Vol. 99, No. 3 - 10/05/2011

rattler the

A St. Mary’s Student Publication since 1925

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Vol. 99 Issue 3

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October 5, 2011 •

stmurattlernews.com

Student groups explore

faith on campus

PG. 3

PG. 8

Photo by Joe Rodriguez

A summary of faith-based organizations

Say ALOHA to fall fun

3 NEWS

Website offers diagnoses for skin conditions

11 FEATURES

Finding fashion for the class room

12 ENTERTAINMENT

Hair raises money for charity via benefit show

15 SPORTS

Meet the new athletic trainer on campus

News

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

FOLLOW US ON ... for the latest news and updates.

STAFF Editor-in-Chief

Sports Editor

Managing Editor

Entertainment Editor

Copy Editor

Photo Editor

Layout/Design Editor

Assistant Photo Editor

Web Editor

Advertising Manager

News Editor

Staff Cartoonist

Commentary Editor

Faculty Adviser

Azhmir Acosta Amanda Cano Nick Canedo

Chrystalla Georghiou Emily Scruggs

Katherine Benavides Briana Perez

Features Editor

Joe Rodriguez Dania Pulido Felix Arroyo

Jennifer Sims Leo Reyes Eric Vijil

STAFF WRITERS Emily Artalejo Alexander Eakins Austin W. Newton Angelica Radacinski Jessica Valles Denice Hernandez

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Nicolas Campaña Alejandra Diaz Miriam Cruz Analissa Cantu Brittany Horack Sarah Jardine Cheyenne Palmer

NEWS IN BRIEF >> >>

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

Arturo Osteguin Jr.

Alex Meyer Ari Rivera Matthew Rodriguez Lena Scalercio Jessica Valles Julie Losoya Anthony De Jesus

Director of Student Activities and Transition Programs Damian Medina speaks to new and current greek members about hazing prevention at the T.O.G.A.S. event on Friday, Sept. 30 in UC conference room A. / Photo by Jennifer Sims.

Sarah Dwyer Chanti Lee Vong Francis Mell Rubi Doria Melina Cavazos Miriam Dorantes

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.

Rattler Weekends presents: Shuttle to First Friday Rattler Weekends, a program by Student Activities and Transition Programs, will have a shuttle on Friday, Oct. 7 to take students for free to San Antonio’s First Friday on South Alamo Street. Students can sign up at the UC Information Desk to have a chance to explore art galleries. Departure will be at 5:30 p.m. in parking lot J.

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Want to enhance the quality of life in SA?

>>

Bring on the robots!

Volunteer to assist in the removal of graffiti blight on the West Side on Saturday, Oct. 8. The graffiti clean up will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and helpers are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes. For assistance in organizing a carpool, contact Krystina Irvin at kirvin1@stmarytx.edu.

High school participants will get to compete in an all-day robotic competition in the Alumni Athletics and Convocation Center on Saturday, Oct. 15. Competitors will showcase their robots which are to perform specific tasks in this free event. A senior member from the winning team will receive a scholarship to the university.

POLICE BLOTTER Sept. 13 >> Tuesday, Unknown suspects at St. Joseph’s Marianist Residence damaged Koi fish pond. Fish were taken and killed.

Multiple containers and tools were damaged.

Sept. 17 >> Saturday, Employee hosting event on campus allowed others to park illegally in handicap parking in parking lot L. Became belligerent and refused to ID. Employee showed ID and was referred to supervisor.

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

Sept. 18 >> Sunday, Five non-student intoxicated minors near parking lot O and Founders Hall were found wandering Outback parking lot looking into vehicles. All were found to be unlicensed to drive and criminal trespass warnings were issued.

Family friend contacted to pick them up and they were escorted off campus.

Sept. 26 >> Monday, Prior suspect was verbally abusive and making threats over phone to staff at UC.

News

October 5, 2011

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Say ‘Aloha’ to fun and games Aloha Fest Food List at university social function

By Kathleen Benavides Contributing Writer

Members of the University Programming Council will host an on-campus social event near Founders Hall today for university students to socialize and interact with student organizations.

The event, known as “Aloha Fest,” will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will include various activities such as a mechanical surf board, a performance by Hawaiian dancers and a hula hoop contest.

According to Assistant Director of Student Activities Jerome Budomo, the purpose of the function is “to provide students with a fall kickoff social event.

In addition, just like the Battle of the Bands, we want to provide a venue for Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs) the opportunity to fundraise.”

Some of the organizations include the Resident Hall Association, Tri Sigma, the Black Student Union, the Filipino Student Association and the American Chemical Society of Students.

Not only are students

able to socialize among themselves at the function, but they also have a chance to get to know what other student organizations the university has to offer, according to senior industrial engineering major Alejandra Mireles.

“It’s a good event for students to become familiar with organizations on campus,” said Mireles, who worked at a booth last year.

“It also helps organizations raise money.”

Last year, the original function, Fall Fest, was rodeo-themed and held on Chaminade Field near the bell tower. The change of name and location to this year’s function was to provide a “new experience for current students; we wanted to re-theme this year’s event,” Budomo said.

Not only have the location and theme of this event been changed to give it a fresh new spin for students to enjoy, but UPC has also added various cultural elements so students have a chance to experience something new.

“We’re trying to incorporate cultural elements and new activities,” said VP of

Programming Development and senior general business major Megan Torres. “We’re just trying to make it very festive and expose people to the Hawaiian culture”.

Some of the activities of Aloha Fest include face painting, a coconut ball kick and a marriage booth.

Student-run food booths will sell snow cones, paletas, Mexican candy, Hawaiian pizza and fried rice according to Torres.

All students are invited to attend the event, free of charge. Although activities such as the hula hoop contest and the mechanical surf board are free to participate in, Torres recommends students bring cash to play games and buy food from the various booths.

Senior interdisciplinary reading major Alba Galvan, who has attended Fall Fest in previous years emphasizes on the fun environment the fest creates.

“It’s a way for students to get away from studies and academics and just relax and have fun with their friends,” Galvan said. “It’s also a way to make new friends.”

Food Booth

Cheetos with Cheese Hot Dog Package Brownies

cost $1.50 $4 2 for $1

Aguas Frescas

$2

Fruit on a Stick

$2

Pineapple with Chili

$2

N on-Alcoho lic Margaritas

$2

Graphic / Illustration by Chrystalla Georghiou

Health center offers quicker way of treating skin problems

By Adriana Benavides Contributing Writer

The Student Health Center on campus is now offering students a new form of diagnosis for skin conditions with Dermavisit.com, a technology allowing students to get help from a certified dermatologist using an electronic medium.

The website is part of “teledermatology,” which was created

by Scott Henslee, MD, FAAD, of the San Antonio Skin Cancer Clinic. It is designed to offer time-deprived students an affordable, reliable and a convenient way to visit a dermatologist.

Students would still need to visit the Health Center first, but with a referral number from Dr. Sandra Vasquez, Director of Family Practice, students can then be referred to the website.

Using the referral number from Vasquez, the doctor or patient can upload the information on the website about the skin condition.

“After this is filled out, we would upload a picture and Dr. Henslee would review it. Within 24 to 48 hours, he would than make a diagnosis without the patient ever having to get in a car and drive to his office,” Vasquez said. “From here, Dr. Henslee would send the patient and I a report of what he thinks they have and prescribe a treatment.”

Normally, this process of securing an appointment with a dermatologist can take up to three weeks or longer to get treatment. But now, with Dermavisit, students can quickly get the treatment they need.

“I feel this service is more convenient and faster than having to make an appointment and wait to get a response,”

junior psychology major Alejandra Ramirez said.

Not only is this service convenient for college students who are on the go, but the pricing is also affordable.

According to Vasquez, the dermatologist visit is $50 with a $10 fee for visiting the clinic or $25 for students not on the school health insurance plan.

“The regular fee for seeing a dermatologist is anywhere from $150 to $250, so going this route will definitely save you money,” Vasquez said.

Pictures of the skin condition can be taken with an iTouch or any smartphone if there is not a regular camera available, but it must have more than three megapixels.

“Dr. Henslee feels it is even better because he can magnify the picture on his HD screen more than with your eyesight would allow you to and really look at the affected area,” Vasquez added.

Some students may be concerned with the lack of personal interaction between the physician and patient, but Vasquez assures that there is plenty of communication.

“Within the time we upload the picture and Dr. Henslee makes the decision on what the diagnosis and the treatment is, the student has five days to go back and forth with Dr. Henslee and converse with him about the treatment,” Vasquez said.

Freshman psychology major Carolina Ugalde feels that the quick, reliable service and reasonable cost make this resource ideal for most college students in need of a dermatologist.

“It’s a good way to see a dermatologist and as a college student, sometimes we do not have the time to take care of our health, so this service definitely seems more convenient and appealing,” Ugalde said.

News

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Student aid security stays the same in spite of worries

By Austin W. Newton Staff Writer

Despite reports of low aid packages preventing students from returning to the University, the Offices of Financial Aid and Retention say otherwise.

Director of the Office of Financial Aid David Krause assures that student aid is safe and secure due to rigorous fiscal planning and a tight budget.

“Funding is consistent,” Krause said. “Our budget is two years worth, so our awards will also be consistent. The university will try to keep tuition increase to a low.”

Krause claims that no loan offers, federal or state,

decreased and reserved monies refueled the grants that were decreased. And as for the largest admission class the university has ever experienced, Krause and the office safeguard two separate aids.

“What also helps is that we separate the aid for the new students from the aid of the returning students, so the incoming students cannot take returning students’ money,” Krause said.

Students, like senior sociology major Erica Carmona, have expressed concern about losing their aid to increased freshmen enrollment.

“I feel like the incoming freshmen are first priority,” said Carmona. “I

feel that since we are seniors we should receive some type of seniority. I was greatly worried we were going to get cut especially in terms of our academic and athletic scholarships.”

Carmona said she did lose some grants and scholarships, but the financial aid office was able to reimburse her to the full amount.

Krause urges students to visit the Office of Financial Aid as soon as they see problems with their aid.

“If you come to the Financial Aid office in the Spring, we probably have a solution. We do not have any solutions in August,” Krause said. “You must do things on time.”

Director of the Office of Retention Rosalind Alderman said many students that do withdraw from the university do so because their financial aid package was insufficient to their income. That package loss was usually tied to the students’ poor academic standing.

Another reason why a student may leave is because the student failed to move sufficiently through the process of reapplying for FAFSA and verifications. But for those who may be in danger of withdrawing because of financial aid or GPA should consult Alderman.

“My passion is student success,” Alderman said. “I’ll make the road smooth for you,

but you need to push the car.

You, as the student, need to be responsible.”

Both Krause and Alderman review the appeals process at the university and decide whose appeals will be granted or given a different route. “When I have denied appeals, it is because it is not in the student’s best interest to stay at the University,” Alderman said.

Both directors want retention rates to remain high and urge that if a student has any concerns or questions, the student must address the problem with their offices immediately.

“It’s all about relationships [at the university],” Alderman said.

“If you seek help, you will get it.”

Law students spark designated driver initiative for safety

By Katherine Benavides News Editor

event, the students are going to be able to take advantage of this opportunity,” Reblin said.

Members of the Student Bar Association are piloting a drinking and driving safety program this semester for students of the law school.

The Designated Driver Initiative is an opportunity for students, particularly law students, to earn community service hours for being a designated driver at an SBA sponsored event.

Law students, who can receive a community service certificate on their degree if they accumulate 50 hours of service by the time they graduate, are able to gain two hours of service for every event they participate in as a designated driver.

According to third year law student and SBA President Jenna Reblin, the goal of the proposal “is to encourage safe drinking habits and encourage students to carpool at events where there is alcohol being served to get in the habit of having a designated driver when you go out.”

The SBA members hope to raise awareness by the campus functions they partake in.

“Any event that we sponsor or give money to which is often an organization’s

“

Those are hard things to challenge your peers with and I really applaud her (Jenna) for being willing to do that.

- Tim Bessler DEAN OF STUDENTS

”

Dean of Students Tim Bessler admires the direction in which the SBA is going in in establishing the program.

“I like the initiative that the Student Bar Association is taking to challenge their peers to be more responsible about the decisions they make around drinking and driving,” Bessler said. “I think it’s a good way to help them be more intentional about their drinking decisions and getting

behind the wheel.”

Law students can obtain a form to be a designated driver by either picking it up from the SBA office located in the law building or downloading it off the SBA TWEN page—their version of Blackboard, Reblin said.

After filling out the form, the paperwork needs to be turned in by 5 p.m. the day before the SBA event. Once the event is over and SBA has determined if the “car pool was successful, then we’ll sign off on it and they’ll get their hours from Sister Grace (Walle),” Reblin said.

According to the SBA president, the organization is planning to administer drink tickets for the initiative’s participants at the door of the event, so that they can buy an alternative to an alcoholic drink.

Student Government Association president and senior political science, international relations and English major Joaquin Toranzo Jr. feels that interest would have to be a major component to expand the program to the undergraduate level.

“I think it would have to stem from both student interest and administrator interest. The only thing I would say is to look at the prototype of how it goes for the Student Bar Association in the law

school,” Toranzo said. “If they consider it a success and we can observe it and take the best practices and apply it to our own program, then I think it would be a great thing to do.”

Third year law student Celina Garza uses previous experiences with similar programs to establish her positive perception of the initiative.

“We had those (programs) in college and people used them all the time,” Garza said, who attended undergraduate school at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth. “I feel like it’s a good program to have for safety and…if [people] knew about it, they would be able to take better advantage of it.”

With the difficulties that any newly launched program has, Bessler thinks that the decisions the SBA chose to implement this initiative was a tough one.

“I applaud Jenna and her administration’s efforts to address a really important issue for students and making responsible decisions around alcohol and socializing and driving,” Bessler said.

“Those are hard things to challenge your peers with and I really applaud her for being willing to do that.”

SBA Designated Driver Events o Oct. 8

Jurists and Juleps

6 p.m.

Retama Park

o Oct. 22

Hispanic Fest

7 p.m.

TBA

o Oct. 14

Octoberfest Innsbruck Flint Scholarship Fundraiser

7 p.m.

TBA

o Oct. 28

Halloween Party

9 p.m.

TBA

o Oct. 21

Distinguished Alumni Dinner

7 p.m.

Marriott Rivercenter

Graphic / Illustration by Chrystalla Georghiou

Dancing Divas

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October 5, 2011

The Snake Pit

The Dancing Divas

Open Mic Night Students showed off their different talents at Black Student Union’s Open Mic Night on Sept. 28 at Java City. / Photos by Felix Arroyo.

Shemeka LaTory Woodson, Alisea Francis, & Oyin Edogi.

The Voice

The Duo

The Poet

Joaquin A. Toranzo Jr.

Ponciano Seoane & Ryan Salts

Joshua Hinson

The Comedian

The Banjo Player

The Soloist

David Pfeifer

Caleb Seifert

Pablo Muñiz

Commentary

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US is Palestine's barrier for UN statehood

Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, announced his decision to make a bid for member statehood in the United Nations on Sept. 19, Alexander requesting that borders Eakins between Palestine and Israel be reestablished based on the borders prior to 1967. However, this controversy has political implications overshadowing the importance of granting Palestine their independence. Politicians seem to be more concerned with gaining voter support for re-elections rather than helping resolve a decade-old conflict.

If successful, Palestine would regain the territory it lost after Israel began its tyrannous occupation. U.N. statehood would mean international recognition of the border changes.

However, even if Palestine becomes a full member state of the U.N., the result would likely not come with tangible rewards. It is likely that Israel would refuse to accept such swift change. Yet, international recognition would give hope to the Palestinian people.

To them, it means one step forward to peace and independence from Israel.

Support by U.N. member states does not appear promising. In fact, the biggest contributor to the success or failure of the application is the U.S. A veto by any of the member states would automatically reject the proposal. The U.S. plans to veto, as expressed by President Obama in his speech to the U.N. General Assembly.

Why would Obama veto such a monumental and significant change for the Palestinians? Look no further than the upcoming 2012 elections.

Obama has repeatedly been rumored to be a Muslim or an extremist. False accusations such as these have an effect on his approval rating. By ignoring Israel’s unjust occupation of Palestine, Obama probably hopes to prove otherwise to gain supporters in his campaign for re-election.

While Obama has expressed deep concern for human rights and for the Palestinian people, he discouraged intervention from any world power. “But what I also said is that genuine peace can only be realized between Israelis and Palestinians themselves.”

If the Palestinians and Israelis themselves can only realize peace, then what is the purpose of any country intervening?

Peace will only be realized if the Israeli and Palestinian differences are internationally recognized, and if the wrongs of both sides are dispelled. The U.N., if nothing else, has the power to give Palestine a voice.

Cartoon by Jasmaine Aquino

Challenging the death penalty in Texas PRO

Strong punishments for violent crimes keep our citizens safe.

Texas and justice go hand-in-hand.

The people of our state should feel at ease knowing that those who commit atrocious acts will be completely removed from society. Capital punishment prevents convicted criminals from committing Chris more crime. This is Texas’ gift to a secure Childree society, and perhaps one of the reasons why the audience of the California GOP debate applauded the reading of Texas’ execution statistics under Gov. Rick Perry.

A Texas Tribune poll from last year showed that 78 percent of Texas voters supported the state’s use of the death penalty. 89 percent of Republicans supported it, and surprisingly, 60 percent of Democrats favored it as well. This demonstrates the widespread support for capital punishment across the political spectrum. The recognition of popular sovereignty alone should be reason enough to support the use, but effectiveness remains its strongest argument.

Regardless of whether the death penalty is a deterrent for would-be murderers, it works 100 percent of the time. There is a zero percent chance that the executed individual will return to society to take the lives of other individuals.

Some argue that innocent people are being executed in Texas, but that seems nearly impossible. If a jury finds an individual guilty of a crime beyond reasonable doubt then that individual is guilty of the crime. Nevertheless, he still has years of appeals after conviction to prove his innocence to higher courts and the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles.

In essence, death penalty opponents have an issue with the American judicial system, which has been in practice for hundreds of years. If anyone wants to eliminate punishments based on their personal view of the established process, why restrict the abolishment to just one form of punishment? For many, life imprisonment is crueler than death. Following this logic, life imprisonment should also be abolished.

The people of Texas believe in the established system of justice. If someone disagrees, they have the opportunity to “vote with their feet” and go elsewhere, though people everywhere will continue to benefit from the gift of Texas.

CON

a Point+ + +

C O U N T E R -

Concerns should be raised on who is executed in Texas.

During the Republican presidential debate on Sept. 7, the audience ferociously applauded after Gov. Rick Perry’s record of presiding over 234 executions was presented—more than any U.S. governor in recent history.

Emily A 2010 comprehensive capital Artalejo punishment poll conducted by the University of Texas showed that over 75 percent of registered voters in Texas supported the death penalty for those convicted of violent crimes.

The final question in the survey revealed the most alarming result—almost half of Texans believe Texas unfairly applies the death penalty, but still support it. But before applauding Perry’s “impressive” statistic, voters should delve deeper into the information about the cases.

Some will have citizens reconsidering their over zealous support for the state of capital punishment in Texas.

In 1991, Cameron Todd Willingham was sentenced to capital punishment for arson that caused the death of his three daughters. A court psychologist claimed that his Led Zeppelin poster was an indicator of "cultive-type" activities. Willingham was executed on Feb. 17, 2004.

In June 2009 the Texas Forensic Science Commission ordered a reexamination of the case, and two days before the evidence was to be presented, Perry replaced the commission’s chair, who subsequently cancelled the testimony. A year later, a panel from the Texas Forensic Science Commission decided "a finding of arson could not be sustained" and that the investigation of Willingham’s case used “flawed science” and outdated theories.

On Sept. 15, the U.S. Supreme Court halted the execution of African-American Duane Beck to reexamine testimony that claimed black criminals were more likely to reoffend. The callous and outrageously racist statement has gone uncontested by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles and Gov. Perry for over 16 years.

Perry does not consider investigational inconsistencies or racist testimony when presiding over executions to cover up his costly mistakes.

So if your favorite song is “Stairway to Heaven” or if you just happen to represent a racial minority, please watch out. Your life is in Rick Perry’s hands.

Point

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October 5, 2011

Commentary

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STAFF EDITORIAL

Post-college woes for grads

In his third annual address to school children across the nation, President Obama encouraged students to be intellectually curious and explore their interests. He encouraged them to set challenging goals for themselves and aim for higher education. Obama claimed that "more than 60 percent of the jobs in the next decade will require more than a high school diploma. More than 60 percent. That's the world that you're walking into."

But this encouraging message may be lost on those closer to entering the job market. One concern is persistently plaguing college students—the worry that their hard-earned and expensive degree may not guarantee employment.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics assessed that the national unemployment rate is at 9.1 percent. Emy Sok, one of the bureau’s economists, said it is not unusual for the younger generation to make up a large portion of this percentage because they lack job experience. A study by Carl Van Horn, a professor at Rutgers University, found that three out of every four people polled said they look back and believe they should have done things differently in college.

These bleak statistics can lead recent graduates to believe it may not have all been worth it. And while it is true that an ever-increasing number of jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree, it may not be in their specific field of study.

However, college students should persevere. The only logical recourse we have is to work harder and take these college years to define a career plan.

President Obama’s advice does not only apply to high school students, but to college students as well. Now is the time to buckle down, beef up on internships and network for job opportunities earlier than we might have expected. We can only hope that the job market will soon improve, but until that time we must continue to prepare ourselves for the tough competition.

Pageants exploit toddler divas The TLC child beauty pageant show “Toddlers and Tiaras” has garnered much controversy over the past two years, as viewers seem to have had enough of the show’s risqué portrayal of children. The sexualization of young girls has sparked debate in the media as the parents of these toddlers are stripping them of their childhood.

According to a report in 2007 by the American Psychological Emily Scruggs Association, stated that the consequences of this sexualization results in hindered cognitive functioning, low self-confidence, shame, self-disgust, depression and eating disorders. Not to mention that as time goes by, compliments about your physical attractiveness from your pageant-crazed mother become compliments from the guy at the gas station with binoculars.

Some of the more controversial episodes of the series include a 3-year-old dressed as the prostitute played by Julia Roberts in the film “Pretty Woman,” a 2-year-old wearing Madonna’s infamous cone bra as she gyrated on stage, and a 5-year-old screaming as her eyebrows were waxed. I doubt that such extreme strategies were concocted from toddlers’ minds.

However, these are egregious examples, which defer from the normal spray tans and fake teeth that cover up those unattractive crooked baby teeth. Clearly, the show demonstrates that toddler beauty pageants teach lessons, such as beauty is pain or sex appeal is a viable criterion to determine worth.

Playing dress up is a normal part of childhood—that is dressing up as teachers, doctors, police officers and other legitimate aspired positions. But if parents, especially pageant moms, are attempting to attain the highest level of sexiness for children’s outfits in the pursuit of prizes, then chances are they have crossed the line between after-school activities and that nasty little “gray area” called child exploitation.

According to CNN, in May 2011 a California mom lost custody of her 8-year-old daughter after having her injected with Botox in preparation for a beauty pageant. While some parents take drastic measures to make their children look like Joan Rivers, our nation faces much more pressing issues. In this fragile state, we look for guidance and clarity in our role models. Our focus should be shaping intelligent adults rather than manufacturing sex objects via toddler pageantry.

Cartoon by Eric Vijil

Progress "DADT" made in danger After years of suppressing their sexuality because of the asinine “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, gay individuals finally have the right to fight for their country openly. The policy that prevented gay men and women from openly serving in the military was repealed in July and took effect on Sept. 20.

The policy may seem foolish in hindsight, but for over 14,000 service members discharged under it, it proved to have serious consequences. The Alex debate in Congress was contentious as outdated arguments from out-ofMeyer touch politicians clashed with common sense social progression. But better judgment narrowly won out, and Congress passed the repeal.

The repeal of the policy has become one of the cornerstones for gay rights activists, giving them a major victory in their agenda. But as those activists look to the future, there’s a dark cloud looming on the horizon.

Fiscal conservatism and Tea Party fever seems to be sweeping the nation. But is a new brand of social conservatism part of that deal? The Republican primary race has brought forth some new conservative stars, such as frontrunners Michelle Bachman and Rick Perry.

It’s looking as if they will hurt the progress made by the gay community under President Obama’s administration.

Nearly the entire Republican field signed a petition put forth by the National Organization for Marriage supporting a federal amendment that would define marriage as an institution between a man and a woman.

So much for that Tea Party mantra about the government staying out of Americans’ lives.

It gets better. Bachmann and Perry have both said they would reinstate “don’t ask, don’t tell” if they are elected to the White House—a move that the 67 percent of Americans oppose according to a Gallup poll taken last December. And both have lamented gays for their “radical” agenda and causation for the “moral decay” of America.

But they seem rather tame when compared to Rick Santorum, the former senator from Pennsylvania who has likened his so-called “war on gay marriage” to America’s war on terror. In Santorum’s America, gays are terrorists.

And these are potentially the future residents of the White House.

So while the repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell” is significant progress for gay Americans, the battle is far from over. Complacency, especially in the midst of election season, could lead the gay rights movement down a dark path. Fiscal conservatism and social conservatism are not the same—something voters need to remember in the upcoming election season.

What Rattles Your Cage?

Will the official repeal of "Don't Ask Don't Tell" affect how our military operates?

Share your opinion and see those of your fellow classmates at our website: http://www.stmurattlernews.com in the Community section. Join the debate!

A campus connected St u d e n m i l s tS Mu o

By Arturo Osteguin Features Editor

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Features

10 The Rattler

October 5, 2011

www.stmurattlernews.com

First-year students talk about new college experiences Local, out-of-town, out-of-state, and international students adapt to college life

By Mercedes Kelso Contributing Writer

As half the semester is over, new students are no longer too new, but they continue to adjust to the campus environment through classes and various campus activities.

Many freshmen say that the university’s welcoming community and atmosphere have made the transition into college easier. Freshman Spanish and multinational studies major Hannah Ektefaei said her transition from high school to the university has “been pretty smooth since the community here is small and friendly. The spiritual atmosphere has also offered comfort, making for an easier transition.”

As a Marianist institution with many different religious student groups, religious life is present and unavoidable for most. Ektefaei likes the diversity at the university and “enjoys having the opportunity to meet different people from a variety of places and backgrounds.”

The move into college for out-ofstate student, freshman accounting and business management major Ben Gross, was fairly stress-free and exciting.

“Life here certainly is different than from the big city life in Chicago, but I think that St. Mary’s University has a

Students at Founders Hall wear their freshmen 2015 shirts. Founders Hall is limited exclusively for first time students. / Photo by Chanti Lee Vong.

really well-rounded community, making it easy for people from any background to adapt,” Gross said.

Similarly, freshman undecided major Alexander Trudeau from Nicaragua said that transitioning “has been no big deal

because I used to travel here at least once a year.” Though the transition is easy, Trudeau says that he “misses the freedom from home and the night life within walking distance.”

Foreign students tend to experience

homesickness more than domestic students because of the differences in culture and lifestyles that can lead to culture shock, making for a more difficult time.

An appreciation for professors is one of the positive aspects that students mention because of the small student-toteacher ratio. Though college may be a daunting transition, adapting to courses has been easy for students with help from their professors.

Junior English and exercise sports science major Moritz Glasbrenner is studying abroad from Germany and for him, it was the professors’ helpfulness that helped him settle in.

Freshman biochemistry major Taylor Williams agreed, saying that she appreciates how “teachers go out of their way to say ‘hi’ and help me with anything I need.”

Though the reaction to college life has been mostly positive, many new students find themselves feeling nostalgia for their homes. Freshman undecided humanities major, Bridget Hennessy said, “[I miss] my parents delicious home-cooked meals.”

Williams added, “[I miss] sleeping in my own bed and watching DVR.”

Celebrate Fall @@@@ @ Pumpkin Patch Pumpkin sale Oct. 1 to Oct. 31 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Alley on Bitters, 555 W. Bitters Rd. Odyssey's Shipwreck: Pirates & Treasures Detailed stories behind the most fascinating shipwrecks Oct. 1 to Jan. 18 Scheduling Available Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway Beethoven Oktoberfest German Culture Festival with music, food, & dancing Oct. 7 to Oct. 9 5 p.m. - midnight 422 Peredia Street

Hondo Corn Maiz Outdoor ranch style fun with a maze to end it all Sept. 24 to Nov. 27 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

911 US Highway 90 East Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Fright Fest All the Six Flags fun with a Halloween Twist Oct. 18 - Oct. 30 Noon - 10 p.m.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas 17000 IH 10 West

Be on the lookout for a review of San Antonio's best haunted houses in our next issue.

Compiled by Viviana Rodriguez Graphic / Illustration by Amanda Cano

Features

October 5, 2011

The Rattler 11

www.stmurattlernews.com

Inception of Piercings Antiquity Body piercings have been a practice of humans for thousands of years. The oldest man to be found with piercings is believed to be from 5000 years ago.

Earlobe Ear piercings were a form of protection from demons who were believed to enter through a person's ear. The metal from the ear piercing would prevent the demon's entrance to the soul. In classical times, it was symbol of wealth and perstige.

Nose Piercing Mentioned in the oldest book of the Bible, nose-rings were used as a gift in marriage. Brought to India by the Mughul emperors, nose piercings were used to lessen pain during childbirth. In the late 1960s, hippies adopted the Indian form of nose piercings. It was later adopted by "punks" in the late 1970s as a symbol of rebellion to conservative values.

Tongue Performed as a ritual by the Aztecs to draw blood in order to please the gods to create an altered form of consciousness so that the preist could communicate with the gods.

Contemporary A very popular form of expression with cultural, media and social groups promoting its art.

Compiled by Arturo Osteguin Jr. Source: PainfulPleasures.com

Discussing class attire Going to class without style creates controversy

By Louise De Los Santos Contributing Writer

Unlike early education that comes with mandated uniforms or strict dress codes, college provides extensive freedoms for classroom fashion.

Some students consider the appropriateness of their clothes because they do not want to disrespect their professors.

Junior sociology major Shawna Turner believes that “A professor judges your outward appearance as well as your class performance and attitude.

Dressing like you don’t care is like telling them that you don’t care.”

Turner also added, “Remember, we need them to think we are serious when we ask for letters of recommendation.”

Students often forget that graduate schools, internships, jobs and scholarships require letters of recommendation. The way a student dresses can reflect their attitude and character.

For some, dressing for class is not an issue. Victor Moreno, a senior economics major believes “Going to class does not affect a student’s grade or if their questions are answered.

Otherwise, it is a bias.” Moreno

added, “Students should be judged on their character and contribution in the classroom— not how they look.”

Some students think that being comfortable allows them to work efficiently. “I always go to class dressed comfortably. I don’t worry how I dress to class because my concern is being attentive to class lecture,” said junior philosophy major Gabriel Torre.

For professors, their main concern is not the student’s clothes, but rather the classes.

Visiting professor of history Bradley Root stated that he does not care because students are there to be educated.

But others still think there is a line that cannot be crossed, by either student or professor. “I remember taking a night class last year and our professor came in wearing dirty gym clothes. I couldn’t take lecture seriously.

There has to be a standard or a minimum for dressing to class,” said Moreno.

Though fashion may or may not be important to students or professors, it is recommended for everyone to be mindful of what they are putting on.

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Entertainment

12 The Rattler

October 5, 2011

www.stmurattlernews.com

Local stylist changing the world one hairdo at a time

By Dania Pulido Entertainment Editor

Michael Jackson almost had it right when he said change begins with the man in the mirror. Actually, it begins with your hairstylist! Diane Diaz de Leon, a Paul Mitchell National Color Educator and owner of D’Anthony SalonSpas of San Antonio, is hosting “A World of Change” hair show at Club Rio on Oct. 14.

Salon owner Diane Diaz de Leon flaunts her philanthropic side with original style. / Photo courtesy of Diane Diaz de Leon.

Described as “a hairstylist’s dream,” the show will feature over 140 models strutting their stuff on the catwalk with classic, funky, avant-garde, and bridal

updos and hairstyles.

“This is a chance for hairstylists to think outside the box and create amazing hairstyles on ordinary people,” said Diaz de Leon. “The stylists choose their own models and they like to pick edgy people who are not shy about flaunting their stuff.”

With all this attitude in one place and for just one night, you can be sure the two hour and twenty minute show will be nothing but high impact entertainment.

“A World of Change” was inspired

by Michael Jackson’s song, “Man in the Mirror” with the lyrics, “If you want to make this world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make a change.”

Likewise, Diaz de Leon hopes the audience will take some of the show’s inspiration with them. “I hope people will realize that they can do something for others as well, and if they see how much fun they can have doing it, then why not help an organization?”

Aside from the models in the hair categories, the show will also feature performances by a Michael Jackson impersonator, a live band production featuring forty male models for “Mitch”, the new Paul Mitchell line for men, a fifteen minute onstage hair and makeup transformation, and right before you can catch your breath, a modeling tribute to the hair, fashion and music cultures of seven countries around the world— Greece, India, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico and the U.S. Ranked as the number one Paul Mitchell focused salon in San Antonio and number four in Texas, Diaz de Leon is

completely entitled to host a show for the sole purpose of showing off her stylists’ admirable work. However, this is far from their objective. The proceeds of the hair show will go to the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter of San Antonio.

“Being behind the chair for over twenty

Hair model shows off one of the funkier styles featured in the 2010 benefit show. / Photo courtesy of Diane Diaz de Leon.

years, I have seen a lot of women who have experienced abuse and struggle with self-esteem. While I can help them on the outside, the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter can help them on the inside,” said Diaz de Leon.

Last year at the first hair show, over $8,000 was raised with about 800 people in attendance. With six months of preparation since then and the help of her stylists to produce this year’s show, she hopes to exceed those numbers.

Mark your calendars now because there will not be another show like this one in the near future. “I would love to do this again, but it will not be on a yearly basis.

You have to want it and feel inspired, and then you have to wait for new changes in the industry, so the content can stay fresh. If I do it again, it will probably not be for another two years,” explained Diaz de Leon.

So if you are ready to shimmy to a few Michael Jackson songs or if you feel like watching human art strut down the runway, or if you just want to munch on some appetizers with friends, keep in mind that it is for a good cause.

With models, music, and Michael Jackson, giving back to the community has never looked more stylish.

“A World of Change” D’Anthony SalonSpa Hair Show 2011 Oct. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Club Rio, 13307-A San Pedro HWY 281 & Bitters Tickets: $30 at the door

Pre-Sale Tickets: $20 Available at D’Anthony SalonSpa locations: 12415 Bandera Ste.104 & 1008 N.E. Loop 410 Proceeds go to the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter of San Antonio

Red Bull movie screening unites diverse campus groups

By Desmond Roehl Contributing Writer The Black Student Union and Sigma Phi Epsilon will come together on Oct. 15 to not only promote unity, but also the acceptance of diversity through a movie screening of “That’s It, That’s All,” a high-definition snowboard film presented by Quiksilver and Red Bull.

The program will allow students of different backgrounds and interests to share an experience and learn more about each other in the process.

“This is different for the university. It’s not your typical movie night, but these aren’t your typical organizations

working together, either,” said senior accounting major and SigEp member Shane Loza.

“I don’t think BSU is credited enough with their efforts in trying to involve others in their organization on campus,” Loza

added.

BSU’s president, senior corporate finance major Jeremy Fonteneaux, agreed that the opportunity to work together is something that they could not pass up.

“By chance, SigEp was willing and able to team up with us and Red Bull was our hub,” Fonteneux explained. “Red Bull, as a brand, allows the individuals to freely express themselves, which is the idea we want to

present to students. Being so busy with school work and other commitments, sometimes we forget about the simple things in life, like having fun.”

In planning the event, the organizations took into account when most students would be free. SigEp president and junior entrepreneurial studies Brendon Murphy said, “Most students say there is not enough to do on campus on the weekends, which is why we chose a Saturday to screen this.”

The event will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Oct. 15 in UC conference room A. Admission is free and food, music, and beverages will be available.

Source: Redbullusa.com

October 5, 2011

Entertainment

The Rattler 13

www.stmurattlernews.com

“First Friday” is the city’s most artistic social network

By Karl Hayes Staff Writer

For those who appreciate art for art’s sake, enjoy listening to the sounds of original music, and want to explore the downtown area of San Antonio, make it out to “First Friday,” which takes place the first Friday of every month beginning in October.

If you have never been, then this urban event comes highly recommended because of the business and social networking worlds of San Antonio. Go with an open mind because there will many abstract and interesting people to meet and artwork to appreciate.

One of the central purposes of “First Friday” is for people to appreciate the artwork of the local artists.

Whether there is an oil painting that took weeks to finish to view, a local band there for exposure, or to meet new people “First Friday” is an excellent event to explore and do just that. It is the ideal way to see the city from a different perspective after a long week of dealing with college.

Another focal point about “First Friday” is the delicious food and beverages available. Most of the venues that host “First Friday” are located off of South Alamo St. in downtown San Antonio. Some places that you might want to explore are the “Blue Star Brewery” for an adult beverage, “Rosario’s Mexican Café y Cantina” for some authentic Mexicana comida or “La Tuna Grill” for some classic American food.

For the people who are looking for the local music in San Antonio, go and listen to “Somber Sons,” a folk/

It is easier to appreciate the different artistic tastes of “First Friday” if you come with an open mind. / Photo by Karl Hayes.

blues/independent band that will be playing at Hi Tones.

Much of their music is connected with the past time legend Johnny Cash.

At “Art at the Jalapeño,” you can expect to see visual genres that are not typically noticed in the in the world of art. This is the place to feel a sense of zen and tranquility through the art of the local artist by celebrating the deep

culture of the city’s creativity.

The crowds are full of younger people looking for innovative ways to experience a social artistic network.

For those who are looking for a night of inspiration and a good way to experience the genuine artistic side of San Antonio, make it out to the “First Friday” on Oct. 7.

Taste of San Antonio 2011 “Celebrate National Restaurant Month” with the 34th annual Taste of San Antonio Expo. The city’s most recognized restaurants will feature its best tasting food in sample form.

Featured Guests

1.

Creative Chocolates, home of artisan handmade custom designed

chocolates, will be one of the featured restaurants at the festival.

Attendees can expect to see a selection from their Texas and Western themed chocolates.

2.

Nicha’s Comida Mexicana, winner of the south side neighborhood

restaurant Critics’ Choice Award in 2008 by the San Antonio ExpressNews, will also be at the festival.

3. The Guenther House, honored by “Southern Living” magazine as one of the top 5 breakfast picks in Texas, will provide samples that serve as a nice Sunday brunch.

4. Texas Pride Barbeque, featured on the Food Network’s “Diners DriveIns and Dives” and winner of several awards, will attend the festival.

Entertainment: San Antonio’s own fashion week will have a soft opening with the fourth annual Going Green Fashion Show. The show will consist of an array of pieces made from recyclable materials by students and designers competing for scholarship awards.

Oct. 9 Pearl Brewery Noon to 5 p.m.

General admission: $25 VIP Passes: $40 Compiled by Jessica Valles

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Sports

The Rattler

October 5, 2011

www.stmurattlernews.com

Get “Up!”

By Jenavie Aguilar Contributing Writer

A new health awareness device was launched on Sept. 25 to literally put all your health information in the palm of your hand. “Up” is a wrist electronic bracelet that monitors a person’s sleep habits, food intake and movements while connecting wirelessly to iPhones and Android phones. Though “Up” does not speak, it vibrates and sends messages to the phone reminding users to take a nap or eat a snack by using sophisticated sensors to track every movement—something especially useful for college students who need a little reminder every once in a while.

By entering their nutritional data into their phone, users will find a nutritionist in their pocket.

The device provides helpful suggestions tailored to each user’s personal diet, suggesting when and what you should eat. “Up” will also be able to monitor how many steps you have taken in a day and how long you have been active which is helpful for those students looking to track how much they walk during the day. For those students concerned about studying too long, “Up” will let you know when you have been sitting too long, so that you can get up and stretch. For the avid swimmers, “Up” is completely waterproof; it also withstands severe heat for those spending lots of time in the sun.

One of the best features available with the device is the sleep function that tracks all the sleeping habits of the user. It tells you the hours slept, time to fall asleep, sleep patterns or phases, waking moments and sleep quality. It even comes with the “Silent Wakeup Alarm” feature that will gradually wake you up so you wake up feeling refreshed.

While there have been other devices similar to this one, “Up” is the first to combine practicality with style to reduce bulkiness, unattractiveness and uncomfortableness.

Especially beneficial for those people attached to their phones, “Up” will provide you with the opportunity to stay healthy while staying connected.

Source: MobileMag.com

Hitting the ground running:

Cross-countr y team races for the finish line

By Joe Rodriguez Sports Editor

Despite the 6th place ranking predicted at the beginning of the season for the cross-country team, the team has gotten off to a fast start.

With a time of 24 minutes, 50 seconds, newcomer-junior, Jessica Waninger was able to capture first place at the team’s first meet of the season at the Texas A&M International University Invitational.

She also received the Heartland Conference Player of the week.

The team also had two other runners place in the top ten.

Freshman psychology major Allie Manning placed 5th in her debut less than 1 minute behind Waninger with a time of 25 minutes, 39 seconds.

Freshman exercise and sports science major Olivia Lara placed 10th with a time of 26 minutes, 34 seconds.

These three members were also major contributors for their

The cross-country team gathers before practice to prepare for their

respective teams last year.

Waninger was the team MVP the last two years at UT Tyler as well as the freshman of the year for the team. Manning was a major contributor at Nolan Catholic High School her senior year. She led the team to a third

place finish in state. At Marian Central High School, she was the first-team all-conference her sophomore and junior years. Lara helped her team at Eastwood High School, maintain its 5 consecutive district championships.

These athletes will continue to contribute to the teams dynamics.

The team continued their strong start at the Texas Lutheran University Invitational, where they placed 4th despite the competition that included several NCAA division-1 teams. Waninger again led the way with a time of 19 minutes, 26 seconds finishing 15th individually. Lara finished 29th and Manning finished 31st.

The team also placed 6th in the Islander Splash meet, competing against teams like Rice and the host team, Texas A&M Corpus Christi. Waninger finished 28th and Manning finished 35th.

The next meet for the crosscountry team is at the Incarnate Word Invitational on Saturday, Oct. 8 at 8 p.m. Show your support for the team and take the trip to Incarnate Word—it’s a short one—you could run it.

Players safety a major concern for NFL

By Brian Magloyoan Staff Writer

With the NFL back in full swing, it is apparent that the top priority for the league is the safety of the players. The primary concern of league officials has been to reduce the amount of player concussions as well as other injuries.

During the lockout this summer, players and owners sought ways to improve player safety. Last year, several players received fines and suspensions for illegal helmet-to-helmet hits.

New guidelines were established when handling players who have sustained concussion-like symptoms.

One guideline is the baseline tests, which monitors a player’s recovery after a concussion and determines when they are healthy enough to play.

Earlier this year, the NFL pushed for all 50 states to pass youth football concussion laws. Every year, about 135,000 children

between the ages of 5 and 18 are treated in emergency rooms for sports related concussions and other head injuries.

According to the NFL, as of February, nine states have passed such laws.

This year, more rules have been implemented, such as kickoffs starting from the 35-yard line instead of the 30, and plays ruled dead once ball carriers lose their helmets. Stricter rules on roughing

Graphic / Illustration by Chrystalla Georghiou

the quarterback and helmet-to-helmet contact have also been implemented.

Although the safety of players is always a concern, several players, fans and coaches feel that the nature of the game is being changed. Many football purists believe that the game is losing its “tough guy” image because the rules are taking away from the nature of the game. Many feel that the game is losing its authenticity and lessening the level of competition that existed during the days when players wore little to no pads whatsoever.

The NFL has taken the necessary precautions with dealing with player safety, but at what cost? The game has changed tremendously. Gone are the days when a defense only had to worry about the strength of the opponent’s offense. Now defenses have to worry about whether or not they can hit a player. Football is a contact sport and the hesitation of a defensive player alters each play. An unintentional helmet-to-helmet hit can cause a team to not make a stop in a crucial part of the game and change its outcome.

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October 5, 2011

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Upcoming Games Men’s Golf Mon, Oct. 10 at West Texas A&M’s Ryan Palmer Foundation Invitational, All-day Women’s Golf Sun, Oct. 16 at Dallas Baptist University Golf Club, All-day Men’s Soccer Sun, Oct. 9 vs. Texas A&M International University, Northside ISD, 3 p.m.

Tues, Oct. 11 vs. University of Texas-Permian Basin, Northside ISD, 4 p.m.

Fri, Oct. 14 vs. West Texas A&M University, Northside ISD, 2 p.m.

Sun, Oct. 16 vs. Eastern New Mexico University, Northside ISD, 1 p.m.

Women’s Soccer Thurs, Oct. 6 at St. Edward’s University 4 p.m.

Sat, Oct. 8 at Dallas Baptist University 1 p.m.

Tues, Oct. 11 vs. University of Texas-Permian Basin, Northside ISD, 2 p.m.

Sun, Oct. 16 at Texas A&M International University 3 p.m.

Cross-country Sat, Oct. 8 at Incarnate Word Invitational 8 p.m.

Tues, Oct. 11 at Angelo State Blue and Gold Classic TBA Volleyball Thurs, Oct. 6 at St. Edward’s University 7 p.m.

Sat, Oct. 8 at Dallas Baptist University 12 p.m.

Thurs, Oct. 13 at University of Texas-Permian Basin 7 p.m.

Sat, Oct. 15 at Oklahoma Panhandle State University 10 a.m.

*Home games in bold

New trainer, Nathan Byerley, evaluates freshman outside hitter Kelsey Huber’s sprained ankle. / Photo by Miriam Cruz.

Meeting the new trainer

By Lane Swenson Staff Writer

Treating cuts, fixing sprains and mending lacerations are all in a day’s work for Nathan Byerley, the university’s new athletic trainer.

Originally from Mathis, Texas, Byerley felt a passion for two things— sports (he played basketball, football, baseball and ran track)—and the medical field. The combination of these led him to athletic training.

“Being an athletic trainer is sort of like a big group of professions, a sort of liaison from physicians and sports,” Byerley explained. “We provide immediate health care, first aid, safety, evaluations and rehabilitation to athletes.”

As a 2005 graduate Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi in 2005, he searched for a school with a small population and a close community.

Eventually, he accepted the job as athletic trainer here.

“I love the atmosphere and the fact that it is close-knit, and all the people are nice and approachable,” stated Byerley. “I love all of the sports that St. Mary’s has to offer.”

Graphic / Illustration by Chrystalla

Through caring for sick and injured athletes, Byerley has learned to have the laid back personality that the job requires. According to Byerley, the job requires a sense of humor; otherwise, a trainer will fall out of the job, get stressed out and tend to go crazy with all the injuries.

“I have seen it all,” he said. “Once, I had a student come in with a dislocated knee cap—which is weird because knees don’t usually get dislocated—so it was certainly interesting treating it.”

Though athletic trainers may be perceived to solely serve the athletes, there is more to their jobs.

“Athletic trainers work with all 14 sports that St. Mary’s offers, including cheerleading and dance, and is responsible for over 250 athletes,” Byerley said. It requires him to remember specific things about each of those athletes to make sure they are healthy.

According to Byerley, one of the obstacles that he has had to face is that athletic training is an upcoming profession, so it does not yet have the respect that it deserves in the health and medical field. But he hopes “that we can turn that around.”

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October 5, 2011

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THE

HOT

SEAT

Courtesy of St. Mary’s Athletics

Alejandra Cantu

Business Management Senior QUICK FACTS: Cantu is ranked as the number 1 golfer for the university women’s golf team. She has been posting round scores averaging 80.

Cantu has finished as high as 21st overall in the first two tournaments.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT YOUR TEAMS SEASON SO FAR? “We have such a great team this year, especially with our new players. With all of our talent, I feel like we’re bound to do well this season.”

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT HOW YOU’VE DONE THIS SEASON? “I’m proud of my accomplishments and I’m glad that I get to see my hard work pay off. There are several other girls right behind me, so that motivates me to work harder to stay on top of my game. On a collegiate level, I want to be in the top five players in our conference. If not, I want to be at least one of the top ten.”

WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO DO TO KEEP UP YOUR STRONG START? “Stay focused. Turn all of the negative energy into positive constructive criticism. Remember that we are a team and that it takes all of us and not just one person.”

WHAT DO YOU STAY FOCUSED WHILE YOU ARE PLAYING? “As I walk, I visualize what I want to do next, that way when I’m about to take my shot, I already know what I want to do. I don’t talk to the girls I play with until the hole is finished. If I make a mistake I remind myself that bad shots happen and that it is only one bad shot. I constantly tell myself positive things, the positive reinforcement helps me to save par, and if not par then at least bogey.”

Texas shootout Greatest vs Greatest

By Analissa Cantu Staff Writer

In 2003, it took the San Antonio Spurs six games to defeat the New Jersey Nets for the NBA Championship during hall-of-famer David Robinson’s final season. Fast forward eight years, and the Dallas Mavericks won their first NBA Championship in franchise history, surprising the sports nation by defeating Miami Heat.

These teams were the pride of not only their town, but of the entire state of Texas. If both teams were to play for a championship now, who would win?

Would it be the 2011 Mavericks, led by the versatile Dirk Nowitzki, or the 2003 Spurs, led by legend David Robinson?

EXPERIENCE:

In 2003, the Spurs team was made up of players that were relatively new to the team, such as Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker. The Mavericks had the advantage of a more experienced team, with veterans such as Jason Kidd, Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Terry.

The finals against the Miami Heat made for a more interesting battle, since the same finals had taken place in 2006, with the Heat winning on the Mavericks home court.

The Mavs, however, were able to show their experience and poise, redeeming themselves

with their first championship in franchise history on the Heats’ home court. This also made for Jason Kidd’s first NBA Championship, despite already having played for two other titles including the 2003 Nets, who the Spurs had defeated to capture their title. Gregg Popovich, head coach for the Spurs, was named coach of the year for 20022003 season. Rick Carlisle, who began coaching the Mavericks in 2008, led the team to the playoffs every year since being the team’s head coach, eventually resulting in a championship.

In the battle of experience, the Mavericks have the advantage.

SPURS: 0 MAVERICKS: 1

DEFENSE:

Both teams boasted great defenders, showcasing Jason Kidd’s 134 steals and Tim Duncan’s 263 blocked shots. Overall, the Mavericks had great rebound percentages, with Tyson Chandler averaging 9.4 rebounds per game. Nowitzki and Kidd were also great rebounders, averaging 7 rebounds per game and 6.5 rebounds per game. When it came to block shots, Tyson Chandler led the team with 86 blocks in the season, complimenting his rebounding average.

Though the Mavs had impressive stats, the Spurs starters had greater rebounds, steals and blocked shots per game. Tim Duncan and David Robinson averaged 12.9 and 8.3 rebounds per game. For steals, Manu Ginobili totaled 96 for his rookie season, leading the team. Tim Duncan, as mentioned before, boasted an impressive 263 blocked shots of the season, ahead of Robinson’s 83 blocked shots.

When it comes to analyzing the more impressive defense, it is a close call. But the Spurs take the win due to their two forces in the paint—David Robinson and Tim Duncan.

SPURS: 1 MAVERICKS: 1

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF GOLF? “I enjoy lots of aspects of the game, but meeting new people and traveling to new places when I play.”

Compiled by Chrystalla Georghiou

Source: BleacherReport.com

OFFENSE:

Duncan and Nowtizki both averaged 23 points per game in the regular season, leading their respective teams.

Mavs’ point guard Jason Kidd had the highest assists per game total, averaging 8.2 assists. Tony Parker trailed behind him with 5.3 assists per game to lead the Spurs. Also, the Spurs boasted Bruce Bowen who finished the season with the league’s highest 3 point field goal percentage of 44.1 percent.

Nowitzki’s ridiculous ability to hit clutch shots and create space for himself made the Mavericks offense more versatile because defenses had no choice but to double-team him.

Duncan also demanded a double team and averaged 5.3 assists per game compared to Nowitzki’s 2.5 assists per game. Nowitzki averaged more points per game in the playoffs, 27.7, while Duncan averaged 24.7 point per game.

Nowitzki’s 3 point range and driving ability made him a difficult cover at 7 feet tall, but Duncan’s dominate post game and power made him lethal as well. It’s another close call, but the Spurs have the advantage.

SPURS: 2 MAVERICKS: 1 In the Texas Showdown of championship teams, a better defense and offense would lead the Spurs to win the battle in what would be a compelling series.