10 23 2007

’CATS DECLAWED

MAKER FAIRE

Soccer drops second straight SLC contest in 3-1 loss to Roadrunners

People encounter DIY fun at Austin event

SEE SPORTS PAGE 10

SEE TRENDS PAGE 6

DEFENDING THE FIRST AMENDMENT SINCE 1911

WWW.UNIVERSITYSTAR.COM

OCTOBER 23, 2007

TUESDAY

VOLUME 97, ISSUE 26

HOMECOMING GIFT

ASG passes reconsidered resolution

By Jackie Baylon News Reporter

Cotton Miller/Star photo The Texas State football team sings in celebration of its 52-29 Homecoming blowout over Stephen F. Austin Saturday at Bobcat Stadium. For more on the victory, see Sports page 10.

Water floods dormitory, damages estimated at $20,000 Stephanie Kusy-Wilson News Reporter Students were not happy to wake up early on a Sunday morning to find water on their dorm room floor, soaking all their belongings.

“I heard someone knock on my door, and I thought someone was playing around and it was a prank,” said Christian ChaconPerez, marketing freshman.

“Then I went outside my room and the elevator shafts were full of water and so were the stairs.”

But this was not a prank. It was other residents of Jackson Hall warning students about disconnected toilet pipes on the 12th floor and the water rushing down.

The pipes started leaking water at approximately 2:30 a.m. Oct. 14 and ran for about half an hour until they were noticed by another student who informed a resident assistant, said Rosanne Proite, director of Residence Life.

Students who were in Jackson Hall at the time were asked to evacuate and wait outside. Eventually, the LBJ Student Center and Boko’s Lounge were opened for tired students to rest while custodians were brought in to help clean up the mess.

SERVPRO, a cleaning service, was brought in to get the water out. Humidifiers and fans were placed in hallways where water flooded in just hours before.

Proite said it was easy to clean up because the building only has tile.

“You can’t even tell anything has happened,” she said.

Students were allowed back into Jackson Hall between 7 and 9 a.m. Both elevators were temporarily damaged, but were fixed and running by the afternoon.

Proite said the majority of the damage happened on the 12th floor and the dorm rooms located near the bathrooms. Though she said water did travel all the way down through pipes in the storage closets to the first floor.

The University Police Department is investigating the incident. UPD Investigator Manuel Hernandez said it appears to be

a deliberate act of criminal mischief, which can be charged as a felony offense if convicted.

Hernandez said the damage is currently estimated at $20,000.

“Anytime you are dealing with a large building with extensive water damage it is a large amount of loss,” Hernandez said.

For most students, only rugs and clothes left on the floor were damaged. Proite said the university does not have insurance for student’s personal belongings.

She said for students to ask their parents if they carry homeowners or renters insurance.

Chacon-Perez, who lives on the 11th floor, said he was thankful nothing happened to his or his

roommate’s belongings. He said an inch of water was on their floor, but by the next morning it was cleaned up.

Hernandez said some students were not only reporting damage from the water, but some reported theft of property. Chacon said his printer had been moved, but nothing had been stolen.

Hernandez said some students had items stolen when they left their room in the middle of the night and forgot to lock their door.

He said this incident will not only affect Jackson Hall residents, but all students at Texas State. “(The administration) tries to keep the cost down for tuition, but this affects everyone,” Hernandez said.

Fall finally finds San Marcos City of San Marcos energy policy reevaluated

By Scott Thomas Assistant News Editor

Old Man Winter greeted San Marcos residents Monday morning.

“This morning we had a fullfledged cold front and it kind of jolted us all back into the fact that we’re not really into summer after all,” said Larry Eblen, meteorologist with the National Weather Service.

Eblen said the cold front dropped the temperature 13 degrees in 15 minutes early Monday morning.

“It was a dramatic change from what we saw yesterday,” Eblen said.

He said the front will continue to affect San Marcos for the next two to three days.

“Instead of what we’ve been used to up around 90, they’re going to be really closer to about

70,” Eblen said. “For around Wednesday or Thursday they’ll run anywhere from upper 60s to very low 70s.”

He said Friday and Saturday will approximately be 80 degrees.

“We’ll be back up warmer, but not catching up to what we were Sunday,” he said.

Before leaving the comfort of their home, some students prepared themselves for the cold temperatures and the brisk, high winds after hearing about the cold front from television or word of mouth.

“My roommate has class before I do,” said Laura Driver, international studies freshman. “That’s why I was prepared. She came home and told me she was cold.”

For some, the cold weather brings a welcome change of pace from the long Texas summer.

“I love it,” Driver said. “I’ve been waiting to wear my jacket

Today’s Weather

Sunny/Wind 72˚

Precipitation: 20% Humidity: 36% UV: 7 High Wind: NNW 22 mph

and my scarf since I got here.”

Students could be seen bundling up in winter clothes to fight off the cold and high winds.

“I don’t like (the cold front) at all,” said Sam Gammage, psychology senior. “I put on a jacket and warm clothes.”

Some students disputed whether the entire winter defense was necessary.

“I don’t think it feels that cold,” said Rick Geyer, geography senior. “I think people are dressing too severe.”

An old adage grandparents like to tell is if someone does not like the weather in Texas, they should wait 10 minutes, because it will change.

“I love (the cold), it’s a change from the summer,” said James Thomas, geography senior. “Of course when I get the cold, I want the hot, and when I get the hot, I want the cold.”

Two-day Forecast Wednesday Mostly Sunny Temp: 72°/ 46° Precip: 20%

Thursday Sunny Temp: 72°/ 43° Precip: 10%

By Jeff Turner News Reporter A City Council Workshop Monday night failed to establish a proposed citizen’s board to help create a sustainable energy policy for San Marcos.

Councilman Chris Jones, Place 4, and councilwoman Betsy Robertson, Place 1, suggested establishing a citizen committee to work with city council staff and educate the public about what types of energy policies could work best for San Marcos.

“What I would ask the council to consider is possibly establishing a citizen committee that monitors the sustainability of what we’re doing as far as conservation in water, recycling, gasoline, energy and all the things that we as a council identify,” Jones said.

Robertson said Texas State

could offer resources that would benefit the citizen committee.

“I think we have a lot of resources up on campus that I could see some presidents, interns or something helping us with both the survey and the implementation, and also outlining what we want to do once we get back the information from the survey,” Robertson said.

City Manager Dan O’Leary voiced his concerns on a citizenrun energy committee.

“I’ve seen mistakes made when we’ve used citizen boards to help create policy,” O’Leary said. “The mistake that I’ve seen made is that they populate those boards with special interests or activists.

And in the end, they don’t really represent the heart and soul of the city of San Marcos and the See ENERGY, page 4

An Associated Student Government resolution thought to have failed last week found new life after an error in the ruling. The resolution, “Embracing True Diversity,” authored

by ASG Sen. Tyler Ferguson, at large, was reconsidered and passed Monday.

“Last week I made a mistake in the ruling and the piece of legislation of ‘Embracing True Diversity’ by Senator Ferguson,” said Alexis Dabney, ASG Vice President. “I said it needed a twothirds vote when it only needed a majority vote to pass. And for this mistake, I sincerely apologize.”

The resolution requests University President Denise Trauth to include the words “gender identity and expression” in Texas State’s non-discriminatory policy.

Dabney delivered a message from ASG parliamentarian Megan Titus, who was not present.

Titus wished to apologize and encouraged the senators to reconsider the resolution.

“I have no excuses to offer you, except for my lapse of memory at last meeting and I am totally dependent on this body to make up for my mistake,” Titus’ message said.

In order to reassess the resolution, ASG senators voted to suspend the rules for reconsideration. For the motion to pass, it required a two-thirds vote.

After two attempts to postpone the legislation, once indefinitely and once temporarily, the motion to suspend the reconsideration rules passed.

“I am disappointed that so many people tried so hard to stop this from happening,” Ferguson said. “It passed last week, and the fact that so many senators thought that even though it passed, it should fail this time.”

Some senators opposed reconsidering the resolution, believing last week’s assessment should be final.

“I believe (the resolution) was pointless,” said ASG Sen. Michelle Malcik, at large. “It did not affect students’ life in any way, shape or form.”

Ferguson said he talked to virtually every senator about the issue, and he had not received a strong answer as to why others tried to kill the bill.

“They should have mobilized and they should have organized to try and kill it the right way, instead of trying to break the rules and kill it the wrong way,” Ferguson said.

After much discussion and deliberation, the resolution passed.

ASG further passed the resolution “ASG Budget Increase,” authored by ASG Sen. Amanda Oskey, College of Fine Arts and Communication. The resolution requests $10,000 to accommodate the increased number of senators.

“This money is already there, it’s called the student service fee,” Oskey said. “When you pay your tuition, you pay tuition and fees. Fees are things that pay for buses and pay for different things that go around on campus. Any money that is left over goes to student service fees.”

Oskey said the money ASG is seeking is already within the university budget, it just needs to be allocated. She said this will increase the current budget from $38,000 this year to $48,000 for the next. She said it is likely ASG will be granted the money with the passage of the resolution.

Inside News ........ 1,2,3,4 Opinions ............ 5 Trends ............. 6,7

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

Diversions .......... 8 Classifieds ......... 9 Sports ........... 9,10

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

PAGETWO

Today in Brief

Page 2 - Tuesday, October 23, 2007

starsof texas state Texas State junior wide receiver Cameron Luke has been named the Southland Conference Offensive Player of the Week following his performance Saturday in the Bobcats’ 5229 win over Stephen F. Austin.

Luke tied a Southland Conference record and set a new Bobcat Stadium mark with four touchdown receptions in the game. He

had seven receptions for 152 yards, including touchdown catches of 15, 25, 20 and 42 yards.

He also had a 31-yard catch to the SFA seven which would set up Texas State’s final touchdown of the first half and give the Bobcats a 31-7 lead at the break.

— Courtesy of Texas State Athletics

News Contact — Nick Georgiou, starnews@txstate.edu Texas State University-San Marcos is a member of the Texas State University System

Calendar TUESDAY The Catholic Student Center will have a free lunch for all students from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the CSC lobby.

Bobcats for Life will host a special presentation, “The ProLife Legislation Process and You!,” CSC chapel at 6:30 p.m.

Overeaters Anonymous will meet at 12:30 p.m. at the First Lutheran Church, 130 W. Holland. For more information call Lynn, (512) 357-2049.

GLBQ Pride Group meeting will be held from noon until 1:30 p.m. For information and screening on groups, call the Counseling Center at (512) 2452208.

Body Talk: Using “Heart Messages” to Reduce Stress will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. in the LBJ Student Center, Room 3-11.1.

Facing the Fear — An Anxiety/Panic Group will meet from 3:30 to 5 p.m. For information and screening on groups, call the Counseling Center at (512) 245-2208.

Interested in law school?

South Texas College of Law will conduct an information session for interested students at 5 p.m. in McCoy 243. Contact as44@txstate.edu with questions.

The Student Affairs Diversity Team joins with Hip Hop Congress, Residence Hall Association, First Generation Student Organization, LAMBDA, Phi Iota Alpha, Student Association for Campus Activities, Allies, Latinas Unidas, Student Foundation and Bobcat Equality Alliance to present the documentary, Mirrors of Privilege: Making Whiteness Visible, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the LBJSC Teaching Theatre.

Anger Management: Your Plan for Real-Life Coping will be from 5:10 to 6:25 p.m. For information and screening on groups, call the Counseling Center at (512) 245-2208.

The CSC will have Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the St. Jude Chapel from 5:45 to 9 p.m.

Every Nation Campus Ministries will be holding a weekly campus meeting at 7 p.m. in Centennial Hall, Room G-02.

There will be free food, fellowship and a message exploring

the person of Jesus.

WEDNESDAY The rosary will be prayed at 6 p.m. in the St. Jude Chapel of the CSC. Adult children of alcoholics dealing with dysfunctional families group will meet from 5:15 to 6:45 p.m. For information and screening on groups, call the Counseling Center at (512) 245-2208.

PUPPY LOVE

THURSDAY

Women’s Personal Growth Group will meet from noon to 1:30 p.m. For information and screening on groups, call the Counseling Center at (512) 2452208.

FRIDAY UMADD New Organization Interest Meetings will meet from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in LBJSC 3.10.1.

Alcoholics Anonymous meeting will be held from noon to 1 p.m. in the LBJSC, Room 3.4.

Alcoholics Anonymous Newcomer’s Meeting, River Group, will be 9:15 p.m. at 1700 Ranch Rd. 12, Suite C. MONDAY Men Against Violence meeting will be held from 5-6 p.m. in LBJSC 3.10 Sexual Assault and Abuse Survivors Group, a program of the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center for Texas State Students will meet from 5 to 6:15 p.m.

For information and screening on groups, call the Counseling Center at (512) 245-2208.

Your friendly neighborhood watchdog.

Oct. 14, 2:32 a.m.

Criminal Mischief: Causes Substantial Inconvenience/ College Inn An officer was dispatched for a criminal mischief report. A nonstudent reported three motor vehicles were damaged in the parking lot. This case is under investigation.

Oct. 17, 11:17 p.m.

Information Report/Blanco Hall An officer was dispatched to assist an outside agency. The area was searched and cleared.

A report was generated for this case.

The Catholic Student Organization will meet at 6 p.m. in the library of the CSC.

Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship will hold its weekly meeting at 8:30 p.m. in Old Main, Room 320. There will be contemporary worship, relevant teaching, prayer and plenty of fun. Everyone is welcome to attend.

University Police Department

Oct. 17, 8:21 p.m.

Alcohol: Minor in Possession/Open Container/Driving Under the Influence (Warning)/University Drive An officer was on patrol and initiated a traffic stop. Upon further investigation, a student was issued a citation for MIP, Open Container and DUI (Warning).

The Counseling Center presents, “Stress Management Techniques: The Heart of Matter,” at 1 p.m. in LBJSC 3-5.1.

The Rock — Praise and Worship will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the St. Jude Chapel of the CSC.

CRIME BL TTER

Katie Allinson/Star photo Kimberley Kirk, pre-psychology sophomore, pets her dog, Riley, Sunday afternoon at the PAWS shelter in Kyle. Kirk is an active volunteer at the shelter, which focuses on the humane treatment of animals.

Local early voting locations Early voting for the Nov. 6 general and special elections will be held from Monday through Nov. 2 at designated locations.

The city of San Marcos ballot will include elections for Places 1 and 2 on the City Council. San Marcos residents will vote on a proposition to increase the local hotel occupancy tax from seven to nine percent and dedicate the two percent increase to repay debt on the San Marcos Conference Center.

The local ballot will include a San Marcos CISD rollback election and State of Texas constitutional amendments.

Early voting in San Marcos will be held at the following locations from Monday to Nov. 2: Monday — County Elections Administrators Office, 401-C Broadway, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

— San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Tuesday — County Elections Administrators Office, 401-C Broadway, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

— San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Wednesday and Thursday — County Elections Administrators Office, 401-C Broadway, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

— San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

— LBJ Student Center, Texas State University, 700 Student Center Dr., 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Friday — County Elections Administrators Office, 401-C Broadway, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

— San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Saturday — County Elections Administrators Office, 401-C Broadway, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

— San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sunday — San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Oct. 29 — County Elections Administrators Office, 401-C Broadway, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

— San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Oct. 30 — County Elections Administrators Office, 401-C Broadway, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

— San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Oct. 31 — County Elections Administrators Office, 401-C Broadway, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

— San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

— McCoys Corporation, 1200 N. I-35, 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Nov. 1 — County Elections Administrators Office, 401-C Broadway, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

— San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

— San Marcos High School, 2601 E. McCarty Ln., 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Nov. 2 — County Elections Administrators Office, 401-C Broadway, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

— San Marcos Public Library, 625 E. Hopkins, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

— San Marcos Fire Station # 3, 2420 Hunter Rd., 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Other early voting locations in Hays County will include: * Kyle City Hall, 100 W. Center St., Kyle * Buda City Hall, 121 N. Main St., Buda * Dripping Springs ISD office, 510 W. Mercer St., Dripping Springs * Rooster Springs Elementary School, 1001 Belterra Dr., Austin * Dripping Springs Elementary School,29400 Ranch Road 12, Dripping Springs * Walnut Springs Elementary School, 300 Sportsplex Dr., Dripping Springs * Dripping Springs Middle School, 940 Hwy 290 West, Dripping Springs * Wimberley Community Center, 14068 Ranch Road 12, Wimberley * Dripping Springs High School, 111 Tiger Ln., Dripping Springs Any voters may cast their ballots at a temporary branch site. For more information, contact the Elections Office at (512) 393-7310 or City Clerk at (512) 393-8090.

— Courtesy of city of San Marcos

Oct. 17, 10:08 p.m.

Expired Motor Vehicle Registration/Operation of Vehicle with Wrong License Plate or Registration Insignia/220 W Woods An officer was on patrol and initiated a traffic stop. Upon further investigation, a student was issued a citation for Expired Motor Vehicle Registration and Operation of Vehicle with Wrong License Plate or Registration Insignia.

Oct. 18, 4:33 p.m.

Criminal Mischief – under $1500/Canyon Hall Parking Lot An officer was dispatched for a criminal mischief report.

A student reported a motor vehicle was damaged while it was parked. This case is under investigation.

Oct. 18, 4:51 p.m.

Burglary: Vehicle/Tower Garage An officer was dispatched for a burglary of a motor vehicle report. A non-student reported a motor vehicle was damaged and items were removed without consent. This case is under investigation.

Oct. 19, 2:06 a.m.

Drug: Possession of Marijuana/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia/Jackson Hall Parking Lot An officer was on patrol and observed several individuals by a vehicle. Upon further investigation, two students were issued citation for PODP and a student was arrested for POM and transported to Hays County Law Enforcement Center to await magistration.

Oct. 14, 1:20 a.m.

Medical Emergency/Retama Hall An officer was dispatched for a medical emergency. A student appeared to be suffering from alcohol poisoning, was evaluated

by EMS, and transported to Central Texas Medical Center for further evaluation.

— Courtesy University Police Department

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

NEWS

Edwards Aquifer Authority proposes stricter hazardous substance rules

By Allen Reed News Reporter Facilities containing hazardous materials located around the Edwards Aquifer could be facing stricter guidelines.

A public hearing was held Thursday by the Edwards Aquifer Authority to discuss proposed rule changes that would create new requirements for reporting chemical spills. The rule would regulate the storage of hazardous substances and petroleum products near the most environmentally sensitive areas of the Edwards Aquifer. The aquifer produces about 900,000 acre feet of water per year and serves approximately two million people.

Four amendments to the Edwards Aquifer Authority Act are being considered. The first would require spills of regulated substances be reported to the authority within 72 hours of occurrence. This change would complement an existing rule requiring spills to be reported to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality within 24 hours.

The second proposed rule would require facilities to register with the authority if it stores 10,000 pounds or 1,000 gallons of a regulated substance within close proximity to the aquifer.

“Currently, there’s no rule that requires facilities that store hazardous materials to register with any agency,” said Velma Danielson, general manager of the Edwards Aquifer Authority.

Under the projected rules, facilities would have to comply with additional storage standards. John Hoyt, assistant general manager of the Edwards Aquifer Authority, said the new standards would supersede existing rules by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

“It would require that storage tanks be tertiary contained,” Hoyt said. “That means three layers.

The University Star - Page 3

Trouble brews for Blackwater, again

By Joseph Neff McClatchy Newspapers

You already have two layers, and this third layer would help prevent anything from happening.”

The new rules would further allow for the creation of a spill prevention and response plan.

“This is a brand new requirement,” Danielson said. “We just have to prepare these plans and keep them on file. What we’re trying to do is have information prepared and available before these things happen so that we’re not trying to figure this out afterwards.”

After the hearing, comments and questions were fielded. Out of all the residents who spoke, no one disagreed with what the Edwards Aquifer Authority had proposed, but some residents wanted to implement further limits.

Tyson Broad, a member of the Lone Star chapter of the Sierra Club, said an additional region outside of Edwards Aquifer Authority regulation needs consideration. Tyson said spills in areas outside of Edwards Aquifer Authority zones can sometimes contaminate the regulated regions and cause complications.

“There are areas that are outside the recharge zone that don’t flow to the gulf,” Broad said. “This zone flows back into the recharge zone.”

Danielson and Hoyt said they have yet to run into any major opposition to the amendments. They said the only concern is the annual cost of executing these rules, which would be $750,000 and could trickle down to Edwards Aquifer permit holders.

“The cost to comply is always a concern,” Danielson said. “I think at some point we’re going to receive comments about the cost.”

The public hearing was the second of five that will take place during a mandatory 45-day public comment period. Public comment on the proposed changes ends 5 p.m. Monday. If passed, the rules would go into effect Dec. 21.

The congressman leading an investigation into Blackwater said Monday the embattled security company may have evaded tens of millions of dollars in federal taxes and was seeking to hide its practices.

Rep. Henry Waxman, a California Democrat, said Blackwater has avoided paying Social Security, Medicare and unemployment taxes by treating its armed guards as independent contractors and not employees.

The other two large private security companies in Iraq, DynCorp and Triple Canopy, classify their guards as employees and pay the federal taxes that Blackwater has not, Waxman said.

The issue came to the attention of the IRS when a Blackwater guard working in Afghanistan complained the company had classified him as an independent contractor. The IRS said Blackwater’s classification was “without merit” and ruled in March that the man was an employee.

Blackwater agreed to pay back wages and other compensation to the man, but on condition that he not talk to any politician or public official about the company.

“The utmost protection and nondisclosure of confidential information is of critical importance and is the essence of this agreement,” the settlement agreement stated in capital letters. Waxman released it after obtaining it by subpoena from Blackwater.

“This nondisclosure agreement is abhorrent on its face,” Waxman wrote Monday to Blackwater founder Erik Prince. “It is deplorable that a company that depends on federal tax dollars for over 90 percent of its business would even contemplate forbidding an employee to report corporate wrongdoing to Congress and federal law enforcement officials.”

Blackwater issued a statement Monday saying that Waxman was incorrect about the tax issue and that the company was appealing the IRS ruling.

The company said the U.S. Small Business Administration has determined that Blackwater security contractors are not employees.

“It is unfortunate that the Chairman has relied upon a one-sided description of the issue to color public perception without all the facts being presented,” the statement concluded.

Blackwater, based in Moyock, N.C., deploys about 1,000 contractors to protect the U.S. ambassador and other diplomats in Iraq. It has had federal contracts worth more than $1 billion since 2001.

Blackwater has been working in Iraq since 2003. Waxman’s staff looked at the most recent State Department contract and estimated that between May 2006 and March 2007, Blackwater avoided paying $15.5 million in Social Security and Medicare taxes and $500,000 in unemployment taxes.

William Turnier, a professor of tax law at the University of North Carolina law school in Chapel Hill, said employees, by definition, are subject to the control of their employers, who decide when and how work must be done.

Independent contractors, on the other hand, provide their own tools, decide when to start and finish work, and determine how to proceed with their work. The classic example of an independent contractor is a house painter, who negotiates a price, brings his own tools and truck, and decides how to do his job each day.

Turnier was skeptical that Blackwater security guards would meet this definition.

“These guys must go out when Blackwater tells them to,” Turnier said. “They’re following strict orders, and I don’t think they are supplying their own guns or vehicles.”

Are you planning a run for president of the United States?”

Colbert responded, “Tonight, I, Stephen Colbert, am officially announcing that I have decided to officially consider whether or not I will announce that I am running for the president of the United States. I will be making an announcement of that decision very soon, preferably on a more prestigious show.”

That announcement left Colbert Nation wanting more, and he would not make them wait long.

Following “The Daily Show,” Colbert started his show, “The Colbert Report,” by making yet another announcement. “After nearly 15 minutes of soul searching, I have heard the call,” he said. “Nation, I will seek the office of the president of the United States. I am doing it.”

With red, white and blue balloons falling from the sky, Colbert stood and soaked in the applause.

He went on to add that his candidacy would be in “one state and one state alone” — South Carolina.

“I am from South Carolina, I am for South Carolina and I defy any other candidate to pander more to the people of South Carolina — those beautiful,

beautiful people.”

As “South Carolina’s favorite son,” Colbert will be running as both a Republican and a Democrat and announced three possibilities for running-mate: ColbertHuckabee, Colbert-Putin or Colbert-Colbert, noting that Colbert-Colbert was “a strong ticket.” He then brought out CBS political analysis Jeff Greenfield to help him with his campaign strategy. Greenfield pointed out, “This is one for the books.”

The news of Colbert entering the presidential race has been gaining steam for over a week. While members of “Colbert Nation” have been pandering for the political pundit to throw his hat in the ring, nothing — other than bumper stickers and T-shirts — had appeared.

With the release of his new book I Am America (And So Can You!), Colbert hit the promotional circuit and the prudential flames were fanned. Publishing a book to test the political waters before announcing is a long-running tradition among politicians. Democratic presidential candidates Barack Obama and John Edwards did the same before announcing this year.

During numerous interviews, including “Larry

King Live,” Colbert was asked if he was considering a run for president, to which he always replied that he wasn’t ready to announce.

Last Sunday, as a guest columnist for New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd, Colbert wrote, “While my hat is not presently in the ring, I should also point out that it is not on my head. So where’s that hat?

“Nevertheless, I am not ready to announce yet — even though it’s clear that the voters are desperate for a white, male, middle-aged, Jesus-trumpeting alternative. What do I offer? Hope for the common man. Because I am not the Anointed or the Inevitable. I am just an Average Joe like you — if you have a TV show,” he wrote.

It remains to be seen what the reaction to Colbert entering the race will be. His presence on the South Carolina ballot will cause some changes. Any debate in South Carolina will be compelled to have him, and Comedy Central may need to block his show in the state due to the equal-time rule.

Looks like the January South Carolina primary just got a lot more interesting.

Political satirist enters presidential race

By Ryan McAskill Massachusetts Daily Collegian (U. Massachusetts)

AMHERST, Mass. — For the last couple years it was not uncommon to see a Colbert/Stewart ’08 bumper sticker on the side of a mini-fridge. The sticker would usually get a good laugh and raise fun political conversation. As it turns out, those bumper stickers may not be so far off.

On Tuesday night, the political landscape was shaken up. It all began on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.” Stewart opened the show by saying they had a major political announcement involving presidential candidates. Following a quick piece about the current presidential candidates, he brought out Stephen Colbert to make the major announcement.

Colbert made his entrance on a carriage pulled by Uncle Sam on a bicycle and immediately pulled a bail of hay and a beer out to show that he was an “average Joe.” Stewart opened by reading a cue card prepared by Colbert which ended, “The people cry out for a hero.

NEWS

Page 4 - The University Star Mass Communication Week Events TUESDAY 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.

Old Main, Room 320: Independent Video Production — Gary Boyer and Barbara Hendricks Old Main, Room 232: Event Planning — Keri Wootton 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Old Main, Room 320: Online Journalism — Angela Grant, San Antonio Express-News; Jorge Sanhueza-Lyon, Statesman Old Main, Room 201: Mario Bosquez, former WCBS-NYC anchor and author, Chalupa Rules Old Main, Room 234: Corporate Social Responsibility — Thomas Graham, Weber Shandwick 12:30 to 1:45 p.m.

Old Main, Room 201: Market Research: Going beyond surveys and focus groups — Jamie Rhodes, Perceptive Sciences Old Main, Room 234: Radio: Not Dead Yet — Why You Should Get a Job in Radio — with Dave Davies, KSTX, NPR station San Antonio and Stewart Vanderwilt, KUT Austin 2 to 3:15 p.m.

Old Main, Room 320; How to Decide on Your Dream Career and Make it Happen Anywhere Now — Dee Covey, Grad Launch USA

Old Main, Room 232: “Water for Life: Media Communication on a Complex Issue” a discussion on environmental coverage in the media — Asher Price, Austin American Statesman and Tom Harvey, Texas Parks and Wildlife Old Main, Room 234: Journalists Working with PR Folks — Michael King, Austin Chronicle 3:30 to 4:45 p.m.

Old Main, Room 320: Putting Bling Into Your Resume — Career Services 5 to 6:15 p.m.

Old Main, Room 232: Graduate paper panel 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Old Main, Room 234: SPJ Film Festival: Control Room, a documentary on Iraq war 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.

Old Main, Room 230: Being a Professional Copy Editor — Guillermo Torres, San Antonio Express-News

WEDNESDAY 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.

Old Main, Room 320: Social Media — Rachel Brush, Pluck Old Main, Room 234: Entertainment writing — Gilbert Garcia, San Antonio Current; Hector Saldana, San Antonio Express-News; Dave Glessner, Free-lancer Old Main, Room 232: The Role of

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Commentators in the Media — John Kelso, Austin American Statesman 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Old Main, Room 320: Next Generation Hispanic Media Old Main, Room 234: Interactive Advertising — CJ Romberger, Wildwood Interactive 12:30 to 1:45 p.m.

Old Main, Room 201: Work Lessons 101: What I Didn’t Learn in College (recent alumni panel) — Nikki Linzey, Kelly Garrott Old Main, Room 232: Graduate School Panel 2 to 3:15 p.m.

Old Main, Room 320: Ralitsa Vassileva, anchor, CNN International 3:30 to 4:45 p.m.

Old Main, Room 320: Morning Radio — Bobby Bones Old Main, Room 234: Networking Career Services Alkek Library, Room 250: Billy Calzada, photojournalist, San Antonio Express News 5 to 6:15 p.m.

Old Main, Room 238: University Media Relations — T. Cay Rowe and Mark Hendricks 6:30 p.m.

Old Main, Room 234: Covering War — Keith Kay, cameraman for CBS News, covered conflicts from Vietnam to the Gulf War Old Main, Room 320: Graduate Program Anniversary Celebration 7:30 p.m.

Old Main, Room 234: Student Journalists Discuss Life in a Refugee Camp

THURSDAY 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.

Old Main, Room 320: Duff Stewart,

GSD&M Idea City Old Main, Room 232: Sports Journalism — Chuck Miketinac, KABB-TV 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Old Main, Room 320: Alumni panel, Advertising & Public Relations: Terri Waggoner, Round Rock Parks and Recreation; Katie Cook, Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau; Meghan Butler, GCI Group & Michelle Mosmeyer, Dell Old Main, Room 201: Alumni panel, Electronic Media: Daniel Ashcraft, San Antonio Spurs; Melissa McGuire, KVUE-TV; Melissa Korpi, KXAN-TV Old Main, Room 234: Alumni Panel, Print: Ken Whalen, executive vice president of TDNA, and Laura Jesse, San Antonio ExpressNews city hall reporter Old Main, Room 232: Rising Star of Texas State — student panel for high school students.

12:30 to 1:45 p.m.

Old Main, Room 234: Public Relations Trends: How to Incorporate Blogs, Wikis and Social Media into your Campaign — Nettie Hartsock Old Main, Room 201: Making a Career of Freelance Writing and Editing — David Earthman and Elaine Tankard 2 to 3:15 p.m.

Old Main Room, 320: Sports Public Relations — Mike Berry, Austin Toros Old Main Room, 234: Hispanic Advertising — Ruby Rizo, Bromley 3:30 to 4:45 p.m.

Old Main Room, 320: Beyond Facebook: Your Professional Image at Work — Career Services 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Old Main Room, 234: SPJ Film Festival: A Mighty Heart, the story of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl — Courtesy of Mass Communication Week

ENERGY: Green code options explored CONTINUED from page 1

people of San Marcos. So the product is somewhat stilted and it ends up not having the support of the community.”

O’Leary said he does not think anything is wrong with special interests and activists but they tend to create a policy that is not supported by the general public, which results in “something that gets put on the shelf and nobody pays attention to.”

Collette Jameson, assistant city manager, gave a presentation to the workshop detailing San Marcos’ and other cities’ adopted policies and what knowledge a

citizen’s survey could show.

Jameson said the city’s current energy policy is decentralized and informal. She said San Marcos targets municipal government and does not impact residents or developers. Other cities, like Austin, are moving to impact developments by setting “green codes,” which will require houses to meet energy attainment goals before being sold.

Jameson further mentioned the “U.S. Mayors’ Climate Resolution,” which outlines 12 benchmarks for attaining a sustainable energy policy. The benchmarks include reduction of 7 percent in warming pollution, adopting and enforcing land-use policies

and practicing and promoting sustainable building practices.

The U.S. Conference of Mayors developed the resolution and 619 U.S. cities have signed on.

Mayor Susan Narvaiz refused to sign the agreement.

“Robertson and Jones wanted me to sign the protection plan, but I refused to,” Narvaiz said. “I really do believe that we should do something we wish to do that has an impact on our world. That policy was formulated by nations that have nothing to do with San Marcos, Texas.”

City Council will meet again in 90 days to discuss how to appropriate the $250,000 budget for a sustainable energy policy.

OPINIONS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

Tuesday, October 23, 2007 - Page 5

onlineconnection The University Star is in the process of creating a new Web site. Check out www.UniversityStar.com in the following weeks for continued News, Sports, Trends and Opinions coverage.

CONSIDER Opinions Contact — Bill Rix, staropinion@txstate.edu

THE MAIN POINT

T

he University Star recently met with the San Marcos City Council candidates running for Place 1 and Place 2 positions.

We first met with Betsy Robertson and Kim Porterfield, vying for Place 1.

Robertson, Place 1 incumbent, stressed her belief working on planning and construction within San Marcos is paramount to attracting industry. She said a similar city vision is common among residents. Robertson expressed interest in green building and making San Marcos energy-efficient.

However, on the subject of how to help the poor in San Marcos, she seemed to drag out the same, tired argument of high-tech jobs, a field The Star believes will likely be filled by qualified professionals, not average residents.

Porterfield, who works for community relations at Texas State, also stressed a need for San Marcos to wean itself off of the large tax base provided by the outlet malls. She is in favor of bringing professional jobs to San Marcos and streamlining the building code, allowing businesses to easily take root in San Marcos. Porterfield spends time educating at a local elementary school, a position allowing her to better understand the issues some poorer children and their families experience.

The Star backs Porterfield for Place 1, as her diverse workings in the city grant her a larger vision of what needs to be done.

Place 2 candidates Gaylord Bose and Jude Prather squared off mainly on issues of economy and poverty.

Prather voiced his dislike of what he sees as unnecessary city council spending, and seeks to diversify funds from large businesses he hopes to attract to San Marcos. Prather spends much time campaigning in the south side of San Marcos and has seen first-hand the problems some residents face in the area. He gave a specific solution to the matter of housing, suggesting a referendum be used to change the current zoning laws.

Incumbent Bose, representing for three and a half years, said he is in favor of bicycle and walkways in San Marcos and alternative transportation means, such as the commuter rail. On the question of providing jobs to the poorer residents, Bose answered the most directly of all of the hopefuls, and while he did not provide a wholly acceptable answer, he seemed to understand the query the best.

The Star believes Bose should be reelected. While Prather is clearly hungry for the job of city councilmember, his inexperience — in the upper-tiers of local government — could potentially harm the interests of the city while Bose’s understanding of complex issues shows he is fit to remain in the city council.

The Star would like to remind students, faculty and staff early voting will be held from Monday through Nov. 2 at locations designated on Page 2.

EVERYTHING Understanding the issues is key in selecting the best candidate

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.

Julie Sheah/Star illustration

Robertson pushes for equal representation

By Betsy Robertson Place 1 City Council Candidate As your council representative, I am excited to report to you the city of San Marcos is moving toward becoming the most livable city in Central Texas and our university toward world-class status. Together we have created dual master plans that will attract high wage employers and entrepreneurs to our area. This “creative class” wants more from a community than just solid infrastructure and a stable economy; they demand excellent educational and cultural resources. The city and university leadership understand this and are working to make our city the place to be.

Here are some of the issues I’m working on as your city councilmember: ✯ Prosperity: Unemployment is a low 3.3 percent, and wages are rising, but we can do better. We will attract companies with quality jobs and minimal impact on our natural beauty. I voted for incentives for a software company, the conference center and a large retail

The University Star 601 University Drive Trinity Building San Marcos, TX 78666 Phone: (512) 245-3487 Fax: (512) 245-3708

outlet. I am especially eager to attract more high-tech companies, healthcare firms and exciting opportunities in “green collar” businesses. ✯ Transportation: I passionately support efforts to decrease traffic congestion. Alternative forms of transportation, such as commuter rail, improved bus service, sidewalks and bikeways will reduce the number of vehicles on our roadways. ✯ Energy Efficiency/Resource Protection: My first initiative, a reduction in city operating costs through fuel- and energy-efficiency, is still in process.

I will continue to protect our aquifer, creeks and rivers so the water we drink and enjoy is clean and clear.

Apartment dwellers deserve the opportunity to recycle. ✯ Housing Options: All citizens of San Marcos must be able to access safe, affordable housing. Owners want their investment protected; renters want to be treated fairly. Unlike my opponent, I live in a neighborhood that is diverse and allows more than one

Editor In Chief.................................Maira Garcia, stareditor@txstate.edu Managing Editor.......................Sydney Granger, starletters@txstate.edu News Editor...................................Nick Georgiou, starnews@txstate.edu Trends Editor.......................Clara Cobb, starentertainment@txstate.edu Opinions Editor.......................................Bill Rix, staropinion@txstate.edu Photo Editor...............................Spencer Millsap, starphoto@txstate.edu

unrelated student in a house.

I have brought to council honesty, hard work and vision. I’ve volunteered with many organizations and served two and a half years on the Planning and Zoning commission. As a councilmember I’ve been learning the political and financial nuances and have voted on many decisions, helped craft and adopt a budget and evaluated applicants and staff. As a small business owner (Shelter Design), I realize the importance of a healthy economy to support our quality of place and I have the time and flexibility to travel to Washington and Austin to seek funding (as I did for the airport and river projects).

My husband is our former fire chief and a community volunteer, not a developer, and I’ve been able to maintain a wide base of support, representing all citizens without aligning myself with any single institution or interest group in the city. While I value the university, I am not employed there, and so I will be free to vote on university issues, not forced to abstain due to conflicts of interest. In all negotiations, we need to find solutions beneficial to both sides so we can move past conflict and create a city where all can live, work and play.

Sports Editor............................Scott Strickman, starsports@txstate.edu Copy Desk Chief.......................Colm Keane, starcopychief@txstate.edu Design Editor................................Daniel Currey, stardesign@txstate.edu Systems Administrator....................................starsysadmin@txstate.edu Advertising Coordinator......................Jodie Claes, starad1@txstate.edu Advertising Sales Manager...........Jackie Pardue, starad2@txstate.edu

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Porterfield for community development

By Kim Porterfield Place 1 City Council Candidate I came to San Marcos from Houston in 1979 to attend college. I might as well have died and gone to heaven. I’ve been blessed to raise my family and further my career here.

Now that career allows me to work with Texas State University students to do great things: Bobcat Build, Pack It Up and dozens of other student initiatives.

While students may only live in San Marcos for several years, they play a crucial role. You deserve a place at the table, respect from the rest of our citizens and an opportunity to make your life here … as I did.

This is a crucial time in the development of our city. We must not fall behind. Bike lanes and expanding the university/ city bus systems are initiatives that should continue, but with 130,000 additional cars projected in Central Texas over the next five years, improved roads are paramount. San Marcos recently opened a new $52 million state-of-the-art high school, accessed by a bumpy rural road designed for horse and buggy.

Seven of 10 children in our public schools qualify for subsidized meals. The city poverty rate stands at 30 percent. We simply must attract better-paying jobs for our citizens.

Let’s protect what is special about San Marcos: our river, downtown, our local culture.

Let’s create better-paying jobs and make it easier to do business here. Let’s work better together, as city, county, school district and university, to understand our common problems and priorities, challenges and solutions.

In 1998, my family lost everything in the San Marcos River flood. Through the generosity of others and hard work, we got back on our feet. I was a volunteer on the United Way board then and became a client of its agencies.

I know what it’s like to be a student here, to start a young family here. I know what it’s like to have a lot and lose it all in minutes. I know what it’s like to earn it all back.

We have significant challenges in San Marcos, but we also have a great location, an available workforce and a community spirit that will make us the leading city in the I-35 corridor.

I will be an effective and inclusive city council member. I have the community connections and resume from my civic and professional experience to get the job done. I have a proven record of taking on major projects and finishing them.

Twenty-eight years in the San Marcos community as a university student, dorm resident, apartment and home renter, homeowner and active community volunteer give me the experience to represent all of San Marcos with a broad perspective.

I’ve also had jobs that have prepared me for public service: reporter at the San Marcos Daily Record, community liaison at San Marcos CISD and now Community Relations director at Texas State University.

Now is my time to give back to the town that has given so much to me. I ask for your vote for one San Marcos.

✯ The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University-San Marcos published Tuesday through Thursday during the fall and spring semesters. It is distributed on campus and throughout San Marcos at 8 a.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with a distribution of 8,000. Printing and distribution is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung.

Copyright October 23, 2007. All copy, photographs and graphics appearing in The University Star are the exclusive property of The University Star and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the editor in chief.

TRENDS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

newreleases music

movies

Carnival Ride — Carrie Underwood Elect the Dead — Serj Tankian Raising Sand — Robert Plant and Alison Krauss

Meet the Robinsons (G) — Daniel Hansen, Jordan Fry Mr. Brooks (R) — Kevin Costner, Demi Moore Home of the Brave (R) — Samuel L. Jackson, Jessica Biel

Page 6 - Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Trends Contact — Clara Cobb, starentertainment@txstate.edu

Maker Faire creates in Austin

By Bill Rix Opinions Editor

Andy Rix/Special to The Star COLLOSAL CREATION: A 30-foot wooden Phoenician statue made by Austin artist George Sabra looks over the more than 20,000 people who attended this year’s Maker Faire Saturday and Sunday in Austin.

r to The Sta /Special Andy Rix overed c spotted van reinven as one of the A : IX nday.

TIC M eras w and Su y ECLEC vintage cam a rd tu Sa in r Faire entirely e Make th t a ts ligh

If you make it, they will come.

And come they did. More than 20,000 attended Maker Faire Austin Saturday and Sunday at the Travis County Expo Center. Custom cars, homemade bicycles and a menagerie of do-it-yourself crafts, electronics and machines dotted the landscape. The fall day was abuzz with men and women gushing over creations indoors and out, pointing at soand-so in awe while a 30-foot, wooden Phoenician statue wielding a hammer, courtesy of Austin artist George Sabra, overlooked the exposition.

One popular area to convene was Maker Store Hall. Inside, vendors displayed their various DIY wares and constructions. Mitch Altman of TV-B-Gone and The Brain Machine fame was one such merchant. He split his time at Maker Faire between helping ticket-holders learn soldering and electronics basics and teaching about microcontrollers.

“A lot of people are kind of afraid to make anything,” Altman said. “A lot of people are afraid to make things with electronics, and people who make things with electronics are often afraid to do things with microcontrollers. I actually show people it’s actually very easy to do all of these things, and fun.”

Fun was the impetus behind many

inventors’ projects, but Altman brings a therapeutic bend to his endeavors, most notably The Brain Machine.

This device is reminiscent of the Xray specs once available in the backs of comic books, but instead of not doing anything at all, it pulses light via LEDs — headphones aren’t required, but greatly help the experience along — in a rhythmic pattern designed to sync with brainwaves to provide a relaxing, invigorating experience.

“I want to make it really fun to have people try meditating,” Altman said, “because people too often in our culture don’t have a moment to self reflect, and you see the results of that all around us.”

The action wasn’t confined to the exhibit halls, however. Much of the excitement was had outside where makers and crafters displayed their bicycle and automobile creations. A particular creation was an old van covered completely in vintage cameras — Vivitars, Canons, Polaroids and Minoltas adhered in a shiny exhibition of DIY ingenuity and quirky creativity.

Walking the grounds, one notices the wide spectrum of ages present at the expo. Families push baby carriages past the CRAFT section while old men shuffle by on canes, ogling the demonstrations and otherworldly creations displayed all around.

“That’s the fun thing about MAKE — it’s as interesting to 7-year-olds as it is to 70-year-olds,” said Mark Ballard, vice president of The Rosen Group, which provided public relations for Maker Faire.

“The payoff for me is seeing all the kids. You live in a society where these kids are just stuck on couches playing

video games for days and years on end,” Ballard said. “It shows them it’s something unconventional, and you never know how many future engineers, scientists and rocket builders these sorts of events will inspire.”

Ballard said the capital city is a perfect match for Maker Faire.

“The arts community is strong in Austin. This is as weird event as I’ve ever been to, so it just seemed like a natural fit between the community at the vibe.”

While it is of yet unconfirmed, Ballard said Austin is a likely candidate for a subsequent Maker Faire.

MAKE didn’t come to the Faire alone. Sister publication CRAFT, under the umbrella of O’Reilly Media as well, represented with demonstrations ranging from sewing classes with stateof-the-art machines to wild, crocheted creations, just in time for Halloween.

While CRAFT mainly emphasizes the low-tech aspect of the DIY mindset, the results are no less stunning or useful.

Groups clustered around buckets of knitting needles, anxious for their turn to be shown how to weave their own fuzzy, anthropomorphic creatures and swarmed around the miniature press area where crafters gave live demonstrations of some of the newer, more cutting-edge designs soon to be seen in CRAFT. Polybagged back issues of both CRAFT and MAKE were available at Maker Store Hall, as well as other likeminded publications’ issues.

The two-day event drew more than expected, according to Ballard, and he said he looks forward to other Maker Faires across the country.

MAKE and company will land next on May 3 and 4, 2008, in San Mateo, Calif.

Community comes out for Red Ribbon Week All the world’s a stage ...

By Jaime Kilpatrick Senior Features Reporter Red Ribbon Week got a running start Saturday.

In the early morning hours, more than 200 runners and walkers attended the seventh-annual 1K Family Run/Walk at River Ridge Park just north of San Marcos.

The Hays Caldwell Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse sponsored the event.

The run begins the 2007 Red Ribbon Week.

The week runs Saturday to Friday in schools throughout Hays County.

Patti Wenk, Prevention Resource Center coordinator of the council, said the event is held as a fundraiser for the center. However, she said the primary reason for Red Ribbon Week is to raise awareness in the community about drug and alcohol abuse.

“We want to get the message out to different age groups and socio-economic backgrounds,” Wenk said.

The Red Ribbon run was co-sponsored by the San Marcos Runner’s Club and the city of San Marcos Parks and Recreation Department.

The Hays County Juvenile Justice Center’s drill team participated in the event and followed the runners for the first lap of the 5K run.

Kevin Medina, educational specialist at the council and Texas State alumni, cheered runners on at the finish line.

Medina said he counsels students in local schools about drug and alcohol abuse prevention.

Local law enforcement officials volunteered at the event, including San Marcos police department officer and K-9 handler Donald Lee. “It’s important for officers to participate (in Red Ribbon Week) so students see law enforcement in a different light in the community,” Lee said.

Lee and other law enforcement agents handed out medals to students who crossed the finish line in the 1K. The 1K was completed by 145 registered runners. A total of 82 runners completed the 5K. David Alexander of the San Marcos Runner’s Club announced the winners.

Trophies were awarded in eight age categories and for best male and female overall

completion times.

Runners came from as far as Killeen to participate in the day’s activities.

Students from Kyle Elementary won a pizza party for having the most students participating in the event.

The theme for this year’s Red Ribbon Week is “Drug Free. My Choice for Life.”

Red Ribbon Week began in response to the 1985 murder of Drug Enforcement agent Enrique Camarena by drug traffickers.

According to the council, Camarena had been investigating a multibillion-dollar drug scam in which he suspected officers of the Mexican army, police and government.

As he was leaving his office, five men appeared and shoved Camarena into a car.

His body was found a month later in a shallow grave.

Camarena’s family wore red ribbons at his funeral as a sign of respect for his belief that one person can make a difference in eliminating the damaging effects of drug use.

The first Red Ribbon campaign was organized in 1988 by the National Family Partnership, according to the Drug and Alcohol Administration Web site.

The Austin Circle of Theaters announced the winners of the 2006-2007 B. Iden Payne Awards Sunday. The following productions were honored: Outstanding Production of a Play for Youth The Page and the Caterpillar — Second Youth Family Theatre Outstanding Production of Music Theater The Rocky Horror Show — Zachary Scott Theatre Center Outstanding Production of a Comedy Present Laughter — Zachary Scott Theatre Center Outstanding Production of a Drama The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia? — Different Stages

Congratulations to Spencer Millsap, The University Star Photo Editor, and Susan Ranch, Trends Columnist and Features Reporter, on winning first and second place in the Study Abroad Photo Contest.

TRENDS

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Festival pays tribute to firefighters

By Hayley Kappes Assistant Trends Editor Firefighters gathered in Buda this weekend, but it wasn’t to squelch flames.

The 50th-annual Fire Fest was held over the weekend, drawing people from Central Texas to pay tribute to the endless work firefighters do for the community.

Jennifer Welma, Kyle resident, brought her family out to the festival for the third consecutive year to watch the firefighters challenge on Saturday.

“We want to show our support for the firefighters and what they do for our community,” Welma said.

Her 5-year-old son Cameron, who has aspirations of being a firefighter someday, came to the festival dressed in a miniature firefighter’s suit.

“We decided to come out because our son is a huge firefighting fan. We visit the local firefighting stations, and the firefighters are always so nice and helpful,” she said.

She said Fire Fest is important because it allows the community to recognize the people who risk their lives to ensure the public’s safety.

“It’s a great way for the firefighters to demonstrate how difficult their job is and for everyone to appreciate the hard work that they do for us,” she said.

The festival included a barbecue cook-off, children’s activities and

live performances by the Randy Rogers Band, Roger Creager, Ray Wiley Hubbard and several other Texas country musicians.

The main event was the ultimate firefighter challenge — an obstacle course that simulated a rescue situation.

Jason Torres, a firefighter for the Oak Hill Fire Department in Austin, said the fest was a great way for people to see how hard firefighters work for the public.

“It’s great that Buda hosts this and gets the community proactive in what we do,” Torres said. “We’re all paid on the taxpayer’s dollar, so why not have the community come out and get involved in something that we do.”

He said the physical demands of the job require every firefighter to exemplify their utmost physical stamina.

“It’s good to see how active the fire department is, and it’s always good to see that these guys are in great shape,” Torres said.

Donning the full firefighting gear and suit, each competitor ran up four flights of stairs, hoisted a hose, simulated a forced entry and dragged a 185-pound dummy across the finish line.

Torres said some fire departments train year-round for competitions.

“Every firefighter that you talk to who participates in these competitions is extremely competitive, and it gives them a chance

to come out here and show everybody else what they’ve got,” he said. “A lot of us are just old athletes.”

He said the firefighters with the best times complete the obstacle course in less than two minutes.

“Your legs are completely worn out by the time you’re done with this,” Torres said.

This year, teams competed from fire departments in Kyle, Buda, Austin, Killeen and as far away as El Paso.

Angie Roberts, Fire Fest event coordinator, said the festival began as a barbecue dinner and dance but in recent years has grown to include live music and the firefighter challenge.

“The firefighter’s challenge was started in order to incorporate all the firemen in Central Texas to come out and build camaraderie with other firefighters in the area,” Roberts said.

She said the money raised from the event would be used to improve the firefighting training facilities in the area.

“The proceeds will go to building a live fire training facility, which a lot of the smaller fire departments in this area don’t have or have limited access to,” Roberts said. “It will be a facility that all the fire departments in the surrounding area can use.”

She estimated 10,000 people attended the festival on Friday and Saturday.

Star photo Austin Byrd/

DEAD LIFT: (Above) John Killings of the El Paso Fire Department prepares to lift a 185-pound dummy to the finish line during the firefighter challenge Saturday morning at the 50thannual Fire Fest in Buda.

PULLING THEIR WEIGHT: (Right) Christopher Wirth and firefighters from around Texas demonstrate their grit Saturday at the 50th-annual Fire Fest in Buda.

Austin Byrd/Star photo

— Courtesy of MCT

The University Star - Page 7

TRENDS/DIVERSIONS

Page 8 - The University Star

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Homecoming goes from fun to none ✯ I would like to say this past week was exthe end — when I muddled through a sea ceptional with all the Homecoming festiviof beer cans that littered the parking ties going on, but nothing irks me more lot. I had to play mom, which I did not than having to wait for about an hour and want to do at a student event. After all, a half for a bus that never comes.

I still am a student. The fraternity tent I knew the bus was delayed because of next to mine was ankle deep in empty the Soapbox Derby, but I did ask the bus beer cans and it finally took one guy driver in the morning about alternative to pick up a crushed can only to throw routes and if buses would be running it back down on the ground a foot away after 5:30 pm. from a garbage can. The parent instinct SUSAN RAUCH The bus driver did not know, so that immediately kicked in and I had to scold evening I walked to the bus, asked a stu- Trends Columnist the guy for littering, but in a polite way, dent if they saw a bus go by, and he told me one I hope. The incident took away the fun I just withad just past five minutes prior. nessed ten minutes prior — the very first tailgate I figured the Campus Loop route resumed hot dog eating contest — probably the most hilari— not. Thank goodness for the Bobcat Bobbies, ous thing I have seen in a long time. Ironically who were out and about escorting those who my pictures from Saturday go from hot dogs and needed a lift across campus, because by this funny students to beer cans and irresponsible time it was 7:30 p.m. Thankfully I was able to students, which is quite a contrast. make it to the West Commuter Lot without havIf I could leave with one last word, it would be ing to walk. Frantic Friday is what I will now call for some organizations to step up and lead by Fridays on campus. I just wish Parking Services example at future tailgates to take more pride or whoever controls parking and busing would in our university by forgoing the littering of reevaluate the parking on these days. valuable cans — yes, I did say valuable as in recyHomecoming Saturday was not without a clable dollar signs. Can you say future potential hitch. The day was enjoyable at the tailgate until community service or fundraiser?

Philosophia

Joy, Strife & College Life

by Sophia Stenis

by Cecila de Jesus

Fine Arts Calendar Mass Communication Week, Tuesday to Thursday, Old Main Scott Slovic Reading and Book Signing, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Alkek Library, seventh floor Sculpture Symposium Opening, 5 p.m. Thursday, Mitte Galleries I and II Opening Door Dance Concert, 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Evans Auditorium Suburbia, 7:30 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Studio Theatre Phi Mu Alpha Recital, 8 p.m.

Thursday, Recital Hall UMADD New Organization Interest Meeting, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, LBJ Student Center, Room 3.10.1 Cary Michaels Voice Studio Recital, 8 p.m. Friday, Recital Hall Orchestra del Rio, 9 p.m. Friday, George’s Senior Saxophone Recital by Christopher Ty Reagan, 4 p.m.

Monday, Recital Hall Jazz Lab Band, 8 p.m. Monday, Evans Auditorium

Strip archives at dormsweetdorm.tripod.com

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

10/18 Solutions:

SPORTS

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

The University Star - Page 9

Rugby fans gather for hard-hitting good time Volleyball Briefs

By Sophia Stenis Special to the University Star Englishmen, South Africans and rugby fans from all over gathered Saturday in Austin at Fado Irish Pub to watch South Africa defeat defending champion England in the World Cup. The South Africa Springboks pulled a 15-6 victory over England, although neither team scored in the try zone during the match — all 21 points were from penalty kicks.

“It was an ugly game, but I’m so happy that we won.

Although, we were really hoping for a try,” said Sumarie Muller, theatre senior on a tennis scholarship from Johannesburg, South Africa.

Muller and Natalie McLeod, pre-physical therapy junior from Benoni, South Africa, showed up two hours early to get a good seat at Fado, where they sat anxiously in the front row to cheer on their home country.

National anthems rang out, one after the other, throughout the pub. Initially, many with English accents could be heard wholeheartedly singing their nation’s hymn; then sounded the voices of dozens of South Africans crooning their anthem.

English and South African chants flew back and forth about the pub. Muller and McLeod chanted “Hie kommie bokke,” which means, “here come the Springboks” in Afrikaans. England fans could be heard chanting, “Come on — England.”

Percy Montgomery, kicker for South Africa, booted four of the five penalty kicks that won the Springboks the match. He was 4-4 during the match.

“England got frustrated, which led to penalties that the ’Boks were able to capitalize on,” said James Zottarelli, biology junior and president of the Texas State men’s rugby club.

At halftime, England fan

Lamar 3, Texas State 1 The Bobcats had the daunting task Friday of ending Lamar’s 12-match winning streak.

Blown leads were the story of this match.

The Bobcats started off strong, taking the first game 30-22 and jumping out 12-3 in the second game. Texas State then fell apart, committing nine errors in a game two loss, 30-27.

In game three, junior outside hitter Lawrencia Brown and freshman middle blocker Melinda Cave combined for ten kills. The Bobcats were out in front 21-13 and seemingly in control. The Lady Cardinals, led by outside hitter Molli Abel and setter Adrianne Meengs, battled back to tie the score at 28. Two Texas State errors later, Lamar captured the pivotal game three, 30-28.

Game four was tied 10-10 before Lamar took control. The score was 29-19 Lamar, when junior middle blocker Emily Jones’ error ended the match.

Cave led the team in kills with 16, followed by Brown with 15. Freshman setter Shelbi Irvin and sophomore setter Brittany Collins each had 23 assists. For Lamar, Meengs finished with 14 kills and 46 of the Cardinals’ 57 assists.

Chris Clark/Express Syndication RUGBY ROYALTY: Prince William plays in the Ma Bells Rugby Sevens tournament in St. Andrews, Scotland. Prince William, who was in attendance at Saturday’s 2007 Rugby World Cup final, saw South Africa defeat his native England, 15-6 in Paris.

Ian White said the game could be turned around with some brute and discipline. “We’re pretty good in the scrum,” he said. “We need to tackle hard, break through, and get that one saving try.”

England almost got that “one saving try” shortly after the second half began, but a ferocious last minute tackle

by South Africa destroyed their chance at redemption.

Forty-one minutes into the match, a fan disrupted play when he rushed out onto the field. He was

quickly apprehended and dragged off by security.

Shortly after the distraction, English center Mathew Tait dodged persistent attacks to run 40 meters before being tackled. England quickly spun the ball back to Mark Cueto, who dove toward the try line where South Africa’s Danie Rossouw tackled him.

In the stands, Prince William clasped his hands in front of his face while awaiting a ruling from the Australian official.

After reviewing the play, it

was decided that the Cueto’s foot was over the line when he touched the ball down.

England was denied the try and kicked for three points.

“I thought he touched the ball down in goal before he went into touch,” said Zottarelli, who was rooting for South Africa. “It was close though.”

To top off the match, young South African center Francois Steyn redeemed himself for a penalty kick he missed earlier in the match when he booted one through the goal

for the final score.

After 80 minutes of bonecrushing scrums and breakaway streaks, the Springboks won the 2007 Rugby World Cup final. South Africa fans at Fado sprung to their feet, erupting with cries of jubilance as a green, yellow, red, blue, white and black flag waved proudly in front of the television screen.

“We played really well, but they pushed harder,” said White as he looked up from his pint of ale. “Bad time for national pride, I guess.”

CLASSIFIEDS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

Page 9 - Tuesday, October 23, 2007

McNeese State 3, Texas State 2 The Bobcats traveled to Lake Charles, La. to take on McNeese State Saturday. Once again, Texas State started off strong, winning game one 30-18 behind six kills from sophomore outside hitter Jessica Weynand.

As quickly as they won game one, Texas State lost games two and three, 30-23 and 30-19.

In game two, Texas State committed eleven errors. That, combined with six kills from McNeese State’s Chanel Tyler, told the story.

Game three was a clean game from the Bobcats side of the court with only one error committed. However, they had no answer for McNeese State setter Sarah Cartie. She had 15 of her match-high 47 assists in the third game alone.

The Bobcats rebounded to capture game four 30-23 and tie things up. Junior middle blocker Amy Weigle had six of her teamhigh 15 kills, and the game ended on a kill

by Brown.

The deciding game five is always played to 15 instead of 30, so when Texas State fell behind 7-1, it was all the more difficult to come back. Weigle’s kill made the score 10-7, but that was the closest the Bobcats would get, with the final score 15-9 in favor of the Cowgirls.

— Compiled by Travis Atkins/Sports Reporter

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SPORTS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

diggingdeep Texas State volleyball looks to get back in the win column 7 p.m. Tuesday at Texas-Arlington. After a six-match winning streak, the ’Cats have dropped four of their last seven and two in a row during last weekend’s road swing against Lamar (9-0 Southland Conference East) and McNeese State (6-3 SLC East). The Bobcats currently sit in third place in the SLC West Division with a 5-4 league record, 12-9 overall.

Page 10 - Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Sports Contact — Scott Strickman, starsports@txstate.edu

HOME SWEET HOME

’Cats topple SFA at Homecoming

By Gabe Mendoza Sports Reporter After five weeks of frustration, the mood in the Texas State locker room was much brighter following Saturday’s homecoming game.

The Bobcats picked up their second win of the season Saturday, and their first in the Southland Conference, by beating Stephen F. Austin 52-29. But more importantly, Coach Brad Wright said the win has the team headed back in the right direction,.

“This is going to be a turning point in our season,” Wright said. “We’ve talked about that all week.”

The story of the game was the offensive output, which showcased a balanced attack that produced 638 yards of total offense for the Bobcats. The running back combination of freshman Karrington Bush and sophomore Alvin Canady gained over 180 yards rushing each, thanks in large part to a determined offensive line.

“They really came out and were on a mission to get the run game going,” Canady said. “Anytime our running game is

Austin Byrd/ Star photo

going good, I think our whole offense is going to go good. It helps our passing game — it helps everything.”

The passing game responded, as junior wide receiver Cameron Luke had a career day on his way to being named SLC Player of the Week. Luke pulled down seven catches for 152 yards and tied a Southland Conference record with four receiving touchdowns.

“It makes it a lot easier for me when you have a receiver who can just go up and take it away from somebody,” said sophomore quarterback Bradley George. “There were a couple there where he just went out and got it. You can’t really ask for much more than that.”

The running game set the tempo early when Canady busted a 58-yard run on the Bobcats third possession of the game. Canady set up Luke’s first touchdown of the night, a 15-yard pass over the middle to give Texas State a 10-7 lead after one quarter.

The ’Cats would not trail the rest of the way.

It got worse for the Lumberjack defense in the second quarter as the Texas State backs piled up the yards, seemingly running the ball at will. The Bobcats running attack accumulated 152 yards in the quarter, and the Bobcats found the end zone on their final three possessions of the half to go into the break with a commanding 31-7 lead.

“Our offensive line obviously was doing a great job of putting the holes up there, and (Bush and Canady) are going to find them if you block long enough,” Wright said. “They’re talented young men, and we’re going to have them for a while, so that’s good.”

The second half saw SFA make their offensive push through the air, as the Bobcat defense shut down their running attack. Texas State

Cotton Miller/Star photo EVERY INCH COUNTS: Sophomore running back Alvin Canady powers his way through the Lumberjack defense. Canady rushed for 182 yards during Saturday’s win against Stephen F. Austin

held the Lumberjacks to a total of zero net rushing yards on just 14 attempts for the night. Combined with a large deficit, SFA was forced to throw the ball on just about every play. Freshman quarterback Jeremy Moses finished the game with 508 passing yards and three touchdowns, but was intercepted and sacked three times.

“Honestly, it didn’t look like it at the end, but you have to give credit to our defense,” Wright said. “We put in a couple new things, schematically, here this last week because we got tired of beating our heads up against the wall trying to do what we’ve been doing.”

Moses threw for a 56-yard touchdown shortly before the end of the third quarter to pull his team to within 17 points, but Texas State would not let them back into the game in the fourth.

The Bobcats used the running game to eat up as much clock as possible and set up passing opportunities for George. With just under nine minutes to play, George scrambled away from pressure to find Luke in the end zone yet again, this time for 42 yards, to push the score to 45-21 and essentially end SFA’s chance at a comeback.

“When our o-line is opening up holes for (the running backs) to run, it makes it a whole lot easier to throw the ball deep.” George said. “Our line deserves a lot of credit and our running backs, too. They did a great job, and it makes everyone’s job a lot easier.”

The Bobcats will look to even their conference record this week when they travel to Northwestern State in Natchitoches, La., to face the 2-2 Demons.

UTSA runs over Bobcats in important conference game

By Carl Harper Senior Sports Reporter The Bobcats played the role of Wile E. Coyote Sunday against the Roadrunners of Texas-San Antonio.

Texas State’s offense was stymied by the Roadrunners as the ’Cats extended their losing streak to two games with a 3-1 loss to UTSA — a soccer program only in its second year of existence.

After coming off a tough 2-1 defeat Oct. 14 to Stephen F. Austin, the Bobcats hoped to bounce back against UTSA, an important match in terms of conference standings. Instead, Coach Kat Conner said her team was emotionless on the field.

“I told the team at halftime that I thought they played the first half with no passion and that I expect their passion to come out every time they take the field,” Conner said. “They were flat today and didn’t come ready to work.”

The Roadrunners (5-7-2, 3-1-1) found the Bobcats (3-10-1, 2-2-1) net twice during the first half. Alli Dillon CJ Kelly/Star photo knocked in her sixth goal in the 28th QUICK COUNTER: Sophomore Forward Lindsay Tippit helps move the ball around the minute, and UTSA’s second goal, by UTSA defense, during the Bobcats 3-1 loss Sunday at Bobcat Soccer Complex.

Joy Jarrell, came six minutes before

halftime off a deflected header.

It wasn’t until the 21st minute that the Bobcats got a shot off when freshman midfielder Audra Randell sent a cross pass to sophomore forward Nikki Kinard. The Roadrunners’ goalkeeper Allison McCabe was able to pick up one of her two saves when she blocked Kinard’s only shot of the game. The Southland Conference Goalkeeper of the Week played the full 90 minutes while sophomore Mandi Mawyer and freshman Amanda Byrd split time in front of the net for the ’Cats. Mawyer collected four saves — including a fullextension diving stop just 14 minutes into the game — while Byrd posted six saves.

The Roadrunners punched in their final goal in the 62nd minute when Laurel Dierking and Dillon teamed up to assist Veronica Najera on her fifth shot and first goal of the match. One minute later, the Bobcats caught a break when UTSA’s Ezinne Okpo deflected a Texas State corner kick off her head and into the Roadrunners goal to cut the lead to 3-1. But a great defensive stand by UTSA held off the Bobcats for the remaining minutes of the game.

“It was a tough loss. We really needed this win so that we could stay in the top two spots in conference,” said senior forward Jerelyn Lemmie. “We just have to go out and play our hardest next weekend and try to get in the tournament now. This game we just were not playing with heart. We practiced harder this week than we played in the game, so we just need to pull it together and play with more heart.”

Junior midfielder Reagan McNutt led the Bobcats with three shots, one of those coming on goal, while sophomore forward Lindsay Tippit attempted two shots. The Bobcats attempted four shots in the second half and had wideopen opportunities to score. However, their shots either went high or wide.

“I liked the way the forwards connected in the second half,” Conner said. “They were trying to find each other by combining together, and it was good to see them do some different runs. It’s coming along; we have just go to work harder.”

Texas State will look to rebound on the road against Northwestern State and Central Arkansas on Friday and Sunday, respectively.

Women’s golf swings through tournament with ease

By Javier González Sports Reporter Texas State women’s golf again captured both team and individual top 10 finishes.

Texas State had four golfers who shot in the 70s in the final round, enough to elevate them to a ninthplace finish in the Price’s Give ‘Em Five Intercollegiate at New Mexico State.

The Bobcats overall three-round score of 920 was equal to Baylor and the team finished 18 strokes behind champion Oklahoma.

Coach Mike Akers said despite a rough start, the tournament will ultimately serve as another exercise in growth.

“I was very disappointed ... Monday and Tuesday, but we came back in the final round and moved up in the standings,” he said. “Considering we had four freshmen in the lineup, I had to expect some learning experiences. This tournament was just that.”

The first-year class has been producing standout results thus far, collectively leading the nation in Freshman Class Impact Ranking. Freshman Linn Gustafsson has led the team in scoring this season and spearheaded the effort last week in Las Cruces, N.M. with her eighth-place finish.

“Linn is everything a coach could ask for in a student-athlete,” Akers said. “She has been working hard on her swing and it shows. She hit 16 of 18 greens in regulation on Tuesday. She would have

won this tournament if her putting was better.”

Gustafsson, the most recent Southland Conference Golfer of the Month, shot a three-round score of 223, seven-over-par. She has played eight rounds to date with a total of 582 strokes, including three top 10 finishes. No other Bobcat has even one.

Freshman Trine Mortensen has followed behind her fellow European-born teammate with 614 total strokes in eight rounds of play. She finished tied for 35th with a three-round total of 232 at New Mexico State.

Mortensen said the tournament was less grueling than previous events because the team only had to play one round a day.

“It was easier, not harder, at this one because we

played 18 holes per day ... at other tournaments we play 36 holes per day,” Mortensen said.

Akers said the New Mexico State tournament had the most competitive course and opponents the team has seen this season.

“The golf course we faced at this tournament was the most difficult we have seen,” he said. “(It) was very long with narrow fairways. We found ourselves hitting numerous trouble shots. The field was composed mainly of Big 12, Big 10 and ACC teams. It was a great test for us and we showed we belong with schools from bigger conferences.”

The women’s golf team will return to the fairways Nov. 4 and 5 as host of the Challenge at Wolfdancer in Bastrop.