Defending the First Amendment since 1911
INSIDE THIS ISSUE NEWS pages 1-3 Textbooks, heavy backpacks soon to be worry of past Faculty Senate requests changes to restricted red parking areas
OPINIONS page 4 MAIN POINT: Radio Tower Team-up Sophomore ponders lower points of Texas State life
Volume 99, Issue 21
14
WEDNESDAY
OCT
www.UniversityStar.com
GREEK JOES VS. COLLEGE PROS Fraternities competed against sport clubs Sunday. See page 8
Allegedly assaulted student’s health is improving By Allen Reed News Editor The victim of an alleged sexual assault apparently is feeling better as conflicting reports regarding the incident continue to surface. According to a UPD e-mail released Monday night, a female student reported she was forced into a small four-door sedan and sexually assaulted at knifepoint that morning in the Pleasant Street Garage. A friend of the alleged victim, who requested anonymity, reported the incident to university police. The friend said the alleged attack occurred after the 17-yearold victim walked by the
apparent attacker in the garage. “The guy was very intense and thorough,” the friend said. “It makes me very angry.” UPD Capt. Rickey Lattie said the victim has been interviewed on several occasions. “She’s not interested in filing a police report or any medical help,” Lattie said. According to the e-mail, the alleged assailant was initially described as a big tall male of unknown race, who wore a beanie, windbreaker and surgical gloves. “She (the victim) hasn’t added any further details, nor has she retracted her story,” Lattie said. Besides university police, the incident was reported to the dean of students, the vic-
TRENDS page 5-6
Working for the Cause: Campus assistant encourages breast cancer awareness Zombie movie gives audience gore, comedy, romance
DIVERSIONS page 7
SPORTS page 8 Joe Knows: Unfair system picks champion Women return from Hawaii tennis invitational
see ASSAULT, page 3
Pleasant Street Garage.
Dangerous intersection may not see more improvements
Religious organizations cast aside
Free hug givers say ‘everything will be OK’
tim’s friend said. The friend said conversations with police revealed a need for more patrols in parking garages. “Her (the victim’s) face dropped when they (police) told her there were no cameras in the garage (Pleasant Street),” the victim’s friend said. “She (the victim) said the garage was not lit very well. She couldn’t make out what the guy looked like, the car color, the tires, or anything.” Lattie said the victim’s initial report revealed the alleged assault occurred on the ground floor of the garage. Sara Strick/Star photo “But now she is unsure,” Lattie said. “She said he displayed ASSAULT: University police reported a female student was forced a knife. I don’t think he actually into a car and sexually assaulted Monday around 11 a.m. in the
By Megan Holt News Reporter Pedestrians are still fearful of being hit by a car at the intersection of Aquarena Springs and Sessom drives, despite yield signs and state law. Christopher Bolfing, philosophy senior, authored a petition last semester asking city officials to make the intersection more pedestrian-friendly. He has collected nearly 550 signatures from San Marcos residents since circulating the petition. “The petition was an attempt to get something done to change things,” Bolfing said. “Since then, the city has put out signs, which is one of the things I wanted.” Sabas Avila, San Marcos director of public services and transportation, said city officials installed signs Feb. 13 reminding drivers to yield to pedestrians in accordance to Lindsey Goldstein/Star photo illustration state laws. TAILGATE EXCESS: Tailgaters are being kicked out of the stadium “We had received several reparking lot at 6:30 p.m. in order to fill the stands with fans. ports of near misses so we put those signs up for educational
purposes,” Avila said. “It’s a state law vehicles yield to pedestrians, but most people are not aware of that law.” Bolfing said university officials have the responsibility to control the intersection and provide safety between the two properties it owns. “Basically, I want Texas State to work with the city and the city to work with the Texas Department of Public Safety,” Bolfing said. “The city has a better chance at taking the proper steps to change things at that intersection than one person at the university.” Joseph Owen, professional counseling graduate student, said he too sees drivers turn right without yielding to pedestrians. “The ultimate solution, I think, is to have some kind of overhead crosswalk,” Owen said. “It will be difficult to do though because of limited space. The crosswalk would have to be handicap accessible, and it would be hard for wheelchairs to cross if it’s elevated.“ Avila said the city has no cur-
rent plans for an elevated crosswalk or any safety measures. “I am not aware of any accidents since the new yield signs were put in place,” Avila said. Bolfing said the intersection is not safe yet. “The statistics are wrong because not everyone reports it (being hit),” Bolfing said. “Drivers get away because, unless you get a license plate number, you can’t report it. All the cars look the same now.” Barnes and Bolfing said they believe foliage located along the road is partly to blame for obscured vision of the crosswalk. “There have been so many accidents trying to pull out of the apartment complex,” Bolfing said. “There are so many things going on that strip that it is extremely dangerous because it is a very dense location. People jaywalk across the street, and I’ve seen (drivers) speed up when people get into that intersection. Even though people are breaking the law, they don’t need to be hit.”
Tailgaters forced Zeta promotes breast cancer to leave, attend awareness with ‘Pink Out’ week game at kickoff By Heidi Morrison News Reporter
By Bianca Davis News Reporter
Today’s Weather
88°/72° Isolated T-Storms Precipitation: 30% Humidity: 77% UV: 6 High Wind: SSW 8 mph
Thursday
Partly Cloudy Temp: 83°/58° Precip: 20%
Friday
Sunny Temp: 73°/53° Precip: 0%
University officials said there is a reason tailgaters are required to pack their tents at kickoff. UPD Sgt. Daniel Benitez said tailgaters should attend the games to help the “Drive to FBS.” “There are still plenty of seats inside the stadium,” Benitez said. “One of the primary goals is to make sure there are people inside the football game and for us to go any further into the division we’re trying to go to, which is the FBS.” Aaron Villalobos, tailgate adviser, said students should keep in mind what is important. “I think its important for everyone to take into consideration that tailgating is a byproduct of football, not the other way around,” he said. Some universities allow tailgating to continue throughout the duration of the game. Michael Flowers, ASG athletic liaison, said universities that allow tailgating throughout the game do not want to turn fans away. “Once the stadium becomes sold out consistently,t, the policy will be looked at again,” Flowers said.
Benitez said the practice is not limited to the university, noting broadcast blackouts for NFL. “If a particular stadium doesn’t sell out then the general region around that stadium will have a blackout so you can’t watch the game,” Benitez said. The practice of suspending tailgating was implemented by SACA. “Whenever SACA decided to make it an organized tailgating is when these rules and policies were set in place,” Benitez said. According to tailgate regulations, “At any given time after kickoff, up to two individuals may stay at their personal tailgating area to ensure their property remains safe and contained.” However, Benitez said alcohol consumption must stop at kickoff. “The two individuals who can stay at the tailgate are solely there to protect their property,” he said. “Those two individuals are not allowed to consume any type of alcoholic beverages during that point in time.” see TAILGATING, page 3
Texas State went pink for a week. The Zeta Tau Alpha sorority “pinked out” campus for their annual Pink Out event on behalf of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Zeta members distributed around 20,000 breast cancer ribbons in The Quad. They also passed out self-examination shower cards to dorms throughout campus. “We want everyone on campus to know breast cancer is prevalent in girls our age, and men sometimes too,” said Becky Staudt, philanthropy chair of Zeta Tau Alpha. “It’s not about our sorority being seen.” Staudt, psychology junior, said the event has been small in years past. “We set up a booth in The Quad from Sept. 30 to this last Friday,” Staudt said. “We sold T-shirts, handed out fliers and advertised a little bit around the city.” The Quad was decked out in pink to promote this cause for more than a week. “It’s very alarming, one in eight women are affected with breast cancer,” said Erin McCracken, assistant philanthropy chair for Zeta Tau Alpha. “I Hannah VanOrstrand/Star photo make sure I educate the sorority. PINK OUT: Zeta Tau Alpha placed Pink ribbons around campus in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. see AWARENESS, page 3
Page Two
2 - The University Star
STARS OF TEXAS STATE
Dr. Eve Gruntfest, an internationally recognized authority on implementing flash-flood warning systems, will present the 11th annual Lovell Distinguished Lecture Monday at Texas State. Gruntfest serves as co-director of Texas State’s new International Flash Flood Laboratory, which will hold a workshop after the lecture.
— Courtesy of College of Liberal Arts Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Texas State University – San Marcos is a member of the Texas State University System
ON THIS
DAY IN
HISTORY
CRIME
BLOTTER Oct. 4, 10:07 p.m. Medical Emergency/ Student Recreation Center A student reported to a police officer he injured his elbow while playing basketball. The student refused medical transportation.
1890: Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th president of the United States, was born in Denison. 1944: German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel committed suicide rather than face execution for allegedly Oct. 5, 1:11 a.m. conspiring against Adolf Assault - Family Violence/ Hitler.. San Saba Hall 1964: Civil Rights leader A student reported another Martin Luther King Jr. was student assaulted her. The named winner of the Nobel student was arrested for Peace Prize. assault family violence and 1968: The first live telecast transported to Hays County from a manned U.S. Law Enforcement Center spacecraft was transmitted and is awaiting a court date. from Apollo 7. 1979: Wayne Gretzky of the Oct. 5, 3:05 a.m. Edmonton Oilers scored the Medical Emergency/ first of his National Hockey Bobcat Village Apartments League record 894 goals in A student reported she a home game against the was experiencing severe Vancouver Cancucks. back pain. The student was 1990: Composer-conductor transported to Central Texas Bobby Scheidemann/Star photo Leonard Bernstein died at Medical Center for a medical age 72. MINERAL STUDYING: Andrea Contreras, marketing junior, examines and identifies igneous rock in her geology lab. 2003: John Allen Muhammad evaluation. pleaded innocent to murder Oct. 5, 10:00 a.m. in the Washington-area Assault - Family Violence/ sniper case. (He was later Lantana Hall convicted and sentenced to A student reported to death.) a police officer another 2006: The U.N. Security student assaulted her. A Council voted unanimously report was made of the to impose punishing sanctions on North Korea for incident and Student Justice was notified of the incident. carrying out a nuclear test. — Courtesy of New York — Courtesy of University The Stars of Texas Music Legacy Series features the Band of Bass Guitar and Best Acoustic Guitar. Times Police Heathens and the Trishas in a free concert 8 p.m. Oct. 20 at the The Band of Heathen’s new record, One Foot In The Ether Glade Outdoor Theatre. is currently No. 3 on the Americana Radio Chart in the United The Band of Heathens delivers a unique brand of Texas States (after only four weeks on the radio), and sits at No. 1 on twang and country soul to its audience. The band accepted the the Euro-Americana Chart for October. award for Best New Band during 2007’s South By Southwest The Trishas – Jamie Wilson, Liz Foster, Kelley Mickwee and Conference, along with runner-up awards for Band of the Year, Savannah Welch – came together for a tribute to songwriter Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Record Producer and Kevin Welch at the Steamboat Music Festival. It was obvious their others. The Austin music community recognized band members chemistry would lead to more shows, and they have performed A truck struck two female pedestrians 10:37 p.m. Tuesday on the corner of Comanche St. and Lindsey St. as nominees for Musician of the Year, Best Male Vocalist, Best together ever since. Ryan Hartman, San Marcos police officer who was first at the The event is free and open scene, said one female was run over. to the public. The Stars of The two women were taken to the Central Texas Medical CenTexas Music Legacy Series ter for further evaluation of their condition. is being sponsored through The driver of the truck, a male student at Texas State, said he Gary Hartman and the Center was working as a delivery driver at the time of the incident. for Texas Music History and The driver, who wished to remain anonymous, said the lack of Richard Cheatham, dean of a crosswalk at the intersection caused confusion. the College of Fine Arts and “They were crossing and I was going and since there wasn’t Communication. Call 512-245- a crosswalk the officer said it was confusion on both parts,” the driver said. “I wasn’t paying attention and they weren’t, and I 3501 or e-mail em16@txstate. bumped into one of them, and I ran over both of one girl’s legs.” edu for more information. Hartman said he did not think the two females suffered any broken bones. – Courtesy of University News Service — News report compiled by Bianca Davis
Band of Heathens, Trishas featured in Music Legacy Series concert
Truck driver runs over woman’s legs at intersection
Rec Beat Students use Rec Center, stay active, healthy What do volleyball, lacrosse and soccer players have in common? All three students train at the Student Recreation Center (Rec Center) to better perform for competitive sports and improve their overall wellbeing. They have a common goal: building active and healthy habits during college. Getting Back On Court Beau Rodriguez, exercise sports and science senior, has been waiting two months to get back on the volleyball courts with his teammates and friends. Undergoing surgery was unexpected, but Beau looks forward to playing volleyball again. “I’m working back to my playing form at the Rec Center,” said Beau, president of the Men’s Volleyball club. The rowing machine is one of Beau’s favorites to train on. “It helps build a strong back and shoulders, which helps with my arm swing in volleyball games. It creates a solid platform for passing,” said Beau. Woman on Weights Marissa Erhart, criminal justrice senior, is taking 19 hours this fall semester while staying on the Dean’s list. The president of the Women’s Lacrosse club finds time to work out and views training as important as eating and sleeping. “Not only are you burning off calories and building muscle, but you are also getting some mental health out of working out. I love to run and lift weights to release whatever pent up stress and frustration I might have,” said Marissa. “If for some reason I did badly on a test or I’m having issues with a friend, I can just go to the Rec Center and release all of that energy in a productive way.” The new weight room and cardio area allows
Marissa to work out on the machines she prefers. “I love all the new machines we have and the extended free weight area. It’s so much easier to get to the machines you want without waiting in line,” said Marissa. “It’s nice to be able to get in and get out and not have to worry about not being able to do part of my workout.” Time Management Brett E. Georgulis, marketing senior, works out at the Student Recreation Center and improves his soccer skills by playing indoor soccer and basketball, lifting weights, ping-pong and more. “Time management abilities are necessary to be able to balance working out, school, work and other activities,” said Brett, CEO of Texas State SIFE. “During the semester, I base my workout routine around my class schedule.” Brett has seen his soccer skills improve all around from training at the Student Recreation Center. “Increasing my strength and core improves almost every aspect of my game,” said Brett. Staying healthy and keeping an active lifestyle is a life goal for Brett. “Healthy living is a priority that I can’t imagine I will ever lose,” said Brett. Come out to the Student Recreation Center and see what Beau, Marissa and Brett have found to be true: working out allows for stress relief, making new friends, improving technique and overall, feel healthy and balanced. Visit www.campusrecreation.txstate.edu for more information on sport clubs and the Student Recreation Center. — Courtesy of the Student Recreation Center
News
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Awareness
continued from page
The University Star - 3
Tailgating
1
Adam Lipsman, health and wellness promotion senior, said two people is not enough. “They said two people can stay so everybody else is either going to leave or help us out, and they’re not going to be (at the game),” Lipsman said. “We need more people to pick up all this because it takes probably 10.” Lipsman said if tailgating were allowed throughout the game more students would attend. “We can’t even really think about the game we have to just get all this stuff out of here,” Lipsman said. “We’re being forced to get it out of here Stacie Andrews/Star photo and everyone in our vehicle is being forced to leave. If that PINK OUT: Students Lindsey Maxwell, exercise and sports science junior, Katie Miller, undecided sophomore, and Jonathatn Hernandez, health wellness and premonition junior, show their support for didn’t happen I guarantee our the fight against breast cancer at Satudays football game.
We all have statistics we know so they can educate other girls if they visit the booth or anything.” The sorority did not stop at The Quad. Zeta members aimed to pink out Bobcat stadium, asking game goers to participate in the cause. Thousands of students, parents, alumni, faculty and San Marcos residents wore pink at the Bobcat football game Saturday afternoon in efforts to show their support for the cause. “It started several years ago. They decided to pick a football game, and that was the best way to get a bunch of people at one time all wearing pink,” McCracken said. “Zeta actually is affiliated with the NFL. So this started with the NFL.” Coaches wore hats with pink Bobcat logos and ribbons. Football players wore pink wristbands. Cheerleaders and band members wore Pink Out shirts and hair bows. The Strutters pinned pink ribbons to their uniforms.
Amanda Harrington, premass communication freshman, said she wore pink at the football game to support breast cancer awareness. “I think it was really successful,” Harrington said. “A lot of people paid for the shirts and everything, so they made a lot of money.” Zeta sold more than 2,000 Pink Out shirts at the game. “This is the first year we’re actually getting people in the field and the coaches involved,” said McCracken, nursing sophomore. “We want to expand every year, but this year is our biggest year ever.” Zeta held Saturday events such as a bra contest, where people donated money for the decorated undergarment they liked the best, and a Yoplait yogurt-eating contest. “Zeta and Yoplait have a connection,” McCracken said. “We eat as much yogurt as we can. We collect the lids and donate them by sending them into Yoplait for money toward breast
cancer.” Volleyball and soccer participated as well, with the “Dig Pink Game” and the “Kick for the Cure,” respectively. A silent auction was held at the volleyball game to raise money for the Dig Pink campaign. “We pretty much quadrupled our profit this year,” Staudt said. “It was definitely (more) successful because of the amount of money we made and the amount of people that were involved in it. The Zeta Tau Alpha sorority is made of 140 women, and each took part in Pink Week. The sorority raised more than $15,000. “I thank everyone for helping me and all my sorority sisters, who put in their time and effort that made it what it was,” Staudt said. All donations from the events will go toward the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
Assault
continued from page
whole group would be going into the game right now.” Many students would like the tailgating to continue during the game. Jacob El Turk, agri-business and management senior, is one of them. “I think tailgating should go on past the game start,” he said. “At least like an hour or two so we can wrap things up.” El Turk said he thinks suspending tailgating does not increase game attendance. Other students agree with university officials’ efforts to increase attendance for the move to FBS. Greg Foster, counseling and guidance graduate, said students should pack up their
continued from page
touched her with it.” The friend said there was an “altercation” between UPD and the victim, but the situation was “all better now.” Elizabeth Skerpan-Wheeler, professor in the English department, said she has been parking in the Pleasant Street Garage for “a long time.” She said loiterers are not common in the garage. She has heard of burglaries in the past but not assaults. “College campuses statistically are safe compared to other general areas,” SkerpanWheeler said. “No place is 100 percent safe.”
1 tailgate and go to the games at kickoff. “People shouldn’t be sitting in the parking lot, tailgating all day, and then not going to the game,” Foster said. “As soon as the game starts everyone should be going into the game, supporting their team, supporting their university, being good Bobcats and wearing maroon and gold.” Foster said the focus of day should be the game. “We’re a school that is trying to build a tradition of supporting our football team and having this tradition of game days and tailgating,” Foster said. “But obviously going to the game is the most important part of game day.”
1
Amanda O’Sullivan, advertising senior, said she walks through the garage once a week to get to class. “I’m scared,” she said. “And, I don’t want to walk this way anymore.” O’Sullivan said the report that the alleged assault happened during the day is disturbing. Sally Merritt, computer science postgraduate, walked a friend to the Pleasant Street Garage Tuesday. Her friend felt uncomfortable walking to the car alone. She said there was a problem with visibility in the ga-
rage and multiple lights were out. “It’s dark even in the daytime,” Merritt said. The alleged victim’s friend said she and the victim hope university officials spend money on campus security rather than football. “She (the alleged victim) is from a town where nothing like that ever happened,” the alleged victim’s friend said. “She didn’t even think twice about walking by that guy.” — Reporting contributed by Meagan Holt
Faculty Senate requests changes Textbooks, heavy backpacks to restricted red parking areas
soon to be worry of past By Maurah Ruiz News Reporter In an era where cell phones, iPods, and computers have replaced face-to-face interaction, books are also experiencing the technological takeover. Students have mixed reviews about e-textbooks. Jay Yochim, pre-mass communications sophomore, said he dislikes the idea of an etextbook. “I wouldn’t because there are just too many distractions online,” Yochim said. “It takes away from actually having a book. Reading on a computer, that just doesn’t go well with me.” Jesus Cahue, business management sophomore, said e-textbooks are generally cheaper than physical textbooks. “Price affects everyone, especially with the economy right now,” Yochim said. “It’s already hard enough for some people to afford school. Anything cheaper makes people happy. Plus it would make a lot of parents happy.” Laurie Fluker, associate professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, implements technology such as online tests and notes in her classroom as an alternative to paper tests and scantrons. “This option gives the students the opportunity to take
the test at their own leisure, with open book and open notes,” Fluker said. “The added bonus—we are saving millions of trees.” With more professors going paperless, Fluker said she believes the price will be attractive to students, but the majority would still like to have a physical textbook. “For now, at least” she said. Cahue said he has never purchased an e-textbook, but received a CD with an entire book, plus resources, along with his physical textbooks. “I used the e-textbook sometimes when I didn’t want to carry my book or (to) see additional resources like videos, links and photo images,” Cahue said. “It’s useful because, let’s say you left your book at home and don’t want to go back because you live across campus or at an apartment. You could just pull out your laptop and read it there.” Cahue said he believes it depends on students’ learning abilities. “Some people do like to learn with a hardcopy though,” he said. “You can highlight and take notes in a book. With an e-textbook, you can’t. We are college students. E-textbooks would be a great alternative. You can just view the images and take notes from the screen.” Cahue said CD’s in physical
textbooks could be a way of prepping students for a new era in textbooks. “If you think about it, they have converted a lot of things,” he said. “Everything is now easy access. Teachers are no longer passing out papers in class and wasting trees. Everything’s online.” How soon e-textbooks will be embedded and highlighted in educational curriculum is unclear. Fluker said she feels e-textbooks will be more prominent in the near future but does not see this as something that will replace physical textbooks entirely. “We will likely begin to offer physical and e-textbooks simultaneously,” she said. “As we begin to see more students elect to go the e-textbook route, we will slowly change over to e-textbooks. I would say this transition will likely occur in another three to five years.” After having asked her students if they would like to utilize e-textbooks, Fluker said she observed the idea was not met with enthusiasm. “There is no question that the e-books would be less expensive, but I think that textbooks in students’ majors will or should be kept for their use,” she said.
By Lora Collins News Reporter Faculty and staff are concerned of the misuse of parking permits and are requesting 24-hour faculty spaces. Concerns of students parking in red zones with green stickers was discussed by Faculty Senators at their Oct. 7 meeting. Steven Wilson, Faculty Senate secretary, said the lack of faculty parking comes from student disobedience. “I think the problem is students parking in spaces where they aren’t supposed to,” Wilson said. Wilson said students are parking in garages they are not allowed to, disregarding warning signs against its legality. Current parking rules and regulations states, “Displaying a Current Texas State permit which has been altered or forged, reported lost or stolen or is being used in a fraudulent manner may result in impound violation and loss of parking privileges for one year.” Sen. Joey Martin, professor in the School of Music, said the majority of faculty and staff encounter problems finding parking on a daily basis. “If we did have these 24-hours-only red spots that would help accommodate faculty,” Martin said.
The senate will meet Wednesday with Stephen Prentice, assistant director of Parking Services, to discuss possible changes. Prentice said university officials have a solution to the problem. “Lot R3 is reserved 24 hours for faculty and staff with Red Permits,” Prentice said in an e-mail. “Recent counts show only about half of the 100 spaces are used after 5 p.m.” Prentice said he is not aware of any students who use red permits without permission. However, he said the repercussions are severe. “If someone did I would not understand how they were able to obtain it since we issue them only to fulltime faculty and staff persons,” Prentice said. Debra Feakes, Faculty Senate chair, said gate hours are contributing to the problem. Senators discussed problems with gates on campus not remaining closed through the stated times. “I don’t think they will start putting up gates all over to restrict students from entering because of cost issues,” Feakes said. “I think they should also enforce the gates, they should keep them down when they are supposed to be down.” Sara Stamets, English senior, said students’ disregard for parking rules is not an uncommon mentality. “I think people in general don’t care if they get a ticket
because they just go pay it off and that’s it,” Stamets said. Sam Vandever, English senior, agrees with Stamets and said the costs of a ticket do not override the cost of missing class. “I would rather get a ticket than be late for class,” Vandever said. Faculty Senators discussed the possibility of creating “satellite” parking lots that would bus university employees to and from their cars. Sen. Sally Caldwell, associate professor in the department of sociology, said she would like to see a private contractor come in to design the lots. Prentice disagreed. “There are more than 5,686 perimeter parking spaces that one might consider ‘satellite,’” Prentice said. “Since even at peak hours, more than 1,500 of these perimeter (or satellite) spaces remain empty it would appear creating more at this time is unnecessary.” Sen. Nathan Bond, associate professor in the department of curriculum and instruction, asked the senate why university officials do not fix the problem. “Does the university really want us spending time circling the parking lot or do they want us taking time to research and teach our classes?” Bond asked.
Opinions
What’s your Opinion?
Send your thoughts to staropinion@txstate.edu.
4 – The University Star
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
RADIO TOWER TEAM-UP
the main
point.
S ometimes a decision must be
made about what stays and what goes. Items become obsolete, obscure and nigh unusable. And if there is one rule to follow, it is survival of the fittest. So one must wonder why the City of San Marcos is investing tens of thousands of dollars into building a new radio station when newer, better technologies can fulfill its intended purposes much better. The editorial is not saying radio is a goner. In fact, most radio stations serve vital roles in their respective communities, including Texas State’s KTSW. However, there is a difference between a station already having an established role in a community, and investing in outdated technology for tomorrow’s problems. The stated reason for the city attempting to have its own radio station is informing the public in case of emergencies. The initiative was inspired after a flood caused damage in 1998. The city should utilize resources it already has, like KTSW and local media. Funds would be better invested in ensuring the city Web site is updated with up-to-the-minute news. Furthermore, the people who turn to radio would probably think of KTSW, which is already an established presence in the community. In fact, the city is looking to KTSW
to train the staff of this new radio. If already trained radio operators are readily available why not use them? This would allow the KTSW staff to not have to worry about training other people on top of their already-demanding jobs. In this case, everyone wins. The problem is the city has already invested more than $10,000 in the project. It is a shame that money is gone, but there is no reason to spend more money on this project. In fact, it is estimated it could cost another $10,000. The fact that it took the Federal Communications Commission 10 years to approve a broadcast license for the city does not speak very well of the agency. However, just because the FCC took too much time on their part does not mean city officials should pick up where they left off. In the 10 years since the city applied for the tower, KTSW has been approved for one of their own. Instead of burning taxpayer money the city should invest in new technologies and use the resources already available. Bureaucracy strangled this project years ago, leave it in its grave.
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. Anthony Reynolds/Star Illustration
Sophomore ponders lower points of Texas State life
By Brett Thorne Opinions Editor Joe Sophomore is a fictional representation of some students’ experience at Texas State. Joe Sophomore awoke to an alarm clock at 9:30 a.m. His bowling class isn’t until 11 a.m., but Sophomore prefers to wake up as early as possible in order to secure a toilet and shower at the oft-overcrowded community
bathroom he shares with the other guys on his floor at Jackson Hall. Sophomore shuffled through the hallway toward the bathroom and when he opened the door, he was too late. Lines of bleary-eyed shower takers crowded the bathroom. “Looks like I’ll be skipping a shower today,” Sophomore muttered to himself. “Oh well, I took one two weeks ago.” Sophomore got dressed and walked to his car, which was parked 20 feet from the door of his dorm. As he got in the car, Sophomore couldn’t help but think of how he would never get a spot like this again. He saw the Campus Master Plan, calling for removal of
impervious cover, which included some parking lots but assured the lost spots would “be replaced one-to-one.” He applauded the university’s effort to improve the San Marcos environment but was put off because the plan was a bit hazy on when the replacement would happen. He had also read the Parking Services Web site. “There may be times when the closest parking space is located at a perimeter lot,” the Web site said. The closest perimeter lot to his dorm was at Sessom Drive and Peques Street. This was quite a walk for someone with a class in Derrick Hall. “I wonder if more residential spots would be available
if Texas State allowed sophomores to live off campus,” Sophomore said. Some of his friends had been told a month before classes began that because of overcrowding, they would be allowed to cancel their housing contracts and live off campus. He remembered the anger they felt about the short notice, which was quickly followed by elation at the thought of apartment life. Sophomore pulled into the bowling alley parking lot and walked in. After being forced to bowl two games by himself because of the body odor he was emitting, he got in his car and drove back to campus. “I have to take care of this showering problem soon,”
Sophomore thought to himself. After stalking pedestrians in the perimeter lot (which he liked to call the “shark tank”) for 10 minutes, waiting for someone to get in their car, Sophomore decided to risk getting a ticket and parked along a sidewalk by Jackson. Sophomore began jogging to his class. On his way to The Quad, Sophomore passed a group of workers erecting a new statue of a Bobcat in full football pads and uniform stiff-arming the other team’s defenders. He guessed the statue was meant to symbolize the university’s drive to the Football Bowl Subdivision. As he got closer to The Quad,
he passed another group of workers working on a statue commemorating the builders building the other statue. “Is the world going crazy?” he wondered. “We’re building statues to commemorate our statues now. Couldn’t all this statue money be used for scholarships or more classes or more parking or something?” He went on to class. Later that night, as Sophomore was getting ready for bed, he looked out his window and dreamt of the new Matthews Street Parking Garage. “Well at least they got one thing right,” Sophomore thought.
tion is the one for them? Individuals need to remember there isn’t one right or perfect religion. If people actually lived their lives according to a religion, our world would be a much safer, hate-free and idyllic place. Since we, as a nation, are subjected to hypocrites and liars, the notion of a more peaceful world seems distant, but not impossible. Growing-up as a pastor’s son, I was taught at a young age to put God first in my life, and everything else was secondary. Nevertheless, there may be others who are searching for God and meaning in their life. Religious organizations can do a lot to
help their search. As a Christian, like others here at the university, I resent the fact Texas State doesn’t provide more awareness of the various religious organizations offered. If individuals were to walk the campus or visit Texas State’s Web site, there would be plenty of advertisement for the latest theater production, concert or guest speaker. Where’s the recognition for the religious organizations? Currently, according to Texas State’s student organization listings, there are more than 15 active religious organizations here at Texas State. Such organizations include Lambda Omega
Alpha for those of the Catholic faith, Baptist Student Ministry, Latter Day Saint Student Association and the Muslim Student Association to name a few. There’s something for everyone. It’s Texas State’s responsibility to bring awareness to religious organizations, and not only promote nonreligious clubs or events. Posting a flier or a couple of signs around campus is the only kind of advertisement these organizations receive. Religious organizations need to be recognized like any other sport, theater, art or music club. These organizations are always looking for individuals
to come and learn more about growing in faith. Peter Dusan, an alumnus, represents Every Nation Campus Ministries here at Texas State. “We welcome people as they are,” Dusan said. “When I first came to faith in Jesus, Christians accepted me as I was but still presented to me the Bible, which didn’t allow me to stay as I was.” There are students who are searching to find a place to grow in their faith and meet others who share the same views. How can this be accomplished without the right kind of promotion? After reviewing the University News Service, I didn’t come across one religious event
announcement for the whole month of September. However, I did find a musical event, plays, an education symposium and an author reading. While looking over the Featured Events for the month of October here at Texas State, every event thus far is nonreligious based. Individuals who are searching for religious truth should not be ashamed or be timid. These individuals should be courageous, and start advocating for the same privileges and attention other organizations receive. Religious organizations need more recognition.
—Brett Thorne is a general studies senior.
Religious organizations cast aside By Tristan Watson Opinions Columnist
Religion is a discussion some shy away from, but others are happy to discuss their knowledge of the subject and strong relationship with Jesus Christ, Allah or another supreme being. With so many religions and beliefs, how is it possible for a non-believer to decipher what religion or scriptural informa-
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Trends Wednesday, October 14, 2009
The King Continues
Michael Jackson will have a new single released Tuesday entitled “This is it” by Sony Music Entertainment. The song will feature backing vocals by his brothers and is part of an album that corresponds with a future film chronicling Jackson’s final days of rehearsal.
The University Star – 5
Lambda helps students through ‘coming out closet’ By Colleen Gaddis Features Reporter The moment Lamba of Texas State assembled their closet door on The Quad last Monday, members said they heard negative comments and threats of vandalism. Comments like these are not new to members of Texas State’s LGBTQ group, and pessimism did not stop the members from celebrating National Coming Out Week. National Coming Out Day, was held Sunday. Institutions tend to
celebrate it throughout the entire week, Texas State included. Texas State’s Lambda decided to make the weeklong celebration ensure different issues and topics were addressed and celebrated. The celebration focused on expanding their visibility, and encouraging heterosexual peers and allies to participate as supporters. “Every day we hear jokes and homophobic remarks, and it’s crucial for us to have straight allies to make our campus feel safe and inclusive for the LGBTQ community here at Texas State,”
said Kyle Hennings, social work senior and president of Lamda. “We want to show individuals who are struggling with the coming out process that this indeed is a safe campus. Lambda and the Bobcat Equality Alliance provide safe communities for them to express themselves freely, without judgment or discrimination.” Lamba’s table included a “Coming Out Closet” that anyone could walk through as they pleased. Members handed out nametags saying “I’m Coming Out As ____,” where students and staff could write
the words of their choice. One supporter’s nametag said “Ally,” while another said “Lesbian Gamer Girl,” and another’s said “Cher.” “I never introduced myself as gay,” said Linda Gonzalez, English freshman who worked at Lambda’s table. “If guys asked if I had a boyfriend, I’d just say no. When I came here, I felt equally alone and had no one to talk to. I didn’t want to tell anyone in my dorm because I was scared they’d think I was disgusting. Coming Out Week definitely helped me.
Everyone coming to the table seemed so supportive.” Throughout the week, Lambda’s event covered several issues and topics for the LGBTQ community. They held a movie presentation of Transamerica, where more than 80 students attended. More than 130 people attended the Guess Who’s Gay panel. Twelve Texas State students answered questions while the audience guessed who was straight and gay. “It can be eye-opening to see the types of people in the LGBTQ community who are
not representatives of stereotypes,” said Abel Valencia, public administration sophomore. “Many times they look like everyone else, and we want that known. We are people, just like everyone else.” Jesus Cahue, business sophomore, said Lambda strives for diversity. “If Lambda of Texas State as a whole can change one person’s life or ideals, then we have reached our goal,” Cahue said. “We strive for diversity. We want the student body to know we are here for them.”
Zombie movie gives audience gore, comedy, romance
By Brent Vickers Trends Columnist
Zombieland is the best and first zom-rom-com (zombieromantic-comedy) since Shaun of the Dead. Nevertheless, it delivers. The film is packed with tons of unique new ways to kill zombies, lots of laughs and plenty of survival tips on how to make it through the inevitable zombie apocalypse. Zombieland brings fun cinema back in a bloody good way.
The film follows two male characters who adopt the names of their city destinations during their survival through the zombie plague. The character known as Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson) is a tough guy who loves to kill zombies, and Columbus (played by Jesse Eisenberg, or the poor man’s Michael Cera) is a college-aged fraidy-cat. Obviously, it is amusing to
watch this team kill the infected human-cannibals inhabiting what was once the United States. Along the way, Tallahassee and Columbus meet two sisters (played by Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin from Signs). The sisters are sneaky, and thus, still living. Emma Stone was once that kind-of hot chick from Superbad, but I have a feeling she will henceforth be known as
the one really hot chick from Zombieland. I also think Abigail Breslin will no longer be known as Little Miss Sunshine. The characters run into Bill Murray on the way, and Mike White has a cameo in a couple of flashback segments. All in all, the film was enjoyable in a super violent, gory and funny way. The acting was great by all of the characters, but the dialogue left a bit to
be desired. However, if you’re going to see a horror comedy with zombies, I’m sure the last thing you should be worried about is dialogue. “It’s probably my favorite zombie movie now,” said Evan Cook, undecided sophomore. That being said, anyone on the fence about seeing Zombieland should just go because odds are there is something for everyone. I give it a B+.”
u n i v e r s i t y s t a r. c o m u n i v e r s i t y s t a r. c o m u n i v e r s i t y s t a r. c o m u n i v e r s i t y s t a r. c o m u n i v e r s i t y s t a r. c o m u n i v e r s i t y s t a r. c o m
6 - The University Star
TRends
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Free hug givers say ‘everything will be OK’ Miranda Serene Features Reporter
Mitchell Soukup, pre-geography freshman, takes a seat every Monday and Wednesday in The Quad holding a sign that says two words: Free Hugs. The idea stemmed from the Free Hugs Campaign, but Soukup is not part of that or any similar organization. Soukup spotted a “free hug” sign on campus his first year at Texas State and never saw it again. “I thought it was a great idea, so after a month of not seeing the sign again, I made my own,” Soukup said. Soukup has offering free hugs since September 2008 and can be found lounging in the west end of The Quad near The Fighting Stallions. His Mac laptop accompanies him, and Soukup plays music while holding the sign, utilizing a special playlist made specifically for Bobby Scheidemann/Star photo the event. FREE HUGS: Mitchell Soukup, pre-geography freshman, and Harrison Anderson, pre-theater sopho“I like to play upbeat and more, can be found giving away hugs every Monday and Wednesday in The Quad.
Working for the Cause
Campus assistant encourages breast cancer awareness By Jovonna Owen Features Reporter Belinda Nettleton was diagnosed five years ago with stage II breast cancer during a routine examination. Nettleton, administrative assistant in the LBJ Student Center, said she was lucky the doctor detected her cancer early. “I never checked myself,” Nettleton said. “I think people don’t realize they should be (checking).” Nettleton underwent two surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation treatments. “I was scared,” Nettleton said. According to the National Cancer Institute Web site, 192,370 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and 40,170 will die from the disease. One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society Web site. Nettleton encourages families and caregivers of cancer patients to “just listen.” “So many of them want to tell you what to do,” Nettleton said. “You need them to listen to you and just let you do the talking.” Nettleton said health insurance provided by the university afforded her the best treatments. While receiving treatments, Nettleton realized other patients she had become friends with were not receiving the same benefits. “I got a $7,000 shot to keep me from getting sick from the chemo my insurance covered,” Nettleton said. “I noticed my friends weren’t there getting the shot. I finally asked my nurse, and she said their insur-
ance doesn’t pay for it.” Nettleton said realizing some cannot afford the costs of helpful treatments led her to raise money for the local community. Nettleton is working with the San Marcos Professional Firefighters on a “Care Enough to Wear Pink” campaign by selling pink T-shirts. The proceeds raised go into a local fund available through the fire department. Nettleton said the fund could help with small tasks cancer patients might not be able to afford. “A woman can go there and say ‘I need gas money to get to treatment’ or ‘I need a babysitter or a wig,’” Nettleton said. “This will give them more readily available funds to do these things instead of applying for funds and having to wait.” Nettleton recalls her own experience of someone helping her when she was battling cancer. “I remember this one lady used to bring me Waldorf salad,” Nettleton said. “It’s one of the few things I could eat without feeling sick. It’s those little things that really make a difference.” Jake Marx/Star photo portrait Nettleton is an adviser to the Cancer Awareness Month and CANCER SURVIVOR: Belinda Nettleton, administrative assistant Community Outreach Student and breast cancer survivor, works with the San Marcos Professional Firefighters on the “Care Enough to Wear Pink” campaign. Organization. “This is a group of students who are really interested in public administration senior. mother, a sister – everyone all kinds of cancer and raising “That makes me want to make knows someone.” awareness for all of them,” Net- people aware.” Nettleton said surviving tleton said. Nettleton said her specific breast cancer has changed her Monica Espinoza, vice presi- goal is to raise awareness of life. dent of the student organiza- breast cancer. “I don’t sweat the small things tion, said Nettleton is a great “Breast cancer doesn’t usu- anymore,” Nettleton said. “I inspiration. ally strike someone of a young find my life very precious, and “She could say ‘Oh I survived,’ age, but it does sometimes,” I don’t take it for granted, and but she wants to give back so Nettleton said. “If not yourself, that’s why I want to help others much more,” said Espinoza, then an aunt, mother, grand- in this situation.”
inviting music such as Bob Marley and Led Zeppelin,” Soukup said. Soukup believes the sign offers an open invitation to relieve any and all kinds of stress. “Some people say they really need the hug,” Soukup
“There’s nothing better to overdose on than hugs.” —Harrison Anderson, pre-theater sophomore
said. “I want to be there for those people.” Harrison Anderson, pretheater sophomore, said he heads to The Quad every time Soukup is out. The two have been friends since seventh grade, and Anderson said the best part of the cause is a hug is never forced upon people. “It’s very relaxed,” Anderson said. “If they want one, they
can have one. If not, they don’t have to have one. It’s a great message to send out to people. It’s a way to let people know everything will be OK.” Anderson thinks it is nice to see people happier after a hug. “Why not do it,” Anderson joked. “There’s nothing better to overdose on than hugs.” Angela Burnett, political science freshman, is a regular receiver of the free hugs, saying she is a big fan. “I love them – they make me feel special,” Burnett said. “If I’m having a bad day, they are always here to brighten me up.” Burnett said Soukup and Anderson are great for doing what they do. “It’s all about making people happy,” Burnett said. Soukup said the main idea is to spread love because it is an encouraging thing to do. “Why not be a positive part of someone’s life,” Soukup said. “I would rather do some good, even if it is a small amount.”
Entertainment Calendar: Wednesday RC Banks 6 p.m., Stegosaurus Lips, Mike Truth and the Replacement Killers, Side Effects, 10 p.m., Triple Crown Tyler Cannon, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Texas Renegade, 7-11 p.m., Gruene Hall Open Mic wth host Robbie Robotic, 10:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Kent Finlay’s Songwriters Circle, 9:30 p.m., Cheatham Street Warehouse Thursday Hell Camino 6 p.m., The River Hymn, Henry and the Invisibles, Another Run, 9 p.m., Triple Crown The Sideshow Tragedy, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Jordan Minor Band, 7-11 p.m., Gruene Hall The Standouts, 10:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Terri Hendrix, Lloyd Maines, and Adam Carroll, Lucky Tomblin Band, 8 p.m., Cheatham Street Warehouse Friday The Fajita Brothers, 6 p.m., The Jocks, Chief Fuzzer, The Latest, 10 p.m., Triple Crown Andrea Marie and the Magnolia Band, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Storyville, 8p.m., Gruene Hall Firewater Sermon, 10:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Saturday The Canvas Waiting, Mankind and Me, The
Columnists, 10 p.m., Triple Crown Bo Porter, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern White Ghost Shivers, 1-5 p.m., Rich O’Toole with special guest Matt Martindale, 9 p.m., Gruene Hall 2nd Anniversary Bash, 7 p.m., Earle Brown, 10:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Sisters Morales, 8 p.m., Cheatham Street Warehouse Sunday Open Mic w/ Glen Allan, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Austin Collins, 12:30-4:30 p.m., Guy Forsyth, 5-9 p.m., Gruene Hall Island Time Karaoke, 10:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Monday Beth Lee 6 p.m., Smarty Pants Trivia Contest, 8 p.m., Triple Crown Free Jukebox, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Bret Graham, 7-11 p.m., Gruene Hall Matt Begley Song Swap, 10:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon Tuesday Everydays a hollyday, 6 p.m., Ouachita, Trey Cordona and the Zoo, 10 p.m., Triple Crown Beverly Henson and Paul Eason, 8 p.m., Riley’s Tavern Rob Baird and Ryan Beaver, 7-11 p.m., Gruene Hall Sasquatch Holler, 10:30 p.m., Gray Horse Saloon
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
c ro s s w o rd
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Sports 8 - The University Star
SEASON STUBS Season tickets for the men’s and women’s basketball teams are on sale now. Women’s team ticket prices range from $35 to $45 while prices for men’s team tickets range from $70 to $85. Tickets can be purchased through the Texas State Athletic Office or online at txstatebobcats.com.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Sports Contact, Lisa Carter – starsports@txstate.edu
Joe Knows
Fraternities battled
Unfair system picks champion By this time next week, the first BCS poll of the season will be announced. If it was released today, the computers would rank the teams with Florida No. 1, since it is atop the AP and USA Today polls. I’ve seen polls with AlaJoseph O. Garcia bama at No. 2 and Texas at Sports Columnist No. 3, and vice versa. But the computers would compute Alabama at No. 2, since they have beaten two ranked opponents, one being Virginia Tech. If things hold, Florida and Alabama ultimately would have to face each other in the SEC Championship game, so one of the teams is guaranteed to take a loss before final rankings. This is good news for the No. 3 team. At this point in time, I think the computers would have Virginia Tech, a one-loss team, ahead of Texas. However, Texas can influence that with a win on a neutral site against a ranked Oklahoma team this weekend. Whether the Longhorns are No. 3 or No. 4, as long as they can get through the toughest part of their schedule – the next three weeks against Oklahoma, at Missouri and at Oklahoma State – they control their own destiny to the BCS title game. The most interesting part of the BCS system is when a non-BCS school goes undefeated. Boise State most notably broke the mold in the 2006 season when it defeated Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl 43-42. Boise State is undefeated this year and is joined by Texas Christian, which Texas State lost to Sept. 19. The Broncos are ranked either No. 5 or No. 6 in most polls right now, while the Horned Frogs are hovering anywhere between No. 8 to No. 13. Teams such as these are known as BCS busters. They may end the season undefeated, but could still get leap-frogged by a one-loss BCS team with a stronger strength of schedule. For example, currently the Southern California Trojans would be slightly behind Boise State, but because of the difference in schedule strength, USC should have little trouble jumping the Broncos as the season continues. So why is that fair? It’s not. There are ongoing vigorous debates over whether the FBS should use a playoff format such as Texas State and the FCS. But so much money is involved in the BCS with television contracts and endorsements that there will be no other system installed anytime soon. Thus far, so-called experts agree the current system works and has given non-BCS teams a chance to play in BCS bowl games. Utah, Boise State and Hawai’i have all qualified to play in BCS games with only the Broncos having success. I can agree non-BCS teams have a chance to play in a BCS game if they go undefeated. However, I don’t think they can ever get to the national championship game because of strength of schedule differences. I think – and many people agree – the championship should be determined on the field rather than computers placing one undefeated team over another in the title game. Every other sport – whether it be college or professional – has some form of a playoff system. The FCS has it right and the FBS should follow suit. I know I am fighting a losing battle when arguing for a playoff system in the FBS, but I still think it’s the only way to determine a clear-cut national champion.
against sport clubs By Dustin Porterfield Sports Reporter
Greek Joes VS. College Pros
Allie Moncrief/Star photo
Eleven fraternities converged at the Student Recreation Center Sunday amidst inclement weather conditions with a good cause in mind. The first “Greek Joes vs. College Pros” event was held with all proceeds going to the Special Olympics of Texas. The event brought in more than $1,000. “It was a huge success,” said Jeremy Klaff, Interfraternity Council vice president of service and chief organizer of the event. “All of this wouldn’t have been possible without the service committee, the Rec Center and all the fraternities that participated. This took about seven months worth of planning to get all of it done properly.” The event pitted the average male fraternity member against Texas State athletes in five sports – basketball, volleyball, swimming, baseball and soccer. The participants of the event were members of their respective sport clubs with the exception of the university’s women’s basketball team. Each fraternity organized teams of five with one player for each sport. The only team competition was volleyball, which consisted of two club players against all five members on each of the fraternities’ teams. “When I first started planning this, I got nowhere with the athletic teams,” said Klaff, electronic media junior. “The
only response I got was from the women’s basketball team. It wasn’t until I teamed up with the Rec (that) the ball really (started) rolling. It was all pretty stressful.” Two events – baseball and soccer – were slated to be outdoors and were in jeopardy of being canceled because of the weather. However, Klaff said because of quick thinking and the help of the Rec, the events were moved to the upstairs courts. “When I first heard about (moving the sports inside), I was a little bit skeptical about how it would turn out, especially when I looked outside at how bad the weather was,” said Doug Schneider, biochemistry junior, who participated in baseball and volleyball. “But seeing (as) how everything worked out, it really surprised me. The best part was getting to compete against the sport club guys. A couple of them actually lost. I hope they put this on again next year.” Klaff believes the Greek Joes vs. College Pros event is the first of more to come because of its charitable success. “Hopefully this is an event that people begin to anticipate in the fall every year,” Klaff said. “The sport club players were a joy to work with. They came up here, worked all day and never complained. In the future, we hope to get more people and athletes involved and raise more money for the Special Olympics.”
“All of this wouldn’t have been possible without the service committee, the Rec Center and all the fraternities that participated. —Jeremy Klaff, Interfraternity Council vice president
Above: PROS VS. JOES: The volleyball club was undefeated against the fraternities Sunday during the Greek Joes vs. College Pros event. The club played two-on-five against the Greeks.
Right: SWIMMERS, TAKE YOUR MARK: Representatives from each fraternity competed against athletes Sunday for Greek Joes vs. College Pros.
Allie Moncrief/Star photo
Women return from Hawaii tennis invitational By Jake Maddox Sports Reporter The Texas State women’s tennis team took a trip across the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii’s Fall Classic Tournament Thursday to Saturday. The women took advantage of Hawaii’s culture and went to a luau Saturday after the competition. Coach Tory Plunkett said the women learned about the origin of Hawaii’s language, different games and customs. “It was a very educational event, but fun and exciting at
the same time,” Plunkett said. “It was an all-around great trip to Hawaii.” Andrea Giraldo, management senior, went undefeated in her singles matches during the weekend. Plunkett said Giraldo breezed through the first and second rounds easily, but had a hard time during the third. “That really shows how great of a competitor someone is,” Plunkett said. “Andrea was not playing well during the last round but was still smart enough to come out with a win.”
The team has three freshmen from Columbia this season. Melissa Hadad, undecided freshman, is one of them. Plunkett said Hadad competed well against three top players and defeated each of them. “I am so impressed with Melissa this weekend,” Plunkett said. “She played awesome.” Gabriela Rojas, undecided freshman, suffered from an injury this weekend and was unable to compete. She is expected to make a full recovery by the Texas State Play
Day tournament Oct. 31. Hadad took Rojas’ place in the doubles competition because of her injury. The combination marked the first time Hadad and Giraldo played doubles together. Mariana Perez, pre-communication disorders freshman, and Kiki Kruse, exercise and sports science senior, won their doubles match. Plunkett said the women need to improve in doubles competition despite Perez and Kruse’s win. “We really need to work on our doubles game.” Plunkett
said. “We were not strong enough at doubles in Hawaii and that is not acceptable. We will be working on that pretty hard in future practices.” The Bobcats will play in the ITA Regional Tournament Friday to Monday in Waco. The tournament is by invitation only. Texas State will play against teams such as Baylor, Texas A&M, Texas and Texas Christian. “This is the biggest and most important tournament of the fall season,” Plunkett said. “My players have a chance to be individually invited to the
NCAA Championship and a lot of the decision relies on this tournament.” Plunkett said Giraldo is expected to do well in singles for this tournament. Plunkett expects Giraldo and Hadad to do better in doubles competition this weekend. “I am not worried at all about (the women) playing against the top teams in Texas,” Plunkett said. “I have confidence in the freshmen as well as the whole team. My favorite thing about this team is its tenacity. They keep fighting and never give up.”
