03 12 2009 by The University Star

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Thursday

MARCH 12, 2009

Students take precautions for Spring Break

Bicycle Found UPD returns prized possession to happy cyclist, others not so lucky

By Theron Brittain Senior News Reporter

By Rachel Nelson News Reporter

Sunburns and hangovers are not the only things students have to worry about in Mexico this Spring Break. The State Department warns that violence in Mexico is at an all-time high. The alert, issued Feb. 20, warns of escalating drug war, daylight gun battles between police and criminals and a booming kidnapping trade. These problems have resulted in deteriorated security standards for U.S. citizens. “While millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year, violence has increased recently,” the alert entails. “It is imperative that travelers understand the risks of travel to Mexico, how best to avoid dangerous situations and whom to contact if one becomes a crime victim.” According to the State Department Web site, homicides, robberies, petty thefts and carjackings have increased in the last year throughout the country. Americans traveling to Mexico are advised to exert extra caution while traveling in Mexico City, Tijuana, Nuevo Laredo, Acapulco, Monterrey and Ciudad Juarez.

Jake Johnson thought his mountain bike was gone forever when it was stolen February outside his dorm at San Jacinto hall. “I freaked,” he said. “I found my bike lock there, and it was cut.” Johnson, undeclared sophomore, said he immediately called UPD. They arrived within 10 minutes to take his report. “Eventually, almost three weeks later, they called me and told me they found my bike at the pawn shop,” Johnson said. He said the bike was a gift from his brother. It is worth about $1,200. “I went on a 5-hour bike ride that day I got it (back),” Johnson said. “It was pretty exciting.” Johnson, though more fortunate than others, is not the only student who has had to go through this. An increase in stolen bikes this semester led to two arrests, according to the University Police Department. UPD Officer Otto Glenewinkel said 11 bikes have been stolen from campus this year. The last incident was reported Feb. 15. Glenewinkel said there is usually a ring of people involved when several bikes are stolen in a short amount of time. “They travel from university to university and they’ll stay at one university for a while until police start developing a case,” he said. “Then they decide to move on.” Glenewinkel said police suspect the recent wave of thefts at Texas State is connected to stolen bikes at other universities. He said stolen bikes are typically sold at pawnshops or in Mexico, or disassembled and sold for parts on the Internet. “Very few bikes are actually kept and used,“ he said. Glenewinkel suggests investing in a good lock to avoid becoming a victim of theft. “I would say stay completely away from cable locks because they can be cut,” he said. Glenewinkel said he recommends Ulocks. “It takes every ounce of strength and four or five tries (to cut the locks),” he said. “It’s going to protect your bike because a thief is going to see this and walk away.“ Glenewinkel recommends threading a cable lock through both wheels of the bike and then back through the U-

See SPRING BREAK, page 5

Stimulus bill gives Hays, close counties money By Rachel Nelson News Reporter San Marcos will receive money from the stimulus bill passed in congress last month for transportation projects the city is collaborating on with neighboring counties. Mayor Susan Narvaiz said money for transportation is available in two pots. She said the first sum of $1.2 billion is going directly to the state. The second, containing $30 million, will be divided among Travis, Williamson and Hays counties. “We all have a lot of projects we would like to see on the list,” Narvaiz said. Narvaiz, Capitol Area Metropolitan Planning Organization board member, said a meeting was called March 2 to discuss how to apply the funds. Liz Sumter, Hays County Judge, said the money will primarily go toward road construction. Sumter said CAMPO must decide to either put the funds toward one

VoluMe 98, Issue 62

See BIKE THEFT, page 5

Lindsey Goldstein/Star photo LOCKED UP: Jake Johnson, undecided sophomore, locks up his bike on campus to make sure it is not stolen again.

See STIMULUS, page 5

Students advised to lock apartment doors, prevent theft By Theron Brittain Senior News Reporter More charges have been filed on two suspects arrested for a string of apartment burglaries committed in December and January. Timothy Bronaugh, 24, and Adrian Moseley, 25, were arrested Jan. 30 and charged with two counts of bur burglary. They now face an additional seven counts for their alleged involvement in at least a dozen break-ins at University Heights, The Zone and Heights II. Commander Terry Nichols of the San Marcos Police Department said recovered evidence and confessions by the two men led to the additional counts. He said Bronaugh and Moseley, with five and four counts respectively, could face further charges after ongoing investigations are concluded. Bronaugh and Moseley were Lindsey Goldstien/Star photo illustration stopped by San Marcos police Jan. 30 BURGLARY: students leaving their apartment and dorm doors unlocked has leaving Heights II apartment complex on E. River Ridge Parkway. A search lead to an increase in theft.

Two-day Forecast

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of their car revealed electronic mer merchandise reported stolen hours ear earlier. The two men were arrested and later charged with two counts of bur burglary of a habitation. San Marcos police believe Bronaugh and Moseley had been operating in San Marcos for more than a year. “These guys were bold and very confident,” Nichols said. “We are thrilled to have them in custody.” Nichols said the suspects’ primary hunting grounds were University Heights, The Zone and Heights II. He said the situation came to a head in early January when those complexes were being burglarized as many as four times in one night. Police recognized the pattern of the burglaries and began surveillance Jan. 29 at University Heights and Heights II. Bronaugh and Moseley were ar arrested the next morning. Nichols said the two men had an effective mode of operation, cruising student apartment complexes on Thursday, Friday and Saturday

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nights looking for parties and potential targets. The men spent the early morning hours going to various apartments, looking for unlocked doors. “They would go back to apartments they had already hit before,” Nichols said. “We had one apartment that was hit possibly three times.” The men were confronted by residents more than once, but were able to talk their way out of the apartment, Nichols said. “These guys knew students are laid-back,” Nichols said. “If they were confronted they could come up with a bogus line about why they were in the house. They knew that culture — where residents are used to people coming and going at all hours of the day or night. These guys knew that and it gave them the confidence to go into people’s homes in the middle of the night.” Nichols said the investigation has been difficult because in See BURGLARY, page 5

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2 - Thursday, March 12, 2009

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Today in Brief

starsof texas state

Texas State guard Brandon Bush, exercise and sports science senior, has been named the Southland Conference men’s basketball player of the week, the league office announced Sunday. This is the first time a Bobcat has been named this season.

MEMORY BOARD

Library Beat Wittliff Collection features new, imaginative writer

Veterans Support group is from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Veterans can help veterans cope with the stress of transition and the demands of college lives. Pre-screening is required by calling the Counseling Center at 512-245-2208. Coping with Grief and Loss Group is from 5:15 to 6:45 p.m. It is a source for students who have experienced the death of a loved one. Pre-screening is required by calling the Counseling Center at 512-245-2208. Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship will hold its weekly meeting on at 8:30 p.m. in Old Main, room 320. Enjoy contemporary worship, relevant teaching, prayer and plenty of fun. Contact 512-557-7988 or mail@ texasstatechialpha.com for more information.

There will be a “Simple Silent Sitting” meditation group is from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. in the Psychology Building, room 130B. All are welcome (any religion or no religion). Brief instruction can be arranged before we “sit” by contacting Colby at 512-408-4544 or Sheila at 512-847-2159. The Communications Club will be meeting at 5 p.m. in Centennial Hall, room 102. Second meeting will include games, vote on T-shirts, talk about club social and great new members. The Guest Artist Series Presents: Common Experience Concert is at 8 p.m. in Evans Auditorium. Admission is free. FRIDAY There will be an AA meeting from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m in LBJSC, room 3-10.1

—Courtesy of Texas State Athletics

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

THURSDAY

There will be a meeting of Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University at 5 p.m. in LBJ Student Center, room 3-14.1. Cost is $25. Learn how to get rid of debt and build wealth by using the principles Dave discovered after the hardship of bankruptcy that have now turned him into a millionaire. Contact Krista at 512353-4414 or bsm4jesus@centurytel.net for more information.

Bush averaged 26 points, 10 rebounds and five assists in a pair of games last week. The senior from Houston, Texas, shot 65.5 percent (19-29) from the field and 68.4 per percent from the free-throw line.

Alyssa Scavetta/Star photo Texas state students leave their stories Tuesday next to the car crash site in The Quad hoping to influence others to have a safe Spring Break.

Not every writer would think to cast Elvis Presley and John F. Kennedy as residents of an East Texas nursing home, where they battle an Egyptian mummy that preys on the elderly. However, not every writer is Joe R. Lansdale, author of the story, Bubba Ho-Tep, made into the 2002 independent film starring Bruce Campbell. A master of mojo storytelling, Lansdale has won prizes worldwide and attracted a loyal and enthusiastic following. The Wit Wittliff Collections hold his major literary archives and are celebrating his work with the newest book in their Southwestern Writers Collection Series, Sanctified and Chicken-Fried: The Portable Lansdale, due out this month from UT Press. Sanctified and Chicken-Fried is the first “true best” collection of Lansdale’s stories. His gothic tales explore the sometimes darkly humorous side of life and death, with traveling preachers following sinister agendas, towns lost to time, teenagers out for fun who get more than they bar bargain for and gangsters and strange goings-on at the end

of the world. And then there is Bubba Ho-Tep. Out of the blender of Lansdale’s imagination spew tall tales about men and mules, hogs and races, that are, in his words, “the equivalent of Aesop meets Flannery O’Connor on a date with William Faulkner, the events recorded by James M. Cain.” Long-time fans of Joe R. Lansdale and those discovering his work will find in this anthology the best of a writer whom The New York Times book review has praised for having “a folk folklorist’s eye for telling detail and a front-porch raconteur’s sense of pace.” The Southwestern Writers Collection Book Series originates from the Alkek Library’s Wittliff Collections, which are dedicated to the region’s lit literature, film, music, and photography of the Southwest and Mexico. Assistant curator Steven L. Davis serves as the series editor. Call 512-245-2313 for more information or visit the Wittliff Collections on the library’s seventh floor. —Courtesy of Alkek Library

Campaign seeks education for students before Spring Break Solving a mystery can be rewarding for most people, especially if they can share that experience with a worldwide audience through the Web. This week, Texas State’s competitive advertising team, i5, launched “Know Your Number,” a social mar marketing campaign designed to enter entertain as well as educate students. Targeting freshmen living in the dorms, i5’s strategy is to implement a combination of viral media tactics designed to create a campus wide buzz, to educate and inform dorm dwelling

freshmen about binge drinking before they leave for Spring Break. Tuesday morning targeted students woke to find a pair of red glasses placed on the floor in front of the of their dorm rooms. Subjects who wore the glasses were able to decode messages found on a series of posters and stickers strategically posted throughout their dorm hallways and living areas. Each mysterious promotional item encouraged the students to visit the “Know Your Number” Web site for further infor infor-

mation about the campaign. “No one likes to feel left out of the loop, and we think using a decoded message will make college students feel like they’re on the inside; like they have privileged information,” said Michael Scheel, creative director of i5. “Plus, the mysterious nature of the campaign will peak their curiosity and drive the target to the Web site.” The immediate success of the interactive campaign was evident by Tuesday night. The Web site

had received hundreds of hits, with students already posting comments. Students are encouraged to voice their opinions and expand on topics by posting comments at the bottom of the Web site: www. knowyournumber.org. The aim of the “Know Your Number” program is to use diverse, nontraditional mediums to effectively communicate with the modern college student, especially freshmen. —Courtesy of Texas State AAF

Thursday, March 12, 2009

News

The University Star - 3

Bill would require university athletes to wear reflective gear at night Chase Birthisel News Reporter Texas State athletes going out for a nighttime jog could be running into trouble. Texas House Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-125) authored House Bill 1723, which requires university athletes to wear reflective gear at night. Castro said the issue was brought to him by a constituent in San Antonio. “His daughter was a track runner for Texas Lutheran over in Seguin,” Castro said. “She was a member of the track team doing a practice run when she was struck and killed by a motorist a few years ago. He asked me if I would take on this issue, and I agreed it’s worthwhile.” The minimum standards of reflective gear would be decided by The Texas Higher Education Coordination Board if the bill is passed. Institutions that do not abide by the standards will be penalized $1,000 for each violation. “I really looked into the issue of

Star file photo Midnight run: Track runner April Murphy, clinical laboratory science junior, will have to wear reflectors to run at night if House Bill 1723 is passed.

university runners,” Castro said. “It tends to be the smaller universities who don’t have the track space, and the universities right in the center of urban areas.” The bill is written to exclude athletes who run “indoors or within a lighted athletic facility.” The bill will take effect Aug. 1, 2010 if passed. Castro said feedback from the bill has been encouraging. “The folks I have spoken with have been very positive so far,” Castro said. “Nobody has said ‘Hey, I completely disagree with that.’” Reuben Ortiz, assistant coach for long distance track, said the bill would not affect Texas State athletes. “We don’t have organized practice during the nighttime,” Ortiz said. “Sometimes we do practice at 7 a.m. or 8 a.m. in the morning, but when we do that, we will practice on the track away from the streets.” Ortiz said reflective gear is hard to find. “I have never seen it at the store,” Or-

tiz said. “Some of the guys have reflective tape, but sometimes it comes off. It’s a good idea to wear it, but I think it will be tough to make mandatory.” Jonathan Hernandez, health and wellness promotion junior, has been running lomg distance for three years. “In San Marcos, I have only had one close call,” Hernandez said. “Usually if I am running at night, I will wear light colors. A lot of track clothing has reflective characteristics to it. It just depends on what exactly the state considers reflective clothing.” Hernandez said drivers should not put all of the responsibility on the runner. “Pedestrians have the right of way, so I think that drivers should be aware of us,” Hernadez said. “It is a shared responsibility of the driver and the runner to practice safety.” Castro said the bill would create safer conditions for university runners and eliminate unnecessary accidents. “We are fine with runners going out by the roadways,” Castro said. “We just want them to be safe when they go.”

4 - The University Star

News

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Obama suggests end to FAFSA Chrissy Scott Special to the Star Change is coming to the U.S Department of Education. President Obama’s plan entails measures to reform education for all levels. The elimination of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA form, is at the heart of the plan for college students. FAFSA has become notorious for its complexity, containing six pages of detailed questions. FAFSA officials request personal information such as the family’s adjusted gross income and the Social Security numbers of both parents. Obama promised to eliminate the FAFSA during his campaign. According to his 2010 budget proposal, “(The FAFSA) needlessly costs taxpayers billions of dollars,” Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said during his confirmation hearing. “You basically have to have a Ph.D. to figure that thing out.” The wheels have been set in motion for the elimination of the FAFSA and the initiation of the new higher education program. According to the White House Web site, applying for financial aid will become a part of a family’s tax filing. Filers will check a box on their tax form to have their information automatically applied for deciding aid. All new federal loans will come through the Direct Loan Program, according to the president’s budget. The program will save the government more than $4 billion a year, which will be reinvested to aid students. The Direct Loan Program allows the Department of Education to act as a lender, and provides funds for Stafford,

PLUS and GradPLUS Loans. “The FAFSA could be designed, as suggested by a number of professional organizations, researchers and others, in a more simplified fashion,” said Christopher Murr, associate director for the office of financial aid and scholarships. “The more difficult the application process, the greater the difficulty students, especially those from low socio-economic backgrounds, will have in completing it. Also, the complexity of the FAFSA can be intimidating, which results in fewer families even beginning the application process.” However, the office of financial aid and scholarships takes no official stand on the new education plan. “Many people fill out the FAFSA and waste their time,” said Alex Howard, marketing junior. “They don’t get anything out of it — we have enough papers due, enough forms for school and scholarships. We shouldn’t have to fill out a form with information the government already has.” Obama’s education plan includes the American Opportunity Tax Credit. The credit guarantees the first $4,000 of college educa education free for most Americans. Recipients of the credit are required to perform 100 hours of community service. The credit will be available only to students whose income is less than $80,000 a year, or $160,000 for joint filers. The American Opportunity Tax Credit is part of the $789 billion stimulus package. Obama intends to increase the discretionary budget for the U.S. Department of Education to $46.7 billion — a 12.8 per percent increase — by 2010.

“I think the tax credit is a great idea,” said Rachel Euhus, pre-mass communication sophomore. “College is expensive — so expensive that I’ve even seen kids steal books just to pass the class, being unable to make such a huge purchase. I think the combination of the elimination of the FAFSA and the $4,000 credit is a positive move in education reform.” The economic slump and rising cost of college has compelled families to file the FAFSA this year, while the form is still used to apply for aid. Filing the form is the first step toward Pell grants, Stafford loans, Perkins loans, work-study programs and other state aid. The Department of Education received 2,213,408 forms as of Feb. 15. This is 20 percent more than at the same time last year, according to a Feb. 26 press release by the U.S. Department of Education. According to Obama and Biden’s College Affordability Fact Sheet, students have missed out on money they could have received from government assistance programs because of the complicated financial aid process. “I believe the FAFSA is ridiculously long and drawn out, and it’s difficult for some people to obtain the required information,” said Rachel Lewis, premass communication freshman. “I think this new education plan will make the financial aid process much less stressful.” The main sentiment of Obama’s plan for higher education was expressed in his Feb. 24 address to congress: “In this budget, we will end education programs that don’t work.”

Students honor, recognize faculty with award

Sara Strict/Star Photo HONOREES: Ben Crockett, Student Foundation member, dines with Lisa Furler, leadership coordinator for the LBJ Student Center, who was honored at the Foundations of Excellence banquet.

By Megan Holt News Reporter A select group of faculty and staff members were given special recognition by unlikely sources Wednesday night — their students. Past and present students honored 10 faculty and staff members at the fifth annual Foundations of Excellence banquet. Each of the honorees sat at round tables in the LBJ Student Center ballroom eating and socializing with the Student Foundation members who they had a positive impact on in their classrooms. “The Foundations of Excellence is when the Student Foundation gets to recognize faculty and staff who are truly foundations of the university,” said Caleb Hudgens, Foundations of Excellence committee chair. Among the 10 faculty and staff honorees was Shirley Ogletree, interim chair in the psychology department. Francesca Flores, who serves as alumni relations chair for the organization, nominated Ogletree for the Foundations of Excellence award. She said Ogletree is one of the first Texas State professors who made her feel comfortable and welcome in a class of 300 students. “I nominated Dr. Ogletree because she’s one of those professors you want to go to class for, not have to go to class for,” said Flores, International studies senior. Flores wrote about Ogletree in an essay, which was read during the banquet.

“Personally, she is the very first professor at the university who made me examine myself and where I was headed,” Flores said in the essay. “It is because of her that I have found a path to follow in my Texas State career.” Flores’ peers had similar sentiment about their honorees. Ben Crockett, Student Foundation vice president of finance, nominated Lisa Furler, leadership coordinator for the LBJ Student Center. Crockett, finance senior, said he took her class and felt she was more of a friend than a superior. “She always had an open door, and I could always talk to her,” Crockett said. “She has a lot of respect for her students and at the same time expects a lot from us.” The Foundations of Excellence ceremony is a gathering of cur current and prospective Student Foundation members and their honorees. Honorees are present presented with a plaque commemorating their hard work and dedication to the student body. “It’s a tradition at Texas State,” Furler said. “We need to honor those traditions. The faculty really cares about the students. This is a great way to recognize them for that and for students to give back to their mentors.” Provost Perry Moore joined the students and honorees, saying when first coming to the university five years ago he “noticed right off there is a unique culture at Texas State.” “The faculty and staff we have are genuinely concerned with the students here — that

is not always the case,” Moore said in his speech at the banquet. “Over the land there are many faculty and staff that are interested in a lot of things before students. That is not the case here.” Moore attributed part of Texas State’s success to student-centered faculty and staff members. Hudgens said Foundations of Excellence recognizes people who inspire, motivate and encourage its members. All members submit a nomination application and write a short essay explaining how their nominee has influenced them each academic year. “Everybody in Student Foundation nominates someone,” Hudgens said. “We receive about 30 to 40 nominations each year, but only 10 are chosen to be honored.” Student Foundation started in 1978 by then dean of students, John Garrison. The organization aims to strengthen the univer university by working with students, alumni and administrators. The student members serve as ambassadors to the President of Texas State. Seventy percent of Student Foundation’s members serve in leadership positions in other organizations on campus. Flores said students get recognition all the time and faculty awards usually come from nonstudents. The Foundations of Excellence awards are differ different, she said. “These faculty members don’t really get noticed by the student body,” Flores said. “It’s nice for students to recognize them and just say ‘Thank you.’”

News

Thursday, March 12, 2009

The University Star - 5

SPRING BREAK CONTINUED from page 1

These cities have especially high crime rates, including higher rates of violence according to the Web site. Violence along the U.S.-Mexico border has increased dramatically. Competition among drug cartels, made even more desperate by government attempts to intervene, has made traditional tourist destinations like Ciudad Juarez, Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros particularly dangerous. U.S. citizens are not prohibited from traveling to the border area, but are advised to be aware of the poor safety conditions. Some Texas State students traveling to Mexico next week have reevaluated their plans.

“My family is worried about me,” said Rachel Betts, pre-mass communication sophomore. She and four friends will visit several cities in Mexico, including Mexico City and Monterrey. Betts said they will use the buddy system, ensuring every girl in their group is accompanied at all times by one of the guys. She said she is taking a can of Mace with her. “The guys that we are going with are very good friends of mine and they have been to Mexico four times before,” she said. “They are very familiar with the area and the language. Nobody will go alone anywhere.” Betts said she will check in every day with her mother, who has a copy of her travel itinerary. Jordan Jones, marketing senior, will spend five days in Cozumel with

three friends. He said they have decided to stay together at all times and are debating whether to go out at night. “We have already decided the four us will not be separated at any time,” he said. “Our trip is all-inclusive. We have the wristbands that get us access to all of the restaurants, the pools and the bars in the hotel. In light of everything that is going on, we are still not even sure if we will go out at night.” Jones said his group will confine themselves mostly to the facilities at the resort, only making excursions into the surrounding area in the middle of the day. He plans to buy a temporary international plan for his cell phone so he can check in with his parents. According to the department Web site, more than 100,000 American

lock once the bike is secured to a rack. “So it’s a double layer of security,” he said. “The odds of your bicycle getting stolen at that point are very slim.” Aldon Mines, art senior and Bike Cave employee, said he agrees a U-lock combined with a cable is a good defense against thieves. The wheels on bikes can be removed without using tools. “People will just come up and steal wheels,” Mines said. “It doesn’t happen as often, but it does happen. I’ve seen sets where you can buy a U-lock and a cable (together) so you can run

the cable through your wheels.” Glenewinkel said students can register their bikes for free through UPD’s Web site. “This is not yet mandatory, but may be at some point,” he said. “If we found a bike, we would know who to send it back to.” Mines said people can join the national bike registry. Registering makes it more likely a stolen bike will be located if it is pawned in a different city. Registration can be achieved at nationalbikeregistry.com, and a certificate is provided to the registered bike’s owner. Ten dollars covers a bike for a decade and $25 offers coverage for 30 years. Family registrations, which cover up to five bikes

at a single address for 10 years, can be purchased for $25. Bikes can be registered for 99 cents after being stolen so they can be returned if located. “If you get a bike stolen here you’re probably not going to find it on Craigslist or Ebay,” Mines said. Johnson said he keeps his bike under his bed fearing it will be stolen again. Johnson said he was given the option to press charges against the person who pawned his bike, but declined. “Honestly I don’t even care,“ Johnson said. “That’s not my concern. I got my bike back. I don’t need to do anything to them. I just don’t even care to know who it is.”

now that may possibly involve the two suspects,” Hernandez said. “It will be at least two weeks before those investigations will be concluded, and at this point no charges have been filed.” Hernandez said he was unable to comment further because the investigation is ongoing. Kim Boland, property manager of The Zone, said residents can take steps to lessen their chances of being targeted by burglars. She agreed with Nichols that locking doors is critical. “The biggest piece of advice I can give them is to lock their doors,” Boland said. “You would be amazed at how often doors are unlocked. Resi-

dents leave to go down to the pool or a friend’s apartment, or they come home and some of their roommates are not home yet, and they don’t lock the door.” She advised residents to report broken breezeway lights and ensure they do not leave anything valuable in sight in cars or on balconies. Nichols said two additional suspects have been identified by the San Marcos Police Department, but may not face charges because of a lack of evidence. “We are trying,” he said. “I have high hopes on charging one of them, but not such high hopes on the other one.”

BURGLARY CONTINUED from page 1

most cases the stolen merchandise was sold on the streets of Austin. However, he said the San Marcos Police Department succeeded in recovering enough of the merchandise to charge Bronaugh and Moseley. They were also able to close two active Austin burglary investigations. The University Police Department is conducting its own investigation of Bronaugh and Moseley. Manuel Hernandez, lead investigator for UPD, said no charges had been filed on the two men at this time. “We have some open cases right

An e-mail March 6 from Joanne Smith, vice president of student affairs, highlighted the seriousness of the alert. “Please know that the experts at the State Department take great care in making decisions about issuing an advisory discouraging travel to Mexico or any other location,” Smith said in the e-mail. “I urge you to heed the information in the advisory. No matter where you travel during the upcoming break, be sure you know the laws of the area and follow them accordingly.” In case of emergencies, the State Department instructs U.S. citizens to contact the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City or the nearest consulate. Consulates or consular agencies exist in many cities in Mexico, including tourist hot spots like Acapulco, Cancun, Cabo San Lucas and Cozumel.

STIMULUS

BIKE THEFT CONTINUED from page 1

students spend their Spring Break in Mexico every year. Students who exhibit risk-taking behaviors can become targets for criminals. Travel alerts, while not as serious as travel warnings, are issued by the State Department about short-term conditions that pose “imminent risks” to the safety of U.S. citizens, according to the department Web site.The Feb. 20 alert warns tourists to visit tourist areas during daylight hours and cautions them to avoid areas of prostitution and drug dealing. Tourists should stick to main roads, travel in daylight and stay in the more visible tourist areas of cities. According to the alert, those traveling abroad should leave an itinerary with family members, avoid traveling alone and refrain from displaying money or expensive jewelry.

CONTINUED from page 1

project benefiting all three counties or divide the money among them. “We’re a regional board, so we’re supposed to be thinking very regionally,” Sumter said. “We’re asking, ‘How can we best spend those dollars that would benefit the region as a whole?’” Sumter said CAMPO must present a package that will be voted on by the court after the organization determines how the money will be best spent. Narvaiz said projects being discussed for San Marcos include a railroad overpass on Aquarena Springs Drive near Bobcat Stadium, improving the Interstate 35 exit ramp for River Ridge Parkway and improvements to the intersection of I-35 and Highway 80. Narvaiz said she wants a four-lane divided roadway at I-35 and Yarrington Road. A downtown street-scape project has been proposed. Narviaz said it would benefit pedestrians and improve drainage. “None of these have been finalized or selected yet,” Narviaz said. “We’re still in that process.” Joe Cantalupo, executive director of CAMPO, said projects must meet conditions before funding is considered. “What we’ll do is we’ll put them on a list and make sure they are eligible to receive federal funds,” he said. Cantalupo said a project has to go toward a federal road, already exist in CAMPO’s long-term plan and be designed and ready for construction within a year to receive federal transportation funding. “We will screen (the projects) to make sure we meet those conditions,” Cantalupo said.

He said social and economic impacts will be taken into account. Narvaiz said one of the projects will cost an estimated $26 million, but the city has funding set aside. “Any dollar we can receive that we can put for transportation will help us get projects done faster,” she said. “It will minimize the impact to local taxpayers. We just want to continue to ask for San Marcos’ fair share.” Cantalupo said state funds have been allocated to the area while CAMPO is figuring out how to spend the money. “The commission has already decided to put some money into the CAMPO region,” he said. “They’ve decided to put $10 million into the road 1460 in Williamson County.” Canatlupo said $19 million has been designated for direct connectors between highways 183 and 290 in Travis County and $7 million will go toward construction of the Main Street bridge over I-35 in Buda. He said another $26 million has been provided for maintenance projects throughout the CAMPO region. Law enforcement in San Marcos will receive benefits from the stimulus bill. According to a press release, the city will receive a Justice Assistance Grant of $80,041 from the package. $147.5 million is going toward agencies across Texas out of $2 billion in Recovery Act allocations for state and local law enforcement. “The JAG Program supports a variety of efforts, such as hiring and support for law enforcement officers; multijurisdictional drug and gang task forces; crime prevention and domestic violence programs; and courts, corrections, treatment and justice information sharing initiatives,” the press release entails.

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Thursday, March 12, 2009

Opinions Contact — Krista Almazan, staropinion@txstate.edu

THE MAIN POINT

petition has been A stirring emotions in San Marcos lately.

Samantha Ibarra, sister of political science sophomore Josefina Ibarra, was killed while driving on Texas Highway 123 in January. The event inspired Ibarra to create a petition demanding Texas build shoulders and turn lanes on the hazardous road. The petition has gained steam with the signatures of nearly 900 students, student senators, City Councilmembers and Texas State alumnus, Chris Jones among others. ASG passed legislation Monday officially endorsing the petition. However, when first presented, ASG President Brett Baker refused to sign. According to the March 4 issue of The University Star, Brett Baker, president of the student body, refused to sign the petition because of his obligation to ASG. Baker said he was concerned about remaining objective and impartial as the head of the student body and that by signing the petition, he would forfeit any objectivity he had. Baker has certainly worked hard for Texas State and has initiated forward movement, but his reluctance to take any political stand has hampered his administration. This started in the election when he made no clearly stated promises and has continued throughout his term in office. His desire to remain neutral might seem admirable to some, but any bold action is going to require taking some sort of side. The ASG Code of Ethics gives Baker the right to express his opinion on political matters, but forbids the president from endorsing political candidates. The issue is political to be sure — the petition will be sent to TxDot and state officials — but there is still no ethical violation. The ASG presidential election already has two candidates and their running mates. Whoever takes the position next could certainly use Baker as an example for work ethic. He has developed a reputation for having an almost non-stop schedule. But hopefully the next president will be more inclined to take bold, progressive stances. There are issues that need more than neutrality in order to be taken care of. And while the ASG president should make decisions objectively, never with emotion or with a personal vendetta, it is also up to him to be a leader for the organization. The actual petition is no longer the issue, seeing as how ASG endorsed the worthy cause. However, it has served as a perfect example of how neutrality is not always the best position. During the presidential election last year The University Star did not endorse a candidate because none stuck out. It was hoped Baker would discontinue the trend, but the reasons for not endorsing anyone are just as true today. However, hopefully, after the March 25 debate this year The University Star editorial board will be able to endorse a bold, progressive candidate.

INFLUENCE

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

Students should respect smokefree zones

AMMIE JIMENEZ

Star Columnist

The health risks associated with smoking are well-known, yet struggles continue about banning smoking from public places and keeping smokers away from smoke-free zones. I do not understand why. Smoking is a risky and addictive habit, and smoke from cigarettes affects more people than just the smokers themselves. People who do not respect smoke-free zones impose their unhealthy choices on others. That should stop. Traveling from one class to the next has become a bother, requiring students to dodge clouds of cigarette smoke. It is disgusting and irritating to see people smoking in The Quad next to smoke-free signs. According to the smoking policy for Texas State, The Quad, Alkek Library and Academic Services Building breezeways have all been declared smoke-free zones, yet the smoking continues. Smokers might find it offensive when legislation is formed banning the practice from public places, but it is about time. Smoking is a personal choice and there can be qualms about whether it should be regulated. However, the habit ceases to be personal when it affects others through secondhand smoke. Rules were established for a reason, health being the priority. According to the National Cancer Institute, there are more than 4,000 chemicals found in secondhand smoke. Of those, 250 are harmful and 50 are known to cause cancer. Among these chemicals are arsenic, benzene and polonium-210, a chemical element that gives off radiation. It is safe to say those who choose not to smoke do not wish to be exposed to these chemicals. The National Cancer Institute reports approximately 3,000 lung cancer deaths occur each year among adult nonsmokers in the United States, as a result of exposure to secondhand smoke. This makes walking through The Quad every day among the smoke more harmful than people might believe. One ray of hope shines from Congress as they try to push once again for the regulation of public smoking. President Obama supports this movement, so there is a chance stricter rules will be established in order to protect the public from this common health hazard. I am not trying to bash smokers and I know there are individuals who do indeed respect the zones. My problem is with the health issues that are caused by those who smoke in public areas. For those who believe it is a personal choice and no legislation should ever interfere with that, just know that living smoke-free is also a choice and it should be respected as well. I know there will never be a complete ban of cigarettes, but for now I would settle for being able to avoid inhaling the puffs of smoke while trying to get to class.

Kate Sciscoe/Star Illustration

Government neglects purpose of public records laws Staﬀ Editorial Oregon Daily Emerald

Public records laws are among the most important safeguards against tyranny in a free democracy. Strong public records laws are the people’s first line of defense against illegal actions by the government. The laws provide that most meetings of policy makers resulting in new laws or government actions are open to public scrutiny and input. The laws also require government agencies to release documents, reports and financial details applicable to nearly everything they are doing. Without the provision of transparency afforded under the

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public records law, politicians might be able to hide their less popular or illegal actions. It is absolutely essential the public be wary of any attempt to undermine, weaken or increase exceptions to public records laws. It is critical to the future of democracy for people and the press to maintain as much access to the proceedings of their government as reasonably possible. We acknowledge that certain exceptions are within reason, such as denying the public access to personal health records, some personnel matters and legitimate national security concerns. However, the creation of undue exceptions to the public re-

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cords law could rapidly become an abuse of otherwise reasonable privacy provisions. The abuse is far from trivial and could ultimately cost us the protection of open government. In the case of making information open to the public, the privacy of individual gun owners is cited as chief concern. The concern is no doubt grounded in reasonable objection, as concealed gun owners are often subjected to an unjustified stigma and sometimes even persecution, simply for exercising their Second Amendment rights. This was the case at Western Oregon University, where a student was suspended from school for lawfully possessing

a firearm on campus. As members of the press concerned with the implications of restricting access, we must consider the consequences that might result from curtailing access to these records. What if the government began issuing licenses to people not legally allowed to have them? Or worse, what if the government issued licenses only to people of a certain political ideology, religious aﬃliation or tax bracket? The result could be an intentional bias in the armed population. This seems highly speculative and unlikely, and the exception does provide some allowance for disclosure in the case that the public interest might justify it. But

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the primary point still stands that even in places where exceptions might be reasonable there exists room for government abuse if the public record is kept secret. Salem, Oregon enacted the public records statute in 1973, not long after the federal government passed the Freedom of Information Act. Yet we allow the legislature to reduce the power of that landmark law with little public objection. We need to raise objections now and make clear we cannot allow the legislature to whittle away at the public records law. The law is of vital importance to the functioning of our democracy even if in certain cases it might seem reasonable.

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The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University-San Marcos published Tuesday through Thursday during the fall and spring semesters. It is distributed on campus and throughout San Marcos at 8 a.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with a distribution of 8,000. Printing and distribution is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung. Copyright Thursday, March 12, 2009. 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.

Trends the university star

playwright prize

7 - Thursday, March 12, 2009

The American College Theatre Festival came to Texas State at the end of February and presented numerous theater productions. John Boulanger, theater graduate student, was awarded the top individual prize for playwrighting. The Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival National Student Playwrighting Award was awarded to Boulanger. “House of Several Stories,” Boulanger’s play, was selected to be presented in Washington, D.C. “House of Several Stories” was the first Texas State play to ever advance to the Capitol. As part of his award, Boulanger will receive $2500 and a membership in the Dramatists Guild.

Trends Contact — Brett Thorne, starentertainment@txstate.edu

Tournées Film Festival provides rare international screenings By Christian Wallace Features Reporter Foreign films have become a mainstay of the American movie market. The Tournées Film Festival is a Common Experience event offering students a chance to view the world with a broader perspective through the medium of international film. Carole Martin, associate professor in the department of modern language, has headed the festival for two years. Martin, her black beret atop a head of blonde hair and surrounded by stacks of festival fliers and French textbooks, moved aside a stack of papers while explaining the edification foreign films can provide. “Film is a global language,” said Martin, who teaches French. “You can watch a good film even without subtitles. What is neat, starting from that foundation, is different cultures have different ‘dialects’ of film. Would a Spanish filmmaker have the same view on civic responsibility as a German or French filmmaker? How does it compare to an American view? These types

of questions are being asked by the festival.” Civic responsibility is a running theme throughout the films. The nature of political commitment is reflected upon through the exploration of topics ranging from the border dispute and immigration to corporate corruption. The movies vary in genre from never-screened independent fiction films to highprofile documentaries. “In terms of the French films, there are some really neat films that have never been seen before in Texas and are hard to find even in France,” Martin said. “One Spanish film is being shown to the public for the first time here at Texas State.” The Tournées Film Festival began last year as a two-week event featuring five French films. It has grown this year in terms of films screened and length of the festival. “Last year it was only a French film festival. This year we have included Spanish and German films,” Martin said. “From March 23 until April 9 we will be showing a film every day.” The festival begins with a twoday symposium featuring John Carlos Frey, a Spanish filmmak-

er, who will kick off the events with a lecture and screening of his latest film, tentatively titled, 1979 Miles. The following day will include three roundtable discussion panels with honor students, faculty members and film industry members. Ulrich Bach, assistant professor in the department of modern languages, helped Martin coordinate the festival. “I am excited about the student participation we have this year,” Bach said. “I think students will benefit from the exposure to a different cinema culture. You can meet not only industry insiders, but professors and students who are working with film.” Films scheduled for screening have created international buzz and received positive critical reviews. “A number of the films screened after the symposium are very interesting,” Bach said. “I am also excited about the film August Evening. From what I have seen from the trailer, it looks terrific. The director, Chris Eska, will be present at the screening.” Austin director, Hector Galan, will present his film, The For-

Photo Courtesy of Alan Pogue PHOTO FINISH: The Forgotten Americans will be shown as part of the Tournées Film Festival beginning March 23.

gotten Americans. The film inspired a photography exhibition featuring the art of San Marcos children and photographers Alan Pogue and Jason Reed, which was displayed in the Coffee Forum of the University Honors Program. Diann McCabe, senior lecturer in the University College, said

the festival and photography exhibit was a link between the campus and the community. “It is an integration of art from the community, children taking pictures of their world, with professionals creating films from their imagination,” McCabe said. “The role of art is to help us see.

The civic responsibility of an artist is to help us see the world around us in all its glory.” Bach said based on the festival’s popularity last year, he is expecting packed screening rooms. For more information go to liberalarts.txstate.edu.

South by Southwest offers cheap ways to enjoy the music By Jovonna Owen Trends Reporter Spring Break is steadily approaching and many students will be heading out of Central Texas to destinations such as Las Vegas or South Padre Island. Instead of spending their tuition money on a plane ticket or a gas-guzzling road trip, students staying in town have a free Spring Break alternative that is in their back yard. South by Southwest is an annual interactive film and music conference in Austin. SXSW began in 1987 and is focused around the downtown Austin Convention Center.

According to it’s Web site, SXSW is one of the biggest music festivals in the United States with more than 1,800 performers scheduled this year. SXSW features a variety of artists from around the world playing venues in downtown Austin. SXSW Film has become one of the world’s debut film festivals focusing on talented new directors. Likewise, SXSW Interactive has brought out Web creators and entrepreneurs. “If you go to school here in San Marcos, you’re lucky, especially if you don’t have any big Spring Break plans,” said Jordan Stewart, geography graduate student. “The most interesting thing on

the planet is happening in Austin during Spring Break. If more kids knew how cool it was, they wouldn’t leave.” SXSW can be expensive. Platinum badges, which allow access to all venues, cost more than $1000. Music wristbands were $125 for local residents but sold out fast. High prices for remaining badges have not discouraged students from attending SXSW. Stewart has never bought a wristband and has been attending free shows at SXSW since 2003. “You don’t have to spend a lot of money at all. Most independent bands who are not well known will play more free shows to get noticed,” Stewart said.

Andrew Scearce, health psychology graduate student, does not plan on buying a badge or wristband. Scearce plans on attending the free shows going on at Auditorium Shores. “Auditorium Shores is free, but the food and refreshments sold there are not cheap,” Scearce said. “Bring a small lunch, or check out the local pizza places and food carts. It’s classic Austin food, and it’s cheap.” Stewart is looking forward to the free goodies he will receive at the conference. “Always be on the lookout for free stuff. A lot of companies are driving around handing out energy bars, water and food. There’s

even an ice cream truck that drives around and gives out free ice cream,” Stewart said. Stewart has already figured out what bands he wants to see. He said “locals” like to use the Web site www.showlistaustin.com. “They list all the free shows and free parties they can find,” Stewart said. “Check out your favorite band’s Web site to see if they’re playing free shows,” Stewart said. “Do your homework and make a schedule so you have enough time to see all your favorite bands.” Stewart and Scearce said to take a bicycle or be prepared to do a lot of walking. Volunteering is an option for

students wanting to be a part of SXSW. Volunteers are eligible for various perks like music wristbands and badges. Caitlin Weekley, mass communication senior, is an intern and music production volunteer coordinator at SXSW. “SXSW is mostly run by volunteers. Volunteering is a great way to enjoy and be a part of the festival,” Weekley said. “It’s a great way for students to get behind the scenes experience with artists and a great way to network. It’s very informational, like music 101,” Weekley said. Weekley said SXSW will take volunteers until the first day of the music festival.

Trends

8 - The University Star

Austin nightlife invites San Marcos residents

Crystal Davis

Trends Columnist

Making a trip to downtown Austin can be an inviting change of scenery for almost any San Marcos resident. In fact, I would venture to say every Texas State student who enjoys a night out has made the journey at least once. It’s almost a rite of passage for the resident San Marcos college student. It’s not that nightlife in San Marcos is boring or monotonous, but every once and a while something different is needed to spice things up. One thing that makes Austin special is the diverse synergy: the unique collaboration of so much variety and how it all

works together. Last Saturday I went downtown for a friend’s birthday and to research what it is that magnetically draws people. The night began at The Belmont, a club with an outdoor courtyard. My party then progressed to Qua, which had a shark tank under the dance floor. We then moved to Oilcan Harry’s where everyone is fabulous and finally ended on the roof at Speakeasy. The most interesting part was the walk to each place. On the streets of downtown one can witness the most interesting situations. For example, I watched a group of friends who were approached by a man asking for money as they were walking down the sidewalk. One girl gave the man a sympathetic look and a $5. The man expressed his gratitude and quickly walked into the closest bar. A few blocks up a woman and man were in the middle of a very public display of aggression with each other. The fight ended when she screamed how much

she hated him. I saw another girl ruin a fancy pair of shoes as she stepped in dung a buggy horse had left behind. Along with the free entertainment on the streets, there is always something to do for whatever mood you may be in. There are casual bars, upscale bars, comedy clubs, beer-serving movie theaters, live music on every block and street vendors selling all sorts of yummy late-night snacks. I noticed downtown Austin has an even guy to girl ratio. In San Marcos it is no secret that girls outnumber guys, but in Austin the playing field appears is balanced. The odds of meeting new people and striking up good conversation with someone new are much more likely. As much as I liked going downtown, it was still nice to return to San Marcos. For all the diversity and new experiences Austin may offer, it is a nice feeling to click the heels of my ruby slippers twice and remember there is no place like home.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Entertainment Calendar Thursday Chasca, 10 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon R.C. Banks, 6 p.m., I.S.S., Cactus Rash, Quiet Room, 9 p.m., Triple Crown Colin Gilmore, 7 p.m., Gruene Hall Brandon Jenkins, 9:30 p.m., Cheatham Street Thirsty Thursday’s w/ Mike Ethan Messick and Friends, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Friday Texas Saints, 10 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Zydeco Blanco, 6 p.m., Clay Nightingale, Gleeson, Nate Grace, 9 p.m., Triple Crown Seth James, 8 p.m., Gruene Hall Texas FX, 9:30 p.m., Cheatham Street Jeff Strahan, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Saturday Midnight Ramblers, 10 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Sock Hop Apocalypse, The Belgraves, The Horrifics, Los Bones, 10 p.m., Triple Crown Larry Lange & the Lonely Knights, 1 p.m., Rich O’Toole Band, 9 p.m., Gruene Hall Austin Hartley, Shawn Nelson and Nathan Daniel Band, 9:30 p.m., Cheatham Street

Billy Dee, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Sunday Jazzie-Oke, 9:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Open Mic w/ Pat, Holly and Nate, 9 p.m., Triple Crown Tish Hinojosa and Friends, 12:30 p.m., John Arthur Martinez, 5 p.m., Gruene Hall Open Mic w/ Glenn Allan, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Monday Matt Begley & Friends Song Swap, 9 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Bruce Curtis Band, 6 p.m., Movie: Mars Attacks, 9 p.m., Triple Crown Bret Graham, 7 p.m., Gruene Hall Free pool and jukebox, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Tuesday Mark Jungers, 6 p.m., Grant Ewing Band, 9 p.m., Triple Crown All-in-Blues/Devils Hollow, 7 p.m., Gruene Hall Midnight River Choir & Jordan Minor, 9:30 p.m., Cheatham Street Clay Nightingale and Mia Riddle, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Trends

Common Experience hosts Juilliard concert By Morgan Wilson Features Reporter Pam Wuestenberg described the third annual Multi-Disciplinary Juilliard Concert Performance as “unique,” “cutting edge” and “not your grandma’s music or performance at that.” “A Time to Break Silence” is Common Experience’s latest event showcasing 12 of Juilliard’s students in theatrical performance, choreography and music. It features works from music composers such as Dmitri Shostakovich, Isaac Albéniz, Iannis Xenakis, György Ligeti and Texas State’s own, Wayne Oquin. “Wayne Oquin’s composition relates to the civic responsibility theme by pulling text from LBJ and MLK, two men who gave their life to civic responsibility,” said Nico Schuler associate professor in the School of Music and co-chair for common Courtesy of www.juilliard.edu experience event. COMBINED EFFORTS: Juilliard’s director of conducting and orchestral studies, James DePreist, leads Oquin received his Bachelor of Music and Philosophy from the Juilliard orchestra. Musicians, dancers, and actors from Juilliard are coming to Texas State to perSouthwest Texas State in 1999. form alongside Texas State students March 12. He then went on to study at aged the Common Experience ing in several pieces with the “There is a history within the Juilliard where he works as a chairs to continue to strive to Juilliard students. theme that’s brought through faculty member. Oquin com- bring the event to campus. “The Texas State students by the pieces performed.” posed “A Time to Break Si“It is one of our more suc- are just as talented and I’m Months of practice went into lence: Songs Inspired by the cessful Common Experience glad that the talent at Texas preparing for the concert. Words and Writings of Martin events,” Wuestenberg said. “I State and the talent from Juil“We usually start organizing the Luther King, Jr.” for baritone would say that the students ap- liard can collaborate together,” concert after the previous one is and piano. preciate it when the concert Schuler said. finished,” Schuler said. “Then in “I love that a former Texas does come around.” Wuestenberg said the show is a the last three or four months, we State student is so excited Schuler said he could tell the great opportunity for Texas State work on all the details.” about Texas State that he students here share the same and Juilliard students alike. The 12 members of Juilliard, wants to come back and share excitement he does for this “It is not often that you get 10 students, one graduate and a with us,” said Wuestenberg, co- performance. to see exceptional talent and faculty member, give up a vacachair for the Common Experi“There is a widespread love really good performers alto- tion most students are looking ence. and appreciation for this concert gether,” Wuestenberg said. forward to by the time spring The concert is said to bring a here on campus,” Schuler said. “They make the connection so semester rolls around. different aptness to Texas State. Juilliard students put in a lot life doesn’t seem so fragmentWuestenberg said she likes “It is a wonderful event se- of time with composers, chore- ed artistically.” this event because it shows ries because Juilliard students ographers and conductors so The title of the composition how eager the Texas State are some of the most talented when they come on stage ev- and each piece ties back into the alumni are to give back. artists in the world,” Schuler erything looks magnificent. Common Experience theme. “We have a great alumni said. “It is wonderful to see “These Juilliard performers “The theme covers civic re- reach and that’s why I work them here exposing us all to are talented students who are the sponsibility and LBJ,” Schuler so hard for events like this,” the talent that we often times same age as our students here,” said. “There are some pieces Wuestenberg said. do not see.” Schuler said. “It just shows us that require artistic reflection The Concert is March 12, at 8 “A Time to Break Silence” what hard work can do.” to relate them back to the p.m. It is open and free to the has peaked the interest of stuAs a highlight, Texas State Common Experience Civic Re- public. dents in the past. It has encour- students will also be perform- sponsibility theme.

The University Star - 9

Juilliard visits Texas State Oquin graduated from Texas State with a Bachelor of Music degree in three years Oquin graduated with a 4.0 GPA This will be the third year Juilliard and Texas State join together for a joint performance Kelsey Grammer, Robin Williams, Kevin Spacey, Philip Glass, Tito Puente and Miles Davis are all Juilliard graduates.

SXSW Coverage To read the University Star’s daily coverage of the South by Southwest Music and Film Conference and to read band interviews, go to star.txstate.edu

10 - The University Star

Trends

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Campus group celebrates women with talent show, battle of the sexes By Lindsey Leverett Features Reporter In March, people tend to celebrate diversity or women. One group on campus will be celebrating both. According to the Black Women United’s Web site, “Black Women United was created with the mission to enhance and empower the true essence of the mind, body and soul of the 21st-century phenomenal African-American woman through self-exploration, community service and fellowship with others.” Amber Williams, treasurer and pre-mass communication sophomore, said the group reaches beyond racial boundaries. “Black Women United is an organization committed to helping not just black women, but women in general on this campus,” Williams said. “We have meetings and activities that bring us closer as women and create a support system for each other.” The group will be hosting a two-day event to bring in the new season: Texas State’s first Spring Bling. Spring Bling is part of Black Women United’s celebration of Women Week. “The goal is to celebrate women as a whole, and we wanted to make fun events out of it,” Jaisie Stevens, vice president and exercise sports sci-

ence junior said. “The Spring Bling is just part of various events we will be having.” The Spring Bling will take

“W

e have meetings and activities that bring us closer as women and create a support system for each other.”

—Amber Williams, BWU treasurer and pre-mass communication sophomore

place March 23rd and 24th. The first part is a talent show in the LBJ Teaching Theater starting at 6 p.m. The show will be comprised of dancing, singing, rapping poetry reading and stepping. All of the performers are Texas State students. “I am very excited about it because we have some pretty amazing people coming out, and it’s also a way for women to show their creativitness,” Stevens said. The second event will take place in Sewell Park at 6 p.m. “It will be a battle between guys and girls, which will involve relays, station games and mind boggling questions you won’t want to miss out on,” said Christina Peyton, external

committee chair and pre-fashion merchandise junior. Stevens said she was looking forward to the second day of events. “Day two is the battle of the sexes, which is going to be really fun,” Stevens said. “I am determined for the women to dominate, so I will be taking part.” The members of Black Women United feel they have something to prove to their male counterparts. “I am really looking forward to battle of the sexes to show the men that women can hang in there with them in physical competition,” Williams said. “The women are going to win too.” The organization members want to accomplish more than recognizing the struggles or strengths of women. “We just want to get everyone out to enjoy the beginning of spring,” Williams said. Live music and dancing will be provided for entertainment between events. “There is going to be a live DJ on both days to keep things poppin’ and live,” Peyton said. The Spring Bling is $5 for both days or $3 for one day.The group meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in LBJ Student Center, room 3-3.1. Meetings are open to all women.

Chore of fitness Ways to be fit, eat right without visiting gym

Bridgette Cyr/Star photo illustration STAYING FIT: Working out in the apartment can be a simple way to stay healthy and fit when living off campus.

By Jessie Spielvogel Sports Reporter Staying fit in college can be a challenge. Eating healthy foods, getting the proper amount of exercise and balancing classes and a social life on top of everything can be difficult. However, there are ways to stay fit and eat healthy without even leaving the apartment. The best thing to use at home is stretchy bands said Dave Shannon, industrial and manufacturing technology sophomore and personal trainer. “You can adjust the resistance easily so it is like having weights. Storage is easier and they are cheaper,” Shannon said. Shannon recommends doing

“Y

ou can go online and find anything these days. Just Google ‘stretching’ and you will find a lot of advice for free.”

—Dave Shannon, personal trainer

resistance training with the bands three times per week if you are not incorporating anything else into your workout. He said if you are going to the gym and doing other activities as well, you may not need to work with them as frequently. “You can use chairs and tables to wrap the bands around,” Shannon said. Shannon said depending on the tempo and speed of the

workout, bands could be a good source of cardiovascular work workout as well as strength training. “It is not as intense as jogging or running, but it does provide some cardio if your heart rate is up,” Shannon said. Brookelyn Dickson, management senior and personal trainer, recommends her clients use their own body weight for in-home workouts. “You can do push-ups, air squats, abs, lunges and planks,” Dickson said. Dickson suggests using a jump rope, jumping jacks, or even marching in place in front of the television to increase heart rate. “Marching in place for a whole show, you’d walk over a mile and people don’t think about it like that,” Dickson said. Shannon recommends basic static stretches. He said there are Web sites offering free advice on stretching. “You can go online and find anything these days,” Shannon said. “Just Google ‘stretching’ and you will find a lot of advice for free. I never recommend anyone buy anything because there is so much free stuff on the internet.” For example, P90X is a work workout plan that can be purchased for about $200. Shannon said this workout is not bad, but he does not recommend spending the money when you can find the same advice for free somewhere else online. However, he believes when someone spends the money on a workout plan, it obligates them to use it since they actually paid for the product. When it comes to eating right, the most important thing is what is eaten after a workout.

“Twenty minutes after your workout, you should have some type of sugar,” Shannon said. “My clients love it because that is the only time I tell them it is OK to have sugars.” Shannon recommends protein 45 minutes after workingout. He recommends protein shakes or bars to his clients since they are pre-digested proteins. Shannon said meats take longer to digest in the body since they have not already been broken down. Dickson said the weight and the goal of the person determines how much protein to take. “Too many people eat out a lot, but those foods taste so good because they are processed with butters and fats,” Dickson said. “Most people know what to eat to stay healthy, but choose not to.” Dickson recommends people eat fruits, vegetables and lowfat dairy products. “Milk is good after your workout, even though it has lots of calories, because it is filled with nutrients,” Dickson said. Shannon suggests visiting www.bodybuilding.com and www.sparkpeople.com for tips on eating right and workout demonstrations. He said people will find actual videos rather than pictures of how to do these exercises. Dickson said writing down in a journal what you eat and remembering what you eat will help to stay on track with a healthy diet and give motivation. He said putting a picture up of a personal goal on the TV or fridge will be some motivation to get up and exercise.

Diversions

Thursday, March 12, 2009

The University Star - 11

✯Star Comics

Solutions 3/11 Complete the grid so that every row, column, and 3-by-3 box contains every digit from one through nine inclusively.

Solutions for 3/11

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12 - The University Star

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Sports

Thursday, March 12, 2009

The University Star - 13

Netherlands takes second win from Dominican Republic in baseball By David Quinones McClatchy Newspapers More than 11,000 people were left silent and stunned in the stands while 30 celebrated on the field for the second time in four days. The Dominican Republic, considered by some to be the most heavily favored team in the World Baseball Classic, lost out to a team whose best player has not had a major-league at-bat in six years. The Netherlands continued one of the least likely runs in international baseball history Tuesday, defeating the Dominican Republic, 2-1, in 11 innings at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in front of a crowd of 11,814 mostly proDominican fans. Gene Kingsale, a career .251 hitter in his six years with the Orioles, Mariners, Padres and Tigers, singled to score Sidney de Jong with the tying

run after the Dominicans had taken a 1-0 lead in the top of the 11th inning. Kingsale advanced to third base on the next play when Carlos Marmol threw an errant pick-off attempt. Yurendell de Caster’s line drive to first baseman Willy Aybar was misplayed after Marmol struck out Sharlon Shoop and intentionally walked Randall Simon, allowing Kingsale to score and eliminating the Dominican Republic. “It’s a miracle. Our guys came together and won. I’m not saying we’re better than them, but we came together,” Netherlands manager Rob Delmonico said in tears. The Netherlands becomes the most unlikely team to advance to the second round at Dolphin Stadium beginning Saturday. It will join Puerto Rico, the United States and Venezuela. The Netherlands needed help from nearly every live arm in Holland, Cura-

cao and Aruba to win. The teams combined to use 12 pitchers —six each —to allow 12 hits. Delmonico also used six pitchers in a 3-1 loss to Puerto Rico on Monday,. Leon Boyd earned the victory for the Netherlands. “We only have so many guys we can use,” Delmonico said. “But I really believe that every one is a new pitcher these guys haven’t seen.” The Dominican Republic seemed poised to end the suspense after Jose Bautista doubled to score Jose Reyes for the game’s first run. The Dominicans had left 23 runners on base before then, and Bautista made it 24 when Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez struck out to end the inning. Bautista’s line-drive skittered past Kingsale to scoring Reyes and electrify the crowd. The play might have elevated Bautista, 28, from career

utility player to national hero in his home of Santo Domingo, if not for his team’s miscues allowing the Netherlands to win its second game against Dominican Republic. Miguel Tejada played third base, David Ortiz was at first and Ramirez was the designated hitter role for a patchwork Dominican team that saw last-minute withdrawals from some of its top players, including Alex Rodriguez, in the weeks leading up to the WBC. “The only thing I could do is go out there and play first base myself,” manager Felipe Alou said. The only thing left to be decided is the seeding for the second round. Wednesday’s Pool D final between the Netherlands and Puerto Rico, and the Pool C final between the United States and Venezuela, will determine the seeding for the teams that play at Dolphin Stadium.

Michael Jordan’s son centers on defense for Illinois By Terry Bannon Chicago Tribune One of the things Jeff Jordan’s dad has taught him is to be picky about the shots he takes. “I don’t want to get into rushing shots,” the Illinois sophomore said. “You have to be in the game for only a few minutes, and this year I’ve come in for defensive purposes only for a few minutes, little short stretches. You don’t get warmed up enough to shoot.” It has not stopped players from hoisting a few long ones, but Jordan’s self-discipline on offense and steady defense has allowed him to carve out a role in the Illinois rotation. Jordan is eighth on the team in playing time with 233 minutes, but

he has taken only 26 shots and made 14, by far the lowest ratio of shots per minute on the team. “If I have an open shot and I feel comfortable with it, that hasn’t been a problem,” said Jordan, who has 31 points in 30 games. Jordan’s role is based on defense, primarily as a backup for senior Chester Frazier, a member of the Big Ten’s all-defense team. “Defense is what has gotten me on the floor from the beginning,” Jordan said. “I’ve been looking at Chester Frazier, watching him as he guards the top players, and it has been helpful. “He’s around the coaches more than anyone else. He knows the game so well. I get tips from him, like my father.”

Jordan’s famous father Michael has attended a handful of games, but there is plenty of tape watching and communicating. “He’ll talk to me about a lot of things — what I did right and what I did wrong,” Jordan said. Jordan played a similar position at Loyola Academy as his father did on the Bulls’ six NBA championship teams in the 1990s, shooting guard or small forward. He is a 6 feet 1 inch and 185-pound college point guard who has had to work on his shooting. “My shot has improved tremendously since I’ve been here,” he said. “I’ve improved my range.” He plays a solid floor game with 27 assists against only 11 turnovers. “He pushes the ball up the floor as

well as anyone we have,” Weber said. “He has shot more in practice. Maybe we have to get him more minutes with the right mix (of personnel around him).” But it all comes back to defense. His most memorable play of the year came in the loss March 1 to Michigan State at Assembly Hall. His midcourt steal from Korie Lucious and drive for a layup to tie the game at 58-58 brought the crowd to its feet. “It felt good and it’s definitely something that helps your confidence,” he said. “We couldn’t get the win, but it helps your confidence.” The guard corps will have a different look next year with Frazier, Trent Meacham and Calvin Brock all gone. A heralded recruiting class includes guards D. J. Richardson, Brandon

Paul and Joseph Bertrand. Richardson should compete for the starting point guard job right away. Jordan, who chose to walk on at Illinois instead of going to a lesser program on scholarship, achieved one of his goals at midseason when Weber put him on scholarship. Starting represents the next challenge. “As my career has gone on, the coaches have talked to me more about that,” Jordan said. “Playing with (Frazier) this year has given me some confidence.” Plays like the one against Michigan State help him feel better about his decision to walk-on. “I felt good about it at the start and better and better as last year went on,” he said. “And this year has confirmed what I thought.”

Sports the university star

finishing fourth

The Texas State men’s golf team finished in a fourth-place tie Tuesday at the Louisiana Classics in Lafayette, La. The Bobcats shot an 8-over-par 296 to tie with Southeastern Louisiana. Corey Roberson, exercise and sports science senior, led individual scoring for the team with a 2-under-par 214, putting him in a three-way tie for third place. The team will compete at the Border Olympics Friday and Saturday in Laredo.

14 - Thursday, March 12, 2009

Sports Contact — Lisa Carter, starsports@txstate.edu

Women’s golf captures first place victory By Javier González Sports Reporter

Lindsey Goldstein/Star feature photo SERIOUS CHOICES: Billy Crawford, mass communication senior, juggles being an agent for 62 sports athletes on top of class work.

Student represents athletes as agent, studies for degree By César G. Rodriguez Sports Reporter A back injury kept Billy Crawford, mass communication senior, away from the football field, but not from being close to the game. Crawford is a licensed sports agent with Sports Management Worldwide. He played football in Rogers, a small town near Temple, and considered himself “a decent defensive end.” Crawford played throughout his senior season despite being injured at the beginning of the year. He later attempted to play football with Division II and Division III schools. “It was going to be something where I was never going to be able to be physically back to where I wanted to be. I decided to go ahead and hang the pads up and move on to something else,” Crawford said. “The only other thing really I can do that let me be involved with the aspects of day-to-day sports, day in, day out, 365, would be to be an agent.” A classmate had a relative employed by Sports Management Worldwide. Crawford made the right connections and became interested after conversations with the sports agency. He got in touch with the owner and founder of the company and took a course on the basics of sports agency. “If you do really well in the course, he will give you a chance to interview and apply to be a member of the agency,” Crawford said. “I went that route — did very well on the test and interviews — and got hired.” Crawford works with 62 clients, including former college players eligible for the 2009 draft and scattered veterans across the NFL, Canadian League and Arena Football League. Crawford works with players such as AJ Nicholson, Jonathan Allen and former Texas wide receiver Billy Pittman, who was

recently cut from the San Diego Chargers. “I’m kind of missing that paycheck,” Crawford said. Crawford said a good sports agent could be earning amounts in the millions. “If you’re not very good, you can find yourself really having a hard time making cash,” Crawford said. “It’s really a business where the more money you make is directly tied to how many people you know. When you first start out, it’s definitely something where you’re not going to become an overnight success.” Crawford said an agent would make about $150 from one player in the entire 16-game season of Arena 2 football. An agent would make about $8,000 per year for an NFL player working at the league minimum with no signing bonuses and no incentives. “The more guys you have in the NFL, the better off you’re going to be,” Crawford said. Crawford’s income is about the sports agent minimum. He said beginning agents usually make $15,000 to $30,000 per year. Crawford said both advantages and disadvantages come with his career. “Everybody has some sort of experience,” Crawford said. “I’ve had some guys that I can really see that I made a difference in their career, and that’s always rewarding.” Crawford said Allen was one of his good experiences. Allen was in a team that finished last in conference every year. Crawford and the agency gave Allen an opportunity to play for better teams, and he got into a workout with the Atlanta Falcons after the draft. “He got in, impressed some people, did some good things,” Crawford said. “We were able to get him a contract.” There is a different side to the agency as well. “(There is) one thing that (I) will always hate, and it’s just a

sad part of the business,” Crawford said. “You’ll be working really hard for a guy, making phone calls, talking to teams. Then, you call a team and they’ll say, ‘Hey, wait a minute. You’re not the agent I had on this for that guy.’ You call the player and he says, ‘Oh yeah, by the way, I signed yesterday with a different agent.’” Crawford said being a sports agent is a good start for a sports management career. His position gives him the liberty to deal with day-to-day issues while attending college at the same time. He said people question his enrollment in college. “People come to me all the time and say, ‘Hey, you already got the job you want. This is your dream job. Why do you even go to college?’” Crawford said. “I have to meet certain educational requirements to start my own agency.” Crawford said his long-term goal is having an agency and training facility where athletes can prepare to play. “If I were able to be one of the innovators in the idea of having your agency office next door to your 4,000-square foot training facility, then that would be an advantage I think would be pretty helpful,” Crawford said. Crawford’s abilities as a sports agent impress players and faculty. Larry Carlson, senior lecturer in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, had his students interview each other for an exercise. He later reviewed the assignments and noticed Crawford’s employment. “That’s a first for me, to have a licensed sports agent,” Carlson said. “He impresses me as a sharp guy — really focused on what he’s doing.” Carlson said Crawford is an articulate student and polished speaker. “You can tell he’s well-schooled and ready to face the public and impress clients,” Carlson said.

The Texas State women’s golf team played host to the second annual Claud Jacobs Intercollegiate at the Victoria Country Club Monday and Tuesday. The Bobcats took first place with their total team score of 920 after three rounds on the par-72, 6,028-yard course. The team victory came after a playoff between the Bobcats and the Lamar Cardinals. McNeese State and Sam Houston State were the other Southland Conference schools that participated in the tournament. Coach Mike Akers said the event went well and helped his team stand out nationally. “This was a tournament we should have won,” Akers said. “But sometimes that places pressure on the team going in. Teams are gunning for us now. Last year we were flying under the radar, but now the entire country knows we are a good team.” The Bobcats were led in individual scores by Gabby De Reuck, pre-mass communication freshman, who claimed second place with her final round score of 71, bringing her total to 225. Following De Reuck were Sydney Liles, applied arts and sciences senior, and Caitlin Bliss, undecided sophomore, who both finished tied for eighth with total scores of 231. Akers said he was satisfied with De Reuck’s performance. “I (was) very pleased with Gabby’s play,” Akers said. “I knew she was a great player when I recruited her. She has a great playing résumé. She was only three strokes from winning (the tournament). The sky is (the) limit for her as long as she

believes in herself.” De Reuck said she did her best for the team. “Our coach was telling us after the first day that we are a thirdround team,” De Reuck said. “Personally I’ve never really played well in the third round, so I didn’t expect anything like a 71. I just wanted to go out and try my best for the team and with some help from above I was

“L

ast year we were flying under the radar, but now the entire country knows we are a good team.” —Coach Mike Akers

able to shoot a 71.” De Reuck said she did not feel pressured from being a freshman as much as she does from being an international student on American turf. De Reuck is from South Africa. “Having come so far from home kind of adds some pressure to perform,” De Reuck said. “Because of expectations that I have of myself as a person to prove that I can do what I set out to achieve.” Amy Glazier, marketing junior, followed in scoring, finishing in a tie for 14th with a total of 234 after shooting a third-round score of 79. Trine Mortensen, undecided sophomore, finished in a tie for 32nd after her thirdround score of 78 brought her total to 240. Akers said he was impressed by his team’s round-by-round results. “I was very pleased to have (scores) in the 70s in rounds two

and three,” Akers said. “That doesn’t happen too often. It shows how deep our team is. At any given tournament we have four players that could potentially win the event.” The Bobcats played in 15 to 25 mph windy conditions during their final round. Akers said the wind blew very hard in Victoria as the team has faced similar winds in every event this season. The Bobcats were in second place after the second round with their score of 302. Liles and De Reuck both shot 77s to lead the team individually after Monday afternoon. Lamar led the tournament heading into the final round with a pair of 308. Texas State followed two strokes behind the Cardinals at 310, putting the Bobcats in second place. Akers said the position was great to start the final round. “We (were) a little frustrated with the way we finished the rounds (Monday),” Akers said. “The good news is that we are in a great position to win the tournament. This is not new for us, so I feel good about the final round. It seems as if we play well in the final round.” Arkansas State’s Cassie Huffer led the individual competition after the second round with a five-over-par 149 score. She was followed by Texas-San Antonio’s Allie Jordan and Lamar’s Linda Persson, who were both tied for second at 6-over-par after two rounds of play. Huffer went on to win the individual title by three strokes. Jordan and Persson finished tied for eighth and third, respectively. Texas State will compete Dixie Young Classic at Brigham Young in Saint George, UT. The two-day tournament will be held March 24 to March 25.

Track, field break personal records, prepare for Dr. Pepper invitationl By Jessie Spielvogel Sports Reporter The Texas State track and field team brought home 14 first-place finishes at the Tiger Relays Friday in San Antonio. Team members accomplished their personal best records and set goals for the remainder of the season. Jonathan Hernandez, health and wellness promotion junior, placed first in the 1500-meter run. “I beat my personal record by five seconds,” Hernandez said. “We have a time trial this Saturday to keep us in shape over the break.” Michael Richards, political science sophomore, beat his personal record in the 1500meter event. He finished six seconds ahead of his previous best time. Dmitri Kabakov, manufacturing engineering senior, took home first place in pole vault with a height of 4.72 meters. His personal best is 17 feet. Kabakov said he expected to place first because it is important to start out the season with a good time. His goal for the

semester is to beat his personal record in the decathlon and pole vault. He must beat 62.31 in the decathlon to accomplish his goal. Steffanie Armstrong, undecided sophomore, won the 1500-meter run with a time of 4:57.78. Valerie Hancock, applied sociology junior, placed first in the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 15.16 and in high jump at 1.72 meters. Jannah Evans, exercise and sports science junior, won the pole vault with a height of 3.35 meters. Asiya Iskakova, marketing junior, took first in long jump with a distance of 5.71 meters and also placed second in high jump reaching 1.67 meters. Kayla Smith, general studies senior, won shot put at 13.35 meters for throwers. Kelli VanVleet, recreational administration senior, won the javelin throw at 41.11. Stefon Hargrove, undecided freshman, took home two firstplace wins this weekend. He placed first in the 100-meter and the 200-meter runs. Collins Ekeocha, biochemistry sophomore, won the long jump with 6.16 meters. Andy Ysebaert,

exercise and sports science senior, won the shot put at a mark of 15.80 meters, followed by Daniel Schmidt, management

“I

t (the Dr. Pepper Invitational) is a bigger meet and the distance runners are looking to run fast” —Jonathan Hernandez, health and wellness promotion junior junior, in second. The team is preparing for the Dr. Pepper Invitational March 21 in Waco. Hernandez said it is an important meet for the team. “It is a bigger meet and the distance runners are looking to run fast,” Hernandez said. Hernandez said the last meet was smaller and gave the team time for improvement. He said now the team knows where it stands and what areas it needs to work on before the meet.

03 12 2009

Published on Mar 12, 2009

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