WEDNESDAY JUNE 1, 2016 VOLUME 106 ISSUE 1 www.UniversityStar.com
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CAMPUS
Krav Maga teaches students selfdefense
SAFETY
By Rae Glassford Senior News Reporter @rae_maybe As part of its push to help facilitate self-defense among the student body, the Texas State University Police Department is offering lessons in Krav Maga, a form of close-quarters hand-to-hand combat. Hebrew for “contact combat,” Krav Maga focuses on applying natural instincts to real-life scenarios. This style of martial arts is practiced by military and civilians alike. Students are encouraged to register in the hope learning Krav Maga will enable participants to neutralize physical threats. “I think knowing selfdefense is important,” said Kenneth Holmes, sophomore communication major and regular Krav Maga attendee. “I need to be able to defend myself in case I get attacked.” The Krav Maga lessons include an instructional lecture, and typically last up to four hours. Registration for the class opens three weeks prior to the start of the Fall 2016 semester and closes one week prior. The workshop is open to all students, faculty and staff, and is free of charge.
There are many blue emergency buttons located throughout campus. UNIVERSITY STAR PHOTO
Blue light phones placed for safety By Anna Herod News Reporter @annaleemurphy Black towers topped with blue lights are placed throughout campus in order
to ensure maximum safety for Bobcats. On each tower there is a button which connects its user with dispatch at the University Police Department. According to UPD safety
guidelines, these phones should be used to report any crimes, fires or medical emergencies on campus in order to request emergency assistance. After the button is pushed,
callers should stay on the line to describe the emergency situation to UPD dispatch. Police officers will respond at the locatio n of the activated telephone. Officers ask students and other campus
visitors to not use the emergency phones for non-emergent situations or to request a safety escort. The guidelines state using these devices is equivalent to dialing 9-1-1.
2 | Wednsday, June 1, 2016
NEWS
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Bailey Buckingham, News Editor @bcbuckingham
CAMPUS
AWARD
Writing Center helps students hone in their writing skills Richard Dray News Reporter @richard_Dray The Writing Center at Texas State is a free resource available to students who want help with any type of writing assignment. While this is not an editing service, the staff will
PACE advising center awarded The Writing Center is located in ASBN 100.STAR FILE PHOTO
work with students to improve their writing, grammar and punctuation skills. Students can be seen for a maximum of one hour each day. A variety of specialized programs are available such as veterans, webcam and
SLAC TUTORING
By Anna Herod Senior News Reporter @annaleemurphy
As new Bobcats set foot on Texas State’s campus and attend their freshman year classes, the large student population can be intimidating. With classes in teaching theaters filled to capacity, one might assume getting one-on-one assistance for more challenging subjects is difficult. However, the Student Learning Assistance Center, otherwise known as
SLAC, provides the personalized help students often need. The center offers a variety of academic support programs including a walk-in tutoring lab, supplemental instruction and other online resources. SLAC is funded by the student service fee, which means Bobcats have already paid for it in their tuition. Use of the center is free of any additional costs.
graduate tutoring. The center provides tips, techniques and guidance for any writing-related assignment. Students are able to make appointments online through the Writing Center’s website.
The center is located on the ground floor of the Academic Services Building North. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. with Friday hours 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
By Rae Glassford Senior News Reporter @rae_maybe As the new academic year swings into motion, the Personalized Academic & Career Exploration Advising Center will be kicking back into gear soon. PACE is a service designed to provide students with comprehensive and proactive advising. This year, Texas State’s PACE Center was honored by the National Academic Advising Association when it received a 2016 Outstanding Institutional Advising Program Award. “We have a unique program structure built for incoming freshmen, which allows us to focus on the needs of first year students,” said Angie Barrera, academic advisor. “This is not something you’re guaranteed to get from other institutions.” According to its mission statement, PACE exists to foster a collaborative environment engaging students in their educational journeys. It is where
all freshmen will receive academic guidance prior to being transferred to the advising center of the department particular to their chosen major, during their sophomore year. “The practical considerations of the office emphasize academic advising training, when it comes to our undergraduate degree programs,” Barrera said. “The student learning objectives utilized to train advising staff are also used in our model with students who attend PACE. We also focus on internal team building because we are such a large unit.” The PACE center is comprised of several teams, among which responsibilities are divided. These include a planning and development team which provides strategic planning for professional staff development, as well as an assessment team that works on the quality of the programs delivered. “We really focus on a personalized approach,” Barrera said.
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NEWS
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Bailey Buckingham, News Editor @bcbuckingham
GROWTH
San Marcos animal shelters report overpopulation By Bri Watkins News Reporter The summer season is a hard time for pets living in south Texas as the number of animals exceed the maximum capacity for local animal shelters. The San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter is among the local shelters struggling with overpopulation. Kara Montiel, animal services manager, said the shelter typically houses between 100 and 250 animals throughout the year but the number rises during the summer and spring due to litters. “Summer is very busy along with spring, and yes,
we are usually very full during those times. It is more common to have some empty kennels in the winter since other organizations tend to come take our animals for adoption programs,” Montiel said. “We will sometimes see a fluctuation within 100 animals or so, month to month.” The city ordinance allows shelters in San Marcos to hold stray animals for three days to give owners the opportunity to find and reclaim them. If the animal has traceable identification, such as tags or a microchip, the owner gets five days to reclaim them. Animals that are surrendered by owners become city
property, and they are able to be adopted out, transferred to rescue or euthanized immediately. In times of overpopulation, the animals abandoned by owners are at higher risk of euthanasia, said Montiel. “It is a very disappointing time of the year when we ask owners to reconsider leaving their animals here because we are full, and they sign them over with a euthanasia request anyway,” Montiel said. Overpopulated animal shelters can be a common problem throughout Texas. Due to a demographic culture, a large part of the southern U.S. faces the problem of irresponsible breed-
PROGRAMS
STAR FILE PHOTO
ing, said Montiel. Some do not see the importance of spaying and neutering cats and dogs. Stray animals are commonly spotted in parking lots, road sides and neighborhoods. “Being a responsible pet owner stretches beyond the wall of your own home or property,” Montiel said. The fundamental necessi-
ties as a dog owner is to consider the possible outcomes and prepare for certain situations before they happen. Montiel said it is the law to keep pets restrained in public and on property, and if pet escapes, check local shelters immediately. “Be mindful and respectful of your neighbors and community by taking the necessary means to prevent
animals from escaping, being a nuisance or disruptive to others,” Montiel said. “We all know our animals to be a wonderful part of the family. What some owners do not realize or think about is that they are animals and have natural behavior and reactions to their environment.”
STRESS
Study Abroad Program The Counseling Center can help combat stress broadens horizons Richard Dray News Reporter @richard_dray The Texas State Counseling Center offers assistance to students adjusting to issues associated with maintaining a successful college career. The center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Services offered inBy Brigeda Hernandez Senior News Reporter @brigeda_h Bobcats have several options when choosing a study abroad experience. Students can choose among faculty-led, international exchange, affiliated and non-affiliated programs. Most faculty-led pro-
grams take place over the summer or semester, and include a variety of housing options. Classes can be taught in English or in the country’s native language. International exchange programs last for one or two semesters. Students attend classes at a partner university, and live with a host family. Affiliated programs are
clude individual, group and couples counseling. Consultation and crisis response is also offered. The center provides workshops about coping with stress and other mental health topics. The counseling center is located in the LBJ Student Center, room 5-4.1. Bobcats can make appointments by phone or in person. Services are free, confidential and
provided by trained professionals. “Our staff is knowledgeable about the adjustments and life experiences students often encounter during college and are invested in helping them succeed,” said Heather Aidala, supervising psychologist and assistant director of Clinical Services.
provided by third parties, and can last anywhere from a few weeks to a full year. Non-affiliated programs are not formally associated with Texas State. The first step is to attend one of the general information sessions, which take place at the Thornton International House throughout each semester.
SAFETY
Bobcat Bobbies and Cats on the Go provide safe rides home By Brigeda Hernandez Senior News Reporter @brigeda_h Any student concerned about walking back to a car or residence hall late at night can take advantage of the Bobcat Bobbies, provided by the University Police Department. To request a safety escort, Bobcats can call 512.245.SAFE. The Bobbies operate during the fall and spring semesters from 6:30 p.m. to one in the morning, seven days a week. All Bobbies carry a radio and are able to communicate with dispatch in case of an emergency. In addition to dorms, Bobbies provide transportation to on-campus apartments, parking lots, and parking garages. Safety escorts provide a oneway ride, and students wishing to return to their original destination must call a second time. From 1:00 a.m. until dawn, Security Services provides escorts. For students with a temporary disability, such as a broken leg, Cats on the Go golf carts are also available to transport students to and from classes. This must be approved by the Off ice of Disability Services, which can be reached at 512.245.3451.
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LIFESTYLE
Denise Cervantes, Lifestyle Editor @bcbuckingham
UniversityStar.com @universitystar
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Fulfill your vegetarian needs on campus By Erin O’Donnell Lifestyle Reporter @1erino
Whether a vegetarian, a vegan, or simply someone who wants to incorporate healthy food, there are many dining options on campus for a healthy lifestyle. Jessica Braun, international studies sophomore, said one of her favorite places to eat on campus is Wild Greens in The Lair. “They offer many different kinds of salads, and I
find that it’s easy to change up my lunch once a day because of all the different options of dressings and topping they offer,” Braun said. Jordan Smith, criminal justice sophomore, said her favorite place to eat on campus is Freshens in The Den. “Freshens has everything I could want in a place,” Smith said. “They have crepes, salads and even frozen yogurt, and as a vegetarian it makes me feel great to know that I have so many wonderful options in just one place.”
Sara Ortiz, agriculture animal science major, said when in a hurry for lunch, she picks up a prepacked lunch from the Paws Market. “I like that they have more options than just a typical salad,” Ortiz said. “I can choose to either have a turkey wrap or just get a fruit or just get some apple juice. There are no limits to what I can or cannot eat, and I am not stuck with picking the same meal every day.”
Inside of Paws Market May 24. Students can find healthy food options at the Paws Market. PHOTO B
HEALTH
Healthy Cats educates peers about the truth By Stacee Collins Assistant Lifestyle Editor @stvcee Healthy Cats is an awardwinning organization that promotes wellness while influencing healthy attitudes through informational presentations. By participating in outreach events like National Condom Day and World AIDS Day, Healthy Cats provides bobcats with opportunities to give back to the community and earn volunteer hours.
Presentations include Contraception 101, Staying Healthy in College, HalfBaked: Myths and Facts about Marijuana and Prescription Drugs, Social Buzz and more. Arlene Cornejo, health promotion specialist, said trained students teach the presentations. “They’re designed to be interactive and to provide resources for students that are available on campus,” Cornejo said. “The goal of Healthy Cats is to allow students to make healthier
choices for themselves.” Kelsey Danton, health promotion specialist, said the information provided by Healthy Cats is beneficial. “Any time a student gets more information about their general health issues or anything around healthy sexuality, it’s a good idea for students to have that information,” Danton said. “We always have verbal feedback from students thanking us and saying that they really appreciated the information.”
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The University Star
LIFESTYLE
Denise Cervantes, Lifestyle Editor @bcbuckingham
UniversityStar.com @universitystar
SPORTS
Jump into the year by joining an intramural sport By Vivian Medina Lifestyle Reporter @vjmedina6
Students can find their places at Texas State by joining an intramural sports team this school year. There are many leagues offered at Texas State, including flag football, soccer, volleyball, softball and basketball. Intramural sports are organized games within an institution which allow one to participate in a favorite pastime either on a competitive or recreational level,
according to Brynn Cox, facility manager at student recreation center. “You are competing against your friends and sometimes even faculty and staff, which makes it very special and different from other sports,” Cox said. Students can easily sign up a team at IMLeagues.com either at the beginning of the fall or spring, according to Cox. Erin Akins, communications studies junior, said she enjoyed watching her peers on different teams.
“Last year I watched all my friends play, and I watched the fraternities play basketball, soccer and flag football,” Akins said. “They’re fun to watch.” Jared Garza, social work senior and flag football player, said intramural sports is a good way to pass the time. “If you are looking for a way to spend time with or make friends, intramural sports is a good way to do that,” Garza said. “Everyone is encouraged to join any intramural sport that interests them.”
STAR FILE PHOTO
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Give back at Bobcat Build By Erin O’Donnell Lifestyle Reporter @1erino
Since 2002, Bobcat Build has been an annual Texas State tradition where students are given the opportunity to give back to the San Marcos community through service and outreach. Emily Lund, Bobcat Build co-chair, said the primary goal of Bobcat Build is to strengthen the relationship between the student body and the city of San Marcos.
“Things can get a little crazy between the students and the homeowners living side by side, or just using the same roads, same streets (and the) same square,” said Lund. During Bobcat Build, over 4,000 students participate, according to Lund. Ashley Carrington, theater production and performance alumna participated in Bobcat Build as part of Alpha Psi Omega, the co-ed theater fraternity. “I was looking to help
people who have been devastated by the floods or who need help because of sickness,” said Carrington. Hannah Summerlin, Spanish graduate student, said she participated in community service during her undergraduate studies at Texas A&M University and enjoyed Bobcat Build just as much. “I had a good time there doing the little give backs,” said Summerlin. “I wanted to do it here too.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF BOBCAT BUILD
CAMPUS
Rec Center offers variety of resources for Bobcats By Stacee Collins Assistant Lifestyle Editor @stvcee The rec center has something for everyone, whether it is lifting weights, playing basketball or volleyball, running on a treadmill, swimming laps or playing racquetball. Jonathan Hernandez, assistant director of facility operations, said the rock wall area consists of two 52foot climbing towers. Group exercise classes, taught by nationally certi-
fied instructors, take place throughout the year. However, these services cost extra, according to Hernandez. “The entire first week of school, everything we offer that we normally charge is actually offered free because we want everyone to try it,” Hernandez said. Another feature of the rec center is the golf simulator. It’s essentially a virtual reality game, Hernandez said. Kaitlin Migl, interdisciplinary studies junior, said her favorite aspect of the rec
center is the indoor track. “I love the indoor track,” Migl said. “It’s a good place to go run on a flat surface.” Daniel Vasquez, associate director of campus recreation, said the recreation center’s goal is to help students fulfill their healthy lifestyle. “We have a wide variety of activities which allow students to have a large inventory of choices to practice healthy habits,” Vasquez said. “The rec center services create wellness and balance in students’ lives.”
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Every Tuesday, Through August 16th Learn the moves from 6-7pm, then try ‘em out when popular rock-a-billy group Two Tons of Steel hits the stage at 8:30pm at Gruene Hall
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The University Star
Wednesday, June 1, 2016 | 7
LIFESTYLE
Denise Cervantes, Lifestyle Editor @bcbuckingham
UniversityStar.com @universitystar
Rock out at Riverfest this school year MUSIC
By Vivian Medina Lifestyle Reporter @vjmedina6
Riverfest is an annual concert held in the spring semester at Sewell Park. Riverfest is hosted by student association for campus activities (SACA) to provide the community with free entertainment. Games, food, giveaways and live music are what students can look forward to at Riverfest, according to Alexandra Puryear, former
pride and traditions coordinator. “We have always had prominent artists like Ying Yang Twins, Young Joc, Gloriana, We the Kings and this past year, Bowling for Soup,” Puryear said. Zeeba Zarei, nursing sophomore and newly chosen pride and traditions coordinator, hopes to continue making Riverfest an event students can look forward to. “I plan to have more interactive activities to do dur-
ing the week of and during Riverfest to get the student body really excited for Riverfest,” Zarei said. “We do put so much of our work and time into it, and seeing the students come out really makes all of it worth it.” Breanna Herbert, sociology junior, said she has attended Riverfest twice while at Texas State. “It does not disappoint,” Herbert said. “It is something every student should attend and not miss out.”
STAR FILE PHOTO
FOOD
Mama’s Kitchen: Culture and food oh my! By Trista Castillo Lifestyle Reporter @Tristaaaaa
A tradition since 2005, Mama’s Kitchen is a Texas State event people will want to mark on the calendars. Mama’s Kitchen celebrates cultural diversity by honoring Latino and African American culture throughout the school year, according to Stella Silva, associate director of diversity and inclusion.
UNIVERSITY
Rev up for Homecoming week’s Soap Box Derby By Stacee Collins Assistant Lifestyle Editor @stvcee
Since 1967, Bobcats have been suiting up and showing out for Homecoming week’s Soap Box Derby. Sponsored by Student Association for Campus Activities, the derby is one of Texas State’s oldest traditions. Student organizations, Greek life and residence
halls come together to compete for the winning title. Rigo Gutierrez, coordinator for campus activities, said the October event invites Bobcats to race the day away in homemade soapboxes. The one-person cars are made of wood or plastic with no motor. “It’s a really fun event because it’s high-energy. It’s very American,” Gutierrez said. “Being able to bring it
to campus is really fun.” Alexandra Puryear, former pride and traditions coordinator, said the derby welcomes a diverse group of people. “It brings all the students, alumni, faculty and staff to one place, so we always love it because we feel like we’re able to get the whole community together,” Puryear said.
STAR FILE PHOTO
“We have two Mama’s Kitchens in the beginning of each long semester,” Stella Silva said. “We celebrate Latino culture in fall and during Black History Month we celebrate it in the spring.” Samuel Silva, public administration junior, said he enjoys going to Mama’s Kitchen because he can bring friends and unwind from school. “It’s a relaxed type of program,” Samuel Silva said. “I
like going because I can take a break from my classes and eat some great food.” Cecilia Torres, business management junior, said Mama’s Kitchen reminds her of back home. “Mama’s Kitchen has a great atmosphere,” Torres said. “It has heartwarming food.” According to Stella Silva, Hispanic Heritage Mama’s Kitchen will be held Sept. 15 in the LBJ student ballroom.
8 | Wednsday, June 1, 2016
The University Star
OPINIONS
UniversityStar.com @universitystar
Bailey Buckingham, News Editor @bcbuckingham
THE MAIN POINT
Cat Camp is fun and isn’t mandatory Texas State’s New Student
Orientation and Bobcat Preview are superb in regards to absorbing as much information as possible about Texas State and classes. However, what these mandatory, fundraining events lack is the pizazz and good time that Cat Camp will bring to incoming freshmen. Cat Camp is where young fish can make lasting friends while learning what it means to be a Bobcat. It is at Cat Camp that Bobcats, and not humdrum college students are made.
Anchored in tradition and steeped with fun, Cat Camp will allow new students to learn about the Texas State culture, history and traditions. Traditions such as, jumping into the river at graduation and ordering Gumby’s pizza when dining hall food is no longer cutting it. Campers engage in a ceremonial dumping of a university-ring key chain into a fountain of San Marcos River water. The ceremony parallels the ceremony they will engage in as seniors when they dump their actual class
ring into San Marcos River water. Engaging in activities such as those at Cat Camp, have the capability and high probability of ensuring lasting friendships. Many students who met at Cat Camp are still friends. The environment is a huge benefit for students who are anxious or particularly shy about making new friends. At Cat Camp, many incoming scholars realize they are not the only individuals terrified about being away from home. So instead of sitting awkwardly in classes
hoping someone will speak to you, or trying to force a friendship on roommates, attendees have the opportunity to make friends in a fun setting. One of the best things about Cat Camp, is that unlike NSO and Bobcat Preview, it is voluntary. If someone doesn’t want to go to, they don’t have to. If a new student doesn’t show up to Bobcat Preview, they have to sit through about 5,000 hours of material online. It’s impossible not to have fun when someone is being forced to attend something,
right? Cat Camp thoroughly makes up for the required stuff. No one wants to sit through presentation after presentation in a freezing cold room about finances. Or sit through a mini lecture designed to show students how to take notes in a lecture-style setting. Walking what seemed like 10,000 miles in 108 degree Texas heat in the midst of Bobcat Preview to attend yet another mandatory function at Strahan Coliseum is not an activity many find enjoyable. How-
ever, Making flags, painting faces and screaming at the top of your lungs sounds like a great time for practically everyone. Cat Camp provides the perfect setting to build lasting friendships, learn what being a Bobcat means to each student personally and to eat Gumby’s pizza until your insides explode. In other words, if incoming students want to know what it really means to be a Texas State student, they should swim on upstream to good ol’ Cat Camp.
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.
Transgender people in women’s bathrooms spark safety concerns
Why we should stop prying into people’s tattoo history
In this morally dead world, bills are allowing men and women who feel as if they are secretly the opposite sex to use bathrooms and locker rooms suiting their gender identity. Studies illustrate male and female brains have been around longer than most people realize. Dr. Money’s experiment on two twin boys is a prime example. Just because a few people outside the societal norms have issues using a bathroom according to their biological gender, doesn’t mean we should cater to them. It is a pointless and dangerous matter. To be clear, transgender people are absolutely good people who face a great deal of adversity in today’s “progressing” world. However, in an effort to make a few lives more comfortable we have opened a portal for perverts to take advantage of a situation that could put many in a dangerous situation. As transgender bathrooms become an ever-growing trend, there will eventually be a wave of resentment to-
Getting a tattoo is one huge adrenaline rush. The process itself is thrilling and exciting, but nothing bursts the bubble quite like one dreaded question: “What does it mean?” While innocent, this question irks many people with tattoos purely because it drags in the stereotype every piece must carry some deep, powerful and touching story. When tattoos were taboo and largely unaccepted, especially in the workforce, the concept normalized this form of art. For example, it’s hard to judge someone for a tattoo when it commemorates the successful completion of chemotherapy. “’I just think they’re pretty’ is apparently not an acceptable answer to these meaning-mongers, bred on reality tattoo shows in which every tattoo comes with a heart-wrenching back-story usually involving a dead family member,” Emily McCombs, executive editor of xoJane, said. While it is true many
wards the transgender community. The antipathy towards the community could possibly escalate to violence and more ostracizing, making the transgender bathroom situation rather moot. Everything comes down to safety for everyone. The transgender community needs safety and acceptance from bigots, and women and children need peace of mind. Many individuals in the leftist community argue against any likelihood of attacks and peeping toms. However, in many instances, a male has entered a dressing room or bathroom under the guise of a woman but instead raped women and stole their sense of security. “I am not saying that transgender people are predators. Not by a long shot. What I am saying is that there are countless deviant men in this world who will pretend to be transgender as a means of gaining access to the people they want to exploit, namely women and children. It already happens. Just Google Jason Pomares,
The University Star Editor-in-Chief..................................................Emily Sharp, stareditor@txstate.edu Managing Editor...........................Brandon Sams, starmanagingeditor@txstate.edu Letters...............................................................................universitystar@txstate.edu News Editor............................................Bailey Buckingham, starnews@txstate.edu Sports Editor.........................................Autumn Anderson, starsports@txstate.edu Lifestyle Editor......................................Denise Cervantes, starlifestyle@txstate.edu Opinions Editor........................................Mikala Everett, staropinion@txstate.edu Multimedia Editor................................Lara Dietrich, starmultimedia@txstate.edu Copy Desk Chief.....................................Claire Abshire, starcopychief@txstate.edu
Norwood Smith Burnes, or Taylor Buehler, for starters.” This quote comes from a past rape victim in her reaction to the bills being passed that grant access to bathrooms of the opposite sex. She calls it a “badge of honor” for victims to be able to re-enter a place in which they were destroyed emotionally. Imagine the difficulty returning to a bathroom after such a tragedy, especially since it such an unavoidable area. By giving the transgender community their own bathroom, both sides would be compromising. The bigots would compromise by recognizing being transgender is a real thing. The transgender community would have the benefit of feeling accommodated to some degree, as well as safety. It’s a step in the right direction that causes as few toes as possible to be stepped on but still allows for progressivism. By Jessica King
tattoos carry a personal meaning, a vast majority do not. It is completely okay to adorn yourself in art that is purely beautiful or just silly. The umbrella of pressure, which stops many from getting a tattoo they really want, is ridiculous. I have tattoos related to several different television shows. I don’t watch some of the programs anymore, but I know I will never regret my art because it reminds me of a certain point in my life. Even if a tattoo does have a personal meaning, it is still important to refrain from inquiring about it. The question forces the ones adorned to either tell an incredibly personal story or find a way to weasel out of the situation and both are equally unpleasant. “When you ask what my tattoos mean (as in, all my tattoos) you are basically asking me to take you on a guided tour of my entire body, which is kind of an imposition on anyone,” Jamie Peck of The Gloss said. We understand you think
our tattoos are cool and it’s perfectly fine to tell us you think so. After all, we spent hundreds of dollars and hours suffering under a needle for them. Just remember, there is a difference between a compliment and prying into someone’s personal life. This is similar to why you should never ask someone about a scar. A mark might come with a fun story about skateboarding gone wrong or a silly paintballing incident, but there is a chance the back-story is tragic. If the scar came from a car accident or from a push down the stairs from a jealous ex, then inquiries are incredibly painful. In the future, please refrain from asking someone what their tattoo means. Just appreciate tattoos for the artistic creations they are. If someone wants to tell the story, they will. By Libby light
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Design Editor...........................................Jessica Strickland, stardesign@txstate.edu Engagement Editor..................................Jeffrey Bradshaw, starpromo@txstate.edu Account Executive................................................Hanna Katz, starad2@txstate.edu Account Executive......................................Morgan Knowles, starad4@txstate.edu Account Executive................................Angelica M. Espinoza, starad5@txstate.edu Media Specialist................................................Dillan Thomson, djt48@txstate.edu Advertising Coordinator...................................Kelsey Nuckolls, kjn16@txstate.edu Publications Coordinator..........................................Linda Allen, la06@txstate.edu Publications Director.................................Bob Bajackson, stardirector@txstate.edu
The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University and is published every Monday 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 Thursday, April 21, 2016. 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
The University Star
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The University Star
The University Star
SPORTS
Wednesday, June 1, 2016 | 11 Autumn Anderson, Sports Editor @aaautumn_
UniversityStar.com @universitystar
ATHLETICS
It’s a great day to be a Bobcat! By Lisette Lopez Sports Reporter Lisette_1023 Congratulations on becoming a Bobcat! There is so much in store here at Texas State. This is where the journey begins. One thing Texas State is known for is its athletic program. It has a variety of sports for students to be a part of. From football to track and f ield, students support their team no matter what. Some of our own Bobcats have gone on to play in the NFL and have even become Olympians.
They start here, and have achieved great things. Here at Texas State, Bobcats are supported on and off the f ield. One of the advantages students have is getting into any athletic event free. The only thing students need to bring is their Texas State ID. The gates at most events open from an hour to an hour and a half prior to game time. You can come early or right on time to support your Bobcats. You can even bring family and friends in the student section for the football games for just $10. The student section is where
Bobcats sits together and support the football team. This is an experience every new Bobcat should encounter. Students are loud and proud to be a part of Texas State! Students who are more than noisy at any athletic event should be a part of the Loud Crowd. The Loud Crowd is the off icial student fan organization of Texas State Athletics. Any Texas State student can join the Loud Crowd for a fee of $30 per year. The mission statement of the Loud Crowd is “To promote school spirit both on and off campus and
create the best home f ield advantage possible by ensuring that other teams know ‘This is our house.’” The Loud Crowd has many benef its for being a part of the organization. If you’re loud and have school spirit, the Loud Crowd is for you. Our athletic departments are getting better each year. Our football team has a new head coach for the f irst time since 2011. Everett Withers is our 2016 head football coach, and hopes to bring out a new and improved football team. This past year, the track
and f ield men’s team won the 2016 Sun Belt Conference Indoor Championship. The women were runner-ups in the indoor conference. Both men and women placed third in the 2016 Sun Belt Conference Outdoor Championships. Our women’s soccer team made it to the 2015 Sun Belt Conference Tournament. Women’s golf were the 2016 Sun Belt Conference Champions. Our student-athletes show their school spirit on and off the f ield. With the help of students across campus, Texas State’s
school spirit grows with the community. There are many advantages in coming to athletic events. It is free to get in, and can be a great social experience. College is a time to grow and to make memories. Attending athletic events and making new friends is just the start. Get out there and support the Bobcats! Show your Bobcat pride, and make it known to the opponents whose house this is! Go, Bobcats, Go!
FOOTBALL
The future of Bobcat Football By Autumn Anderson Sports Editor @aaautumn_ The Texas State football team had a rough season in 2015. The Bobcats went 3-9 with head coach Dennis Franchione. Franchione led the Bobcats to eligibility for two bowl games, in 2013 and 2014. He had his moments, but last season’s performance was a sign for change. Texas State sat at second to last in the Sun Belt Conference. It’s time for the Bobcats to make a bigger name for themselves in the world of college football. Bringing in a new head coach like Everett Withers is potentially a way to achieve it. Withers has coaching experience varying from being defensive quality controller for the New Orleans Saints, defensive backs coach for Texas to being the head football coach at James Madison
University. Withers’ career record as a coach is 25-13. He even led the James Madison Dukes to the second round of the NCAA tournament. Having Withers on the sideline will benefit the Bobcats, especially defensively. Texas State has struggled with this in the past. Another big addition to the team is Eddie Printz, a
redshirt quarterback from Mizzou. Printz didn’t see a lot of action on the field with Missouri. In 2015, he played in eight games as the team’s primary holder. Over two seasons, Printz only threw one pass. However, in 2012, the quarterback was ranked at no. 32 in the nation for prostyle quarterbacks. Also,
having played in a big competitive conference like the SEC brings a different point of view to the table. Printz is used to high competition and quick thinking. Besides Printz, the Bobcats have signed several impressive recruits. This is a new era of Texas State football, and it will be important to witness the change and growth of the Bobcats.
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12 | Wednesday, June 1, 2016
SPORTS
The University Star UniversityStar.com @universitystar
Autumn Anderson, Sports Editor @aaautumn_
ATHLETES
Where are they now? Former Bobcats in the big leagues By Brooke Phillips Sports Reporter @brookephillips_
Charles Austin: http:// www.charlesaustin.net Joplo Bartu: https:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joplo_Bartu David Mayo: http:// espn.go.com/nfl/player/_/ id/2972400/david-mayo Paul Goldschmidt: https://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Paul_Goldschmidt As a college athlete, the dream for many is not to quit playing once college is over, but rather to continue
their sports in the professional field. This is not an easy goal to reach, but these former Bobcats were ultimately able to turn their passion at Texas State into a career. To compete in the Olympics is the one of the highest honors an athlete can receive, and is exactly what happened for Charles Austin. Austin’s love of sports was illustrated through his talent in the high jump. Although he was able to land a scholarship at what was then Southwest Texas University, he
was a business management major—which proved to be useful for what was in store for him. After a successful college high jump career, Austin coached himself for 15 years and was able to become the American Record holder for high jump at the 1991 Olympics. Austin holds many other records, and after his athletic career ended, he was inducted into the USA Track and Field Hall of Fame. Another athlete to graduate from Texas State is Joplo Bartu.
Bartu was recruited to play football right out of high school for the Bobcats, and he started all four years of his college career. As a linebacker, in 2013 Bartu was drafted to play for the Atlanta Falcons. For about three years, Bartu played as a Falcon, and in December 2015 he signed to play for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Bartu still plays to this day and is now in his fourth season of playing in the NFL. Another former Bobcat in the NFL is second season, David Mayo.
Mayo currently is a linebacker for the Carolina Panthers, and was drafted in the 2015 NFL Draft. One former Bobcat with a professional baseball career is Paul Goldschmidt. Goldschmidt was drafted into the MLB to play for the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2009 MLB Draft. Goldschmidt holds the nickname of “Goldy” and competed in the MLB All Star game in 2014. While there have been many athletes to have come through Texas State, a handful of them have continued
their love for their sport by pursuing it as a career. Texas State allowed these athletes to learn and grow with their sport before sending them off into life beyond college. Whether it was on the baseball field, the football field or the track, these accomplishments took many hours of hard work and dedication. Through their strong work ethic, these former Bobcat athletes strived to be at the top and were able to accomplish their personal dreams.
TRACK
Twenty-two Bobcats compete in NCAA Preliminary West rounds By Lizette Lopez Sports Reporter The Texas State Track and field team sent 22 athletes to compete in the NCAA Preliminary West rounds in Lawrence, Kansas. In the men’s hammer throw, Jordan Huckaby, senior thrower, placed 41st with a throw of 56.10 meters. De’Quad Binder, senior runner, placed 38th in the 800 meter run with a time of 1:52.32 seconds. Anthony Johnson, senior runner, Demarcus Porter, sophomore runner, and Lincoln Warren, freshman runner, competed in the 400
meter dash. Porter placed 16th with a time of 46.92 seconds. Johnson turned in a time of 47.78 seconds and came in 35th place. Warren placed 39th and turned in a time of 48.09 seconds. In the 200 meter dash, Phillip Green, freshman runner, placed 40th with a time of 21.5 seconds. In the 4x100 meter relay, the men’s team came in 15th place. Cody Schulz, junior runner, Warren, Porter and Green contributed a time of 40.18 seconds. In the 4x400 meter relay, the men’s team placed 10th. Dexter Lee, junior runner, Johnson, Porter and Warren
contributed a time of 3:05.65 seconds. On the women’s side, Tramesha Hardy placed 15th in the 400 meter dash. She turned in a time of 54.25 seconds. Hardy also competed in the 200 meter dash and placed 32nd with a time of 23.87 seconds. In the 400 meter hurdles, Sydni Willis, sophomore hurdler, placed 30th with a time of 59.74 seconds. Kaylee Kreek, freshman hurdler, and Antonisha Stewart, junior hurdler, both competed in the 100 meter hurdles. Stewart turned in a time of 13.66 seconds and placed 30th. Krenek came in
42nd place with a time of 14.10 seconds. In the 4x100 meter relay, the women’s team did not finish the race. The team consisted of Nia Dorner, junior runner, Krenek, Stewart and Hardy. In the 4x400 meter relay, the women’s team placed 17th. The team consisted of Amber Gilmore, senior runner, Dorner, Willis and Hardy. They contributed a time of 3:37.99 seconds. Talore Kelly, senior thrower, competed in the hammer throw and the shot put. In the hammer throw, Kelly placed 26th with a throw of 58.07 meters. In the shot put, she threw 16.06 meters coming in
16th place. Julie Lange, junior thrower, competed in the discus throw and the shot put. In the discus throw, she placed 21st with a throw of 50.19 meters. In the shot put, Lange placed 26th with 15.49 meters. Chelsi Decoud and Courtney Johnson, sophomore jumpers, competed in the high jump. Decoud placed first with a jump of 1.80 meters. Johnson came in 30th with 1.66 meters. In the triple jump, Mylana Hearn, junior jumper, came in 10th place with a jump of 12.85 meters. Six athletes advanced in the west preliminary rounds
and will be competing in the NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon. The championships are held from June 8-11. The men’s 4x400 meter relay team advanced to Eugene. The team consisted of Demarcus Porter, Anthony Johnson, Dexter Lee and Lincoln Warren. Chelsie Decoud will advance to Eugene in the high jump placing first in the preliminary round. Mylana Hearn will advance to Eugene in the triple jump.
The University Star
SPORTS
UniversityStar.com @universitystar
GOLF
No greener side for permanently closed golf course By Lesly De Leon Senior News Reporter University officials have decided not to reopen the campus golf course, which has remained closed since October 2015 due to flooding. According to a university press release, flooding last October caused more than $1.2 million in damage. After extensive review, university administration decided not to repair and reopen the golf course. Administrators consulted with various organizations, including Campus Planning, Campus Recreation, Student Affairs, the Department of Athletics, The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, the Center for Archaeo-
logical Studies and the City of San Marcos, and decided to construct recreational fields on the site over the next three to five years. The fields will serve thousands more students than the golf course, while addressing the land’s archeological, water quality, flood mitigation and environmental significance, officials stated in the press release. Administrators have been considering closing the golf course since March. “At (a $1.2 million repair cost), it’s worth taking a closer look at whether that is the best use for students, faculty and staff of that space,” said Eric Algoe, vice president of finance and support services, in March before administra-
tors decided. Many residents from the Central Texas area enjoyed the golf course before it was closed. “It was a neat place for students to be able to interact with citizens and residents or folks that are passing through from up north,” said Victor Hernandez, course manager, in March. Mike Akers, women’s golf coach, used the course to teach intermediate golf classes. “It has certainly impacted area golf because it gave the most supportable place to play without question,” Akers said in March. “I don’t know where these golfers are going now.”
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