Vol. 101, No. 2 - 02/13/2013

Best bars in town8 page

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February 13, 2013

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a st. mary’s university publication since 1924

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DEFENDING the

DREAM Students band together raising money to secure residency in the United States.

Richard Zepeda

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

A St. Mary’s alumna who helped mobilize the nation in the battle over immigration has been joined by a number of undocumented University students seeking legal residency.

SHOPPING w PAGE 10

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Alumna Benita Veliz’s refusal to be quietly deported led to the government closing the case against her and to her addressing the Democratic National Convention. It has also led to Veliz being trailed by some 40 more undocumented St. Mary’s students applying for residency, backed by students and other campus supporters, including President Emeritus Charles Cotrell.

Of the 40-plus students, a substantial majority is from Mexico, at least one is RODEO w PAGE 12

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from the Philippines and all range between with purchasing necessities such as the ages of 18 and 22, according to lawyer toiletries,” Ochoa said, “which means Anne Ohlrich, who’s been a St. Mary’s that the DREAMers cannot afford the faculty member in law and international $465 application fee to obtain their work relations.

Ohlrich is authorization, and that contributing her time to they also do not have These students are help the students apply for the funds to get legal temporary residency under currently struggling with assistance.”

President Barack Obama’s purchasing necessities To help the DREAMers Development, Relief and such as toiletries.” raise the application Education for Alien Minors fee, Ochoa created the Act, or DREAM act.

Fund to Tanairi Ochoa DREAMers Senior, Political Science Under this executive raise money for the cause. order signed by Obama, They also produced a an undocumented student T-shirt, sold for $18 who has been in the United States for over each or two for $30 as a fundraiser. The 10 years and is currently enrolled in school fund has raised over $4,000, enough may petition for a work authorization to help support the formal filing of permit for two years. Obtaining the permit petitions for 10 of the 40-plus students in has been anything but easy for students. see DREAMERS page 3 Ohrlich was inspired to help by another undocumented St. Mary’s student, senior Pictured above: Senior Tanairi Ochoa, political science and international relations junior Joel Gardea Beltran, sophomore Gina Gallardo, sophomore Crystal Casteneda, major Tanairi Ochoa, who had helped Veliz sophomore Jose Eduardo Martinez, senior David Tovar, senior Briana Fantauzzi. Photos and other backers of the DREAM act.

by Felix Arroyo “These students are currently struggling

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News in Brief A new kind of valentine

Practice good penmanship by writing letters of gratitude to over 1,000 alumni donors of 2012. The second annual Love-a-Donor Day takes place between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. today. A photobooth with an on-site photographer, music, games, prizes and more will be available to those showing their support.

Raise your glass and your pinky

Attend the professional etiquette dinner Feb. 17 from 6-8 p.m. in UC-A. Learn professional table manners and network among students and almuni of similar majors alongside St. Mary’s faculty and staff.

All of Italy in one room

Lean back and be serenaded by waiters with the University Department of Music, all while enjoying an Italian dinner. The second annual “A Night in Little Italy” opera worshop takes place at 6 p.m. Feb. 23 in UC-A.

Police Blotter 1.27.13

Student reported loud music in Leies Hall; UPD discovered a party with alcohol served to minors; County citations issued to minors; Criminal Trespass Warnings issued to nonstudents; escorted off campus; Referred to Judicial Affairs.

1.29.13

UPD investigated smoke alarm in Leies; no smoke or fire found; student burned hair with straigthener.

1.31.13

Family confronted student at Rattler and University drive; Director on Duty contacted; parties separated and family escorted off campus.

2.05.13

Trash can lit on fire near law building; Physical Plant contacted for clean up and repair.

Find extended blotter at:

www.stmurattlernews.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 Email: rattlernews@gmail.com Website: www.stmurattlernews.com

Prospective students, visiting campus for the weekend, gather at the Sleeping Bag Sunday Social. Photo by Sara LaTouf

OLLU students assemble, lose president Anissa Bravo and Alex Eakins

CONTRIBUTING WRITER AND NEWS EDITOR

University neighbor Our Lady of the Lake University lost its president, numerous degree programs and now faces protests from students fearful for the University’s future.

OLLU’s President Tessa Martinez Pollack decided to give up 12 liberal arts degrees, including Mexican American studies and religious studies—two focuses considered central to the identity of the traditionally Catholic and predominantly Hispanic university.

These decisions raised questions concerning the values of OLLU as a Catholic Liberal Arts institution as well as its leaders.

OLLU is often compared to St. Mary’s because of its proximity and shared Catholic liberal arts values, but while St. Mary’s progresses in liberal arts, OLLU appears to have slipped back a step.

Last month, alumnus Ed Speed and his wife Linda donated $137,500 to St. Mary’s in support of the liberal arts and for the establishment of the Edward and Linda Speed Peace and Justice Fellows Program in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.

The crippling of OLLU’s liberal arts

majors has met considerable resistance, however, proving that the liberal arts remain important.

Religious studies and theology majors Tyler M. Tully and Andres Peinado protested the announcement of these cuts by creating a Facebook page known as “Stand with the 12;” the page now boasts about 800 followers from a population of 2,800 students.

“We decided to act when we found out the Liberal Arts program was going to be eviscerated,” Tully said. “The Liberal Arts have given us the ability to learn beyond rote memorization.

They are creative, universal and contemplative.”

Students posted concerned messages on the protest group’s page about the future of their own degrees in the humanities department. Jennifer Mugrage, a junior psychology major at OLLU, was concerned with the fact students did not have a say in which majors would be cut.

Pollack’s decision to cut programs reportedly stems from the low student retention rate and the emphasis at OLLU having shifted from humanities to the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, where career growth and opportunity glimmer on the horizon.

Even in the sciences though, liberal arts are essential to an education, according to St. Mary’s sophomore economics major Ykevaa Hunt.

“Today, America and local communities in general are now investing and making a strong push in S.T.E.M. programs to compete with the rest of the world, but we have to realize that it’s subjects like theology, ethics and other critical thinking courses that allow for these new and improved technologies to fit alongside our human natural rights and religious morals,” Hunt said.

Although Pollack’s position will be vacated March 1, the terms of her departure are still unclear, according to an article from the San Antonio Express-News. Pollack’s departure was identified neither as a resignation, nor a termination.

Mugrage is not sure whether this is in response to outcry from students.

Regardless of whether Pollack was terminated or resigned, Tully emphasizes that OLLU should be looking forward, not backward.

“What is done is done. It’s time to look to the future, and we’re excited about the possibilities,” Tully said. “But we have our work cut out for us. We have the liberal arts to resurrect.”

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Veteran University professor, Aramark employee pass away Henry Palmer Hall Jr.

Donald Wilson

Melody Mejia

Alex Eakins

A dedicated and inspiring professor with a passion for poetry and literature, H. Palmer Hall, passed away this past Saturday.

Hall was born in Beaumont, Texas, in 1942. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Lamar University and, after serving as a Vietnamese linguist in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, completed a master’s degree in library science and a Ph.D. in English at the University of Texas at Austin.

At St. Mary’s, Hall was the director of Louis J. Blume Academic Library and taught creative writing workshops as well as various literature courses at both the undergraduate and graduate level.

Hall was the co-editor and director of renowned Pecan Grove Press, a non-profit literary press dedicated to the publication of poetry. He worked diligently for over 25 years to help launch and establish local, national and international poets.

Hall was an accomplished poet, essayist and professor. He had the ability to help his students understand and appreciate the power of literature.

After battling lung cancer since being diagnosed in November, a heart attack caused dedicated worker, avid fisher and grandfather Donald Wilson to pass away Feb. 1 at age 58.

Wilson was born in San Antonio.

He worked in the dish room and at Grill Works in the cafeteria for the better part of 21 years, and was described by coworkers Brenda Devlin and Dora Porter as loving, compassionate and caring.

“I’m just speechless right now,” Porter said. “I know he touched a lot of hearts.”

Porter and Wilson were close personal friends as well as co-workers. So close, in fact, that Wilson stood as best man at her wedding.

According to Porter, Wilson had one 28 year old son who had worked at the cafeteria for a brief period. In addition, Wilson had eight grandchildren, she said.

He loved to fish and barbecue, but what will be most missed about him, according to Devlin, is “his sweet smile and great attitude toward life.”

NEWS EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

from cover

DREAMERS line to file.

“We have filled out about 38 to 39 students applications with about another four pending, so we’re already past the 40 mark,” Ohlrich said.

Ohlrich is one of seven board members, which includes Ochoa, who are dedicated to helping the DREAMers. Other members include Cotrell and Clair Strockbine, social justice ministry coordinator and an adjunct professor.

Cotrell, who publicly supported the DREAM Act, said the issue is “important because I think what we’re doing here is very much a part of the mission of what we, St. Mary’s, is trying to do as a community.”

H. Palmer Hall became Louis J. Blume Library director in 1977. Photo courtesy of Luis Cortez

“Dr. Hall gave me an insight to what life is like when you pursue what you love. He was truly a man carved from experience and the courage to press forward,” alumnus Mike Cortez said.

Hall’s dedication to advancing poetic voices and his motivation to help students find their love for literature lives on, one word at a time.

The next edition of the Pecan Grove Review will be dedicated to Hall.

Strockbine added, “We should be proud, here at St. Mary’s, to have DREAMers among us.

These students are some of our best and brightest…this issue in our community is not about political views or left or right wing tendencies. It is about justice. It is about caring for our own family. It is what the Marianist tradition is all about.”

Though Veliz had a lot of help outside the community, St. Mary’s really came together to support Veliz when she finally spoke out, she said.

“St. Mary’s was instrumental.

St. Mary’s was very, very important and extremely supportive. There was a petition, a Facebook page and a rally, and all kinds of support from the St. Mary’s community,” she said.

BURNING

Donald Wilson barbecues with family and friends. Photo courtesy of Dora Porter

Sophomore corporate finance management major Stefano Caballo attested to Wilson’s kindness.

“He was a great guy,” Caballo said. “He was very humble and one of the nicest people in the cafeteria.”

Caballo would not have been the only student to say such things of Wilson, according to Porter.

“He will be missed,” she said.

In previous years, students have

QUESTION

been able to purchase Fiesta Oyster

Will Oyster Bake tickets be purchasable with student meal cards?

meal plan balances. This year,

Bake tickets with their respective students will still have the option to purchase tickets with their meal plans, according to Aramark Office Manager Brenda Devlin.

Although Devlin could not say how the tickets would be purchased yet, or at what price, she did emphasize that all students with meal plans will have the option to buy up to $60 of Fiesta Oyster Bake tickets this year.

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Volunteers lend math time

Interfraternity Council Bid Signings

University hosts middle school math competition.

The following students signed bids to join Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities this past Friday.

Katherine Benavides STAFF WRITER

The University hosted a middle school math competition last weekend made possible by volunteer students and faculty members from the School of Science, Engineering and Technology.

Mathcounts, according to Bexar Chapter of the Texas Society of Professional Engineers representative Laura Force, is “a national middle school coaching and competitive math program that promotes mathematics achievement through a series of timed quizzes.”

Sixty volunteers helped organize and run the event with over 200 students competing from 16 schools.

In previous years, the event was held at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Until three years ago, the venue for the competition changed and Force emphasized how welcoming the St. Mary’s community is in assisting and hosting the event.

In addition to providing the venue for this nationwide event, the University community provided volunteer organizers and graders. Dean of the School of Science, Engineering and Technology Winston Erevelles, Assistant Professor of Mathematics Ian Martines, Professor of Mathematics Mary Wagner-Krankel and Assistant Professor of Mathematics Ryan Dunning were key faculty members involved in coordinating the event.

“I get the sense that we are more present, more visible and more enthusiastic,” Dunning said. “I think we are all very excited about having the competition here.”

Dunning, who served as a grader at the event, had in a previous competition served as question announcer for one of

the competition rounds. He recalls how quick the students were to provide their answers.

“I’ve been able to read the questions, for those rounds, and that’s been a lot of fun,” Dunning said. “The students are lightning fast. They can buzz in with the right answer, sometimes before I’m done reading the question out loud. It’s very impressive.”

Ana Sofia Valdes, a sophomore engineering science major and St. Mary’s Society of Mathematics member, served as a volunteer and grader at the event. Valdes saw the problems the students encountered and admitted that some were difficult.

“Some of the problems were pretty challenging,” Valdes said. “In the short amount of time they are given (to solve a problem), it speaks a lot about their intelligence.”

Joining the Mathcounts program is free and “students get a chance to see how math can be fun,” Force said.

The students approach problems that encourage critical-thinking and problemsolving skills, as well as engage in written and oral rounds. The Mathcounts program helps provide sixth, seventh and eighth grade public and private school students with a basis for success and accomplishment in technology, engineering, science and mathematics careers.

More than 250,000 students are exposed to Mathcounts materials and activities in their schools each year. According to the Mathcounts website, 40,000 American students participate annually in the local competitions.

Top teams and individuals from these competitions qualify for the state competition, which will be held in March.

From there, the top four students at the state level will advance to represent the state at the national Mathcounts competition in May.

Winners of the Bexar County Mathcounts competition Team (by school)

Individual

First:

o Hector P. Garcia

o Michael Lange

Second:

o José M. López

o Kathleen Ran

Third:

o Stinson

o Aditha Mummid

Lambda Chi Alpha Carlos Barcenas Jesus Bocanegra Alexander Casanova Christopher Gonzalez Paul Hamilton Eric Jordan Luis Luna Mark Marbach Jacob Reyes Evan Villarreal Chi Phi Raul Caballero Alexander Caire Christopher Herrera Zachary Medola Eduardo Morales Devon Youngblood Sigma Beta Chi Brett Laursen Rafael Muñoz Carlos Ramirez Samuel Valdez

Kappa Sigma Brandon Wyatt Isaiah Macias Alan Alvarez Luis Caporusso Luis Galvan Luis Daniel Marquez Diego Zamudio Sigma Phi Epsilon Raul Espinoza Ruben Figueroa John Fitzpatrick Robert Gruber Vincent Ramirez Lorenzo Ruedas Carlos Salgado Eric Treviño Severiano Trujillo Joshua Villanueva

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Wear the Ring: It’s our habit.

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The Society of Mary (Marianist brothers and priests) and the Daughters of Mary Immaculate (Marianist sisters) are international Catholic religious orders founded in France in the early 1800s. They are dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and find inspiration in her way of bringing Jesus to the world and following Him. From the time of their profession of perpetual vows, Marianist brothers, priests and sisters wear a ring as a mark of their lifelong commitment.

For more information, contact Brother Tom Wendorf at twendorf@sm-usa.org or 314.533.1207 or visit www.marianist.com/vocations

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6«commentary STAFF EDITORIAL

Drink with care Parties are generally recognized to be an expected part of the so-called college experience. As most of our peers reach the legal drinking age during college, it is a reality that students frequent clubs, bars and house parties. There is nothing wrong with this, as long as it is done responsibly.

The possibility of going too far while partying is a legitimate concern. Going out to have fun is not the purpose of college. Students matriculate ready to learn and prepare for future careers. Unfortunately, one misstep can send all plans down the drain.

Drinking binges can bring about major health risks, even fatality. Moreover, drinking and driving is an extremely high-risk behavior. The Bexar County Criminal District Attorney implemented a “No Refusal” policy in 2011, which requires drivers pulled over under suspicion of intoxication to submit to either a breath or blood alcohol test.

From October 2011 to September 2012, there were 6,987 total arrests in the county for driving while intoxicated, according to the District Attorney’s website. A DWI could seriously threaten an imminent professional career.

An evening out with friends can be fun as long as drinking is kept within reason and a designated sober driver is available. Don’t let this small part of college wreck the rest of life’s opportunities.

Editorial Staff Editor-in-Chief Nick Canedo

News Editor Alex Eakins

Managing Editor Amanda Cano

Commentary Editor Briana Perez

Layout/Design Editor Carla Rodriguez

Features Editor Liliana Espinoza

Copy Editor Stela Khury

Entertainment Editor Rachel Grahmann

Web Editor Juan Casas

Sports Editor Christina Faseler

Photo Editor Felix Arroyo

Advertising Manager Rachel Hernandez

Assistant Photo Editor Adriana Avila

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

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

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

Letters to the Editor Policy The Rattler welcomes letters 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.

www.stmurattlernews.com

Women secure equality on the battlefield Stela Khury

There is some bad news for those despairing over the military order which allows women to serve in combat: they are already on the

front lines.

Women constitute 15 percent of the force, according to the military.

Since at least the beginning of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the line that determined what it means to the in the front lines has been blurred. What was considered war in 1948, when the Women’s Armed Service Integration Act was first enacted, is not today in 2013. An approximate 250,000 women have been deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq so far.

Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta’s announcement of an order, which now officially permits women to serve in combat, is a long awaited next step toward equality. Previous to this order, women were automatically barred from moving up, because many high military ranks require combat experience.

The Service Women’s Action Network, a nonpartisan civil rights organization, advocates that women in the military service were being held

Cartoon by Jasmaine Aquino

back from promotions, pay raises and retirement benefits simply because they were women.

A survey of 53,000 troops by the Marine Corps was released Feb. 1 and showed that 31 percent of women would be interested in having a combat position. Gen. James Amos, Commandant of the Marine Corps, confirmed in a press conference that most active marines support the new order. However, still a number of male respondents showed sexist concerns of whether women had the psychological readiness for combat, if pregnancy would be a problem and even if women would receive preferential treatment.

According to Panetta, the bar will

not be lowered to help women pass the required physical or psychological tests more easily. Additionally, most branches of the military will be allowed to review how and if women will be eligible for their particular sectors by May 2013.

The inclusion of women in combat is a belated adherence to standards upheld in countries such as Israel, which in 2000 applied an equality amendment guaranteeing women the same rights to serve, including in combat.

The U.S. is fashionably late to the party, but not too late to bring equality to the armed services and to place more capable women in high-ranking offices.

The military has much to gain from further diversity.

Residence Life mishandles bedbug issue T h e intervention by the Universit y u p o n Jessica Valles reports of b e d bug sightings on the fourth floor of Treadaway Hall is still raising questions and controversy.

Only the few rooms which had bedbugs visibly crawling on the walls and furniture received the heat treatment. The procedure was proved only partially successful because the bugs unexpectedly burrowed their

way into the soundboards.

Bedbugs spread with considerable ease, seeing as how these insects lay one to five eggs in a day, according to the National Pest Management Association.

In the event of a heavily populated area showing signs of bedbugs, one would assume an appropriate amount of attention would be given to prevent the problem from escalating.

According to a survey done by the NPMA, younger Americans who live in rented homes in urban areas are generally the ones who have

had more encounters with bedbugs. The appearance of bedbugs in college residence halls is fairly common, particularly because of the frequent transfers of furniture between halls, which facilitate the spread of certain pests such as bedbugs.

There were no notices sent out to other residents about the incident happening in their building, let alone on their floor, hallway or even neighboring rooms. The only sign of the incident were the hired exterminators walking the halls in protective gear, which left many residents

wondering about their own safety. Although bedbugs do not transmit diseases, victims can experience infection from bedbug bites.

Additionally, students whose rooms were being treated were not notified that the heat treatment could damage their belongings, which raises eyebrows as to the present lack of financial compensation for any damage incurred.

The poor communication skills on the part of Residence Life are evident, and there are still many loose ends to be tied before Treadaway residents can feel safe again.

commentary»7

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Medical marijuana may come to Texas In 2012, Washington and Colorado took the plunge and Tamara Garcia legalized marijuana use altogether, helping reignite hope that progressive marijuana legislation in Texas may not be quite out of reach.

According to a KENS 5 article, 18 states have already legalized the use of medical marijuana. While each state has its own guidelines, possession limits and registration fees, the one thing these states have in common is the recognition of the benefits marijuana has to the patients who use it.

State Representative Elliot Naishtat is proposing a law which would help protect medical marijuana users from

being arrested for possession in Texas. However, this bill would not actually legalize medical marijuana in Texas, but give additional legal protections to those who can prove medical reasons for using.

Medical marijuana is reportedly most beneficial to patients diagnosed with severe pain and muscle spasms. Vincent Lopez, a sufferer of muscular dystrophy, claims the use of medical marijuana helped him fight his disease. “(Marijuana) seems to stimulate appetite,” Lopez said in an article for KENS 5. “It seems to alleviate my spasms, alleviate my muscle stiffness, alleviate the pain throughout my back that I feel daily.”

While many would agree

Irish priest denounced by Vatican officials

Cartoon by Ana Cano

that using marijuana helps ailing patients, there is still a significant group of those who oppose to legalization of use marijuana in any situation. Naishtat has tried passing similar bills in the past, has failed each time, but claims he has not given up.

The American population’s view on marijuana use has become progressively more liberal. There are many citizens today who believe the penalties for possession should be drastically lessened, while some go even

further in defending that jail time as a punishment should be removed altogether.

The legalization of marijuana became a hot topic when the California Proposition 215 legalized in 1996 use of medical marijuana in the state. The process of changing the legality of marijuana has been a long one, with only 18 states changing their legislation in a span of 18 years. However, these many, slow steps toward change have helped point the country in the right direction.

LGBT remark makes inaugural history President Barack Obama made history in his second inaugural address after mentioning for the first Travis Bowles time in history gayrights in a president’s inauguration address.

“Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law, for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well,” Obama said to the closely watching public within the first hour of his second term.

This is a sign of hope and recognition for the LGBT community. Their struggle for equality is being taken seriously and recognized on a national level.

Two years since the repeal of the “don’t ask, don’t tell” military policy—a major milestone for gay rights—the American

population is presenting itself to the world as more approving of legalizing same-sex marriage across the nation.

According to a USA Today reported Gallup poll, 53 percent of Americans agreed homosexual couples should have the same rights as heterosexual married couples. This is an increase of nearly 20 percent in just nine years.

The Stonewall riots, a historical marker in the gay rights movement, were also mentioned in the president’s inaugural address, but not without causing some commotion. Political commentator Pat Buchanan called the riots, “a barroom brawl in Greenwich Village back in 1969, when cops were hassling gays in their bar, and the gays fought back and threw them all out.” This statement is in the same league as calling Cesar Chavez’s labor strikes nothing more than a bunch of ungrateful immigrants, or Rosa Park’s

actions simply fruit of laziness when she refused to relinquish her seat. These were turning points in history when oppressed citizens finally stood up for themselves, their beliefs and their rights.

The Supreme Court will be voting on two key issues in the coming months in relation to gay rights. First up is deciding the doubtful constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act, which, if enacted, could deny the possibility of federal recognition of same-sex marriages. Also up for decision is California’s Proposition 8, which would ban same-sex marriage in the state. With all these important events ahead, it is clear that not only does the LGBT community have Obama’s vocal and open support, but that the president also understands the importance of his support to their community and the significance of their fate in securing the future of equality and freedom for all Americans.

Freedom of speech has been thrown out the window as a Catholic priest in Ireland is being forced to choose between voicing his opinion or keeping his place in Jocelyn Garcia the vocation.

Father Tony Flannery’s progressive views on homosexuality, contraception and the inclusion of women in the priesthood have recently come under fire by Vatican officials.

Flannery has been threatened with excommunication by the Vatican and for the time being is unable to minister. Flannery is paying a high price for speaking out on these controversial topics. According to a CNN article, the Vatican has given Flannery time to redirect his thoughts on these issues but he seems to have his mind made up. Flannery shared he has no intention of leaving the Catholic Church of his own volition because he feels “it is where (he) belongs.”

For Flannery, it has been impossible to ask the Vatican to simply agree to disagree. On an interview for CNN, Flannery said he explained to the Vatican that his views simply differ from those reinforced by the Catholic Church. However, as a Catholic priest, Flannery is expected to share certain beliefs and follow certain customs, but he claims he cannot follow some of these expectations in good conscience.

“My understanding of the church is a community where all people are treated equally, we are all baptized, we are all equal members of the church and our gender,” Flannery said. “Sexual orientation should not intrude.”

Perhaps the Vatican fears losing control if these sort of opinions are voiced to the public by one of their own and are open for debate. Perhaps they fear that if a fellow priest acknowledges these changing attitudes on sensitive social issues they will be forced to adjust their own deeply held views or face up to the public. No matter the reason, however, it does not change the fact one must acknowledge that the issues Flannery believes should be open for discussion despite the probability of sparking fiery debates. Progress is made by acknowledging and exploring differing views — not stifling them.

Voice your opinion. Visit the Commentary section at: www.stmurattlernews.com

San Antoni .,

St. Mary’s Classics

Music madness

HOWL AT THE MOON

SAM’S BURGER JOINT

11 W. Crockett St. San Antonio, TX 78205 Thursday College Night : 1) No cover with college ID 2) $1 Bud Light 3) $2 Corona 4) $3.75 UV/Red Bull

PAT O’BRIANS

Above: Senior Rose Fonseca posing infront of Pat O’Brians. Photo by Nick Canedo Below: A piano performer on stage at Howl at the Moon. Photo by Nick Canedo

121 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 Wacky Wednesday: 1) $4 Hurricane 2) $2 Everything else

FATSOS

1704 Bandera Road San Antonio, TX 78228 1) Beach volleyball 2) Arcade games 3) Karaoke

.,

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330 E. Grayson St. San Antonio, TX 78215 Tickets: 1.888.512.SHOW 1) Bob Schneider playing Feb. 16

502

502 Embassy Oaks San Antonio, TX 78216 1) 68beers 2) $5 16 oz. beer and shot special 3) Sunday Open-Mic 4) Monday Karaoke

THE COVE

606 W. Cypress San Antonio, TX 78212 1) Wednesday Night Jazz 2) Third Thursday wine tasting 3) Fourth Thursday beer tasting

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ECLECT FUN

THE FRIENDL

943 S. Alam San Antonio, T 1) Open until M 2) 180 Bre 3) 25 “friendly

BOMBAY BI CLUB

3506 N. Saint M San Antonio, T 1) Sunday, $3.7 Mary” 2) Tuesday, $2.7 Margarit 3) Thursday, $3 Daniels

KNIFE AND

20626 Stone Oa #103, San Ant 78258 1) High quali and win 2) Play classic games, skee-b group board

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io Nightlife

TIC N

LY SPOT

mo St. TX 78205 Midnight ews y” drafts

ICYCLE B

Mary’s St. TX 78212 75 “Bloody ” 75 “Frozen ta” 3.75 “Jack s”

D FORK

ak Parkway tonio, TX 8 ity beer nes c arcade ball and games

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Compiled by Carla Rodriguez. Layout and Design by Carla Rodriguez.

BEER HAVEN

A STEP-UP

FOX & HOUND

THE BLUE BOX

12651 Vance Jackson Road #110, San Antonio, TX 78230 Draft Tuesdays: 1) $2.95 Draft Pints 2) Over 30 beers on draft 3) Pool tables and darts 4) TVs and sports galore

312 Pearl Parkway San Antonio, TX 78215 1) Modern approach to drinks 2) Cocktails made handcrafted by in-house mixologist 3) Cocktails average $10

THE FLYING SAUCER

THE GREEN LANTERN

11255 Huebner Road #212 San Antonio, TX 78203 Monday Pint Night: 1) $3 draft pints 2) Over 60 beers on draft

HOOLIGAN’S

13920 N. IH 35 LIive Oak, TX 78233 Thursday Pint Night: 1) $3 draft pints 2) $2.75 wells

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20626 Stone Oak Parkway San Antonio, TX 78258 1) Gourmet cocktails 2) Ambience is hipster and trendy 3) Rock and classic rock played in background

., Above: Senior Alexandra Chow drinking a personalized cocktail from the ‘40s at The Blue Box. Photo by Carla Rodriguez Below: A Beastie Boys cover band performing at the 502 bar. Photo by: Nick Canedo

ESQUIRE

155 E. Commerce Street San Antonio, TX 78205 1) 11 draft picks, $5-$6 2) 19 beer bottle selections, $4-$8 3) Speciality cocktails

k

.,

10«features

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Student earns 1 of 50 Harvard networking program spots Liliana Espinoza FEATURES EDITOR

When most people think about Harvard University, they think about its impeccably high standards, child prodigies and the immaculate reputation, which one may attain after graduating from such a prestigious institution of higher learning. In short, they think of gifted people achieving the improbable.

When Angela Rizzo, a sophomore finance and risk management major, first heard about Harvard University, she chose to regard the unattainable as a plausible possibility instead.

Although it meant Rizzo would have to dedicate an insurmountable amount of hours to her studies, community service events and research opportunities, Rizzo’s dogged determination soon landed her one out of 50 spots offered at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government’s Institute for the International Public Policy Fellowship Program.

Born in Germany and raised in

Maryland, Rizzo was exposed to public policy issues through her father who works for the United States Department of Defense and is currently stationed at the Lackland Air Force Base.

In addition to her early exposure to careers in the public and government sector, Rizzo’s outstanding achievements and hard work also set her apart from other students. Rizzo was the salutatorian of her high school and is currently a member of the Greehey Scholars Program.

Some of her most notable accomplishments include her work on the Entrepreneurs Scholars Program, where she is participating in a joint project, which focuses on studying the developing economy of India.

It was her perseverance and successes, which helped Rizzo make an impression on Criminal Justice and Criminology Associate Professor and Mediator Raymond Leal.

“Angela was first introduced to me by Associate Professor of Sociology Janet Armitage. Her

dedication and focus singled her out as a very bright and potential candidate for this program,” Leal said. “She seems to be a very focused and intelligent young lady.”

It was Leal who, along with the help of Director of Admissions of the Harvard Kennedy School Matt Clemens, helped arrange a meeting in April 2012 where Clemens spoke to St. Mary’s students who were interested in obtaining a graduate degree from the Harvard Kennedy School.

The Public Policy Fellowship Program is scheduled to take place on Feb. 21 and will last three days.

The 50 accepted applicants from all over the country will be flown to the Harvard Kennedy School, with all expenses paid. There they will learn more about careers in federal, state and local government as well as work in the nonprofit sector or in international agencies.

“I’m very excited to go to the PPLC program to network, build up my resume and represent St. Mary’s University,” Rizzo said.

“I hope to better develop my

Angela Rizzo prepares to attend PPLC program at the Harvard Kennedy School. Photo by Adriana Avila

analytical skills, learn about new internships, fellowships or other stuff that I can engage myself into.”

To all who are in a situation similar to Rizzo’s or who are looking into following her steps, she recommends perseverance.

“Never let other people define who you are. I’ve had a lot of failures and it is easy for people

to judge me based on my failures, just as it is easy to forget and push aside my accomplishments. Don’t let people define your boundaries,” Rizzo said. “Never be intimidated with anything. Keep pushing forward, join organizations, practice networking and resume building, but most importantly, dream big.”

Retail therapy helps students shop way through stressful lifestyle Emma Santoyo

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

A new study revealed what generations of college students have always known: shopping makes people happy.

While some students may commonly opt for exercise as a way to unwind and relieve themselves from stress, a new and unique way to deal with the daily hassles of the common college student lifestyle is retail therapy. Retail therapy not only helps to relieve daily stress, but, according to a study published in “Psychology and Marketing,” shopping works as an effective mood enhancer.

After treating oneself to a nice purchase, one can feel the long-term effects of a positive mood without experiencing any harmful side-effects. The study noted that 82 percent of shoppers showed an improvement in their moods through shopping. They reported to be, “absolutely happy with their purchases without feeling any buyer’s remorse.”

Freshman biology major Andrea Pruneda-Baber is an avid practitioner of retail therapy.

According to Pruneda-Baber, it was her mother who introduced her to shopping when she was in the seventh grade.

“Shopping runs in the family,” PrunedaBaber said. “I usually go shopping every weekend. If I do not go to the mall, then I at least try to go shopping for groceries.”

PrunedaB a b e r mentions that whenever she feels a little down about her week, she adds new items to her wardrobe to improve her spirits. Pruneda-

Baber not only shops to help boost her mood, but also to help pass the time if she has nothing else to do.

“I always feel much better after I have made a purchase, or two,” Pruneda-Baber said.

To avoid feeling buyer’s remorse after a purchase, sophomore Englishcommunication arts major Christina Santoyo tries to follow some important key rules to keep both her wallet and herself happy. Santoyo is not only a firm believer in retail therapy but also a bargain hunter.

“I have been shopping ever since I could drive myself to the mall,” Santoyo said. “My first piece of advice is to set a budget for your shopping session. As long as you don’t overspend and stick to your budget you won’t feel guilty afterwards. Make sure you absolutely love what you’re buying.”

Photo by Adriana Avila

Student Discounts Ann Taylor Loft

15 percent off in-store

Ann Taylor

20 percent off in-store

Apple

8 percent off (online and in-stores)

Banana Republic

15 percent off in-store

Charlotte Russe

10 percent off in-store

J. Crew

15 percent off selected items

The Limited

15 percent off in-store

Ralph Lauren Rugby 15 percent off in-store

Topshop

10 percent off online

Urban Outfitters

10 percent off on select dates only

www.stmurattlernews.com

Valentine’s

features»11

Inspirations Thoughtful, ‘sweet’ gift created at home Valentine’s Day can be made more honest by a handmade gift with a pinch of love. These fuzzy cake balls are sweet and cute at just the right measure.

This do-it-yourself idea is a quick and creative gift that will melt the heart of its receiver.

Ingredients 1 bag candy melts 3 tbsp white frosting 1/4 sheet cake 1 c shreded coconut red or pink food coloring

1

Using candy melts, create little feet and antennas for the fuzzy cake ball. Heart shapped confetti can also be used to adorn the top portion of the antennas. Make sure to freeze the candy melt creations for a couple of minutes so that they are firm and less prone to breakage.

2

STAFF WRITER

3

Once the cake ball is ready, dip it into the candy melt and immediately follow by dipping it in the colored coconut.Before the candy melt hardens, quickly place the fuzzy cake ball on top of two candy feet, put two antennas on the top of his head and add two candy eyeballs to his face.

Lover’s coupons are also a creative way to celebrate romantics’ favorite day.

Scan the QR code for more unique coupon ideas that will make Valentine’s Day just right.

Couple ready for marriage Jocelyn Garcia

To create the body of the fuzzy cake ball, mix the bread of a cake with one fourth to half a cup of frosting or until the cake ball can be held together without dismantling. To make the fuzzy fur of the cake ball, take half a cup of coconut and add drops of red or pink food coloring to taint the coconut.

Photos by Felix Arroyo

Freshmen couple Maria Salazar and Arturo Delgado have yet to set a date for the wedding. Photo by Felix Arroyo

Compiled by Liliana Espinoza

While most freshmen hope to finish their first year of college with memories of exploration and fun, one freshman couple will forever view 2013 as the year of their engagement.

Arturo Delgado, a freshman exercise and sport science major, arrived at St. Mary’s University in September with only school in mind. Delgado did not know then that within the month he would stumble upon the girl of his dreams, to whom he would propose to in just a few months.

According to Maria Salazar, also a freshman exercise and sport science major, the whole situation still leaves Delgado and her breathless because it was unplanned. “(We) met at the New Student Retreat and within a few weeks made it official,” Salazar said.

They have been together four

months, but to Delgado it feels “like it’s been forever.”

“We are together all the time,” Salazar added.

The unexpected relationship brought the couple so close together it made freshmen year a much smoother and productive experience. Salazar and Delgado did not waste their time letting relationship drama swallow them whole.

“She keeps me in-line with everything,” Delgado said.

“Finishing my homework has become easy because I know that afterwards my reward will be spending time with her.”

Salazar feels that this new relationship brought stability and a sense of security to the two freshmen. Delgado asked Salazar’s hand in marriage in January and she eagerly accepted.

To many, this romance may seem too perfect to be real, but to Salazar and Delgado, “it simply feels right.”

12«entertainment

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Roping Up Some Fun at the Rodeo ... ...

“The Rodeo is great! Food booths, awesome bands, animals and a carnival offer great memories with friends and family. I’m looking forward to taking all my friends who have never experienced it before. The live shows are definitely must-sees.”

Bianca Martinez Freshman, Education

Musical Round Up Wednesday, Feb. 13 | 7 p.m.

Gary Allan Thursday, Feb. 14 | 7 p.m.

Thompson Square Friday, Feb. 15 | 7:30 p.m.

OneRepublic

“I love going to the Rodeo for the concerts and quality time with my family. My father loves the experience and time with us, so we’ve been attending every year since I was small.”

Melissa Valdes Junior, Biochemistry

Saturday, Feb. 16 | 1 and 7:30 p.m.

Lady Antebellum

...

Sunday, Feb. 17 | 7:30 p.m.

La Original Banda El Limon

1 Source: sparkart.net

Tuesday, Feb. 19 | 7 p.m.

Jerrod Niemann

Check These Out 1: Concerts from the newest and hottest country artists, including The Band Perry

Wednesday, Feb. 20 | 7 p.m.

The Band Perry Thursday, Feb. 21 | 7 p.m.

Brantley Gilbert

2: Rodeo events including bull riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing and team roping

Friday, Feb. 22 | 7:30 p.m.

REO Speedwagon

3: Delicious local food, Chuck wagon cooks and carnival fare 4: Wade Shows delights carnivalgoers with amusement rides of all heights, shapes and sizes

Monday, Feb. 18 | 7 p.m.

Dierks Bentley

2 Source: sarodeo.com

3 Source: sarodeo.com

4 Source: sarodeo.com

Saturday, Feb. 23.

Justin Moore | 1 p.m.

Darius Rucker | 7:30 p.m.

Compiled by Rachel Grahmann and Jocelyn Garcia

Entertainment Essentials HOME FOR SALE

New Flicks

Good Times

Fresh Tunes

A Good Day to Die Hard Feb. 14

San Antonio Stock Show AT&T Center Feb. 7 - 17

Buckcherry Confessions Feb. 19

The Used Backstage Live Feb. 19

Jamie Lidell Jamie Lidell Feb. 19

Anberlin White Rabbit Feb. 22

50 Cent Street King Immortal Feb. 25

Beautiful Creatures Feb. 14

Move-in ready 2 bed / 1 bath. Walk to St. Mary’s University!

Beautifully landscaped corner Lot. Updated tile & counter tops in kitchen. Must see! $64,900 Call Carol Dintelman 210.363.0912

Safe Haven Feb. 14 Dark Skies Feb. 22

entertainment»13

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San Antonio's Best

Late Night Grub Campus artist cultivates vocation

Taqueria Datapoint 4063 Medical Drive M 210.615.3644 Mon - Thurs: 6 a.m. - 10 p.m | Fri - Sat: 6 a.m. - 3 a.m.

Best bet: al pastor taquitos Wayne’s Wings Food Truck Tweets location and hours nightly M 210.300.3891 Best bet: chicken cheesesteak

Emma Felicia has played the guitar since she was 10 years old. Photo courtesy of Michael David Garcia

Tamara Garcia STAFF WRITER

To Emma Felicia, a junior music major, music went from a cathartic experience to a means of rediscovering her spirituality and leaving her mark on Christian music.

Felicia has crafted her voice through collaborations with other artists and solitary explorations, to the point of accomplishing melodic harmony with various instruments and producing raw, meaningful tracks.

Her most vivid memory is of her father playing Neil Young to her.

“I remember watching his fingers. For a 6-yearold, they looked like they were dancing,” Felicia said. “I knew right then that all I wanted to do was to be able to make my fingers dance like that.”

After years of practice, she was able to piece together her own music and style.

Her passion for making music may have started when she was a child, but it has blossomed into a way of life. Felicia believed for a while that her music was personal and, as she aged, music became more spiritual and concerned with what he music represents to other people. Hearing others tell her how much her music has helped them only encourages her to work harder at making music.

“I have a lot of reassurance that it helps people and has an impact on people who hear it,” Felicia said. “So, for now, that feeds me. That feeds me spiritually and emotionally. And it makes me very happy.”

By recently collaborating with a good friend of hers, a monk, Felicia discovered more about what she can and wants to do with her music.

“I feel like it is my duty. I feel like God gave me this gift,” Felicia explained. “At some point I know I’m going to be writing a lot more music because I have to. It’s the way that I live.”

Mi Tierra Restaurant and Bakery 218 Produce Row M 210.225.1262 Open 24 hours Best bet: sweet breads and empanadas Lulu’s Bakery and Cafe 918 N. Main Ave. M 210.224.5001 Open 24 hours Best bet: three pound cinnamon roll Mama Margie’s 9950 W. IH10 M 210.561.0400 Open 24 hours Best bet: breakfast tacos Taco Garage 8403 Broadway St. M 210.826.4405 Mon - Thurs: 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. | Fri - Sat: 7 a.m. - midnight Best bet: bean and cheese nachos

Intimate coffeehouse highlights unique San Antonio flavors Trevor Jones

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

For many out of town students, the Diamondback Café may be the only local restaurant they are aware of. While the school buffet may be fine for a meal between classes, no second date will ever occur there. Getting to know the local flavor is a key element in understanding and enjoying San Antonio.

The Candlelight Coffeehouse has rested for 18 years on 3011 N. Saint Mary’s St., in close proximity to San Antonio College. The coffeehouse itself boasts an incredibly relaxing ambiance. Little artificial light is used, allowing for a more natural feel – windows in the day and candles at night.

Local art adorns the walls while music is played throughout the room.

Candlelight’s entire atmosphere is cozy and unique. If dining inside, patrons have their choice of varied couches and chairs, all different in style. However, if eating outside is preferred, the patio is just as relaxing. Ivy coats the white lattice fence, while the green interior of the patio creates the feeling of dining in a sort of secret garden.

To those who do not go to a restaurant simply for atmosphere, rest assured Candlelight offers excellent food.

The most popular dish is the chicken and spinach sandwich. They also have a variety of special hors d’ouevres, such as the baked brie in raspberry preserves. Candlelight offers

many vegetarian options, including hummus and vegetable quesadillas.

The Candlelight Coffeehouse also has an impressive drink and coffee selection.

In all, they boast over 60 types of wines, champagnes and beers. Patrons can order from a center island inside the café, and the food is delivered to the table by the chefs themselves. Juan Garcia, the gentleman behind the counter, explained that “there is no wait staff (because) we want to make you as comfortable as possible, with no one trying to make you leave.”

The food is appropriately priced for a downtown restaurant, freshly made, and worth every penny. For students wanting a special place to dine, grab a coffee or catch up with friends and family, the Candlelight Coffeehouse is highly recommended. To students searching for the perfect place for a romantic date tomorrow: look no further.

Hours of Operation Tue - Thu: 2 - 11 p.m.

Fri: 2 p.m. - midnight Sat: 10 a.m. - midnight Sun: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

14«sports

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As a guard, freshman Dezirae Elias has contributed her speed, skill and energy to the team. Photo by Lauren Lundy

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Skilled freshman gives passion, energy to experienced team David Aguayo STAFF WRITER

In just her first season on the women’s basketball team, freshman guard Dezirae Elias has already become a standout player during what looks to be a promising season.

When the school year started, Elias, an exercise and sport science major, had a lot to take in at first, but she found ways to stay on top of school work and still keep up her performance on the court.

“I’m pretty much doing everything for my family,” Elias said. “Neither of my parents went to college or were involved in sports. It’s exciting to be one of the first in my family to do these things.”

Elias is also inspired by NBA player Allen Iverson, a player who, like her, is shorter than his teammates and opponents but has nevertheless been able to make a name for himself on the court.

“That’s one of my biggest things, being short,” Elias said.

“It gives me more of a reason to play hard.”

The desire to help their younger teammate is indicative of the bonds these players share and the affection they feel for their newest member. All of Elias’ teammates have nothing but positive things to say about her.

“I was a freshman once too, so I try to give her the best advice I can,” guard Liz Boyd, a senior exercise and sport science major, said. “(Elias) provides a lot of energy. She’s a spark off the bench.”

Elias’ team-oriented attitude is reflected in her unselfish play, which has earned her the respect and admiration of her teammates.

“She gets the passes there,” forward Bria Bell, a junior English-communication arts major, said. “Even if I don’t think that I’m open, she gets the ball there somehow. She always gets her assists in. She looks to pass before she looks to score.”

Despite the difficulties of being a first year player at the collegiate level, Elias has found a way to preserve her youthful energy through high hopes for the team’s future.

“I definitely think that we’re going to have a national title,” Elias said. “Our team this year is a championship team.”

With help from Elias, the Rattlers have claimed both the title of highest field goal and highest 3-point percentages in the the Heartland Conference.

The Rattlers will be taking on the St. Edward’s University Hilltoppers in Austin, Texas, tomorrow as their second-tolast conference game of the season.

SEASON STANDINGS MEN’S

WOMEN’S

OVERALL

OVERALL

7-4

8-2

15-6 16-6 CONFERENCE

CONFERENCE

3

2

CONFERENCE RANK

CONFERENCE RANK

Current as of Wednesday, Feb. 13 Compiled by Christina Faseler

sports»15

www.stmurattlernews.com MEN’S BASKETBALL

Rattlers come back with 3 wins Christina Faseler SPORTS EDITOR

The Rattlers made a remarkable comeback after coming off of a five-game losing streak with recent wins under their belts and a renewed excitement for the Heartland Conference tournament.

“We were in about a three or four week funk,” Jim Zeleznak, head men’s basketball coach, said. “But I think that we have shown signs of playing better and playing it off.”

The team cannot help but feel good about the fruits of their recent hard work.

“We feel confident right now,” center Kevin Kotzur, a graduate student, said. “We’ve got a little mojo going.”

To wing Fred Willson, a junior exercise and sport science major, reestablishing confidence will be an integral component to the Rattlers’ continued success.

“That’s definitely one of our things,” Willson said. “Getting our swagger back. Once you have that swagger, you feel good about yourself.”

Despite the recent success, the Rattlers have no

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Christina Rodriguez Catcher Senior, Biology

Heartland Hitter of the Week Photo by Sara E. Flores

Illustration by Adriana Avila

intention of settling in their newfound confidence.

“We still have some things to work on,” Zeleznak said. “We need to play better defense.”

According to Kotzur, the Rattlers have two games on the road in which success is vital and will require more practice. Defense will be the primary key to this team’s success in conference competition.

“We’ve got a lot of guys offensively that can do a lot of things for the team,” Willson said. “But we feel like we’re a pretty good team whenever we scrap, rebound and play good defense; you know, all the little intangible things that win games, (though they) may not go on a stat sheet. It’s always about defense first.”

With two conference games remaining, the Rattlers still stand a chance to claim their deserved place as the champion Heartland team. The team, however, isn’t all too concerned with statistics and predictions. Their focus lies in giving it their all in every practice and every game.

“I just want to win basketball games,” Willson said.

“If we win basketball games and, at the end of the day, we’re in first place, then I’m fine with that. Wherever the wins take us, I’m fine with it.”

Junior guard Christian Bower transfered to St. Mary’s from Pheonix College this year. Photo by Lauren Lundy

WOMEN’S TENNIS

Dedicated practice brings high hopes

Alex Eakins and Dale Fastle NEWS EDITOR AND STAFF WRITER

Following a successful sweep of Temple College on their first match of the season, the Rattlers are eager and prepared to work for a conference title this spring.

Though their season has just begun, the players have already displayed their adamant desire to win by practicing as a championship team.

“We’re drilling every day,” Lisa Dausin, head tennis coach, said. “We’re starting a new fitness regime. They’re practicing two and a half hours every single day. It’s going very well and they’re very motivated this year. “ Every member of the team has no doubt hard work pays off in the end with a conference title.

“Before you can win conference you have to get into the finals,” Mariana Rong, a sophomore business major, said. “I think they could get into the finals, but I don’t think that’s enough for them. I think they want to win.”

Spring season tennis puts an emphasis on doubles play rather than the more traditional one-on-one

format of singles in the fall. As a team, the Rattlers are ready to take on this challenge and work together to reach their goals.

“Often times when players come into college, they are very good at singles but very few of them understand doubles,” Dausin said. “These girls understand doubles.”

Dausin’s influence has done far more than build a love for doubles play.

“I think I’m more of a single player performance wise,” Rong said, “but under Coach Dausin’s instruction, I’m picking up on the doubles and I really enjoy the doubles game. It’s so much fun. One of the hardest things for singles is that you don’t have anyone to blame your mistakes on, to look after, to take care of each other. But for doubles, you do have someone and it’s a fun game. I love doubles.”

The coaching staff has impacted the lives of their players both on and off the court. “(Dausin) takes care of us,” Valentine Lambrechts, a senior economics major, said. “She’s like my mom here really.

She does her job coaching, but also,

outside of tennis, she makes sure that we get everything we need, she makes sure that we get the people that we need on the team.“ Dausin has an extraordinary record of success as a St. Mary’s tennis coach.

After just one year in the position of head coach, the source of her success is a simple one.

“I care for them. I think structure and organization are necessary. (I) focus on them loving each other and being productive citizens, and adhering everything that St Mary’s is about,” Dausin said. “The whole community service theme not only makes them believe in themselves and be proud, but they know that they are citizens first.”

The team mainly attributes the success of this past match to their ability to be just that team.

“The key for the past tournament was just being a team and coming out as a team,” Lambrechts said. “Knowing that you have good girls behind you makes you very confident as a team.

You know that everyone’s on the same page with the same purpose, same goal.

We just all want to win.”

16«sports THE HOT

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Rise Challenge To

the

Travis Bowles

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Katie Nichols

Senior Exercise and sport science Quick facts: Due to a shoulder surgery, Nichols will be redshirting this season rather than taking her usual spot at center field.

Regardless of her position, Nichols serves as a motivation and leader to her team. She has been named first team all-conference twice and second team all-conference once. Nichols was also selected for the all-tournament team for the conference tournament last year.

What’s your favorite part about softball?

I love everything about the game. I love the rush of adrenaline I get when I play, being able to run and dive through the air to catch a ball, sprinting out of the box after I get a hit (and) sliding into second base on a steal. I love being able to step on the field without a care in the world for the amount of time playing.

Softball is my life; it’s what I know; it’s what I’m good at; and it’s my get away.

Most of all, the game of softball has brought me to the people that mean the most: my teammates, who I consider to be part of my family.

How long have you played softball?

I have been playing softball for about 18 years now. I started playing when I was 4 years old.

How will you contribute as a member of the team this season?

Since I am redshirting this season, I will be more of a leader from the dugout.

I will also help out our outfield with things I might see that they may not and cheering on the team.

What are your goals for this season?

I have a few goals for the season. I want to come back stronger than ever next year. I also want to be here for my team every step of the way, so my second goal is to help get my team to the national championship.

Compiled by Sara E. Flores

While there are some students who climb regularly, most students only know of the rock wall as a quick stopping point during the campus tour portion of Zaragoza, which could not be a more tremendous generalization.

Although it is not the highest in the city—it is second at 40 feet to the University of Texas at San Antonio’s 54-foot wall— the rock wall at the Alumni Athletics and Convocation Center is unique to any other in San Antonio.

Other walls are molded to look like a famous rockface or made of wood with rubber holds built in. They are static, meaning once conquered it will be the same the second, third or 20th time up the wall.

St. Mary’s wall has two sides, with the left side having a steeper, more challenging incline which requires the climber to overcome an overhanging plane.

The holds are changed on a regular basis, providing a new experience every time.

On a first visit, the climber can be strapped in and halfway up the wall in just a few minutes.

The staff will walk beginners through every step of the process, from what equipment

Students climb the city’s second largest rock wall.

is used, to the knots’ functions.

A staff member will keep tension on the rope connected to the harness to prevent a fall.

The main bit of advice to keep in mind when climbing was unanimous amongst the staff: push up with one’s legs, not arms. Many regular climbers take on the wall multiple times in the space of one visit.

The Mile High Challenge is an ongoing event that dares students to climb the wall 132 times in one semester, the equivalent of climbing one mile. Last year, five students completed this challenge during the fall semester.

AJ Laborde, a freshman biology major and mile-high awardee, chose to begin climbing based on the recommendation of his cousin. He tried it for the first time and was hooked.

“It was fun,” Labrode said. “It was interesting. It got me really tired really quick and I like that.”

Although many experieced climbers frequent the rock wall, beginners are not only welcomed but encouraged to try their hand at it.

“We have the shoes,” Ceasar Silva, a sophomore biology major and staff member at the rock wall said. “We have the ropes. We have the harness. All you need to bring is your body and we’ll get you situated.”

Junior Victoria Bonelli completed the Mile High Challenge last semester. Photo

by Adriana Avila

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