01 31 2007

PAGE TWO Wednesday in Brief

January 31, 2007

starsof texas state Chaz Kyser, an alumna of Texas State, has just published her first book, Embracing the Real World: The Black Woman’s Guide to Life After College. This book is the first career guide created specifically for black women making the transition from college to the real world.

Kyser graduated with degrees in journalism and sociology in May of 2000 and is now a journalism instructor at Langston University in Langston, Okla. As a student, she was very active on campus. She helped host a number of events, including three leadership conferences for African

American students, one conference for African-American women and a number of small seminars. She was also a Ms. Black & Gold Scholarship winner. For information on the book, including reviews, visit her Web site at www.embracingtherealworld.com -Courtesy of Chaz Kyser

News Contact — Nick Georgiou, starnews@txstate.edu Texas State University-San Marcos is a member of the Texas State University System

WEDNESDAY The Association of Information Technology Professionals will have a chapter meeting with speaker Kevin Jetton at 5 p.m. in McCoy Hall, Room 124. There will be door prizes and free food. All majors are welcome to attend.

The Catholic Student Organization will meet at 6:30 p.m. in the lounge of the CSC. Bible study will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the lounge of the CSC. Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center will hold advocate training for volunteers interested in helping victims of abuse. For more information, contact Elizabeth Dixon at (512) 396-3404.

The Earth First organization will hold its weekly meeting at 4 p.m. in Evan Liberal Arts, Room 314. For more information, contact Bogan Durr at bd1132@txstate.edu.

The Tennis Club will meet from 6 to 8 p.m. at the tennis courts on Sessom Drive, behind Joe’s Crab Shack. All skill levels are welcome. For more information, contact Tennis Club President Chris Harris at ch1282@txstate. edu.

The Alcohol and Drug Resource center will hold its weekly “The Network” meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. in the LBJ Student Center, Room 3-6.1.

THURSDAY Career Services will hold “How to Utilize a Job Fair” in the LBJ Teaching Theater from 5:30 to

6:30 p.m. For more information, contact Jonathan Pliego at (512) 245-2645 or jp55@txstate.edu.

God Says

1747 - The first clinic specializing in the treatment of venereal diseases was opened at London Dock Hospital.

Overeaters Anonymous will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the First Lutheran Church, 130 W. Holland St. For more information, call (512) 357-2049.

1865 - The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified by the U.S. Congress. It was ratified on December 6, 1865. The amendment abolished slavery in the United States.

1876 - All Native American Indians were ordered to move into reservations.

Texas State Study Abroad Fair will be held in the ASB Breezeway from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call (512) 245-1967.

ASG Beat ASG positions open, scholarship deadline approaching

The Rock - Praise & Worship will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the chapel of the CSC. Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship will hold its weekly meeting at 8:30 p.m. in Old Main, Room 320. There will be contemporary worship, relevant teaching and prayer. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call (512) 557-7988 or email@texasstatechialpha.com.

Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center will hold advocate training for volunteers interested in helping victims of abuse. For more information, contact Elizabeth Dixon at (512) 396-3404.

FRIDAY The San Marcos Noon Lions Club will have its 61st annual Mexican Dinner at the San Marcos City Park Pavilion from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. All proceeds benefit local charities, individuals and organizations in Hays County. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased in advance or at the door. For more information, please contact Rebecca at (512) 7380811.

On this day...

Matthew Blanco/Star photo Michael Venyah, founder of Soulwinners Ministries International, preaches Tuesday in The Quad to a group of students. The organization was established in 2004 by Venyah and his wife, Tamika, as an evangelism preaching ministry to non-Christians and, as a training ministry for Christians.

CRIME BL TTER University Police Department

Jan. 26, 8:27 p.m.

Alcohol: DUI-Minor, Open Container/Rose Garden An officer initiated a traffic stop. Upon further investigation a student was found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. The student was given a citation for open container of alcohol, arrested and transported to Hays County Law Enforcement Center (HCLEC) to await magistration.

Jan. 26, 10:48 p.m.

Theft under $50/UPD Lobby An officer was dispatched to the lobby for a report of theft.

A non-student reported an

item was taken without consent from Laurel Basement.

This case is under investigation.

Jan. 27, 1:44 a.m.

Alcohol: DUI, MIP, Open Container/Bobcat Stadium An officer initiated a traffic stop. Upon further investigation a student was found to be driving under the influence and in possession of alcohol as well as an open container of alcohol. The student was arrested and transported to HCLEC to await magistration.

Jan. 27, 2:16 a.m.

Information Report: DOC-

Fighting/Sterry Hall An officer was dispatched for a report of fighting. Upon further investigation, one student reported having been attacked by another. A report was made of this case.

Jan. 27, 3:43 a.m.

Alcohol: PI/Comanche & Woods An officer observed suspicious activity near the Wood Street garage. Upon further investigation, two students were found to be intoxicated. The students were given a citation for Public Intoxication, arrested and transported to HCLEC to await magistration.

The Associated Student Government is the official voice of the students at Texas State University.

Senate Meetings are open to the public and held at 7 p.m. every Monday night in the LBJ Student Center, Room 3-14.1. If you would like to address the Senate, feel free and come prepared to speak during our Public Forum. Any interest in being a guest speaker should be directed to Amanda Oskey, the vice president.

Students and San Marcos residents should support the Hays County Pass Through Finance Agreement.

The agreement will transform Ranch Road 12 from a deadly back road into a safer four-lane highway. It will also create an eastern loop for the City of San Marcos, providing job opportunities for Texas State graduates.

Texas State will be having its Capitol day Feb. 14 in Austin. Students are encouraged to attend in support of Texas State’s efforts on tax-free textbooks and other higher education issues. Contact ASG for more information.

ASG is looking for hard-working individuals who want to participate in this year’s legislative session. There are some openings in the Senate, executive positions and in the Office of Legislative Relations.

The ASG scholarship applications are available in the ASG office, located in the LBJSC suite 4-5.1. The deadline for the ASG scholarship is March 1. Applications will be available online soon.

TRENDS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

Billboardcharts

Wednesday, January 31, 2007 - Page 4

THE BILLBOARD 200

ROCK

COUNTRY

INDIE

1. Daughtry Daughtry

1. Daughtry Daughtry

1. Carrie Underwood Some Hearts

1. DJ Skribble/Vic Thrive Mix 3

2. Dreamgirls Original Soundtrack

2. Nickelback 2. Rascal Flatts All the Right Reasons Me and My Gang

Latino

2. Jim Jones Hustler’s P.O.M.E. (Product of My Environment)

Trends Contact — Maira Garcia, starentertainment@txstate.edu

The Alice Rose brings ‘60s, pop-inspired music to San Marcos

By Laura Jamison The University Star They don’t like the term pop because it sounds like they are auditioning for American Idol, and they don’t like the term rock because they don’t do air kicks.

The Alice Rose, although shy to label their music, sounds reminiscent of ‘60s garage rock music. They hesitantly refer to The Beatles as clarification for people who have never heard their music, but make sure they understand it cannot be pigeonholed.

“We have a definite ‘60s vibe to our music, but it is not a retro thing,” said The Alice Rose drummer Chris Sensat.

Lead singer and guitarist JoDee Purkeypile said he is on a radio-diet to make sure he does not follow any trends. Instead he draws some of his influences from classical and Indian music.

“They have a lot of rhythmic ideas,” he said.

Brendan Rogers, who plays keyboard and does background vocals, said even though Purkeypile does not listen to radio, he does have ideas concerning what’s good.

“His influence is from 13th Floor Elevators and Bob Dylan.

I guess these are kind of like the

blueprints for good music,” Rogers said.

Headed to San Marcos for the first time, The Alice Rose will play 8 p.m. Thursday at George’s.

Sensat emphasized that they are not a heavy metal group and the people who expect to thrash around should stay home. He said he foresees mostly art majors showing up.

“Students should come because one, it is free, and two, it is not that far,” Sensat said.

The group formed officially in 2001, but didn’t have its current lineup until 2005 when Rogers and guitarist Colin Slagle joined and finished the group’s latest album, Phonographic Memory.

“We are all really dear friends and have played for 10 years together. We are so much like brothers it is ridiculous,” Sensat said.

A week after they released their album it debuted No. 1 on Waterloo Records’ Shiner TX Top 10 list. The Alice Rose’s new song “West” was also featured on National Public Radio’s Song of The Day, according to the group’s Web site.

“Although it took a long time for us to evolve you can see the development now,” Sensat said.

Purkeypile said his favorite song is “All Over Your Body.”

Jeannie Yamakawa/Star photo FACING THE MUSIC: Austin-based indie rock band, The Alice Rose, will bring their unique sound to San Marcos, performing 8 p.m.

Feb. 1 at George’s in the LBJ Student Center and 11 p.m. Feb. 13 at Lucy’s San Marcos.

“Since I am a writer I like what I am working on right now. In this song, the sound reflects the newer stuff,” he said.

The band is set to go on a tour of the Midwest in April to promote Phonographic Memory, and will include a stop at the International Pop Festival. Purkeypile said they want to keep their audience surprised.

“If anything our thing is to excite the listener as much as us so they are not totally expect-

ing what is coming to them,” he said.

Purkeypile said he gets inspiration for his lyrics from every day situations, dreams and reading.

Sensat, however, said Purkeypile writes to make art.

“From what I understand about JoDee is that he wants to make art that is appreciated; poetic lyrics about life, death and the human experience. He wants to make something you can relate to,” he said.

Purkeypile said they take the normal pop song and give it an arty edge.

“Pop music brings to mind images of Britney (Spears) or Justin Timberlake, but it is more like The Beatles or the Zombies,” Rogers said.

Sensat said they don’t want to be associated with the fakeness of today’s pop.

“We do not want to be superficial rock stars — we are just hardworking guys trying to make

good music,” he said.

Currently the band has no label or management, but hopes to start making another record after its tour.

“I hope we can keep touring and stay in the studio. It would be a dream to be locked away in a studio at all times,” Sensat said.

The band will play again Feb. 13 at Lucy’s San Marcos. The Alice Rose will be sharing the stage with the Bears March 13 at Lucy’s San Marcos.

Nationwide ad to star Kevin Federline

By David Hinckley New York Daily News Kevin Federline admits he was “a little unsure at first” about doing a high-profile commercial that “pokes fun at myself.”

After all, few people anywhere have had more fun poked at them than Federline.

While his marriage to Britney Spears will end soon, he’s retained custody of at least one element from that union: his image as a spoiled and frivolous celebrity whose fame and fortune aren’t justified by actual achievement.

He doesn’t agree with this, but he knows about it. Yeah, sure, he said, it’s frustrating. But he also thinks he can beat it.

“It’s like this thing stamped

on my forehead,” he said, with a shrug. “And as long as it took to get there, it’ll take that long, or longer, to get it off. But it can be done. Eventually you can get to the point where people judge you on your work.”

He isn’t discussing his private life in public these days, he says, but he does declare that “2007 is a new beginning for me,” and one starting point is a 30-second Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company ad that debuts during the Super Bowl.

It starts with a montage of KFed videos and cuts to Federline working in a fast-food restaurant.

He’s only dreaming of stardom, it turns out, while his manager yells at him to tend the fries.

“Once they explained the di-

rection they wanted to go, it seemed pretty cool,” Federline said. “The rap part was pretty easy, and the other part took a little longer. I hadn’t done that in a while.”

The ad has drawn protests for demeaning fast-food workers, which it really doesn’t. But the publicity clearly does not upset Steven Schreibman, vice president of marketing and brand management at Nationwide.

“Attention paid before the airing is one measure of its value,” Schreibman said.

For the $2.6 million Nationwide and other sponsors pay for their 30 seconds, “We want it to be as visible as possible.”

It’s the same reason he recruited Federline in the first place.

“We had great success last year with Fabio poking fun at himself,” Schreibman said. “But nothing was working for us this year until just before Thanksgiving it hit me: Kevin Federline.”

Federline notes that he did work on the fast-food level before he quit and went to Hollywood “with nothing.” He got a dancing gig, married Spears, released a CD and hosted a TV show.

He’s focusing on movies now,

Jim Rock/Abacausa.com CHANGING FACE: Kevin Federline arrives June 21 at the launch of Stride gum at the Waterfront in New York City.

Federline hopes to change his public image with a commercial making light of his own celebrity status.

he said, and a clothing line that’s due out “sooner rather than later” in Europe. A new CD is probably “a year, 18 months” away.

“This was a big win for Kevin,” said Schreibman. “It shows he has a sense of humor by bringing everyone in on the joke.”

TRENDS/DIVERSIONS

Wednesday, January 31, 2007

The University Star - Page 5

✯Star Comics

Michael Bryant/Philadelphia Inquirer/MCT RECORD BREAKING: marc Umile has set the North American record for memorizing the most numbers of pi, the ratio of a circle’s circumferance.

Philapdelphia man recites more than 12,000 numbers to set record

By Tom Avril The Philadelphia Inquirer PHILADELPHIA — Remember pi? Most of us learned the 3.14 part.

Marc Umile has gone oh-so-much farther.

Earlier this month, Umile was certified as the North American record-holder for memorizing digits of the mathematical constant. He spewed out 12,887 digits, to be exact — a feat that took him 3 hours and 40 minutes.

For those whose math skills are a little fuzzy, that’s the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter.

It begins with 3.14159265 and never stops, never repeating the same pattern — a string of digits that has captivated both numbers buffs and those looking for a deeper mystical meaning.

“I was really proud of him that he did it,” said his wife, Maryann. “I can’t remember a phone number.”

Umile, 40, wrote the numbers out by hand, a thousand at a time, then recorded them in his voice on a portable tape player.

Then, he listened — and listened. During his commute. During his lunch break. While walking down the street.

After two years, two worn-out tape players and more than 100 batteries, it sank in.

He professes not to be a math whiz. A filing clerk for a company that handles Medicare bills, he never studied trigonometry and did not attend college. Yet it is clear he has a passion for numbers and puzzles, not to mention a relentless determination and the ability to ignore those who thought he was a little strange.

But why pi?

Because it’s there. Because he wanted to explore the limits of the mind. And because he wanted to hit one for the home team.

Upon surfing the Internet one day in 2004, he found the world-record list and saw that it was dominated by Asians and Europeans. He decided the United States needed another representative.

“It seems like in the eastern part of the world, they really have their stuff together,” Umile said.

“I want to help us catch up.”

Umile set the record last month at the law office of Montgomery McCracken, where attorney C. Scott Meyer was one of three witnesses. He did not recite the numbers out loud, but typed them into the computer, 1,000 at a time, after which the witnesses verified their accuracy by

“I

t seems like in the eastern part of the world, they really have their stuff together. I want to help us catch up.”

-Marc Umile North American record-holder

using a spreadsheet. Then he did the next thousand.

“It’s just an amazing accomplishment,” said Philadelphia real estate agent Warren Nelson, another of the witnesses.

The necessary forms were mailed to Germany and the performance was certified by Jan van Koningsveld, himself a top competitor in international contests of mental gymnastics, who maintains a Web site that lists pi record-holders for each continent and for the world.

Umile is far short of the world record of 43,000 that van Koningsveld cites on his list, held by Krishan Chahal of India. He’s even farther from the 67,890 digits listed by the Guinness World Records, a feat accomplished in China.

But he does hold the world record for memorizing 905 digits of “e” — another key mathematical constant, which he recited on the same day as pi. And three months earlier, he notched another world record by doing the first 5,544 digits of the square root of two.

The ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter has been a source of fascination for thousands of years; a rough approximation is even in the Bible.

It is not clear who was the first to stumble upon this relationship. An Egyptian scribe wrote about it in 1650 B.C., according to The Joy of Pi, a 1997 book by Seattle author David Blatner.

The ancient Greeks later estimated a value for pi by using polygons to approximate the outline of a circle. Archimedes found that when he inscribed a 96-sided shape in a circle, its perimeter was 3 10/71 (roughly 3.141) times the diameter.

He then drew a second 96-sided shape outside the circle, calculating a value of 3 1/7 (roughly 3.143) — reasoning that a value for pi lay between the two.

Today, pi is calculated to many billions of digits by using computers, though Blatner said the added digits have little practical application.

SU DO KU Complete the grid so that every row, column, and 3-by-3 box contains every digit from one through nine inclusively.

Wednesday’s solutions:

Wednesday’s solutions:

© Pappocom

OPINIONS F WEATHER SENSITIVE onlineconnection

THE UNIVERSITY STAR

If the city of San Marcos implements a wireless network, how much should residents pay to access it? Go to www.UniversityStar.com to vote in our online poll. Results will be published in Thursday’s issue of The University Star.

Wednesday, January 31, 2007 - Page 6

*This is not a scientific poll

Opinions Contact — Emily Messer, staropinion@txstate.edu

THE MAIN POINT

or the past two weeks, Texas State students and San Marcos residents endured the harsh winter winds that closed campus for the first two days of school and left the city covered in a thick layer of ice.

Individuals can take measures to minimize energy use

Area weather reporters taunted residents with promises of near-freezing temperatures this week. The weather won’t be toasty, but it won’t be as bad as meteorologists originally predicted.

With such cold conditions, it’s easy to crank up the heater to 90 degrees, but keep in mind that wasting energy has a negative impact on our environment.

Global warming is an issue that our federal government must learn to address and work with other countries to reduce. But it is also a local and individual issue. People can make daily changes, such as weather-stripping homes and buying energy efficient light bulbs, to have a less-detrimental impact on their environment.

Thursday, the 20,000 flashing bulbs of the Eiffel Tower will switch off for five minutes. The blackout will coincide with a long-awaited scientific report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, The Associated Press reported Monday. The report is expected to be the most crucial assessment of global warming to date. The report and the Eiffel Tower blackout are intended to draw attention to an environment that is suffering because of human impact.

So if the world’s monument of love can shut down for a couple of minutes, surely the residents of San Marcos and Texas State students can resist the temptations of running their heaters and air conditioners at full blast. Nonprofit organizations, such as Audubon International, have Web sites that include tip sheets on conserving energy, waste reduction and recycling, all actions you can take in your own home or office. Measures such as replacing dirty air filters and checking doors and windows for leaks can reduce your energy bills and benefit the environment.

Also this week, San Marcos lifted its Stage 1 water restrictions. According to the Edwards Aquifer Web site, residents must continue to reduce their water consumption through any means available and continue to abide to yearround restrictions.

The human impact on climate change is tremendous. We have a responsibility to do all we can to minimize energy use. And save ourselves money.

The Main Point is the opinion of the newspaper’s editorial board. Columns are the opinions of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the full staff, Texas State University-San Marcos Student Media, the School of Journalism and Mass Communication or Texas State University-San Marcos.

Affordable college worth our investment Across America, our young people bear the burden of this president’s misplaced priorities.

With the escalating debacle in Iraq, many of our young LLOYD DOGGETT people give life and U.S. Rep. District 25 limb. With the soaring national debt, an individual’s share has climbed to $28,845. And with the personal debt for the cost of going to college, too many today are finding their future is already mortgaged.

When Thomas Jefferson urged public support of higher education in his home state of Virginia, he wanted to create a place where the youth of all of our states would want to “drink from the cup of knowledge.” But today, those students thirsty for knowledge confront too often a parched, unwelcoming desert of financial need and debt.

In the past six years, the Bush administration and its Republican cohorts have proposed freezing Pell Grants, phasing out important student loans, eliminating funding for programs that help at-risk students reach and stay in college and largely have ignored the problem of sky-rocketing tuition.

Last week, as part of the Democratic Leadership’s First 100 Hours agenda, Congress passed H.R. 5, the College Student Relief Act, which will halve interest rates on federal subsidized loans to 3.4 percent over five years. This bill is a first step toward ensuring college affordability for all students who are willing to work for a higher degree.

Although some private lenders are skeptical of this legislation, this bill will help even students in school now. If it becomes law, rates will lower the following July 1, when most interest rates are set. Students — even those currently in school — will be able to borrow at lower rates for the next school year.

Since consolidation rates are set by the average rate of all loans, lower rates produced by this bill will decrease what students will have to pay back.

I was pleased to support the bill, and save Texas students $133 million. But when 45,000 Texans forego a higher education each year because of financial barriers, it is clear that even this is not enough.

I also favor an increase in the maximum Pell Grant. Under this administration, the maximum Pell Grant — that is, the actual amount students receive — has dropped in value in the last five years. Though the administration is quick to note that funding for Pell Grants has increased, this is a measure of need, not generosity. The federal government is obliged to pay Pell Grants to any student who qualifies, so more funding for the grant simply means more students in need, and the amount the average student receives has only increased $50 since 2002. Instead, we must raise the maximum grant — an amount this administration has effectively frozen — and this will increase the amount of help students actually receive.

My friend, U.S. Rep. George Miller, chairman of the Education and Labor Committee, has pledged to address the declining value of the Pell Grant. I support his efforts to restore the purchasing power of the Pell Grant.

A skilled, productive workforce is an investment in our own future. We cannot afford to leave higher education unaffordable to so many of our neighbors.

I support the Democratic agenda to make college affordable because you are worth the investment.

Kelly Simmons/Star illustration

U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas serves on the Ways and Means and the Budget Committee.

Student athletes deserve benefits of proposed athletics fee While the student athletes sacrifice their bodies and time for the good of their BRANDON SIMMONS university, Star Columnist you have to wonder if it is even worth the effort. Some universities receive huge amounts of money from these appearances that usually mean more scholarship funding for the universities, but is it enough for the athletes?

It is. If student athletes are doing this much for the school, then they should get a few extra points when they score.

Even though someone has to pay for it.

State Sen. Jeff Wentworth, R-San Antonio, filed a bill at the beginning of the 80th Texas

The University Star 601 University Drive Trinity Building San Marcos, TX 78666 Phone: (512) 245-3487 Fax: (512) 245-3708

Legislative session that would grant schools within the Texas State University System the ability to institute an intercollegiate athletic fee, which is expected to pass. This would replace the portion of the student service fee that goes toward athletics, and with it, student may have to pay a maximum of $8.75 per credit hour.

Currently, 40 percent of the athletic budget comes from student service fees and 44 percent of the entire student service fee goes toward athletics, said William Nance, vice president of finance and support services in the Jan. 16 University Star. Much of the athletics budget comes from the student service fee, The Star reported, but the Athletics Department also generates its own income through ticket sales, for example.

If passed, the bill would be helpful for the departments in the Texas State University System and could move football up to Division I-A. Currently it is a Division I-AA program.

Student athletes invest time into their workouts. And attending practices for the particular sport and try to maintain a certain GPA can be very taxing on anyone. It is a full-time job, and anyone going to school and working understands the demands involved with it.

Yet athletes are not getting paid the same way as if they are employed.

“Not every student-athlete’s scholarship is the same,” said Scott Lazenby, assistant athletic director of NCAA compliance.

There are two types of NCAA sports, known as “head count sports” and “equivalency sports,” Lazenby said. With

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the head count sports, the department can only give out a certain number of scholarships that the team has, he said. That is far different from equivalency sports.

“In equivalency sports you have a certain amount per sport but you can divide it amongst the sport,” Lazenby said. “Suppose football had 63 scholarships then you can divide it up amongst the team.”

That would seem fair, but there are more than 63 players that are on the football team and not every player is on scholarship. There are some that are either walk-ons and would have to wait almost a semester or even a year to get a part of the scholarship. There are many financial events that could occur, good or bad, within that time frame.

Others can still receive feder-

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al money that is separate from the athletic scholarship, such as a Pell Grant.

“We have some athletes that qualify for Pell Grant, which is $4,000 extra in their pocket,” Lazenby said. “There is an NCAA special assistance fund for any student-athlete that qualifies for Pell.”

What about the athletes who do not qualify? There are students that fall into gray areas and may not meet the criteria to receive Pell money and therefore may miss out on both opportunities.

Of course if they are not getting paid through athletics, student athletes have the choice of getting paid like everyone else, through working. Student athletes are allowed to have a job, but imagine the conflicts that arise. They would have to schedule around games that

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usually occur on different days without a certain pattern and include practice time. You also have to factor in tournament time, conference and national, which will usually take up a month’s time. Employers may not be willing to give that much time off.

Student athletes do get paid, but is it enough for the hard work that they put in for the school? When they compete, it brings the school money that can be used for the entire university. An intercollegiate athletic fee would help give the department additional money to improve sports programs and bring in more revenue for the university. So when they score everybody wins, but the wins may not be even.

Brandon Simmons is a premass communication junior The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University-San Marcos published Tuesday through Thursday during the fall and spring semesters. It is distributed on campus and throughout San Marcos at 8 a.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with a distribution of 8,000. Printing and distribution is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung.

Copyright January 31, 2007. All copy, photographs and graphics appearing in The University Star are the exclusive property of The University Star and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the editor in chief.

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1BD/1BA, $450. 4-PLEX, 500 SQ. FT. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123.

NEAR TSU. 3BD/1BA. All appliances, central AC, and a deck. Very nice. $890 per mo. (512) 297-5187. $410 EFF., DOWNTOWN & CLOSE TO TSU. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123.

208 UHLAND has 2BD/1BA for $550. Water/waste water paid. On the shuttle. Call Legacy Real Estate, (512) 665-3321.

APARTMENTS & HOUSE NEXT TO CAMPUS: 1BD, 2BD, 3BD, house.

Wooden floors, upgraded. Roommate matching available (for 2BD, 3BD, house), $275-$375 per room. (512) 757-1943. Available January, May, August. $0 APP. $0 DEP. $199 total movein. 1bd/1ba, $475; 2bd/2ba, $570.

Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123.

WALK TO TX STATE! Lg. Rm., separate entrance, Rogers St. $150/mo., plus light chores. (512) 353-3224.

4BD/2BA, $279 P.P. Most bills paid.

Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123.

ROOMMATE NEEDED. 2BD/2BA trailer in San Marcos mobile home park. Furnished, covered parking, 10 min. from campus. $210/mo. plus half of bills. $100 refundable deposit. Call (281) 639-8048.

NEW 3,000 SQ. FT. RETAIL SPACE NEXT TO WAL MART. Will be available approximately December 2007. (323) 656-0753.

109 SMITH LANE has 2BD/1BA for $525. Water/waste water & trash paid. Call Legacy Real Estate, (512) 665-3321.

FOR RENT-APTS NOW PRE-LEASING FOR MAY ‘07 AND AUGUST ‘07. Call Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123.

AWESOME DEAL! 2BD/2BA, 974 SQ. FT. $696. W/D included. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123.

ALL BILLS PAID! 1, 2, 3, 4 bedrooms available. W/D included. Walk to school. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123.

MOVE-IN TODAY!!! $785 2/2.5 townhouse, 3 blks. from TSU. Free HBO, Free Road Runner, Full size W/D, Small, Clean & Quiet Community www.windmilltownhomes.com for floor plans & prices. (512) 396-4181. $785 PRE-LEASE NOW FOR 5/20 OR 8/20. 2/2.5 townhouse, 3 blks. from TSU. Free HBO, Free Road Runner, Full Size W/D, Small, Clean & Quiet Community. www.windmilltownhomes.com for floor plans & prices. (512) 396-4181.

TAKE OVER MY LEASE AT EX. 2.

All bills paid except electricity (split 3 ways). $350/mo. Call (210) 482-0782.

APARTMENTSTOGO.COM. Free list of apartment prices and amenities or visit our office on The Square!

(512) 353-FREE.

FOR RENT-APTS 4BD/4BA, $350 A MONTH. Internet/cable w/ HBO/phone/trash pd. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. $575, 2BD/2BA, 810 SQ. FT. $200 OFF 1st month rent. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123.

BISHOP’S CORNER at 1409 Bishop has 1BD for lease. Water/waste water and trash paid. $405/month. Privacy Plus. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy (512) 665-3321.

FOR RENTCONDO/TOWNHOMES $785 PRE-LEASE NOW FOR 5/20 OR 8/20. 2/2.5 townhouse, 3 blks. from TSU. Free HBO, Free Road Runner, Full Size W/D, Small, Clean & Quiet Community. www.windmilltownhomes.com for floor plans & prices. (512) 396-4181.

736 CENTRE has extra large 2BD/1.5BA for $750. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy (512) 665-3321.

FOR RENT-DUPLEX 334 CRADDOCK DUPLEX REDUCED to $900 per month.

3BD/2BA ready for immediate movein. On the shuttle. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy (512) 665-3321.

603 BRACEWOOD. 2BD/1BA with water/waste water paid for $525 per month. Also, 707 BRACEWOOD for lease. 2BD/1BA for $475. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy Real Estate, (512) 665-3321. $765 2/2 DUPLEX, 3 BLKS. FROM TSU. Pre-leasing for 5/20 or 8/20.

Free HBO, Road Runner, Full size W/D, Small, Clean & Quiet Community. www.windmilltownhomes.com for floor plans & prices. (512) 396-4181 2BD/1BA, $500, walking distance to river, TSU, HEB and the square. Call for info 353-3733 FOR RENT: 3BD/3BA DUPLEX with W/D, cable, internet & phone.

(512) 422-0903.

FOR RENT: 3BD/3BA DUPLEX with W/D. (512) 422-0903.

FOR RENT-HOUSES SPACIOUS 3/2.5/1.5. Perfect for 4-5 roommates. 2,400 sq.ft. 10 min. from commuter parking lot. Large, fenced backyard. Pets ok. $1,150/mo. (830) 515-3844.

WALK TO TX STATE. Rogers St., 2BD, lg. yard, pets ok, $650/mo. (512) 353-3224.

FOR RENT-HOUSES FOR RENT: NEW 3BD/2.5BA HOUSE in Kyle at Plum Creek. (512) 422-0903.

2BD/1BA, CENTRAL AIR AND HEAT. Fenced backyard. $650/mo.

Available Jan 1. (512) 396-1717

FOR SALE YORKIE TERRIER FOR SALE. Teacup Yorkshire Terrier Puppy for sale. Pup size include Teacup, Tea Cup, Toy, Miniature, Mini and tiny.

Babydoll face, vet checked, akc registered, dewormed, short legs. Top American Bloodlines. One year health guarantee, gorgeous hair coat, contact (rev_mrs_timson@yahoo.com) Rev. Mrs. Diana Timson 400 State Street Kansas City, KS 66101 rev_mrs_timson@yahoo.com Phone: (913) 551-5859 LARGE, UPDATED 2 STORY CONDO 2/2. Tile flooring, fresh paint, newer carpet, fireplace, large closets, patio, fenced, appliances recently replaced. Close to campus!

EXCELLENT CONDITION. Call Brenda (512) 393-4752.

Randall Morris Real Estate.

PIANO FOR SALE. Rogers St. $850. (512) 353-3224.

HELP WANTED GROOMERS/BARN ASSISTANT NEEDED. Kyle/Cedar Creek area.

Experience with horses helpful. Brad, (512) 569-6634.

UPSCALE RESTAURANT IN KYLE hiring experienced and professional server. Excellent income potential.

Also hiring kitchen prep/expo and dishwasher. Call (512) 268-3463 for interview, Bordeauxs.net.

STUDY BREAKS MAGAZINE is now hiring account executives/advertising sales. Great pay, flexible hours.

(512) 480-0894.

TEACHERS NEEDED: NOW HIRING PT TEACHERS. M-F 2:30- 6:30pm. Education major/experience preferred, but not required. Quality Child Development Center in Kyle.

(512) 405-3700 or fax (512) 405-3701.

SEMEN DONORS NEEDED! $150 per specimen, healthy college students age 18-39. For application go to www.123donate.com.

EARN $250+MONTHLY AND MORE to type simple ads online. www.DataAdEntry.com

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

THE SAN MARCOS PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT needs energetic individuals to work Spring Break Madness Camp (March 12-16, 2007). Hours are 7:30am-5:30pm. Call Jessica Jenkins at (512) 393-8283 for more information or to set up an interview. Application deadline is Feb. 16. E-mail: Jenkins_jessica@ci.san-marcos.tx.us ATHLETIC, OUTGOING MEN for calendars, greeting cards, etc. $75-200/ hr. No exp. needed, (512) 684-8296.

BASKIN ROBBINS NOW HIRING! Flexible hours. Contact Lanette at (512) 392-3231.

HAVE THE SUMMER OF YOUR LIFE at a prestigious coed sleepaway camp in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, 2 1/2 hours from NYC. We’re seeking counselors who can teach any Team & Individual Sports, Tennis, Gymnastics, Horseback Riding, Mt. Biking, Theatre, Tech Theatre, Circus, Magic, Arts & Crafts, Pioneering, Climbing Tower, Water Sports, Music, Dance, Science, or Computers. Kitchen and maintenance positions also available. Great salaries and perks. Plenty of free time. Internships available for many majors. On-campus interviews on Feb. 7. Apply online at www.islandlake.com. Call (800) 869-6083 between 9 and 5 eastern time on weekdays for more information. info@islandlake.com. !BARTENDING! Up to $300/day.

No experience necessary. Training Provided. Age 18+ OK. (800) 965-6520 ext. 157.

CITY OF KYLE SUMMER JOB OPENINGS: The Parks & Recreation Dept. is now accepting applications for Summer Camp Staff, American Red Cross Lifeguards and Water Safety Instructors for the Summer Day Camps and Kyle Pool. Competitive pay for all positions! Recreation and Education degree seekers preferred for Camp Staff. Applications available at www.cityofkyle.com/kyle-employment. php. Contact Program Coordinator at programs@cityofkyle.com for camp positions. Contact Aquatic Supervisor at (512) 262-3936 for pool positions.

MOTEL FRONT DESK WANTED. Perfect job for students. Duties include: answering phones, reservations, handle cash & credit card transactions & guest services. Will train. Basic math skills necessary. Need hard working, computer literate, motivated and enthusiastic person. Apply in person at Americas Best Value Inn, I-35, Exit 221, Buda.

ADULT CARE TAKER NEEDED. Mon-Fri from 3pm-6pm, Sat-Sun 3pm-6pm. Weekly pay, serious applicants need only apply. Please call (512) 557-6113 PERSONAL ATTENDANT to assist wheelchair user with personal care and housekeeping, 5:45-7 a.m., 3 days a week, days are flexible. Must be available through summer, have own car and be dependable, female preferred.

Good pay. Call evenings, (512) 353-1330.

TEXAS ELKS CAMP!!

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK WITH SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS IN A FUN SITUATION. CHECK US OUT AT www.texaselks.org. GO TO TECSI AND THEN ELKS CAMP. THIS WILL BE THE BEST SUMMER YOU’VE EVER EXPERIENCED!! (830) 875-2425 LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENTS WANTED for the #1 apartment locating service in San Marcos, Apartment Experts. Full and Part time available.

Call Greg @ (512) 805-0123.

PT POSITION FOR DOCTOR’S ASSISTANT needed for busy medical office. Duties will include preliminary testing and general office tasks. Apply within; no phone calls please. Texas State Optical 1104B Thorpe Ln. EXPERIENCED SERVERS AND HOSTS WANTED AT PALMER’S RESTAURANT. Apply in person between 2-4 p.m. daily. EOE. No phone calls please.

HELP WANTED WITH SCHOOL AGE CHILDREN, 3:30 P.M.-6 P.M., M-F. Call (512) 357-9911 or come by Second Step.

MISCELLANEOUS BOBCATSNEEDJOBS.COM. Paid Survey Takers needed in San Marcos. 100% FREE to join. Click on Surveys.

2007 EXPANSION Attention students Positions Available •$13 Base Appointment •Flexible Schedules •Customer Sales/Service •No Experience Needed, will train •All Ages 17+ •Conditions Apply Call today (512) 392-7377 www.workforstudents.com

ROOMMATES ROOMMATE NEEDED. NO LEASE/ DEPOSIT $390/MO. 1/3 BILLS. 2 BLOCKS FROM CAMPUS. (512) 618-7766.

ROOMMATE NEEDED. $320/mo.

Spacious 2BD/2BA apt. Call (956) 763-2767.

SERVICES WWW.STUDENTATTORNEY.COM

WANTED USED CARS, TRUCKS, VANS. Any condition, running or not. If you have something to sell please call Willis Mitchell. (512) 353-4511.

WORK ONLINE AT HOME 23 people needed immediately.

Earn PT/FT income.

Apply FREE online and get started!

800-807-5176 www.wahusa.com Enter Ad Code 9058

SPORTS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

Wednesday, January 31, 2007 - Page 8

sammyreturns The Texas Rangers signed outfielder Sammy Sosa to a minor league contract Tuesday, with a chance to play in the big leagues should he make the team’s roster by the end of spring training. Sosa’s last season was with the Baltimore Orioles in 2005, when he .221 with 17 home runs in 102 games. Sosa, who has 588 career home runs, is suspected of having used steroids before they were banned in 2002. Sosa said he planned on playing in 2006 but was “beaten mentally.”

— The Associated Press

Sports Contact — Chris Boehm, starsports@txstate.edu

Swedish sniper turned track star has big plans for future

NEW WORLD

By Gabe Mendoza The University Star

It wasn’t all that long ago that track and field standout Robert Melin was in training to become a sniper in an elite anti-sabotage unit in the Swedish army.

For a year and a half the Texas State sophomore served in the special operations unit called the Military Police Rangers, an army squad trained in enemy tracking and counter assault. Life as a military man was a harsh adjustment for an 18-year-old fresh out of high school.

“The first months where tough,” Melin said. “We got up at 5 a.m. and started every morning with 45 minutes of running. The day proceeded with different exercises at the base, in the forest, in mountains, in water and in snow — all kinds of different places that would make you good at adapting to different environments.”

Military service in Sweden is mandatory when men turn 18. Melin tested exceptionally well and was selected for special training.

His training included 17-hour days with only 60 minutes’ worth of free time after 10 p.m., which was just enough to prepare for the next day’s work. His time as a soldier detracted from his love of throwing, but contributed to a work ethic that has made him a track coach’s dream.

“The hardest part is getting him to slow down,” said throwing events coach Chris Adams. “He wants to go 110 miles an hour every day, so guys like him really are a joy to coach. It’s nice having kids that go all out.”

Melin’s hard work and commitment has paid off so far. As a freshman he broke multiple Texas State records, including the hammer

throw. At last year’s Texas Invitational he shattered the previous mark by 30 feet, an accomplishment that booked him an invite to the NCAA Midwest Regional qualifier. At the regional meet he made the finals in the discus throw, missing his chance at nationals by mere inches. This year, he hopes to make it all the way.

“I want to throw far in this year’s NCAA Nationals,” Melin said. “A goal that is a bit further away is the World Championships in Osaka, Japan. It would mean a big step, and I would have to improve a lot, but I will never get there saying that I can’t.”

Melin has already established himself as a vital part of the track and field program’s success, and what’s better for the coaches was the fact that Melin basically fell into their lap. He actively contacted the coaching staff at Texas State, and passed up other opportunities at various schools to become a Bobcat.

Melin said he liked the coaching staff and that the campus was nice — the things that usually attract an athlete to San Marcos. But a big part of his decision came down to a reason many students who hang out at Sewell Park can appreciate; he liked the warm weather.

“Basically Sweden is covered with snow four out of the 12 months, which means no throwing outside,” Melin said. “I had a couple of offers from other schools to throw for them, but either they were too far north or they had coaches that I didn’t like.”

For a lot of Texas State students the heat can be unbearable at times, and it was a considerable change for Melin, who adjusted from one extreme to the other. He was also in a new country.

“All in all, it took him no time to

adjust (to the U.S.), and the only thing he was really worried about was the heat,” Adams said. “He’s not used to throwing when it’s 100 (degrees) outside, and he had to learn really quick that you can’t be outside during meets all day just baking.”

His transition to Texas from Bottnaryd, Sweden has taken some time, but Melin has had the support of his teammates and coaches to help him along.

“The transition here was a bit hard, but it became easier with a lot of help from my coach and throwing buddies,” Melin said. “If I had any questions or needed any help they would always help me out.”

Melin and his teammates started the season mid-January and the sophomore showed why the coaches are so excited about his capabilities. In the first event of the spring season, Melin picked right up where he left off at the end of last year’s campaign. He captured the shot put title at the Leonard Hilton Memorial, hosted by the University of Houston on Jan. 19, with a throw of 16.70 meters. Teammate Kemuel Morales finished just behind in second place.

“When we’re throwing, of course I’m trying to get first place and he’s trying to get first place but at the end of the day we’re both teammates,” Morales said. “I want him to throw far and I’m pretty sure he wants me to throw far too, just like everybody else.”

Melin is not the only one that envisions a big future for himself.

“He’s just a sophomore, which is really scary,” Adams said. “I’m really happy that I have him for three more years.”

For a former sniper, the challenges on the field are sure to be a walk in the park.

Cotton Miller/Star photo SHARP SHOOTER: Sophomore Robert Melin practices shot put Tuesday afternoon at Bobcat Stadium. A native of Sweden, Melin came to Texas after serving as a sniper in the Military Police Rangers.

Black athletes forced to endure unfair amount of scrutiny Who is Genarlow tence with no chance for Wilson? parole in Georgia for engagIt’s possible that ing in sexual activity with you have yet to bea 15-year old. Everything come aware to this sounds right so far; there’s injustice that has nothing wrong with having been featured on laws that protect our young ESPN, sports Web WILLIAM WARD men and women from the logs nation wide, Star Columnist predatory sexual advances Good Morning Amerof adults. The problem is ica and even the O’Reilly Factor. that Wilson was 17 at the time.

Yes, that O’Reilly Factor.

There is a two-year difference beWilson is serving a 10-year sen- tween them. As a result he will

be in jail for a decade, and after serving his sentence will be a registered sex offender for the rest of his life.

Wilson was a standout high school athlete and a star in the classroom with no prior record.

This wasn’t some thug who could play ball but got a free pass in all his classes as a result. This was a well-rounded black athlete who will spend most of his 20s in jail for consensually doing what ev-

ery 17-year-old male thinks about every six seconds.

10 years. In 10 years this young man could go to college, get a degree, go pro and start a family.

The state of Georgia has taken away Wilson’s youth, and even after his release life will never be as full of promise as it once was.

And it gets even worse.

The case was appealed and eventually reached the Georgia Supreme Court. The judges voted against hearing the case 4-3. The four white judges voted against hearing the case, while the three black judges voting for. The court denied a motion in December to reconsider their decision. The presiding judge’s reason? She sympathized, but sadly the letter of the law bound her.

Georgia legislators actually changed the law that would heavily reduce the punishment for consensual sex between teens

after Wilson was convicted. But this wasn’t good news for Wilson. In their infinite wisdom, the legislators did not make the law retroactive. Anyone previously affected by the old law doesn’t catch a break.

Wilson, like many other men of principle, has paid a heavy price for standing up for what he knows is right. Before being convicted he was offered five years with a chance of parole, but still would be registered as a sex offender for the rest of his life. He declined. After being convicted he was offered the same deal.

Once more, he declined.

The consequences of this are far-reaching. Archaic sexual laws and discriminatory laws against young men exist in every state, Texas included. I urge every young man to know and understand his state’s age of consent laws, because a case like Wilson’s

will certainly not be the last of it’s kind. It also speaks to the climate of race relations today in Georgia.

Black athletes beware. You face scrutiny that many will never be able to understand. So before you get involved in questionable activities with questionable people, I hope names like Genarlow Wilson and Kobe Bryant come to mind. As Wilson’s case proves, it doesn’t matter that you are a good student and lack a criminal background.

Under the revised law, Wilson would have been out after 12 months and not registered as a sex offender.

By the time this column is published, Wilson will have spent nearly 2 years in jail.

William Ward is a political science junior, and can be reached at ww1053@txstate.edu

www.UniversityStar.com