WEDNESDAY JANAURY 21, 2015 VOLUME 104 ISSUE 46 www.UniversityStar.com
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CITY
Ex-mayoral candidate arrested on warrant By Jon Wilcox NEWS REPORTER @thrilcox Former 2014 mayoral candidate Patrick Montgomery was arrested Jan. 15 for a prior warrant for walking a dog without a leash, according to San Marcos Police Department (SMPD) arrest records. Officers were dispatched to the 800 Block of Alabama Street at approximately 3:21 a.m. in response to a person walking in the middle of the street, said Kristi Wyatt, director of Communications & Intergovernmental Relations for San Marcos, in a Jan. 20 email. Montgomery was walking his three dogs without leashes at the intersection of Gomez and Alabama Streets, Wyatt said in the email. Montgomery later said on his Facebook page he was walking his dogs after completing a show at Taxi’s Pianobar with his band, the “Hair Farmers.” SMPD officers discovered Montgomery had an outstanding warrant for walking a dog without a leash. They walked him to his house so he could return his dogs before being arrested and taken to Hays County Jail, Wyatt said. “When the judge looked at what I was arrested for, she said that my warrant was not a ‘jailable’ offense and that I should not be housed with hardened criminals,” Montgomery said in his Facebook post. According to Hays County records, Montgomery was released later that day. Montgomery was also arrested by SMPD in 2011 for misdemeanor charges for domestic violence and evading arrest. He spent four days in the Hays County Jail. Montgomery ran against incumbent Mayor Daniel Guerrero and Chris Sorenson in San Marcos’ 2014 mayoral election. Known affectionately as “P-Martian” by friends and supporters, Montgomery garnered 3,798 votes, nearly 15 percent of voters.
—PHOTO COURTESY OF HAYS COUNTY JAIL RECORDS
MADELYNNE SCALES PHOTO EDITOR
Researchers at Texas State body farm facility identify remains of undocumented immigrants By Exsar Arguello NEWS REPORTER @Exsar_Misael Immigrants who died trying to reach the United States may be identified and have families notified thanks to university researchers at Freeman Ranch. Kate Spradley, assistant professor of anthropology, works with graduate and undergraduate students to identify the bodies of immigrants who died crossing the United States border illegally. “When I was a Ph.D. student, I became interested in this kind of work,” Spradley said. “When I was in Arizona studying, I found a program that helped identify the bodies of migrants that didn’t make it past the Arizona border. It was really inspiring because they had such a high identification rate in their state.” Spradley came to Texas in 2008 and wanted to continue identifying bodies that were not properly buried. “When I first arrived, there really wasn’t any effort to try and identify these individuals,” she said. “They were just being buried with no effort to identify them.” Brooks and Webb counties have helped retrieve bodies for identifi-
cation and work with Spradley. Spradley is trying to identify the 75 bodies found. “It’s really frustrating when we get some of these individuals be-
shows the little effort that is taken for these people to be identified.” The U.S. has a system to help
See BODY FARM, Page 3
MADELYNNE SCALES PHOTO EDITOR
Kate Spradley, biological anthropology associate professor, takes measurements and collects data Jan. 14 from a human skull using a 3D digitizer at the Freeman Ranch body farm.
TEXAS INAUGURATION
Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick outline goals, values for upcoming office term during inauguration By Kelsey Bradshaw NEWS EDITOR @kbrad5 Everything is bigger in Texas, and inauguration ceremonies are no exception. Thousands of Texans made the pilgrimage to the capitol in Austin Tuesday morning to witness the inauguration of the first new governor Texas has seen in 14 years. Greg Abbott became the 48th governor of Texas and Dan Patrick became the 72nd lieutenant governor while surrounded by supporters and family. The Oath of Office ceremony began promptly at 11 a.m. with songs played by the Longhorn Marching Band fluttering throughout the mall of the capitol. Patrick was sworn into office by
his son Ryan, who is a Houston state district judge. Patrick took to the podium after officially becoming lieutenant governor to speak on his goals for the future. Before getting started, Patrick turned his back to the crowd to take a photo, saying he took so many “selfies” throughout the campaign he couldn’t miss the opportunity to take one at the inauguration. “I stand here today making a commitment to every person in Texas and the Senate that I will be a humble servant first and foremost,” Patrick began. One of the promises Patrick made was to protect the second amendment. This issue was brought to light when gun rights activists took to the capitol last week on the opening day of the 84th Legislature.
CONSTRUCTION
Eight17 Lofts move-in delays continue amid controversy
By Jon Wilcox NEWS REPORTER @thrilcox The most recent in a series of construction delays at Eight17 Lofts has prevented prospective residents from moving in before the start of spring classes. The apartment’s projected completion date has changed four times since Feb. 2014 when leasing began. Innovative Student Housing, the property management company, now predicts the apartments will not be finished until spring 2015, citing building code and construction problems. Peyton White, public relations senior, said he became interested in living at Eight17 at a Texas State-sponsored housing fair. White was hooked when he heard about the future complex’s luxury amenities, complete with an infinity pool, and its close proximity to
cause in some cases we’ll find a driver’s license or some form of identification within their clothing,” she said. “It makes the identification process easier, but it also
PRESLIE COX STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Eight17 Lofts has extended construction for the fourth time. Management has told prospective residents move-in will take place in late spring. campus. “They showed us the bedroom, and I really thought they had a lot to offer,” White said. “It’s my se-
nior year. I’m going to graduate, and I wanted to live somewhere
See EIGHT17, Page 3
Texas is the place where the improbable becomes possible. I am living proof that we live in a state where a young man’s life can literally be broken in half and he can still rise up to be governor. Texas is truly the land of opportunity.” —Greg Abbott, Texas Governer Support for Texas’ law enforcement was another theme Patrick touched on, discussing his pride to stand with the protectors of the
state. He said part of law enforcement workers’ job is to commit
See ABBOTT, Page 3
CITY
New year brings increased change, expansion to San Marcos By Frank Campos NEWS REPORTER @frankcamposj Mayor Daniel Guerrero has big plans for the city of San Marcos in 2015 for his third term in office. Multiple changes and increased construction marked a new chapter for San Marcos during 2014, and they will play a major role in the city’s growth this year. San Martians can expect to see a focus on public safety in the future. Guerrero is looking confidently into 2015 and expects big things for San Marcos, especially after hiring Jared Miller as the new city manager last year, he said. “Our biggest accomplishment of 2014 as a city was hiring Jared Miller,” Guerrero said. “He has created a great environment for our city employees and is everything we could have asked for and more.” Hiring a new city manager, librarian, chief of police and director of communications were huge steps for San Marcos, said Trey Hatt, city communications specialist. “We have a good head of steam heading into 2015 from all of our accomplish-
ments of the last year,” Hatt said. “New leadership coming on board is a change for the better.” Citizens will notice construction, even with the changes happening at City Hall, Guerrero said. The construction on the Loop 82 overpass next to Bobcat Stadium on Aquarena Springs Drive is set to begin this spring. The overpass will go over the railroad track, which Guerrero said will benefit residents and students alike. “This TxDOT project has become the number one priority for the entire state,” Guerrero said. “It is a $7 million project that will create some hardships but, when complete, will be safer and more convenient.” Ty Cervantes, psychology sophomore, said he has had enough of the traffic near the railroad tracks on Aquarena Springs Drive. Cervantes has to deal with traffic when driving to school and work, he said. “I am fed up with the traffic caused by the train,” Cervantes said. “It can take 20 minutes to get to (Interstate Highway) 35 from the train tracks during the semester.
See CONSTRUCTION, Page 3
2 | The University Star | Advertisement | Wednesday, January 21, 2015
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The University Star | News | Wednesday, January 21, 2015 | 3
KELSEY BRADSHAW NEWS EDITOR
Greg Abbott, governor of Texas, gives a speech Jan. 20 after his inauguration at the Texas Capitol.
ABBOTT, from front commit their lives to defend the citizens of Texas. “This is not New York,� Patrick
said, referencing the recent racial issues happening in New York. “This is Texas.� Patrick left the stage as the official Lt. Gov., saying it was a new day for
the state of Texas. Speaker of the House Joe Straus moved the ceremony along and was followed by Chief Justice Nathan Hecht, who administered the oath
EIGHT17, from front
for Abbott. Abbott noted in the first official minutes of governorship he shared success with “a woman of genuine warmth and character�—his wife, Cecilia. Cecilia made history Tuesday as the first-ever Latina First Lady of Texas. Fatherhood helped Abbott to achieve his current success, he said. “I am honored to be the Texas Governor, but the title that means the most to me is that of ‘dad,’� Abbott said and cited Audrey, 18, as an example of what the future of Texas has to offer. Abbott faced many hardships on his journey to becoming the governor of Texas. “Let’s face it—this moment was highly improbable,� Abbott said. Thirty years ago Abbott was paralyzed after a tree fell on him when he was running, leaving him in a wheelchair. Abbott got better after the accident thanks to the grace of God and Texas, he said. “Texas is the place where the improbable becomes possible,� Abbott said. “I am living proof that we live in a state where a young man’s life can literally be broken in half and he can still rise up to be governor. Texas is truly the land of opportunity.� An English teacher from Duncanville High School was in attendance to watch Abbott, her former student, become governor. Making Texas a
leader in education is an important part of Abbott’s term as governor. Job creation depends of education, he said. Abbott thanked all of the teachers in the “great state of Texas� after honoring his English teacher from years ago. Patrick pledged to fight to give low-income families a better choice in schools. He said better education opportunities are important for the legacies of families and the state. The 2015 Texas Inauguration ended with the thousands in attendance on their feet applauding the newly elected officials. Four tons of brisket were served for lunch on the lawn of the capitol for everyone, including those who traveled far to be a part of Texas’ history. Patricia Howell, Houston resident and public relations consultant, scheduled to take a day off of work and drove two hours from Houston one day early to attend the festivities. Donning a Texas-flag buttondown shirt, Howell wore a Texas-flag button-down said she was happy to be part of such a historic day for the state. “I have to be here,� Howell said. “I have to be a part of it.� Another citizen passing by asked Howell how she was in such a good mood. “How can you not be?� Howell said.
BODY FARM, from front
sweet.� Aaron Windham, health care administration senior, said he signed a lease with Eight17 in April 2014 and was promised a move-in date the following August. Windham, along with Eric Johnson, political science senior who also signed a lease, was notified by email the building would not be completed until Sept. 2014 only days before the initial August move-in date. The first week of the fall 2014 semester, days after the complex’s second delay, Eight17 announced those who had signed leases would receive $100 per day and compensation for hotel rooms until construction was completed, Windham said. Johnson and Windham said it was at that time Eight17 approached them with another contract, stipulating if residents would honor their leases with the loft, they would receive weekly checks for $700 until the construction was complete. Residents and their parents received an email mid-October confirming compensation while construction was delayed. “As the property manager, we certainly share your frustration in this delay and want to emphasize that your weekly compensation payments (per diem or hotel accommodations) will continue while we work to keep you (or your son/daughter) as comfortable as possible during this incon-
venience,� said Kortney Debner, Eight17 general manager, in an Oct. 14 2014 email to future residents. All payments ceased on Dec. 12, 2014, despite promises made in leasing contract addendums signed in Sept. 2014 and reassuring emails from Eight17. Johnson was told “FedEx never dropped off� when he asked representatives from Innovative Housing why residents’ compensation checks had not arrived. The delay was more than a simple inconvenience for Windham. Windham was wary of signing another lease because he was unsure when the building would be completed. He was unwilling to live out of a subsidized hotel room and, for months, opted to couch surf and stay with friends. “It was alright for a while, but you miss that bedroom, that closethe-door—like, ‘This is my place,’� he said. White said he still felt optimistic about moving in before the end of the 2014 fall semester until Eight17 alerted him the October mov- in date would be pushed back to December. “Then they moved us back to December,� White said. “They said finals week, but I felt pessimistic about that.� Most recently, Eight17 has told residents the building will not be finished until “late spring,� White said. The delays resulted from ongo-
ing problems with city building inspection, stairwell design and tower crane removal logistics, according to the Oct. 14 2014 email from Debner. Johnson and Windham said they believe Innovative Housing is responsible for coordinating construction and investment and is at fault for the delays. “Eight17 has been doing really well trying to keep us in the loop as much as they can, but they know as much as we know,� White said. “I think a lot of people think Eight17 is (the problem), but really it’s Innovative. They are very shady with their communications.� More than a week after receiving his last compensation check in Dec. 2014, Windham said he stopped by the Innovative leasing office to speak with company representatives only to find movers in the process of emptying the office. “They just packed up and got out of there without saying anything,� Windham said. White still plans on moving in despite delays and poor communication with Innovative. “I hope everything pulls through,� White said. “I drive by my room all the time. It’s the one that’s facing Sessom.� Windham said he does not plan on canceling his lease with Eight17—but for different reasons. “That’s letting them off the hook,� he said. Innovation Housing was unable for comment.
for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. “It seems like construction went on all year downtown, but we are so proud of how it has turned out,� Guerrero said. “It seems frustrating, but really the citizens voted for this work to be done, and we are glad to finally be able to accomplish it.� Public safety will get a huge push from Guerrero in 2015 because the city has an increased need for police and fire departments, he said. “There are significant needs
among many of the sectors in public safety, and we hope to address them in a major way this year,� Guerrero said. Guerrero thinks there is no way to go but up for the city he grew up in and in which he has served in public office since 2004. “This is a great city to live in, and we are slowly getting on the map and becoming more popular,� Guerrero said. “Now is the time to focus on the fundamentals so that we can continue to flourish.�
identify individuals if they are American citizens, Spradley said. The process is more difficult when non-American individuals need identification because they are not displayed in the federal system. Spradley said identifying the bodies should be treated as a human rights issue. “Every human being has the right to be identified once they die,� Spradley said. “For the sake of their families and for the sake of their closure, it is my duty to help bring these people to rest properly.� The university is helping to fund Spradley’s efforts as she plans to travel south to five different counties to find bodies for identification. “Migration is one of the most natural processes in human history,� she said. “Without migration, we wouldn’t be here today. I’m simply just trying to shine light on this issue and help these people get the closure they deserve through this identification.� Bodies can be identified by the traits they possess and by studying bones, said Daniel Wescott, director of the Forensic Anthropology Center and associate professor of anthropology. “We can learn so much from just looking at bones that can tell us the individual’s age, sex and other basic
information from the time of their death,� Wescott said. Researchers at the Freeman Ranch facility are allowed to bury bodies on the property and observe the effects of decomposition, Wescott said. “It’s always interesting to see how different variables we put on these bodies affect the way they break down,� Wescott said. The facility at the Freeman Ranch is one of the most notable of its kind, said Deborah Cunningham, computed tomography system operator at the center. “From my knowledge, the facility is the biggest in the world in terms of acreage,� Cunningham said. “We have 26 acres of land for our researchers to study how bones decompose in different conditions.� The research at Freeman Ranch is made possible thanks to donors who leave their bodies to science. Cunningham said since the facility opened in 2008, it has received over 150 donations of bodies from different areas across Texas. “The donations we receive mean the world to our facility because it takes a big commitment for someone to donate their skeleton once they die,� Cunningham said. “We are greatly appreciative of the way the community supports our work.�
CONSTRUCTION, from front That is ridiculous.� Cervantes acknowledges although he does not like the sound of construction, it will be a less congested area in the long run. “We have to do something about this because it will just get worse,� Cervantes said. “ I may be long gone and graduated by the time it is finished, but it needs to be done.� Major construction downtown is almost complete, but Guerrero said residents should expect more work to be done as officials plan to make roads safer
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MADELYNNE SCALES PHOTO EDITOR
Spradley presents a jaw bone of an unidentified immigrant with a retainer.
4 | The University Star | Wednesday, January 21, 2015
OPINIONS
UniversityStar.com
THE MAIN POINT
San Marcos must step up, implement bag ban
I
n 2014, California became the first state in the nation to propose and pass a statewide ban on the distribution of plastic bags. Today, countless cities around the nation have enacted their own ordinances, and San Marcos should do the same. The cost-benefit analysis for the environment and the economy is too great to ignore. In Texas alone almost a dozen cities, including Austin and Dallas, have decided to pass local ordinances to ban, restrict or tax the use and availability of plastic bags. These restrictions are enforced in order to reduce the number of plastic carryout bags from retailers and grocery stores. San Marcos is a small town, and Texas State and its students should be instrumental in setting the bag-ban as a precedent and a real option for the community. It would
be worthwhile for university officials and students to lead the charge towards improving the environment for future generations. This is especially true considering very large portions of the town’s residents are, in fact, students. Taking action to ban bags at the bookstore and eating facilities on campus would be a great start to introducing the possible ordinance to the students and then eventually spreading sentiment to the rest of the community. The benefit a plastic bag ban would have on the environment could be a great one considering San Marcos’ river. Approximately 50 percent of all marine litter is due to plastic, according to a report by the Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation. Over a million birds and 100,000 sea animals die each year because of entanglement in or
unknowing consumption of plastic and the dangerous toxins, such as lead, it contains. Plastic bags pose a danger to wildlife and the environment in general. Bags are made of things like petroleum and natural gas, so improper disposal can cost the environment a great deal. In fact, Americans waste around 100 billion plastic bags each year, which is equivalent to dumping 12 million barrels of oil—not ideal for the environment. A ban on plastic bags is an economically sound proposal. Merely two percent of plastic bags are recycled a year in the U.S., according to an Aug. 10, 2007 Salon article The other 98 percent can exist in the environment for centuries due to their high resistance to erosion. Each year Californian taxpayers alone spend over $25 million to collect plastic bags and send them to
landfills, according to the Save The Bay advocacy group. A ban would effectively eliminate millions of dollars in disposal and cleanup costs. This cause would be a great one for economic organizations on campus to champion in order to make a noticeable difference in the town. A ban would make a difference and a statement. All in all, San Marcos should look into banning plastic bags in town and join the likes of Dallas and Austin by implementing a beneficial policy. The city can make San Marcos a
JORDAN GURLEY STAR ILLUSTRATOR
greener, more economically sound community with Texas State’s students, faculty and staff leading the way.
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 Student Media, the School of Journalism and Mass Communication or Texas State University.
LIFESTYLE
Specially engineered health products ‘necessary evil’
Hanna Foster SPECIAL TO THE STAR @Hanna_Foster_
I
t has become increasingly prevalent, particularly among millennials, to choose what is considered by some to be a more natural lifestyle. This is causing both positive and negative effects.
I have switched to laundry detergent, toothpaste and cosmetics predominantly made from natural products not tested on animals. Adding to the switch to naturalism, instead of medication, in some cases, I opt to use more home remedies. Honestly, this is in part due to cost. However, I have ultimately been trying to adopt a lifestyle supporting my values. I know this sounds like some new-age hippy propaganda, but I am not entirely against the usage of scientifically engineered products and medications. I do not believe all are “bad” and should be nixed. Some of them do have their uses. In many cases, natural commodities can be a better alternative to synthetic products. However, scien-
tifically engineered medications and vaccinations can, in many instances, be safer and more effective. Many adults are adopting this new lifestyle, choosing to stop vaccinating themselves as well as their children. This can become extremely dangerous, especially if the number continues to grow. According to a Sept. 24, 2014 Wall Street Journal article, about 8,000 cases of pertussis — also known as whooping cough—were reported to California’s Public Health Department last year. The majority of the cases were infants, and 58 patients needed intensive care. This dangerous respiratory infection is growing in numbers again and seems to be correlated with the low vaccination rates. These rates
LEGAL SYSTEMS
Garner’s murder by police reveals unjust system
Trevor Neely OPINIONS COLUMNIST @tneely03
“
I can’t breathe!”
These were the last words yelled by Eric Garner on July 17, 2014 as he was gasping for air while being held in an illegal chokehold by an uncharged police officer. Mr. Garner was unjustifiably murdered by police officers when they brought him down. This cry for breath resonated in the hearts and minds of people everywhere who quickly caught wind of this tragic incident and demanded justice for this man. The police officer responsible for choking Mr. Garner, Daniel Pantaleo, was not charged for his murder. Although the coroner ruled it a homicide, the justice department of New York did not see any reason to charge the officer, let alone prosecute him. He, along with the other police officers involved in this murder, are walking free of any charges or repercussions. “I Can’t Breathe” has been
the de facto slogan by protesters across the globe to show respect for Eric Garner’s life and to show disgust for the failed justice system of the United States of America. This justice system has its bias, and people of color are getting fed up with it. Young black protesters are taking a stand physically and through social media. They are walking the streets and posting videos for the world to see. According to a Dec. 18, 2014 Huffington Post article, African-Americans have a degree of freedom but not equality in this country. Much needs to be done to achieve equality for all those who are not white. As long as some Americans inherit advantages from institutions such as banks, schools, housing and health care, others will inherit disadvantages. This is the way the American system works. It gives an easy advantage to a certain group of individuals while completely disregarding the safety and protection of others. It operates on a system that dates back hundreds of years. This system of inequality is deep-rooted in the culture and in the subconscious of those in power. To call for justice in a country founded and built off of the blood, sweat and tears of black people is insanity. Thankfully, a solution is at hand. What this country needs is a completely different system
The University Star Editor-in-Chief............................................Odus Evbagharu, stareditor@txstate.edu Managing Editor..........................Nicole Barrios, starmanagingeditor@txstate.edu Letters................................................................................universitystar@txstate.edu News Editor..............................................Kelsey Bradshaw, starnews@txstate.edu Lifestyle Editor..........................................Britton Richter, starlifestyle@txstate.edu Opinions Editor.......................................Imani McGarrell, staropinion@txstate.edu Photo Editor...........................................Madelynne Scales, starphoto@txstate.edu Sports Editor........................................... Quixem Ramirez, starsports@txstate.edu Copy Desk Chief.....................................Sam Hankins, starcopychief@txstate.edu
that is redone by people of all colors and creeds. There needs to be laws keeping the officers in check and giving justice to those who truly deserve it. This country has broken down many barriers before, and the people have gone through tougher times. The fact this country has the ability to tear itself down is mirrored by the fact it also has the ability to build itself back up into something great. This issue is not about racial superiority. It is, in fact, about systematic oppression and inequality. Systematic inequality spreads beyond blacks and into every group who has ever been counted out. If a change is to be made, then it must start with the youth. The students at Texas State and other schools must come together and make a change for the better. We, as a student body, need to start looking at these issues with some real concern. This is not something to be taken lightly. The problem can be solved when people come together as a whole and stop fighting one another. This generation needs to do it so the next will not have to. We need to do it because it is the right thing to do. If it affects some of the people, then it affects all of the people. —Trevor Neely is a sociology sophomore.
began to drop decades ago when a fraudulent study claimed certain vaccinations cause autism and developmental delays in children. While consequent studies have continued to debunk this statement, the damage is done. Many people are still under the impression vaccinations are bad for you. According to a 2006 Journal of the American Medical Association report, an additional 6 percent of parents chose to opt out of vaccinations each year between 1991 and 2004. We are now seeing the results of this. Old illnesses such as whooping cough and the mumps are growing to outrageous proportions. Yet people are ignoring this fact and choosing not to vaccinate themselves or their children based on a
proven myth. I am usually on the side of those trying to go against the scientifically engineered products. However, when it comes to medications and vaccinations, it proves to be overwhelmingly more beneficial to utilize these creations, especially given these things have contributed to extending human life expectancy by years. I know many people are against vaccinations, but they are a necessary evil. The idea of scientifically engineered vaccinations may sound negative, and they may hinder the extent of one’s “natural lifestyle,” but they can be crucial to saving a life. —Hanna Foster is a journalism junior
FIRST AMENDMENT
University free speech zones limit students’ expression
Maddie Teague OPINIONS COLUMNIST @maddiebell_bell
M
ost Texas State students are familiar with the Fighting Stallions statue, either to hang out at between classes or even perform the pre-test ritual of touching their “manhood” for good luck. There is more significance in the area surrounding the Stallions than simply good luck and relaxation. The small area is known as Texas State’s free speech zone . However, upon a closer examination, the idea of a free speech zone is an oxymoron. The freedom of speech is a fundamental constitutional right in America. Just because students are attending school to further their education at a public college does not mean they are abandoning their Constitutional rights. Free speech should not be limited to one small area of campus. Limiting free speech on campus does nothing for Texas State students but cause issues. The small area devoted to free speech has been known to clog up traffic throughout the Quad. Students are always eager to exercise their right to use the area around the Stallions. The area becomes impassable when hot topics, such as the recent pro-life/ pro-choice demonstration and counter protest, utilize the small Free Speech Zone. If the restrictions were lifted, protests and other students who wish to practice their freedom of speech would be able to
spread out around the Quad, becoming less of a hindrance to students just trying to get to class. David Moshman of The Huffington Post discusses the issues imposed by free speech zones in his Aug. 8, 2014 article titled “Colleges: Drop Your Speech Codes.” Although colleges often experience pressure to achieve more than they have the means to accomplish, protecting the freedom of speech costs nothing except to simply stop censoring, Moshman says. He says free speech is an issue that everyone can get behind regardless of political affiliation. Moshman goes on to explain it is fundamental to cultivating a genuine environment for academic learning and inquiry and shows respect for intellectual freedom and democracy. It would be outstanding publicity for universities to begin dropping their outdated, restrictive free speech zones. As Moshman said, it would cost them nothing except a small inconvenience of rewriting the codes surrounding “free speech zones.” Abolishing these zones would give Texas State public recognition in a great way. College campuses are known for being overwhelmingly liberal, and it is striking that such progressive grounds would work to strip students of the right to speak out. Working to allow free speech all across campus would appease many critics. It is only a matter of time before students begin to challenge Texas State’s policies regarding free speech. As a person who is involved in maintaining an organization on campus, I would love to see reform in Quad policy, especially when utilizing the Free Speech Zone. It is cumbersome and intimidating to reserve a spot on the Quad as a small organization. It seems if you are not a big name organization like a fraternity or sorority or selling a product, then your only option is to fight for available space in the small “Free Speech Zone.” —Madison Teague is an English sophomore
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The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University and is published every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of the spring and fall and every other Wednesday in the summer semesters. It is distributed on campus and throughout San Marcos at 8 a.m. on publication days with a distribution of 6,000. Printing and distribution is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung. Copyright Wednesday, January 21, 2015. 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. The first five issues of each edition of the paper are free. Additional copies of the paper can be purchased at 50¢ per copy. Contact The University Star office at (512) 245-3487 to purchase additional copies.
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The University Star | Wednesday, January 21, 2015 | 5
LIFESTYLE
UniversityStar.com
San Marcos’ first LGBTQIA bar Texas State's Power Of Unity fosters welcoming environment March commemorates MLK GO ONLINE TO YOUTUBE.COM/UNIVERSITYSTAR TO VIEW FOOTAGE FROM TUESDAY’S CAMPUS MARCH By TheresaChristine Etim LIFESTYLE REPORTER @TheresaTells
ANDRES J RODRIGUEZ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Celebratory bargoers dance on a cat walk Dec. 31 at Stonewall Warehouse on New Year’s Eve. By Kayla Jamerson LIFESTYLE REPORTER @itsKaylaJay Since opening in December, San Marcos’ first and only LGBTQIA bar has delivered a full schedule of events to draw in an array of patrons while fostering a welcoming atmosphere. San Marcos’s recent expansion has contributed to a significant increase in the city’s LGBTQIA population. Stonewall Warehouse seeks to create a fun and safe environment for the LGBTQIA community. Stonewall bartender Tabetha Mumford said the bar provides a diverse atmosphere when it comes to gender, race and age. “Some people come dressed in fancy suits while others have on
sweats, so it’s definitely diverse in many ways,” Mumford said. “All visitors are not a part of the gay community, but Stonewall offers a setting where anyone and everyone can be themselves and feel safe doing so.” Discrimination is still prevalent despite the greater acceptance of the LGBTQIA community. Bryan Baker, theater and art history student, said he has memories of being denied entrance to certain bars on the Square because of his sexual orientation. “It’s really nice that there is now a safe place where the LGBTQIA community can come and hang out,” Baker said. Mumford said Stonewall isn’t just for college students, and those who attend are encouraged to wear whatever feels most comfortable. “The bar is 21 and up, and there
is no dress code enforced,” Mumford said. “We don’t enforce a dress code because it often discriminates against a certain group of people, whether it be racially, sexually, et cetera.” Chris Rue, Stonewall general manager, said he is confident in the future of the new bar. “It’s just a warm, inviting environment for everyone,” Rue said. The bar has events lined up every day of the week, including karaoke, drag shows and college nights (18 and up). The establishment’s owners also plan to open on Sundays at 11 a.m. with free brunch and great deals on drinks. Rue expects to have everything in full swing toward the end of January. “We don’t want to just be the best gay bar in town,” Rue said. “We want to be the best bar in town.”
The patter of footsteps grew in size and sound, and audience members could feel the campus connect as students marched forward in unity. Texas State celebrated the 30th annual Power Of Unity march Tuesday night in honor of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s holiday was officially on Monday, but the celebratory spirit remained with the students of Texas State along with the message of togetherness that was sent over 50 years ago. Martin Luther King Jr. famously campaigned for unity of the American people by promoting equal rights, an idea that once seemed impossible to spread. Ashley Kerlin, nursing sophomore, said she was excited to be a part of the MLK event and further his mission. “I’m excited to get to walk with other people from different cultures that represent the same unity,” Kerlin said. “We all want to get together and just celebrate what Martin Luther King Jr. has done for Americans today. He helped unite all of us, and I know that’s something I’m really grateful for.” Kerlin said she has seen the same injustices King tirelessly fought to erase
occur today, which is why the event is so important for her. “In daily experiences, I’ve seen where African Americans have been put in situations where they’re below others,” Kerlin said. “It’s freeing to be able to say I’m a part of something like this.” Suzy Lugala, nursing freshman, said she has encountered some of those situations herself. “In high school I would take AP classes, and I’d be the only African American student in the class,” Lugala said. “So you would have to work much harder, and that was just a small glimpse of what Dr. King did for me—to be able to be in those classes. Seeing this made me think, ‘If they can do it, I’m not alone.’” Lugala said she enjoyed seeing students unite for the cause, and the event made her realize how much of an impact King had on them. Keith Needham, senior English lecture, said he sees the impact of MLK’s legacy on Texas State’s campus today. “When we started, I spoke to one of my fellow professors and said, ‘Look at the faces,’” Needham said. “There was a sea of faces—white, brown, black— and without Martin Luther King Jr., that would not be happening on a college campus, so it was a spine-chilling moment.”
We don’t want to just be the best gay bar in town. We want to be the best bar in town.” —Chris Rue, Stonewall general manager
JOHN CODY STALSBY STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Students and faculty prepare to march Jan. 20 in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on the steps of Old Main.
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SPORTS
UniversityStar.com
MEN’S BASKETBALL
WES DAVIS
Senior guard
By Mariah Medina ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR @Mariahmedinaaa The Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks earned their 12th win of the season over Southern Methodist University during the 2007 SMU Holiday Classic with over 2,400 people watching. Despite the large crowd, Preston Davis was concerned about only one person—Wes, his younger brother. “Just to see the look on his face,” Preston said. “We actually won that game, and just for him to see the school that was considered the smallest school to play SMU come in and win.” Growing up, Wes Davis, senior guard, largely followed the example his brother set. Preston led and Wes followed both in conditioning and playing basketball in the driveway.
Wes had no idea he would be following in his brother’s footsteps once again with college basketball. “I never thought, myself, that I would actually play for (Coach Danny Kaspar),” Davis said. “I used to go to (Preston’s) games his freshman and sophomore year while he was up at SFA. I liked the things I saw from Kaspar.” The Lumberjacks finished backto-back seasons with at least 24 wins each while Preston was at Stephen F. Austin. Success under Kaspar seemed to Wes to be a direct effect of the coach’s presence. Kaspar’s winning nature did not immediately follow when he moved to Texas State in 2013. Texas State won eight of 31 games, finishing last in the Sun Belt Conference. Wes realized the players’ obedience to Kaspar’s teachings, rather than his presence, made the difference. As a result, it was not until the
2014-2015 season, Wes learned the benefit of “buying in(to)” Kaspar’s disciplined method “If you play on his team, he’s going to make you work hard, but he’s going to bring success to you,” Wes said. Wes’ adjustment to Kaspar’s coaching style was gradual. Wes shared a photo of his bandaged leg with ice on Twitter shortly after Kaspar arrived at Texas State. The caption read, “I never get treatment!! but these Kaspar workouts killin me.” “If you let him, he’ll be lazy, which is what I saw a lot of when I got here,” Kaspar said. “Wes is a talented individual. He’s smart. He’s athletic. I’ve told him, ‘You’re a good-looking, well-spoken, intelligent African American male, and a lot of companies would like to hire someone like that, so don’t blow it.’” Wes is second all-time in Texas State history for steals with 164, but
Preston did not enjoy the same amount of success under Kaspar at Stephen F. Austin. Preston decided to part ways with the Lumberjacks’ basketball program after two years of playing for Kaspar. Preston received a scholarship at Abilene Christian with the help of Kaspar and his coaching staff. “Seeing him succeed through AAU and high school and college, I was always glad to see that he was getting better because he was playing against me or watching me,” Preston said. “It was never a jealousy thing because he was kind of like my little protégé. I’m always proud of him.” Preston realized the correlation between discipline and success after transferring to Abilene Christian. Preston believes Wes will benefit from Kaspar’s high standard for discipline. “The mentality that (Kaspar)
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
MEN’S BASKETBALL
KILEAH MAYS
KENDELL RAMLAL
Junior center
Sophomore forward
By Paul Livengood SPORTS REPORTER @IamLivengood
By Mariah Medina ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR @Mariahmedinaaa
Kileah Mays, junior center, marches to the beat of her own drum and that is the way she likes it. “I feel like my personality is kind of weird sometimes because a lot of people wouldn’t perceive me as what they expected from me,” Mays said. When describing herself, Mays often comes back to one word – old. Old school. Old body. Old spirit. “A lot of people say I’m an ‘old body,’” Mays said. “I do feel like I have an old spirit because a lot of people my age will talk about going to the mall or places like that, while I’m here, like, ‘I want to watch HGTV and learn how to build things.’ So that’s why I think I’m ‘older’ because people will say, like, ‘That’s boring,’ but I think it’s fun.” A frequent viewer of HGTV, Mays enjoys exploring her artistic side. Her vision extends to tile, which Mays said she wants to learn and “build a masterpiece.” “I really like to do a lot of DIY projects, creative things, or making things,” Mays said. “I like mix-and-matching, anything, really, that has to do with arts and crafts. I really like design and stuff like that. My major is Communication Studies but if I would have known better, I would have done Interior Design.” One of Mays’ most prized crafts is a piece she painted her freshman year of college. “I have this painting that I painted — it is a cherry blossom — and I had it in my bathroom, but then I changed my color scheme to my bathroom, and so I took it out since it didn’t fit that color scheme anymore,” Mays said. “It is one of my favorite paintings because it was one of the first paintings I ever attempted with my new paint set I got my freshman year of college. At first it was just an idea that I wanted to try, but now I really like it.” Social media has helped sparked Mays’ creativity. Mays looks to Tumblr and Pinterest often for her latest artistic ideas. Mays not only shows creativity in her crafts, but in her own appearance. “I noticed she liked doing different hair styles quite often,” said Catherine Self-Morgan, Mays’ high school head coach. Mays embraces her personality. Where other girls zig, she zags. “Most girls wouldn’t want to lay tile and build something up,” Mays said. “I think it’s interesting.”
Most kindergarten parents deal with issues of intellectual underdevelopment, but Cherrie and Keith Ramlal were different. Their son, Kendell, now a sophomore forward for the Texas State men’s basketball team, was too smart. “Kendell got bored very easily in school,” Cherrie said. “He only spent four months in kindergarten, and when we went back after Christmas break, they moved him up to the first grade.” For Kendell, the learning never ended. He completed three pages from five different workbooks to occupy himself during the summer. Otherwise he would get bored. Kendell was the tallest in most of his classes, the youngest, and often the smartest. “He has a mind that has to be always challenged,” Keith said. “Whatever he ventures to learn, he learned it so quickly that he had to move on to something newer, so we always had to
find things to keep him occupied and keep challenging his mind.” Kendell felt responsible for protecting the smaller students around him. In fact, his parents thought he would go on to pursue a career as a veterinarian because he also expressed a protective attitude over his dog and rabbit. Instead, Kendell found a different calling. “His ultimate goal is to be a psychiatrist,” Cherrie said. “In high school, he took psychology, and that’s what peaked his interest. He started learning about everything to do with that, and I also work in the psychiatric field as a nurse, and I would come home and discuss different cases—no names or anything—but what happened or what this person was going through.” Kendall was described as protective, intellectual and reserved in high school. Nevertheless, he was a popular student—initially for playing basketball but eventually for his intellect. “Kendell has always been the most popular guy in
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his classes,” Cherrie said, laughing at the idea of her son being an underdog. “As quiet as he is, they called him ‘the popular nerd’ since he’s so smart.” Kendell was not aware everyone in his school knew of him. “I would pick him up from school every day,” Keith said. “The middle school—they had pre-K to the eighth grade, and the little pre-k students would come out and say, ‘Kendell’s dad! Kendell’s right there! Kendell is right behind there!’” Kendell said he gets his reserved and laid-back attitude from Keith and a determined, headstrong nature from Cherrie. His parents believe their humble, intellectual and popular son is exactly who they raised him to be. “We groomed him to be a leader,” Keith said. “He won’t be part me or part his mom or wholly his mom or wholly me. We’ve groomed him to be himself.”
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brings to a team definitely kind of trickles down from him to the assistant coaches to the players,” Preston said. “At the other schools I went to, our program wasn’t as disciplined as Kaspar’s program. Kaspar understands how disciplined you have to be to be successful.” Preston learned from playing at Stephen F. Austin that Kaspar’s lessons apply beyond the basketball court. “He’s coaching for basketball, but he’s also coaching for life lessons in general,” Preston said.
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301 N. Guadalupe St. (corner of Guadalupe and Hutchison)
