Vol. 98, No. 3 - 10/20/2010

ratt er the

A St. Mary’s Student Publication since 1925

NEWS

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Vol. 98 Issue 3

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October 20, 2010 •

STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

DIY COSTUMES Get ideas for cheap, creative Halloween get-ups for men and women using items that you probably already own. pg. 8

3 TLC Tees teaches students business skills

FEATURES

10 Read our review on three haunted houses

ENTERTAINMENT

12 SPORTS

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The Rattler Battilion competes in challenge

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O W E E N edition

Graphic / Illustration by Jasmine Garcia, Photo by Leo Reyes

Check out the top 10 lamest scary movies

News

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October 20, 2010

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INDEX news 1-5 commentary 6-7 features 8-11 entertainment 12-13 sports 14-16

STAFF Editor-in-Chief

Entertainment Editor

Managing Editor

Sports Editor

Copy Editor

Photo Editor

Layout/Design Editor

Assistant Photo Editor

Web Editor

Advertising Manager

News Editor

Staff Cartoonist

Commentary Editor

Faculty Adviser

Sarah Mills

Denice Hernandez Azhmir Acosta

Jasmine Garcia Sara Cornejo

Austin W. Newton Alex Salinas

Dania Pulido

Veronica Martinez Analicia Perez Felix Arroyo Leo Reyes

Oscar Maguregui

Brother Dennis, S.M., Ph.D.

Features Editor Amanda Cano

STAFF WRITERS Daniel Aguilar Jessica Carillo Jessica Corea Michael Cortez Chris Filoteo Stephen Garcia Robin Johnson Andrea Magallanez Alex Meyer Sean O’Kelley

Briana Perez Selena Rangel Brissa Renteria Ari Rivera Marissa Rodriguez Lena Scalercio Caitlin Skelton Danielle Torres Dana Traugott Daniel Trejo

Students Clarissa Peña (left) and Gabriela Chavez (right) race using a bungee cord at Lambda Chi Alha’s annual Watermelon Bash on Oct. 16. The event took place at Chaminade Field. Photo by Robin Johnson

NEWS IN BRIEF >> >> >>

The Pecan Grove Review Vol. XII’s release pushed to spring

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University’s Cyber Security Week to be held Oct. 18-22

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Campus sorority holds Alcoholic Awareness Week

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Nicholas Campana Adam Casiano Alejandra Diaz Liliana Espinosa Paulina Fernandez Caitlyn Geraci

Robin Johnson Jerry Mendez Guadalupe Molina Jennifer Sims Jenny Wendover

STANDARDS The Rattler upholds the Mission Statements of St. Mary’s University. The Publication follows the Canons of Responsible Journalism, the Associated Press Stylebook and the Student Publication Policy.

The Rattler is a member of the Associate Collegiate Press, the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the Society of Professional Journalists and the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICY The Rattler welcomes letters that do not exceed 500 words and include the writer’s name, classification, major and telephone number. Editors reserve the right to edit submissions for length, grammar, spelling and content.

CONTACT US

OFFICE: 210.436.3401 FAX: 210.431.3407 EMAIL: rattlernews@gmail.com WEBSITE: www.stmurattlernews.com The Rattler St. Mary’s University One Camino Santa Maria Box 83 San Antonio, TX 78228

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for the latest news and updates.

@StMURattlerNews

St. Mary’s University’s official literary magazine, The Pecan Grove Review, will be published during Spring 2011. It will not be published in the late fall as previously stated. Faculty moderator, Diane G. Bertrand, asks that students who are graduating this fall and whose work will be published in the next volume to contact her with an alternative e-mail address at dbertrand@stmarytx.edu. New submissions for Volume XIII will be accepted January 2011.

St. Mary’s ITS department joins national efforts in recognizing October as National Cyber Security Awareness Month.

Virus and malware workshops will be held in the University Center on Oct. 20. Guest speaker Professor Jeffrey Addicott. will present the “Cybersecurity Issues” of Today on Oct. 21 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the Law Library. A light lunch will be served. Shred day will be held on Oct. 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to help students dispose of unneeded electronic documents.

Delta Zeta is to sponsor the Alcoholic Awareness Week from Oct. 17 to Oct. 22. Oct. 20 is “dead day,” where students take a vow of silence for those who have died due to alcohol-related incidents. Oct. 21 is dedicated to putting together and displaying a prayer wall at the University Center. Oct. 22 is a house party will be held at the Outback Field from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. There will be a $2 entry fee for a Water Pong tournament to benefit the program.

POLICE BLOTTER >>

9.28.10

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9.30.10

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Burglary of two vehicles in Lot F. Laptop, iPod, and GPS stolen.

Minor vehicle accident in Lot D. Student pulled out of parking slot when another student’s vehicle hit the side.

10.3.10

Two separate minor in possessions at Chaminade Hall. Large party found. Two students found in possession and evidence of consumption. Referred to judicial affairs.

10.4.10

Fire alarm at Lourdes Hall. Building cleared and searched. Smoke found from microwave. Burned pepperoni pizza bread found in microwave.

10.6.10

Criminal mischief at Chaminade Hall. Vending machine knocked over and damaged.

Editor’s Note: There were two errors in the last issue of The Rattler, Volume 98 Issue 2. Ms. Maria Smith’s last name was misspelled in the photo caption on the front cover. Also, in the police blotter, the incident on service road dated Sept. 13 should have read as the following: Student seen loading handgun magazine with orange tipped bullets (dummy rounds) on way to class. No handgun was found. Referred to Judicial Affairs.

October 20, 2010

News

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TLC Tees helps students develop business experience

By Cesar Montalvo Staff Writer A new student-managed business on campus, TLC Tees, is working to create custom t-shirts for clients on and off campus, all while giving students the opportunity to hold leadership positions in a business environment.

TLC Tees, which was initiated by Rattler Enterprises, launched last February. Rattler Enterprises is a student-managed business created to provide students with a unique learning experience, according to the university’s website.

The organization was proposed by Bill Greehey in 2007, and was successfully established with the help of five students.

Those students are senior marketing major and CEO of Rattler Enterprises Dyana Garcia, former CEO and alumna Stephanie Baumgart, alumna Lindsi Wilson, alumna Laura Hernandez and alumnus Ben Nagle.

Senior accounting major and director of human resources for TLC Tees Amanda Kropp feels that the new business shows much promise.

“It’s a good learning experience for students, and it gives them a first-hand feel for

the business world while in a safety bubble,” said Kropp.

TLC Tees strives to differentiate its products from competitors by offering students the opportunity to create a unique arrangement of detail and color.

“What makes our service unique is that there is no limit to the amount of colors you can have on your shirt, front or back,” said Garcia.

The organization recently received a new printer, a contribution from alumni Tom and Leti Contreras, who inspired the name TLC. The contribution has allowed Rattler Enterprises to offer premium prices on assorted apparel. The business also uses a direct-to-garment method, which allows for sharp and lasting images on apparel.

“I received my shirt last year and it’s still as new as when I bought it,” said senior international relations major Michael Sanchez.

While it has taken over a year to get TLC started, the group is open to expansion and other opportunities.

“It really depends on the students what [Rattler Enterprises] will do next, we’re always brainstorming in here,” said Kropp.

CEO of Rattler Enterprises Dyanna Garcia and employee Bret Peters prints a t-shirt using a direct-to-garment printing method. Photo by Alex Diaz

Dean’s List

4 The Rattler

October 20, 2010

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Editor’s Note: The Dean’s List, annually published in the fall in The Rattler, is based on spring 2010 grades provided by the Registrar’s Office and the Graduate Dean’s Office as of Oct. 8.

To be on the Dean’s List, different criteria apply to the different schools of the university.

To be eligible for the Deans’ List in the Schools of Humanities and Social Sciences; Science, Engineering and Technology; and Bill Greehey School of Business, students must be full-time status (12 earned hours) and earned a grade point average of 3.60 and above. The Dean’s List for these Schools consists of

three categories: Highest Honors, a student must a earn a GPA of 3.90 to 4.00; High Honors, a student must a earn a GPA of 3.80 to 3.89; Honors, a student must a earn a GPA of 3.60 to 3.79.

Graduate students who earn a GPA of 3.9 or higher in the Graduate School, have accumulated eight hours of

graduate study, were enrolled in at least six hours, and did not have an Incomplete (IC) at the time of consideration are selected for the Dean’s List.

Note: Students who made the Dean’s List may request a certificate in the Dean’s office of their respected major.

Bill Greehey School of Business Alkek 203 Humanities & Social Sciences Charles Francis 2 Science, Engineering & Technology Math 201 Graduate School Reinbolt 105

UNDERGRADUATE DEAN’S LIST SPRING 2010 Bill Greehey School of Business Tanuja Singh, Ph.D., Dean HIGHEST HONORS Anosh N. Anthony Stephanie M. Baumgart Grant Glenn Buehrer Vicente T. Cabeiro Adriana J. Cantu Reesa M. Cerdas Andrea Ivonne Chavez Anahi G. Covarrubias Jessica M. Davies Kelly M. Dowd Juan M. Elizondo Dyana Garcia Keith David Hartle Alan Donald Hoover Rachel Jones Kristina K. Lindsey Francine M. Masso Lori Nicole Mayfield Sandra Milena Montoya Lyla M. Moon Eric Narvaez Marquielle Candice Orwat Kimberly A. Pruske Lorena Ramones Sarah E. Roche Luisa Moreira Rodrigues Steven David Sanchez Gabriela Lucia Solorzano Megan Analu Torres Tasha N. Turnblom Rose M. Vazquez-Estrada Sara J. Wilkinson HIGH HONORS Angelica A. Agredano Bianca Calderon Erica Dominguez Mari Alese Edwards Hayden Jonathan Edwards John Andrew Elder Megan Garza Melinda Jeanne Gentry Aaron Miguel Godinez Jessica Sharinna Hernandez Thomas F. Huttenhoff Benjamin J. Itz Michelle Marie Kafie Amanda L. Kropp Sean Patrick Lanagan Shannon I. Lowry Leslie A. Lu Matthew John McCrossen Chastity M. Noble Vivian M. Paz Lorena A. Ransom Brandi N. Rodriguez Lauren M. Romero Angelica M. Saenz Joshua E. Soto Tami N. Tydlacka Jennifer Lynn Wendover HONORS Gladys Abieva Megan R. Alexander Amanda K. Anderson Carolina Arechandieta Adrienne N. Balsamo Eric E. Barrera Geoffrey C. Bennett Danielle N. Borboa Lizeth G. Brown Lidia G. Ceniceros Sofia Yolanda Del Cid Cecilia Elizondo

Marisela Escobedo Carlos Franco Minerva J. Gorjon Christina V. Gove Stephanie A. Hopkins Brittany Morgan Horak Kari L. Hulsey Ashley M. Jimenez David Jake Johnson Melissa R. Lara Samantha Lynn Lara Cristabel Lerma Shane Israel Loza Lauren Taylor Martin Wendy Denisse Martinez Guadalupe Molina Bessie Analya Munoz Paul B. Odom Elizabeth R. Perez Bret R. Peters Jose G. Placencia George A. Posada Rebecca Prada Valerie Ramirez Francisco J. Ramirez-Gaston Stefanie Ransom-Becker Mariana Rodriguez Christopher M. Ruesewald Ryan K. Salts Joseph Dante Santos Matthew H. Sisneros Jeffrey K. Steinbaugh Guillermo Sturgeon Aaron Andre Thomas Truc B. Tran Rebecca Marie Uribe Stacy Valdez Francisco Vazquez Valeria Villanueva Shannon C. Weed Sheelin K. Weed Antonieta Del Valle Yammouni

School of Humanities and Social Sciences Janet B. Dizinno, Ph.D., Dean HIGHEST HONORS Danielle M. Adan Luis J. Barajas Jake A. Becerra Katherine M. Benavides Sarah E. Benavides Kristine Padrique Brown Steven O. Brzezinski Kristen T. Burress Kathleena M. Caballero Rebecca Rose Cantu Stephanie Capella Jessica Nicole Carrillo Quinn Caruthers Christopher M. Childree Janneth F. Clark Alfonso DeLaTorre-Narvarte Christine J. Duchouquette Lianna E. Duran Jennifer D. Endres Valeria Escobedo Kyle B. Farrell Blake Dylan Farthing Andrew D. Fletcher Nicole Marie Flores Emily M. Flowers Nicole Ashley Fontaine Lauren M. Garcia Jessica M. Gentzel

Caitlyn H. Geraci Elvira D. Gonzalez Gabriela Michelle Guajardo Yesenia Guzman Aaron C. Hanna Caroline A. Hartmann Denice C. Hernandez Tyler Christopher Ingraham Jonathon B. James Elisabeth S. Jones Margaret Kaderli Crystal Dawn Keller Christine P. Le Natalia Leon Averie E. Maldonado Oliver M. Manglona Crystal M. Mares Jessica M. Martin Alexandra E. McCoy Shannon A. McGloin Alonzo R. Mendoza Kelly Michelle Montgomery Megan Rae Myers Tanairi Yamileth Ochoa Nancy F. Ortega Syrita Rachell Owens Ashleigh R. Pepper Stacey L. Pierce Stefanie Nicole Ramirez Robert Chase Regan Hannah B. Rendon Daisy Reyes Keily S. Rivero Christina Rodriguez Ashley Renee Roessler Michelle Y. Romero Danielle Irene Saavedra Marcos A. Sanchez Mark A. Sanchez Angela M. Santana Kristin R. Sepulveda Sean M. Stilson David A. Strycula Sarah E. Theisen Regis J. Velasco Lauren Vidaurri Lynzee L. Villafranca Stephanie Marie Villarreal Katrina M. White Alexia Ann Wilson Monica M. Wolo Cristal M. Ximenez HIGH HONORS Azhmir Acosta Ariel A. Aguilar Cyndy J. Alvarez Benjamin Arceo Fernando Armendariz Alison Michelle Ayala Kelly N. Baker Mariela Cadena Stephanie J. Carnero Gabrielle Casas Philip M. Couture Julie Anne Crusa Krista Lauren De La Rosa Caleb Diaz Christina Dominguez Cyra Alexandra Dumitru Yaritza Flores Megan Amber Foster Jessica A. Gonzales Janet Gonzalez Mario E. Gonzalez Rachel Marie Gutierrez Heather Nicole Haas James F. Hopkins Cassandra Huerta

Jessica R. James Kristin M. Johnson Sean S. Jones Henry Juvera Monica M. Lackups Stephanie Martinez Andrew Medina Richard Montez Victoria E. Moon Amber-Rae D. Nino Annia F. Olivares Juan A. Paz Corrie L. Pittman Mario A. Ramirez Natasha D. Ramirez Selena Rangel Taylor L. Rausch Samuel David Regonini Jacqueline N. Reid Cecilia Ann Rivera Rowena G. Rodriguez Stephanie Ruiz-Alba Anthony A. San Miguel Tina M. Sanchez Emily J. Scruggs Jared Ross Selman Cristina V. Serrano Patricia A. Sipes Kiersten M. Swanier Jeremy M. Tamez Belinda A. Veliz Micah L. Walker Whitley B. Zachary HONORS Amber Monique Anderson Ashley Jervonne Arnold Bobby A. Baiza Kristina Josephine Barcinas Serena V. Barrera Karla Bayona Linzui K. Berumen Maria Paula Borrero Philip J. Briseno Emily Anne Bryant-Mundschau Rachel R. Calderon Nicholas Ryan Canedo Adam M. Casiano Omar Castorena Jose L. Celestino Mireya A. Chavez Brett M. Collier Lauren K. Cornelius Marisol DeLaCruz Charles T. Devine Alejandra Diaz Cindy M. Dominguez Joshua A. Dunn Mariel N. Elizondo Melinda I. Enriquez Sarah Ann Escamilla Wendy M. Espinoza Larissa Cecilia Flores Martin Flores Colby B. Foster D’Neshia D. Frederick Jesus Garcia Ruby Garcia Erica N. Gonzalez Lilliana Elizabeth Gonzalez Linda I. Gonzalez Catherine M. Griego Analisia Gutierrez Lateesha Bynum Guyden Amanda M. Guzman Amanda N. Hapney Devin H. Heavey Diana H. Helm Priscilla Theresa Hernandez

Carter M. Hollinger Michael Chase Holloway Sylvia Holmes Jennifer E. Jones Madeline Jennie Justin Therese Perez Kenner Katelyn S. Kershner Erica A. Leal Esther Marie Leal Sarah D. Linares Kyleigh D. Lindberg Ivor D. Loebbecke Andrew J. Lopez Rebecca D. Lopez Veronica Lopez James H. Lowe Christine M. Malloy Michael Edward Masters Sean T. McKee Christopher A. Medina Emily S. Medrano Amanda Leigh Mendez Amanda R. Mendiola Selena M. Mendoza Adam M. Meyer Anita E. Montoya Brenda Montoya Matthew H. Morales Melanie E. Moreno Kayle D. Morris Monica G. Navarro Maegen Victoria Neusch Laura J. O’Bar Melissa Yvonne Olmos Sarai S. Ortega Erik Berto Oviedo Mahana A. Paige Carrie Paniagua Clarissa Pena Joseph-Terry S. Rainey Estevan Antonio Ramirez Brissa Jaqueline Renteria Gabriela J. Rivera Stephanie J. Rocha Christian Romo Elizabeth Michelle Rubi Georgina Salcido Anisley Sanchez Mallorie A. Sarro Lena M. Scalercio Lance Schneider Yvonne D. Sendejo Bernadette Adrienne Sepulveda Livia R. Spilotro Mary Ann Staes Tara P. Stone Amy Marie Swan Anne Marie Swenson Roger Tamez Patricia Terrazas Bikalpa Raj Timilsina Roger Trejo Daniela Trevino Claudia L. Valladolid Italia C. Vancini Manuel Vasquez Sarah G. Villarreal Roni Leigh Vowels Trinae M. Weldy Francesanne Willis Laura E. Zelaya

School of Science, Engineering, and Technology Winston Erevelles, Ph.D., Dean HIGHEST HONORS Alvaro Aguilar James Aaron Almaguer Miguel A. Arroyo Dimitrios Nestor Barrera Puja J. Bhakta Tiffany A. Brown William Zachary Bugos David C. Cadena Alejandra Cantu Matthew T. Castro Amanda M. Chavez Janet Chen Amber Rose Clapper Sandra M. Crusa Analicia G. De Los Santos Courtney M. Deane April M. Delgado Joseph D. Diaz Audiel A. Espitia Sharlene N. Flesher Megan S. Foster Hillary Lee Garza Alyssa R. Gonzalez Daniel P. Gonzalez Deborah Jennifer Gonzalez Zachary John Harrell Samantha Loren Hinojosa Matthew D. Hnatow Catherine A. Hoffmann Tiffany R. Jansky Se Hee Kim Tiffany P. Le Wendy Lin Mellyruth Maldonado Julian Anthony Martinez Kristyn M. Mathewson Elishiah J. Miller Vi D. Nguyen Kelly M. Niemiec Hae Mi Noh Amar S. Patel Anastasia M. Pemberton Nadia E. Perez Anna M. Plote, Cristhian E. Ramirez Peter M. Romero Sandra Viviana Rosas Karina Rubio Sandra M. Ryan Luis E. Sanchez Lauren A. Scalercio Vanessa W. Sholles Everardo C. Silva Steven N. Solis Albert A. Studer Sierra Renee Tamez Camila Tulyaganova Michelle Renae Van Hecke Melissa Margarita Vasquez Sarah T. Vega Shannon Warren Warrin A. Witten HIGH HONORS Christina A. Adame Jordan N. Aluyen Kathleen Marie Benavides Gilbert T. Bustamante Paul G. Chamberlain Erik Louis Dimmett Marisa Doria

Nathan L. Echon Luis S. Esquivel Thaddeus C. Fuller David W. Gaither Cesar A. Garcia Rebecca L. Garcia Monique Michelle Mendoza Gabriel A. Noguera Katherine T. Padget Irene Pedraza Adriana Saenz John P. Salcido Samantha L. Saldana Flora E. Sarmiento Christopher B. Sierra Cassandra A. Stefanovic Arthur R. Wagner HONORS Erik Thomas Albach Stephanie Y. Annor Jessica A. Aranda Audrey Marie Avila Gilbert I. Barraza Travis Barton Deven R. Bhakta Michael C. Bingham Robert W. Boyd William R. Buckley Norchel Maye F. Camacho Emily L. Cancellare Nicole E. Cavazos Alix Sebastian Cave Carla M. Chapa Nathan T. Churchwell Loretta Marjory Clapper Kelly Louise Cooper Elizabeth Cortez Yessenia M. Cortez Amy L. Crissman Stephanie A. DeMoor Lisa M. Duran Jasper J. Fermin Christopher E. Flores Katherine E. Green Justin L. Haloot Lorena Sofia Hepburn Zachary R. Hernandez David G. Horvath Tatiana Lin Huerta Joseph Robert Jennings Julie C. Kells Inez C. Leal Tanya Lerma Christopher John Locascio Karla Lopez Chrystal Loya Violet Marie Maldonado Andrew Menezes Nestor Felipe Moreno Barbara Neusch Pearl L. Olvera Carlton Edward, O’Neal Damiana D. Pena Mark Anthony Perez Mario C. Reyes Adriana L. Riojas Rebecca Rodriguez Guy Rutten Francisco A. Santos Jorge Luis Sosa Alexandria Tami Hector A. Trevino Vitas VanDijk Carmela Andrea Paleracio Ver Marcos F. Villarreal Jordan M. Walter Jeffrey C. Wigdahl Anastasia Zavala

GRADUATE DEAN’S LIST SPRING 2010 Graduate School Henry Flores, Ph.D., Dean Cristina V. Aguilar Soha A. Alhelaly Shuroog Alsaleh Theyab S. Alshammari Ali A. Alsubaya Monica L. Alvarez Martinez Martha B. Andrade Pequeno Robert M. Andrde Mary Elizabeth D. Arena Jaeggli Martha I. Arjona Almaguer Richard S. Arndt Emad A. Ashour Joseph G. Atilano Meredith D. Baca Danko Barisic Monika H. Behrens Susan A. Bolint Vincent Borden Sara L. Breese Stephen P. Bres Steven A. Brooks Margaret L. Buckley Jason S. Buell Jeffrey Cabral Walter J. Calderon Ramirez

Chad J. Callender Elvira T. Camargo Christopher X. Cantu Juan C. Carrillo James E. Carter Angel A. Cepeda Alfonso Cervantes Maria J. Cesar Gomez Michael Chan Andres Chavez Raleigh B. Chen Ted G. Cheney Gabrielle Childs Marissa N. Cisneros Richelle L. Clark Kristen Crane Nicholas B. Creel Joshua DavilaBryan Davis Mari Ana Davis Maria M. De La Garza Gonzalez Rosa M. De la Pena Almaguer Steven E. Deater Angelique L. Deffenbaugh Sara A. Degenhardt Jessica G. Deitch Ernest J. DeLeon Veronica DeLeon

Gordon J. Denning Michael Dobratz Sebastian Echegaray Georgina Elizondo Guajardo David J. Elizondo Sabrina M. Emm Leticia G. Espinoza Joshua J. Evans Jared Faison Maria A. Figueroa Gomez Jonny Flores Naomi Flores Claudia Fraire de Cruz Tiffany D. Frias Jessica B. Fuller Jose G. Garcia Reyes Mayra N. Garcia Matthew R. Gardner Ana L. Garza Garcia Guadalupe D. Garza Jaime S. Garza Helene C. Gomez Alvarez Jose M. Gomez Arturo Gonzalez Moreno Tanya M. Goodman Ruth E. Grant Hector Gualardo Cardenas Berta Gubi

Maria de Lourde Guerrero Gutierrez Sheena E. Gufford Lisa J. Hale Jessica M. Harbin Kimberley D. Hardin Mary M. Hart Megan N. Haynes Steven Hayward David S. Head Jeannette Hernandez Linette M. Hernandez Delicia M. Herrera Heidi Hood Alejandro Izaguirre Estrada Stephen A. Jamrozy Simran Jawanda Shelly L. Jennings Aaron L. Jones Gregory M. Jones Ivy M. Jones David C. Kaiser Arnold F. Kaluza Elizabeth A. Keith James A. Kennedy Roberto Jose Lazo Rizo Elissa C. LeFort Rebecca Levine Javier de Jesus Ley Tablada

Joshua K. Linden Brenda E. Lopez Carlos D. Lopez Anthony J. Luhrman Margarita L. Macias Yolanda Maltos Sandoval Amber G. Martin Jennifer J. Martin Vilma J. Martinez de Gonzalez Fernando Martinez Solis Christie A. Martinez James M. Massey Carlisle E. Maxwell Katelyn McCarthy Joseph M. McClure William Mcglothlin Matthew M. Melone Desiree N. Mendoza Amber R. Messa Ian N. Meyers Joshua Miner Nicole L. Monsibais Cruz Munoz Guevara Samuel Y. O Njideka I. Okafor Annette S. Olivarez Maria F. Otero Castilblanco Martha O. Oviedo Villareal Sarah B. Pacheco

Jennifer S. Paquette Krystal A. Parham Desirae M. Parker Immanuel A. Perez-Garza Mallory A. Philman Patrick C. Piper Patricia M. Plaza Diaz Beatriz E. Prieto Garza Quentella Quichocho Sonia Quiroz Leal Arzoo I. Rajani Patrick J. Raring Maria E. Rea Barajas Rosaura M. Redon Overa Gilberto Reyes Garza Min S. Reynolds John J. Roache Kimberly Robinson Erika D. Romero Perez Roman Rozhavsky Shelby D. Ruff Maricela Salinas Leal Carlos O. Salinas Azalia D. Salmeron Aviles Jonathan W. Schneider Gianfranco Semino Kumar Sirangi Paige W. Smith Stephanie J. Smith

Pavan K. Srirangam Lisa Kathryn G. St. John Christopher L. Stevenson Rebecca S. Stroud Jesus E. Suarez Ramos Tina A. SuidaJustin D. Sultzbach Christy E. Tappe Michael C. Thompson Lanitra K. Toney Regina M. Tovar Elizabeth A. Turner Kimberly A. Vela Amy Velasquez Anissa R. Velez Rebecca S. Venters Ama L. Verastqui Gonzalez Elda M. Vidaurri Leal Mariana A. Villegas Rodriguez de Maraz Andrew D. White Vicki L. Williams Edward C. Ybarra Mary Lou L. Yruegas Hector D. Zapata Maricela Zevada Castaneda Tanveer Ziaur Rehman

Š2010 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. All rights reserved.

6 The Rattler

Commentary

October 20, 2010

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U.S. not ranked in Newsweek’s top 10 countries Recently, Newsweek ranked the U.S. No. 11 on a list of the 100 best countries in the world. This list — based on health, education, economy and politics — has left many U.S. citizens Chris Filoteo wondering, “How could this happen?” There are multiple explanations to the ranking.

It appears we are no longer the superior country we once were, or at least no longer good enough to make the top 10 countries.

The fact is that the U.S. is dealing with a decade long war in the Middle East, high unemployment rates, environmental issues and countless other dilemmas.

And then there are the gripes about our president. There are many people who have criticized President Barack Obama for being responsible for this drop in rank, yet the blame directed to our executive office can endlessly be argued. However, it is clear to me that we live in a generation that is not particularly conducive to producing many true leaders.

I feel we live in a country where many people have a sense of entitlement about certain things, such as a well-paying job or the best that technology has to offer. I like to call it generation “me.” Times were not always as simple as they are now, in regard to multiple aspects of life. As a result, the current generation has had much laid out for them by those before them. Past generations never had the opportunity to research online or even to simply update a Facebook status. Technology such as cell phones, laptops and video games constantly provide distractions that detract from basic learning and are changing the lifestyles of today’s youth.

Are America’s best generations long gone?

Or can students today re-pave the way and lead this country back to being one of the best in the world? It is important to find people that want to take responsibility for their actions rather than blame others. Unfortunately, our culture has bred many people who do not do this, but rather push problems onto others.

This can be seen in how CEOs steal money from their company or how top executives are quick to point fingers.

It seems this country has a hard time sacrificing time for talent. I believe that is the major contributing issue. Everyone may want something without having to sacrifice his or her time or effort.

We need to once again search for a common identity that will bring us together, whatever that may be. More specifically, we should seek the spirit of the 1940s where unity was not an ideal, but a reality. Currently, in a generation where individualism is stressed, I cannot possibly see this country coming together at the same level that it did over 70 years ago.

While the ranking from Newsweek focuses on issues domestically, it is important that we see the bigger picture. Vast groups of people around the world want to come to the U.S. for a better life, but they should think twice considering that we are, statistically, not “the best of the best.”

Cartoon by Oscar Maguregui

Snyder v. Phelps: Legal debate The Supreme Court should rule in favor of Snyder to preserve the right to privacy.

The case Snyder v.

P h e l p s , brought recently to the United S t a t e s Supreme Briana Perez Court, is an issue that places freedom of speech rights head on against the right to privacy and protection against harassment. In a case brought forth by Albert Snyder against the Westboro Baptist Church, the rights granted by the U.S. Constitution are raising heated debate and emotion.

In 2006, Snyder’s son, Lance Cpl. Matthew Snyder, died in Iraq during a Humvee accident. At his funeral in Maryland, members of Fred Phelps’ church staged a protest outside of the soldier’s funeral. They carried signs with slogans like “Thank God for Dead Soldiers,” and “God Hates Your Tears.”

They believe the reason for deaths in the U.S. war against Afghanistan and Iraq is because God is punishing the U.S. for its “deterioration of society,” including our increasing acceptance of abortion and homosexuality.

Snyder is attempting to reinstate a $5 million suit against the church for harassment while interrupting and intruding on the soldier’s funeral. Because the protesters had obtained permission from the local police force and were only holding signs, the First Amendment technically protects their right to freedom of speech.

The case will be decided

The Supreme Court should rule in favor of Phelps to preserve the freedom of speech.

W h a t on a technicality. Although Fred Phelps basic morality dictates believes is that the protest should be offensive and refrained, the hands of the irrational.

Supreme Court justices are But giving tied. According to a Yahoo this man and News Report, several Justices, his words including Chief Justice John Alex Meyer a public Roberts, Justice Samuel Alito, forum in the and Justice Antonin Scalia court of law were helplessly trying to find is rational. a way to rule in Snyder’s Phelps is the pastor of favor. While the protesters the over-publicized Westboro have the right to express their Baptist Church. The Kansas feelings, the issue of privacy congregation has become and the family’s last moments known for its extreme burying their son are at stake. ideology, most notably the While I believe in the right belief that military deaths to freedom of speech, there in Afghanistan and Iraq are must be limits to how God’s punishment as a result we impose our words of the United States’ on others. general acceptance If the Supreme of homosexuality in Court were to rule in Snyder’s favor, the POINT this country.

The church and ways people stage COUNTERprotests will change. POINT its congregation have staged protests at This could be locations such as college beneficial because campuses and Lady incidents like Gaga concerts. And sadly, the Maryland protest would the funerals of those killed in legally never occur again. The combat have also been points preservation of basic human of interest for the protesters. rights should sway the Court.

The families of those fallen And while Phelps’ church soldiers have reacted with and followers may win in both apathy and outrage. The court, it does not justify their family of Marine Lance Cpl. actions. Protesters have the Matthew Snyder, who was right to express themselves in killed in Iraq in March of 2006, our country, but the intrusion has brought a lawsuit against on a private family matter, Phelps for invasion of privacy especially a funeral, should and intentional emotional not be tolerated. distress after the church No matter the decision picketed outside of Snyder’s made by the Supreme Court, funeral. At first, it seemed a human life was lost, and that the Snyders were going to protesting in such a hateful be successful with their case, manner upset the last but Westboro appealed the moments of Snyder’s family ruling. Now the case is being and friends which should reviewed by the highest court, have been spent mourning his the Supreme Court, and once loss in peace.

again our nation is embroiled in a debate about the extent of freedom of speech.

The Snyder’s outrage is justified.

Phelps choosing to use private and somber venues to promote his asinine ideologies is indefensible.

But unfortunately, or more correctly, Phelps has every right to do so.

The church’s demonstrations are protected by the First Amendment — no matter how wrong they may be. Because what Phelps is saying is not libelous, it is completely within the realms of free speech. No matter how unpopular, wrong, or opinionated Phelps’ preaching may be, he has every right to preach his beliefs. Popular public opinion and common sense (and decency) do not dictate the foundations of the U.S. Constitution or how those foundations should be interpreted.

During the oral arguments for the case, all nine Supreme Court justices expressed deep sympathy for the Snyder family.

But sympathetic feelings will not dictate their decision, and the court will most likely rule that the verdict in the original case violated the First Amendment. In other words, they are likely to rule in favor of the Phelps clan.

Although allowing Phelps to spew his nonsense is difficult, it is the constitutional thing to do. His beliefs may lead to conflict, but the preservation of freedom of speech is paramount.

Ultimately, to keep the United States reasonable, we must permit every individual a voice.

October 20, 2010

Commentary

The Rattler 7

www.stmurattlernews.com

Bullying affects suicide rates and should be punished at an early age

STAFF EDITORIAL

Cartoon by Oscar Maguregui

An adaptive Constitution might prove to be risky With the U.S. Supreme Court in session, the opportunity to discuss the U.S. Constitution is ripe. The concept of the Constitution as a “living” document is appealing.

It represents the Constitution as a document that is adaptive to the legal needs of society. Justice Stephen Breyer, a prominent judicial activist on the Court, believes that a judge’s focus should be centered on a case’s purpose and consequence to promote adaptability.

However, should the Constitution be considered a “living” document?

The late Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes’ hubris states that the Constitution is “what the judges say it is.” There are instances where justices on the Court do not have precedence to help form a decision on a case, but if what Hughes said is true, there are implications.

If judges decide what the Constitution is, then the judges can potentially revert our supreme law of the land. So what we believe to be fundamental truths written in the Constitution can be subject to change. Examining a case’s purpose and consequence, while admirable in

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Professor states writer’s argument supporting burqa ban is faulty “Fail to see.” What does that really mean?

If “fail to see” means that A does not see what B does, then any time B does not agree with A, it must be a failure of seeing.

I, for example, “failed” to see the correctness of the writer’s argument in The Rattler’s Sept.

29 article, “Burqa ban in France exemplifies improvements in modern society.”

thought, inevitably opens the door for justices to make a decision appealing to their pathos, something which is to be avoided.

The measure on the effectiveness of a judge should be based on their ability to rule or interpret a case disregarding their personal conviction. If this is not the case, then ideas are fallible. This is a necessary consequence of the “living” document.

The fallibility of ideas indicates the need for legislation, so that newer ideas continue to develop.

Justice Antonin Scalia believes that justices are prone to legislating from the bench, meaning that they can go beyond their role as judge and interpreter to become a lawmaker.

This breach of checks and balances is an outcome he fears.

The Constitution guarantees that “we the people” have input to a justice system. The preamble of the Constitution begs the question, do we the people really have a voice?

If a “living” constitution in practice really represents “they the judges” as opposed to “we the people,” then a “dead” Constitution has never sounded more appealing.

According to the writer, human rights organizations that do not agree with the French banning of the burqa simply “fail to see” what he does. It could not be, apparently, that they do see the arguments he puts forth, but do not agree with them. No, the only possibility is that it’s a failure on their part.

The writer’s argument number one states that burqas should be outlawed because criminals can hide behind them. This might explain why in Moslem countries the crime rate is out of sight, and that all this crime is committed by

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals have been getting national attention because of Marissa Rodriguez an astonishing number of recent suicides.

At least six suicides have occurred in recent weeks.

One victim who has made headlines is Tyler Clementi, a student at Rutgers University in New Jersey. Clementi took the drastic measure of jumping off the Gateway Bridge because his roommate streamed a video of him online engaging in a sexual act with a man.

Dharun Ravi, the roommate, may be potentially charged for invasion of privacy. A Facebook page was created in memory of Clementi for people to share their condolences.

Whether or not one accepts homosexuality, bullying should never be condoned. Gay and lesbian youth are two to three times more likely to commit suicide than other youth, according to the Report of the Secretary’s Task Force on Youth Suicide. This is reason enough to affirm that we must do something about it.

We need to realize that homophobic bullying cannot be overlooked. I believe that the only method to halt bullying is through enforcement. If

enforcement on condemning this type of behavior begins at a young age, only then can we hope for widespread change.

I am horrified that people not only have to struggle with others not accepting their sexuality, but they also have to worry about being bullied by people who do not support their lifestyle. This behavior is unacceptable.

If you are a member of the LGBT community, you are not alone. The following hotlines are available: 1-800-SUICIDE, 1-800-273-TALK, and 1-800850-8078. On campus, Unity and Support, a student organization that welcomes students of all genders and sexual orientations, is also available.

On-campus book rental program could help many students save money Students do not like to think about the cost of purchasing t h e i r textbooks.

But, it is not Steven Garcia something that can be avoided.

One method students use to save money is by choosing instructors who use few or no textbooks. Another method is renting books from various online websites.

While some universities now offer book rental options, St. Mary’s currently does not have a book rental program. If the university were to establish

veiled women.

Too, it might explain why the veil that was so popular in the United States in the first half of the 20th century no longer is: Women must have gotten tired of being criminals.

Argument number two states that the burqa exists simply for men to control women. Has the writer examined the history of the burqa to learn why it was established in the first place? Has he checked any polls of Muslim women to find out how they feel about it?

In short, the writer is of the

a book rental system, it would be more convenient and costeffective for students.

One gripe about buying textbooks is that students may have to pay money outof-pocket because the $650 bookstore account may not cover the full cost of needed textbooks. Professors may require more than one textbook, which can cause students to spend more than $150 for one particular class.

If this is the case, an average student taking four to five classes a semester will reach their bookstore account limit quickly. Also, when students try to sell the textbooks back to the bookstore through the buyback program, they usually

opinion that his opinion — so long as it’s supported by any argumentation whatsoever — must be right, so that anyone who disagrees simply “fails to see” his truth.

The sign of a mature thinker is to give full credence to the arguments on the other side, and only then to attempt to counter them. Does it seem reasonable that the argument of those who oppose the French measure is nothing more than that it “hinder[s] religious practices”? Are all those groups so unsophisticated that an

only receive 5 to 10 percent of their money back for each book.

Selling back books for extra cash falls short considering the cost to buy them.

Some might oppose a book rental program on campus because students would have to sign a contract when renting books. However, students should ultimately be aware of their decision when signing any contract by knowing the consequences a contract may present.

If students feel they can handle the responsibility, they should request a book rental system on campus. This would ensure issues would be handled within the university, a benefit students should consider.

undergraduate understands better than they how to argue the case?

The point here is not that banning of the burqa is either right or wrong, but rather that such questions are mightily difficult to settle fairly for all concerned. I would hope for better reasoning from Rattler staff writers and from all St. Mary’s students.

Richard Pressman, Ph.D. Professor of English and Communication Studies

Y I D

cOSt

Costumes to be used for one night out of the entire year can be expensive; build your that you can easily create. Save yourself a couple of a

Playful

Fortune teller

Materials needed: scarves, hoop earrings, bangles, long skirt, off-shoulder blouse, and tarot cards (construction paper).

The key to making this cotume work is layering.

Nerd Graphic / Illustration by Jasmine Garcia Compiled by Denice Hernandez Photos by Sarah Mills and Felix Arroyo Models: Emily Artalejo and Leo Reyes

Materials needed: large framed glasses, button down shirt, tie, shorts and crew socks.

Don’t forget to tape up your specs for that extra nerd attitude.

Psycho Lumberjack Materials needed: plaid flannel shirt, cargo pants, vest, axe (cardboard) Axe cutouts are available online.

Fake blood is recommended.

tuMES

costume this year with our help using items that can be found in your room or a bucks and let the scares (and laughs) begin.

scary

crazy housewife

Materials needed: robe, hair curlers, pearl necklace and kitchen item.

Carry around a threatening kitchen item, smear your makeup and keep up that pouty face.

zombie Student

Materials needed: black clothes, a book, white cream makeup, black cream makeup or black eyeshadow.

Shoes are optional!

Dead Diva

Materials needed: black dress, white cream makeup and red makeup.

Pull off this deathly look by wearing any drab colored dress. pale skin and gory stitches!

Features

10 The Rattler

October 20, 2010

www.stmurattlernews.com

TREKKING THROUGH

seeing

terror

DOUBLE

A review of three of the city's haunted houses.

Freshman criminal justice major Kurt Lentz

Actor Bradley Cooper Source: blogspot.com

By Amanda Cano Features Editor While some may be easily frightened by the mysterious eerie feeling in the air as Halloween approaches, not everyone’s fear is triggered by the same thing.

To tend to all of the various fears that people may have, Nightmare on Grayson, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure and the 13th Floor each have their own unique scare tactics waiting to leave guests cringing until next Halloween.

Nightmare on Grayson Nightmare on Grayson, which is entering its 22nd year of serving the city with screams and shouts, is the city’s longest-running haunted house. Recently, the house added 3-D technology to some of its tour, which has never before been used at a haunted house in San Antonio.

Guests are given 3-D glasses before being led through neonpainted rooms, creating a fun house effect. However, do not be fooled; there are hidden frights within the paintings all around the rooms.

“There are a lot of kids out there that think they are tough when they are at a young age,” said Gordon Wise, director of operations. “I find nothing more enjoyable than looking for a way to scare these kids when they come through. To me, it is a tickle watching them scream like babies.”

Grayson actor Michael Kitchen, who has played the role of Freddy Kreuger for 13 years, said he gets into a “mean and morbid” state of mind once the mask comes on.

“It’s when people are on the floor or screaming hysterically that I back off. If they look like they are having fun, I will keep it up,” said Kitchen.

Ripley’s Haunted Adventure Ripley’s Haunted Adventure has transformed its regular fright show into a Phobia mania this Halloween season. On certain nights in October, guests will be taken through an additional journey featuring different phobias people may have.

To find the most popular phobias, Ripley employees

were surveyed on what scares them the most.

“Some people put ridiculous things that I would have never thought would be scary, but we tried some of the phobias and they are actually really scary,” said Operations Manager Alex Amaro. “There are fears of insects, clowns, heights, animals, the dead and coffins. Some people are even afraid of going to the doctor or dentist.”

One of the most intriguing things about the phobia adventure is that the scenes are designed to distract guests so they are caught off-guard. The phobia adventure features detailed scenes with special effects that make everything feel more realistic. For example, certain rooms are kept at a colder temperature, while other areas are scented to match a scene.

13th Floor Haunted House This Halloween season is the premiere of San Antonio’s 13th Floor Haunted House. This haunted house features two attractions under one roof.

Guests go through an indoor waiting process, which sets the ominous mood with actors in full character and costume present in the darkened room. Guests then eventually take an elevator up to the "13th floor," where the real cringing begins.

Chris Stafford, co-owner of 13th Floor said he strives to present guests with unusual sights.

“Teens have become so desensitized to the ordinary gruesome things thanks to video games and 3-D movie effects,” Stafford said. “You have to step it up in order to create a great scare.”

The 13th Floor surprises guests with sporadic blackouts to leave guests questioning what they see.

Once a group reaches the 13th floor, it is taken through a journey of different antique hotel-themed rooms. Each room features various frightening elements. One room, the “antigravity room,” makes guests feel like they are falling, and there are more spooky surprises.

Photos by Leo Reyes

Sophomore mathematics major Heather Haas

Athlete Jennie Finch Source: 24hourcampire.com

Nightmare on Grayson

Sophomore business entrepreneur studies major Matthew

Actor Taylor Lautner Source: parade.com

Hours: 7:30 p.m. to Midnight on Fridays and Saturdays 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Weekdays except Mon. Location: 201 East Grayson

13th Floor Haunted House

Admission $16 (210) 979-5522 www.nightmareongrayson.com

Location: 1203 East Commerce

Hours: 7:00 p.m. to Midnight on Fridays to Sundays 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on Weekdays

Admission $20 (210) 338-0382 www.13thfloorsanantonio. com

Ripley's Haunted Adventure presents Phobia Hours: 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Oct. 24-27 7:00 p.m. to Midnight on Oct. 22, 23, 28-31 Location: 301 Alamo Plaza Admission $18.99 (210) 226-2828 www.phillips.ripleys. com

October 20, 2010

Features

The Rattler 11

www.stmurattlernews.com

Catholic Daughters aims to spread faith to community

By Emily Artelejo Staff Writer Compassionate, dedicated, charitable and faithful are only a few words that the members of the university chapter of Catholic Daughters of America uses to describe the group. The organization, known as CDA, is sponsored by Irene Quesnot, the minister for faith formation and faith enrichment at University Ministry, aims to promote justice, equality and the advancement of human rights and human dignity for all.

“CDA members strive to exemplify the qualities of compassion, hospitality, faith and a commitment to service on our campus and in our community,” said Francesca Garcia, a senior English literature major and CDA regent.

The basis of CDA is philanthropy. CDA has participated in Habitat for Humanity, Graffiti Wipeout and has organized toy drives for the Child Safe, a local children’s shelter. Garcia is proud of all of the organization’s accomplishments, but considers their work with the Marianists the most rewarding. Whether it was bringing cheer to the Marianists by caroling for the residence or baking with the Marianist sisters in preparation for a bake sale, CDA has always been enthusiastic to lend a hand.

CDA’s community service project

members will reach out to St. John’s school assisting the St. John Bosco Sicilian Sisters this month by providing lessons about Mary and the Marianist faith.

Although the foundation of the Catholic Daughters of America is to give service to others. CDA members also reap the benefits of a unique, close, comfortable and supportive environment where they can express their faith.

“Being a part of a sisterhood of faith has created more opportunities for profound prayer and reflection than if I had not become a member of CDA,” said sophomore mathematics major Yesenia Guzman.

The focus of the latest retreat, cosponsored by the Catholic Student Group, was “Mary: The Greatest Disciple.” It focused on spiritual and faith enrichment through the example of Mary. Those who attended the retreat described it as “fruitful” and “indescribable.”

The Catholic Daughters of America can be contacted in the University Ministry building.

“We are always open to new members to enrich our faith community,” said Garcia.

The Catholic Daughters of America, CDA, will be sponsoring more campus events, such as a 9 p.m. mass on Oct. 24th.

They will also be hosting a game booth at Boo Bash on Oct. 26th to raise funds for their chapter.

Junior Stephanie Capella, Sophomore Mariela Cadena and Senior Francesca Garcia take a break at the CDA/CSG Retreat. Photo Courtesy of Mariela Cadena

Entertainment

12 October 20, 2010

The Rattler

www.stmurattlernews.com

LAMEST

TOP 10

Coming Soon ALBUMS Jason Aldean “My Kinda Party” 11/2

Good Charlotte “Cardiology ” 11/2

Natasha Bedingfield “Strip Me”

Rihanna “Loud” 11/16

scary movies

Laugh away your fears this Halloween with these pathetic films.

By Caitlin Skelton

11/9

Bruce Springsteen “The Promise” 11/16

Rascal Flatts “Nothing Like This” 11/16

Sources: imwan.com, ning.com, blogspot.com, photobucket.com, openrecordings.com, thefrontloader.com

SHOWS “Cirque Dreams Illumination” at The Majestic 10/26

Source: cirq.broadwayworld.com “Vince Vaughn and Kevin James Comedy Road Show” at The Majestic 11/15

Source: majesticempire.com

“Love, Sex, and the I.R.S” at Cameo Theater 11/6-11/28

Source: catnictheatre.com

MOVIES

“Saw 3D” 10/29

“Fair Game” 11/5

Sources: rottentomatoes.com

“Due Date” 11/5

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I” 11/19

Staff Writer From the escaped mental patient to the doomed sorority house, we thought we had seen it all. Then along came killer mall robots, outerspace clowns and a demonic cookie to provide us with yet another reminder of the lack of true horror in today’s scary movies.

1. “Haunted Airman” (2006) “The Haunted Airman,” featuring Robert Pattinson starring as Toby Jugg, is the most pointless, plotless, horrible excuse for any kind of movie I’ve ever seen. In the movie, Toby is a Royal Air Force pilot who is injured in flight and is confined to a wheelchair. He is sent to a creepy hospital, which is more like an insane asylum, and slowly loses his mind.

2. “The Gingerdead Man” (2005) Two words: Gary Busey. This is the man who plays a serial killer, and receives a death sentence on an electric chair in prison. After his death, the killer’s ashes get mixed into gingerbread dough and baked as a gingerbread man. The cookie then magically “comes to life” with the soul of the serial killer. Gingerdead Man then starts killing people in search of the woman who was responsible for his capital punishment sentence.

Yes, this is a real movie, and it is horrible.

3. “Santa’s Slay” (2005) “Santa’s Slay,” is not only a horrible pun, but it is every child’s cheesy nightmare. Apparently, in this movie, Santa is actually a demon who lost a bet with an angel, which is why he has to be the giver of gifts and toys.

But when the bet is over, “Santa” resumes his old role, killing everyone in sight. The tagline? “He’s making a list... pray you’re not on it.” Need I say more?

4. “Chopping Mall” (1986) Eight teenagers go out for a day of shopping. Sounds harmless right? They’re just having fun, minding their own business when suddenly the futuristic mall closes and they are trapped inside. There just so happens to also be malfunctioning killer mall robots that hunt them down and kill them.

5. “The Dentist” (1996) This movie features a dentist who has a beautiful wife and a loving family

— everything he could want in life. But when he finds out his wife has been having an affair, he goes a little nuts and starts killing people with his dental tools. Scary? Yeah, for people who are already afraid of going to the dentist.

6. “Killer Klowns from Outer Space” (1988) Aliens who look like “klowns” land on Earth and terrorize people by shooting them with cotton candy that turns them into Jello. That’s pretty much it. As if that isn’t lame enough, the Killer Klowns arrive to earth via a circus-tent shaped ship. You be the judge.

7. “House of Wax” (2005) Now, whose bright idea was it to let Paris Hilton act? The plotline is pretty much irrevelant because of how horribly boring this movie is. Something about wax people killing you? I don’t know, but it makes the 1953 version of this movie look like a gem. Leave Paris to the drinking and the partying, not the big screen.

8. The “Saw” series Yes, I mean ALL of them. The original “Saw” was predictable; the only upside was the blood and guts. Don’t even bother with the rest of the series because it’s the same thing over and over: “Oh help, I’m trapped by a crazy man who’s trying to teach me a lesson because I suck as a human being. Oh wait, now I’m dead.” It needs to stop before it gets as bad as the “Halloween” series.

9. “Black Christmas” (2006) This is a remake of a 1977 movie about an escaped killer (very original) who goes back to the home in which he grew up in and killed his family, only to find that it is now a sorority house. He then proceeds to murder all of them. Wow, that’s a surprise. This all happens on Christmas Eve. Incidentally, the movie released on Christmas Day, probably to make it more realistic. It didn’t work.

10. “When a Stranger Calls” (2006) This movie is not too bad, but it’s not one bit scary. It would have fared better as a comedy. It had me saying, “No! Don’t get out of the car! I just told you not to go in that room!” Just like every other horror movie, it has the usual stupid girls who enter a room despite the puddle of blood outside of it.

Not the worst movie ever, but a really bad scary movie.

Photos courtesy of: horrorsociety.com, rottrntomatoes.com, happyhorror.com, dvdnear.com, rapidshare.com, blogspot.com, moviesforwholesale.com

Entertainment

The Rattler

October 20, 2010

www.stmurattlernews.com

Hilary Swank tries to overturn her brother’s life sentence. Source: rottentomatoes.com

A dramatic family affair “Conviction”  Directed by Tony Goldwyn Starring Hilary Swank and Sam Rockwell

Robin Johnson Senior Staff Writer The ties between family try to stay strong in an unforgiving justice system when a poorly educated woman battles the legal system to overturn her brother’s life sentence in “Conviction”.

Based on a true story,

Betty Ann Waters (Hilary Swank) believes her brother Kenny Waters (Sam Rockwell) to be innocent of the robbery and murder of an elderly woman which led to his life sentence without parole.

Betty begins the grueling process of becoming a lawyer, first completing her GED, college education and law school over a span of 20 years while sacrificing her marriage, children and life in hopes of releasing her brother.

The film gives the perspective of the painstakingly long and difficult process of the legal system in a time before DNA testing was used while exposing the reality that the legal system is fallible.

Swank and Rockwell portray an unwavering and remarkable love that proves to be what keeps hope (and Rockwell) alive, despite the frustrations, injustices, and time a failed justice system can take away.

Sigma Beta Chi plans to bring Christmas a little early this year

By Cesar Montalvo Staff Writer Brisk cold fronts aren’t due for another few weeks, but it is already starting to feel like Christmas, at least for the Sigma Beta Chi fraternity. The fraternity is almost done planning its annual philanthropy event, Christmas in October, which is held at Fatso’s Sports Bar and Garden.

Originally, CIO was held to help fund the Elf Louise Christmas Project. This foundation relies on the help of volunteers and on donations from grassroots, individuals and corporations to distribute toys to needy families.

Recently though, Sigma Beta Chi shifted their philanthropy from the Elf Louise Project to the San Antonio Food Bank.

Sigma Beta Chi will now donate canned foods and a percentage of their proceeds to the Food Bank. The price for admission to CIO varies based on age. For those 21 and up, it is $7, or $5 if you bring three canned food items. For minors, it is $12, or $10 with 3 canned food items. After paying admission, guests can enjoy free drinks if they are of age, and if not, they can enjoy a meal among friends. Everyone from students to those in the neighborhood have an opportunity to interact in support of a cause.

For this year’s event, Sigma Beta Chi

has recruited students Michael Sanchez, or DJ Two Shots, and Andrew Martinez to manage the music for the night. To get more students involved in CIO, the fraternity also invites female students to dress as Christmas “elves” to further develop the event’s theme.

Former elf, Sarah Racanelli, a sophomore marketing major, said, “There were people from many organizations thrown together, just laughing over good food. I liked that we were able to make the event more authentic by dressing as elves.”

Students who have attended CIO in recent semesters describe the event as a popular social gathering of the university community.

Alumni Josh Davila recalls, “It was one of those things in October that everyone looked forward to besides Halloween.”

Sigma Beta Chi was founded on October 10, 1950, so CIO is also special because it is held close to their anniversary. This year the event will be held from 8 p.m. to midnight on Oct. 29.

Since its inception in 1977, CIO has become a hallmark in the St. Mary’s community, according to fraternity members.

“Even if you didn’t know about [CIO] coming in, you’ll leave St. Mary’s having experienced it firsthand,” said John Villalobos, senior exercise and sports science major. “Everyone and anyone can come.”

A “mecca for burger lovers.”

13

Sports

14 The Rattler

October 20, 2010

www.stmurattlernews.com

Game Results

Highlight Reel

Calendar Men’s soccer 10/22 University of Texas Permian 2 p.m.

Basin 10/24 University of the Incarnate 1 p.m.

Word 10/29 St. Edward’s University 3 p.m.

10/31 West Texas A&M University 12 p.m.

11/5 Truman State University 4 p.m.

11/7 Newman University 1 p.m.

Women’s soccer 10/22 Texas A&M International

University 10/28 Newman University 10/30 Dallas Baptist University 11/6 St. Edward’s University

8 p.m.

7 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

Women’s volleyball 10/21 Newman Universty 7 p.m.

10/23 University of Arkansas 12 p.m.

Fort-Smith 10/27 Texas A&M International 7 p.m.

University 10/29 Angelo State University 7 p.m.

10/30 West Texas A&M University 2 p.m.

11/4 St. Edward’s University 7 p.m.

11/6 Dallas Baptist University 12 p.m.

Men’s rugby football club 10/23 Baylor University 11/6 University of Houston

2 p.m.

2 p.m.

Home games in bold

Sports Around the World MLB One of the best, most intriguing pitching matchups in post-season history is said to be between Tim Lincecum of the San Francisco Giants, who is the two-time defending National League Cy Young award winner, and Roy Halladay of the Philadelphia Phillies, who is sure to win the National Leagues Cy Young Award this year. The Phiillies and the Giants are currently playing for the National League Championship Series (NCLS).

Source: espn.go.com NCAA Basketball Purdue senior Robbie Hummel re-tore his ACL in practice Saturday morning and will miss the entire 2010-11 season, the university said. Hummel missed the Boilermakers’ final eight games last season after tearing the ACL in his right knee the first time in a Feb. 24 game against Minnesota.

Before the injury, Hummel started all 27 games for Purdue, averaging 15.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. The forward earned All-Big Ten and honorable mention All-America honors.

Source: espn.go.com NFL Football Jesse Holley went from reality TV to the NFL after getting promoted from the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad to the team’s active roster. In the summer of 2009, Holley was the winner of the Michael Irvin-hosted reality show “4th and Long.”

He was then invited to Dallas Cowboys training camps where he played well enough to make the practice squad.

Source: sports.yahoo.com

The men’s soccer team is working hard during their four away game streak.

The Rattlers play at UT Permian Basin on Friday Oct. 22.

Women’s volleyball

Men’s soccer

Women’s soccer

Oct. 16: Oklahoma Panhandle State University WIN, score 3-0

Oct. 8: Texas A&M International University LOST, score 2-7

Oct. 9: Newman University LOST, score 0-1

Oct. 16: Southern Oklahoma University WIN, score 3-2

Oct. 15: West Texas A&M University LOST, score 1-0

Oct. 14: St. Edward’s University LOST, score 0-2

Golfer stays on course with performance I’m on the range I typically start with my wedge and work my way up skipping a club in between. Then the next time out I use the clubs I skipped the time before, so I don’t wear out my clubs.”

By Chris Filoteo Senior Staff Writer This semester, the men’s golf team has finished in the top 10 in each of the four tournaments and has also had three top five finishes.

Junior corporate finance and risk management major Chris Becker has helped in this year’s success with his consistent play. The men’s team remains to be a crucial factor in the Heartland Conference with two conference championships in six years. Furthermore, the Rattlers were named Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA) Academic National Champions last year. With one tournament left, Chris looks to keep the momentum up as the Rattlers host the Bruce Williams Memorial Tournament in San Antonio. I was able to sit down with Chris to discuss his game and work ethic.

How do you prepare for a match?

“I like to stay relaxed and keep a good mindset before a match. I also like to listen to music before I warm-up.”

What part of your game do you believe is your strongest?

“I would say it’s my driving game because

When did you first learn how to play golf?

“My whole family plays golf, so I learned the basics when I was 7. I didn’t start playing seriously until I was 16 because I suffered an injury playing high school soccer. After my injury, I decided to play golf every day I could.

Junior golf member Chris Becker looks forward to playing against Abilene Christian this fall. Photo by Jennifer Sims I keep it around in the fairway most of the time.”

How do you concentrate on every aspect of your game equally?

“Practicing roughly two hours a session and I usually start off at the range. I spend one hour on the range, 30 minutes chipping and 30 minutes putting. While

How much momentum do you feel you have going into the next tournament?

“We have been able to play in a lot of great weather lately, so the more I play, the better I get. I feel I am playing just as good as ever hosting the next tournament and I feel very good about our chances.”

Which university do you think will be the toughest competition this season?

“I think Abilene Christian is going to be the one to beat this year. They are ranked second in the nation right now and one of their players won the national tournament last year and most of the team returned, so they are looking really good. But so are we, so we will see.”

Student athletes hold multiple academic honors

By Veronica Martinez Sports Editor Many athletes have had to deal with the “dumb jock” stereotype, but the university’s athletic department is proving that stereotype wrong.

An estimated 65 percent of the student athletes on campus have conference, regional and/or national academic honor awards from various organizations, according to Chad Peters, the university’s sports information coordinator.

“It is pretty mind boggling how these people can do so well in their sport and then have a GPA that rivals some of the best students on campus,” said Peters, who estimates that a little more than half of the student athletes are on academic honor roll.

Currently, 107 student athletes are members of the Heartland Conference’s honor roll, according to the Conference’s website.

Historically, St. Mary’s

has had 12 Academic AllAmericans from the College Sports Information Directors of America, a national organization that academic awards to college athletes. There have also been 232 student athletes that have earned regional or national awards, said Peters.

“It is in part being a great student, but then the other part is you do need to be a good athlete,” Peters said.

“You cannot be someone who has never played, but maintains a terrific GPA.” Most of the various awards require student to have a GPA of 3.0 or above, while others such as the Heartland Conference President’s Honor Roll, require a GPA of at least 3.5.

Charlie Migl, the university’s athletic director, said that the athletes’ good performance speaks volumes about the university’s athletic program.

“We want our athletes to be good academically and we also like them to be good athletes, naturally,” Migl said.

“But at St Mary’s, which is such a good academic school, we want them to come in and be the best students they can. “ Some student athletes have earned mulitiple honors.

Senior Matt Vela has been on the President’s Honor Roll for six semesters. Recently, Vela also received the NCAA Division II Cleveland Golf/ Srixon All-America Scholars award from the Golf Coaches Association of America.

Vela says that communicating with his professors helps him maintain his grades.

“It has been very difficult to keep up with all my work as well as staying on top of my golf game,” Vela said. “We miss as many as 12 days a semester, so if you think of how hard it is to manage that, I think I do pretty well.”

The academic awards offered to athletes are not just for the individual, but also for teams as a whole. For the 20082009 season, the St. Mary’s men’s golf team was named

the Academic National Champions by the Golf Coaches Association of America. For teams to be considered for the award, all players must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 for the academic school year. The men’s golf team greatly exceeded the requirement with a 3.62 cumulative team GPA. The men’s golf team has had seven National Academic All-Americans under the direction of head coach Wes Skidmore. According to Peters, this is due to a common mindset among all coaches. It is not just about winning games, it is also about doing well in the classroom, he said.

Peters has observed that senior athletes often led the way when it comes to national or conference honor rolls.

“You see the seniors really leading the way and kind of blazing that trail so to speak, with those high GPA’s,” Peters said. “I think as a standard it is passed on down to the lower classifications as well.”

Sports

October 20, 2010

The Rattler 15

www.stmurattlernews.com

SPORTS COMMENTARY

Spurs roster shows promise with both experience and youth

By Alex Salinas Commentary Editor The San Antonio Spurs are officially refueled before the start of the 2010-2011 season. Spurs fans no longer have to worry about the summer wear and tear of the Big Three, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. They are all healthy, not having played for their respective national teams in the 2010 summer FIBA tournament.

The Spurs are also keeping a few of their key acquisitions from last season, including the veteran Antonio McDyess and second year

DeJuan Blair.

The most promising player on the team thus far is third year George Hill, a 6’2” combo guard whose defensive production matches his offensive contribution — a rarity for guards in today’s league. He averaged 12.4 points per game and nearly one steal a game last season, according to nba. com. He also increased his 3-point field goal percentage to 40 percent, a legitimate threat from beyond the arc.

Another player fans can expect solid numbers from is DeJuan Blair. Last season, the

6’8” forward-center demonstrated by the All-Star break that he was yet another Spurs draft steal, eager to play. And play he did.

He averaged 7.8 points per game and 6.4 rebounds per game last season, great numbers considering his limited playing time, and he is arguably the best (or fiercest) rebounder on the team, showing early signs of a rebound legend like Dennis Rodman.

Then there is Richard Jefferson.

While the forward averaged 12.3 points per game last season, nearly a five point decrease from his career average, he disappointed

Members of the university’s Rugby Football Club played against Sul Ross State University in Alpine on Oct. 16 and lost with a score of 22-0. Their next game is Oct. 23 at Baylor University. Photo by Veronica Martinez

many fans with his inability to fit into the Spurs’ complex defensive and half-court offensive system. However, this past summer he retooled his shot and committed himself to regaining his championship-ready form from his days in New Jersey, according to a report from Ken Rodriguez at Spurs.com. This is refreshing news for a nine-year veteran.

The Spurs managed to keep 14-year forward-center Antonio McDyess, whose effective midrange jumper and leadership presence will serve the team well.

The team will also see the arrival

of their 2007 draft pick Tiago Splitter, a 6’11” forward. Fans are anticipating Splitter’s pairing with Duncan, perhaps a variation of the “Twin Towers” duo from the days of David Robinson.

James Anderson is the upcoming rookie whom fans hope will be a threat beyond the arc.

Curtis Jerrells and Alonzo Gee are also projected to have a good season. The Spurs roster is now younger and deeper, and come Oct. 27, their opening night against the Indiana Pacers, fans can expect good things.

Sports

October 20, 2010

The Rattler 16

www.stmurattlernews.com

THE

HOT

SEAT

Photo by Alex Diaz Members of the Rattler Battalion take a leisure break in the shade after a day of competing in Ranger Challenge. Photo by Jenny Wendover Full Name: Sam Jernigan Classification: Junior Major: accounting and corporate finance How long have you been playing Golf and what made you want to start?

“I have been playing for about six years. My dad and brother play a lot so they got me into it.”

Who is your favorite athlete?

“Tiger Woods or Lebron James.”

How do you juggle being an athlete and student?

“I try to do homework at the hotels when we travel and I let my teachers know that I am gone for tournaments so they know I am not just skipping class. Most of the time they are willing to work with me.”

Rattler Batallion competes at Camp Bullis

By Mariah Villarreal Staff Writer Waking up at 4 a.m. is not what many college students are used to. Getting ready for an 8:20 a.m. class is hard enough, but there are students who have already been up for hours before the sun rises for one reason: for physical training, simply referred to as PT. This physical training helped 15 members of the Rattler Battalion prepare for the Ranger Challenge, a two-day competition hosted at Camp Bullis on Oct. 16 and Oct. 17. The Ranger Challenge invites university ROTC programs to compete in various events that test intelligence,

endurance and speed in a team setting.

Training for this competition started at the beginning of the fall semester. It included physical training 5 days a week, class two times a week and practice on Saturdays, according to Cadet Sgt 1st Class Lou Grone.

Fifteen cadets from the university participated in seven events including the Army Physical Fitness Test, a written exam, a grenade assault course, day and night land navigation, weapon assembly, first aid and litter (an obstacle course) and the commonly dreaded 10K ruck march. Two teams, one all male and one coed, competed in the events.

The platoon sergeant, sophomore Cadet Sgt. 1st Class Cristal Rodriguez, said she personally felt most confident in the weapon assembly event. As a whole, she felt both teams would perform best in the Army Physical Fitness Test.

While it is not mandatory for students in ROTC to compete, there are advantages for those who participate, according to sophomore Cadet Sgt. Phillip Muñoz.

“Some reasons that I compete are for the points and the extra trainings, but mostly for the competition,” said Muñoz.

The points gained from competing in Ranger Challenge help

boost cadets higher on the Order of Merit List, a national ranking of all commissioned students in ROTC. More points equates to a better chance of landing a job in a preferred branch of service.

Even with these perks, preparing for the competition was difficult, according to Platoon Leader for Ranger Challenge, 1st Lt. Jesus Gurrola.

“I’m not going to lie, there were some days when I just hated getting up,” said Gurrola. “I knew I had to keep showing up and get my teams ready.”

The Rattler Battalion placed first at the Ranger Challenge. Hooah!

Do you do anything special or specific to prepare yourself for a tournament?

“I try to pay attention in the practice round so I am familiar with the course.”

What are your hopes for this golf season?

“To win conference as a team again, to win Super-Regionals as a team or at least place in the top five, and to make it to nationals as a team.”

What are you plans after graduation?

“I am going to graduate school at the University of Texas at Austin or another big university.”

Compiled by: Veronica Martinez

Cadets competing in Ranger Challenge had to complete a grenade assualt course. Cadet Sgt. 1st Class Lou Grone (above left), Sgt. 1st Class Jason Montalvo (above center) and Sgt. 1st Class Michael Halloway (above right) go through the steps taught in the grenade assault course. Photo by Jenny Wendover