University Star - September 24 2013

VOLUME 103, ISSUE 14

www.UniversityStar.com

TUESDAY

SEPTEMBER 24, 2013

Defending the First Amendment since 1911

VIDEO | UniversityStar.com

TRENDS | Page 4

Unicycle Football started in San Marcos and is slowly becoming one of the city’s most popular sports.

Fantastic Fest: The film festival returned to Austin last Thursday for its ninth year of subversive entertainment.

CRIME

Drum line members charged with hazing

By Megan Carthel News Reporter

Several members of the Texas State drum line were arrested on charges of hazing and related activities over the weekend.

Thirteen students were charged with organized hazing following an event at Copper Beech Townhomes involving “rookie” drum line members who became ill after being blindfolded and given alcohol, said Joanne Smith, vice president of Student Affairs. The University Police Department began a criminal investigation after officers stopped a “suspicious looking vehicle.” Passengers in the car told the officers they were on their way to an initiation, Smith said.

Two of the 13 students were charged with furnishing alcohol to minors and another was charged with a false report to the police, Smith said. All of the students turned themselves in to the Hays County Law Enforcement Center

over the weekend, Smith said.

The members of the drum line who were initiated allegedly drank until they vomited, Smith said. She said a couple of students were allegedly told to get on their hands and knees and put their faces in the groin area of other members.

Smith said the students are on interim suspension from the band because they were representing the university during the hazing incident, but no one has been permanently suspended at this time.

“We try as much as we can to make sure people understand hazing is against the law, and it’s against university policy,” Smith said. “We take it very seriously when we get allegations of that occurring and follow up and do what we need to do to make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

Police are not looking into any additional suspects at the time, although the investigation is ongoing.

CRIME

Robbery suspect arrested

By Taylor Tompkins News Editor

A man was arrested in connection with seven recent robberies that occurred around the Texas State campus and in other areas in San Marcos.

Cedrick Samuel was charged with aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon Thursday at 8:33 p.m., according to a press release sent from the city. Investigators took Samuel into custody in

a convenience store parking lot on Uhland Road when he stopped to get gas. Samuel is being held at the Hays County Law Enforcement Center on a $30,000 bond, according to jail records.

Samuel is under investigation for a connection to several armed robberies since July 4, including four armed robberies on or near the campus.

Samuel also has warrants for additional charges of aggravated robbery in San Marcos. Suspected incidents include a July 4 robbery of a 7-Eleven store, a July 11 theft at the Conoco Fast Stop gas station on Highway 123 and two other gas station occurrences.

Samuel has previously been arrested four times in Hays County between 2005 and 2009, according to jail records. He was sentenced to four years in prison for robbery in 2009 and was released in October 2012, the records said.

FOOTBALL

BOBCATS RAIDED AGAIN

Austin Humphreys | Photo editor Junior tight end David Lewis reacts after a turnover to Texas Tech Sept. 21 at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock. Texas State was defeated 33–7 in front of a sold-out crowd.

The last game of a threeyear series between Texas State and Texas Tech ended with a Bobcat defeat. Read the complete recap on page 6.

VISITORS

Malawian president’s lecture touches on current events, ‘challenging status quo’

GROWTH

Texas State sees increase in Hispanic enrollment

Austin Humphreys | Photo editor Joyce Banda, president of Malawi, speaks Sept. 19 at the Alkek Library Teaching Theater at the 15th Annual Grosvenor Distinguished Lecture.

By Nicole Barrios

By Rebecca Banks

News Reporter

As Texas State gains recognition as a Hispanic Serving Institution, the number of Hispanic students in the freshman class and those enrolled overall continues to increase.

Hispanic enrollment increased this fall by 12 percent overall, totaling 37 percent of the freshman class alone. Hispanic students now account for 30 percent of total enrollment. The university first became achiefed HSI recognition by the U.S. Department of Education in Spring 2011, with more than 25 percent Hispanic enrollment.

HSI status enables university officials to apply for millions of dollars in Department of Education grants. The grants may be used for a variety of purposes such as purchasing teaching equipment and constructing

new instructional facilities.

Michael Heintze, associate vice president for Enrollment Management, said the university’s changing demographics are in line with those of Texas in general. He said as the state’s population becomes more diverse, the university’s will as well.

“We have worked very hard to attract high-ability students from all backgrounds and all walks of life, including diverse students,” Heintze said. “So what’s encouraging about this is that we are becoming more of a reflection of the state.”

Heintze said university officials have been working hard to “consciously increase the diversity” of the student body for 10 years. He said they have placed regional Texas State admissions offices in Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, the Valley area,

See ENROLLMENT, Page 2

News Reporter

The president of the Republic of Malawi delivered a lecture Thursday about her country’s health, economic progress and a possible student exchange program at Texas State.

President Joyce Banda discussed the ways her country has improved under her administration and her plans for the future. Banda participated in a round-table discussion with students, and faculty members talked about a partnership between Malawi and Texas State.

Individuals from Malawi addressed topics about improving the country’s development, said Ronald Hagelman, associate chair to the Department of Geography.

Hagelman said the university is in talks with Malawi officials to start instructor and student exchange programs, as well as research opportunities in the future.

“In the next couple of weeks we will put some additional meetings on campus,” Hagelman said. “Now

it’s on us to try and organize internal teams to pursue health care issues separately from agriculture issues.”

Geography faculty will be reaching out to other departments, such as agriculture and family and consumer sciences, to develop specified teams to approach various ways Texas State as a whole can help improve Malawi, Hagelman said.

Leslie Garrett, grant specialist in the Department of Geography, said faculty and staff members discussed ways the university will be able to provide direct aid to Malawi in the future.

Banda stressed the importance for transformational partnerships to actively work alongside each other with a common interest and pursue long-lasting change.

“We cannot afford to do business as usual,” Banda said. “We have to challenge the status quo, change the rules of the game and seek more effective ways of engaging with each other. ” Banda said she is implementing

ideas to help improve Malawi’s issues such as economic recovery.

Malawi’s economy was on the verge of collapse following an extended period of economic mismanagement and faced three years of decline, Banda said.

“I became president of Malawi in more or less similar circumstances like those that surrounded Texas’ own son President Lyndon Johnson in 1963,” Banda said.

“Along with President Johnson, I took over office at a time when my country faced socio-economic and political disorder.”

Malawi’s gross domestic product annual growth rate, or the measure of economic growth from one year to another, was nine percent in 2009 and eventually dropped to two percent, Banda said.

Banda said government officials of Malawi are implementing methods to improve the nation’s economic private sector. Banda discussed the importance of working alongside other countries and creating partnerships to ensure the long-term goals of Malawi are reached.

“I have high hopes for Malawi’s membership of the G8 New Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition,” Banda said.

The partnership announced by President Barack Obama last year will help Malawi’s government to transform the agriculture sector, Banda said.

“Partnerships have proved particularly effective in helping us address some the most pressing social issues in Malawi, including maternal mortality, HIV/AIDS and malnutrition,” Banda said.

Banda said factors like transformational partnerships with local chiefs and developing partners with the private sector have reduced the maternal mortality in Malawi to 460 per 100,000 live births.

2 | The University Star | News | Tuesday September 24, 2013

ENROLLMENT, continued from front San Antonio and Austin with the goal of focusing on high schools with diverse populations.

Evy Gonzales, director of the Office of Research Development, said an increase in Hispanic student enrollment means the university can continue to apply for its HSI status and be eligible for grants. She said an institution must apply every year to be an HSI to receive funding.

“It also means a lot more in terms of how well we’re doing with those funds that we’ve got,” Gonzales said. “We continue to recruit Hispanic students, and so we expect that we’re going to continue to see an increase in the percentage of Hispanic students coming to Texas State.”

Gonzales said the university expects to receive $9.6 million in HSI related funds over the next four years.

Gorge Martinez, graduate student and founder of the Latino Student Advisory Committee, said more than 300 students attended the Hispanic Freshmen Reception Sept. 12 in the LBJ Ballroom. He said this was the event’s second year. The event was co-sponsored by the Office of Student Diversity and Inclusion, LSAC and the Hispanic Policy Network. He said Hispanic and Latino organizations attended the event to give information to freshmen interested in becoming involved.

Martinez said he hopes Hispanic students will go back to their homes and spread the word about Texas State to help increase recruitment efforts.

Anna Mobley, political science senior and president of the Hispanic Business Student Association, said there are opportunities for Hispanic students to become involved on campus. She said there are multiple

Hispanic/Latino organizations available.

“I think that there’s so many opportunities for (Hispanic students) to excel at Texas State in academics and in their social and personal interactions,” Mobley said.

Olga Mayoral Wilson, public relations director for The Center of the Study of Latino Media & Markets, said University President Denise Trauth is keen on conveying that Texas State wants to appeal to the Hispanic population. She said many families that visit the center are concerned about where their children are attending college if they are first generation. She said the overall structure of Texas State meets all the needs and concerns of parents.

Heintze said the retention rates of freshmen in various different ethnic groups are almost identical to each other, which is not always the case at other universities.

“We are attracting very bright students who are also diverse,” Heintze said. “That says a lot about this place, about our faculty and about the environment here—a place where people want to invest and send their student to receive an education.”

Chris Motz | Staff photographer

WILD ART

Joseduardo Huerto, criminal justice senior, rehearses for a performance Sept. 13 outside the Music Building.

HEALTH

Round Rock Campus opens Student Health Center

By Nancy Young News Reporter

After recent discussion by Texas State officials, the university opened a Student Health Center Sept. 16 at the Round Rock Campus.

Nurses will provide services including immunizations and primary care for routine medical issues. It will include services for women and mental health issues as well. The center is a result of a partnership between the St. David’s School of Nursing and the main campus Student Health Center.

Sara Joan Douglas, nurse coordinator at the Round Rock Campus, said the new health center will provide the same amenities as the one at the San Marcos campus.

“We are really excited about

this opportunity, and we hope that it brings in much-needed support,” Douglas said. “I know there are a lot of students that commute from Austin or from Round Rock to go to the San Marcos health center, so hopefully they will come here.”

Dr. Emilio Carranco, director of the Student Health Center, said planning for the Round Rock Student Health Center began about a year ago.

“We wanted to build a clinic up in Round Rock and, of course, the nursing school is the group that really provided the space,” Carranco said. “It is their building.”

The Round Rock Student Health Center is approximately 1,500 square feet compared to the 25,000-square-foot one in San Marcos, Carranco said.

“It sounds small, but the folks who have been out there will

agree with me that we designed a very sufficient space,” Carranco said. “The health center was very involved on designing the space and making sure that it met our standards as an accredited facility.”

Carranco said there is room for two medical providers in the health center. Each provider has two medical exam rooms, two offices and a small lab area. There is a nurse workstation, a reception area and a lobby.

The nursing school wanted to partner with the main campus’ health center and make the new facility a “reality” in Round Rock, Carranco said. He said nursing school officials approached affiliates at the main campus health center to try to set up a facility in Round Rock about a year ago.

Carranco said construction went smoothly and ended in early summer. He said the latter

part of the summer was spent hiring medical staff and getting proper equipment and training before opening.

The nursing school was willing to provide some of the staffing and manage part of the Student Health Center at the Round Rock Campus, Carranco said.

Dinorah Gracia MartinezAnderson, head nurse practioner at the main campus Student Health Center, said she was “very excited” to have the health clinic at the Round Rock Campus.

“It sounded like a great opportunity to finally be able to extend services to Round Rock,” Martinez-Anderson said. “So, we agreed to do those things, and they immediately started on construction.”

Martinez-Anderson said partnering with the school of nursing makes sense and is a perfect match. She said when the San

Marcos campus grows Round Rock does as well.

“It has become one of the leading public schools in the state of Texas and so that is something to be very proud of,” MartinezAnderson said. “We are excited to be starting at the floor level, if you will, and just keep growing and growing with the school to meet the needs of our students.”

Martinez-Anderson said while there are walk-ins at the Round Rock Campus, all appointments can be made with the office in San Marcos.

“We are literally still unpacking the Kleenex boxes and the hand sanitizers and everything,” Martinez-Anderson said. “We’re pretty excited, and I’m sure it’s going to pick up. It’s a new venture.”

PRESS RELEASE

Hogg Foundation awards scholarship to Texas State graduate student Kristen Whitenight, a graduate student in the School health services, policy analysis, research and public of Social Work, is one of eight students in Texas to education. The foundation was created in 1940 by receive a 2013 Ima Hogg Scholarship for Mental the children of former Texas Gov. James S. Hogg.

Health. The $5,000 scholarships are awarded to The Hogg Foundation is part of the Division of graduate students of social work who have commitDiversity and Community Engagement at University ted to providing mental health services to the people of Texas—Austin. of Texas.

Whitenight earned her bachelor’s degree Hill Country MHDD Centers in social work from Texas State. Whitenight CSA III / In New Braunfels worked as an intern with SafePlace, a Must have HS diploma/GED; be able to work flexible hours. shelter for survivors of domestic violence Experience working with individuals diagnosed with developmental disabilities. Experience providing residential services. Available to and their families, within field placement for work weekends and evenings. $9.02/hr. her bachelor’s degree. During the past year, Paid Medical, excellent benefits, vacation, sick, retirement, etc. she worked as a direct care staff member at CSA III / In New Braunfels – 3 PRN Openings Helping Hand Home For Children, a treatment Must have HS diploma/GED; work 16 – 18 hours a week. Experience working with individuals diagnosed with developmental disabilities. center for youth who have severe emotional Experience providing residential services. Available to work disturbances. weekends and evenings. $10.26/hr.

Applications are available on line at www.hillcountry.org “People look at the work I do and ask why I continue in this field,” Whitenight said. “I continue this work for the satisfaction of seeing young children learning to work through LEARN TO DEFEND YOURSELF their emotions with powerful words and posiGAMES tive thinking instead of through destructive FOOD& behaviors.”

PRIZES The Ima Hogg Scholarship for Mental Visit the URL below for event details Health was established in 1956 to address and register to play Capture the Flag. the need for more trained social workers who LBJ Student Center Ballroom can deliver quality services for Texans.

OCTOBER 8, 2013 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Hogg Foundation advances recovery security.vpit.txstate.edu/training/csad_2013.html and wellness in Texas by funding mental

LIBRARY BEAT

Wittliff hosts ‘Catfish,’ first film series event You email your significant other to vent and receive some much-needed encouragement after a hard day of classes and work. You feel lucky in the relationship. This is by far the most attractive, exciting, supportive and compassionate person you’ve ever dated. When you met, you had no idea that one day you might be falling in love. But, you haven’t actually met yet, at least, not in person. That’ll happen, but this getting-to-know-each-other-online thing is really working. But then, you find out everything they’ve ever shared about their life is a lie.

You’ve just been “catfished.” Pop culture’s current fascination with this odd verb includes a popular MTV show and the overblown story of a Notre Dame linebacker coping with the death of a non-existent girlfriend. On Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m., come to the Wittliff Collections and see the film that started it all. In its first-ever Library Film Series event, the Alkek presents “Catfish”, the 2010 reality-thriller documentary. Filmmakers Ariel Schulman and Henry Joost sensed a story unfolding as they began to film the life of Ariel’s brother, Nev, in late 2007. They had no idea their project would lead to the most exhilarating and unsettling months of their lives. This riveting story of love, deception and grace within a labyrinth of online intrigue is a shocking product of our time. A discussion will follow the film, and, as always with events at the Wittliff, admission is free.

The University Star | Tuesday September 24, 2013 | 3

OPINIONS

UniversityStar.com

THE MAIN POINT

Eco To-Go Box initiative not worth burden on Chartwells, student budgets

C

hartwells’ most recent environmentally friendly initiative is good in theory, but poor in practice.

Students visiting Jones Dining Hall may have noticed reusable take-out containers are being sold

by Chartwells in lieu of offering Styrofoam containers. If a student does not want to purchase a $5 “Eco To-Go Box,” they must use a Styrofoam tray that does not close if they want to take food from the dining hall to-go.

While it is always commendable when the university takes steps to help students become more environmentally conscious, the losses outweigh the benefits in this case.

According to a Sept. 17 University Star article, the ecofriendly containers are made of Polypropylene, 100 percent BPA-free and certified by NSF International, which develops standards and tests food, water and consumer products. In short, the boxes are a great option for students looking to be more sustainable. The issue is while Chartwells is trying to cut down on Styrofoam use, it is still being offered to students.

In the same Star article,

Vanessa Cortez, Associated Student Government president, said students “use Styrofoam a lot, and it is very hard to recycle.”

Both of these points are true.

However, if Chartwells wants to reduce the amount of Styrofoam usage in dining halls, it should not be offered at all. Though students no longer have the option of using a Styrofoam to-go container with a lid, they can still use a Styrofoam tray. While less students may be choosing to use Styrofoam since the introduction of the Eco To-Go boxes, eliminating Styrofoam from dining halls altogether would be a more worthwhile and productive initiative.

For example, the University of Florida phased out Styrofoam from its dining halls in 2011, replacing it with paper-based products made with renewable, compostable and/or recyclable resources, according to a press release from the university.

While the University of Florida has a similar reusable container program, its outright removal of Styrofoam is an initiative Texas State should look into.

Any additional costs that would come with offering paper-based products would be

justifiable, especially considering Chartwells is losing money with the Eco To-Go containers.

According to the Sept. 17 Star article, Abel Valencia, Chartwells marketing manager, said officials purchase the containers at $4.62 plus tax, which totals more than the one-time $5 fee students pay for the box. Thought the university shouldn’t necessarily have to do everything for a profit, this is not a project worth losing money for.

Lastly, the reusable containers are impractical for most students.

As the term implies, most people wishing to take their food to-go are, obviously, on the go. The Eco To-Go boxes are large and bulky, and are likely inconvenient to haul all over campus for busy students already loaded down with textbooks laptops.

Having to choose between carrying a cumbersome reusable container around all day or leaving Jones with a tray of uncovered food defeats the purpose of taking food from a dining hall to-go, which is supposed to be easy and fast. The idea behind the reusable containers is good, but they are ultimately more trouble than they are worth for the university.

CURRICULUM

Combined history, literature courses could prove beneficial for students

Ashley Trumps Opinions Columnist Journalism senior

history and literature Cintoore requirements should be fused single classes.

History and literature classes are complementary. Without historical knowledge, literature loses its context, and without literature, it is hard to make personal connections to history. University officials should consider consolidating history and literature requirements into combined classes. For example, American history classes could be paired with American literature classes to count for both credits.

History textbooks often fail to bring to life the characters behind past events. The dry accounts offered in these books incite classroom napping and build

passionate disinterest among students. History books recount the vital information while neglecting the humanity behind it. Literature offers a perspective that many history classes fail to mention—it was real people with emotions who made the decisions that affect our society now.

It is easy to dismiss the actions of people who lived hundreds of years ago. If students could sympathize with figureheads of the past, however, they might be able to better recognize the significance and impact of our past.

Reading about Benjamin Franklin’s achievements is one thing, but delving into his autobiography is another. It brings an important historical figure to life, allowing us to see him as a unique individual who had petty thoughts, quirks and emotions just like anyone else. Literature is the perfect companion to history’s stuffy recitations. It provides a human component, a factor that can keep students awake and interested during class.

In turn, history provides context for literature. It tells us the conditions and atmosphere of the author’s life, shedding light on their writing style and ideas. Most professors offer a

Hunter Road roundabout unnecessary

brief historical background when introducing new texts, so the two subjects mingle.

Without some basic knowledge of the circumstances surrounding a piece of literature, it is difficult to fully comprehend the work.

Colloquialisms, references to other authors, places or pieces of work, mean nothing to students who have not brushed up on the history of that work’s time period. Studying a piece of literature in a historical vacuum strips it of much of its significance.

Connecting with authors is easier if their place in history is well established.

Fusing these related classes would help students maintain interest in both subjects. Professors could carefully select which pieces of literature would best accompany their history segment, using the works to keep students engaged while providing deeper understanding of why and how events unfolded. Consolidating the two would also free up time and money for students, allowing them to take other, more pertinent classes. At the very least, the combination of history and literature classes could keep students from drooling all over their textbooks.

More bike lanes needed in San Marcos

Robert Núñez Opinions Columnist Mass communication senior

exas State and San Marcos T officials should consider the needs of cyclists and provide

more bike lanes in town and on campus.

Being an environmentallyfriendly school, cyclists should be treated equally when riding on the road alongside cars. Honking or yelling at cyclists to stay off the road is rude and potentially endangers vulnerable riders.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to make sure everyone in San Marcos is respectful and practices safe driving when around cyclists. To help cyclists stay safe in San Marcos, city and school officials should implement more bike lanes around town and campus.

Cyclists help ease congestion by taking up less space on the road and in parking lots.

The University Star 601 University Drive Trinity Building, Room 101 San Marcos, TX 78666 Phone: (512) 245-3487 Fax: (512) 245-3708

Editor in Chief................................................Caitlin Clark, stareditor@txstate.edu Managing Editor..........................Liza Winkler, starmanagingeditor@txstate.edu Letters..................................................................................starletters@txstate.edu News Editor............................................Taylor Tompkins, starnews@txstate.edu Trends Editor.............................................Amanda Ross, startrends@txstate.edu Opinions Editor..................................Savannah Wingo, staropinion@txstate.edu Photo Editor.......................................Austin Humphreys, starphoto@txstate.edu Sports Editor.......................................Odus Evbagharu, starsports@txstate.edu Copy Desk Chief................................Lesley Warren, starcopychief@txstate.edu Video Editor........................................................Alex Peña, starvideo@txstate.edu

the very bicycle-friendly Austin, cyclists receive little to no consideration in San Marcos. This is a serious issue that needs to be taken more seriously in town.

San Marcos officials should take their cues from Austin with this issue.

Not having enough bicycle lanes is like not having sidewalks.

Not having sidewalks sounds ridiculous to us, so why is not having an adequate amount of bicycle lanes so much more acceptable? Having more bicycles on the streets can only do good for the city. Environmentalism, safety, the diversification of local businesses, health consciousness, the lessening of congestion— these are all positive things bike lanes can bring to San Marcos.

Cycling is a positive activity that benefits San Marcos in many aspects. Cycling improves business by providing a consumer base for bike shops and helping to alleviate traffic by taking cars off the road. Cycling saves the sensitive local environment with green transportation alternatives, and it is a positive activity that San Marcos and university officials should take all measures to promote. The least officials can do is push for the implementation of more bike lanes in San Marcos.

Design Editor.................................................Lee Moran, stardesign@txstate.edu Web Editor.........................................Anthony Garza, starwebeditor@txstate.edu Account Executive.....................................Catie Brossard, starad3@txstate.edu Account Executive.................................Blakely Knowles, starad4@txstate.edu Account Executive.....................................Hannah Wilson, starad5@txstate.edu Media Specialist................................... Chris Salazar, chris.salazar@txstate.edu Advertising Coordinator...........................Kelsey Nuckolls, starad1@txstate.edu Publications Coordinator.......................................Linda Allen, la06@txstate.edu Publications Director...........................Bob Bajackson, stardirector@txstate.edu

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.

CONSTRUCTION

TRANSPORTATION

They help the environment by conserving gas and emitting less pollution. Riding a bike saves students the trouble of waiting to pile on a too-crowded bus. All in all, choosing to ride a bike is a positive decision. Cyclists should not be punished for this choice by facing unsafe conditions on the road. As it is now, cyclists may feel inclined to leave their bikes at home rather than risk becoming roadkill.

For many, travelling around town via bicycle is the only option. Tram routes are limited, only running at specific times and to certain areas and are often overcrowded during peak hours.

In addition, not all residents who regularly use a bicycle for transportation have access to Bobcat trams. Not all San Marcos cyclists are students, and they deserve adequate bike lanes, too.

Furthermore, cars are expensive. Not everyone in town has the money to spend on a car— insurance, maintenance, fuel and gas costs add up quickly. San Marcos officials need to take into account the needs of these residents, providing them with a safe way to travel around town.

Simply purchasing a car is not always a viable option.

As a cyclist myself, I find it very difficult to travel around San Marcos by bicycle. Compared to

Lara Shine | Star Illustrator

ity officials should halt plans for the construction CThere of a roundabout in San Marcos. are financial and environmental constraints

for the project, and the structure could have negative repercussions on traffic.

According to the project proposal on the city website, construction is expected to begin March 2014. The roundabout plans include an expansion to Hunter Road and creating a left turn lane in the middle of the two-way road between Wonder World Drive and Bishop Street.

Dixon and San Antonio Street will be realigned, and Molly Block the roundabout will be built Opinions Columnist where the two streets interJournalism senior sect with Hunter Road.

Numerous problems will arise if city officials choose to begin construction, even though many believe the roundabout will be more efficient than the current intersection.

According to a Sept. 4 University Star article, many residents are opposed to the construction and have been vocal about their disapproval. Building the roundabout could destroy several historical trees, increase congestion, make the area unsafe for cyclists and cost the city millions of dollars to build. When it comes right down to it, building a roundabout is a terrible idea.

If the city does decide to go forth with the construction, many local businesses in the surrounding area will be negatively affected. The traffic that will undoubtedly result from construction will be a nightmare no one wants to deal with. Much like what is already happening downtown, businesses will suffer from reduced clienteles and may even run the risk of shutting down.

According to the same University Star article, some of the land being used for the roundabout could potentially be taken from the family who has owned it for more than 50 years. Under eminent domain, city officials can legally take the land and use it for their own purposes. If this happens, several historical trees will be torn down in the construction process.

The city should not be allowed to take land that has been family-owned for many generations, and neither should they be able to sacrifice ancient trees just to build an unnecessary roundabout. City officials should be ashamed to even consider the idea.

Furthermore, the amount of money needed to build the roundabout is another huge issue. According to the same University Star article, the roundabout will cost about $6 million in state funds and another $4.2 million in Wonder World Drive improvement funds.

This is a significant amount of money that could be better used building something San Marcos actually needs.

Instead of building a roundabout, the city should use that money to build more apartment complexes for the growing amount of students crowding San Marcos. According to a July 5 University Star article, San Marcos was named the fastest growing city in the country, and the population is expected to keep rising over the years.

As the population keeps growing, many will find themselves without a place to live, and the town will become increasingly crowded. Building something to alleviate that congestion would be a worthwhile project. Alternately, the funds could be put towards expanding congested roads, beautifying existing streets, or plugging the pesky potholes that cover San Marcos roads.

To avoid the serious problems that will undoubtedly arise, city officials need to make the decision not to build the roundabout.

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 Tuesday, September 24, 2013. 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.

Visit The Star at www.UniversityStar.com

4 | The University Star | Tuesday September 24, 2013

TRENDS

UniversityStar.com

Fantastic Fest brings actors, celebrities to Austin

Kathryn Parker | Staff Photographer

Elijah Wood promotes his new movie Sept. 20 at Fantastic Fest called “Grand Piano,” which was recently acquired by an Austin-based distribution company for a 2014 release.

By Jordan Gass-Poore’ Trends Reporter

Touted as the largest genre film festival in the country, Fantastic Fest returned to Austin last Thursday for its ninth year of subversive entertainment at the new Alamo Drafthouse Lakeline.

“I’m so proud to be a part of this,” said actor Danny Trejo, who plays the eponymous character in “Machete Kills,” of his participation in the film and Fan-

tastic Fest.

In “Machete Kills,” Trejo was not only reunited with co-writer/ director Robert Rodriguez, but his “Spy Kids” co-star Alexa Vega, who plays the scantily clad KillJoy. The role of KillJoy was, at first, a difficult transition for 25-yearold Vega.

“I had to literally beg this guy (Rodriguez) to be a part of it,” Vega said. “He did not see me that way at all. To him, I was still very

much a kid.”

Trejo remarked that his fatherly instincts kicked in when Vega first stepped out on set because he has known her since she was 11 years old.

Fellow child star Elijah Wood is a Fantastic Fest regular and was in attendance this year to promote his new film “Grand Piano.”

The film’s North American rights were recently acquired by Magnet Releasing.

The recent Austin transplant stars in the thriller about a pianist who takes the stage after a long-awaited hiatus because of stage fright, only to find himself the target of a sadistic cat-andmouse game.

The film’s Spanish director, Eugenio Mira, said the movie’s premise was one of the “craziest” he has worked with, comparing its themes to the work of filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock.

Mira, a musician himself, said he was Wood’s piano double in the film. Wood admitted he was nervous about telling Mira about his few years of childhood piano lessons for fear his comment would be taken out of context.

Wood said Mira seemed confident he would be able to pull off the role.

For three weeks prior to filming “Grand Piano” in Barcelona, Wood said he worked with a teacher to improve his instrumental skills, and then again two weeks prior to shooting.

Another big-name actor, Keanu Reeves, worked with teacherturned-star Tiger Hu Chen to

perfect his on-screen martial arts skills in his directorial debut “Man of Thai Chi.” The action flick follows a young Chinese man whose tai chi skills land him in a lucrative underground fight club.

Although Reeves does not practice tai chi, he said he first became aware of the martial art in his youth.

years, Reeves said he and Chen became friends.

“Tiger wanted to act, so we started developing a story,” Reeves said. “Over the years we worked together, and it eventually became ‘Man of Tai Chi.’” The script for “Man of Tai Chi” went through a few incarnations before it was completed, Reeves said.

Eugenio Mira, director of Grand Piano, attends Fantastic Fest in Austin. The festival is held at Alamo Drafthouse locations and runs until Sept. 26.

Reeves said he first worked with Chen on the “Matrix” trilogy.

Chen was part of the films’ action team and helped them with kung fu and wire techniques. Over the

“That’s fun, you’re getting to know your story,” Reeves said. “I was really happy where we ended up.”

Students participate in nationallyrecognized unconventional sport

Temporary park ‘pops up’ in downtown San Marcos

By Lindsey Bedford

As one of the fastest-growing areas in the nation, San Marcos officials are striving to expand the city while maintaining steady civic interaction and awareness among its residents.

Park(ing) Day, hosted by the City of San Marcos Friday, was intended to “promote social interaction, civic engagement, critical thinking, creativity and interaction with the public,” said Trey Hatt, city communication specialist.

Officials designed a “pop-up park” to occupy a small section of downtown. The green space featured interactive activities such as bicycle tune-ups and art expositions.

Hatt said the event was designed to show citizens how open areas are often taken for granted and to exemplify how small spaces can be put to use.

The event originated in San Francisco when Rebar Art and Design Studio affiliates took a

Trends Reporter

With the tagline “pedestrian football is outdated,” the San Marcos Unicycle Football League is anything but conventional.

Alumnus Marcus Garland founded the league in 2008. He said it is the only league of its kind in the world. Garland said his decision to train people to ride unicycles was a jumpingoff point for the creation of the game.

The game is played as a mixture of flag and traditional American football, said Stephen Ramirez, quarterback for the Harvey Street Herons.

Players use a traditional football and have the same positions seen in a game of American football. Each player has flags and is able to swat away other players or tackle them to the ground, making it a full-contact sport.

Garland created two teams who would play against each

other in weekly games. The league has since evolved to host eight teams, who play a total of 56 games culminating with the championship game dubbed the “Stupor Bowl”.

Now, in its ninth season, the league has been featured on the Huffington Post, CNN and ESPN, thanks to a YouTube clip filmed by a player that went viral.

An estimated 150-250 people attend the weekly games. The Stupor Bowl sees a crowd approximately double that amount, and counts the mayor of San Marcos among its attendees, according to the league’s website.

“It’s a community-oriented event where different types of individuals can come together,” said Dane Walter, wide receiver and safety for the Ill Eagles.

The league features its own brand of “jeerleaders” known as the Unibrawdz, bucking the institution of traditional cheerleading.

Some of their duties include

provoking the crowd and holding—or actually becoming—goal posts. The women will taunt the players during the game.

However, the sport is not dangerous for just its participants.

“Stay away from the sidelines unless you want get hit or fallen on,” said Jackson Turney, a frequent spectator.

Players hurdle, body-slam and flip over others, often sending unicycles and athletes flying. Injuries on both sides of the lines are a common sight.

The league is unique in that they are the only group of people allowed to have alcoholic beverages on city property during games. The Unibrawdz are often spotted bringing the injured players a cup of beer, known as a “second-aide kit.”

Membership in the league is open to anyone, Garland said.

Participants are not required to know how to ride a unicycle, and teammates will train willing participants, including Texas State students and teachers.

Philosophy Dialogue Series Week 1 Neuroscience and philosophy of mind Tuesday, Sept. 24 12:30 p.m.

Has Neuroscience Supplanted the Philosophy of Mind?

Sophists & Sages (Dialogue Class) Wednesday, Sept. 25 3:30 p.m.

Dialogue at the San Marcos Public Library: Incurable Brain Disease: Would You Want to Know?

Richard Hull (Philosophy) Thursday, Sept. 26 12:30 p.m.

Consciousness and the Brain Sophists & Sages (Dialogue Class) Week 2: Neuroscience and moral responsibility

Tuesday, Oct. 8 12:30 p.m.

Evil, Empathy, and Human Cruelty Alex Cortez and Blake Petrea (Dialogue Students) Wednesday, Oct. 9 1 p.m.

Lovecraft’s Solution of Evil: An Amorphous Blight of Nethermost Confusion Which Blasphemes and Bubbles at the Center of the Universe Bryan Register (Philosophy) Thursday Oct. 10 12:30 p.m.

Violence and the Anatomy of Evil Jonathan Montemayor and Devin Wells (Dialogue Students) Week 4: Defining and re-defining the self

Monday, Sept. 30 12:30 p.m.

Gun Control and Mental Health Vince Luizzi (Philosophy) and the Philosophy of Law Class

Monday, Oct. 14 2 p.m.

Accomplishing the “Impossible” in spite of a Brain Damaged Death Joseph Brann (author)

Tuesday, Oct. 1 12:30 p.m.

Neuroscience and Free Will Ethan Jones and Garrett Martin (Dialogue Students)

Tuesday, Oct. 15 12:30 p.m.

Hamlet: The Search for the Elusive Self Rebekah Read and David Tamez (Dialogue Students)

Wednesday, Oct. 2 11 a.m.

The Neurophysiology of Free Will: Causal Chains and Human Action Elaine M. Hull (Psychology and Neuroscience, Florida State University)

Wednesday, Oct. 16 3:30 p.m.

Dialogue at the San Marcos Public Library: Pride, Humility, and the Self Rebecca Raphael (Religious Studies)

Week 3: The problem of evil in the 21st century Monday, Oct. 7 5 p.m No Holds Barred: Multiple Perspective on Critical Policy Issues Joseph Sadler (Physics)

Thursday, Oct. 17 11 p.m.

Naturalism and the Self Gilbert Fulmer (Philosophy) —Courtesy of the Texas State Philosophy Deaprtment

single metered parking spot and turned it into a temporary public park because of the city’s lack of open space. The space was rolled up and put away after the two-hour meter expired.

Rebar officials began receiving requests to create the project in other cities soon after the event, but instead of replicating the same idea the studio promoted the project as “open source.”

It created a how-to manual to get people involved and excited about creating their own parks for the community.

The same model was followed

by San Marcos.

“It doesn’t hit home and ring true until you show folks what you can do with a small piece of ground and that you can do great things that can benefit the public,” Hatt said.

—Report compiled by Kara Dornes, trends reporter

The University Star | Tuesday September 24, 2013 | 5

SPORTS

UniversityStar.com

VOLLEYBALL

Texas State claims victory over ex-WAC foe in five sets

By Bert Santibanez Sports Reporter @BertSantibanez

Texas State volleyball defeated UTSA Friday in the team’s second five-set match of the season.

Senior middle blocker Ashlee Hilbun led the Bobcats with a career-high 24 kills, Hilbun totaled a .548 hitting percentage from the court and recorded seven kills during the third set, which was her highest in a single set this year. Texas State was down by five in the same set, but the Bobcats went on a 6-1 scoring run to gain the lead. Hilbun accounted for three kills during the run.

“I think the whole team really helped me with my performance tonight,” Hilbun said. “This win is huge, especially going into conference play next week. The win really shows how amazing we can be when we play as a team.”

The Bobcats hit .221 from the court. Texas State is fourth in the Sun Belt Conference standings in team hitting percentage, averaging .222 this season. The Bobcats are averaging 12.89 kills per set, ranking them third in conference, with 722 total.

Senior right-side hitter Amari Deardorff leads the team with 178 kills. Deardorff has a hitting average of .326, which is third best on the team.

Junior setter Caylin Mahoney recorded a triple-double in the game with 10 kills, 52 assists and 10 digs. Mahoney’s 52 assists in the match is a season best. Mahoney is currently ranked fifth in the SBC standings in assists, averaging 8.82 per set. Mahoney had a .625 hitting percentage during the game, which was a team best.

“Our passes were on point tonight,” Mahoney said. “Whenever

Star file photo

Texas State volleyball defeated UTSA Sept. 20 in San Antonio in the team’s second five-set match of the season. our passes are accurate, that gives me the option to take advantage of the defense. If the other team jumped with me, I’d pass it to (Hilbun), and she’d get a kill down.

After losing the fourth set, Texas State led throughout the fifth with freshman outside hitter Shelby Vas Matt accounting for the final point of the game. Vas Matt had a dou-

ble-double in the match, collecting 12 digs, 13 kills and hitting .265 from the court. This is the second consecutive game Vas Matt has recorded a double-double, totaling 25 kills and 22 digs during that span. Vas Matt recorded her career best in the match with 13 kills.

Coach Karen Chisum discussed the implications of the win before

conference play next week. The Bobcats will face the LouisianaLafayette Ragin’ Cajuns.

“I was very proud of our kids,” Chisum said. “I was impressed with how they adjusted throughout the match. In the first set, (UTSA) decided that they were going to tip us to death, but we quickly stopped that.”

Chisum said Hilbun was “allworld” during the match, and is working to prepare the players for the upcoming week.

“The kids will come in very focused next week,” Chisum said.

“I’ve spoken to them, telling them it’s time for our second part of our season to begin. This win really is motivating for us.”

SOCCER

Bobcats’ attack falters against Longhorns in Austin

By Kirk Jones

Sports Reporter @kirk_jones11

The Texas State soccer team was defeated in its first-ever regular season matchup against UT Friday, falling 3–0.

“The first half we did exactly what we wanted,” said Coach Kat Conner. “We wanted to step up the pressure and go at them and get into their grill and change the point of attack.

I thought we did a great job of that.”

The Bobcats did not have a shot until 15 minutes into the

game while the Longhorns fired off eight shots in the first half.

The ball club held Texas to one goal and two saves in the first 45 minutes of play.

“We have to fight and scratch for opportunities,” Conner said.

“Texas is not going to make it easy on you. A top-50 team like this—you are going to have to fight.”

Texas State put together a few scoring opportunities with one being called back for an offside call.

The next opportunity came from sophomore forward Lynsey Curry who had her shot blocked

by Longhorn goalie Abby Smith.

Senior midfielder Sydney Curry had an opportunity to score seconds later but missed high.

“Our center midfielders did a great job of raising their intensity level in the second half,” Conner said. “We had to make sure our offense went for second balls. We had to work really hard at getting ourselves turned to initiate the attack.”

The Longhorns struck first as Lindsey Meyer scored on a header with six minutes left before halftime. Assisting her was Chantale Campbell and Whitney Jaynes. Campbell had an impact

in every scoring play, connecting on a goal and having two assists.

Texas State had two shots in both the first and second halves.

Conner made some adjustments coming into the second half to better attack Texas’ defense.

“We built an (offensive attack) exactly how we wanted to,” Conner said. “We got turned and changed the point of attack and got that person outside ready to send in across.”

Texas State defense held Texas to eight first half shots compared to the 15 the ball club gave up in the second.

“There was a lot of high

pressure,” said junior defender Brenna Smith. “(In) the second, when we got the ball, they were on us like white on rice.”

There was an opportunity for the Bobcats to score with little time left in the second half. Set up by freshman forward Clarissa Leon, freshman forward Lauren Prater got the shot on goal, but was denied by the Longhorns’ goalkeeper.

“It was hard to find a release point for our attackers into offense,” Smith said. “That was the biggest challenge, winning the ball and making that transition into offense.”

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CM: Who’s your favorite movie character and why?

AH: Forrest Gump. My dad showed it to me when I was little and I’ve loved that movie ever since.

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CM: Whom is your celebrity crush?

AH: Channing Tatum, by far.

CM: What would you order to eat on a first date?

AH: On the first date, I would probably order steak. If I’m getting taken out for steak, it’s a good day.

CM: If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

AH: I would want to be able to jump super high to use it to my advantage in volleyball.

CM: Who’s your favorite athlete?

AH: I would say Manu Ginóbili. I am a huge Spurs fan and he’s super energetic all the time.

CM: What is your dream job?

AH: My dream job would be for me to be a graphic designer. I like to draw and doodle, so if I could do that for a living it would definitely be good.

CM: If you could have any car, what would it be and why?

AH: A Jeep. I have a Jeep now and I love it.

Benjamin Rauls | Staff Photographer

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6 | The University Star | Sports | Tuesday September 24, 2013

FOOTBALL

Bobcats defeated in Lubbock

By Gabby Tropea Sports Reporter @gabbytropea

T

he last game in a threeyear series between Texas State and Texas Tech ended with a Bobcat defeat in the sold-out Jones AT&T Stadium Saturday.

The Red Raiders defeated the Bobcats 33-7 in front of a record-breaking 60,997 fans in attendance. Texas Tech scored a 29-yard field goal on the first drive to start the game. However, the Bobcat defense did not allow the Red Raiders to get past their own 25-yard line on the second drive and caused two of five turnovers in the first half.

Texas State had two scoring opportunities early in the first

half that resulted in an interception and the Bobcats turning the ball over on downs. The Bobcats went for it on fourth and goal but fell short of a touchdown after being pushed back three yards by the Red Raiders’ defensive line.

Senior cornerback Xavier Daniels returned an interception for two yards in the first quarter, and senior safety Justin Iwuji returned a pick for 24 yards in the second.

The Red Raiders have averaged 22.6 points in the first half of their games this season, but Texas State’s defense allowed 13. The Bobcats were down six points to end the half.

“I was really happy with the defense (in the first half) and disgusted with the offense,” Coach Dennis Franchione said. “We should have been

ahead at halftime.”

Sophomore running back Robert Lowe opened the second half with a 49-yard touchdown in the Bobcats’ first drive. The Red Raiders quickly responded with a touchdown in a five-play drive.

“It felt like we were coming back with momentum,” Lowe said. “I knew we needed to come out the second half and get the offense going because the defense was playing well.”

The Red Raiders put up 20 points in the second half with freshman quarterback Davis Webb. Texas Tech senior wide receiver Eric Ward also placed himself in the top 10 receptions in Red Raider history with 198 catches.

“You can chalk this (loss) up to offense,” said senior quarterback Tyler Arndt. “We’ve got

Austin Humphreys | Photo editor Sophomore running back Rob Lowe scores Texas State’s only touchdown against Texas Tech Sept. 21 in Lubbock. to come in, take the game plan and hit it running in practice to prepare (for the next game).”

Texas State played three different quarterbacks for the game. Senior Tyler Arndt, freshman Jordan Moore and senior Duke DeLancellotti combined went 15 of 31 for

133 yards.

Lowe finished the game with a career-high 103 rushing yards. Texas State walked away 0-3 in the series versus Texas Tech, and the Bobcats had three or more turnovers in a game for the second time this season.

L

Texas State

7

Texas Tech

33

Sophomore running back Chris Nutall searches for a path to the endzone Sept. 21 at Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock. Texas Tech defeated the Bobcats 33–7.

INSIDE THE LINES David Mayo, junior linebacker

By Samuel Rubbelke

Assistant Sports Editor @SamuelRubbelke

Built like a linebacker, equipped with the running ability of a tail back and the awareness of a free safety, junior linebacker David Mayo has returned to the game after last year’s season-ending injury.

Mayo grew up in Oregon, the youngest of seven siblings, and began playing football in third grade. However, the game was not easy to comprehend in the beginning for the current Division-I athlete.

“My first year of football was rough,” Mayo said. “I didn’t know what was going on—I remember being so confused.

At the end of the year, I decided to give it one more shot, and then the rest is history.”

Mayo played both offense and defense at Scappoose High School, recording 1,116 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns as a running back while averaging 10.6 tackles per game in his natural linebacker position. He was named All-State Second-Team.

“I do miss playing running back,” Mayo said. “It’s definitely a glory position, but I love playing linebacker. That’s what I’m best at, and I do love hitting people. You get a lot of glory playing running back, scoring touchdowns and racking up the yards. It’s all good though—I love playing defense.”

Mayo decided to stay along the West Coast after high school and attended Santa Monica Junior College in Los Angeles for a year.

“Out of high school I didn’t get recruited by any D-I schools,” Mayo said.

“I got a D-II in Oregon, then some DIIIs that wanted me to play for them.

With no D-I offers, I decided to go to Santa Monica College. Later on I ended up getting a scholarship out of there to Texas State. It was my only D-I offer.”

Mayo ranked seventh on the team with 41 total tackles in his first seven games as a Bobcat. Then a season-ending cartilage injury occurred in his left knee. Mayo recorded a season-best with 13 tackles against Nevada last year and recovered a fumble against Texas Tech.

“He means a lot to our defense,” said junior linebacker Mike Orakpo. “I was here last year when he went down—you could tell he just wanted to be back on the field so bad. He loves the game and is a great competitor. He had a pretty good year until he got hurt. We’re glad

Chris Motz | Staff photographer

“I love playing linebacker.

That’s what I’m best at, and I do love hitting people.” to have him back.”

Mayo was named the Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Week in the season opener this year. He recorded two interceptions, leading the Bobcats with six tackles and recording a nineyard quarterback sack against Southern Miss.

Mayo leaped for a tipped pass near the 30-yard line for an interception in last Tuesday’s live scrimmages during practice.

When asked if Coach Dennis Franchione should consider moving Mayo to safety, Orakpo emphasized how vital he is to the linebacking core.

“No, we need him in our linebacker room,” Orakpo said. “It’s always good to have a linebacker’s aggressiveness and awareness, but with safety feet, to be able to move your hips. He’s a good combo.”

Mayo has grabbed the attention of offensive coordinators throughout the Sun Belt after helping lead the Bobcats to a 2-0 start for the first time since 2005.

“David Mayo is just a junior,” Franchione said. “The fact that we had him for three years and he got to play some as a sophomore was vital before he got hurt. He’s playing with a lot more confidence having that experience.”

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