04 20 2006 by The University Star

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION

MAD DOG

The ﬁrst Chatauqua Film Festival begins today

Cody Merrell makes big game impact as a ﬁrst-year Bobcat

SEE TRENDS PAGE 12

SEE SPORTS PAGE 16

TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY SAN MARCOS

www.UniversityStar.com

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APRIL 20, 2006

City reaches settlement with CenterPoint

THURSDAY

VOLUME 95, ISSUE 77

THE SOUND OF PREVENTION

By Clayton Medford The University Star San Marcos City Council members grudgingly accepted the legal settlement from natural gas provider CenterPoint Energy on Tuesday. The settlement marks the end of legal battle between the gas provider and a coalition of 20 Texas cities served by the company that lasted more than nine months. The dispute between CenterPoint and the City of San Marcos began last June when the natural gas provider to more than 4,000 residents and 500 businesses in the city notified city officials of its intent to raise its base rate by $6.22 per month, a 19.4 percent increase of the entire bill. In August, council members voted to join a coalition with other municipalities affected by CenterPoint’s rate increase and voted to abate the increase for three months. San Marcos residents began paying the increased rate in November. Council members took issue with the notices of rate increase the energy company placed in the Austin-American Statesman. The company is required by state law to publish such announcements, but it was the opinion of city officials that these notices did not meet the requirements. “Those legal notices did not contain any wording that would lead a person to believe a raise in their rates was coming,” said San Marcos City Attorney Mark Taylor in a previous interview. One term of the settlement requires CenterPoint to publish notices in the San Marcos Daily Record. The settlement reached between CenterPoint and the coalition did not completely satisfy city officials. While all legal fees incurred during the challenging of the rate hike will be recouped by CenterPoint at their expense, residents will only see a $.75 drop in the base rate of their gas bill, or 12 percent of the increase assessed in November. The settlement also freezes that rate for three years. According to some on the council, of the $414,000 the energy provider is returning to the cities, approximately $19,000 will be directed to See COUNCIL, page 6

Kids Against Drugs seeking instrument donations for new center By Nick Georgiou The University Star An after-school and summertime drug-prevention program, Kids Against Drugs, is cur-

rently having an instrument drive to obtain guitars, keyboards or any other gently used instrument and Cheryl Kaderli, social work senior, is asking students for help. The KAD program, in conjunction with the Housing Authority in San Marcos, has built a new center with a recording studio. “KAD wants children to learn the joys of creating music in a safe, drug-free and encouraging environment,” said Kaderli in an

David Racino/Star photo MIX MASTER MARTIN: Gene Martin, Resident Services Director for the San Marcos Housing Authority, demonstrates how the mixing board works in the Kids Against Drugs program’s recently built recording studio at its new center off of Thorpe Lane. The center is accepting donations of new or gently used instruments that the kids can use once the studio opens on April 27.

See MUSIC, page 6

President Trauth responds to AALC National project aims to record the incident, independent investigation gospel of thoughtful communication By Kirsten Crow The University Star University President Denise Trauth issued a statement today regarding Brown Group International’s report and the controversy surrounding the events at the African American Leadership Conference. The response falls on the heels of criticism from the student body about Trauth’s silence and lack of a public statement on the matter. The statement was issued through Mark Hendricks, assistant director of media relations and publications, via e-mail. She called BGI’s work impressive, even-handed and

credited their recommendations in advising the university on how to address concerns of students and police, saying they had “some good ideas in healing that damage.” She said the university has already begun to implement the recommendations, and is now in the process of creating an action plan to concentrate on others. “I deeply regret the fact that the incident and aftermath on Sept. 11, 2005, occurred,” she said, adding that the university is taking the report and its recommendations “very seriously.” Bryan Ware, pre mass communication junior, said Trauth

needed to make a public statement in an interview on Tuesday. “I think Dr. Trauth needs to come publicly and denounce the actions that happened and say she will work to improve relationships on campus and work harder to create the diversity this university is supposedly comprised of and stands on,” Ware said in the interview. “That’ s a challenge, basically of myself, to her.” He said on Wednesday that her response time was quick and a step in the right direction. “With an event like this, she See RESPONSE, page 3

By David Rauf The University Star

A mother talks to her daughter about growing up during the Great Depression, distant relatives recount the tale of ﬂeeing from Communist China in the midst of the night or a heart-felt discussion between two friends that erupts into tears — this is the essence of a StoryCorps interview. Based on the notion that ordinary people have extraordinary stories, the acclaimed national project to create an oral history of America, called StoryCorps, is in Austin, documenting the lives of average Central Texans, one story at a time. Created in 2003, StoryCorps

guides participants through the interview, providing instruction and handling the technical aspects of the recording. At the end of the interview, the participants are provided with one copy of the interview, while another is archived in the Library of Congress. Laura Spero, StoryCorps facilitator, said the project is founded on the idea that everybody has a story that’s worth telling, recording and archiving. “I’ve listened to hundreds of these stories and people really do have amazing and beautiful stories to tell,” she said. “People come in and talk about absolutely anything and everything.” See PROJECT, page 5

Local agencies work to shed light on Child Abuse, Sexual Abuse Awareness Month

SPEAK OUT At the Language Consciousness poetry open mic session, nutrition sophomore Jessa Weber listens to history senior Jeffery Palmer as he speaks about the humbleness and arrogance in today’s society.

By Eloise Martin The University Star

Deleigh Hermes/Star photo

Today’s Weather

Scattered Storms 89˚/67˚

has two permanent “StoryBooths” in New York City, along with two traveling recording studios — “MobileBooths” — currently embarking on a cross-country tour, spreading the gospel of thoughtful communication. “We instruct and inspire people to talk and listen to each other,” said Jackie Goodrich, StoryCorps facilitator. “It is not uncommon for people to say ‘This is the kind of conversation we should have more often.’” The basic idea of StoryCorps is simple: Two people, usually close friends or relatives, interview each other, asking tough life questions, for 40 minutes in a soundproof booth. Throughout the process, a trained facilitator

Precipitation: 40% Humidity: 61% UV: 8 Very High Wind: SE 13 mph

San Marcos Child Protective Services, along with other agencies in town, has spent the month of April attempting to bring the issue of child abuse into public light during Child Abuse Awareness Month. Agencies have sponsored programs such as wearing blue ribbons to show their support and Tuesday night, Mayor Susan Narvaiz dedicated this month to Child Abuse Awareness. This month is also Sexual Assault Awareness month. LaToya Smith, criminal justice junior, said she has seen the effects

Two-day Forecast Friday Partly Cloudy Temp: 87°/ 65° Precipitation: 10%

Saturday Partly Cloudy Temp: 87°/ 65° Precipitation: 20%

of child abuse ﬁrsthand during her months of volunteering at CPS. Smith said she began volunteering in February as a requirement for a social work class. She now hopes to one day combine her interest in criminal justice and social work and become a court advocate for children. Her volunteer duties include keeping track of clients’ charts, attending custody hearings and overseeing parents’ allowed time with children. Through her volunteering, she has seen child abuse become a problem that needs attention. “I did not even start thinking about child abuse until I started volunteering,” she said.

Inside

TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY SAN MARCOS

News ..............1-6 Trends ...........7-11 Comics ............ 11 Crossword ....... 11

Sudoku ............ 11 Opinions .......... 12 Classiﬁeds ....... 13 Sports .........14-16

Smith said the objective of this month is to put child abuse in public light. “We need to get child abuse out there,” she said. “That is the whole point of this month.” The Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center also took part in the month, promoting awareness of both sexual assault and child abuse. Amber Titus-Love, HCWC public education and volunteer coordinator, said having a month dedicated to a particular issue allows the organizations to focus. “We do events all year long, but this See MONTH, page 6

PAGE TWO The University Star

Thursday in Brief

April 20, 2006

stars of texas state The Rockefeller Brothers Fund has named a Texas State student Ashley Weaver recipient of the 2006 Fellowship for minority students entering the teaching profession. Weaver is an interdisciplinary studies senior from Waco. Since 1997, a total of 15 Texas State students have received Rockefeller Fellowships: Lydia Rousey, Prisciliana Delgado, Gabriel Garza, Raul Gonzalez, Nora Perez,

Coretta Doss, Maria Tinajero, Lisa Jefferson, Stefanie Sierra, Patrice Resse, Danielle Alvarado, Roxanne Lopez, Stephanie Lopez and Tyrone Sutton. Weaver was among 25 students representing 16 institutions to earn the honor. Students designated as Rockefeller Fellows are selected based on academic performance, written and oral communication skills and commitment to public service.

News Contact — Kirsten Crow, starnews@txstate.edu

Calendar of

River Rock

STARS OF TEXAS STATE POLICY Do you know someone at Texas State who has recently celebrated a great achievement? Nominate your choice to appear in The Star as a “Star of Texas State.” Write an e-mail to starletters@txstate.edu with the subject line “Stars of Texas State,” and include your nominee’s name, his/her relationship to the university, contact information for yourself and your nominee, and a brief description of the achievement. Also include a photo of your nominee if available. Accepted nominees will be featured at the top of Page Two.

EVENTS Events

Saturday

Thursday

Earth Day Ride, a group bicycle ride, will start in The Quad at 10 a.m.

Language Consciousness Week 2006, sponsored by Activists for Sexual Minorities, will host a Diversity Dinner at 7 p.m. in the LBJ Student Center, Room 3-13.1. Career Services will be holding the Job Search Rehab from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the LBJSC. Contact Career Services at (512) 245-2465, or visit www.careerservices.txstate.edu for more information. The Society of Professional Journalists will host Bob Bajackson, adviser to The University Star and Guillermo Torres, copy editor for the San Antonio-Express News, to discuss ethics in journalism at 6 p.m. in Old Main, Room 232.

Friday Steve Montignani will lecture on Transcendental Meditation Program Introductory at 7:30 p.m. in the LBJSC, Room 3-7.1. Linda Montignani will present a Transcendental Meditation Program Group Meditation at 7:30 p.m. in the LBJSC, Room 3-6.1. There will be a special screening of Rescue Me from 7:30 to 8:15 p.m. in the Alkek Library Teaching Theatre. There will be a special screening of Jumping Off Bridges from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. in the Alkek Library Teaching Theatre. Texas Geography Student Research Symposium will be held from noon to 5 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd ﬂoor of the Evans Liberal Arts Building.

1902 - Scientists Marie and Pierre Curie isolated the radioactive element radium.

Delta Sigma Theta sorority will host the Miss Black Texas State Pageant 2006 from 6 to 10 p.m. in the University Performing Arts Center.

1934 - Shirley Temple’s debut ﬁlm Stand Up and Cheer opened.

Monday

1972 - The manned lunar module from Apollo 16 landed on the moon.

The Freethought Society is sponsoring a showing of the documentary The God Who Wasn’t There: A Film Beyond Belief at 6 p.m. at the LBJ Teaching Theater. Tuesday

The Rock-Praise & Worship will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the Catholic Student Center chapel.

On This Day...

The Wildﬂower Fiesta Plant Sale and Gardening Festival will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the San Marcos Nature Center, 403 Riverside Drive. Admission is free.

A Taize Evening Prayer Service will take place at 9 p.m. at the CSC.

Arts & Entertainment

A.D. Brown/Star photo Houston-based singer Brandon Stanley performs a ballad during Riverfest on Wednesday afternoon. The SACA-sponsored event featured several bands as well as an Army rock-climbing wall and volleyball.

Library Beat Ask-a-Librarian available online to help students browse catalog

Saturday The Wildﬂower Fiesta Plant Sale and Gardening Festival will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the San Marcos Nature Center, 403 Riverside Drive. Free admission.

CALENDAR SUBMISSION POLICY Calendar submissions are free. Send submissions to Calendar of Events at starcalendar@txstate.edu or call (512) 245-3487 for more information. E-mailed press releases will not be accepted. If using e-mail, please submit as a simple bulleted list of essential information. Submissions are on a ﬁrst come, ﬁrst served basis and notices for weekly meetings need to be submitted every week they will take place. The University Star reserves the right to refuse entries or edit for libel, style and space purposes. Deadline: Three working days prior to publication.

1999 - Thirteen people were killed at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colo., when two teenagers opened ﬁre on them with shotguns and pipebombs. The two gunmen then killed themselves.

During the past few years, academic libraries around the country have been expanding reference services to meet the needs of people who now conduct research from their computers anywhere, anytime. In response, Alkek Reference Librarians have been providing virtual reference services using real-time chat, which can be accessed from the library home page or at http://askalibrarian.library. txstate.edu. There is no question that library users want information when they need it, and Web search engines provide a fast alternative to ﬁnding information. Students and others no longer stay within the controlled information environment of the library to search for information.

They frequently ﬁnd themselves searching numerous Web sites for appropriate information. Often they are overwhelmed by the choice and quantity of potential sources that might be used. “The biggest problem is that search engines like Google skim only the thinnest layers of information that has been digitized,” said Katie Hafner, author of Old Search Engine, the Library Tries to Fit Into a Google World. “Most have no access to the so-called deep Web, where information is contained in isolated databases like online library catalogs.” This has extended beyond online library catalogs to include subject research databases. There now exists more than ever a dire need for the skills of librarians to help users locate in-depth information they really need. The Alkek Library’s chat reference service provides students

with co-browsing abilities in subscription library databases and appropriate Web sites. This service, referred to as Ask-a-Librarian Live, also helps the library assist a growing community of remote users enrolled at Texas State. Librarians draw upon an extensive collection of resources including more than 1.5 million volumes, 27,000 e-books, 2600 full-text journal subscriptions and 218 databases which provide access to articles or abstracts in an additional 27,338 journals. Remote authentication offers individuals afﬁliated with Texas State off-site access to licensed databases, as well as automated circulation services, placing recalls and holds, accessing course reserves and requesting materials via interlibrary loan. Ask-a-Librarian Live is available Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

and Sunday 2 to 6 p.m. E-mail reference service is available when the chat service is closed. In-depth reference questions may require a reference librarian to e-mail a response to the user. Individualized research consultation is also available for more extensive questions. We encourage all Texas State library users to contact us online. — Courtesy of the Alkek Library

NEWS

Thursday, April 20, 2006

Students, residents focus on appreciation of local environment for Earth Day By Jacqueline Davis The University Star In honor of Earth Day on Saturday, the city of San Marcos and Texas State students have planned events to attract attention to the preservation and appreciation of the local environment. Kelly Skinner, studio art senior, is single-handedly organizing an Earth Day event for cyclists. The Earth Day Ride is taking place on Saturday, and cyclists will begin their ride at 10 a.m. in The Quad before proceeding to ride through San Marcos for about an hour. “The purpose of the ride is to promote cycling and an environmentally responsible lifestyle,” Skinner wrote in an e-mail. “I am hoping many of us will attach signs to our bikes with various slogans like ‘Think Globally, Bike Locally’ and wear bright colors. The idea is to get some attention.” In addition to the bike ride, the San Marcos Nature Center is hosting its second annual Wildﬂower Fiesta, garden festival and plant sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m on Saturday. The organizers planned the free event on Earth Day as a means of centering the com-

around selling raffle tickets and handing out information. “I just want the community to come and learn about the environment, buy native and get information,” Dravigne — Andrea Dravigne said. San Marcos Nature Center coordinator The center is located on 430 Riverside Drive, right across from Rio Vista Park munity’ s thoughts on the en- the event will host vendors and Herbert’ s Taco Hut and vironment. who will sell native plants is a haven for native plants, “Our No. 1 goal is environ- such as Texas lantanas, many birds and butterflies. mental awareness and educa- varieties of salvias, butterfly According to Wikipedia, tion,” said Amy McFarland, bush and milkweed. Tropical Earth Day has long had a conan agricultural education plants, herbs and vegetables nection with college students. graduate student who will be will also be available. Vendors It first gained popular supvolunteering at the event. will offer other items such as port in the ’70s, and college The center invited a guest plant stands, jewelry, natu- students on grassroots levels speaker, John Dromgoole, ral soaps and aromatherapy played a large role in gaining who hosts the weekly TV items. popular support for the day. show Central Texas Gardener The event is also a fundrais- The first Earth Day in 1970 to speak at 1 p.m. Dromgoole’ er, and visitors can enter a raf- had involvement from 2,000 s Web site said that he has fle, where they have a chance colleges and universities. been a proponent of organic to win garden items such as Gaylord Nelson, U.S. senator gardening and environmental a mosaic bench, a landscape at the time, directly credited issues for more than 30 years. consultation, a container wa- this first Earth Day with perDromgoole’ s radio show, ter garden and various gift suading Congress that enviGardening Naturally, has certificates. The money helps ronmental legislation had a been on the air on KLBJ AM the center to care for its two- valid and long-lasting value. 590 for 25 years. McFarland acre wildlife habitat and some Since that first Earth Day, said she thought Dromgoole of the unusual animals that laws such as the Clean Air Act would speak on well-adapted are kept there, such as ball and others to protect drinkplants, the importance of us- pythons, Cuban tree frogs ing water, wild lands and ing native Texas plants in and bearded dragons. the ocean have been passed. your landscaping and water Dravigne said that there’s The Environmental Protecconservation. still time for Texas State stu- tion Agency was created only Andrea Dravigne, coordi- dents to get involved. Stu- three years after the first Earth nator for the SMNC, said that dents can help by walking Day.

“I

just want the community to come and learn about the environment, buy native and get information.”

The University Star - Page 3

RESPONSE: Trauth says BGI’s recommendations taken ‘very seriously’ by administration CONTINUED from page 1

need an apology from (the University Police Department), beneeds to be a little more involved,” cause that’s where the infraction Ware said. was,” Evans said. Jarad Davis, UPD Chief president of Black Ralph Meyer said Student Alliance, he agreed with said he believed Trauth’s stateTrauth is making ment. He said he, an effort to rectoo, is concerned tify the situation, about what hapbut that the statepened, but wanted ment may not be to move forward, enough. “We realize “In my case, I there are some — Denise Trauth things we could honestly believe university president have done difthat President Trauth is trying ferently, but the to give some efstudents and othfort,” Davis said, ers involved could “but I think that have done somestudents are still seeking a formal thing differently to prevent the apology, and I don’t know how event that occurred,” Meyer said. many people will be content until “We are willing to work with the that happens.” university community to assure Jovanic Evans, a mathematics a safe environment for everyone senior who attended the AALC — students, faculty and staff.” afterparty, said she appreciated Trauth also mentioned what Trauth responding to the report Meyer called a joint responsibiland the timeliness of her state- ity. ment. When Evans spoke to the “All of us want Texas State to BGI in March, she said she felt an be a place where we are respected, apology was in order, as well as a supported and safe, and all of us guarantee the university would have some role in making and take necessary steps to prevent any maintaining that environment,” similar incident from recurring. Trauth said. “BGI has given us “I feel like it was an apology on some valuable guidelines for imher behalf, but I still feel like we proving our environment.”

“I

deeply regret the fact that the incident and aftermath on Sept. 11, 2005, occurred.”

NEWS

Page 4 - The University Star

Thursday, April 20, 2006

U.S. soldier from Texas finds progress in Iraq is slow-going By Doug J. Swanson The Dallas Morning News NAJAF, Iraq — Muqtada al-Sadr, the notorious radical cleric, is making trouble just across town. Worse, a car bomb exploded minutes earlier, killing a dozen or so Iraqis and injuring 50 more. And a blinding sandstorm is only an hour away from blowing in and shutting the whole place down. Yet Lt. Col. Michael Hilliard, U.S. Army by way of Fort Hood, Texas, sits placidly on a couch in the grimy headquarters of the provincial government here. He may be churning on the inside, but he sips tea as if he had nothing else in the world to do on this, Day 1,113 of the war in Iraq. Hilliard does so because the governor of Holy Najaf, Asaad Sultaan Abu Gelal, wants to talk. And have more tea. And talk. And listen to loyal declarations from his functionaries in the amen corner. And pose for some photographs. And eat a leisurely lunch. And then talk some more. “You learn patience,” Hilliard said later. “And I’m not a patient

man.” Thus is war waged in Najaf, the sprawling province whose namesake capital city lies 65 miles south of Baghdad. The Army’s 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery of the 4th Infantry Division masses itself at Forward Operating Base Duke, ready for combat but with no one to ﬁght. Soldiers from the 3-16 track the local economy and help train the Iraqi army. Intelligence ofﬁcers collect tips on what the clerics are saying in the mosques. Strategists map public opinion battles. But they leave almost all actual security operations in Najaf to Iraqi military and police. All the while, battalion commander Hilliard makes trips into town several times a week — interpreter in tow — to hear the governmental gossip and show the face of a diplomat. He is the warrior as public relations man. It’s a classic counter-insurgency technique increasingly embraced by the U.S. military. With the 4th Infantry Division now in its second tour of Iraq, this represents the approach now mandated by high command.

Many things are not clear, and sometimes nothing is. Such is Iraq. “It ain’t like cutting your grass,” Hilliard said, “where you can stand back and say, ‘Man, that looks good.’” No one knows this part of Iraq will be free, stable, safe and selfsupporting. “It’s not going to turn around in five years,” Hilliard said. “It’s just not.” U.S. officials here say that if all goes well, the change may come in a generation. “The way to kill the insurgency is to gain people’s support, where the guy living next door to the insurgent gets tired of the violence,” Hilliard said. “The head of the snake is going to get squeezed off. It’s just a matter of time.” Hilliard is 42, with dusty gray hair and a Skoal habit. He runs a tight base and is admired for his tactical skills. When he is not happy, his stare freezes junior officers. He can be trenchantly profane and hammer blunt. Out of earshot, some subordinates call him “Iron Mike.” Hilliard became base commander of Camp Duke on Dec.

29, 2005. Seven days later he was riding in the second vehicle of a Humvee convoy headed for Forward Operating Base Kalsu, north of here. A roadside bomb, an explosive projectile, penetrated the third Humvee in the convoy. It killed five men: a major, a captain, two sergeants and a private. Among them was Sgt. Johnny Peralez Jr. of Kingsville, Texas. “The worst day of my life in the Army,” Hilliard said. These were the first deaths of soldiers from Camp Duke in more than a year. The new commander had to decide how to respond. His first instinct: “I wanted to go out there with every machine gun I had and start revenging.” He wasn’t the only one. “Every guy in here wanted to saddle up, go out there and kick ass,” said Staff Sgt. James Petrik of Killeen, Texas. “I would have saddled up a cockroach if I had to.” But, in a decision unpopular with some at the base, Hilliard bided his time. He brought in the Iraqi military. He assembled intelligence. He built a case. “It took us about 35 days before we had a pretty good picture of who had done what,” he said. Four men were captured in subsequent raids and sent to Abu Ghraib prison. Another died in a shootout with Iraqi soldiers. “We could have gone out there and kicked in doors,” Hilliard said. “But this is a revenge-based society. You go into a home on a raid, you drag an old man out of the house, you put the old man in the dirt, you shame him in front of his family. “Somewhere, sometime, there’s going to be an American soldier who’s going to pay for that.” Najaf is almost wholly Shiite, so it has been spared the sectarian violence ravaging other parts of Iraq. (The rival Sunnis, though in the country’s minority, controlled Iraq under Saddam Hussein.) The province has enjoyed relative peace since August 2004, when U.S. and Iraqi forces fought the militia of Shiite cleric al-Sadr for three weeks. At least nine Americans were killed in combat that ended only after intervention by one of Iraq’s most powerful religious figures, Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani. Since then, soldiers from

Camp Duke have kept their distance from the al-Sadr militia. “We call them ‘Jimmy’s boys,’” one American officer said. The origin of the phrase is unclear, but it’s used, a captain said, “so the governor won’t know who we’re talking about.” U.S. military convoys steer clear of the parts of the city that al-Sadr controls. “They really don’t want to fight us,” Hilliard says. “But they want to make it look like we want to fight them.” In other words, it’s a propaganda war, one that U.S. officials acknowledge they’re fighting at a distinct disadvantage, if not occasionally losing. The al-Sadr side floats a rumor — recently it was that coalition soldiers had seized all weapons from the Iraqi police — and Americans must persuade local officials to respond on their behalf. Hanging in the Camp Duke tactical operations center is a sheet of paper labeled the “JAMo-meter,” with the acronym referring to al-Sadr’s Jaish alMahdi militia. Its scale runs from “public threats made” to “uprising against” coalition forces. “He’s important from the standpoint that he got a lot of people to listen,” Hilliard said of the cleric. “Muqtada preys on the young, the uneducated and the poor, which is a fair amount of people in this part of the city.” While Saddam Hussein built palaces for himself, places like Najaf languished in Third World conditions. Now it is strewn with garbage, and stinks of sewage. Pools of stagnant water stand in the unpaved backstreets. The roads are full of battered, rusted cars that look as if they had been pulled from the junkyard and nursed back to life. Their drivers line up for miles to buy gas. But, American and Iraqi officials insist, progress is on the march. They’re building wide new roads. A soccer field has grass and latrines. And, the governor adds, “tourism is a little bit better now.” One of the biggest draws, potentially, is the Najaf Cemetery, said to be the largest graveyard in the world, an ancient sea of tombstones that stretches to the horizon. But it’s not exactly tourist-friendly. These days a loosely assembled group of Iraqi police stands guard over the cemetery from a hillside

hut. They eye strangers warily. “Adam is buried here,” one of the soldiers boasts through a translator. He is asked for directions to the grave. He shakes his head and looks at his shoes. A recent series of events demonstrates both the promise of Najaf and the quandary it poses for U.S. forces. It is a hot Thursday in April. Officials want to show off a new $5 million electrical substation for Najaf, built with American money. So they have a ribbon cutting. At the same time, the al-Sadr crowd floods its part of town with marchers for a political demonstration. Col. Hilliard orders air surveillance of the marchers. The governor complains that the jets are flying too low. The ribbon cutting occurs without a problem. No surprise there, for it is guarded — in this, purported to be one of the safest cities in Iraq — by at least 100 soldiers, police and private security guards. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which has overseen the project, sends six representatives to the ribbon cutting. Twenty private operatives with semi-automatic rifles accompany them. Later, the car bomb goes off a few miles away. That night, back at Camp Duke, Hilliard sits in his operations center, monitoring the aftermath of the bombing. He fidgets like someone itching for action, and has his Quick Response Team of soldiers in their Humvees, ready to roll. But he must wait for the governor to ask for assistance. The governor does not ask, and the team does not roll. Two days later, Hilliard dispatches Capt. Brian Covert to meet with Gen. Abbas Kareem Hussain Moadal, head of the Iraqi police in Najaf. The colonel wants Covert, of Chicago, to find out if police have any new information on who detonated the car bomb. This was, after all, the deadliest insurgent action in Najaf in years. If there are more, the consequences could be dire. But the Iraqi police, officially in charge of the investigation, do not appear to be working the case all that rigorously. “It’s hard to find people,” the general says with an untroubled shrug. “They disappear easily. It’s going to be a while before we can catch them.”

NEWS

Thursday, April 20, 2006

The University Star - Page 5

PROJECT: Lives, stories recorded for 40 minutes

PET OF THE WEEK

CONTINUED from page 1

Spencer Millsap/Star photo CUTIE CAT: Macy is a female looking for an owner. If you would like to adopt Macy or would like more information, contact the San Marcos Animal Shelter at (512) 393-8340. Macy’s identiﬁcation number is 30409.

Better than hairballs.

77-year-old Marge Boyle and her daughter, Tamara Allen, Austin residents, discussed family memories during their interview. Boyle said she talked about growing up during the depression and the war and meeting her husband, recounting the story of how the two fell in love. “It was real emotional,” Boyle said. “I don’t do that very often.” Allen said hearing her mother’s perspective on life was a “treasure.” The best part of the conversation, she said, was the time before the interview. “On a personal level, it was just a wonderful opportunity to have some great discussions with my mom and patch up some memories. I really look forward to being able to hear her voice and her stories even when she’s not here anymore,” Allen said. “Because you sit down deliberately and ask so many questions, you take time to have conversations before the interview that you’ve never had. That brings out so much more.” Spero said people often learn new things about each other during the conversations. What differentiates this project from other oral histories, Spero said, is the fact that participants know each other and that it is open to anybody. “That makes this project really unprecedented,” she said. “It makes it revolutionary in a time when we don’t take the time to sit down and listen to each other. Most of all, I think people really appreciate having taken 40 minutes to sit down with somebody that they care about and look at them and talk with them or listen to them, and that to me is often more profound than anything that gets said. It’s just the time spent together.” During their interview, Stephen Fuller and 96-year-old Lowell Davis, Austin residents, spent time discussing religion,

Photo courtesy of Donad Mason A STORY IN THE ‘STREAM: The StoryCorps Airstream stops outside of the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum to record the life stories of Central Texans. Participants discuss their lives for 40 minutes, and the conversations are stored in the Library of Congress.

growing up in a family of 10 and Davis’ journeys as a missionary in China, including a daring overnight escape when the country fell to Communism. “We talked about our lives; I’ve had a rather unusual one,” Davis said. “There were some parts that I would get emotional about, but that’s not what counts.” Excerpts from stories are posted on StoryCorps’ Web site — www.storycorps.net — while selected excerpts of stories from Central Texans are being aired on KUT 90.5 FM on Mondays at 7:35 a.m. and Wednesdays at 4:45 a.m. Bob Hemby, KUT business manager, said the response from KUT listeners has been phenomenal. As a public radio station, Hemby said, KUT wants to be a reﬂection of the community, and

StoryCorps helps bring those stories to the air. “It’s amazing how most people think they don’t have a story, but everybody has one,” he said. “It really gives the chance for listeners to hear the community. It’s really about families documenting their history and telling their stories.” Bob Lee said he was ﬁrst introduced to StoryCorps through KUT and now considers himself an avid listener of the program. “It’s beautiful,” he said. “The experiences that I’m hearing, it’s bits and pieces of others’ lives and the meaning of those lives.” Leah Brisco and her mother, Barbara Brisco, described their interview as “very powerful.” “Mom is a polio survivor,” Leah Brisco said. “I always want-

ed that documented for when I do have children, so that they would know about her experience. Every family has at least one really amazing thing they’ve gone through, and this is ours. I wanted to get that down.” The MobileBooth, located at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, will record 125 interviews in Austin through April 30th. The StoryCorps MobileBooths will be touring the country for at least the next 10 years, instructing and inspiring people to record one another’s stories. “Everyone should do this in their own life in some way,” Leah Brisco said. “If they can’t come here and do it, use this as an inspiration to turn on a tape recorder at home.”

NEWS

Page 6 - The University Star

Thursday, April 20, 2006

MUSIC: Musicians may be able to record for free in exchange for their volunteer time he center is the hook to get “T them in. Eventually, we want them to break the cycle of poverty, CONTINUED from page 1

e-mail. The studio was designed with the help of Lloyd Maines, producer, musician and father of Natalie Maines, lead singer of the Dixie Chicks. All the center needs now is instruments. Gene Martin, resident services director, is hoping to receive at least a few donations. So far, Martin said, all they have collected is a ratty guitar and keyboard. The idea for the studio was developed by Martin, along with Texas State social work students Kaderli and Zana Gardner, social work junior and Eloy Sanchez, social work senior. Texas State social work majors are required to intern at a social service agency, and the three students were assigned to the KAD program in January. Kaderli said they hope to en-

they are good at it, but they need the support which they may not get at home,” said Elissa Luevano, pre-communication studies junior. Martin’s plan for the studio is to have the Housing Authority’s low-income kids come into the center and learn to play an instrument from an instructor. If — Gene Martin a child develops a skill with an resident services director for San Marcos Housing Authority instrument, they can then come into the studio and record. hance the lives and the activities child’s life, particularly on their In an effort to attract inof the kids in the program with academic success. structors, Martin said he may the new studio. The Web site said the benefits let musicians record for free in By introducing them to mu- of learning a musical instrument exchange for teaching the kids sic, Martin hopes to give the kids are numerous. The listed bene- how to play an instrument. something to light their fire. fits of music-making include inIn addition to the recording “Knowing you have an abil- tellectual stimulation, enhanced studio, the center also has a dozity that not everyone has builds capacity to deal with challenges, en computers, a pool table and confidence,” Kaderli said. the reduction of stress, the pro- an Xbox 360 to accompany a According to the American viding of opportunities for so- large-screen TV. A room for the Music Conference Web site, a cial interaction and bonding in a kids to do homework and study national nonprofit music edu- group setting and the enhance- is under construction. cation advocacy organization, ment of self-respect. “The center is the hook to get learning to play music can be a “It is important for kids to find them in,” Martin said. “Eventupositive force on all aspects of a an interest or hobby and realize ally, we want them to break the

graduate from high school and go on to a university and become ﬁnancially independent.”

cycle of poverty, graduate from high school and go on to a university and become ﬁnancially independent.” Martin said he may name it the PODER Center. In Spanish, poder means “to be able to or can.” PODER will also be an acronym for Providing Opportunities, Driving Educational Results. KAD is coordinated by the San Marcos Housing Authority Resident Services staff, which serves approximately 100 children. Martin said KAD is an awardwinning program and is largely volunteer-based. According to the San Marcos Housing Authority Web site, the primary partner in the initiative is the Hays-Caldwell Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, which provides general assistance, counseling and regular support groups for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

COUNCIL: City officials MONTH: Agencies fighting child abuse disappointed with CenterPoint rely on caring of community volunteers CONTINUED from page 1

San Marcos, does not make up for the way CenterPoint Energy conducted business in San Marcos. “I understand that if we continue to oppose this, it would cost the city more to ﬁght the ﬁght than it would actually for us just to settle this now,” said Councilman Chris Jones. “But I am still very, very, very disappointed with CenterPoint in that yes, you’ve given us a settlement that we can take. But I don’t think they did the citizens of San Marcos justice … their business practices were horrible, and the citizens of San Marcos deserve them to come down to actually explain to them why they are paying this rate.” City Manager Dan O’Leary told the council that CenterPoint declined the opportunity to explain the rate increase at a City Council meeting. Mayor Susan Narvaiz agreed with Jones and reminded resi-

dents of their role in this ﬁght. “In the end, it’s your votes that put people in ofﬁce; it’s your votes that put people on the Railroad Commission that monitor the contracts and the method in which (natural gas providers) do business,” Narvaiz said. Councilman Ed Mihalkanin used strong language in describing the practices of the energy company. “I really do think that the company in question treated all the citizens of the affected towns in a very shabby, underhanded manner,” Mihalkanin said. Councilman John Thomaides said, echoing his fellow council members, he did not approve of the settlement but accepted it instead of a lengthy and expensive legal battle with CenterPoint. “I think we really all agree that this is a pretty sorry settlement,” Thomaides said. “The gas company really did create a lot of problems for our citizens. So, I’m going to hold my nose and vote for this.”

CONTINUED from page 1

is a certain time of year when we target our efforts,” Titus-Love said. “We work with victims all the time, but having a month allows us to be of more interest to the public.” HCWC, which also provides services to victims of family violence, offers support to victims and their loved ones. Last year, the center provided services to 449 adult and child victims of sexual assault and child abuse. Earlier this month, HCWC held a forum on campus that focused on adult survivors of abuse. Titus-Love said the forum gave panelists the opportunity to share their personal experiences with sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse. “Most child abuse cases are cases of sexual assault,” she said. Titus-Love said the forums are not just for those who come to hear the speakers, but is a form of counseling in itself for

“O

ne part of healing for many victims is speaking out about the abuse.”

— Amber Titus-Love HCWC public education and volunteer coordinator

victims. “One part of healing for many victims is speaking out about the abuse,” she said. Each April, HCWC hosts events, such as the recent forum to increase awareness of child abuse and sexual assault. TitusLove said the events are just the beginning of the greater job of battling abuse. “One month is never enough time to reach everyone with information about available services,” Titus-Love said. “Abuse continues throughout the year and affects the entire commu-

nity, not only the victim but also their loved ones, co-workers, neighbors — and the list goes on.” HCWC works with Roxanne’s House, an advocacy center for children who may have suffered abuse. The house saw 250 child abuse clients in 2005. After children are taken to Roxanne’s House, they are interviewed in a comfortable, nonthreatening situation. They may also participate in play therapy, where they are able to “play out” the emotions they may not be ready to speak about. It is at Roxanne’s House where it is determined if CPS and police will take on a case. Children who witness abuse may also receive counseling at Roxanne’s House. Volunteers are still needed at HCWC and training will begin on June 6. Hotlines are available 24 hours a day at both HCWC - 512-396-4357, and also at CPS - 1-800-252-5400.

TRENDS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

happeningsof the weekend san marcos

Thursday Cheatham Street Warehouse – The Gourds Lucy’s – Oceanus The Triple Crown – King Slim Blues Riley’s Tavern – Lloyd Bonham Band

Thursday, April 20, 2006 - Page 7

Friday Cheatham Street Warehouse – Sisters Morales Lucy’s – The Belgraves The Triple Crown – Scott Biram Riley’s Tavern – Texas Connection

Saturday Cheatham Street Warehouse – Houston Marchman Lucy’s – San Marcos Compilation Showcase The Triple Crown – Fambly, Pmari Riley’s Tavern – Rusty Weir

Trends Contact — Kyle Bradshaw, starentertainment@txstate.edu

Writer, director’s ‘passion for cinema’ leads her to Austin By Katie Reed The University Star Writer/director Kat Candler has a knack for making films about the genuine emotions and experiences that real people go through on a daily basis. “Pretty much everything I do is inspired by something or someone in my life,” Candler said. “Maybe I’m lame in that I can’t create something from nothing; I write from experience. I guess it’s easier that way. It’s also closer to home and more meaningful to me.” Originally from Tallahassee, Fla., Candler always had a passion for cinema. After giving the acting gig a try during high school and her freshman year of college at Emerson, she was “quickly dismayed by the life of an actor,” she said. Eventually transferring to Florida State University where she majored in creative writing, Candler became active in the film school there. She learned all about the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making movies and “quickly and deeply fell in love with filmmaking.” Upon graduating from FSU in 1997,

she was eager to decide where she would go to pursue her love of filmmaking. “I went to the FSU film school counselor and asked about the best cities to make movies. They gave me an Austin Film Society brochure, which I took home and read every bit of. I had no idea that Austin was this burgeoning film scene. This was back in 1997,” Candler said. “I went on a road trip the year after college to visit Austin and Los Angeles. Upon arriving in Austin, I pretty much knew. The people were so friendly, and the town was gorgeous. I fell in love — just like that.” Once in Austin, Candler took film classes through Austin Filmworks, where she made two short films, The Bathroom and Avenue K. Her experience at the film school proved to be incredibly rewarding. “I had a great time,” Candler said. “The best part about those classes — or any classes for that matter — is that you meet people that you continue to work with.”

C H ATA U Q U A F I L M F E S T I V A L Production

Jumping Off Bridges

Director

Kat Candler

Dates

Scene

Thursday Friday

A l k e k Te a c h i n g T h e a t r e L B J Te a c h i n g T h e a t e r

See FILM, page 8

Chatauqua Film Festival Schedule (All screenings and workshops are free) THUR S D AY

Business of Film panel — 5 p.m.-6 p.m. in the LBJ Teaching Theater: Panel will be moderated by Tom Copeland. The panel will feature Rebecca Campbell (executive director of the Austin Film Society), Carol Pirie (deputy director of the Texas Film Commission), Alfred Cervantes (deputy director of the Houston Film Commission), and Michael N. Saleman, entertainment attorney. Texas Filmmaker Showcase — 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. in the LBJ Teaching Theater: The showcase will have an informative introduction by Houston Film Commission deputy director Alfred Cervantes. Student Short Films — 8

p.m.-9:30 p.m. in the LBJ Teaching Theater Alas! Poor Yorick! — 9:30 pm.-11:30 p.m. in the LBJ Teaching Theatre: Filmmakers Ben and Jonny Pascoe will be introducing their ﬁlm, a question-and-answer session will follow the screening. F R I D AY

Camera Workshop — 3 p.m.-5 p.m. in the LBJ Student Center, Room 3-9.1: Jen White will discuss the art of being of a director of photography. Filmmaker Panel — 6 p.m.7:30 p.m. in the Alkek Teaching Theatre: Panel will feature writer/director Kat Candler, Stacy Schoolﬁeld (director of

Rescue Me), Jen White (director of photography), Ben and Jonny Pascoe (Alas! Poor Yorick!) and Korey Coleman (writer/director/editor of 2 AM). Rescue Me — 7:30 p.m.-8:15 p.m. in the Alkek Teaching Theatre: Documentary will be screened and director Schoolﬁeld will introduce her ﬁlm and a question-and-answer session will follow screening.

Jumping Off Bridges — 8:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. in Alkek Teaching Theatre: Director Kat Candler will introduce her film and a question-andanswer session will follow the screening. After Jumping Off Bridges, there will be light refreshments (sandwiches, finger foods, etc.) in the lobby directly outside of the theater. This time will be used for students to meet and greet fellow filmmakers.

Ta k e

Page 8 - The University Star

TRENDS

RIX’S

TECHNOLOGY FIXES

Release of Windows software for Macs may cause more work for Apple

the pseudo-Windows machine, as Virtual PC can currently only emulate archaic hardware speciﬁcations, which many ﬁnd useless when trying to run processor-intensive code. While most will agree that releasing Boot Camp is the next logical step for Apple, it’s still to be seen whether or not the software developers will be able to — or for that matter, want to — deal with programming applications in both OS X-native code and code that is designed for Windows machines. For sure, Boot Camp will bring Apple a much increased market share, but the company could be losing out when it comes time to start hearing complaints about the Windows operating system. Apple is surely thinking different on this one — but are they thinking ahead?

Following its pawn the software off switch to Intel chips, on a third-party develApple has announced oper like Panic, makers that its users can now of the FTP program run Windows — naTransmit and the icontively — on select changing application computers. So why Candy Bar. BILL RIX should you switch? Pushing the software Star Columnist Apple’s Boot onto another company Camp, a prohas its obvious downgram that allows OS X users sides; chief among them is that — provided that they have an Apple will no longer be able to Intel-based Mac — to install dictate what to do with the proWindows XP Service Pack 2 gram, and it would risk having and have it run natively, which Boot Camp turn into a program is the linchpin of Boot Camp, much like Microsoft’s Virtual as Mac users have been able to PC, a software package that aluse Windows operating systems lows OS X users to run several for years. Many Windows usof the Windows operating sysers who are on the fence about tems in an emulated environ“making the switch” will now ment. This means Windows have a good excuse to jump will run on top of OS X, which feet-first into OS X, while Mac severely limits the capabilities of users can now savor the nearly crash-free environment and also reap the benefits of DirectX-enriched gaming. But gaming is not the only draw for consumers; other programs that are traditionally Windows-only, such as Autodesk, Inc.’s AutoCAD, can now run on the same machine, boosting office productivity while saving the IT department the hassle of dealing with Windows errors. Educational institutions will also reap the benefits of a split OS X/Windows environment. Apple traditionally offers large benefits to schools, much in the way Dell, Inc. currently does. In fact, one of Apple’s largest markets is the educational system, so that will increase Apple’s market share even more. So, what can go wrong? Plenty. Among other obstacles that Apple will now face is that sooner or later they will have to actually provide support for Boot Camp, which they currently do not provide; this will involve all but supporting the Windows operating system too, a task most Mac developers Couretsy of Microsoft Corporation cringe at. Apple could always

Thursday, April 20, 2006

FILM: Jumping Off Bridges to be

shown at Alkek Teaching Theatre CONTINUED from page 7

Since her classes at Austin Filmworks, Candler’s filmmaking career has skyrocketed. In 1998, she made her first featurelength film called cicadas. Her original intent behind making the film was just to learn the process and grow from the experience. “I remember feeling like, ‘What the hell am I doing?’ I kept thinking that everyone around me was thinking what an amateur I was or that I was completely stupid,” Candler said. “I had the worst time talking to the actors. They terrified me. I wasn’t sure if it would be a complete disaster or something I’d be proud of. I ended up being really proud.” Cicadas, the movie that was just supposed to be a learning experience for the young writer/ director, drew rave reviews and won multiple awards at various film festivals nationwide. Since filming cicadas, Candler’s

“M

oney is always the biggest hurdle in making movies.” — Kat Candler writer/director

résumé has continued to steadily grow. Among the short and feature-length films for which she is responsible, Candler’s most recent cinematic creation, Jumping Off Bridges, proves to maintain her lauded reputation as a filmmaker. “Jumping Off Bridges deals with the struggle of grief, how each of us deal with grief in our own strange and debilitating ways,” Candler said. “It’s a story about friendship, a story about strength and a story about finding hope.” The film, which was shown earlier this year at the South By

Southwest Film Festival, stars Bryan Chafin, Glen Powell Jr., Savannah Welch and Katie Lemon. “Bryan, who plays the lead in Jumping, was a main character in cicadas. We also did a short film together. I pretty much knew he’d be my lead,” Candler said. “Everyone else, I found in auditions.” The biggest obstacle she faced while filming was getting the funds. “Money is always the biggest hurdle in making movies,” Candler said. “We didn’t have all the money in place going into production. It was like a dark cloud that followed us each week, knowing that we needed more to finish. We pretty much kept looking under rocks and moving forward like everything would pan out. And it did.” Jumping Off Bridges will play at 8:30 p.m. on Friday at the Alkek Teaching Theatre as part of the first Chatauqua Film Festival.

Old Settler’s Festival to host bluegrass, country acts The 2006 Old Settler’s Music Festival starts today at the Salt Lick BBQ Pavilion and Camp Ben McCulloch in Austin. The festival will continue through Sunday and will feature many popular bluegrass and country acts. The event began in Round Rock in 1987 and is expected to draw more than 10,000 people during the four-

day festival. The festival also supports Texas State’s Center for Texas Music History by working with student volunteers from the music and history departments, among other campus programs. On Friday, the festival with feature The Del McCoury Band, Monte Montgomery and Keller Williams, who will close out the night. Vassar Clements, Heybale

and Todd Snider are just a few who will play on Saturday. Grassy Knoll Boys, Chris Stuart and Backcountry and Slim Richey & Kat’s Meow will play on Sunday. Tickets are available at frontgatetickets.com and oldsettlersmusicfestival.org. — Compiled from press releases

Courtesy of Winker With and Eye TEXAS TUNES: Reckless Kelly performs at last year’s Old Settler’s Music Festival, which begins today and will continue through Sunday.

Thursday, April 20, 2006

The University Star - Page 9

TRENDS

Page 10 - The University Star

Thursday, April 20, 2006

Don’t be a Dunce:

Tips to avoid being annoying to fellow movie-goers

Many of you may priate topic to address, consider this article seeing as how Texas to be one man’s State is hosting the first grandstanding of a Chatauqua Film Festirant — a soapbox val this week. speech, even. That’s The following is what fine. I call “The IdentificaMaybe you’ll feel tion of the Uncouth this “rant” to be one NIXON GUERRERO Boobs of Film-Going.” man’s disquiet inShut your trap: Entertainment surgence against the First, I would personWriter foolish and infantile. ally love to target — uh, That’d be cool. I mean address — those of you Or maybe you’ll not even who simply won’t cork it durread this article. That’s fine, too. ing a movie. I don’t get it. What I can live with that. is it? Do you have some innate What I can’t live with are genetic imprinting that hinders those who cannot shut their your ability to shut up during damn pie-holes during a movie. a movie? OK. People like you I don’t understand you. Of make me wish I had a muzzle course, I’m not singling out any handy — that, or a Dr. Evil-like one or two groups of people. button that I could simply push I don’t have to. You know very and have you and your party well who you are. And to you, dropped out of your seats. I hiss. Operation — Overt Food I felt this would be an approProvisions:

There’s another breed of ﬁlm-going faux pas committers — they are the “food smugglers.” I ﬁnd these people to be somewhat entertaining. It’s sadly kind of funny when you watch someone enter the theater with a cooler-sized bag in tow. But why is it that I cannot attend a movie without hearing a couple unwrapping their Burger King Whoppers? “Crinkle, crinkle,” is what I hear, along with their crowingly resonant “We’re so smart and slick” cackles. Is it that big a deal to pay for concessions? Yeah, they may be a bit pricey, but who says you have to eat during the movie? Seriously, it’s not dogmatic law. Pre-adolescent Anarchy: Here’s another one — children. Does it make sense to bring a 5-year-old to a 10:30 p.m. showing of The Hills Have

Eyes? Maybe the sitter was busy. I don’t know. Unless it’s a family movie were children are welcomed, keep them out. Certain cinemas actually have a “kid’s day.” The Alamo Drafthouse comes to mind. It would be nice to attend a grown-up movie without having to deal with tiny ones escalading up and down the aisles. Late Arrivals: How hard is it to make it in on time to a movie? It really is dizzying to me to try and understand these people. I mean, if you’re going to be 20 minutes late to a movie, why show up at all? If you’ve got a date waiting, you won’t impress him/her. If you’ve got children in tow, you’re just going to piss off the rest of the crowd. If you’re late meeting a friend, upon arrival, you’ll end up asking them the epitomic series of questions: “What’d I miss? What’s going on? Wait.

Wait. Who’s that again?” Do yourself and us a favor — leave the house just 10 minutes earlier than you normally would. You’ll get a better seat and fewer winces. Try it. Phone-head Freaks: “Hello. What? I’m at a movie! Wait. What? I said ‘I’m at a movie’!” Does this sound familiar? People, turn off your cell phones. I’ve had a personal experience with this one. A best friend and I were going to see

one of the best movies of last year at the Alamo Drafthouse. In the middle of our movie, her phone does a little dance on the counter table. It’s on vibrate. You’d think she’d just put the phone away and, of course, not answer it. Nope. She answers it. And says the famous line mentioned above. We almost got kicked out. Summation: The above-mentioned items are thorns in all of our moviegoing sides, pebbles in our shoes and corn in our teeth — the bane to our movie fun, if you will. All in all, I know there are a lot of you out there that feel the same way I do. There really is not much we can do to stop these annoyances. We can only hope that these people grow up and reach some level of class. Until then, we’ll have to deal with fools launching Twizzlers across the theater, kicking the backs of our seats and narrating the movie in our ears. One extra tip: Try to catch an early matinee screening. For some reason, those mentioned above are mostly nocturnal.

DIVERSIONS

Thursday, April 20, 2006

✯Star Comics

The University Star - Page 11

my latest tunes Entertainment Editor Kyle Bradshaw reveals what he’s been listening to this past week.

At War With the Mystics The Flaming Lips

Moondance Van Morrison

Anodyne Uncle Tupelo

Favorite track: “Mr. Ambulance Driver”

Favorite track: “These Dreams of You”

Favorite track: “Acuff-Rose”

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

Wednesday’s solutions:

Go to www.UniversityStar.com for today’s answers.

OPINIONS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

Thursday, April 20, 2006 - Page 12

quote of the day “We’ve shut the (undercover) operation down, not because we think we’ve done anything wrong. We think it’s a good program.”

”

— Alan Steen, Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission administrator, at a legislative committee hearing into the commision’s sting program which has been temporarily shut down because of public pressure. (Source: Austin American-Statesman)

Opinions Contact — Joe Ruiz, staropinion@txstate.edu

THE MAIN POINT

San Marcos shouldn’t suffer because of signature forgeries Over the past few weeks, the possible annexation of San Marcos into an Austin Community College district has come under massive fire for the ethical errors involved in the collection of petition signatures. Regardless of how poorly the ACC/Yes! campaign and organizations charged with collecting the petition signatures now look with the numerous forgeries and repeats, it’s still a good idea to approve this tax increase. This isn’t a blind approval we’re endorsing, though; some concessions by the ACC would have to be given to the city before we can say this is the best way to go. One of the problems with a possible approval is that the ACC has yet to guarantee a campus for San Marcos. As Sean Wardwell pointed out in Wednesday’s column (“San Marcos shouldn’t have to shoulder ACC’s debt”), even if the voters of San Marcos approve the annexation and the tax burden that includes, a future ACC-San Marcos is not necessarily a given. The only reason voters should approve it is if we can benefit; there’s no reason to serve as the ACC’s bailout without making the transition to Texas State easier by attending a local community college. While we agree that Texas State is fairly affordable when compared to other Texas universities, the costs of attending a four-year university can mount up quickly for some. What also must be taken into account is that some people simply aren’t mature enough or academically ready for the rigors of a fouryear university — especially one with the admission requirements and strength of programs at Texas State. By securing an ACC campus within the annexed area, existing Texas State students as well as incoming students benefit — especially those students graduating from San Marcos High School and the surrounding areas. Travel is limited for the average student who has to work and take classes. A student who might be struggling in one area can take refresher courses at ACC-San Marcos without paying the much higher tuition amounts and students who have limited or no financial aid can save money by starting locally and easing their transition to the university. Texas State can still increase their stature within the world of academia by increasing admission standards, focusing on graduate studies and increasing research work — all while elevating the standards of students graduating and entering the workforce. In our ACC story on Tuesday (“ACC board calls off annexation election after alleged signature forgery), David Chiu, co-chair of ACC/Yes! said the problems with the petition signatures was “a sad thing.” Yes, Mr. Chiu … It will be very sad if the actions of a few cause the loss for many. Those who perpetuated this fiasco should be dealt with swiftly through either criminal or civil action, and if not that, their own ethical and moral compasses — but the residents of San Marcos and future students of Texas State should not suffer for the immature actions of those who believe winning in the ballot box is the most important thing. 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 UniversitySan Marcos.

If there were an ACC campus in San Marcos, would you attend classes there, why or why not?

“I wouldn’t because of my GI Bill.” — Eric Holmes wildlife biology freshmen

“I took classes in Austin and found it convenient for the summer time.” — Chris Prosser criminal justice senior

“Yes, I deﬁnitely would, especially the ones that might be easier to pass.” — Marcie Stoddard psychology junior

Compiled by Aaron Smith

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

N-word argument flawed BRANDON SIMMONS them. I am pretty I recently read an opinion article sure my parents Guest Columnist from a fellow Afwould not tolerate rican-American their bosses callthat discussed the use of the ing them that term because N-word. After reading and they do not know their bosses thinking over what was said, in that manner. I have something to tell that There were stereotypes person — something another presented in your article that black should have the courI felt were just cheap shots at age to tell: You have made us people’s own personality or out to be your own worst enprivate style. When you say emies. It was a good effort to “dress like a thug, talk like a explain how the N-word was thug, then you will be treated disrespectful, but you ended like a thug,” I thought you up being no better than the were reasonable until you word itself. failed to deliver a definition You started by explaining of what a thug is. What is a that conjugating the ending thug, and what is the wrong of the word will make it the message of our appearance? same, but that is not necesDoes wearing baggy clothes sarily true. The ending with or backwards caps make me a “er” is defined in Webster’s thug, or — what I definitively dictionary three ways: two believe — someone who is ways that either state that tough, has a reputation to be it describes black people or bad and wild and bring harm imply it is for black people or to people around them. I can a dark-skinned race. Adding tell you that there are not too the “a” to the term only makes many of those people at Texas it a slang because it can not State, and they do not have a be found in any real dictionreason to do those actions, inaries. Since it is slang, it can cluding myself. It is hard to be be used among friends, but a thug when you have 8 a.m. it is that person’s choice who classes and work at FedEx/ lets what friends hear that Kinkos. Clothes do not make word and say that word. If a the man, and I know this professor did say that to me for a fact. I have seen people then of course I would want dressed nice and do some him to resign because I do things that a thug would do; not know them on that level they are called politicians. to exchange that word with Another stereotype that

was placed in your article was how black males are always using the word whenever they congregate. Not all black males join in a group together and use the N-word all the time. Very few times do I actually hear it in public with black males together in a group, especially in areas such as The Quad. You say it is a double standard and sends a wrong message outside the black race. Well, apparently, they were not talking to anyone outside that inner circle — let alone the race. This country gives us the right to freedom of speech, so whatever is said in public within that group is their conversation, and they have that right. They have the right to say any word, including the F- word or to talk loudly. You have to speak loudly in The Quad because there are so many people passing through with there own conversations. Why would you whisper outside? Those things do not make black people intimidating to society. My idea of intimidation is getting shown some respect and I feel we are still treated like second-class citizens. Your ﬁnal two arguments are not even sensible to me. You claim that we are disrespectful to elders, but that is

where I ﬁrst learned the Nword. There are some elders that do not like the word, but I heard my parents say it all the time, and they got it from their parents. The remark about bitches and hoes was unfair. You may have heard it on a rap song, probably, but I am pretty sure it was not the ﬁrst time black women — or any women — were referred to as bitches and hoes. Early authors wrote many works where women were referenced with derogatory names; it is not a new trend. To conclude, I am a rapper/ songwriter and hear many times about the use of the Nword in songs. Sometimes I use it, and sometimes I don’t. It is not any priority of mine to use in music or in conversation, really. You can not just eliminate the word. It is too much apart of our culture today and will take a long time to just get rid of completely. The best thing to do is not focus on getting rid of it because it is not that big of a deal. With the many problems that our people face today, it is certain that words cannot and must not hurt us.

Simmons is a premass communication sophomore.

War on terror, what are we really fighting for? On Sept. 11, KATRINA DATTOLO forces in Iraq regard2001, there was a Guest Columnist ing their opinions and tragic terrorist atbeliefs about the war. tack on the World Of those surveyed, Trade Center towers in New 42 percent say that the United York City and on the Pentagon States mission in Iraq is either in Washington. somewhat or very unclear in After Sept. 11, President their minds, that they have no Bush declared a war on terror, understanding of it at all or and we continue to fight this are unsure of its purpose. war today. The fact that 42 percent of On Dec. 13, 2003, Saddam our soldiers over there fightHussein was captured by the ing for us — fighting for our United States. Osama Bin country — don’t even comLaden, leader of the al-Qaeda, pletely understand why they continues to be at large. are there is frustrating. If those These are the few facts that of us who are there can’t even I feel confident in saying that I realize our mission, how are know, for sure, are true about we supposed to at home? what has led up to and what A December 2005 New is going on with the war our York Times article by Douglas country is engaged in right Jehl says that a high-ranking now. But every now and then, Al-Qaeda leader prisoner’s I still question if I have no account linked Iraq with Aldoubt in my mind that these Qaeda. things are true. The U.S. used this account A survey was conducted by as a reason to invade Iraq on Le Moyne College’s Center the claims that the country for Peace and Global Studtrains Al-Qaeda members to ies in early 2006. The survey use biological and chemical was given face-to-face to 944 weapons. American soldiers serving in A February 2002 document, various areas of the armed written before the invasion of

Iraq, reveals that the prisoner’s account is not credible because he fabricated the information in order to receive better treatment from his captives. Despite this, the U.S. invaded Iraq on the claims of their link with Al-Qaeda due to what this prisoner said. President Bush and his ofﬁcials told the American people on several occasions, including a prominent speech in Cincinnati in October 2002 — several months after the U.S. had knowledge that their source was not credible — that the prisoner’s testimony was in fact credible, according to the New York Times. Information such as this gives people who believe we are in Iraq for oil fuel to feed the ﬁre. The American government has a duty to its people to tell the truth. How can the American people be expected to be educated and knowledgeable citizens when they are hand fed a complete distortion of the facts? The problem is that we have

been lied to before, so what incentive do we have to believe the government on such controversial claims? With so many different ideas out there about the war and everyone trying to make sense of all the information available, I feel like the truth has been lost in the process. I read articles, and I listen to people talk who have a strong opinion about our involvement in Iraq, and I envy them. I am deﬁnitely not indifferent on the subject, but I don’t feel that I have enough accurate information to take an educated standpoint. I wish I could fast forward 50 years and read a history book or take a history class that laid out all the sides clearly in front of me. Then maybe I would actually understand what is going on, and I could take a stance on what I believe and what my opinion really is about the war that occurred in my lifetime.

Dattolo is a mass communication senior.

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AVAILABLE MAY 1. Beautiful new 3b/3.5b. 1497 N. LBJ, (512) 665-6500 or (512) 396-4488. No pets. IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN at 702 Bracewood. 2bd/2b for $475 per month. Call Legacy Real Estate at 665-0350.

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3X2 DUPLEX, 2 car garage, vaulted ceilings, W/D, cable, water, dogs ok. $900. Great Locations, 512-878-2233.

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FOR RENT-APTS APARTMENTS NEXT TO TEXAS STATE now leasing for May and August. Beautiful wooden ﬂoors, no shuttle or parking worries. Rooms, 1B, 2B, 3B and roommate matching. Free internet, cable and some utilities. $300 - $605 per person. 392-2700

BISHOP’S CORNER at 1409 Bishop has a 1 bedroom for $395. Early May availability. Quite, small complex. Water/waste water and trash paid. Visit legacyrealestate.biz, and call Legacy Real Estate at 665-0350.

3/3.5 APT. W/GARAGE and covered parking at Bishop’s Square. Take over lease through end of July or longer. $475 per person available May 1. Contact 713-882-9069 or 512-878-1993.

ROOMS NEXT TO CAMPUS free internet, cable, and other free utilities $325-$375 call 392-2700.

$785 2/2.5 WINDMILL APTS. 3 blks from TXState. Preleasing for 5/20 and 8/20. Free HBO, Road Runner, full-size W/D. www.windmilltownhomes.com for ﬂoor plans & prices. 396-4181. APARTMENTS FROM $375/MO. Near stadium. Gas, water paid. 353-5051.

3 BEDROOMS WITH 3 FULL PRIVATE BATHS. Extra large kitchen, washer/dryer, fridge, dishwasher, 3 carports, storage building, and FREE phone-cable-high speed internet. $845. Agent, (512) 665-8788.

FOR RENTCONDO/TOWNHOME $785 2/2.5 TOWNHOUSE. 3 blks from TXState. Preleasing for 5/20 and 8/20. Free HBO, Road Runner, full-size W/D. www. windmilltownhomes.com for ﬂoor plans & prices. 396-4181.

EXTRA LARGE AVAILABLE IN LATE MAY. 736 Centre has 1300 sf, 2 bedroom for $750/mo, 1/2 bath downstairs, Hollywood bath upstairs. Full size W/D connections. Lots of space with 2 car carport. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy Real Estate 665-0350.

FOR RENT-DUPLEX FOR RENT DUPLEX 3br/3.5ba 101 Cedergrove (on bus route). Fenced backyard/ pets ok. $1050 per month. 512-557-2557.

LARGE 1B/1B, NEWLY-REMODELED DUPLEX in country surroundings, near outlet mall. Free parking next to campus. Available August.. Free internet, cable, water & garbage. $605 per mo. 757-0399

LARGE DUPLEX, pre-lease for 8/1, 3/3.5, garage, W/D, fenced. 512-422-0903 DUPLEX NEXT TO TEXAS STATE. Modern, excellent condition. 4/2.5, large kitchen, 2 living areas, sauna, w/backyard, pets OK, $1650. 757-0399 DUPLEXES FOR LEASE off of Sagewood! 3b/3 1/2b/ common living/dining/kitchen/2 car garage/internet access. $400.00 per room call today! (512) 913-8028.

519 HUTCHISON has 2 duplex units for immediate move-in. 3bd/3b includes full size W/D for $1050 per month. $900 security deposit. Also, available 2bd/2b for $650/month. Pets are negotiable. So close to campus you can walk. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy Real Estate 665-0350.

DUPLEX FOR LEASE for immediate move-in. 2/1 at 1107 Marlton for $625 per month. Easy terms. Call Legacy Real Estate at 665-0350, and visit legacyrealestate.biz. SAGEWOOD DUPLEX FOR RENT. Pre-Leasing. 3B/3.5B $1100. 310-714-4352

$765 2/2 WINDMILL DUPLEX. 3 blks from TXState. Preleasing for 5/20 and 8/20. Free HBO, Road Runner, full-size W/D. www.windmilltownhomes.com for ﬂoor plans & prices. 396-4181.

FOR RENT-HOUSES HUGE 3/2, W/D, ETC. 1600 sq ft. $890 per mo. 713-774-5953.

HOME FOR IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY. 3/2 w/2 car garage. $995/mo. Call Legacy Real Estate 665-3321.

FOR SALE 5/3/2 HOUSE FOR SALE quite neighborhood, close to Texas State, immaculate excellent condition, tile/wood and approx. 2700 square feet. $179,000 fenced yard, San Marcos. 757-0399. LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT for busy apartment locating ofﬁce. Apartments To Go. 512-353-3733/512-787-6789

HELP WANTED PAPER BEAR a downtown gift shop is hiring for the following shifts: 9-6, 9-2, 1-6. Starting pay $6.50 hr. Pick up application in person. Must be able to work a minimum of 30 hrs per week... Monday-Saturday. 214 N. LBJ DR.

LIVE ON THE GUADALUPE, free housing with a stipend, light cleaning and pet care required. Call 830-624-5833

TEACHERS NEEDED: Part time teacher positions. Bilingual or lifeguard certiﬁed a plus. Quality Child Development Center in Kyle. 512-405-3700 or fax 512-405-3701. www.rockinghorseacademy.com

$800 WEEKLY GUARANTEED. Stufﬁng envelopes. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope to Scarab Marketing 28 E. Jackson, 10th ﬂoor, Suite 938, Chicago, Ill. 60604. !BARTENDING! Up to $300/day. No experience necessary. Training Provided. Age 18+ ok. 800-965-6520 x 157.

HELP WANTED D&D FARM & RANCH has full-time openings for enthusiastic, friendly & hard working individuals. Cashiers, Tack Dept. Sales Associate, Clothing Dept. Sales Associate. Apply in person at 516 IH 10, Seguin.

CAN YOU WALK, CHEW GUM AND HAVE FUN ALL AT THE SAME TIME? Do you want to truly make a difference in lives of special children? Are you looking for rewarding, challenging and fun Summer Camp counselor experience? Join us this summer at Star Ranch, a Christian Summer Camp for children with Learning Disabilities. We are looking for a few good balancing acts! Salary, room, board, and laundry provided. Near Kerrville, call Cody, 830-367-4868 x 205. www.starranch. org

WANT TO MAKE MONEY working in an upbeat environment? Apply in person for waitstaff at the best place to eat in Gruene. Gruene River Grill, 1259 Gruene Rd., New Braunfels 830-624-2300. NEEDED IMMEDIATELY-trained musician w/capabilities crossing music genres. MUST BE RE- LIABLE. Call 512-472-2280.

Hill Country bar LOOKING FOR WAITRESS/BARTENDER. Same distance and money as working in Austin. Texas Iron Horse Saloon, Blanco, Tx. (512)659-7991. No calls before noon.

MANAGED SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE -teleNetwork is currently seeking applicants for positions in the dynamic and fast paced ﬁeld of Managed Application Services Support. Full and Part Time positions are available with ﬂexible scheduling at our Austin and San Marcos call center locations. Apply on-line today at http://www.telenetwork.com/careers

HAVE FUN AND MAKE MONEY ON THE GUADALUPE RIVER!!! WhiteWaterSports is now hiring for summer seasonal help. For more information, see our ad below!!! COTTON EYED JOE’S PART-TIME SUMMER POSITIONS AVAILABLE. Must be able to work days, evenings, and holidays. Apply in person 1608 Hunter Rd., Gruene.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT REPRESENTATIVE - teleNetwork is currently seeking TSRs to provide technical support for dialup and DSL customers. Full or Part Time positions available with ﬂexible scheduling at our Austin and San Marcos call center locations. More information and online application available at http://www.telenetwork.com/careers BOBCATSNEEDJOBS.COM WE NEED Paid Survey Takers in San Marcos. 100% FREE to join. Click on Surveys.

MARBRIDGE SUMMER CAMP IS SEEKING 5 DAY-TIME COUNSELORS (7 am - 3 pm/3 pm - 11 pm) and 1 overnight counselor (11 pm - 7 am) to work with young adults with cognitive challenges, in a residential camp setting. For more information contact Lori at (512) 282-1144, ext. 278, lpratt@marbridge.net, or www. marbridge.org. SUMMER WORK for ambitious and hard working student. Earn 3 hrs college credit and $700 per week. GPA 2.5. Call Joe at 512-557-4383.

TOP BOYS SPORTS CAMP IN MAINE! PLAY & COACH SPORTS*HAVE FUN*MAKE $$$. All team & individual sports, All watersports, hiking/climbing, A&C. TOP SALARIES, Free Room/Board/ Travel. Apply online: www.campcobbossee. com. Call: 800-473-6104. GRUENE RIVER COMPANY, tube and boat rental, is looking for responsible cashiers and drivers. Call 830-625-2800

HELP WANTED THE UNIVERSITY STAR is looking for students of any major who want REAL world experience working for a REAL newspaper. The Star is hiring editorial board members. Available positions include: Copy Desk Chief News Editor Entertainment Editor Sports Editor Photography Editor Design Editor If you have experience in publication, design, management, writing or editing, don’t waste this opportunity to gain experience and expand your portfolio while working with students and for students. The University Star is the only ofﬁcial student publication at Texas State. Come by our ofﬁces in the Trinity Building to pick up an application. All applications are due by 5 p.m. on May 1.

TEKA MARKETING INC. is now expanding and looking to ﬁll several full and part time positions. Very ﬂexible hours and casual work environment. For more information call 1-512-805-0020.

LIGHT AND SPACIOUS 2/1, 1000 SF apt., built in 2002, with ﬁreplace, large kitchen, balcony, sunset hill country views, free health club membership on property, available 6/21. Ideally suited for professor, married couple or grad student who appreciate beautiful quiet serene surroundings. Quick easy access to Austin and San Marcos, located in Wimberley near RR12 on RR3237. $850 /mo. Call 512-560-6761.

WANTED: ELECTRICIANS for 30-90 days temporary employment to ﬁnish out intermediate school in Dripping Springs and project in San Marcos. May lead to permanent employment or just summer work. Call our ofﬁce 512-396-3300. LEASING: P/T POSITION IN SAN MARCOS. Seeking dynamic individual w/ customer service experience preferred. $8/ hr, drug test required. Call 512-392-1100 or fax resume to 512-392-6217 EOE

MISCELLANEOUS WE PAY UP TO $75 per online survey. www.cashtospend.com

ATHLETIC, OUTGOING MEN for calendars, greeting cards, etc $75-200/hr, no exp. needed, (512) 684-8296.

ROOMMATES LOOKING FOR FEMALE ROOMMATE for summer/fall of 2006. Room with attached bath and free cable, located across the street from the McCoy Building. $335/mo Call Su at 512-366-0553. LOOKING FOR A ROOMMATE, $275/ month, with personal bath, if interested contact, Jose Martinez at 512-396-0342.

LOOKING FOR FEMALE ROOMMATE at The Meadows for the summer. Walking distance to campus. 1b/1b $295/ month, plus electricity, and $150 deposit. Everything included. Call 512-787-7542.

FEMALE ROOMMATE WANTED TO SHARE 2/2 APT., W/D, free internet, on the bus route. $380/mo. Call Catherine 512-644-6363. 2 ROOMMATES, $400/mo, all bills pd. Call Joaquim Sorta (512) 618-9589.

FEMALE ROOMMATE WANTED AT BOBCAT VILLAGE. Very clean, 2/2 private bed and bath. $520/mo. all bills pd. Call Haylee 979-236-4078.

SERVICES GREAT JOB! Dependable, responsible, attentive female to care for handicapped boy. Every other Sat. and Sun. 9am-8pm, $8.00/hr with bonuses. Call Jenny 392-9737. Leave message. WWW.STUDENTATTORNEY.COM

SUBLEASE 1/1 APT. FOR SUMMER. Water and wireless internet included. $434/mo. available 5/15. Call (210) 844-6516.

WANTED BUYING both civil war or early TEXAS NEWSPAPERS, swords, guns, letters, documents, clothes, pictures, etc. 512-557-7224.

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

UP AND COMING ROCK BAND IN NEED OF LEAD VOCALIST. Inﬂuences include Metallica, Pantera, Slayer, and Mastodon. Contact Bobby 830-534-2671, e-mail rp1094@txstate.edu. Serious inquiries only.

ONLY 2 MORE ISSUES LEFT TO GET YOUR AD INTO!!!

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SPORTS

Thursday, April 20, 2006

Two Duke lacrosse players arrested in connection with rape investigation By Ames Alexander, Sharif Durhams and David Perlmutt Knight Ridder Newspapers DURHAM, N.C. — Hours after two Duke lacrosse players were arrested in connection with a rape investigation that has roiled Durham and made national headlines, defense lawyers said on Tuesday they’ll be able to prove the students charged weren’t with the accuser at the time she claimed she was assaulted. “In the upcoming weeks, the lawyers for these two students are going to be able to provide objective evidence that demonstrates they were not capable of committing any sexual offense,” said Pete Anderson, Charlotte lawyer, who represents a player who hasn’t been charged. “This will include receipts and other records demonstrating that they weren’t present at the house at the time when the assault was allegedly taking place.” Anderson said he has learned this in the course of representing his client and talking to other defense lawyers, but he and other attorneys said they couldn’t yet elaborate on the evidence collected. Following the arrests of lacrosse players, Collin Finnerty and Reade Seligmann, on Tuesday, authorities said they are still pressing an investigation into a third possible suspect in the case. In a statement, Durham District Attorney Mike Nifong said he had hoped to charge “all three of the assailants at the same time, but the evidence available to me at this moment does not permit that. Investigation into the identity of the third assailant will continue in the hope that he can also be identified with certainty.” Finnerty and Seligmann were released on $400,000 bond early on Tuesday, and the two men had preliminary court hearings. Both were charged with firstdegree rape, first-degree sexual offense and first-degree kidnapping.

University officials wouldn’t say whether they would suspend Finnerty and Seligmann, but noted it’s their policy to issue an interim suspension when a student is charged with a felony. Seligmann, a Duke sophomore from Essex Fells, N.J., did not appear at his court hearing. He was represented by his attorney, Kirk Osborn. Finnerty, a sophomore from Garden City, Long Island, N.Y., made a brief court appearance. The next court date for each man will be May 15. In November, Finnerty and two friends were arrested in Washington, D.C., accused of punching a man who asked them to stop calling him gay. The charge is pending. Bill Cotter, an attorney representing Finnerty, said, “They (the grand jury) only hear one side of the story. We’re surprised anybody got indicted, quite frankly.” Osborn declined to say whether his client was at the party when the alleged attack took place. But Raleigh attorney Joe Cheshire, who represents a player who hasn’t been charged, said evidence that defense lawyers have collected so far makes it clear that the two students “could not have been where she Jeff Siner/Charlotte Observer says they were.” Finnerty and Seligmann had LACROSSING THE LINE: Duke lacrosse player Collin Finnerty (center) walks to the front of the courtroom to begin his preliminary hearno contact with the accuser at ing at the Durham County Judicial Building on Tuesday morning in Durham, N.C. Finnerty, along with teammate Reade Seligmann, has the party, Cheshire said. “No- been arrested on charges from a March 13 incident involving the alleged rape of an exotic dancer. body would have ever guessed these two,” he said. there’s no truth to the allegaNo DNA from any of the 46 pus on Tuesday, many students and chatting. But when news Finnerty and Seligmann live tions. players tested has been found on appeared eager for the media of the arrests flashed on TVs in the same Duke residence hall, Anderson said he understands the woman or her clothing. to leave, but hungry to find out around 1:30 p.m., the room fell along with several other lacrosse the accuser didn’t identify her It’s not the first time Duke’s what really happened. silent as the students watched. players. alleged assailants until three or lacrosse players have roused the Security guards stationed Clark Jones, a graduate stuThe accuser in the case, a 27- four weeks after the party when concerns of university officials. near a dormitory where many dent from Atlanta, said he and year-old mother of two who she reviewed photos of Duke laIn October 2004, the univer- lacrosse players live kept report- his classmates are concerned is enrolled at North Carolina crosse players. He said that de- sity found that nearly half of the ers away from residents. Draped that the scandal may tarnish the Central University, has alleged lay, coupled with the accuser’s lacrosse team’s members had along the ground floor of one university’s reputation among that three Duke lacrosse players apparent intoxication during the come before the judicial affairs dorm building was a banner employers. raped, sodomized and choked party, make her identification of office, according to Sue Wa- reading, “We support Duke Lax. At North Carolina Central, her at an off-campus party where assailants questionable. siolek, Duke’s dean of students. Innocent until proven guilty.” where the accuser is enrolled, she was hired to perform as an Anderson, recalling his days Many of the violations involved At Bryan Center, Duke’s students voiced divergent opinexotic dancer last month. as a federal prosecutor, said that alcohol consumption, she said. student union, students sat in ions about how events have unNifong has said he believes the “if someone brought me a case “A significant number of stu- groups studying, eating lunch folded. woman was raped. Nurses who based on eyewitness identifica- dents seemed to be engaging in examined the woman found in- tion, made a month after the disorderly, disruptive behavior,” juries consistent with a sexual event by a witness who was in- Wasiolek said. assault, he said. toxicated, I would throw it out According to the Durham But defense lawyers maintain in a heartbeat.” Herald-Sun newspaper, the disciplinary review prompted the university’s athletics director to warn lacrosse coach Mike Pressler that his team was “under the microscope” and that players needed to improve their conduct. On Duke’s Gothic-style cam-

SPORTS

Thurday, April 20, 2006

YARD: Texas State looks toward conference play after 15-7 win over Hilltoppers CONTINUED from page 16

seventh when McKay singled, Victor Sanchez walked and Goldsmith ripped an RBI single to right. The next batter, Brian Thomas, then roped a double down the left-field line on a 2-0 count and inched St. Edwards closer at 9-4. With Goldsmith on third base, Stephen Puhl grabbed his first RBI of the night by sacrificing to right field on a fly ball. After two outs in the inning, relief pitcher Kyle Gembler then got himself out of the offensive frame by striking out Logan Wood who had already struck out twice in the game. Into the bottom of the seventh, Guest had his first threehit game going of his career, but struck out looking to start off the inning. Then there were back-to-back walks by Dresch and Jones that brought up Keel to get his fourth RBI for the night with a single up the middle. With men on the corners, Merrell then slugged out his sixth home run of the year over the train tracks in left field, picking up three RBIs. The four runs in the stretch inning all came on one out as the Bobcats continued to pull away with a 13-5 lead. Pinch-hitter Yannick Bergeron for St. Edwards started the eighth inning off with a single and then later scored on a throwing error by Bobcats’ first baseman Merrell when attempting to pull a 3-6-2 double play, but threw it into left field. Goldsmith and Thomas then went back-to-back on singles that scored Bergeron and Gherrett Levette to keep the game interesting as the Bobcats held this high scoring game at 13-7. Texas State got those two runs back in the bottom of the eighth as Guest hammered out his first career home run and improved his best night of hitting to 4-for-5 on the night with two RBI. “I got some good pitches to

“W

e hope to continue to produce offense against Sam Houston this weekend. It will be a good intense series and should be fun.”

— Baseball head coach Ty Harrington

hit, and it felt good to drive the ball and work out of this slump I have been in lately,” Guest said. Pinch-hitter Jared Bunn singled to right prior to Guest making his ﬁnal at-bat of the night. Justin Fiske entered the game in the ninth and secured the gigantic victory for the Bobcats, 15-7. Coach Ty Harrington had talked about their progress on offense earlier in the week against Dallas Baptist and was pleased to see the hits continue to stay alive. “Our at-bats were very good tonight, and we did well at swinging at strikes. We hope to continue to produce offense against Sam Houston this weekend. It will be a good intense series and should be fun,” Harrington said after the game. Starting pitcher for the Bobcats, Siers, went four innings, only giving up one run on three hits but got the no-decision. The most effective reliever tonight for Texas State was Ryan Bennett, as he went two innings, only giving up one run on one hit and improved his record to 1-2 for the season. Texas State’s overall record now stands at 20-21 for 2006 and will now go back into conference play against Sam Houston State on Friday in Houston.

The University Star - Page 15

Spring sports prepare for series matchups Staff Reports The University Star Texas State softball fans will get treated to a three-game series, marking a return to conference play for the Bobcats but not before a matchup against Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Today’s doubleheader will be the ﬁrst home game of the 2006 season for the Islanders, who are currently 6-30 and in the midst of a wicked losing streak dating back to March 15 when they took a two-game series from Charleston Southern University. Twelve games later, the Islanders are going up against a 30-15 Bobcat squad that is eager to get back to the conference schedule in preparation for the conference tournament. The Bobcats will be hosting a three-game series against Nicholls State University, starting with a 1 p.m. game at the Bobcat Softball Field. The three-game series will mark the ﬁrst meeting between the Bobcats and the Lady Colo-

madka will be recognized for their contributions as senior student athletes as part of senior day. The Bobcats will then close out their 2006 regular-season schedule on the road, as they travel to Monroe, La., on April 29 to face off with the University of Louisiana-Monroe Lady Indians. The Texas State baseball team will be making its way to Huntsville for a three-day, three-game series against Sam Houston State University. In their first meeting of the season, the Bobcats are hoping to add to the conference record after suffering through a tough Monty Marion/Star file photo non-conference run. The series GUNTER’S GOT GAME: Senior first-baseman Kristin Gunter, seen will be the first conference action for the Bobcats since April playing UT on April 12, helped the Bobcats to two wins in their 9, when they took two-out-ofthree-game series against UT-Arlington last Friday. three games from Northwestern nels in 2006. Currently, Texas 2006 regular season, the team State University. State is seated atop the South- will take a moment to recognize For all things track and field, land Conference with a 16-2 the three graduating seniors the team will be making its way record as opposed to Nicholls from this year’s team. Follow- to Austin for the Texas InvitaState, which is sitting at the sev- ing the conclusion of Sunday’s tionals set to start on Saturday. en spot with a 9-12 record. 1 p.m. game, Katie Ann Trahan, It will be an all-day event with As the final home game of the Kristin Gunter and Amy Hro- the best that Texas has to offer.

Bobcat golf concludes season with 10th in SLC Championship By Chris Boehm The University Star Texas State finished last among 10 teams in the men’s Southland Conference Championship, held Monday through Wednesday at the Deerwood Club in Houston. Bobby Hutcherson led the way for the Bobcats — finishing in 15th place — in his first tournament action since an automobile accident on March 23. “I felt it went pretty good (playing after missing the last tournament), but I’m still disappointed,” Hutcherson said. “We’ve all got things we need to work on, and this team is a lot better than what we showed this semester.” The junior shot 142 over the tournament’s first two days — good for second place — before finishing day three with a 79. UT-San Antonio’s John Elizondo won the event with a total score of 213 on the 72par course. Going into Wednesday, Texas State was tied for eighth but was passed in the standings by Nicholls State at the conclusion of the final round. “We’ve just got to learn from what we did wrong,” sophomore Tyler Barnes-Wolf said. “We don’t have any seniors on this team, so

“W

e’ve just got to learn from what we did wrong. We don’t have any seniors on this team, so we’ll all be back for next year, and we’ve got some good highschool players coming in.”

— Tyler Barnes-Wolf ﬁnance sophomore

we’ll all be back for next year, and we’ve got some good high-school players coming in.” Lamar took top-team honors with a combined score of 871, nine shots ahead of runner-up UTSA. Texas State ﬁnished 39 shots behind of the leader. Louisiana-Monroe, which led after the ﬁrst two days, came in a shot behind the Roadrunners, with Southeastern Louisiana and UT-Arlington tying for fourth at 883. The ’Cats had hoped to get a boost with

the return of Hutcherson, the only team member to finish in top 20. Barnes-Wolf was second on Texas State’s squad, registering a three-day total of 226, good for 25th. “It was frustrating,” Barnes-Wolf said. “At times I wasn’t putting well, and other times it was something else. The chance was there to shoot under par, so it was both encouraging and frustrating at the same time.” The Houston tournament marks the end of a disappointing spring season for the Bobcat men, who finished fourth in their first tournament, the Santa Anita North Texas Classic, but afterward would place no higher than 10th the rest of the way. “Of course we all wish we could have done better this spring, and there is a lot we can improve on,” Hutcherson said. “At this point, we’re just ready for next year.” Hutcherson picked up 38 par in the contest, capping the season with three top 20 finishes, placing among the top eight twice. The team’s top golfer of the season, he averaged a 73.79 over 14 rounds. “He had missed a month of competitive golf,” Barnes-Wolf said. “I know it was tough. He got out of his routine and might have been fatigued, but to play like he did for two of three rounds was pretty impressive.”

SPORTS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

sports snortsquotes from the sports world “He needs to resign and bring someone in who’s capable of communicating … because there’s so much hatred against Bud right now. It’s a joke. Nobody likes him.” — Red Sox pitcher David Wells, apologizing for comments he made in an interview with The Hartford Courant published on March 8. Wells and Yankee management voiced a public apology on Wednesday morning. (Source: ESPN)

Thursday, April 20, 2006 - Page 16

Sports Contact — Miguel Peña, starsports@txstate.edu

Bobcats go yard over Hilltoppers Five Texas State players connect on the long ball By Carl Harper The University Star The Bobcats ended their five-game non-conference week with a solid win against St. Edwards on Wednesday night at Bobcat Field, 15-7. Outfielder Bradley Goldsmith led the game off with a 0-2 count solo homerun to left for St. Edwards in the first-inning of play off pitcher Steven Siers, who was making his third start of the season. The boys in maroon were down in an early 1-0 hole that did not last long. In the bottom half of the inning, Cassidy Dresch walked and then reached third base on a ripped single by Kyle Jones to left-center. Heath Keel then stepped up with men on the corners and pounded out his fourth home run of the season to give the ’Cats a 3-1 lead. Pitcher James Belliveau of St. Edwards remained in a jam, as there were then back-to-back errors in the infield, but managed to escape the inning with a 5-4-3 double play and a fly out by Adam Witek who was making his second start of the season for the Bobcats. Lance Schramm picked up his first collegiate walk to lead off the second inning and later his first run when Jones sacrificed him home with a fly out to center. Texas State was coasting with a 4-1 advantage after two innings. Aaron Garza had favor with the first pitch that he saw in the third inning as he led off with his

fourth home run of the season to left-center. The hits kept on coming for the ’Cats as Elliot Babcock singled to left but then was thrown out at second on a 6-4 fielder’s choice off of Adam Witek. After Schramm walked, Casey Guest doubled down the left field line scoring Witek. Dresch followed up his teammates with an infield single, picking up his ninth RBI by scoring Schramm from third. The Bobcats were dominating St. Edwards after three innings, 7-1. As there was no scoring action in the fourth, Witek continued to have a tough night at shortstop as he made his third error on the game in the fifth inning for Texas State. St. Edward’s David McKay reached first on Witek’s throwing error and scored two batters later when Goldsmith picked up his second RBI of the night on a sacrifice fly to center. The Bobcats’ lead was then narrowed to 7-2. David Wood, who entered the game in the fourth inning as a pinch-hitter for Babcock, stayed in the game and hit a 2-run moon shot to left-center in the sixth for the Bobcats. Keel had led off the inning with a single and was stranded at first as both Cody Merrell and Garza popped out in the infield, until Wood came up and delivered two more runs for the team. Texas State led 9-2 after six innings of play. St. Edwards got a one-out rally going in the See YARD, page 15

Monty Marion/Star photo SAFE SLIDE: Sophomore catcher Lance Schramm slides to beat a throw to third base during the Bobcats’ victory against St. Edward’s on Wednesday night at Bobcat Stadium.

‘Mad Dog’ loses his bite, not his game By Chris Boehm The University Star Cody “Mad Dog” Merrell has lost his edge — or his bite — if you will. Texas State’s first baseman was once known to let the anger flow. Now he’s getting plunked by baseballs virtually every other game, yet it doesn’t bother him. “Well, you get on base for getting hit. I’m not going to get mad about that,” Merrell said. “It’s a lot easier to get hit by a pitch than to actually get a hit.” Merrell is getting hit at an unbelievable pace this year, 18 times in 40 games, an occurrence coach Ty Harrington has only seen one other time in his career. “We had a guy when I was at Arkansas State back in ’93 or ’94,” Harrington said. “He got hit 27 or 28 times during the season. But that’s the only one. It’s got to the point where I expect (him to get hit).” “Mad Dog” earned his nickname while playing at Seminole State Junior College under Coach Eric Myers. The moniker has carried over to his new home in San Marcos, where teammates heard an old roommate use the term. Merrell also owns a glove with “Mad Dog” written on it. “I was pretty hot-tempered (in junior college), but I’ve tried to grow up a bit since then,” Merrell said. “I still get charged up every now and then, but I try not to let it show until I get to the dugout.” It comes as little surprise that the hit-by-pitch count doesn’t get him riled. The senior transfer from Oklahoma State owns a team-high, .429 on-base percentage, thanks in part to the free passes. “It’s a single, if you think about it,” Harrington said. “He’s an intelligent ball player. He plays with a lot of knowledge and experience, and finding ways to get on base are certainly part of that.” Merrell said he developed the ability to stand in on a pitch while playing at Seminole State, where his coach accepted nothing less than to take one for the team. “If we got out of the way, he threatened that the next person to do so would run five miles,” Merrell said. “And I’m not a big fan of running.” “In high school, I was a lot faster than I am now,” Merrell said. “I guess I’ve lost a step, and that’s been why I’ve made the transition to first and catcher. But I really don’t have a preference. I just want to reach that goal (of getting to the big leagues).” What he may have lost in foot speed, the slugger has made up for at the plate, where the term “batter’s box” means little to Merrell. “I don’t think I crowd the plate that much, but guys that play against me in inter-squad say I’m pretty close to being on top of it,” Merrell said. “I like to

Monty Marion/Star photo GOOD EYE: Senior transfer Cody Merrell, seen here before the Bobcats game against St. Edward’s, has brought some much needed ﬁrepower to the plate. Merrell currently leads the team in hits with 47 and is second in home runs and RBI behind Luke Cannon.

think I play hard. That’s the one thing you have control over, no matter what happens. Good or bad, you can always play hard.” The first-year Bobcat has done more than try this season, leading the team in hits with 48 and placing second in RBI and home runs, with six and 32, respectively. Merrell, batting .317 on the year, also filled in at third base while Cassidy Dresch nursed a wrist injury early in the schedule. “(Merrell) was pressing a bit, but now he’s calmed down and is delivering in the clutch, like he has all season,” starting pitcher Scott Moore said. “He’s really stepped in and given us pop in the middle of the order, especially since we lost Kyle Anson and Nolan Mast (to graduation).” The production is a pleasant change from last year with OSU, where Merrell took 37 at-bats in his only season with the Cowboys. “All I really did there was DH and pinch hit against left-handed pitching,” Merrell said. “I wanted a chance to play. I knew (Bobcat outfielder) Kyle Jones, and he helped me get down here.” Jones and Merrell got acquainted during the fall of 2005, when both were at OSU. Jones

transferred to Texas State the following spring, but the two players stayed in contact during last season. “I called and asked him how his season was going, thinking I might want to transfer,” Merrell said. “Kyle’s a really good guy, and I knew he wasn’t going to lie to me about anything going on (at Texas State). He shot me straight, and I liked what I heard.” Merrell said he knew the team had a successful run in 2005 and felt this year would be no different. Texas State, 12-6, has won seven of its last 10 games and sits tied with UT-San Antonio (105) for third place in the Southland Conference. “We’re relaxed and coming into our own. And we’re having fun. That’s the main thing,” Merrell said. “We just took some pressure off ourselves and let it come to us.” And Merrell may just be forming a new meaning for “Mad Dog,” one he can show outside the dugout. “We just call him Mad Dog because that’s how he goes about the game,” Moore said. “He goes all out, every pitch of every game. If he’s behind in the count and there’s a ball inside, he’s going to step into it so we can get to the next hitter.”

The University Star

Published on Apr 20, 2006

04 20 2006

Published on Apr 20, 2006

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