06 13 2007

FIRST RATE

Baseball pitcher wins ESPN national honor SEE SPORTS PAGE 10

WEIRDER IS BETTER

Festival, community slogans reflect local opinion SEE TRENDS PAGE 6

DEFENDING THE FIRST AMENDMENT SINCE 1911

WWW.UNIVERSITYSTAR.COM

JUNE 13, 2007

WEDNESDAY

VOLUME 96, ISSUE 80

ASG President relieved of duties by administration

By Nick Georgiou News Editor The university administration relieved Kyle Morris, former Associated Student Government president, of his duties May 25 after learning of the allegation he did not meet one of the five qualifications to be president, said Joanne Smith, vice presi-

dent of student affairs.

As stated in the ASG Constitution, ASG presidents must be classified as full-time students unless they are in their final semester of study. Morris, however, was not classified as a full-time student in the spring — taking four hours — and it was not his last semester of study.

He needs six more hours and

expects to earn his degree in August.

Smith and Vincent Morton, associate dean of students, met with Morris the day they relieved Morris of his duties to discuss the allegation.

“Given the nature of what we knew at that point, we felt that we needed to relieve him until we can get to what exactly was

going on,” Smith said.

There is nowhere in the ASG Constitution where it says administration can remove an ASG member from their position. “(Smith and Morton) came into the meeting with their mind already made up,” said Morris, who remains steadfast that he did not violate the ASG Constitution. “I told them regardless

of what they thought, in my opinion, the only thing matters is what the ASG Constitution says.”

Only the ASG Supreme Court, the Senate and the student body can remove an ASG member from office, but none of them have taken any action to investigate the situation.

“This is not an issue to the

students,” Morris said. “This investigation is typical knee-jerk alarmism from the division of student affairs over essentially a non issue. “(The administration is) hijacking the democratic process.

And they are (attempting to hijack) the fundamental concept See MORRIS, page 3

From here to Corpus Contestants make their way to the coast for annual Texas River Safari

By Clara Cobb Trends Editor

Monty Marion/Star photo LONG ROAD AHEAD: James Neely (left), Chuck Patterson and Justin Neely of San Angelo prepare their 24.5-foot carbon and Kevlar canoe for the 260-mile trip from San Marcos to Corpus Christi.

It’s dangerously high water with sweepers, strainers, logjams and more overhead obstructions.

And that is just the beginning of the 262-mile race.

According to the organization Web site, legend has it Frank Brown and Bill George decided to take their Vbottom boat, without a motor, from San Marcos to Corpus Christi in 1962. They accomplished their mission in about 30 days and decided that other people should have the opportunity to experience the same journey.

So in 1963 they set up the first Texas Water Safari.

Today the route is a nonstop canoe-racing adventure, which traverses miles of challenging rivers and bays, according to the Web site. Those who cross the finish line receive a coveted Texas Water Safari patch.

The race requires entrants must have all provisions, equipment and items of repair in their possession at the start of the race, according to the Web site. Nothing may be purchased by or delivered to a team during the race except water and ice.

Allen Pelce, Texas Water Safari Organization president, said 95 teams entered this year’s race. The organization expects 75 to 80 of the teams to finish by the 1 p.m. deadline June 13.

Ashley Brown, anthropology junior, works in the Texas State Outdoor Recreation Center. She said an average canoe ride down the San Marcos River, from the Outdoor Recreation Center to Rio Vista Falls is approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

“Canoeing is an upper-body workout,” she said. “It can be really difficult. Going downstream isn’t too bad, but it can very strenuous going upstream.”

That is something safari teams quickly learned as they raced to meet the 100-hour deadline.

Approximately 220 miles into the race, huge logjams stalled boaters, Pelce said. Participants were forced to drag their boats over jams ranging from 10 feet to several 100 yards long. Some racers got lost trying to avoid the jams near Alligator Lake, but overall water conditions were favorable.

“We had great water,” Pelce said. “It was close to flooding on the lower river. On the upper river, we had above average water (levels). I really wouldn’t call it high water.”

But the race is about teams overcoming any obstacle

— hell or high water.

Teams consist of a one to six on the water who take turns manning the boat and a team captain, who follows the team in a car and provides provisions — water and ice only — to the team as needed, Pelce said.

Safari veteran Connie Uliasz said her first year as a team captain was quite difficult. She spent several years racing on the roadways to meet her teams on the water with the water and ice they needed to complete the race.

“I still got lost on a regular basis and had a difficult time finding some of the access points but I had decided to use Daniel Boone’s philosophy. He once said, ‘I’ve never gotten lost. Sometimes, I’ve just been very confused for a few days,’” she said. “This attitude worked fairly well for me and even when I had no idea of where I was, I knew that sooner or later I would figure it out and, more importantly, how to get where I needed to go. This helped me not get so stressed out, and being willing to trust myself.”

Competitors on the water who have finished the race recall the murky hell: a river of snakes, fire ants and alligators. The “Gnarly 40” is 40 miles of tree-clogged river channel between Staples and Palmetto State Park and Hallucination Alley, which is wherever a participant gets so tired he or she start seeing things, are all remembered with a nostalgic love as they share their trials and tribulations at the checkpoints and at the race’s finish.

Uliasz said her obstacles on the road helped her relate to those on the water.

“I still think the driving is the most dangerous part of being a water safari team captain,” she said. “I have seen plenty of snakes, been bitten by lots of bugs and have gotten really stressed out about not making it to the next checkpoint in time to beat (the team members in the boat) there, but it really is the driving while reading directions and being half asleep that worries me.”

Teams must be prepared to travel day and night nonstop to be competitive, but teams who occasionally stop for sleep have been able to reach mandatory checkpoint cutoff times and cross the finish line by the 100-hour deadline. Historically, as few as two teams have finished the race, according to the Web site.

Those who love the competition are not in the race See SAFARI, page 7

Friends, family remember fallen Bobcats’ legacy Friends, family of fallen soldier remember his love, determination

By Alex Hering News Reporter Winston Churchill’s decision not to falter in the face of defeat in World War II. Thomas Jefferson and other Founding Fathers’ of U.S. dissent from the Kingdom of Great Britain.

President George W. Bush’s call to action on the part of the U.S. and the War on Terror.

These are all decisions that have made an inevitable impact on the U.S. For heroes and the valiant, the answers to complicated decisions come swift and easy.

For Michael Warner Davis, at the time a Texas State student, the answer for him after the events of Sept. 11 was to join the U.S. Army and specialize in becoming a combat engineer.

He wanted to defend the U.S. in the Iraq war.

His decision was swift and easy.

This resolution led him first to Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., then to Fort Benning, Ga., and

Photo courtesy of the Davis family

after earning his wings as an airborne sapper, he moved to Fort Richardson, Alaska. In December 2005, Davis came back to San Marcos to marry Taryn Guerrero. They lived together in Alaska until he received his orders to serve in Iraq.

During his tour there, 22year-old Davis was the comic

Today’s Weather

Mostly Sunny 93˚

Precipitation: 10% Humidity: 56% UV: 10+ Moderate Wind: S 8 mph

relief of his platoon, said his friend Phil Muzzy. Davis was viewed as a leader and someone all could trust by members of his unit. Muzzy said Davis accomplished more in two years than most do in a lifetime.

Davis and two other soldiers lost their lives May 21 after a roadside bomb went off near their vehicle in Baghdad during clearance operations.

He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal and a Purple Heart at his June 1 memorial service held at the Hays County Veterans Memorial. The Blue Star Mothers of America made a presentation at the memorial service as well as the Vietnam Veterans of America and the Patriot Guard Riders.

It was clear he lived without regret and valued his family and the time he spent with them. Davis’ sister Jessica Bell said he would have been a great father and that was evident because of the way he wanted to See DAVIS, page 3

Two-day Forecast Thursday Partly Cloudy Temp: 92°/ 72° Precip: 10%

Friday Scattered Storms Temp: 92°/ 72° Precip: 40%

Plaque dedicated to fallen alumnus in memorial service

By Chelsea Juarez News Reporter About 75 friends and family members gathered Memorial Day to celebrate and remember the life of fallen war hero and Southwest Texas State alumnus Capt. James “Alex” Funkhouser Jr. He died exactly one year prior in downtown Baghdad while escorting a CBS news crew. An improvised explosive device went off at a checkpoint, killing Funkhouser, CBS cameraman Paul Douglas, soundman James Brolan and an Iraqi interpreter nicknamed “Sam.” Funkhouser was 35. He was married and had two children.

In dedication to Funkhouser’s life, an inscribed bronze plaque was mounted in front of the Frio Building, where the ROTC is housed.

The plaque is above a wooden bench and directly across from the flagpole outside the building. At the top of the plaque is an image of Funkhouser in full army gear flashing a friendly

Star file photo

smile, something he was most recognized for. Beneath the image is an overview of Funkhouser’s life and death.

Inscribed at the bottom of the plaque are the words, “We will never forget,” a mantra shared by all those who knew Funkhouser.

“It’s still tough,” said Marty Passmore, Funkhouser’s for-

mer roommate, groomsman and best friend. “Live today, live in the present and enjoy it while you can; he was real big on that.

He is greatly missed and will continue to be missed.”

It was Passmore who had approached the ROTC program with the idea for both the

Inside News ........... 1,2,3 Opinions ............ 4 Trends ............. 5,6

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

Diversions .......... 7 Classifieds ......... 9 Sports .............. 10

See FUNKHOUSER, page 3

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

Page 2 - The University Star

NEWS

Wednesday, June 13, 2007

Legislative session sees few changes in higher education

By Scott Thomas News Reporter As the 80th Texas legislative session came to a shaky end May 28, there were few changes in regard to higher education.

The top-10 percent admissions rule, textbooks and tuition regulation were all heavily debated, but none of the bills tackling the issues were passed.

“I guess we could be thankful that we didn’t do anything bad,” said state Representative Scott Hochberg, D-Houston.

University President Denise Trauth, however, was satisfied with the way the session went.

She sent an e-mail to all faculty and staff stating that the session was a success for Texas State.

“I think we were particularly pleased with the fact that tuition revenue bond support was approved in the legislative session,” said Robert Gratz, special assistant to the president.

The legislature authorized tuition revenue bonds which would fund the undergraduate academic center on campus and the building in Round Rock which would house the nursing program.

Texas State was granted $1 million a year for nursing startup funding.

Despite several bills being proposed, nothing regarding textbook price regulation was passed.

“T

he tuition regulation bills didn’t pass because leadership didn’t like it.

—Scott Hochberg state Representative, D-Houston

”

“The lobbyists for the bookstores, and presumably the lobbyist for the companies, were in the capital day in and day out,” Hochberg said. “Because the truth is students don’t vote very much — the lobbyists beat them.”

Similarly, no bills regarding tuition regulation were passed.

“The tuition regulation bills didn’t pass because leadership didn’t like it,” Hochberg said.

“I think they fundamentally believe that the tax payer in general shouldn’t be paying for college education. There’s no recognition that the future is at stake.”

He said though the legislature did not do anything to make higher education more affordable, it did not do anything to make it less affordable for the first time in a few sessions.

According to Trauth’s e-mail, all state college and university employees were excluded from the state employee pay raise passed during the session.

However, Texas State will fund

a merit raise pool equal to 3 percent of total salaries from its own resources.

Senate Bill 1234, authored by state Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, was passed, which would require the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to develop a five-year master plan for colleges in Texas.

The plan will reexamine the purposes, needs and goals of higher education in Texas, as well as consideration of more effective methods of funding for colleges.

House Bill 1418, which prevents the Texas State University System from renaming Sam Houston State University, was sent to the governor. The bill states it is rumored the Texas State University System was planning on renaming all of its universities, and changing the Sam Houston State University name would disregard the contributions of Sam Houston and take away from the university’s history.

House Concurrent Resolution 159 was passed, which resolves the governor, lieutenant governor and speaker of the house to create a select commission that would draft a long term plan to better Texas education.

June 17 is the veto deadline for all passed legislation. Before this date, Gov. Rick Perry could veto any bill passed by the legislature.

Legislation affecting Texas State University System students this session SB 161 Filed by Jeff Wentworth, R-San Antonio Would allow schools in the system to create a $8.75 athletic service fee per semester credit hours for regular semesters and $4.40 for summer semesters. The fee must pass a student referendum to be imposed.

• Texas State students have already approved fee.

• Texas State’s Associated Student Government is expecting the bill to include an amendment allowing a majority-student committee to decide how to allocate the money collected from the fee.

The bill was passed by both the House and Senate and was sent to the governor.

HB 1418 Filed by Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham Prevents the Texas State University System Board of Regents from changing the name of Sam Houston State University.

The bill was passed by the House and Senate and was sent to the governor.

HB 956 Filed by Scott Hochberg, D-Houston Places restrictions on the cost and sale of textbooks by university-affiliated bookstores, including: • Students cannot be required to purchase textbook editions in print for fewer than three years, with certain exceptions.

• Schools must post a list of required

text-books on their Web sites.

• University-affiliated bookstores can sell course materials in a bundle only when they adhere to specific guidelines.

The bill, along with other pieces of legislation relating to textbooks, did not pass.

HB 1434 Filed by Patrick Rose, D-Dripping Springs Creates a tax-free textbook holidays spanning from the second Monday in August to the second Sunday in September and Jan. 1 to Jan. 31.

The bill did not pass.

SB 49 Filed by Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo Creates tax-free textbook holidays spanning from the second Friday in August to the second following Sunday and the second Friday in January to the second following Sunday.

The bill did not pass.

SB 1234 Filed by Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo To ensure students enrolled in Texas colleges are prepared to meet the challenges associated with participation in the public affairs of the state and in the global economy, the bill requires the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to develop a master plan for higher education in the state.

The bill was passed by the House and the Senate and was sent to the governor.

NEWS

Wednesday, June 13, 2005

The University Star - 3

San Marcos crime spree suspects apprehended

By Alex Hering News Reporter Four individuals who went on a crime spree in San Marcos were arrested May 30.

Victoria Deleon, 20, Norma Linda Arenas, 17, Curtis Anthony Romero, 20, and Billy Joe Romero, 19, allegedly began their crime spree at 2:40 a.m. at the Mobil Quix convenience store located at 1004 N. I-35.

According to a city of San Marcos news release, a store clerk reported that two women, allegedly Deleon and Arenas, entered the store, and Deleon came at him with a box cutter. The clerk

defended himself by punching Deleon, then spraying her with a fire extinguisher.

Sgt. Penny Dunn of the San Marcos Police Department said there were no reported injuries at the convenience store.

Deleon and Arenas fled the store with beer and left in a vehicle with two men.

Approximately 30 minutes later, Deleon and Arenas entered the HEB grocery store located at 641 Hopkins and stole more beer.

According to the news release, as the two were fleeing, Billy Joe Romero threatened two HEB employees with a handgun.

Dunn said there were no re-

NORMA LINDA ARENAS

VICTORIA DELEON

ported injuries at the HEB. The four then fled in a white Chevrolet Malibu.

While police attempted to find the suspects, they received reports of a vehicle burglary at the Kelsea’s Place apartments on

CURTIS ROMERO

BILLY JOE ROMERO

Linda Drive. Police further received reports a man was assaulting a woman in the parking lot of A-1 Starter and Alternator Shop on 431 Riverside Dr. Dunn said the woman had some “bruising and complained

University’s hybrid car easy on gas, environment t the time we “A purchased the Prius, they were very

—Gordon Green facilities management director

By Philip Hadley Assistant News Editor Students should keep their ears open as they meander through campus this summer.

Texas State’s hybrid car is virtually silent at low speeds.

“It’s so quiet you could probably sneak up to someone in it,” head auto mechanic Ted Loya jokingly said about the Texas State-owned 2005 Toyota Prius.

With its purchase two years ago, it marks the first attempt JOHN F. RHODES/DALLAS MORNING NEWS by the university to follow a state mandate and managerial Willena and Morris Maniscalco recently bought Toyota’s hybrid car, the Prius. “I love it,” Mrs. Manisgoal that stipulates the num- calco said. ber of alternative fuel vehicles a governmental organization’s Gus Cantu, laboratory services car to an outside dealership; we (Chevrolet) Silverado pickups fleet of 15 or more cars must supervisor, regularly uses the ve- intend to learn about it so that and one Chevy Impala this year have. hicle to make short trips around we can fix it ourselves in-house.” that are flex-fuel, or compatible “We have a goal that requires campus.

Loya said the university only with both ethanol and gasoline that all fleets meet the following “The Prius drives well and purchased one hybrid for a trial fuels,” Green said. requirement: 75 percent of all handles well, however, the 60 period.

English junior Jennifer Garcia new vehicles purchased by Tex- miles per gallon that Toyota “We really wanted to see said she was pleased with Texas as State should be run by alter- touts is untrue,” Cantu said. “I how well it would hold up and State’s decision to purchase native fuels or hybrid energy,” usually get around 50 miles per if it would be wise to purchase these vehicles. said Gordon Green, director of gallon.” more; so far we’ve had a posi“I think it’s a great idea, it facilities management.

Cantu said he enjoys the ve- tive experience with it,” Loya shows that Texas State is tryThe Prius was purchased in hicle but does not like the rear said. ing to be more environmentally September 2005 for $21,000 window arrangement because Green did not say whether friendly,” Garcia said. “Hopefuland is currently being used by it is too small and could be a there were plans to purchase ly it will encourage other organithe department of technology. safety hazard. more hybrid vehicles, but said zations to invest in these types “At the time we purchased Loya said the hybrid vehicle plans were in action to expand of vehicles.” the Prius, they were very hard has presented no problem to his their number of vehicles that According to Priusownersto find,” Green said. “There mechanic crew. run on E85, a fuel blend of 85 group.com, the Prius produces was a great deal of demand for “It runs well and we’ve had percent ethanol and 15 percent “90 percent less smog-forming them, but we managed to get no problems with it,” Loya said. gasoline. emissions than the average conone.”

“We are not planning to take the “We’ve already purchased five ventional new car.”

MORRIS: Conclusion to be reached by week’s end of due process. Regardless of what anybody else says, there is not a Supreme Court ruling on this and there are no articles of impeachment filed on me.”

But Smith said because it was a question regarding eligibility, which they are in charge of checking, then it is their duty to investigate.

“Once you become aware of it, you can choose to say, ‘Oh well,’ and not do anything, or you can choose to investigate it, and at the point that eligibility is in question, then you suspend the action until you can clarify whether a person is indeed eligible or not,” Smith said.

Even though it is the responsibility of the Dean of Students Office to check the qualifications of ASG members, they were not aware Morris might have been ineligible until a couple weeks before his term ended.

The Dean of Students Office only checks qualifications when the student files for candidacy. The last time Morris’ eligibility was checked was in the spring of 2006.

Morton, associate dean of students, said in situations like Morris’, ASG and the Dean of Students Office operate under an honor system, which the ASG president swears to uphold. For example, if something happens to an ASG member’s academic standing during the course of a year resulting in a qualification not being met, such as the GPA requirement, then Morton would expect that person

DAVIS

gravated robbery, possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana and unlawfully carrying a weapon, with bond set at $110,000. Billy Joe Romero is being charged with two counts of aggravated robbery, possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, assault with bodily injury-family violence and unlawfully carrying a weapon, with bond set at $123,000.

Norma Linda Arenas is jailed at the Hays County Juvenile Center awaiting further action. She is charged with two counts of aggravated robbery with bond set at $50,000.

Remembered

CONTINUED from page 1

hard to find. There was a great deal of demand for them, but we managed to get one.”

CONTINUED from page 1

of pain.”

Officers apprehended the suspects at Kelsea’s Place Apartments and the A-1 Starter and Alternator Shop parking lot.

Evidence of the four individuals’ involvement of the robberies at HEB and the Mobil Quix Store was verified at the scene.

Deleon, Billy Joe Romero and Curtis Romero are currently jailed at the Hays County Law Enforcement Center.

Deleon is charged with two counts of aggravated robbery and three counts of burglary of a motor vehicle with bond set at $68,000. Curtis Romero is charged with two counts of ag-

to discuss the problem with an adviser.

But Morris said he never approached an adviser because he came to the conclusion he was not violating the constitution. He said the qualification refers to a long semester, meaning fall or spring. Under his reasoning, the spring was his last long semester of study.

Morton and Smith disagreed.

Smith said she looks at the qualification as it relates to a president’s term of office, which runs from June 1 to May 31.

“If you’re talking about last semester of study, I mean obviously, in terms of when they start, they start in the summer and then they go fall and spring,” Smith said. “If you’re in the last semester of your term, then obviously it’s going to be spring.

“And so when you think about the rule as it relates to that, then if you’re not carrying a full load for the spring semester, and you’re graduating, then that’s what that refers to.”

Morris said because he had two Spanish courses left, it would have not been possible for him to take the two classes at the same time in the spring semester. He said it would be unreasonable for him to take electives that are not required.

Apart from not checking Morris’ hours, Morton said he did not have any reason to do so because he was under the impression Morris was graduating in May. Others were under the same impression, including former ASG Supreme Court Chief Justice Andrae Turner.

Lindsay Bira, who works in the Fine Arts

and Communication advising office, said Morris asked people in the office to cover for him if anybody was to ask about his graduation status.

“He had been in our office; he wanted us to keep it on the down-low and cover for him that he was really graduating,” said Bira, psychology senior.

Bira said she was not there the day he had asked people in the office to cover for him, but had heard it from her co-workers.

Morris said Bira’s accusation is “completely a lie.”

In her 16 years at Texas State, Smith said she could not recall a situation like this arising. As a result, the administration is facing several questions, such as if the investigation concludes Morris was not eligible as president, what impact does that have on what ASG did in the spring?

“That’s all part of the conversation,” Smith said. “(We) haven’t made any final determinations on what impact this all has on what has occurred over the spring.”

Making matters more difficult is the administration was not aware of the situation until a couple weeks before Morris’ term expired.

“It’s a little different because of when we actually found out about it; it was already toward the end of his term,” Smith said. “So we’re just trying to make some decisions about what actions, if any, we need to take at this point.”

Smith said the investigation should conclude by the end of this week.

teach her son Grayson “Lil’ Mickey” Bell “the ropes.”

“He loved life and loved his family,” Bell said. “He couldn’t wait to come home and start a family.”

Muzzy said Davis left an impression on everyone he met and a legacy for those who didn’t know him. Muzzy described Davis as a determined man who would never give into peer pressures.

“If he had advice for anyone, he would have wanted everyone here to live a better life,” Muzzy said.

He said the love Davis and his wife shared was special and encouraged others to follow suit.

“Davis loved Taryn,” Muzzy said. “If you have a husband or wife, show them you love them every day. Make the bed and light candles. Set up a treasure hunt game like the one Davis made for Taryn when he came home for leave.”

Muzzy said Davis was a proud soldier and a devoted family man. He was the ideal husband to his wife.

“Dance with your gal to 50s music even if you don’t want to like Davis did,” Muzzy said. “Make silly faces like you would when you were little.”

Another piece of advice Muzzy said Davis would give to his friends and family is to be “better friends” and “pick up the phone to talk to people you haven’t spoken to in a long time.”

He said Davis would want people to be respectful toward the elderly.

“You knew when Davis was on the phone with his nanny because he would make that little voice — you know that one you would make when you are talking to your grandma,” Muzzy said.

Taryn Davis said she loved everything about her husband like his “gorgeous gap-tooth smile.” She remembered the last time she spoke to him on the phone.

“One of the last things I said to him was ‘I love you more than life itself,’” Davis said. “I’m glad because that moment was frozen in time for him.”

Muzzy said Davis’s legacy will be left here with friends and family. He said all they can do is make “some Davis changes.”

✯ FYI Memorial donations can be made to The Hays County Veterans Memorial, the Patriot Guard Riders or the United States Wounded Soldier Foundation.

FUNKHOUSER

Remembered

CONTINUED from page 1

plaque and the ceremony.

“Shoot, we were all for it. We’d been trying to figure out how to honor (Funkhouser) but (Passmore) took over,” said Lt. Col. Thomas Glenn Moore. “A friend like him, as close and supportive he’s been to the Funkhouser family, is hard to come by.”

Passmore said the plaque was purchased through several donations, the money earned was approximately $250,000.

At the ceremony, Funkhouser’s mother and wife were given corsages and his father received a T-shirt from the Texas State ROTC program and from Funkhouser’s beloved hangout, The Tap Room.

“We spent quite a few nights there,” Passmore said with a slight laugh. “He even has his name on their wall — that’s how often we were there.”

Despite the tragedy of the incident, the ceremony maintained an upbeat atmosphere and included words from widowed wife Jennifer Funkhouser, whom he met during his undergraduate studies at Southwest Texas State. Funkhouser graduated in 1999, they were married a year later and in 2005 he was deployed to Iraq where he later became a member of the escort team.

“She’s suffered a great loss and has continued to be strong throughout all this,” Passmore said.

OPINIONS I BATTLE OF THE BILLS onlineconnection

THE UNIVERSITY STAR

For news updates throughout the summer, check out www.UniversityStar.com.

Wednesday, June 13, 2007 - Page 4

Opinions Contact — Sydney Granger, staropinion@txstate.edu

THE MAIN POINT

n the 140 days of the Texas legislature, there are winners and losers.

The legislature, through scrambling, shouting and near fist fighting, completed another session in May. Toward the end, higher education finally got a piece of the action — a very small one.

When Texas State entered the legislative match, it managed to get in a trio of punches. The legislature approved $1 million per year in start-up funding for the construction of a nursing program at the Round Rock Higher Education Center. The total budget, $6.3 million allocated to Texas State, will provide enough money to begin construction on the Undergraduate Academic Center, which is part of the 2006-2015 Campus Master Plan. The operating budget was raised by $1 million as well, helping with increasing enrollment and costs.

But when it came to the overall battle, higher education was sent home bruised and broken.

Tuition is still deregulated, which means it will likely continue to rise. But who didn’t see that swing coming? It won’t be until colleges and universities put on some muscle that state funding will increase.

A plethora of bills were filed on taxfree textbooks and holidays, but despite efforts from State Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, and State Rep. Patrick Rose, D-Dripping Springs, none passed. Rose used higher education legislation as a major aspect of his platform to get reelected when he visited Texas State, but produced nothing. A small glimmer of hope shined when Senate Bill 49, authored by Zaffirini, passed in the Senate.

The House hit a jab on the issue though, allowing it die.

The final blow to higher education, which sent it unconscious to the ground, was the issue of student lending practices. The legislature failed to produce any statewide laws concerning the matter, perhaps because it was too ashamed.

After all, the University of Texas is a heavyweight when it comes to receiving money from the state.

An agreement was reached between Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott and UT, in which the university was not cited for wrongdoing nor would it assess any punishment, according to an Austin American-Statesman article. Fat lot of good that did for any other Texas universities. The U.S. Senate is making progress on its investigations of student lending practices, but it would have been a good opportunity for Texas to make a statement via the legislature. Unethical behavior between financial aid officers and lending companies is not acceptable, but leave it to Texas to drop the ball on a clear message.

Hopefully higher education will be in shape to take another round of beatings in two years. Maybe Texas colleges can win a match or two.

Texas State gets legislative funding, higher education snubbed overall

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

Justin Jackley/Star illustration

LEGAL GUY: Preparation first step to going abroad

By Carson Guy Star Columnist

destination. This may seem obvious, but the laws in the U.S. are probably different than the laws in Spending time in some foreign the country to which you are travjail instead of studying or enjoying eling. It would be a shame to not your break is a bad way to spend even make it out of the country a well-deserved summer. Whether because you forgot to take someon an exotic vacation or studying thing out of your bag the authoriCARSON GUY in a less exciting place, your beties do not want to see. havior is governed by the laws of Star Columnist The government recommends the country in which you are staying. whenever traveling outside of the country Traveling abroad can be one of the most you register with the local U.S. embassy exciting and fulfilling things a student can so your government can help if you get in do. However, there are some guidelines trouble. The logic behind the U.S. governanyone traveling should keep in mind. ment’s request should be clear, however, Being stuck in another country’s jail is just for clarification, the government cannot the only bad thing that can happen not help you if they do not know where you to you while in a foreign country. What are. if you were unable to return to the U.S. Another very important thing to keep in because your passport was stolen or be- mind before you travel abroad is to make cause you did not know the proper proce- copies of all essential documentation you dure for leaving the country? What follows plan on taking with you, such as your passare some tips to ensure you can go home port, driver’s license and insurance papers. when you are ready.

The kicker about these copies is you should First and foremost, make sure your bags store them in a different place than where and other items are legal, meaning they you plan to keep the originals. Beside the do not have anything in them that could possibility your passport or backpack could get you in trouble with either the U.S. au- be stolen while abroad, it is possible the airthorities or with the authorities at your line might lose your luggage.

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Furthermore, many times while traveling outside of the country you might need your passport in order to rent a hotel room or for some other reason. Many times a copy of your passport will do. I suggest, once you have entered a country other than the U.S., leave your passport at your temporary home and only carry a copy of the first page. If a copy will not suffice, you should be very interested as to why it isn’t.

While traveling abroad, be skeptical. It is sad to say, but many people in many places make their living fleecing people traveling abroad.

Another important yet often-overlooked thing is whether the country you are staying in requires unexpected taxes or surcharges. An example of this is Costa Rica. In Costa Rica, there is a $27 airport tax you must pay before you are allowed to leave the country. Many students are on shoe-string budgets and might plan on spending every penny they brought. Just remember, if you are staying in Costa Rica or any other place that requires such a tax, there are no exceptions.

One last thing to consider: Anyone in need of medication while out of the country would find it wise to take double of

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their prescriptions. It may be a hassle, but would you rather deal with that in the U.S. or deal with the fact that the airline lost your luggage and now you do not have the medicine you need? In line with the lost luggage idea, you should keep your prescription bottles in separate bags in case something happens to one of them.

Traveling abroad can be one of the best experiences in anyone’s life. However, it can be one of the worst if you do not use due diligence while planning your trip.

Spending your days abroad should not be miserable and should not be spent in jail.

They should be spent on the beach soaking in the rays and relaxing. Have fun and be careful.

Carson Guy is a political science senior.

His column tackles legal quandaries. E-mail questions to Guy at staropinion@txstate.edu.

The content and opinions contained herein are in no way meant as legal advice.

All information is general in nature. Do not rely on information within this article when trying to resolve a specific legal issue. All situations are unique and require specific legal advice from competent counsel.

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High-tech not always green

By Bill Rix Star Columnist Rendering vector animation. Streaming Web media.

Displaying Enemy Territory: Quake Wars at a smooth 60 fps. Predicting climate patterns and changes. All of these things require high-end computers, but what really goes into these boxes of steel, aluminum and plastic which are so ingrained in our daily lives? As it turns out, more than you might care to know.

From the bottom up: Selenium, lead and mercury, among other elements, are in what would be considered abundant sources in computers. Not all are toxic in small doses, as selenium is probably necessary in all cellular-based organisms, and mercury intake is inevitable even on the smallest scale if one consumes fish (the same can be extended to lead). But the amount found in modern electronics isn’t exactly healthy, especially if you are surrounded by large, unkempt piles of it and are paid to harvest the precious metals, as many workers in Asia do to make ends meet.

Where, exactly, did you think the Dell you tossed out before you came to college went? It didn’t end up on a shelf in a second-hand store, as only a select few do. Odds are it was shipped to Asia (in this case, probably southeast China) as part of the dumping practices many U.S.-based companies use in effort to stymie economic and physical waste at home.

Putting modern computers in a more geocentric view doesn’t lessen the damage they cause the planet. Most computers run on inefficient power supplies — efficient would be considered a 20 percent or less loss in DC output over AC input — which leads to increased power consumption and excess heat.

And while on the topic of inefficiency, it’s worthwhile to note the unnecessarily powerful computers we interact with every day. Take the second-floor Dells at Alkek Library for example. Their primary job is to allow students to hop on, print notes, check Blackboard or e-mail and peruse the library’s databases. The traditional Dell PCs (“fat clients” as they are coming to be known, referring to their large, bulky cases) are beyond powerful enough to accomplish these tasks. Why not use an army of thin clients, all connecting to a central server, instead?

Thin clients (so called because the average size is comparable to a large paperback) run software from a server rather than storing data locally. Typically, they are only equipped with RAM, a motherboard and processor, leaving the intensive work to the server and sparing wasted CPU cycles. Thin clients also operate on low power: Sun Microsystems’ new Sun Ray 2 and 2FS thin clients use a measly four watts of power (compared to 80 or so used by fat clients). Cost-wise, thin clients aren’t too awful, as the aforementioned Sun Ray 2 can be had for under $300.

A quick search on eBay for “thin client” produced myriad results, many of which fall under $100.

This is only the beginning, as so much more can be said on the topic of environment and computing. For now, keep this in mind: when buying new electronics, examine not only the specs as they relate to your needs, but delve deeper and look into the impact your purchase will have on the rest of the world.

Computers are a global affair now more than ever, so tread lightly when it’s time to invest in something new.

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Copyright June 13, 2007. All copy, photographs and graphics appearing in The University Star are the exclusive property of The University Star and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the editor in chief.

TRENDS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

andthe tony goes to...

Julie White, Southwest Texas State alumna, received the Tony award for Best Actress (in a play) for her role in The Little Dog Laughed. The original comedy closed Feb. 18 and was also nominated for Best Play.

Wednesday, June 13, 2007 - Page 5

Trends Contact — Clara Cobb, starentertainment@txstate.edu

Growing pains Environmental concerns shape local economic development Jaime Kilpatrick Features Reporter Economic development departments in Central Texas cities have adapted to accommodate recent population growth while maintaining concern for the environment.

The departments set goals in order to improve each city’s progress and set quality standards for citizens and industry.

Amber King, public information specialist for Austin’s Economic Growth and Redevelopment Services office, said the city’s development goals are “highly tuned to attract businesses that provide high-quality jobs and are in industries that are chosen as a good match for our economy.”

According to the city of Austin’s Economic Development Policy, available via the city’s Web site, each project is evaluated using criteria such as fiscal impact and environmental initiatives.

Central Texas cities, such as Austin, Buda, Kyle, San Marcos and New Braunfels, have controls in place to protect the environment while population expands.

In New Braunfels, these controls include following the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s standards for building in recharge areas and over the Edwards Aquifer, according to Rusty Brockman, director of economic development for the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce.

San Marcos has adopted the practice of not recruiting or requesting incentives on behalf of companies that have any pollution issues or high water needs, according to Kim Moore, economic

development director for San Marcos.

The city of Kyle “has a stringent planning and zoning process that protects the existing environment within the city. These processes ensure that the integrity of our resources will be maintained,” said Diana Blank, director of economic development.

While the specific wording of economic development goals varies from city to city, the themes are consistent. Increasing employment, supporting existing and potential businesses and community outreach are common goals for the cities of New Braunfels, San Marcos, Kyle and Buda.

The reasons cities make use of economic development goals are as varied as the goals themselves.

Kevin Romig, assistant professor of geography, said cities utilize economic development goals as part of the planning process.

However, he believes there are two problems with the way most plans work. “First is when economic development is used as the main tool to engender regional growth,” he said. “Economic development should be only part of the solution that includes social and cultural development [in] which the environment plays a role.”

“Secondly, many economic development plans tend to be shortsighted or myopic in scope,” Romig said. “They are focused on short-term solutions over longterm best practices because of election cycles.”

“Building a strip mall will bring jobs and economic development for the next ten years, but what happens when the cheaply-built

structure ages and no longer provides economic utility?”

Joni Charles, associate professor of finance and economics, said economic development goals are used to create, retain and attract businesses and industries, build strong communities and improve infrastructure and health, education and recreational resources for their residents.

She said concerns regarding economic development in Central Texas cities require those offices to consider population expansion, including commuting times, public safety and land use.

Controls specific to geographic locations were mentioned. For instance, Brockman said New Braunfels cooperates with a local utility provider to conserve water and provide clean wastewater so rivers and the aquifer do not get polluted.

Romig believes the two most critical issues are water quality and land use.

“The Edwards Aquifer, being a karst, or limestone, formation, is very susceptible to pollution through seepage and run-off,” he said. “This is an important resource to protect since it serves as our water supply.”

Charles agrees there are basic economic benefits that come with protecting the environment during population growth.

“A clean environment produces desirable environmental amenities for recreation, which can raise property values, an essential source of tax revenue,” Charles said. “A healthy tourism sector built around a clean environment — boating, bird watching, swimming, et cetera — is the lifeblood of many cities and states.”

She noted focusing on the environment is often seen as coming at the expense of economic success.

“Policies which emphasize protecting the environment are sometimes seen as stifling economic growth,” Charles said.

Romig said economic growing pains should not harm the environment.

“Environmental health is a critical component to the economic situation of a region or area,” he said. “In Central Texas, this is currently a critical issue because our rivers and natural environment are being threatened by increasing urbanization.”

Romig said the natural environment has intrinsic value.

“The distinctiveness of this region is in its scenic beauty, and we should work to preserve that beauty to hold a competitive regional advantage that can be used for future economic development,” he said.

The city of Kyle has the largest population growth in Central Texas. “Our current growth rate is 124 percent annually and we are estimating our current population to be approximately 29,000,” Blank said.

According to the Austin Chamber of Commerce Web site, the city has averaged a three-percent increase in population since the 2000 census.

This trend continues for the cities of San Marcos and New Braunfels. Moore said the statistics for population growth in San Marcos show a 3 to 5 percent increase of the last few years. Brockman said the population growth within New Braunfels city limits is 4 to 6 percent per year.

Lonesome Dove book Life less simple for Paris Hilton documents TV history

By Michelle Caruso New York Daily News

Bill Rix Senior Features Reporter Lonesome Dove memorabilia — Gus McCrae’s Colt Dragoon and Clara’s dress, among others — will soon be joined by a book featuring photographs taken during the filming of the 1989 CBS miniseries. Bill Wittliff’s A Book of Photographs from Lonesome Dove, the 10th in the Wittliff Gallery series of books, showcases the making of the miniseries and feature images of the cast during the filming of the miniseries.

The book, forwarded by Larry McMurtry, author of the 1986 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, features an introduction by Stephen Harrigan, screenwriter and acclaimed author. The book’s photographs, similar to those already found in the gallery, were taken on location in 1988 while the miniseries was being filmed, said Michele Miller, marketing and promotions coordinator for the Southwestern Writers Collection.

The current collection of Lonesome Dove material, including script drafts, costumes and planning artwork, is an international hit, drawing a worldwide audience.

“Visitors from around the world have been coming already,” she said. “We’re looking to the exhibit and the book launch as well as an expanded exhibition of the props and costumes and other archive stuff of the film to really increase exposure of both collections to the

wider world as well as Texas State. There will be quite a few people, we imagine, coming on campus.”

The book is expected to draw a wide array of Lonesome Dove and Western enthusiasts. Miller explained the lasting appeal of the Lonesome Dove and how the photos would impact the public.

Connie Todd, Southwestern Writers Collection curator, said she believes the photographs will enhance the current collection of memorabilia.

“The sensibility of the timeframe is really visceral and really real in the photos. People could come here and see this exhibit and be enlightened or moved, or changed in some way just by experiencing the exhibition and the presentation of this way of life.”

Todd related the significance of having access to the prints, both shot and developed by Wittliff.

“The only way to have one of the images was to buy a fine photographic print, and they are not cheap — they are somewhat expensive — so, this way people would have access to the images in a book. Just as the novel touched that cord in people, that nostalgia for the old days and the trail drives, his pictures do the same thing, because they are very nostalgic, very elegiac pictures, very romantic and beautiful.”

The book of photos will be on display from August 22 to March 30. There will be agrand opening reception Oct. 13.

LOS ANGELES — Paris Hilton cried for her mother after an angry judge had her removed from a gilded cage — and sent back to a Los Angeles county jail to serve the max.

“Mom! Mom! Mom!” the blonde screamed as a female deputy shoved her out of court.

“It’s not right!”

But Kathy Hilton could only mouth, “I love you” as her daughter was cuffed and driven back to the cold, hard cell which be her home for up to 45 days.

“Why can’t they do something,” one of Hilton’s cousins yelled.

“They don’t want to do anything,” Kathy Hilton said bitterly. “They’ve made up their minds.”

Did they ever. Michael Sauer, Los Angeles County superior court judge insisted Hilton serve her full sentence, not the reduced 23day sentence the sheriff’s office gave her.

Hilton’s hysterics capped a day of drama had paparazzi pummeling each other for a shot of a weeping Hilton and O.J. Simpsonlike overhead coverage of the heiress being driven by police cruiser from her Hollywood Hills home.

Hilton was later taken to the medical ward of the Twin Towers Correctional Facility for the weekend where doctors will evaluate her before moving her back to a regular jail.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca had cited a “medical” condition when he slapped an electronic anklet on Hilton and sent her home Thursday — after just three days in the slammer — to serve out the rest of her sentence in a $2.1 million mansion.

Friday, Baca was battered by more accusations he had given Hilton special treatment after it was revealed her grandfather had given him a $1,000 campaign contribution.

Baca said the only special treatment Hilton got was a stiffer sentence “for a low-level crime.” He also revealed she had not been taking her meds for a “mental issue” while in jail.

“This lady has some severe problems,” Baca said. “The criminal justice system should not create a football out of Hilton’s status.”

Clearly outraged, Baca had ignored his expressed orders to keep Hilton in jail, Sauer ordered the heiress to appear in his court at 9 a.m. But Hilton, who was apparently under the mistaken impression she would be able to testify by phone, didn’t show up.

So Sauer dispatched deputies to fetch her.

“I at no time condoned the actions of the sheriff and at no time told him I approved the actions,” Sauer told Hilton’s lawyers. “At no time did I approve the defendant being released from custody to her home.”

Hilton’s lawyer practically begged Sauer to hold a hearing in his chambers to hear testimony about Hilton’s medical condition, which they did not divulge. Sauer said no.

“The sheriff has determined that because of her medical situation, (jail) is a dangerous place for her,” Hilton lawyer Steve Levine insisted.

Sauer was unmoved. He said he had been told several times by an undersheriff papers attesting to Hilton’s supposed condition would be delivered and none ever came.

“This is a simple case,” deputy city attorney

David Bozanich said. “There was a court order. The Sheriff’s Department chose to violate that order. There is no ambiguity.”

Sauer agreed.

“The defendant is remanded to county jail to serve the remainder of her 45-day sentence,” he said. “This order is forthwith.”

That’s when Hilton started screaming.

Despite the judge’s order she do the max for violating probation on a booze-related driving conviction, Hilton could still be released in as little as 18 days, Baca said.

Inmates get a day off their terms for every four days of good behavior — and the night she spent at home counts as time served, he said.

Hilton looked relieved when she returned home Thursday. Her shrink had convinced the medics she was in danger of “collapsing” if she remained in a 12-by-8-foot isolation cell. A pal told the New York Daily News Hilton was “going bananas in jail” and “missed her pets.”

But Hilton looked like a condemned woman when the cops cuffed her and placed her in the backseat of a squad car. She wept as her mother yelled, “We love you and we’ll be right behind you!”

As the cruiser backed out, reporters from around the world swarmed the vehicle and deputies had to shove some aside so the car could get through. One local TV reporter got knocked off his feet by paparazzi chasing the fleeing vehicle on foot.

“It’s a bizarre, Tinseltown, la-la land story that you can’t make up,” said Frank-Jordan Fastner of the German TV station RTL Television. “She’s the longest ongoing reality TV show. It’s better than A Simple Life.”

TRENDS

Page 6 - The University Star

Wednesday, June 13, 2007

Annual festival draws Austin’s weirdest Jessica Sinn Assistant Trends Editor Thousands of people run down city streets dressed like scuba divers, dairy cows or bearded cross-dressers — and the locals are not surprised.

This bizarre spectacle occurs each year at the Keep Austin Weird 5K and Festival, where Austinites gather downtown to celebrate what their funky city is known for: live music and local businesses.

The festival, presented by the RunTex Carrozza Foundation, will be held noon to 10 p.m. Saturday at Republic Square Park, where a surplus of local vendors, musicians and fitness buffs unite to embrace Austin’s culture.

RunTex Event Coordinator Michelle Graham said she encourages festival goers to sport their kookiest costumes. She said it is common to see interesting characters emulating a locally famous cross-dresser who has been known to flaunt a leopard thong and high heels.

“We’ve seen everything, from trying to imitate Leslie Cochran to dressing like Elvis — last year the mayor came as The Green Hornet,” Graham said. “People get creative and have fun, it’s part of making the festival so great.”

The 3.1-mile trek begins at 7 p.m., and people of all shapes and sizes are encouraged to walk, run or roll through downtown.

In lieu of Gatorade stations, runners can fuel up on ice cream, pizza or guzzle energy drinks along the way.

“Casual walkers can definitely participate, there will be fun stops around the corner,” Graham said. “There’s also the kids and family 1K so it’s something everyone can enjoy. No matter what shape you’re in, come out, you can take it as fast or as slow as you like.”

Graham said this year’s festival will be the biggest yet, including new activities and more local vendors. She said the Kids 1K Run, starting at 6:30 p.m., is a new addition to the all-day event.

“Because Austin is also about families, there’s so many ways families can come out and enjoy our city,” Graham said. “That also includes pets, so bring your dogs with you too.”

She said some of Texas’ most talented musicians, including Bob Schneider, Alejandro Escovedo, Soulhat and the South Austin Jug Band, are slated to perform.

“There’s something for everyone,” Graham said. “Austin is such an eclectic music town, so we have a diverse mix of live music.

All the music is family friendly and we have some excellent headliners this year.”

According to John Kunz, owner of Waterloo Records, people can “Keep Austin Weird” by supporting local businesses. Waterloo Records is one of the many vendors featured at The Austin Chronicle’s Best of Austin Biz-aar.

“We’re going to be selling CDs and such

for bands that will be performing there,” Kunz said. “It’s kind of a touch-point among the fan and their music and the artists themselves creating it.”

The Alamo Drafthouse will present the Best of Alamo Pre-Show, featuring a wide array of cinematic oddities. A tented outdoor screening of classic commercials, funky cartoons and strange video clips will run from noon to 6 p.m.

Lars Nilsen, Alamo Drafthouse programmer, said the iconic theater contributes to the perpetuation of “weirditude” in Austin.

“Alamo Drafthouse is a place where people can watch movies that you can’t see anywhere else,” Nilsen said. “So in that regard, I think Austin is weird and I think that weird is a badge of honor.”

Early comers can kick off the day’s festivities by perusing the Farmers’ Market, which is held 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday. The year-round market features a variety of products made by local growers and artisans

including fresh produce, chocolate, coffee, meat, cheeses, honey, jewelry and art.

Market coordinator Suzanne Santos said it’s a good idea to come early and bring a cooler.

She said the Farmers Market contributes to the festival’s weird theme by hosting a weird homegrown vegetable contest.

“We know when people garden sometimes, they occasionally find some sort of odd vegetable or fruit,” Santos said. “Sometimes they’ll find a carrot with legs or a tomato with a nose, so we encourage them to bring in their weird produce and show it off.”

All proceeds from the event go toward the RunTex Carrozza Foundation, an organization providing fitness attire, coaching and running events for at-risk individuals.

“It’s important that everyone has an opportunity to get fit and cost shouldn’t be an issue, so we’re taking down the barriers in the fitness culture,” Graham said.

Angie Strickland/Star Graphic Design

Wimberley follows Austin’s example Jessica Sinn Assistant Trends Editor Red Wassenich had no idea he started a movement when he called into a radio talk show and offhandedly blurted a simple phrase: “Keep Austin Weird.”

Before Wassenich could slap a trademark on the catchy slogan, it was nabbed by an apparel industry and the all-too familiar sentiment was soon emblazoned on T-shirts, mugs, hats and bumper stickers.

Rolan Ramos learned from Wassenich’s mistake and immediately trademarked Wimberley’s newest slogan: “Keep Wimberley Weirder.”

“People tell us they love the fact that we have a slogan,” Ramos said. “Many people say it brings Wimberley in line with progressive ideas, but it maintains the quaint nature of the town.”

Ramos said Wimberley is “weirder” because it’s different.

Unlike most cities, Wimberley has preserved its natural environment, clear running creeks and native wildlife, he said.

“It’s about keeping the environment sound and protecting the environment,” Ramos said. “We’re passionate about keeping Wimberley from changing from a city with growth into a city that’s grown out of control.”

Ramos said he doesn’t take the slogan too seriously because it’s clearly a play on Austin’s famous logo.

“It’s obviously homage to Austin’s ‘Keep Austin Weird,’” Ramos said. “Lots of different towns are using it and copying it — so instead of copying it I just had fun with it.”

To prevent unwanted development, Wimberley residents and local businesses used the “Keep Wimberley Weirder” campaign to protest a proposed road improvement bond. Ramos said large amounts of logo T-shirts and bumper stickers were donated to businesses in an effort to spur community awareness.

“We’re not taking ourselves too seriously, but it’s interesting that a small grassroots campaign can make such a big difference,” Ramos said.

In 2002, the threat of an “urban village” development, including a Borders Bookstore, was scheduled to move in on 6th Street and Lamar Boulevard in Austin. Waterloo Records owner John Kunz said his store and BookPeople mounted a “Keep Austin Weird: Support Local Businesses” campaign to encourage customers to protest the development, resulting in the largest e-mail avalanche the city council had ever seen.

“The slogan was definitely around,” Kunz said. “When a couple of top Austin businesses give out nearly $100 thousand worth of bumper stickers, they were on a lot of cars, which really elevated the whole movement.”

Kunz said Waterloo Records contributes to the onslaught of Austin’s eccentricities by promoting its love of music.

“Keeping Austin weird has always been one of Waterloo’s missions,” Kunz said. “With music being one of the great glues of our community, Austin is just wonderfully off-kilter, and it’s so different from other places which are homogenized and watered down in my opinion.”

In the true fashion of keeping Austin weird, the Alamo Drafthouse Downtown screens an eclectic mix of films. According to Alamo Drafthouse programmer Lars Nilsen, the theater has attracted a close-knit community of movie buffs.

“We’ve played a big part in creating friendships at the theater — it’s a great scene,” Nilsen said. “I’ve made friends at the theater, that I know, if I ever end up in jail, I can call them to bail me out. If that’s not friendship in a community, I don’t know what is.”

TRENDS/DIVERSIONS

Wednesday, June 13, 2007

SAFARI: Blood, sweat, kayaks – Texas River Safari makes annual race to coast

Music-trading Web sites add new incentive to sharing A music site is born every The first album received minute, but how (which in my case took many of them offer less than a week after users the chance at registering) will come getting a full, physical coupled with an extra CD — not just poorlyenvelope, or “lalalope,” ripped MP3s? Furas they are known inthermore, how many ternally, full of plastic of the sites do it well, clamshell cases and BILL RIX having an integrated extra, pre-paid enveStar Columnist radio station, comlopes so traders can munity and low prices, and top begin sending albums out imit all off with a shiny, Web 2.0 mediately. All one has to do is experience? For many, the anput the wanted CD in the case swer comes in the form of the (“clammys” as they are called), relatively new album-trading address them and put them in Web site, www.lala.com. the mailbox. Think of it as Netflala is a music-trading serlix for CDs. vice wherein users create So what’s the incentive for accounts, which are authentigoing through old piles of cated through credit card, to albums, adding them to your curb fraud and other malicious virtual lala library and waiting behavior. Then users can sefor others to bite? lala operates lect albums they own or wish on a “karma” system, similar to have through lala’s enorto the torrent-ratio systems at mous library of titles. Users sites such as www.demonoid. can search via album name, com and www.undergroundartist or genre, then pick and gamer.com. lala’s rules are choose the albums they desimple: the more you send, the sire, which are then added to more likely you are to receive the “want” list. If a user has an albums. This impetus helps item listed as a “want,” those to ensure a lively community with the album in their “have” of traders and helps weed out list will be notified so they may those who would exploit the ship the album via USPS — at system, i.e. by committing what no cost, mind you — which will is known as “rip and ship,” add to the sender’s karma, a the process of receiving a CD, sort of rating system explained ripping the music and then imbelow. mediately sending the album

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elsewhere. Users are encouraged to trade up as much as possible, ensuring musical bliss for all involved.

Users are asked to send all art possible with the album and one can choose whether or not to even bother receiving CDs without front cover art.

Once the album comes in the mail, recipients are asked to verify the package has met its destination and to comment on what shape the CD is in and what extras it was shipped with so as to add to the karma of other users. While still in its infancy, the site already has a large user base, made evident by the lively discussion board and enormous amount of trading going on.

Artists get their cut, too: part of the proceeds generated from the service go back to the groups and emcees that made the music possible, almost ensuring lala will not get caught up in scandal with the Recording Industry Association of America.

Parting with CDs is sometimes difficult. You never know when you’ll want to up and listen to a song, right? Give it a shot. Trade up the old and invest in some brand new, secondhand albums. You never know where lala will lead you.

for the money. The first team across the finish line may have a welcoming crowd of maybe 60 fans, family and friends of competitors when the weather is favorable.

This year’s winners finished the race in 34 hours. West Hasen, Southwest Texas State alumnus, was one of the winning team members.

“What I’ve really learned from these three years of team captaining is that if I want to be there and am motivated, I will find wonderful scenery and fabulous people, and will enjoy the experience no matter how difficult it is,” she said.

“If I don’t want to be there, the difficulties will seem far more difficult. For the paddlers, attitude is everything. For the team captains, attitude is everything, too.”

Pelce agrees.

“Most people view as an experience, not a race,” he said.

While the race draws many competitors from across the state, it is an internationally recognized competition and racers from across the world come to brave the safari.

“Your goal your first year should be just to finish,” he said. “The older you get, the better you do. I am not saying it is not a physical race, because it is very strenuous, but it is definitely more of a mental challenge.”

Brown said participants should have prior boat experience, endurance training and recommends additional medical certification, such as CPR, to interested persons.

The organization’s next race is the Junior Texas Water Safari scheduled for Sept. 15.

Monty Marion/Star photo LOADED DOWN: Canoes sit on the Aquarena Center lawn June 8 packed with medicines, snacks, sunscreens and other supplies needed to make the 260-mile river trek from San Marcos to Corpus Christi.

© Pappocom

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

5/01 solutions:

Monty Marion/Star photo MAKING MEMORIES:, Nathan Jackson and Stephen Rask, Students of the Derrick homeschool in Houston, record their preparations for the Texas Water Safari on film June 8 at the Aquarena Center.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 13 Kent Finlay’s Songwriter’s Circle Cheatham Street Warehouse 9 p.m.

Sam Arnold Triple Crown Live 6 p.m.

Cooper’s Uncle Triple Crown 10 p.m.

Electric Mayhem Lucy’s Retired Surfer’s Bar 9 p.m.

Ryan James Gruene Hall 7:30 p.m.

THURSDAY JUNE 14 Gule Morlix and Sam Baker Cheatham Street 8:30 p.m.

Ike Eichenberg Triple Crown 6 p.m.

Funkotron Triple Crown 10 p.m.

The Derailers San Marcos Plaza 7:30 p.m.

Alligator Dave Lucy’s 10 p.m.

Paula Nelson Riley’s Tavern 9 p.m.

5/01 solutions:

FRIDAY JUNE 15 Rabb Rodriguez y Los Killa Hogz Triple Crown 6 p.m.

Mind Divided, Every Other Fate and Freebleeder Triple Crown 9 p.m.

Rockus Circus Lucy’s 11 p.m.

The Stepsiders Riley’s 9 p.m.

Brandon Ryder Cheatham Street 8:30 p.m.

White Ghost Shivers Gruene Hall 1 p.m.

Jerry Jeff Walker Gruene Hall 9 p.m.

SATURDAY JUNE 16 Bernie Calcote Band* Lucy’s 12 a.m.

Stewart Mann Whitewater on the Horseshoe 8 p.m.

Turbo 350 Riley’s 9 p.m.

Roger Porn Collection, Raditude and Chix Pack Triple Crown 10 p.m.

SUNDAY JUNE 17 Slaid Cleaves San Marcos River Pub & Grill 7:30 p.m.

Harry Bodine Gruene Hall 12:30 p.m.

Ezra Charles Gruene Hall 5 p.m.

Open Mic Triple Crown 8 p.m.

Quickwidit

Lucy’s 9 p.m.

Grant Ewing Band and Doctor G & The Mudcats Cheatham Street 8:30 p.m.

Open Mic Riley’s 9 p.m.

MONDAY JUNE 18 Big John Mills Cheatham Street 8:30 p.m.

Jake Honeycutt Triple Crown 6 p.m.

Triple Tronica with Josh Dishon Triple Crown 10 p.m.

Band of Heathens Gruene Hall 7:30 p.m.

TUESDAY JUNE 19 Two Tons of Steel Gruene Hall 8:30 p.m.

Nico Adams Band Lucy’s 11 p.m.

New Texas Family Triple Crown 6 p.m.

The Dedringers Triple Crown 10 p.m.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 20 Electric Mayhem Lucy’s 9 p.m.

Eric Hisaw Riley’s 9 p.m.

Ray Cashman Triple Crown 6 p.m.

Austin Collins Gruene Hall 7:30 p.m.

Scotty & The Metaphysics Triple Crown 9 p.m.

THURSDAY JUNE 21 David Insley Gruene Hall 7:30 p.m.

Sean Reefer & The Resin Valley Boys Riley’s 9 p.m.

Eric Hisaw Triple Crown 6 p.m.

Clay Nighingale and Silver Pines Triple Crown 10 p.m.

Hold’r Newt Veramendi Plaza 7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY JUNE 22 Radney Foster Gruene Hall 8 p.m.

Three Leaf Lucy’s 11 p.m.

Texas Saints Rileys 9 p.m.

Keith Davis Band Cheatham Street 8:30 p.m.

Mark Jungers Triple Crown 6 p.m.

Subtle Creeps, Ethereal Architect and Inner Void Triple Crown 9 p.m.

SATURDAY JUNE 23 Gordy Quist* Gruene Hall 1 p.m.

The Beaumonts and The In & Outlaws Triple Crown 10 p.m.

Monte Montgomery Cheatham Street 8:30 p.m.

Bill Rice Whitewater on the Horseshoe 8 p.m.

Eleven Fingered Charlie Lucy’s 11 p.m.

Joel Hofmann Band Riley’s 9 p.m.

SUNDAY JUNE 24 Open Mic Riley’s 9 p.m.

Elana James River Pub 7:30 p.m.

Porterdavis Gruene Hall 12:30 p.m.

Dread Clampitt Gruene Hall 5 p.m.

Luckenbach Cultural Exchange Cheatham Street 3:30 p.m.

Quickwidit Lucy’s 9 p.m.

MONDAY JUNE 25 Big John Mills Cheatham Street 8:30 p.m.

Band of Heathens Gruene Hall 7:30 p.m.

Gerry’s Kids Triple Crown 6 p.m.

TUESDAY JUNE 26 Kent Finlay’s Songwriter’s Circle Cheatham Street 9 p.m.

Bruce Curtis Band Triple Crown 6 p.m.

Slowtrain and Ricky Stein Triple Crown 9 p.m.

Beverly Hensley Riley’s 9 p.m.

Julianne Banks Gruene Hall 7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 27 Cody Canada and Stoney LaRue Cheatham Street 9 p.m.

Jared Francis Band** Lucy’s 9 p.m.

Erickson Triple Crown 6 p.m.

Raditude, Sober Daze, and 3 and 97 Triple Crown 9 p.m. *Indicates a CD release party ** Indicates a live recording Missing a listing? Please e-mail staren tertainment@txstate.edu to list your live music event. Deadline for entry is Sunday June 24.

Page 8 - The University Star

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SPORTS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

basketballaddition Michael Trujillo was added to the Texas State Women’s Basketball staff June 4 as an assistant coach, in an announcement made by Coach Suzanne Fox. Trujillo, formerly an assistant coach at Northern Arizona, fills the spot vacated by Kate Henderson’s departure to the University of the Incarnate Word. Trujillo also served at Sam Houston State for three seasons prior to his stint at NAU as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator.

Tuesday, June 13, 2007 - Page 10

Sports Contact — Scott Strickman, starsports@txstate.edu

Senior pitcher makes ESPN First Team

By Scott Strickman Sports Editor

and do my best. I always want to be better than the person I’m facing.”

Fiske set a school record for the Bobcats during the 2007 season when he struck out 17 batters in a March 18 game against Nicholls State. The feat provided momentum that the Bobcats used as inspiration.

“I think we all rub off on each —Justin Fiske other,” Fiske said. “It’s a big senior pitcher thing with momentum. Baseball is always a game of inches.

When you’re pumped up, it can take away some of those inches.”

His parents helped provide inspiration for him, challenging him to excel in school.

“My parents always wanted me to do my best in school,” Fiske said. “I always wanted to make As because one day it will be your career.”

Harrington thinks the leadership role Fiske provides for the rest of the team is an exemplary attribute, one that should have landed him a spot with a team in the recent Major League Baseball draft.

“He leads in the way he presents himself,” Harrington said. “He’s very professional. He prepares each day the way you should. Some major league team should’ve stepped up and said ‘I’m gonna take a chance.’ As far as I’m concerned, he’s going to do just fine.”

Even though Fiske is pleased with both his baseball accomplishments and his scholastic achievements, if

’ve always had a “I drive to win and do my best. I always

Texas State senior starting pitcher Justin Fiske had a record-setting season for the Bobcats. Now, he is being rewarded for his ability to juggle the double life of a student athlete, in his case, balancing the fun of baseball with the demands in the classroom.

Fiske was named to the 2007 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America First Team. He is one of two pitchers in the nation to receive the honor, which he said was stunning even for him.

“I saw the list of the First Team only had two pitchers on it,” Fiske said. “When I saw that, it really surprised me.”

But it did not surprise Coach Ty Harrington, who was already fully aware of the example Fiske sets for the rest of the ballclub.

“He is what we all dream our student athletes would be like,” Harrington said. “He certainly represents what you would like in a player and an individual, in general.”

The left-handed Fiske, who went 9-3 on the season with a 2.01 ERA and five complete games, has a natural competitive drive whether it be on the field or off.

“I’m always a competitor in everything I do,” Fiske said. “I hate to lose. I’ve always had a drive to win

want to be better than the person I’m facing.”

NBA playoffs: Major-league snooze fest

By Gabe Mendoza Star Columnist So is anyone else really looking forward to the NBA Finals coming to a swift and painful end?

I mean, I know here in GABE MENDOZA Central Texas there are Star Columnist plenty of Spurs fans and I know Lebron James is the second coming of basketball Jesus to a lot of NBA fans, but this is just boring. Really, are San Antonio fans even interested anymore? They have to be thinking these next two, maybe three games maximum — if Bron-Bron shows up in Cleveland — are the equivalent of busy work before the rings are handed out to the Spurs.

The fourth quarter of Game 2 not withstanding, San Antonio has been on cruise control so far. The actual basketball has been a snoozer and the only real reason I continue to watch is for two non-game-related reasons.

First, any time Tony Parker does anything at all, the camera pans over to Eva Longoria in the audience, which is nice the first 26 or 27 times you see it. Second, this series pits two of the game’s all-time greatest (or worst, depending on your perspective) floppers, Manu Ginobili and Anderson Varejao, head-to-head.

So far, I’ve got Varejao ahead on the scorecard 7-4.

For me, this series wraps up what has been a joke of an NBA playoff season. I’ll admit the Dallas first-round meltdown was entertaining. Watching Mark Cuban’s face as he watched his team fold to the eighth-seeded Warriors was classic, true enough. Plus, seeing Dirk Nowitzki curl into the fetal position every time he squared up with Stephen Jackson in the post reminded me of the early ’90s when guys used intimidation as a strategy.

But honestly, the best part of these playoffs was when they held the drawing for the draft lottery and the Celtics, who obviously tanked their season for a shot at the No. 1 pick, saw their envelope come up four spots earlier than they hoped at number five.

Danny Ainge gave the face that, well, Mark Cuban gave.

I don’t even know where to begin with what went wrong. Not only did we not get to see a Phoenix-Dallas matchup that could have been epic, but we were also forced to endure a brutal Golden State vs. Utah series only about 38 people in Oakland and Salt Lake City paid any attention to. The conference final in the West was as bad as the Spurs-Cavs series has been so far and, oh yeah, they played games in the East as well.

The minute New Jersey beat Chicago in the last game of the regular season, everyone booked the Detroit-Cleveland conference final. The rest of the games consisted of Lebron James, an injured D-Wade and an aging Shaq. I mean, New Jersey and Toronto?

Really? Pistons vs. Magic? I’ll pass. Cleveland had the Washington Wizards without Gilbert Arenas (whose contract year next season will be the only reason to pay any attention to the East, mark my words), then the Nets. Snore.

Can anyone name two players on the Cavaliers who are even remotely entertaining and are not named Lebron James or Daniel Gibson? Didn’t think so.

Hopefully San Antonio will be merciful and end it quickly, or maybe Lebron will go Jordan on the Spurs and make this thing interesting, but I’m not going to hold my breath. Besides, it’s not all bad. NFL training camps are just around the corner and as soon as the NBA gets all this nonsensical basketball out of the way, we can all get to the rumor mill for the trade and free-agent talk. Finally, we can start planning our fantasy teams for next season.

he had to choose, he would pick baseball.

“It’s a good feeling to know you can balance both, and do both,” Fiske said, “but playing (baseball) at a D-I school has been a longtime dream of mine.

You always have a drive for the things you love the most.”

He plans to pursue a future in baseball, though he was not selected in the draft. Fiske knows his outlook is secure even if his career leads him elsewhere because of how valuable both his athletic and academic assets have made him.

“I talked to some employers about it,” Fiske said. “A lot of employers like student athletes because they have to balance so much.”

While Fiske, a native of College Station, may make things look easy on the field, and, frankly, off the field as well, maintaining a 3.92 GPA in exercise and sports science, he acknowledges all hard work ultimately requires sacrifice.

“It’s kind of tough sometimes,” Fiske said, “when classes you take interfere with practice. Sometimes you have to make sacrifices. There is a lot of stuff to do in San Marcos (that is distracting), but when it comes down to it you have to take care of business.”

Cotton Miller/Star file photo Senior Justin Fiske was named to ESPN The Magazine’s Academic All-America First Team.

Athletes move on as track and field season ends

By Scott Strickman Sports Editor The intercollegiate track and field season came to a close last weekend in Sacramento at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships. It marked the end of one Bobcat’s career, while another’s is just beginning to blossom.

Abby Ruston finished second in the women’s shot put competition and Robert Melin placed 16th in the men’s discus throw at the Alex G. Spanos Sports Complex on the campus of Sacramento State.

Finishing second was a tough way to go out, but will serve as future motivation for Ruston, who led through the first four throws of the finals and increased her lead with a mark of 17.44 meters on her fifth toss.

“I knew I needed to throw better to

win it,” she said. “I know I can throw (the winning) mark, so it’s disappointing. It will motivate me to do better and try harder.”

Ruston, a graduate student, may not have been a Bobcat for long, this being her first year at Texas State and her final year of NCAA eligibility, but she did experience the greatest success of her track and field career while donning the maroon and gold. She said it was a tribute to the freedom she was given by the coaching staff.

“The way I trained, Texas State let me do what I needed to do,” Ruston said. “They gave me the independence I needed.”

Ruston first went to the NCAA Championships during her freshman year at Texas A&M, finishing 15th in the shot put. Even though the results were better this time around, she said it was too difficult to distinguish which

was more special.

“It’s cool looking back,” Ruston said. “The first time I was so young, naive and wide-eyed. I was just happy to be there. I’m more mature now, after overcoming all these obstacles this year. In their own way they’re both special.”

Ruston will move forward as she trains for the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, which take place June 21 to 24 in Indianapolis. Her goal there is to capture a sponsor and a better qualifying mark as she strives to earn a spot on the Olympic squad.

“Hopefully I will get a sponsorship there and not be so poor,” Ruston said.

Arizona State’s Jessica Pressley won the event with a throw of 18.00m on her fifth attempt, while her teammate Sarah Stevens placed third with a mark of 17.40m.

As for Melin, he preferred to focus on the bright side.

“I did what I could,” Melin said. “I was ranked twenty-second nationally going in and I finished sixteenth, so I didn’t make a fool out of myself. I haven’t reached my full potential yet.”

Melin said he expected big things of himself this year, and while reaching the NCAA championships was a big step in his development, he leaves to go home to Sweden for the summer a little disappointed.

“I feel good about (this year),” Melin said, “but I still have a bitter taste in my mouth. I didn’t have to throw that far (to advance to the finals). I did what I could; life is not over. I think I did what I was supposed to for the team.”

When asked if this left him hungry for more next year, Melin replied: “Yeah, absolutely.”

Golden State new home of Stanley Cup

By John Dellapina New York Daily News ANAHEIM, Calif. — Nineteen years after Wayne Gretzky transformed West Coast hockey from a novelty into a rage, and 14 years after Disney decided to purchase an NHL expansion franchise and name it after its fictional youth team, the Stanley Cup finally belongs to Southern California.

Managing the feat Gretzky’s Los Angeles Kings never could, and which Disney’s ownership of the franchise never saw, the Anaheim Ducks captured pro sports’ most revered trophy by completing a five-game Finals triumph over the Ottawa Senators with a 6-2 victory Wednesday night at the Honda Center.

Scott Niedermayer, who already had three titles on his resume from his days with the New Jersey Devils, lifted the Cup a fourth time — the most for any active player — and this time, he did it first and in personally memorable style.

Hockey tradition has the victorious team’s captain accept it from the commissioner and then thrust it aloft before passing it on to begin a triumphant relay from player to player.

Niedermayer admitted he pulled rank by deciding that the first teammate to whom he would hand the Cup would be his younger brother Rob. Four years before, at the Meadowlands, the two had shared a very different moment — as opponents on the handshake line when Scott and the Devils beat Rob and the Ducks in the seven-game 2003 Finals.

“They’re all different and I’ve never rated them and I’m not going to start now,” Scott Niedermayer said. “But you don’t really ever dream of passing the Stanley Cup to your brother — at least, I never did. To be able to do that was definitely a highlight of my career.”

“And then, to be with a handful of other guys who have played a long time and see them win — guys like Teemu (Selanne) and (Chris) Pronger and Sean O’Donnell — it’s pretty rewarding.”

Scott and Rob became the first brother tandem to win the Cup together since Brent and Duane Sutter with the Islanders in 1983.

Before Scott Niedermayer got the Cup from commissioner Gary Bettman,

he was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP. Niedermayer did not produce eye-popping statistics in the postseason — his assist on Travis Moen’s door-slamming goal early in Wednesday night’s third period was just his eighth to go with three goals in 21 games — but he logged enormous amounts of ice time each night and lent his championship know-how to a group of teammates that had won zero Cups between them.

“He belongs right at the top,” Anaheim coach Randy Carlyle said when asked to assess Niedermayer’s place in the NHL’s all-time pantheon. “He’s an amazing athlete and an amazing individual. He’s so unassuming and you just feel fortunate that you’re able to coach people like him.”

“He’s our leader and this is just another exclamation point, another notch on his belt, for all the things

he’s been able to accomplish.”

Ottawa coach Bryan Murray could not be nearly as effusive in his praise of his own team, which crumbled repeatedly in these Finals. Wednesday night, facing extinction at the end of a nine-month quest, the Senators produced a stunningly poor effort.

“We had some guys that didn’t play to (the level) they were playing in the playoffs,” Murray said, not naming but seemingly referring to top-liners Jason Spezza and Dany Heatley. “And I think that’s most disappointing. And that’s something that we and they have to live with through the summer.”

Daniel Alfredsson was a notable exception. Ottawa’s relentless captain scored two goals to cut Anaheim leads in half. Alfredsson’s second goal, his playoffs-leading 14th, was a shorthander with 2:22 left in the second period that figured to set up a scintil-

lating third. It had seemingly revived the Senators less than three minutes after Ottawa goaltender Ray Emery inadvertently pulled a puck away from defenseman Chris Phillips with his skate and then put it into his own net for a 3-1 Anaheim lead.

But Emery, who suffered through a nightmarish night, couldn’t stop a power-play slap shot by Francois Beauchemin 50 seconds after Alfredsson’s goal, and the Ducks took a twogoal lead into the third.

They put the clamps down with a brilliant defensive effort — allowing just 13 shots on Jean-Sebastien Giguere’s goal — and blew it open over the final 20 minutes. The Senators center Antoine Vermette summed up his team’s futility by failing to score on Giguere when awarded a penalty shot with 12 minutes and 37 seconds left.

Mark Rightmire/Orange County Register/MCT The Anaheim Mighty Ducks congratulate teammate Samuel Pahlsson (right) who scored the game-winning goal against the Ottawa Senators during Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals May 30 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.