02 10 2004

Get over Nipplegate

Out on top

Softball team sweeps competition, 5-0/Sports/Page 10

Sweeps-stakes

Networks put best foot forward to garner ratings/Trends/Page 6

Watchdogs should pay more attention to TV, less on bare breasts/Opinions/Page 5

TUESDAY

VOLUME 93, ISSUE 50 www.universitystar.com

FEBRUARY 10, 2004

T E X A S S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y- S A N M A R C O S

ASG examines possible food service options Chartwells looks at extending campus contract

By Amelia Jackson News Reporter Food service on campus is leaving a bad taste in the mouths of some students.

“For the price, what we get is not worth what we pay for,” said Megan Titus, history freshman and on-campus resident, before the meeting at The Den Monday.

Other dining students voiced concerns about nutritional content and prices of on-campus dining facilities.

“Most food offered is pretty fatty and expensive,” said Katherine Eissler, print journalism and Spanish senior, who lives off campus.

Still, other students said they were satisfied with campus eateries.

“I think it’s good,” said Amy Rinderknect, elementary education sophomore and on-campus resident. “I came from Blynn, and there is more variety here.”

Chartwells is currently contracted to be Texas State’s food

service provider for the next five years. The university is looking at the possibility of extending Chartwells’ contract until the year 2013 in exchange for $2.9 million in renovations.

The Associated Student Government discussed the issue of renewing the contract with John Root, Auxiliary Services director, and Charles Blackwell, Chartwells representative, at its Monday meeting.

Auxiliary Services has received approval from Texas State President Denise Trauth and her cabinet to move ahead

filed in November, community members have begun to describe the ethics complaints as smear tactics utilized by opposing political factions.

“People are filing more and more complaints to make it difficult for the council to discuss the issues with a quorum,” said San Macros resident Dianne Wassenich.

Habingreither and Taylor promptly left the council chamber prior to the scheduled discussion of proposed amendments to the city’s ethics ordinance.

Before leaving, the mayor urged the council to postpone discussion and votes on the matter until after the May election.

Council member John Thomaides opened debate on the amendments with what will like-

ly verify the divisive nature of the present political climate.

Thomaides quoted a conversation he overheard regarding the ethics matters in the city hall foyer during the Feb. 26 City Council meeting. “‘All we have to do is get one more council member under ethics review and none of them can talk about it,’” Thomaides recalled an individual saying to another.

Thomaides declined to name the individual that made the comment, but confirmed the individual no longer lives in the city, giving validity to some community members’ perceptions the ethics complaints are engineered political tactics.

TAKING THE REIGNS

Ethics complaints instigate in-fighting in City Council

By Daniel Mottola News Reporter

Signs that the San Marcos City Council’s current struggle with ethics violation complaints has become a political in-fight were apparent during its Monday night meeting.

The city’s turmoil concerning conflict of interest complaints, which originally centered around Mayor Robert Habingreither and council member Bill Taylor’s participation and voting on the controversial disannexation issue, has expanded to include two more council members.

Council members Susan Narviaz and John Diaz have also recently had ethics complaints filed against them.

Since the first complaint was

g See ASG, page 4

Ashley A. Horton/Star photo

Texas State’s new football coach David Bailiff and family makes an appearance at the men’s basketball game during halftime, Thursday.

g See COUNCIL, page 4

Senator talks politics at Texas State

By David Michael Cohen Special to the Star

Amy Densberger/Special to The Star

State Senator John Whitmire spoke with the College Democrats about the challenges he has faced as a state senator. He also discussed the role he played as one of the “Texas Eleven.”

About 40 Texas State students huddled around a conference table Thursday night to rap with state Sen. John Whitmire about his life in politics.

Whitmire, D-Houston, appeared at the discussion hosted by the College Democrats wearing blue jeans and a green knit shirt. He illustrated the rewards and trials of a life of public service through examples from his own career, focusing especially on his part in the legislature’s congressional redistricting battle last year.

Whitmire was one of the Democratic state senators called the “Texas Eleven” who flew to Albuquerque, N.M., in late July to prevent the passage of a redistricting bill highly favorable to Republicans.

After defeating the bill by preventing a quorum for the second special session called

by Gov. Rick Perry, Whitmire broke the boycott on Sept. 2, allowing Perry to call a third special session which passed the bill. Democratic attempts

Whitmire was one of the Democratic state senators called the “Texas Eleven” who flew to Albuquerque, N.M., in late July to prevent the passage of a redistricting bill highly favorable to Republicans. to block the bill in the judiciary by attacking Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst’s suspension of a long-standing Senate rule requiring two-thirds agreement to vote on new business were unsuccessful.

The U.S. Supreme Court

Jazz legend presents lecture on his life, his music

By Jennifer Warner Senior Reporter Students with even a little knowledge of music history recognize the names Louis Armstrong and Wynton Marsalis, but few know the name Joe Wilder.

Wilder, who is often called the “Jackie Robinson of music” after the famous baseball player, is best known for helping integrate the Broadway theatre orchestras and

studios of New York in the 1950s. He will be on campus Wednesday to present his lecture “A Musician’s Reflections on Racism and the Civil Rights Movement” at 3 p.m. in Evans Auditorium.

“Jazz originated in America and he was there when it started,” said Keith Winking, music professor. “Jazz has changed many times (in) the years, and he was there for all of them. Very few of those people are still around.”

recently rejected hearing an emergency request to block the redistricting map that was passed from taking effect.

Democrats still can appeal on the merits of their claim that the map is unconstitutional by violating the federal Voting

Winking will ask Wilder about his life and his accomplishments as a trumpet player, a black man and a human being.

Raymond Crisara, a musician and close friend of Wilder who played alongside him for years, will be at the presentation to give a different perspective on Wilder’s life.

“A lot of this was able to occur because g See JAZZ, page 2

Rights Act by discriminating against minority voters.

Whitmire said his decision to end the standoff was an example of the tough decisions politicians must make to serve their constituents.

“I chair (the Criminal

I N S I D E

Amusements....................7 Classifieds........................8

Crossword/Comics........9 News.............................2-4 Opinions...........................5

Sports...........................9,10 Trends...............................6

Justice standing committee),” he said. “For 30 days I had not had any interface with the prison system. (The University of Houston) raised tuition 23 percent while I was gone. Do you think they would have done that if I was in Houston?”

The senator also said to extend the boycott would have given Perry the opportunity to end the two-thirds rule permanently and cost the Democrats leverage on important issues.

“They would have run the Senate with 16 Republican folks that all look and think alike,” Whitmire said. “Also, I went around the room. I said, ‘Royce West, you’re in charge of higher education. I’m in charge of criminal justice.

Judith Zaffirini, you’re in charge of social services. We are players. We have the ability to represent our districts. g See SENATOR, page 3

Today’s Weather

High: 53 Lo w : 41

Rainy all day

Wind: From NE at 13 mph Precipitation: 20% Max. Humidity: 70% UV Index: 2 Minmal Wednesday’s Forecast Rainy and cloudy 48/35

NEWS

2 - The University Star

Sexual Assault & Abuse Services meets at 4:30 p.m. at the Texas State Counseling Center. For more information, call 245-2208.

Calendar of

EVENTS Tuesday

First Generation Students Organization Valentine fund-raiser is from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in The Quad.

Catholic Student Center provides a free lunch from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the center.

Christians at Texas State meets at noon in LBJ Student Center, Room 3-10.1.

Breaking Free From Dieting support group meets at 3 p.m. at the Texas State Counseling Center.

For more information call 2452208.

Gamma Theta Epsilon Geography Honors Society meets at 5 p.m. in the Evans Liberal Arts Building, Room 311.

Graduate Business Student Association meets at 5:45 p.m. in Derrick Hall, Room 111.

College Democrats meets at 7 p.m. in the Evans Liberal Arts building, Room 245.

Student Volunteer Connection meets at 5:30 p.m. in LBJSC, Room 3-5.1.

Bobcat Supper, an informal worship service with a free meal, is at 5:30 p.m. at the Campus Christian Community Center.

Crosstalk meets at 8 p.m. in the Alkek Teaching Theater.

Bible Study meets at 8 p.m. at the CSC.

Thursday

Summer Job Fair is from 10 a.m.4 p.m. in the LBJSC Ballroom.

Public Relations Student Society of America meets at 5 p.m. in the LBJSC, Room 3-10.1.

Alpha Kappa Psi co-ed business fraternity meets at 7 p.m. at the LBJSC, Room 3-7.1.

The Rock meets at 7:30 p.m. at the Catholic Student Center chapel.

Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship meets for worship at 8 p.m. in Old Main, Room 320.

Christians on Campus meets at 9:30 p.m. at the McCarty Student Center.

Friday

Victory Over Violence, an event about Buddhism, happens at 7 p.m. in the LBJSC Ballroom.

Texas State Alcohol and Drug Resource Center classes meet from noon-1 p.m. in LBJSC, Room 4-1.9. Pre-registration is required.

Study Abroad Fair is from 9 a.m.2 p.m. in The Quad.

SWAT, the organization that provides free rides back to campus, operates from 11 p.m.-3 a.m.

Wednesday

First Generation Students Organization Valentine fund-raiser is from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in The Quad.

Christians at Texas State meets at noon in LBJSC, Room 3-10.1.

Career Services provides a seminar on how to make yourself more marketable to potential employers at 2 p.m. at LBJSC, Room 5-7.1.

Saturday

SWAT operates from 11 p.m.-3 a.m.

Calendar Submission Policy Calendar submisions are free. Send submissions to Calendar of Events Manager Paul Lopez at TexasStateCalendar@yahoo.com or call 245-3487 for more information. Notices for weekly meetings need to be submitted once. The University Star reserves the right to refuse entries or edit for libel, style and space purposes. Deadline: Three working days prior to publication.

Hours of Operation

Albert B. Alkek Library Monday -Wednesday 7:30 a.m. - 1 a.m.

Thursday 7:30 a.m. - midnight Friday 7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Student Recreation Center Monday - Thursday 6 a.m. - midnight Friday 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday Sunday 1 p.m. - 1 a.m. noon - midnight Golf Course Open daily 7 a.m. - dusk

Tuesday, February 10, 2004

Earning a living with a degree Presentation to aid students in marketing themselves

By Nikki Dawson News Reporter The recent release of the National Association of Colleges and Employers winter quarterly starting-salary survey might give college students looking to market themselves to potential employers something to think about.

Among the top paying degrees are computer engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and computer science, in order respectively.

While only a handful of college seniors have been offered full-time jobs thus far, the association remains hopeful.

On balance, employers said they expect college-grad hiring to be up 12.7 percent from last year, which is the first hiring increase in two years, said NACE spokesperson Camille Luckenbaugh, according to money.cnn.com.

Most starting salary offers have seen a rise also. Computer science majors are seeing an 8.9 percent increase since 2002, making the average starting salary $48,656. Meanwhile, liberal arts and materials management degrees tied for second with a rise of 3.5 percent.

According to the survey, only a third of surveyed fields are witnessing a decrease in starting salary offers, which is down from the year before.

Psychology majors are see-

ing an 8 percent decline in their starting salary offers, bringing the average to $25,032.

Career Services, which reports college graduate hires are up since 2001, will be presenting “How Marketable Are You” at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the LBJ Student Center, Room 5-7.1. The purpose of the presentation is to inform students of what characteristics potential employers and graduate/professional schools are searching for in aspiring candidates.

Greg Hill, Career Planning assistant director, and LaTonya Croskey, career adviser, will be presenting the event to students who are interested in learning how to better market themselves to employers.

Specific topics that will be covered are how to skillfully navigate job searches, internships and interviews.

“Think of it as sales literature to get the attention of employers,” Croskey said. “We want to encourage our audience to think about their education and future career.”

They will also be describing specific qualities that appeal to future employers.

“Characteristics such as flexibility, analytical skills and a sense of humor are important traits in future employees,” she said.

Hill and Croskey will also cover how to best highlight credentials on résumés or graduate applications. Hill will speak on writing personal statements for graduate and professional schools.

For more information about the presentation or Career Services, call 245-2645 or go online at www.careerservices.txstate.edu.

What’s a degree worth?

Average Starting Salary

Degree

Computer engineering Chemical engineering Electrical engineering Mechanical engineering Computer science Industrial/ Manuf. engineering Information sciences Accounting

Construction science Mngmt info systems/ Biz data

Civil engineering Economics/ Finance Logistics/ Materials mgmt.

Business admin.

Nursing

Change From Yr. Before

$53,117

+0.7%

$52,563

+2.5%

$49,926

-1.4%

$49,088

+2.0%

$48,656

+8.9%

$48,283

+0.4%

$42,108

+2.6%

$41,232

-3.7%

$41,103

+1.3%

$41,046

-1.2%

$40,596

+0.5%

$40,484

+3.5%

$37,368 $37,253

+2.0% -4.3%

$42,045

Information coutesy of money.cnn.com

JAZZ: Lecture celebrates jazz legend g Cont. from page 1

of (Crisara),” Winking said.

“The respect people had for Mr. Crisara helped Joe Wilder.”

Wilder is nearly 82 years old and was around when jazz music was still a budding art form. He helped shape and influence the music into what it was and is today. Winking said the lecture is like listening to someone who was around when Bach was alive.

The event is sponsored through the School of Music, grants received through the University Public Lecture Series and the Multicultural and Gender Studies Center. It is being held as part of Black History Month events and is free and open to the public.

Wilder has played with

numerous big bands and big names including Dizzy Gillespie and Benny Goodman.

He has also performed with traditional jazz singers such as Billie Holiday, Harry Belafonte and Tony Bennett.

“His solos are immaculately designed … he makes the song

New York Philharmonic as principal trumpet in the Symphony of the New World and he has been in the pit orchestra for numerous Broadway musicals including Guys and Dolls and 42nd Street.

Wilder’s positive attitude is

“We’re all going to encounter bigotry and racism in some form or other, but you can’t let yourself get mired down by these problems,”

— Joe Wilder Jazz Musician

gleam,” said Whitney Ballietta in a 1986 New Yorker profile of Wilder.

Wilder also was a staff musician for the New York ABC affiliate from 1957 to 1974. He performed with the

0.1%

often considered to be the driving force behind his success.

“We’re all going to encounter bigotry and racism in some form or other, but you can’t let yourself get mired down by these problems,”

Wilder once said to Ed Berger of the Institute of Jazz Studies.

“When you run into that kind of situation, you stop and think about the guys you’ve known, the friends you’ve had, the people who were absolutely in no way like that. And those are the people you can relate to.”

Winking said Wilder’s belief in himself enabled him to avoid the pitfalls that claimed so many of his generation and opened doors that he was told he could never enter.

He said his attitude is what helped him overcome obstacles and helped the civil rights movement before it really even began.

“He had the most positive outlook on life,” Winking said.

“That helped him stay focused on his goals.”

News Briefs

NEWS

Tuesday, February 10, 2004

Army headquarters on the move toward Fort Eustis

WASHINGTON — A major Army headquarters in Alexandria, Va., has a new name and could be moving to Fort Eustis next year.

The Surface Deployment and Distribution Command became the new name for the Military Traffic Management Command at the start of this year. Officials said the name change, marked at a Jan.29 ceremony, reflects the command's shifting responsibilities in the war against terrorism.

The 30-year-old command is currently overseeing the move of eight Army combat divisions to and from Iraq and Afghanistan — the largest movement of American military equipment since World War II, according to the command.

The command has about 2,200 military and civilian employees worldwide, including about 350 people at an operations center at Fort Eustis, near Newport News, Va. The headquarters in Alexandria has about 350 civil service employees and about 300 contractors who run software systems.

If the Army approves a consolidation at Fort Eustis, officials estimate 300 jobs would be added to the payroll there. Duplicated positions would be eliminated in the consolidation and some employees who work in Alexandria might choose to take retirement rather than relocate, an official said. Any move would not start until October 2005.

Probe into mad cow disease ends

Federal officials ended their investigation Monday into the country’s first case of mad cow disease after failing to locate almost two-thirds of the 80 cattle that had entered the United States from Canada with an infected Holstein.

The 52 missing animals include 11 cows believed to be at higher risk because they were born around the same time as the Holstein and may have eaten the same contaminated feed.

“The paper trail has gotten cold; we have not been able to trace those animals,” said W. Ron DeHaven, chief veterinary officer at the Department of Agriculture.

As to where they may be now, he said, “some of them very likely have gone to slaughter.”

Although DeHaven said the

seven-week investigation had been exceptionally successful-“We never expected to be able to find all of them; it’s remarkable we found as many as we did” — the deputy USDA administrator had soothed public fears in December by promising that most of the herd would be found — alive.

“Most of them are likely still alive,” he said Dec. 27, according to a USDA transcript. “Because the records that are kept on dairy cattle are typically very good ... we feel confident that we are going to be able to determine the whereabouts of most, if not all of these animals, within the next several days.”

Monday, DeHaven said many of the animals’ ear tags had been lost, and that the chances of finding the rest of the herd was “pretty slim at this point ... It’s time to move on.”

Clark, Edwards hope for an upset in Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — As Sen. John F. Kerry (Mass.) continues his march toward the Democratic presidential nomination, a battle within the battle, pitting Sen. John Edwards (N.C.) against retired Army Gen. Wesley K. Clark, heads toward a showdown Tuesday in Tennessee.

Kerry has turned the old adage that all politics is local on its head here, using the national attention — and momentum — from his victories in 11 of the first 13 primaries and caucuses to make him the favorite to win the primary here, despite the fact that his first visit to the state this year came on Saturday.

Tennessee voters may not know him well, but they seem to like him because he is winning elsewhere.

Clark and Edwards would love to spring an upset in the Volunteer State, but even more than worrying about Kerry, they are focused on each other. The loser in their head-to-head competition will find few options to revitalize his candidacy in the days ahead.

Of the two Southern states with primaries Tuesday, Clark has chosen to make his stand in Tennessee, rather than Virginia. His advisers argue that Tennessee presents a truer test of Southern sentiment.

“We need to do well in Tennessee, no question,” said Clark communications director Matt Bennett. “The marker is down, the flag planted, the line drawn.

It’s Tennessee.”

Briefs are from wire reports.

The University Star - 3

American Song sings to audience

“I was looking for people that could harmonize with a sort of folk feel to them, and so the traditional Broadway musical-type actor just wouldn’t do for me at all,” Saunders said.

Cast members change characters frequently throughout the play, depicting the plight of Dust Bowl refugees from Texas and Oklahoma and hardpressed union workers.

“It’s not going to be your average musical,” Saunders said. “Even the theatre students don’t know what to expect.”

While traveling throughout the American landscape during the 1930s, ’40s and ’50s, Guthrie’s observations of what he saw and experienced have left a legacy of images, sounds

and voices of the people with whom he struggled to survive.

The Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, World War II, Unionism, the Red Scare and the Cold War were all prevalent parts of Guthrie’s life, reflected in his work through the portrayal of the world as he saw it with his honesty, humor and wit expressed in the vernacular of the time.

Guthrie’s “people’s songs,” as he called them, are awardwinning pieces and are among his most recognized contributions to American culture. His prose, poetry and other writings have also portrayed his strong social, political and spiritual beliefs, which have influenced other artists such as Bob Dylan

and Bruce Springsteen.

On stage and providing instrumental backup will be the Austin-based band Hard to Make a Living. The band features Jon Ricketts playing banjo, mandolin and guitar; Jon Kemppainen playing fiddle, mandolin and guitar; John Hood on upright bass; and Mike Bush on guitar and mandolin. The group plays western swing, traditional jazz/swing, folk rock, traditional country, bluegrass, classical and whatever else strikes its fancy, according to the band’s Web site, www.hardtomakealiving.com.

“Unlike most bands, we don’t sit in the orchestra pit,” said Hood, Texas State lecturer for the department of theatre and dance. “We are a lively part of the show, with band members taking on characters in the play along with the other actors.”

The New York Times noted the musical’s ability to “manage to find both the high beauty and the earthly humor of Guthrie’s love affair with America.”

The musical is produced by the department of theatre and dance and will run on the main stage of the Texas State Theatre Center at 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday, with a 2 p.m. matinee Sunday. Tickets will be available in advance or at the door through the Texas State box office.

“That’s the kind of hypocrisy and craziness of politics and government, but it’s not any different than what a lot of us do in our families,” he said. “Have you got any folks around at Christmas that you didn’t want to spend Christmas with? Have you got any former wives that you’ve got to sit down and talk to because the (children) are what’s important?

“Politics is a relationship, and that’s really what makes it exciting, too,” he said. “It’s people business.”

Whitmire used the example of redistricting, which the senator called a “tremendous power grab” by Republicans, as a reason why the mostly Democratic group of students must get involved in politics.

“Elections matter,” he said.

“They’re not popularity contests. They decide life-anddeath matters. They decide congressional seats. You say, ‘What’s the big deal about congressional seats? It’s just a change of faces.’ No. It means who’s going to run your country, who’s going to pay taxes,

are you going to go to war?”

He said young people need to get involved in the political process to focus attention on the issues that affect them, particularly college tuition increases.

Whitmire told the students that he successfully ran for the Texas House of Representatives as a senior at the University of Houston in 1972, and finished law school in between legislative sessions.

He was elected to the senate in 1982 and is now referred to as its dean because of his seniority.

Tim Small, College Democrats president, said he asked Whitmire to speak to

empower students to get involved.

“I wanted someone who could come here and talk to us about what it means to be a leader,” Small said. “Student empowerment is important to College Democrats. That is the focus of our efforts this semester.”

Throughout the discussion, Whitmire encouraged students to become involved in politics and to consider running for office.

“There’s just a lot of things that need to be done, and if you enjoy working in that and making a difference, it’s the best line of work you can get into,” he said.

Musical delves into the life of folk singer Woody Guthrie

By Amber Conrad News Reporter Director and theatre graduate student Ann Marie Saunders has taken her love of contemporary and classic folk music to the extreme with her rendition of Woody Guthrie’s American Song, which opens at 7:30 tonight on the main stage of the Texas State Theatre Center.

The musical follows the life of a rambling folk singer as he travels through the United States in the early 20th century.

After its 1989 debut, the musical traveled across the United States receiving rave reviews from critics.

The cast is a diverse group of actors from the Texas State community. The group has been working on the musical five days a week for the last month and a half.

The cast members — Matthew Harrington, theatre graduate; Amanda Harris, pretheatre freshman; Braden Williams, pre-theatre sophomore; Blake Hamman, theatre junior; Jessica Woodward, theatre junior and Erin Polewski, pre-theatre junior — aid in adding realism to Saunders’ production by being relatively new, less-experienced actors to this genre.

Image courtesy of The Smithsonian Institution

A classic photograph of Woody Guthrie taken in 1943 by Sid Grossman, showing Guthrie strumming one of his songs on his guitar.

SENATOR: Whitmire speaks to student democrats g Cont. from page 1

“If we stay here any longer, we’re not going to have any chairmanships; we’re not going to have any seats on finance, and the sad thing is, ultimately after we lose these positions of influence, they’re going to pass redistricting. So whether y’all come back or not, I’m out of here,” he said.

Whitmire made light of attacks against him by fellow Democrats after his return.

“When they were kicking my butt after I came back, you know what that was?” he said.

“That was spin. That was to play to their voters and emotions were running high.”

He said the partisan bitterness that followed the redistricting battle is slowly subsiding.

“We’re all working well together,” Whitmire said.

“Yeah, there’s coolness there.

People are still kind of feeling each other out. Will we work with the Republicans? Hell, we don’t have any choice. There’s 19 of them. There’s 12 of us.

They run the show.”

Valentines Day 2004 The University Star invites you to share the love ... and the Valentines issue!

NEWS

4 - The University Star

Schools affected by power plant closure Superintendant expects a 12% revenue cut

By Jennifer Warner Senior Reporter The San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District will soon undergo a revenue cut estimated at more than 12 percent because of the temporary closing of the American National Power Inc. natural gas plant in San Marcos.

On Jan. 28, the Massachusetts-based company announced it is putting the plant’s operations on hold, saying its operation has become unprofitable because of a large amount of cheap electricity available in the state.

“Wholesale electric prices have been running so low in Texas that we just can’t make any money,” said operational plant manager Mike Pappenfus. “Hopefully prices will turn around. Then it will be profitable to run the plant again.”

Pappenfus said current economic conditions are making the prices so low. This region of Texas is facing more difficulties with electricity prices than other areas such as Houston and Dallas.

The plant accounts for $4.3 million of the $33.2 million that the school district receives each year. The district’s superintendent, Sylvester Perez, predicts the closing will have an impact on the city and the schools, but he is not certain of the extent of the impact.

“The school funding in the state of Texas is ever-changing and complicated,” Perez said.

“The tax rate will be increased, but this is (because of) the newly approved bond election.”

Perez does not believe the closing of the plant had an affect on the election, which had a very high voter turnout.

“People had already made up their mind,” Perez said. “(They) made their decision based on the need for school buildings.”

The plant will continue to pay taxes, but the company is in the process of determining the value of the plant while it is not in operation. It is worth $263 million and pays for more than 12 percent of the district’s revenue.

However, the closing should not impact the city’s economic health because the company is not planning any layoffs. Most of the plant’s 38 workers will remain there for purposes of safety, security and environ-

mental compliance.

The remaining employees will be given the opportunity to transfer to the company’s plant in Midlothian, south of Dallas, but Pappenfus said he expects others will choose to take jobs elsewhere.

The plant originally opened in the summer of 2002. It puts out 1,100 megawatts of energy per hour, enough to supply power to more than a billion households.

Customers buy electricity in kilowatts, paying about 5-7 cents for each. Pappenfus said that according to a very basic formula, one million watts, or one megawatt, is enough energy to supply about 1,000 households with energy. Because the plant produces 1,100 megawatts each hour, it can supply power to more than a billion homes.

The San Marcos plant is what is known as an independent power producer, meaning it generates electricity and sells it to other utility companies.

For this reason, San Marcos residents will not be directly affected by the plant’s closure; they may not be affected at all.

Pappenfus said it is impossible to predict when the plant might reopen because it is based on market conditions, but he is optimistic that it will not be out of operation for long.

“For planning purposes, it will perhaps be summer of 2005, but things do change,” Pappenfus said. “I think the economy is turning around.

I’m pretty optimistic that it will be sooner versus later, but it’s still a guess.”

The San Marcos plant is the 17th plant in the state to shut down in the past year, and 10 new power plants are under construction. According to an Austin American-Statesman article, The Electric Reliability Council Texas currently has an excess power capacity of about 30 percent.

Pappenfus said the plant closures could be caused by many different reasons in addition to the economy, such as companies in distress or outof-date facilities.

“Some plants are just worn out,” Pappenfus said. “There are a lot of plants that aren’t as efficient as this one. We have the latest and greatest for environmental protection, so it’s really a loss.”

Pappenfus said the new plants being built may be using a different fuel that is not experiencing as many price difficulties, or they may be in a region that has access to better prices.

PLAYING CUPID

Tuesday, February 10, 2004

Brian Garcia/Star photo

Thane Messina, theatre junior, takes part in a Valentine’s date auction. When asked why he did it he stated, “I did it to have fun, because it’s hilarious.”

ASG: Group debates Chartwells contract extension g Cont. from page 1

with the extension.

The issue was brought to ASG with the hopes of winning student support to bring the issue to the Texas State University Board of Regents at the end of February.

Many senators expressed dismay at the lack of other options offered for food service.

Senators said they had a strong desire to see what offers other food service companies had made.

Root feels Chartwells is the best company for Texas State’s needs. “(The other companies) are all good companies, but willingness and commitment to

change is what sets Chartwells apart,” Root told the Sentate.

The other companies have not come forth with bids nearly as high as Chartwells, Root said. “(This plan) gives us what we need now, taking nothing out of students’ pockets and makes it possible to do all the other things we plan to do,” he said.

The issues of roll-over meal plans, more meal trades and improved quality of service were of most importance to senators.

Blackwell said he is very willing to entertain ideas and suggestions from ASG and said the problem of needing more meal trades will be addressed next year along with imple-

menting additional dining options.

If the Chartwells contract is not renewed some renovation will still take place during the summer, but not on the large scale that is planned.

The Senate could not reach agreement on the subject, so they will vote on a Simple Senate Resolution Monday to decide the issue.

Students with concerns, opinions or suggestions about food service on campus are encouraged to contact their representatives, ASG President Ernie Dominguez or come to the meeting at 7 p.m. Monday in the LBJ Student Center, Room 3-14.1.

“In regards to the Chartwells contract, I want to invite stu-

dents to the next meeting to see if students support the extension or not,” said Justin McGarry, ASG vice president.

In other business, a new piece of legislation was introduced to the Senate, reinstating the Pedagog, Texas State’s yearbook, this year. A vote will be taken on the issue next week.

There were three new Senate nominees that were approved, also to be voted on next week.

Dominguez also spoke to ASG about the opportunities to meet the provost candidates.

He encouraged any student to take advantage of the time now to ask questions of the person who will be second-in-charge at the university.

applied to current ethics compliant-related issues.

During the discussion Thomaides defended the amendments, reaffirming their procedural nature as a means to neutralize the politically-charged atmosphere.

Ed Mihalkanin, Council member and Texas State political science associate professor, said he supported the amendments as protections to commission volunteers and elected officials and that these individuals shouldn’t be treated like a piñata at a child’s birthday party.

All three amendments passed on their first readings.

The inclusion of an amend-

ment stating the first two measures — time limitations for ethics hearings and appointments of an outside attorney — should not apply to pending cases was approved before both measures passed with 5-0 votes with Habingreither and Taylor’s abstention.

The final amendment, pertinent to communication between accused city officials and ethics commissioners, did not garner unanimous support but was approved. It was slated to be put to an emergency vote, essentially bypassing the typical three readings.

Thomaides, who advocated the emergency vote, said its con-

tents were most urgent to this situation.

The bill’s language precisely addressed the confidential letter Habingreither sent to the ethics commission in which he made serious accusations of slander against former ethics commission chair Susan Tilka, later bringing Tilka’s employment status at Texas State as a nontenured lecturer into question.

The angry and threatening nature of the letter was cited in the resignation letters of Tilka as well as former commissioners Regina Henderson and Mary Cauble, assistant director of Information Services at Texas State.

CITY: Amendments try to curtail complaints g Cont. from page 1

Discussion later commenced on the three ethics amendments which, in effect, would set a time parameter of 90 days prior to an election for the hearing of ethics complaints against City Council members, provide for the appointment of a special council or outside attorney for ethics review matters and place restrictions on communications between the ethics review commission by persons involved in complaints.

Each amendment, while introduced as procedural updates to the city ethics code by council members Narvaiz and Thomaides, can be directly

OPINIONS

OPINIONS CONTACT Scooter Hendon staropinion@txstate.edu (512) 245-3487

Tuesday, February 10, 2004

THE UNIVERSITY STAR Defending the First Amendment since 1911

Page 5

THE MAIN POINT

Government should protect right to protest rotesting could catch up with several Drake University students.

A list of anti-war protesters at the Iowa university was subpoenaed by a judge following a grand jury probe involving a Nov. 15 protest against war in Iraq. The subpoena called for names of officers, current locations of offices and other records relating to the Drake chapter of the National Lawyer’s Guild.

In essence, the federal government would rather grill students on their intentions instead of granting them their constitutional

P

right to assemble and protest whatever they wish. “(The subpoena) has no purpose or effect other than to harass and intimidate persons engaged in constitutionally protected advocacy and expression,” said Bruce Nestor, attorney for the National Lawyer’s Guild.

Facts of the case are unclear, but authorities say the main reason for the subpoenas was that a sheriff’s deputy suffered a dislocated knee when he was kicked during the demonstration. So far among the 12 protesters, all but one have been arrested and three have been

subpoenaed.

However, the issue at hand is not who kicked whom. The issue is this — why does the government want a complete group listing of the guild when only those protesting were the ones involved in the incident? The Austin Police Department went under fire around this same time last year for taking photos of anti-war protesters and allegedly singling out protest instigators for arrest and logging other names.

Through the years, similar events have called protesting into the national spotlight. In 1950, the

Denver Police Department kept detailed files on over 3,000 different individuals in “spy files.” The American Civil Liberties Union sued the Police Department once the files were discovered; the case is still pending.

When will authorities learn?

Keeping tabs on protesters is not allowable in this country. The right to privacy is something that Americans should hold dear.

Everyone should be able to celebrate the right to protest and not live in fear of being singled out while flexing first amendment rights.

TURN OFF THE BOOB TUBE Watchdogs try to stay abreast with TV trends Murlin Evans Star Columnist

The University Star 601 University Dr., San Marcos, TX 78666 Phone: (512) 245-3487; Fax: (512) 245-3708

Elaine Foster/Star illustration

George W. might call it the areola of evil.

Like G.W., the Federal Communications Commission, Viacom and the Parents’ Television Council know the convenience of naming a scapegoat. Whether the blame be dropped in the lap of faulty (made-up) CIA intelligence or a washed-up pop singer, it’s always easier than taking a hard look at the real forces at play.

For the record, I am a family man with a 5-year-old son. I have no problem with Janet Jackson’s breast-baring during the Super Bowl halftime show.

However, this sentiment does not emanate from some naturalistic view of the human body or a belief in the right to free speech. It comes from the fact that my son wasn’t watching.

Anyone seeking moral reinforcement from watching the materialistic commercialized marketing juggernaut known as the Super Bowl — much less the halftime show — deserves to be flashed, or preferably, mooned.

How about this — instead of filing an indecency complaint with the FCC and lobbying for heavy fines on Viacom, the PTC should be tried for child prostitution — delivering millions of American minors into the hands of predatory TV advertisers for the four-hour broadcast.

A bit harsh you say?

Maybe. But I cringe at the thought of a generation of American youth associating Zeppelin tunes with Cadillac commercials.

Ironic? Try this.

Judging from the PTC compulsory viewing credo (“Because the children are watching!”) you would think parking children in front of a television was a God-given right. So, what if perhaps, despite their parent’s beliefs, the children of these PTC members were vaguely comforted by Jackson’s breast, if for even just an instant.

Weaned from mother’s teat

“

Anyone seeking moral reinforcement from watching the materialistic commercialized marketing juggernaut known as the Super Bowl — much less the halftime show — deserves to be flashed, or preferably mooned.

to boob tube faster than you can say Nickelodeon, these children were probably just longing for that instinctive maternal connection that was prematurely severed by formula and infant day care.

Bear with me here.

The sexualization of breasts (a bias that enjoys unparalleled reign in this country) is inseparable from a new mother’s disinterest in breastfeeding (only 7 percent even try it at all) despite it being the most perfect source of nutrition for a newborn.

While convenient and breast-sparing, the exchange for infant formula is not an even trade. For lost in the equation, beyond the deep maternal bonding (the impacts of which we are only now

beginning to comprehend), is the amino acid tryptophan.

This essential nutrient is deficient in commercial baby formula and is responsible for normal serotonin production in the brain.

Having raised a couple of generations of children on a combination of nutrient deficient formula and a steady diet of television viewing — complete with its fight or flight response inducing advertising — is it little wonder we face the neurological dysfunction, obesity, attention deficit disorders, depression and homicidal tendencies we do?

Here’s a radical idea PTC: Turn it off.

If that’s too radical, then watch what you want, but leave your children’s (and my

Editor In Chief............................Genevieve Klein, stareditor@txstate.edu Managing Editor.....................Scooter Hendon, staropinion@txstate.edu News Editor.........................................David Doerr, starnews@txstate.edu Assistant News Editor.....................Kassia Micek, km1018@txstate.edu Sports Editor......................................Jason Orts, starsports@txstate.edu Entertainment Editor.........Terry Ornelas, starentertainment@txstate.edu

”

future students’) brains out of it.

Still too unorthodox? Try reading TV Guide once in a while. As much TV as these PTC folks obviously watch, I’m sure they’re familiar with that publication. When under “special guests” you see performers known for hit singles by the names of “Nasty” or “Rock Your Body,” see what’s on the Discovery Channel.

Better yet, try real family experiences.

Stop rolling out the red carpet for one of technology’s most destructive influences to enter and alter your children’s minds.

I promise I won’t tell.

Thhe 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 UniversitySan Marcos Student Media, the department of mass communication or Texas State University-San Marcos.

Letters policy: E-mail letters to starletters@txstate.edu. Letters must be no longer than 350 words. No anonymous letters will be printed. We reserve the right to edit for grammar, spelling, space and libel. We reserve the right to refuse obscene, irrelevant and malicious letters. All e-mails must include the name and phone number of the letter writer.

Students should also include their classifications and majors.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR How can you declare a war on war?

I feel compelled to respond to Aaron Barton’s outrageous letter (Jan. 29), which defends U.S. President Yosemite Sam’s “war on terror.” I would also like to shed light on Barton’s assumption that the billions of dollars poured into Israel are vital for its national security.

You cannot have a war on war. It’s a logical impossibility. This war is a charade. A majority of the American public is convinced that the Bush-Cheney oil junta has been lying to them. This strategy of combining Orwellian words with weapons of mass hysteria is transforming the American political landscape for the worse. As for 9/11, the atrocities committed that day did not change the world; Bush’s crusade did. He was only re-declaring the policies of President Reagan back in the 1980s.

Disciples of Bin Laden thrive on the hatred that American foreign policy has bred in the Middle East, Latin America and Asia.

You only need to take a closer look at Afghanistan and the new Iraq — a prime example of hell on earth. The Anglo-American invasion was an unjust war fought for unjust reasons. Saddam was offering to leave unconditionally, yet Bush and Tony Blair rejected the offer and close to 10,000 Iraqi civilians had to suffer the consequences. Your president has become an embarrassment not only for his allies but also to Americans themselves.

For decades the American taxpayer has generously subsidized Israel’s humiliating treatment of the Palestinian people. Bombing refugee camps, murdering civilians and eliminating the social, political and economic infrastructure of an entire society is Israel’s democracy at work. Any resistance against the barbaric treatment

by Israeli soldiers is considered terror. All these people want is freedom from oppression and a homeland based on the 1967 borders.

But there is reason to hope. Israeli soldiers have seen how the United States’ financial support is being abused and many are refusing to serve within the occupied territories. These are the true heroes of Israel. Bereaved families, both Israelis and Palestinians, have formed an organization that demands the Israeli government to halt its sadist policies. If they can see that Washington’s policies are a failure, why can’t you?

— Nu’man El -Bakri I nte rnati on al Rel ation s Exeter University Uni ted Ki ngdo m

Cline spreads fresh thoughts with student body Thank Athena for Rugh Cline! He provides fresh and insightful commentary for the Texas State student body. Bush wants to make his tax breaks for the rich permanent, while cutting hundreds of government programs that millions of people depend on. Bush, with his cutthroat policies, continues to push this country down a deep dark path to oblivion.

— James Goerke anthr op ol ogy sen ior

Evans is an education graduate student.

Assistant Entertainment Editor..............Jeff Greer, jg1201@txstate.edu Photo Editor..................................Brad Sherman, starphoto@txstate.edu Design Editor.......................................Matt Rael, stardesign@txstate.edu Systems Administrator.........Ben Stendahl, starsysadmin@txstate.edu Calendar of Events...........Paul Lopez, TexasStateCalendar@yahoo.com Advertising Coordinator......................Jodie Claes, starad1@txstate.edu

Advertising Graduate Asst...........Amy Redmond, starad2@txstate.edu Classifieds Manager........Chris Guadiano, starclassifieds@txstate.edu Publications Coord...........Linda Allen, starbusinessoffice@txstate.edu Publications Director.............Bob Bajackson, stardirector@txstate.edu

Visit The Star online at www.UniversityStar.com

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. with a daily circulation of 8,000. Printing and distribution is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung.

Copyright February 10, 2004. 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.

The University Star

TRENDS SWEEPS S WEEPS

Page 6 — Tuesday, February 10, 2004

Trendy Thoughts “It’s a Class C misdemeanor.”

— Memo Mata anthropology/history senior

“It didn’t really surprise me that it happened. I don’t know if it was an accident or not, but I heard she had a piercing or something.”

— Amber Holden psychology freshman

“It was a nice ring! I think it was a staged event for publicity.

She has a new album coming out and wanted some more action.”

— Booker Franklin history/philosophy sophomore

What did you think of Janet Jackson’s exposure during the Super Bowl halftime show?

We now interrupt your regularly scheduled program for ...

With guest stars, secrets, stunts and Paris Hilton, TV shows may not be entirely family-friendly this month

G

BY ARMANDO FLORES SENIOR REPORTER

uest stars galore. Big secrets revealed. People dying. Cars crashing. Teens in trouble.

It must be sweeps, again.

The first sweeps period of 2004 officially began Thursday and ends March 3, according to Nielsen Media Research. Sweeps is the time of year when TV stations set their advertising rates and measure their viewers, according to Gigi Taylor, a mass communication assistant professor who teaches media planning.

Taylor said ratings measure more than viewers; networks and advertisers look at the demographics for the show, what night the show is on, the show’s time slot, as well as how it does against competing shows in the same time slot and whether it keeps or loses an audience from its lead-in program. appearances, Paris Hilton (The Simple Life), Jean-Claude Van Damme Taylor also explains how the term “sweeps” came to be a house- and Jon Lovitz (The Critic) make their way to Las Vegas; Nick Lachey hold name.

(The Newlyweds) plays Tom Jones on American Dreams; Snoop Dogg “The measurement periods are called ‘sweeps’ because Nielsen appears as himself on The Tracy Morgan Show; and Patrick Swayze mails out diaries to certain households around the country, then col- portrays Mavis’ (Whoppi Goldberg) ex-choreographer on Whoopi. lects and processes the diaries in a specific order,” Taylor said. “First, And don’t forget Phoebe and Mike’s (Lisa Kudrow and Paul Rudd) the diaries from the Northeast regions are processed, then ‘swept up’ wedding on Friends Thursday. After that episode, there are only five in a geographical progression from the South to the Midwest and then left of the series. finally to the West.”

The teen-friendly WB focuses more on plot development.

Although November is probably the most important sweeps period The first Charmed of the month finds the charmed ones in a very because it gauges the first audience of the television season, according Harry Potter-esque plot involving a magic school and finally reveals to Taylor, Nielsen tracks ratings yearlong. But the ratings during the the secret Chris (Drew Fuller) has been keeping (for those who didn’t sweeps months, which include May and July, are important because see Sunday’s episode, it turns out Chris is really Piper’s youngest son the data are used to set advertising rates. from an alternate future). The next episode finds Phoebe (Alyssa And already the networks are trying their best to get ratings, Milano) playing a genie, ala I Dream of Jeannie. according to Zap2It.com. The TV news Web site reported last week Former cast member Barry Watson returns to 7th Heaven and that CBS came out on top of the ratings battle for the first two days of brings guests stars Richard Lewis, Lorraine Newman and Debi Mazar sweeps, with NBC coming in second on Thursday and ABC in second with him. Later episodes find Annie’s (Catherine Hicks) half-sister on Friday. While Friends, which guest starred Danny DeVito, and the walking down the aisle, as well as an episode where a mentally chalfirst part of The Apprentice won their time slot Thursday, CSI proved lenged young man wants to get married. the true winner of the night. CBS stayed in the lead Friday with new Rory (Alexis Bledel) has a confrontation with her ex, Jess (Milo episodes of Joan of Arcadia and JAG, beating out the series finale of Ventimiglia), when he returns to Stars Hollow tonight on Gilmore Ed on NBC as well as ABC’s TGIF line-up.

Girls. Marion Ross returns to the show Feb. 17, which leads to a big But what lies ahead for the rest secret being revealed March 2 that of the month? will rock the family.

Each network is pulling out Alcohol plays a big part on the stops … but not enough to Everwood and One Tree Hill this trump the May sweeps period. month, with Ephram (Gregory Let’s start with the Peacock Smith) landing in jail Feb. 23 on The following are some recommended viewing for network. NBC is loading up on the former show and Keith (Craig February. the guest stars, some being a bit Sheffer) getting into a drunken too cheesy. driving accident tonight on the Michael J. Fox makes his latter.

Thursday, Friends — Phoebe finally gets married. Sorry return to TV tonight with a twoAiring March 3 on The WB is males of New York City, her ride is now officially part stint on Scrubs as a doctor Clark (Tom Welling) getting a call closed. with obsessive-compulsive disfrom the future on Smallville. The Feb. 18, Angel — Angel gets turned into a puppet on a order. Tara Reid and Brendan Feb. 18 episode of Angel features children’s show that is stealing children’s souls. Further Fraser also reprise their roles on Angel (David Boreanaz) getting the medical comedy. turned into a puppet while invesproof that puppets are evil.

Minnie Driver and John tigating an evil children’s proFeb. 16, 23, The Littlest Groom — A little man gets to Clease return to Will & Grace as gram that’s stealing children’s choose a lover from 12 little women. Winona Ryder will the Brits who won’t get out of souls. not make a guest appearance.

Karen’s (Megan Mullally) life.

CBS is banking on movies and March 3, Stephen King’s Kingdom Hospital — The king Also guest starring this month is music for its ratings, having startDave Foley (NewsRadio, Kids in ed with the 46th annual Grammy of horror does a show about a haunted hospital and the Hall) as a client of Will’s Awards on Sunday. Moviewise, features a character based on King. And you thought (Eric McCormack) who is interit’ll air It Must Be Love, starring your life was scary ... ested in Jack (Sean Hayes). real-life couple Ted Danson and As for the cheesy guest Mary Steenburgen playing a cou-

what’s on?

Cult Classics

By Jonathon Marin

Album

Title: Surfer Rosa Artist: The Pixies Yr. Released: 1988 Label: Elektra

By the end of the 1980s, rock ’n’ roll’s manufactured glam-pop/rock formula was beginning to die off like a bad rash. The ’80s rock scene had apparently been successful in silencing any modicum of uniquely creative energy floating in the mainstream at the time. Rock acts such as Poison and Motley Crue dominated the charts leaving little room for any innovative change. But there was a noticeable rumble coming from the depths of the underground scene. College radio was already paving the way by introducing the sound that would eventually end up dominating the ’90s.

The Pixies’ Surfer Rosa is one such record that introduced the world to the “alternative” sound. It lacked any sort of polished song structure. It traded textbook guitar solos for dissonance and invention. It ignored any sort of preestablished notions pertaining to what music was supposed to sound like. With singer/guitarist Frank Black’s deranged, inconsistent song arrangements/structures and Kim Deal’s sincere vocals, Surfer Rosa makes for an enjoyable clutter of reverb-filled chord and melody. Undoubtedly, the Pixies’ rawest and hardest album, the record made an obvious impact on later acts such as Nirvana and Radiohead, branding the ultra-familiar soft/loud song structure.

Superlative songs: “River Euphrates,” “Gigantic,” “Where Is My Mind?,” “Bone Machine”

Chris Sipes/Star illustration ple on the verge of divorce, on Feb. 15. On Feb. 22, the romantic comedy Raising Waylon features a couple that unexpectedly become parents to their godchild.

In the guest star portion, Joan of Arcadia star Amber Tamblyn’s father Russ Tamblyn (West Side Story) guests as God on Friday; country music stars Travis Tritt and Trace Adkins appear on Yes Dear as escaped criminals on Feb. 23; and Janeane Garofalo portrays an exgirlfriend Wednesday on The King of Queens.

The biggest, or in some cases littlest, sweeps stunts come from Fox, as usual.

Let’s start off with The Littlest Groom, which airs Feb. 16 and 23.

This reality show follows a 4-foot-5-inch man who meets 12 little women for a dating game very much like The Bachelor. But with an Average Joe twist, average-sized women are thrown into the mix.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Fox rolls out When Animals Attract on Friday, which features mating rituals in the animal kingdom, and Love Hurts, a two-hour Cops with nothing but domestic disputes.

Not to be forgotten, My Big Fat Obnoxious Fiancé ends its run on Feb. 23, and Liza Minnelli reprises her “socialist with vertigo” role on Arrested Development.

Money plays a big part for ABC as it brings Regis back to primetime for a five-night run with Super Millionaire, with a $10 million top prize.

ABC is also rolling out the Oscars earlier this year, with the 76th Academy Awards being presented Feb. 29. Hosted by Billy Crystal, the awards will pay special tribute to Bob Hope and Katharine Hepburn.

Kathie Lee Gifford pays a visit to Hope & Faith as a waitress, and Jonathan Taylor Thomas starts a three-episode stint as a nerd Feb. 17 on 8 Simple Rules. The Practice also begins a three-part story arc on Feb. 15, which has James Spader’s character returning to his hometown, and that’s where guest stars Patrick Dempsey, Ed Asner and Betty White come into play.

Mel Gibson tells Diane Sawyer all about his controversial film, The Passion of The Christ, Feb. 16 on Primetime, and Paris Hilton tries to show her acting chops on George Lopez Feb. 27. The second installment of The Bachelorette comes to a close Feb. 25 with a two-hour episode with Meredith Phillips choosing her beau.

Ending the sweeps period with a bit of a spook, ABC releases Stephen King’s Kingdom Hospital March 3. Starring Andrew McCarthy and based on a Dutch miniseries by director Lars von Trier, this haunted hospital drama aims to scare up viewers, and with the show featuring a character that basically represents King after his near-death experience several years ago, one can only wonder what tales the horrormeister has in store.

So that’s a run-down of what the coming month has to offer.

Viewers can expect things to get back to normal on their regular TV viewing schedules. That is, of course, until May sweeps come along.

By Chris Robinson

Film

Title: Wild Zero Director: Tetsuo Takeuchi Yr. Released: 2000 Starring: Masashi Endo, Shitichai Kwancharu, Bass Wolf, Drum Wolf, Guitar Wolf Guitar Wolf, a three-man set, exploded out of the Japanese garage punk scene in the early 1990s with a ferocious rock ’n’ roll style comparable to a jet-fueled Ramones. Though the focus of Wild Zero is on Ace (Endo), a smalltime Japanese rockabilly fan, the film is made worthwhile through gratuitous shots of Guitar Wolf rocking out and kicking ass. Ace is on his way to a Guitar Wolf concert when he passes through a rural town whose residents have been turned into zombies. He stops to protect Tobio (Kwancharu), a lonely girl with a dark secret, but the flesh-eating horde is too much for them

without the help of Guitar Wolf.

The DVD includes a drinking game, complete with a beer mug icon that pops on screen to indicate when to take the shots. Campy on the inside, but layered with a volatile mix of chivalrous philosophy, punk rock style and even romantic zombie interludes, Wild Zero injects the classic zombie formula with the sensibility of a “rock ’n roll Halley’s comet.”

Most Memorable Scene: The final showdown on a rooftop between Guitar Wolf and an enormous U.F.O. Quote: “There are no boundaries in rock ’n’ roll! Believe in rock ’n’ roll!”

Tuesday, February 10, 2004

College Guy by Christy Gray They call this mashed potatoes?

AMUSEMENTS

The University Star - 7

To see previous comics go to: homepage.mac.com/blue_gray

Dude! Don’t eat the mushroom pizza!! It has gone baaaaad.

I hate school food.

My toung tastes like snozberries!

The 4th Dimension

By Nick Tracy...

Styx successful with Underground

BY AMELIA JACKSON MUSIC REPORTER

Today’s slang hat factor: When you see a guy and he’s totally hot ... but then you see him again without the hat and he’s SO not hot.

Example: Remember that guy from The Quad? I saw him today and it was total hat factor.

The first of three electronic shows took place Thursday evening at Styx in The Basement of the LBJ Student Center.

“The turnout was more than we could have ever expected, especially for our first event,” said Dustin Kinney, electronic media junior and event organizer.

“I think it goes to show there is an audience on campus for this music. I’m just happy that I get to be involved in bringing it to them.”

The show had some initial technical difficulties, but by the time Brach Thomas and Phil Quast were on the decks, the kinks had been ironed out and heads were bobbing and bodies were moving to their eclectic flavor of jungle.

Although the lights in Styx made the event quite bright, most patrons seemed not to mind.

Kinney will be hosting another music night in March with hard techno and breaks featuring Gritty, Ruckus and Kevin Titus.

In April, Kinney and Patrick Kelley, sociology senior, will play a house set for the last Deck Support Underground of the season.

Kinney is hoping to continue this series of events next year, which is a stem off his radio show on KTSW, Deck Support.

Cassidy Collins, communications studies senior and Lyndon’s manager, was instrumental in organizing the event, Kinney said.

Collins is seeking individuals to serve on a committee that decides on bookings in The Basement.

Anyone who is interested in serving on this committee should contact Collins at the Campus Activities and Student Organizations office, 245-3219, or e-mail her at cc55837@txstate.edu.

the university star classifieds

Classified ads are accepted by phone or email only if payment is made by credit card or if the client has established billing status. The deadline for all classified ads is noon two business days prior to publication. No physical addresses or names will be printed in ads placed under the heading of “Personals.” All classified ads must be paid in advance unless credit has been established. There are no refunds on classified ads. There is no charge for “Lost and Found” ads. Check your classified ad for accuracy. Any changes must be made by the second day of publication. To change or cancel your ad, please call 512-245-3487 or email cg1020@txstate.edu The University Star Use the following formula when determining the cost reserves the right to refuse, edit, discontinue or classify ads under appropriate headings. Please remember it is for your ad: always in your best interest to research or investigate any company from which you plan to purchase a good or Number of words x appropriate rate per word service. University/Non-Profit Classified Rates apply to campus departments, official student organizations of Texas + 5¢ per bolded words State University-San Marcos and recognized non-profit organizations. This rate includes classified ads placed by + 5¢ per italicized words students, faculty and staff under the headers of “Personals,” “For Rent” and “Roommates.” Ads placed by stu+ $10 typing fee for ads over 50 words + $10 for ads not run consecutive days dents, faculty and staff for personal profit will be charged the Local Classified Rate.The Local Classified Rate Take number form above and x by the number of applies to all advertising that does not fall under the area of University/Non-Profit Rate or is for straight profit. days you would like your ad to run to determine the “For Rent” and “Help Wanted” ads placed by businesses will be charged the Local Classified Rate.

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8 - Tuesday, February 10, 2004

announcements

Fraternities-Sororities-ClubsStudent Groups Earn $1,000-2,000 this semester with a proven CampusFundraiser 3 hour fundraising event. Our free programs make fundraising easy with no risks. Fundraising dates are filling quickly, so get with the program! It works. Contact CampusFundraier at (888) 923-3238, or visit www.campusfundraiser.com (2/12)

automotive

$500! Police impound! Honda, Chevy, Jeep, Toyota, etc. From $500. For listing: (800)719-3001, ext. 7462.

(2/17)

for rent

No rent in February! 3/2 next to campus, w/d, free cable, pets ok. $999/month. 393-3300. (2/12) ____________________________ Sublease in a 4br/4ba, all bills paid except electricity. $405/month.

393-8500, 361-275-9183. (2/12) ____________________________ Great views of Tx State. 1/1 $395 +, 2/1 $475+, only $99 dep. Pet friendly. Apt. Experts. 805-0123.

(4/29) ____________________________ Clean, Quiet, large, lovely 3bd/2bth all appliances, 3 min from town, 2 people only, $600/mo. 357-6636. (2/26tn) ____________________________ Brand New Community. Fully furn., most bills pd. Ethernet, local ph, w/d incl. $399 +, AE 805-0123. (4/29) ____________________________ It’s cooler in Austin. Unique Austin Condos, Loft Apts. from $375. Austin pictures, info., and maps. Austincool.com 512-693-7231. Member Alumni Association. (2/12) ____________________________ Texas Size Townhomes. 1 & 2 bdrms $495, most bills paid w/cable. Pets ok. Apartment Experts 805-0123. (4/29) ____________________________ 3/2 in Pecan Plantation. Pool, tennis, fitness center and playground available. $625/month.

357-2627. (2/12) ____________________________ Industrial Modern Living. $340 +, cable, ethernet, phone & e/d incl. AE 805-0123. (4/29) ____________________________ Downstairs 1 bedroom apartment. $400/monthly, $200 deposit.

754-0954. (3/26) ____________________________ Great Community. 1/1 $460 +, 2/1 $480+, on shuttle, pets ok.

Now preleasing for May ‘04!!!

Apartment Experts 805-0123.

(4/29) ____________________________ $100 prelease + bonus offer, 3 bedroom 3 bathrooms w/d 396-1520. (2/3?) ____________________________ Elegant Living. 1/1 $510+, 2/2 $545+, 3/2 $590+ w/d included. (rest. apply.) Apt. Experts.

805-0123.

(4/29)

for rent

Sublet 1 bdr apt. $400 plus deposit. Call Amanda 754-0218.

(2/11) ____________________________ Big Dogs Okay! Walk or shuttle to class. most bills pd. w/cable. 1/1 $450+, 2/2 $595 + Apt. Experts.

805-0123. (4/29) ____________________________ Small Community, 1/1 $450, 2/2 $650, with free wireless internet.

Pet’s o.k Apt. Experts 805-0123.

(4/29) ____________________________ Move in today! University Club Apts. 1b/1ba, w/d, free cable and internet. $410/mo. Will pay $210 towards 1st mo. 512-294-1168.

(2/12) ____________________________ Take over my lease. Looking for female at Windmill Townhomes.

Walking distance from school.

Rent $367.50, no deposit, move in immediately. Contact april 972-342-0468. (2/12) ____________________________ 1 bd/1.5 bth. Shalamar Townhome, available for 7 month sublease in Jan, $495/m. Call Derrell @ 512-619-6115. (2/12) ____________________________ Pre-lease Today For 5/20 or 8/20/04 MOVE-IN!!! 3 blocks from TxState. $785/mo. 2br/2.5ba TH. $300/dep., Full size w/d, FREE ROADRUNNER & HBO. No dogs 396-4181 or windmilltownhomes.com (4/29) ____________________________ ON A BUDGET? So am I. That’s why we have Langtry Apartments.

205 Craddock Ave., Waiting for you. 2 bedroom 2 bath apartment homes with washer/dryer ready for you to move-in today. Only $650 per month. Who said living in San Marcos had to be expensive?

Langtry Apartments 396-2673.

(4/29) ____________________________ TWO BEDROOM FOR THE PRICE OF A ONE! That's right!

Rent a two bedroom for the price of a one bedroom. You pay only $575.00 a month. Move in today to West End Condominium # 3.

1221 West Hopkins. VJE Realty Group 353-3002. (4/29) ____________________________ Skinny Dippin! In the middle of Winter! Our Skinny prices are dippin even lower! One bedroom now only $575.00. Washer/Dryer, microwave, free high speed internet with no dial-up and resort style amenities. Call the Metropolitan 393-6000. (4/29) ____________________________ Privacy, Privacy and More Privacy! A place of your own!

Stadium view apartments has a few 1 bedroom 1 bath homes for you. Fireplaces, ceiling fans, PRIVATE outside storage and covered parking await you.

On-Site laundry, pool, and spa are only one call away. VJE Realty 353-3002. (4/29) ____________________________ Wide Open Spaces. 3 bedroom 2 bath home with carport, features hardwood floors and a large backyard 1002 Earle St. No maintenance headaches or problems, we guarantee it! Call VJE Realty 353-3002.

(4/29)

for rent

Ready & Waiting! Nice, 1 bedroom , 1 bath studio home.

1642 Post Road. lot’s of storage and yard area. VJE Realty 353-3002. (4/29) ____________________________ Spacious and private 2 bedroom 1 bath duplex w/ pool near campus and bus route. Call 787-5156. ____________________________ 1 bd APT. $395/mo. 353-5051.

(4/29) ____________________________ 3/2 condo, practically on campus.

Beautiful wooded area, small yard, washer/dryer, paid cable and trash, pets welcome. Available February 7th $999/month 393-3300. (2/5)

for sale

Sterilized queen mattress set, $65, sterilized twin mattress set, $28, Four full-queen headboards $45$65. Oak entertainment center $45, lane round coffee table, $58, oak 5 piece dinette w/leaf, $85, oak triple mirror dresser, $98. Partin Furniture 2108 Ranch Road 12.

396-4684. Free delivery. (2/12) ____________________________ 3/2 in San Marcos. Mobile Home Park. All appliances, excellent condition. $25,000. 210-213-7700. ____________________________ Nashbar - Mountain Bike $125.

Lightweight, good condition, new tires (512)619-3967. (2/11) ____________________________ 2/2 Mobile home for sale. $9,000.

357-2627. (2/12) ____________________________ Wooden signs, letters, paddles, lap desks, names, custom, don’t pay retail (512)665-5617. (3/2)

help wanted

ObGyn Office needs help Monday through Thursday afternoons working with patients, paperwork, office cleaning. 396-4837. (2/12) ____________________________ Extend-A-Care for Kids.

Children are our future. Be a positive role model working with elementary age children. Apply today to be a role model working with elementary age children.

Starting pay $8.75/hr. Sites at 63 elementary schools. Hours 2:15 - 5:45/ 6:30 pm Monday-Friday. Extend-A-Care for kids. 55 North IH 35, 472-9929 x 264. www.eakids.org (2/12) ____________________________ Wimberly Eye Associates.

Part-time office help, fax resume (512)847-2072. (2/26) ____________________________ The City of New Braunfels is accepting applications for seasonal positions in the park and Recreation Department: park rangers, lifeguards, cashiers, attendants, asst. managers, river spotters, laborers, counselors and swim instructors. Positions open until filled. Must be at least 16 YOA. 15 - 40hrs/wk, including weekends, holidays, and evenings.

Starting pay range is $6.91 $10.00 depending upon position.

For more info. call 830-608-2160 or on the city website: www.ci.new-braunfels.tx.us (4/1)

help wanted

FITNESS MINDED. Exploding health & wellness company seeks sharp, motivated individual to help with sales marketing. Call 512-206-0620. (2/26) ____________________________ Make money promoting fundraisers to campus organizations. Set you r own hours.

Excellent resume material while earning $500-$5000 per fundraiser.

Interviews this week.

512-260-9191. (2/10) ____________________________ Part-time work. Great starting pay, flexible schedules around class, sales/service, training provided, perm/temp conditions apply, work in San Marcos, apply in Austin 512-458-6894. collegeincome.com (3/4) ____________________________ Local cattle ranch needs help with show cattle. Experience with feeding and grooming cattle desired. Reply to jcstolte@swbell.net or call 830-625-1099. (2/12) ____________________________ Housekeeper Needed. Local house keeper needed for light cleaning: dusting, vacuuming, laundry. 3-4 hrs./day paid $50 cash. One Possibly two days/week. Call (512)557-6502. (2/19) ____________________________ Wanted: 4th year or graduate photography student needed to take some pictures. Great money.

Please contact 557-2542 for info.

(2/11) ____________________________ MODELS WANTED-All Sizes-All Shapes. Teens/College Students/Parents/Grandparents.

Footed pajama internet business-.

Please NO CALLS Apply online: http://www.kozykomfy.com/ modelapp.htm (2/25) ____________________________ Athletic, outgoing students for calendar greeting cards, etc. $50 150/hr no exp needed.

512-684-8296. (4/29) ____________________________ Camp Counselor positions available at camp Weequahic, a co-ed children’s camp in northeastern Pennsylvania. We will be at the University Camp Day Thursday, February 12th to conduct oncampus interview. Positions available for all areas of sports, waterfront, and hobby specialists. Salary starts at $200/week plus room, board, and travel expenses. Please visit our website at www.weequahic.com for information and online application, email us at newsweeq@aol.com, or call and leave a message at 1 (866) 206-3323, PIN # 7944. We will contact you prior to the 12th to set up an appointment.

(2/11) ____________________________ Web-Site Designer WANTED. JavaScript knowledge preferred.

Footed pajama internet business. Part-Time-Ideal job for a Student http://www.kozykomfy.com CALL 512-585-9100-Ask for Mark .

(2/25) ____________________________ SUMMER CAMP JOBS IN COLORADO --- Make a difference in the life of a girl at Girl Scout overnight camps in the mountains SW of Denver. General Counselors, Program Specialists (Western horseback riding, backpacking, crafts, nature, sports/archery, challenge course, farm, dance & drama) and Administrative Positions. Late May – early August. Competitive salary, housing, meals, health insurance, travel and end-of-season bonuses. For an application, e-mail campjobs@gsmhc.org or call 303-607-4819.

(4/29)

help wanted roommates

Get paid for your opinions! Earn $15-$125 and more per survey! www.paidonlinesurveys.com (4/29) ____________________________ Arabian Horses: several open positions:Ranch in SM, close to campus, flex hrs.

1.hoof trimmer hrly $ or trade.

2.temp ranch hand $6hr.

3.serious/exp trainers--negot pay.

4.good riders who love to ride-$open!

5.attractive models who ride well-trade photos.

6.secretary--coordinate, manage, research--open$ *Riding lessons available.

Project: Got 14 horses and more foaling. And a website (texasarabianhorses.com).. working on photos/textto showcase, market, and sell 11 horses in 6 months.Experience and time are negotiable commodities.Pay you in cash when possible or trade when agreeable ..! Email resume , aspirations, services to:Nabil@Haysco.net.

However, if imperative my cell 210-367-7842 and 353-3477 ranch.

(4/29) ____________________________ Bartending $300 a day potential, no exp. necessary, training provided 800-965-6520 x157.

(4/29) ____________________________ Make Money taking Online Surveys. Earn $10-$125 for surveys. Earn $25-$250 for Focus Groups. Visit www.cash4students.com/swtxsu (2/26) ____________________________ Are you a dynamic, compassionate, motivated individual looking for the EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME? If so then Horizon Camps is the place for you. Horizon Camps is made up of three OUTSTANDING co-ed summer camps, seeking AMAZING staff to work with INCREDIBLE kids ranging in age from 7 to 15. Located in NY, PA, and WV, positions are available in the areas of group leading, athletics, theatre-arts, water sports, outdoor education, and so much more. For more information and to complete an application please contact us... www.horizoncamps.com 1-800-544-5448.

(4/29) ____________________________ Bartender trainees needed. $250 a day potential. Local positions.

1-800-293-3985 ext. 316.

(2/19)

miscellaneous

STUDY ABROAD: Nicholls State University offers accredited programs in Costa Rica, Spain, Ecuador, Mexico, France, Italy and Austria for language credit.

Lowest tuition and fees in the country. Most classes begin every Monday. All levels. No deadlines.

985-448-4440/toll-free = 1-877-Nicholls, www.nicholls.edu (2/12S)

personal

The American Women’s Medical Association reported that 27,000 condoms fail every day in the United States due to slipping and breaking. That’s almost 10 million failures each year. Condom break?

Call Central Texas Life Care for a free pregnancy test at 396-3020.

(2/19)

roommates

One female roommate needed. $233/mo plus 1/3 bills. Call 512-557-3992.

(2/19) ____________________________ Take over lease only $365/month.

Call Kristin 210-269-5899.

(2/19)

Roommate (M/F) to share new town house with 2 others. Master suite avl. $360 + 1/3 bills (cheap).

On bus route/ 2 miles to campus/ pool/gated. very social atmosphere.

INCENTIVES to offer. Call Cody 512-925-6406.

(2/19) ____________________________ Sick of dorms and small apartments? Would you trade a little extra drive time for a home in the beautiful Hill Country/ This 3 bedroom, two bath home is on 5 acres and offers space, privacy, vaulted ceiling, great room, fireplace, large deck, and huge oak trees. non-smokers. 2 roommates, girls only. ($450 to $550) Call Meera at 512-751-3727.

(2/12) ____________________________ Roommate needed. 3 bedroom/ 2 bath on an acre and a half. <None>350 a month. plus 1/3 of utilities. Call 512-738-7147 or 512-353-4320.

(2/11) ____________________________ Roommate needed, 3/2, w/d, backyard, walking distance from campus, $283 + bills, 754-0593.

(2/12)

travel

SPRING BREAK Cancun, Acapulco, Jamaica, Florida & South Padre. Free food, parties & drinks! Our students seen on CBS’ 48 hours! Lowest prices! breakerstravel.com 800-985-6789.

(2/26) ____________________________ Spring Break 2004! Travel with STS, America's #1 Student Tour Operator to Cancun, Acapulco, and Florida. BIGGEST PARTIES, BEST CLUBS! Call for group discounts.

Information/Reservations 1-800-648- 4849 or www.ststravel.com (3/4) ____________________________ SPRING BREAK Beach and Ski Trips on sale now! Call 1-800-SUNCHASE today! Or visit www.sunchase.com (3/5)

services

Typing etc! Audio transcription, resumes, notary public, applications, binding, editing, bumper stickers, tables, etc.

392-9880.

(4/29) ____________________________ Professional Photographer Specializes in weddings, portraits & modeling. Visit my website @ www.ashleyhorton.com For Additional info. Please contact me via e-mail @ ah1005@txstate.edu (4/29) ____________________________ aplusapts.tv why waste time when you can shop online! Or stop in at 325 E. Hopkins.

(4/29) ____________________________ myGOLDresume.com 866.290.3030.

(4/22)

wanted

Wanted: Used cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Any condition, running or not. If you have something to sell, please call Willis Mitchell at 353-4511.

(4/29) ____________________________ Athletic Males wanted for photography. $25-$100/hour. Call Wu in Austin at (512)927-2226.

(4/29) **************************** Place Your Love Lab. Call 245-3487, starclassifieds@txstate

S PO RT S

Tuesday, February 10, 2004

The University Star - 9

Baseball captures 2 of 3 this weekend

By Bruce Kalmick Sports Reporter The Texas State baseball team took two of three games this weekend against Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. After dropping the first game of the series 6-5 Friday, the ’Cats went on to win Saturday 6-5 in 13 innings and won in a route 17-5 Sunday.

In the first game of the series, the ’Cats scored early off two home runs from junior Mike Miller but fell after giving up six runs in the fifth inning. Senior preseason All-SLC selection Evan Tierce also contributed with two hits and a run. Senior Paul Shappert pitched well until the fifth inning, where he ran into some trouble, taking his first loss of the season after giving up the six runs that would stand up for TAMU-CC. The second game of the series would prove to shift the momentum to the Bobcats’ side.

However, it would take all day to finish the four-hour game, and Texas State coach Ty Harrington had to use 18 players before it

was all over.

Freshman Patrick Colgan earned the win for the ’Cats, but the star of the game was Dominic Ramos, who pitched five scoreless innings in relief of starter Tom Robbins, striking out six Islanders, and added an RBI while playing shortstop during the first five innings of the contest.

Tierce knocked in a run on two hits, and first baseman Mark Cooper made his contribution with two RBIs of the day.

However, it was Emi Alaniz’s patient, bases-loaded walk that sealed the deal for the ’Cats in the bottom of the 13th inning.

“Nobody ever comes in expecting to play a game like this,” Harrington said. “But it was a great game, a fun game to be in.”

The Bobcats headed into the last game of the series looking to end the three-game set on a good note. They wasted no time getting on the board, scoring five runs in the first three innings of the game, and ended the game strong, piling on 12 runs in the final three innings.

Senior Gabe Wisneski earned his first win of the season with two hitless innings of relief of starter Brian Hurley. The entire team contributed to the 17-run explosion. Designated hitter David Bednarek and third baseman Kyle Anson each hit their first home runs of the season, while Miller blasted his third.

Miller also knocked in four runs, giving him a team-high 11 for the year.

Tierce continued his early season tear, going 3 for 5 with two runs and three RBIs. Every starting player for Texas State had at least one hit, and four of them had three or more hits, including Bednarek’s five hits in six at bats. “(Causing) a big shift in the momentum today was Bednarek,” Harrington said. “He stepped in today and got five hits.

That’s a pretty big step.”

The ’Cats look to add to their four wins this weekend versus the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs in Fort Worth. The series will begin at 7 p.m. Friday, while Saturday’s game is set for 3 p.m. The series finale is scheduled for 1 p.m. Sunday.

Ashley A. Horton/Star photo

Softball: Bobcats face ranked teams in Fiesta Bowl g Cont. from page 10

Brittney Hodge cranked a double into left centerfield, driving in runners Danielle Vice and Hannah Snow for the game-clinching runs against TAMUCC, winning 3-1.

“Overall we have to get a lot better, but we all have a common goal,” Hodge said. “It took all 17 of us to win this (tournament) and let there be no doubt that we’re going to be in the College World Series.”

They played the same tune of comeback kids against Texas Tech University as they trailed 3-2 in the top of the seventh, when freshman outfielder Amy Krueger doubled down the left field line.

The ball dropped just in front of Tech left field-

er Kelly Rhyne, who made a diving attempt on the play, sending Griffith and Snow to the plate and giving the Bobcats a 4-3 lead. Bobcat pitcher Katie Ann Trahan set the Lady Raiders down in order in the bottom of the inning to preserve the win.

In the previous contest against Tulsa University, the Bobcats waited until the bottom of the seventh inning to put together a rally. Trahan singled to centerfield sending home the game’s only run, as Texas State won 1-0.

Hodge opened the inning with a walk, and Griffith came in to pinch run at first base.

Shortstop Leslie Sharp then lined a single to left field, moving Griffith to second. Both runners advanced on a sacrifice bunt from right fielder

Evan Tierce, senior outfielder, hits a sacrifice fly ball for an RBI against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Saturday. The Bobcats defeated the Islanders, 6-5 in a 13-inning game.

Janelle Wolters.

Centerfielder Kristen Zaleski was intentionally walked to load the bases, setting up Trahan’s heroics. Texas State starter Nicole Neuerburg got the win after throwing a four-hit shutout.

“We still need to improve in a lot of areas,” Woodard said. “Defensively we made some mistakes out there, and we committed a couple of errors. We have to work on hitting too if we want to improve.”

Texas State opened the tournament Friday by taking games against the University of Texas- San Antonio and New Mexico State University.

In Friday’s late game against UTSA, Texas State won 5-2, thanks in large part to Hodge’s three-run home run in the bottom of the sixth

inning. The Bobcats won the opener over NMSU, 4-0, behind Trahan’s two-hit shutout performance in the circle.

The Bobcats were led offensively by Zaleski, who ended the classic slugging at .400 with three doubles, a triple and six stolen bases. Catcher Rachel Bonetti had a team-high .462 batting average with a home run and three RBIs. After finishing the tournament, the Bobcats will look to ride the wake of these victories into their next competition against Baylor University at 6 p.m. Wednesday in Waco and this weekend’s Fiesta Bowl tournament, where the Bobcats will face three ranked teams in five games, highlighted by Friday’s opener against second-ranked University of Arizona.

Women: Break even in play Men: ’Cats still in the SLC fight g Cont. from page 10

g Cont. from page 10

had their largest lead of the first half, 29-18. But the Lions went on a 9-2 run for the remainder of the half to cut the lead to 31-27 at the break.

Riley was the Bobcats’ leading scorer and rebounder in the first half, with eight and seven off the bench, in just nine minutes of action. Talbert and Johnson added six apiece.

“I thought Riley gave us a great spark off the bench,” said Texas State coach Suzanne Fox. “She’s an offensive player and she is starting to find her place in this offense.”

The Bobcats immediately stretched their lead to eight during the early stages of the second half on two lay-ups from Johnson. SLU trimmed its deficit to three, 37-34, with 15:47 to go on a lay-up from guard Dacia McGowan, who led the Lions with 12 points, despite shooting just 4-15 from the floor.

But Texas State took control in the next four minutes, going on a 14-4 run, capped by a Brooks three-pointer that gave the Bobcats their largest lead of the game of 13 points with 11:59 to go.

Texas State would lead by the same margin with 9:31 left to play, but the Lions went on a 14-3 run of their own. SLU guard Shanna Achord, who finished with 10 points, ended the run with a steal and a layup, cutting the Bobcat lead to just two, 58-56, with 5:47 remaining.

But the Lions would get no closer, as Bobcat guard Alphalisha Johnson hit a clutch three-pointer to give

the corner. The shot did not draw iron and a shot-clock violation gave Texas State the ball back for its last chance to win.

The Bobcats had to battle uphill most of the night as SLU came out hot in the first half. The Lions shot a scorching 62.5 percent from the field, including 54.5 percent from three-point range. Despite SLU’s hot-shooting first half, Texas State was down by only five at halftime. The deficit would have been much greater if not for great play from Allison, who had 15 points and four rebounds at the half.

“I was just able to get good

Ashley A. Horton/Star photo

Aleise Johnson, senior forward, shoots for two points against Southeastern Louisiana University Thursday.

Texas State breathing room.

The Bobcats were never challenged and eventually led by 13 one final time, before finally winning by 10 points.

The Bobcats will face the Lamar University Cardinals on the road at 7 p.m. Thursday, attempting to sweep the season series from the Cardinals

before returning to Strahan Coliseum at 4 p.m Saturday in an attempt to avenge their worst loss of the SLC season, an 84-58 defeat against the University of LouisianaMonroe.

Both games can be heard on KTSW 89.9 FM or on the Internet at Boostercast.com.

position and our guards were able to get me good passes,” Allison said of his first-half play. “I just went to work when I got the open look.”

Allison finished the game with 17 points and 11 rebounds, his first double double of the season.

Conerway was the only other Bobcat with double-digit points. He overcame a slow start to score 14 points, 12 coming in the second half.

The loss dropped Texas State half a game back of SLU for the conference lead. As devastating as this last-second loss was, the Bobcats don’t know the meaning of the word quit.

“We’re still in the fight,”

Allison said. “The season is only halfway done, so we still have time to get (first place) back.”

Texas State was able to hold Abdur-Rahim, the secondleading scorer in conference play, in check. He scored only 12 points on 4-11 shooting.

But the Bobcats had no answer for SLU guard Michael Gardener, who finished with a game-high 22 points, and center Nate Lofton, who ended the night with 14 points and nine rebounds.

Next up for Texas State is a game at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Lamar University, which can be heard on the radio at KTSW 89.9 FM or on the Internet at Boostercast.com.

MEN’S BASKETBALL: BOBCATS VISIT LAMAR CARDINALS AT 7 P.M.WEDNESDAY

Spo r t s

Tuesday, February 10, 2004

The University Star — Page 10

Bobcat softball sweeps tournament, 5-0 Team beats TAMU-CC in weekend play

By J.J. McLaughlin Sports Reporter Unlike the unpredictable warm-to-cold weather this past weekend at the annual CenturyTel Bobcat Classic, the Texas State softball team remained consistently hot as it swept the competition in dramatic fashion, finishing 5-0.

When entering the competition, the only thought that crossed Texas State coach Ricci Woodard’s mind was to win every game of the tournament.

“This is the first time that this team has started out 5-0 and we came out anticipating some wins. We did just that,” Woodard said. “The comebacks that we had in this tournament were the highlights. We really showed some resiliency in the past two days by coming from behind and winning.”

The Bobcats scored the first run of Sunday’s game against Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi on a fourth-inning wild pitch from Islander starter Jamie Pauley that scored pinch runner Lauren Griffith.

After giving up the tying run in the sixth inning of the final contest against TAMU-CC, the Bobcats found themselves in another close game to round out the tournament.

In the bottom of the inning, third baseman g See SOFTBALL, page 9

Ashley A. Horton/Star photo

Kristen Zaleski, senior outfielder, successfully steals second in the first inning of the game Friday against New Mexico State University.

The Bobcats defeated the Aggies, 4-0.

Texas State drops the ball in final seconds to Lions

By Kevin Washburn Sports Reporter

In a battle between the top two teams in the Southland Conference, Texas State was not able to overcome a poor shooting night and dropped a thrilling 64-63 decision to Southeastern Louisiana University Thursday.

The win gave the Lions first place in the SLC, but fell back into a three-way tie with Stephen F. Austin State University and Texas State at 6-2 after falling to the University of Texas-Arlington Saturday.

Thursday’s game was in doubt until the final seconds, when Bobcat junior guard Josh Naylor missed an off-balance 18-foot jumper that would have given Texas State a one-point win.

“Josh hits that shot all the time,” said junior forward Zach Allison. “It was a good shot; it just didn’t fall for us.”

For a moment it looked as if the Bobcats would not get a shot off at all. The plan was to get the ball to senior guard Terry Conerway, but good defense by the Lions prevented Texas State from executing the play. When Naylor finally ended up with the ball, he had no choice but to freelance. “(SLU) came out in a zone look and kind of messed up our alignment on the (last) play,” said Texas State coach Dennis Nutt. “We didn’t handle the situation very well but we got the ball to a pretty good shooter with a decent look, and we have to take our chances with that.”

It was Conerway’s excellent defense on SLU star senior guard Amir Abdur-Rahim on the previous play that gave the Bobcats a chance at the end.

Conerway initially stripped Abdur-Rahim, then forced him into a tough shot in g See MEN, page 9

Women’s basketball scores season high in SLU victory

Brooks off the bench, including 5-9 from three-point land.

Center Tori Talbert added 15 The 2003-04 season has points and nine rebounds, been a struggle for the Texas while forwards Ashley Riley and Aleise JohnState women’s basketball team, “I thought (Ashley) son had 12 but it has still Riley gave us a great points and eight rebounds apiece. managed to spark off the bench.

“I just hope I break even in She’s an offensive found (my the first half of player and she is game) out there the conference starting to find her tonight,” Brooks schedule at 4-4. place in this said. “I hope it The Bobcats offense.” stays for a got back to .500 in Southland — Suzanne Fox while.”

Trailing 12Conference play women’s basketball coach 10 early in the with a 74-64 first half, forwin against Southeastern Louisiana Uni- ward Heather Burrow and versity Thursday at Strahan Brooks knoc-ked down threepointers on consecutive posColiseum.

The win put the Bobcats at sessions to give Texas State a 16-12 lead. Riley took over 4-14 overall this season.

Texas State shot 42 percent from there, scoring six straight from the floor and was 7-16 Bobcat points as the lead from behind the three-point stretched to eight, 22-14.

After Riley hit a jumper line, while the Lions shot 35 with 3:33 to go, the Bobcats percent.

The Bobcats got a seasong See WOMEN, page 9 high 20 points from guard Julie

By Jason Orts Sports Editor

Ashley A. Horton/Star photo

Zach Allison, junior forward, goes up for two points against Southeastern Louisiana University Friday. The Bobcats were defeated by the Lions, 64-63.