Vol. 77 Iss. 24 by Angelo State Ram Page

April Fools Edition

Pg. 11 Track

Friday, April 1, 2011 asurampage.com Vol. 77 No. 24

Pg. 7 Profiles

Photo Contest The Ram Page welcomes submissions for the Life: In Focus Photo Contest from ASU students, faculty and staff. The staff judges will choose the top two photographs in each category. The Ram Page will publish the winners April 22, in the final issue of the semester.

Categories:

N at u r e /A r c h i t e c t u r e :

Capture an image of animals, plant life, scenery or architecture.

Study Abroad:

Submit an image you have taken from an ASU study abroad program. Include the place and semester.

Artistic

Illustration:

Create a graphic using digital editing software, or create an image of original work by hand.

Concealed handgun forum educates, incites debate Different sides:

Representation for pro, con, neutral Megan Ellis Staff Writer Student Government Association held a Concealed Handgun Forum Tuesday night to educate people on the issue of carrying concealed weapons on campus. More than 100 people attended.

Each side was represented, along with a neutral party. ASU Police Chief James Adams, who represented the neutral party, presented facts about the Concealed Handgun License process. There are many requirements one must meet in order to obtain a concealed handgun license. One must take a 10 to 15 hour course by an approved instructor, pass the written exam with a 70 percent or

better, take a shooting proficiency of 50 rounds at three, seven, and 10 yards with a 70 percent or better, and must renew one’s license every five years, Adams said. Senior Janet Heismann, student senator for Psychology, Sociology and Social Work, explained why guns should not be allowed on campus. She said allowing guns on campus would not promote a safe environment. Prevention should be the main focus of protection for the campus. Texas Tech student Blake Rupard, a representative for Students for Concealed Carry on Campus, presented many facts to defend allowing licensed holders to carry guns on campus. “1995 was when the Texas Concealed Handgun License law passed,” Rupard said. “People said guns would cause more problems and, after 15 years, none of this held true.” Photo by Ashley Romo

Senior Allyson Wood presents a question to the panel during Tuesday’s Concealed Handgun Forum.

See “Last-minute” pg. 5

Submit:

E-mail to rampage@ angelo.edu

2 Hand-deliver to the Ram Page office, B324 on the third floor of the Porter Henderson Library.

Know the issues

Generation yields low voter turnout

Gun Control Parking

Apathy: No incentives

Mark McDaniel Staff Writer As elections draw near, many students begin to decide who they want to represent them in Student Government Association. However, the majority of students will most likely not vote. Assistant Professor of Political Science and Criminal Justice Dr. Woo Jin Kang said that

Safety the amount of students who vote on issues at ASU mirrors the nation as a whole, where a majority of the people does not vote. See “Mixed” pg. 4

Communication

Multicultural Awareness

Photos by Ashley Romo Communication photo by Pam Belcher

Benefit concert honors student Proceeds: Varnadore scholarship

Mark McDaniel Staff Writer Students, faculty and others from all over San Angelo honored a former student who died early in the semester at the ASU lake house Saturday with food and entertainment. More than 1,000 people attended the Geology- and AMAS-sponsored event that honored James M. Varnadore, who died in a car accident early this year. “The major purpose of [the Photos by Ashley Romo event]... was to honor James Country bands entertain students and faculty at the ASU lakehouse at the Varnadore by having a benefit concert with the money gomemorial fundraiser for the late James Varnadore.

ing towards a scholarship,” Assistant Professor of Geology Dr. Joe Satterfield said. “It has been interesting how this has gone from pretty much nothing into a really big event.” Satterfield said all the proceeds from the event will go toward a scholarship in James Varnadore’s name. “He touched a lot of lives, so we are just returning the favor,” said graduate student Rob Raney, a member of Buckshot Bradley and a close friend of Varnadore. Assistant Professor of Geology Dr. James Ward said the event was not intended to be a somber event, but more like a party. “[It] was the best way to honor James Varnadore, who was just a tremendous, awe-

some dude who we enjoyed every minute of,” Ward said. “You know, when you lose somebody it leaves a void. It’s good we remember him. It’s good that we also remember what happened to him so that it doesn’t happen again. That’s what we’re here for to celebrate his life and celebrate what he gave us.” The event was held from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and included local Texas country bands Bryce and the Bad Decisions, Crossing Tyler, and headliner Buckshot Bradley. “It started out as just Buckshot Bradley, and then everybody else threw their time in,” Ward said. “These guys played for free, we’re not paying them anything at all.” See “Community” pg. 4

Page 2

Campus News

Friday, April 1, 2011

Kristin Hamnett, President, SPJ

Major: Mass Media Classification: Senior Music: “I am kind of a metal head, but I love Indie music too,” Hamnett said. “Growing up in Austin, live shows were always the best weekend plans.” Frequented Website: eBay “I can find the most unique jewelry from overseas,” Hamnett said. Hobbies: Yoga, going to concerts, and watching Blist horror movies. Restaurant: Nakamura Sushi. “Ever since my boyfriend took me there on my first date, it has been our favorite spot,” Hamnett said. “The owner, Mr. Kim, is hilarious.”

with

Society of

Society of Professional Journalism Photo by Tim Lester

Professional Journalists

Kristin Hamnett

and

Purpose: Striving to promote great writing, the freedom of speech and to motivate our fellow students to achieve their personal journalistic goals. Events: There will be a meeting in April. Eligibility: Anyone can join, as long as they have a passion for the first amendment. Advice: “Always pursue everything you do with passion,” Hamnett said. “Nobody wants to listen to a lackluster journalist.”

Hispanic growth Local increase: 26.1 percent of the university’s population, and growing

Mark McDaniel Staff Writer

Photo by Pam Belcher

Drivers manage traffic at the Rosemont Drive and the University Center intersection, UPD plans on making this intersection a 4 way stop in the next two weeks.

Stop signs to restore order

Intersection: Plans for four-way stop

Megan Ellis Staff Writer The University Police Department has planned to place stop signs at the Rosemont Drive and University Center Intersection. There have been three reported accidents at this intersection in the last two years, Chief of Police James Adams said. “We began looking into this before Spring Break, when our officers started reporting potential problems,” he said. There are currently two stop signs running north and south, but the UPD plans to make this a four-way stop. Some students said they think additional stop signs are a good idea, but people should be patient and more aware of what is going on around them. “People need to pay more

attention,” senior Taryn Allen said. “Impatient people cause accidents.” Others find this area confusing. “It’s kind of confusing to figure out who has the rightof-way and who just needs to chill a minute,” senior Madeline Ridgway said. Although only three acci-

dents have been reported to police, this area has caused several issues. “Stop signs would enforce order in a very orderless section of campus,” Ridgway said. “I haven’t witnessed any accidents there, but I have experienced a lot of yelling and confusion at that intersection.”

The Hispanic population in San Angelo has grown to a record high, topping 38,000, or 35.7 percent of the population, according to the 2010 U.S. Census. This growth follows a national trend, Director of the Center for Security Studies Dr. Robert Ehlers said. “There are about 2,000 more Hispanics living within the city limits of San Angelo,” Ehlers said. According to the ASU Mini Fact Book, the undergraduate Hispanic population at ASU has grown 9.5 percent in the past year, from 1,469 to 1,609 students. The Hispanic population makes up 26.1 percent of the student body. ASU has to obtain 25 percent to be considered a Hispanic-serving institution, Assistant Professor of Spanish Maria De Los Santos Onofre-Madrid said. “I think it is a good thing the hispanic population [at ASU] is increasing,” freshman Jessica Gonzales said. “There will be more cutural events on campus and students will be able to have fun in new ways.” Onofre-Madrid said she also believes students will see more culturally diverse events as the hispanic population increases. “There may be more traditional hispanic events [in the future] to try and get students to learn and appreciate what other cultures have to offer,” she said. Onofre-Madrid said the demographic changes can be seen across Tom Green County. “It’s pretty visible in the city,

especially if you go to the southern parts of San Angelo,” Madrid said. “The Hispanics are expanded all over the city, but there are certain neighborhoods where it’s mostly Hispanic population.” The Hispanic population in the United States has grown 43 percent since 2000, over 50 million people, or 16.3 percent of the nation, U.S. Census Bureau officials said. “Some Hispanics have been here [in San Angelo] for many, many generations, but there is also a very new group,” Ehlers said. “Those are the immigrants, and many of them are not here legally. This causes a really complex dynamic in the Hispanic population.” What makes San Angelo unique is the rate at which Hispanics are moving compared to non-Hispanic whites, Ehlers said. “There are actually less [white people] moving into San Angelo now than there were in the past,” Ehlers said. Ehlers said the influx of Hispanics may change the politics of San Angelo. “Changing populations will, over time, change the balance of politics or political power in the region, or they may not,” Ehlers said. “If you look at Spanish immigrant groups, they tend to be very heavily Democratic. However in some parts of the country they tend to identify well with the Republicans.” Onofre-Madrid said her main concern is the retention of the Spanish language as more generations are born in the U.S. “[In certain areas of town] you find that there are Hispanic families where the children don’t really speak Spanish,” Onofre-Madrid said. “If you want to get any business done or anything like that you have to speak in English.”

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Friday, April 1, 2011

Administration gets a new color Fresh paint: Former interior dated to 1970s

Scott Dykowski Editor-in-Chief

of the students of any actual value.” The university installed theexisting vinyl wall covering in the 1970s. “The interior was very dated,” Russell said. “If we are to attract students and parents, we would like for their first impression of our facilities to be modern and well cared for. The previous colors were dated and gave the impression that we did not care for our facilities.” “In the past few years, much work has been devoted to updating classrooms and academic facilities, as well as making the residence halls as nice as possible. We develop a five-year capital improvement plan for the entire campus and list projects that are needed in the various buildings and develop that plan as funding permits.”

The university finished a painting project in the Administration building Tuesday that they originally postponed due to color choice issues. “Due to problems getting an interior designer to help with color selections, the project was delayed,” said John Russell, Facilities Planning and Construction director. The project costs $17,000 from Plant funds, which the state designates for physical plant upgrades and deferred maintenance, Russell said. “It is our goal to maintain the facilities in good condition, and to make sure we have attractive and well designed facilities to meet the needs of the students, faculty and staff,” Russell said. Some students feel time spent on students is of more value than on appearance. “I know the aesthetics are an important part in attracting new students and their parents,” senior Amanda Fowler said. “I think it is Photo by Ashley Romo incredibly frustrating to see how little is actually The university paid $17,000 of Plant funds, funds used spent to make the time for maintenance, to repaint the Administration building.

Celebrating women

student programming for students by students Photos by Ashley Romo (Top left): Wilma Bradley accepts her certificate for her Wonderful Women of ASU nomination. (Top right): Program Specialist Adriana Balcorta announces the contestants for the Wonderful Women of ASU awards. (Bottom): Students model casual wear at the Fashion Show during Women’s Appreciation Month.

TV Comedian brings act

Sponsored by th Stand-up: ‘Not a dry moment’

Megan Ellis Staff Writer

Glover said his “I Am Donald” tour is sold out in many cities across America. Glover attended New York University, where he said he talked his way out of many classes. “If you know what you want to do, go for it.” Glover said. “Don’t waste time doing other things. Follow what inPhoto by Pam Belcher terests you and you will Donald Glover signs an autolearn more.” Glover said he graph for Matt Lucero. Andrews said she thinks college is imporhad not heard of Glover tant for its social aspect. “It’s a critical time in before, but thought he your life and it’s impor- was entertaining. “He was funny,” Antant to be around people that are your age,” he drews said. “Not a dry moment.” said.

University Center Program C

Comedian Donald Glover performed his stand-up act Wednesday night at UCPC’s Club Cafe for over 300 people. Glover is known for his role on NBC’s hit show Community and for his stand-up acts on Comedy Central. Senior Kara Andrews said she stumbled across the event. “I was just walking through the UC and when Photo Illustration by Ashley Romo I heard how funny the comedy was, I sat down ASU, partnering with the group Young Invincibles, educates students on their options for insurto watch,” she said. ance coverage under new laws.

student programming for students by students

Organizations inform on health care options Encourages:

Changes offered to young adults Jason Helms Online Editor A national organization called Young Invincibles coordinated an online campaign to inform young adults and their families about changes to dependant health care coverage. The campaign, Getting Covered, is working to ensure that all young adults and their families have the information to take advantage of a specific provision in the new health care law that went into effect in September 2010. The provision extends the age that young adults are allowed to be covered under their parents’ health insurance from 25 to 26. According to the campaign, this provision could potentially cover 15 percent of young adults in Texas that are currently uninsured. The average total premium increase for families to keep their children under 26 years old covered is

about $40, according to the campaign. “I recommend students take advantage of [this provision] as long as parents can afford to keep them on their plan,” Angelo State Business Services assistant Anna Martinez said. However, Martinez said she has seen situations where parents could not afford to do so, in which case she recommended that students take advantage of the health insurance offered by the school. The university currently offers health insurance to students through Academic Health Plans, a company that offers special premiums to students, Martinez said. Martinez encouraged students to visit www.ahpcare.com/angelo or stop by the Businesses Services office located on the second floor of the UC for more details. Students can receive examinations, diagnoses and consultation services at no charge due to the health fee ASU students pay each semester according to Uni-

versity Health Clinic and Counseling Services website. http://www.angelo. edu/services/health_clinic_counseling/ Some fees do apply to injections or other medications and services such as labs and X-rays. However, this does not cover students in case of emergency or other major medical care needs, such as injuries from a car wreck or any type of surgery, which, according to the Young Invincibles, can sometimes cost several thousands of dollars. “You never know when these things might happen,” Martinez said. “Students need to make sure they are covered for them.” The Getting Covered campaign also stressed the importance of young adults being covered, especially under their parents’ plan if possible. “I appreciate what the campaign is doing,” senior Nicole Tisdale said. “It’s obviously a good thing that they are educating people about how the new laws affect us.”

Sponsored by the

University Center Program Council student programming for students by students

Annual 5K Fun Run/Walk The event will take place Saturday, April 2, 2011 with registration from 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. at the Angelo State University Super Slab The race begins at 10:00 a.m. Prizes & Gift Cards: Admission Fees: Top 3 Winners in each division $1.00 |ASU students will be rewarded. $2.00 |faculty/staff/ 12 & under $5.00 |general public Gift cards will be given away as door prizes!

Recreation Committee If you have a disability that requires our attention, please contact us 2 weeks prior to the event.

Recreation Chairperson

Page 4

Friday, April 1, 2011

Local group aids Japan

Campus News

Mixed opinions on voting issue Continued from Page 1

Donations: Basic others.” A lot of areas in Janecessities in high pan still do not have water and electricity demand Megan Ellis following the earthStaff Writer quake and tsunami that took place on The Association of March 11. Diapers, soap, Asian American Women canned is collecting items and flashlights, monetary donations in an food and baby wipes effort to help Japan until are all in high demand as well as monetary the end of April. “A group member has donations. Donors may take family in Japan whose house was destroyed be- items to Mathis Field, cause of the earthquake,” where there are boxes AAAW President Rose set up to collect these Ng said. “We are able to items. “It is always ensend them supplies directly, and they can help couraging to hear that someone is going out of their way and sacrificing either their time or money Photos by Ashley Romo to help the people Rose Ng raises awareness and seeks donations for Japan. around The group asks that they need more. them who no clothing be donated, “We have raised about are in need,” $750 so far,” senior Ben Ng said. “If Martin “It is encouraging to hear e v e r y o n e said. that someone is sacrificing could do Ng is something, their time or money to help.” working that would with other Ben Martin, be great.” members senior Ng said of the the donated group to Ng said. There is no one in money is used to purPhotos by Ashley Romo ship items to Japan to sort through all chase more items and Marine Stephen Steinke donates to help Japan as soon of the clothing and shoes, ship them to Japan. tsunami victims in Japan. as possible. and there are things that

News Briefs Gas Leak

ATMOS Energy reported a gas leak Thursday near the crosswalks on Johnson Street. They cut gas supply to the Cavness Science Building and Science III. The gas did not pose health or safety issues. Tech closing branch Texas Tech University will close April 1 its operation at the Amarillo branch. One Shoes

Day

Without

What: Awareness for impoverished kids,TOMS When: Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. Where: University Center Who: AMAS Contact: 325-716-0727 Talent Show When: Tuesday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Where: C.J. Davidson Center Who: UCPC Cost: $2 Contact: 325-942-2062 Evening of Brass When: Thursday, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Where: Dr. Eldon U. Black Recital Hall Who: Music Department Cost: Free Contact: jaxine.boling@angelo.edu Sexual Assault Awareness Month When: Events throughout the month Where: ASU campus Who: Counseling services Contact: 325-942-2171

According to the results of the previous special election for SGA president and vice president, only 1,030 of almost 7,000 students participated. In the 2009-2010 SGA elections, an average of only 612 students, or about 10 percent of the population, voted . Kang said apathy, that most people do not care enough about the government to vote, may be a big factor in the small turnout of voters at ASU. “First of all, the generation we are in is more individualized, we are less involved in society or democracy,” Kang said. “To make matters worse, you guys have technology. You don’t need to get involved because you can watch TV by yourself and you can communicate with friends easily with Facebook or Twitter.” Senior Ryan Ward said he agrees that apathy is the major cause of such a low turnout rate. “Personally, I don’t think it’s really that big of a deal,” Ward said. “It is not important enough to me to interrupt my schedule to take the time and vote, because it seems to make little difference who is elected.” Other students feel differently. “I think it is a very important thing to vote

in these elections now because it is good practice for voting in our national government,” freshman John Kelly said. “This upcoming SGA election is going to be a good one to vote in because of the issues at hand, like the guns on campus debate.” Ward said if there were incentives to vote, he may be more inclined to participate in the election. “I mean, if I go vote, I do not directly benefit,” Ward said. “I may see positive things come my way further down the road, but only after a long and drawn out political process. If somebody threw some money my way, or even something other than just a pat on the back at the polls, I would definitely go vote.” Kang said this mentality is common and has even been debated on a national level. “For example, if any student participates in voting, we could give them incentives… [such as] financial incentives or some other form of incentive,” Kang said. “They will be much more likely to vote.” Kang said that is similar on the national level and that many people feel voting is not worth the time. “Because of the economic downturn, a lot of people don’t have jobs and a lot of people have dubious futures, and they want to focus on what they have to do today,” Kang said.

Community memorializes student Continued from Page 1

Satterfield said getting the Lake House set up for the bands was difficult, but worth it. “I understand that it is really rare to have live music [at the ASU lake house] and to get the electricity worked out in order to do it,” Satterfield said. Raney said the bands had to stop playing at 10:00 p.m. due to a noise ordinance. Throughout the day people dropped by to listen to music, eat barbecue, play games such as volleyball, or just to enjoy the weather and company of their friends. “It’s a great event for a good cause,” senior Azalya Hernandez said. Hernandez said she and her friends took advantage of the nice weather to enjoy the Lake House facilities, while others enjoyed in the water. “People have been swimming, wakeboarding, kayaking, and going on the swings and stuff,” senior Rex Johnson said. “It has been a ton of fun.” Donors provided free barbeque to everyone who attended. Ward said there were 375 pounds of brisket, 100 pounds of hominy and 100 pounds of beans. “[100 percent] of the briskets were donated and [Rob Raney’s uncle] cooked everything for us,” Ward said. “He’s a tremendous supporter of the geology program and has cooked for several of our events.” Satterfield said the event was originally a Geology-sponsored event, but the accidental inclusion of AMAS turned out to be a positive aspect. He said once Ward made a verbal commitment to use the Lake House, he found out another organization actually booked it first. That meant in order to host the event as planned, they had to join up with AMAS.

“So this was actually a combined Geology and AMAS event, which actually turned out to be great,” Satterfield said. “That was just one of many, many things that that had to be worked out before something like this could happen,” Ward said the event has crossed cultural barriers. “What I think makes this really spectacular is that it is crossing disciplines, crossing any kind of cultural barrier, and we were all together for one reason,” Ward said. “I think we’ve made tremendous accomplishments just in that,” Ward said he hopes this is not a one-time event. “It’s been something that’s been talked about between the two groups,” Ward said. “If we do something, it may be an annual picnic where we just play all day and enjoy ourselves. I think it’s a good time to hold it because the stress of school starts getting to people. It’s nice to get together and just not talk about school.” Raney said that, as a community, it is highly likely it will become an annual event. “San Angelo just pulls together as a community when stuff like this comes out,” Raney said. “Local businesses and individuals were willing to help out. That’s one of the joys of live in a tight-knit community.”

Photos by Ashley Romo

(Top) Students enjoy the lake from the deck before the evening activities of music, food, and dancing starts during the James Varnadore memorial scholarship fundraiser. (Middle) A student waits for the dropped football to float her way. She waded in for it shortly after. (Left) One of the evening’s cooks keeps a close eye on the beans as they prepare a brisket meal for the students and faculty members that attended the fundraiser at the Lake House.

Page 5

Friday, April 1, 2011

Photo by Pam Belcher

The Concert Chorale performs during the 14th annual Showcase Concert Tuesday, March 29th.

FAME displays variety, talent Entertainment:

Musicians, vocalists perform at the CJ Lisa Dees Contributing Writer ASU Friends of Art and Music Education presented the 14th annual Showcase Concert Tuesday at 7 p.m.

in the C.J. Davidson Conference Center. The sounds of Jazz Combo, Percussion Ensemble, Woodwind Quintet, Concert Chorale, Brass Choir, Opera Music Theatre Workshop, and Wind Ensemble entertained students and the public. Junior Amy Fogleman and sophomore Jennifer

Valdivia said they enjoyed listening to so many talented student musicians and vocalists. They put in a lot of time and effort, and it’s fun watching and hearing them perform, Fogleman said. “I liked hearing the Percussion Ensemble and the Wind Ensemble because I know them from marching

band,” Valdivia said. Clark said he thinks the concert is an awesome event for students and the public to attend. “We are so lucky to have so many talented artists and musicians that attend ASU,” he said. “Not many universities have so many opportunities.” Director of Choral Activities Dr. Pamela Lee said she agrees that ASU students have a lot of talent to offer. “I have the best students, and I have a great job,” she said. “I love what I do.” Clark said he hopes the public grows more aware of ASU’s talent so they will continue to and want to donate money to help students in the Department of Art and Music pay for college.

Photos by Pam Belcher The Showcase Concert featured Jazz Combo, Percussion Ensemble, Woodwind Quintet, Concert Chorale, Brass Choir, Opera Music Theatre Workshop and Wind Ensemble. All tickets sales went to scholarships for students in the Art and Music Department. A plate auction was also held, and the highest bidder spent $80 on an art piece. Many instructors of Art painted plates for the event, including Mr. Benedict Sum, assistant professor of Art.

Last-minute replacement Continued from Page 1 There are over half a million concealed handgun license carriers in Texas, Rupard said. Rupard said the benefit of carrying handguns on campus was personal protection. According to the panel, there are 71 universities in the country that allow licensed holders to carry their concealed handguns on campuses. There have been no reported incidents at these schools. Osmanski said that the person who was supposed to represent the opposing side backed out last minute so SGA had to cramble to find a replacement.

“We contacted the DPS, SAPD, the Tom Green Co. Democrats, and multiple CHL course instructors and tried to have them come speak at the event,” Osmanski said. “However, they all declined so we started to ask senators. Janet Heismann stepped up to the plate and took on the forum.” Heismann is a former graduate senator and The Budget and Finance committee chair of student senate, Osmanski said. “She only had about three hours to prepare for the forum and I think we did an exceptional job,” Osmanski said. Heismann had the chance to call the original planned

The panel listens to the concerned public when the floor opens up for questioning.

speaker from Student for Gun Free Schools and discussed information for the forum, he said.

The Student Government Association conducted a survey in February and 11 percent of the student body responded.

Photo by Ashley Romo

SGA will conduct another survey soon for more student responses, Osmanski said.

Page 6

Friday, April 1, 2011

Campus News

Community celebrates World Water Day Volunteer: Professors’ son

into the river, Youker said. More than 100 volunteers waded and kayaked their way through trash in the Concho River at around 9 a.m. Volunteers covered a wide range of groups and institutions, including Fort Concho Elementary, Lee Middle School, Girl Scouts, Goodfellow Air Force Base and church groups, Youker said. There were many volunteers who simply came with friends and family. Participants not only cleaned up, but also developed a certain attitude toward the river. “People are walking in it, they’re beside it, they’re looking at it,” Youker said. “It becomes their river — something to take care of.” The Girl Scout troops and some community members brought canoes to pick up hard-to-reach pieces of trash. Some of the trash they picked up went into mason jars. The collection jars went on display at Coop Gallery, located at 427 S. Oakes St., on the same day at 2:30 p.m., Youker said.

People will have a strong, helps clean river, create art visual representation of some Dana Choi of the things Copy Editor in the river, DiRienzo said. Community members March 26, “We were picked up trash and raised environmental thinking a lot awareness with art at the Concho River about ecologiCleanup. cal art and how This is not the first river cleanup, but [we] can create this is the first time San Angelo officially works that are recognized and celebrated World Water going to get Day, said Dr. Christy Youker, education people thinkPhoto by Pam Belcher director for San Angelo-based Upper Coling about really Jars of trash are collected as an art project to keep the Concho river clean. orado River Authority. pressing eco“People are starting to really think environment, Sebastian Hama said, and logical issues,” about the crazy things that we’re putthe pieces of cardboard can harm wildlife she said. ting in our river every day,” said Megan The trash is in preservation jars, she that may try to eat them. DiRienzo, assistant museum educator “This is just to make our town better,” said, so viewers would reflect on natural at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts. he said. “There was trash strewn everyresource preservation. “This is also the source of our drinking “At first glance [the river] looks pretty where, plenty of cigarette butts, it’s just water, so it’s really important to think natural and open, like a park, but you disgusting.” about that.” Sebastian Hama said this weekend can really see some of the destruction What comes off the street goes directly that some humans are wreaking on it,” was a good time to contribute. “I just wanted to help San Angelo,” DiRienzo said. A large fraction Hama said, “and I usually can’t do that at of the trash consisted school because I’m stuck in there a lot. It’s of cigarette butts, she the weekend…so we decided to clean the river and clean up San Angelo.” said. Community member Theresa Cain “We have three or four jars that are just said she found eight tires and 11 bags of cigarette butts,” she trash when she waded in the river. “I love water [and] anything to do said. “We have evwith water,” Cain said. “I just know how erything from toothbrushes to Christmas important it is. We’ve got to protect it.” Youker said she hopes the commulights.” Lee Middle nity will do this once or twice a year and School student Se- focus on different parts of the river. “I was excited to come here and see bastian Hama, son of ASU professors that [people in] San Angelo [are] aware of English Dr. Mark of the troubles facing their water and are Hama and Dr. Linda willing to come together to help fix it,” Kornasky, said he DiRienzo said. The City of San Angelo, the San Angemostly found water bottles and pieces of lo Museum of Fine Arts, the Upper Colorado River Authority and the Catholic Dicardboard. Photo by Pam Belcher Bottled water has ocese of San Angelo funded the cleanup, Fort Concho Elementary volunteers fill trash bags to help clean the river on World Water Day, March 26. a huge impact on the Youker said.

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Shepard

Hector Romo and Vincent Perez Dana Choi Copy Editor

Senior Hector Romo, student body vice president, and senior Vincent Perez, AMAS president and History department senator, are running for office for the next academic year. “Vincent and I plan to keep the momentum that SGA has gathered throughout this past

year,” Romo said. The pair would continue programs such as True Blue and fill up the Senate, Romo said. “I would also like to enhance transparency of SGA’s actions for next year,” he said. Romo said he started to send student senators to student organization meetings to deliver SGA updates this year, and will continue to do so after receiving positive feedback. “My experience as a student body vice president has shown me that the student’s voice within the administration is far more powerful than I expected,” Romo said.

Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote Vote

Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo Vo

Photos by Pam Belcher

“I have learned how to communicate well with both administration and students, and to project the students’ voice in an effective manner. All SGA actions will be with the students’ well-being in mind.” He said the best way to address issues such as budget cuts and allowing guns on campus is to keep students informed, whether by forums, flyers, e-mails or letters. “One of the biggest issues that we will be taking on is the possibility of students being able to carry concealed weapons on campus,” Perez said. “We will need to approach this

issue delicately, but also with the best interests of the students here on campus in mind.” Biology major Romo is involved in Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society, Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, the Honors Student Association, RAMbassadors, and Order of Omega. “Hector has already served one term as vice president and has done an outstanding job thus far,” Perez said. “He is probably more qualified than anyone else.” Communications major Perez is chairman of the Student Organization Evaluation Committee, a mentor for the Multicultural

Center, a representative in the Multicultural Advisory Council, and a member of the Student Organization Advisory Council. Perez attends informational university forums, most student-sponsored events, and most sporting events, Romo said. “Vincent is a truly dedicated

young man to everything and everyone,” Romo said. “His vast experience in the field of student and administrative affairs, campus involvement, and outstanding leadership skills let me know that he was the best candidate when I was selecting a running mate.”

nication between the student body and the stu-

press, keep an account

dent government. “We’re trying to incorporate more of our initiatives with the student body as a whole,” she said. Boaz said they would also designate someone for a public relations position for community outreach. This position would release information to the

of what is happening on campus, and brief the student body president, vice president and the senate. Regarding issues such as allowing concealed handguns, Boaz said the concealed handgun forum is a precedence to follow because it educates students on important issues. Any debate should

be presented from persons educated on the subject, he said, so students can learn the facts and take a position. “My job is to provide that interaction for students,” Boaz said. Boaz said, to address budget cuts, he will meet with many departments to see how measures to take on budget cuts will affect students. “Through [that], we can reach a workable consensus,” he said, “But I think many students understand the necessity.” Boaz is in the Judiciary Review Committee, which is responsible for making sure the ASU constitution is up-to-

date, and the Committee for Student Organization Evaluation. Boaz said he is involved on campus through student organizations such as African Student Association and participates in various campus activities. Perez was the coordinator for a community service organization at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Wash. Since she enrolled at ASU, she said, she joined the student senate, Philosophy club and Professional Organization for Women’s Equal Rights. Perez is part of the Finance and Budget committee and the environment committee for SGA. “We’re really here to represent the whole coalition that makes up ASU,” Boaz said.

munication you are required to give to your organization,” she said. “It’s expected of you to communicate within your group, and to work cohesively towards goals. It doesn’t feel like that’s been happening.” Shepard said she also wants to facilitate communication and improve relationships between the student body and the administration. “I know a lot of students on campus feel that administration doesn’t listen to them,” she said. “I’ve also heard that they feel the student body president and vice president are useless.”

The student body president communicates with the Texas Tech Board of Regents as well as with the administration, Shepard said. “I would really like students to come to the office and talk to us about their concerns,” she said. “We’re students too, and we’re not just here to be empowering and to make false promises.” Shepard said she and Franke will continue with some legacies such as True Blue and follow new initiatives. She plans to work with Career Development and contact each department to develop an online internship data-

base students can access anywhere. Shepard ran the Committee for Public Relations for SGA. She said that all of her time is divided between school and SGA and that she often attends forums to stay updated on what is happening on campus.

Franke was staff sergeant of his platoon and has intense leadership experience, Shepard said. “I’ve always felt we need to be a visible presence and not just an office with a door,” she said. Franke was unavailable for comment.

Will Boaz and Laura Perez Dana Choi Copy Editor

Junior Will Boaz and sophomore Laura Perez, Political Science senators and majors, seek to close the gap between Student Government Association and the student body. “Most students don’t understand what we do in [student] government,” Boaz said. “Both [Perez] and myself have very strong opinions that the only way we’re going to get anything done in the next school year is by kin-

ship between us and the student organizations.” Boaz said, if elected, he will maintain a very close partnership with all campus organizations. “That’s the proven way to engage students, increase campus pride and involvement, and promote community outreach,” he said. Boaz said he and Laura contacted several organizations already to discuss their ideas. “All the presidents [of the student organizations] say that’s been lacking in the past administrations,” he said. “I think we’re the only candidates who are actually addressing that.” Perez said they hope to use RamPort as another way to increase commu-

Jessica Shepard and Will Franke Dana Choi Copy Editor

Senior Jessica Shepard, a Communications major with Public Relations specialization, and sophomore Will Franke, Sociology major, want to focus on rebuilding communications within the university. Shepard said their platform revolves around

the current breakdown of communication in SGA between the executive and the senate, which resulted after the former student body president and vice president stepped down last semester. While it is a good thing student senators are involved on campus, they need to be able to manage their time, Shepard said. “There’s not a lot of communication going on right now,” she said. Ideally, the executive would be in the office during the mandated hours, Shepard said. “When you’re in a leadership position, there are certain levels of com-

Page 8

Friday, April 1, 2011

Features

How San Angelo, ASU fit in literacy rates Mariah Powell Features Editor Three million eight hundred thousand people in Texas need the services of an adult education program, but only 100,000 are being served. According to Literacytexas.org, Texas has fallen from the 45th to the very last of states ranked by percent of citizens age 25 and older with a high school diploma or GED. Facts show that American businesses are estimated to lose over $70 billion in productivity each year due to employees’ lack of basic skills and 75 percent of unemployed adults have reading or writing difficulties, said Marilynn Golightly, director of Adult Literacy Council of Concho Valley.

lo?

How does this affect San Ange-

“With the economic decline and unemployment up, we have to prepare individuals to get jobs,” Golightly said. Ken Stewart, professor of Sociology and University Studies working with Community Development Initiatives, said the service load of the ALC has increased by about 19 percent. Golightly said 22 countries are represented at Concho Valley’s ALC.

In the Community

Literacy Office Coordinator Molly Owen of the ALC said they are teaching most people English as their second language. “We teach them how to read, write and speak it,” Owen said. “We even have computer programs to work on comprehension, speed and reading.” Owen said the council utilizes an international program called Laubach Way to help people learn the language. Although the ALC specializes in English as a second language, they also have basic literacy help, Owen said. “Some people have gone to high school and graduated, but their reading and comprehension level does not meet college standards, so we help them improve to take entrance exams,” Owen said. “I would say the average person comes in at a second grade reading level and are 45 to 50 years old,” Golightly said. “We try to at least get them to an eighth-grade level so they will be able to

read signs, papers or pass a driving test.” Golightly said some of these people have high school diplomas, but others cannot read at all. “It could be as simple as not reading in a long time or they could have a different learning style that no one ever took the time to figure out,” Golightly said. “Back then, people would predict that someone could not read, and the person comes in and discovers they can read but just needed different help.” Golightly said the council meets the reader at his or her level and help him or her accomplish the goal they want to meet. “The program has four levels and the majority of the people start at level one with basics such as sounds of consonants,” Owen said. “It normally takes a year for each level going by the book.” The ALC is a nonprofit organization, meaning all tutors are volunteers, Owen said. “Volunteers make the difference,” Golightly said. “They help individuals better their lives.”

Student Volunteers

Freshman Lisa Dees is a board member of the ALC. “I am not a consistent tutor, but if there is someone who needs help I will,” Dees said. “It’s interesting to be on the other side tutoring.” Dees said last semester she, along with school and board mate Lynette Carrillo, was assigned to go by a woman’s apartment to help her prepare for a pharmacist test once a week for about three weeks and saw an improvement. “I am really passionate about the council because my home-church has an ESL program, so I knew something about helping out,” Dees said. “Also because I’m a [CMMT] major and I have to be able to read and write – it’s touching when I see people learning the basics of that. It’s a rewarding experience.”

At Angelo State

At the university there is a variation when it comes to the reading and writing level, said Cynthia Burkhalter, lecturer and interim director of the Writing Center. She said high school transcripts, ACT and entrance exams are ways to assess literacy.

ASU Events April 1: ASU Grindhouse

will take place from 6 - 10 p.m. in the Texan Hall Theater. Brought to you by the Center for Student Involvement along with SCREENERS. There will be two free showings of B-movies “Machete” and “Piranha.” There will be food, beverages and door prizes.

April 2: 5K Fun Run/Walk

will be from 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Super Slab. Registration is from 8:30 - 9:30 a.m., and the race begins at 10 a.m. Admission is $1 for students, $2 for faculty/staff and those 12 and under, $5 to the general public. Each division’s top three winners will be rewarded.

April 2: Circle K Soccer Tour-

“We have the developmental program that helps students,” Burkhalter said. “Our [130C English] is a pretty rigorous class. We focus not only upon helping students become better writers, but also place focus on critical reading skills.” She said students who take 130C get a headstart to English 1301, and may make better grades than those who do not take the developmental course. “These students have gained skills and are able to function at a college level,” Burkhalter said. “They have that knowledge base, which they gained in 130C and the whole prospect of writing an essay.” The Developmental English program is undergoing revision at the moment to be more helpful to students, Burkhalter said. She said the program is also looking into placing trained student tutors in the classrooms. Burkhalter said she started teaching the developmental class in the early 1990s and has taught it for four years since she moved back to San Angelo. The program used to consist of one semester of critical reading and a second semester of writing skills before enrolling in English 1301, she said. Now all is combined into a one-semester course. “Those of us who teach 130C work closely with their students,” Burkhalter said. “We go over the rules repeatedly and in detail. Students going into 130C may have had problems before the college level, and, in many cases, were worked through the system, so they haven’t learned what they really need to know.” 130C instructors familiarize students with college-level writing, Burkhalter said. “If a student begins to fall off in their work or attendance we try to help them get caught up,” Burkhalter said. “Sometimes students will respond to that and other times they won’t.” Students usually repeat 130C because they do not attend class or keep up with the work, Burkhalter said. “It’s not a class that can drop so if they get behind and don’t get caught up they have to accept a failing grade,” Burkhalter said. She said the Writing Center is here to help students with any kind of paper assignment, including resumes and job applications.

Question asked:

April 2: AMAS Dance will be

at the Super Slab from 7 - 11 p.m. There will be all genres of music played throughout the night.

April 5: Percussion Ensemble

Concert will be from 7:30 - 9 p.m. in the spine of the Carr Education Fine Arts Bldg. Admission is free to the public.

Facebook vs Twitter? 50 students were surveyed at random. Facebook Twitter

April 6: Monthly Movie Series: “TRON Legacy” will play twice in

the Planetarium, starting at 6 p.m. and again at 9 p.m. Admission is free to ASU students but seats are limited so be early.

nament will take place at Glenn

Middle School Field from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. All proceeds benefit Grassroots Soccer. Volunteers welcomed.

unction, ier to f s a e s eron i k nior Kam “Faceboo ions,”ju t too p o y l e e r r o m as enti h and has r e t t i e out.” id. “Tw nd figur Brown sa a y r t o k t much jun

Hop

Starring: Russell Brand, Kaley Cuoco, James Marsden, Elizabeth Perkins, Chelsea Handler Genre: Action/Adventure, Comedy

Source Code

Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan, Vera Farmiga, Jeffrey Wright, Russell Peters Genre: Action/Adventure, SciFi/Fantasy

Insidious

Starring: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Barbara Hershey, Angus Sampson, Ty Simpkins Genre: Horror

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All that agreed upon Twitter said it will become a better site once everyone joins,

but Tell us what you think at

asurampage.com

Features

Friday, April 1, 2011

Page 9

brings new chill to San Angelo Mariah Powell Features Editor

TJ’s Frozen Yogurt had its grand opening March 24 at 3347 Knickerbocker Road, in Knickerbocker Square. “TJ’s is the best place in town,” freshman Aidaly Rodriguez said. “I’m glad there is a frozen yogurt place because it’s healthier than ice cream. I feel like a kid at a candy store.”

What inspired the owners?

What do they have to offer?

Lay said all flavors are either low -fat or no-fat, and they have sugar free options. All of their fruit flavors have no added sugar. Sophomore Dreshawn Murray said TJ’s Frozen Yogurt is great. He said it is healthier than ice cream and it tastes

and redeem their free yogurt from their punch card since we opened last week.” Rodriguez said TJ’s had everything she could think of. There are ten different flavors of yogurt, but including the twist flavors, there are fifteen, Lay said. To go along with the yogurt, TJ’s offers 27 toppings. “You can do any combination you want,” Lay said. “I don’t know if I could try all the combinations in my life time. You can come in several times a day and still not try all of it.” She said her favorite is red velvet cake, though it is not a bestselling flavor. “My favorite is the New York cheesecakeflavored yogurt with cheesecake toppings,” Murray said. “I tried velvet, but it had a Rodriguez red chocolate taste to it until I mixed it with the cheesecake and it made life better.” TJ’s is hoping to do a contest where people submit their favorite combination to get some free yogurt, Lay said. Rodriguez said paying $5 to fill a 16-ounce cup of whatever mix she likes is a good deal. The price sits at $0.42 an ounce. “I have been to other yogurt places, and the prices are about the same, but TJ’s has more variety,” Rodriguez said.

“I have been to other yogurt places and the prices are about the same, but TJ’s has more variety.”

Owners Tommy and Janet Lay felt the town needed frozen yogurt, Janet Lay said. “It’s a new trend in the bigger cities so we thought it was neat and wanted to bring it to San Angelo,” Lay said. “The community of San Angelo has been good to us, and this is a way we would like to give back.” Lay said they lived in San Angelo for 23 years, where she has been in the real estate business and her husband owned College Hill’s Driving Range and Golf, which he sold two years ago. TJ’s Frozen Yogurt will set forward community effort and is looking to do something with the elementary schools, Lay said. “All the art on the Art Wall are things that I painted,” Lay said. “We want to feature local artists on that wall and next year we would like to feature children’s art and promote food nutrition, art and recycling.”

-Freshman Aidaly better than Marble Slab Creamery. “They should consider a bigger building already because it was packed both times we went,” Murray said. “It’s a nice place for a date and the location is convenient.” The location was chosen because of its proximity to everyone, Lay said. “I have no clue how many people come through, but we have been blessed with a lot of customers,” Lay said. “We have already had two people buy ten

A couple of flavors TJ’s offers Country Vanilla Cable Car Chocolate Cookies and Cream Cake Batter Tart

A couple of toppings ... Fresh fruit Granola Chocolate Chips Gummies Brownie bites Marshmallows Candy Cheesecake bites

Hours

Mon. - Thurs. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Fri. and Sat.: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Sun.: noon - 10 p.m. Go to www.tjsfrozenyogurt.com and follow on facebook, twitter or yelp.

Photos by Pam Belcher

TJ’s Frozen Yogurt had its grand opening Thursday, March 24. There are multiple flavors including red velvet and cheesecake and they have already changed some out since they’ve been open. Cost is based on weight, so customers decide how much they want to pay. It has been very popular during its first week of opening.

“Plus, the people are really friendly and they take you through the steps. You can sample all the flavors and it’s self-serving so you mix and match as you please.” A tip to ladies thinking about going – make sure you have someone with you who is going to pay, so you can load it with toppings, she said. After sampling three or four of the flavors, Rodriguez said she discovered her favorites are the original yogurt and cheesecake. “I’m happy for them because they seem like nice people,” Rodriguez said. “I have a feeling they are going to make good profit.”

What sets the atmosphere?

Lay said she did the decorating from real estate staging experience. “We chose the colors after I did some research,” Lay said. “Green is a happy color and orange is the color that makes people hungry.” She said the music they play was hand-picked to make people feel good. “You can’t hear it when it’s crowded, but there’s a lot of tropical sounding music and all the classics like The Beatles,” Lay said. “The whole idea is to create a place where people can come in and take a 15 to 30-minute vacation from everything.” Lay said everything is done to make people happy. “When we trained the staff we said, ‘Leave your problems in the car and they will be there waiting for you when you come back,’ and that’s the feeling we want everyone to have when they come in,” she said.

Friday, April 1, 2011

Page 10

Staff Editorial

Do we have enough computers on campus? We think a central, inclusive tutor center would be convenient, but not at the expense of limited computers. This move may put much more stress on the remaining computer facilities. Students usually have to line up at the MCS computer lab to wait for a computer to become available. The library computer lab is not much better, and a student who found no luck in either lab will not find it in the learning commons on the library’s first floor. The current number of university laptops would not make up for the loss of a part or all of the third-floor lab. Even if there were enough laptops, laptops cannot handle processes such as video-

editing and podcast-creating as well as desktops with more powerful processors. Also, the required Adobe suites will take up a significant amount of space and affect a laptop’s performance. Students who are not affected by the setbacks of a laptop will probably be inconvenienced when they only have two choices: wait in line, or check out and babysit a laptop. Even if the combined tutor labs would not take up the library lab, would including tutor centers of every single department be beneficial? For instance, if the math tutor lab was in the MCS building, why relocate it five to 10 minutes away in the top floor of the library? Also, a student might

Staff Vote: 9-2 get more out of tutoring if the labs were separate because they would be more intimate and less crowded. While it is probably more cost-effective to move all tutor labs to one location, getting rid of a computer lab will only create more problems. ASU wants to keep students on campus, but they might actually drive them off because students will be more likely to use their own computers at home. At this time, the campus does not have a solid plan to accommodate the traffic that the 100 computers take in now. Combining tutor centers is a good idea for the most part, but the location needed more thought.

Words from the Web from Issue 23, published March 25

Tutoring labs to combine in computer lab I do not like this idea at all. I thought we were undergoing budget cuts?? If we are, why spend even more money on this?? There are not enough computers in the “commons” of the library to take away the 100 computers on the 3rd floor. I have seen people lined up waiting for a computer in the 1st floor. Having all of tutoring together will be convenient, but in my opinion, wait till the university is more stable. The grant would be beneficial in other ways. Anonymous There are not enough computers in the computer labs combined already. What comes after this? A plan to install another computer lab? Incredulous

What do you think about the 3rd floor library computer lab converting to a tutoring center? 18%

I’m for it: all my tutoring in one place!

70%

Contribute

Against: We need that lab. 6%

I never use that lab.

Who needs tutoring?

Letter to the Editor Column writing News writing Cartoon (325) 942-2323 Photography rampage@angelo.edu Comments

Non-scientific poll from www.asurampage.com

Cast your vote in the next poll.

Yes No, ASU should stay a dry campus

Should the university allow drinking on campus?

LIB B324

It doesn’t matter, people drink on campus anyway

Sidewalk

Survey What do you think of the nut shortage on campus?

“It’s nuts! There used to be plenty!”

“Squeek squeeky squeek squeek.”

“What, there is a nut shortage?!”

“Sorry, I don’t speak English.”

“I think it is because it’s April Fool’s Day.”

Planter McNutty, graduate student

Furry Flyer, freshman

Zippy Walnut, junior

Chomper Nutbush, sophomore

Hammy Pester, alumnus

Ram Page Staff 2010-2011 Angelo State University

Editor: Scott Dykowski Managing Editor: Tim Lester Copy Editor: Dana Choi Photo Editor: Ashley Romo Sports Co-Editor: Andy Atterbury Sports Co-Editor: Lauren Wilde Features Editor: Mariah Powell Online Editor: Jason Helms Staff Writer: Mark McDaniel Staff Writer: Megan Ellis Photographer: Pam Belcher Cartoonist: Dana Choi Circulation Manager: Jamin Goecker Advertising Manager: Sara Beth Criner Adviser: Dr. Cathy Johnson Ram Page ASU Station #10895 San Angelo, Texas76909-0895 Editor: rampage@angelo.edu Managing Editor: rampagenews@angelo.edu Features Editor: rampagefeatures@angelo.edu Advertising: rampageads@angelo.edu Editor: (325) 942-2323 Newsroom: (325) 942-2134 Advertising: (325) 942-2040 Fax: (325) 942-2551 Member of The Texas Tech University System Associated Collegiate Press Texas Intercollegiate Press Association

PUBLISHING POLICY

Published every Friday and available to students, one copy per student, the student newspaper of Angelo State University is a public forum, with its student editorial board making all decisions concerning its contents. Unsigned editorials express the views of the majority of the editorial board. Ram Page welcomes all letters. Please include your name, classification/position and a phone number and/or e-mail address for verification purposes. Letters must be signed and be no more than 350 words. The paper reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscenity, libel and privacy. Deadline is 5 p.m., Monday. Submission does not guarantee publication. Letters may be mailed, e-mailed or submitted at the newspaper’s office, Room 324 on the third floor of the Porter Henderson Library. Opinions in letters are not necessarily those of the staff, nor should any opinion expressed in a public forum be construed as the opinion or policy of the administration, unless so attributed.

Emphasizing the wrong topic

Scott Dykowski Editor-in-Chief What’s more important, guns on campus or student drinking problems? The statistics say that at ASU, student drinking is a bigger problem. Why do we address guns on campus more than drinking problems when the latter is more relevant? After all, ASU is a relatively safe place. Look at the stats. Over the past school year, only one student has been arrested, and that was for burglary. Overall, there were 27 cases of burglary in 2010, which is up 35 percent. There were seven cases of assault, down 42 percent – not to

undermine the gravity of those cases, it’s relevant to note that the campus is fairly safe, especially compared to others. On a different note, over the past school year one student has died – which brings me to my point. The student, a beloved, well-known individual on campus, didn’t die because of a shooting, or even a gun accident -- he died because of a drunk-driving accident. In 2010, there were 76 reported alcohol violations on campus. Even though that’s down 8 percent, its’ still higher than any other crime or accident reported on campus. Think about all the students you know who drink on the weekends. Wouldn’t our time as a community of students and as a student government be better spent promoting organizations such as Rams Actively Protecting Students? Shouldn’t we, as a campus, hold forums pushing students to drink responsibly, and not to drink

What’s

and drive? It’s not that we shouldn’t discuss guns on campus – it’s a valid issue that needs to be re-

solved. I’ts that we should place more focus on the things that affect students every day.

Instant Noodles

Dana Choi

Comment with your thoughts on the combined tutor labs & other issues at

www.asurampage.com

mind

Sports

Friday, April 1, 2011

Page 11

Rams continue to ‘fine-tune’ marks

Sophomore Junior Carrasco readies for his turn to pole vault, while freshman Donald Macarthy waits on deck during ASU’s Spring Break Multi-Event.

Track: Sophomore takes first place in 400-meter dash

Andy Atterbury Sports Co-Editor Angelo State track and field took first in one event and improved on provisional marks and personal bests in the North Texas Spring Classic on March 26 against mainly Division-I opponents. Sophomore sprinter Isidro Gar-

cia finished first with his 48.01-second 400-meter dash and sophomore jumper Austin Slone, senior thrower Wade Goode and junior thrower Jayda Spencer all bettered their NCAA Division II provisional marks. “We had some kids run some seasonal bests in events they had been struggling in,” Head Coach James Reid said. “It was also good for their confidence to get some good marks.” Slone’s 50’4.5” triple jump was the best jump by any Division II athlete this

year and a personal best. “When I was on the runway, all I could think about was getting a legal mark,” Slone said. “It felt great. I looked over at Coach and told him what my mark was and he started fist pumping. Goode threw his discus farther than any other D-II athlete this year with his 174’7” toss. Junior jumper Jacob McDonald’s 15’5” pole vault was his best all season and gave him second place in the meet. Senior jumper and javelin thrower Tyler

Photo by Ashley Romo

Orlando also hit a season-best and took third place with his 193’3” javelin throw. Spencer’s 147’5” discus throw was a season-best for her and is the third-best in Division II this year. The squad heads to the Lubbock March 2 to participate in the Texas Tech Open. “We’re going to continue to push on,” Reid said “Try to get ourselves to the point where we’re ready to win a conference championship in May. We’re going to be fine tuning things.”

ASU scores high at Multi-Event meet Track: Men, women

compete in several events to score points Robert Hummingbird Contributing Writer Angelo State's sophomore Shane Holmes finished fourth in the blue decathlon and posted an NCAA provisional qualifying total while former Belle Chrystal Ruiz finished second at the Angelo State Spring Break Multi-Event Meet at the LeGrand Sports Complex Friday. Lindsay Lettow held off former Angelo State Rambelle and current graduate assistant Chrystal Ruiz who finished runner up in the competition with 5,459 points, just shy of qualifying for the USA Outdoors Championships. Ruiz, who did not work out or compete since the NCAA Division II Indoor track and field

championships, was excited to go out there and compete at the LeGrand Sports Complex one more time. “I did really well,” Ruiz said. “I scored my second highest point total off of not really working out after indoor nationals, had decent marks but there is improvement which is nice to know.” Holmes hit his first NCAA provisional point total (6406) on his first Multi-Event meet of the year. “Coming into the first meet, my goal was to hit 6300 so throughout the day I was checking my score to see where I was sitting as the end of the second day got closer and closer,” Holmes said. “When I saw my final score, I couldn’t be happier.” Other rams to compete in the Multi-Event meet were Donald Macarthy (ninth) and Junior Carrasco (10th). The Angelo State will host another Multi-Event meet April 14 through 15.

(Top): Photo by Ashley Romo Sophomore Junior Carrasco runs hurdles during the Spring Break Multi-Event at ASU on Friday, March 25. (Bottom left): Photo by Pam Belcher Graduate student Chrystal Ruiz runs the 800 meter dash which she took first place in. (Bottom right): Photo by Ashley Romo Freshman Donald Macarthy throws discus during the meet.

Page 12

Friday, April 1, 2011

Sports

Rambelles disrupt Texanns Softball: Women prepare for

No. 3-ranked Midwestern St.

Standings Baseball School

Southeastern OK Tarleton St. Southwestern OK Incarnate Word Cameron A&M- Kingsville WTAMU Abilene Christian Angelo State Central OK East Central Eastern NM Northeastern St.

Softball

Andy Atterbury Sports Co-Editor

Conf. Overall 13-5 15-6 15-6 15-6 11-7 12-9 10-8 10-8 11-10 6-15 5-16 4-14 2-19

17-11 21-7 24-8

The No.1-ranked ‘Belle softball team beat Tarleton State two games to one in a Lone Star Conference showdown on March 26. “Tarleton has always been a tough place to play, but I feel like we pitched very well,” Head Coach Travis Scott said. Junior pitcher Claire Molina (13-0) got the nod in the Friday match up and struck out seven batters and allowed one run through six innings of work. The game was tied 1-1 through six innings until sophomore catcher Kacie Easley launched a three-run home run. Freshman infielder Morgan Spearman followed with a two-run homer to give the ‘Belles (27-3) (7-2) a 6-3 win.

18-10 18-10 15-13 21-10 17-13 17-15 11-18 9-21 7-19 3-23

School

Conf. Overall

Angelo State Abilene Christian Tarleton St. Incarnate Word WTAMU Texas Woman’s A&M- Kingsville Eastern NM

7-2 6-3 5-4-0 5-4 4-5 4-5

27-3 20-16 16-12-1 18-15 25-8 21-12

3-6 2-7

20-16 10-23

“We’re sitting here at 27-3 and really still playing well in all aspects,” Scott said. “We’re sitting at the top of the Lone Star South right now which is big.” In Game One on Saturday, the ‘Belles and the Texanns (14-12-1) (6-4) were all tied up through six until junior first baseman Elsa Apo knocked in a run to give the girls a 5-4 lead. Senior centerfielder Brittany Astle added two more insurance runs in the inning and the ‘Belles won 7-4. Apo and Astle both went 2-4 at the plate with two RBIs each in Game One. “Every year you hit a little slump where you don’t play well,” Scott said. “We haven’t done that yet so hopefully we can overcome that this year and keep rolling.” Tarleton scored three runs in the first inning of Game Two to start things off early. The ‘Belles tied it up in the fifth, but a TexAnn’s home run sealed 4-3 loss for the girls. Molina tossed six innings and had five strikeouts in the loss.

The ‘Belles will play five games against conference opponents in Lone Star Conference Crossover Tournament at the Texas Bank Complex in San Angelo April 1 through 3. No.3-ranked Midwestern State is first on the schedule at 12:30 on April 1. “[The Midwestern game is] one of those games where yeah, you want to win it, but at the same time if you don’t it’s not the end of the world,” Scott said. “We’ll see them again in the conference tournament. This is going to be the first of probably several big games between us and Midwestern this year.” After the Midwestern game the girls play Southeastern Okla. at 2:30. On Saturday, Central Okla. steps up to the plate at 11:30 a.m. and on Sunday the ‘Belles play Cameron University at 10 a.m. and East Central University at 2:30 p.m. “It’s going to be an exciting week for softball in San Angelo,” Scott said.

Men drop series 0-3 Baseball: Angelo State falls in

Lone Star Conference standings

What to watch for: 4-1: SB vs Midwestern St. 12:30 p.m. BB at Northeastern St. 1:00 p.m. SB vs Southeastern OK 2:30 p.m. BB at Northeastern St. 4:00 p.m. 4-2: SB vs Central OK 11:00 a.m. BB at Northeastern St. 1:00 p.m. BB at Northeastern St. 4:00 p.m. Track at Bobby Lane Inv. All day Track at TTU Open All day

Andy Atterbury Sports Co-Editor

Ram baseball lost a Lone Star Conference series 3-0 against Tarleton State March 25 and 26. The losses give the team a school-record eight-game losing streak and mark the first time in school history the Texans (20-7) (15-6) have swept the Rams. “It’s tough to take those losses, especially in a sweep,” junior left fielder Garrett Harris said. “If we would have came out and at least taken one [game] after those two losses at least we would have had something to look forward to. It’s going to be a grind this next week of practice; we need to get back to the basics.” The Rams (17-15) (11-10) committed 14 errors on Friday night to break the Division II record in an 18-6 loss to the Texans. “Right now we’re not finding ways to win ball games,” Head Coach Kevin Brooks said. “We’re not doing anything right now up to the level I think we’re capable of doing it.” The Texans took Game One of Saturday’s double-header 11-1. In the second inning the Rams loaded the bases after two walks and a hit batter, but the Texans struck out sophomore catcher Brian Brademan to send ASU back to the dugout. Junior outfielder Tate Allison hit a sacrifice fly to left field Photo by Ashley Romo in the third inJunior Rick Reyna throws for a strike against Tarleton State on Saturday, ning to score March 26.

Players and coaches meet on the mound to plan their next move.

the only Rams’ run of the ballgame. Senior pitcher Payden Bravenec started his first game for ASU in Game Two. He gave up one run in the first, but the Rams came back and scored three runs without a single hit. Three walks, an error, a wild pitch and a sacrifice fly from senior designated hitter Travis Lites gave the Rams a 3-1 lead at the end of one inning. ASU took a 4-2 lead on an RBI single from sophomore shortstop Brent Denny, then added another run in the fourth inning on a wild pitch to go ahead 5-2 through four innings. Tarleton chipped away at the lead for the rest of the game and scored five runs in the ninth inning off of sophomore pitcher James Conlee (4-1) to win 11-5. The Rams drop to ninth in the LSC

Photo by Ashley Romo

standings, but only remain one game out of the sixth playoff spot. “[The playoffs] aren’t a far reach,” Harris said. “We have to have every guy [step up]. [Hitters] one through nine, pitchers… [players] on the bench – doesn’t matter who you are. Step up and do your job. We have the chance to do it.” Coach Brooks said on paper the Rams have an easy schedule remaining. “But if we play like we have been, we won’t win,” Brooks said. “We really need this week of practice. [It’s going to be] a hard week and a good week of practice. I think the guys will come back ready to fight, work and get better.” Next, the Rams will journey to Tahlequah, Okla. to play a four game series against Northeasterm State.

Brad Stevens let the dogs out Andy Atterbury Sports Co-Editor Brad Stevens might look like a high school sophomore, but he coaches like a

wily veteran. At 33, he became the secondyoungest head coach to reach NCAA Championship and youngest to reach two Final Fours.

If you’re reading this and still drawing a blank, Brad Stevens is the head coach of the Butler Bulldogs who play VCU in the Final Four on April 2. He’s the sharp, business-looking whippersnapper on the Butler side of the court who looks like he has never sweated in his life. Stevens started his career with Butler as the coordinator of basketball operations in 2000. In 2001 he moved up to assistant coach, where he remained until he took over the head coaching job in 2007. His first year on the job he posted a 30-4 record, making him the third-

youngest coach post 30 wins in a season. Overall, he has a 116-24 record as a head basketball coach. He keeps his eyes glued to the film and analyzes everything he can to keep his team ahead of the competition. The thing I respect about Stevens’ Butler squad is they knock off higher ranked teams full of top draft prospects and superstars using team-oriented basketball. The thing I respect about Stevens as a man is he has said time and time again that he intends to stay at Butler. Once Butler had its champion-

ship run rumors started to swirl that he would take a job at a larger school. Instead of bailing for a national powerhouse, Stevens signed a contract to stay a Bulldog through 2022. I know that doesn’t mean he is going to coach there until 2022, but it gives me hope. A coach staying loyal to the team who gave him his start instead of bolting town is rare. Butler is hardly considered a Cinderella team anymore, but I’ll still root for the Bulldogs as long as Smooth Operator Stevens is the young man in charge.