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Texas State gets at Baylor wins 99 -second 84. Thego team his the with softball game at Bobcat Field raod for a tournament Friday.
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NOVEMBER 14, 2007
WEDNESDAY
VOLUME 97, ISSUE 36
University community division Concealed weapons spark controversy
By Stephanie Kusy-Wilson News Reporter The Second Amendment is being tested once again. Since the Virginia Tech incident, universities, police officers and politicians have been developing strategies to protect students and faculty if another mass shooting were to occur. Gov. Rick Perry and other Republicans expressed desires earlier this year to allow Texans with concealedweapon permits to carry their guns where they choose, including university campuses. Perry signed a slew of bills in March relating to gun control, including the
Transportation officials propose tax by the mile By Jeff Turner News Reporter Future Texas State commuters may have to shell out more money to get to class because of a proposed switch from a fuel tax to one levied on the number of miles driven. The Department of Transportation is offering grants to states participating in studies on levying taxes by the mile. California, Oregon and Texas are considering the matter. Politicians such as state Rep. Mike Kruse, R-Round Rock, who is chair of the Transportation Committee, have said people are buying more fuel-efficient cars than they were a few years ago. As a result, people are purchasing fewer gallons of gas. A mileage tax is expected to generate more revenue than current fuel taxes. The University of Iowa will conduct a study in 2008 and 2009 with 450 Austin motorists. The driver’s cars will be equipped with a Global Positioning System, which will track the number of miles motorists travel and where they are driving. Currently, Texans pay 18.4 cents per gallon for a federal gasoline tax and a state levy of 20 cents per gallon. Averaging 30 miles per gallon to drive from Austin to San Marcos four days a week, the commuter spends roughly $45 in gasoline taxes per semester. Joseph Meyer, director of institutional research, said half of the 28,000 Texas State student
population commutes, generally from Austin or San Antonio, which equals more than $638,400 generated in fuel taxes. Jennifer Teague, music performance sophomore, commutes from Austin every weekday. Teague said she puts hundreds of miles a month on her car, and a mileage tax does not appeal to her. Some people believe raising the fuel tax or creating one based on distance traveled is asking motorists to bare an unnecessary burden for the purpose of funding the state’s transportation projects. “I already pay an arm and a leg to drive from where I live to work to (Texas State) just from the tollways,” said Melissa Bourcier, psychology senior. “They even want to put toll booths on roads we’ve already built and our tax dollars have already paid for — I don’t agree with that. You’re doing a double whammy if you ask me.” Bourcier said she has issues with the tracking of driver’s movements the proposed system would require. “I think privacy issues might come into play a little bit,” Bourcier said. “I think there are lines that they don’t need to cross. If they put in a GPS and they know where you are at all times, I think that’s pretty intrusive.” TxDOT officials have not decided whether state operated vehicles like the university’s tram would be exempt from a state See TXDOT, page 3
“castle doctrine” legislation, which allows Texans to defend themselves with a deadly weapon in their homes, cars and workplaces. Before the law was passed, some cases required a person to retreat from an intruder. Concealed weapons are still not allowed in the workplace, churches, bars and college campuses even if the person possesses a license to carry one. Garrett Butler, pre-geographic information science junior, said if people pass a background check and take a safety course, they should be allowed to carry a concealed handgun where they want. “If the state allows the person to carry a gun with a license, they have
the right to, and I support that,” said Butler, who currently does not possess a concealed handgun license. Louis Brown, history senior, currently does not have a license either, but plans to obtain one eventually. He said he would never bring a gun to campus even if he had a license and were a mass shooting to occur, he expects University Police Department to handle the issue. “It’s the cops job,” Brown said. “I’m not a police officer.” UPD said they would not take a political stance on the issue. Rickey Lattie, UPD captain, said if the restrictions were lifted to allow students and faculty to carry guns on campus, it would make his job more
difficult, but he would adjust. “We don’t want to be in a situation where someone has a better advantage than us,” Lattie said. Officers that have completed special training have been allowed to carry AR-15 rifles on campus, which are more accurate than pistols and many handguns. While state laws have not been passed to allow concealed handguns on campus, faculty realize it could being permitted one day. If the state passes the law, it will be up to the university’s discretion if they allow guns on school property. Kate Peirce, journalism professor, See GUNS, page 3
POST PROBLEMS Road construction, headaches continue By Philip Hadley News Reporter Bulldozers, barricades and dust line the Post Road construction site where traffic weaves through narrow detours — often sharing lanes with heavy machinery. City officials say there is a light at the end of the road for the $8.1 million project. Sabas Avila, assistant director of engineering, said approximately 60 percent of the project is now finished with a final completion date slated for September 2008. Tyler Groff, communication studies junior and Post Road resident, said the construction project has been a transportation headache. “The traffic in that area is always hectic, especially around Travis Elementary,” Groff said. “There are instances where traffic goes around buses, and it causes dangerous situations for oncoming traffic. I think the project is just taking too long.” Avila said there is a reason for the length of the project that began in July 2006. He said the most timeconsuming aspect is utility relocation and drainage. “We don’t want to put in a new street, and then a few years later tear it all up to put in a new water line or See ROAD, page 3
LONG OVERDUE: With an estimated 60 percent of construction finished, the $8.1 million Post Road project is scheduled for completion by September 2008.
Greg Richards/Star photo
UPD captain, brother awarded for accomplishments By Alex Hering News Reporter Growing up in the Chapa home meant walking a fine line of discipline with a former Marine and Korean War veteran as a father. “I used to say I was going to be in law enforcement spectrum. I just didn’t know what side,” Paul Chapa said. These days, Chapa serves as the University Police Department captain. “I think I chose the right side,” he said. Chapa said he knew he would be in law enforcement when his older brother and mentor Anthony Chapa joined the San Antonio Police Department in 1981. His brother went on to take a position in Photo courtesy of Paul Chapa the Secret Service and is now a department direcBROTHERS IN ARMS: UPD Captain Paul tor overseeing the protective intelligence division in Washington, D.C. Chapa (left) and his brother Anthony were Last month the Hispanic American Police Comrecently awarded the “Aguila” award, given mand Officers Association awarded the two brothers to officers who achieve the highest level of the highest honor in the organization. The Aguila concern for safety, by the Hispanic AmeriAward is given to individuals who have the highest can Police Command Officers Association level of concern for public safety. in Washington D.C. Anthony Chapa said he was thrilled to find they
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were honored together for their service. “I am probably more excited than anyone that my brother Paul is being recognized for leadership and his work in law enforcement,” Chapa said. “I was recognized as well, but I am being recognized for cumulative service to the community with my agency and to the organization. That my brother would be recognized for leadership halfway through his career to me is just outstanding. I can’t be happier or prouder than anyone that he is my younger brother.” The association is the largest and oldest organization in the U.S. of Hispanic American command officers from law enforcement agencies across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, according to its Web site. Executive Director Lee Roy Villareal said he would not expect this coincidence to happen again. “The review board didn’t even know they were brothers,” Villareal said. “I was pretty sure they were (brothers), but I didn’t reveal that to the selection committee so they could make the decision on their own merits.” Paul Chapa, who has been a member of the association for five years, said seeing the people who have received the Aguila Award before him and then to be nominated was exciting.
“Knowing that my work is being recognized for the quality that I believe it is — that’s just great,” Chapa said. “You know that doesn’t happen in our business where you’re recognized for your work. But when it does, it’s really nice and it definitely feeds my passion and feeds my momentum to continue to do the work I do.” The brothers attribute their commitment to excellence and dedication to the public to their father. “Part of our influence comes from our father’s very strong sense of patriotism and service to the community,” Anthony Chapa said. “Our dad served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean conflict and from there he became a civilian employee at Kelly Air Force Base as a jet mechanic. He was always talking to us about what it was to serve, public service, giving back to the community and strong sense of ethics and morality.” He said their father was very proud and keeps track of their accomplishments. “He has, over the years, kept a scrapbook of all his kids,” Chapa said. “He’s got three sons and two daughters. He’s got a scrapbook with probably all See BROTHERS, page 3
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PAGETWO
Today in Brief
Page 2 - Wednesday, November 14, 2007
starsof texas state
Walter “Tommy” Cox, Paul Phillips III, Mike Wynn and Ken Huewitt, Texas State alumni, will be inducted into the Hall of Honor class by the T-Association next week. The four Hall of Honor inductees will be introduced at halftime of Texas State’s football game against Sam
Houston State Thursday. Friday, the class will be officially inducted into the Hall during the annual Hall of Honor Induction Dinner in the Sac-N-Pac Room of Bobcat Stadium’s End Zone Complex. — Courtesy of University News Service
News Contact — Nick Georgiou, starnews@txstate.edu Texas State University-San Marcos is a member of the Texas State University System
Calendar Wednesday Texas State AKD Sociology Honor Society presents, “Sociology Profs Speak out: The Journey from Undeclared to Ph.D.,” 5 to 6 p.m. in Derrick 226. All majors welcome. The rosary will be prayed in the St. Jude Chapel of the Catholic Student Center 6 p.m. Student Volunteer Connection will hold its weekly meeting 6 p.m. in LBJ Student Center 3-1.5. Higher Ground will hold a contemplative and peaceful evening prayer service 5:30 p.m. in the basement of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church (510 N. Guadalupe, directly across from the Tower dorm), followed by supper at 6:15 p.m. Students of every religious background are welcome. AITP will have special guest Andre Ileks, CIO of Whole Foods Market in Austin, at their chapter meeting 5 p.m. in McCoy 127. The Texas State Sociology Club is holding a food drive for the Hays County Women’s Shelter. The drive will run through the Nov. 19 with drop boxes in Derrick Hall. The club is looking for non-perishable canned goods as well as gently used clothing or personal hygiene products. Thursday Texas State football will play Sam Houston State 7 p.m. at Bobcat Stadium. Career Services presents, “From Backpack to Briefcase,” 4 to 5:30 p.m. in Flowers Hall, room 230.
The Catholic Student Organization will meet 6 p.m. in the library of the CSC.
CERAMICSon sale
Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship will hold its weekly meeting 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.
Nov. 6, 1:16 p.m. Harassment/UPD Lobby An officer was dispatched to the lobby for a harassment report. A student reported a non-student called and harassed the student. This case is under investigation.
Friday
Monday Men Against Violence meeting will be held 5 to 6 p.m. in LBJSC 3.10. Higher Ground Campus Ministry Bible Study will be held in the basement lounge of St. Mark’s Episcopal (510 N. Guadalupe, directly across from the Tower dorm), 6 to 7 p.m. The topic: “Pressures: Keeping it Together When Everything is Falling Apart, Part 3.” No experience necessary. Tuesday Texas State women’s basketball will play Concordia-Austin 7 p.m. in Strahan Coliseum. The CSC will have a free lunch for all students 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the CSC lobby. Overeaters Anonymous will meet 12:30 p.m. at the First Lutheran Church, 130 W. Holland. For more information call Lynn, (512) 357-2049.
University Police Department Nov. 4, 1:51 a.m. Failure to Identify/Alcohol: Minor in Possession/ Bobcat Village Two officers were dispatched for a disorderly conduct report. A student and a non-student were issued citations for MIP; a non-student was issued two citations, arrested for failure to ID and transported to Hays County Law Enforcement Center to await magistration.
The Rock — Praise & Worship will take place 7:30 p.m. in the St. Jude Chapel of the CSC.
Alcoholics Anonymous Newcomer’s Meeting, River Group, will be 9:15 p.m. at 1700 Ranch Rd. 12, Suite C.
CRIME BL TTER
Katie Allinson/Star photo Tina Williams of the Ceramic Art Student Association shows Jacob Zernick, pre-psychology freshman, pieces of art on sale Tuesday in The Quad.
ASG Beat City Councilman Chris Jones visited the Associated Student Government Monday to inform the student body about the controversy surrounding the City Council election. It was reported several students were turned away for various reasons at the polls, which is under a great deal of debate. The votes will be recounted in the coming weeks and Jones urged all students who were turned away at the polls to contact ASG President Reagan Pugh, or another student representative, so their vote can be counted. The resolution “More Bang For Your Swipe,” which called for an increase in fees to support the growing technological change in campus identification, passed with a resounding yes Monday. The idea on-campus students could pay for laundry with Bobcat Bucks was very appealing. Further, a resolution calling for support concerning senior giving, which would allow for gifts to the school and better relationships with alumni, passed, and so did a resolution working toward cheaper and more available textbooks to students.
Several new pieces of legislation were introduced this week. Senator Bogan Durr wrote and passed a resolution calling for support and official recognition of Texas State Recycle Day, which will be Thursday. A resolution, which will be voted on next week, outlined changes for the ASG scholarship funds so a more rigid and fair way of awarding students can be maintained. The last and most controversial resolution to be introduced this week was the resolution entitled “Enabling Self Defense” which calls upon the Texas Legislature to allow students with concealed handgun licenses to be allowed to carry their concealed weapons on campus and in the classroom. This resolution will be voted on next week. All students are encouraged and welcome to come join ASG 7 p.m. Monday in the LBJ Student Center, Room 3-14.1. Never forget: today is a great day to be a Bobcat. — Courtesy of Associated Student Government
Nov. 6, 6:01 p.m. Theft – under $1500/Student Recreation Center Two officers were dispatched for a theft report. A student reported property was taken from the building without consent. This case is under investigation. Nov. 6, 11:05 p.m. Assault by Contact/Disorderly Conduct/Medical Emergency/Blanco Hall Two officers were dispatched for a medical emergency. A student was evaluated by EMS and transported to Central Texas Medical Center for further evaluation. Then the student was issued a citation, arrested and transported to HCLEC to await magistration. Nov. 7, 2:19 p.m. Criminal Trespass Warning/Bobcat Village An officer was on patrol and observed an individual soliciting. The non-student was issued a CTW. Nov. 7, 5:32 p.m. Information Report/UPD Lobby An officer was dispatched to the lobby for a lost property. A student reported lost property on campus. A report was generated for this case. Nov. 7, 10:57 p.m. Criminal Mischief – under $50/Frio Hall Two officers were dispatched for a criminal mischief report. A non-student reported a damaged sign. A report was generated for this case. Nov. 7, 11:46 p.m. Drug: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia/Elm Lot An officer was on patrol and observed two individuals exiting the woods. Upon further investigation, a student was issued a citation for PODP. — Courtesy of University Police Department
NEWS
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
The University Star - Page 3
Big Brothers Big Sisters seeks volunteers ROAD CONTINUED from page 1
Karen Wang/Star photo REACHING OUT: Representatives of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas, a statewide mentor program, commemorate their Hays County office launch at the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce Thursday Sept. 6. The program is currently looking for student volunteers.
By Selina Saucedo News Reporter Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas, a mentoring program helping children ages six to 16 since 1971, has expanded its branches to Hays County. The organization is now interested in recruiting students from Texas State to become mentors to children in San Marcos. An informational meeting was held Thursday at the LBJ Student Center to provide further information to students interested in mentoring. Big Brothers Big Sisters pairs up “bigs,” who are the mentors, with “littles,” who are children anywhere in the same area. They reach out to atrisk children or those who are recommended by a parent or guidance counselor. “These are kids that need someone,” said Eileen Hays, a staff member of the organization. “They benefit from something as simple as hanging out.” According to the organization’s Web site, Little Brothers and Little Sisters are 75 percent less likely to drop out of school and 46 percent less likely to use illegal drugs.
“These kids have potential,” said Gil Levy, vice president of programs and strategic initiatives. “We provide mentors to these kids so that they flourish.” Volunteer mentors must complete an application, reference and background checks and an interview. These are all precautions to ensure a child is put with someone who will be a good influence. The guidelines for the program say volunteers must commit for a minimum of one year and have to visit their “little” brother or sister often. “Research shows that the longer the child spends time in relationships, the more they gain,” Levy said. “We try to sustain flourishing relationships.” The first group of children selected to be “littles” will come from Herman Intermediate School in San Marcos. “We don’t want (the volunteers) to be superheroes,” said Tracy Guthrie, partnership and marketing coordinator. “They won’t expect (the volunteers) to be superheroes…it’s simple.” To learn more about volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas, visit the organization’s Web site at www.bbbscentraltx.org.
BROTHERS CONTINUED from page 1
the articles written about Paul. Any kind of recognition or awards for him and I, he’s got them along with pictures on his wall.” Paul Chapa said it was his father who enjoyed the news of their award the most. “He read one of the earlier news releases which was very touching for him,” Chapa said. “As we spoke, I could tell he had a lump in his throat. I knew that it definitely struck a chord with him. He is extremely happy with both of his sons.” Chapa said he remembered when he and his brother were reunited in Las Vegas for the association’s convention. “It was a high-five type of moment as we met each other at the airport,” he said. Chapa said he still talks to his brother/mentor two to three times a day. He said he believes in the mentoring program at Texas State because it worked for him. His mentee, Joe Barron, said they helped each other through their first years at Texas State. “We were both new to the
university,” said Barron, interior design senior. “He kind of introduced me to the university when I didn’t really have any friends.” Barron said Chapa is deserving of the award because he serves as an example to both himself and the people who work around him. “He works very hard at what he does,” Barron said. “He isn’t biased — he does the best he can. He has talent and leadership skills that are an example to the people that work under him. He cares about students and about his job. He is deserving of the award and any award he gets.” Chapa said his momentum would not stop anytime soon. “I’m not stopping here — I’m looking for an Oscar,” Paul Chapa said. He said his short-term goals include attaining his master’s degree in fall 2008 and then to become chief of police. “God only knows, but the passion and the will is definitely there,” Chapa said. Anthony Chapa said he simply didn’t want the community to realize they received the award, but that there is more to an individual
than his past. “It is a story about what a person can do with opportunity,” Chapa said. “We don’t want an individual to think ‘I’ve come from a deprived background or a minority family and I can’t make something of myself.’” Anthony Chapa said his brother had a less direct route to law enforcement. “He had some spills and scrapes along the way, but we never gave up on him and we pushed education,” Chapa said. “As a young man, he was very bright and he was able to pick himself up, and move forward.” Chapa said mentoring helped, but his younger brother earned every piece of advice he got. “I would never give him anything. He would have to earn it,” he said. “When you earn something it’s yours. He earned an undergraduate degree and is in the process of earning a masters degree and this national recognition. I think the department should be proud and hopefully the Hispanic community is very proud of what he’s accomplished in just a few short years that has been in that role.”
taught in other countries such as Malaysia, where schools were protected during political strife with a barbed wire fence. He said students and faculty felt more secure and was able to discuss controversial issues in class. Wilson said he would not discuss disputable subjects in class if students are carrying weapons because it could spark a heated debate and escalate.
He said social policy should not be based on fear, which is the reason why government and society are pushing this issue. Wilson said even though a student once attacked him, he would never carry a handgun on campus even if the law permitted him to do so. “It just seems like a step in a really dangerous direction,” Wilson said.
GUNS CONTINUED from page 1
said she is frightened by the idea of weapons on campus. “I don’t think anybody should be wandering around with a concealed handgun no matter the reason or the purpose,” Peirce said. “I think it’s dangerous.” Steve Wilson, English professor and faculty senator, has
NOTHING BUT NET
Monty Marion/Star photo Brandon Bush, junior guard, scores for the Bobcats’ Tuesday night game against the Patriots.
sewer line,” Avila said. “Before we do any road work, we go in and make sure any aging water lines and sewer lines are replaced. We have also added drainage pipes, a feature that Post Road did not previously have. This process takes a considerable amount of time, but is worth it in the long term.” Avila said the existing twolane roadway would be expanded into three-lanes, which includes a center left-turn lane. The new thoroughfare would have bike lanes on both sides and include a sidewalk only along the west side of the roadway. “When this project is complete, the students of Texas State will have the opportunity to use alternative modes of transportation to school and not be concerned about their safety,” Avila said. It is the current safety of pedestrians Andie Cobarruvias, mass communication senior and Post Road resident, is concerned about. “Joggers don’t seem to pay attention when they jog on the road,” Cobarruvias said. “Cyclists have to compete for the narrow lanes. It backs up traffic and makes it difficult to watch out for pedestrians, especially at night.”
Melissa Millecam, city of San Marcos communications manager, said the city encourages motorists to keep safety in mind when traveling through the site. “We really encourage people to drive carefully in that construction zone because of the school and the residential area,” Millecam said. “It is a tough situation, and it takes public cooperation to make it not as miserable as it otherwise might be.” The current project does not include the section of roadway between Bert Brown Street and Aquarena Springs Drive because of future plans for that intersection. “(The Texas Department of Transportation) is working on a project to redo that intersection,” Avila said. “The intersection will be redesigned to accompany the Aquarena Springs railroad overpass. The new plan will allow motorists on Post Road to avoid having to go over the tracks to get to the university.” While it is currently an inconvenience, Cobarruvias said it will be worth it in the end. “I grew up in San Marcos, and I’ve driven down this road for many years,” she said. “It is an old road that was in need of some improvements. I like the proposed improvements — it’s just going to take some time to get it done.”
TXDOT
CONTINUED from page 1
levied mileage tax. “If we purchase fuel for ourselves right now as a state government, we would be exempt from paying a federal tax,” said Paul Hamilton, shuttle services manager. “So the 18.4 cents per gallon in federal fuel tax goes away if we buy the fuel, but the state tax doesn’t. The (20) cent per gallon state tax doesn’t. It stays there.” He said if exemptions were not made for state operated transportation the services would suffer. “It will have a negative impact on our students,” he said. “There’s no doubt it will have a negative impact, because we have a limited budget, a limited number of hours that we can put out there and if we have to continually pay more for fuel we’ll provide fewer hours of service.”
OPINIONS THE UNIVERSITY STAR
onlineconnection Check out www.UniversityStar.com for continued News, Sports, Trends and Opinions coverage.
Page 4 - Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Opinions Contact — Meagan Singletary, staropinion@txstate.edu
THE MAIN POINT
J
une 1 came and went without a sound of the Bowl Championship Subdivision.
While alumni, students, donors, Associated Student Government officers and faculty have expressed their desire to see Texas State enter a higher division of competition — the silence on June 1 was the sound of reality. The board of regents meets Wednesday and Thursday to decide on athletic fees, but we can only imagine the silence regarding Texas State and the BCS. Texas State will not be going to the BCS anytime soon. The first attempts to gain a place in the BCS began before most college freshmen were born, and nothing has changed since then. ASG took the position Monday that it will only support the regents’ proposal to increase the athletic fee if there is a BCS push for the Bobcats. NCAA standards require Texas State to have more money, more fans and a bigger stadium. The current athletic fee is $8 per semester hour. This means a full-time undergraduate student taking the minimum 12 hours pays $96 a semester in fees. The NCAA requires $4 million in grants to play in the subdivision, which does not include the amount of scholarship money needed or the cost of stadium renovations to meet the crowd capacity standards the BCS demands. Boise State may have upset Oklahoma, and the old empires of college football may be falling, but the BCS isn’t a popularity contest nor is it an election. You can’t just buy your way into the BCS. If you could, Abilene High School would be going to a bowl game this year. Even if we did have the money, we still wouldn’t have the fans. Anyone who truly wants Texas State in the BCS has to start supporting athletics by attending games and events. The NCAA requires a 15,000-person average in the football stands over three years, and according to Texas State’s athletic department we have not filled more than 13,000 seats this season. Going to the game means watching from the stands, not just partying at the tailgate. Then, there’s the schedule. If Texas State did enter the BCS, what teams would we play? If we were lucky, we would join Conference USA. If we were really lucky, we would play the University of North Texas, maybe Southern Methodist University. We would probably be an independent team and lucky to have a home schedule at all. More importantly, Texas State would not enter into the Big 12. For those who support a BCS bid, it’s obvious they aren’t supporting the team in the stadium. This is probably why, when it comes to Jim Wacker Field on any given Saturday, the silence is deafening.
SOUNDS OF
SILENCE Move to bowl subdivision unlikely
Julie Sheah/Star illustration
New Jersey rejects stem cell research By Stephen Kenny The Hoya (Georgetown)
WASHINGTON — Last Tuesday, my home state of New Jersey rejected a ballot measure, which would have provided $450 million for embryonic stem cell research. New Jersey Democrats and the local left-wing media blamed the referendum’s failure on the poor fiscal climate of the state, but it does not explain why another ballot measure allocating funds for the preservation of open space succeeded. While many of these voters certainly rejected the stem cell proposal on ethical grounds, it is apparent New Jersey voters became fed up with the phony arguments and bad science promoted by supporters of the research. In 2004, then-Sen. John Edwards (DN.C.) declared if he and Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.) were elected to the Oval Office, “people like Christopher Reeve are going to walk, get up out of that wheelchair and walk again.” This was one of the most shameful acts of political pandering ever committed, and it would have been laughable if not for the fact he exploited the hopes of many Americans for political gain. Unfortunately, the Democratic Party has been using these kinds of statements for years now to convince the public that Republicans are standing in the way of medical innovation and miraculous cures. The fact is there has not been one breakthrough with embryonic stem cells indicating its exceptional medical potential. President Bush made funding available for existing stem cell lines in 2001, yet no progress has been made with them. Even more revealing is the lack of funding the research receives from drug companies and private medical organizations. They are not pouring money into this research because they recognize the limited potential of embryonic stem cells. What Democrats should be focusing on are the benefits of providing more support for the use of adult stem cells. There is no ethical controversy about the use of these cells because they do not require cloning or the destruction of human life. Additionally, they are extremely useful for growing various tissue and organs needed for certain treatments, though they are not as flexible as embryonic stem cells. The problem with embryonic stem cells is their capability to differentiate into one of many cell types. That is, they are so hardwired to replicate and when isolated for potential other uses, they rapidly replicate into tumors. Their growth is not controllable in a lab. The growth, however, can be controlled by nature, through the gestation process. So the fear is these stem cells are harvested and manipulated for the desired outcome, and then re-introduced into an embryo which will be developed in the womb until the desired organ cell is ready to be harvested. Welcome to the brave new world of cloning, fetal farming and the nearly insatiable need for the healthy eggs and wombs of females to develop this organ and stem cell factory. While Congress has pre-empted this by banning the implantation of an embryo in a uterus for anything other than a live birth, it is fairly understood if this restriction stood between the sick or disabled and a cure, some states would try to dismantle or circumvent it. The Democrats are using embryonic stem cell research as a political wedge issue and endangering scientific progress by funding it at the expense of more ethical stem cell research. It is time Democratic leaders in Congress and in statehouses put science before ideology and politics by compromising on stem cell research. If New Jersey voters can recognize this, anybody can.
Education eliminates subtle college racism Meagan Singletary STAR COLUMNIST
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 UniversitySan Marcos.
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On a college campus such as Texas State, which is home to thousands of students, it is sometimes easy to forget racism still exists. During a routine walk through The Quad, you are bound to encounter people of all different colors from diverse, ethnic backgrounds. If you listen close enough, you might even hear someone on his or her cell phone speaking in a
foreign tongue you have never heard before. Of course we all notice blatant examples of racism, calling someone of a different race a derogatory name, for example. What we sometimes aren’t as quick to perceive is a nastier, sneakier type of racism. Subtle racism, in my opinion, is the worst sort because most of the people who participate in this don’t even realize it. If you weren’t aware it’s even taking place, then you have no power to change it. Because I am a black woman, I see the world through a certain set of eyes, and the world perceives me through a particular view as well. No, I am not overly sensitive and quick to point the finger and scream,
Editor In Chief.................................Maira Garcia, stareditor@txstate.edu Letters.....................................................................starletters@txstate.edu News Editor...................................Nick Georgiou, starnews@txstate.edu Trends Editor.......................Clara Cobb, starentertainment@txstate.edu Opinions Editor..................Meagan Singletary, staropinion@txstate.edu Photo Editor...............................Spencer Millsap, starphoto@txstate.edu
“racist.” I am just smart enough to realize my experiences in life are going to be markedly different than those of anyone else. Last week alone I was involved in two racist situations. The first happened in the car on the way home from a festival dedicated entirely to meat and beer. The person I was in the car with turned and said to me, “You know, you really don’t seem very black to me.” My first instinct was to laugh. I encounter this sort of thing pretty often and have found it is pointless to get angry with people who are ignorant. Instead I said, “Oh really? So what is black? As a white individual, you are obviously an authority on the subject. You mean like the
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kind of people you see on rap videos or on TV? Is that what being black is?” When you point out people’s stupidity, they are quick to shut up. The second happened at a party. I told someone I didn’t take Spanish because I thought the language was ugly. Some random drunk guy immediately screamed I was a racist. When I tried to calmly explain to him my dislike of the language had nothing to do with whether or not I liked the people, he wouldn’t hear it. He told me flat out I was racist. I wasn’t aware not embracing every aspect of another person’s culture made one a racist. Guess I know now. Thanks drunk guy. I think sometimes we are
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too quick not to tell it like it is because we don’t want to offend anyone. Calling someone a racist is a serious offense, and it can hurt if it’s not accurate. I know this because of the incident at the party. However, this shouldn’t make you hesitant to point out inequalities whenever they are present. Sure, making a simple comment like, “I’m not a racist. I have black friends,” doesn’t seem to be rooted in racist feelings, but the fact remains it is. A rose called by any other name smells the same, and subtle racism is still racism. Think about this the next time you open your mouth. Meagan Singletary is a mass communication senior 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 November 14, 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
womenin islam
THE UNIVERSITY STAR
The Muslim Student Association is hosting a Women in Islam forum and speaker event 6 p.m. Wednesday in Evans Auditorium, Room 118. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.
Page 5 - Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Trends Contact — Clara Cobb, starentertainment@txstate.edu
Keep holiday weight, portions under control
Memorable Christmas for childen in T need
source of complex carbohydrates and protein for breakfast.” Exercise is a must for those he holidays are quickly who want to lose weight, but approaching and so it can be difficult to maintain a are all those delectable regular workout regimen with treats. It is nearly im- a student’s schedule. Students possible to avoid these yummy would be surprised with how comfort foods and desserts. It parking farther away from class takes 3,500 extra calories to pack or taking the stairs can make a on one pound of fat, yet one can big difference said Vatsala Maistill enjoy the holiday festivities tin, nutrition and foods assistant while avoiding any excess pound- professor. “The best way to keep up with age. Follow some simple rules then feel free to indulge without an exercise regimen is to choose an activity you enjoy, that way expanding the waistline. The key is controlling portion you forget you’re burning calosizes said B.J. Friedman, fam- ries while having fun,” Maitin said. ily and consumer E l i s s a sciences profesBasham, nutrisor. It’s OK to tion and foods have one piece of senior, said she pumpkin pie with believes any a little whipped type of exercise cream and a glass is better than or two of an alconone at all. holic beverage, “Some fun Friedman said. alternatives to To prevent fillexercise could ing up on high calbe going to the orie foods, begin river, dancing with lighter food or even shopchoices. While it ping,” she said. can be difficult to “Try to spend keep away from more time outjunk foods, al—B.J. Friedman doors rather lowing for some family and consumer sceinces than just sitting healthy options professor inside. Taking a first can prevent 10 to 20 minute ove r i n d u l g i n g , she said. One good idea is to eat walk as a study break is a great before going to a party, or sit way to get outside.” When it comes to splurging on further away from a buffet table to avoid the temptation of going delicious goodies, most students have experienced some sort of back for more. “A great alternative to a soft guilty regret. Brandon Chapa, drink or alcoholic beverage is to health and fitness management switch your drink to club soda junior, said this is completely with some lemon or lime,” Fried- normal. “One night of indulging won’t man said. “It feels festive, but kill you,” he said. “We are young has no calories.” Eat little meals throughout and can rebound more easily. Just the day, she said. Don’t let your- watch what you are eating and self be fooled by the misconcep- don’t be afraid to live a little.” Friedman said thinking ahead tion; if you don’t eat all day, you can overindulge later. Skipping and planning eating patterns meals tends to lead to overeating helps those who are trying to stay on track. and is not a good idea. “Sometimes we have to splurge “Breakfast is especially important because you have been to fulfill other needs besides nufasting for six to eight hours or tritional ones. Forgive yourself more,” Friedman said. “Do you and do right most of the time,” expect your car to be able to op- Friedman said. erate without gas? Have a good By Amy Grill Special to The Star
“A
“I
f we can help someone and do a kind act for them hopefully they can pay that forward.”
—Felicia Segura criminal justice senior
By Erica Rodriguez Features Reporter
The children of a local shelter will enjoy a memorable Christmas season with a few extra gifts thanks to the efforts of Texas State students and community volunteers. Jack’s Roadhouse, a Texas-themed bar located on Hunter Road, will be hosting a benefit event noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. The benefit will include live music, food and a raffle drawing. Raffle tickets will be sold for $10 each until the day of the event and winners do not need to be present to win. All proceeds from the raffle will be donated to the Greater San Marcos Youth Council to help buy Christmas presents for the children at the shelter. The shelter is dedicated to providing a safe atmosphere for children who have been abused or neglected. “The whole community pulls together to make this happen,” said Andy La Marche, a coordinator for the event. Raffle items include restaurant gift certificates, donations from local businesses and a baseball hat autographed by Roger Clemens. The grand prize for the night will be a gift basket including 15 different varieties of liquor. Live music will be provided by local country music band Lonnie and the Texas Connection. La Marche has been working to make charity events such as this happen for many years, but it is only the second year the event has been hosted by Jack’s Roadhouse. Last holiday season, La Marche was able to raise enough money to give each child $200 toward purchasing Christmas gifts. Charlie Townsend, applied arts and sciences senior, bartends at Jack’s Roadhouse and helped work last year’s event. “Those kids had a better Christmas than I usually have,” he said “I was happy for them.” The American Criminal Justice Association Lambda Alpha Epsilon, is the only Texas State organization involved with the event. The group will be selling raffle tickets until Thursday, said president Felicia Segura. “If we can help someone and do a kind act for them, hopefully they can pay that forward,” said Segura, criminal justice senior. So far the association has raised nearly $200 from raffle sales and expects the amount increase. This will be the organization’s first year to work with the benefit at Jack’s Roadhouse, but the spirit of the event is one Segura hopes continues. “I would love to see this organization maintain a strong relationship with this charity event,” she said. La Marche believes the event will help provide a memorable holiday season for children of the Greater San Marcos Youth Council. “We just want to help these children,” La Marche said. “They’ve been abandoned, they’ve been abused and we just want to help them out every Christmas to make sure they have a great Christmas.”
✯ FYI For more information or to purchase tickets contact Felicia Segura at (512) 585-7812 or Jack’s Roadhouse at (512) 392-3340.
great alternative to a soft drink or alcoholic beverage is to switch your drink to club soda with some lemon or lime. It feels festive, but has no calories.”
Pumpkin Cheesecake Healthy Holiday Recipe Ingredients: 1/3 cup graham cracker crumbs 1 can (16 ounces) solid pack pumpkin 2 cups low-fat ricotta cheese 3/4 cup sugar 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon nonfat dry milk powder
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 egg white 3/4 cup canned evaporated skim milk 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vanilla
Directions: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray nine-inch springform pan with nonstick cooking spray. Add graham cracker crumbs; shake to coat pan evenly. Set aside. Combine pumpkin and ricotta cheese in food processor or blender; process until smooth. Add sugar, flour, milk powder, cinnamon, allspice, egg white, evaporated skim milk, oil and vanilla; process until smooth. Pour mixture into prepared pan. Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 275 degrees; bake one hour and 15 minutes. Turn off oven; leave cheesecake in oven with door closed for one hour. Remove from oven; cool completely on wire rack. Remove springform pan side. Cover cheesecake with plastic wrap; refrigerate at least four hours or up to two days. Garnish with fresh fruit, if desired. Nutrition information per serving (1/8 cheesecake): Fat: 2 g Calories: 121 Protein: 4 g Carbohydrates: 20 g Sodium: 56 mg Exchanges: 1-1/2 Cholesterol: 4 mg Starch/Bread; 1/2 Fat
— Graphic courtesy of MCT
— Courtesy of www.fitnessandfreebies.com
Page 6 - The University Star
101 Hedonism
TRENDS/DIVERSIONS
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION IS GOLD WHEN MEETING PARENTS
by Cecilia de Jesus
Once again, the holiday season is upon awkward, but friendly banter should put us. As students begin to plan trips home that to rest. Talk about your relationship: to visit family, many will wonder if this is a how you met, what you like to do together, good time to bring their boyfriend or girlsome funny stories along the way, etc. It’s friend to meet the parents. not a good time to bring up deep, heartWhile it could be a memorable time to heavy sentiments. Keep things light. do so, plenty could go horribly wrong in If you’re the significant other tagging ANNA TAUZIN the process. So here is your handy guide along, bring a gift for the family. A bottle of Star Columnist to bringing Mr. Right, or Ms. Right Now, wine, flowers or even your own homemade home for the holidays. cookies would make a good present. Talk First, make sure your partner is ready to meet the with your partner to pick out something perfect for family. You two should already have an established their family. relationship (at least six months, but a year together A good way to break the ice and gain brownie would be better). Talk with him or her long before points is to play with the children in the family. Who the trip to make sure they feel comfortable. Pay atdoesn’t think highly of a young man or woman who tention for any signs of hesitation or resistance. The gains the approval of children? Trust me, this should worst thing to do would be to force your significant work every time. other into a situation they don’t want. Offer to help as well. The holidays can be a Second, clear it with your family. Talk up the good stressful time for the host or hostess, and an extra points about your partner and emphasize he or she volunteer to move chairs, wash dishes or set the really wants to meet them. Again, if you sense oppotable is always welcomed. sition, back off. It is your family’s home, after all, and This should go without saying, but please avoid they should be at the top of your priority list. talking about religion or politics around the dinner It would be a good idea to agree upon the table. You want to keep things pleasant, and trying to sleeping arrangements before going home. If your smash the family’s framed picture of President Bush mom really has a problem with the two of you above the mantel will certainly leave a lasting impressharing a bed in her home, then you shouldn’t sion, but probably not the one you want. Smile and push it. Unless you’re married, it’s really not a nod, smile and nod. battle worth fighting. At the end of the trip, thank the family for their Once you arrive, allow time for your family and hospitality. You could drop a thank you note in the partner to get to know each other. Bringing somemail, but remember that the most important thing to one new into the household is going to be a little them is how well you treat their son or daughter.
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Complete the grid so that every row, column, and 3-by-3 box contains every digit from one through nine inclusively.
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CLASSIFIEDS THE UNIVERSITY STAR
Page 7 - Wednesday, November 14, 2007
RATES AND POLICIES Cost - 25¢ per word (1–6 days); Cost - 20¢ per word (7+ days) Deadline - 2 business days prior by noon All classified ads must be paid in advance, unless credit is established. Classified ads will be edited for style purposes. We do our best, but please check your classified ad for accuracy. Any corrections to your ad must be made by the second day of publication. As a free service to you, all classified ads will be published on-line on our web site at www.universitystar.com. However, since this is a free service, posting is not guaranteed. While The University Star attempts to screen ads for misleading claims or illegal content, it is not possible for us to investigate every ad and advertiser. Please use caution when answering ads, especially any which require you to send money in advance.
E-mail Classifieds at starclassifieds@txstate.edu
FOR RENT
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DISHWASHER AND PREP-COOK NEEDED at San Marcos Baptist Academy. Dishwasher starts at $7.50, prep-cook at $8.00. Nights and weekends, will work around school schedule. (512) 393-1969. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------PART-TIME SERVICE LEARNING YOUTH ADVISOR IN LULING. Conducts skills training and service learning projects with disciplinary and other students. Perfect for graduate students with youth service experience. Email resume and cover to amoore@cou ncilonatriskyouth.org. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------!BARTENDING! Up to $300/day. No experience necessary. Training Provided. Age 18+ OK. (800) 965-6520 ext. 157. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------WAREHOUSE/INK APPRENTICE NEEDED FOR AUSTIN/CENTRAL TEXAS area distributor of graphic arts supplies. Highly motivated person with desire to learn, will train. Established company with good benefits. Monday thru Friday, 8-5. Call Oscar at (512) 458-9237. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------PART-TIME RECEPTIONIST NEEDED. FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE, GREAT PAY. ASK FOR ED OR WILL (512) 392-1064. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------ATHLETIC, OUTGOING MEN FOR CALENDARS, GREETING CARDS, ETC. $75-200/hr. No exp. needed, (512)684-8296. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------CRI IS SEEKING INDIVIDUALS TO WORK AS TELEPHONE INTERVIEWERS. Flexible Schedule, Paid Training, No Experience Necessary. Within walking distance of TxState. $7-$12/hr. Call (512) 353- 3627x209 today! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------MAKE UP TO $75 EACH TAKING ONLINE SURVEYS. www.CashToSpend.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------MOVIE EXTRAS. New opportunities for upcoming productions. All looks needed no experience required for cast calls. Call 877-218-6224. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------PART-TIME NANNY IN NEW BRAUNFELS FOR 4 & 6 YR. OLD BOYS. Early childhood education majors preferred. Email resume to jschwab1@satx.rr.com
SUBWAY AT TANGER IS NOW HIRING. Nights, weekends, and holidays are a must. Apply in person. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------EARN $800-$3,200 A MONTH to drive brand new cars with ads placed on them. www.AdCarClub.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------PET CARE TECHNICIANS NEEDED IN BUDA. Full and Part Time positions available. Email resume at onioncreek@mindspring.com, fax to (512) 295-8065, or call (512) 312-0595. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------UNDERCOVER SHOPPERS. Earn up to $150 per day. Under cover Shoppers needed to judge retail and dining establishments. Exp. Not RE. Call 800- 722-4791. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------HIRING PART-TIME AT GAP OUTLET AND BANANA REPUBLIC FACTORY STORE–Sales and Stock positions (overnight). Apply in person at the San Marcos outlet locations.
FOR RENT-APTS NEXT TO CAMPUS-BALCONES APARTMENTS. 1BD, 2BD, 3BD, roommate matching. Pre-lease for January. Now updated with wooden floors and ceramic tile. Economical with bills included. Most rooms $300-$375 (for roommate matching). (512) 392-2700. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------2BD/1BA, INTERNET, ON BUS ROUTE, $650. (512) 396-TXST. TexasStateLeasing.com. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------NEW 1,000 SQ. FT. 2BD/1BA. Washer/dryer hookup, covered parking, quiet, in the country, close to outlet mall. Off Centerpoint Road. $800/ month plus utilities. (512) 396-3089. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------1BD APT. NEXT TO CAMPUSMOVE-IN FOR JANUARY. $625/mo. Includes internet, cable, electric, gas, water, garbage, beautiful wooden floors. (512) 392-2700. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------2BD/1BA, WALK TO CLASS, $590. (512) 396-TXST. TexasStateLeasing.com. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------VERY AFFORDABLE APARTMENT FOR RENT $290+ Cozy studio apt/ detached back house (nicknamed “the cabin”). Located off Bishop, near Wonder World and minutes to campus. Large yard to share with front house. Tiny but cute. Contact: Michelle (978) 993-4383. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------1BD/1BA, NICE PLACE, ON BUS ROUTE, $550. (512) 396-TXST. TexasStateLeasing.com.
FOR RENT-CONDOS/ TOWNHOMES $790 MOVE-IN TODAY! 2BD/2.5BA townhouse, 3 blks from TXState. Free HBO, W/D, windmilltownhomes.com for floor plans or (512) 396-4181.
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FOR SALE NEW HOME FOR SALE IN SECLUDED AREA! 3BD/2BA/2 car garage; high ceilings, fans, covered porches. 1,340 sq. ft. Ready 12/1/07. Corridor RE Brokers. Jerry, (512) 753- 6938. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------DRAFTING TABLE: $200 (42”WX32”H). Pictures available. Shafer_Allison@yahoo.com or (210) 860-9483. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------CONDO FOR SALE....Close to campus...$56,900. 1BD/1BA call Judy, Realtor-Century 21 The Excell Team. (512) 757-1897.
HELP WANTED HOLIDAY SEMESTER WORK •$15 base/appointment •Flexible schedules around classes •Customer Sales/Service •No experience necessary •Scholarship possible •Conditions apply •Call to apply (512) 392-7377 www.workforstudents.com
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LOST YOUR PET? If your pet is lost anywhere in Hays County, please check the San Marcos Animal Shelter (512) 393-8340 which is located at 750 River Road off of east Hwy 80. All strays from the Kyle, Wimberley, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, Uhland and some of Buda (non-city) areas are taken to San Marcos. Hours: Mon. and Fri. 11:30 to 5:30; Tues., Wed., Thurs. 11:30 to 4:30; Sat. 11:30 to 4:30. Please go in person rather than call, you are the only one who can identify and reclaim your beloved pet! Remember, an ID tag is a ticket home!
News Editor: The News section is composed of coverage of hard news, breaking news, advances and news features. Knowledge of city and university politics, developments and current events is required. An editor would be required to compile story ideas each week, manage writers and edit stories. Must be proficient in AP style.
SERVICES WWW.STUDENTATTORNEY.COM
SUBLEASE WILL PAY DEPOSIT & $200 BONUS for female sublease thru May at The Meadows. Nice apartment, close to campus. Friendly, studious roommate. $300/month & partial utilities. Call Stella (210) 241-6430. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------JANUARY-MAY FEMALE SUBLEASE. 2BD/2BA fully furnished individual lease, The Ridge (will pay 1/2 of January rent) jn1098@txstate.edu.
WANTED USED CARS, TRUCKS, VANS. Any condition, running or not. If you have something to sell please call Willis Mitchell, (512) 353-4511. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE UNIVERSITY STAR IS SEEKING APPLICATIONS FOR EDITORIAL BOARD POSITIONS. Application packets can be picked up at Trinity Building. All materials are due Friday, November 30. For more information call 245-3487.
Trends Editor: The Trends section includes features, coverage and advances on arts, music and entertainment in San Marcos and surrounding areas. The editor will be required to compile story ideas each week, manage writers and edit stories. Must be proficient in AP style. Sports Editor: The Sports section provides coverage, advances and features of Texas State and local sports. Content includes news developments of and affecting Texas State athletics. The editor will be required to compile story ideas each week, manage writers and edit stories. Must be proficient in AP style. Copy Desk Chief: The copy desk chief will act as head of the copy desk, which reads all stories prior to publication for factual and grammatical errors. Copy desk chief will manage copy editors and be the liaison for the local stylebook. Must have proficient knowledge of grammar, spelling, punctuation and AP style.
SPORTS THE UNIVERSITY STAR
predicted outcomes The Southland Conference announced the results of the women’s and men’s basketball preseason poll. Texas State’s men’s team is predicted to finish sixth and the women’s team is predicted to finish third in the west division.
Page 8 - Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Sports Contact — starsports@txstate.edu
Smack Down
Professional boxer juggles training, school schedule By César G. Rodriguez Sports Reporter A miniature black boxing glove hangs from a key chain, and a cell phone’s ringtone plays Rocky Balboa’s theme song, “Gonna Fly Now.” These are two instances of the passion Jamie Leshikar, pre-international studies junior, feels about boxing, a sport she embraced two years ago. Leshikar’s nickname, “The Massacre,” comes from her aggressiveness as she hears the bell to begin the round and doesn’t stop until she hears it again, her manager Richard Lord said. Leshikar is a professional boxer who trains morning and late afternoon sessions six days a week, works full time in her parents’ non-profit organization and attends Texas State. Nov. 3 would have marked Leshikar’s debut as a professional fighter on the welterweight division, but her opponent was overweight by about 13 pounds, Lord said. Though Leshikar has not fought yet, she has been knocked down a few times. “I think the school should support goals but not just academically,” Leshikar said. Her demanding training sessions take out a chunk of time from her day and some-
times keep her from attending classes, she said. Leshikar consulted with an academic adviser in the Center for International Studies to find a solution for her triple trouble of boxing, working full time and attending school. But she received an unexpected left hook. She was recommended to change majors or finish school by correspondence work. Dennis Dunn, history professor and Center for International Studies director, said students having issues with scheduling and attendance should contact the professor involved in the case. In his experience, Dunn said professors are always willing to accommodate students’ necessities. Leshikar said she wonders what would happen if she were involved in sports like football or basketball — sports supported by the university. Involvement in other popular sports would provide the leniency in classes she pursues, Leshikar explained, a leniency she had witnessed with another athlete. Leshikar recalled when she took a biology lab class in which a football player was enrolled. “He must have missed
three or four days and still got a ‘B,’” Leshikar recalled. Though some professors do not call roll, some have an attendance policy, which is a problem because of her training routine, Leshikar said. “I’m just asking not to hold to a really strict attendance policy,” she said. She believes most fouryear institutions are not paying attention to students’ success outside of school sponsoredactivities. Most fighters make a decision at a certain point whether to continue boxing or to find something else to do in life. Leshikar said she wants to prove she can do both. Even though Leshikar is new at the sport, she possesses the skills, such as hard punch, good defense and offense, Lord said. “She is always workPhoto courtesy of Jamie Leshikar ing and ready to go,” BOXING BOBCAT: Jamie “The Massacre” Leshikar, pre-international studies junior, trains six days a week as a he said, noting her abilprofessional boxer in addition to her full-time job and school. Leshikar’s Nov. 3 debut fight was recently canity comes naturally. celed because of a discrepancy in her opponent’s weight division.
Scrutiny increases with women’s coaches pay raises By Brian Davis The Dallas Morning News DALLAS — Women’s basketball coaches have always enjoyed a low profile on the national media landscape. We know where Pat Summitt and Geno Auriemma work, because they’re constantly on our TVs in March coaching in the NCAA Tournament. But really, what do you hear about those coaches the other 11 months of the year? Stories about women’s basketball are mostly positive because the product is family friendly. Even then, it’s mostly localized coverage. The only time something truly negative hits ESPN’s airwaves, it’s something involving sex (Pokey Chatman) or racial issues (Rutgers). Women’s coaches are making more money now than ever before. Seven Big 12 coaches received new contracts during the off-season. For the first time, the league has not one but two millionaires — Baylor’s Kim Mulkey and Texas’ Gail Goestenkors. Big money means financial security and high market visibility. But it means fans, media and especially
athletic directors are paying more nite the Texas program and lead the attention. Are women’s coaches at Longhorns back to the NCAA Tournahigh-profile programs ready for an in- ment. creased level of scrutiny? Bonnie Henrickson is 40-49 in three “Well, we better be,” said Oklahoma seasons at Kansas. The Jayhawks coach Sherri Coale, who is the cur- haven’t made the NCAA Tournament rent president of the Women’s Bas- since 2000. Yet Henrickson got a draketball Coaches Association. “There matic raise and will receive $635,000 is more emphasis on winning now this season, because athletic director more than ever before. I’ve spoken Lew Perkins said he wanted to “send about how that’s the message that directly tied to the women’s basketball financial commitis important to us at ment universities Kansas.” make to coaches, to Mulkey said programs and to the coaches better be budget itself. thick-skinned in “TV is also a piece this profession, beof that,” she added. cause “everybody “When you have knows more than the —Gail Goestenkors 10,000 people at coach.” games and you have “The way I view it, Texas women’s basketball coach millions viewing via you can’t ever be paid a TV audience, it does become about enough in this profession,” Mulkey winning. That’s just human nature. said. “They love you today and want That’s our society; that’s how that to fire you tomorrow, so whatever you works.” can get you better get.” Some coaches are getting big bucks Goestenkors is one of the most for different reasons. Mulkey was successful coaches in the profession. paid as a reward for leading the Lady She was 396-99 record in 15 seasons Bears to the 2005 national champion- at Duke. But those fans still grumble ship. Goestenkors is being paid to ig- Goestenkors never won a title de-
’m being “I paid to be successful. I’m
not being paid to come in and be average.””
spite two appearances in the national championship game. “I’m being paid to be successful,” Goestenkors said. “I’m not being paid to come in and be average.” “Some coaches who feel that pressure may want to cut corners and feel the need to do things quickly and maybe not the right way. I think we’re going to see more cheating as well. The pressure to succeed unfortunately affects people sometimes in negative ways.” Texas Tech’s Kristy Curry said she feels motivated today just like she did as an assistant at Louisiana Tech making $40,000. Now starting her second season, Curry has an escalator clause built into her deal and will be making $600,000 by her fifth season. “I hope I’m better,” Curry said. “I hope I’ve learned along the way how to be a better coach, better wife and better mom. I think we all wake up every day wanting to be better.” Perhaps in some respects, the increased scrutiny means the sport is making good strides. Granted, women’s coaches won’t get grilled like the football or men’s basketball coaches. But they’re closer to being on equal footing than ever before.
BIG BUCKS A look at four Big 12 coaches who got new contracts during the off-season and their salaries for the 2007-08 season: Kim Mulkey, Baylor $1.1 million After winning a national title, Baylor officials rewarded Mulkey with a 10-year contract to keep her in Waco. Gail Goestenkors, Texas $1 million Texas officials wanted to make a splash hire. They lured Goestenkors away from Duke with a seven-figure salary. Sherri Coale, Oklahoma $800,000 Coale, a statewide icon, got a $250,000 raise during the off-season and is widely considered one of the best in the profession. Bill Fennelly, Iowa State $583,000 Officials gave Fennelly a 12-year contract that essentially amounts to a lifetime deal. He could make $3.6 million in incentives.
UP AND OVER
Monty Marion/Star photo Chris Agwumaro, senior forward, dominates the key, scoring for the Bobcats during the Dallas Baptist University game Tuesday night.
