The Optimist_11.30.12

Learning Fashion Senior returns from summer Fashion Week internship vol. 101, no. 26

friday, November 30, 2012

Arts Page 5

1 SECTION, 8 PAGES

administration INSIDE OPINION The Editorial Board remembers Rex Fleming with a tribute to support that follows tragedy

CAS dean finalist withdraws Interim Dean Straughn only other remaining finalist, next step unclear marissa jones managing editor

page 6

SPORTS Quarterback Gale, Kicker Lineberry invited to senior bowl games

The search for a dean of the College of Arts and Sciences is now unclear after the withdrawal of one of the two finalists.

Dr. Murel Jones, dean of the School of Arts and Humanities at Elizabeth City State University, was named a finalist along with Dr. Greg Straughn, interim

drew as a candidate before the interview.

Dr. Robert Rhodes, provost, said there was nothing negative about his withdrawal from the position, rather both Jones and the search committee mutually agreed it was for the best.

“He was very positive about ACU, and we were very positive about him,” Rhodes said. “But in talkjones straughn ing it through we thought it was probably best if we dean of the College of Arts go ahead and not have him and Sciences. spend the time on camJones was invited to pus which would allow ACU to interview for the the committee time to talk position of dean, but with- about moving forward.”

“

We thought it was probably best if we go ahead and not have him spend the time on campus.”

Nil Santana, Dr. Vernon Williams, Dr. Cindy Roper, Dr. Beatriz Walker, Dawne SwearingenMeeks, Dr. Mel Hailey, Dr. Brian Cavitt and Radr. robert rhodes chel Team. provost This is Straughn’s second time to serve as interim dean in the College of The search commit- Arts and Sciences. He said tee will now meet with he believes his previous Rhodes to give its recom- work as interim provost mendation of how to pro- and in the music departceed with the search. The ment has prepared him for committee might choose the position of dean. to find new candidates “Getting the Arts and or to close the search. Sciences department Members of the commit- chairs together is like gettee, which is chaired by see search page 4 Dr. Carly Dodd, include

crime

Suspect attempts to rob custodian

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SPORTS Lone senior on the volleyball team reflects on her last season

mark smith editor in chief

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NEWS Music students win in national competition Page 3

FEATURE Students compare experiences with “The Friend Zone” Page 4

NEWS Mingle and Jingle to let students indulge in Christmas festivities Page 3 mandy lambright chief photographer A member of the ACU landscaping crew wraps Christmas lights around tree trunks on campus in preparation for Christmas.

NEWS Zumbathon to feature ‘80s theme Page 7

ONLINE NEWS

Singers preparing for Monks show copy editor

acuoptimist.com

NEWS SA visits with Mark Lewis, votes to give Edwards Hall recycling bins acuoptimist.com

NEWS Honors College planning second Summary Academy acuoptimist.com

PHOTOS Go to our Flickr for photos from local Christmas festivities

Feet pat to the beat on the worn wooden stage, laughter echoes off of the walls and voices sing in sweet harmony when the PULSE A Cappella group assembles for rehearsal in Cullen auditorium.

Nick Tatum, president of PULSE, gathers the group into a circle and they begin to sing “Where Joy and Sorrow Meets” by Avalon.

Thirteen in all, the group not only sings together, but laughs, teases and jokes throughout the rehearsal, creating a chaotic and quirky environment.

Bodies sway as the song moves along, the lyrics pulsing through the auditorium as voices mesh in a smooth harmony. The line, “There

len, and PULSE will be performing a Christmas concert at 9 p.m. on Tuesday at Monks Coffee Shop downtown.

The name PULSE, and its spelling in all caps, not only differentiates the singing group from the other Pulse group on campus (a scholarship program for freshmen and sophomores), but also represents the rhythmic music that the group sings, said Tatum.

PULSE conducted auditions photo courtesy of pulse a cappella earlier this fall that consisted of ACU’s PULSE A Cappella group sings in a promotional video for their upcoming video two rounds where potential group for their upcoming Christmas concert. members sang scales and two is a place where hope remains,” reTatum said the idea developed songs of their choice in the first sounds off of the walls, urging the at the beginning of last year, but he round. Two days later, during the group to sing more. has wanted to start the group since second round, candidates had to Tatum, senior family studies he came to ACU. prepare another piece of music and major from Plano, and two other “It’s kind of been my vision sight read with different groups to students, Megan Teel and Carrie from the beginning,” Tatum said. see who sounded good together.

Baker, began the a cappella group Tatum said the group plans to see PULSE page 4 last fall. host a concert in the spring in Cul-

social clubs

Extreme Makeover: Galaxy edition Men’s club to partner with Habitat for Humanity for local family chemistry major from Coppell, has a greater vision for sports video director the men of Galaxy.

This Saturday, members This time of the the year for of the social club will be many club members repre- teaming up with Habitat sents tacky sweater parties for Humanity to help build and Christmas socials but a home for a deserving Luke Sorrell, senior bio- Abilene family.

taylor langston

flickr.com/acuoptimist

see attempted page 4

feature

audrey schaffner

University Park announces lower rates for next school year

An employee of WFF Custodial Services, ACU’s janitorial service provider, was physically confronted by a stranger on campus late Wednesday night.

The male suspect grabbed the female victim’s arm as she was locking the east entrance of the Don H. Morris Center just before midnight. The suspect demanded her keys to the building, but she was able to pull away from him and run to safety with some scratches on her inner forearm from where he grabbed her. She didn’t know where the suspect went, and the victim was unable to describe any physical features of the suspect.

The ACU Police Department responded immediately but didn’t find the suspect. ACU Police Chief Jimmy Ellison, said ACU Police is investigating the incident as an attempted

“For me specifically, community service and service is one of my passions and what I enjoy doing,” Sorrell said. “But I really want to see Galaxy more involved in the community.”

That desire for community involvement is shared

Abilene Christian University

by Galaxy President Hutton Brown, senior English major from Midland.

“Our motto is ‘In all things let us keep God first, others second and ourself last’ and we wanted to implement Gods purpose however we can,” Brown

said. “As college students, we may not have money we can spend but we do have time we can spend.”

The day will be broken up into two different shifts, with one group working see galaxy page 4

friday 11.30.12

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friday

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saturday

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sunday

10 a.m. ACU Opera Amahl and the Night Visitors at the Paramount

10 a.m. American Society of Interior Designers - Gingerbread House Competition

1:30 p.m. ACU Opera

10 a.m. Zumbathon

7:30 p.m. ACU Opera

12 p.m. Football Quarterfinals

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monday 11 a.m. Chapel - Who is God; who am I? with Seekers of the Word and Matt Anderson

6:15 p.m. ACU Opera 7 p.m. ACU Mingle & Jingle

2 p.m. Women’s Basketball vs Eastern NM U 4 p.m. Men’s Basketball vs Eastern NM U

Chapel checkup

95 10 @acuoptimist The Optimist optimist@acu.edu

Announcements Students interested in joining The Wildcat Reign can sign up at thewildcatreign. com. The Wildcat Reign aims to provide students the ability to facilitate Wildcat pride on campus and serves as a linking point between students and Wildcat athletic events.

ACU Swing Cats is hosting lessons for beginner and intermediate levels of swing dancing Thursday nights in SRWC Studio B. Intermediate lessons are at 8 p.m, and Beginners are at 9 p.m. Social dancing begins at 9:30 p.m.

Summit Student Committee meetings occur the first Friday of each month. Students interested in joining can email summit@acu.edu.

SAND will be hosting the 2nd annual Zumbathon in the SRWC Dec. 1 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tickets will be $12 dollars (with a free t-shirt) in the Campus Center or $15 at the door.

Registration for the Dallas Marathon is open at http://www. dallasmarathon.com/registerto-run/. The marathon will be Dec. 9 in downtown Dallas.

Connections Cafe is now open in the Business building. La Popular breakfast burritos and Mission Lazarus coffee are among many of the new items on their menu.

Mingle and Jingle Christmas celebration is Dec. 2 from 7-9 p.m. on the Bible building front lawn. This even will feature country singer Aaron Watson, Santa Claus, snacks and a christmas movie. Admission is one unwrapped toy for needy Abilene children.

SAND will be hosting the 2nd annual Zumbathon in the SRWC Dec. 1 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tickets will be $12 dollars (with a free t-shirt) in the Campus Center or $15 at the door.

ACU Leadership Camps is accepting 2013 camp staff applications starting Dec. 10 in Room 10 in the lower level of the Campus Center.

Positions include counselor, first aid staff, office assistant, worship leader, videographer and photographer.

Police Log Police log 11/18/2012 11:00 p.m. ACU Student reported at U.P. that his roommate was intoxicated and possibly in possession of weapons in the apartment. Investigation revealed no firearms and no intoxication.

Matter referred to Residence Life for administrative follow-up.

11/18/2012 3:04 a.m. ACUPD responded to a complaint of a loud party at an address in the 300 block of EN 22nd. Owner was contacted, party shut down, warning issued.

11/18/2012 2:05 a.m. RA called reporting 11/19/2012 11:35 p.m. Residents reported an intoxicated student at Sikes Hall. a loud party at a residence in the 1300 block of Cedar Crest. Officers located the 11/19/2012 5:51 p.m. Residents of the party, issued one warning for noise viola600 block of EN 20th reported a loud tion, issued one citation for Minor in Posexplosion which rattled windows. Origin session of Alcohol. could not be determined.

11/27/2012 9:30 a.m. Met with HSUPD 11/26/2012 2:07 p.m. Fire alarm reported officers who provided ACUPD with info at McKinzie Hall. ACUPD and Abilene on two possible car burglary suspects.

Fire Dept responded. Determined to be a faulty alarm.

11/28/2012 9:40 a.m. Assisted Abilene PD on a major traffic accident at Judge Ely and EN 10th

11/29/2012 12:05 a.m. ACUPD investigated the reported robbery of an individual.

A WFF employee reported that an unknown male attempted to take her keys by force, causing injuries to her arm. Suspect was gone on arrival. Case is open.

Police Tip of the Week: If you have any information about the reported robbery of a WFF employee near the Sherrod Building Wednesday night at midnight, call ACUPD at 325-674-2911.

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 at a time each week at a location of their choosing. 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 information contact Jessica Dulle at 325-677-8389 or visit: http://www. center-arts.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.

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 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 Monday-Friday 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 Monday-Saturday. 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 325-672-6061.

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.

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 Abilene Zoo is looking for volunteers to help with general labor such as grounds cleanup and painting any weekday at any time between noon and 4 p.m. The Zoo is also 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. The Zoo is located at 2070 Zoo Ln. Contact Joy Harsh at 325-676-6487 for more information.

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.

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.

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 325-698-7722. Rescue the Animals is also 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.

St. John’s Episcopal School is seeking volunteers to paint metal playground equipment anytime MondayFriday after 3 p.m. and Saturday anytime. For more information contact Rebecca McMillon at 325-6958870 or flores@stjohnsabilene.org.

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.

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 325-692-4149 or mbeasley5@suddenlink.net. To serve on Fridays contact Rachel Brown at rdb08a@acu.edu.

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

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campus news

friday 11.30.12

music

Vocalists win in national competition Kyle Knapp student reporter

Paige Otway Staff Photographer

Cassidee Lowe, freshman speech pathology major from Decatur, hangs lights along her hallway in Gardner Hall.

Twenty-nine ACU music students competed in the National Association of Teachers of Singing in Denton. Fourteen ACU students made it to the semi-finals and three won in their respective categories.

Dr. Rick Piersall, assistant professor of voice, opera and music history, said NATS is the major professional organization for teachers of singing in the United States. Piersall said this year’s conference, at UNT in Denton, had 627 student competitors.

“The students go to gain experience in the audition setting and to sing for judges they don’t know to get helpful feedback on the performances,” Piersall said. “We want the students to know where they stand in reference to their peers and how much work is involved in reaching their goals.”

All students sing classical music but specific requirements depend on the student’s classification in school.

event

‘Jingle’ to open Yule season Maggie Marshall student reporter Students can get their Christmas spirit on this Sunday with Santa, the Grinch, Aaron Watson and holiday lights.

Mingle & Jingle is an opportunity for members of the community to join students and faculty in kicking off the holiday season. The celebration will be held on the front lawn of the Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building from 7 -9 p.m. and will include cocoa, cookies, a visit from Santa and a performance by ACU alumnus, Aaron Watson.

Aaron Watson, class of ’00, recently celebrated his most successful album re-

lease to date, “Real Good Time” which ranked No. 9 on the Billboard Country Chart.

“I saw him last semester and really enjoyed his music,” said Laine Foith, sophomore family studies major from Plano. “I’m definitely going to the Christmas celebration. It will be great to enjoy the celebration of my favorite holiday and listen to such a great artist.”

Before the concert, Santa will pay a visit to Jacob’s Dream from 7–8 p.m.

“I was already pumped,” said Rebecca Fowler, junior English major from Coppell.

“Santa makes it ten times better.”

During Santa’s visit, guests will also be able to enjoy Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch

Stole Christmas from 7:15 - 8 p.m. before the concert.

Afterward, the entire ACU campus will be lit up with Christmas lights. Students, faculty and people from the Abilene community are welcome to stroll through the campus enjoying the lights.

“Christmas lights are one of my favorite parts of Christmas time,” said Bailey Werderich, sophomore Ad/ PR major from Houston. “It will add Christmas spirit to the campus and make finals week a little more cheerful.”

Not only will this event be full of holiday cheer, but it is also free and benefits charity. Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for Abilene’s Christmas on the Street gift

service

Groups sponsor holiday fundraisers Audrey schaffner copy editor Two groups on campus, Treadaway Kids and the Big Purple Marching Band, are embodying the spirit of giving with programs aimed at serving children in the Abilene community.

Treadaway Kids (TWK) is an organization run by students at ACU and is involved with children in the community who endure poverty.

Adopt An Angel is an annual event put on by the members of TWK to ensure that the children in the program and their families have a good holiday season, said Laura James, TWK vice president.

A table is set up in the Campus Center for students, faculty and staff interested in choosing an “angel” with a child’s name on it to buy Christmas presents, said James, junior elementary education major from Midland.

“This program helps our parents give their children gifts for Christmas,” James said. “For many of the kids, it’s the only want they get.

It empowers their parents to know their child is happy. They don’t have to worry their kid is going to go back to school after Christmas and be the only one who doesn’t have a cool gift to talk about.”

She said participants will get to pick a child, pull that child’s angel off of the tree, register at the TWK table and get an information sheet that is filled with both wants and needs for the child.

James said her favorite part of the program

is telling the people who pick out the angels about the kids.

“Being able to say to someone who picks out an angel, “Oh, that kids a jokester; he’s athletic; she really likes horses; etc.’ really gives meaning to the angels,” James said.

“It makes them real.”

After choosing an angel, participants will spend no more than $30 on the child’s wants or needs.

The unwrapped gifts must be dropped off by Dec. 4 in the Center for Christian Service & Leadership where they will be sorted and wrapped by TWK student volunteers.

To learn more information, visit their table in the Campus Center between 11 a.m and 1 p.m utnil Friday.

Another event, Christmas for Kids, is an annual event that the Big Purple Marching Band hosts along with the Noah project, which according to the Noah Project website is “a center of care for victims of family violence, serving ten counties in West Central Texas.”

Students in the Big Purple fundraise for Christmas for Kids by carrying around buckets to collect change around campus, said Stephanie Bradley, vice president of the Big Purple. Band members collected change outside of Chapel on Monday, in the Campus Center on Tuesday and plan to be at the Jazz Ensemble Concert on Thursday night.

Bradley, junior music education major from Littleton, Colo., said all donations go toward buying Christmas gifts for children at the Noah Project who will be spending

their Christmas in the center. The parents and their children come to the Williams Performing Arts Center’s Choir Room and enjoy a night of fun and holiday spirit.

During the program, Bradley said members of the band bring food to share with everyone.

The children get to open one present at the party and then they get to take the rest home to open on Christmas with their family. Santa will also make his annual appearance at the event and will read a Christmas book to the children.

“I think this event really lets us all see just how much we are blessed,” Bradley said. “It’s a humbling and unforgettable experience being able to share in this event with everyone. I believe that the kids are blessed by this event because they get to have a Christmas.

They also get to see how much they are loved by people who they do not even know.”

Bradley said she enjoys getting to shop for the children, but it is also great to see the parents getting to relax while all of the students get to play with the children after they have opened their present.

“I’ve been the vice president for the past two years and it has been amazing getting to see people donate out of the goodness of their hearts and do whatever they can for this event,” Bradley said. “It makes me appreciate our ACU community even more.” contact schaffner at als09d@acu.edu

drive sponsored by Love and Care Ministries.

Parking for this event opens at 6:30 p.m. Students and members of the community are encouraged to come out to the ACU campus and celebrate the coming of Christmas in a family friendly environment with entertainment and snacks. contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

“The basic requirement is an operatic aria, an art song in a foreign language and one in English,” Piersall said.

Piersall said NATS had eight categories in which the students competed.

There were five winners in each category with 40 winners overall.

“For me, this wasn’t my first one, so I’ve become very philosophical about it,” said Dr. Michael Scarbrough, professor of music, voice, vocal pedagogy and opera. “NATS is a great place to go sing, get comments from other teachers and see sort of where you fit with what other studios and other singers are doing.”

Scarbrough hopes that anyone participating in NATS will not let the competition define their abilities, but let it be a learning experience.

Clinton Perdue, junior music education and vocal performance major from Mesquite, is one of Scarbrough’s students who competed in NATS. Although Perdue was initially hesitant Scarbrough convinced him to

participate this year.

“My voice teacher, Dr. Scarbrough, had a very good talk with me and said that one of the hardest things to do is to live by faith and to have faith that God will take care of you,” Perdue said, “and that this NATS is one of the most important things to go to because if you miss NATS, you don’t know what could have happened.”

Perdue said in his past two years in NATS, he was focused more on the competition and not doing his personal best, but he changed his focus this year.

“This one, I was more thinking, ‘I’m here to show my talent of what God has given me and I’m going to have faith that I’ll be recognized no matter what I do,’” Perdue said. “I performed to the best of my abilities and that’s all I can do. If I do it right, and I do it for God, then that’s all that matters.”

Perdue, Russell Garrett and Phillip Jackson were the three winners from ACU. contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

News

friday 11.30.12

4

feature

Friend Zone: past the point of no return?

Katie Cukrowski feature writer The three most unnerving words for a single guy to hear: The. Friend. Zone.

People joke and laugh about this mythical place, where a guy finds himself when he’s into a girl who says to his dismay, “I just don’t think of you that way.”

Of course, this can happen to girls too, but a simple Google Search shows that it’s mainly guys who feel afflicted by this disease. Articles like “Five Signs You’re in the Friend Zone” and “18 People Who Will Never Get Out of the Friend Zone” pop up all over the Internet. Men’s Health News even published an article this year called “Escape the Friend Zone.”

An MTV show called FriendZone features guys who try to go on dates with their romantic interests with the hopes that the girls will end up falling for them.

So, is it actually true? Does this place really exist for guys?

Hunter Turner, junior information technology major from Trophy Club said, “I met this girl and I didn’t know her very well, but we started talking. We had dinner in the Bean one time. I just wanted to know her more.”

When they were driving back from an event one night they had the “define the relationship” talk, during which he told her that he really wanted to be friends with her.

However, she took that to mean nothing more than friends, and they never spoke

again.

Cody Drennan, junior elementary education major from Abilene, noted that it isn’t always a guy’s fault for not having his feelings returned.

He said, “My friend really liked a girl, but instead of the girl he liked being interested in him, [the girl’s] best friend was. So he got put in the friend zone—not because of him, but because of [the girl’s] friend.”

Whitney Herrington, marketing major from Abilene, offered a female perspective.

“I’m not always the best at reading signals on whether or not a guy likes me, so there have been times when I thought one of my guy friends was just a friend…and then I find out that he had other ideas,” she said.

“Once I went to a function with a friend in high school and someone asked if he and I were ‘just friends’ to which I responded by nodding my head up and down. But the words coming out of my guy friend’s mouth were the complete opposite. The rest of the night was completely awkward

“

The rest of the night was completely awkward and honestly the rest of the friendship, maybe until just recently.”

Whittney Herrington sophomore marketing major from abilene

and honestly the rest of the friendship, maybe until just recently.”

Emily Teel, sophomore art major from Abilene, said, “I feel bad about friendzoning guys, but I would feel even worse about leading them on. In college though, it seems like it’s less awkward and the line is blurrier. We can be friends with lots of guys whether or not romantic feelings are there.”

Dating in college is difficult, stressful and emotionally taxing, but it can also be a lot of fun. Most people like seeking out others who might be compatible with them and enjoy the excitement and romance that goes along with those first dates.

And this is especially true at ACU where the two most overused jokes are “Are you here for your M.R.S. degree?” and “You gonna get that ‘ring by spring’?”

Jodi Gaines, junior art major from Dallas, said, “Most people are open to a relationship and enjoy the dating pool here at ACU. But there are always seasons.” Gaines said that the beginning of the semester is hunting season, and after that, it will be dating season. “And then around Christmas break or the beginning of next semester, it will be break-up season. At least with my friends it works that way,” says Gaines.

Hope for the previously Friend Zoned exists. In the TV show F.R.I.E.N.D.S., Monica only saw Chandler as her goofy friend, but because he stuck around and was there for her, she changed her mind and he ended up marrying the girl of his dreams.

Perhaps the Friend Zone is an ally, not

“

You risk something by doing that– you risk rejection. But not to try means that you will never know.”

Dr. Heidi Morris adjunct faculty of Family Studies

the enemy. Maybe being a good friend is what counts in the end.

Dr. Heidi Morris, adjunct faculty of Family Studies described relationships as two sides of a coin—liking and being liked, or not liked.

“If you’re on the side of the coin where you like [someone], but the other side of the coin is not [returning interest], then I think you’re going to be left with a bit of disappointment and maybe a feeling of rejection or frustration or longing,” she said.

Morris says no one should pursue a romantic relationship with someone who doesn’t return the affection. “But I always feel that if you are a person who likes someone and you would like to see that relationship going somewhere, it’s always good to have good communication. You risk something by doing that—you risk rejection. But not to try means that you will never know.”

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

Feature

PULSE: A Cappella group offers opportunity Continued from page 1 “We had more than 60 people audition for the first round. Four people were already officers, so they were auditioning for eight or nine spots. Sixty people,” said Tatum. “It was cool that all these people made it. It’s a big deal.”

Corinne Morris, senior electronic media major from Abilene, auditioned last year, made the group and re-auditioned this year.

“Callbacks were really incredible, last year and this year, just because of the sheer talent in the room,” said Morris. ”I knew that even if I didn’t get an invitation to join the group, it would still be an amazingly talented group of singers.”

As they sing, their hands embody their focus. Some singers unconsciously cup their hands to their ear to help them intently listen to every note, other hands keep time with the flow of

the music and Tatum’s hand confidently directs, pointing his fingers with each moving note.

“In PULSE, we’re not just about getting together, singing some songs and going home,” said Morris. “We talk about what’s going on in our lives; we laugh with each other and we pray together when someone is struggling.

Yes, we love to sing, but our voices wouldn’t mesh nearly as well if our personalities didn’t also harmonize.”

During the two-hour rehearsal, in which only one song is practiced, the members laugh heartily in between every run-through, and the spur of the moment recording session in the women’s restroom of Cullen (because it has better acoustics) embodies the relationships that have formed within this tight-knit group of people.

Each time they begin practicing the song again, someone else gets to sing the solo. And though Tatum’s falsetto could easily match most sopranos, he happily sings the tenor part, content to lead from amidst the chorus.

Keslie Bernard, creative director of PULSE, said Tatum brings a great balance to the group.

“Nick has a very uplifting, positive attitude that is contagious to the rest of the group and is great about including everyone in decisions,” said Bernard, senior elementary education major from Mansfield.

Tatum quickly yells, “We’re kind of a big chaos group!” as the rest of the group trades places in the

circle so each person can each hear all of the different parts and how his or her musical role fits in.

Tatum began college as a music major and finds PULSE is a great way to still participate in something he loves to do. He has directed three consecutive winning class acts in Sing Song for the class of 2013 and will be directing the senior act again in the spring.

“We get so much work done because we’re having fun,” Tatum said.

Between belting out song lyrics, spontaneous dancing and a few well-performed cheerleading herkys, the group’s seemingly everlasting enthusiasm mixes well with its chaotic craziness.

Tatum said he loves that the group can do its own thing but is still able to perform great music. He said PULSE can be low-pressure, and the group can do modern songs and praise music without being overly stressed.

PULSE is an extracurricular activity that everyone in the group enjoys, said Tatum. He said he thinks this is also a great opportunity for

each person to sustain his or her love for music throughout the year outside of music classes or Sing Song. The group sings music that is challenging, but also tunes they can enjoy.

“Since we’re a cappella we can really sing anywhere and do anything,” Tatum said.

Still, in the midst of all the small distractions during rehearsal they come together when it is time to sing and in an instant focus only on the music, pages flipping in unison as they read the notes.

The sober words cut deep and the passion and focus is heard in each member’s voice as they sing through the chorus: “There is a place where hope remains / in crowns of thorns and crimson stains / and tears that fall on Jesus’ feet / where joy and sorrow meet.”

As rehearsal ends, a short burst of laughter rings throughout Cullen Auditorium as a reminder of the delightful PULSE the members of the group create wherever they go. contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

social clubs

Galaxy: Club to help build local home Continued from page 1 then handing off their progress to a second round of workers from 12:30-4:30 p.m.

Though this is the first year in recent years that Galaxy is partnering with Habitat for Humanity, Sorrell, along with many other Moonies, has high hopes for the tradition to endure.

“I approached Keith Carroll about it after he started [as Social Service Director]

about doing more service projects and he really wanted to get that started and implemented too.” Sorrell said.

Although Sorrell believes that any form of service is beneficial, he said that there is a something special about working with the Habitat for Humanity organization.

“It makes more of an impact when you know the family. It’s going to be great for the community but it’s

also going to be great for us as a club. It’s going to be great for us to get to bond through this.” Sorrell said.

“Luke [Sorrell] is our unofficial service project organizer,” Brown said.

“What better way to spend a Saturday than with your brothers, out serving in the community.”

contact langston at ltl10a@acu.edu

administration

Search: CAS dean finalist withdraws homogenous– they are is pretty impressive. I’ve not. What I do find is that loved that opportunity.” ting the brain trust to- we all support the mission gether,” Straughn said. of the university, and the contact jones at “It’s so broad that I would fact that people do that mnj10a@acu.edu not expect opinions to be in so many different ways Continued from page 1

crime

Attempted: Custodian escapes from suspect Continued from page 1 robbery of an individual and was planning to reinterview the victim late Thursday night. He also said the department is working with WFF to help it with awareness training for its employees.

“We will also be increasing patrols as much as possible in the interior campus areas during nighttime hours,” Ellison said.

ACU Police sent an email to all students, staff and faculty about the incident on Thursday. It re-

minded everyone on and around campus to remain alert at all times and report suspicious activity to ACU Police immediately.

contact smith at mds10a@acu.edu

5

arts

friday 11.30.12

Photos courtesy of Lauren Fink

Top: Lauren Fink, senior business major from Grapevine, interns at New York Fashion week this summer with carious designers. Below: Fink worked several runway shows during her internship.

DRESS FOR SUCCESS

Senior business major interns at Fashion Week Alikay Wood Copy editor ACU’s mission to prepare students for Christian leadership throughout the world is more than just words on paper. Lauren Fink, senior business major from Grapevine is one example of this mission in action.

Fink had the unique opportunity to intern at New York Fashion week at the beginning of this school year.

This summer Fink had an internship in Los Angeles. She worked with Pamella Roland, the designer of Angelina Jolie’s wedding dress.

After the internship, where she performed a variety of duties, Fink was able to use a family connection to be a part of the Style 360 event in New York Fashion Week.

“I was there working and styling for the event Style 360 in the meatpacking district during a three day event for eight different shows and

album reviews

Babel

Battle Born

While Sigh No More contained lyrics mostly about angsty broken hearts, Babel shifts focus to a Christian and even worship theme. One would think this change would make the album more light-hearted but only in the slightest. He simply replaced the jilted lover with God and wrote nearly identical lyrics, while occasionally thanking him for being forgiven. Musically, M&S stick to their same formula of starting slow, then crescendoing into aggressive acoustic strumming while Marshal plucks his banjo at a speedy pace, often complimented by strings and horns. It may not re-invent the wheel, but M&S fans will certainly enjoy.

The Killers have always sounded most comfortable at their largest and most bombastic moments. With Battle Born we hear The Killers as veterans for the first time, four albums and 10 years in. Drenched in 80s-esque synthesizers, guitar and the emotively loud voice of an arena rocker, Battle Born finds Brandon Flowers and company paying their most obvious homage to their influences the likes of U2, The Cure and Bruce Springsteen. While it may not contain the same hunger the earlier albums had, they have grown together as writers, and content to fill the stadiums, revel in achieving their dreams of becoming rock-stars.

Mumford & Sons

The Killers

Stephen Prather Senior Business Management Major From Atlanta

two after-parties,” Fink said. “It was a very heavy celebrity base.”

Her responsibilities included reserving seats for celebrities, managing a vendor booth and running various errands.

Fink said she enjoyed her experiences in the fashion world and has wanted her own boutique since middle school. However, Fink’s internships involved lots of interaction with famous people and she quickly learned that working with celebrities was not something she wanted to be a part of.

“This summer I worked with a lot of celebrities because our showroom was for stylists and celebrities for red carpet events.” Fink said. “It’s something I don’t want to be involved in, it’s all very self serving.”

Fink enjoyed the opportunity to experience New York from a native perspective rather than that of a tourist, but said her favorite part of the experience was the Pamela Rowland show.

“The Pamela Rowland show was very cool and interactive, her collection is going to be beautiful,” Fink said.

Fink’s advise for anyone interested in the fashion industry is simple.

“Milk your connections,” Fink said.

“Get to know people who you don’t know. In the fashion industry it’s all about who you know and how you can get into it. Once you’re in and have experience it’s much easier to get more experience.”

Fink is eager to use her gifts and the passion she has to further God’s kingdom.

“I see clothes more as something to make people feel more confident in the way the Lord has created them,” Fink said. “Retail is a mission field just as much as any other workplace.”

contact Wood at akw10a@acu.edu

Opinion

FRIDAY 11.30.12

6

EDITORIAL

Support, love follow recent heartbreak the ACU community all prayed for Rex and his family t hroughout his fight our take the FLEMING with In the aftermath, we must remember to be present, disease. supporting and loving for those closest to Rex and to The prayers were anunderstand that death does not represent an end for swered, but not in the way him or any of us. many had hoped. That night, heaven gained a Whenever we need God the way we want. strong spirit and a sweet most, we cry out to Him Sunday night, a sweet new face. the loudest. young man, whose story While death is never Through pain, anxi- touched the hearts and easy to comprehend, the ety, fear, stress, sorrow lives of many, went to his death of a child seems unand death we ask God for heavenly home. After two bearable. The loss of one help, deliverance, heal- years of battling brain so young brings to mind ing and strength. The cancer, 10-year-old Rex thousands of questions prayers are always an- Fleming’s fight was over. and doubts. Thoughts swered. But not always in Family, friends and like, “How could this

the issue

As with any death, the passing of Rex Fleming places a weight on our hearts along with many questions in our minds. While the answers may not be clear, our response should be. The ACU community has always come through for those in pain, and this is no different.

“

While the ACU flag is lowered to half-staff, we rise up and step forward to support each other.”

happen?” and, “This is not fair,” begin to soar through our minds. And the only thing we can do is sometimes the hardest thing to do: trust God. People sometimes describe death as “an adventure” or “just another part of life.” However you choose to look at it, the most important thing to

remember is: death is not the end, but instead, a new beginning. Though that thought might bring little comfort, it does provide a glimmer of hope.

God has a purpose for bringing each angel back to His Kingdom.

The ACU community is not unfamiliar with tragedy. While the ACU f lag is lowered to half-staff, we rise up and step forward to support each other.

Our thoughts now turn to the ones who have been left behind.

Rex’s family, friends, classmates and teachers.

There is nothing anyone can say to ease the pain.

The only thing we can

do is be there for them. A simple hug speaks when words cannot begin to express our feelings.

We want Rex’s family and friends to know this: we are here for you. We will not leave you.

Though Rex’s life was cut short, the example he led through life, and death, is one that has inspired many and will continue to encourage many more.

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

EVAN’s marks

Column

evan marks

Christmas films: my favorite five MARK MY WORDS

EVAN MARKS

For those of us in college, especially from out of state, the holiday season is the time of the year when we finally return home to spend some quality time with friends and family. And what better way to spend that time than by sitting on the couch and watching Christmas movies.

So without further ado, here are my top five favorite Christmas movies of all time.

No. 5: Jingle All the Way. Some people don’t rank this with other Christmas classics. Those people are wrong. Jingle All the Way has everything I’ve ever wanted out of Christmas: Arnold Schwarzenegger running, yelling and screaming through malls and toys store, and also Sinbad.

No. 4: Home Alone (and Home Alone 2). I’ve

never watched Home Alone without immediately following up with Home Alone 2, so you should just do the same to be safe. How many kids tried to get their parents to leave them at home on vacation after seeing these movies? I know I did. Forget about the potential child abuse situation, the theft, and in-

“

Are you going to let dirty, greedy, German terrorists ruin your Christmas?”

were The Santa Clause 2 and 3, because the original was such a terrific film. Tim Allen plays a tended kidnapping, I just great, though unwilling, want to make sweet traps Santa (after he accidently for bad guys. kills the previous one), No. 3: The Santa and the whole movie is as Clause. It makes me sad to funny as it is heartwarmsee the train wrecks that ing. This movie also has

my favorite depiction of the North Pole: the elves are all kids, but have hyper advanced technology. I hope that’s how it really works.

No. 2: A Christmas Story. This is one of those movies where I legitimately mourn for people

who have never seen it.

It’s not only a Christmas classic but an American one as well. The stories in the film have become cultural icons: the Red Rider BB Gun, the Leg Lamp, the f luffy pink bunny suit.

No. 1: Die Hard. Are

you going to let dirty, greedy, German terrorists ruin your Christmas?

Because John McClane isn’t.

contact marks at edm10a@acu.edu

COLUMN

In real world, you must take the ones with the zeros ONES AND ZEROS BLANE SINGLETARY

They say there are 10 kinds of people in this world: those who understand binary code and those who don’t.

For the latter half, it’s basically the bare-bones of any code that goes through a computer processor, where billions of zeroes and ones come together to create text, images, video and basically anything electronically seen or heard. When I was asked to write a tech column for the Optimist, I could think of no better name.

Now, one and half years later, I’m sitting down to write what will become the final edition of “Ones and Zeros” as I am set to graduate next month. All I can think about right now is all the things I still want to write about, such as why region locking on Blu-Ray and DVD players is wrong and why Microsoft’s version of Kinect will amount to nothing more than a $200 webcam.

But it’s time to move on, and it’s been a great

hashtagACU 11:54 p.m. Nov. 25

I can’t wait to live in a real city where I won’t feel like an idiot for not being engaged at 20 years old.

@sampet413

8:31 p.m. Nov. 26

Taking a date to the dating chapel. #yolo

@jNAV12

run. It’s been awesome to hear feedback from all of you, whether in person or from a Facebook message that somehow found it’s way to the right Blane Singletary. I hope I can count on support from readers like you as I move into bigger projects in the real world.

For example, I’ll be f lexing my DJ muscles with a new Electronica/ Dance music-centric radio show currently set to air on a bilingual station based in Argentina. Plans to take it stateside (perhaps even locally) are in the works.

Also, I’m producing and writing a new web series about commercial advertising, where we’ll pick apart various com-

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.

An engagement is one of the most special times of a person’s life, don’t belittle that because of ring by spring.

Be thankful they are happy

@jenntash

“

A project that fails isn’t a failure; it’s important experience that we learn from, and move on to the next bit.”

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

newsroom (325) 674-2439

this zero, and move on to the next bit, which might just be the one you’ve been looking for.

To all my fellow graduates, faculty and classmates of whom I’ve had the privilege of knowing, I leave you with a quote from the song “Old and Wise,” from the end of the Alan Parsons Project’s Eye in the Sky album.

One of the last lines goes, “Someday, in the mist of time, when they ask you if you knew me, remember that you were a friend of mine.”

Many thanks to you all for this great run.

End of line.

zero. (Even if he or she initially scores a solid 10.) But you learn from

contact SINGLETARY at sbs07a@acu.edu

4:12 p.m. Nov. 25 6:48 p.m. Nov. 26

Every time I refresh my Facebook newsfeed, a new couple is engaged or married. Every. Time.

Okay, only 4 times today....

@leannekawa

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

tant experience that we learn from, and move on to the next bit.

This binary analogy applies to not only our professional lives, but also our personal lives.

Someone you have a relationship with might eventually come up as a

9:57 a.m. Nov. 28

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

mercial campaigns and ask the question, “Is it really doing any good?”

Chances are if you enjoyed my recent columns about MySpace and Facebook’s recent ads (that one about chairs, remember?) you’ll love this as well.

That’s just two of the many endeavors I’m beginning, or continuing.

To be honest, I have no idea if they will be profitable or successful in any way. But to me, that’s the fun of it.

Some might come up as ones and others might come up zeroes. But no good processor code is made of only ones. The zeroes are integral as well. A project that fails isn’t a failure; it’s impor-

8:12 p.m. Nov. 24

Everyone I know from home has a baby (or 3) and everyone I know from Abilene is engaged. #imsurrounded

@Bethy1014

4 girls in club have gotten engaged since pledging ended. To my single sistas: Be grateful for not having to shave your legs until spring.

@Shacara_Shacara

Mark Smith

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7

News/sports

Friday 11.30.12

volleyball

Lone senior: Allen sets example edward isaacs sports editor Being the lone ranger can be tough and a lonely road at times. Senior Kalynne Allen had that title for three straight years.

Allen has been the only Wildcat volleyball player from her class since her sophomore year, but she handled the situation with maturity and always carried a positive attitude about it.

“That was a hard transition,” Allen said.

“But it taught me independence. I didn’t have people to rely on like the other girls so it was a good life lesson.”

“It’s a lonely prospect to be on a small team and be the only one in your class,” said head coach Kellen Mock. “We haven’t had that in ACU volleyball in a long time. Grae Grimes in the fall of 2002 was the last time I had a solo senior.”

“It molds and changes you because you have to rely more on yourself than on others,” Mock said. “That’s part of the reason she’s so strong and tough. She’s learned to be so self reliant.”

Junior Madelyn Robinett said Allen was always encouraging the group and was a vocal leader on the court.

“Being a freshman can be hard but Kalynne was extremely welcoming toward those girls,” Robinett said. “She was very willing to mentor anyone on the team. She pushed us but it was never for selfish reasons.”

Allen had one of her best seasons at ACU despite a rough year in which injuries, inconsistency and youth kept the ‘Cats from getting above .500.

She whacked 61 kills an average of 1.33 per set.

She dug out 53 balls and was fifth on the team in total points (78.0, average of 1.70 per set).

Allen may not have broken into the record books like 2011 stars Jennie Hutt or Kelsie Edwards but she was still proud of the way she

curtis christian Staff Photographer

Senior Kalynne Allen pumps her fists after the Wildcats win a point in Moody Coliseum. Allen was the lone senior on this year’s squad.

She and the ‘Cats had a record of 12-19.

“

handled the diversity.

Kalynne could do a little of everything which meant “I may not have been so much to the team.” in a lot of online write ups, but I was very satisfied with my personal consistency,” she said. kellen mock “Kalynne could do a head coach little of everything which acu volleyball meant so much to the team,” Mock said. “That’s what set her apart. She Allen spent countless ever, she is also highly could perform every- hours on the court in her respected outside of volwhere.” four years at ACU how- leyball.

“She is very caring and aware of people’s feelings and is a great friend,” Robinett said.

Coach Mock said Allen is also very involved with her faith, academics and family.

“There is a lot more to Kalynne than just playing the sport,” she said.

Allen will have her teacher’s certification in

social studies when she graduates in May. She applied to graduate school at Texas A&M University but is also considering teaching high school in the fall.

contact isaacs at jei08a@acu.edu

event

‘80s-themed Zumbathon to promote SAND erika tanaka student reporter On Saturday, the Student Recreation and Wellness Center will host its second annual Zumbathon.

Zumbathon is organized by the Student Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and is the organization’s main promotional event. At Saturday’s event, SAND will have information available for students who are interested in learning about

the health opportunities available to them through ACU. SAND offers on-campus personal trainers and provides students with nutritional information designed specifically for individuals through basic fitness assessments.

The event will feature ACU’s own Zumba trainers, but will also include instructors from other fitness facilities in the Abilene community.

Since the event’s goal is to promote SAND, Zum-

bathon will be open for the Abilene community to participate.

Zumbathon is a come and go event, and students are encouraged to come by for as little or as long as they want. Kerri Hart, associate director of SRWC said, “What better way for students to get ready for finals than by having fun at Zumbathon.”

Hart said last year’s Zumbathon had an “absolutely amazing turnout,” and the Rec Center is

learning studio

Images of Aging contest underway gabi powell student reporter The third annual student photo contest, Images of Aging, where wrinkles and bifocals are a good thing, is officially underway.

Through February, students may submit their own photos to Images of Aging contest blog under three categories: Black and White, Color and Mobile photos.

The event is sponsored by the Pruett Gerontology Center, the Art and Design Department and The Learning Studio and judged by faculty within the departments. Winners and participants of the contest will attend a luncheon where prizes will be awarded.

Asia Todd, a junior multimedia major from

Chiang Mai, Thailand, participated in last year’s contest, taking first place in the Color category. She said finding “models” for her photograph was little labor.

“I didn’t go on a hunt for the elderly,” she said.

“I followed my parents around in their ministry last Christmas and came across elderly men and women in their own environment. I think that the key to finding good pictures is to capture the beauty that is naturally there, instead of trying to set up a big studio and synthesize it.”

With winter break on the horizon, students plan to use this time in gathering photos for the contest.

Todd says she will be prepared to capture any photo-entry moment during the holidays by printing

out model release forms to carry as she travels.

Any student enrolled in the 2012-2013 school year is eligible to participate.

Entry rules and release forms can be found on the Images of Aging blog, http://blogs.acu.edu/imagesofaging/. February 8, 2013 will be the last day to enter photos.

Todd suggested those participating to surround themselves with interesting things to come by interesting photos. She encouraged students to take part in this contest so as to learn to step out and find those ‘interesting things’ in God’s creation.

“I think that wrinkles can tell stories.”

contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu

expecting an even larger participation this year, especially since there will be more instructors from the Abilene community.

This year the Zumbathon is ‘80s themed and participants are encouraged to come dressed in ‘80s attire. The Zumba classes will also feature music from the ‘80s.

Since this will be the first year Zumbathon has a theme, Hart said she is expecting it to be a lot of fun for people to dress up and participate. She is un-

“

sure if SAND will continZumba is my favorite ue with themes for future way to excercise. I am years, but is excited for how the event will grow. so excited to learn from Miranda Palmer, judifferent instructors and nior nursing major from to dress up.”

Flower Mound said, “Zumba is my favorite miranda palmer way to exercise. I am so junior nursing major from flower mound excited to learn from different instructors and to dress up.”

Tickets can be pur- Zumbathon, a t-shirt and chased in advance for $12 snacks. in the Campus Center, and will be sold for $15 contact the optimist at at the door. Ticket purjmcnetwork@acu.edu chase includes a spot in

sports

friday 11.30.12

8

standings

football

men’s basketball

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

ACU TAMU-K ENMU WTAMU TSU Commerce Cameron UIW MSU ASU

1-0 1-0 1-0 0-1 0-0 0-0 0-1 0-0 0-0 0-1

4-1 4-2 4-3 6-1 3-1 5-2 3-2 3-2 3-2 2-3

women’s basketball

Team

Div.

Ovrl.

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

1-0 1-0 1-0 1-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-1 0-1 0-1 0-1

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

briefings ACU’s second annual Christmas Slam is set for Tuesday night at Moody Coliseum. The festivities will begin before the start of the ACU women’s basketball game against Texas A&M University-Commerce.

mandy lambright chief Photographer

Left: Senior quarterback Mitchell Gale drops back to pass. Gale was invited to the Texas vs. The Nation All-Star Game. Right: Senior kicker Morgan Lineberry looks down the field as he prepares to kick the ball. Lineberry was invited to the FCS Senior Scout Bowl.

Gale, Lineberry to play on leg to South Carolina to show the NFL scouts what sports reporter he is made of.

“The natural tendency After rewriting the ACU is to feel overly self-conrecord books, two Wildcat scious, so fighting the urge football players are going to over perform is the chalbowling. lenge,” Lineberry said.

Quarterback Mitchell “My mindset is that I Gale and kicker Morgan know what I am doing, and Lineberry have been invit- I have had success at it, so ed to participate in the Tex- why change my approach? as vs. The Nation All-Star The only change I should Game and the FCS Senior make is to focus even more Scout Bowl respectively. and maintain my poise.”

Lineberry will leave The FCS Senior Scout ACU as the all-time leader Bowl is scheduled for in field goals made, and Dec. 15. will be taking his golden Gale will have to wait

matthew sloan

a little longer to show off his arm, as the Texas vs.

The Nation All-Star Game will not be played until Feb. 2 in Allen.

The Wildcats’ quarterback will leave the Big Country with the most passing yards in Lone Star Conference history. Gale also threw for 97 touchdown passes and won 30 games as the starting quarterback.

“Mitchell was not a highly recruited guy out of high school,” head coach Ken Collums said. “He got a couple offers and that was it.”

“What he has done

through his toughness, his resolve and his approach is grinded himself into a good quarterback. That says a lot about the guy, coming from Alva, Okla. and then bam; you are considered one of the best quarterbacks in the country. Somebody in the NFL is interested in him or he wouldn’t be getting this opportunity.”

With the NFL draft four months away, these games will provide a chance for Lineberry and Gale to show scouts everything they have to offer.

“I know that they are

both really good guys, and that’s what will give them a chance in my opinion,” Collums said. “It speaks to them as people, just how hard they work and it speaks to this program and what we have been able to build here over the years.”

“They’ll be advocates of this place and they are quality people, so I don’t know that I could find better guys to send out there for our university.” contact sloan at mes10a@acu.edu

men’s basketball

‘Cats push Buffaloes in Canyon The team was excited to welcome back Senior Forsports reporter ward Dosh Simms as he tallied six rebounds in his first Wednesday night the Wild- game of the season. cats continued their winWhile Wednesday night ning streak with a tight was a time of celebration victory against West Texas for a long overdue victory A&M. The team won 59-58; against the Buffaloes, it was this was the first win at Can- also a time of remembrance yon since the ‘97-98 season. for the heart of ACU sports: The ‘Cats are off to a sur- 10-year-old Rex Fleming, prisingly fast start in the sea- who died Sunday night after son, ranking 4-1 overall and a two year battle with brain 1-0 in conference, with the cancer. first LoneStar Conference As prayers continue to go game being against WT. up for the Fleming family, To add to their momen- the Wildcats have to prepare tum, together the team shot to match up against Eastern their season best of 55.8 New Mexico, this Saturday at percent (24 of 43) with 16 4 p.m. in Moody Coliseum. points from senior Center Steven Werner and 15 points contact johnson at mandy lambright chief Photographer each from senior guards Eric baj12a@acu.edu Freshman guard Parker Wentz attempts to shoot over a defender in Moody.

Lawton and Elliot Lloyd.

A public graveside service for Rex Fleming will be at 9:30 a.m. at Elmwood Memorial Park on Friday. A memorial service to celebrate Rex’s life will be at 10:30 a.m. at Pioneer Drive Baptist Church.

Senior center Steven Werner was named the LSC’s offensive player of the week last Tuesday. He averaged a double-double of 19.0 points and 14.5 rebounds during the ACU/Whitten Inn Classic.

Senior midfielder Julie Coppedge was named to the 2012 Capital One All-America Division II Women’s Soccer Third Team Wednesday. Coppedge is also a two-time Lone Star Conference Academic Player of the Year and a CoSIDA Academic All-District 6 selection.

brittney johnson

women’s basketball

Wildcats just Goodenough to win daniel zepeda sports reporter

curtis christian Staff Photographer

Sophomore Shannon Sanders keeps the ball in front of her.

The women’s basketball team traveled to Canyon for the last time as they defeated West Texas A&M 81-76 Wednesday.

The win gives ACU a 1-0 record in LSC play, and a 2-1 overall record.

The ‘Cats were led offensively by junior Renata Marquez’s double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds.

Although she finished as the high scorer, it was a team effort win, with contributions coming from all players.

ACU shot 52.5 percent for the game as a team, as sophomore Sadie Dickinson finished with 18 points and senior Kelsey Smith added 16 points and three blocks.

Junior Mackenzie Lank-

ford sank five of six free throws in the late going to secure the lead for the visiting Wildcats; she finished the night with 12 points and six assists.

Lankford was the bright spot for ACU from the charity line, as the rest of the team shot 2-11 from the free throw line.

ACU took a small lead into halftime, as thirteen first half points from Dickinson was enough to secure a slim 41-39 lead at the break.

The second half proved to be just as close as the first, until the Wildcat offense came alive. A 16-1 run gave the ‘Cats their largest lead of the night at 12 points with 8:04 remaining. Smith and Lankford were the main causes for the run.

The Lady Buffs were able to cut the deficit to five after

a three-point attempt was made with 17 seconds remaining.

The Wildcats were able to play smart basketball within the final seconds to secure their final win in Canyon.

The ACU women wore purple “Playing For Rex” shirts during their warmups. WT along with other LSC schools who played Wednesday honored Rex Fleming prior to their games with a moment of silence. Rex passed away Sunday night after a twoyear battle with brain cancer. He was ten years old.

The Wildcats look to face Eastern New Mexico this Saturday at 2 p.m. in Moody. contact zedpeda at zjz11a@acu.edu

ex- factor Houston Texans defensive back Danieal Manning had nine total tackles and a forced fumble in Thursday’s 34-31 win against the Detroit Lions. Eight of his tackles were solo.

Manning has 52 tackles, two interceptions and three forced fumbles for the season.

Rams running back Daryl Richardson rushed for 32 yards on seven carries against Arizona Sunday. St. Louis defeated the Cardinals, 31-17. Richardson has 451 yards and 82 carries this season.

Upcoming The men’s basketball team will face Eastern New Mexico University Saturday in Moody Coliseum at 4 p.m.

They play Texas A&M University-Commerce at home Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

The women’s basketball team will also play ENMU Saturday in Moody Coliseum. It starts at 2 p.m. They then have a match-up versus Commerce at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday.