HILLTOP VIEWS
St. Edward’s University • Wednesday, September 26, 2012 • Volume 32 • Issue 3 • hilltopviewsonline.com
CAMP provides opportunities Shelby Cole scole2@stedwards.edu
Asparagus grows straight out of the ground and rarely gets any taller than the length of the stalks available at a typical grocery store. This means that in order to harvest them workers must bend over and pull the stalks directly from the earth. Imagine doing this type of bending-and-pulling labor for hours on end for days, weeks or even months, and you can catch a glimpse of what it is like to be a migrant worker. For some St. Edward’s University students and their families, working in the fields instills a strong work ethic and determination to succeed. “I want my parents to enjoy the fruits their labor and to make everything they have done for us worth their trouble,” senior Elvia Valle said. Valle is participant in the highly competitive College Assistance Migrant Program, known as CAMP for short. Her father was a migrant farm worker, and parents like Valle’s are faced with two options when it comes to their children.
Upgrades enhance on-campus living Cheryl Cedillo ccedill3@stedwards.edu
Photo courtesy of Melinda O’Cañas President George Martin greeted alumni at the program’s 40th anniversary celebration.
While they spend months traveling for work, parents can bring their children to work or leave them at home with a relative. This type of habitual disruption is the norm for migrant workers’ children, who are often denied access to a college education. The CAMP program is a prime example of St. Edward’s Holy Cross values, which emphasize social justice. The program has become so successful that it recently caught the attention
of The New York Times, which profiled two CAMP students in an article a few weeks ago. To qualify to participate in CAMP, an applicant must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident. Because CAMP receives funding both from St. Edward’s and from the U.S. Department of Education, applicants must also fit federal definitions for migrant and seasonal farm work. CAMP students have experienced something that some consider to have faded into antiquity, but seasonal
and migrant work is still alive in America. Each year, hundreds of students apply for the CAMP program at St. Edward’s, and a mere 42 are accepted. This number is an increase in admission from years past. Those selected receive all the benefits CAMP provides, including funds for room and board and access to a tailored academic support structure. These students’ transitions PROGRAM| 2
bathrooms include new sinks, faucet fixtures, countertops and shower heads. Since Teresa is one of the oldest halls on campus, the electrical systems and bathroom lighting also needed to be upgraded. The hall’s community areas have also been redecorated.
Over the summer, many residence halls on campus underwent major renovations and changes. Teresa Hall, renovated this summer for the first time in over 10 years, experienced the most drastic i mp rov e m e nt s “The important thing inside and out. Resident Assisis that while they tant Colin Stonerenovated things, they cipher said the most beneficial kept the big open i mp rov e m e nt s community spaces.” are the hallway carpeting and the -Colin Stonecipher, resident assistant newly installed laminate floors. Stonecipher said updates to the flooring Added artwork, a fresh coat have significantly decreased of paint and new carpet crethe noise levels in the hall and ate a more welcoming ateliminated unpleasant odors. mosphere and maintain the Rooms in Teresa have also unique social environment in been refurnished. Residents Teresa. have more freedom to per"The important thing is that sonalize their space now that while they renovated things, the built-in storage units they kept the big open comhave been removed from the munity spaces,” Stonecipher rooms. said. In addition, the doorframes Since Teresa is known on were repaired and the bathrooms were significantly UPDATES | 3 remodeled. Updates to the
7 | LIFE & ARTS
10 | GOLF
14 | VIEWPOINTS
Ohio band Red Wanting Blue talks Willie Nelson, the Ed Sullivan Show, and Letterman with Hilltop Views.
Men’s golf will get a taste of the Ivy League when they travel east to play at Yale this coming weekend.
The St. Edward’s University football team is undefeated, absent, and likely never to return–maybe for the better.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS 2 NEWS Freshman discusses zombies in academics on national radio Bryanna Estrada bestrad@stedwards.edu
Beginning this semester, all incoming freshmen were required to read “World War Z.” On Sept. 10, St. Edward’s University freshman, Hayley Barone, spoke live on National Public Radio’s "Talk of the Nation" with Max Brooks, author of the novel. “Talk of the Nation” producers booked Brooks to speak on the show for a segment they produce each year about books chosen for common reading programs in universities across the country. Producers then looked for schools that were using Brooks’ books and found St. Edward’s. “My supervisor did some searching. I think it was literally a quick Google search taht said ‘freshman reads
Photo by Gabriellae Rodriguez Hayley Barone spoke with “World War Z” author Max Brooks on NPR’s “Talk of the Nation.”
World War Z’,” said John Asante, a producer for “Talk of the Nation.” St. Edward’s is the only university that chose “World War Z” for a common reading program this year. Barone was selected to speak on the show after she was recommended by an aca-
demic advisor. “It all happened in one day," Barone said. "I got an e-mail at 11 a.m., 10 minutes after I had woken up." Afterwards, Barone hurried to her morning classes, leaving her about 20 minutes to prep for the interview. “He said ‘okay, you are next’,
and they introduce me, and the rest is histor,” Barone said. In the interview, Barone pointed out the book’s unique vignette style. She also asked Brooks some questions of her own about the "World War Z" movie and what he found influential to the style of the book.
Barone also said the book tied in with the themes in her Freshman Studies course. "They got it right with the dystopia and sustainability theme. It is so relevant," Barone said. Not all students share Barone’s enthusiasm, however. “I thought that it was going to be from a sociological point of view, more academic, and it ended up having traits similar to your teen horror movie," freshman Ariana Camara said. Tension can arise when it comes to relating pop culture to academics. Barron acknowledges the controversy in choosing "World War Z" as this year's common read. “It was a risky choice. Some faculty are really excited, and other faculty do not think it is serious enough," Barron
said. Barron said the book merges interdisciplinary fields. She believed that "World War Z" would appeal to incoming freshmen. "...Zombies [are] what our students are seeing in pop culture," Barron said. "It is a chance to look at culture they were consuming in new ways." Yet, Barron said she understands where students like Camara are coming from. “It looks very lightweight. I can understand. I would say to them, though, that looking at pop culture is college work," Barron said. Brooks, the author of “World War Z,” will speak at the university for the Common Theme Lecture Oct. 10 in the Recreation and Convocation Center.
Program participants share past experiences, hope for future Continued from page 1
into college-level courses can be challenging. Fortunately, the program has a specialized academic advisor whose job is designed to help students meet these transitions head on. “Each student has regular meetings with me to discuss issues such as time management, tutoring and academic performance in their classes. But we also talk about social things like roommates, homesickness and relationships," Gilbert Contreras, CAMP’s academic advisor, said. "I try to address all aspects of a student’s life so that they can focus on their academics.” Contreras realizes that these aspects of a CAMP student’s experience can differ from those of other stu-
dents. “I have found that CAMP students face many of the same issues as many college freshmen. But they also have another set of issues that they have to deal with,” Contreras said. Many CAMP students face feelings of guilt when they come to college, Contreras said. “Many [CAMP students] were wage earners in high school... Now, without that wage, the family must learn to manage without it. There is a feeling... that they are leaving their family behind to suffer while they are here in Austin. It is a difficult thing to accept that, in the long run, they are doing what is best for their family,” Contreras said. Valle knows the burdens of providing for family. “My dad was a migrant
farm worker... he was gone for months at a time. In my opinion, this made me more mature growing up,” Valle said. While some CAMP students decide that the need to provide outweighs the need to pursue an education, others turn to the drive to work harder and succeed. The opportunity for a better life is not wasted on CAMP students. “My parents' work ethic, determination and ethics are contagious,” Valle, who stuck with the program, said. “I do believe that I am more determined to succeed than the average college student." A member of the McNair Scholars Program, Valle will graduate with a degree in global studies with a concentration in Europe and a minor in French. She has stud-
ied abroad multiple times. two brothers and one sister– After graduation, Valle hopes has worked in the fields,” Luto become a Fulbright Schol- cio said. ar and attend “When I read the first word, graduate school. ‘congratulations,’ I jumped As Valle out of happiness and yelled forges her path away for my whole family. [My from St. parents] cried.” Edward’s, freshman -Freshman Alfonso Lucio Alfonso Lucio is on his way in. Lucio had college on the Lucio was quoted in The brain, though, and actively New York Times about his worked to find a way into childhood spent in Michi- St. Edward’s. He described gan asparagus fields, working the application process and closely with his family to earn subsequent waiting time as a living. “excruciating.” “My mother and father His hard work was worth started moving for agricul- the months of waiting. He tural work after they got mar- still remembers the day, Feb. ried at ages 19 and 18. My 6, when he opened a letter whole family–mother, father, from St. Edward’s.
“When I read the first word, ‘congratulations,’ I jumped out of happiness and yelled for my whole family. [My parents] cried. Their tears were more than happiness for me. It was reassurance to them that their life work and days in the hot sun were paying off,” Lucio said. The gravity of Lucio's–and every other CAMP student's –opportunity is immense. Lucio plans to major in education and minor in political science. After he graduates, he hopes to help motivate children who come from backgrounds similar to his. “Sometimes, I have trouble realizing I am walking the grounds of St. Edward’s,” Lucio said. “I would never in a million years change anything in my life because it has led me to this moment, in this place, in Austin, Texas.”
NEWS 3
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
Campus prepares for presidential election Taylor Bencomo tk@stedwards.edu
It is nearly time to exert the civic muscle and cast a vote in the upcoming elections. Because many students are outside their own county, questions are arising about how to get their voices heard. In Texas, early voting is set to begin Oct. 22 and ends Nov. 2 on election day. If someone is not registered in this county, they need not worry. Casting a ballot by mail in Texas opened Sept. 7, and the deadline to have the ballot submitted is Oct. 30. Policies on dates and deadlines for early voting and absentee voting vary from state to state. Information on how people from other states can vote through the mail and on important dates is available on the American Civil Liberties Union website, www.
Photo by Bryna Hoang Voters must register by Oct. 9 to participate in the election.
aclu.org. There are several ways to acquire an absentee ballot. The first is absenteeballots.com, which allows you to fill out the form online, regardless of state, and print it. After this, the form must be mailed to the county where the voter is presently registered.
Voters can also request absentee ballots from their state's secretary of state, which can be done online. Voters then print out the ballots, fill in the information, and mail them to the respective county clerks. Absentee voting represents a large part of the voting pop-
ulation. Grace Makuch, a freshman from Illinois, plans on absentee voting. "I want to vote for local officials back home. I have more of an interest in Illnois politics as I have been more directly affected by them," Makuch said. The Student Government Association is hosting a debate between conservative and liberal students on Oct. 1. Voter registration will be available at the debate. Voter registration is also available online, where voters can download a form from the Secretary of State's website. The deadline to register to vote in the upcoming election is Oct. 9. Voting booths will be available on campus in the Ragsdale lobby beginning Oct. 29.
Updates give new life to residence halls Continued from page 1
campus for being a more social hall, it was important to preserve that charm while upgrading what was outdated or in need of repair. “[Teresa] is definitely a social dorm,” freshman Kelsey Baines said. But Baines appreciates the open area for more than just socializing. “I like the fact that we have our own personal space,” Baines said. Although most of the renovations were inside the building, Teresa also received an external makeover. New bike racks were installed in front of the building, and the sidewalks that lead from main campus have been widened to make the residence hall more inviting and accessible.
There is still some landscaping underway, but most of the work is complete and already making a huge difference for student residents. East Hall is also experienced a big change this year. The hall is now co-ed for the first time in years. Ellisha Isom, the interim director for Residence Life, said the growth of the university was a major cause for the updates. “The change was necessary in order to accommodate the freshmen living on campus,” Isom said. The transition in East seems to be going smoothly. “We are only a month into the fall semester... and students are making friends, participating in hall events and developing a sense of community,” Isom said.
Photo by Joe Arellano Once an all-female residence hall, East Hall is now co-ed.
Dujarie Hall, one of the newer halls on campus, did not see major work but was repainted and re-carpeted. Basil Moreau Hall experienced similar upkeep two summers ago and remained
open for orientations and conference sessions this summer. Hunt, LeMans and Lady Bird Johnson Halls remain unchanged.
KNOWINGYOUR SGA SGA develops new Green Initiative Adam Crawley dcrawle@stedwards.edu
The Student Government Association (SGA) has formed a partnership with Students for Sustainability to put forth a Green Initiative to increase campus sustainability. Student senators Harrison Hadland and Octavio Sanchez have teamed up with Students for Sustainability co-Presidents Andy Hirschfeld and Janelle Sylvester to push the Green Initiative forward. “The Green Initiative is a plan that originated within Students for Sustainability and is being supported by Student Government as a part of our goals for a more sustainable campus,” said Juliann Butz, communication director of SGA. Together, the two organizations are working to push the Green Initiative forward in unprecedented ways. “St. Edward’s prides itself on sustainability, but they do not have a green fund. Most other schools in Texas, such as UT, Texas Tech or St. Mary’s have one,” Hirschfeld said. “The fees for these funds vary... We would charge students $5 to $15, which would be put into a pool of money. This money would be managed by students and
funded by students working together for a wholesale approach to sustainability.” This wholesale approach has widened the scale of the Green Initiative and aims to vastly increase its influence. “Students would almost entirely run the fund, with some faculty assistance,” Sylvester said. According to both Hirschfeld and Sylvester, the fund would receive both state and federal assistance equal to the amount that students gave to the fund. There are multiple examples of the ways the Green Initiative would improve campus life. “Vice President Nairod Woods is working to get water bottle filling stations installed in various campus locations,” Butz said. “Senator Perouza Parsamian is currently exploring the issue of a lack of recycling bins on campus.” Another tentative plan is to expand the garden and compost Bon Appétit’s food scraps, according to Sylvester. By the end of next semester, Sylvester and Hirschfeld hope to put a vote for funding the Green Initiative online. Follow SGA on Facebook and follow them on Twitter @SEU_SGA.
4 NEWS German and French programs expand on campus, abroad
Hillfest fireworks generate interest, burn ban concerns
Arielle Avila
Austin Hestdalen
aavila3@stedwards.edu
ahestda@stedwards.edu
After Professor Harald Becker’s death, St. Edward’s University is working to continue the German program he started. For the time being, Professors David Huenlich and Anke Sanders have been hired as substitutes. Both are from Germany, are native German speakers and teach German language classes at St. Edward’s University. “The passing away of Harald Becker is a great loss because he has a legacy at this university of over 20 years,” Huenlich said. “He basically built this program, so for us the struggle is to keep his legacy going and to keep up the good work that he did.” Upper-level German classes are not currently offered, but in hopes of keeping the German program active and growing, Professor Kerstin Somerholter is working to expand the program at St. Edward’s and abroad. Although currently on sabbatical, Somerholter has been holding informal German speaking groups for the St. Edward’s community. She thinks these groups and other resources will help keep people interested in the language. To increase that interest, Somerholter hopes to create more German classes. She has also been doing research to execute her plan to expand the study abroad program for German students. The final goal is to set up a Maymester by 2014 that allows students to study in Germany for the month of May and have the opportunity to stay the rest of the summer or even throughout the fall semester.
Drought and wind speeds sparked worries of fire after fireworks were shot off during the annual Hillfest celebration at St. Edward’s University earlier this month. The University Program“The fireworks were ming Board’s (UPB) annual probably the biggest Hillfest on non-food related Sept. 7 welcomed new attraction. It was a and returning tradition we were glad students to to bring back.” St. Edward’s with a variety -Sebastian Roman, UPB member of attractions including carnival rides, live bands and an attention- ber of UPB and the main grabbing fireworks display coordinator of Hillfest, said to cap the night. that UPB made sure that Students attending the the burn ban was lifted befestival found the fireworks fore proceeding with the to be one of the best parts show and filled out all of the of the evening. Even many necessary permits. on-campus residents who “In collaboration with did not want to initially go many offices on campus, to the festival came out to we proceeded to work with watch them go off. a company which displays “I thought they were in- fireworks and they got all of credible,” sophomore Ben the permits that were necesGarcia said. “It was a lot better than last year.” But upon learning that the National Weather Service warned to regulate burning and pyrotechnics on the day of Hillfest due to 23 mph winds and prolonged dry conditions, many students were concerned. Another major concern among students was how the UPB was able to set off fireworks within city limits, near a local neighborhood and so low to the ground. Sophomore Michael Haywood was suprised by the fact that the school was able to launch fireworks under
Hilltop Views Archives Students can spend a semester or full year in Angers, France.
“Language is really an investment and if you just take one year of it, you are going to forget it,” Somerholter said. “If you have already invested one year of your time, keep going. It is a lifelong skill… not just to get a grade, but to communicate with people.” Somerholter worked with the French program for seven years. She created the minor two years ago and proposed a French major to the board, which was accepted and is offered this year for the first time at St. Edward’s. After Becker’s death, Somerholter took charge of the German program. The French program is currently run by Professor Philippe Seminet. “As the go-to person in French, it is certainly in my interest to grow and expand the program. However, honestly it is not my desire to turn people into French majors,” Seminet said. “What I do see my role as is a facilitator, as someone who can open doors and give students an opportunity to peer in and see what is there.” Both Seminet and Somerholter are passionate about getting students to travel, not only to gain interest in their
subjects but to gain cultural experience as well. “I think study abroad changes you fundamentally,” Seminet said. “I have talked to so many people who have gone to one country or another and have discovered an inner self that they did not know they had.” Seminet hopes to change the French study abroad program by implementing a host family system. He believes this will help students better assimilate into the culture and way of life than they could living in a dorm surrounded by other students from the United States. Besides studying abroad, the French program offers alternatives to traditional textbook learning that help students interact with the language and culture. Available extracurricular activities include the French club and French film showings. “Students hopefully seize the opportunity to study abroad because it makes such a tremendous difference in the acquisition, not only of language skills, but also to really assimilate the culture and the thinking of the people, their traditions,” Seminet said.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
all of these circumstances. “I was suspicious at first when I realized that the fireworks were exploding very low in the air,” Haywood said. “Then I realized that people were living just across the street.” Sebastian Roman, a mem-
sary and contacted the fire department to be present at the event,” Roman said. Roman went on to say that after setting up all of the permits, UPB sent out information to local community members, making them aware of the fireworks show so they would not be surprised or alarmed on the night of the event. UPB also invited many of those living in the surrounding community to attend the show. “I feel Hillfest was a success this year, and everything went smoothly during the event,” Roman said of this year’s celbration. “The fireworks were probably the biggest non-food related attraction. It was a tradition we were glad to bring back.” UPB has no current plans for a fireworks show in the future. However, UPB is planning other events that students can find either online at CollegiateLink or by going to the Student Life office on the third floor of Ragsdale.
Photo by Amy Barrientos This year’s Hillfest concluded with a display of fireworks.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
games
GAMES 5
look for the answer’s to both games in next week’s issue!
check us out @ hilltopviewsonline.com
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LIFE & ARTS Alumni explore the final frontier in original play WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
Phoenix Jauregui pjaurag2@stedwards.edu
“Spacestation 1985” director and producer Jeff Miller and his co-producer, Natalie George, first met as students of St. Edward’s University. The pair has been working on the original play since 2009, performing workshops in New York City and constantly revising the script. The play was dedicated to investigating the wear of isolation on the human mind. With the assistance of $5,000 from donors on Kickstarter.com, money out of the cast and crews own pockets and assistance from grants, they are finally seeing the play they have worked on for so
spacestation1985.com Produced by two alumni, the original comedy deals with human isolation in the expanse of space.
long reach its full potential. The lights dimmed and two beams of light fell on the stage to illuminate the sole two actors with an intricate stage behind them.
“Spacestation 1985” is a comedy about Dr. Rick Gergen and Lieutenant Norman Kilroy, two NASA rejects destined for failure, and their journey into space combined
with the slow and steady deterioration of their mental health. The characters know little of their private investors who have requested them to take
on the mission to harvest minerals from the tail of Halley’s Comet. The pair wakes in turn as they alternate the responsibilities of monitoring the ship in month-long intervals. They communicate only through logs and notes for their entire six-month trip to the comet. Together they begin to uncover the truth of their mysterious mission as well as discovering the pain of complete lack of human contact. The loneliness felt by the two characters manifests itself in very different ways. In the foolhardy Kilroy, it comes as paranoia, seeing doom lurking in every corner of the ship.
Gergen must find friendship, and even love, in unusual places, possibly within his own mind. Through the control of lights and the assistance of original music by local composer Graham Reynolds, the production was able to create a dynamic piece without needing much in the way of setting. At times, puppets would act as substitutions for the actors or take on a life of their own. This served to create a diversity in medium to break up the series of witty monologues that would be the main driving points of a play. The play ran from Sept. 13 through 22 at the Off Center.
WEEKLY ‘FLIX FIX | Robsessed Robert Pattinson documentary: a brooding magenta PowerPoint Taylor Bencomo tbencom@stedwards.edu
Weekly ‘Flix Fix takes the legwork out of wading through thousands of film choices on Netflix, bringing you the most truly bizarre, quirky and outright amazing gems instant streaming has to offer. The film "Robsessed", an E! TV special focuses on Robert Pattinson's life at the tender age of 23. The movie highlights the stellar rise to fame after Pattinson's awkward modeling career. A new level of obsession was reached when it comes to the Twilight heartthrob and living embodiment of Edward Cullen who, according to the movie, has "finger-
licking good hair." writers, the writer of his bi"Robsessed" brings together ography, and his first acting an eclectic group of insightful coach–the closest to Pattinoutsiders to comment on tid- son one can get without the bits from magazine interviews “If you are in love with and Wikipedia. Let the misinforRobert Pattinson, this mation abound. film is not for you. In If you are in love with Robert theory it seems great, Pattinson, this but it will probably film is not for you. In theory it tell you everything you seems great, but already know.” it will probably tell you everything you already know. other Twilighters. The film plays like a gloriThe film even takes to the fied PowerPoint as they flash streets and talks to locals numerous pictures of Pat- from Pattinson's hometown tinson interjected with the where local residents said he opinions of British tabloid seemed like a nice boy.
The best part of the film is the absurd use of the color magenta. It is used as a transition between pictures, a backdrop for blackand-white cutouts of Pattinson and other celebrities like Daniel Radcliffe, Reese Witherspoon and Kristen Stewart, and as the color of choice for all titles. "Robsessed" is as charming as the man himself if only because of the copious British accents. The viewer wonders, had Americans made this, would it have been as delectable and nourishing to the mind as a twinkie or the man of the hour himself? If you are Rob-curious and ready to become "Robsessed,” this cinema gem is for you as long as you're ready for
Wikimedia Commons Pattinson is most famous for the role of Edward in “Twilight.”
magenta highlights of Pattinson's "smoldering" features in black-and-white with no actual clips of him talking. This film is like watching
Pattinson through a window with binoculars. It will tease you and taunt you like no other but Pattinson can.
LIFE & ARTS
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
Indie British pop band releases second album
Q&A
Rising rock band gains new following Nathalie Phan nphan4@stedwards.edu
Wikimedia Commons Hip London natives, The xx, present their intimate album “Coexist.”
Jennifer Jacques jjacque@stedwards.edu
The xx’s sophomore album "Coexist" might lead us to believe they are not as glum as we thought. The xx is a trio of young adults from the London area who dress in all black. Romy Madley Croft, Oliver Sim, Jamie Smith wrote their first album, self-titled "The xx," around the age of 16. The songs were laid back and sad, yet beautifully arranged. They became critical darlings immediately upon its release. Their sound was unexpected pop, not afraid of dead space. The xx won The Barclaycard Mercury Prize for Best Album in 2010. The Mercury Prize, a highly prestigious award, celebrates the best album of the year from British and Irish artists. The winner is picked on the night of the award ceremony. Artists who have previously won The Mercury Prize include Suede, Portishead and Pulp. They are all imaginative and progressive artists. "Coexist," The xx’s second album, sounds a bit sweeter. At its first listen it may sound like an old friend, but upon listening
deeper there are layers and layers of undiscovered sounds. The more into the tracks you get, there seems to be rolling thunder in their sounds of laid back melodic pop. Smith, commonly referred to as Jamie xx, has moved well out of his comfort zone for "Coexist." Croft and Sim’s vocals also seem more polished this time around. They sing about love and relationships in many stages. At times they seem to speak to one another, and at other times we are listening to their own separate stories. When releasing "Coexist," The xx, who always play outside the box, went with a new approach. They gave the album a week early to a fan, and that fan was asked to share it with friends and xx fans along the way. The streaming link had a tracker to see where and how fast the album was being distributed. This was a new way of marketing an album and it succeeded in getting The xx the number one spot on the UK charts during its first week of release. "Coexist" is a full album experience in a time when most albums are just one pop song after another.
Scott Terry is the leading man of Red Wanting Blue, a band from Ohio that recently gained a claim to fame with its new album, “From the Vanishing Point.” Terry spoke to Hilltop Views recently about their latest album and their recent appearance on “The Late Show with David Letterman.” Hilltop Views: How did your band get its beginnings? Scott Terry: I wish that I had some really magical story to tell you there... As soon as I got to school at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, I formed the earliest beginnings of what is now Red Wanting Blue, and I graduated and moved the band from our base in Athens to Columbus, Ohio... and began touring the country and making records. It’s been about 13 years of doing that... HV: What did you major in? ST: I majored in theater. I still play on stages, except I don’t do theater, I play music. HV: You’ve had nine albums right? ST: That’s right. HV: So, how do you feel about this final rise in popularity? ST: It’s about time! We feel great about it. But, you know, music is what we love. We’d do it no matter what, you know, whether there be a pot of money there or a giant
Redwantingblue.com Ohio-based Red Wanting Blue has created nine albums over the course of 13 years.
tour bus or just a small vehicle, whatever it is. There’s an old line that Willie Nelson used to say, which is, “Ultimately, the world’s gotta get around to guys like us.” If you stick with something and you do it long enough, you know, ultimately, they’ve got to get around to paying attention to you somewhere at some point. HV: Can you tell me about your latest album, “From the Vanishing Point”? ST: “From the Vanishing Point” is our latest record. It is our first album that will be made start to finish from Fanatic Records, which is our record label. You know, historically, when we made albums, it was as an independent. For years, we sold stuff on iTunes, but your digital reach is only as far as your band’s reach when you’re out touring... And I don’t think we would have gotten onto “The Late Show with David Letterman” this summer without the help of Fanatic Records and the help of our management. HV: So how was performing on “Letterman”?
ST: It was scary, exciting,
really fun, and at the same time, you’re like, you’re in the studio where there’s so much history. That room we played in, that’s the Ed Sullivan Theater. That’s the room that the Beatles came on and sang “Twist and Shout” and the whole world exploded. Jim Morrison and the Doors sang, when he wasn’t supposed to, “Girl, We Couldn’t Get Much Higher.” Michael Jackson moonwalked on that stage!... And David Letterman was great, very nice, the people were great, the staff, we loved it. It was a real milestone for the band... HV: Alright, one last question: What advice would you give to aspiring musicians, which we have plenty of here in Austin? ST: I don’t know, they’re probably smarter than me! (Greg, you got any advice for young musicians in Austin?) Greg’s going to throw out to “play, play, play,” just to keep playing, and when you’re done playing, just play some more. I would say that to be a musician, at the end of the day, if you stick with this long enough, you see
that it’s not a gig of those who can talk the talk and those who walk the walk, this is really, like, how long you can walk the walk... I think that the definition of insane is when someone keeps doing the same thing over and over again except they expect different results. There are so many parallels between that definition and being in a rock band, where you do the same thing night after night and expect different results. My advice would be you’ve got one life to live, so make it count. Do whatever it is that you want to do. Except if you’re planning on robbing liquor stores, I would highly recommend not doing that. Try not to break the law. HV: Well, robbing a bank would be frowned upon. It is definitely something to avoid. ST: Yes, I don’t want this to be recorded as “Scott Terry wanted me to rob a bank.” Red Wanting Blue will perform at Stubb’s on Sept. 27.
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8 LIFE & ARTS
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
THEATER PREVIEW
MMNT kicks of its 40th season with wild, non-linear comedy Willa Goldberg wgoldbe@stedwards.edu
site. The two inspirations act as a juxtaposition to show the changing thoughts and attitudes about what it means to be an American. “Under Construction” is non-linear. For example, the play goes from the 1950s to present day and back, in no particular order. Much of Mee’s plays follow this non-
The Mary Moody Northen Theatre (MMNT) will begin its 40th anniversary season with “Under Construction” by Charles L. Mee directed by David M. Long. The cast features two equity and eight student actors playing multiple roles. For its 40th anniversary sea“The play is beautiful, son the theatre will have a jammessy, silly and packed line-up thoughtful, and, like with five plays, America, constantly according to Long. under construction.” The play will -MMNT Artistic Director David M. Long run from Sept. 27 to Oct. 7. Performances will occur Thursdays through linear design, including “boSaturdays at 7:30 p.m. and brauschenbergamerica," proon Sundays at 2 p.m. The duced at MMNT in 2009. play is recommended for ma- Long explained some of the ture audiences according to advantages of working with the theatre’s website. the non-linear format of “Un“Under Construction” pre- der Construction.” miered in 2009. The play was “The non-linear collage-like part of Mee’s “Lives of the structure of ‘Under ConArtist” series. Norman Rock- struction’ actively engages well, an illustrator and artist the audience and challenges popularized in the 1950’s, them to form an opinion on and Jason Rhoades, a con- the content presented,” Long temporary instillation artist, said. serve as inspirations for the “The play poses the quesplay, according to Mee’s web- tion of how we define our-
selves as Americans through current and historical illuminations of gender, race, and the American family,” Long said. “The play is beautiful, messy, silly, and thoughtful and, like America, constantly under construction.” Tyler Mount has been an actor or stage manager in 12 Mary Moody Northen Theatre productions during his 3 years as a theater performance major. He explained some of the challenges the play created for him as an actor. “Under Construction is very unique as all actors involved in the show never play just one character. As an ensemble we all take on about 12+ roles in the 70-minute show. I play everything from a bell-hop to barber,” Mount said. “It was very important for me to distinguish each character from one another, even if you see me for 10 seconds.” Despite the challenges posed by the play, Mount said that he was drawn to the play and talked about what kind of experience it has been for him. “His [Long’s] vigor and passion for producing great theatre always creates a spectacular finished product,”
MMNT’s 40th Anniversary Season “Bus Stop” | Nov. 8-18 by William Inge directed by Christi Moore “The Importance of Being Eearnest” | Apr. 11-21 by Oscar Wilde directed by Richard Robichaux
“Measure for Measure” | Feb. 14-24 by William Shakespeare directed by Michelle Polgar “The Secret Garden” | June 13-30 music by Lucy Simon, book & lyrics by Marsha Norman directed by Robert Westenberg
Courtesy of SEU Marketing The Thanksgiving scene is a symbol of Americana in the play that kicks off the 40th season.
Mount said. “Taking part in a hilarious show with your best friends each night is a blast, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.” The play has over 100 costumes that are designed for quick changes. The play is made up of no less than 22
scenes and most of the set can be rolled in and out and reused for multiple scenes. The theatre’s round stage provided a configuration that fit the production ideally because of the fluidity it allowed, according to Long. Mount explained what he
[slapdash] “Rerouting”
was looking forward to on opening night. “All I can say is that a mirror ball and glitter is involved–if I told you any more I'd have to kill you. You will just have to come and see to find out,” Mount said.
LIFE & ARTS 9
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
In its 8th year, Fantastic Fest still honors its quirky beginnings Brooke Blanton bblanto@stedwards.edu
Photo by Brooke Blanton Tim Burton is one of many celebrity directors at this years’ fest.
The idea for the largest genre film festival in the United States, Fantastic Fest, arose when Tim League, founder and CEO of Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas, became fed up with the current state of film festivals. “We founded Fantastic Fest because there was nothing like it in the United States at the time,” League said. “The movies we loved were always relegated to sidebars or midnight sections of normal film festivals.” Traditionally, a genre film festival includes horror, science fiction, fantasy and action. But for League, Fantastic Fest is more than that. “Sometimes it also extends to cover just plain-old weird movies from across the globe
or other genres that have a four days. little bit of a dark edge to “I spent a good deal of the them,” League said. following year gearing up and In 2005, League partnered with Harry Knowles “We founded Fantastic from Ain’t It Fest because there Cool News, a was nothing like it in website that provides movie, telethe United States at vision and comic the time.” news, to create Fantastic Fest. The annual fes-Tim League, CEO of Alamo tival is held at AlDrafthouse amo Drafthouse’s South Lamar location. Named “Best Theater Ever” creating what the festival has by Time Magazine, Alamo now become, an eight-day Drafthouse is known for its event with about 75 features cinema-eatery structure and and 50 shorts,” League said. unique themed events such League aimed to showcase as Girlie Night and Quote- filmmakers who do not usuAlong movies. ally receive a lot of attention. In its first year, Fantastic “We wanted to shine a light Fest screened 28 films in just on young, international, hor-
ror, science fiction, fantasy, and just downright weird filmmakers and attempt to give them the respect and spotlight they deserved," League said. League’s favorite genres include “smart, fun science fiction” and “well-executed white-knuckle thrillers.” League is passionate about film. “I love great storytelling. I love the feeling of excitement you get when an amazing movie is washing over you for the first time in a darkened theater,” League said. League enjoys Fantastic Fest because he loves the feeling of sharing films that he has discovered with friends. “I really enjoy hearing an audience react, laugh, gasp or scream in response to a movie I have programmed,” League said.
Popular eateries around town offer deals in the coming week Kelsey Caine kcaine@stedwards.edu
After a while, ramen noodles and cafeteria food can get old. Well, get ready to treat yourself to delicious yet affordable food, because Austin Restaurant Week is here. This year’s Austin Restaurant Week is taking place Sunday Sept. 23 through Wednesday Sept. 26 and Sunday Sept. 30 through Wednesday Oct. 3. Although it has begun, it is in no way over. The basic idea behind the festival is that during these two weeks, many of Austin’s favorite restaurants design a set menu of their best dishes at a reduced price. At the same time, consumers are contributing not only to their stomach, but also to charity.
Austinrestaurantweek.com Proceeds from Austin Restaurant Week benefits non-profit organization Meals on Wheels.
The meals range between $12 and $17 for lunch, $27 or $37 for dinner, and at select locations $17 for brunch. This event allows students to have a great meal without having to leave the restaurant through a window. The festival is run completely through their website,
restaurantweekaustin.com. The format is very simple. Choose a participating restaurant, then select the time to dine and how many people will be in the party. The restaurants range from Asian food to Greek food and everywhere in between. The ambiances of the vary-
ing locations are so diverse that there is a place to fit any occasion. The participating restaurant list includes some of my local favorites, such as Uchi, Zed’s, and Hudson’s on the Bend. The list of restaurants is still increasing. By participating in the festival, diners are also donating
to charity. With each meal for Austin Restaurant Week purchased, $2 of the profit could not have put it any betis then donated to the non- ter: ”Dine out, do good.” By profit organization Meals on showing love for food, diners Wheels. will also be giving back to the Meals on Wheels currently Austin community. Take this provides hot meals to over 5,000 people in “This event allows the Austin area. students to have a Austin Restaurant Week cregreat meal without ates funds that having to leave the go directly to restaurant through a buying food and supplies for the window.” elderly and inneed enrolled in the program. Meals on Wheels are cur- opportunity to get out of the rently celebrating 40 years house, away from the mac of service work in the Austin and cheese, and go eat somearea. thing new. There is no need to come up with an excuse to take a friend to dinner. The slogan
10
SPORTS
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
Men’s golf to play against D-I schools Kristina Schenck kschenc@stedwards.edu
After a 14th place finish in the nation last season, the men’s golf team is preparing to take on Division I teams at the famed Yale Golf Course for their second tournament of the fall semester. This marks the third time the Hilltoppers will compete in the Macdonald Cup against big names such as Notre Dame University and host university Yale Sept. 29-30 in New Haven, Conn. It can be tough for a Division II school like St. Edward’s University not only to compete but to just gain a spot in a Division I tournament. But cross-division play has a lot to do with friends and connections, and Head Coach Todd Ohlmeyer and the head coach of the Yale team Colin Sheehan played
Photo by Gabriellae Rodriguez Men’s golf practices in preparation for a D-I tournament.
high school golf together in Connecticut. However, the Hilltoppers have a strong record at the Yale tournament—the team finished fourth out of 14 in 2011 in front of teams like Columbia, Harvard and Pennsylvania State University. St. Edward’s placed third at the same tournament in
2009. “It is going to be hard,” sophomore Jose Hernandez said of the upcoming tournament. “We expect to win, but it is going to be hard.” Especially since the team is coming off a 12th place finish out of 16 at the first tournament this season. The team traveled to Indianapolis, Ind.
Sept. 17-18 to compete in The Brickyard Invitational, a Division II tournament with a slew of top-ranked Division II names like No. 2 ranked Barry University and No. 1 ranked Nova Southeastern University. “When you are playing against a field that strong and you are not on your best game, it is obviously disappointing, but it was the first tournament,” Ohlmeyer said. The team was also short a key player; junior Enrique Livas was recovering from Lasik eye surgery during the tournament. Livas played in all but one event last season and will join the team for the Macdonald Cup this weekend. The course at Yale, which is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the world, is equally as tough as the competition the team will encounter. But the team
is ready, as the course sports the same type of grass that the team played on during The Brickyard Invitational. “It is a really nice course. It is more fun,” Hernandez said of playing on a nicer course. This year’s team consists of sophomores Paul Drinkwater, Corey Hayford, Hernandez, Kameron Kubis, Andre Rodas, juniors Livas, Brian Smith, and Drew Bell. Five players will travel to Connecticut for the tournament. Despite a rough start, the team is optimistic about the rest of the season. “Our focus every year is the same: to get better every tournament and peak at the end of the year,” Ohlmeyer said. The Hilltoppers will compete in the Ryan Palmer Invitational in Amarillo Oct. 8-9 and will travel to Seaside, Calif. for the Otter Invitational Oct. 22-23.
Intramurals add soccer and volleyball to the ranks Erin Gray egray3@stedwards.edu
Each year, new sports are added to St. Edward’s University intramural program. This year is no different. This fall, outdoor soccer will join the likes of flag football, basketball and tennis for the intramural sports tournaments. Indoor soccer has been a part of the program for the past two spring semesters, but this year Campus Recreation decided to include a 7 vs. 7 outdoor soccer tournament. Senior Jordan Yuson, the intramural sports manager, notes the lack of participants in indoor soccer but is hope-
ful that outdoor soccer will see growth in popularity. This semester the tournament will determine whether outdoor soccer can be a league sport for fall 2013. “We have not had a remarkable amount of registrations. We have had six to eight teams through each of the last two years,” Yuson said. “We have to gauge the market value of it, how many people are participating in it and is it worth it to have a season.” Unlike soccer, the intramural volleyball league continues to grow to be one of the most popular leagues in the program. “Last year we had about 10
or 12 teams for volleyball. Senior Sam Gonzales, volThis year we have 15. That’s leyball captain for the team a great improvement,” Yuson “How I Set Your Mother,” said. explains that part of volleyBecause there is such a ball’s popularity among the high demand for volleyball, “This is the first time the intramural program is we have ever done this, making it easier but we are going to be for people to running two courts at play multiple games. once. Two courts of “This is the volleyball in the RCC” first time we have ever done -Senior Jordan Yuson this, but we are going to be running two courts at once. Two courts of vol- student body has a lot to do leyball in the RCC … it is with camaraderie. pretty exciting,” Yuson said. “I think there is a sense of
community if you participate in an intramural sport. I have played with my teammates for almost three-plus years,” Gonzales said. “Not only have I grown to know these people, but also I actually do hang out with them. It is also a good way to get involved.” Campus Recreation offers other intramural sports as well. For more information about intramural programs, find SEUCampusRecreation on Facebook or follow @SEUCampusRec on Twitter.
SPORTS CALENDAR MEN’S SOCCER Thurs. 9/27 | 7:30 p.m. at Newman Sat. 9/29 | 2:30 p.m. at Oklahoma Christian
WOMEN’S SOCCER Thurs. 9/27 | 5:00 p.m. at Newman Sat. 9/29 | 12:00 p.m. at Oklahoma Christian Mon. 10/1 | 4:00 p.m. at Dallas Baptist
VOLLEYBALL Thurs. 9/27 | 7:00 p.m. at McMurry Sat. 9/29 | 12:00 p.m. at UT-Permian Basin
MEN’S GOLF Sat. 9/29 - Sun. 9/30 The Macdonald Cup at New Haven, CT
WOMEN’S GOLF Mon. 10/1 - Tues. 10/2 UCO/Mahogany Classic at Oklahoma City, OK
MEN’S CLUB SOCCER Sat. 9/29 | 3:00 p.m. vs. San Antonio College Sun. 9/30 | 3:00 p.m. vs. Lamar
WOMEN’S CLUB SOCCER Sat. 9/29 | 1:00pm at TX A&M - Texarkana
CYCLING Sun. 9/30 at UT-Austin to Comfort, TX, Flat Rock Ranch
RUGBY Sat. 9/29 SWC 7s, Second Round at TCU (TCU, UNT, SEU, UT)
SPORTS11
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
ATHLETE PROFILE
Women’s basketball welcomes Aussie SW: What’s your favorite
Shannon Wilson swilson7@stedwards.edu
Peri Erwin, one of the newest recruits to the women’s basketball team, brings her basketball prowess to the Hilltop all the way from Australia. Shannon Wilson: What year are you in school? Peri Erwin: Freshman. SW: Where are you from? PE: I'm from Brisbane, Australia. SW: What are the differences in attending school in the U.S. vs. Australia? PE: Over here, more people are expected to go to college as opposed to Australia, where people ... go straight into the workforce after high school. Also, the standardized tests, learning material and grading scales are also a huge difference. SW: What position do you play? PE: I play point guard and shooting guard. SW: How long have you
Photo by Shannon Wilson Peri Erwin traveled across the globe to reach the Hilltop.
been playing basketball? PE: I have been playing for 12 years. SW: Did you play for a club team? PE: I played for many teams like Logan Thunder and Southern District, but most recently this summer I played for the Brisbane Capitols during the QBL season, which is a women's semi-pro team in Australia. SW: Do you look up to a famous basketball player?
PE: Kristen Veal. She's
a close family friend who played for the WNBA in 2006 and now plays for WNBL Logan Thunder in Australia. SW: Do you have pregame rituals or superstitions? PE: Yes. Starting two years ago, I dedicated each game to one of my friends by doing a particular routine on the court, and I always make sure I put my left sock on before my right.
Column as I see ‘em Nolan Green ngreen2@stedwards.edu
Column as I see ‘Em is your weekly fix for all things NFL.
Browns at Ravens
Ravens roll over the struggling Browns. Ravens by 14.
Panthers at Falcons
Shootout between Cam Newton and Matt Ryan.
Falcons by 14.
Patriots at Bills
Bills pull out the upset, downing the Pats for the third week in a row. Bills by 3.
Vikings at Lions
Vikings will not have a repeat performance against the Lions. Lions by 7.
part about being a studentathlete at St. Edward's University? PE: I really like how most of the athletes have a bond and are all pretty friendly with one another, so I have met some pretty cool people so far. SW: What’s your favorite book? PE: “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky, and I’m excited to see the movie that is coming out in theaters. SW: If you could have a power, what would it be? PE: I would want to be Violet from “The Incredibles” so I could make a bubble to protect people around me. SW: Who is the most influential person in your life? PE: My family because they have always supported me no matter what. SW: What is your favorite song right now? PE: Tugboat by Galaxie 500.
Mitch Harris rharris7@stedwards.edu
There is no doubt that Andy Murray is a talented tennis player; however, the recurring theme of his career has been “close but no cigar.” Murray was the runner-up in four Grand Slam men's singles tournaments in the last four years: the 2008 U.S. Open, the 2010 and 2011 Australian Open and Wimbledon in 2012. However, in the past few months, Murray had his cigar and smoked it too. During the 2012 Olympics, Murray defeated ATP-ranked No. 1 Roger Federer, securing the gold medal in men’s singles. Murray shocked spectators
and the media alike by becoming the first British man to win this medal since 1908. He did not stop there. At the 2012 U.S. Open, Murray defeated Novak Djokovic in five sets and achieved his first Grand Slam championship, making him the only British male to do so since 1968. This made Murray the first man in history to win the U.S. Open and an Olympic gold in the same year. Despite the two wins, he still remains ranked third, according to the ATP. At this rate, Murray may just break the streak of bad luck the British have experienced at Wimbledon. The last champion from Great Britain was Fred Perry in 1936.
Wikimedia Commons Murray recently won the first Grand Slam title of his career.
NFL commentary for week 6
Chargers at Chiefs
Chargers struggle, but pull it out. San Diego by 3.
Seahawks at Rams
Seattle dominates the Rams on defense. Seahawks by 10.
49ers at Jets
British tennis star takes gold and Slam
San Francisco rebounds, hard. 49ers by 10.
Titans at Texans
Dolphins at Cardinals
Raiders at Broncos
Bengals at Jaguars
Texans and Arian Foster continue to dominate. Houston by 21. Manning goes off and Denver starts to gain traction in the league. Broncos by 7.
Dolphins flop against the surprisingly successful Cardinals. Arizona by 14. Dalton continues to put up solid yards. Bengals by 7.
Saints at Packers
The Saints slump continues. Packers by 14.
Redskins at Buccaneers
RG3 redeems himself. Washington by 7.
Giants at Eagles
Grudge match, look for a tough game. Philly by 3.
Bears at Cowboys
Solid NFC matchup. Cutler and the Bears by 10.
12 SPORTS Tough start will not influence soccer team’s drive for wins
Women’s volleyball forms bonds on and off the court
Daisy Bacca
Wesley Stewart
dbacca@stedwards.edu
Shelby Cole
scole2@stedwards.edu
The men's soccer team opened its season with fresh legs, fierce determination and an incredibly young roster, as over half the team is new to the program. While the team started off against tough teams like Fort Lewis College, Colorado School of Mines and Midwestern State, these early losses will not serve as a deterrent for SEU Sports Information the Hilltoppers to reach their Senior Gavin Bruce shuts down an attacking forward. final goal: a Heartland Conson thus far was a win against sions in team; according to ference Championship. "The season-opening games Dallas Baptist when the Hill- O’Sullivan, there is no divide were fantastic for all the play- toppers crushed the Patriots between freshman and upers to play against the best 3-0. Sophomores Daniel Ri- perclassmen. The team parteams in the country,” Head ley and Andrew Fox landed ticipates in group study hall Coach Brian Young said. We their first goals of the season and community service projlearned a lot during those during this game. Martin, ects in addition to daily pracearly games as a team, and who was named the Heart- tices. The team also took a we will get a chance to apply land Conference Player of preseason trip to Port Aran[these lessons] in our remain- the Week for Aug. 27-Sept. sas, Texas where the Hilltop2, scored his second goal of pers did fitness and bonding ing 14 matches.” activities on the beach. Juniors James This time together outside Martin and An“The future is very of soccer has brought the derson McDanteam closer together, which iel began the bright for this team has a positive effect on playseason with crisp ... Look for this team ers’ mentalities both on and goals against off the pitch. Junior goalie to get better as the Colorado School John Kaschak claims that of Mines, but the season goes along ” being a part of the team is Hilltoppers were more than just being a skilled outscored when player. It means being part of a questionable -Assistant Coach Matthew a family. referee call in the O’Sullivan "The future is very bright last four minutes for this team ... Look for this of the game set team to get better as the seathe match at a son goes along," O’Sullivan 3-2 loss. The Hilltoppers the season. "It has been a very tough said. then fell 2-0 to Fort Lewis The Hilltoppers will begin in another away game match. schedule so far to start the Heavy rain created a difficult season, but there has been the first of four games on the playing surface in the team’s a lot of positive signs, espe- road against Newman Unihome game against Midwest- cially as it is a young team," versity in Wichita, Kan. on ern State, which ended in a Assistant Coach Matthew Sept. 27 for the next Heartland Conference game. Men’s 0-0 tie. The Hilltoppers then O’Sullivan said. The team is also young, soccer will return to the lost 2-1 to UT-Permian Bahosting 12 freshmen on its Hilltop Oct. 11 with a game sin Sept. 20. The high point of the sea- 26-man roster. This age gap against Newman at 3:30 p.m. had potential to cause ten-
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
jstewar9@stedwards.edu
what he was looking forward to about the season. It is clear that the volleyball team, from the head coach all the way down to the new freshmen, takes pride in their community and in each player’s individual success. Senior Michelle Hundt is beginning her final season on the Hilltop. “I am really excited for the team and their future,” Hundt said. “I am hoping I can
The St. Edward’s University volleyball team has had a strong year so far, with two wins, one loss and a home game on the horizon. Head Coach Sean Donahue and Assistant Coach Kim Morgal lead the Hilltoppers. Donahue is embarking on his 10th year as head coach for the program,which over time the team has brought home five Heartland “It’s been a really good Conference tiexperience in the past tles and recently surpassed month coming into it the 200-win and feeling like part of mark under his the family” direction. But winning is not foremost -Freshman Jessica Bushong on Donahue’s mind. “The challenges that we have as grow- make a strong impression ing as a team—that is al- on them to make it better ways the fun part—seeing for future teams down the how far you can get and how road.” you can develop as a team,” For sophomore Kendyll Donahue said, when asked Severa, the season is some-
what bittersweet. “I am sad because it is the seniors’ last year, and they definitely have made an impression,” Severa said. “But I am excited because… our incoming freshmen this year are so strong and have so much potential.” Their sentiment was reflected in the words of freshman Jessica Bushong. “[The St. Edward’s volleyball team] is probably the best team dynamic that I have ever played with. How the seniors treat the underclassmen… carries down to each level. It’s been a really good experience in the past month coming into it and feeling like part of the family,” Bushong said. Support from the student body is also important to the team. “When we had Battle of the Saints last year, we had the biggest crowd we have ever had. It helped us with a win over St. Mary’s,” Donahue said. The volleyball team plays McMurry University in Abilene Sept. 27.
Courtesy of Brandon McKelvey Sophomore Elissa Stanton spikes the ball in front of an awe-stricken Topper.
VIEWPOINTS
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
13
OUR VIEW
Library frustrations will seem minor in long run Students returning to campus this semester have faced a rude awakening. Many of the routines students have developed during their time at St. Edward’s University have been disrupted. Students cannot park where they used to. They cannot use the same sidewalks. These things may seem trivial, but adjusting to a changing campus can be difficult. Students got a taste of construction-related woes when construction began on the John Brooks Williams Natural Sciences Center last semester, but more perceived problems will certainly arise as more construction projects begin this semester. Construction on the Scarborough-Phillips Library
began on Monday, forc- served as a central environing the parking lot in front ment for learning and studyof the library to close. This ing alone or with peers, it is only adds to the construc- ready for an upgrade. Anyone tion commotion that seems who tried to study in the old to be frustrating the St. Edward’s “While the construction community. For example, normal of the new library is routes are disan inconvenience this rupted or completely blocked year, it should only off, parking is prove to be helpful in troublesome the future.” and we are lacking a full library. However, once the new Scarborough-Phillips Library and library during midterms or the other construction proj- finals knows it could no lonects are complete, these cam- ger accommodate the student pus conundrums will seem population. worthwhile. Finding a quiet space, or Although the old library any space, in the library be-
came increasingly challenging as the student population continued to grow. As the student population grows, campus must grow with it. While the construction of the new library is an inconvenience this year, it should only prove to be helpful in the future. The lack of a proper library is undeniably difficult for students to deal with, but an updated library will provide more study spaces, more resources and a more dynamic campus. The library closure is by no means permanent, and when the new library opens, the St. Edward’s community will be better off. University officials certainly have the interests of the community in mind. The
new library may not benefit students who will graduate before the library opens in 2013, but freshmen, sophomores and future generations of St. Edward’s students will reap the benefits of an updated library for years to come. Admittedly, parking has already become a struggle this semester compared to other semesters, and available parking lots continue to disappear due to construction. Construction on the addition to the John Brooks Williams Natural Sciences Center has completely overtaken a once convenient parking lot and street route near Moody Hall, and the aforementioned closure of the library parking lot only exacerbates the inconvenience.
On our small campus, every parking space counts, but the parking lot closures will not last forever, nor are the closures the tragedy some commuters make them out to be. The parking garage and adjacent visitor parking lot may make students’ walk to class a little longer, but they still provide parking to hundreds of students every day. That being said, the current construction-related woes will be worth it in the long run. St. Edward’s is a small community, so any kind of change is going to be a noticeable one. However, once construction is over, St. Edward’s will have a new science building and a new library. Those improvements are worth the fleeting inconvenience.
Proposed plan to illuminate South Congress will be vital to city Kelsey Acosta kacosta@stedwards.edu
Ask any Austinite and they will tell you that Austin during the holiday season is a spectacular sight. Congress Avenue sparkles with lights and glistens with tinsel. Zilker Park’s beloved Trail of Lights and Holiday Tree are an unforgettable experience. Unfortunately, Austin has not had its traditional holiday lights for the past two years due to budget issues. An organization called the Downtown Austin Alliance wants to bring those lights to downtown Austin. However, these lights will not just be around for the holiday season. They will illuminate Congress Avenue year-round.
Starting in November the DAA will be putting up special energy-efficient LED lights on every tree that lines Congress Avenue between Cesar Chavez St. and 11th Street, according to culturemap.com. The best part is that the DAA is spending $370,000 of its own money to light the trees of Congress. The DAA hopes that this gesture will breathe new life into downtown Austin and attract new attention to our little liberal oasis. The DAA wants to enhance the experience of walking downtown and capitalize on Austin’s unique spirit and they hope it will benefit the city. One of the DAA’s main goals is to make Congress Avenue one of the most
Wikimedia Commons The Champs-Elysees in Paris displays tree lights, and Austin may bring lights to downtown.
memorable American streets, like Chicago’s Michigan Avenue and Los Angeles’s Sunset Boulevard. The DAA’s vision is for Congress Avenue to be known as “The Main Street of Texas,” a shining oasis in
the heart of the Lone Star State. Bringing that kind of attention to Austin and putting it in the national spotlight could do wonders for Austin’s economy, and, given the current economic climate, that would definitely be good
for the city. These may seem like big rewards to expect from some tree lights, but Austin is already an exceptionally special place and the DAA pulled out all the stops to plan and implement this project. Af-
ter doing research on what Austin citizens wanted to improve in downtown, the DAA found that the pedestrian experience and ambience was among the top three things listed. On top of that, they chose Blachere Illumination, a world-renowned supplier of outdoor festive lighting, to adorn downtown. This is an especially appropriate choice since their energy-efficient designs stay true to Austin’s sustainability initiatives. Also, some of Blachere Illumination’s finest work has been featured at the Eiffel Tower and the ChampsElysees in Paris, which are among the most visited places in the world. These lights could mean a bright future for our special little city.
14 VIEWPOINTS In land of anything-goes TV, “Honey Boo Boo” is refreshing
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
Democrats present party platform at convention Jacob Sanchez jsanchen@stedwards.edu
Wikimedia Commons Alana “Honey Boo Boo” Thompson is the star of “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” on TLC.
Willa Goldberg wgoldbe@stedwards.edu
In the land of reality television, anything goes. “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” is not the exception. The TLC show is a spin-off of the widely popular and often criticized “Toddlers & Tiaras.” Many people are inclined to criticize the ThompsonShannon family, but they are an oddly refreshing take on the reality television family. The show follows the lives of 7-year-old Alana “Honey Boo Boo” Thompson, 32-year-old June “Mama” Thompson, 40-year-old Mike “Sugar Bear” Johnson, 17-year-old Anna “Chickadee” Shannon, 15-year-old Jessica “Chubbs” Shannon, and 12-year-old Lauryn “Pumpkin” Shannon. Additionally, Chickadee recently had a daughter, Kaitlyn Elizabeth Shannon. Sugar Bear and Mama are not married, but they have been together for eight years. Chickadee, Chubbs, and Pumpkin have a different father than Honey Boo Boo. During the show, you
scarcely hear any of the family members call each other by their real names. Instead, they are much more identifiable by their assigned nicknames. Critics have found fault with the family’s diet. According to the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Hospital, the dietary concerns critics have can apply to many Americans. However, the family’s eating habits are largely influenced by their low income since healthy food costs more. Even though the sugary concoctions created in the family’s kitchen are stomach turning and the children probably consume too much caffeine and sugar, the family is refreshingly real. They are not like another infamous American family, the Kardashians. Although a recent rumor that Kris Jenner, the matriarch of the Kardashians, was criticizing “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” was proven false, the comparison of the two families is still striking. The Kardashians seem ever obsessed with how they look, while the
Thompson-Shannons seem absolutely comfortable in their skin. The Thompson-Shannon family is low-income, and they live in the rural town of Mclntyre, GA. The oldest daughter, Chickadee, became a teen mother with the birth of her daughter just like her mother was. The star of the show and youngest daughter, Honey Boo Boo, competes in the fiercely competitive world of child pageantry. All that being said, this family deserves a certain respect. They manage to get by thanks to extreme couponing. Mama calls herself “The Coupon Queen.” The fact that the Thompson-Shannons live in a rural setting and on a strict budget does not mean that they cannot be happy. They love each other. They treat each other nicely. Also, unlike most of America, they are not fixated on fitting a certain size or living up to anyone’s definition of beauty but their own. They are refreshingly confident and unafraid to be themselves.
while making a strong case for President Obama’s reelection in a simple way that only Clinton could attempt. While the First Lady represents the present and President Clinton the past, the Democrats also showed who could lead the party in the future.
After a week of conservatism at the Republican National Convention that failed to deliver a bounce for Presidential hopeful Mitt Romney, the Democrats held their national convention. Over the course “Over the course of three nights, Democrats ralof three nights, lied around their Democrats rallied presidential nominee, incumbent around their Barack Obama. presidential nominee, The Democrats incumbent Barack had an impressive lineup of Obama.” speakers including First Lady Michelle Obama and former President Bill One person getting a lot Clinton. of attention is the mayor of Both had powerful speech- San Antonio, Julian Cases that energized the Demo- tro. Many have compared crats and impressed viewers his speech to the one that watching at home, possibly President Obama gave at even swaying undecided vot- the 2004 convention when ers to vote for Obama. he was running for the U.S. Clinton’s speech was one Senate. of his personal best, and When it came time for possibly the highlight of the Obama to speak, the conconvention. He was able to vention was already “fired explain complicated issues up.” Obama outlined his
Barack Obama addressed a large crowd at the DNC.
vision of the country for the next four years, which includes a million new manufacturing jobs, 100,000 new teachers while trying to control the rising cost of tuition. Obama also took jabs at Mitt Romney, saying that Romney may not be ready for diplomacy if he cannot visit the Olympics without insulting the United States’ closest ally—the United Kingdom. The sharpest attacks on Romney did not come from Obama, but from other speakers like Senator John Kerry and former Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm. The convention was the Democrats chance to show the country what has been accomplished under their watch and to show where they plan to take the country in the next four years. Since the two conventions were back to back, voters were able to see the stark contrast between Romney’s plan to take America back and Obama’s plan to move the country forward.
Photo by Irma Fernandez
VIEWPOINTS 15
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
“Undefeated” football team makes St. Edward’s unique
SEU Library Archives St. Edward’s University player poses with football
Chloe Kirkpatrick ckirkpa@stedwards.edu
It is college football season, and if you have not noticed, the St. Edward’s University football team is nowhere to be found. In fact, the St. Edward’s Edsmen, undefeated since the beginning of World
War II, have been suspiciously absent for decades. In all seriousness, football hasn’t been played at St. Edward’s since World War II broke out in Europe in 1939. Every year during football season, students begin speculating about the missing Edsmen. What if St. Edward’s
HILLTOP VIEWS 3001 S. Congress Ave.#964, Austin, TX 78704 Phone: (512) 448-8426 Fax: (512) 233-1695 hilltopviewsonline@gmail.com www.hilltopviewsonline.com Kristina Schenck Editor-in-Chief
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Jenna Jaco Nikki Hill News Editors Chloe Kirkpatrick Jonathan Coker Viewpoints Editors Mitch Harris Brooke Blanton Life & Arts Editors Shelby Cole Nolan Green Sports Editor
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Willa Goldberg Sara Sanchez Staff Writers
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had a football team? In fact, St. Edward’s is miss- circles rather than relying on Itis difficult to imagine how ing several integral cultural Greek life to determine social the St. Edward’s community aspects of other universities. status. Furthermore, the culwould change if the “unde- Greek life, for example, is ture at St. Edward’s encourfeated” Edsmen actually ex- completely missing from St. ages uniqueness rather than isted. Or if they were actu- Edward’s. Sororities and fra- the sameness that prevails in ally undefeated. Certainly, a ternities are at the heart of Greek life and football culwinning football would be a thousands of UT students’ ture. And St. Edward’s has source of entertainment, rev- social lives, but not a single countless other sports teams enue and school pride. But is St. Edward’s student gets the to root for, like lacrosse or the St. Edward’s community same experience. soccer. really lacking in those areas “Most people expect a university in Texas, without a football team? no matter how small, to have a football In compariteam. St. Edward’s defies that expectation.” son to other schools with thriving football programs, St. Edward’s St. Edward’s may seem to Most people simply expect may seem to be lacking in- lack certain aspects of the a university in Texas, no matdeed. The obvious compari- culture that surrounds “foot- ter how small, to have a footson to be drawn is to The ball schools,” but in general, ball team. St. Edward’s defies University of Texas at Aus- the St. Edward’s community that expectation. A revived tin. UT is a “football school.” is not lacking in school pride. Edsmen team would drastiThe Longhorn football team Nor is it lacking in entertain- cally change the uniqueness is central to the culture at UT ing sports events. Admittedly, that has developed at St. Edand the entire city of Austin. St. Edward’s is missing the ward’s. In fact, football is extremely revenue that comes with a Maybe the Edsmen were important to millions of Tex- football team. the pride of St. Edward’s ans and millions more AmerIn the absence a foot- in the early 1900s, but St. icans. Thus, St. Edward’s is ball team or Greek life, St. Edward’s culture has since missing something that is Edward’s has developed a grown into something vastly integral to countless other unique culture. Students have different from the culture at universities. developed their own social schools like UT.
Even St. Edward’s students who are passionate about football still have an outlet for their passion in the UT football team. With such a important team in the city as St. Edward’s, students have no reason to bemoan our lack of a football team. The UT Longhorns are undeniably more successful than a revived Edsmen football team would ever be. Because the most notable local college football team is at another school, St. Edward’s students can enjoy football while avoiding the potentially negative aspects of football culture. Furthermore, students passionate about Greek life can still go to frat parties at UT. Ultimately, it’s extremely unlikely that the Edsmen will ever return to play football at St. Edward’s. Past rumors regarding football have all proven to be false. And the unique culture at St. Edward’s is probably better off that way.
Hannah Thornby Web/Social Media Marketing Manager David Crawley Landry Taylor Alex Boudreaux Interns Jena Heath Faculty Adviser
Hilltop Views is a weekly student newspaper published by the School of Humanities and serving the community of St. Edward’s University. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the university, whose mission is grounded in the teachings and doctrine of the Catholic Church. Letter Policy: Hilltop Views welcomes all letters to the editor. Letters may be edited for space, grammar and clarity. Letters will be published at our discretion. Anonymous letters will not be printed.
Former St. Edward’s University football team poses with coach and managers before a game
SEU Library Archives
16 PHOTO ESSAY
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • HILLTOP VIEWS
PRIDE
Individuals who identify as gay, lesbian, transgendered, bisexual, and GBLT allies march and celebrate for sexual and gender identity. The march and celebration helped promote political equality for GBLT individuals. PRIDE, the LGBTQ alliance at St. Edward’s University also marched in the parade.
Photos by Joe Arellano