Vol. 98, No. 5 - 12/01/2010

rattler the

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A St. Mary’s Student Publication since 1925

12 days

Vol. 98 Issue 5

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It’s beginning to sound a lot like Christmas — especially with our custom holiday playlist. Check it out.

PG. 12

Christmas

December 1, 2010 •

STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

finals

If just hearing “study week” makes you want to cry, make the week go by a little easier by scheduling in some time to get away. A couple of hours spent away from fearing finals can’t hurt much, so browse through our list of 12 places to go to find your escape. Bring some frazzled friends along, and if you must, bring your books, too — just don’t expect to pay much attention to them.

Cont. on PG. 8, SEE “12 DAYS OF STUDYING”

FEATURES

NEWS

SGA proposes a bike exchange program

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ENTERTAINMENT

11

Students reach out to Marianist Brothers

SPORTS

13

Student is first to direct major production

16

Men’s basketball ranks high in survey

News

2 The Rattler

December 1, 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 Emily Artalejo Jessica Carillo Jessica Corea Michael Cortez Chris Filoteo Robin Johnson Alex Meyer Cesar Montalvo Sean O’Kelley

Selena Rangel Brissa Renteria Ari Rivera Carlos Rodriguez Marissa Rodriguez Matthew Rodriguez Evan Santos Caitlin Skelton Danielle Torres Daniel Trejo

Amnesty International members (left to right) Mariah Villarreal, Kristin Sepulveda, and Alex Celerier participate in the annual Box City on Nov. 12 to promote homelessness awareness. The site of Box City was moved due to thunderstorms. Photo by Jenny Wendover

NEWS IN BRIEF >> >> >>

For Paws Christmas Sale to benefit the felines on campus

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South African and international political analyst to speak at university

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University hosts SA2020 event with mayor

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

Robin Johnson Jerry Mendez Guadalupe Molina Jenn 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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Today and on Dec. 2 the university’s For Paws program is raising money by selling cat-themed items for the holiday season from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the University Center. Items include cat socks, logo mugs, candles, and other cat-themed gifts. The proceeds from the sale will go toward For Paws’ Trap-Neuter-Return program. The TNR program traps local neighborhood cats, neuters them, and sends them back to their neighborhood. Source: Stmarytx.edu Daniel Silke, a former Member of Parliament in the Western Cape Provincial Parliament in Cape Town, South Africa, presents “Tracking the Future: The Top 10 Trends that will Transform the Globe over the Next 20 Years - and Longer!”from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the University Center Conference Room A. His presentation is based on a world that is recovering from a global economic recession. Source: Stmarytx.edu The third SA2020 community forum will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 on Dec. 8 at the Bill Greehey Arena. SA2020 brings together community leaders and citizens to ask what they want from the city’s future. Mayor Julián Castro, Graham Weston of Rackspace Hosting, Darryl Byrd of the Pearl Brewery and Sonia Rodriguez of the Mayor’s Commission on the Status of Women will host the event. More than 700 city residents are expected to attend. Source: Stmarytx.edu

POLICE BLOTTER >>

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11.17.10

Theft at AACC gym. Purse stolen from an unsecured locker.

Student handbook violation at Leies Hall. Underage student found with alcohol in room during fire alarm. Director on duty contacted. Referred to Judicial Affiars.

Theft at Founder’s Hall. Laptop stolen from dorm room. Investigation pending.

Information at University Center. Possible stolen books sold back to bookstore.

Terroristic threats at Java City/Quad. Student verbally threatening another student with bodily harm. Director on Duty contacted. Referred to Judicial Affairs.

StMU Traffic Violation at intersection of Rattler Drive and Velasquez Drive. Disregarded stop signs. Driving on wrong side of the road. Driver wearing no seat belt. St. Mary’s citation issued. Director on Duty contacted. Referred to Judicial affairs.

News

December 1, 2010

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Amount of online classes increases

By Austin W. Newton News Editor More online courses for fall and spring semesters have been added to help accommodate students’ busy schedules, according to Janet Dizzino, dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Most of the online classes are within the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, and there is no set online program for the undergraduate school, according to Dizzino.

While only one or two online classes have been offered during previous fall and spring semesters, Dizzino said courses in advanced composition, Spanish I, history and a playwright course are available for Spring 2011.

“We are trying to help students graduate on time, so this is just another way to help them get the classes they need to take.”

- Dean Janet B. Dizzino The university started offering online summer classes in 2002 to help students who wanted to go home for the summer or who were working a full-time job, according to Dizzino. Eventually, some professors thought it would be beneficial to offer online courses during other semesters as well, Dizzino said.

“Some of the professors who taught those summer courses thought we should offer them during the semester, but we needed

to find students to take the courses,” Dizzio said. “We decided to give it a try. We are trying to help students graduate on time, so this is just another way to help them get the classes they need to take.”

English professor Camille Langston will be teaching advanced composition in the spring, but has been teaching online courses prior to her time at the university since the mid-1990s. Langston also helped develop training materials for the U.S. Department of Defense for online contracts.

“The first online course I taught was American Literature when I was still a graduate student. I used to use Telecourse and WebCT. Now I use the Blackboard features for my advanced composition class,” said Langston. “My online class meets once a week on Adobe Connect.

The students and I do PowerPoint presentations on the application.

We also use the blogs, journals and wiki features on Blackboard 9.”

Although online classes limit interaction, Dizzino said the university still prides itself in small classroom sizes with a greater emphasis on teacher-student interaction.

“Part of the reason why it took so long for us to offer some online courses is that we were reluctant to lose face-to-face,” Dizzino said.

“Also, there is that awareness that the student is more likely to drop the course if it is held online.”

Sophomore engineering and corporate finance major Jordan Cole is relieved to take an online Spanish course next semester.

“It will help me with my timemanagement skills, and it will be

really helpful because of my parttime job,” Cole said.

However, Cole is a little concerned about taking a course without the traditional classroom setting.

“I’m worried about when I need to talk to a teacher. Is there going to be a time when I can go in and talk to her, or am I going to have to wait for a response by e-mail?” said Cole.

Langston said that even though an interpersonal traditional classroom setting is essential at the university, online education is the way much of the world is heading.

“Online classes give students an opportunity to learn new technology and develop communication skills they will need when they enter the workplace,” said Langston.

You might be an exceptional online student if...

1. You like to show up to class on your own time.

2. If you like to carry your laptop around everywhere.

3. If you love to write and record your every thought and action.

Staff Writer After 44 years of teaching at the university, Sister Ann Semel, S.S.N.D., will be retiring.

Semel began teaching in New Orleans where she taught at an elementary school. After a few years, Semel was encouraged to return to school to earn a doctoral degree.

Semel enrolled at Notre Dame, where she later received a doctorate in English. She then came to San Antonio and applied for a job at St. Mary’s.

When she first arrived, the university only offered an English degree that could benefit students who were pursuing a teaching career; but Semel managed to transform the English literature major to an English and communications double major program.

“I went to the Brothers and Sisters and asked if I could design a new program that would provide

more career options and they let me,” said Semel.

She created the English and communications program, a combination of both English and media-related courses. With this new degree, Semel included courses with photography, journalism and advanced writing classes.

Semel’s colleagues will miss her, said Rose Marie Cutting.

“Sister Semel was a great party giver, her house was the party house,” Cutting said. “We will miss her, especially her red beans and rice for our parties.”

Chatawa, Mississippi will be Semel’s new home, where she plans to reside at a retirement center. Once there, she intends on helping out at the library and perhaps pick up painting again.

Semel wanted to spread one last message before leaving after the fall semester. “I don’t think there is a better place to gain your degree than St. Mary’s University,” she said.

E-Scholars bring back awards from convention

4. You are an independent person that can do everything on their own.

By Ari Rivera

5. You love chat rooms and Skype.

This semester, two students in the university’s Entrepreneurial Scholar program won two awards at the Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization’s national conference in Chicago.

Alexandra McCoy, a senior English major and E-Scholar, won first place in the Elevator Pitch Competition, where students had 90 seconds to sell a business idea.

Dyana Garcia, a marketing major and E-scholar, won the award for “Best Student Leader” for her role as CEO of Rattler Enterprises.

McCoy’s pitch involved a woman’s shoe with adjustable heel heights. McCoy, one of 60 students competing in the event, was not the only one with this pitch.

Another student from a different university pitched a similar shoe idea featuring a telescoping heel, which is different from McCoy’s concept, and even had a prototype with her.

It would take more than a sample to beat out McCoy though, who recalls that at one point the heel actually got stuck and did not work.

“The judges told me it was my delivery and my confidence that won them over,” McCoy said. “In the final round, when it was the final six, they asked us questions without any preparation.”

McCoy received $2,500 for winning first place, which she hopes

6. You can chew gum and type at the same time

Sister Ann Semel retires after 44 years

By Marissa Rodriguez

CEO participants (from left to right) Alex McCoy, Felicia Torres, Rynah Young, Stephanie Dinning, Pam Duffy, Alex Tami, Josie Davila, Dyana Garcia, Bailey Philman, Brooke Envick and Vincent Astudillo. Duffy and Envick are staff of the E-scholars program. Photo courtesy of Alex McCoy

Sister Ann Semel plans to tutor high school students in Chatawa, MS. Photo by Felix Arroyo

Senior Staff Writer

to use to make her elevator pitch a reality with help from her father.

Director of the E-Scholar program Brooke Envick said these wins display the students’ talent.

It also increases a healthy spirit of competition among students, she said.

“I wouldn’t do anything differently, except make more students aware of the CEO opportunity next year,” Envick said. “We have tremendous entrepreneurial talent across the entire university, and we need to get more students out there on the national stage.”

The E-Scholars program focuses on students interested in entrepreneurship, regardless of their major, according to the university’s website.

Not all competing students were put to the test in the elevator pitch portion at the national competition held on Nov. 4-6.

Senior English and communication arts major Bailey Philman attended conferences on how to own a business.

“I attended seminars hosted by entrepreneurs from around the country. They taught us how to run a business and how to improve our business, especially by using social networking,” said Philman.

Students interested in the E-scholars program can find more information on the program, and complete an application on the university’s website.

News

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December 1, 2010

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SGA hopes to establish free rental bike program

By Cesar Montalvo Staff Writer The Student Government Association is currently exploring the idea of a bike exchange program, which would allow students to rent out bicycles to ride around campus at their convenience.

Rental bicycles would be stationed at several racks around campus and could be checked out using the student’s Rattler Card.

This is similar to the yellow bike program that Trinity University has already established.

The community bike program is partially modeled off of the stroller rental program at local malls. Students would be able to borrow a bike with their student ID, which would hold them liable until the bike is returned.

“We want the bikes to be accessible to any student.”

- Stefani Ramirez Prospective places for the bike racks include key points on campus such as the Outback, Treadaway Hall, the Diamondback Café and places around the Quad.

A community bike system

would be a convenient way to arrive to class, according to Stefani Ramirez, SGA’s environmental affairs chair, plus it would be free for students.

“Students pay enough as it is,” Ramirez said. “We want the bikes to be accessible to any student.”

Texas Lutheran University and Trinity University have already established a community bike system; however reports of bikes being found on rooftops of academic buildings and in trees presented an obstacle for approval.

Valerie Mancias, SGA’s vice president, said that it is likely situations like these would not be widespread.

“While it is very possible that we might have a few bad apples, St. Mary’s students have always exemplified a mature value for private property,” Mancias said.

“The truth is, we won’t know what problems we’ll have until we do it.”

The possible community bike program, however, is still in the idea phase of the SGA, according to SGA President Alex McCoy. “We haven’t done anything really outside of talking about it,” said McCoy. In order to move forward with the idea, SGA will conduct surveys to see how helpful students would

find the program.

If there is a high approval rating for the bike program, SGA will determine how many bikes will be needed. SGA is also considering sponsoring a large event for bicycle donations. Bicycles acquired from the event could be used to begin their program.

Some students, like Christopher Rivas, a resident in John Donohoo, are hopeful for the new bike system.

“It really is a long walk to class, not to mention if I forget something back in my room,” said Rivas, a junior engineering systems management major. “A bike would actually be pretty useful.”

SGA must come up with a procedure governing the bikes on campus. They are currently in the process of drafting a bike policy that will establish the rules for having a bicycle, including guidelines on how to store it and how the bikes would be maintained.

If SGA’s proposed bike policy is accepted, it will stipulate that any bike on campus must be registered with the University Police Department to prevent theft, much like a vehicle.

Students are not currently required to register their bikes with UPD.

University Police Department’s Bike Permit Program While students are not currently required to register their bikes, the UPD offers bike permits to students and faculty who already ride their bikes around campus. The yellowsticker bike permits are free and can help prevent theft by recording your bike’s serial number in a statewide database. If your bike is stolen, then UPD is able to help search for your stolen bike using the Texas Crime Information Center’s database.

These are the requirements for a free yellow-sticker bike permit: • • • • • • •

Rattler ID Mailing Address Primary and alternative phone number E-mail address Date of birth Driver’s license/ state ID number Driver’s license expiration date

• • • • • •

Bicycle make Bicycle model Bicycle size Bicycle speed Bicycle color Bicycle serial number

Be sure to bring your bike to UPD when obtaining your free yellowsticker bike permit.

Compiled by Matthew Rodriguez

Freshmen elementary education major Maria Benavidez rides her bike outside of the University Center. She is one of many students that voluntarily rides her bike around campus. “It makes it really convinient, especially if I forgot something in my room,” said Benavidez. Photo by Analicia Perez

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Submit your own news photos to: rattlernews@gmail.com

What’s Shaking?

news in photos.

Top Left and Right: The Native American Student Association hosted it’s 7th Annual Learning Traditions Pow Wow on Nov. 20th in Pecan Grove. Traditional Native American foods, such as Fry bread, were served and vendors sold handmade crafts. Many traditional dances were performed and those attending were able to participate in a traditional cake walk. Photos by Analicia Perez Bottom Left: Freshman music major Marcos Rios and senior music education major Adam Casiano perfom “Wachet Auf” by Johann Sebastian Bach at the Brass Ensemble Concert on Nov. 22 in the music recital hall. Photo by Jennifer Sims SEND US YOUR PHOTOS! “What’s Shaking?” is a new addition to The Rattler. Submit your photos from current events to be in the next issue to rattlernews@gmail.com.

6 The Rattler

Commentary

December 1, 2010

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Christmas spirit more than just economy booster Over time, the focus of Christmas has shifted from celebrating the birth of Jesus to the time of year when snow, Santa hats and cookies are revered. But is this shift away from the religious aspect of Christmas necessarily a Briana Perez bad thing?

For the devout Christian, it may seem that their beloved holiday has transformed from a sacred time of the year to a textbook example of commercialism. However, has there ever been a holiday excepted from this trend?

Society has commercialized many major holidays including Halloween, Easter, Valentine’s Day and the Fourth of July.

Modern society seems to like themed trinkets and decorations that can only be used once a year, such as turkey cutouts for Thanksgiving and mistletoe for Christmas. Stockings filled with candy have slowly replaced figures of the infant Jesus. However, behind these seemingly superficial pretenses we give the holidays, can their original meaning still be preserved?

I am a Catholic and believe in celebrating the season for what it really is, in the religious sense. Despite commercialism, I still find meaning in the holiday, and always manage to commemorate the birth of Christ amongst the distractions.

Many non-religious people see the season as a time of family and togetherness despite the lack of religious context. The commercialism of Christmas has resulted in spreading the spirit of the holiday to the masses, but its harms can still affect those who may not know what they are celebrating.

If the focus is solely on buying gifts and food, the hype can quickly eliminate the joyous nature of Christmas. Children and adults forget to appreciate the simple pleasures of the holiday season, and may only focus on what they will receive or give. Their preoccupation with cost, quality and quantity of their gifts is detrimental. The pressure to give a family the “perfect” Christmas can actually detract from the simple, yet profound, celebration it should be.

In reality, Christmas is just one more day in the calendar year, but it should be set aside as a special and important day beside the escalation of toy sales. Considering the religious and historical setting it derives from, Christmas is important.

The harmful effect commercialism can have on any holiday, especially Christmas, whose season seems to be dragged out the longest by all stores, is its focus on purchasing and on the dollar’s power. Then again, in this day and age, businesses easily harness the willingness of consumers to spend in large volumes for the sake of the holiday spirit.

The attention of the public is turned to quantity, not quality. For a person who wants to celebrate Christmas for it’s sacred significance, commercialism will not stand in their way.

For a person who simply wants to enjoy a season for what it is worth, they must look past the pressure of every ad they see, and remember that the true magic of the Christmas season comes from the people they are with.

Cartoon by Oscar Maguregui

Fired because of Facebook Employees should be held responsible for the content they post online.

With more convenient access to technology, employees are now being forced to deal Jasmine Enriquez with the unwanted results of their social networking posts.

Recently, an employee was fired because she posted on her Facebook page that she “hates [her] job” and that her boss is a “pervvy wanker” who always makes her do things to upset her, according to Mashable.com, a web site that provides social networking facts.

The employee forgot that she previously befriended her boss on Facebook, and her boss was able to read her posts. Soon after, the woman’s boss notified her that she was fired for her unprofessional behavior.

I think the woman’s boss did the right thing in releasing her of her duties because of the lack of respect she publicly displayed toward him and the company. The level of immaturity by the employee was evident by what she decided to post for all of Facebook to see. This was a necessary consequence for an action she should not have done.

Dawnmarie Souza, an Emergency Medical Technician, was fired after posting a critical comment about her supervisor’s mental stability on her Facebook profile, according to a report on Myfoxny.com.

The National Labor Relations

Status posts on Facebook should be separated from the workplace.

“What’s Board stated that this on your individual was fired illegally, mind?”

— but the level of respect one these are the must have for the workplace four words should always be kept that prompt in mind. any one of Another news report told the over the story of Mark Musarella, Azhmir Acosta 500 million a 46-year-old EMT, who was Facebook fired for posting an image of active users Caroline Wimmer’s deceased to share their lives online. body to his Facebook page. He While Facebook has already was one of the first to arrive entered nearly every aspect on the scene of the crime on of its users’ personal life, it March 30, and thought it has also made its way into the appropriate to photograph work place.

Wimmer’s strangled body.

Multiple cases have arisen Wimmer’s parents were in which individuals have devastated when informed been fired because of what of the image that h a d they have posted on their made its way online.

Facebook.

The The violation of most recent was a privacy in this case of a woman, case is extremely disturbing and POINT Dawnmarie Souza, who created agony for COUNTER- was fired for “criticizing the Wimmer family. POINT her supervisor online,” according to ABCNews.

M u s a r e l l a This time, however, clearly did not the National Labor understand Relations Board is becoming the severity of disclosing involved because the anything related to the “employer engaged in unfair patient’s confidentiality labor practices.” and had to then face the The woman was venting to proper consequences. her social network about what Violating peoples’ privacy was bothering her. Was there should in no way be taken anything really wrong with lightly. One must remember her actions? The consequences that what we choose to say, of a Facebook update impeded write and upload can define upon the individual’s right one’s character. If we show to share what was on her no respect for our working mind. The policies of her environment or those who employer were “too broad” work alongside us, then one according to the National must face the consequences of Relations Board as reported in the decisions made. This also ABCNews. Not only that, but upholds the accountability an the National Relations Board employee must enact. also stated that worker’s A company should be comments were “a protected able to reserve the right concerted activity.” Therefore, to fire an employee for any employer should clearly public disrespect.

define what their policies are about in regard to social networking sites, or they should rightfully stay out of the social aspect of their employees’ lives.

Any individual should be able to express oneself without having to deal with negative repercussions. If the employee were to verbally make the comments to someone else and someone happened to overhear, would the same consequences apply? Most likely not, but the written evidence is what is hurting the employers, which is why the woman was fired.

What if an employee were to post comments on a blog as an anonymous user? It is likely that there would not be any consequences even if it were obvious that the comments were from an employee. Because employees are identifiable on their social networking sites they are immediately reprimanded in extreme ways.

My recommendation is for employers to define their polices about Facebook clearly, so that their actions are justifiable. Otherwise, it seems that these employers are just perusing through their employees personal lives.

Every person should be mindful of what is posted on Facebook for others to see, but even so, every person has the right to post whatever they want because that is what Facebook is giving them the opportunity to do. Otherwise, what is the point of being on a social network if you cannot share “what is on your mind” about your life, including your job?

Commentary

December 1, 2010

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Vatican’s stance on creation is positively contemporary The Catholic C h u r c h ’ s teachings and the Darwinian theory of evolution have collided in the past.

It was not Alex Salinas until 1950 when Pope Pious XII acknowledged scientific validity in Charles Darwin’s work, “On the Origin of Species,” that reconciliation began on the two fundamentally different stances on evolution.

But because these two

institutions, one religious and one scientific, are so fundamentally different, they should have never collided in the first place.

The transcendent nature of Christianity explains what science cannot. Scientific inquiry and observation is contained within the spatiotemporal universe. Science can provide plausible explanations as to how our universe and everything in it was created, but cannot answer the question as to why it was created.

As it is popularly stated, the Big Bang Theory, for example, does not explain why there was

something, as opposed to nothing, to go “bang” in the first place.

There are 1.16 billion Catholics in the world according to the Statistical Yearbook of the Church, and Pope Benedict XVI’s further acceptance and expansion upon the action of Pope Pious XII is crucial regarding the Church’s future direction. Catholicism’s reconciliation with progressions made in natural science will be a leading factor in the size and retention of its membership.

The renewed reconciliation pays homage to the willingness of the Church’s leaders to admit the

of life.

If the acceptance of the compatibility in the two creation explanations held true, could not more be accomplished?

Ian Sample reports in his book “Massive: The Hunt for the God Particle,” that astronomers can only see 4 percent of what makes up the universe. As for the rest of the universe, they hardly have a clue.

Perhaps the most sophisticated technology will only be able to tell us a fraction of what we are and how we came to be. However, and God willing, life is still a mystery.

Republican Party once again strays away from issues on the environment

STAFF EDITORIAL

Cartoon by Oscar Maguregui

Professional behavior outside of work is ideal For anyone who has held a job or has been in an organization of some sort, they are often made aware that even after they leave their respective workplace, they are representing their company. This especially holds true for those employees who leave work, for example, with their company shirts and go assume their roles in their personal lives.

It’s absolutely plausible for an employee to feel bogged down by this at times. To put in other terms, it is similar to when an actor exits the stage of a play. Once they make their exit, they are making it clear that for the time they are off stage, everything they do is not an act, but quite real on the contrary.

This mind set of complete separation from the workplace upon leaving work grounds, wherever and whatever they may be, is liberating but can also carry with it undesirable consequences.

Essentially there must be checks and balances that occur. It is ok to leave work and feel that one’s actions are not representative of their work.

If one were to participate in activities immediately after work and were

Church’s past mistakes. Profound leaders such as the late Pope John Paul II renounced in a 1992 speech how the Catholic Church treated Galileo Galilei and his work on heliocentrism.

Now, the Vatican has a statue of Galileo within their walls.

Reconciliation is a beautiful thing.

Belief in creation (as stated in Genesis of the Bible) and belief in the Big Bang Theory, as an example, are compatible. They are not and never were by nature contradictory. They are both sympathetic and symbolic to the same mystery: the beginning

wearing a company uniform, then they should bring a change of clothes.

Clothes are representative of what we plan to do. It’s as simple as that.

If employees were to go out with their co-workers after work, they must be excessively aware of what they do. Again, it’s ok to leave work and hang out with co-workers to promote networking. By all means, have fun. Just be aware that at any time, if other co-workers or even a supervisor receives information about an employee that makes their status as a viable associate questionable, the results can be harmful, including tense relationships with other workers and the supervisor or even the loss of their job.

Losing a job or leaving a job with a negative image can potentially hurt an individual in pursuing future jobs.

Ultimately, one should strive for consistent behavior inside and outside of their workplace. There is no need for one to act radically different from how they are expected to act at work: professionally. Consistent professional behavior is a sign of maturity, and professionals can still have a good time.

Conservatives are storming into Washington intent on ending all the hope and change garAlex Meyer nered in part by a social Barack Obama agenda. It is back to status quo, and partisan politics will once again dictate federal legislation as the Republicans take back control of the House in January.

But the real losers of this last election were not Nancy Pelosi and her Democratic constituents. No, the losers in this past election were Smokey Bear and all his furry friends.

The Republican Party seems to have mistaken an electorate enchanted by fiscal conservatism as an electorate apathetic to the plight of our planet.

Republicans have hardly been known for a progressive agenda when it comes to Mother Nature. But it seems as though this new wave of Tea Party-supported conservatives believe an idiotic ideology when it comes to environmental issues.

The dust hadn’t even settled on this past election before Republican leaders vowed to use their new power to fight President Obama and the executive branch on issues extending from the Environmental Protection Agency and climate

change legislation.

Los Angeles Times lambasted Texas as anti-California in regards to environmental issues. The Times took particular issue with Texas Governor Rick Perry’s efforts to loosen EPA restrictions in this state.

The Times is right to criticize the governor and the state. Fiscal conservatism is one thing — blatant disregard for the environment is another.

The Republican Party of 2010, particularly the ones elected here in Texas, may be intent on returning the state to a state of environmental apathy. But we shouldn’t let partisan politics dictate our future, or in the end we will all be the losers.

Christmas holiday carries elements that detract from its overall importance Watch out for a scad of Scrooges this year!

Only 66 percent of people surveyed consider Emily Artalejo Christmas one of the most important holidays, down from 71 percent just three years ago, according to a 2009 report by Rasmussen Reports, an electronic media company specializing in polling public opinion.

Perhaps this negative attitude is a result from the pressure to attain perfection during the holiday season.

This pressure can be formed by forced awkward encounters with family members we only talk to once year or mandatory Christmas dinners with coworkers we wish we didn’t see. These situations may seem genuine at the time, but are often rather a weak attempt at a “traditional” Christmas.

It’s true, forced merrymaking isn’t merry-making at all.

Also, commercialism of the holidays is often a reason many refuse to celebrate Christmas.

A false “need” for items we’ve lived without during the whole year is implanted into us at a young age. Then, we get older, and our dreams of receiving our coveted gifts under the

tree are squashed simply because we are now considered adults. Plus, our wish list gets a lot pricier. Barbie Jeep turns into a new car, and a set of Power Rangers walkie-talkies transforms into the heavily advertised Blackberry Torch.

Americans are beginning to stray from Christmas in the traditional sense, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that the general population has hearts two sizes-too small.

While some may define the spirit of the holidays by caroling, the typical Christmas dinners or a pile of gifts, the only thing that really matters is spending time with loved ones — even if it isn’t under a Christmas tree.

12 days

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1 2 3 4 5 6

Study week starts Dec. 6! Stay sane by taking Green Vegetarian Cuisine and Coffee

Need a healthy boost? Swing by this vegetarian restaurant and coffee shop. Green is located on 1017 N. Flores Street and is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday thru Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays, and is closed on Saturdays. Prices are pretty affordable considering they cater to a picky palate; a veggie platter with hummus is $7 and sandwiches and wraps are about $8.

Cupcake Couture

Make finals sweet with a decadent cupcake from this bakery.

Cupcake Couture is located at 4710 Broadway St. and is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, and is closed on Sundays. To save money, purchase two cupcakes at $2.50 each and a cup of coffee will only be $1.00.

Taco Haven

What better way to start the day with a delicious taco? Located at 1032 South Presa, TH sells their tacos at $2.00 and burritos at $5.75. Hours are 6 a.m. to 4 pm on Monday through Saturday, and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

Sneak in some laughs at the LOL Comedy Club. The club, complete with a bar and a small restaurant, will feature Peter Bermen, winner of the National College Comedy Competition will perform from Dec. 8 to Dec. 12. Tickets are $15. The club is located at 618 North West Loop 410 Suite 312. Hours vary.

Cool Cafe

If your taste buds are dying for excitement, try Cool Café, which specializes in Mediterranean food. The restaurant will surely calm your cravings with an extensive menu that includes crepes, pasta, gyros and breakfast. Diners have the option to eat inside the café, filled with art and vintage décor, or outside on a patio overlooking the new extension of the River Walk. Cool Café is located downtown at 123 Auditorium Circle and is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Thursday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 9p.m. on Sundays.

Sandwiches start at just $7.95 and scrumptious cream puffs are $2.75.

Forever 21

Take your mind off of finals by getting lost in North Star Mall’s two-story Forever 21. The store is the perfect place to explore a huge variety of men’s and women’s clothes. With their modest prices, you can treat yourself to several early Christmas gifts.

Hours during study week are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays, and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday. The store is located at 7400 San Pedro Avenue.

s of

Studying

g a quick break at any of our favorite places.

Government Canyon

Ditch the stuffy study lounge for a breath of fresh air. Take a hike in Government Canyon located at 12861 Galm Road. A visit to the park is $6 for the entire day and is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Protected Habitat Area offers rare flora as well as a glimpse at forest animals in their natural environment.

Olmos Perk

Free WIFI, modern decor and your choice of organic or fair trade coffee will help keep you energized. Olmos Perk is located at 5223 McCullough Avenue and is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays.

Riverwalk

Tired of looking at the pages of your textbook? Feast your eyes on the River Walk during the holidays while it is illuminated with dazzling lights.

Meet friends for dinner or stroll by to admire the spectacle.

Malibu Grand Prix

Escape for a day of adventure. Specials include unlimited video games, golf, bumper boats and go-karts for $22 on Tuesdays and $12 unlimited video games and miniature golf on Wednesdays. Malibu is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon to 9 p.m. on Sunday and is located at 3330 Cherry Ridge.

Sip

Sip is perfect for a Sunday brunch followed by reviewing notes.

The large windows and downtown setting will help loosen up your thoughts so you can focus on reading. The menu has a variety of well-priced paninis and of course, coffee. Sip is located at 160 E. Houston St. and is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays.

Bubblehead

If you are thirsty after studying for finals, Bubblehead will definitely quench your thirst. The ultra-hip establishment offers just about any combination of fruity flavors that you can imagine.

Their menu of “suicides� lists drinks boasting creative matchups, such as the Mister Sunshine drink containing strawberry, raspberry and orange. At 1035 South Presa, Bubblehead is open noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday, noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and is closed Sundays.

Suicide drinks are $3.75, an iced jasmine green tea is $3.25 and a cup of hot chocolate is $1.25.

Compiled by Jessica Valles, Emily Artelejo, and Marissa Rodriguez Graphic Illustration by: Jasmine Garcia

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Features

10 The Rattler

December 1, 2010

www.stmurattlernews.com

Choosing an internship sometimes depends on its pay

By Amanda Cano Features Editor Internships can give students experience in their career field and spice up their resume for the competitive professional world.

However, it is important that students take into consideration whether they want an internship that is paid, unpaid or for class credit, according to Shelly Underwood, assistant director of Career Services.

“One thing you want to do when you’re looking for an internship is know what you’re interested in, why you’re doing an internship and what goals you’re setting for yourself,” Underwood said.

Setting goals for an internship is crucial, especially because students can get lost in translation with internships that are paid, unpaid or “offer course credit” due to unclear guidelines.

“Guidelines exist to structure internships, but they’re very loose,” Underwood said.

“Colleges, universities and employers define internships differently.”

Perhaps, the stickiest situations occur when an internship is unpaid. If a student is considering an unpaid internship, receiving college credit is sometimes an option, according to Underwood.

Charlotte-Anne Lucas takes some time to discuss photography guidelines with intern Ernest Andrew Delgado. Photo by Felix Arroyo If students are willing to work an unpaid internship, it is important to feel comfortable to ask questions about the terms of the partnership between the employer and intern, according to Leticia T. Hart, career development specialist at Career Services.

“Once you get into the professional world, you’re going to have to be able to have some of these conversations,” said Hart.

Charles Devine, a senior political science major, completed an unpaid internship for the DWI Task force at Bexar Country

Attorney’s Office and received a three-hour course credit.

“The perspective I gained was definitely worth it,” Devine said.

“It exposed me to the real world of law and how cases are built and made.”

After being exposed to the working environment in his field of choice, Devine said that he would definitely recommend the unpaid internship he worked at to anyone who is considering law school.

While Devine received course credit for his unpaid internship,

sometimes students do not take advantage of the opportunity to do so. Program Coordinator of NOWCast San Antonio CharlotteAnne Lucas, who recruits interns from the university, warns students to be wary of such situations.

Lucas, a journalism professor at the university, pays her interns to abide by Federal Labor Laws.

“It’s against the law to call someone an intern, not pay them and have them do work that then the employer profits from,” Lucas said.

The U.S. Deparment of Labor’s Fair Labor Standards Act states that in an unpaid internship, the employer must not receive immediate advantage from the intern’s activities, the intern should not displace regular employees and works under close supervision of existing staff, and that the internship is solely for the benefit of the intern. The act compares such an internship to “training.”

Lucas urges students to inquire about college credit if they are interested in doing an unpaid internship.

“If an internship has college credit, I think that is more valuable all around,” Lucas said. “One of the reasons that I think it has more value is that there is some sort of roundabout accountability back to

the department, too.”

Before choosing an internship, students should consider their schedule to ensure that they have time for one, according to Underwood.

Ernest Andrew Delgado, a junior English and communication arts major who interns for Lucas, said he would not have considered taking his internship at NOWCast if it were unpaid because he had many other obligations.

However, Delgado said that the experience he has earned still means more to him than getting a paycheck.

“It’s funny because I would have missed out on an awesome experience,” Delgado said. “I have other responsibilities besides school, so my time is very valuable to me.”

Although Delgado was not in a situation where he could work an unpaid internship, he does think that unpaid internships do have their rewards.

“All my work is published on the web for people all over the world to see. Prior to this internship, the videos that I would produce wouldn’t see such a big audience,” Delgado said. “Also, my resume looks so much better now that I have more experience in my field of interest.”

Program helps students form companionship with Marianist Brothers

By Katherine Benavidez Contributing Writer Like most college freshmen, Luke Villafranca first came to the university nervous for classes, excited to be on his own and hopeful in finding new friends. But what Villafranca did not expect, would be to find companionship with an elderly Marianist Brother.

“I’ve been gifted with a very special friend, unlike any other kind that I would have not been blessed with otherwise,” said Villafranca, an English major.

Villafranca, along with 17 other students from the university, is part of Student Marianist Friends, a program on campus. Through SMFriends, a student is matched with a Marianist Brother for weekly visits. During their time together, the student and Brother get to know each other.

“The main focus of the program is for the Brothers to have some intelligent and social interaction with the students,” said Joanne Sanchez, manager of operations of the Marianist Residence.

Sanchez, who has been in her position for three years, pairs up

the students with the Brothers and assists them in the beginning process of meeting with their assigned Brothers.

After this process, the student and Brother schedule what days and times they can meet and coordinate what activities can be done during those visits. Some activities include playing cards, taking walks around campus, having lunch or just having a talk.

“Sometimes, people just need a good listener,” said Brother David Conrad, S.M. “I am a better listener than a talker.”

Conrad, who has been involved with the program along with 10 other Brothers for about a year, was hesitant at first about joining the program until Sanchez convinced him otherwise.

“I would have been too slow on taking it on and I realized if I would have done that, I would have missed a lot,” Conrad said.

“It’s a really good thing to get in touch with what’s going on in campus and what’s going on with the students.”

Students in the program are also grateful for the time they share.

“I honestly love what the program stands for. I see the Brother as a grandfather figure,” Villafranca said. “Everything we have here is because of the Brothers, so by hanging out and giving the Brothers companionship, I feel like I am giving back.”

A student does not have to be in a certain type of religion to be a part of the program.

In fact, the Brothers like to hear other people’s perspectives, according to Sanchez.

The minimum time requirement for a visit is one hour a week, but the majority of SMFriends give more time than that, due to the bonds they develop over time.

“Once the students bond with their Brother, they open up their schedule,” Sanchez said.

The program hosts events or activities such as Bingo Night, which helps bring together all the program’s members at the same time.

For more information or to get involved in the program, a student can pick up an application at the Service Learning Center or contact Joanne Sanchez at (210) 436-3768 or jsanchez74@stmarytx.edu.

Brother James McCaffreyl, S.M. and Sophomore Kathleen Benavidez have fun at Bingo night. Photo by Felix Arroyo

Features

December 1, 2010

The Rattler 11

www.stmurattlernews.com

GET ON THE

green list 1. Shop at a thrift store to find unique books or house decor.

2. Make your own Christmas cards to distribute.

3. Use newspaper instead ofgift wrapping paper.

4. Use recycled boxes for gifts.

5. Use LED Christmas lights to reduce energy use.

6. Turn off Christmas lights while asleep in order to save energy.

7. Choose a live tree so that after Christmas, it can be used as mulch.

8. Create homemade Christmas ornaments rather than purchasing some.

9. Make your own candles to give out as gifts.

10. Send out Christmas party invitations via email.

Compiled by Marissa Rodriguez

Marianist Residence brings Brothers together

By Denice Hernandez Managing Editor In the middle of the afternoon on any day, Father Herbert Pieper, S.M., can be found sitting quietly at his desk reading from a selection of Reader’s Digest books. If he is not reading, sometimes he spends his time playing his favorite game of solitaire. If he is not doing either, he is just enjoying life, he said.

Pieper, who will be celebrating his 100th birthday the day after Christmas, Dec. 26, is one of 50 Brothers living in the Marianist Residence home on campus.

The Marianist Residence, located behind the Moody Life Sciences building, was built in 1960 and is currently home to the largest Marianist community in the Society of Mary.

“This is the largest number of brothers living all together in the world,” said Brother Lester Kaehler, S.M., director of the Marianist Residence.

Kaehler said the residence was originally built for brothers to live and work on campus, but 10 years ago the residence was designated as a retirement community.

Brothers from all around the country, with different professional

and service experience, live together as one, Kaehler said.

Some of the Brothers at the residence, ranging from age 50 and older, still work part-time at the university or are completing other projects. Some are retired teachers, priests and carpenters.

"This is the largest number of brothers living all together in the world.”

- Brother Lester Kaehler, S.M.

Before Pieper’s retirement, he completed his seminary in Europe and had a 50-year career teaching Latin, French, history and religion.

Now, Pieper said he has been living at the Marianist residence for about 10 years, and is grateful for the service offered to the brothers.

The residence home includes a St. Joseph health care center that provides skilled nursing to about 17 of the brothers. Nurses and nurse’s aids work at the center and are also considered to be part of the community, said Kaehler.

“This community has about

Brother William McCarthy, S.M. and Brother Lester Kaehler, S.M. relax while playing pool. Photo by Felix Arroyo 35 employees that work in shifts, either in the kitchen or in skilled nursing,” said Kaehler. “This community could not function without this help.”

The Marianist residence also has a library, computer lab, pool table and a gym so the Brothers

can participate in the things they love most.

The day would not be complete with morning and evening chapel.

“Most of the day they each do their own thing, but this is the time that we all get to be together,” said Kaehler.

Entertainment

12 The Rattler

December 1, 2010

www.stmurattlernews.com

Coming Soon ALBUMS DeadMau5 “4x4=12” 12/7

Plain White T’s “Wonders of the Younger” 12/7

T.I. “No Mercy”

Duffy “Endlessly” 12/7

12/7

By Dania Pulido Entertainment Editor While some of us may find it annoying that some radio stations cannot wait until after Thanksgiving to start blasting “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” we have to admit there is something that we all love about Christmas music. Instead of listening to the outdated Christmas tunes on the radio, add this contemporary playlist of your favorite holiday songs to your Ipod to keep your Christmas season jamming.

1. “Jingle Bells” by Barbra Streisand Streisand’s version of this classic song adds a fun mix of fast and slow-paced beats while maintaining the spirit of the infamous tune.

2. “White Christmas” by Taylor Swift Swift’s sweet voice and touch of country will make all of us South Texas natives want to pack our bags and move to the nearest location where we may actually catch a glimpse of snow to make it our very own white Christmas.

3. “Frosty the Snowman” by Jackson 5 Frosty the Snowman just got even cooler with a few style tips and the amazing vocals that only the Jackson brothers could provide.

4. “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” by Christina Aguilera Leave it to one of the best voices of our generation to belt out these beautiful lyrics in a way that

Young Jeezy “TM 103” 12/14

Michael Jackson “Michael” 12/14

Sources: musicgoogle.com, amazon.com, itsthebinomusic.com, bumpershine. com, stereogum.com, keepittrill.com

SHOWS “A Christmas Carol: The Musical” at San Pedro Playhouse 12/3-12/23

Source: sanpedroplayhouse.com “9 to 5: The Musical” at The Majestic 12/7-12/12

Source: 9to5themusical.com

“A Tuna Christmas” at The Majestic 12/21-12/26

Source: amazonaws.com

MOVIES

nobody else can.

5. “Jingle Bell Rock” by Rascal Flatts The band adds a true touch of rock to this classic remix that will have you playing along with an air guitar.

6.

“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Miley Cyrus This Disney star’s infamous raspy voice and upbeat tempo will make you want to dance around the Christmas tree as well.

7. “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” by Bruce Springsteen Springsteen’s energy will rock the stockings right off your chimney!

8. “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” by Jack Johnson Only Jack Johnson can make us sing a Christmas song to a chill summer beat.

9. “The Little Drummer Boy” by Sean Kingston Kingston greets Christmas with a bit of reggae.

10. “All I want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey No other song will inspire you to write out your Christmas wish list more than this one.

11. “Winter Wonderland” by Jason Mraz Take a break from your hectic holiday shopping and let Mraz’s one of a kind voice guide you through your very own relaxing wonderland.

12. “Santa Baby” by Madonna This catchy melody sung by the Queen of Pop herself will be stuck in your head long after Winter break is over.

Rosario’s flavor profile inspires guests to indulge “Black Swan” 12/1

“TRON: Legacy” 12/17

“The Tourist” 12/10

“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Daw” 11/24

Sources: rottentomatoes.com

By Alex Meyer Staff Writer

Stepping into Rosario’s Café y Cantina, it is easy to see where new and old converge in this popular neighborhood spot. The retro interior provides a lively ambiance that suits the funky and progressive King William neighborhood where the restaurant is located.

Currently, much of the restaurant is being renovated, but the amiable staff and lively crowd make up for this setback.

On evenings, see this hip eatery

fill with young urbanites and families alike. With all kinds of customers, it is easy to feel at home.

Tex-Mex has become a cliché to many in San Antonio, but Rosario’s defies the stereotypes and provides classic staples with some authentic Mexican flavors. The menu is quite extensive, and any fan of Tex-Mex should have no trouble finding a dish here.

The restaurant has become famous for its tomato-roasted salsa, having won numerous awards for this fan favorite.

The salsa certainly did not

disappoint, offering a richer take on this all-too-common Tex-Mex staple. With a hefty serving waiting for guests as they take their seats, it is hard not to indulge here.

For starters, the ceviche is not to be missed. The red onions and jalapenos were marinated perfectly in limejuice. And the large amounts of avocado were a fresh touch, providing a complete flavor profile.

For entrees, the Pescado Veracruz, a pan-seared piece of tilapia topped with a Veracruz sauce, was prepared perfectly.

The sauce proved to be enticing without overpowering. The pollo con mole was another favorite, providing a well-prepared chicken breast coated in Rosario’s famous mole sauce.

The sauce proved to be an authentic Mexican treat.

While Rosario’s may be a little pricier than the average TexMex, diners certainly get what they pay for. This restaurant is the perfect spot for those wanting a fun-filled atmosphere with great Tex-Mex in an exciting neighborhood. Rosario’s is located at 910 S Alamo St.

Entertainment

December 1, 2010

The Rattler 13

www.stmurattlernews.com

Student directs first major production

By Carlos Rodriguez Staff Writer Danielle Garcia, a senior history major, became the first student to ever direct a major production within the university’s draDanielle ma department Garcia this semester.

Garcia, who has a minor in drama, directed “Unexpected Tenderness,” originally written by Israel Horovitz and published in 1995. The well-known play, once featured at the Marilyn Monroe Theatre, revolves around a dysfunctional Jewish family in Massachusetts trying to live with their abusive, unstable father.

“Ever since I was a child I would pretend I was a director with friends.”

- Danielle Garcia

Bernadette Brady, the head of the drama department, said Garcia had some experience directing.

“Danielle Garcia was in a directing class where she had to direct a one act play. Professor Adam Burke was impressed with how well she directed in the class, that he offered Danielle a chance to direct a major play for St. Marys

University,” explained Brady.

So when Garcia got the chance, she decided to direct “Unexpected Tenderness.” The drama department approved her choice and invited Melissa Lara, classification major, to do the costume designs.

Garcia found out she had a passion for drama once she came to the university, but her interest in directing began at a young age.

“Ever since I was a child I would pretend I was a director with friends,” said Garcia. “In high school, I took sports, but once I started at the university, I took theater and enjoyed it.”

“I found it to be a stress reliever and I also had fun. That is when I found out I had a passion for it.”

While directing the play in November, Garcia said she felt excited, but also afraid to disappoint.

“The most difficult thing to do was to convince the actors to try something new and directing them,” Garcia said. “But when they got it, it was exciting.”

Overall, Garcia is happy with the production’s outcome.

“Every night the audience was different and they reacted differently, but I think I achieved what I wanted,” she said.

The last showing of Unexpected Tenderness was held on Nov. 20 in Reinbolt Hall Theatre.

Garcia’s favorite movie is “Beauty and the Beast” and her favorite director is Burke, who is also her mentor.

Her goal after graduation is to be a history and drama teacher.

“Laptop producer” Gregg Gillis makes mash-ups of popular songs. Photo by boncherry.com

‘Girl Talk’ gives array of original mixes Girl Talk “All Day” 

Mike Cortez Staff Writer Our generation might have the shortest attention span of all time and Pittsburgh’s Gregg Gillis of Girl Talk is fully aware.

Gregg Gillis, the biomedical engineer-turned-“laptop producer,” is back with his latest album of mash-ups — and it’s a monster.

Mash-ups are songs composed of samples from other songs. The first track, aptly titled “Oh No,” sucks you in with Black Sabbath’s classic “War Pig” guitar riff mixed with bits of 2Pac and Jay-Z and a surplus of Ludacris. Before you can get tired of the guitars, Gillis

introduces the intro beat of JayZ’s “Empire State of Mind,” which begins the segue into dance favorite “Teach Me How To Dougie,” sampled over Jane’s Addiction’s cult-hit “Jane Says”.

The first track alone has at least 21 samples, with all other tracks essentially following suit.

Gillis has indirectly created waves in the music industry due to his use of copyrighted material.

On this album, Gillis definitely pushes his use to the limit as “All Day” is his longest album to date with samples running for well over a minute at certain points in the album. He claims that fair use protects his use of other artists’ work to create something original. Fortunately, his point is valid considering most of Gillis’ best mixes are the ones that go on for over a minute.

Gillis’ use of a plethora of music, ranging in age from

decades-old to months-old, in a new light should not be made an issue of as the sounds created by Girl Talk create something completely new; and, in many cases, much better than the original. You have not heard Phoenix’s “1901,” Beyonce’s “Diva” or Ludacris’ “How Low” sound better than they do combined together on track 11 “Triple Double.”

Simply put, Gillis is a musical genius. He proves every naysayer that ever complained that people who do not play instruments are not musicians dead wrong.

Some people will hate the quick pace of the mixing, but many will love and appreciate what Gillis has brought to the table, which is a profound appreciation for music that will elevate your taste, your style and keep your attention deficit at an alltime low.

Kanye synthesizes different genres to create new hip-hop masterpiece Kanye West “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” 

Sean O’Kelley Staff Writer Who does Kanye West think he is? Honestly.

He interrupts Taylor Swift’s first Video Music Award, acts like a d-bag to anyone and everyone and he still has the audacity to claim repeatedly that he’s the voice of a generation. A genius is what he claims to be. But you know what the worst part is? He is right.

His latest release, “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” is an epic masterpiece of the rap world, blending elements of rock, indie,

soul, electronica, classical and of course, rap. This album is the most finely tuned 66 minutes that the rap world has ever seen. The album is stunning from start to finish, with only a few low points. It drives and flows beginning to end, without a single boring moment.

It is exciting, sexy, heartbreaking and vastly innovative all at once.

Too many rap albums fall into the same trap: too many tracks, too few good ones, lack of variation and originality. This album not only avoids these pitfalls, but hurdles, nay, flies over them. At a cool 13 tracks (one of them being an interlude) that hover around an ambitious five-minute song length, the album is kept concise. Every single one of these tracks is pure gold.

The variation is absolutely perfect; every track is distinct, but they all have a little bit in common:

Kanye West bares his heart and soul on his new album, creating an epic and powerful masterpiece for his fans. Photo by desktopexchange.com a clean, semi-baroque feel to it, as if the album lives in some private museum housed in a mansion owned by a crazy billionaire.

However, variation, originality and an appropriate amount of

tracks alone do not make a masterpiece. Rather, what makes this album the best album of the year and the greatest rap album I have ever heard is the heart in it. Kanye bares his soul here, more so than he ever

has before. He came close in parts of “Graduation” and “808’s” to total catharsis, it is not until this album that he finally figures out how to do it. And, my, does he.

In the nine-minute “Runaway,” Kanye weaves a heartbreaking plea to a woman to “run away from me baby” into a complex epic that draws as many tears as it does awe. This pattern continues into the rest of the album, particularly the crushing “Blame Game.”

This album is one of those albums that are powerful enough to leave a lasting impact on you. It’s going to leave you in shock; it’s going to leave you with that feeling you get after you saw that one movie you really like the first time.

So, has Kanye finally earned the right to be the jerk he is? I don’t know. I don’t really care. All I know is that he is the author of one of the greatest albums of our time.

Sports

14 The Rattler

December 1, 2010

www.stmurattlernews.com

Calendar Men’s basketball 12/8 12/11 12/30 1/6 1/8

1/10 1/13

1/15 1/20

1/27

1/29

at Angelo State University Dallas Christian College Angelo State University St. Edward’s University University of Texas Permian Basin at Dallas Baptist University Oklahoma Panhandle State University Newman University at University of Arkansas- Fort Smith Texas A&M International University St. Thomas University

7 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

8 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

8 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

8 p.m.

8 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Women’s basketball 12/3

12/4

12/16

12/17

12/30 1/3 1/6 1/8

1/13

1/20

1/27

at University of Arkansas Monticello at Southern Arkansas University at Central Washington University at Western Washington University Tarleton State University at Angelo State University St. Edward’s University University of Texas Permian Basin Oklahoma Panhandle State University at University of Arkansas- Fort Smith at Texas A&M International University

7:30 p.m.

12 p.m.

11 a.m.

1 p.m.

4 p.m.

6 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

Highlight Reel

Game Results

basketball basketball basketball basketball basketball basketball basketball basketball

Women’s basketball

Men’s basketball

Rugby football club

Nov. 27: Bellarmine University WIN, score 63-53

Nov. 26: Southeastern Oklahoma State University WIN, score 72-65

Nov. 20: University of Houston LOSS, score 73-0

Nov. 28: Southern Indiana University LOST, score 48-61

Nov. 27: Texas A&M University-Commerce LOST, score 62-84

Men’s soccer team: what happened?

By Daniel Aguilar Senior Staff Writer The men’s soccer team may have fought hard, but their performance fell short this season.

The fall semester soccer season appeared to be a successful one after they won their home and season opener, but things quickly turned around after the first couple of games “I think it was a sign of things to come.

It was the first game, we were a little shaky at time,” head coach Querande “Que” Willis said. “When we put it together, we walked all over them.”

The Rattlers would pick up a 1-3 record before heading into a tough game against St. Edward’s on Sept. 24. St. Mary’s fought hard and came out with a 1-0 win.

“We were just the better team,” Willis said. “St. Edward’s couldn’t have their heads down because they lost to a better team that day.”

After a proud win at St. Edward’s, the men’s team faced cross-town rivals and former conference competitors, University of the Incarnate Word on Sept. 26. Despite the Rattlers having an early chance in the beginning, UIW seemed more up to the challenge than the Rattlers.

“That was the first game we came out

Junior defensive forward Joseph Jennings attempts to steal the ball during a game against the University of Houston at Victoria. Photo by Alex Diaz flat,” Willis said. “At half-time we had a heart-to-heart [and] came out second a better team. Playing Incarnate Word on their field, you cannot play for 45 minutes and win.”

The men’s team dropped in form after the UIW game, picking up four losses, giving the Rattlers a 2-8 record. A visit to nationally ranked Eastern New Mexico

University on Oct. 17 would give them their third win of the season. After a game at University of Texas Permian Basin that same week, which resulted in a loss, the Rattlers faced the UIW Cardinals at home.

The team yielded the same score as their first encounter, a 3-0 loss. The men’s team then faced West Texas A&M and St. Edward’s in the same weekend.

During both games, St. Mary’s opened up the scoring. St. Mary’s lead St. Edward’s by two before giving up the lead to amazing shots from thirty-five and eighteen yards out. St. Edward’s handed the men’s team a 2-3 loss.

During the West Texas A&M game, St. Mary’s had many chances but only put one in the back of the net. West Texas was awarded a free kick and scored from the spot. West Texas would go on to score two, giving the Rattlers a 1-3 loss.

Then, St. Mary’s hit the road for their last two games. The Rattlers suffered a 4-0 loss at Truman State University on Nov. 5. However, the Rattlers finished strong with a 1-3 conference win over Newman University a mere 2 days later. The men’s team finished the season with a 4-13-0 over all record.

“What I’m looking forward to [next season] is getting the wins and playing well,” Willis said.

Home games in bold

Women’s soccer team gains experience in season Sports Around Campus

By Daniel Aguilar Senior Staff Writer

Rugby The Rattler rugby football club will be playing the University of Texas at San Antonio in a home game on Dec. 2nd. The teams first official cup match will be on January 22nd against Angelo State University.

This year, the women’s soccer team set out to redeem themselves after a disappointing 2009 season.

Head coach Corwyn Ritch made sure the team began their 2010 season with a stretch of home games, hoping that the home crowd would inspire the team to a promising start.

Unfortunately, the Rattlers finished their four game home stretch with a 1-3 record. The lone win was due to efforts from freshman midfielder Jamey Coronado’s hat trick.

“It was awesome, I was so surprised that it happened,” Coronado said. “I was given great assists, I do not know how I couldn’t have finished them.”

The home losses were especially hard for senior captain Carolina Hernandez because she said friends and

Women’s basketball The women’s basketball team competed in a tournament over the Thanksgiving vacation in which they gained one win and one loss. The team shut out Bellarmine University with a score of 6353 and lost to Southern Indiana University with a score of 48-61.

Men’s basketball The Rattlers have had a shaky start to the 20102011 basketball season. They recently beat Southeastern Oklahoma State University only to lose to Texas A&M University-Commerce the next day.

family were watching with high expectations.

The team made up for their losses on the road, where for the next seven games, the Rattlers would only lose one and tie in another. With a 6-41 record, the team was full of confidence and momentum.

Hernandez said that the success on the road was due to team unity and playing for each other rather than for individual glory.

The next game for the women’s team was against Newman University on Oct. 9, at home. The Rattlers played without their captain for the majority of the game.

Hernandez’s absence, for 75 of the 90 minutes, was due to a pre-scheduled LSAT test.

“It was one of the most stressful days of my life,” Hernandez said.

The Rattlers stepped on the field feeling a bit nervous that their captain was not

there with them, according to Coronado.

“When she came to the game, I think everyone started feeling better,” Coronado said.

“But they were an aggressive team and we just didn’t adjust to them fast enough.”

After a frustrating 0-1 home loss to Newman, the women’s team traveled to Austin on Oct. 14 to face St. Edward’s.

The Hilltoppers put two goals in the back of St. Mary’s net, resulting in a 2-0 loss.

Ritch said that the loss was primarily due to the team’s youth.

“That was a situation where a young team can be easily intimidated,” Ritch said.

“I do not think they realized they belonged on the field, at that point, with a team like St. Edward’s who was undefeated and top 10 in the country.”

After the loss at St. Edward’s, the Rattlers played four away games where

they managed to get three conference wins and one tie.

For the final game of the season, St. Mary’s faced St. Edward’s at home on Nov. 6.

The young side would gain confidence after an early goal from Coronado.

“It was weird. I just remember getting an open pass and there was no one really on me. I just shot it and I do not even think the goalie moved,” Coronado said. “The game ended in a 1-0 win for St. Mary’s. The women’s team finished second in conference and barely missed a spot in the national tournament.”

The Rattlers finished with a 7-2-1 conference record and a 10-6-2 overall.

“Next year, this team’s attitude, the player’s attitude, is to make that national tournament,” Ritch said.

“They truly have the belief that they can and that they will.”

Sports

December 1, 2010

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Golf coach focuses on strengthening each player’s talents

By Veronica Martinez Sports Editor Walking into golf coach Wes Skidmore’s office you will see walls covered in team photos, trophies and awards from his nine years of coaching. Under his desk, are boxes containing even more awards. Skidmore has high hopes that the men’s and women’s teams will win the Heartland Conference title, win the region title and make it all the way to the National Championship this coming spring.

What are you looking forward to in the spring?

“My goal is to be very competitive. We had a good fall and I would like them to pick up where they left off and to keep their momentum. Right now we are ranked fourth in Regionals and first in the Heartland Conference.

But it is not going to be easy in the spring; we are going to have to work hard because nobody is going to lay down for you.”

Who do you have high expectations for in the spring?

“Well I expect a lot out of everybody. It takes five people playing together, one person cannot do it all. One guy can shoot

low scores but you know when they take four of the five scores that are being played, everyone still has to play good.”

somebody grab your rebound and make it if you miss a shot like in basketball; it is just you and that golf ball.”

What do the men’s and women’s teams need to do to make this season better than last years?

“Winning conference instead of coming in second would be a difference. Then there is getting in the top five in regionals and qualifying for nationals. I think we have a chance to do it, providing they work hard and make good decisions. Golf is a game of execution, you have to execute your shots. You do not have

What have you been doing this fall to prepare for the spring season?

“On Mondays and Wednesdays we do conditioning and weights.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays we work on skills, and I give them Friday and the weekend off.”

The University Programming Council enacted “Operation Taylor Swift” at this semesters Rattler Madness. In an effort to bring Taylor Swift on campus students were recorded lifting signs from under their chairs and yelling, “Taylor Swift, you belong here!” Photo by Veronica Martinez

What kinds of workouts has the team been doing during the offseason?

“We have them doing a lot of

drills with medicine balls, working on the abs and their golf swing.

In golf you are not concerned about bulk, you just want to build strength but you want to keep you flexibility. It is a good program; I got with a guy named Chris Nichols, who trains a lot of professional golfers and also trains the Stanford men and women golf teams. I had a chance to meet him and sit down with him and we traded ideas. The team’s workout is a combination of things that I put in and what he has advised. So it is a good program.”

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December 1, 2010

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THE

HOT LIVING UP TO EXPECTATIONS

SEAT

Photo by Robin Johnson Full Name: Camille “Cami” Adele Furgeson Major: English and communication Arts Classification: Sophomore How long have you been playing golf?

“I have been playing golf for six years, and I started when I was a freshman in high school.”

Why did you choose to come to St. Mary’s?

“I liked the one-on-one relationship atmosphere between students and teachers. I wanted to play Division 2 golf, and I fit in well with the girls on the golf team. I really like the golf coach Wes Skidmore, and I wanted to attend college outside of California.”

Pressure is on the men’s basketball team after ranking No. 1 in a Heartland Conference preseason poll.

By Jessica Valles Staff Writer With a full basketball season ahead of them, the men’s basketball team has a lot to live up to. Recently, the team was ranked No. 1 in the preseason poll by coaches within the Heartland Conference.

Zeleznak said he believes that the Rattlers’ preseason rank is a result of the team’s consistent practicing.

“It is nice to know that people think highly of players who are coming back and that we are perceived to be a top team,” Zeleznak said.

Junior shooting guard Jeff Campbell is proud of the ranking, but admits the team started the season off kind of slow.

“It is nice knowing that other coaches think that we are the team to beat,” Campbell said. “But we always have to come ready to play and be ready for everyone else’s A-game.”

This year, the team consists of experienced players as well as four new freshmen, but the team’s work ethic has allowed them to build chemistry.

Sophomore shooting guard John Roberts, who played for Zeleznak last basketball season, is trying to mesh well with his new teammates but sees some room for improvement.

“I think our weakness right now would be communication, just talking on the court. Our strength is that we work really well as a team,” Roberts said. “A lot

of us have been together for a long time.

The chemistry on the team is really good.”

Zeleznak used the preseason scrimmages to see how the old and new members will play together this season.

“We had a limited time to adjust with new players and transferred players,” Zeleznak said. “It is a learning process for everyone. We have a wide variety of combos to get a feel for who plays better with each other. It also depends on what happens when they are out on the court with lights on them and the crowd yelling.”

As for playing time, post-positioned players will have a substantial share of minutes as “the strength of the team,” according to Zeleznak. The guards’ performance in games will determine their playing time throughout the season.

Thus far, injuries have been minimal, but the level of consistency from the team is one of coach Zeleznak’s biggest concerns.

Even thought the Cardinals are no longer in the Heartland Conference, both Campbell and Roberts agreed that they are looking forward to playing University of the Incarnate Word this semester.

“Any team we play that is in our conference will be an exciting game,” said Roberts.

Last year, the Rattlers made it all the way to the final game of the Heartland Conference against the Cardinals only to lose in literally the last seconds of the game.

How do you manage your time between school and golf?

“I start my school days off at 8 a.m. every morning. By the time I am back from golf, I usually do not get to start my homework until 7 p.m.

I force myself to stay on top of my work, and try not to get behind.

Delta Zeta is a big help because of the study hours; it allows me to study with my sisters and we sit and help each other on our homework.”

What is your favorite thing about golf?

“Going on road trips with the team for tournaments; we are all like sisters, and we have a blast at all of our tournaments!”

What are your plans after you graduate?

“To move back to California to become a corporate event planner for the Professional Golf Association.”

Compiled by Veronica Martinez

Photo by Analicia Perez