Vol. 102, No. 7 - 09/10/2014

Kenyan triplets

11

SPORTS

ENTERTAINMENT

6

FEATURES

COMMENTARY Police brutality

12

Barrio Barista

Volume 102 Issue 6

16

Volleyball preview

89 t h Year of Publication

www.stmurattlernews.com

September 10, 2014

NEWS MEDIA EXACERBATES ACCUSATIONS OF UNIVERSITY LAW STUDENT Alexander Eakins Editor-in-Chief @anderseakins

Photo by Mat Martinez Danielle Garcia, senior Political Science major from Mercedes, TX, reads about World War I in one of the books assigned to students by english teachers to prepare students for the Community Reading Experience on Oct. 29.

Reading to Tamara Garcia Managing Editor @tamvicgar The Community Reading Experience (CRE) taking place this semester in classrooms across campus focuses on World War I (WWI) literature as a means to connect the University community.

The CRE coordinators, associate professor Kathleen Maloney and visiting lecturer Melissa Scully, have organized the main event to take place Oct. 29 in UC-A. It will consist of a fourperson panel followed by a question and answer session.

Instead of inviting a

Remember

local author—as has been Members of the panel done twice previously— include French Collections duo Maloney and Scully Research Associate chose to focus on Elizabeth Garver, Ph.D., WWI literature. along with literary scholar “This year we decided to and published author try something a little bit Frank Kersnowski, Ph.D., different...we and university chose to focus This year we decided alumnus and on the reading to try something a veteran Maj. e x p e r i e n c e little bit different...we Gen. Alfred itself and on chose to focus on the Valenzuela. experience r e a d e r s , ” reading T h e itself and on readers.” panelists will Scully said.

She noted all come at Melissa Scully the topic of that the Visiting Lecturer, WWI flexibility “from English Department very different of the topic allows various directions,” disciplines on campus Scully said. to incorporate pieces Each member of the of WWI literature into panel will have a 15-minute CONTINUED ON P. 3 their curriculum.

A St. Mary’s law student stands accused of arson and attempted murder linked to a singular incident in Louisiana, but contradictory reports have led to confusion about the accusations.

According to Chief of the University Police Department (UPD), David Ott, the U.S. Marshall Service contacted him Aug. 12 to provide information about Matthew Alexander, a second year law student who reportedly had warrants out for his arrest on murder and arson charges in Ouachita Parish, Louisiana.

In actuality the charges against Alexander are two counts of attempted murder and two counts of arson, one simple and one aggravated. No injuries or deaths resulted from the incident despite the fact that a Monroe official’s filing error led reporters to believe that the student was arrested on murder charges.

“We have a student who has some really serious allegations against him,” Dean of Students Timothy Bessler said.

“A media headline of murder versus attempted murder has very different reactions and implications.”

When stories broke that Alexander had been arrested on murder CONTINUED ON P. 2

2 \ NEWS Upcoming Events

stmurattlernews.com Featured Photo

Pray for Lost Lives A memorial mass will be held on Sept. 11 at 12:30 p.m. in Guadalupe chapel in remembrance of Sept. 11.

Jubilate with Marianists Marianist Jubilarians will be celebrated for 50, 70 and 80 years of professed vows or ordination on Friday, Sept. 12 at 4 p.m. in UC President’s Dining Room Foyer.

Explore the Middle East Gökhan Bacik, Ph.D., dean and professor at Ipek University in Anakara, Turkey will discuss Middle East political developments and the future of Islamic movements on Thurday, Sept. 18 at 7:00 pm in the AACC Hospitality Suite.

Enjoy a Film Join RHA for a campus-wide movie night on Friday, Sept.

19. Time and location TBD. For more details, call SATP at 210436-3436.

Police Blotter 8.21.14 A theft was reported in Flores Hall.

Case under investigation.

8.22.14 A sexual assault was reported off campus. Case cleared and referred to SAPD. 8.23.14 A person was reported for pulic intoxication in Lourdes Hall. Case cleared.

8.30.14 A vehicle was burglarized in Lot B. Case active.

9.4.14 A person was given a criminal trespass warning. Case cleared. read more online at STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

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 memeber 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 letter to the editor. Letters should not exceed 500 words and must include writer’s name, classification, major, and telephone number.

Editors reserve the right to edit submissions for length, grammar, spelling and content. For more information, call the newsroom at (210) 436-3401 or email rattlernews@ gmail.com.

Policy on Newspaper Theft Due to high production costs, members of the St. Mary’s University community are permitted one copy per issue. Where available, additional copies may be purchased (for 50 cents each) by contacting The Rattler newsroom. Newspaper theft is a crime. Those who violate the single copy rule may be subject to civil and criminal prosecution and/or subject to university discipline.

Contact Us The Rattler St. Mary’s University One Camino Santa Maria Box 83 San Antonio, TX 78228 Office: (210) 436 - 3401 Visit Us: University Center Room 258

St. Mary’s students volunteer at Catholic Charities during Continuing the Heritage. | Photo courtesy of Robin Jerstad

from cover

LAW STUDENT charges, University administration knew the stories were inaccurate.

However, not having complete data released to them yet, they had to wait to make an official report, according to Bessler.

Once official records were released, University President Mengler sent an email

clarifying that there was only one instance of arson in Louisiana, and it did not result in injuries or deaths.

UPD spotted Alexander’s car parked outside the law classroom where Alexander was in class, Ott said. After waiting for Alexander to leave class, UPD made the arrest without incident. Bessler applauded the work.

“It is a perfect example

of how their team works with the institution to help keep campus safe, and really doing it in a very respectful way for the student and an appropriate way for the community,” Bessler said.

Ott said he did not believe the student posed any danger to the community because he allegedly only disputed with one person, bearing in mind that Alexander

has not been convicted.

Senior English communication arts major Nicole Gomez, an acquaintance of Alexander’s, said the accusations shocked her.

“It was completely out of his character,” Gomez said.

Alexander is not registered for the fall semester.

UPD offers new online parking permit system Karla Martin Contributing Writer Beginning this semester, the University Police Department began providing parking permits online.

The new registration process is simple, quick and online according to Chief of University Police, David Ott. It requires students to fill in their information and print a temporary permit to use before their sticker is ready at the University Police Department (UPD).

“It was done for the convenience of the students...and most universities are doing it that way,” Ott said.

This system also benefits students without cars on campus, according to Ott. The students are no longer automatically charged at the beginning of the

semester. The charge appears on students’ accounts only if they have registered for a parking permit, saving students without cars the time and hassle of emailing UPD to delete the parking permit charge from their accounts.

For students who park their cars on campus, it may seem like they now pay double what they paid last year—the price having increased to $120 from $60, Ott said. With the new system, however, the $120 charge pays for the whole year, rather than one semester, providing another convenience factor for students, according to Ott. “[Now] they won’t have to come register their vehicle in January,” Ott said.

While UPD views the system update as a positive change, some

students graduating in December are disgruntled by the full year charge.

Michael Rodriguez, senior finance major, plans to graduate in December and feels the system change has complicated his parking experience.

“I am not happy with the new parking permit situation,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve talked to the police station and they told me that I would only have to pay $40 [for the fall semester] but needed to talk to the business office.

The business office said the official list of graduating students will be compared to the list of parking permits, and I’ll receive a refund check at the end of the semester.”

Though she will not graduate until May, Anhalie Farias, senior music and Spanish

education major, also feels discontent about the changes.

“It’s ridiculous, the price change, but I cannot do anything about it because I need my parking permit,” Farias said. Students who have not experienced the previous system for registration have different opinions about the online system.

April Lerma, freshman biology major, appreciates the efficiency of the system.

“My experience for registration for the parking permit was easy and simple. I did not need to leave the comfort of my room to register. I also like the idea of being able to register online because it only took a few minutes of my time…and the cost of the permit is reasonable,” Lerma said.

NEWS / 3

stmurattlernews.com READING timeslot to present.

They will then move into the Q&A segment, which consists of tables with various topics of discussion led by members of the panel and others of diverse backgrounds.

While the English department faculty is not required to participate, many have chosen to partake on differing levels.

“Some [faculty] are participating extensively and teaching World War I throughout the semester while others just might spend a day in class with World War I poetry, and both of those are completely okay,” Scully said.

Freshman political science major Barbara Falcon-Mendoza has read several WWI articles for her Rhetoric and Composition class with Scully.

“We have read articles that outline the geography, causes and country reactions to WWI, and will use these and other articles to write our research papers.”

Falcon-Mendoza said.

Along with WWIrelated in-class

discussions and reading assignments, students and faculty have access to The Fourth Annual Community Reading Experience Research Guide compiled by Reference and Instruction Librarian and professor Diane Duesterhoeft and Business and Distance Learning Librarian and associate professor Necia Wolff through the Louis J. Blume Library website.

“We really like the idea that people all over

campus are reading texts about this historical event,” Scully said. “It’s the centenary [of WWI], and there are all kinds of celebrations going on.

We just wanted to be part of that.”

Maloney and Scully will also be distributing red poppy flowers—“the universal symbol of honoring the fallen”— that are handmade by veterans at the Veterans of Foreign Wars club located downtown, according to Scully.

B U R N I N G QUESTION

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Photo by Mathew Martinez

What are St. Mary’s plans for the grassy lot across from campus on the corner of Camino Santa Maria?

“

from cover

The green space was originally created when we took a building out of service that was too old to continue operations. In addition, the property was causing draining problems for the neighbors.

St. Mary’s supports creating green spaces within the neighborhood, such as the corner of Woodlawn and Santa Maria and just east of the campus on Cincinnati.

Rebeckah Day Vice President of Administration and Finance

Falcon reads WWI articles for her class. | Photo by Mathew Martinez

Software glitch decreases class of 2018 enrollment residence hall for first-year students only—now also houses upperclassmen, creating a mixed environment for students living there.

“When I first found out I was scared because I wanted to live in Lourdes. I thought it was going to be hectic living in the same building as freshmen. Then I realized how homey Dougherty is, and now I really love it here,” junior criminology major Jose Salas said.

Though specific details are unknown among students, speculations about the admissions glitch include the loss of information.

“I heard that the whole system was messed up, so admission letters were lost in the mail, or were never sent,” Jean-Claude Prudhomme, sophomore finance

and risk management major, said.

The significantly lower class of 2018 enrollment has also led to campuswide budget cuts, Petrusch said.

“There is an extremely thoughtful awareness of budget cuts across administration, and those cuts are being managed to have the least possible impact on students,” Petrusch emphasized.

Although the freshmen population did not meet this year’s enrollment goal, the 132 transfer students surpassed the campus goal of 120 students, alleviating some of the low-enrollment stress.

After falling short of the enrollment goal, the admissions office has increased their awareness of necessary campus and

enrollment changes and the improvements needed to recover from this setback.

“When you fall short of a goal, you use it as an impetus to look for ways to improve,” Petrusch said.

FRESHMEN ENROLLMENT BY THE NUMBERS Freshmen

Applicants

3,743

Accepted

2,295

Enrolled

585

Applicants

4,372

Accepted

2,672

Enrolled

Year

2010-2011

A system glitch in the software used by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions caused a lower enrollment than expected for the class of 2018 and resulted in budget cuts across campus.

According to Suzanne M. Petrusch, Vice President of Enrollment Management, the Office of Undergraduate Admissions depends on the admissions tracking software to assist in many aspects of the enrollment process.

“The software system is the nucleus of everything that is received from potential students, and the software system manages all of that data,” Petrusch said.

As of Aug. 15, the

class of 2018 totaled 480 students, approximately 100 less than last year’s freshmen class.

With a failure at their core system, they have contacted their software system officials and sent their staff for system training to resolve the issue, according to Petrusch.

Having discontinued their previous software system, the admissions office signed an affidavit for a new software system before starting recruitment for the class of 2018, according to Petrusch.

A failure within the system created a few setbacks for several departments on campus, including Residence Life and the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

Dougherty Residence Hall—previously a

641

2011-2012

Sarah Palomares Contributing Writer

Compiled by Tamara Garcia Source: Office of Institutional Effectiveness

4 \ CAMPUS BITES

stmurattlernews.com

The Rattler Word Search amazon arson barista Beyonce brutality bus costs Greek intramurals Kenya perform poppy

prevention quiddich reading reporters soccer spotlight tournament triplets veteran volleyball war

The first 3 Rattler readers to bring in their completed word searches to the newsroom (UC 258) will win a prize!

St. Mary’s University

THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY Graduating Exceptional Leaders

Kelsey Davis (B.B.A. ’14) Marketing major from San Antonio • Member of the Greehey Scholars Program • Studied abroad in Malaysia • Interned with USAA and continued as a full-time marketing account manager after graduation

SCHEDULE A TOUR www.stmarytx.edu 1-800-367-7868 San Antonio, Texas | Since 1852

THANK YOU

The Office of Residence Life would like to say:

to the following individuals for having a positive impact on our students and the campus community.

Dr. Armando Abney Mr. Michael Ackel Ms. Claire Acosta Matos Dr. Rosalind Alderman Ms. Cindy Alejos Ms. Ana Alicea Dr. Mehran Aminian Dr. Janet Armitage Mr. Kyle Ashton Dr. Amber Aubone Prof. Flordelia Balite Ms. Jennifer Barrera Ms. Chelsea Beltran Prof. Diane Bertrand Dr. Tim Bessler Ms. Barbara Biasiolli Mr. Jesus Bocanegra Dr. Teri Boggess Dr. Lori Boies Ms. Ruby Boone Ms. Leah Bowen Ms. Charity Bowen-Miller Dr. Andrew Brei Mr. Brian Buchmeyer Mr. Jerome Budomo Dr. William Burhman Mr. Stefano Cabello Dr. Richard Cardenas Ms. Sonia Cisneros Dr. Fransesca Coley Dr. Milo Colton Dr. Veronica ContrerasShannon Mr. Aaron Cook Mr. Luis Cortez Dr. Suzanne Cory Dr. Charles Cotrell Ms. MayaCuellar Dr. Rose Cutting Dr. Bonita Dattner-Garza Dr. Colette Daubner Coach Lisa Dausin Mr. Nelson Delgado Prof. Derek Delgado Mr. Jarred Deptawa Ms. Priscilla Dethmann Dr. Gwendolyn Diaz Dr. Amy Diepenbrock Prof. John Drabier Ms. Pamela Duffy Prof. Cyra Dumitru Dr. Ryan Dunning

Mr. Hernan Duran Fr. Tim Eden Coach Chris Ermis Ms. Yasmin Fahim Ms. Kimberlee Ferris Coach Donna Fields Prof. Christopher Fremaux Dr. Ahmad Galaleldeen Ms. Elizabeth Garcia Dr. Sonia Garcia Ms. Jesusita Garcia Ms. Alisha Garcia Ms. Holly Garwood Holly Garwood Ms. Guadalupe Garza Dr. Mary Lynn Gasaway Hill Dr. Kenneth Gilley Dr. Irwin Goldberg Ms. Jenee Gonzales Mr. Joseph Gonzales Dr. Stefanie Gonzalez Prof. Patricia Gonzalez Prof. Jack Gonzalez Dr. Christine Gray Dr. Art Hanna Dr. Todd Hanneken Mr. Pete Hansen Prof. Holly Harrison Ms. Leticia Hart Dr. Michael Hershberger Mr. Matthieu Hertilus Dr. Daniel Higgins Dr. Heather Hill Ms. Beth Hish Dr. Larry Hufford Dr. Chip Hughes Dr. Jordan Humphrey Dr. Djaffer Ibaroudene Ms. Betty Ibarra Dr. Celine Jacquemine Mr. Raymond Jaszcz Prof. James Joffe Dr. Jeffrey Johnson Mr. Robert Johnson Dr. Gail Kaciuba Dr. Eddie Kalmykov Prof. Jim Kalson Ms. Ann Karam Prof. Paul Kasper Ms. Mercedes Kelso Dr. Alice Kersnowski Dr. Dmitriy Khon

Dr. Sheri King Mr. Ryan Konkright Mr. Dave Krause Ms. Marcy LaBossiere Dr. Margaret Langford Ms. Tricia Lathen Dr. Mike Lecocke Ms. Kathe Lehman-Meyer Mr. Jimmy Linehan Dr. Mark Lokensgard Dr. Pedro Lopez Dr. Michael Losiewicz Dr. Wenbin Luo Dr. Anna Lurie Dr. Ted Macrini Dr. Kathleen Maloney Dr. Lucien Manchester Dr. Zaida Martinez Prof. Guillermo Martinez Bro. Jose Matos Auffant Dr. Marshall McCue Ms. DeAna McCusky Dr. Colin McQuillan Mr. Nicholas Medina President Tom Mengler Coach Bubba Meyer Mr. Fred Meyer Dr. Evelynn Mitchell Ms. Janie Moncada Dr. Rafael Moras Dr. Aaron Moreno Mr. Nico Moreno-Cely Mr. Ryan Munoz Dr. Megan Mustain Ms. Yamel Muzquiz Ms. Elisa Noriega Prof. Erin O’Brien Dr. Gary Ogden Ms. Marivel Ojeda Mr. Joey Ortiz Dr. Patricia Owen Ms. Nina Ownes Dr. Susan Oxley Ms. Cheyenne Palmer Ms. Jackie Pena Mr. Chad Peters Bro. Tim Pieprzyca Dr. Jillian Pierucci Dr. Greg Pool Dr. Richard Pressman Dr. Tim Raabe Ms. Yolanda Ramirez

*According to the results of the Spring 2014 ACUHO-I/WebEBI Resident Assessment.

Ms. Sabina Ramirez Ms. Letty Ramirez Mr. Armando Ramos Dr. John Rankin Dr. Carol Redfield Mr. Pillar Resendez Ms. Gina Rezaie Dr. Bahman Rezaie Mr. Pete Rivera Prof. Roy Robbins Mr. Derek Rodriguez Ms. Melissa Romero Mr. Wayne Romo Dr. Ito Romo Dr. Bradley Root Ms. Rebecca Rutledge Dr. Jeff Schoonover Prof. Melissa Scully Dr. Sam Sedki Ms. Lisa Sellers Dr. Jason Shaw Dr. Jason Shaw Dr. Tanuja Singh Ms. Kathy Sisoian Ms. Maria Smith Dr. David Sommer Ms. Stephanie Soto Dr. Rick Sperling Prof. Brian St. John Ms.Cindy Stooksberry Dr. Albert Sun Dr. John Teeter Fr. JimTobin Ms. Nora Torres Prof. David Turner Dr. Paul Uhlig Mr. Ben Underwood Dr. Teresa Van Hoy Mr. Randy Varela Dr. Arturo Vega Ms. Teri Villa Mr. James Villarreal Ms. Michelle Vogel Dr. Stephanie Ward Ms. Cassandra Wentz Dr. Brad Whitener Mr. John Wickline Mr. Curtis Wilkins Dr. Jennifer Zwahr-Castro All the Marianists

6 \ COMMENTARY

stmurattlernews.com

Campus prepares to address assault concerns

Students wanting to learn how to protect themselves can attend the RAD programs every Wednesday in September. | Photo by Mathew Martinez

Eric Rodriguez Commentary Editor @eric_rr33 Increased reporting has led to heated discussion about U.S. college responses to sexual assault, and St. Mary’s is no exception.

Some administrations have been scrutinized for sweeping sexual assault allegations under the rug. This leaves alleged perpetrators to continue their actions, while victims are left reeling from the effects of sexual assault.

Conversation among administrations on campuses across the U.S. started in 2011, when the Department of Education’s Office for

Civil Rights sent out a Dear Colleague letter to administrations across the country.

This letter examines the importance of adhering to Title IX regulations regarding sexual violence. Title IX is commonly brought up in regards to women’s athletics. However, Title IX is a law stating that “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.”

It also mandates that regardless of whether a criminal investigation

occurs, the university must conduct its own investigation. The Dear Colleague letter was a way to encourage a reevaluation of sexual assault policy on campuses.

Dean of Students Tim Bessler and Title IX Coordinator Elsa Ibanez have been hard at work ensuring our campus community is safe at all times.

As part of an effort to lessen the chances of sexual assault occurring, they have rolled out the Campus Clarity program— an online course for freshmen regarding choices students may face regarding drugs or alcohol. There is also a University policy and sexual assault prevention component to the course.

Six faculty members are also Title IX investigators— administrators trained to properly respond when allegations of sexual violence occur.

An emphasis on awareness for faculty and staff members is also important to the administration.

Faculty and staff are also receiving training on how to handle reports of sexual assault. In compliance with the Federal Clery Act, when an alleged sexual assault occurs on campus, St. Mary’s sends an email to students. This aims to raise awareness of crimes occurring, and also lets students know there is support from the administration.

In the event of sexual violence, a student should feel safe reporting the incident to an RA or someone in administration. St. Mary’s faculty and staff are trained to counsel both sides through the process, determining both what happened and what corrective actions are necessary.

Student Psychological and Testing Services is available to provide help and healing after such an event. Administration can invite support from ministers on campus,

and the right to involve University Police is also available to victims.

Both parties work to ensure proper treatment of the case. As a campus community, there are several things students can do to ensure the safety of our campus.

Look out for one another and do not be afraid to remove friends from situations that could turn dangerous.

The Dean of Students Office and Judicial Affairs will be looking for students to undergo training to teach the best ways to intercede when there is the possibility of sexual assault.

St. Mary’s is taking many approaches to ensure our campus community is safe.

Students who are victims of sexual violence have a long road to recovery, but the St. Mary’s community is available to help students facing that road.

If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault and needs assistance: Student Psychological and Testing Services: (210) 436-3135 University Police: (210) 431-1911

ISIS kills reporters, US must balance war and peace Alex Eakins Editor-in-Chief @andersdeakins *Disclaimer: contains graphic material A bloodied, severed head sits upon the stomach of a murdered man, a warning. Only the left side of his face, flesh white, reminds viewers that this isn’t Hollywood.

That is the reality of the situation in the Middle East.

The victim was not simply a man but an American, an American with a name, an American whose death might have been prevented.

In response to a series of U.S. airstrikes authorized by President Obama on Aug. 8, the Al Qaeda splinter terrorist group and selfproclaimed caliphate, the Islamic State in Iraq

and Syria (ISIS), released video of Steven Sotloff’s beheading on Sept. 2, the second journalist in a two-week span to lose his life in such a graphic manner.

“Obama, your foreign policy of intervention in Iraq was supposed to be for the preservation of American lives and interests, so why is it that I am paying the price of your interference with my life. Am I not an American citizen?”

Sotloff said in the video.

As ISIS continues to seize territories in Iraq, global leaders torn between peace and intervention have sought more forceful solutions, short of direct military intervention.

Airstrikes have long been on the U.S. agenda, as far as militarists were concerned, but to authorize such military

intervention would have been equivalent to letting loose a pack of rabid wolves. Now as ISIS systematically murders missing American citizens, the Obama administration faces three options: scramble to gather and bind the wolves, let them run wild or completely eradicate them.

War appears to be the impending consequence of this international dialectic between missile and knife, a macabre sort of conversation for which the words spell death and destruction.

Many agree that fullblown war between the U.S. and Iraq not only contradicts the President’s entire running platform but also betrays a warweary American people.

Nonetheless, inaction is equally reprehensible.

ISIS terrorists recently beheaded another kidnapped American journalist, prompting concern from government leaders. | Source: www.catholic.org

Let’s pretend momentarily that America doesn’t wear a badge and gun as it drunkenly stumbles into the party fight, late to the sudden brawl. Does that excuse appeasement?

As the University recognizes the centennial of the start of World War I, the war that, in many ways, led to World War II, it doesn’t take an

extraordinary mental leap to see appeasement worsens the state of a global world. The tyrants of the world must not be allowed to trample on it. International crises cannot be ignored.

So what should the U.S. do? The only answer offered by a reasonable education: not nothing.

COMMENTARY / 7

stmurattlernews.com

,

Civil Rights advocates have spoken out against police treatment of protestors during the aftermath of unarmed teenager Michael Brown’s death. | Cartoon by Ana Cano

Ferguson protests reveal racial intolerance Marleyne Hernandez Contributing Writer On Aug. 9, a Ferguson police officer shot unarmed black teenager Michael Brown, sparking protests in Ferguson, Missouri, which quickly turned violent when St. Louis County police— wearing riot gear and heavy armaments—turned against the protesters, firing tear gas and stun grenades in their midst.

Although this event has gained national attention, it isn’t the first of its kind.

White officers kill black suspects twice a week in the U.S., an average of 96 times a year according to an analysis from USA Today. The analysis, based on seven years of FBI data, claims that about a quarter of the 400 annual deaths reported by local police departments were white-on-black shootings.

EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief Alex Eakins Managing Editor Tamara Garcia News Editor Mercedes Kelso Design Editor Rachel Grahmann Copy Editor Travis Bowles Web Editor Brandon Leonard Photo Editor Kyra Littlejohn Assistant Photo Editor Mathew Martinez

Advertising Manager Valerie Perez Commentary Editor Eric Rodriguez Features Editor Daniel Perez Entertainment Editor Manuela Gonzalez Sports Editor Sara E. Flores Faculty Adviser Brother Dennis Bautista, S.M., Ph.D.

This data proves that the shooting in Ferguson is not an isolated occurrence.

Incidents of this kind happen regularly, according to Delores Jones, law professor and director of the Center on Race, Crime and Statistics at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice. However, it takes a high-profile case, like Brown’s, to bring the problem to national attention.

These statistics explain why polls have shown continued low confidence among non-whites in the police and justice system.

In light of the incidents in Ferguson, Missouri, there have been motions to implement the use of recording devices, or body cams, in police departments when officers are on duty.

It is difficult to feel safe when those who are meant to protect are doing the opposite.

The shooting in Ferguson was not

an anomaly, it is an occurrence that is happening all around the country; people of color are being brutalized and killed by police.

A person of color, or non-white, is more likely to deal with police harassment and brutality. The only way to put an end to events like those taking place in Ferguson is to eliminate racism and racial bias altogether.

It is a constant threat to our society, one that American citizens seem to take as an every-day norm.

The new institution of body cams in police departments is a step in the right direction, a way to regulate the power law enforcement can wield. But the only way to truly return a sense of safety to the nation as a whole is to enforce anti-racism and teach that racial profiling is no way to distinguish between a criminal and a civilian.

Reinbolt construction displaces Greek tradition Catharine Trevino Contributing Writer The foundation of Reinbolt Hall and the surrounding area are under construction for the foreseeable future, affecting the Friday tradition for Greeks known as Quad.

Due to the renovations, many displaced Greeks have mixed feelings about the administration trying to find a place to permanently put the traditional event.

The UC location brought the different organizations closer together, in part due to the proximity of the area. It also created an atmosphere that encouraged us to talk to one another. While it is easy for us to focus on the good that does, the purpose of Quad is to promote Greek life. While that location

encouraged Greek unity, it might be uncomfortable for a passerby.

The concern was that such a confined location could make it awkward for those who are not interested in Greek life and overwhelming those who were. Many students could pass by with no problem.

However, some seemed discontent to have so many people in the area.

The traffic in the UC area is heavier since it is on the path to buildings on campus.

While this is beneficial for Greek life, people should not feel uncomfortable nor that Quad is being forced upon them. This setting could be great if non-Greeks become used to the fair-like set up.

Last week Quad was held at the bell tower.

This location was spaced

similar to the original quad.

It was great for those lucky enough to be in the shaded areas of the bell tower.

Unpredictable Texas weather was one downside to this location since it does not offer much in the way of protection.

This location offers the closest feel to the original quad location.

Other locations suggested for future Quads are the courtyard in front of Raba and Pecan Grove.

These locations are not ideal because fewer people pass through.

If Greeks as a community can find a place with shade and ample space, then hopefully they will find a new home for Quad.

Wheels on

Have you or your friends ever thought about hop Well, now’s your chance. Whether you’re car-less a bus is a great opportunity to get around town if yo

Daniel Daniel Ibarra Junior, Computer Engineering San Antonio, TX “I like to ride the bus because it helps me save money on gas.”

Maria

6 8 2

Maria Martinez Junior, Criminology El Paso, TX “One of the positive aspects of riding the bus is that you get to meet people of different backgrounds and cultures. You get to expand your horizons and hear other people’s stories.

It’s a different perspective on life.”

3 4 5

Ricardo Ricardo Reyes Junior, Communication El Paso, TX “It’s daunting at first but as soon as you get the idea and know where your route is, it’s a really easy thing.

You can meet new people and it can be an interesting scenario.”

Here are a few routes to get you started: eet ss the str stop acro ard bus 82 s u b ra Culeb u’ll bo From the & T building, yo T A e from th

Spread by Rachel Grahmann

NORTH STAR MALL 7400 San Pedro Ave.

1

Bus 82 will stop at Fredericksburg & Laurel.

Get on bus 2 and get off at the North Star Transit Center Stop.

WALMART 5025 NW Loop 410

2

From bus 82, get off at Ingram Transfer Center.

Get on bus 607 and get off at the Glen Ridge Opposite 5111 stop.

WALGREENS 1560 Bandera Rd.

Bus 82 will stop at Culebra & NW 26th.

Get on bus 88 and get off at the Bandera stop opposite Grissom.

3

BARRIO CAFÉ 3735 Culebra Rd.

From bus 82, get off at the Culebra & Roanoake stop. (10% off with student ID!)

4

TACO C 4723 W

Bus 8 at Cul McMulle bus 524 the Gen Commer off with s

n the Bus

pping on the San Antonio bus to go somewhere? at StMU or looking to save some cash on gas, the ou have a place to go and some time on your hands.

Jay

1

Jay Cisneros Junior, Marketing El Paso, TX “I ride the bus because I enjoy being ‘green’ and helping the environment.

I usually take the bus to volunteer on the weekend at the homeless shelter.”

6

Mabe

Mabe Magdaleno Junior, Education San Antonio, TX “My experience on the bus was funny because we thought a lady was talking to herself the whole time, but it turned out that she just had a tiny cell phone.”

7

John John Merino Sophomore, English San Antonio, TX “I used to take the bus to work a lot, and sometimes to school. It’s nice to not have to pay attention to driving and to be able to get things done on your way to somewhere.”

CABANA W Commerce St.

82 will stop lebra & Gen. en.

Get on 4 and get off at n. McMullen & rce stop. (10% student ID!)

5

ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE 618 NW Interstate 410

From bus 82, get off at the Fredericksburg & Laurel stop. Board bus 2 to Blanco and get off at the North Star Transit Center stop. ($7 tickets after 6 p.m. with student ID!)

6

SA MUSEUM OF ART 618 NW Interstate 410

Bus 82 becomes 51 at Pecan & Soledad. Get off at the Navarro & Pecan stop and get on bus 14 and get off at the Broadway & Jones stop. ($5 entry with student ID!)

7

DOUBLE APPLE HOOKAH CAFÉ 5121 Fredericksburg Rd.

8

Bus 82 will stop at the Culebra & Zarzamora stop. Get on bus 52 and get off at the Fredicksburg & Magic stop. (10% off with student ID!)

K-T NAIL & SPA 6900 San Pedro Ave.

Bus 82 will stop at the Pecan & Soledad. Switch to bus 4 and get off at the San Pedro & Oblate stop. (10% off with student ID!)

9

Scan the QdRthe code to fin to bus route you’d wherever like to go:

10 \ FEATURES

stmurattlernews.com

STUDENTS SNATCH QUIDDICH OPPORTUNITY

Junior psychology major, Gina Aguero catches the Golden Snitch | Photo by Mathew Martinez

Robert Hernandez Contributing Writer Students who didn’t get their acceptance letter to Hogwarts may soon get the opportunity to participate in one of the wizarding world’s favorite past times: Quidditch.

A recent addition

to RSO, Dumbledore’s Army, based on the popular in-school resistance group at Hogwarts, has seen a surge of interest and activity.

President of Dumbledore’s Army, junior psychology major, Gina Aguero, need only gather the

necessary funding before students begin zipping, or galloping, around campus on Nimbus 2000 broomsticks.

“Well, since we’re a fairly new club on campus, we plan on doing a lot of fundraising, so that we can do a lot of the stuff we want to do,” said Aguero.

“Like eventually starting a Quidditch team.”

The Harry Potter movies played a key role in bringing the magical world of Harry Potter to millions, the world over.

Since the final book’s release in 2007, and the last movie’s release in 2011, fans’ enthusiasm in keeping Harry Potter alive has continued.

Quidditch isn’t new to American college campuses. Starting with Harvard University, the game has met mainstream popularity at larger campuses.

Its combination of the magic of the novels’ broomstick riding sport, the co-ed aspect of teams and medium for potential players from different social circles to come together makes it appealing to all students.

This idea of diversity is what interests junior math major Onwuzurike Chinenye.

“I would try it,” Chinenye said. “Getting

the chance to play the game in an intramural setting would bring the books to life. Plus, I want to destroy people on the other team.”

With the potential to be a possible community builder for the University, Quidditch offers a quirky origin and eccentric premise in which a player does not have to have a background in the novels to play the game and have fun.

At the moment, Dumbledore’s Army needs interested students to create a team. St. Mary’s can join in the growing number of universities that have been competing—such as the UIW Quidditch team or UTSA’s Roadrunner Quidditch team.

For those interested, Aguero suggests contacting Dumbledore’s Army on RattlerTracks or via email.

University students launch online Latina magazine

Junior English major, Claudia Cardona (left) and junior international relations major, Manuela Gonzalez (right)- creators of Chifladazine Magazine.

Photo by Daniel W. Perez

Daniel W. Perez Features Editor @insertlogichere With dedication and a well-organized staff, St. Mary’s students have succeeded in creating, maintaining and expanding an online magazine that spotlights Latina culture.

Chifladazine, the creation of junior English major, Claudia Cardona, junior international relations major, Manuela Gonzalez and five other

non-St. Mary’s students, has gone from a simple Tumblr blog to a fully functional website.

Cardona and Gonzalez started the online publication to share works that reflect Latino culture in art and literature.

“We wanted to focus on Latinos because our voice is not heard in creative writing or writing in general,” Cardona said.

As the blog grew in popularity, readers

from across the country wanted to get involved.

Through Tumblr, Cardona and Gonzalez were able to find like-minded individuals who shared their view of increasing Latino culture in modern publications.

A few months later, the group grew from two to seven people.

The newly formed staff purchased the domain name chifladazine.com to reach a wider audience.

Now a fully functioning website, Chifladazine. com is an open forum for anyone willing to submit work celebrating Latino culture. Throughout the website, the “@” symbol is specifically used to make the submission process easier for people of any gender and those who consider themselves to be non-binary.

They provide, “A community for people with latin@/xican@/ chican@ roots so although we strive to be a place for the underrepresented voices, we accept submissions from anyone,” according

to the website.

Every month, a theme is chosen and submissions from anyone are accepted as long as they are relevant to the selected theme. For example, this month’s theme is “Transitions.”

Chifladazine gets submissions such as poetry, photography, film and movie reviews.

These submissions are added to the website—which is updated regularly.

One of the benefits of running the site is the diversity of people submitting material.

Being online, people from all over the world have access and share original work celebrating Latino culture.

Cardona and Gonzalez believe students should support such sites because, “It is important to see the potential of writers across the U.S.,” Cardona said.

“It forms solidarity on issues that should be important to everyone.”

The staff of Chifladazine is preparing

a Kickstarter project to raise money so they can host art shows, make printed copies of their magazine and host band performances.

When asked how other students can pursue similar projects, Cardona stated, “Network with people on and off line and whatever you pursue, make it something you are passionate about.”

If students are interested in submitting work or getting involved with the publication, they are encouraged to do so by email. Students can also connect and stay up-to-date with events and themes by subscribing to the site’s Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr accounts.

Connect

TUMBLR: chifladazine.tumblr.com TWITTER: @chifladazine FACEBOOK: facebook.com/CHIFLADAzine EMAIL: chifladazine@yahoo.com

FEATURES / 11

stmurattlernews.com

Musical Kenyan triplets find new home Tamara Garcia Managing Editor @tamvicgar After matching pitch to a simple hallelujah tune during their second birthday party, the Moipei triplets Magdalene (Maggie), Marta and Mary took their first steps to becoming the internationally recognized performers they are today.

About 16 years of practice later, the Moipei triplets are transitioning into adulthood on the other side of the world of what they consider home. Born and raised in Kenya, the triplets have decided to make San Antonio, and more specifically the campus community, their home.

“St. Mary’s is a very special story for us,” Maggie added, “because everything for us comes times three.”

As part of completing an international tour, the triplets and their younger sister Serephine, who together make the Moipei Quartet, visited San Antonio in February and met with, performed for and had dinner with President Mengler and the Board of Trustees.

“We started learning our instruments at the Kenyan Conservatoire of Music in Kenya in 2004, and we were there until we completed our entrance exams about two years ago,” Marta said.

Collectively the triplets play the trumpet, euphonium, clarinet, saxophone, flute and piccolo.

“You know what happened was that we just looked at the cases and Marta went for the biggest, Maggie went for the smallest and I took what was left,” Maggie said.

The triplets attended Brookhouse School that

Karla Martin Contributing Writer

Maggie, Marta, and Mary Moipei playing their instruments in the Treadaway concert hall. | Photo by Tamara Garcia

adapted the British Nation Curriculum in Nairobi, Kenya on music scholarships. The triplets and Serephine began performing there for audiences that gradually grew larger.

“We were lucky we went to a good international school, Brookhouse,”Mary said.

“The Kenyan system…looks at music and dance and drama as a hobby. It’s not even in the curriculum.

You can’t go to class and study drama in the Kenyan system.”

Even though they are a 17-hour plane ride away from home and all the comforts home offers, the triplets said they feel right at home.

“It’s been such an international experience here and I feel like I wouldn’t really have gotten that in Kenya…You get to see how it feels to be independent,” Marta voiced.

For now, they’re focusing on completing their degree and developing their skills as performing artists, adding that the St. Mary’s core curriculum has opened their minds to different ways of thought.

Students ignore homework, procrastinate

Sophomore marketing major, Josh Haner falls prey to procrastination.

Photo by Mathew Martinez

Manuela Gonzalez Staff Writer The most common university epiphany happens most often at 3 a.m. while a student studies for an 8 a.m. exam: “My God, I’m a procrastinator!”

College students are known for spreading themselves out a little too thin. Roughly 80%90% of students are chronic procrastinators, according to the American Psychological Association.

St. Mary’s students are no exception.

Psychology explains this basic behavioral pattern, but people who are chronic procrastinators suffer from heightened stress and lack of quality in work according to the Journal of Research in Personality.

Procrastination is caused and continued for many reasons.

“A theory relevant to college students is that procrastination is due to a fear of not having

Gadgets refine campus living

the skills to accomplish a task,” psychology professor Patricia Owen said. “So it’s a facesaving mechanism for the procrastinator to say to him or herself: ’Well, the reason I got a poor grade on the test or the paper is I waited till the last minute to study or write the paper.’ It is a lot more difficult to admit that the reason for the procrastination was fear about lack of ability.”

Common as procrastination is, out of necessity, many students have found ways to combat the affliction.

“I write things down on sticky notes so I’m more likely to remember them instead of procrastinating,” Danielle Nash, senior international relations major said.

Just as phone-alarms help people wake up on time to attend class or work, sticky notes can be a physical reminder of what needs to be done.

Being efficient is less a miracle and more a practice of balance and organization, which is beneficial to college students in both the short and long run.

“I try to avoid social media because it is a huge distraction,” junior history major Meagan Lozano said.

“It feels like two minutes scrolling notifications but I’ve actually spent thirty,” said Lozano.

The debate over the main cause of procrastination is the identified gap between intention and action.

Some things interest people a lot, and other things, not so much.

Even though procrastination appears pervasive, one can focus on getting the right jobs done at the right time.

Procrastination doesn’t have to be a terrible looming presence, if it is tamed with balance and some perseverance.

Living in the residence halls has its perks: no parents for starters. But it can also be uncomfortable.

St. Mary’s students often find themselves digging in the bottomless pit that is their pockets for spare change. Still, with a little panhandling, these residence hall necessities can be acquired. $20 Brita Water Filter: For those who enjoy the sweet, refreshing taste of water, Amazon offers the Brita water filter pitcher, which holds 10 cups of water, is reusable and spares the trip to the store to buy a new 24 pack of water every time the well runs dry. $15 Hamilton Beach Blender: This single serving size, compact blender with the ability to be used for smoothies, shakes and any other craving—great for juicing before a workout at the AA&CC gym. $80 Brother Sewing Machine: With 25 built-in stitches, the machine is practical for the novices whose everyday projects might otherwise leave them attending class in nothing but undies.

Worst nightmare? $100 or less Sony MDRXB800: Thin as the St. Mary’s residence hall walls are, the yelling, laughing and sometimes moaning of neighbors has no trouble seeping into studious ears.

The best remedy goes to: awesome bass and noise cancellation.

Dorm life may not be easy, but with a bit of smart shopping it can be a fun and unforgettable experience.

All about the coffee

Beyonce rocks VMAS Adziko Tsatenawa Contributing Writer

Local coffeehouse owner intends to become known as an industry trend setter.

Alexander Eakins Editor-in-Chief @andersdeakins Gilbert De Hoyos, owner of Barrio Barista & Bargains, is caffeinated about coffee.

Seriously, he has a passion for it—one he’d like to share.

Although De Hoyos serves excellent tacos with barbacoa locally supplied by award-winning Celerio’s Barbacoa, it’s all about the coffee at Barrio Barista.

“I do what I love to do, to serve others,” De Hoyos said. “I figured I would serve them best by serving them an excellent cup of coffee.”

But be objective. St. Mary’s students love their Starbucks. They practically roll out of bed onto the polished Commons floors and spring to their feet in front of a Starbucks barista.

It’s eerie, really. But jokes aside: why would they drive about a mile when Starbucks is right there?

As De Hoyos said, Barrio’s Barista is a coffeehouse; Starbucks is a coffee shop.

stmurattlernews.com

Gilbert De Hoyos, founder of Barrio Barista, supports all local ingredients, from art to coffee, his family having owned the building since 1968. | Photo by Rachel Grahmann

“Starbucks is what you call the McDonalds of the coffee industry,” De Hoyos said.

The two really cannot be compared, and, according to De Hoyos, they’re too different to be in competition In a coffeehouse like Barrio Barista, where the chalkboard menu designed by a local artist speaks to you, the warm ambience can be as addicting as the $1 coffee itself.

De Hoyos agrees, $1 is too much. He offers a 10 percent discount to students. Customers sit at the elevated bar counter or they can sit in cozy, dimly lit booths outfitted with beautiful paintings made by local artists.

They can even sit in church pews and confess the gluttony of which they

3PM to 6:30PM

are about to partake, or they can enjoy a game of chess or checkers as they sip the local, Frenchroasted coffee. For those who break into a cold sweat without access to Facebook, Barrio Barista offers free Wi-Fi. Such a space, De Hoyos would like to see utilized for studying.

With the help of a grant from a nonprofit, Westside Development Corporation, De Hoyos would like to build a stage where the Black Student Union could potentially host open mic nights.

Meanwhile, he’s invited local musicians, such as Villela, and student groups from local universities to practice and perform.

3735 Culebra Rd., 78228 www.fb.me/barriobarista

B e y o n c e ’ s performance at the VMAs was another hit and probably her most entertaining performance yet. Following a successful, unpromoted video album and the start of the “Runaway Tour,” in the midst of infamy, Beyonce claimed August.

After the release of her latest album her public image seems to have taken a turn, displaying hyper sexuality (Drunk in Love drew lots of criticism for this), and making her life slightly more public. Who cannot recall the infamous elevator scene and the slew of divorce rumors?

In spite of all of this, Beyonce’s fan base has not waivered and continues to support her and her music.

S a m a n t h a Shelton who’s been a fan since she was

Illustration by Alex Eakins

12 \ ENTERTAINMENT

six says she still loves Beyonce to this day.

“She’s amazing!”

Shelton said. “I like how she empowers women to go out of social boundaries.

She’s also just an awesome entertainer.”

“She’s breaking boundaries.

Girls havent been viewed as sexual beings the way men are, and she’s breaking that apart.” “[The elevator fight and the divorce rumors] haven’t changed my perception about Beyonce. She’s still awesome.”

Beyonce pushed the bar this year and pushed it far. It’s a wonder how she will ever be able to catch our attention like she always has again.

stmurattlernews.com

ENTERTAINMENT / 13

FROM PITCHERS MOUND TO

BOOKSHELF Former pitcher for the men’s baseball team self-publishes novel.

Photo by

Kyra Littl ejoh

n

Joshua Madrid Contributing Writer Senior English communication arts major, Colter Bostick is easily recognized as a former left-handed pitcher, but he is also on his way to becoming a published author.

His political thriller, Justified Sedition, is about a group of former Navy Seals seeing moral corruption throughout the government that they aim to fix, Bostick said.

“The only way they can fix something is by tearing it down and rebuilding it from the bottom up,” Bostick said. “The main character, Ryan Parker, is a CIA agent who discovers he’s connected to the conspiracy itself and the rogue group behind it.”

Bostick described the story as a spider web that unravels “I always loved writing, even when it wasn’t very good,” Bostick said. “It’s just something I always enjoyed doing.

“I remember, my mom… I used to steal her laptop at work and I’d sit there and write

stories. Even though most were just complete nonsense, it was so much fun.”

Bostick says his main influences are authors such as Robert Ludlum, Clive Cussler, Tom Clancy, Dan Brown and Vince Flynn.

The journey of getting the book from revisions to publication has been rewarding at every stage of the process. Bostick is currently self-publishing his novel with Archway Publishing—a subsidiary of Simon & Schuster.

“They’re waiting to see how the numbers do for selling,” Bostick said.

If the first book is successful, the actual Simon & Schuster or other agent may pick up sequels.

Bostick claims that this process might not have been successful if it wasn’t for the support of his professors at St. Mary’s.

“Richard Pressman, Ph.D, has been my savior,” Bostick said.

“When I got done writing, I emailed him and told him ‘I just finished a novel. What do you think?’ Immediately he wanted me to send it to him, and he did the first round of proof reading,” Bostick said.

Other notable St. Mary’s professors that helped Bostick throughout the writing and publishing process are Guillermo Martinez, Alice Kersnowski, and Cyra Dumitru.

According to Bostick, research, especially in fiction, is vital to the publishing process.

Justified Sedition is expected to release in late October, so be sure to look out for it and support a fellow Rattler.

BURGERs

BR S with the

What were the best welcome week events?

Latin Night

“

I actually got to dance with one of the dance instructors, so that was cool” Ryan Berry International Business

BWB

(burgers with the brothers)

“

The food was amazing and being able to meet all the brothers was an awesome experience.”

Alyssa Martinez Psychology

SMLM

“

(social media landmines)

It was incredible.”

Left: Reverend Timothy Eden. Right: Sophomore Paula Viruegas. On Aug. 26, the hungry University community downs burgers outside Casa Maria for Burgers with the Brothers, a popular annual event. | Photos by Mathew Martinez

Daniel Hernandez Psychology

Photos by Catharine Trevino

14 \ SPORTS

stmurattlernews.com

Winning program adds key players Coaching staff and the captains discuss the factors they face this season. A highlighted topic is having 12 freshmen join the team.

Analissa Cantu Staff Writer

KELSEY HUEBER Senior Volleyball Outside Hitter Art Education

1) When did you start playing volleyball?

I started at my private school in elementary, but I didn’t play club till I was 14.

2) What has been the biggest challenge you have faced as an athlete? How did you bounce back from that challenge?

Injuries are always a challenge. My freshman year, I sprained my ankle badly and was out for a month. Then, the beginning of this summer, I had surgery on my shoulder, which has been the worst because how slow the rehab is, and how you can’t hit as hard as you want.

3) What is one thing you do in your training that is key to your success?

In training, the best thing you can do is train like it’s a real game and everything you do means something. Once people start slacking off or being lazy, that’s when someone gets hurt or a practice is wasted.

4) What are you most excited for this season?

I’m nervous because it’ll be the last time I play volleyball where it will count as something.

After this is just adult leagues and playing sand. So it stinks: it’ll be my last competitive year with a great group of seniors that I’ve played with, but I know we will put in an effort to stay together after college.

Photo by Danielle Vargas Compiled by Monica Perez

With the new Sigma Beta Chi field open for games and new additions to the team, head coach Corwyn Ritch said he looks forward to a promising season.

“I’m looking forward to watching this team grow and mature together and begin a tradition of excellence at our new complex,” Ritch said. “After being away for three years, basically, it’s nice to be home in front of our fans and student body.”

“This is a very, very young team but loaded with talent at every position,” Ritch said.

“With 12 freshman and two transfers, more than half of our team is new to St. Mary’s.”

Freshmen players include Heather Dawson, Kaitlyn Judge, Rachel Gurinsky, Katy Primeaux and Roxy Cruz-Santory. “(They) will play a major role to the success of the program this year,” Ritch said.

Lynsie Shaw, a sophomore exercise and sport science major and transfer student from Stephen F. Austin University, is controlling the midfield and an added threat to score, according to Ritch.

“I’m really excited about all of the new players we have,” Ritch said.

“Coach Ritch did a good job in bringing in some talented players

for this year,” said Katie Kasperitis, senior forward and exercise and sports science major.

Kasperitis, who is the senior captain, is on track to break the school record for career goals and is planning on ways to break the record.

“I want to be able to last longer in a game than I have in the previous three years,” Kasperitis said. “If I can do that, I feel like it’ll help me get to my overall goal of breaking the scoring record.”

Kasperitis also has many goals for the team, and is determined to make big things happen.

“I want to see this team get further than we’ve ever gotten,” Kasperitis said.

“I want to get past the conference tournament.

I want to beat teams that we haven’t been able to beat in previous years.”

Kasperitis is focusing on building the team’s chemistry in order to be victorious this season.

“I want to help this team mesh well,” Kasperitis said. “I feel like having a positive team environment will keep us playing hard because we will be holding each other accountable and be pushing one another, which will help us in achieving our goal of getting through the conference tournament.”

Amy Adkins, forward and senior engineering major, already sees the team environment that Kasperitis is working to create.

“This year I’m most excited about the attitudes on our team,” Adkins said. “We have a team full of hard workers, and I think that is the most important quality

Freshman midfielder and exercise and sport science major Kaitlyn Judge dribbles down the field in the season opener against Colorado State-Pueblo. | Photo by Danielle Vargas

a team needs for success.

The intensity and effort put into practice not only makes that individual better, but also pushes the teammate next to her to be better.”

“My personal goal is to be a better leader,” Adkins said. “I want to push myself and my teammates so we can reach the goals we set for ourselves this season.”

Even coach Ritch realizes the importance of how a team’s chemistry can improve the team’s game.

“This year is going to be about team chemistry and using our new facility to our advantage,” Ritch said.

Both Kasperitis and Adkins have the same goal of reaching at least the regional tournament in the Heartland Conference.

As seniors, they feel bittersweet but optimistic about the upcoming season.

“I’m most excited to be back with all of my closest friends, playing the sport I love,” Kasperitis said. “I don’t want this season to end.”

“In the four years I have been here we have not been able to get to regionals,” Adkins said.

“I hope we change that this year. It would be an ideal finish to my soccer career.”

BUDDY MEYER GOLF TOURNAMENT Monday, Sept. 15

Sign in 11:30 a.m.

The Republic Golf Course Call 210-431-4244 for more information

SPORTS / 15

stmurattlernews.com

Redemption fuels team’s drive for victory The team was ranked number four in the Heartland Conference preseason poll. With a large freshman class, the team faces adjustment obstacles.

Allie Beedle Contributing Writer After ending last season with a losing record of 4–12, St. Mary’s University men’s soccer team has made significant changes— including a new coach and new talent—in anticipation of the upcoming season.

The disappointing numbers of last season have not discouraged the team. With eight of last season’s starters returning, the team has dedicated themselves to improving as individual players and as a team.

“We had a lot of talent and our chemistry was great, but we always fell short,” said

“

Every single one of our newcomers is very talented and skilled… they took the team’s performance to a new level.”

Alexis Santamaria Junior, midfielder

Alexis Santamaria, junior midfielder and undeclared business major.

“It was a disappointment

Junior midfielder and English and Communications major Alex Gonzalez attempts to dribble past a defender in an exhibition game against Corinthians. | Photo by Danielle Vargas.

overall.”

“We have something to prove,” junior business administration major forward Jack Wolf said. “We work really hard and I know we can do better than that.”

New head coach Michael Bonelli is helping motivate the team and point the program in the right direction. He previously coached at Slippery Rock University before joining the St. Mary’ coaching

staff in February 2014.

“We will do well with him,” Wolf said. “He is really motivated and we trust in his plans for our team.”

Along with a new coach, the team gained 10 freshmen and a few transfer students to help fill the gaps created with the loss of three of last season’s starters.

Wolf— who lead the team last year in points, shots, goals (scoring 10 of the team’s 25 goals

last season) and in game wining goals— said there is a lot of talent to look out for in the team’s new players as well as the returning veterans, especially in senior captain Josh Stevens.

“Our defense is solid with Josh leading the way,” Santamaria said.

With so many newcomers, the team’s dynamic has changed.

Players are taking on new roles and potentially

changing their positions.

However, Santamaria believes they are positive changes and it will encourage the team to step up to their new responsibilities.

“Every single one of our newcomers is very talented and skilled… they took the team’s performance to a new level,” Santamaria said.

“I will play any position and assume any role in order to help my team.”

The team knows the key to success lies in the work ethic and the attitudes they bring to the team. For them to succeed, they have to work hard and prove themselves in practice.

“No one has a guaranteed spot on the team,” Santamaria said.

“Everyone must work their hardest if they want to play.”

The team already has two wins and a tie in their first three exhibition games, all played on their home field. The team is ready to put the past season behind them and move forward with one goal in mind.

“The goal is to win a championship and do even better than before,” said Wolf.

The team— who started the season by traveling to Oklahoma City to play Mckendree University on Sept. 4— will compete in seven more games before conference play starts on Oct. 6.

Intramurals establish camaraderie among students Sara E. Flores Sports Editor @stmusarasports Intramurals are offered throughout the school year to bring students together while staying physically fit.

Some students have been participating in intramurals for all four years of their collegiate time at St. Mary’s, while others are just starting to show interest in the programs.

Senior exercise and sport science major Jonathan Martinez has played for four years and for four different

intramural sports: basketball, flag football, slow pitch softball and volleyball.

He especially likes participating in the basketball intramural league throughout the school year.

“What I like about intramurals is it gives me an opportunity to play sports again and fulfill my drive for competition,” Martinez said.

“It also creates a sense of camaraderie between teammates, especially if you play more than one sport together.”

He explains that the programs establish

unity and camaraderie among participants.

“Freshmen should participate in intramurals because it allows them to engage with one another,” Martinez said.

“They can de-stress and still have some fun. It is also a way to get to know new people who might have the same interest in sports.”

Senior forensic science major Krystal Manrique has been playing intramural sports since her freshman year at St. Mary’s.

She has participated in sand and indoor volleyball.

“I love participating in intramurals, because I

“

What I like about intramurals is it gives me an opportunity to play sports again and fulfill my drive for competition.

It also creates a sense of camaraderie between teammates, especially if you play more than one sport together.”

Jonathan Martinez Senior Exercise and Sport Science can play different sports without having to know

how to play them well,” Manrique said. “I get to play in a team of people who enjoy playing and don’t expect me to be a pro. I made new friends, made some great memories and I even get a good work out when I play.”

Intramurals are offered throughout the year and only require a small fee to participate.

Aside from the steady season, there are some unique tournaments.

During dead week there is a three versus three basketball tournament, Aquathon and a kickball tournament.

16 \ SPORTS

“

“

stmurattlernews.com

With any new team you have to work out the awkwardness on the court, and figure out how people play. We all get along, and I can see us going far this season.

Kelsey Hueber, senior, outside hitter

SETTING FOR SUCCESS

Team members discuss expectations for the season, and the contributions new players will give to the team.

Sara E. Flores Sports Editor @stmusarasports The volleyball team heads into this season with the addition of five new faces and the return of powerhouse upperclassmen.

The team was declared fifth in the Heartland Conference preseason poll, determined by all the coaches in the conference, finishing last season in the opening round of the conference tournament with an overall record of 14–15.

“Well, I definitely think we could’ve done better in the second set of matches,” said Kelsey Hueber, senior, outside

hitter and art education major.

“Losing in conference wasn’t fun, but we got through a lot of stuff together and we’re excited for the new season.”

Senior outside hitter and business management major Devan Hartung describes the team chemistry as a positive one that contributes to the teams time on the court.

“I feel like we haven’t missed a beat,” Hartung said. “The new players are a great fit for our returning team.

We really have a lot of fun off the court, and that is an advantage to our game on the court.”

Making their collegiate debut are four freshmen: outside hitter and business management major Tarine Grace, defensive specialist and exercise and sport science major Alexandria Guerrero, outside hitter and exercise and sport

science major Allison Rose and right side hitter and business management major MacKenzie Wright.

In addition to the four freshmen is junior setter and forensic science major, Kalyn Guthrie, a transfer from McMurry University.

“They’ll bring new opinions on what the team needs to improve on, and one is a setter, so there will be a lot of connections with the hitters,” Hueber said.

“Overall, they are really cool girls, so it should be fun.”

Returning this season from the top of last year’s leaderboards are: junior middle blocker and business management major Lauren Holman, senior outside hitter and art education major Kelsey Hueber, senior libero and psychology major Victorria Martinez and sophomore setter and biochemistry major

Rachel Scicchitano.

Holman lead last season in solo blocks (28), Martinez in digs (639), Hueber in kills (291) and Scicchitano in assists (667).

“It really is a blessing that we have been able to keep five out of our six starters from last season,” Hartung said. “We have a lot more court sense and experience with each other. We know each others’ strengths and weaknesses, and because of that, we are able to play together better on the court.”

The coaching staff is taking the appropriate steps to prepare the team for the season, according to Hueber.

This is head coach Jenny WarmackChipman, and assistant coach Gary Payne’s fifth year as the leaders of the volleyball program.

“So many teams have lost their big seniors,

but then again they’ve transferred a lot,” Hueber said. “We always love to beat St. Edwards Unversity, Dallas Baptist University and UA Fort Smith. Lubbock Christian will be a good one.”

Lubbock Christian is currently leading the conference with a record of 2-0.

Hartung agrees that the competition will be tough this season, but she also brings up the fact that the competition has lost many key players since last season.

The team will face Texas A&M International and Southern Arkansas on Saturday, in Bill Greehey arena, at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Junior middle blocker Lauren Holman, and senior outside hitter Kelsey Hueber wait for the serve-recieve against Lubbock Christian.

Photo by Danielle Vargas.