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SEPTEMBER 12, 2007
WEDNESDAY
VOLUME 97, ISSUE 9
San Marcos recognizes Sept. 11 By Kara Bowers Special to The University Star All of those who lost their lives Sept. 11 were not forgotten Tuesday, the sixth anniversary of that day’s tragic events. More than 30 members of the community gathered at 8:45 a.m. at City Hall for a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony to memorialize those who died at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the plane crash in Pennsylvania. The ceremony was moved to the council chambers because of the steady drizzle that covered the front lawn, which was sprinkled with small American flags. Mayor Susan Narvaiz gave a brief proclamation honoring those who fell Sept. 11 and asked attendees to take time to reflect on those events. “I ask each of you to pause for a moment to think of what you were doing that morning,” Narvaiz said. “Keep that with you today.” After the completion of her speech, Narvaiz approached the memorial, a wreath with red carnations in the shape of 9/11, and slipped the first carnation into the wire backing. Councilman John Thomaides was followed by the remainder of the attendees as they filed out of the chambers, each taking a white or red carnation from a bucket and placing it into the memorial. Celestino Mendez, a Korean War veteran and lifetime San Marcos resident, said he attended the ceremony to show his patriotism and for those still involved in the aftermath of that day. “We owe it to our troops to support them,” Mendez said. “They have committed to whatever the command is.” Some of the crowd spilled out onto the concrete entryway of city hall, as others gathered in the foyer, while San Marcos firefighter Nick Archer tolled the bell 15 times, a tradition to honor
fallen firefighters. A number of members of the San Marcos Fire Department were in attendance to pay their respects at the ceremony. “I think it’s very good because it reminds us, not only in San Marcos, but everyone that passes through, that we have to be alert,” said Assistant Fire Chief Len Nored. “It also reminds people of what these individuals did for us.” A commemorative flag, the same one that flew over City Hall six years ago on Sept. 11 and is only flown on the anniversary, is usually raised and flown at half-mast during this part of the ceremony. This was delayed shortly until there was a break in the rain. The carnation-laden memorial was then brought outdoors and members of the fire department raised the flag. Eric Ray, 28-year-old San Marcos resident and member of the Marine Corps Reserves at the time of Sept. 11, led the crowd in an impromptu recital of The Pledge of Allegiance. Ray said he does not necessarily agree with the way some matters have been dealt with by the U.S. government, but the anniversary of this tragic event should be commemorated in spite of differences. “Sometimes things go beyond partisan politics,” Ray said. “Whether you love Hillary or Bush, it doesn’t matter today.” The memorial wreath remained in front of City Hall to conclude this year’s ceremony. The public was welcomed to place flowers on the wreath throughout the day. The Remembrance Ceremony has been an annual tradition since the 2001 attacks to bring the community together and to consider the impact of that day. “It helps to better understand a tragedy,” Narvaiz said. “This is a time to reflect on the sadness of the event and to touch neighbors’ lives in a positive way.”
RAISING REMEMBERANCE: San Marcos Firefighters Nick Archer (left) and Tory Turner prepare to raise the Flag during a Sept. 11 remembrance ceremony held Tuesday morning at City Hall.
Authorities unclear of truth behind alleged group beating evidence shows it was a mutual fight between two individuals, Brandon Adams, who is not a member of the TKE fraternity, and Taylor. “We have conflicting evidence,” Dunn said. “We can find no evidence to support (Taylor’s) story that he was attacked by three or four individuals. In fact, it looks like one fighting another.” Dunn said there were four individuals involved, Taylor and Adams, who both sustained multiple injuries, and two others who were trying to break up the fight. Mark Keffler, political science junior and active TKE member, said TKE had nothing to do with the incident that occurred outside the TKE fraternity house last week. “There was never any fraternity member who hit anyone in that garage, period,” Keffler said. “There were people in our front yard that happened to go over there, which would be the only involvement that we would have had.” Taylor said he provided evidence to SMPD such as a cell phone left in Taylor’s garage and a pair of flip flops verifying his story but Dunn said this could not prove that there were others involved in the fight. “That proved that a fight took place and that property was lost and picked up by (Taylor’s) friend,” Dunn said. “Mr. Adams did lose his phone during the fight but it could have been recovered in the streets.” Dunn said further investigation is needed Photo courtesy of Brian Henretta to prove or disprove the different accounts BLACK AND BLUE: Blake Taylor, public relations senior, awaits reconstructive surgery given by different parties. Sept. 2 at the Central Texas Medical Center after a physical altercation. “Taylor said he was attacked by three or four men we cannot disprove that or prove By Alex Herring Taylor, the same man who was stabbed at that,” Dunn said. “Mr. Adams said he was the News Reporter Lucy’s San Marcos Aug. 15, said the confron- only one that was in the fight. So far the evitation was a result of a miscommunication dence proves that.” A Texas State student who was allegedly beat- between himself and members of the TKE fraDunn said there is common factor in this en in his garage Sunday is waiting for a final ternity. Taylor said the fight started when at and other fights like this one and that is that review of evidence by the San Marcos Police least three members of the fraternity backed both subjects were “highly intoxicated” at the Department. him into his garage and beat him. Brian Hen- time. Blake Taylor, public relations senior, said retta, European studies junior, and a friend of She said if they wish to press charges they he was beaten by at least three Tau Kappa Ep- Taylor’s, arrived after the alleged beating had each face a Class B Misdemeanor for disorsilon fraternity members after a miscommuni- taken place and said they left Taylor “bathed derly conduct. cation that led to an altercation and resulted in in blood.” Hays County District Attorney Sherri Tibbe an emergency reattachment of a piece of his SMPD Sgt. Penny Dunn said the investiga- said since the case is still under investigation, nose at the Central Texas Medical Center. tion of the incident is still pending, but so far, no comment can be made about it yet.
Today’s Weather
PM Showers 86˚
Precipitation: 30% Humidity: 63% UV: 8 Very High Wind: NE 9 mph
Two-day Forecast Thursday Scattered Storms Temp: 86°/ 71° Precip: 60%
Friday Isolated Storms Temp: 88°/ 72° Precip: 30%
Cotton Miller/Star photo
University College introduces triple minor as option for major By Stephanie Kusy-Wilson News Reporter Students who have often found it difficult to choose a major now have one more option added to the list. General studies, a new and different type of degree, was initiated this fall semester. While other majors offer an interdisciplinary focus, this degree is unique because it offers course combinations that are typically not available in traditional studies. The bachelor of general studies allows students to select three minors and take two general studies courses along with appropriate supporting classes. Students who find choosing a single major challenging can now choose from 68 minors. For students like Allyson Beasley, it comes as a relief to know there are other options. “I am finally doing things I have an interest in,” said Beasley, general studies sophomore. The Texas State University System Board of Regents approved this major in Spring 2007 because of a growing interest in interdisciplinary studies. The degree was made available to students this semester and is offered by the University College, said Lisa Chrans, general studies academic adviser. The program requires students complete a minimum of 12 advanced courses in each minor along with maintaining a 2.25 Texas State GPA for each minor and no grade lower than a “C” for minor course credit. “This is our first degree program in University College, and we are thrilled to work with general studies students,” Chrans said. Beasley learned about the program last spring when she went to visit with an adviser for undeclared students. After changing her major three times, she finally
found her niche and stuck with general studies. Interested in the field of interior design, Beasley did not want to confine herself with one specific major. Now she has three minors: business, psychology and art and design. She said having a business background would aid her in the field and psychology would help her better understand people and their actions. “It’s a great solution for those who don’t want to feel limited,” Beasley said. “I have more opportunities.” Approximately 70 students have already declared general studies as their major, causing the core courses to fill up quickly — leaving students like Beasley waiting for the next semester to enroll in the classes. Another 200 students have expressed interest in the program, reinforcing its popularity. The two core courses for the degree, Introduction for Interdisciplinary Experiences and Interdisciplinary Project, help explore career interests through self-analysis and examination of subject areas, according to the general studies brochure. The classes will teach students how to “sell themselves” to future employers, explaining the benefit of focusing on three different subjects. “It is important for students who major in general studies to identify connections among their personal interests and career options,” Chrans said. She said students who have invested numerous hours into a specific major and desire to change might find general studies an ideal solution. The administration hopes it will help students achieve their educational goals by adding this new option. Interested students should schedule an appointment with the general studies academic adviser.
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OPINIONS THE UNIVERSITY STAR
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Wednesday, September 12, 2007 - Page 2
Opinions Contact — Bill Rix, staropinion@txstate.edu
THE MAIN POINT
F
or all the trash cans and recycling bins around, it’s a wonder trash is still just lying around campus.
The bottle of Coca-Cola neatly set a foot from the recycling bin only adds to the laundry list of duties the custodial staff performs. According to the Custodial Operations Web site, the department’s job is to “…provide the faculty, staff and students with an attractive, orderly and sanitary environment that is conducive to the working and learning process.” Easier said than done, particularly when you have to act as caretaker for 20-somethings who can’t manage to trash a bag of Cheetos. And, we are lucky as a student body to have team of workers who are willing to play retainer to adults who should be able to find and use trash receptacles. As with many jobs, custodians rarely get thanked, much less noticed. How do you think Texas State maintains its beauty year round? The bushes don’t trim themselves and the trash doesn’t just disappear. A clean, functional school is only possible by the tireless staff behind the scenes. Texas Sate would fall apart tout de suite without the maintenance custodians perform day in and day out. A little bit of help goes a long way. Trash your cans and bottles correctly, don’t leave them on steps. Put your cigarettes out, then throw them away. Every trace of responsibility helps keep Texas State clean and takes a small load off the backs of the custodians. Sept. 9 through 16 is International Housekeepers Week. Flyers have been put up around campus asking students and faculty to thank those diligent workers. Verbal gratitude is only the tip of the iceberg of what everyone owes this workforce. When is the last time you watched a worker perform his or her task and really thought about the intense dedication and resilience the job takes? Rarely, probably, as all we usually see is the trash being taken out or a spill getting mopped up. There’s more to the job than meets the eye, though: Getting up before students even hit the snooze button and leaving well after the sun sets to haul refuse, fix lighting apparatuses, set broken tiles, mow the sports fields — the list goes on for quite a while. So hats off to the custodial, grounds and utilities sections of the facilities department. All clusters’ work is appreciated greatly. And students, don’t forget to thank a custodian this week. They are a large piece of the backbone keeping Texas State one of the best universities in the state. And remember, when your finished with this copy of The University Star, the ground in The Quad is not an appropriate place to leave it.
CLEANING
FOR A CAUSE Custodial Operations deserve thanks this week, all weeks
Legal Guy cuts through financial aid stress
Justin Jackley/Star illustration
Smokers know what they are doing PULLMAN, Wash. — I just smoked a cigarette. I didn’t really like it and here are a few reasons why: First, I had to stand at least 25 feet away from my building. Then, once I got outside and lit up, I got looks from people as if I was engaging in some form of illegal activity. Sometimes, if you are unlucky, someone walks by and gives you a pantomimed, hacking “smoker’s cough,” or they might take time to inform you “those things will kill you.” After I got back inside, out of the cold, I turned on the TV and was bombarded by a swarm of anti-smoking commercials, one after the next. The ad with the thousands of body bags lining the streets of New York, or the guy with a hole in his neck and a voice box, or the young adults my age telling me how “uncool” smoking is… on and on. When did smoking a cigarette become a crime? Where was the turning point where someone said, “It’s perfectly OK to hassle every smoker you see with useless facts and generally annoy them until
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Since 2004, I have been a loyal reader of The University Star. I look forward browsing each new edition in between classes. I can’t express the disgust I felt when I turned to the last page of the “Back to School” edition (August 21) and saw a full-page ad for Rick’s Cabaret and XTC Cabaret. The ad claims becoming an entertainer or a member of the wait staff is “a great way to pay tuition.” However, the ad forgot to mention this is also a great opportunity to lower one’s self-worth by parading around in minimal clothing for the pleasure of bored, rich men. If someone outside our university saw this ad, would they think Bobcat women are the type to aspire to become exotic dancers? Are we not already paying thousands more in tuition each year to reverse these perceptions? I’m not trying to pretend these jobs don’t exist, however, I am left wondering if the integrity of The Star exists. Megan Dugan public relations senior
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.
By Dominick Bonny Daily Evergreen (Washington State U.)
Advertiser promotes questionable occupation
they decide to quit?” I missed that point and now I am bewildered by peoples’ audacity and the fact some are brave enough to approach a complete stranger and tell them what to do. I am not a smoker. Monday was one of the handful of times I smoked. I smoked a cigarette Monday because I wanted to understand what all the hype is about. And, frankly, I fail to see the point. Everyone knows cigarettes are bad for your health and they might even kill you. Who cares about other people’s personal choices? It might be a deep-rooted pathological desire to control other people’s behavior. Cigarettes are bad for you and possibly people around you, although I still don’t understand the logic and facts behind the propaganda on secondhand smoke. I have a problem with people telling me what to do. Why do some people feel like it is their right to baby-sit the world as if everyone in it is a child? I think it shows an annoying moral superiority and doing so really doesn’t do anyone any good. And this moral superiority does not stop at the smoking issue. At the core of the smoking issue is also the core of
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some of our most pressing social issues facing the nation today: Abortion, gay marriage, flag burning, the “war on drugs” and even to some extent the Iraq War are all examples of this neo-puritanical American moral superiority. Along with anti-smoking laws come seat belt laws, helmet laws, cell phone laws and a barrage of inane, nit-picky rules designed to tell us what to do. I can see the day when we will all have mandatory “safety suits” issued by the government that will keep us from falling down, or driving too fast, or cursing — the sky really is the limit here. But just because we can regulate others doesn’t mean we should. We, as a nation, feel we can tell other nations and other people how they should live. And we claim to live in a free country? The truth is we are born free and from there on our freedom is systematically removed until we become obeying cogs in the wheel of society, or in sociological terms “a functioning member of society.” So smoke if you got ‘em, because there may be a time in the not-too-distant future when cigarettes become illegal completely.
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Hello. My name is Trish Smith and I am a web copywriter for Student Finance Domain (www.studentfinancedomain. com), a Web site offering helpful information about the different types of financial aid available to students, how to apply for financial aid, the FAFSA and much more. The entire site itself provides information for students on everything from choosing an appropriate student loan to building and sticking to a manageable budget. I recently read your article “Legal Guy: Reading fine print helps students maintain financial aid” (Sept. 6) and I found it very informative and helpful. I’m a recent college graduate myself and even though I know about the financial aid process now, when I first started college I had no clue what to do, who to talk to or how to apply for financial aid. I filled out the form every year, but I had no idea about the fine print, interest rates and the repayment process. I’m glad you wrote an article both students and their parents can understand. That’s a big reason why my company created Student Finance Domain: to help both students and parents understand their finances and how to prepare for their future. I think the Internet is a great way to reach college students and they are more likely to listen to advice when it comes from their peers. I just wanted to commend you on your article and hope you continue to educate your peers and others about the “other side” of college life. Trish Smith Student Finance Domain copywriter
✯ The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University-San Marcos published Tuesday through Thursday during the fall and spring semesters. It is distributed on campus and throughout San Marcos at 8 a.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with a distribution of 8,000. Printing and distribution is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung. Copyright September 12, 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
Wednesday, September 12, 2007 - Page 3
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Trends Contact — Clara Cobb, starentertainment@txstate.edu
Local businessman, alumnus publishes Hispanic financial success self-help book By Tug Ledermann Features Reporter
Local business owner and author Ruben Ruiz has what it takes. With over 25 years of experience in financial advising, alumnus Ruiz became the Regional United States Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce Businessman of the Year. Now, he’s sharing his success. His book, The One-Hour Hispanic Millionaire, is a tool developed from his experience in financial advising and can be helpful for people with any income. “I wanted to have a title with a goal, so I created two goals,” Ruiz said. “The one hour means focus on one hour a week of planning your life, and the second goal is millionaire because that is a definite goal of seven figures.” Ruiz started his first business after graduating from Southwest Texas State. “I started my financial business right after college in ‘74 and began in the risk management side of financial planning, which is the insurance side, because there was really no financial planning yet,” he said. “The financial planning industry is very young. It is only about 35 years old.” Javier Ledesma owns a business Graphic courtesy of Ruben Ruiz, Photo courtesy of MCT
“A
lot of people are afraid to dive into the process of becoming financially stable, not realizing that it is a mental block.”
—Sam Guzman former chairman and president Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce
in the same building as Ruiz. He said he is very familiar with the success Ruiz can bring. “We shared offices in 1981 and he was always giving me guidance. He’s like my mentor,” said Ledesma. Ledesma explained one of Ruiz’s most crucial steps to success is setting goals. “Your goal setting is one of his biggest points, as well as your mindset on whether or not you can achieve them,” Ledesma said. Sam Guzman, former chairman and president of Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce, offers
another testament to the possibilities Ruiz can help anyone achieve. “A lot of people are afraid to dive into the process of becoming financially stable, not realizing that it is a mental block,” Guzman said. “Therefore, they never get started and the book tells you that’s not the case.” Ruiz has set a personal goal to create 100,000 millionaires in 10 years. “It is good to have a big enough goal that is long term so you become passionate about your goal, because I have the goal I know I have to reach out to many people,” he said. Although the title of the book specifically refers to Hispanics, Ruiz stressed the information can be beneficial to any ethnicity. “You can read a book on African Americans or Asians and you are always going to learn something from that book,” he said. “From the standpoint here you can say wherever it says Hispanics just put in your ancestry and it is very similar.” There is a focus on the Hispanic culture in his book because he is most familiar with it. “The goals for most parents, I know it was for mine, was finish high school, go to college and become a middle-income Hispanic American,” Ruiz said. “Many
have done that, but they don’t know how to save.” Becoming the regional Hispanic Businessman of the Year is important to Ruiz. He is happy to bring recognition to his hometown and help those in his community. “I enjoy hearing from friends and associates to hear their story on how they succeeded,” Ruiz said. “The award is important in San Marcos for those that know me because they will see that what I am doing is helpful and for those who don’t know me they will say he got that award so let’s call him.” Ledesma said he is proud of what Ruiz is doing for San Marcos and hopes he is awarded the National Hispanic Businessman of the Year, and hopes he can share the success as Ruiz intends. “I think it would be great. It would be a feather in San Marcos’ hat — and definitely in mine since I am here with him,” Ledesma said.
✯FYI The One-Hour Hispanic Millionaire is available where most books are sold as well as Ruiz’s office Money Concepts at 311 Cheatham St.
Literary landmark serves as home to two distinguished writers By Jamie Kilpatrick Features Reporter Katherine Anne Porter had a complicated relationship with Texas, and Texas felt the same way about her. Even though Porter lived at 508 Center St. from age two to 11, she often “claimed to not be from here,” said Michael Noll, one of two writersin-residence at Porter’s childhood home in Kyle. Porter was born Callie Russell in 1890 in Indian Creek. Noll referred to her birthplace as the “smallest town in Texas.” Porter’s life ended in College Park, Md., according to Texas Escapes Magazine, Porter was buried next to her mother in the Indian Creek Cemetery in 1980. But Porter did not stay in Indian Creek long. Her mother died when she was two years old and that prompted her father to move the family of four children to live with their grandmother, Katherine Anne, in Kyle. “There were four kids, dad, grandma, the maid, up to ten various people living in the house,” Noll said. “The city had about 700 people at that time. There were dirt streets, dirt yards.” This rural lifestyle was not the ideal for Porter, who Noll said, “ended up being a glamorous world traveler.” Porter was her married name and she changed her first name to Katherine Anne to pay tribute to her grandmother, the matriarch of the family. According to the Texas State English Department’s Katherine Anne Porter Literary Center Web site, the house hosts free readings that are open to the public. Past authors who have read include former U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Hass and Pulitzer Prize
winners Annie Proulx and Richard Ford. Author Charles Simic will read at the Katherine Anne Porter House in October. He is a National Book Award finalist and Pulitzer Prize winner. In addition, Texas State’s Mitte Chair in Creative Writing Tim O’Brien will be reading in October and February. The house is in the National Registry of Historic Places and a National Literary Landmark. While the furnishings in the house are historically accurate to the turn of the century, the surroundings are most likely not what Porter would have been accustomed to as a child. “But their family was poor, so they wouldn’t have been able to afford this nice furniture,” Noll said. The home includes pieces such as a 1800s desk from the railroad depot in Buda and a rocking chair from an English department faculty member’s own family collection. According to the Texas State English Department’s Katherine Anne Porter Literary Center Web site, First Lady Laura Bush dedicated the Texas State-owned home as a National Literary Landmark in June 2002. Noll remembered the dedication and the heightened security in and around Kyle. “When the First Lady comes to visit, things shut down,” he said. Both Noll and his wife Stephanie graduated from the master of fine arts program in creative writing and now teach English courses at the university while working on their own respective books. He said they enjoy living in the house and it affords them time to work. They will be writers-in-residence at Texas State for two more years.
101 Hedonism
MAKE THE MORNING AFTER MOURNING-FREE
Your cell phone alarm buzzes to mention this was just a onefrom somewhere in the time thing, so if they room. Still groggy, your could please hand back hand reaches over to the the napkin with your nightstand. number scribbled on Instead of your phone, it. Or that this person you find empty condom you slept with is the wrappers and someone university’s sex colelse’s alarm clock. The umnist and plans on ANNA TAUZIN room slowly comes into writing about you in focus, as does the face Star Columnist her next column. Just of the person snoozing kidding. next to you. Have you slipped Simply put, you have to get into some other dimension? out of there. No, you’ve just awakened after No walk of shame would be a one-night stand. For a college complete without the costume, student, this is often followed by so drag back on the clothes from the lurid “walk of shame.” last night. Hopefully the articles At this point, your morning of clothing were all removed in will be like those Choose Your one place, and one piece. Your Own Adventure books from child- mini skirt and heels looks more hood. Do you linger, perhaps “whore” than “hot” at this point, nudge what’s-his-face awake for but you won’t really have time to some morning action, or do you deal with that. I would steal a Tvanish as quickly as humanly shirt from your partner’s room, possible? Well, it depends. but make sure it’s just a Texas Staying is going to be the State T-shirt, not one from the most awkward option. Only do last Warrant concert. Now, onto this if you: A) Remember his or the bathroom. Time is crucial her name, B) You were both so- here, so move quickly. ber the night before, and C) You Even when drinking, my darhonestly like this snoring body lings, you should plan ahead. next to you. At least pack a comb and some Lingering too long could lead chewing gum. Use a wet paper to all sorts of embarrassing sit- towel to clean your face off and uations, like running into their do a quick once over with the roommate, who just so happens comb. The bed-head is another to be your lab partner from an- mark of “shame walkers,” so do thropology. Or wondering how your best to tame it.
As quietly as you can, slip out the front door and get your bearings. I should mention here that if you are the person whose dorm/apartment/house said “shame walker” is escaping, it’s best to just pretend you’re asleep, or wake up just in time to smile and say goodbye. You know he or she won’t accept your ride home, so don’t even bother offering. Now, depending on where you need to be and where you are, you have a couple of options. If your car is nearby or still at the bar where you left it last night, head there. If you can see your place or it’s close (five to ten minute walk), go that direction. Please, please, if it’s still dark outside, do not go walking down some random street. Ideally, have a friend on speed dial who understands these situations and will come pick your dumb a** up. Starbuck’s at the Den opens at 7 a.m.; you’d best offer to buy them a cup. Whatever you decide, walk with your head up. The morning after is only shameful if you believe it is. The University Star does not claim Anna Tauzin is an expert. Tauzin and The Star do not condone or endorse unhealthy or unsafe sexual behavior.
Collected works Katherine Anne Porter’s Poetry poetry, biography, analysis
The Collected Stories of Katherine Anne Porter fiction
Letters of Katherine Anne Porter correspondence
The Never-Ending Wrong fiction
Pale Horse, Pale Rider: Three Short Novels fiction
The Old Order: Stories of the South fiction
Ship of Fools fiction
This Strange, Old World: And Other Book Reviews by Katherine Anne Porter book reviews
The Collected Essays and Occasional Writings of Katherine Anne Porter essays
Uncollected Early Prose of Katherine Anne Porter fiction, essays — Compiled from various sources
Virgina Tech bans ‘Sticking It In’ By T. Rees Shapiro The Collegiate Times (Virginia Tech) BLACKSBURG, Va. — The Virginia Tech campus on a game weekend is full of tradition. But one particular tradition this weekend will be amiss. Last week, Jim Weaver, the director of athletic operations, and David McKee, director of the Marching Virginians, discussed the future of “Stick It In,” the usual cheer when Tech’s offense is within striking range of the end zone. After complaints from disgruntled fans and alumni, Weaver told McKee that “Stick It In,” would be no more. “Two or three years ago,” Weaver explained, “We had 8-12 complaints over such negative content. I thought we had done away with it then, two or three years ago. The band or cheerleaders would no longer do the gyrating, the thrusting of their hips forward during the chanting of the cheer. We (McKee and Weaver) agreed if this surfaced again (the pelvic motions) we would do away with it. We do not reflect this behavior. That’s not what Virginia Tech is about.” Last week, McKee said he had no comment, but any questions could be directed to the office of the president. Larry Hincker, director of public relations for the university, offered his comments concerning
Weaver’s decision. “Anything Virginia Tech does, because of the events of five months ago, affects us. The campus has a microscope over it,” Hincker said. “I support his decision. Not a year goes by when I didn’t receive a letter on this situation.” “We recognize why it’s been removed,” said Margaret Morris, a trumpet player in the Marching Virginians. “We were given the chances to keep it, we are upset but we understand.” When asked if the removal of “Stick It In” from the Marching Virginians’ repertoire would be an exercise of censorship on behalf of the athletic department, Weaver disagreed. “I don’t think it’s a form of censorship,” Weaver said. “We can control the band because we pay their bills for them; therefore, they report to us. Both the band and the spirit squad are under Athletic Department management. McKee understands, and I’m sure there are a lot of other tunes that don’t have that negative tone.” Though McKee may seem to understand, some members of the Marching Virginians are still in disbelief. “Everybody feels that ‘Stick It In’ is a huge part of our offensive cheering, it’s a huge loss,” said Jarret Wright, a senior and member of the horns section of the Marching Virginians. “We know how much it means to the fans and to the team,
it’s a vital part of our repertoire. Who doesn’t love ‘Stick It In?’” “It’s Tech’s pride and joy,” said Morris. “Everyone is upset it’s gone.” Weaver and Hincker both believe the atmosphere in Lane Stadium should exemplify the “Hokies Respect” campaign and the lack of the cheer would only benefit the mission’s message. “We have a lot of youngsters in the crowd,” Weaver said. “We want a positive environment for the gamut of ages.” Though the band and spirit squad are no longer allowed, as per Weaver’s discretion, to participate or commence the cheer, there is a larger and more vocal outlet of Lane stadium neither Weaver nor Hincker have control over: the student section. “No,” Hincker said. “We can’t seem to control those.” A group on the social networking Web site Facebook has recently been created is gaining student steam. “Save the Stick It In Cheer,” has already attracted over 2,500 members. The group advocates launching a student-led argument for the retention of “Stick It In” in the Marching Virginians songbook. The outcome of Saturday’s game, when the Hokies battle the Ohio Bobcats, is uncertain, but one thing is for sure: the familiar heavy percussion beat of “Stick It In” will not echo inside Lane Stadium.
SPORTS THE UNIVERSITY STAR
Wednesday, September 12, 2005 - Page 4
Sports Contact — Scott Strickman, starsports@txstate.edu
San Marcos heat couldn’t cool down Bobcat cross country By Lisa Carter Sports Reporter Cross country runners are accustomed to mastering rough terrain. Saturday in San Marcos, the Texas State Invitational presented runners with another challenge — extreme heat. Many universities participated, including Texas, Texas-San Antonio, A&M-Prairie View, St. Edward’s and Trinity. “I like that it was in San Marcos this time,” junior Whitney Perkins said. “The track team and other local friends and family were there to support us. It was great.” Unlike last weekend’s meet at A&M-Corpus Christi, the Texas State Invitational consisted of a traditional cross country distance course with a five-mile run for the men and a three-mile run for the women. Of the men, freshman Michael Richards was at the top, placing 21st with a time of 27 minutes 59.26 seconds. The women placed second in the meet overall. Perkins placed fourth with a time of 18:44.62. Just behind Perkins was sophomore Heather Bullin with a time of 18:45 and a fifth-place finish. “I really enjoyed running with Whitney,” Bullin said. “I didn’t expect to see so many highly competitive runners. We all had a good start.” Texas State’s top five women included freshman Amanda McKinney, who placed 17th with a time of 19:44.86, junior Samantha Evola, who placed 23rd with a time of 20:02.18 and senior Brittany Rosen, who placed 33rd with a time of 20:36.17. Although the teams produced successful times, the weather was not the best for a typical cross country meet.
“I
didn’t expect to see so many highly competitive runners. We all had a good start.”
—Heather Bullin cross country runner
“The weather was extremely hot and humid,” Bullin said. “(The team) was already soaking wet after our warm-up and we were all drenched in sweat at the finish line.” The course was challenging for some runners. According to Perkins, the grass was thick and very muddy. “The course was very uneven in certain places and it was confusing toward the end,” Bullin said. “The finish kind of snuck up on me.” In preparation for the past meet, the women participated in rigorous workouts including 5K long distance runs around campus. Some of the women will participate in the Sept. 21 UTSA Romano Invitational. “I really enjoy the competition at UTSA,” Perkins said. “It’s another opportunity to get in a good 5K, and that never hurts.” Most of the women are looking forward to the Sept. 29 Cowboy Jamboree at Oklahoma State. The Cowboy Jamboree is the oldest cross country meet in the U.S. Texas State will compete against several of the nation’s top universities at the meet. “The (Cowboy Jamboree) is Chris Vidrine/Star photo a really big meet for us,” Bullin GOING THE DISTANCE: Sophomore Heather Bullin got a said. “There’s really high competition, but I know our girls fifth place win to help the Bobcat women finish second overall are strong enough to compete Saturday at the Texas State Invitational at Gary Job Corps . in Oklahoma.”
Football’s lackluster performance against Abilene prompted responsible answers Turnover, missed field goal, even remotely ready to play. turnover, turnover on downs, There was plenty of blame to go punt, turnover on downs. around for this one, and, to be honest, That was Texas State’s first it was nice to see there was plenty of half in a nutshell. After their accountability after the game. Coach first six possessions, I wished I Brad Wright took responsibility saying could have that entire first half he “didn’t push the right buttons.” He of play erased from my memory. said he was willing to take the blame In fact, I wish I could be like for this one, but sent a message to Jason Bourne and just erase the GABE MENDOZA his players and fans by saying that it whole game. wouldn’t be his fault again. Star Columnist The Bobcats were, I hate to The sad part is, after a couple of say, overmatched and outplayed by Division days thinking about it, I still can’t decide II Abilene Christian this past weekend. whether it was Abilene Christian that Their defense was better than our offense. played really, really well, or if the Bobcats Their offense was better than our defense. played as bad as they looked. I’m thinking Bradley George had absolutely no time to it’s somewhere in the middle. ACU ran the throw. None. The Wildcats’ defensive front ball exceptionally well on offense. Their played great and essentially shut down the defense was very fast and kept Bradley running game, which was the catalyst in the George from getting any kind of rhythm, week one win over Cal Poly. Junior running forcing him into making mistakes. back Stan Zwinggi and freshman running What’s really concerning to me is that in back Karrington Bush, who combined for back-to-back games the Bobcats’ defense nearly 300 yards last week, were held to a gave up 35 or more points. Granted, the grand total of 73 yards Saturday. first game was against a ranked Cal Poly From the get go you could tell ACU went team, but allowing 45 points to a Division into this one with a run-stopping mindset. II team had to keep Coach Wright from getThe constant pressure left the opportunity ting much sleep over the weekend. I don’t for some quick screens and short passes, care if the Wildcats were picked to win the but the Texas State offense couldn’t get in Lone Star Conference or not, the Bobcats a rhythm in the first half. From where I was are better than what they showed Saturday sitting, it didn’t look like the Bobcats were night. The secondary has gone up against
some talented receivers in the first two games, but the running game of ACU was the difference. A banged up Texas State was not ready for the running attack ACU brought. Both George and Wright alluded to turnovers being a big difference, and, again, it was a big problem. Four turnovers is unacceptable, especially when they set up scores for ACU, as they did. Despite what has to be a major setback for Wright’s guys, in the early going of the season there have been some bright spots. The team came out in the second half showing signs of life, scoring on their first four possessions, but after putting themselves in the hole 28-0 at the half. I saw a potential go-to receiver in junior Cameron Luke. He had his best day as a Bobcat, catching six balls for 124 yards and three touchdowns, all of which came in the second half. Sophomore Travis Houston had 15 tackles with two sacks. So this is what I’m thinking … If the ’Cats lost a game they most definitely should have won, that means they are going to win a game they most definitely should lose, right? It makes sense, doesn’t it? Isn’t that how the universe works? With that logic how can you not pick the Bobcats to win on the road against Baylor? Put this one in the books. I like the sound of that so I’m going to just close my eyes and go with it.
Fair
game
Background checks required of all college game officials By Chuck Carlton The Dallas Morning News DALLAS — The case of NBA “rogue referee” Tim Donaghy has forced college conferences to confront its most feared boogeyman — the possibility of another gambling scandal. “It probably hit us all in the gut,” Big 12 commissioner Dan Beebe said. “It’s a hard thing to accept that the games aren’t being adjudicated fairly because of someone’s special interest.” Full background checks are becoming the norm for football and men’s basketball officials in most conferences, which hire and oversee who calls their games. The revelation Donaghy conspired to alter the outcome of NBA games he worked is a “less-than-subtle reminder that we have to remain vigilant at all times,” Conference USA commissioner Britton Banowsky said. “It encourages us to redouble our efforts.” This season, even before the NBA scandal, the Big 12 decided to do full background checks on all football and men’s basketball officials, Beebe said. The conference action expands on a previous policy. Half of the officials were to be checked before this season; the other half before next year. All new officials will be subject to immediate background checks. All told, anti-gambling initiatives will cost the Big 12 about $50,000 this school year. Officials were required to document their financial status as well as any legal problems, including pending lawsuits. Anything that raises questions will be subject to further investigation. “I think most of our administrators are in the same mindset that this is probably an isolated incident,” Beebe said. “Nonetheless, we’re going to take all the precautions and measures we can to make sure that we have no one susceptible to the same kind of influences.” Walt Anderson, the Big 12’s supervisor of football officials, has implemented conflict of interest guidelines. For example, if an official has a business relationship with a school or a close family member involved as a student or employee, he would not be allowed to work that school’s games. For the past two years, the Big 12 contracted with a security company that monitored Las Vegas football and men’s basketball betting lines for any unusual movement or impropriety. None surfaced. Conference USA will be expanding background checks of its officials in football and men’s basketball.
“Now, we’re scrubbing it even more closely,” Banowsky said. “The background check is a valuable tool but it’s not a certain tool. All that does is really let you know if there are flags that need to be followed.” As conferences held football media days throughout the country this summer, the topic of monitoring officials was hard to avoid. Commissioners faced the same questions again and again. Atlantic Coast Conference commissioner John Swofford said his league has not found evidence of impropriety by officials. “We just simply want to do everything we can proactively to have that kind of integrity in our officials as well as our studentathletes,” Swofford said at the ACC media day. Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delany said: “I’ve always said that if there’s one issue that could bring intercollegiate athletics to its knees, it’s the gambling issue, because it goes right to the integrity of the game.” Much of the collegiate focus until now has been educating athletes. Nearly all college gambling scandals have involved players, not officials or coaches. Many of the top basketball programs of the early 1950s, including mighty Kentucky, were compromised. Tulane shut down its basketball program in the ‘80s because of gambling. Twice, gambling scandals have rocked Boston College athletics. Even with the present safeguards, officials will experience more scrutiny and skepticism. Now, more than ever, fans are likely to see ulterior motives where none exist. Imagine the Oklahoma-Oregon replay fiasco of 2006 occurring in the current climate. Most college officials say fixing a football game would be much more difficult than basketball. The crews are larger and instant replay could overturn an incorrect call. And because officials are graded on each call made, any deviation from the norm would be obvious. The people closest to the action say they believe in the officials, even if they don’t always agree with them. Unlike the NBA, college officials are employed on a part-time basis and usually hold other jobs. “I think we have guys with a lot of integrity,” SMU Football Coach Phil Bennett said. “Right now, gambling is so accepted and so prevalent that we have to be aware. “I think by and large officials get into the game for the same reason we do — for the passion of football, and just the atmosphere and the pageantry and everything college football represents.”
Weekend games net no wins for Bobcat soccer By Carl Harper Senior Sports Reporter The Texas State soccer team was swept on the road this weekend against Centenary College and Arkansas State, but came away with their first two goals of the regular season. The Bobcats are now off to an 05 start and are facing a challenging non-conference schedule with games against North Texas, UTEP, Rice and Houston. This weekend’s games featured the Bobcats coming up just short of capturing their first victory, losing on a last minute goal by Centenary to fall 1-0 and an overtime defeat against Arkansas State 3-2. Midfielder Jessie Zingo of the ASU
Indians scored on an assist from Anna Kaloghirou in the fifth minute of overtime to steal the victory from the Bobcats. “The field was very saturated from the rain they had all week, so we changed our attack and went with the three-front and played more direct,” Coach Kat Conner said. “The first half, we came out playing really good with a lot of intensity but had two of our shots go off the post and the cross bar. They (ASU) caught us on a quick counter shot and scored the first goal.” Markie McRae and Kathleen Reagan each scored in the first half to put their team up 2-0 before junior midfielder Reagan McNutt of the Bobcats cut the lead in half with her first goal the of 2007 regular season.
“We made corrections at halftime and the players came out and did great in the second half,” Conner said. “We are still trying to find the best fit of formation and chemistry for our players, but we have a better idea now of what it is.” Sophomore Andrea Seledee tied the match in the 66th minute on a penalty kick that assured the extension of overtime. Seledee led the team with five shots in the game, as freshman Britney Curry came up with three. “Andrea played the way we need her to play and is doing really well,” Conner said. “Her and Reagan are clicking more now on the field and are working with each other better. With more playing time, they are going to be great.” The Bobcats were outshot in the
game 17-13 but recorded more saves, 12-7, with freshman goalkeeper Amanda Byrd protecting the net. Brittany O’Neal of Centenary dampened the Bobcats’ chances of pushing Friday’s game into overtime when she rebounded her own shot and scored with 45 seconds left in regulation. She led the offense with seven of her eight shots coming on goal. Centenary’s goalkeeper Ali Hilsher came away with a season-high 10 saves in her first shutout of the year. Bobcats’ goalkeeper Mandi Mawyer also collected 10 saves. Junior forward Rikki Padia led the team with three shots coming off the bench while sophomore forward Lindsay Tippit and McNutt each recorded two shots. “Centenary had a great crowd that excited both teams and really got the
physical battle going,” Conner said. “Through these games, we as coaches are learning new things about the players and seeing individual players rise to the occasion, which is good for a coach. I’m still telling them that it’s still early in the season and to not give up. I also brought to their attention that four of their shots hit the crossbar twice and post twice. This team is capable of scoring, it’s just tough to not see those goals go in.” Centenary outshot the Bobcats 1514, but allowed the Bobcats to control the corner kick 7-1. The Bobcats have now been outshot in every game this season. Texas State will continue on the road 7 p.m. Friday as they travel to Denton to take on North Texas.
