09 30 2009

Defending the First Amendment since 1911

INSIDE THIS ISSUE News……...pages 1-3 University enforces solicitation rules, bans organization

Wednesday

Volume 99, Issue 13

30

www.UniversityStar.com

SXSW vs. Class

Texas State students wanting to work or attend SXSW might find obstacles. See page 6.

‘(It) doesn’t ride well with me,’ Bike –Marissa Harold Impoundment electronic media senior

An on-campus student orgaBy Bianca Davis nization was recently banned News Reporter from activities for one year after failing to follow the univerBicycle locks are not stopsity’s off-campus solicitation ping police from impounding policy. and ticketing violators of a university policy.

University police cut locks Opinions…….page 4 and impounded two bikes MAIN POINT: Call for parked in places obstructing access to stairs and handicap Cabs rails last week. UPD Captain Rickey Lattie said the two ASG tailgate committee bikes were impounded after complaints were made. provides ‘friendly’ game “We will be doing some enforcement on ones that haven’t day experience necessarily been called in as we go out and check campus GPA requirement and make sure the handicap ramps and stairs are clear,” not high enough for Lattie said. fraternities According to the Campus Bike Policy, bikes are legally permitted to be parked on

Trends…….pages 5-6 Bobcats in the making

racks — nowhere else.

“Bikes must be secured to bike racks only, and those that are not are subject to removal by university police at the owner’s cost,” according to the policy.

UPD will be removing bikes that are parked in obstructive locations on campus first, but have the authority to take away any that are not secured to a rack, Lattie said.

“Ones that look like they’re causing a problem, we’ll go out and take care of them,” Lattie said. “Or if we get anymore called-in complaints we’ll be out enforcing those.”

Lattie said UPD’s priority in impounding bikes is ensuring access and safety.

“Our goal here is not to punish people, it is to get them to leave the handrails and handi-

Irving schools implement college readiness, from kindergarten to highschool

Bobcat to Know Employee dedication to students pays off

Classifieds…..page 7 Diversions….page 7

cap ramps clear so people can use them,” Lattie said.

Jennifer Cleveland, English senior, uses a motorized wheelchair and said she has experienced a problem only once.

“Over by Derrick Hall I have to be careful, because the other day I did almost run into one,” she said.

Cleveland said the bike was chained to the rail, but was protruding into the sidewalk.

James Stewart, philosophy senior who rides his bike to school, said he uses reason when parking his bike.

“The Quad services seven to 10 buildings, that’s almost half the campus, and they have less than how many places to park a bicycle?” Stewart asked. “I wouldn’t park my bike on a ramp or in a place that would block traffic to regular pedestrians or handicap students.”

Owners of impounded bikes will receive a $35 parking violation when they go to reclaim their bike. A $10 late fee will be issued to those that are not picked up within 10 days, Lattie said.

“I feel like people don’t really think about it, so if there was something done there would be less of a problem,” Cleveland said. “I just think that it’s a lot for the first time. Maybe if they warned them and they see ‘POLICY,’ page 3

Sports……......page 8 Tennis players run, roll The Run/Roll tennis sport club tournament began in Georgia nearly four years ago and has since spread to cities across the country.

Texas State’s tennis club has made San Marcos one of those cities.

Bobcats stand strong, prepare for Colorado Joe Knows: Lions’ win gives hope to fans, players

Jake Marx/Star photo

Jake Marx/Star photo BIKE LOCKS: Katy Sewell locks up her bike before class. UPD began impounding bikes that are not locked up on campus.

Parking spaces scarce as enrollment increases

By Kosaku Narioka News Reporter Faculty, staff and hall residents should not expect to easily find parking in red and green zones as the number of valid permit holders far exceeds the amount of spaces available.

According to Parking Services, the valid red and green permits issued as of Sept. 11 reached 3,154 and 3,645, respectively, but the number of spaces stayed at 2,068 for red and 3,000 for green. Parking services released the figures for spaces Sept. 10.

Issuing 21.5 percent more

permits than spaces available in green zone is at odds with Parking Services officials’ statement on the Web site: “There is ample space for (hall) resident parking, but there is no guarantee that a space close to one’s hall will always be available.”

The released data indicates one in five valid resident permit holders should not expect they can park in green zones.

There are all-zone spaces located around campus, including 706 spots at the Speck garage, 103 at the Academy garage and 181 spaces at the Sessom lot.

Pedal to the end zone

Today’s Weather

85°/68° Isolated T-Storms Precipitation: 30% Humidity: 61% UV: 7 High Wind: ENE 10 mph

Wednesday

Scattered T-Storms Temp: 91°/67° Precip: 40%

Thursday Partly Cloudy Temp: 83°/61° Precip: 20%

Jake Marx/Star photo

Unicycle football is leaving tracks in San Marcos.

See story page 8.

Visit universitystar.com for video and photo slideshow.

However, the released data show all-zone spaces alone would not absorb all the excesses in red and green unless one considers the bulk of all-zone lots located at the east side of the campus along Aquarena Springs Drive.

A yearly red permit for faculty and staff costs $207 and a green sticker costs $195 for hall residents. A purple permit costs $85 for commuters.

Issues with parking and complaints from faculty members were reocurring topics at the Faculty Senate last semester. One suggestion, recorded in the minutes of the March 4 meeting, was

to “come to campus earlier.”

At the Transportation and Parking Committee meeting Friday, Stephen Prentice, assistant director of Parking Services, said the removal of 344 spaces on the surface lot on Matthews Street prompted red and green permit holders to move west.

He said the move has had a significant impact on campus parking conditions.

Prentice said the site just north of Arnold and Smith Halls was designated as a green zone, and some red permit holders also parked there as they are allowed to under the regulation.

The university is replacing surface parking lots with garages in line with the Campus Master Plan 2006 to 2015 in an effort to create room for more green space and academic facilities. The Matthews Street garage will be the largest among the projects.

The university started the construction in December and will spend $25 million to create 956 parking spaces by the time it completes the project in the summer of 2010, according to the July 2009 project status report.

By Lora Collins News reporter

said. “Our primary function is how you educate people to make good choices and decisions about how they conduct themselves.”

Smith said the funding went toward materials used for graduate research in the Alcohol and Drug Resource Center.

Janelle Hibbing, graduate research assistant, works with the center to educate students of the effects of alcoholism.

Hibbing’s work has been funded along with S.W.A.T. by student service fees that support the practice of safe drinking.

“My position specifically: I don’t see it directly contributing to their transportation issues now that S.W.A.T. is not here,” Hibbing said.

She said S.W.A.T. was a oneof-a-kind program, but it did not create revenue.

“I think S.W.A.T was a good program and it was a good idea, but it just wasn’t feasible,” Hibbing said.

Judy Row, former S.W.A.T. director, said research done by Hibbing would help pinpoint where students need more information.

“Right now she is working on some social marketing posters that will go up all over campus this semester stating the alcohol information we got from last year,” Row said.

“When they get to the point where we have a substantial number we will start analyzing the numbers.”

Smith said part of the problem with funding S.W.A.T. came from the lack of volunteers.

“We don’t have the man power to manage on our own,” Smith said. “Alcohol and Drug Resource Center has two fulltime staff and an administrator, so their whole program is basically based on student volunteers and office workers.”

City Councilmember Kim Porterfield, Place 1, said the council is looking at how they can provide safe rides home for residents.

“We had just discussed maybe the city distributing some money to S.W.A.T. to expand

see ‘PARKING,’ page 3

Center receives funds from disbanded S.W.A.T. Students with Alternate Transportation funding has be reallocated to support research within the Alcohol and Drug Resource Center.

Joanne Smith, vice president of Student Affairs, said the money needed to be shifted.

Smith said university officials have no intentions of renting cars for S.W.A.T. this year.

“The money we had was primarily used to rent the vehicles,” Smith said. “As the interest kept dwindling, one of the things we decided to do for this year is to use the money to utilize the graduate research assistant to help us do more alcohol education.”

Student service fees, in the amount of $18,500, had been allocated to S.W.A.T. every year since 2000. Smith said there was a higher need for research in the Alcohol and Drug Resource Center.

“Our primary function of the university is not to provide transportation for students who are at the bars,” Smith

see ‘S.W.A.T.,’ page 3

Page Two

2 - The University Star

ON THIS

DAY IN

HISTORY 1846: Ether was used as an anesthetic for the first time, at the office of Boston dentist William Morton.

1954: The U.S. Navy commissioned the first atomic-powered vessel, the submarine Nautilus.

1955: Actor James Dean was killed in a car accident at age 24.

1962: Black student James Meredith succeeded on his fourth try in registering for classes at the University of Mississippi.

1993: A magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck southern India, killing an estimated 10,000 people.

1997: France’s Roman Catholic Church apologized for its silence during the systematic persecution and deportation of Jews by the pro-Nazi Vichy regime.

2003: The FBI began a criminal investigation into whether White House officials had illegally leaked the identity of an undercover CIA officer.

2004: Merck & Co. pulled Vioxx, its heavily promoted arthritis drug, from the market after a study found it doubled the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

—Courtesy of New York Times

STARS OF TEXAS STATE Cody Ransone, electrical engineering freshman, accepted the first Retired Faculty and Staff Association scholarship at the retirees’ second annual fall social last Friday night. The scholarship was presented by RFSA President Marianne Reese. A 2009 graduate of Wimberley High School, Cody is an Eagle Scout, made the National Honor Society, and lettered in soccer and cross country.

CRIME

—Courtesy of Pat Murdock

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

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

BLOTTER

Sept. 19, 3:54 a.m.

Criminal Mischief-under $500/Speck Parking Lot A nonstudent reported university property had been damaged. The case is under investigation.

Sept. 19, 6:10 p.m.

Failure to Comply-Striking Unattended Vehicle/College Inn North Parking Lot A student reported his vehicle was damaged while legally parked. The case is under investigation.

Sept. 19, 9:54 p.m.

Possession of Marijuana/ San Jacinto Hall A police officer was dispatched to the location for a suspicious odor call. Upon further investigation, two students were arrested for possession of marijuana and transported to Hays County Law Enforcement Center and are awaiting court dates.

Sept. 20, 11:30 p.m.

Criminal Mischief under $1500/Blanco Parking Garage A student reported to a police officer his vehicle was intentionally damaged while legally parked. The case is under investigation.

Sept. 21, 2:20 a.m.

Criminal Mischief-under $500/Speck Parking Lot While on patrol, a police officer observed university property had been damaged. The case is under investigation.

—Courtesy of University Police Department

Hannah VanOrstrand/Star photo LOVE SONGS: Michael Schooley, interdisciplinary studies freshman, plays his ukulele for a crowd Tuesday in the Alkek breezeway.

Marshal’s Office rounds up outstanding warrants The San Marcos Police and the City Marshal’s Office will conduct a warrant roundup in October for defendants with outstanding warrants at the San Marcos Municipal Court.

People with outstanding warrants for traffic violations, city ordinance violations and other misdemeanor charges filed at Municipal Court are urged to contact the court immediately to avoid arrest at home, work or school.

A one-week amnesty period started Monday and will run through Friday. It will allow persons with outstanding cases to appear before the judge without posting bond. Available court dates are today from 6 to 8 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to noon and 2 to 4 p.m.

“We urge anyone who has delinquent cases in San Marcos Municipal Court to contact the court to take care of the matter immediately,” said Rusty Grice, deputy marshal with the San

Marcos Marshal’s Office.

Officers will begin actively searching and arresting persons with outstanding warrants after the end of the amnesty week.

The Municipal Court Web site has a list of people with outstanding warrants in San Marcos. (www.sanmarcostx.gov/) San Marcos Municipal Court is located on the second floor of the Municipal Building in the City Hall complex at 630 E. Hopkins.

The customer service window is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours Wednesday until 8 p.m. After hours payment options are available on the court Web site noted above. The court telephone number is 512-393-8190.

—Courtesy of City of San Marcos

News

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Policy

continued from page

continued to do it, then yeah maybe $35.”

Marissa Harold, electronic media senior and bicyclist, called the policy unfair. “(It) doesn’t ride well with me,” she said.

Lattie said owners should register their bikes.

“When they pick it up we’re encouraging them to register their bike,” Lattie said. “Registered bikes are much more likely to be returned if stolen.”

University officials have discussed the possibility of requiring all bikes to be registered.

“There are universities that do require you to register every bike you bring on campus,”

S.W.A.T.

Lattie said. “It’s been discussed, but there are no plans to currently implement it.”

Lattie said ticketing bikes is difficult because there is not a way to track whether a bike has been issued a citation unless it is registered.

“It would actually let us enforce parking violations with bikes,” he said.

If a bike is registered, police will notify the owner if it is impounded.

“If they are registered we’ll contact the owner,” he said. “If not we’ll keep them for 90 days then they’re turned into the university under property disposal rules.”

continued from page

their services because the bus services that go downtown are very expensive,” Porterfield said.

Porterfield said she supports the furthering of alcohol education both in the university and bars. The extension of bar hours caused an expressed need among the community to better educate bar owners, servers

Parking

1

Prentice said he is going to recommend about one fourth of the spaces at the garage be red and the rest be green.

He said once completed, the garage will solve the campus parking problem.

Prentice said Parking Services officers, as a policy, do not ticket vehicles with red permits in purple zones although that is not stated on the official traffic and parking regulations posted on the Web site.

The campus has 472 purple spaces for commuters, including 445 spots near the Speck Street garage.

As parking services implements its portion of the master plan, parking under auxiliary funds expects to generate about $5.4 million in

1

and their customers, she said.

“I don’t want to be naïve, but certainly things that promote a designated driver, responsible drinking and education of bar tenders not serving people, and so some efforts toward that might also help with the situation,” Porterfield said.

The City Council is working with bus and cab companies to

continued from page

Police reports show both locations from which the two bikes were removed last week had available racks nearby.

“Don’t chain them to the handrails, follow regulations and chain them to a bike rack,” Lattie said. “If you find an area that we have inadequate bike racks, let us know.”

James Stewart, philosophy junior, said the area near Flowers Hall needs more bicycle parking.

“For this particular spot, I don’t really see what this handrail is helping other than to help grass grow, the bike is out of the way and there is very little parking,” Stewart said.

possibly get students and bar visitors home safely. Porterfield said these plans would hopefully help take over S.W.A.T.’s duties as a driver service.

“I think we can look at what was good about S.W.A.T. and look at other university communities to see what we can do, this is not rocket science,” Porterfield said.

The University Star - 3

University enforces solicitation rules, bans organization

By Christine Mester News Reporter An on-campus student organization was recently banned from activities for one year after failing to follow the university’s off-campus solicitation policy.

The policy requires student organizations to present permits before soliciting funds from local businesses.

Chloe Carson, administrative assistant of Campus Activities and Student Organizations, reviews off-campus solicitation requests.

“We correct the solicitations request letters for grammatical errors and make sure the students approach local businesses professionally,” Carson said. “We want to make sure the groups appropriately represent the university.”

Carson said the banned organization, which he refused to identify, presented to a local business unprofessionally.

“They took off on their own to request donations from the outlet mall,” Carson said. “The lady they talked to sent them away because their request letter had such bad grammar. It set

off a red flag and she could tell the group was not sanctioned by the university so she notified us about the situation.”

Meghan Nichols, former Psi Chi president, said she was unaware of the rule.

“I think the university does a really terrible job explaining rules and opportunities to our organizations,” Nichols said.

“I don’t think an organization should be punished if the university fails to communicate the rules.”

Nichols said Psi Chi has received funds from local businesses without the permit or authorization.

The off-campus solicitation policy states the Office of the Vice President of University affairs will notify student organizations every year on Sept. 15 explaining the policy.

Carson said she does not know if notifications were released this year.

Becky Prince, vice president for university advancement, said in a news release that the reason for the rule is to assure the maximum private support for all campus organizations and so fund-raising efforts can

be accomplished easily and effectively.

According to the rules, all area merchants and businesses will be asked not to consider any solicitations unless the permit is presented.

Owner of Mochas and Javas, Kevin Carswell, said he has not had any problems with student organizations approaching him for funds.

“I usually just look for an official Texas State logo before considering sponsoring the group,” Carswell said. “Students have been very professional when approaching our business for money.”

Carswell frequently sponsors student organizations at the university.

Carson said another reason the rule is in place is to prevent students from approaching local banks for funds.

“The main thing student organizations need to realize is not to go off into the community without being authorized by university advancement,” Carson said. “The form is not very hard to fill out, and we don’t want to see anyone get in more trouble.”

1

revenue this year, according to the fiscal 2010 budget adopted by the Board of Regents.

That is up about $820,000, or 18 percent, from the last year’s approved budget.

Parking’s expenditure will stay at the same level as last year at about $2 million. The rest of the revenue will be put toward the debt service.

Pat Fogarty, associate vice president for facilities, who sits on the committee, said in a telephone interview he does not know if the university needs any more parking spaces given large garage projects underway. He said university officials purchased the property east of Bobcat Stadium parking lot, where Hidden Village Apartments were located, and is

planning to turn it into parking. He noted quite a few allzone parking spaces behind Bobcat Village are generally unused.

Robert Gratz, special assistant to the president, who co-chairs the committee, said the committee may need to collect data on the number of faculty and staff employees for the last few years to accomodate the increase in student enrollment .

“We need to ask ourselves what’s happened to that versus red spaces, versus green spaces, versus perimeter spaces ... and are we sending a message that’s reasonable in terms of what’s happened there,” Gratz said.

Star file photo

Opinions

What’s your opinion?

Send your thoughts to staropinion@txstate.edu.

CALL FOR CABS

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

4 - The University Star

the main

point.

P

eople are more likely to utilize services they are constantly being reminded of.

Advertisers use this strategy to keep brand names in the consumer’s mind — why else would companies like Coca-Cola and McDonald’s spend such large amounts of money on advertising when everyone already knows they are available?

Knowing this, transportation in San Marcos could undergo some radical changes.

According to the Sept. 24 issue of The University Star, local law currently prevents taxicabs from patrolling for fares downtown. Taxi drivers could get a citation if they arrive on The Square without a call.

The last update to the ordinance was in 1970 and times have changed. San Marcos is growing in population and residences. Apartment complexes are out of walking distance, especially after consuming alcohol.

According to the same article, City Council plans to revisit the ordinance at the Oct. 20 meeting. They should consider students will be more likely to use taxi services if there is a cab waiting for them.

The City Council should amend the outdated ordinance and allow taxicabs to patrol for fares downtown. They could be preventing accidents.

Bar goers have one thing on

their minds when closing time comes around — getting home.

Whether they drive after drinking or get in a car with someone who is intoxicated, it is an unsafe practice that happens too often.

With the recent disbandment of S.W.A.T., students need another alternative after spending time at the bars. Biking or walking is an option for only those who live within a certain distance, and even then, it could be dangerous. Sober bicyclists and pedestrians are at risk if intoxicated bar-hoppers decide to drive home.

Hays Taxi Service offers rides to anywhere in San Marcos for a total of $10 for a maximum of six people. Residents would be tempted to carpool to The Square if they were aware of taxi availability.

It would lessen congestion as well as danger.

This generation of impatient people do not call taxis because they want to leave when they are ready. Waiting around for a ride puts people off and thus, they don’t take the time to call a taxi. Hence the rarity of seeing a cab on The Square.

If students and long-term residents were able to see an alternate and immediate way of getting home, they might think twice before making the wrong decision and getting behind the wheel.

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.

Zach Ashburn/Star Illustration

ASG tailgate committee provides ‘friendly’ game day experience

By Kaycee Toller Opinions Columnist Texas State’s ASG tailgating committee has done a pretty swell job of adding a bus route and a new tailgating format that ensures Bobcat Stadium sees more than its fair share of fans on the student side.

Michael Flowers, head of ASG’s new tailgating committee, said the changes offer more accessibility.

“We’ve basically created

a friendlier tailgate experience,” Flowers said.

Flowers’ tailgating experience includes live music performances and a layout that should help make pregame celebrations better for both fans and emergency personnel.

The friendliest part of this experience is probably the buses that operate on game day.

They’re the same buses students ride all week, but without the crowds of stressed students.

The trams start running three hours before kickoff and stop an hour after the game ends.

Flowers said nearly 1,000 students took advantage of the buses during Texas State’s first home game.

Considering that Texas State hopes to sell about 15,000 tickets to each game, thousands of fans must be missing out on a free ride.

Tailgating takes place in the stadium parking lot, so there aren’t many parking spots nearby to choose from.

People who drove down Aquarena Springs Drive Saturday may have noticed rows of cars parked in the grass by the train tracks in a desperate attempt to get a spot near the stadium.

The bus drops students

off right in front of the ticket booth. Tailgaters who take the bus help reduce the need for train-side parking jobs.

Anyone who’s ever tailgated at Texas State knows Bobcat football fans really like their beer. The game day buses help keep that guy who was shot-gunning Lone Star from getting behind the wheel and wreaking havoc on the streets of San Marcos.

Riding the bus may keep students from drinking and driving, but it doesn’t do anything to keep them from drinking. Students can bring booze on the bus.

Drinks have to be kept in a cooler for the ride, of course.

The bus drivers don’t want any fans spilling their drinks or losing their lunch on the seats.

The only thing that can really be improved by the bus service is the route names.

The buses pick up students on the same route as they would during the weekday, but the displays have been changed to something related to Texas State football.

By the time the game is finished, some students might have a hard time remembering whether the bus they need is called “Touchdown!” or “First Down.”

Maybe the tailgating committee should invest in a

sign or two that can remind students which route they need to take.

Silly names aside, the bus service on game days is something that more students should take advantage of.

“Tailgating’s been great this semester, and it’s only going to get better,” Flowers said.

Students who haven’t been tailgating this semester should grab a cooler, some friends and a free ride to the stadium to go check it out.

their GPA is.

Is it possible that four chapters under the Interfraternity Council, who failed to meet academic requirements according to the 2009 spring greek grade report, have proved society accurate? Could it be fraternities are loaded with guys who probably do nothing more than party, spend hours on their physique and attend class once every blue moon?

Some members of Kappa Sigma, Omega Delta Pi, Sigma Nu and Sigma Tau Gamma found it difficult to meet the standard 2.25 GPA requirement. I suppress my cynicism only because there was probably someone who actually couldn’t meet this standard.

Conversely, others shouldn’t

insult his or her intelligence by believing these fraternity individuals spent night and day trying to achieve their personal best.

According to an article published in the Sept. 23 issue of The University Star in regard to this matter, Kappa Alpha Order member, Cody Carr said, “Academics just isn’t what the greek community is all about as a whole.

We put in so many community service hours when compared to the non-greek community. We balance social life, academics, community service and still manage to be leaders on campus in organizations such as ASG.” Making a nonsensical statement to justify the fact that not one, not two, not three, but four fraternities

couldn’t measure up to academic requirements doesn’t generate sympathy.

Members of fraternities are not the only individuals who are involved in one or more campus activities and community service. Furthermore, certain individuals who belong to these fraternities need to learn what it means to crack open a book.

Academics come first, not participating in fraternity functions.

Peter Isaac, greek life coordinator, wants individuals to believe there isn’t a problem.

“Individual students, and by that I mean the councils, are actually taking a much more serious approach towards ensuring academic achievement is a pillar to

build on for the greek community,” Isaac said in the same article.

Providing a statement such as this only implies the approach toward academic achievement hasn’t been serious in the past. Academic standards for fraternities should be raised higher.

If students who make the choice to join a fraternity are held to a higher academic requirement, they will work toward this requirement in order to be a part of greek life. Sigma Pi is suspended until Jan. 1, 2010 for repeatedly failing to maintain academic success.

Other fraternities who can’t measure up should suffer the same penalty.

Upperclassmen and former members who are a

part of these fraternities should be the definitive example and enlighten new members of what it takes to be a diligent and successful student.

Fraternity members must possess leadership qualities if they want to be seen as leaders on campus. There are plenty of fraternity members who have met the requirements, but some of these individuals need to learn to be proficient and studious. An improvement in GPAs starts with the students, but the academic requirements need to be raised higher. This will encourage these individuals to not settle or reach for mediocrity.

– Kaycee Toller is a mass communication junior.

GPA requirement not high enough for fraternities

By Tristan Watson Opinions Columnist

We have all probably had the experience of seeing certain guys with slicked back hair, tucked-in collared shirts, shined shoes and solid colored ties cruising around campus.

Yes, I’m talking about fraternity guys. Some seem to have it all together. I believe they want to be the center of attention, while trying to be seen as more than just party-goers. I wonder what some of these guys’ responses would be if asked what

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– Tristan Watson is a political science senior.

The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State UniversitySan 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 Wednesday, September 30. 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 Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Castro Crashes Malls

Jason Castro, American Idol contestant who placed fourth in 2008, is beginning a national mall tour to promote his self-titled debut album. According to Billboard.com, “Castro inked a record deal with Atlantic Records in April, marking the first time the label has signed an ‘Idol’ finalist.” The tour is hosted by the interactive music network, Akoo, and it begins Oct. 12 in Minneapolis, Minn.

The University Star - 5

Bobcats in the Making

Irving schools implement college readiness, from kindergarten to high school

By Brittany E. Wilson Features Reporter

Natalie McDaniel is a fourth grade teacher at Lee Britain Elementary with a vision for all her students – for each one to attend college.

Irving is known as the former home to the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium, as well as the Las Colinas development. However, the Irving Independent School District is making a name for itself with the college preparation program being implemented in its schools.

“When we talk about college in my classroom, the stu-

‘Hyped’ movie fails viewers

dents used to think it was an unobtainable goal,” McDaniel said. “Now I feel they see college as a possible opportunity and a likely outcome in each of their futures.”

The college preparation program started with an elementary principal in San Diego named Damen Lopez.

Lopez founded the No Excuses University Network of Schools in 2004, which promotes college readiness starting in kindergarten. Today, there are 35 schools participating in the program. Lee Britain Elementary is hoping to apply for the official program next year.

To achieve this goal, each classroom has adopted a university in which the teacher will promote or sponsor to the children. McDaniel, as an alumna, picked Texas State.

“I believe Texas State is a wonderful place to get an education, and I am proud to share my experience with my students,” McDaniel said.

Each classroom is filled with signs and banners from universities across the world.

The teachers are hoping universities will sponsor their classrooms in return.

“As faculty, we are trying to reach out to the college we have chosen to see if there is

anything they can do for us,” McDaniel said. “For example, to send anything that would get the students excited and aware about college – may it be T-shirts, banners, letters or notes, brochures, posters, stickers or pencils.”

McDaniel looks at the Texas State Web site with her fourth graders to jumpstart the learning process and explores all the majors the university has to offer.

“The kids had no idea there were so many options out there for them to choose from,” McDaniel said. “They loved the idea they make the decision on what they want to learn.”

Entertainment Calendar Wednesday Sept. 30- Wednesday Oct. 7

Wednesday

By Brent Vickers Trends Columnist

Kent Finlays Songwriters Circle, 9:30 p.m., Pandorum tried too hard – Cheatham Street Warehouse way too hard.

It wanted so badly to be the film that would revive the sci-fi-thriller-horror-action epic. Instead, it got so wrapped up in itself that it delivered a film below average.

Don’t get me wrong. If Bmovie sci-fi’s are your shtick, then by all means, watch this film. But Pandorum was not my thing.

I like to imagine the writing process of this film going as follows: the writer (Travis Milloy) watches The Descent, Event Horizon and Wall-E, and then writes an (unoriginal) screenplay trying to (unsuccessfully) merge the three films into one.

And for some reason, the movie was not awesome. By that formula, it should have been mind-blowing.

German auteur Christian Alvart, to top it off, decides to taint his sterling career by signing on to this atrocity.

Alvart’s direction did not save the film.

I absolutely loved the idea, feel and premise of Pandorum until the mutant-human-alienzombie hybrids appeared. Unfortunately with this film, I did it to myself because I knew they would show up. They are in the trailer.

However, I wanted so badly to hope the film would live up to the hype the marketing team put on it and would be an under-the-radar, sci-fi psychological horror masterpiece.

Milloy did play with idea, and when he did, it was obvious.

Every once in a while, the film would build up and change direction or thicken plot, only to end in a letdown.

However, Ben Foster gave a great performance and Dennis Quaid was, if nothing else, enjoyable to watch.

Josh Diebel, pre-mass communication junior, had a different opinion.

“I loved the film,” Diebel said. “It was awesome.”

So maybe playing the critic has me judging too harshly, but I was not fond of Pandorum. I would have to give it a D, for disaster. Most of my friends loved it, so my advice would be to check it out anyway.

Rodney Hayden, 7 p.m., Gruene Hall Molly Hayes, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Open Mic w/ Opie Hendrix, 10 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Mashed Potato Johnson, 6 p.m., Trippin’ Out West, 10 p.m., Triple Crown Thursday Josh Abbott, 8 p.m., Cheatham Street Warehouse Bo Porter Trio, 7p.m., Gruene Hall Aces Over Eights, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Opie Hendrix, 10:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon

Shifty Boys, 10:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Callous Taoboys, 6 p.m., Shandon Sahm, Molly & the Hatchets, Robbie & the Robots, 10 p.m., Triple Crown Saturday Brett Crenshaw and Javi Garcia & Cold Cold Ground, 9:30 p.m., Cheatham Street Warehouse The McKay Brothers, 1 p.m., Casey Donahew Band, 9 p.m., Gruene Hall Shotgun Party, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Matt Begley & Bitter Whiskey, 10:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Word Association, Phranchyze 1, Wargasm, StormShadow, Doomsday Device, 10 p.m., Triple Crown

Gruene Hall Free Jukebox, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Matt Begley Song Swap, 10 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon James Thompson Project, 6 p.m., Doomsday Device, 9 p.m., Triple Crown Tuesday Randy Rogers Band, 8 p.m., Cheatham Street Warehouse Kelley Mickwee & Andrew Hardin, 7 p.m., Gruene Hall Shawn Line, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Sasquatch Holler, 10 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Robbie Doyen, 6 p.m., Orquesta Ritmo, 10 p.m., Triple Crown

Sunday

Wednesday

Ricky Stein, 6 p.m., Crystal Creek Boys, Reverend Glasseye, Josh Bond, 10 p.m., Triple Crown

First Sunday Blue-Grass with the Two High String Band, 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Cheatham Street Warehouse

Kent Finlays Songwriters Circle, 9:30 p.m., Cheatham Street Warehouse

Friday

Matt Powell, 12:30 p.m., Porterdavis, 5 p.m.-9 p.m., Gruene Hall

Jason Eady, 8 p.m., Cheatham Street Warehouse Bill Kirchen and Too Much Fun, 7 p.m., Gruene Hall Jenny & The Corn Ponies, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Rooster Suicide w/ The

Open Mic w/ Glen Allan, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Island Time Karaoke, 10 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Monday Bret Graham, 7 p.m.,

Rob Baird, 7 p.m., Gruene Hall Wink Kaziah, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Open Mic w/ host Amber Lucille, 10 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Scott Wood, 6 p.m., Tween Beat, 10 p.m., Triple Crown

www.universitystar.com www.universitystar.com www.universitystar.com

The students created a blog they use to communicate with each other and titled it “Mrs. McDaniel’s Bobcats.”

McDaniel said she is excited about preparing the children for their futures, and has lesson plans ready in advance.

“I think it would be amazing if the students would research specific majors and give presentations on the reasoning for choosing that specific major,” McDaniel said. “A student debate on why they think their chosen major is the best could also be integrated and interesting for the classroom. Anything

to get them excited about college.”

McDaniel said the biggest accomplishment is when she sees the students struggle with certain concepts, watch them work through it and obtain an understanding on the subject.

“That light bulb goes off in their heads,” McDaniel said.

“That excitement on their face is priceless. They are more than thrilled knowing that the struggles and their strength to fight through each day pays off. Each student has reached some means of success in their eyes when they leave school for the day.”

trends

6 - The University Star

A Bobcat to Know

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

SXSW scheduling conflicts with classes

Employee dedication to students pays off

By Elizabeth Barbee Features Reporter Human resources analyst, Lisa Vallejo, is the person behind the scenes, who makes sure student workers can pay their bills.

Vallejo, who began working for Career Services in 1992, was recently named Employee of the Year for her work in the department of human resources, where she transferred in May 2005.

“This is someone who is

playing a vital role on campus,” said Roxana Weaver, human resources manager.

“There is a huge number of student workers on campus, and Lisa has to get all of their payments entered. It is a big responsibility.”

Weaver said she nominated Vallejo for the title because of her hard work and diligence.

“She takes it personal,” Weaver said. “I saw the dedication she has to get all of the students paid. It was time for her to get the recognition she deserves.”

Sara Strick/Star photo BOBCAT TO KNOW: Lisa Vallejo, Human Resources analyst, was named Employee of the Year for her work in the department.

The Employee of the Year was chosen by a committee from a pool of 12 contenders, all former Employees of the Month from various departments. The decision was made after the nominees submitted a letter of interest and attended a luncheon with University President Denise Trauth during the summer. Vallejo was announced the victor Aug. 13, gaining a plaque, $3,000 and a reserved parking space.

“I got to choose where I wanted to park, and anyone who is not authorized to park there will be towed,” Vallejo said. “I always have somewhere to park when I get to campus now. I think that was my biggest perk.”

Vallejo juggles a variety of tasks, including data entry, communication with student employees, research and filing of personnel change requests everyday.

“It is not just working on one thing all day,” Vallejo said.

“You have to be very detail oriented and you have to be able to multi-task.”

Vallejo said the department of human resources operates at a fast pace.

“We have deadlines,” Vallejo said. “Everyone has to meet a deadline in order for this system to work.”

One of Vallejo’s co-workers expressed his respect for her work ethic.

“Lisa is awesome,” said Floyd Quinn, associate director of human resources. “She pushes the envelope every day in her efforts to take care of our students. It is an absolute pleasure to work with Lisa.

She is a highly valued member of our team.”

Vallejo has ambitions for the upcoming year.

“Of course it is always ‘how can I do my job better’ and ‘how can I make the process better?’” Vallejo said. “My ultimate goal is to make sure student workers get paid.”

Karen Wang/Star file photo INTERFERENCE: The annual South by Southwest Music Festival does not coincide with the university’s Spring Break.

By Jovonna Owen Features Reporter Texas State students will not sweat it out this year at South

by Southwest.

The annual interactive film and music festival that takes place March 12 to March 21 will not coincide with the university’s Spring Break of March 7 to March 14.

The reason for an earlier Spring Break this year can be accredited to the university preparing for reaffirmation to Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Cathy Fleuriet, associate vice president for institutional effectiveness and SACS liaison, said a SACS on-site review team would be on campus March 23 and March 24.

“It’s a critical time, and we could not take a chance with staff not being here,” Fleuriet said.

Fleuriet said she did not make the decisions on changing Spring Break.

“We have to accommodate the SACS people,” Fleuriet said.

“Does SACS affect things? Yes.” “I think Spring Break was moved before it was ever published,” said Beth Wuest, associate professor in academic development and assessment.

“So it’s not something you would visibly notice as being moved.”

Wuest said the change was done to make sure the university had adequate time to prepare before the SACS on-site team visits.

“Truthfully, I think it was to just make sure we had full staff and faculty back to be able to get any last minute preparations before they came in,” Wuest said. “You don’t want to come back after a week’s vacation and have reviewers coming. It’s like having a test the day you come back from Spring Break.”

Ross Bennett, public relations junior, has no choice but to attend SXSW. He works at Emo’s, a live music venue participating in the festival.

Bennett said he is not pleased about the Spring Break change.

“It’s a big concern for students,” Bennett said. “It’s such an opportunity for so many people, and I don’t know why the school would change it.”

Bennett said he planned to talk to his professors about missing class.

“Mass communication professors are more understanding, and I plan to do the work before,” Bennett said.

Chuck Kaufman, mass com-

munication internship coordinator, said a lot of students interested in interning with SXSW were worried about the Spring Break change.

“Normally, they would sell their soul for SXSW and work 24/7, which is what they need you to do,” Kaufman said. “I have students who have come in and said they’re going to skip school that week. I’m not sure that’s a good idea.”

Kaufman said he recomvmends students manage their time efficiently.

Tammi Richter, volunteer coordinator for SXSW, said in an e-mail that she was optimistic students would still be able to volunteer and intern.

Richter said shifts can start from 8 a.m. and last until 3 a.m. the next day.

“It has been my past experience that many professors are willing to work with students to help them accomplish a successful internship, even if it means missing a couple of classes,” Richter said.

Richter said students will need to talk with their professors before accepting a SXSW internship and will need to get a head start on completing class work.

“That’s never a bad thing, right?” Richter said.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

c ro s s w o rd

Diversions

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The University Star - 7

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Sports 8 - The University Star

SOUTHLAND STARS

Women’s soccer player Britney Curry, junior forward, was named Co-Offensive Southland Conference Player of the Week Tuesday with Southeastern Louisiana’s Natalie Santana. Curry had the game-winning assist and penalty shot to secure the 2-0 victory over Houston Baptist Sept. 22. She recorded a pair of goals in Friday’s game against Prairie View A&M. Curry currently matches Texas State’s all-time career goals scored record with 31. Madi Mawyer, senior goalkeeper, received the Honorable Mention this week. She had four saves in the two games.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Sports Contact, Lisa Carter – starsports@txstate.edu

serious sport

Unicycle Football League entertains fans Sunday

By Dustin Porterfield Sports Reporter Professional and college football, as people know them today, has become much more of a “cut throat” business than an actual game. Each team – front office included – is on edge at all times to make the right decisions, as his or her job is on the line.

And then there is unicycle football.

“This is a beer drinking sport,” said Dane Walter, pregeography and environmental studies sophomore.

Walter does not have an official title – as nothing in the UFL is official – but he provides the play-by-play from a bullhorn and is in charge of raffling off items during the games.

Unicycle football games are played at 3:33 p.m. every Sunday, “because that’s a time we can all remember,” Walter said.

Unicycle Football League

games include referees who call penalties, guys who keep track of downs, distance and time of game, and cheerleaders who color coordinate their outfits.

Walter said halftime is long enough for the players to replenish themselves.

“It’s a beer and two cigarettes long,” Walter said.

Fans lined the field at Tantra Coffeehouse Sunday to watch the Gnarwhals take down the Hot Dogs, 38-26.

“When we were putting this league together, we really wanted to make it a spectator sport,” said UFL Founder Marcus Garland. “The game is competitive and people want to win, but this sport is for the fans more than anything. Anything you want to do will cost money these days, which is why we don’t charge people to watch.”

Garland said the games feel more like a tailgate party. People grill food and drink beer

while socializing.

The UFL, which is in its fifth season, has expanded each year. The UFL has added a fifth team, The Ill-Eagles, with a prospective sixth team in Austin.

“People come watch the games and think it looks like fun,” Walter said. “Then they eventually want to join. Riding a unicycle is just like doing anything else. It takes time to learn how to do it.”

Garland said the UFL would not be around today without the sponsorship of local businesses. The Hub, one of the league’s biggest sponsors, gives a discount to those who purchase a unicycle for the purpose of playing in the UFL. The season stretches from September to March with the ultimate team goal being to reach the “Stupor Bowl.”

Whichever team wins the Stupor Bowl receives a trophy, which is passed around quickly because it is smashed to pieces soon after.

Tennis players run, roll in weekend tournament

By Anthony Medina Sports Reporter

tournament, put his plan into action last spring when the tennis club hosted its first Run/Roll tournament. The competition marked the first time a university hosted the event.

Texas State’s tennis club became the first group to donate all of the profits to charity. The club donated more than $1,000 to finance a new wheelchair for 12-year-old Nathaniel Montemayor. The club raised the same amount prior to this semester’s tournament and continued to receive donations during and after the competition.

However, raising money for charity is not the only reason Scharton enjoys running and participating in the tournament.

“All of us athletes are really fortunate to not have a disability,” Scharton said. “It’s really cool to see some of the chair players out here and they’re really inspiring. Some are even better than the ablebodied players.”

Julie Maloukis, Austin resident, has been playing in Run/ Roll tournaments for three The Run/Roll tennis sport of the four years it has been club tournament began in in existence. Maloukis and Georgia nearly four years ago her partner Ryan Almaguer, and has since spread to cities criminal justice freshman, did across the country. not make it through to the fiTexas State’s tennis club has nal match at the San Marcos made San Marcos one of those event, but they still enjoyed cities. themselves.

The club hosted its second “It was fantastic,” Maloukis Jake Marx/Star photo semi-annual Run/Roll tournasaid. “I had a blast.”

UNICYCLE FOOTBALL: Kenny Rogers, aka “Baby Punch” on team Gnarwhals, rides the ball down ment Saturday.

Maloukis has played at events The Run/Roll is a doubles with the Texas State tennis club field, dodging Hot Dogs players Sunday on the UFL field next to Tantra Coffeehouse. tournament that teams ableon four different occasions and bodied and wheelchair-using admires what they are doing players to compete against with the tournament. other participants in one-day “What is so amazing is that events. they don’t have to do this,” Alex Scharton, political sciMaloukis said. ence junior, saw an opporAlmaguer enjoys playing tunity to bring the Run/Roll in the tournament because it tournament to Texas State afprovides a different aspect of ter he competed in San Antothe game. nio and Austin events.

“It is definitely interesting This is only one win, but it between Sunday’s victory and “I went out, played and rebecause it is a whole different meant the world to the Ford the last one on Dec. 23, 2007, ally enjoyed myself,” Scharton game of tennis and you really family as well as players and only 492,248 fans have atsaid. “I decided I’d really love have to depend on each other,” fans alike. tended nine home games for to host a Run/Roll at Texas Almaguer said. “It’s one of the Fans stayed to celebrate the Lions.

State.” most rewarding tennis experiafter the game and the playIn that same span of time, Scharton, director of the ences I’ve ever had.” ers came out of the locker Brett Favre played for two

By Joseph O. Garcia room to join them. It was a different teams and retired Sports Columnist great scene as Lions players twice. Now, Favre is up to his went gave high-fives to fans old tricks in the NFC North, After 644 days, 21 months, throughout the stadium. Some this time with the Minnesota 18 Sundays, one Thursday, players even stopped to chat Vikings. four starting quarterbacks and and take pictures with fans, He completed a 32-yard one fired coach later, the Desuch as safety Louis Delmas. game-winning touchdown troit Lions finally won a game.

New Lions head coach Jim pass to Greg Lewis in the Detroit (1-2) beat the Schwartz told the Detroit Free back of the end zone with Washington Redskins (1-2) Press, “The players went back two seconds left to play.

19-14 Sunday at home. out on the field and wanted Typical Favre.

The Lions had not won a to celebrate with the fans that Not so typical are the Lions game since Dec. 23, 2007. Their stayed. I thought that sends winning and the Cincinnati 19-game skid matched the sec- a strong statement about the Bengals beating the Steelers ond longest in NFL history. Dekinship we feel with this city.” at home, which was the first troit players and fans should Bill Ford Jr., great-grandson time since 2001. be thrilled to not have matched of Henry Ford, also told Since the Lions have finally Tampa Bay’s record of 26 dethe Detroit Free Press, “We not won a game, Detroit can exfeats from 1976 to 1977. only got the monkey off our press relief in what has been As the clock was tickback, we got King Kong off a rough couple of years on the ing down, it was fitting that our back.” field and in the economy. rookie quarterback Matthew The Lions won’t make If the Lions win next week Stafford could not bear to the playoffs this year, but at Chicago, it will be their first watch, as many others didn’t, they will win some games. two-game winning streak either.

They have the necessary since Oct. 28, 2007 to Nov. The attendance for Sunday’s foundation in place for a suc4, 2007. If they don’t, no one game was 40,896. It was the cessful franchise. would be surprised. lowest-ever at Ford Field and Stafford, the 2009 No. 1 The 2009 to 2010 verthe smallest home crowd since overall draft pick, along with sion of the Detroit Lions are 40,362 fans watched Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johna young, resilient and talson and running back Kevin ented group of players. This Lindsey Goldstein/Star photo beat Tampa Bay Dec. 17, 1989 at the Silverdome. The Smith, are the building blocks group will finally give Lions TEAM WORK : Allison Hernandez, exercise and sports science junior, plays a game of doubles with game was blacked out in the for Detroit’s future. fans reason to attend games David William Green, a Central Texas College student, at Saturday’s Run/Roll Tournament for charity.

Detroit area.

Just for some perspective, and root for their team.

Joe Knows

Lions’ win gives hope to fans, players

Bobcats stand strong, prepare for Colorado

By Blake Barington Sports Reporter

After two consecutive weather-shortened tournaments, the Texas State women’s golf team finished seventh in a field of 15 teams at the Bettie Lou Evans Fall Invitational in Lexington, Ky. “We are getting better in the extremely wet conditions after (Texas) A&M and UK (Kentucky),” said Coach Mike Akers. “I think our under-

classmen should be gaining confidence.”

Valdis Jonsdottir, pre-interior design freshman, led Texas State after the first day of the tournament. She shot an even par 72.

Texas State ended with 302 for the day in fourth place behind Florida State, who had 298, Central Florida and Coastal Carolina.

The Bobcats posted a score of 306 on the second day, putting them in seventh place.

Krista Puisite, undecided freshman, led the Bobcats for the tournament with her score of 147. Puisite shot 74 for the first day and 73 for the second.Puisite tied for eighth in the individual standings.

Gabby de Reuck, undecided sophomore, was the second leading Bobcat. She tied for 17th overall with her score of 150.

Jonsdottir had a score of 80 in her second day, which put her with a score of 152 and a

31st place finish.

Rounding out the scoring for the Bobcats was Caitlin Bliss, health and wellness promotion junior, who shot a 159, and Amy Glazier, marketing senior, who shot a 162.

Florida State finished first in the field with a 15-over-par total score of 587. Central Florida, Tennessee-Chattanooga, Notre Dame, Kennesaw State and Coastal Carolina followed, respectively.

“We played with UT-Chat-

tanooga in the final round,” Akers said. “They are ranked 11th in the nation and I certainly feel we are every bit as good as they are.”

Texas State finished with a 36-over-par score of 608.

“We placed respectably in Kentucky,” Akers said. “We certainly were in position to win the event going into the final round but could only put two good scores together.”

The Bobcats defeated host school Kentucky, which had

two teams with scores of 614 and 621.

The Bobcats will travel to Boulder, Colo. this coming weekend to compete in the University of Colorado Invitational.

“The main point I will get across at practice this week is to minimize mistakes,” Akers said. “We cannot make double and triple bogeys and expect to win. We look forward to getting back into action next week at CU (Colorado).”