VICTORIOUS VISIT

Texas State softball takes down Longhorns in Austin

GStudents RANITE GALORE can help build trails at Enchanted Rock

SEE SPORTS PAGE 18

SEE TRENDS PAGE 7

DEFENDING THE FIRST AMENDMENT SINCE 1911

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APRIL 19, 2007

THURSDAY

VOLUME 96, ISSUE 78

Students choose Pugh, Dabney

Another chapter of ASG begins with announcement of newly elected leaders By Molly Berkenhoff The University Star

An ear splitting scream erupted in Lilly’s Lounge Wednesday with the announcement of next year’s Associated Student Government President and Vice President, Reagan Pugh and Alexis Dabney. “I’m pretty overwhelmed,” Pugh, said. “It’s a great feeling to have done something right and honestly from day one and to come out on top.” Pugh received 61.3 percent of the vote, and running mate Dabney received 60.6 percent. Opponent Chris Anderson and running mate Rebecca Quillin received 37.4 percent and 38.7 percent, respectively. The voter turnout doubled from last year’s election. The results of the election are not official until the completion of a 72-hour protest period. If no grievances are made during the time frame, Pugh and Dabney will be officially announced as next year’s ASG executive leadership at the next president’s meeting. Current ASG President Kyle Morris, and Vice President Amanda Oskey will continue to hold their positions until June 1. “This is pretty much the best experience of my life,” said political science junior Monty Marion/Star photo and re-elected ASG Sen. Eileen

CHANGING OF THE GUARD: Reagan Pugh, English junior (center), receives congratulations Wednesday from a crowd of supporters in the LBJ Student Center after the announcement he had won the ASG presidential seat.

See ELECTION, page 5

Official: Campaign e-mails violated university policy By Philip Hadley The University Star Two e-mails sent to students, faculty and staff Tuesday, one containing an attack ad on Associated Student Government President-elect Reagan Pugh, were determined to be unsolicited and in violation of university policy. The attack ad came from a group calling themselves Students for Truth. The other email was from Pugh’s opponent Chris Anderson outlining his campaign platform. The e-mails were deleted from recipients’ inboxes by Texas State Information Technology after the department classified them as spam. The grounds for deletion were specified by the appropriate use of information resources policy. C. Van Wyatt, vice president

for Information Technology, said the department became aware of the unsolicited e-mails from student complaints. “The e-mail slipped under the radar — it was clear it qualified as spam,” Wyatt said. “We tracked down the e-mails and did not recognize the organization. We quickly deleted the email from the mail system and blocked future e-mails from the same address.” Wyatt said the e-mails violated three stipulations of the policy. “First and foremost, the emails were unsolicited,” Wyatt said. “Second, it was sent for a political purpose, and it was sent anonymously. All of these things constitute inappropriate use of information resources. When you log on to university mail, it clearly states that sending unsolicited mail is forbidden.” Wyatt said it is not the first

time unsolicited e-mail has been deleted from recipients’ inboxes. “Frequently when we spot spam, if part of the message has passed through our filters we will go out into the servers and any un-opened spam that’s still there we will retrieve and delete just as if it wasn’t delivered,” Wyatt said. “If the spam gets through and it winds up in an inbox and gets opened then our practice is not to delete it.” Wyatt said the policy does not stipulate that Information Technology can delete unopened emails. “The policy only tells you what’s permissible, how we handle cases is our discretion,” Wyatt said. “Each situation drives a little different set of circumstances.” Anderson said he disagreed with the university’s actions.

“I would have to review the policy more carefully, but I don’t think the e-mail should be considered spam,” Anderson said. “I disagree with the action taken by Information Technology.” The policy states the university e-mail system is subject to review and users should not expect privacy from disclosure in any messages. It says the system cannot be used for personal financial gain, commercial purposes and the transmission of spam mail, chain letters, personal advertisements, solicitations or promotions. It cannot be used to affect the result of a local, state or national election, or any other political purpose. Wyatt said gathering student e-mail addresses with a net ID would be difficult. “The simplest way would be to have 10 people sit down and write down a mass number of

e-mails. The other way it’s done is through worms sent through spam,” Wyatt said. He said Information Technology documented between four and six thousand messages that slipped through the filter on Tuesday. He said the main purpose of deleting spam is to protect users computers from malicious programs often transmitted through the messages. Election Commissioner Ryan Galloway said he planned to wait 72 hours to gather protests and determine if the e-mail had an influence on the outcome of the election. “(The commission) will meet formally on Monday to determine the significance of the e-mail; however, I don’t see it having much significance considering the 940 vote difference between candidates,” Galloway said.

University developing video surveillance system By Patrick Ygnacio The University Star A campus-wide surveillance system that would provide the University Police Department with unlimited access to video taken at specific campus locations is currently in development. Officials involved in implementing this surveillance system are emphasizing it as a documentation tool and not as a health and safety mechanism. “The only way you can use a camera for health and safety is if you have a human all the time, 24 hours watching, and it’s not something we can do,” said UPD investigator Jeb Thomas. “We don’t have enough people and even if we did — if you sat somebody down and gave them a wall of cameras to watch, is he going to be watching the right

one at the right time?” Last fall, existing security cameras at San Jacinto Hall were utilized in apprehending two students charged with burglarizing a residence. Texas State currently has cameras deployed at strategic locations in one parking garage and some residence halls. Thomas said those cameras are operated on an individual basis within their respective departments and not by university police. Because the operation of each camera is not entirely regulated by UPD, Thomas said there are instances when they are not utilized efficiently. He said the proposed system would expand on existing surveillance and would be a centralized network maintained by UPD. “What we’re trying to do with this initiative is bring it all un-

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der one umbrella, that way we have a set thing,” Thomas said. “We know they’re being recorded, we know how they’re being recorded (and) we can have access to them.” Rick Bishop, director of network operations, said his department has been working closely with UPD in finding the appropriate vendor to implement the expanded camera system. He said a pilot system utilizing 75 cameras across campus will be initiated to help identify where other surveillance would be necessary once the network is fully established. “What we’re trying to do is get a cross-section of where we need them,” Bishop said. Future surveillance would be an Internet protocol system that would use the university’s current communications network to consolidate the cameras into

Two-day Forecast Friday AM Clouds Temp: 80°/ 59° Precip: 10%

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a manageable structure. Kyle Morris, Associated Student Government president, has been monitoring the development of the camera surveillance network and said he is confident the system would not invade the privacy of students while documenting activity on campus. “We don’t want this to turn into a Big Brother issue, but we’re confident the university administration will be able to manage that particular concern,” Morris said. “And from what I can tell from discussing the issue with them, it looks like a totally reasonable proposal that you would have surveillance at dorm entry points and also in the parking garages, particularly in the parking garages where you have a higher rate of crime.” With the recent shooting

at Virginia Tech University in Blacksburg, Va., Thomas said there comes a need to reevaluate the security measures at every school campus. “Every university, I think, is going to have to look at that,” Thomas said. “Just like Columbine had most school districts reevaluating how they did things and looking at what they could update, it’s going to be the same thing with this shooting.” Though cameras will offer a valuable resource to police, Thomas said the Texas State community carries an important responsibility to be vigilant in identifying suspicious activity on campus and reporting it to authorities. “Usually, the citizens are the ones that have the most knowledge about who should be in an area or (whether an activity is) normal,” Thomas said.

City council proposes river ordinance By Zach Halfin The University Star

The San Marcos City Council is one step closer to passing an ordinance which will restrict shuttle services that are granted legal access to city parks. The ordinance, aimed at controlling the number people using the San Marcos River, would establish a fee-based franchise system for businesses offering shuttle services for tubers. The city council passed the second reading Tuesday. City officials expect the volume of recreational traffic on and around the river and at Rio Vista Falls to increase as tourism in San Marcos grows in popularity. The annual franchise fees, ranging in price from $250 to $2,000, will go into a city fund that will be used only for projects directly associated with the river. The ordinance limits the number of franchises granted to the five known river-shuttle services that currently exist, and requires all companies to be insured and use preplanned routes. Andy Quittner, city attorney, said controlling access to streets is the only legal action the city can take to reduce the possibility of overuse of the river. “It is a matter of what we can and can’t do,” Quittner said. “We don’t have the right to tell See COUNCIL, page 5

Pleasant Street Garage facelift begins in July By Scott Thomas The University Star The Faculty Senate was updated on several ongoing construction projects Wednesday. Nancy Nusbaum, assistant vice president for finance and support services planning, expanded on what she wrote in an e-mail sent to all faculty, staff and students April 10. Nusbaum told the Faculty Senate the top two floors of the Pleasant Street Parking Garage will be closed for six months starting in July. The reason for the closure is to build a new bus loop on campus near the parking garage. However, walkways allowing students to bypass construction will not be built because of the cost. “We’re looking at what we can build with today’s prices,” Nusbaum said. She said the university is renovating a nursing building on the Round Rock campus. Nusbaum visited other campuses with similar renovations, including the University of Maryland, which she described as the premiere school for nursing. “We’re looking at (building) five simulation labs, with lots of equipment, and lots of filming going on,” Nusbaum said. “That’s an expensive program.” The political science and sociology programs will be expanded, Nusbaum said, as well as a new writing center and multicultural program. The Faculty Senate passed a vote officially supporting a proposal by Gene Bourgeois,

Inside News ..............1-6 Trends ...........7-13 Crossword ....... 13 Sudoku ............ 13

Texas State University-San Marcos is a member of the Texas State University System

Comics ............ 13 Opinions .......... 14 Classifieds .. 15,16 Sports ......... 17,18

See SENATE, page 6

To Contact Trinity Building Phone: (512) 245-3487 Fax: (512) 245-3708 www.UniversityStar.com © 2007 The University Star

PAGE TWO Thursday in Brief

April 19, 2007

starsof texas state Karl Stephan, associate professor of engineering and technology, has conducted an experiment to help decipher the enigmatic nature of ball lightning. His research has yielded a publication in the journal Physical Review. Stephan’s interest in crafting the experiment sparked when he learned of researchers at Tel Aviv University who were able to create objects with the same characteristics as ball lightning. He worked in conjunction with John A. Pearce, University of Texas engineering professor and

director of the Process Energetics Laboratory at UT’s J.J. Pickle Research Campus. Ball lightning takes the form of a glowing orb ranging in size from that of softball to a beach ball and lasts several seconds or more. This phenomenon of nature is often sighted with thunderstorms and has the ability to hover, float down chimneys and pass through closed windows. The lightning disappears in silence or sudden explosion. — Courtesy of Texas State Public Relations

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

THURSDAY

The Catholic Student Organization will meet 6:30 p.m. in the Catholic Student Center lounge. The Rock - Praise & Worship will be 7 p.m. in the CSC chapel. The Badminton Challenge, sponsored by Chi Alpha, will be 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday at the LBJ Mall. Players compete to win a $100 gift card. Everyone is welcome. The San Marcos Sunrise Club will sponsor Centerpoint Bingo at The Zone, Sk8, Arcade and Party Place. Doors open 6 p.m. and games begin at 7 p.m. $1,700 in cash prizes will be given each night. Bingo money will be used to fund college scholarships for local high school students. A one-hour orientation and training session will teach attendees to use the Freeze-Framer biofeedback program to reduce the negative effects of stress. The session will be 3:30 p.m. in the LBJSC, Room 3-11.1. Meditation and Contemplation will be 4 to 5 p.m. at the Campus Christian Community Center. For more information, e-mail Micah Robbins at mr1235@txstate.edu or call (512) 878-2036. Overeaters Anonymous will meet 5:30 p.m. at the First Lutheran Church, 130 W. Holland St. For more information, call (512) 357-2049. The Tennis Club will meet 6 to 8 p.m. at the tennis courts on Sessom Drive, behind Joe’s Crab Shack. All skill levels are welcome. For more information, e-mail Scott Schoenmakers, tennis club president, at SS1485@txstate.edu. Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship will hold its weekly meeting 8:30 pm in Old Main, Room 320. Ryan Koenig, worship leader at Tree of Life Church in New Braunfels, will be guest speaker. Everyone is welcome. Call (512) 557-7988 or e-mail mail@texasstatechialpha.com

FRIDAY

The Philosophy Dialogue Series presents “The 10th Annual Phi Sigma Tau Philosophy Student Symposium,” 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Psychology Building, Room 132. Japanese Language and Culture Club presents the Sakura Festival in the LBJ Ballroom 6 to 9 p.m. The event will be a celebration of Japanese culture. Everyone is welcome.

MONDAY

An on-campus Alcoholics Anonymous meeting will be noon to 1 p.m. For more information, call the Alcohol and Drug Resource Center at (512) 245-3601. The Alcohol and Drug Resource Center will hold the Men Against Violence meeting 5 to 7 p.m. in the LBJSC, Room 3-6.1. Alpha Lambda Omega Christian Sorority will hold its weekly Bible study 8 p.m. in the LBJSC, Room 3-13.1. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Rise ‘N Shine Toastmasters Club will meet 7 to 8 a.m. at Cabela’s in Buda. Visitors and guests are always welcome. For additional information, call Clark Lyman at (512) 295-7777, e-mail clyman2059@aol.com or visit risenshine.freetoasthost.info.

Duck Drop

The Alkek Library will once again extend its hours to offer students increased study time — including several 24-hour blocks — as final exams approach. The following schedule can be accessed anytime from the library homepage. Alkek Library will be open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. April 28. The library will open 1 p.m. April 29 and remain open around the clock for study until 10 p.m. May 4. Service points, such as the reference desk and computer lab, will not be staffed during the overnight study hours.

The ASG Beat headline was incorrect in Tuesday’s issue. The headline should read, “ASG president testifies against tuition deregulation.”

TUESDAY

On this day...

There will be a free lunch 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the CSC lobby. The San Marcos Sunrise Club will sponsor Centerpoint Bingo at The Zone, Sk8, Arcade and Party Place.

1012 — Aelfheah was murdered by Danes who had been ravaging the south of England. Aelfhear became the 29th Archbishop of Canterbury in 1005.

Doors open 6 p.m. and games begin at 7 p.m. $1,700 in cash prizes will be given each night. Bingo money will be used to fund college scholarships for local high school students.

1539 — Emperor Charles V reached a truce with German Protestants at Frankfurt, Germany.

Facing the Fear: Anxiety and Panic Group will meet 3:30 to 5 p.m. Sessions offer a supportive way to cope. For more information or to register, call the Counseling Center at (512) 245-2208.

1587 — English admiral Sir Francis Drake entered Cadiz harbor and sank the Spanish fleet.

Every Nation Campus Ministries will meet 7 p.m. in Centennial Hall, Room G-02. There will be free food, fellowship and a relevant message. There will be a CEO Meeting 5 p.m. in McCoy Hall, Room 127. The Tennis Club will meet 6 to 8 p.m. at the tennis courts on Sessom Drive, behind Joe’s Crab Shack. All skill levels are welcome. For more information, e-mail Scott Schoenmakers, tennis club president, at SS1485@txstate.edu. Overeaters Anonymous will meet 12:30 p.m. at the First Lutheran Church, 130 W. Holland St. For more information, call (512) 357-2049. San Marcos Toastmasters Club will meet 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Lone Star Café at the Prime Outlet Mall. Visitors and guests are welcome. For additional information, call Ren Linér at (512) 353-0217, e-mail smtoastmasters@yahoo.com or visit www.sanmarcos.freetoasthost.org. Students in Free Enterprise will meet 4:15 p.m. in McCoy Hall, Room 113. Students interested in becoming involved with the community, making business connections and learning leadership skills are encouraged to attend.

WEDNESDAY

Texas State softball will play Baylor 6 p.m. at Bobcat Field. A student-led rosary will be prayed 6:25 p.m. in the CSC chapel. A one-hour orientation and training session will teach attendees to use the Freeze-Framer biofeedback program to reduce the negative effects of stress. The session will be 1 p.m. in the LBJSC, Room 3-11.1. The Earth First Organization will meet 4 p.m. in Evans Liberal Arts, Room 314. For more information, email Bogan Durr at bd1132@txstate. edu. The Alcohol and Drug Resource Center will hold “The Network” meeting 5 to 7 p.m. in The LBJSC, Room 3-6.1.

Jeannie Yamakawa/Star photo Lauren Friga, criminal justice sophomore (left) and Pamela Bishir, political science junior, sell rubber ducks for Delta Gamma’s 2007 Duck Drop Monday in The Quad. The race will be April 27 at Sewell Park with all proceeds from the raffle donated to the Texas School for the Blind.

Spanish TV corporation hits 22 new markets Danny Hermosillo, director of community affairs and public relations for Houston-based LatinAmerica Broadcasting Inc., will speak about emerging trends in television 2 p.m. Thursday in Old Main, Room 201. Hermosillo’s speech is titled “Emerging Trends in Television: Latin TV, a face in Spanish language television in the U.S.” The speech is free and open to the public. According to the Houston Business Journal, LAT-TV has entered into an affiliation agreement with Equity Media Holdings Corporation to launch its content in 22 new markets. The deal brings the Spanish language broadcaster closer to meeting Federal Communications Commission requirements to be a full broadcast network by enabling it to reach 70 percent of the Nielsen-designated market area within the next two years. The affiliation with Little Rock, Ark.-based Equity Media also increases LAT-TV’s reach to 27 stations.

Library Beat Alkek Library facilitates 24-hour study time for finals

Correction...

Library hours will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. May 5. The library will be open continuously for study 1 p.m. May 6 through 5 p.m. May 8, but service points will not be staffed. Service points will maintain regular schedules before and during finals. For operating hours of specific library services, please visit the library homepage at www.library.txstate.edu or call (512) 245-3681. Library patrons are asked to be considerate of others and help maintain an atmosphere conducive to studying. The sixth floor is designated for quiet study; those working in a group should use a group study room

or go to another floor. Group study rooms are in high demand and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If studying in a group in an open space, keep voices down to minimize disruption. Remember cell phone use is prohibited in all public areas, and food and drink are not allowed except in the first floor public lounge. Courtesy for patrons is always greatly appreciated, especially during peak study times. The Alkek librarians and staff wish everyone a successful finish to the Spring 2007 semester. — Courtesy of Alkek Library

On May 19, the network launched in five markets: Houston on KCVH-30, Dallas/Fort Worth (KJJM-34), Phoenix (KVPA-42), Austin (KVAT-17) and San Antonio (KISA-40). Overall, the initial launch has served 5.2 million Hispanics and 17.4 percent of the U.S. Latino population ages 18 to 49. On May 30 of this year, the broadcaster will open in cities including Atlanta, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Denver, Seattle and Portland including certain parts of California and Florida. The company hopes to reach 40 percent of the Nielsen-designated market area coverage by the beginning of 2008, and 70 percent within the next two years. “Three years ago we set out to build a new Hispanic network knowing that we would need to partner with groups like Equity Media Holdings,” said Rocky Springstead, CEO and president of LAT-TV. “We are pleased to be doing business with a group that will assist us with the growth of

our network as we extend our brand across the country.” Federico Subervi, professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication and director of the Latinos and Media Project, invited Hermosillo to give his lecture during the normal meeting time for Subervi’s Latinos and Media class. “LAT-TV is emerging as an alternative to the two giant networks, Telemundo and Univision, by broadcasting a wider range of programs than has typically been available in Spanish for the Latino audiences,” Subervi said. “Hermosillo, who is very knowledgeable of Latinooriented media and the Hispanic audiences, will discuss in detail the development of LAT-TV and its projected growth and influence in the Southwestern region of the country.” For more information, call Federico Subervi at (512) 2455267 or e-mail fs11@txstate.edu. — Courtesy of Texas State Public Relations

1689 — Residents of Boston ousted their governor, Edmond Andros. 1713 — Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI issued the Pragmatic Sanction, which gave women the rights of succession to Hapsburg possessions. 1764 — The English Parliament banned the American colonies from printing paper money. 1770 — Captain James Cook discovered New South Wales, Australia. Cook originally named the land Point Hicks. 1775 — The American Revolution began as fighting broke out at Lexington, MA. 1782 — The Netherlands recognized the new United States. 1794 — Tadeusz Kosciuszko forced the Russians out of Warsaw. 1802 — The Spanish reopened the New Orleans port to American merchants. 1839 — The Kingdom of Belgium was recognized by all the states of Europe when the Treaty of London was signed. 1852 — The California Historical Society was founded.

CRIME BL TTER University Police Department April 12, 10:09 p.m. Warrant Service/Possession: Controlled Substance/Blanco Hall An officer initiated a traffic stop. Upon further investigation a student was found to have an active warrant and to be in possession of a controlled substance. The student was arrested and transported to Hays County Law Enforcement Center to await magistration.

vehicle had reportedly been struck and damaged. This case is under investigation.

April 13, 10:38 a.m. Failure to Comply/Striking Unattended Vehicle/ Harris Dining Hall An officer was dispatched for a hit-and-run report. A non-student’s

April 13, 4:10 p.m. Warrant Service/ UPD Lobby An officer was dispatched to the lobby to serve a warrant. A student was arrested for active warrants and taken to HCLEC to

April 13, 3:52 p.m. Failure to Comply/Striking Unattended Vehicle/ UPD Lobby An officer was dispatched for a hit-and-run report. A student’s vehicle had reportedly been struck and damaged at College Inn. This case is under investigation.

await magistration. April 13, 9:48 p.m. Elevator Rescue/Tower Hall An officer was dispatched for an elevator rescue. Two students were released from an elevator without incident and did not require medical attention. A report was generated for this case. April 14, 7:03 p.m. Criminal Mischief under $50/ UPD Lobby An officer was dispatched to the lobby for criminal mischief. A student reported an unknown person had caused damage to her vehicle. This case is under investigation.

NEWS

Thursday, April 19, 2007

Study abroad program gains partnership

SAVING FACE:

By Philip Hadley The University Star

Austin Byrd/Star Photo Mellissa Neff, mtvU staffer, pretties up Kaylee Privett, fashion merchandising sophomore, in a competition to become the new face of Neutrogena as well as be a mtvU correspondent at this year’s Video Music Awards. mtvU was on campus Tuesday promoting the Campus Invasion Music Festival to be held April 22 at The Backyard in Austin. Proceeds from the festival will benefit the Save Darfur Coalition.

Earth Day activities aim to encourage conservation By Bill Lancaster University Star The city of San Marcos will celebrate Earth Day with a new event noon Sunday at the Aquarena Center. The purpose is to have a community-wide event to promote environmental awareness, said Sonja Mlenar, coordinator of instructional programs at Aquarena Center. Bogan Durr, president of Earth First!, said it is a nationwide day to celebrate and appreciate the earth. “It is one day a year when (students) can give something back to the earth,” Durr said. U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, DAustin, will speak during the event along with other local dignitaries. Sunday’s activities include a conservation village, Earth Day pole festivities, a natural

food court, guided tours of the recharge park and recycled art activities for children. Several groups will join Earth First! at the celebration, including the National Association of Environmental Professionals and the Girl Scouts. Other groups include green builders, water and electric utility companies, landscapers and several conservation organizations. Earth First! will focus on the reuse of resources. Durr said recycling is the least efficient of the three R’s of waste reduction. “One example (of reusing) is the canvas grocery bags,” Durr said. “We bought some of those and painted little recycling symbols on them instead of using the paper or plastic bags.” Light bulbs that last longer and use less energy are a good way to reduce energy consumption,

The University Star - Page 3

Durr said. Other activities at Aquarena Center include dance and music performances, glass bottom boat tours and an official proclamation by city officials. Earth Day was first celebrated by approximately 20 million people in 1970, the same year the Environmental Protection Agency was founded. Students can affect the environment by changing small things in their daily lives, Durr said, such as riding a bike or turning off a light when a person leaves a room. She said unplugging the computer when not in use is another way to conserve electricity. She said people do not realize how much energy they use even sitting there. “It doesn’t have to be big,” Durr said. “Just as long as everybody does a little something, it will make a big difference.”

Students planning to study abroad will be able to choose from a wider variety of foreign locales this year because of a new partnership between Academic Programs International and Texas State. Christie Johnson, director of university relations for the program, said they were pleased to be offering Texas State students more options when they decide to study abroad. “We offer several programs to places that most universities don’t provide,” Johnson said. “We are excited about the new partnership and want students to know that the study abroad process is easy and affordable.” Currently Texas State only provides financial aid for programs approved by the university. The new partnership with the third party program shows changes are underway. Federal law states a school cannot deny funds if a student is participating in a study abroad program. However, at Texas State, students lose their fulltime enrollment status when they travel abroad through a non-sponsored program. Losing enrollment status makes students ineligible to receive financial assistance through the university. The only way for students to maintain their enrollment status is through a legal document called a consortium agreement made between a university and the non-sponsored school. Nancy Megerson, assistant director of financial aid, said the university still does not enter into consortium agreements. “For us to process financial aid for a study abroad applicant they have to be degree-seeking and the only way to identify that is if they are a Texas State student or if they are enrolled and attending in a program for which the university has a consortium agreement,” Megerson said. “Financial aid still does not enter into consortium agreements for non-sponsored programs.” Debbie Thorne, associate vice president of academic affairs, said some advancements have been made since last year’s story in The University Star regarding a student who was unable to obtain funding through Texas

“T

here has been some really good progress and we are hoping that in the near future we will be able to expand the number of affiliations we have.”

— Isis Gomez continuing education coordinator

State for a non-university sponsored study abroad program. “While we encourage our students to take faculty-led study abroad programs, we recognize there are other options students prefer or need,” Thorne said. “If students work with providers we have scrutinized and found offer a strong educational foundation, students can receive financial aid through Texas State.” Isis Gomez, continuing education coordinator, said the new affiliation is going to serve as a trial run for future affiliations. “This is the only non-Texas State program where students can receive financial aid through the university,” Gomez said. “There has been some really good progress and we are hoping that in the near future we will be able to expand the number of affiliations we have.” Gomez said the Financial Aid Office must make some changes in the way they process study abroad aid and offered a time frame for rolling out future affiliations. “There is a strong interest from everyone here at Texas State to expand affiliations,” Gomez said. “As far as a time frame, financial aid mentioned that they’d like to see what happens this summer and how the new affiliation is going to work. We need to get a grasp on what

adjustments and changes we need to make internally here at Texas State to make it work. We decided to start with one to make sure that we are prepared for a higher volume without any difficulties for the students.” Katie Cox, French senior and study abroad applicant, said she is planning on participating in a study abroad program this summer. “Although I am participating in a Texas State study abroad program, I think the school should offer more opportunities from different organizations,” Cox said. “Texas State should offer aid to students who wish to participate in non-Texas State sponsored programs.” Thorne, associate vice president of academic affairs, said the new partnership with Academic Programs International is a sign of things to come. “The company API is highly reputable,” Thorne said. “This significant change opens the door to considering other partnerships.” Gomez said many administrators on campus were interested in seeing more programs offered at Texas State. “The interest is there from financial aid, the provost’s office and from our office to expand the affiliations. We just need to wait until we are really prepared for that,” Gomez said.

NEWS

Page 4 - The University Star

Thursday, April 19, 2007

Deep in the heart of Texas

Flower followers find bluebonnet has mesmerizing power By Michael Martinez Chicago Tribune

MARBLE FALLS — Frolicking in the wildflowers just ain’t Texan, it would seem. Yet, this time of year, tens of thousands of men, women and children head to the central hills to linger, lounge and lollygag amid the bluebonnets. It is, after all, the state flower. With petals that legend says resemble the hats of pioneer women, the boot-high bluebonnet can mesmerize the toughest of big folk in Texas. Dressed in black motorcycle leather, Gary Holloway, 57, of Odessa drove wife Kathy, 53, on their classic Harley Heritage softtail to the central Texas hills just to witness the Lupinus texensis, or the Texas Bluebonnet. Yes, the flower is even named “texensis.” With his wife’s arms wrapped around him, Holloway pulled over to the shoulder of U.S.

Highway 283 and tiptoed through some bluebonnets growing wild in the ditch. Then they found their Lone Star shangri-la beyond a wire fence protecting an old limestone farmstead. There, almost as far as the eye could see, was a meadow of bluebonnets worthy of a painting. Amateur photographers were lining up all day. “It’s real pretty up there,” Holloway said. “Don’t they smell beautiful! It’s gorgeous,” his wife said. Nothing could interfere with the springtime pilgrims stopping and smelling the bluebonnets. Not even the perils of traffic zooming along the highway at 70 mph. As the world turns green this time of year (yes, the grass is still green under the snow and slush in the Midwest), the Texas landscape sparkles a brilliant blue as well. But Texas has had trouble agreeing on which bluebonnet should be the official flower.

In 1901, Lupinus subcarnosus was the official bluebonnet. Others favored the showier L. texenis. Then, in 1971, the state decided both, along with others, would serve as state flower. As one local historian is reputed to have said, the “bluebonnet is to Texas what the shamrock is to Ireland, the cherry blossom to Japan, the lily to France, the rose to England and the tulip to Holland.” Inevitably, myths arise. Like this one: It’s a crime to pick the flower. Not true, the state says. “Is it really illegal to pick bluebonnets?” asked an April 2 press release from the Texas Department of Public Safety. “The answer is no — there is no law against picking our State Flower. However, there are laws against criminal trespass — so make sure you’re not on private property when you stop to take your annual kids-inthe-bluebonnets photo.”

Michael Martinez/Chicago Tribune TRUE BLUE: It’s a tradition for Texas residents to plant the official state flower, bluebonnets, and witness their springtime blooms along the highways and byways of Central Texas’ hill country.

Supreme Court upholds ‘partial-birth abortion’ in 5-4 ruling By Judy Peres Chicago Tribune

CHICAGO — The U.S. Supreme Court handed conservatives a long-sought victory Wednesday, upholding a nationwide ban on a medical procedure that opponents call “partial-birth abortion” and giving lawmakers more leeway to restrict the practice of abortion in general. Experts on both sides of the

abortion divide predicted the ruling would encourage state and federal governments to impose tighter regulations on abortion, but said there was no indication the high court was any closer to reversing Roe vs. Wade, the 1973 decision that guaranteed women the right to terminate a pregnancy. The 5-4 ruling, written by Justice Anthony Kennedy, said the federal abortion ban signed into

law by President Bush in 2003 does not violate that constitutional right. Opponents of the ban “have not demonstrated that the act would be unconstitutional in a large fraction of relevant cases,” Kennedy said. The majority opinion was joined by Bush’s two Supreme Court appointees, Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito, as well as by Justices Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas. In a dissenting opinion, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg called the ruling “alarming” because it failed to respect the court’s abortion precedents, including that the woman’s health should be the doctor’s paramount consideration. Wednesday’s decision “deprives women of the right to make an autonomous choice, even at the expense of their safety,” she said. She called the majority’s justifications “flimsy and transparent” and said they did not bother to conceal their hostility to abortion rights: “Throughout, the opinion refers to obstetriciangynecologists and surgeons who perform abortions not by the titles of their medical specialties, but by the pejorative label ‘abortion doctor.’” Ginsburg’s dissent was joined by Justices Stephen Breyer, David Souter and John Paul Stevens.

The law bans a rare and controversial surgical procedure performed after the first trimester of pregnancy. In a reaction typical of abortion-rights activists, Eleanor Smeal, president of the Feminist Majority, said the two new justices “did what they were put on the court to do: strike a blow against women’s fundamental right to choose abortion.” Meanwhile, the National Right to Life Committee, which was instrumental in passing the federal Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003 and similar state laws, applauded the decision, as did other anti-abortion groups. “Finally, it is illegal in America to mostly deliver a premature infant before puncturing her skull and removing her brain, which is what a partial-birth abortion is,” said Douglas Johnson, the committee’s legislative director. The law says a doctor who “knowingly performs a partialbirth abortion and thereby kills a human fetus” may be imprisoned for up to two years. It defines “partial-birth abortion” as a procedure in which the clinician “delivers a living fetus” until part of the fetus is “outside the body of the mother” and then “performs the overt act … that kills the partially delivered living fetus.” Supporters of the ban say the procedure is tantamount to in-

fanticide and is never medically necessary. But opponents argue that it sometimes is the safest procedure for the pregnant woman. The law allows an exception for cases in which the woman’s life is in danger, but does not permit doctors to use the procedure because they believe a different method would be riskier to the woman’s health. The Center for Reproductive Rights, which has litigated many anti-abortion cases, said the decision paves the way for Congress and state legislatures to enact additional bans on abortions as early as 12 weeks. “The court has dramatically reduced the ability of doctors to provide services that, in their opinion, are the safest, best options to protect women’s health,” said Nancy Northup, president of the center. “Every American who cares about women’s health, and doctors’ ability to treat their patients appropriately, should be alarmed by this ruling.” In his opinion, Kennedy noted that the medical profession was not of one opinion on the necessity of the procedure, adding, “The law need not give abortion doctors unfettered choice in the course of their medical practice.” Kennedy said the ban does not impose an unconstitutional

burden on the right to choose abortion because it was not established definitively that outlawing “partial-birth abortion” would necessarily subject women to significant health risks. Andrew Koppelman, a law professor at Northwestern University, called that reasoning “ominous.” “You can now pass a statute that’s going to violate the constitutional rights of a lot of people, and the courts are going to make those people come to court one by one to get those rights protected,” said Koppelman. “Kennedy admits there are women whose health is going to be endangered by this regulation. He is effectively saying, `Come to court and you may be able to show this law is invalid as applied to you.’ “But people facing medical emergencies can’t always get lawyers and go to court. What this means in practice is a certain number of dead women.” Koppelman said Wednesday’s decision creates a serious dilemma for a doctor who believes the banned procedure is necessary to preserve the health of the mother: “If you don’t use it, you could be sued for malpractice. If you do use it, you have to get a decision from a federal court or you could be criminally prosecuted.”

NEWS

Thursday, April 19, 2007

ELECTION

The University Star - Page 5

ASG ELECTION RESULTS CANDIDATE

PRESIDENT

Reagan B Pugh Christopher B Anderson

VICE PRESIDENT

Alexis M Dabney Rebecca Quillin

2,466 61.3% 1,507 37.4%

2,401 60.6% 1,533 38.7%

108 104 101 69

28.3% 27.2% 26.4% 18.1%

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Israel D Ruiz 203 30.2% Courtney A McGaver 180 26.8% Michael T Brady 148 22% Richard O Neal 139 20.7%

Bridgette Cyr/Star photo PROUD POLITICIANS: Alexis Dabney (left) and Reagan Pugh celebrate upon hearing of their victory over Christopher Anderson (middle-right), and Rebecca Quillin (right) in the ASG presidential and vice presidential races. CONTINUED from page 1

Galvez, College of Liberal Arts. “It was completely worth everything, and the right people were elected. I’m looking forward to a government that will actually work with the students and get things finished.” Anderson, though disappointed, said he, too, is supportive of next year’s leadership. “Obviously, in previous articles and debates I’ve pointed out what I think (Pugh’s) shortcomings might be. But this is his day so congratulations to him,” said Anderson, marketing sophomore. “He put up a really good race.” Quillin, in light of the election results, has decided to complete

her four remaining hours and graduate in August. “They won, and we lost, and the one thing I can take away from this is to never underestimate the power of uninformed people,” Quillin said. “Ultimately, if I thought that Reagan and Alexis would do an adequate job for students, I wouldn’t have run. So I hope they do what they’ve promised and that the student body will hold them accountable.” Pugh and Dabney described their feelings after the results had been announced as “disbelief” and “incredibly humbled.” Both were brought to tears in the midst of the clamor. Each took turns hugging and thanking their “Reagan and Alexis” T-shirt

donning supporters. Election results for next year’s ASG Senate, expanded to 60 seats after a recent referendum, saw several unfilled positions. Candidates did not file in the University College Senate race. The College of Applied Arts, College of Health Professions and College of Business administration Graduate House races did not attract candidates either. The Graduate House race for the College of Education, College of Fine Arts and Communications and College of Science seats each had one person on the ballot. Only 10 candidates appeared on the ballot for the 15 available on-campus Senate seats. An official tally will not be

CITY COUNCIL CONTINUED from page 1

people they can’t use the river or converse on the river. That is their constitutional right.” He said the ordinance is meant to prevent new business from coming in and overusing the river. “If a business came in and bought property on the river and wants to build a business renting tubes and put 2,000 people in the river every day, right now we don’t have any control of that,” Quittner said. “We don’t typically regulate businesses.” The Parks and Recreation Department will begin studies in conjunction with the River Systems Institute at Texas State and the National Park Service to determine the carrying capacity for recreation in the San Marcos River. Rodney Cobb, director of parks and recreation, said the

studies should determine how many people could use the river for floating without causing excessive damage. “What is that magic number? We don’t know yet,” Cobb said. “The study is pretty thorough — it covers not only the number of people floating down the river, but also some other things like water clarity. We are trying to add some scientific studies in there also.” Chris Hackard, co-owner of Austin Canoe and Kayak, said he “didn’t exactly” support the ordinance because it takes money out of his business’ pocket, but understood the need for more control over access to the river. “The way I look at it, it is the only way to measure the effect of tubers on the river,” Hackard said. “It is the only way to regulate it.” He said besides this ordinance, he would like to see

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION Sara K Gautille Thomas E Tilton Enrique D Degollado

391 389

49.7% 49.5%

VOTES PERCENT

SENATORS COLLEGE OF APPLIED ARTS Alexandria S Bitzel Carlos E Granillo Mark A Hernandez Christopher T Blumentritt

COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS Theodore Hardy Jaime L Degarmo

296 191 108

49.7% 32.1% 18.2%

COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS AND COMMUNICATION Richard V Lopez 316 35.8% Amanda L Oskey 316 35.8% Rachel C Hartsfield 250 28.3% COLLEGE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS Kayla R Thumann 92 50.8% Jacquelyn S Neshyba 89 49.2%

available until Monday. Dabney said she looks forward to leading the newly expanded Senate, and has many goals she plans to enact. “I’m focused on making sure everyone is engaged and motivated from the beginning and that we all feel we are there representing our constituents,” Dabney, public relations senior, said. “We really want it to be an active body that’s out there doing some-

COLLEGE OF SCIENCE Ugochukwu O. Eziefule 182 Kevin K Beahan 179

50.4% 49.6%

ON CAMPUS Sean Ian Robles Eduardo C Gomez Steven De La Cerda Angeline Lasanta Wesley N Schultz Luis R Valverde Joseph S Wozny Breann M Schawe Michael R Neely George T Lanham

568 565 522 521 481 459 457 445 422 394

11.7% 11.7% 10.8% 10.7% 9.9% 9.5% 9.4% 9.2% 8.7% 8.1%

OFF CAMPUS Brittany D Bowden Melanie Aranda Amanda Mjos Skyler W Varnadore Sarah M Stone Meghan E Groom Brian P Henretta Andrew C McCartin Kristi M Detweiler Carson R Guy Bogan Durr Nathanael T Gold Virginia M Saucedo Daniel Palomo Anthony D Villanacci Courtney S Strange Jakob T Grothe Gregory J Stillman Traci J Restovich J S Jones

746 721 659 639 581 572 569 566 562 560 557 552 539 515 511 492 462 458 457 455

6.4% 6.2% 5.7% 5.5% 5% 4.9% 4.9% 4.9% 4.8% 4.8% 4.8% 4.7% 4.6% 4.4% 4.4% 4.2% 4% 3.9% 3.9% 3.9%

thing good for our university.” At the top of Pugh’s agenda will be ensuring that students know what ASG is, who their president and vice president are and serving as a resource for the students. He said his election could not have been possible without his campaign staff, and wished specifically to thank Sean Wardwell, Joe DeLaCerda and Jude Prather. “We are excited to give ASG

Gary L Sims

440

AT LARGE Traci W Adams Tyler C Ferguson Katherine D Kasprzak Ashley D McCown Emily R Trepanier Eileen M Galvez Jessica R Sullivan Amanda R Magel Joanne M Malcik Colby D Sweat Maimunah M Lewally Sein Leon Ryan A Clay John W Headrick Angel K Durr Casey S Hartle Jeremy D Kuykendall Coby A McGee Mathew M Golding Christopher M Shepard Mally M Keller Robert D Surprenant Brett T Wisler

1,188 1,074 1,019 1,011 991 990 931 915 821 811 785 779 778 773 766 765 738 726 711 678 634 627 573

6.2% 5.6% 5.3% 5.3% 5.2% 5.2% 4.9% 4.8% 4.3% 4.2% 4.1% 4.1% 4.1% 4% 4% 4% 3.9% 3.8% 3.7% 3.5% 3.3% 3.3% 3%

GRADUATE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES COLLEGE OF EDUCATION Sheila M Bustillos

46

95.8%

COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS AND COMMUNICATION Elizabeth J Lee 10 90.9% COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS Collin Paul Bost

49

74.2%

COLLEGE OF SCIENCE Sathya Swathi Mabbu

9

100%

* Winners in bold; unofficial tally

back to the students,” Pugh said. “And you better believe I’m going to say it again; it’s a great day to be a Bobcat.” Chris Anderson said he has not given much thought as to whether or not he will continue to be a member of ASG, but said that he assumes he will be involved in “some form or fashion.” He said he will almost definitely not run for president again, but said “only time will tell.”

Monty Marion/Star file photo

“W

e don’t have the right to tell people they can’t use the river or converse on the river. That is their constitutional right.”

— Andy Quittner city attorney

more regular community river clean-ups. “There will always be more people putting trash into the river than there are willing to clean it up,” Hackard said. The ordinance goes up for its third and final reading May 1, and if passed, it will go into effect 10 days after the reading.

FREE TUBING: William Hinkson of the San Marcos Lions Club hands out free tubes to people attending the June 21 Rio Vista Dam community party. The San Marcos City Council is considering passing an ordinance to levy a fee on businesses that offer shuttle services for tubers. This would help control the number of tubers on the San Marcos River.

NEWS

Page 6 - The University Star

Thursday, April 19, 2007

Guadalupe River flow will need controlling for raft race By Karen Little The University Star The United States Army Corps of Engineers will diminish the flow of the Guadalupe River to accommodate the River Raft Race Saturday. The Corps control the dam located on Canyon Lake. Park Ranger Judy Scott, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, said the average flow is 1,100 cubic feet per second. Scott said at around midnight on Friday, the Corps will diminish the flow to 300 cubic feet per second. “It takes a while to get (the flow) to 300, so we have to start hours before the event,” she said. “It will be back to 1,100 at 10 p.m. on Saturday night.” The average water level for Canyon

Lake, the reservoir that feeds the Guadalupe, is 909 feet above sea level, Scott said. Currently the lake measures at 914.2 feet. “We have five extra feet in the reservoir,” Scott said. “That’s why releases (have been) higher than normal.” During the summer, the river usually flows 100 to 300 cubic feet per second. Scott said the dam can release up to 5,000 cubic feet per second, which is why caution should be taken every time a trip is taken down the Guadalupe. “It’s not a ride, it’s nature,” she said. “They need to be vigilant. They need to respect the water all the time.” An issue with high water levels is the threat of bacteria. Debbie Magin, director of water quality services at

Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, said there are a variety of sediments that can factor into bacterial rainwater such as pollutants, insect parts, algae and sometimes radioactive materials. “Whenever there is rainfall, it mixes with bacteria of the soil and feces from animals,” Magin said. “High flows create high bacteria. Bacteria is associated with sediment and is washed in the stream.” Magin said the ultraviolet rays after a rainstorm kills the bacteria and helps settle the sediment. Constant rainfall is where heavy stream flow can pose as a bacterial threat because there is no way for the sun to relinquish the river. Johnnie Bezdek, outfitter and owner of Bezdek’s Rentals, said high-flowing

water such as 1,100 cubic feet per second is safe for whitewater rafting and kayaking, but not tubing. Caution should be taken in these levels and participants should wear a life jacket, he said. “A lot of outfitters are furnishing guides for the river,” Bezdek said. “That makes it a lot of fun for us. (2007) will be the best year ever on the Guadalupe.“ Low-flowing river water poses as a threat to outfitters because reduced levels have standing water and harmful bacteria. This was the case in the summer of 2006 when lack of rainfall left Central Texas in a drought. “(We’ll tell people) not to get in water that looks stagnant and cloudy,” Magin said. “The river is not getting a good flushing of water.”

Va. Tech shooter sent ‘media manifesto’ to NBC By Lisa Anderson Chicago Tribune BLACKSBURG, Va. — Days before he massacred 32 people at Virginia Tech and took his own life, Cho Seung Hui concocted a vicious and meticulous multimedia plan for how he hoped to be remembered. He got his wish Wednesday night. Chillingly, according to a U.S. Postal Service time stamp, Cho mailed a package of documents and images to NBC News in New York during a two-hour break in his shooting spree Monday morning. NBC News Wednesday evening released some of the 27 videos and 43 photographs that accompanied an 1,800-word screed of hate and resentment that NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams described as a “multimedia manifesto” from a “uniquely sick mind.” While the material doesn’t contain any images from Monday’s shootings, Williams said much of it is too graphic to be shown on television. In addition, a more detailed picture emerged Wednesday of Cho’s mental health record and run-ins with campus police and teachers, indications that there were many signs that he was headed for trouble. Documents uncovered by ABC News showed that in December 2005, a Virginia magistrate had deemed Cho mentally ill, in need of hospital-

ization and “an imminent danger” to himself and others. After NBC employees opened the posted package from Cho on Wednesday morning, the network swiftly turned over the original material to FBI agents in New York, said NBC News president Steve Capus in an interview given to MSNBC.com. He characterized the material, which NBC made copies of for itself, as “disturbing, very angry, profanity-laced.” Much of the material contains rants against Christianity, the rich and the hedonistic lifestyle of his fellow students, mocking their interest in things like “golden necklaces” and vodka. Apparently made over six days before the massacre, according to electronic time stamps, the videos show Cho with vacant, glassy eyes and no affect to his soft voice. “You’ve had everything you want,” he says at one point. “This didn’t have to happen.” At another point, he observes, “You had 100 billion chances and ways to have avoided today, but you decided to spill my blood. You forced me into a corner and gave me only one option. The decision was yours. Now, you have blood on your hands that will never wash off.” Speaking at an afternoon news conference on the Virginia Tech campus, Col. Steven Flaherty, superintendent of the Virginia State Police, said the material, which is

being analyzed by the FBI, “may be a very new, critical component of this investigation.” Although the audio accompanying much of the video, in which Cho often speaks directly to the camera, is rambling and sometimes inaudible, there was no mistaking the message sent by the still photographs. Most arresting perhaps was the first photo released by NBC late Wednesday afternoon. It showed Cho in an aggressive pose with outstretched arms and a gun in each hand. Wearing a black T-shirt under a khaki camera-style vest, a backward black baseball cap and fingerless black gloves, Cho created an image evocative of those often included in farewell videotapes made by suicide bombers in the Middle East. It was an image also reminiscent of the paramilitary garb worn by Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, the troubled teenagers who killed 13 classmates and faculty at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colo., on April 20, 1999. In fact, Cho, who appeared to be as much the angry outsider as the Colorado teens, makes reference to the Columbine shooters in his material as “martyrs,” Williams said. Some of the photos, however, appear to portray as much selfloathing as hatred for others. There are shots of Cho holding a gun to his head or a hunting knife to his own throat. It is unknown

whether Cho or someone else took the photos and videos, some of which show him sitting in the back of a small car. From the time stamp on the package, NBC News said it appeared that Cho sent the material out on Monday at 9:01 a.m. That was after he killed freshman Emily Jane Hilscher, 19, and resident assistant Ryan Clark, 22, in the Ambler Johnston West dormitory at about 7:15 a.m. and shortly before he killed another 30 students and faculty and himself in the Norris Hall engineering building some two hours later. School and law enforcement officials at news conferences Wednesday painted a more precise portrait of Cho’s apparent mental state, confirming that Cho had been involved in two incidents of stalking in late 2005, and hospitalized after one of them, but had had no further contact with campus police since then. On Dec. 15, a friend of Cho alerted campus police that Cho might be suicidal. Police transported him to Access, a state mental health agency, which arranged for him to be committed for mental health treatment. Flinchum said he did not know the duration of the treatment or whether it was a voluntary or involuntary commitment. In addition, poet and Virginia Tech English professor Nikki Giovanni said she had banned Cho from her class because of

bizarre behavior that was scaring her students. Lucinda Roy, the English professor who then took him on as her student, filed an informal report with university authorities expressing concern about Cho’s behavior and the violence depicted in his writing for class. But, she has said she was told nothing could be done because no explicit threat had been made. Campus police had no further contact with Cho after December 2005, Flinchum said. Flaherty of the Virginia State Police, said there was nothing in Cho’s mental health record that would have prohibited him from buying a gun. He bought two of them in recent months. Larry Hincker, associate vice president of university relations, said that although the school knew Cho was treated for mental illness in December, 2005, it was news to him that such a serious designation as “imminent danger” had been made. The school already is being criticized by students and others for not acting more swiftly after Cho’s first shooting incident Monday morning and now questions are being raised about why Cho’s apparently blatant and long-standing problems were not more aggressively addressed. In all those dozens of pages, videos and photos, all he says is, “The time came and I did it. I had to do what I did.”

SENATE CONTINUED from page 1

associate provost of academic affairs. The proposal inserts a new program that would alter the way management and operations funds are distributed. “(These funds are) the basic operating budgets in the department,” said Faculty Senate Chairman William Stone. He said management and operations funds are used to buy products such as paper, pencils and other raw materials. Stone said the proposal issued by Bourgeois would implement a scientific formula that would allocate funding to departments based on how the money is actually used. “We use a formula similar to that over in the library to allocate the money used to purchase library holdings,” Stone said. “Now we’re playing the same kind of approach to allocate the basic operating money of the departments.” The proposal was first discussed when elimination of course fees was brought up by the university administration. “We asked other universities, and there was not a plan to supplement course fees,” Bourgeois said. “Once course fees were eliminated, something had to work for the next year.” The Faculty Senate and President Denise Trauth’s annual social will be held Wednesday, but official business will still be conducted. At the meeting, the Faculty Senate discussed what items they wanted to be on the agenda for Trauth’s visit, including the effects of an online survey of the faculty gauging perception of the performance of the president, provost and deans.

Got dirt? Send your news tips to us at starnews@txstate.edu

TRENDS

weekendhappenings

THE UNIVERSITY STAR

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Lucy’s San Marcos — Bowling for Soup

Lucy’s San Marcos — Bloodshot Pyramid CD Release

Lucy’s San Marcos — Eleven Fingered Charlie CD Release

Triple Crown — Kallisti Gold/ Ashes of Babylon

Triple Crown — Mike Davis & His Broken Hearted Band/Leatherbag

Cheatham Street Warehouse — Texas Renegade

Cheatham Street Warehouse — Keith Davis Band

Triple Crown — Fambly/ Ray Gun Show Choir/Spyhop Cheatham Street Warehouse — Sunny Sweeney

Thursday, April 19, 2007 - Page 7

Trends Contact — Maira Garcia, starentertainment@txstate.edu

Student volunteers make trails at Enchanted Rock By Michael Lee Gardin The University Star Judith Wilson wanted to create another opportunity for students to help after attending a trail-building project at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. The National Association of Environmental Professionals sponsors a trail building project each semester. Students travel to the area and assist Friends of Enchanted Rock, with trail building projects. Wilson, pre-resource and environmental studies junior, said she enjoyed herself and wanted to volunteer again. “Every time I go out there I learn something new,” she said. “I hang out with different people and have a lot of fun.” Wilson independently organized approximately 15 students to help maintain trails from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Enchanted Rock. Camping will be free the entire weekend for volunteers. Wilson said the terrain of Enchanted Rock is beautiful. “It is a really amazing place,” she said. “It is an odd looking granite rock out in the middle of nowhere and when you get up to the top of it, it is like — wow.”

Wilson said students help preserve trails in various ways. “We usually help maintain trails and also if there is some sort of erosion on a trail,” she said. “We help make Enchanted Rock safe for any visitors. “ Nic Maloukis, co-president of the Texas State chapter of the National Association of Environmental Professionals, is helping coordinate the event. He said although the National Association of Environmental Professionals is not sponsoring the event, they support the students who volunteer. Maloukis volunteered in a trail building group at Enchanted Rock twice before. He said trail building is a great experience and students are still encouraged to join the volunteer group. “After you have gone and done some trail work and you come back and see your work still there, it is rewarding,” said Maloukis, resource and environmental studies junior. “The great thing about the last one is the variety of people. We had a lot of students from other majors last time.” Maloukis said the work is sometimes strenuous, but those who join do not have to be in peak physical condition. “What we do is work with rocks for the most part — moving chunks of granite around,” he said.

Maloukis said building trails helps Enchanted Rock by creating safe paths for visitors. “Safety is one of the major benefits. Basically we have to build these trails for your everyday park visitors,” Maloukis said. “Having a well-maintained trail makes that park more available to others.” Leah Gibson, pre-physical geography sophomore, will be attending a trail building project for the first time. “I have heard nothing but good things from the people that went in February,” Gibson said. “I always appreciate the earth and the natural environment so I am interested in helping it. Trail building helps others enjoy Enchanted Rock.” Gibson said she is looking forward to socializing with friends in a natural environment. “It is kind of a vacation, at the same time you are doing a good thing,” she said.

✯

FYI

To volunteer, contact Judith Wilson at jw1324@txstate.edu

Photo courtesy of the National Association of Environmental Professionals WALKING THE ROCK: Several students will hold a trail building project Saturday and Sunday at the Fredericksberg Monolith with free camping for volunteers.

Mutt Strutt, Fun Fair benefits San Marcos Animal Shelter By Jessica Sinn The University Star Get those leashes and walking shoes ready for the fourth annual San Marcos Mutt Strutt and Fun Fair. Mutt Strutt, benefiting the San Marcos Animal Shelter, will feature a one-mile dog walk 10 a.m. Saturday at River Ridge Parkway. For a $20 registration fee, pooches and their owners can participate in the walk and receive water, T-shirts and goodie bags. Donna Bellion, Mutt Strutt founder and animal shelter advisory board member, said all proceeds help finance the animal shelter’s spaying and neutering expenses. “We’re the only non-profit group that raises money for the

animal shelter,” Bellion said. “There are some groups that donate food, but this is the only way the animal shelter can raise money.” Bellion said dogs seem to walk with pride because they know the event is held in their honor. “It’s like these dogs know to use their best behavior because I think they really know it’s for them,” Bellion said. “They somehow know this is their day — and they strut because they feel really good that they’re among other dogs.” Giveaways and prizes include gift baskets filled with gift cards and dog treats. Donations from H-E-B, Tractor Supply, Nutro and Animal Wonders are just a few businesses providing door prizes, gift cards, treats and toys.

“One of the great things about the Mutt Strutt is that it’s a community affair – most of our donations come from small businesses,” Bellion said. “They’re all local people who love animals, so it wasn’t difficult to get them to donate.” The all-day event features Dachshund and Chihuahua races, dancing poodles and Pomeranians and pictures with the Big Dog Sportswear mascot. Bellion said first-place winners for the Dachshund and Chihuahua races will each receive $50. H-E-B donated two $100 gift cards for the overall winner as well. “You never know when the underdog will come out,” Bellion said. “This is actually a good time for people to see if their dogs will run because if they’re good, they

could compete in the Buda wiener dog races.” Bellion said the event is not just for dogs, but for the entire family. Children can enjoy arts and crafts, inflatable attractions and potato sack races. She said the potato sack races will be exciting because racers will have to hop to the finish line with their dogs. “They’ll either have to carry their dog or have them on a leash – that’ll be fun and I know they’ll have a ball,” Bellion said. Bellion said representatives of Legacy Boxer Rescue will bring dogs available for fostering. The San Marcos Animal Shelter will bring dogs for adoption. “If you rescue a dog, it will change your life forever,” Bellion said. “The unconditional love that

a dog will give you is unlike anything else. I always encourage people to rescue a dog instead of getting a puppy because it’s a lot of stress.” Bert Stratemann, animal services manager, said the event will increase awareness about overpopulation. “The more we can get people to spay and neuter their pets equates to fewer animals coming to our facility,” Stratemann said. “We always tell people that we encourage them to put us out of business so one day we won’t have to shelter these animals.” Prevent a Litter of Central Texas, a non-profit geared toward ending pet overpopulation by providing spaying and neutering vouchers to low-income pet owners, will also be at the event.

Sharri Boyett, Prevent a Litter executive director, said she hopes to help end unwanted pet births by promoting responsible ownership. “We are always looking for volunteers and members,” Boyett said. “Our job is to educate the community about prevention and to keep animals from being discarded.”

FYI ✯ Registration for the one-mile

walk begins 9 a.m. Tickets cost $20, $5 off for each additional dog. Advance registration is $15. For advance registration, e-mail Donna Bellion at donnabellion@yahoo.com.

TRENDS

The University Star - Page 8

SOULSPEAK: Where the dead live By David Conrad The University Star

Editor’s note: Soulspeak is the fictional prose and poetry writings of David Conrad, math sophomore. In an effort to promote creative writing and the arts, Soulspeak will be a regular section in The Star. These are not news stories. Derek Parsons 1969-2002 Day Three It was funny. The one thing

I looked forward to once I died was my wings. I always dreamed of flying around, being able to go anywhere I wished. Now that I wasn’t alive anymore, I’ve done more walking than I ever have in my life. It would be worth it though, to see her once again. Around 3 a.m., I passed by the Oakview Community Cemetery about a mile from my home. I didn’t think much of it until I heard my name. “It’s been a while, Derek.” I turned to see a man sitting atop a headstone. A familiar

man at that... “Jerry?” My parents died not long after I was married. My mother- and father-in-law took me in like I was their own child, and I came to call them my mother and father. They were a nice couple, and as strange as it sounds, they were fun to watch. Always moving, always scheming — there was never a dull moment with them. They always regaled me and my wife with stories of how they would run off and tour the world. We laughed about it then,

but one day while Samantha and I still lived in our apartment, we received a letter. The house is yours. They had left, and to where, no one knew. They had taken what they wanted out of the house, left the keys on the counter and hit the road. Every now and then we would get a postcard from them in some exotic locale: India, Japan, Brazil — they just traveled the world until they couldn’t anymore. Eventually they checked into a retirement home, and passed

Thursday, April 19, 2007

away a few years later. God knows where they got the money to travel for so long, and now that I think about it, it’s high time I found out. The two of us talked for hours. About his travels, about Samantha and about the crash. “So she doesn’t know,” he said as he ran a hand through his hair. “She has to know by now,” I replied. “I’m sure she’s seen the news on TV, or somebody must have told her.” “Yeah, you’re right. I’m

guessing you’re on the way to see her.” “Yessir,” I said. “I don’t think I’ll be able to rest peacefully until I see her once more.” “Well then it’s about time you get home,” Jerry replied. “She’s waiting.” “Thanks dad,” I said as I turned around. “And one more thing…” “What is it?” “How are the wings?” “Wonderful,” he replied with See SOULSPEAK, page 10

Seven days without TV encourages more wholesome pursuits By Alysha Mendez The University Star A national organization is asking people to lessen their television consumption with TVTurnoff Week, which runs Monday thorough April 29. TV-Turnoff Network, formerly known as TV-Free America, is a nonprofit founded in 1994 by the Center for Screen-Time Awareness. The organization refers to ‘screen time’ as the amount

of hours dedicated by viewers to the medium. “The best reason for college students to participate is simply that the less screen time you have, the better you do academically,” said Robert Kesten, executive director of the TV-Turnoff Network. “The less TV you watch, the better your grades are.” Kesten said another reason to participate is to increase interaction with other people.

“It’s been studied that there’s a big increase in intimacy for those who have less screen time,” he said. “The screen detracts from quality time and interpersonal relationships.” TV-Turnoff Week is supported by health organizations such as the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and the American Medical Association. “Excessive screen time can lead toward very serious health problems, like obesity,” Kesten

said. “From a mental and physical perspective, less screen time can have an extraordinary effect.” The TV-Turnoff Network encourages reading, family time and engaging with the community in place of television, gaming and the Internet. Adbusters Media Foundation promotes TV-Turnoff Week for a different reason. “It’s not just about turning off the TV, it’s about the whole mental environment that the media puts us in,” said Chris Probert, social marketing manager of Adbusters. “It’s becoming a media democracy.” Probert said Adbusters tries to encourage people to become aware of commercial messages and distorted views deriving from television. “The whole goal of TV-Turnoff Week is to shake up peoples’ routines and to question the role that TV and other electronics

“T

he whole goal of TV-Turnoff Week is to shake up peoples’ routines and to question the role that TV and other electronics play in our lives.”

— Chris Probert social marketing manager of Adbusters

play in our lives,” he said. “We want to work at changing the way our media is in the hands of so few.” Probert said it’s surprising what effect seven days without television can have on a person. “The average North American spends over four hours a day watching TV and that’s way too much,” he said. “We need to unplug and take a break.” Morgan Bathe, communication design freshman, said TVTurnoff Week isn’t fit for college

students. “I can understand why parents would try to get their kids involved in this, but I think it’s different for our age group,” she said. “It’s definitely not something I’ll be participating in.” Betsy Williams, Bathe’s roommate, said TV-Turnoff Week is a great concept. “We’ll have to figure out a way for her to watch TV when I’m in class,” said Williams, accounting freshman. “I’m going to try to go without it, but we’ll see if I can.”

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Thursday, April 19, 2007

The University Star - Page 9

Reggae Festival celebrates its fourteenth year By Jeffery D. Hooten The University Star Auditorium Shores will be filled with dreadlocks and mellow sounds this weekend, as the Austin Reggae Festival returns for its fourteenth year. The festival will be headlined Saturday by the Easy Star All-Stars. The band is known for their dub remakes of such albums as Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon and Radiohead’s OK Computer. Morgan Heritage will headline Sunday. Austin natives the Mau Mau Chaplains and Shantytown Underground will be among the fourteen acts performing during the two-day festival. Part of the proceeds from the festival and canned food donations collected at the door will go to the Capitol Area Food Bank

of Texas. “We’ve been involved with it every year,” said Michael Guerra, chief operating officer for the Capitol Area Food Bank of Texas. “Generally this is in our top 10 community events to raise food and money.” Guerra said in 2005 the food bank received enough canned goods and money from the festival to provide 170,000 meals to individuals in need. People may know the festival as Marley Fest — the name the festival was held under until a few years ago. According to Guerra, the Marley family requested cities across the nation stop using that title. “The Marley family has a copyright on that name,” Guerra said. Guerra said he has been to at least half of the festivals over the years and plans to

attend this year. “I’m looking forward to thanking people as they come through the line,” said Guerra. Andrew Petty, pre-geography-resources and environmental studies sophomore, said he plans to attend this year’s festival as well. “It’s a good atmosphere — everyone’s there to have fun,” said Petty.

✯ FYI Gates open noon Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $10 and there is a suggested donation of two non-perishable food items. For more information, visit http://www. austinreggaefest.com/.

Jon Clark/Star photo CELEBRATING JAPANESE: Dancers practice Friday in the Music building for their upcoming performance during the Sakura Festival, a celebration of Japanese culture, to be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday in the LBJ Ballroom

Festival celebrates New program developed to combat media piracy Japanese culture with food, music, crafts By Mark K. Matthews The Orlando Sentinel

WASHINGTON — The music industry’s next weapon against online piracy is being tested at the University of Central Florida — a new front in the battle to stop college students from stealing music and movies. School officials have confirmed the campus is experimenting with a new watchdog program designed to prevent students from using computers to swap copyright-protected files. Developed at the University of Florida, the Integrity program tracks data transfers between computers, searching for code patterns that indicate users are illegally transferring material. Once located, the program automatically tells students they’ve been caught. Depending on the school, this can lead to a range of punishments, such as a temporary ban from the system. “It’s like having a police car at every intersection,” said Greg Marchwinski, chief executive officer of Red Lambda, which developed the program and is now based in Longwood, Fla. Even so, Marchwinski said the Integrity program is not a silver bullet that can stop an underground practice that has gotten more pervasive since students first traded files. “Illegal downloading is not

going away,” Marchwinski said. Despite technological advances with programs such as Integrity, online pirates always seem to stay one step ahead in the online cat-and-mouse game. The result is about 1 billion illegally-downloaded songs a month, said Eric Garland, CEO of BigChampagne, a Californiabased research firm that tracks online transfers of music. The pace more than doubles the illegal transfers of five years ago and about equals the legal number of 99-cent songs that industry giant iTunes should expect to sell this year, Garland said. “It’s higher than ever among young people,” Garland said. The trend is not necessarily because more users are swiping songs, but because better technology allows fewer people to download more music. The practice is global too — anywhere with a fast Internet connection, he said. At any moment, there are about 10 million people globally logged on to a file-sharing network such as LimeWire or BitTorrent. For the record companies, the loss of these customers can be especially damaging because young buyers used to spend the most money on albums as they searched for a favorite genre of music, he said. The result of the online piracy

has been a steady drop in compact-disc sales, industry representatives said. From 2000 to 2005 — the latest figures available — CD sales of compact discs fell from $13.2 billion to $10.5 billion, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. “We are talking about billions of dollars in lost sales, thousands of lost jobs, countless lost career opportunities and major barrier to the growth of a legitimate online marketplace,” said Cary Sherman, president of the association, testifying before Congress in March. And lately, a key target of organization has been higher education. In the past few weeks, the industry has sent written warnings to dozens of colleges, asking them to pass along legal threats to hundreds of students the industry suspects are stealing music. These ‘pre-litigation settlement letters’ are intended to pressure students to pay the industry for alleged stealing of music before a lawsuit is filed or taken to court. Among the schools targeted have been the University of South Florida, with 31 letters, and Florida International University, with 16 letters. Neither UCF nor UF were included in the mass mailings.

It is a change from a broader legal strategy the Recording Industry Association of America has employed since 2003. Of its previous 18,000 lawsuits, only about a 1,000 were aimed at college students, a spokeswoman for the association said. Lawsuits and technologies such as Integrity aren’t the only ways the record companies are trying to stem illegal file-sharing. They also are putting pressure on Congress to change the laws to aid their cause. Recently, U.S. Rep. Ric Keller, R-Orlando, introduced a measure that would help colleges pay for programs that can stop or limit online piracy on their campus servers. “This is the kinder, gentler approach we’re starting with,” Keller said. But he warned more punitive steps would follow if colleges did not make a good-faith effort to curb the practice. During the 2006 election cycle, Keller took more than $4,000 from the Recording Industry Association of America, according to The Center for Responsive Politics, a nonpartisan research group that tracks money in politics. Keller said the campaign contributions had ‘zero’ influence on his decision to introduce the legislation, noting that he also got significant donations from higher-education sources.

By Ashley Wilrich The University Star Students will be given the opportunity to learn about the Japanese culture at the fourth annual Sakura Festival. The festival will be held 6 to 9 p.m. Friday in the LBJ Ballroom. Admission is $3. The Sakura Festival is based on the celebration of the blooming of the cherry blossom. “When the flower blooms, some would either have lunch or dance under the tree and have just have a good time,” said Misa Yamamoto, president of the Japanese Language and Culture club. The festival will have different booths where students can learn about the Japanese culture. Booths will include paper crafts, calligraphy, Japanese trends and a traditional Kimono booth. “(The people of) Japan have a different style than Americans, so we will be selling some of those clothes,” Yamamoto, communication design freshman, said. The attendees will be able to

hear traditional Japanese songs, see Karate and Budo performed, break dancing and a traditional dance, So-ran. The dance, which is performed at every Sakura Festival, will be lead by Masatoto Tani, club member and pre-athletic training sophomore. It will be performed with old and new- aged music. Dancers will be dressed in new-aged clothing with a traditional influence. “You can see the Japanese influence on the dance, and it’s one of the main parts of the festival, so we practice a lot,” said Emi Kanemoto, club member and undecided freshman. Zen, a Japanese restaurant in Austin, will donate Teriyaki chicken, rice and sushi. Yamamoto said the club has been planning for this event since the fall and have been doing fundraisers to make the event possible. “We sold green tea in The Quad and green tea cookies in the Farmer’s Market in Austin,” Yamamoto said. Door prizes will be given, including a gift certificate from Zen and Amnet Travel Agency, along with other prizes.

TRENDS

Page 10 - The University Star

Thursday, April 19, 2007

River Raft Race slated to draw thousands, benefit charity By Alicia Lacy The University Star About 2,000 people from across the state are expected to participate in the 14th annual River Raft Race on the Guadalupe River. The event, hosted by Sigma Alpha Epsilon and Texas Sigma Alumni Association, will begin 9 a.m. Saturday in Gruene. Despite its name, the event isn’t an actual race, but an effort to have coeds from all over Texas float the Guadalupe. Gus Elliot, member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, has been involved with River Raft Race for three years. He said the event was planned early. “We plan for this event all year long in one way or another,” said Elliot, electronic media senior. “In fact, we are already negotiating with some media sponsors and planning ways to make this event even bigger for next year.”

“W

e plan for this event all year long in one way or another.”

— Gus Elliot member, Sigma Alpha Epsilon

Elliot said the race has become a Texas State tradition. “I actually heard all about the River Raft Race before I ever came to Texas State,” he said. The alumni association anticipates the use of over 300 rafts this year. The rafts are included in the registration for the event and purchased through Rockin’ R River Rides. Funding for the race is provided by sponsors, said Tommy Pourmahram, River Raft Race chair. “We make money off of the sponsors and donate a chunk of the proceeds to one or two

cancer organizations,” said Pourmahram, Texas State alumnus. He said this year’s proceeds will go to the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Participants are allowed to have coolers on their rafts, but glass bottles are not permitted. Registration is $30 per person with 5 people allowed per raft. Individuals or groups interested in participating can register online at www.riverraftrace.com. The event will end 11 p.m.

Photo courtesy of www.riverraftrace.com TUBING FOR A CAUSE: Locals pack the river during the 2005 River Raft Race. This year’s race will start 9 p.m. in Gruene with proceeds going to the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

SOULSPEAK: ONE LAST VISIT HOME CONTINUED from page 8

a large smile. I made it to my house about 6:30 that morning. The house was silent, as it normally was for a Saturday morning. I came in through the door and looked around. The house was much the same as it was before, but on the table were flowers and a stack of cards, most with the words ‘I’m sorry’, or ‘deepest sympathies’ written on them; she did know. I walked up the stairs and entered my room. Samantha was still in bed, and Jillian had crawled into bed next to her. I was a bit tired, so I figured there wouldn’t be any harm in taking a short nap. I got into bed and laid down next to Samantha and put my arm around her, and brushed the hair from Jillian’s face. Before I fell asleep, I could hear her voice mutter something in

her sleep. “I love you daddy.” When I woke up, Jillian was still asleep, but Samantha was gone. I figured she had gone downstairs, so I got out of bed and followed. Downstairs, the television was on, and Sam lying on the couch. She’s probably had a rough few days… I thought to myself as I walked to the couch. I sat down and ran my hand across her head. “I’m sorry it had to end like this,” I said. “I am too,” she replied in a slurred and sleepy voice, “but that’s life. No one knows what will happen.” It was strange hearing her talk like that, although I do remember hearing that when a person is asleep, they can actually hear the spirits around them because of the deep immersion into their subconscious. “I’m just glad to hear your

voice one more time,” Sam added, rolling towards me. “Me too… me too.” I brushed her head one more time, and gave her one last kiss. “I love you, Sam. I’ll be waiting for you.” “I love you too,” she said as she curled up. “I’ll see you around?” I stood up and moved for the door. “Yeah, I’ll be around.” So now where? I had already done what all I wanted to do. I walked down the street, trying to figure out what my next course of action was when I felt something brush past my ear. As I reached to see what it was, I noticed my shadow seemed a bit different. With a huge grin, I reached around and felt my back. About time… I jumped into the air and took off, finally able to go home. Jerry was right. They were wonderful.

TRENDS

Thursday, April 19, 2007

The University Star - Page 11

Service sorority will host unique fundraiser for cancer research By Ashley Wilrich The University Star

Photo courtesy of myspace.com/pagemcconnell FLYING SOLO: Page McConnell, former keyboard player of Phish, has released a solo album three years after the breakup of the band.

Former Phish keyboardist completes solo album By Joshua Klein McClatchy Newspapers When jam-band favorite Phish broke up in 2004, fans soon found things weren’t quite as hopeless as they seemed. After all, the group’s hiatus, which began in 2000, lasted only a couple of years before touring resumed, and by all accounts the band has remained good friends since the break-up, even as they busy themselves with various solo projects. And none of the four has totally ruled out the possibility of a reunion. Even so, keyboard player Page McConnell, with his eponymous solo CD on shelves as of Tuesday, can’t imagine that happening any time soon. “The hiatus was a hiatus, and a break-up is a break-up,” McConnell said. “Should the band ever

decide to get back together, that would be a little bit different than when we got back together after the hiatus, I suppose. I don’t see that happening this week or anything.” McConnell’s album does include contributions from all three former Phish members — Trey Anastasio, Mike Gordon and Jon Fishman — but the soft-spoken musician plays down the significance. “I wasn’t looking to make a statement,” stresses McConnell. “I was just looking to make an album. I did most of my recording here in Burlington, (Vt.). I spent a year and a half, solid, working on this. It was my record, and (the other Phish members) came in and made some cameo appearances. “They’re really great players, and I still enjoy playing with

them,” he quickly but carefully clarifies. “But this really was my project, something I poured myself into. They came and helped me out a couple of times, but there was no point where all three of them were together. I wasn’t trying to reassemble the band on my record. I was just looking for a little help from my friends.” To that end, McConnell’s album features appearances from a few new friends, most prominently the legendary session drummer Jim Keltner, who has played with everyone from John Lennon to Neil Young. “He enjoyed stretching out, but I had no idea that was going to happen when we got to the studio,” McConnell said. “It was completely spontaneous, and one of the great joys of the project. The first thing we tried was ‘Rules I Don’t Know.’ He

came into the studio, within half an hour we were sitting down at our instruments and the first take — that was it.” Getting the finished product into shape was slightly slower process, especially once McConnell realized he had a solo album on his hands. “I’d been rolling along with the project, then started thinking about an end to this,” he said. “What does that mean? What does it involve? Is it really something I want to put out? So I wrote a few more songs and rounded it out. “If I’d been involved with Phish as I was for so many years, I wouldn’t have had the time to do this,” he said. “It’s my record, and it sounds sort of like me, people say — even more so than Vida Blue or Phish. It’s obviously my voice and my writing. I’m happy with it.”

The Omicron chapter of Kappa Delta Chi sorority, a community service organization, is hosting its annual Bowl-a-Thon. The Bowl-a-Thon will raise money for the American Cancer Society. The event will be 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Sunset Bowling Lanes. The Omicron chapter has hosted the Bowla-Thon for six years. The organization kept the Bowl-a-Thon as their main fundraising event since the national members of the sorority selected it. Graciela Puente, community service chair, said each national chapter of the organization participates in the Bowl-a-Thon. However, everyone is welcome to join. “Anyone can participate in the bowl-a-thon and help out cancer research,” said Puente, interdisciplinary studies junior. Several greek and

non-greek organizations participate in the event, including Phi Kappa Psi, Lambda Theta Pi, Chi Omega and Sigma Lambda Theta. Celix Cortez, president of the Omicron chapter of Kappa Delta Chi, said the organization will participate with two or three teams. Trophies will be given to first, second and third places. “We will also give out an MVP award to one of the players,” said Cortez, psychology senior. Puente has worked to make the event possible since last year. “It’s tradition and it’s always been successful,” Puente said. The money raised from this event will be sent to the National office, which will then send it to the American Cancer Society. Businesses also donated money to the Bowl-a-Thon. “We give a big thank you to HEB and Aus-Tex transmission who donated money,” Puente said.

“W

e will also give out an MVP award to one of the players.”

— Celix Cortez president, Omicron chapter of Kappa Delta Chi

TRENDS

Page 12 - The University Star

Thursday, April 19, 2007

Wittliff exhibit explores themes of childhood, innocence By Laura Jamison The University Star

L

ittle Mary danced for the photographer. Another little hero poised confidently amid a “Glorious Harvest.” Connie Todd, curator of special collections at Alkek Library, said the current exhibit reminds us of our own innocence. “They are who we once were — lost innocence and second chances,” Todd said. The LITTLE HEROES exhibit is a compilation of photographs owned by the Wittliff Gallery of Southwestern and Mexican Photography. Todd said the abundance of children in their permanent collection became apparent and the curators wanted to explore why. “Children are the best work of the best photographers,” Todd said. The Wittliff Gallery, located

THURSDAY Lonesome Dove Revisited The exhibit is located in the Southwestern Writers Collection on the seventh floor of Alkek Library. Exhibit hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday; 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (512) 245-2313. Hecho en Tejas: Celebrating Texas Mexican Literature The exhibit is located in the Southwestern Writers Collection on the seventh floor of Alkek Library. Exhibit hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday; 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (512) 245-2313. LITTLE HEROES This exhibition features children as subjects and reflects the breadth and depth of the Wittliff Gallery’s permanent collection, including its world-class holdings of contemporary Mexican photography. The exhibit is in the Wittliff Gallery of Southwestern & Mexican Photography on the seventh floor of Alkek Library. Exhibits are free and open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday; 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday. Much Ado About Nothing The play is directed by Chuck Ney and begins 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at the Mainstage Theatre. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $5 for students. Call the box office at (512) 245-2204.

on the seventh floor of Alkek, will host an exhibition reception and panel discussion 7 p.m. Saturday featuring photographers O. Rufus Lovett, Antonio Turok and Geoff Winningham. “We have three photographers coming here and they are extremely well-established and they are all teachers,” Todd said. Michele Miller, marketing and promotions coordinator at the Wittliff Gallery, said the collection is a snapshot of its permanent collection. “We have 30 photos here and people see a wide range of artistic sensibilities, photographic views and subject matter,” Miller said. According to Miller, each show is about fun and education. “You don’t have to be from here to enjoy this work, but it always informs the spirit of place — the Southwest and Mexico,” Miller said.

Thesis Exhibition I Gallery I & II will feature an exhibition of work by studio art students. The opening reception will be held Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. Galleries I and II are located on the second floor of the Joann Cole Mitte Art Building. Gallery hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Friday and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Choreographers’ Showcase This concert features faculty and students enrolled in Advanced Choreography. The event will be in Jowers Center, Room 178 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Admission is $5 at the door. Wind Ensemble The ensemble will play under the direction of Rod Schueller 7 p.m. at Hays CISD Performing Arts Center in Kyle. Free. Call (512) 245-2651 for more information. Alfred C. Kinsey: The Scientist as Social Reformer Historian James H. Jones will address the life of Alfred Kinsey 6:30 p.m. in the LBJSC Teaching Theater. Free.

FRIDAY Lonesome Dove Revisited Hecho en Tejas: Celebrating Texas Mexican Literature Little Heroes Much Ado About Nothing Thesis Exhibition I Choreographers’ Showcase Senior Voice Recitals Amanda Shelton and Monica Kiss, voice students of Cheryl Parrish, will perform 6 and 8 p.m., respectively, in the Music Building recital hall. Free.

tory and uprisings,” Miller said. “He is going to be really amazing. He has been following insurgencies and he is always smack in the middle of it.” “The Encounter,” by Turok, is a photograph taken in Mexico of a freckle-faced boy pointing a gun at the camera. “There is an interest artistically and historically to this photo,” Miller said. “I love this photo because it engages me directly. There is hardly any distance between me and that photo.” Todd said she asked photographer Graciela Iturbide, whose Monty Marion/Star photo work is featured in the exhibit, PHOTOGRAPHIC INNOCENCE: The LITTLE HEROES photography why she took so many photographs of children. exhibit, displayed in the Wittliff Gallery of the Alkek Library, will have “She said, ‘Well, they are alits opening reception 7 p.m. Saturday. The exhibit will stay open ways around,’” Todd said. “But through August 8. what she meant was they were always around in her head too. Miller said Turok attempts to “Antonio Turok not only has They were part of her artistic capture the moment and create artistic sensibility, but he works landscape.” art. to document the moment, hisMiller said the photographs

SATURDAY Lonesome Dove Revisited Hecho en Tejas: Celebrating Texas Mexican Literature Little Heroes Reception The Wittliff Gallery will host an exhibition reception and panel discussion 7 p.m. Saturday featuring photographers O. Rufus Lovett, Antonio Turok and Geoff Winningham. Free. RSVP at wittliffgallery@txstate.edu or (512) 245-2313. Much Ado About Nothing Thesis Exhibition I Senior Oboe Recital Josh Mello, student of Ian Davidson performs 2:30 p.m. in the Music Building recital hall. Free.

Little Heroes

Auditorium. Tickets are $2 for the general public and $1 for students. For more information, call (512) 245-2651.

Much Ado About Nothing

TUESDAY

Hecho en Tejas: Celebrating Texas Mexican Literature

Lonesome Dove Revisited

Men’s and Women’s Chorus The choirs will perform 3 p.m. in Evans Auditorium. Tickets are $2 for the general public and $1 for students. For more information, call (512) 245-2651.

Little Heroes

Junior Voice Recital Ashley Stone, voice student of Bert Neely performs 4 p.m. in the Music Building recital hall. Free.

Double Reed Recital The event will be 8 p.m. in the Music Building recital hall. Free.

Senior Bass Recital Adam Booker, student of Howard Hudiburg and David Dawson, performs 4 p.m. at the University Performing Arts Center. Free.

Lonesome Dove Revisited

Senior Clarinet Recital S. Katelyn Bullock, student of David Pino performs 6 p.m. in the Music Building recital hall. Free. VocaLibre Graduate student Jonathan Jones will conduct the recital 8 p.m. in Evans Auditorium. Tickets are $2 for the general public and $1 for students. For more information, call (512) 245-2651.

SUNDAY Lonesome Dove Revisited

MONDAY

Hecho en Tejas: Celebrating Texas Mexican Literature

Hecho en Tejas: Celebrating Texas Mexican Literature

Thesis Exhibition II Faculty Brass Quintet “Southwest Brassworks” Recital The quintet, featuring Keith Winking, Jack Laumer, Steve Hager, Charles Hurt and Raul I. Rodriguez will perform noon in the Music Building lobby. Free. Concert Band The band, featuring student conductors, will perform 8 p.m. in Evans Auditorium. Free. Tickets are $2 for the general public and $1 for students. For more information, call (512) 245-2651.

WEDNESDAY Lonesome Dove Revisited

Little Heroes Thesis Exhibition II Gallery I & II will feature an exhibition of work by studio art students. The opening reception will be held 5 to 7 p.m. Texas State HornCats The HornCats, under the direction of H. Stephen Hager, will perform 6 p.m. in the Music Building recital hall. Free. Jazz Orchestra The orchestra, under the direction of Keith Winking, will perform 8 p.m. in Evans

✯ FYI The reception will begin 7 p.m. and the program 8 p.m. The event is free. RSVPs are requested at either wittliffgallery@txstate.edu or (512) 245-2313. The exhibit will run through August 10.

Hecho en Tejas: Celebrating Texas Mexican Literature Little Heroes Thesis Exhibition II

Clarinet Studio Recital Students of David Pino perform 2 p.m. in the Music Building recital hall. Free.

University Chorale and University Singers The performance will be 6 p.m. in Evans Auditorium. Tickets are $2 for the general public and $1 for students. For more information, call (512) 245-2651.

of children are more than just endearing. “With children, we think they are just cute, but these are challenging images,” Miller said. Todd said children give photographers truth. “They look for truth, beauty, surprise and revelation. And kids give them that,” Todd said.

KTSW’s 15th Anniversary Celebration Student radio station celebrates their anniversary with performances by Carley Wolf, Gobi, Three Leaf and the Low Down Family String Band at Sewell Park 2 to 6 p.m. Free. Riverfest The event will feature performances by Eli Young Band, Bob Schneider and Aaron Watson 2 to 11 p.m. at Sewell Park. Free. For more information call (512) 245-8263. Brass Chamber Music & Trumpet Ensemble The ensemble, under the direction of Jack Laumer, 6 p.m. in the University Performing Arts Center. Free. Concert Band The band, featuring student conductors, will perform 8 p.m. in Evans Auditorium. Tickets are $2 for the general public and $1 for students. For more information, call (512) 245-2651.

TV SCHEDULE for Channels 17 &19 Thursday 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m. Tuesday 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. Wednesday 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m.

Zilo: Week 7 Hr 2 (Ch 17 ONLY) French in Action Lesson 39 French in Action Lesson 52 Entrepreneurship: Margaret Martin Entrepreneurship: Lew Little Entrepreneurship: Jack Martin Entrepreneurship: William Cunningham Entrepreneurship: Ruben Escobedo Entrepreneurship: Karl Rove Entrepreneurship: Cindy Matula

TRENDS/DIVERSIONS

Thursday, April 19, 2007

The University Star - Page 13

✯Star Comics

Indie music sites deliver fresh new tunes It’s almost that time of although the radio the year again where, in player isn’t so keen: Texas at least, the warmI could have done er season is almost here. without the customAnd for me at least, skinned QuickTime summer doesn’t begin window. In fact, I until it’s warm enough could have done withoutside to listen to fresh out QuickTime at all, music. Onlookers be but you get what you BILL RIX damned, because it’s just pay for. And this isn’t Star Columnist not summer until you can bad. hear people’s cars from the next Next up is Radio Indie. Neverblock over. mind the heinous site design and What’s a fresh place for music, lack of programming; this choice though? I already covered Panis indie to the core. While there dora and Slacker, but of course isn’t much to the play list, there they aren’t the only sites out isn’t much to complain about eithere. And such sites tend to get ther (aside from the aesthetics): shut down or Simple, clean, threatened by indie radio. the RecordAll of the ow this isn’t ing Industry sites have been Association of good so far, just indie as America on a but here’s one in alternative and regular basis, more to my likrock, but also so let’s take a ing: Haystack. step away from It’s not just independent hipones which air & Wine, hop, Americana, Iron mostly comModest Mouse mercial music and The Apfolk and what and focus on a pleseed Cast at have you. niche market: Haystack; it’s the less-lisalso Sage Frantened indie scene. cis, Cappadonna and Redman. Now this isn’t just indie as in Not too indie, I’m sure, but the alternative and rock, but also staff picks are full of names I’ve independent hip-hop, Americana, not heard of, so maybe someone folk and what have you. out there will appreciate the First stop is AVdeck Indie diverse collection Haystack has © Pappocom Radio. This half-blog, half-music to offer. Web site features news and Another worthy mention is information about upcoming nonstep radio. This site is quite and newly released albums. The the converse of Radio Indie site features a clean interface, — clean design and a healthy

N

Complete the grid so that every row, column, and 3-by-3 box contains every digit from one through nine inclusively. Wednesday’s solutions:

Wednesday’s solutions:

dose of indie tracks. It boasts “indie, pop, lo-fi, noise-pop and vintage tracks” so there is doubtlessly music for all tastes available. Thankfully, nonstep is a streaming server, more or less, so you listen with whatever your choice media agent is — iTunes, Winamp or what have you, which means even more control for the listener. Last but not least is MusicHawk. This site isn’t as much as a radio station as it is a social networking-type community, somewhat like Last.fm. You can peruse bands you like, add them to a list of “my bands” and see what others are listening to. Definitely useful for finding your next favorite artist or album. With any luck, you will be ready for the hot months, armed with an arsenal of awesome music. Leave the Billboard Top 100 behind and give some of the lesser-knowns a listen.

✯Radio Web sites Check out these radio Web sites: AVdeck Indie Rock– www.avdeck.com Radio Indie– www.radioindie.com Haystack– www.haystack.com nonstep radio– www.nonstep.com Musichawk– www.musichawk.com

OPINIONS T WIRELESS onlineconnection

THE UNIVERSITY STAR

What do you plan to do this summer? Go to www.UniversityStar.com to vote in our online poll. Results will be published in next Thursday’s issue of The University Star. *This is not a scientific poll

Thursday, April 19, 2007 - Page 14

Opinions Contact — Emily Messer, staropinion@txstate.edu

THE MAIN POINT

he city of San Marcos is in the process of securing a wireless Internet service provider.

As the city continues to grow and seeks to attract more residents, wireless Internet is a welcome addition to the city, and, for some, possibly one less monthly bill to worry about. If this is enacted, the city will be blanketed by broadband. As convenient as it is to have wireless Internet — some of us are still using oldschool dialup — the pervasiveness of Internet addiction and overuse is something to be concerned about. “Just like the use of food, the drinking of alcohol, or the purchasing of material things can escalate into misuse and abuse, so can one’s interest in and preoccupation with using the Internet become an addiction,” according to the Counseling Center Web site. The Web site goes on to list free, unlimited Internet access as a cause of Internet overuse. Some of the most common activities people neglect in exchange for overusing the Internet include time with family and friends, sleep, exercise, hobbies, social events and sex. Most would agree the aforementioned activities are more enjoyable and healthier than browsing the Internet. But along with Internet addiction comes more absorption into the growing technological world. Cell phones, Internet, laptops, computers, video games, iPods and TV all consume a large amount of our time and face-to-face communication is becoming more rare. In this bubble we create for ourselves, we constantly check Myspace or Facebook to see if we have any new messages or “pokes.” The latter quite possibly may be the lowest form of communication on the planet, next to honking your horn at someone in the car next to you. Plus, it’s called poking. Though the Internet can be used as social medium, high levels of communication are not achieved. These social networking sites may connect people with other individuals, but the persona we create on the Internet is entirely up to us. People use their best photos, create their own descriptions — basically tweak their own image. The most unappealing users can market themselves as enticing and alluring. According to the Counseling Center Web site, “Some people are drawn to a ‘faceless community,’ one where a person can enter into multiple cyber-relationships with anonymity and create one or multiple new online personas. Certainly persons with quite a lot of discretionary time on their hands are susceptible, including homebound people or college students adjusting to the new schedule on a university campus.” It’s ironic that even though the Internet connects us with the rest of the world, we have become more self absorbed and less worldly.

WORRIES

Internet overuse dulls culture, isolates society

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

To Chris Anderson and Rebecca Quillin: I received the recorded message with which you phoned me earlier today. I had not planned on voting in the Associated Student Government elections. When I was alerted to the ease with which I could vote online, I went and voted for your opponents. I found the running platform you described in the message vacuous. Most specifically mentioned was a “real vision for our athletics program” which indicated to me that you don’t have your priorities straight. I appreciate your efforts to get me to the polls as I’m sure your opponents will make better representatives considering they at least have the decency not to intrude into my life by phoning me with a recorded message when they can’t or don’t wish to call me in person. And did you know that cell phone airtime costs real money? If you would like to discuss this matter further, just call — you have my number.

Web site for ASG not accessible enough Whoever wins the Associated Student Government election, I hope they take time to update the ASG Web page. It is one thing to mention the ASG scholarship; it is another to actually have a link to the application form. For students who attend the Round Rock Higher Education Center or attend night classes, the ASG Web page may be the only viable way to interact with the ASG. Charles Carpenter interdisciplinary studies graduate student Think you have something to say? Log on to www.universitystar.com and click on the letters link to read old letters and submit new ones.

Online Poll Results ASG Elections

D

Justin Jackley/Star illustration

LEGAL GUY: Understanding towing laws can save money

The University Star

Opponents win vote after intrusive call

Michael Pederson computer science graduate student

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.

One day last semespay a “show up” fee of ter, Nathan Chacona $20. This is the cheapest experienced a diand easiest way to avoid lemma many college having your car towed. students have gone However, it obviously through: He woke up requires good timing. to find his car missing Knowing the law when from its parking spot. it comes to towing could CARSON GUY Chacona’s 1995 be the difference beStar Columnist Lexus wasn’t stolen, it tween an $85 fee and a was just towed while parked at $20 one. Not many people seem the Timbers, a local apartment to know exactly what the law is complex. in regard to towing. “I went to sleep one night, I personally had heard that woke up the next morning and you could stop a tow truck drivsaw my car was gone,” said er if they were still at the scene Chacona, pre-psychology sophowith your car, but I did not know more. “At first I wasn’t sure for sure. That is why I took the where I parked it, but I eventual- liberty of researching towing ly figured out it got towed. When laws and am happy to share my I finally found my car, I had to findings. pay $85 to get it out. They hit Towing, like many other situwith me with a storage fee to go ations, is most easily dealt with with my $60 towing fee.” by having a solid understanding Many times, owners do not of your rights so that when givsee their vehicles being taken en the opportunity, you can save away. However, if you do happen yourself money and cannot be to catch the wrecker before its taken advantage of. Not knowdriver has lifted two wheels off ing your rights could cause the of the ground, then according to tow truck driver to haul off your a city ordinance, you can request vehicle. On the other hand, if they not tow your car and you you know your rights and right-

Letter to the Editor

fully and lawfully assert them, you can save yourself a lot of hassle and even some cash. The first thing to know is the San Marcos City Council passed an ordinance regulating the maximum price tow truck companies can charge for various situations. Furthermore, the city makes it illegal for any wrecker operator “to make any … representation to the owner of a towed vehicle that the amounts of wrecker fees are set by the city, or that the city requires the wrecker driver of wrecker service to charge certain amounts for its services” in Clause D, Section 90.290 of the city ordinances. Not only is it wrong to misrepresent the fact that the city sets prices, but it is a crime. If activity like this is ever observed, it should be reported to the proper authorities. The rules governing how much to charge the person whose vehicle is being towed are worth taking a gander at. First, the ordinance says if the owner of the towed vehicle requests the wrecker operator release the owner’s vehicle

Editor In Chief...................................Jason Buch, stareditor@txstate.edu Managing Editor.........................Emily Messer, staropinion@txstate.edu News Editor..............................Nick Georgiou, starnews@txstate.edu Trends Editor....................Maira Garcia, starentertainment@txstate.edu Photo Editor...................................Monty Marion, starphoto@txstate.edu Sports Editor..................................Chris Boehm, starsports@txstate.edu

before the driver has left the scene then the driver must comply for a small fee. Stopping the wrecker driver here could save you $55. If, for example, you stopped the tow truck driver while they were driving away and requested they release your car, they would have to release it and then charge, “not more than one-half the normal wrecker fee.” The maximum wrecker fee, which of course also happens to be the standard fee, is $60. If you are unlucky enough to be towed and unfortunate enough not to catch the driver taking your vehicle in time, then you have the maximum standard fee to look forward to. When you figure out your car has been towed and where exactly it is you will be looking at the same fine or one very similar to that which Chacona received. Not only will there be a towing fee, but there will also be a storage fee associated with getting your vehicle released if it had to stay overnight at the wrecker’s lot. If your prized possession is

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towed, then make sure to locate it and get it released as soon as possible, because you will rack up storage fees for every day your car sits in the lot — but that is a different story altogether. These are the rules set by the city of San Marcos and applicable to most students, unless you happen to drive a dump truck or eighteen-wheeler to school, in which case the maximum fee you face is $250 because towing your ride requires a Category B wrecker. Most likely, though, students won’t be driving Big Rigs around town.

o you feel you had enough information to make an educated decision in the Associated Student Government elections? No

57% Yes

40% Not sure/ I don’t know

4%

Carson Guy is a political science senior. His column tackles legal quandaries. E-mail questions to Guy at staropinion@txstate.edu. The content and opinions contained herein are in no way meant as legal advice. All information is general in nature. Do not rely on information within this article when trying to resolve a specific legal issue. All situations are unique and require specific legal advice from

Account Executive...........................Jackie Pardue, jp1271@txstate.edu Account Executive.....................Krystal Slater, ks1429@txstate.edu Publications Coordinator..Linda Allen, starbusinessoffice@txstate.edu Publications Director..............Bob Bajackson, stardirector@txstate.edu Visit The Star at www.UniversityStar.com

Results compiled from The University Star Web site online poll. This is not a scientific survey.

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 April 19, 2007. All copy, photographs and graphics appearing in The University Star are the exclusive property of The University Star and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the editor in chief.

C �LASSIFIEDS ���������� THE STAR ����UNIVERSITY ���������������

��������������������� ad policiesand costs

Thursday, April 19, 2007 Page 15 Wednesday, August 24,-2005 - Page 33

All classified ads are charged 20¢ per word. Ads may be emailed to starclassifieds@txstate.edu. Check your classified ad for accuracy. Any changes must be made by the second day of publication. The deadline for all classified ads is noon two business days prior to publication. Classified ads must be paid in advance unless credit has been established. Refunds will only be given when a classified ad has been paid by credit card. The Star reserves the right to refuse, edit, and discontinue any classified ad at any time without prior notification. Classified ads will be edited for style purposes. Classified ads that do not note heading, will be put under the appropriate heading. All classified ads are published free, on-line at www.universitystar.com. Since this is a free service, posting is not guaranteed. While The University Star attempts to screen ads for misleading claims or illegal content, it is not possible for us to investigate every ad and advertiser. Please use caution when answering ads, especially any which require you to send money in advance.

E-mail starclassifieds@txstate.edu Email Classifieds Classifieds at starclassifieds@txstate.edu

FOR RENT

FOR RENT

$495, 1BD/1BA, ON TSU SHUTTLE. FREE internet. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. 1BD/1BA, $450. 4-PLEX, 500 SQ. FT. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. $410 EFFICIENCY, DOWNTOWN & CLOSE TO TSU. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. NEXT TO CAMPUS-BALCONES APTS. 1BD, 2BD, 3BD, roommate matching. Pre-lease for May or Aug. Now updated w/ wooden floors and ceramic tile. Economical w/ bills included. Most rooms $300-$375. 1BD/1BA with electric, cable and Internet, $620/mo. (512) 392-2700. MOVE-IN TODAY!!! $785 2BD/2.5BA townhouse, 3 blks. from TSU. Free HBO, free Road Runner, full size w/d, SMALL, CLEAN AND QUIET COMMUNITY. www.windmilltownhomes.com for floor plans and prices. (512) 396-4181.

LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION. Walk to class. 427 Lindsey St. Apts. Priv. 1BD/1BA. Very nice. Tile floors, ceiling fans, w/d. $675/mo. Adjoins campus at Lindsey and Academy St. James K. Wise Real Estate, (512) 396-8400. $0 APP. $0 DEP. $199 total movein. 1BD/1BA, $475; 2BD/2BA, $570. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. 4BD/2BA, $279 P.P. Most bills paid. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. HOUSES NEXT TO CAMPUS. For more information, call (512) 392-2700. SUMMER LEASE! 3 BD/2 BA, 1,250 sq. ft., gated community, 3 mo. leases available. (512) 754-3344, agent.

FOR RENT-APTS NOW PRE-LEASING-2,3 and 4 bedrooms apartments, condos, duplexes and houses. Great Locations, (512) 878-2233.

FOR RENT-APTS APLUSAPTS.NET. Pictures, prices, floorplans, deposit info. It’s free! MAY SPECIALS, PRE-LEASE NOW! Most bills paid, Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. BEST PRICE! Large 4BD/2BA with wood floors. Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. 2BD/1BA. $750, walking distance to campus! Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. ALL BILLS PAID. Student property. Call today! www.glsanmarcos.com, (512) 878-2233. NOW PRE-LEASING FOR MAY ‘07 AND AUGUST ‘07. Call Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. AWESOME DEAL! 2BD/2BA, 974 SQ. FT. $696. w/d included. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. APLUSAPTS.NET. Pictures, prices, floorplans, deposit info. It’s free!

FOR RENT-APTS

FOR RENT-APTS

FOR RENT-APTS

ALL BILLS PAID! 1, 2, 3, 4 bedrooms available. w/d included. Walk to school. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. ASAP MOVE-INS! 1BD, $425; 2BD, $500; 3BD, $650. Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. 1BD APT. NEXT TO CAMPUS. $625/mo. Includes internet, cable, electric, gas, water, and garbage. (512) 392-2700. PERFECT ROOMMATE DESIGN, bus route, includes, w/d. Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. APLUSAPTS.NET. Pictures, prices, floorplans, deposit info. It’s free! $785 PRE-LEASE NOW FOR 8/20. 2/2.5 townhouse, 3 blks. from TSU. Free HBO, free Road Runner, full Size w/d, small, clean and quiet community. www.windmilltownhomes.com for floor plans and prices. (512) 396-4181.

FURNISHED 4BD/4BA STUDENT PROPERTY. Great price! Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. APLUSAPTS.NET. Pictures, prices, floorplans, deposit info. It’s free! MAKE $150 FOR USING MY FREE REALTOR SERVICES TO FIND YOUR NEXT APARTMENT. CALL AARON JOHNSON (713) 294-3330. CHAMPIONS REAL ESTATE GROUP. LARGE 1BD WITH HUGE WALK IN CLOSET! www.glsanmarcos.com, (512) 878-2233. APLUSAPTS.NET. Pictures, prices, floorplans, deposit info. It’s free! 1BD/1BA AVAILABLE! Water paid. www.glsanmarcos.com, (512) 878-2233. DUPLEXES AVAILABLE at Great Locations, (512) 878-2233.

APARTMENTSTOGO.COM. Free list of apartment prices and amenities or visit our office on The Square! (512) 353-FREE. ASAP MOVE-INS. Call Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. TAKE OVER MY LEASE FOR THE SUMMER. $385/mo. All bills included at The Exchange. Pet deposit paid. Pets welcome. (512) 639-9267. 1BD OR 2 BD. Great view, spacious loft, washer & dryer. Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. 4BD/4BA, $350 A MONTH. Internet/ cable w/ HBO/phone/trash pd. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. 1BD APT. FOR RENT. Walk to campus. $400/mo. Most bills paid. (512) 392-4012.

CLASSIFIEDS

Page 16 - The University Star

Thursday, April 19, 2007

FOR RENT-APTS

FOR RENT-DUPLEX

FOR RENT-HOUSES

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

$575, 2BD/2BA, 810 SQ. FT. $200 OFF 1st month rent. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. SUMMER APT. AT THE OUTPOST. 1BD w/BA in a 4BD. May-Aug. Cable, internet, furnishings, etc included. Call Courtney (214) 478-4905.

FOR RENT DUPLEX 3BD/3.5BA 103/105 Cedergrove (on bus route). Fenced backyard/pets ok. $1,099 per month. (512) 351-3034. DUPLEX-3BD/2.5BA/2 CAR GARAGE on bus route, w/d, $1,050/mo., pets ok. Call (512) 587-7559. FOR LEASE 2BD/2BA DUPLEX APARTMENT at 911 Allen St. in San Marcos. Carport, fenced backyard, pets allowed, $775/mo. Available June 1. Call Steve at (830) 832-5644. SPACIOUS 3BD/2.5BA with garage & w/d. www.primepmc.com, (512) 878-1792. SPACIOUS 3BD/2.5BA w/ garage, w/d included. Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. 3BD/3BA AVAILABLE NOW! $800/month. www.primepmc.com (512) 878-1792. AVAILABLE NOW! 3BD/3BA, cable, w/d included. Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. AVAILABLE NOW! 3BD/3BA, w/d included, cable & trash paid. www.primepmc.com, (512) 878-1792. 2BD/1BA AVAILABLE NOW! Newly remodeled, great neighborhood. PRIME PMC, (512) 878-2233. 3BD/2BA DUPLEXES available on Baylor and Earle Streets. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy, (512) 665-3321. SPACIOUS 3BD/3BA in small apartment community, very private. PRIME PMC, (512) 878-2233.

FOR LEASE-NEW 3,200 SQ. FT. HOME for group of ten occupants only 15 minutes to Lockhart. Award-winning design includes 10’ ceilings throughout, fireplace, all appliances, stained concrete floors on first level, 4 large bedrooms, 2 small bedrooms, 6 bathrooms. Will be available by midMay. $535/mo. per occupant, plus share of utilities, with a one year lease. Brokers & agents welcomed. Call agent Ed Sykes, (512) 905-2069, edsykes3@hotmail.com 3BD/2BA HOUSE FOR RENT. 1204 Dartmouth. Minutes from campus. Refrigerator, w/d, 2 car garage. $1,100/mo. (512) 338-4626 or (512) 963-5369 3BD/2BA HOME AVAILABLE ASAP! Great neighborhood, 1,600 sq. ft. PRIME PMC, (512) 878-2233. 3BD/2.5BA AVAILABLE IN KYLE AREA, new house! PRIME PMC, (512) 878-2233. 3BD/2BA HOUSE FOR RENT. 1605 Girard St. Minutes from campus. Refrigerator, w/d, 2 car carport. $1,200/mo. (512) 338-4626 or (512) 963-5369. 1BD HOUSE IN COUNTRY. 15 min. from campus. $680/mo. Includes internet/cable. Call (512) 392-2700. 3 ROOMMATES NEEDED. 2,600 sq. ft. house, 1 mile from university. $400+ utilities. Call (210) 422-0577. 2BD/1BA HOME ON 5 ACRES. 6 miles south of San Marcos, $600/mo. plus deposit. Call (512) 357-6271 or (830) 660-0787.

WIMBERLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH seeking Christ-centered person for Youth Director. 20 hr./wk. Three years exp. in a structured youth program preferred. Contact Zula Haight, zula_haight@yahoo.com. (512) 847-1694. TEACHERS NEEDED: NOW HIRING FT&PT teachers- morning and afternoon shifts. Experience/bilingual preferred. Benefits available. Quality Child Development Center in Kyle. (512) 405-3700 or fax (512) 405-3701. www.rockinghorseacademy.com. SEMEN DONORS NEEDED! $150 per specimen, healthy college students age 18-39. For application go to www.123donate.com. THE GRAPEVINE. Wine tasting and retail gift shop. Must be 21. PT positions. Must be able to work flexible hrs. including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Apply in person. 1612 Hunter Rd., Historic Gruene District. ATHLETIC, OUTGOING MEN for calendars, greeting cards, etc. $75-200/hr. No exp. needed, (512) 684-8296. AUDIO/VIDEO INSTALLER WANTED. PT, 2-3 days/wk. Experience with security, home audio/video or electrical a plus. Fax/email resume to info@txaudiovideo.com or (512) 392-8592. JOHNNY ROCKETS “THE ORIGINAL HAMBURGER” located at Prime Outlet Mall is now hiring for all positions! Have fun at work and be apart of the team that serves fun food with a 50’s flare. Food service experience desired, but not necessary. Please apply in person Monday-Thursday, 3 p. m.-8 p. m. HOUSING SCHOLARSHIPS for Upper Classmen from Texas Student Housing [TSHA] Contact: Pete Ehrenberg (817) 490 - 5723 or westlake-tx.org (follow the prompts). CITY OF KYLE SUMMER JOB OPENINGS: The Parks & Recreation Dept. is now accepting applications for Summer Camp Staff, American Red Cross Lifeguards and Water Safety Instructors for the Summer Day Camps and Kyle Pool. Competitive pay for all positions! Recreation and Education degree seekers preferred for Camp Staff. Applications available at www.cityofkyle.com/kyle-employment. php. Contact Program Coordinator at programs@cityofkyle.com for camp positions. Contact Aquatic Supervisor at (512) 262-3936 for pool positions. CANYON LAKE MARINA/CRANES MILL MARINA. NOW HIRING. Dock Hand/Cashier/Service Tech. Apply in person at Canyon Lake Marina. 280 Marina Dr. Canyon Lake, TX 781333. (830) 935-4333. WHICH WICH? SUPERIOR SANDWICHES All positions needed for exciting new sandwich concept opening soon in San Marcos, TX, across from the University on University Dr. and Edward Gary.

SEEKING OUTGOING INDIVIDUALS for PT, $9.50/hr.; FT, $10/hr.; and on-call (15 plus hrs. weekly); $9.50 hr. recreation advisor positions...Duties include facilitating various recreational activities at the Gary Job Corps recreation department which offers youth 16-24 enrolled in the centers education program numerous leisure time activities similar to those found at the university setting. Music rm/dance/aerobics (fitness) advisor positions also available. Afternoon/evening/weekend hrs. Contact Betsy @ (512) 396-6525 schultz.elizabeth@jobcorps.org or fax resume to (512) 396-6413. NEEDED: SORORITY HOUSE DIRECTOR. Mature woman to live on premises (small apartment provided and small salary) who can deal with security, oversee household cleaning, yard maintenance, and other household maintenance. Person can hold another job or school attendant if time is somewhat flexible. For more information call: (210) 349-0707 or (830) 980-3581. THE UNIVERSITY STAR IS CURRENTLY HIRING FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS:

TIRED OF GOING TO CLASS? Start Your Very Own Online Business Today! www.SixFigureProgram.com. COTTON EYED JOE’S. PT positions. Must be available to work weekends and holidays. Apply 1608 Hunter Rd., Historic Gruene District. SUMMER CAMP JOBS ON LAKE TRAVIS. Salary, room & board provided. Experience not necessary, love of children essential and willingness to learn camp life required. Contact camptexlake.org or (512) 264-1044. NATURAL BRIDGE WILDLIFE RANCH is hiring outgoing enthusiastic Visitor Center Personnel. An interest in leading educational programs a plus. Park Ranger positions also available. Apply in person, 7 miles west of IH-35, exit 175. CORRECTIONAL OFFICER $9/HR. Lockhart Correctional Facility has immediate openings for persons seeking a career in corrections. Paid benefits and training. Must have a high school diploma or GED and a valid TDL. Must pass drug screening, physical, and background check. Apply in person at: 1400 Industrial Blvd. Lockhart, TX EOE/m/f/d/v. DANCE INSTRUCTORS AND PIANO TEACHERS needed for Allegro School of Music’s new location in Kyle. For summer camps and regular music/dance lessons. Call (512) 312-5995. PAPER BEAR - A downtown gift shop hiring for the following shifts: 9-7, 9-2, 1-7. Starting pay $6.50/hr. Pick up application in person. Must be able to work minimum 30 hrs. per week, Mon.-Sat., and summer and fall semesters.

FOR RENTCONDO/TOWNHOMES 2BD/1.5BA PET FRIENDLY TOWNHOMES! $575-$625. Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. $785 PRE-LEASE NOW FOR 8/20. 2BD/2.5BA TOWNHOUSE, 3 blks. from TSU. Free HBO, free Road Runner, full Size w/d, SMALL, CLEAN & QUIET COMMUNITY. www.windmilltownhomes.com for floor plans and prices. (512) 396-4181.

FOR RENT-DUPLEX 2BD/1BA FOURPLEX with w/d connections, clean. Only $500. Great Locations, (512) 878-2233. 3BD/3.5BA ON TSU BUS ROUTE, w/d included, big backyards. www.primepmc.com, (512) 878-1792. 2BD/2BA DUPLEX AVAILABLE NOW! Large living area & backyard. www.primepmc.com, (512) 878-1792. $785 2BD/2BA DUPLEX, 3 BLKS. FROM TSU. Pre-leasing for 8/20. Free HBO, Road Runner, full size w/d, SMALL, CLEAN & QUIET COMMUNITY. www.windmilltownhomes.com for floor plans and prices. (512) 396-4181 3BD/2.5BA w/ walk-in closets & w/d included. PRIME PMC, (512) 878-2233.

FOR SALE 7’ POOL TABLE. Great condition. $450. Call (210) 286-0714. CAP & GOWN, size 5’6”-5’9”. Call (210) 566-6688. BLACK ENTERTAINMENT CENTER AND OFFICE/COMPUTER DESK FOR SALE. Call (512) 563-6787. MINIATURE EASTER DACHSHUNDS FOR SALE. (830) 708-0586. (830) 627-1000.

HELP WANTED ROCKIN R RIVER RIDES is accepting applications for ALL positions. Want a job on the Guadalupe River this summer? Enjoy a summer full of fun in the sun and create memories you will never forget. Come by and fill out an application at 1405 Gruene Road, New Braunfels, TX or call (830) 629-9999. EARN $250+MONTHLY AND MORE to type simple ads online. www.DataAdEntry.com

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SPORTS

Thursday, April 19, 2007

The University Star - Page 17

Tennis to see playoffs for first time in four years By Travis Atkins The University Star

Travis Atkins/Star photo TOURNEY TIME: Freshmen Rabea Hartmann (left) and Andrea Giraldo take part in Wednesday’s practice. The team will travel to San Antonio Friday for the Southland Conference Tournament.

The Texas State tennis team will head to San Antonio to play Lamar this weekend, in the first round of the Southland Conference Tournament. The match is set for Friday and marks the team’s second playoff appearance under Coach Tory Plunkett and first in four years. The Bobcats clinched a spot after an interesting trip to Louisiana last weekend. “It was nerve wracking,” Plunkett said. The Bobcats were scheduled to play Southeastern Louisiana Saturday and Nicholls State Sunday, needing one win to clinch. Saturday’s match was canceled due to rain, meaning it came down to Sunday to see if the team could accomplish its main goal at the beginning of the season: making the conference tournament. “The only way we weren’t getting in was if we lost to Nicholls (State) and Nicholls then beat (Texas-Arlington),” Plunkett said. Texas State beat Nicholls State, but it wasn’t without drama. The team lost the doubles point and was down 1-0 going into singles play. “When I pulled the group in and saw their faces, I knew we were ready to go out and play singles,” Plunkett said. Junior Ali Gulida and sophomore Lainy Chafitz were off the court quickly and Texas State went ahead 2-1. Freshman Rabea Hartmann and sophomore Ashley

Riley issues salvo for Heat doubters By Greg Cote McClatchy Newspapers MIAMI — Pat Riley’s team hasn’t had the dagger to merit the swagger this weird, cursed, injurywracked NBA season, except for whatever remnant you are entitled to by being champion. If there has been any bravado earned during this season, it has been hard to see. Can you swagger with a limp? So it was surprising, what Riley said before Monday night’s regular-season Heat home finale, a perfunctory, dozing 91-89 loss to the awful Boston Celtics. It was a salvo of sorts, a bit of defiance. It was a battered, largely ignored champion telling you that you’d better pay attention – and that you’d better start now. It was an old lion, roaring even as it bleeds. “This team, when it’s functioning well, is the best team in the league,” Riley put it flatly. And then added for the benefit of the Heat’s many doubters: “I don’t care what anybody else’s record is.” The coach should not be assigned a padded cell for the statement, not even after a meaningless loss to the human remains of the onceproud Celtics. But neither would he find much agreement, not after Miami failed to earn home-court advantage in the looming Eastern Conference playoffs. And not

with the entire East seeming to curtsy to the mighty squads in the West. “When you’re a veteran team, I do think it’s easier to turn it on,” Riley said. Just like last year, he might have added. Riley has no choice now but to believe – more important, to make his players believe – that sitting here with the 10th-best record of 16 playoff teams is irrelevant. Surely no coach wants to believe more that these 82 games are a necessary nuisance, glorified practice, and that it all begins now. Here is the problem for Miami, and it is obvious, and Riley cannot magically turn a spigot and make it all better when the playoffs begin: Dwyane Wade isn’t right. At maybe 75 percent he’s still pretty good, but he isn’t Flash. He cannot be airborne and fearless while nursing a dislocated shoulder he knows could pop back out at any moment. So here is some of what you saw from Wade on Monday night, even in his quiet 23-minute, eightpoint effort. Fast-breaking 1-on-1, he declined to go up and over Celtic Rajon Rondo. He had a shot blocked. A turnover in the offensive paint. He settled for a lay-in on a long breakaway pass that begged to be a SportsCenter jam. His game is smaller. He is

mortal now. Can he be more – a lot more, and consistently – in the playoffs? Can he take over a series, a postseason, like last year? A Heat fan can only be thankful, for now, to know that Monday’s effort by Wade and his team had no more correlation to the playoffs ahead than Monday’s game did. This was a rote game between a Heat team that cleared its bench – Chris Quinn, Earl Barron and Michael Doleac on the floor at once – and a Celtics squad that has spent the past month playing a version of basketball called lotteryball, with Doc Rivers praying every night to St. Gregory (Oden). If ever a game represented what the playoffs are not, it was this game. The downtown arena was half-filled, if that. For the players, the game was a moving nap, devoid of intensity. Miami could only have demonstrated less interest in winning by politely declining to put five men on the court. When next the fans cheer the Heat at home, in a week, it will be a playoff match against Cleveland or Chicago, and everything will be different. Maybe Wade will be different, too, somehow able physically and mentally to be closer to himself. The Heat had better hope so, or Riley’s brave words will turn weightless fast.

Ellis won and lost their matches, putting Texas State up 3-2. Junior Sumarie Muller and freshman Andrea Giraldo split their first two sets. Muller was losing in the third and Plunkett feared the Colonels would get pumped up if the score was tied 3-3. “(Muller) was down 5-0 and I told her to put a lot of balls in play and stay out there as long as she could,” Plunkett said. “She ended up staying on long enough for Andrea to get up 5-2 and the score was tied 3-3, but it didn’t allow Nicholls to get pumped up.” The Bobcats used the week of practice to take a collective deep breath and focus on the Southland Conference Tournament. The team has struggled in doubles lately, Plunkett’s specialty when she was a pro, so the coach has been drilling her team in different techniques. She gave each of her players a list of five things to remember when playing doubles. Those include poaching, avoid hitting it down the T (center of the court), not going down the line on returns, coming into the net within four shots and hitting overheads at all costs. The Lamar contest is a rematch. Texas State dropped the first meeting 4-2, starting by losing the doubles point. Chafitz, team captain, said everything starts with doubles. “It’s a big confidence builder or killer either way,” Chafitz said. “Doubles is very different from singles but it’s still so fresh in your mind.”

Freshman Mackenzie Farmer has not played since early this season when Hartmann came back from an injury and bumped her out of the top six seeds. Still, Plunkett said she has played a vital role as a player-coach. Plunkett usually gives her team a “mental note of the day” once a week, and this week Farmer took over her duties. “This is the first time any of these girls have been to the conference tournament and I know a lot of them will be nervous,” Farmer said. “So I touched on some mental notes of the past about playing through nerves and how nerves were a good thing because that means you really want to win. Our motto this year was ‘diamonds in the rough’ because we know how good we are but other people don’t and I finished it by saying ‘this is our time to shine.’” Farmer most likely won’t see the court Friday, but she embraced her job as a motivator. “It was hard at first figuring out which players need what kind of encouragement, but I’ve gotten used to it and I think it has made me a better player.” The team is a No. 5 seed in the tournament and will play Southeastern Louisiana, the top seed, in the second round if the Bobcats win. Bobcat tennis has already accomplished the main goal of making the tournament, and now Plunkett sees no reason the team cannot go further. “Why not?” Plunkett said.

Bobcat golf team finishes tournament in sixth place KERRVILLE — Bobby Hutcherson, Texas State senior golfer, shot a twounder par 70 Wednesday to rebound from a tough start and finish in a tie for 15th at the Southland Conference Men’s Golf Championship, played at The Club at Comanche Trace Ranch. Hutcherson began the tournament with an 82 on Monday but came back to fire a 71 Tuesday and finished with a three-round score of 223 to lead the Bobcats. As a team, Texas State fell from its fourth-place standing after two rounds and finished the tournament in sixth place. The Bobcats had a three-round score of 892. In addition to Hutcherson, freshman Carson Gibson, and junior Tyler

Barnes Wolf both finished in the top 20 at the SLC Championship with eight-over scores of 224. Lamar ran away with the team title, shooting 39 under par as a team for a score of 825. The nearest competition came from Southeastern Louisiana which was six under (858). After opening tournament play with an even-par 72 Monday, Lamar’s Dawie Van Der Walt shot back-to-back rounds of 65 and 66 to shoot a 203, 13 under par, and win the individual title by three strokes over teammate Oliver Bekker and six shots in front of fellow Cardinal Casey Clendenon. — Courtesy of Media Relations

Photo courtesy of Texas State Media Relations GONE GOLFING: Junior Tyler BarnesWolf watches his ball fly down the course during the Southland Conference Men’s Golf Championship played at the Club at Comanche Trace in Kerrville. Barnes-Wolf finished in the top 20 of the tournament with a score of 224.

If A-Rod, Jeter ever get on the same page for Yankees, then look out By Filip Bondy New York Daily News NEW YORK — Why can’t they ever be great together? The Fates and the headline writers will not permit such synchronicity, apparently. And so on Tuesday after he slugged his eighth homer of the year in the second inning of the Yankees’ 10-3 victory, Alex Rodriguez was busy explaining his surreal power surge while Derek Jeter was hoping those stubborn fielding mistakes were finally history. The cleat is on the other foot this April - based on a very small sample size of a dozen games. It is not hard to imagine the kind of adoration Jeter would be receiving right now with Rodriguez’s start, or the heat that A-Rod would be enduring if he already had committed six errors. The fans surely would be chanting, “Opt out, A-Rod . . .” Instead, Rodriguez is winning and slowly influencing people.

“You have a good feeling you can hit the ball hard to any field,” Rodriguez said, about seven homers in the last nine games. “I’m not trying to do too much. It comes from within. There’s a saying in baseball: ‘Stay humble.’” This is no time for such modesty. Twelve pounds lighter (the chip on the shoulder accounted for about half that weight), ARod is tearing up the spring. Joe Torre says Rodriguez is simply more relaxed, having more fun. Maybe the grand slam came first, then the peace of mind. Either way, his resurrection allows us to consider Rodriguez as a redemptive figure, as a ballplayer who may yet find his own October and a higher pedestal in the sport. When A-Rod gets on one of these power sprees, it is not even difficult to imagine him as baseball’s ultimate savior someday, if he can only surpass Barry Bonds’ inevitable career homer mark. Rodriguez, with 472, is

more than 90 ahead of Bonds’ pace at 31, though we know what happened to Bonds’ pace and we think we know why. Rodriguez’s hot bat is most reminiscent around here of Don Mattingly’s remarkable surge in the summer of 1987, when the Yankees’ first baseman departed from his double-into-the-gap ways to homer in eight consecutive games, tying a major league record. “The ball leaves the pitcher’s hand, you know immediately if it’s a ball or a strike,” Mattingly said Tuesday, describing how these streaks work. “I was just in a groove. But A-Rod has more power. A ball that I might hit good for a double, he hits for a home run.” The yin rises, the yang falls. Rodriguez has been virtually flawless at bat and in the field, where he has but one error. Jeter, meanwhile, owns a solid batting average of .308, but is struggling in key situations at

the plate and has been a virtual error machine. For reasons unknown, this is how it’s been with these two guys since Rodriguez came to the Bronx in 2004. They can’t both be amazing at the same time. In 2004, neither player had a particularly strong season. In 2005, Rodriguez was the league MVP while Jeter was only good. In 2006, Jeter finished second in the MVP race while Rodriguez was demoted to the eighth spot in the playoffs. Now it is Jeter’s turn to mess up, and until Tuesday night he had been doing a good job of it. Torre said he wasn’t concerned by Jeter’s six errors because there was no real pattern to them. “As long as it’s not in his head, it’s not going to bother me,” said Torre, who argued that a couple of those throwing errors might have been averted if Josh Phelps were a more experienced first baseman. Jeter, wearing a hood to guard

against the cold, earnestly took pre-game fielding practice at shortstop and looked his usual, graceful self. He said there was “no question” a player can sink into a fielding slump, the same way he can fall into a batting rut. “I don’t look at it that way, though,” Jeter said. “You just play every ball as it comes your way.” Then Jeter went out and made a brilliant play behind second base in the third inning, throwing out Victor Martinez at first. Jeter had three flawless assists and appeared cured. ARod is seeing the pitches just as Mattingly once did, 20 years ago. He is now batting .375 with 21 RBI and a slugging percentage of .979. He struck his home run yesterday to left on a fat 2-2 pitch from Cleveland starter Jake Westbrook, who had nothing. Let those hamstrings strain, those elbows tighten. If Jeter and A-Rod get going at the same time, finally, anybody can pitch for the Yankees.

SPORTS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

Thursday, April 19, 2007 - Page 18

texttrouble A ban on text messaging for recruitment purposes could take effect in August, should it pass legislation by the NCAA Board of Directors April 26. Currently there is no limit on text messaging to potential collegiate recruits, such as there are for phone calls and inperson visits. But the NCAA Division I management council has recommended incorporating the ban, in

response to complaints students have issued due to receiving excessive amounts of messages. Kate Hickey, chairwoman of the council and associate athletic director at Rutgers, said she expects the proposal to pass. — Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press

Sports Contact — Chris Boehm, starsports@txstate.edu

Texas shut out No. 19 Longhorns no match for Bobcat defense By Carl Harper The University Star

Cotton Miller/Star file photo LONGHORNS DEFEATED: Sophomore shortstop Alex Newton readies to snag a bouncing groundball during Sunday’s game against Texas. The Bobcats held the Longhorns to no runs, allowing only one hit during their 3-0 victory Wednesday afternoon in Austin.

AUSTIN — Texas State upset the No. 19 Texas Longhorns Wednesday night in Austin 30, setting up the win with two, fifth-inning home runs. The Bobcats strung together seven hits off three Longhorn pitchers, while Blake pitched her third one-hitter of the season. The lone hit broke up a no-hitter in the bottom of the seventh inning, when Megan Willis led off the side with an infield single. Between the last meeting with Texas April 4 and Wednesday’s win, Blake has pitched the last 59 innings for the Bobcats. “It was great to have the defense behind me because it wasn’t my best game,” Blake said. “Everyone dove for every ball and put their heart out on the field and it was an awesome feeling.” The defense did, in fact, provide Blake with plenty of sup-

port, as the Bobcats did not commit one error. “Anytime you pitch a onehitter you’ve got to have some good plays behind you,” Coach Ricci Woodard said. “They played as well tonight as they didn’t play on Saturday so it was great to see us come out and take care of business all the way around.” The Bobcats surrendered nine errors over the weekend to Stephen F. Austin. The three runs for Texas State came in the fifth frame, as sophomore outfielder Jetta Weinheimer connected for her second home run of the season to lead off the inning. “I was seeing the ball really well and it felt good,” Weinheimer said. “It’s always good to help out the pitcher, so I felt like I supported Ragan tonight well.” The Bobcats continued the offense as sophomore second baseman Ryan Kos stepped up to the plate after Tamar Keller

slapped a full-count pitch to center. Kos hit a moon shot into left field that easily cleared the wall for her third home run of the season. “It felt good and I feel like I’m seeing the ball better now,” Kos said. “Ragan did amazing tonight and pitchers can always pitch better with runs on the board.” Texas pitcher Erin Tresselt then came into the game to relieve Torrey Schroeder. Schroeder pitched 1.2 innings having relieved starter Meagan Denny, who only went three innings after giving up a trio of hits. A bizarre ending to the game took place after Willis broke up the no-hitter to lead off the inning. With one out, and two batters later, Kacie Gaskin walked. Jacqueline Williams flared a ball into shallow right center that was snagged by a diving Amy Krueger, senior outfielder. Willis, who was on second base at

the time, attempted to advance to third but was doubled up at second as Krueger threw the ball in to Kos. The umpire ruled Willis left the bag early and the game ended on a double play. Krueger went 2-for-3 in the game with two singles and now holds a three-game hitting streak. Texas State has won nine of its last 12 games and improved its record to 24-19 for the season. Texas continued its recent slide with a four-game losing streak and sits at 28-14. “I thought we did everything well in this game,” Woodard said. “Every part of our game was right on the money so hopefully it will give us some much needed momentum to continue this thing down the stretch.” Texas State will get back into action Saturday in Huntsville with a doubleheader slated for 3 and 5 p.m. The finale is set for 1 p.m. Sunday.

Fencing Club sharpens its sabers, prepares to host tourney By William Ward The University Star The Texas State Fencing Club concluded its final Southwest Intercollegiate Fencing Association competition Saturday at Texas-San Antonio, coming out on top of the point standings. The team was awarded with a cup that will have members’ names engraved on it. Last week, the club’s president, Kevin Beahan, predicted a win. The prediction proved to

be correct. “We knew we would win, we’re in pretty high spirits,” said Beahan. “Our only (tough) competition was (North Texas).” Damaris Dotson, fencing club vice president, was a member of the first-place saber team at last weekend’s Southwest Intercollegiate Fencing Association meet. Dotson credited this year’s success on the fact membership is up. This has resulted in the club being able to field complete teams for all three events (épée,

saber, foil), unlike in previous years. At Saturday’s event in San Antonio, the saber team finished first, épée took silver and foil took bronze. Dotson was a member of the first place saber team. “We took first place like we always do, and that was a big part of the club winning overall,” said Dotson. Last weekend’s event was the final Southwest Intercollegiate Fencing Association competition this school year. The competitions will begin again next

fall. The Southwest Intercollegiate Fencing Association is planning to expand its borders with some provisional schools, a process beginning next year, with the goal of attaining national recognition. This weekend in the Jowers Center, Gym 221, the fencing club will be hosting a tournament of its own. The Yorick Tournament will be the site of almost 150 competitors fencing for crystal skulls. There are three crystal skulls; the first

place fencer in each of the three events will be awarded one. Only nine members of the fencing club are expected to participate in this weekend’s tournament, but the event is being run by others in the organization. Fencers from all parts of the state are expected to attend, including contingents from Dallas, Austin and San Antonio. Saturday’s events will be foil and saber, while Sunday will be devoted to épée. Both days’ competition run from 9 a.m. to

5 p.m., and spectators are encouraged to come. There is no charge to watch. The Yorick Tournament may be the last event for the club of the school year, but the fencing season never truly ends, team members said. Many will be participating in nationals over the summer, including Beahan. “My focus is changing,” Beahan said. “We have an alumni dinner coming up, then we begin preparing for summer nationals. It’s been a good year.”