The Optimist
You are here: Home / Life

The Netflix Fix: Odd Thomas

by

NR (suggested PG-13), 1HR. 37 MINS. Odd Thomas is a campy mystery comedy that blends a touch of humor with a touch of horror. Thomas, played by Anton Yelchin (Fright Night, Star Trek: Into Darkness) is a short-order cook who is clairvoyant and can see the spirits of the dead. Thomas uses his gift to keep his town safe and bring justice to those ... [Read More…]

The Netflix Fix: Hector and the Search for Happiness

by

R, 2HR. Hector and the Search for Happiness takes its audience on a journey that is both heartwarming and thought provoking. We follow Hector, a perfectly normal in every way psychologist played by Simon Pegg (Shaun of the Dead, Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation) on his spontaneous journey to find what it means to be truly happy. He travels to ... [Read More…]

Larry’s boasts better burgers for 49 years

by

On the bleak stretch of road known as Treadaway Boulevard lies a true Abilene gem, Larry's Better Burgers. The drive-in sits at 1233 N Treadaway Blvd. and has been in business since 1967. The outside, although a bit tattered, only adds to business' reputation of being a long-standing Abilene icon. The business's exterior maintains a touch of ... [Read More…]

Things to do: DRI Pumpkin Patch

by

The Disability Resources Incorporated Pumpkin Patch is a must for every Abilenian to visit during the fall. The pumpkin patch is on the lawn of DRI's campus, which is located at 3602 N Clack St. DRI is a non-profit organization that provides care for adults with developmental disabilities. The organization's mission is, "to provide exceptional ... [Read More…]

ACU alumni, former roommates’ art showcased downtown

by

Former roommates and ACU alumni Nancy Boren and Jill Maxwell are the featured artists at the ACU gallery in downtown Abilene. The gallery is located at 1133 N. 2nd St., behind the Grace Museum, and is open during the week from Wednesday to Saturday 12-3 p.m. The show, titled "Iconic Figures," will run Oct. 3 through Nov. 5. The downtown ... [Read More…]

It’s a jolly Homecoming with Mary

by

ACU Theatre is bringing the beloved Disney film and book Mary Poppins to the stage for this year's Homecoming Musical. The musical is based on the Disney film of the same name, as well as the book by P.L Travers. Mary Poppins follows the adventures of a mysterious nanny who suddenly appears on the doorstep of the Banks household to care for ... [Read More…]

Greek Cafe offers health food near campus

by

You just got lucky if you're a lover of Greek cuisine who doesn't want to drive to the other side of town. The Greek Cafe opened at the corner of Treadaway Boulevard and Ambler Avenue less than a month ago, and it's only a mile and a half away from campus, across the street from Little Italy Pizza. Its interior is reminiscent of a cozy '60s ... [Read More…]

Must-see bands at Austin City Limits Music Festival 2015

by

The first weekend of the Austin City Limits music festival begins Friday, Oct. 2, which means you are either skipping class Friday or are leaving as soon as the chapel speaker says, "You're dismissed." Huge mainstream artists like The Weeknd, Foo Fighters and Drake will be gracing the ACL stages, but here's a list of some other musicians that are ... [Read More…]

The Netflix Fix: Beyond the Lights

by

PG-13, 1 HR., 56 MINS From Gina Prince-Bythewood, director of Love and Basketball, comes Beyond the Lights, the emotional rollercoaster of pop star Noni played by actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw. Noni has been working her entire life to have the life she has now, she wears designer clothes, has a rock star boyfriend and a promising music career, but under ... [Read More…]

You are here: Home / Life