04 25 2006

OLD-TIMEY SOUNDS

WRAP UP

The Old Settler’s Music Festival presents four days of unique bands

Bobcat softball finishes ’06 season with big wins for senior class

SEE TRENDS PAGE 5

SEE SPORTS PAGE 14

TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY SAN MARCOS

www.UniversityStar.com

APRIL 25, 2006

TUESDAY

VOLUME 95, ISSUE 78

Oh, hail no!

Congressional representatives visit Texas State

Storm stings San Marcos, damaging outlet stores, cars

By Anna Heffley The University Star

Mark Decker/Star photo DOES THIS COME WITH A WARRANTY?: The storm on Thursday brought a barrage of hail on Prime Outlets, damaging this Black & Decker sign along with the entrance sign to the outlets, awnings and other store signs.

By Marquita Griffin The University Star San Marcos became a focal target of a powerful hailstorm Thursday.

The worst of the storm occurred over San Marcos’ most popular site for tourists — the outlet malls.

Around 5:15 p.m., hail fell from the sky, shattering car windows and ripping apart mall property. Many storefront signs were completely destroyed, while many of the ones left had been blown out.

As the hail created its 15-minute havoc, shoppers ran for the safety of the stores.

Shoppers and mall employees watched helplessly as hail broke their car windows and dented the hoods, trunks and doors. It is estimated that at least 1,000 vehicles

were damaged at the outlets.

Prime Outlet Mall Manager Lori Kennedy was unavailable for comment Monday due to several meetings she attended to discuss the damage caused by the hailstorm.

Management staff said the office is in a frenzy to find a solution and figure out all the damages. The exact cost of the hail damage has not yet been calculated.

The management staff said the Prime Outlet was closed Friday, while the Tanger Outlet resumed normal business hours because Prime suffered more significant damage than Tanger.

Michelle Carswell, Tanger manager, said the reason Tanger was able to resume business hours Friday was See HAIL, page 4

Jason Buch/Star photo NOT SO PLEASANT WEATHER: A car on Pleasant Street endures Thursday afternoon’s hailstorm. According to Weather.com San Marcos received about two inches of rain during the brief downpour.

The hail caused minimal damage on campus, compared to the outlet malls where windshields were broken and storefronts smashed.

About 150 people attended the Congressional Student Forum on Friday, where Texas State students had a chance to ask two congressmen any questions they had.

Congressional Reps. John Carter, Republican, 31st District, and Henry Cuellar, Democrat, 28th District, came to the Alkek Teaching Theater to answer students’ questions.

Cassandra Dahnke is the co-founder of the Institute for Civility in Government, the organization that sponsored the event along with the Mitte Honors Program.

Dahnke said the forum was not intended to be a debate, but a collegial dialogue, and students could ask any questions they wished, as long as they did so in a respectful and civil manner.

“We’re not asking that people give up their position in order to get along,” Dahnke said. “We just ask that people respectfully and civilly express themselves and listen to one another.”

Tom Scott, co-founder of the institute, said people’s perceptions influence their beliefs, their beliefs influence how they see the world and that influences how they live their day-to-day lives.

“Why don’t we all automatically agree? Why is it we have different thoughts? Why is it we have different opinions? Because we have different belief systems, which give us different perceptions,” Scott said. “Which is the best party? Democrats say Democrats, Republicans say Republicans. Let’s create some new ideas, new ways to see things, so we can live together.”

One of the first questions was what Congress thought about the rapid rise in gas prices.

Cuellar said storms like Hurricane Katrina affected refinery capacity and a bill passed last summer may help long term, but that it is a very serious issue, and Congress would have to address it soon.

“Conservation is key,” Cuellar said. “As a member of the Agriculture Committee (in Congress), we’re going to look at alternative fuels, but there aren’t many alternative fuel distribution centers. It’s a difficult issue, but something we have to look at.”

Carter said one reason gas prices are so high could be the oil industry has not built a refinery or pipelines in the United States in 25 years. Carter also discussed the possibility of alternative fuels.

“In Columbia, they’re distilling the residue of sugar cane,” Carter said. “The process was invented at Texas A&M. It’s a process that has a lot of hope. But you’re right, we need to get prices down.”

Another issue addressed by the representatives was the war in Iraq.

Carter said he has been to Iraq three times, and See FORUM, page 4

ASG approves legislation concerning single drop date for classes City in top three Texas tourist destinations

By Clayton Medford The University Star

legislation, said changing the two drop date system to one with a single drop date eight weeks into a long semester has two positive effects: It allows students more time to assess their potential success in a course and deters students from dropping out at the end of the semester and possibly hurting classmates’ grades.

“Some classes just have midterms and if you haven’t taken that test, you don’t know how well you are going to do in the class,” Titus said.

The Associated Student Government unanimously and without debate passed legislation supporting the establishment of a single drop date Monday. Changing the drop dates, the deadlines that students must meet in order to withdraw from a class, has been a concern of the Faculty Senate since Fall 2005.

History senior and Sen. Megan Titus, who authored the

If a student is involved in a group project in a course, nothing can prevent the student from dropping the course before the current final drop date and placing the burden of finishing the project on classmates, Titus said.

“The ‘8 Week’ Proposal would deter dropping and therefore reduce inconveniences to faculty, staff and students with group projects,” according to Titus’s legislation.

Under the proposal, students wishing to withdraw

from a course during the first eight weeks of a long semester could do so without penalty.

Students wishing to drop in the second half of the semester must receive departmental approval. For summer sessions, that deadline would fall on the 13th class day.

“The reason (for the legislation) is just to provide clear guidelines and eliminate inconsistent policies,” Titus said.

“When the drop date is before your first test, that’s just not enough time.”

By Clayton Medford The University Star San Marcos residents may see a major influx of out-of-towners this summer. After a 16.9 percent increase in overnight visitors in 2005 and a solid start to 2006, San Marcos Chamber of Commerce President Phil Neighbors expects big things for his city this summer.

“I’m hoping we have at least a 10 percent increase this year because we’ve had such a strong start,” Neighbors said.

Tourist destinations like the San

Marcos River and the Prime and Tanger outlet malls contributed to the almost $16 million San Marcos hotels earned in 2005. The busiest quarter, July through September, packed the more than 1,100 hotel rooms in the city and earned the hotels $5 million. Neighbors said the hotels are fully booked on weekends throughout the summer and remain 60 percent full throughout the year.

San Marcos is consistently among the top three tourist destinations in See TOURISM, page 3

Texas State student honored as Rockefeller fellow for academic excellence, public service

By Magen Gray The University Star Interdisciplinary studies senior Ashley Weaver joined the Rockefeller Brothers Fund 2006 Fellowship for Aspiring Teachers of Color on Thursday based on her academic performance, communication skills and public service.

Weaver is one of 25 students across the nation to receive the honor.

“The first day that Ashley was in my class, she spoke up right away. You could just spot her; she was articulate, bright and stood out in a crowd,” said Kathleen

Fite, curriculum and instruction professor at Texas State since 1973. Fite was Weaver’s professor for two core education classes and is Weaver’s mentor.

“Ashley is a people-person and not afraid of work. She is highly respected and shows promise to touch the lives of others with that energy about her. I can see her going out and influencing children, adults and legislation.

Ashley’s a mover and a shaker,” Fite said.

Weaver and Fite will work together this summer on a project that creates direct teaching experience with students. Weaver must present her project at a

Today’s Weather

Scattered Storms 83˚/58˚

Precipitation: 60% Humidity: 63% UV: 8 Very High Wind: E 11 mph

workshop in Washington, D.C. at the beginning of August.

According to the RBF, only 10 percent of national public school teachers are black, and RBF wants the number to grow with the increasing number of black students.

Founded in 1940, RBF is committed to influencing social change. The philanthropist group grants each scholarship recipient up to $22,100 during a five-year period, beginning this summer and ending after three years of public school teaching.

Weaver said she was invited to apply for the scholarship and found out about it from another

Texas State student.

“My favorite part of my major is working with the kids. I plan to graduate in May 2007 and go to graduate school somewhere on the East Coast,” Weaver said.

She is a member of Texas State’s Black Women United, is the on-campus African American Leadership Conference coordinator and currently works at the outlet mall.

For more information about RBF or to view pictures of the 25 scholarship winners online, visit www.rbf.org.

Two-day Forecast Wednesday A.M. Showers Temp: 76°/ 58° Precipitation: 40%

Thursday Partly Cloudy Temp: 80°/ 63° Precipitation: 20%

RISING STAR: Interdisciplinary studies senior Ashley Weaver joined the Rockefeller Brothers Fund 2006 Fellowship for Aspiring Teachers of Color and is one of 25 students in the country to have received this honor. Weaver will travel to Washington, D.C. in August to present a teaching project with her professor Kathleen Fite.

Monty Marion/ Star feature photo

Inside

TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY SAN MARCOS

News ..............1-4 Trends .............5-9 Comics .............. 9 Crossword ......... 9

Sudoku .............. 9 Opinions .......... 10 Classifieds .. 11,12 Sports ......... 13,14

To Contact Trinity Building Phone: (512) 245-3487 Fax: (512) 245-3708 www.UniversityStar.com © 2006 The University Star

PAGE TWO The University Star

starsof texas state

Tuesday in Brief

April 25, 2006

Rebecca A. Prince has been named vice president for university advancement at Texas State.

Prince, 49, has worked at Texas State for 16 months as the university’s director of development.

She will continue to hold that title in addition to her new duties as vice president for the University Advancement Division.

Prince’s appointment was announced Monday by

Texas State President Denise M. Trauth.

Before coming to Texas State, Prince spent nine years at the University of Texas, where she served as the assistant dean for development in the School of Nursing and also as the director of development in the College of Liberal Arts.

— Courtesy of Media Relations

News Contact — Kirsten Crow, starnews@txstate.edu STARS OF TEXAS STATE POLICY

Calendar of

EVENTS Events Wednesday Careers Services will have a workshop about applying for jobs with the federal government at 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the LBJ Teaching Theater, Room 4-16.1. Contact Career Services at (512) 245-2465 for more information.

There will be a rosary recital at 7:25 p.m in the Catholic Student Center chapel.

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.

Java jive

will be shown at 7:30 on April 25 through 29 at the Main Stage in the Theatre Center. Tickets $10 for the general public and $5 for students.

Contact the Theatre Office at (512) 245-2147 for more information.

On This Day...

Thursday

1684 - A patent was granted for the thimble.

There will be a Mo Pair Birthday Celebration at 6 p.m. at Blanco Rose Café.

1901 - New York became the first state to require license plates for cars. The fee was $1.

There will be a J. Frank Dobie exhibit from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Southwest Writers Collection in the Alkek Library on the 7th floor.

1928 - A seeing eye dog was used for the first time.

Thursday

1962 - The U.S. spacecraft, Ranger, crashed on the Moon.

Friday The Rock-Praise & Worship will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the CSC. Friday The Graduate Poetry Workshop will sponsor Chap This: Poetry Reading and Book Release party at 7:30 p.m. in the Katherine Ann Porter House, 508 W. Center St. in Kyle. The event is free and open to the public.

There will be a Valley Block Party from 3 to 9 pm in front of Falls Hall.

Local bands will play music and student organizations will have booths set up selling various items.

Tuesday The CSC will have a free lunch for all students from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the CSC lobby.

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

Arts & Entertainment Tuesday The Next Amendment, a familyoriented musical written by Charles Pascoe and directed by Jey Jennings

There will be a program about St. Francis of Assisi at 7 p.m. in the CSC. Saturday La Feria del Mariachi 2006 Annual Mariachi Festival will begin with at 8 p.m. in Evans Auditorium with a concert featuring Mariachi Campanas de America and Texas State’s Mariachi Nueva Generacion. Tickets are $5 for students with an ID — all others can pay $15 for preferred seating or $10 for regular seating.

Tickets are available at Los Cucos Mexican Cafe, Taqueria Del Charro and the Texas State Music Office.

For more information, contact Michele Peyton at (512) 245-8188.

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.

Deleigh Hermes/ Star photo Graduate Nathan Todd will be opening a new coffee house called Tantra on May 26. Todd plans to have an art show every month and live music and farmers’ market every weekend.

CRIME BL TTER University Police Department

ed. The transformer was repaired.

April 19, 9:30 p.m.

Medical Emergency/ Sewell Park An officer was dispatched to Sewell Park in response to an individual who was heavily intoxicated. The individual was transported to the Central Texas Medical Center for further treatment.

April 21, 8:51 p.m.

Medical Emergency/ College Inn An officer was dispatched to College Inn in reference to a student who was complaining of chest pains. The student was transported to CTMC for further treatment.

April 20, 7:49 p.m.

Information Report/ Bobcat Stadium An officer observed a transformer on fire at Bobcat Stadium. The officer contacted the fire department, City of San Marcos Utilities and SMPD, all of which respond-

April 22, 10:42 p.m.

MIP: Alcohol, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia/Blanco Hall An officer was dispatched to Blanco Hall in reference to a student who was smoking marijuana and was also in possession of alcohol. The student was issued a citation.

Crime stoppers: UPD: 245-7867, SMPD: 353-TIPS

1984 - David Anthony Kennedy, the son of Robert F. Kennedy, was found dead of a drug overdose in a hotel room.

Health Beat Testing anxiety can have negative effect come exam time Here we are at the end of another long semester. Just around the corner are deadlines for projects, final presentations and the always-dreaded final exam. For some, it is the latter that can be most problematic.

Test anxiety can cause symptoms like headaches, nausea or frustration. Test anxiety’s major area of focus, however, is on one’s thinking ability; it can cause many students to blank out or experience intrusive, racing thoughts during an exam.

One of the best prevention techniques for test anxiety is thorough exam preparation.

During study, try to include as much self-testing as possible.

As you prepare for your exams, think positively. Focus on what you know or times you have

performed well. The night before the test, collect everything you’ll need and have it all ready to go.

Do your best to get to the exam on time and try not to talk to other students about the exam just before you begin. If you begin to feel anxious during the test, relax by breathing deeply and slowly, stretching and shifting thoughts to something positive. If the exam is more difficult than you anticipated, focus on questions you know and do the best you can.

Test-taking tips are also available at SLAC and other learning labs. If test anxiety persists, you may want to talk to a counselor. You can visit our Web site at www.counseling.txstate.edu or call (512) 245-2208 for more information.

— Courtesy of the Counseling Center

NEWS

Tuesday, April 25, 2006

The University Star - Page 3

Summer the time to think about water, energy conservation ou can “Y always talk to your manager

By Eloise Martin The University Star

Students who plan to stay in San Marcos this summer will face rising temperatures, which may lead to increases in utility bills.

With the high heat in Texas throughout the summer, the temptation to lower the thermostat and take more cool showers may seem inviting, but there are ways to beat the heat without it costing your wallet’s contents.

Jan Klein, San Marcos water conservation coordinator, warns those who live in town that water bills are tiered, meaning the higher usage of water, the higher the bill.

“It is always a good idea to curb your water use, because the more water you use, the higher your rate is going to be,” she said.

Klein said there are simple ways to keep water use down, including waiting for full loads before doing laundry and dishes, keeping shower duration to a minimum and turning off the water while brushing teeth.

For those who live in apart-

about taking steps to conserve water.”

—Jan Klein, San Marcos water conservation coordinator

ments, Klein suggested talking to managers to be sure all conservation steps are being taken.

“You can always talk to your manager about taking steps to conserve water,” Klein said. “We have a number of programs that we can provide to the apartment complex.”

The programs include providing apartments with new lowflow showerheads and a rebate program to help furnish apartments with newer toilets that do not use as much water.

The department also provides apartments with free audits to help find ways to cut down water use.

For students who would like to take action into their own hands, Klein suggests replacing fixtures with those that conserve water, if it is permitted by the apartment. They may also check for leaking toilets by placing food dye in the tank and monitoring if it leaks into the bowl.

Water is not the only thing students should worry about conserving this summer. According to the Alliance to Save Energy in Washington, D.C., the average American household spends more than $100 each month on home energy-related costs, adding up to about $1,400 each year.

Steve Sands, San Marcos senior energy efficiency representative, said there are ways students can cut down on electrical usage during the summer.

The San Marcos Electricity Utility has created a brochure that addresses myths about surviving the summer heat.

One myth the brochure addresses is leaving the air conditioning on while out of the house will prevent it from overworking itself when it is turned on later during the day.

The brochure compares this idea to leaving a car idling while in the parking lot.

“If you leave home for more than one hour, turn your AC to ‘OFF.’ It saves you electricity.

The AC uses electric motors, which are either ‘on’ or ‘off.’ It uses more electricity the longer it runs.”

The brochure says to check for other potential problems if a home takes more than 10 to 15 minutes to cool down.

Another popular solution for beating the heat is ceiling fans.

Again, the brochure addresses a myth: Ceiling fans that are left on throughout the day will keep the house cool, even when no one is home.

“Ceiling fans circulate air inside your house and this moving cool/dry air feels cool to your skin,” the brochure said.

This means that unless there is a person in the home to feel the effects, a ceiling fan should not be left spinning. It can cool a person, but it will not keep a home cool.

Tips from Sands and the utility department also include turning off lights if they are

not needed to see and turning off computers when not in use to save both electricity and to keep the air conditioning from overworking. The heat radiating from the computer can raise the temperature in a home up to five degrees.

Summer is also a time for vacations for students. When going on vacation, check to see if all appliances are off and not using electricity while you are out of town, Sands said.

Jonathan Landero, philosophy sophomore, lives at University Springs apartments and has concerns about rising utility prices this summer. He has noticed the rising heat during the past weeks and said it has already led to an increase in the amount of electricity used.

“During the first couple of months at the apartment, we did not really worry about using the air conditioning, but now we have the thermostat set at about 75 degrees,” he said.

Landero pays his own bills and said although he knows there are environmental concerns regarding saving water and energy, high costs are his

main priority.

“I hate to say it, but my main motivation for cutting down on water and electricity use is money,” he said.

Landero plans to stay in San Marcos for at least half of the summer and said he will be taking full advantage of the pool provided at his apartment to escape the heat. He and his roommate also plan to purchase a floor fan for the living room to cut down on the air conditioning needed.

The City of San Marcos has taken action to help conserve water. There are two, year-round rules of water conservation: not using sprinklers or sprinkler systems during daytime hours between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. and no charity car washes unless held at a car wash business. If Mayor Susan Narvaiz or City Manager Dan O’Leary declare a Stage 1 drought this summer, additional restrictions will be implemented, and residents may be fined from $25 to $100, if restrictions are not followed.

Stage 1 drought is classified as when the Edwards Aquifer falls below 660 feet above sea level.

TOURISM: Completion of Convention Center expected to attract more winter visitors CONTINUED from page 1

Texas, competing with California and Florida for tourist dollars. In 2005, Neighbors said Six Flags Theme Park in Arlington edged out San Marcos for the top three spot.

“We didn’t lose any (tourists); we are still gaining visitors, actually,” Neighbors said. “(Six Flags) just had a really good year.”

Neighbors said the numerous advertising efforts of the chamber contribute to the success of the tourist season in San Marcos.

The chamber places ads in the

Dallas Morning News, the Houston Chronicle, Southern Living magazine, Texas Monthly magazine and in publications in Mexico City and Monterrey to attract visitors.

Neighbors said Mexican citizens comprise a large portion of the visitors to San Marcos.

“More and more Mexican nationals are spending the night in San Marcos, although most just make the day-trip,” Neighbors said. “They buy what they want at the outlets and head back to Mexico.”

Increasing the number of

overnight visitors, which Neighbors said is one of the chamber’s goals, would increase the amount of revenue the city gains from the hotel occupancy tax.

The 13 percent tax levied on hotel guests is divided between the state and the city. The six percent the state receives goes toward increasing the tourism profile of the state through publications like travel guides and advertisements. The seven percent the city receives goes to various programs.

San Marcos Finance Director Rodney Gonzales, who develops

the annual budget for the city, said the majority of funds San Marcos receives from the hotel occupancy tax are allocated to the Convention and Visitors Bureau. The bureau operates a Web site with information helpful to visitors, like dining recommendations, a calendar of events and lodging options.

The remaining 45 percent of the tax receipts are divided up between the Main Street Program, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, a cooperative advertising program between the city and the Prime and Tanger outlet

malls and the planned San Marcos Conference Center.

Neighbors said the completion of the conference center in 2007 should help the lull in tourism during the winter months.

“Not only will we add more (hotel) rooms to San Marcos with the adjoining hotel, we’ll have a new reason for visitors to come to San Marcos during the winter,” Neighbors said.

Tuesday, April 25, 2006

NEWS

HAIL: Texas State damage not significant; outlet malls, car dealership hardest hit CONTINUED from page 1

because “(they) were on the ball.”

Carswell said she agrees that Tanger did not suffer as much damage, but also said that the immediate response to the damage is what gave Tanger the ability to resume normal hours.

“There was no terrible storm damage, just controllable water intrusion, but we had a sweeper team on our site immediately after the storm stopped,” Carswell said.

Carswell said Tanger management did not receive any reports of shoppers or mall employees Mark Decker/Star photo being injured but said they were HAILED ON HONDA: Across Interstate 35 from the outlets at Classic Honda, hail damaged many of ready to respond to any emergency. its new and used cars on the lots. Some cars were dented, while others had windshields smashed.

“The fire department, EMS and police department set up a emergency phone calls. at the mall, and although Wi- age was concentrated south of command post and were pre“It was insane,” said Rosanna sener could not remember the Wonder World Drive, and while pared for anything,” Carswell Wisener, records communica- details, she did know EMS trans- the rest of San Marcos did resaid. tions manager of SMPD. “There ported the individual to the hos- ceive hail, it did not sustain the Carswell said although Tanger were so many calls that we had pital. damage like that at the outlet is in working order and able to five people staffing radios and Wisener said most of the calls mall. resume its normal activities, it phones. Within an hour we had received at SMPD were alarms “There were walnut-, golf may be a while before everything over 50 calls.” that were set off and people call- ball-, orange- and grapefruitis completely back to normal.

Out of the countless calls, Wi- ing asking what to do. sized hail,” Wisener said. “And She said damages are still being sener remembers two reports “They were so afraid, because the grapefruit-sized ones were discussed, and they have not fig- of storm-related accidents. A many of them had never been flying around at the mall.” ured the total cost of damages at softball-sized hail pellet went in something like that before,” Texas State received more of this date. through the window of a car and Wisener said. “All we could tell the walnut- and golf ball-sized While the outlet shoppers struck the driver, who was im- them was to stay away from the hail and no significant damage. were distraught over the hail mediately taken to the hospital windows, do not go outside and According to Residence Life, damage, the San Marcos Police to be treated for injuries. wait it out.” there were no reports about Department was flooded with The second accident occurred Wisener said the worst dam- Texas State property being damaged.

Valenta Carter, biology senior, said she assumed the hail damage was the same all over San Marcos. Carter, who works at HE-B, said she was initially devastated to find her car dented from front to back from the hail, but was relieved when she learned of the cars at the outlets.

After the storm stopped, HE-B employees, like those at the outlets, walked into the parking lot to assess the damages.

“I was so mad at first, when I saw my car,” said Carter. “I changed my tune when I heard people lost some or all of their windows at the outlets.”

Most of the significant damage occurred at the outlets, and the rest of San Marcos has resumed its daily routines. The outlet malls, however, have a road of restoration ahead.

The University Star - Page 4

FORUM: Representatives say they prioritize loyalty to voters before parties CONTINUED from page 1

noticed the Iraqi people do not even trust other Iraqis.

“Their definition of foreign is someone from a different neighborhood,” Carter said. “They want to keep track of strangers. We weren’t welcomed everywhere as liberators, but we were welcomed in some places.”

Carter said American troops cannot withdraw until the Iraqis have adequate military and police forces.

“The goal last year was to bring up the Iraqi army. This year is the Iraqi police,” Carter said. “That’s the biggest problem because here if someone was kicking down your door, you would call the police.

There, you would assume it was the police. We have to create trust in the police force.”

Cuellar said as long as American troops are there, they should be supplied with the best defenses, but America cannot withdraw troops until the Iraqi people have a satisfactory power structure to replace Saddam Hussein.

“In Iraq, Saddam was a power structure. A bad one, but one nonetheless,” Cuellar said.

“If we withdraw, who will fill that vacuum? Iran? That would be worse. We have to have an exit strategy. All of us want to bring our soldiers back as soon as possible.”

An audience member asked if there was pressure from party leaders for lawmakers to vote with their affiliated party on all issues.

Carter said there seems to be more partisanship today because 50 years ago, Democrats had a large majority lead, so the voting margin was large.

“Republicans got along because they had to get along or they’d get nothing,” Carter said.

“There’s a chance for Republicans to come back to the majority, so we’re going to try.”

Cuellar said today the low margin between the two parties

does create bitterness and personal attacks, but lawmakers should remember their job is to represent their constituents.

“I went to Washington not to represent the Democrats, but to represent my district,” Cuellar said. “I was sent to Washington not to move my country left or right, but forward.”

In the closing remarks, both representatives agreed that partisanship was one of the problems in Washington.

“I’d love to see people marching in the streets for civility in government. I think it’s important,” Carter said. “One of my biggest disappointments in government is partisanship.”

Cuellar said when he was running for re-election, members of his own party said he was too Republican, and talking to George Bush one night earned more support for his opponent.

“It’s incredible where just knowing somebody or talking to somebody is a bad thing,” Cuellar said. “Little things like that that sound so trivial are big in Washington.”

Dahnke said the representatives were excited to come speak to students because they want to know what is important to the people they are representing.

“It’s helpful to them to get to talk to their constituents, they’re hungry for that information,” Dahnke said. “We bring congressmen to college campuses all school year, except fall election years.”

Heather Galloway is the associate director of the Mitte Honor chair and physics professor at Texas State.

Galloway, a member of the institute, asked them to bring the Carter and Cuellar to Texas State.

“I thought it would be a wonderful experience for all of our students to get to talk to two members of Congress,” Galloway said. “The students asked really good questions, I think the congressmen were pleased to get to talk to them.”

TRENDS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

releasesof the week music

We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions — Bruce Springsteen Louder Now — Taking Back Sunday

Let Love In — Goo Goo Dolls Ten Silver Drops — Secret Machines

Match Point — (R) Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Rhys Meyers Shopgirl — (R) Steve Martin, Claire Danes

dvd

Duane Hopewood — (R) David Schwimmer, Janeane Garofalo Aron Flux — (PG-13) Charlize Theron, Frances McDormand

Tuesday, April 25, 2006 - Page 5

Trends Contact — Kyle Bradshaw, starentertainment@txstate.edu

Mellow sounds settle in at folk music festival

By Samuel Ladach-Bark The University Star The 19th Annual Old Settler’s Music Festival descended upon Camp Ben McCulloch and the Salt Lick BBQ Pavilion in Driftwood during the weekend. For four days, with more than forty bands on four stages, the festival made its mark on Texas. The bands and the crowd came from far and wide to appreciate the sweet sounds of bluegrass, folk, blues and country.

The festival ran from Thursday to Sunday, featuring some of the most prolific and wellknown folk/country artists nationwide. Past headliners for this festival have included Bela Fleck, Reckless Kelly, Vassar Clements, South Austin Jug Band and the Del McCoury Band. The lineup and crowd grows every year; among this year’s harmonious heavy weights were Marley’s

Ghost, Keller Williams, Chip Taylor, Terri Hendrix — who has appeared at the last five festivals — and a special appearance by Kinky Friedman.

The Old Settler’s Music Festival was originally held in Round Rock at the newly built Old Settler’s Park. It moved to Driftwood and the Salt Lick BBQ Pavilion five years ago when it outgrew the park.

“Actually the first festival was an unofficial gathering of 10 artists who later formed the Old Settler’s Music Association and organized the first official festival,” said Judy Knopp, artist relations for the festival.

Camp Ben McCulloch’s grounds were packed with families and music enthusiasts who dropped $70 for a wristband that gave them access to all four days of music. The festival is also heavily promoted as a family event, featuring timeless Ameri-

cana music for the parents and face painting, a petting zoo, a youth talent competition and armadillo races for the children.

In and around every stage, there were children running and playing, giving the festival a southern picnic atmosphere.

Including solid shows from the headliners, Old Settler’s also

featured stellar performances from Austin groups Green Mountain Grass, The Grassy Knoll Boys and Carrie Rodriguez.

Rodriguez and Chip Taylor gave one of the most memorable performances while closing the festival on Sunday just before late afternoon. In this old-

meets-new mishmash of sounds, there was nothing but distinctive delicate tones. Taylor is about as high as one can get in the country/folk genre. He will always be remembered for his ’60s smash hit “Wild Thing,” but his music has a softer side that blossomed in front of a completely captivated crowd. Rodriguez’s serene

fiddle perfectly complimented Taylor’s other big hit “Angel of the Morning.”

Taylor spoke about the day he first saw Rodriguez play.

“I’ll never forget when I saw Carrie playing the fiddle in See FESTIVAL, page 9

David Racino/Star photo SWEET SOUNDS: Slim Richey & Kat’s Meow play to the crowds Sunday during the Old Settler’s Music Festival held at Camp Ben McCulloch in Driftwood.

David Racino/Star photo HEART AND SOUL: Kat Edmonson shows off her smooth voice alongside Slim Richey during the four day-long Old Settler’s Music Festival.

Page 6 - The University Star

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Tuesday, April 25, 2006

The University Star - Page 7

Student flicks showcased at Chatauqua Film Festival

By Maira Garcia The University Star Amateur and independent filmmakers were given a chance to showcase their talents at the first Chatauqua Film Festival on Thursday and Friday night.

Hosted by the Student Association for Campus Activities, the film festival featured panels, workshops and short and regular length film showcases. Films were made by local directors and Texas State students.

At the LBJ Teaching Theater, Thursday’s activities included a presentation by the deputy director of the Houston Film

Commission, Alfred Cervantes, who screened a few selections from the 2005 Texas Filmmaker Showcase, a collection the commission compiles yearly and is screened for Hollywood studio executives, agents and producers.

A collection of short films by students followed the showcase.

Most were shot on campus, with one being shot in the neighboring town of Seguin and another in Austin. This showcase gave a taste of the developing talent of student filmmakers on campus.

At the Alkek Teaching Theater, Friday night featured screenings of the documen-

tary Rescue Me, from director Stacy Schoolfield and Jumping off Bridges, from writer/director Kat Candler. Both Candler and Schoolfield were on hand for the screenings to introduce their films and take part in question and answer sessions after the films.

Here’s a look at some of Texas State’s student films: RPS Winner: Best Picture (director Brian Nelligan), Best Actor (Daniel Aston), Best Actress (Debbie Leopold) RPS is more than just a trivial game, its about logic and

competition. Lucy (Leopold), who is conducting a documentary on the phenomenon of the competitive rock, paper, scissors game, explores the topic through interviews with RPS experts. Sebastian (Aston), a RPS master, is caught in awkward situations as a result of Lucy’s attempts to get him to compete for the RPS championship. Along the way, the viewer is filled in on RPS jargon such as the hand-base and the playable action hand. In reality, an RPS championship really does exist, where winners can win a cash grand prize.

Courtesy of Storie Productions INDIE FEST: Glen Powell, Katie Lemon and Savannah Welch star in Kat Candler’s Jumping Off Bridges, which was screened at the first Chatauqua Film Festival on Friday night.

Two for One Winner: Best Editing/Cinematography Filmed mostly in black and white, Two for One is like a walk through three generations of music and the forces of good and evil. The “good guy” fights to keep his loaf of bread from being destroyed at the hands of the “bad guy.” Included is a lightsaber dual in front of a water fountain, where the good guy wins and brings home the bread to a loving girlfriend.

They celebrate by making sandwiches and reflecting on a day where the bad guy always tries to get you down, but the good guys always goes home in the end.

Drano Filmed as a spoof of Drano commercials, this clip makes light of suicide and sink drainers. A guy starts off by trying to slit his wrists, then tries to overdose on pills and finally uses the Drano after reading the warning label while trying to unclog his sink. As the end title reads, it “gets the job done the first time.” This twisted take on suicide couldn’t help but be sick and funny.

Courtesy of Fool’s Guild Productions LOW BUDGET HAMLET: Benjamin Pascoe and Mark Spacek play King Hamlet and Claudius in Alas! Poor Yorick!, which played on Thursday night at the LBJ Teaching Theater.

The Petal This one is simple. A nerd has to climb up the social “ladder.”

In this case, it’s the stairs lead-

ing up to the Alkek Library to give “the girl” a red rose that has only one petal. Once he reaches the top, he is literally dumped into a garbage can by the popular girl’s jock friends.

Sometimes good guys do finish last.

Evil Bobbie II: Attack of the Mimes Mimes try to take over in Evil Bobbie II: Attack of the Mimes.

Bobbie Hunter, a renegade and mime eradicating expert, trains Michael, an unassuming witness to the conversion of regular people to killer mimes. With Bobbie’s guidance, Michael is turned into a mime-killing machine. This film had great mime choreography and enumerated the scary nature of clowns that don’t talk.

The Elephant After going to see a dying friend in the hospital, Paul carries out his friend’s plan to steal a jeweled elephant worth millions. Paul finds masterminds at hacking in the security system and breaking locks to obtain the prized elephant. Little do his cohorts know that Paul plans to take the elephant for himself at any cost, particularly to their lives. This short action film condenses what usually takes about two hours for regular movies into 10 minutes.

Sentinel shows acting handoff from Douglas to Sutherland

By Roger Moore The Orlando Sentinel There’s a torch being passed The Sen✯✯✯ in tinel. Watch The Sentinel carefully and Dir.: Clark Johnyou’ll see the son hand-off.

Stars: Michael Michael Douglas, Kiefer Douglas, a Sutherland reliable, OsRated: PG-13 car-winning leading man, equally at home as heroes or villains, up for the occasional comedy — lights up his scenes with Kiefer Sutherland.

Sutherland, for those missing 24, is the new Michael Douglas — earnest, tough, vulnerable and very cool. One of the great pleasures of movie-going these past 20 years has been watching Sutherland age and grow into the kind of rough-hewn lead his old man never was.

And when he and Douglas square off in the shouting-atthe-same-time rages in The Sentinel, it’s more than just a Secret Service protégé challeng-

film review

ing his mentor (Douglas), a grizzled vet who “took a bullet for the Old Man” (Ronald Reagan). It’s an actor who’s paid his dues, re-launched his career on TV, staking a claim for all that Douglas has been on the big screen all these years.

The Sentinel is a solid Secret Service procedural built into a tale of an under-explained plot to kill the president, one involving a too-obvious “mole” in the Service.

None of the moustache-twirling villainy or pinned-to-yourseat suspense of In the Line of Fire, Clint Eastwood’s superior cat-and-mouse Secret Service thriller of years back. This is solid genre filmmaking that makes up for a lack of surprises with superior performances, excellent depictions of tradecraft (shades of CSI) and whiplash editing and pacing.

Actor-turned-director Clark Johnson (S.W.A.T.) has figured out that a thriller doesn’t have to be that thrilling to work. It does, however, have to move, and The Sentinel does.

There’s a tip that someone is going to make an attempt on

the president (David Rasche).

There’s a complication involving the first lady, and since she’s smartly played by Kim Basinger, you can guess where that leads.

Agent Pete (Douglas) is suspected by Agent Dave (Sutherland). Eva Longoria, hot TV “housewife” du jour, gets in the middle of the tug of war.

Agents at every pay grade are running hither and yon, tracking leads, sniffing for “the mole” and trying to outsmart somebody “who knows what you know, who knows how you think,” as Sutherland’s Tommy Lee Jones-ish character growls.

Everybody yells, “Go, go, GO!” a lot.

And 108 minutes later, you get the resolution you pretty much figure out at the 40-minute mark.

But Douglas and Sutherland make it interesting.

Look past the Secret Service sunglasses, the earpieces and the ever-present microphone-upthe-sleeve. You just might see a torch, and a very deft hand-off from a movie star we’ve embraced for 20-plus years, to his 39-year-old heir apparent.

Courtesy of 20th Century Fox DOUBLE AGENT: Eva Longoria and Keifer Sutherland star as Secret Service agents in The Sentinel.

Page 8 - The University Star

TRENDS

Tuesday, April 25, 2006

Gourds mix styles, cover songs at Cheatham Street

By Stephen Lloyd The University Star Cheatham Street Warehouse ✯✯✯✯ may just be The Gourds San Marcos’ Cheatham Street most famous Warehouse club since it’s Thursday, April 20 well-known outside of the city. The club played host to a show by Austin-based band The Gourds on Thursday night.

The Gourds are a little bit country and a little bit rock ’n’ roll.

Opening act Tony Taylor performed solo with his acoustic guitar. His voice was toned with cigarette smoke, but it was still clear and full. He also had sheet music with him. This was a little odd, but he only seemed to use it for brief references. He also kept referencing a set list he had folded in his shirt pocket. Overall, while there was evident talent, his set seemed thrown together at the last minute. The highlights of his performance were a version of Bob Dylan’s “I Shall be Released” and one of Taylor’s originals, an emotional song about a soldier in the middle of war. Unfortunately, there was a loud pop mid-song and all the amplification ceased, causing Taylor to start the song over.

The Gourds began their set with a bouncy and jerky song featuring a call-and-response section between the bass and the accordion. Bass player Jimmy Smith supplied the vocals in a raspy, Dylan-like style.

The second song, “Gangster Lean,” had a swampy, laid back feel, perpetuated by the nasal, Hank Williams-like drawl of guitarist Kevin Russell. It also featured a Beatles-ish organ.

The band then played a song featuring some mellow, emo-

concert

tional vocals from multi-instru- to The Rolling Stones’ “Sympa- straight country numbers, but in a good way. camp, the band certainly has mentalist Max Johnston that thy for the Devil.” Russell even those were the least interesting The best thing about The much more going for them. were in some ways reminiscent added a thank-you message to of the evening. The instrumen- Gourds is the band’s variety. They could fit any bill or play in of Robert Earl Keen. The song the crowd into the song lyrics. tation was as good as ever, but While they may be lumped in any club, and that’s a major part also had zydeco textures with The band did play a couple the rhythms were sleepy and not with the country and western of their appeal. its harmonica and accordion.

“Layin’ Around the House” began with sparse instrumentation from muted acoustic guitar, shakers and clapping.

Smith’s Dylan-esque vocals were heard again in a bluegrassinfluenced song that also had zydeco flavor. The use of an accordion doesn’t necessarily mean it’s zydeco music, but it’s played as such in The Gourds’ songs.

The band played a cover of the Billy Joe Shaver song, “Omaha,” that had deep bass and driving drums and the first real mandolin solo of the night.

Everything in the set had been more or less country music until the band played a galloping rock song, complete with screeching organ, a guitar solo, screaming vocals and to solidify the song’s “rock integrity,” cursing.

The band followed with one of the most enjoyable and catchy songs of the night, “Burn the Honeysuckle.” The song was also in a zydeco style and the vibe reflected the apparent lyrical meaning of hanging out and having a good time on a lazy summer day.

The unexpected cover of Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On” garnered a great response from the crowd. Somehow the band managed to keep the song’s funk sound even when using the fiddle. Near the end of the set, the band played a song that was very similar to Neil Young’s “Ohio,” but about halfway through, the band switched to a honky-tonk style.

The final song of the evening Courtesy of TheGourds.com morphed into a free-form jam that eventually included lyrics VARIETY HOUR: The Gourds performed their blend of country and rock ’n’ roll on Thursday at Cheatham Street Warehouse.

TRENDS/DIVERSIONS

Tuesday, April 25, 2006

✯Star Comics

The University Star - Page 9

FESTIVAL: Kat’s Meows’ sample EP sells out within minutes of performance CONTINUED from page 5

Cheapo’s Discs, when we agreed to play together,” Taylor said.

They have since released three collaborative albums, all of which became instant hits in the country western music scene. Rodriguez also gave her thoughts on the festival.

“I just have to say, this is so Austin. I grew up here, and this is the most Austin show I have played in a long while,” Rodriguez said of the festival’s crowd.

Another group that turned more than a few heads early Sunday with its seductive sounds was Kat’s Meow. Slim Richey helped pioneer the improvisational bluegrass move-

ment with his 1977 classic Jazz Grass. Helming the microphone on top of Richey’s sonic guitar riffs with her smoky vocals was Kat Edmonson. She looks like a teenage choirgirl but sings like a seasoned jazz singer of the ’20s and ’30s. Their cover of the Ella Fitzgerald classic “Fever” had the crowd hypnotized with Richey’s twangy guitar and Edmonson’s commanding vocals.

“Jazz was the first music I ever listened to, and through the years it has always been so easy to slip back into,” Edmonson said.

Their sample EP sold out in five minutes after they left the stage.

They played a tight set considering they have only been working together for eight months.

“I love interacting with the

talented collection of artists in the campsites. I mean performing on the stage is great, but I love hanging with everybody and making music at night,” Edmonson said of the festival experience.

Reaching for influences as far back as the early ’60s, Old Settler’s was a great display of Americana roots that appealed to fans of multiple generations.

From its small beginning in Round Rock, the Old Settler’s Music Festival has grown into one of the nation’s top five events of its kind. Next April will mark the festival’s two-decade anniversary, where country, bluegrass and folk fans are sure to find returning favorites and other Texas music pioneers.

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

Thursday’s solutions:

© Pappocom

Thursday’s solutions:

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

OPINIONS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

Tuesday, April 25, 2006 - Page 10

quote of the day “It used to be that softball was one of the few things in Washington that both parties agreed on. Now that is coming to an end, too.”

”

— Gary Caruso, Democratic congressional aide and commissioner of the Congressional Baseball League, responding to complaints from Republican teams of running “Softball Welfare Bracketology.” Caruso’s playoff system differs from many sports leagues’ traditional playoff systems. (Source: The Wall Street Journal)

Opinions Contact — Joe Ruiz, staropinion@txstate.edu

THE MAIN POINT

Facebook group creating division amongst students

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.

Effects of Rising

Gas Prices

Have you cut back significantly on driving with rising gas prices?

Earn $50,000 or less per year: YES: 59% NO: 41% Earn $50,000 or more per year: YES: 36% NO: 64%

These results are based on telephone interviews with a randomly selected national sample of 1,001 adults, aged 18 and older, conducted March 10 through 12, 2006. For results based on this sample, one can say with 95 percent confidence that the maximum error attributable to sampling and other random effects is ±3 percentage points. In addition to sampling error, question wording and practical difficulties in conducting surveys can introduce error or bias into the findings of public opinion polls.

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Shortly after losing his bid for Associated Student Government vice president, management junior Israel Ruiz once again made visible his now-famous Facebook group, Gdi’s are Inferior Club.

Ruiz said he “hid” the group amid controversy surrounding it during the ASG election, but intended to make it visible again regardless of the election’s outcome. Now the group is visible, with “Back Back Chris Jones” posted under recent news. Apparently, Ruiz feels he really pulled one over on Jones, now that he’s a mere ASG senator and can post messages online that the vast majority of the student body would probably find offensive. Jones’ letter to The University Star put the spotlight on Ruiz’s group. Now Ruiz is taunting Jones for making him lose the election. This makes about as much sense as Ruiz bragging that the crew of Apollo 13, the Apollo spacecraft that couldn’t make it to the moon, was composed entirely of greeks.

ASG needs to censure Ruiz. He is supposed to be a representative of the student body, yet Gdi’s are Inferior Club — GDI stands for goddamn independents — is a mean-spirited diatribe against all students who are not in a social fraternity or sorority. Ruiz doesn’t even have respect for greeks who are members of professional and academic greek organizations.

It is not acceptable that a member of the student government would post such inconsiderate material. Ruiz lost his vice presidential bid, but he still is a member of the senate. The student body has made it clear to him how little they care for his anti-everyone-whoisn’t-like-him-movement; he only took 28.4 percent of the vote.

Now ASG needs to show that they do not approve of having this sort of divisive speech coming from within their ranks.

The division in this university is intolerable. Despite the fact that the groups Ruiz said he created Gdi’s are Inferior Club to counter, A.F.F. — The Anti-Frat Faction — and A.S.S. — which stands for the anti-sorority sorority — say on their Web sites they do not harbor ill will toward greek organizations, there is a large degree of animosity toward greeks on this campus. This animosity is just as unacceptable as the animosity Ruiz and the other members of Gdi’s are Inferior Club show the rest of the student body.

Ruiz is not doing anything to endear the organizations he claims he is defending with his group to the Texas State campus. Telling students they are inferior and writing “we dress better, look better, drink more, party harder, and have more true friends than any GDI will ever fathom,” only serves to demean the greek community.

Fraternities and sororities are integral parts of this university. They bring in students and provide valuable community service. Greeks on this campus should be offended that Ruiz is giving them this horrible appearance.

The image of the Texas State greek community is not improved any by healthcare administration senior Andrae Turner, the president of the Interfraternity Council, being an officer in Ruiz’s group.

Gdi’s are Inferior Club is divisive, childish and harmful. Those involved with the group should have the common sense to stay out of the public eye, and the organizations they are involved in should not tolerate the discord the Gdi’s are Inferior Club officers perpetrate.

Texas State needs to push for more four-year students, less transfers A recent column or the occasional

by Sean Wardwell cheesesteak. He and a staff editorial instilled his work on expanding the ethic in me, and Austin Community it is my belief that College district into everyone should San Marcos got me aspire to receive a thinking about the quality education.

ADAM BROWN issue. While I am I understand that Star Photo Editor not too concerned not everyone is about San Marcos financially secure shouldering the debt as I may be or of ACC, I am more concerned may not be mature enough for about something that affects leaving home at 18 or various me personally. As the photo other problems. While I am editor of The University Star, sympathetic to hardships, that I usually stick to pictures and doesn’t change the fact that stray away from voicing my someone who goes to commuopinion in print. However, the nity college for two years and issue of making it easier for transfers to Texas State will possible Texas State students receive the same degree I will to take transferable commureceive on May 13. To me, this nity college classes makes me is an injustice to both of us. It want to break my silence. is unfair to me because I, perI will be graduating from haps arguably, worked harder Texas State in May and have than someone who went to spent all four years of my colcommunity college, and it is lege education here without unfair to a transfer because attending community college. they did not receive the same In my family, it was the norm quality education I received. to work hard in high school Texas State prides itself on and go to college and graduquality academics and graduate in four years. My father, ation rates. This university who was born in Germany wants to increase its status and grew up in a working class among state public schools family from south Philadeland the way to do that is not phia, received his bachelor’s flooding the workforce with as well as master’s from the graduates; it is producing University of Pennsylvania in quality graduates who will a four-year program, workmake names for themselves ing his way through with odd in the professional world. Enjobs and surviving on PB&J couraging community college

students, as well as local San Marcos students, to attend ACC and then transfer here will not produce the same quality student as if we would get those students straight from high school. My degree and education means a great deal to me, and I don’t want to have what I have worked long and hard for to be degraded by having under-qualified students receive degrees. I believe generalizations are a bad thing, and I do not disagree with allowing community college transfers; it is simply my belief the university does not need to go out of its way to encourage this practice. Inversely, the university should appeal to bright high school students to come directly to school and receive the full four-year Texas State treatment.

As I’ve stated before, transfer students end up cheating themselves. Four years of college is designed to create a well-rounded student. Early on at Texas State, I took various science, geography and English classes that provided me with a basis for upperdivision classes. Taking those classes at a community college would not provide the same quality base and would leave a transfer less prepared to take difficult classes and not as well-rounded.

I admit this column sounds harsh to transfers, but the point I am trying to get across is that education is the starting line for your professional career, and you need to be well-prepared to get to the finish line. This country has numerous community college graduates who have done great things, and there are also college dropouts that have done great things. But if you want the odds in your corner, attending all four years at a university will do just that.

Texas State needs to push this idea and produce graduates who received a full Texas State education and not half an education somewhere else.

Admittedly, I do a lot of complaining yet offer little solution. However, I don’t think it’s my place to solve the problems of our education, I think that is up to you to decide how important your education is. Our government needs to make higher education more accessible to more underprivileged students, alleviating the problem of those less fortunate not being able to attend a four-year school. For those who may not be so mature, I say stay at home a little longer, take some time off to think about your future and when you’re ready to attend Texas State, apply, and I’ll welcome you with open arms.

Use of N-word accepts ignorance as routine After reading FREDDIE JENKINS Lives were shed so the response to the that we could take Guest Columnist advantage of the N-word article, I am sickened at the freedoms we have reasoning we use to justify today. Yet, we make a conits use. It left such a bad taste centrated effort as a people to in my mouth that I asked, accept ignorance as routine.

“Aren’t we our own worst We demand more from our enemies?” It is extremely easy country and expect less from to blame “the white man” for our own people. In both cases, all of our societal ills, but the we gain nothing. rejuvenation of our people is Implying that the N-word’s ultimately our own responsiconjugated form nullifies its bility and should begin with abusive past is absurd. In rethe eradication of the N-word. lying on that senseless logic, To demand the resignation you strengthen the racist noof a white professor for his tion that we are some sort of use of the N-word and celsubculture. The N-word’s use, ebrate your friend’s use of the in any form, dehumanizes word is the highest form of us. During slavery, we were hypocrisy. Why do you hold bred as animals and defined white people to a higher stanas porch-monkeys and coons. dard than you hold the people It was illegal for us to even who look like you? Unlike our be taught to read. Now, what predecessors, we have become has changed? There are more frighteningly complacent. black men in prison than Our grandparents could not there are in college. It isn’t beeven attend this university, cause we are inherently prone and our parents were taught to commit criminal activity, in broken, segregated schools. but partly because of how we

value our brethren and ourselves. Our value should not be defined in terms of the Nword. You stated that “adding the ‘a’ to the term only makes it a slang because it can not be found in any real dictionaries.” The Webster argument you present is faulty because you fail to rely, also, on Webster’s definition of a word, which is defined as anything that can be said.

Furthermore, wearing baggy clothes and low-hanging chains may not have any bearing on your actual intelligence, but people only see what you show them. Similarly, it’s like serving steak and lobster on a trash can lid, and inversely, that is exactly how politicians fool us. They serve us BS on a silver platter, but I digress. Please don’t graduate from Texas State with the ill-conceived belief that your appearance does not matter. It matters to your future employer and anyone else

who has to look at you. It’s definitely not fair, but neither is life. What becomes a bigger issue is when people associate that attire-generated stereotype with skin color, thereby, extending racist judgment to innocent black people.

Simply because we probably weren’t the first to refer to black women as bitches and hoes does not give us the right to accept it as commonplace.

And I write that with extreme emphasis. BET and mainstream rap music have done black people a serious disservice. It is difficult enough being a black person in America.

For us to allow the media to define our culture as nothing more than watermelon, chicken and gold chains is criminal. However, to further perpetuate that image by our reckless use of the N-word is deadly stupid.

Jenkins is a management senior.

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1/1.5 TOWNHOME only $525,

pets ok, W/D included. www.glsanmarcos.com, 878-2233.

3X2 & 3X3 DUPLEXES newly remodeled, hardwoods and tile, w/d, dogs ok. $642 Great Locations 878-2233

ALL BILLS PAID 1, 2, & 3 BEDROOMS. Your choice, close to campus, IH-35, or Hopkins. Great Locations, 512-878-2233.

3/2 MOBIL HOME, fenced yard, on the bus route, has pool access. Call 979-589-2670 or 979-219-0132

1 BR GUEST COTTAGE on historic San Antonio St. Unique, safe, private, & charming area. Suitable for one tenant only. Walk to TxSt. Every bill paid, W/D included. NS/NP. $650. 754-1227.

SPLIT LEVEL TOWNHOME. 2 bedroom, starting at $625. Call Apartment Experts, (512)805-0123.

WALK TO CAMPUS! 1 bed

$410, 2 bed $460 with cable & internet paid. Great Locations, 512-878-2233.

FOR RENT

WALK TO CAMPUS. $99 total move-in 2-2 $599. 1-1 also available.

Call Apartment Experts 805-0123.

ALL BILLS PAID! 2 bedroom

$650 W/D included. Call Apartment Experts, (512)805-0123.

NOW PRELEASING efficiency one & two bedroom apartments. Great Prices & Specials! 754-0001.

3/3 ONLY $305+ BILLS in-

clude water, internet, and W/D. Great Locations, 878-2233. www.glsanmarcos.com

RENT TO OWN, seller financing, 3/2, 4/2 Large Doublewides, on one acre, Hill country, Large Oaks, 512-754-3344, San Marcos, TX 3X3 DUPLEX, 3 covered parking

spaces, cable, internet, phone, and trash paid. Going quick! Great Locations, 512-878-2233.

$149 TOTAL MOVE IN! $420, 2bdrm $525. On TX State shuttle. Call Apartment Experts (512)805-0123.

TOWNHOME 4-2.5, all bills

paid, W/D included call Apartment Experts (512)805-0123

AVAILABLE MAY 1. Beauti-

ful 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.

FREE APARTMENT LOCATING! Managers specials, floor plans, deposit information. A+ Video Apartment Locators, 512-392-3463. aplusapts.net

LARGE T-HOME, $99 total

move-in free cable, internet, and phone.

W/D included. Call Apartment Experts 805-0123.

SUBLET AVAILABLE MAY 15/JUNE 1. Beautiful room in

house within walking distance to the Rec Ctr. Has garden area, hardwood floors, W/D. $325 plus 1/3 utilities.

Contact am14@txstate.edu.

ALL BILLS PAID! 4 bedroom $710 W/D included. Call Apartment Experts, (512)805-0123.

1/1.5 LOFT! Only $445 includes

cable, phone, internet, partial water & close to TSU. Great Locations, 512-878-2233.

FOR RENT

611 BRACEWOOD ready for

immediate move-in. Large 2 bedroom 2 bath with water/waste water paid.

Small pet welcomed. REDUCED TO AN AMAZING LOW PRICE OF $545/month. Call Legacy Real Estate at 665-0350.

ROOMMATE WANTED-large custom home, private bedroom and bath, 15 min. to San Marcos. $495 per mo plus partial utilities. Call Jason 353-3811.

APARTMENT HOTLINE-Free info on over 60 apartments, condos, and townhomes. www.glsanmarcos.com, 866-282-8517.

$350 FULLY FURNISHED cable, internet, water paid, W/D included.

Call Apartment Experts 805-0123.

GREAT LOCATION. GOOD DEAL. 2 br/2 bath. W/D. Pets OK. (206) 660-7921.

$49 TOTAL MOVE-IN includes app, dep, and 1st months rent free (1,2, & 3 bedrooms). Great Locations, 512-878-2233.

NEED LOW RENT? Roommate

matching could be the answer. Call and we’ll set you up. Apartment Experts (512)805-0123.

MOVE IN SPECIAL, one month

free, large 3/3, W/D. 512-422-0903.

1/1 LOWEST PRICE NEAR TOWN. Most bills paid & pets ok,

only $315. Great Locations, 512-878-2233. www.glsanmarcos.com

BIG 2 BDROM 900 SQFT.

$585! call Apartment Experts (512)805-0123.

$1-1 $375 500 SQFT! call Apartment Experts (512)805-0123

3X2 DUPLEX, 2 car garage,

vaulted ceilings, W/D, cable, water, dogs ok. $900. Great Locations, 512-878-2233.

NEW 3/2 HOUSE. Huge yard, great floor plan, alarm, garage. Great Locations, 512-878-2233.

SPACIOUS & NEW 3/2 House.

West of IH35. upgrades throughout, garden, tub, huge master, large bedrooms & closets, 2 car garage. Great Locations 512-878-2233

2 BEDROOM ONLY $495.

$149 total move-in (1st month rent, app, dep.) Great Locations, 878-2233. www.glsanmarcos.com

FOR RENT

$0 APP $0 DEP.

Brand new, most bills paid. Pool views available. Great Locations, 512-878-2233.

CHECK OUT OUR current

apartment specials online at www.sanmarcos-apartments.com or call Apartment Experts (512)805-0123.

ARTISTIC LOFTS, hardwood floors, W/D, 16 foot ceilings. www.glsanmarcos.com. Great Locations, 512-878-2233

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.

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.

FOR RENTCONDO/TOWNHOME

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 coun-

try surroundings, near outlet mall. Free parking next to campus. Available August.. Free internet, cable, water & garbage. $605 per mo. 757-0399

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 93 FORD EXPLORER, V6,

cold A/C, Power windows and doors, CD player, good tires, 149K miles, $2800 OBO, 512-738-2048.

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.

HELP WANTED

DUPLEX NEXT TO TEXAS STATE. Modern, excellent condi-

WONDERLAND SCHOOL/DAYCARE NOW HIRING.

DUPLEXES FOR LEASE

LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT for busy apartment locating

tion. 4/2.5, large kitchen, 2 living areas, sauna, w/backyard, pets OK, $1650. 757-0399

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.

FOR LEASE 2/2 DUPLEX at 909 Allen St. Carport, fenced yard, pets allowed. $775 per mo. available June 1st. Call Steve, day 830-379-0300, night 830-372-5512.

SAGEWOOD TRAIL DUPLEX. 3b/3.5b. Available 8/01. Pets

Allowed. $1100. (512) 857-2660 or (210) 324-0285.

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.

$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.

Please call 512-392-9404 or 512-396-7074

office. Apartments To Go. 512-353-3733/512-787-6789

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 life guard certified a plus. Quality Child Development Center in Kyle.

512-405-3700 or fax 512-405-3701. www.rockinghorseacademy.com

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.

FRONT DESK RECEPTIONIST NEEDED. Should be

able to work weekdays and weekends.

Apply in person at Comfort Inn, 1611 IH 35 N. 396-5665.

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.

See CLASSIFIEDS, page 12

CLASSIFIEDS

Page 12 - The University Star HELP WANTED CONTINUED from page 11

SEEKING MOTIVATED AND MULTI-TASK ORIENTED INDIVIDUAL FOR PROGRAM DIRECTOR POSITION:

Qualifications: •Bachelors Degree in Business •5+ years in office setting and 3+ years in a Managerial position •Accounting experience a plus •Experience can be compensated with advanced education •Excellent writing and communication skills •High level of initiative and ability to operate with little or no direct supervision •Microsoft Office and QuickBooks experience a must Responsibilities: •Administrative oversight on all programs •Manage all aspects of general ledger accounting including A/P, A/R and collections, Payroll, Banking, and financial reporting •Maintain productive relationships with other agencies and governmental entities •Formulate and effectively communicate expectations for each program to Project Manager and staff on site.

•Analyze monthly and quarterly P&L and Balance Sheet accounts and financial data information for presentation to Board of Directors •Identify and assist with development and implementation of new processes and systems as needed •Grant writing experience a plus.

Salary based on experience and includes benefits Fax resume to (512) 396-2062.

$800 WEEKLY GUARANTEED. Stuffing envelopes. Send a

self-addressed stamped envelope to Scarab Marketing 28 E. Jackson, 10th floor, Suite 938, Chicago, Ill. 60604.

HELP WANTED

SALES ASSOCIATE FOR HEAD 2 TOE BEAUTY OUTLET AT PRIME OUTLETS. Flexible shifts. Employee discounts. Apply in person. Next to Pottery Barn. (512)805-8989.

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

NEEDED IMMEDIATELY-

trained musician w/capabilities crossing music genres. MUST BE RELIABLE. 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 -teleNet-

work 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!!!

HELP WANTED

IRONSMITH: THE FITNESS DOCTORS, award win-

ning facility, mayor’s fitness council member, looking for personal training assistants. To work set schedule, 20 hrs weekly, $7hr to start, in exchange for professional on the job training with clients who have health, fitness, sports conditioning, post surgical, and medical exercise needs. Ideally suited for kiniesology physiology major looking to develop into a full time professional fitness trainer upon graduation. E-mail resume to fitnessdoctors@AOL.com and call 512-560-6761.

DAYTIME HOST AND WAITSTAFF NEEDED.

Apply in person at Rose Garden Chinese Bistro, 700 N. LBJ. Dr, Suite 114; 805-0880

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

FRONT DESK RECEPTIONIST NEEDED. Should be

able to work weekdays and weekends.

Apply in person at LaQuinta Inn, 6075 IH 10 E, San Antonio. (210) 661-4545.

BOBCATSNEEDJOBS.COM WE NEED Paid Survey Takers in San Marcos. 100% FREE to join.

Click on Surveys.

MARBRIDGE SUMMER CAMP IS SEEKING 5 DAYTIME 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.

!BARTENDING! Up to $300/ day. No experience necessary. Training Provided. Age 18+ ok. 800-965-6520 x 157.

HELP WANTED

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.

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

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 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.

Tuesday, April 25, 2006 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 MAY THRU JULY SUBLEASE AT THE VILLAGIO. $489 a month. Call 281-236-5750.

TAKE OVER MY LEASE-

Female wanted to take over lease starting May 12; $409, personal bathroom, w/d, furnished, tanning bed, fitness center. Call for more details, (210) 685-8493.

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

FIRST MONTH FREE.

Sublease apt, $450/mo, The Ridge Apt. Available May 9th. Call 512-805-1148

TAKE MY ROOM THIS SUMMER. Own bed/bathroom.

Ex2. $299/month. May Free! Contact Eddy at (512)913-1627 or ec1111@txstate.edu

WANTED BUYING both civil war or early TEXAS NEWSPAPERS,

swords, guns, letters, documents, clothes, pictures, etc. 512-557-7224.

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.

WANTED: USED CARS, TRUCKS, VANS. Any condi-

tion. Running or not. If you have something to sell please call Willis Mitchell. 512-353-4511.

The University Star is available at the following locations in San Marcos.

The Allniter Diner Alvin Ord’s Applebee’s Café on the Square Cancun Rob’s San Marcos Chamber of Commerce Cheatham Street Warehouse San Marcos City Hall Classic Cuts Conley Carwash Eskimo Hut Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant Gil’s Broiler Goodyear Great Clips Grin’s HEB on Hopkins Hill Country Grill Jo on the Go Klingemann Tire Pros Both locations of Mocha’s & Java’s Murphy’s Deli Rose Garden San Marcos Public Library Southern Exposure Spud Ranch Sundance Tanco The Meadow’s The Yellow Store Valentino’s Wing Stop Zooka’s

Let us know where you would like to see The Star on-campus and in San Marcos.

Email starad1@txstate.edu

with your suggestions.

SPORTS

Tuesday, April 25, 2006

The University Star - Page 13

Bobcats shine at Texas Twilight Stultz breaks school record in hammer throw

By Carl Harper The University Star AUSTIN — The track and field team was back in Austin on Saturday for their third visit of the year, this time it was the Texas Twilight track meet.

Sarah Stultz had a memorable day at UT by breaking the school record in the hammer throw, winning with a mark of 55.83 meters and also winning the discus with a mark of 47.55.

She has already qualified for the Regional in both events. Stultz additionally won the shot put with a shove of 47.55 meters.

“I came out being persistent and got my PR,” Stultz said moments after winning the hammer throw. “I have always liked playing here at UT, and today was another good meet.”

Ashlea Byrom finished in fourth place for the hammer throw at 43.58 meters as Seneca Guenther came in sixth place at 41.74.

“The girls had a good consistent day. I was happy with their performance, and it was exciting to see both Ashlea and Sarah crush their previous season’s best marks in the hammer throw,” Coach Chris Adams said.

Freshman Robert Melin, who has already qualified for the NCAA Regional, got the Bobcats underway by placing third in the hammer throw at 54.59 meters, as Paul Turner and Eric Williams jumped their way to second and fourth place finishes in the men’s pole vault of 4.90 meters. Turner was jumping unattached. Jarrod Buddin followed up Williams in fifth place with a vault of 4.75 meters.

In the women’s triple jump, Sara Olaywiola, Tamequa Poole and Alicia Anthony all ended up in the fifth, sixth and seventh spots, as senior Jacque Iwuchukwu finished the day with a foul. She did rebound during the long jump as she led the way for the Bobcats grabbing a fifth place finish at 5.70 meters.

“I critiqued myself and bounced back in the long jump after scratching five times in triple jump. In these practices, it’s not about winning; it’s about learning. I wanted to make the best of this day even though I started off by scratching over and over again,” Iwuchukwu David Racino/Star photo said.

Kemuel Morales bettered his VAULTING TO VICTORY: With a fifth-place finish, freshman Jarprevious NCAA Regional-qualirod Buddin was one of three Texas State pole-vaulters to finish in fying mark in the men’s shot put the top five by clearing 15 feet, 7 inches at the UT Invitational on with a throw of 17.36 meters and a second place finish. This throw Saturday in Austin.

“I

David Racino/Star photo JUMPING JACQUE: Senior Jacque Iwuchukwu takes a leap during the women’s triple jump during the weekend’s UT track Invitational despite fouling out of the event.

was marked as the fourth best in Texas State history.

Britni Lawrence led the way for the ’Cats in the women’s pole vault with a vault of 3.80 meters that was good for second

the Bobcats on the track was Katya Kostetskaya. In the 400meter hurdles, she placed first with her season-best time of 57.06 seconds.

This time was just .05 seconds off the school record that she set last year as a freshman. Also on the track was Camilla Davis placing second in the women’s 100-meter with a time of 11.76 seconds, which was just .01 of a second off a regional-qualifying mark.

However, she did tie for the seventh-best time in the event in school history.

Another athlete who captured an individual — Jacque Iwuchukwu championship was LiSenior jumper udmila Litvinova in the 400-meter with a winning time of 54.78 seconds, while teammate place behind first place finisher Courtney Baker was second with Ashley Laughlin of Texas. a time of 55.78.

“I still felt fast today, and In the women’s 4x100-meter, good, but my foot was bother- the relay team won the event ing me again. I probably won’t with a time 45.97 seconds, just jump again until conference so I .17 off the regional-qualifying can rest up,” Lawrence said. mark. The men placed third In third place was Rebekah to Texas’ A and B teams with a Vickers with a vault of 3.65 time of 40.75 seconds that came meters and fourth was Ashton .23 off the regional-qualifying Baldwin at 3.50. time.

“I’ve been doing well in pracThe Midwest Regional is tice but have struggled at the within reach now, and the athmeets. In practice, I have been letes who have not hit the qualihitting 12’7 and 12’8 and just fying mark yet have to push need to transfer that over to the themselves that extra length unmeet. Hopefully at Drake, I can til they are satisfied. Up next for jump either 12’5 or 12’6,” Vick- the team is a three-day meet in ers said.

Des Moines, Iowa at Drake UniHitting the highlight reel for versity.

critiqued myself and bounced back in the long jump after scratching five times in triple jump. In these practices, it’s not about winning; it’s about learning.

I wanted to make the best of this day even though I started off by scratching over and over again”

Bobcats swipe 2-3 series win against Bearkats

By Chris Boehm The University Star Texas State won its sixth Southland Conference series of the season, taking the first two of a three-game set at Sam Houston during the weekend.

Texas State, 14-6, held off a Bearkat team ranked second in conference in hitting allowing 10 runs in the series.

“The pitching was a mixed performance,” said head coach Ty Harrington. “Scott (Moore) pitched well, but there were other areas that could have improved.”

The Bobcats got things started Friday when they claimed a 72 victory on the strength of a seven-inning, two-run performance from Moore. The senior, 7-3, allowed six hits and five walks, striking out three to pick up the win.

Texas State led from the start, scoring two runs in the first, when Cassidy Dresch doubled to lead off the game. Following a Kyle Jones strikeout, Luke Cannon hit a 1-2 pitch into left to score Dresch, then crossed home himself when Cody Merrell tripled down the right field line.

An inning later, the Bobcats gave Moore all the support he would need, picking up three runs on three hits and two Bearkat errors.

SHSU starter Timothy Gray, 6-2, opened the frame by hitting Thomas Field, who moved over on a Dresch sac bunt and scored on the play after a throwing error from first baseman Karl Krailo.

Back-to-back singles put Jones and Merrell on the corners, with Jones scoring on a double from

David Wood to give Texas State a 4-0 lead.

Texas State scored its last run of the inning when Bearkat second baseman Clint Mann booted a Dawid Bednarek grounder, plating Merrell from third.

Up 5-2 heading into the sixth, the Bobcats added insurance on a solo shot from Cannon, his league-leading 11th home run of the season. In the seventh Wood scored the game’s last run, leading off the inning with a 1-0 blast to right center.

Wood and Cannon combined for five hits and two RBIs apiece.

The top five spots in the order registered all 10 Texas State hits.

“Luke was injured last year, and now he’s really benefiting from being in the lineup on a daily basis,” Harrington said.

On Saturday, the Bobcats were able to come away with a 7-5 win despite six errors and a four-run, four-inning performance from Dan Donaldson in a no-decision.

“You’re not always going to play your best, and when you play like that you usually don’t win,” Harrington said. “It was huge to take that game though, and I told our guys that.”

Justin Fiske pitched two scoreless innings to grab his fifth save of the season as Texas State again took an early lead. The Bobcats scored a pair of runs in the first inning, both with two outs on the board.

Cannon started the rally by hitting Jacob Howard’s first pitch into right for a single and then scored on a 0-2 double from Merrell. The Bobcat first baseman reached home on a Wood single.

Texas State added two runs in

both the second and fourth innings, on two RBI singles from Dresch and Wood. Field scored in the fifth on Dresch’s third RBI of the game, a 3-1 single to right.

Jarod Garza pitched three innings in relief of Donaldson, allowing one unearned run on three hits and a walk, striking out two.

“That was the key to the win, when Jarod came in,” Harrington said. “They had put up a few runs, but he was able to get some zeros and set it up for Fiske.”

The six errors were the most Texas State has committed since doing the same on March 26 in a 4-5 loss at McNeese State.

“That wasn’t one of the cleanest games we’ve played,” Dresch said. “But to win a game like that just shows what kind of character this team has. There’s not quit in anybody.”

The Bobcats dropped Sunday’s finale, 7-3, as SHSU scored all of its runs in the game’s first three innings. Starter Mike Hart went just 1.1 innings, giving up six runs on six hits and two walks.

“Mike pitched well, he really did,” Dresch said. “The score doesn’t show it, but he had great stuff. He was just leaving the ball up a bit. And we didn’t jump out on offense like we did the first two games. You just have to give Sam credit. They got that first run and kept building on it.”

Texas State plays at 7 p.m. on Tuesday at Rice in the third and final game of the season series.

Monty Marion /Star file photo Rice has won both games thus far, and claimed an 11-1 victory HEADIN’ HOME: Senior infielder Cody Merrell rounds third, getat Bobcat Field in the last meet- ting ready to go for home during Texas State’s 15-7 romp over St. ing.

Edward’s on April 19.

SPORTS

sports snortsquotes from the sports world

THE UNIVERSITY STAR

“I won’t say that women belong in the kitchen, but they don’t belong in the dugout. You know I am only teasing ... I love you gals out there, always have.”

— Radio announcer for the New York Mets Keith Hernandez after seeing one of the San Diego Padres’ female trainers in the Dugout. (Source: ESPN)

Tuesday, April 25, 2006 - Page 14

Sports Contact — Miguel Peña, starsports@txstate.edu

Last home game leaves ‘no doubt’ for Bobcat softball

By Nathan Brooks The University Star The phrase “Leave No Doubt Today” was written in big, bold letters across the chalkboard inside of the Texas State dugout on Sunday in the Bobcats’ series finale against Nicholls State. Those four words perfectly described the situation the Bobcats found themselves in on Sunday afternoon after losing a pair of games to a struggling A&M-Corpus Christi team on Thursday and splitting the first two games of the series on Saturday against the Lady Colonels.

Texas State needed to answer with a win — not only to keep them alone at the top of the conference standings — but also to send the 2006 senior class out with a win in their final home game of the season.

It was only fitting that senior Katie Ann Trahan got the start in the circle for the regular season finale at Bobcat Field and behind a stellar shutout performance, the Bobcats left no doubt on Sunday as to who was the best team in Southland Conference with a 5-0 vic-

GOING LONG: Amy Hromadka, seen throwing from the warning track during the April 23 doubleheader against Houston, drove in two runs on a single to left field on Sunday.

FIRST BASE WALL: Senior Kristin Gunter prepares herself for anything while playing first base during the Bobcats’ Sunday game against Nicholls State.

tory over Nicholls State, taking the series 2-1.

“It was huge for us to get this win today,” head coach Ricci Woodard said.

“We got after it like we are capable of.”

In front of a large contingent of family and friends wearing “Trahan Fan Clan” shirts, Trahan dominated the Lady Colonels in the circle, allowing just two hits while striking out seven en route to a complete game shutout, good for her 20th win of the season.

Texas State jumped on the board first in the bottom of the second inning, when Ali McCormack belted a Jessica Barksdale pitch over the left field fence with two outs, giving the Bobcats a 1-0 lead.

After Trahan shut down Nicholls State in the top third and fourth innings, the Bobcats pounced on the Lady Colonels again in the bottom of the fourth when a Ryan Kos double up the middle scored Jill Kloesel from second base, making the lead to 2-0. McCormack, who reached on a walk earlier, advanced to third base on the double and scored on a wild pitch from Lady Colonel reliever Krystalin Ensminger one batter later, pushing the lead to 3-0.

After a pair of walks and an Amy

Krueger fielder’s choice, senior Amy Hromadka came through for the Bobcats, knocking home two runs on a hard-hit grounder that ricocheted off of Leah Peterson’s glove at third base into left field, scoring two runs and handing the Bobcats an insurmountable 5-0 lead.

The win moved Texas State’s record to 18-3 in conference and 32-18 overall.

It also provided a lasting memory for Bobcat seniors Trahan, Hromadka and Kristen Gunter.

“It felt great to go out there one last time,” Hromadka said. “Especially to get the win because we had to do it. The last couple of years there has been kind of a Senior’s Day curse, so getting this one was great.”

The victory also typified the success that the Bobcats have had this season and how crucial the contributions of the senior class have been to it.

“We sat down and talked at the beginning of the year, just us three, and discussed how everything had to start with us,” Hromadka said.

Together, Hromadka, Gunter and Trahan combined to become the catalysts for Texas State in nearly every aspect of the game.

Gunter leads the Bobcats with a .345 batting average, nine home runs, 34 RBI, 11 doubles, a .619 slugging percentage and a .421 on-base percentage. All of this comes after struggling last season after transferring from A&M, batting just .235 with 3 homeruns and 20 RBI. “This season means a lot to me,” Gunter said. “I set a lot of goals at the beginning of the year and to be where I am now is great. I just want to finish my senior year knowing that I did everything I could to be successful.”

Hromadka ranks second on the team with a .340 batting average and a .415 on-base percentage, while leading the team with two triples and 14 steals in 15 attempts.

Trahan will leave Texas State as one of the most prolific players in program history. She has been named to the All Southland Conference First-Team three times and the Conference Utility Player of the Year twice in her first three years as a Bobcat. She holds the school record for career homeruns with 29, including the five she has hit so far this season.

This season, she is also fourth on the team with a .274 batting average, second

Monty Marion/Star photos WINDING UP: Senior Katie Ann Trahan, who only allowed two hits in seven innings, throws another fastball for one of her seven strikeouts on Sunday.

with 23 RBI and first with 23 walks. In the circle, Trahan leads the conference in almost every major pitching category this season with 20 wins, 199.1 innings pitched, 228 strikeouts, 10 shutouts and a .168 opponents average against. She currently ranks second with a 1.33 ERA. “As far as a legacy goes, I want it to be known that I gave everything I had,” Trahan said. “It’s not about numbers and accomplishments — I just want to represent the program in a positive way.”

The senior from Magnolia, Texas, has left an imprint on the Texas State program that Woodard simply calls, “uncomparable.” Woodard continued, “The type of person she is even out-

weighs the type of player she is.”

The 2006, the Texas State softball team as a whole has a chance to leave its own sizable imprint on the program as well. With just three regular season games remaining, the Bobcats are in position to capture the school’s fourth Southland Conference Championship, fourth NCAA Regional Appearance and fourth Conference Tournament Championship come May 5 in Nacogdoches.

“The goal is to win a conference championship and in the SLC tournament, give us a shot at regional play,” Woodard said. “We want to put an ’06 on the sign out there in outfield. Too many years have gone by without us putting another one up there.”