The Students’ Association Congress unveiled plans for final arrangements for Christmas lights on campus, a “Christmas Slam” event and a new award at Wednesday’s meeting.

“We’re bringing the ACU community together,” said executive vice-president Julianne Hart, senior political science major from Austin.

The resolution to fund up to $3,000 for Christmas lights on campus passed unanimously. The bill presented by COBA representatives J.P. Ralston and Amy Morris allows congress to spend anything at or below the designated amount from the congressional budget fund, which currently has $4,165. Executive treasurer Carson Henley, senior pre-dental major from Colleyville, said that he expects it will actually cost about $2,000 to $2,500 through a contract with the company Barefoot Lawns.

Lights are planned to go around the Campus Center and on 27 trees near the GATA fountain and the Onstead-Packer Bible Building. Henley said the goal is to have the lights up at least one week before the Thanksgiving holiday break.

In addition, SA is following the model of Taylor University to host the first Christmas Slam on campus. Hart said SA is partnering with the office of Student Life and John Houser, assistant director of athletic operations, to create new traditions for basketball games.”

This isn’t really about the basketball team, it’s about getting ACU together,” she said.

Hart said Chapel is the only time the entire ACU community comes together, but most students don’t attend during the last two weeks She hopes the Christmas Slam, scheduled for Dec. 10, will be an alternative.  The event will have giveaways during halftime, a teddy bear toss and maybe an appearance from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

“I hope it’s something that goes well and continues throughout the years,” Hart said.

SA Accountability

Despite last Wednesday’s reminder for members of congress to fulfill office hours by Friday’s deadline, nearly half did not. Four class officers and twelve building representatives did not complete the requirement of four hours and two hours, respectively. Of those who did not finish the hours, five did not begin hours.

This is the first year congress members have been required to keep a record of hours worked. Sophomore Treasurer Keaton Tucker worked the most, 7.5 hours and during the meeting was awarded the first Congress Member of the Month certificate.

“I was surprised,” said Tucker, the sophomore treasurer and finance major from Lakewood, Colo. “When I join something, I’m in it 100 percent, and so I give it my all.”