to be acknowledged

not only for our talent but also the way we carry ourselves with our talent by showing sportsmanship.”

Laura Mongin was one of three players that earned the Sportsmanship Player of the Year.

The women’s team will play in the Round of 16 May 8th in Sunrise, Ariz. after dismantling Tarleton State in the regional finals 5-0 in front of the ACU home crowd.

contact sloan at mes10b@acu.edu

baseball

Offense sputters as ‘Cats lose to ASU edward isaacs sports editor

mandy lambright chief Photographer

Secondbaseman Seth Spivey leaps over an Angelo State baserunner.

The Wildcat offense could not get anything going against Angelo State’s starting pitchers this past weekend. The ‘Cats lost three of four to the Rams which dropped the team from second place to fifth in the Lone Star Conference.

“We have to hit better,” said utility-man Travis Schuetze. “We can’t expect our pitchers to throw zeroes every night.”

ACU finishes the regular season with a 28-22 overall record and a 1513 mark in the conference. ASU finishes at 3317 and 17-11.

The Rams will represent the No. 3 seed in the Lone Star Conference Championship Tournament starting this week-

Ovrl.

43-12 41-10 34-15 41-14 26-22 30-23 28-25 17-30 14-42 13-38

briefings Former ACU kicker Morgan Lineberry signed with the Carolina Panthers over the weekend.

Seven ACU Wildcats were given academic awards in the Lone Star Conference.

Shelby Hall, Jordan Herrera, Emily Hill, Brady Rodriguez, Travis Schuetze, Matthew Stark and Sara Vaughn were all recipients of the award this weekend.

Who’s Hot

tennis

matthew sloan

Div. 21-6 20-7 19-8 18-9 14-13 13-14 12-15 10-17 6-21 2-25

end.

Regular-season champion Tarleton State is the No. 1 seed followed

by No. 2 Texas A&MKingsville. West Texas A&M is No. 4, the Wildcats are No. 5 and Incarnate Word rounds out the sixth spot.

“We have to win as many games as possible to get a regional bid,” Schuetze said.

The ‘Cats will play Kingsville on Friday at 3:30 p.m. in Canyon. The squad is 3-2 against the Javelinas this season.

They took a four-game series from TAMU-K earlier this year in Kingsville.

ACU won the first game of the series with Angelo State, 7-2 but fell in the next three games 3-1, 6-1 and 4-2.

Starter Aaron Lambrix (4-4) was stellar in the one see bats page 7

Head tennis coach Hutton Jones is having jones a good couple of weeks. Jones was named Lone Star Conference coach of the year for the fourth time after leading the women’s tennis team through an undefeated LSC schedule. After that, the women dismantled Tarleton State in the regional finals to advance to the Round of 16 and continue their march toward a national championship. Jones team did not drop a single match in the regional final, and the team has not lost a match in nearly six weeks. The next match for ACU is on May 8th.

upcoming The track and field team is running in the Lone Star Conference meet Thursday through Saturday. ACU is one of the favorites to win the meet.

The softball team will play West Texas A&M Friday at 2 p.m. in the LSC tournament.

The baseball team also plays in the LSC tournament Friday afternoon against Texas A&M University Kingsville at 3:30 p.m.