09 07 2006 by The University Star

D ISCUSSING THE TRUTH A discourse on The Da Vinci Code stirs

WRECKIN’ TIME

up questions on religion, art and truth in the best-selling novel

The defending Residence Hall champs take their game to new heights for the start of ﬂag football

SEE TRENDS PAGE 5

SEE SPORTS PAGE 10

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SEPTEMBER 7, 2006

THURSDAY

VOLUME 96, ISSUE 7

Local elections heating up; mayor, city council Place 5 running unopposed By A.N. Hernández The University Star For the ﬁrst time in more than 20 years, a San Marcos mayoral race is uncontested. Mayor Susan Narvaiz will serve her second two-year term unless a write-in candidate gains enough momentum to win the Nov. 7 general election. “I feel very humble and renewed that what people see at city hall, they like,” Narvaiz said.

Narvaiz said she and the council will continue to “expand healthcare opportunities for employment throughout the city” because these jobs pay better, create more job opportunities and promote economic growth for the city. She mentioned prospects for economic growth along Interstate 35, citing the expansion of the outlet malls and manufacturing companies, including CFAN and Genlyte. Narvaiz said

terim city clerk, said candidates ﬁling and withdrawing on the last day of a city election is “normal.” In the Place 5 race, incumbent John Diaz withdrew, leaving boutique-owner Pam Couch running unopposed. Couch, 53, has lived in San Marcos for 15 years and owns Two P’s Boutique and Calli’s … A Sassy Boutique. “I am absolutely excited about the opportunity to help the

council make positive steps toward bettering the relationship between the city of San Marcos and the university,” she said. “I see the current council’s progress and I can’t wait to be a part of the team to make San Marcos the best place to live, work and play.” Ryan Thomason, a 28-yearold homebuilder and real-estate broker, withdrew from Place 1 and reﬁled for Place 6 to run against incumbent John Thom-

aides. Thomaides, 40, has lived in San Marcos for more than 13 years. He is focused on bringing new jobs and new homeowners to the city while lessening transportation problems for drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians. “When I ran in 2003, there were key things I pledged to work on if elected,” Thomaides said. See ELECTIONS, page 3

Texas State weighs in on Plan B availability

Financial aid in danger for those with drug convictions

By Eloise Martin The University Star

By Georgia Fisher The University Star Chris Lippke had reviewed the financial aid policy before completing his FAFSA application for his freshman year. But when he was charged with a misdemeanor for possession of marijuana in 2003, Lippke was forced to drop all classes and take a year’s leave from school. “I wasn’t fully aware what it all meant,” he said. “I’d looked through the rulebook and was aware of a zero-tolerance policy, but didn’t know the fine print,” he said. “The classes were gone, the money for that semester was gone — and it all had to come out-of-pocket.” A freshman when convicted, Lippke said he was in the process of recovering from a shaky first start with his grades. “I’d gone to Texas State my first semester and in my second was trying to change things, to make them better. But then I got kicked out of school and lost tuition money, which made it even worse,” he said. Lippke, jazz studies senior, experienced repercussions of a provision of the Higher Education Act, which revokes financial aid funding in the event of a drug conviction. The provision was reformed in 2005 to allow a time-buffer, which bypasses students with past convictions. But the law still punishes applicants twice for the same offense and few students are aware of it, said Tom Angell, Students for a Sensible Drug Policy campaign manager. SSDP, a drug policy organization, was established in 1998, the same year the amendment was enacted. The organization recently filed suit alongside the American Civil Liberties Union, citing unconstitutionality, claiming the aid policy is discriminatory and hurts competent students in need. Angell said ignorance adds to the law’s irony. “Members of congress who support this penalty say it’s a deterrent to drug use,” he said. “Yet most college students have no idea the policy exists, and how can it be an effective deterrent if no one knows about it?” In addition to being ineffective, Angell said the policy also discriminates against lower-income families. “It only affects the students who rely on financial aid; students from rich families can afford to pay for their own education, as well a good lawyer,” Angell said. “There’s a class element to the impact this law has.” Angell said the policy takes a racial angle. “It’s interesting if you look at the numbers; African-Americans comprise about 13% of the population (on a college campus). However, if you look at arrest statistics, AfricanAmericans make up about 55 to 60 percent of those convicted,” he said. “Due to racial profiling, they’re being arrested more than everyone else and as a result losing financial aid at a disproportionate rate.” Harold Whitis, associate director of financial aid at Texas State, said he agrees with the policy’s less-strict amendment and education itself is what steers people away from bad behavior. “I like the way it’s been amended to allow the suspension to lapse; part of financial aid is fostering productive members of society,” Whitis said. “Financial aid is designed to allow See FAFSA, page 4

the upcoming hotel convention center will “make San Marcos more of a destination city.” The general election includes voting for Place 5 and Place 6 on the San Marcos City Council. A special election has also been called to fill the unexpired Place 1 term opened in light of Ed Mihalkanin’s recent resignation. During the last days of the filing period, which ended at 5 p.m. on Friday, candidates shuffled around. Shelly Goodwin, in-

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Aug. 24 that the controversial emergency contraceptive pill known as the Morning-After Pill, or Plan B, has been approved for over-the-counter sales to those 18 years or older without a prescription. The approval comes seven years after the initial approval of the medication by prescription only and in 2004 it was rejected for over-the-counter sales for all ages. The FDA previously said there was not enough information to show it was safe for girls 16 and younger. Dr. Emilio Carranco, Jr., Texas State Student Health Center director, has mixed emotions about the upcoming change. “My personal view is that first, Plan B is an important option. The government has finally approved making safe medication available to women who don’t want to be pregnant,” he said. “But I also believe in the value of having a medical professional available to answer questions and give counseling.” Carranco described Plan B as a “safe medication” because risks for other health problems do not increase with its use. “Birth control contains two hormones, estrogen and levonorgestrel, which when used together may increase the symptoms of already-existing health problems, or make the user more susceptible to new ones,” Carranco said. “Plan B only contains levonorgestrel and lacks the estrogen hormone present in birth control.” Plan B contains two pills, each with .75 mg of levonorgestrel, taken within 12 hours of one other. The first should be taken within 72 hours of sex. Plan B does not stop the development process of a fertilized ovum; it never allows the egg to reach the developmental stage. Instead, it can prevent an ovum from being fertilized, slow down travel-time of the fertilized ovum through the woman’s fallopian tube or prohibit the fertilized ovum from attaching to the uterus where it would develop into a fetus. If the pill is taken after the fertilized ovum has already attached to the uterus, the medication will not have any effect and the fetus will develop. The health center already offers the emergency contraceptive, but with a prescription that

Monty Marion/Star photo MORE OPTIONS: The Plan B pill, recently approved by the FDA for over the counter sales can be a last resort for women who want to avoid an unwanted pregnancy. Previously available by prescription only, the pill’s new status will make it available to anyone 18 and over with an ID.

is not written until the patient has had a counseling session with a doctor. “Some women look for the pill because of sexual assault, some because their contraception has failed and some just didn’t plan. Depending on the reason, they get different counseling,” Carranco said. Carranco said the absence of a required counseling session is what will be missed most by physicians when the pill moves to over-the-counter status. It will be so missed, in fact, the FDA made adding additional information to the packaging of Plan B a requirement before it can be sold without a prescription. “The information will not only be about physical side-effects, but also comprehensive information, I would imagine,” Carranco said. “Information that it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections and what to do if you are taking it as the result of a sexual assault. I think they will probably provide a 1-800 number for questions and answers too.” But Carranco is not convinced new packaging and information will be a suitable replacement for the question-and-answer See PLAN B, page 4

Convention center will benefit commerce, university By Nick Georgiou The University Star With thousands of young people ﬂocking to the river and popular outlet malls, the tourism industry in San Marcos will soon be attracting a new demographic — the suit-and-tie business crowd. The city will be building a $20 million-plus conference center with a $40-50 million Embassy

Suites hotel attached. It will be built along Interstate 35, just a mile from the outlet malls. “We feel like we will be addressing a need that San Marcos has had, which has been welldocumented by the Chamber of Commerce, for meeting space,” said Mayor Susan Narvaiz. “We see great things as we break ground on that conference center and hotel.” The 77,000-square-foot con-

Today’s Weather

Sunny 93˚/67˚

Precipitation: 0% Humidity: 56% UV: 0 Low Wind: N 4 mph

vention center will have capacity for 1,000 people. With the large meeting space, Narvaiz said, corporations, university departments, businesses and even high school proms will no longer have to travel to San Antonio or Austin to host their events. “We have several companies that are headquartered here that in the past have had to have their annual meetings or banquets out of town because we haven’t had

Two-day Forecast Friday Partly Cloudy Temp: 95°/ 70° Precipitation: 0%

Saturday Partly Cloudy Temp: 97°/ 71° Precipitation: 30%

a facility that was large enough for these gatherings,” Narvaiz said. “That’ll not be the same after we get this hotel (and convention center) built.” City ofﬁcials believe the convention center will be beneﬁcial to the university. “Many of the departments within the (college) wish they could host conferences, but again

Artist renderings courtesy of city of San Marcos

See CENTER, page 3

Inside News ..............1-4 Trends ................ 5 Crossword ......... 6 Sudoku .............. 6

Comics .............. 6 Opinions ............ 7 Classiﬁeds ......... 9 Sports .............. 10

PAGE TWO The University Star

Thursday in Brief

September 7, 2006

starsof texas state Amy Perez, biochemistry graduate student of Lancaster University, is a ﬁrst-generation college student, a National Institute of Health Bridge Award winner and Mitte Scholarship recipient. Currently, Perez is studying the effects of pollution using biomarkers — protein indicators that are placed on

ﬁsh in environments suspected of containing toxins. The markers are tools that are analyzed to assess the effects of pollutants in an aquatic environment. The information may be used to help establish policies to preserve ecosystems essential to maintaining the public’s health. — Courtesy of Public Relations

News Contact — David Saleh Rauf, starnews@txstate.edu

On This Day...

Recruitment in The Quad THURSDAY The Tennis Club will meet from 6 to 8 p.m. at the tennis courts on Sessom Drive, behind Joe’s Crab Shack. All skill levels are welcome. For more information, contact Tennis Club president, Chris Harris, at ch1282@txstate.edu. There will be an on-campus Alcoholics Anonymous meeting from noon to 1 p.m. For more information, contact the Alcohol and Drug Resource Center at (512) 245-3601. There will be advocate training at the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center. For more information, contact Elizabeth Dixon at (512) 396-3404. The Counseling Center will offer the following groups: Facing the Fear (Anxiety Group) which will run from 3:30 to 5 p.m. and Women’s Personal Growth Group, which will run from 5 to 6:30 p.m. For information or to sign up, contact the Counseling Center at (512) 245-2208. Phi Alpha Delta pre-law fraternity will hold a bake sale fundraiser in The Quad from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Rock - Praise & Worship will take place in the chapel of the Catholic Student Center at 7:30 p.m. Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship will hold its weekly meeting at 8:30 p.m. in Old Main, Room 320. Enjoy contemporary worship and special guest Renay West, missionary to Argentina. Everyone is welcome. Contact (512) 557-7988 or mail@texasstatechialpha.com.

FRIDAY Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship will hold its weekly meeting at 8:30 p.m. in Old Main, Room 320. Enjoy contemporary worship and special guest Renay West, missionary to Argentina. Everyone is welcome. Contact (512) 557-7988 or mail@texasstatechialpha.com.

The last day to drop a class with no record and with a refund.

1813 - The nickname “Uncle Sam” was ﬁrst used as a symbolic reference to the United States. The reference appeared in an editorial in the New York’s Troy Post.

SATURDAY There will be advocate training at the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center. For more information contact Elizabeth Dixon at (512) 396-3404.

1901 - The Boxer Rebellion began in China ending the Peace of Beijing. 1927 - Philo T. Farnsworth succeeded in transmitting an image through purely electronic means by using an image dissector.

The cross-country team will host the Texas State Invitational at 8 a.m. at Gary Job Corps.

SUNDAY

1930 - The cartoon “Blondie” made its ﬁrst appearance in the comic strips.

Higher Ground, the LutheranEpiscopal campus ministry, offers Holy Communion at 7 p.m. at St. Mark’s Church, across from The Tower residence hall. A free meal follows at 6:15 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

1940 - London received its initial rain of bombs from Nazi Germany during World War II. 1942 - During World War II, the Russian army counter attacked the German troops outside the city of Stalingrad.

TUESDAY There will be advocate training at the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center. For more information contact Elizabeth Dixon at (512) 396-3404. The CSC will have a free lunch for all students from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the lobby of the CSC. The Catholic Student Organization will meet at 7 p.m. in the CSC. The last day to drop a class with an automatic “W” assigned.

WEDNESDAY Overeaters Anonymous will meet at 12:30 p.m. at the First Lutheran Church, 130 W. Holland St. For more information call (512) 357-2049. There will be advocate training at the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center. For more information contact Elizabeth Dixon at (512) 396-3404. Bible study will be held in the lounge of the CSC at 7 p.m. Go to www.UniversityStar.com and click on contact to view calendar and Stars of Texas State submission policies.

Jennifer Williams/Star Photo Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority scholarship chair Christina Bernal, a mass communication junior and secretary Daniella Flores, a dance senior, try to recruit new members for the upcoming year Wednesday afternoon in The Quad.

1977 - The Panama Canal treaties were signed by U.S. President Carter and General Omar Torrijos Herrera. The treaties called for the U.S. to turn over control of the canal’s waterway to Panama in the year 2000.

CRIME BL TTER

1977 - G. Gordon Liddy was released from prison. He had been incarcerated for more than four years for his involvement in the Watergate conspiracy.

University Police Department

1979 - ESPN, the Entertainment and Sports Programming Network, made its debut on cable TV.

Sept. 2, 7:35 p.m. Medical Emergency/Bobcat Stadium Ofﬁcers were dispatched for a student who became overheated and passed out. EMS treated her at the scene and she refused transport to CTMC for further evaluation. Sept. 3, 3 a.m. Alcohol: MIP/Bobcat East An ofﬁcer observed a nonstudent consuming alcohol.

Upon further investigation, the non-student was a minor in possession of alcohol and issued a citation. Sept. 3, 8:02 a.m. Elevator Rescue/Bobcat Stadium Ofﬁcer was dispatched to for an elevator rescue. Two non-students were stuck in a malfunctioning elevator. The non-students were released without injury. Sept. 3, 2:02 p.m. Criminal Mischief Under $1500/UPD Lobby

An officer was dispatched for a report of damage to a vehicle. The non-student stated the outside of his vehicle was damaged. This case is under investigation. Sept. 4, 4:37 a.m. Burglary: Motor Vehicle/ Bexar Garage An officer was dispatched to Bexar Garage for a report of a burglarized vehicle. Upon further investigation, the officer came upon another vehicle that was burglarized. This case is under investigation.

Crime stoppers: UPD: 245-7867, SMPD: 353-TIPS

1989 - Legislation was approved by the U.S. Senate that prohibited discrimination against the handicapped in employment, public accommodations, transportation and communications. 1998 - Mark McGwire set a new major league baseball record for most homeruns hit in a single season. The previous record was 61 set in 1961. 1999 - Viacom Inc. announced that it had plans to buy CBS Corp.

Library Beat Southwest Writers Collection celebrates 100 years Do not miss the excitement on Alkek Library’s seventh floor as the Southwestern Writers Collection and the Wittliff Gallery present exhibitions from some of their most famous holdings and Texas State honors 100 years of Latinos on campus. Doors are open now through Dec. 15 for Treasures of the Southwestern Writers Collection, which spotlights the “greatest hits” of the permanent literary, film and music archives. See the 1555 edition of Cabeza de Vaca’s La Relación y Comentarios, a songbook created by 11-yearold Willie Nelson, original materials from King of the Hill and the making of Lonesome Dove, Cast Away, A Perfect Storm and other films, famous-author manuscripts and memorabilia

and more. Everyone is invited to a special program with writers Sarah Bird, Elizabeth Crook and Stephen Harrigan, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 9. From Sept. 15 through Oct. 14, the Wittliff Gallery of Southwestern & Mexican Photography hosts The Latino Presence at Texas State: Celebrating 100 Years. This exhibition, created and presented by the Center for Multicultural and Gender Studies in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, looks back to 1906 when the ﬁrst Latinos joined the student body. The opening reception is from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 15. Visit the MCGS Web site for information: http:// www.txstate.edu/mcgs/latino_ presence/index.html. From Oct. 21 through March 18, the Wittliff Gallery is proud to present Ojos Para Volar/Eyes to Fly With: Photographs by Graciela Iturbide. This show from its

major Iturbide collection coincides with the ninth volume in the WG Book Series — a notto-be-missed presentation of portraits, self-portraits, famous works and never-before-exhibited images by one of Mexico’s greatest photographers. Meet Graciela Iturbide and enjoy refreshments and a bilingual program at the book launch beginning at 7 p.m. Oct. 28. Admission to these exhibits and events is free. Exhibit hours are Monday, Tuesday and Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. For famous-author readings and other events, see the Special Collections Calendar online, http://www.library.txstate. edu/spec-coll, or call (512) 245-2313. — Courtesy of Alkek Library

www.UniversityStar.com

NEWS

Thursday, September 7, 2006

The University Star - Page 3

ASG adviser resigns, dedicates time to research By A.N. Hernández The University Star Ted Hindson didn’t want to resign from his role as the Associated Student Government faculty adviser, but he said he had to. In a letter addressed to ASG President Kyle Morris on Aug. 23, political science Associate Professor Ted Hindson “regretfully” resigned from his role after 10 years of service. “The overwhelming burden of university committee work and increasing scholarly expectations make it extremely difﬁcult to effectively serve as academic advisor,” Hindson, 63, wrote in the letter. Hindson was originally set to teach three political science courses and serve on nine university committees this semester, including ASG, the University Curriculum Committee and the Faculty Senate. He said he just couldn’t do it anymore and ASG was the only organization he could leave right now. “At the beginning of the se-

“I

Jennifer Williams/Star photo ADVISER RESIGNS: Political science professor Ted Hindson retired from his position as the ASG faculty adviser after 10 years of service. Hindson hopes to use his small amount of extra free time to continue his studies in the history of political science.

mester I had all these things I knew I had to do and I thought, ‘I just can’t continue doing all this,’” Hindson said. “I am pretty much overwhelmed and can’t even clean off my desk, but I am sure there are several people at

this university who do just as much, if not more.” Hindson began teaching at Texas State, then Southwest Texas State University, in 1974, because it was where he said all the great jobs were. He’s been

hate to do this, but I have to give it up. I think in many ways a young person would be better for the job. A young adviser could keep up with students and old-timers like me alike.”

—Ted Hindson former ASG faculty adviser

married for 28 years to Irene Hindson, who teaches in the history department and has one daughter, Lauren, who is 26. “I hate to do this, but I have to give it up. I think in many ways a young person would be better

for the job,” he said. “A young adviser could keep up with students and old-timers like me alike.” Hindson said his role was a “passive one” and that ASG’s success is because of its dedicated students. He said Texas State’s name-change was one of the best things the ASG could have been involved with. “I think they deserve all the credit in the world. One of the most important things they did was pushing and getting the name change,” Hindson said. “I think it has brought higher expectations all across the board from everyone. “ He also said ASG has done a great job in creating “excellent relations with President Trauth that are less confrontational and more cooperative.” Aside from being a busy man, Hindson has had some health issues. In 2003, he underwent two surgical procedures to ﬁx problems stemming from arterial disease. “I feel great; I think I have recovered. Now I just have to lose

20 pounds,” he said. Kyle Morris, ASG president, said he was sad to see Hindson go. He said Hindson’s tasks as an ASG faculty adviser included answering questions about faculty operations and political history at ASG meetings. “From time to time he would chime in with insight. His role on Monday nights is to provide history and to provide context as to where the university has gone on various issues in the past,” Morris said. Morris is now in the process of ﬁnding a faculty member to ﬁll Hindson’s spot. Hindson said he is enthusiastically embarking on a future with a few extra hours a week of free time. “I’d like to focus on studying the relations between the American presidency and the British prime minister in the 20th century,” he said. “Last spring I was on developmental leave to do research and this July I was in England doing research. This was a tradeoff because I really enjoyed ASG.”

City council OKs ELECTIONS: Noise problems, parking issues make ‘public utility agency’ zoning laws ‘hot topics’ to help with water issue CONTINUED from page 1

By Zach Halﬁn Special to The Star In an attempt to secure a longterm, diverse water supply, the San Marcos City Council approved Tuesday the creation of a “public utility agency” to help develop a supply of water from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer, near Gonzalez. Tom Taggart, Director of Water and Wastewater Utilities, said the construction of a major pipeline from the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer to the San Marcos area will begin in 2020. The project is estimated to cost $109 million dollars, with the city-share of capital costs amounting to $32.7 million. “In May 2003 we did the water supply master-plan process. The goal there was to secure longterm, diverse supplies (for) 50plus years,” he said. “The actual construction of the facilities will not commence until the point in time closer to when the water would be used by the entities, around 2020. The major expenses associated with this work are going to be the construction of the pipeline facilities to carry this water the long distance from the Carrizo-Wilcox and deliver it to the participants.” The “at risk” costs for the next two ﬁscal years are $3.7 million. These costs will be shared with the cities of Kyle, Lockhart and the Canyon Regional Water Authority who are pursuing this project in conjunction with San Marcos. The city must invest $1.4 million to help dig wells, secure groundwater leases and conform to water conservation district rules before permits for pumping and transporting can be given. “The bottom-line is since there are regulatory processes associated with actually securing permits, that in between area of when you take a lease and when you actually have a permit to do it, you’re at risk. If the law changes or the groundwater conservation board changes its rules your lease may not be worthless, but it may change the parameters in which you can actually utilize it,” he said. “It’s not like an actual commodity that you can put in a safe and that never goes down in value. It is something that is dependent upon your ability to use it in a certain period of time according to a given set of rules.” Mayor Susan Narvaiz voiced her concern over competition for long-term supplies of water with neighboring cities.

“The Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer is the one everybody is looking at, right?” Narvaiz said. “So people that we would naturally compete for water with already looked at this location.” “The risks associated with entering this public utility agency approach for this future supply is if that we wait too long we will miss out on groundwater supplies,” Taggart said. “Many of these supplies are under pressure for leasing and purchase by other entities.” City Manager Dan O’leary said addressing water supply issues needs to be a priority investment. “This is a long process and an issue of water is always a risky one, but the biggest risk that we face isn’t just financial but that somewhere in the future we would be unable to secure a water supply for San Marcos,” he said. The council also adopted new water conservation and drought response rules that will affect residents and business owners. Beginning Sept. 15, the new rules will prohibit water waste year-round, instead of only during drought-stage restrictions. Under the new rules, mobile car washes are now required to use low-flow spray wands equipped with a positive shutoff device and dining facilities must install flow restrictors and low-flow pre-rinse spray valves. Irrigation with sprinklers will only be allowed on one designated day per week and all automatic landscape irrigation systems must have rain or soil moisture-sensors. San Marcos Fire Marshall Ken Bell also provided the council with a Code Enforcement update. Bell discussed single-family zoning restrictions and said that the majority of code violations — 57 cases in the last 11 months — involved Texas State students. Councilman John Diaz said during his morning walks around his own neighborhood, he has observed numerous violations of the single-family restriction. “Within walking-distance, within an hour-and-a-half time, I walked past 14 houses that had three or more cars,” Diaz said. “I knew they was Texas State students because of the logo on the back window. Several had five or six cars, so you know about the area I was walking in. I was wondering if the renters, the land owners, the house owners are really taking serious what we are trying to do?”

During his term, Thomaides said the city council made headway dealing with “horrendous traffic” within San Marcos because of old traffic lights, “some 35 to 40 years old.” The council replaced every traffic light in the city and they are now controlled at City Hall. He also touted the Austin-San Antonio Commuter Rail Board, which would create a rail system from Georgetown to downtown San Antonio. “Look, we have 27,000 students and maybe half live here. So, if we give people safe ways to get around the city without a car, I am sure they’ll do it,” he said. “With the prices of fuel continuing to rise we need to give alternative ways for residents to get around.”

Like his Place 6 opponent, Thomason said he hoped to build better relations between the city and Texas State. He said it is “crucial to get the university involved in business development in town.” However, Thomason sees a separation between the city council and the university. Single-family zoning laws are a “hot topic” he will address if elected. He said the council spent thousands of dollars implementing the laws which “point the ﬁnger” at students because of residents who complained of multiple parked cars and noise violations. “If people are loud after 11 p.m., you can call the police. There are city ordinances against these things,” Thomason said. “I’ve lived in subdivi-

CENTER CONTINUED from page 1

the facilities within the university and within the city are not large enough to accommodate their meetings,” said Rebecca Ramirez, convention and visitors bureau director. “So there are many missed opportunities out there and with this facility we would definitely gain so much.” Katie Marshall, coordinator for LBJ Student Center Services, said the LBJSC Ballroom is regularly booked throughout the year and has to turn many people away. “I like to be able to tell them, ‘why don’t you try here, why don’t you try there,’ so I think that it’s nice to have another alternative,” she said. “I’m just not sure how much (student organizations and the university departments) will actually benefit from the convention center just from the sheer cost (to reserve the Ballroom).” The LBJSC Ballroom is free for students and alumni to use, so the cost to book the Ballroom at the new convention center, Marshall said, may be a deterrent given the limited budget of university departments and student organizations. “There are some departments or larger functions that would definitely go out at least once, whether or not budget would allow it,” Marshall said. “But after that first time, budget is going to be an issue.” The city of New Braunfels is also expanding its 15,000square-foot civic center to 50,000 square feet. City officials are not concerned

about the competition between the two cities. Narvaiz believes her town has an edge over New Braunfels. San Marcos has “much more to offer,” she said, citing the city’s outlet malls, the fourth-most visited tourist attraction in Texas, in addition to the river and the university. “We actually think that we will be filling hotel rooms not only for all the hoteliers in San Marcos, but possibly overflowing to New Braunfels,” Narvaiz said. Phil Neighbors, chamber of commerce president, views the competition as “friendly.” “One of the things that happens when you have multiple meeting-space, you attract more people to look at your area for meetings, so we will have some spillover from (New Braunfels) and they’ll undoubtedly get some spillover from us when people want to meet here in Central Texas,” Neighbors said. The financing of the hotel and conference center is a joint effort between Missouri-based hotel developer John Hammons and the city of San Marcos. Hammons is paying for 30 percent of the conference center, which he will operate at his own profit or loss for 20 years. The remainder is to be financed by the city of San Marcos through its hotel occupancy taxes and sales taxes. Hammons will completely own and operate the Embassy Suites. Groundbreaking is aimed for early October, with an 18-month construction period. Narvaiz said the project is estimated to be complete by May 2008.

Mark Decker/Star photo VOTE FOR ME: Nearly overlapping campaign signs for the upcoming local elections line South Guadalupe Street near The Square.

sions and the good neighbors were students who were often scared they’d be kicked out if they acted up.” As for the remainder of Mi-

halkanin’s Place 1-term that was set to expire in November 2007, Ian Skiles, 28, ﬁled on the last day to run against Betsy Robertson.

NEWS

Page 4 - The University Star

Thursday, September 7, 2006

College parties draw police attention, MIP citations By Alex Hering Special to The Star At Texas State, it is never hard to ﬁnd a party during the weekend. Along the narrow streets surrounding campus, alcohol tends to ﬂow like rivers, enticing under-aged students who are at risk of receiving minor in possession citations. In the spring of 2005, Lizette Dittmar, then a high school junior, received a citation for an MIP. “I was hanging out with some friends at a party having fun, then a ton of people started showing up out of nowhere and it got pretty loud,” Dittmar, pre-mass communication freshman, said. “Later the cops showed up and gave random people tickets.” Dittmar said the experience that night has changed her habits. “I don’t go to big parties anymore and I make sure my

friends aren’t being careless,” she said. Since July 27, 26 MIP citations have been issued by the University Police Department. According to UPD, 289 MIP-alcohol citations have been issued since the fall of 2005. Nemesis Molinar lives in Blanco Hall and sees illegal activity involving alcohol two to three times a week. She said the numbers do not surprise her. “You don’t even have to go to a party to see people out in the street being all loud and disturbing people,” Molinar, biology freshman, said. “At two or three in the morning, there will be people laughing and screaming in the halls and you know there is a party going on because we can hear it from inside our room.” Students given an MIP citation for the ﬁrst time are put on disciplinary probation, required to pay a $50 fee, take an alcohol education course and are

referred to Associated Student Government. “There are other sanctions which can include community service and special projects,” Vincent Morton, associate dean of students said in an e-mail. “The most signiﬁcant is a separation from campus.” Morton said special project sanctions can include a presentation to the student’s respective residence hall, or a “research report.” He said second and third offenses may result in suspension or expulsion, depending on the severity of the situation. “Know the risks,” Morton said. “(Students should) recognize that they are considered as grown adults and there are consequences to their actions.” To Dittmar, the MIP incident is in the past and she prefers that it is not viewed as a way to discredit her. “It was something that happened a long time ago and something I worked to ﬁx. It

wasn’t cheap either, but it’s over now,” Dittmar said. “After it is all said and done with, I came out a little smarter and I would hate it if I was judged based upon something that happened so long ago.” Otto Glenewinkel, UPD Community Awareness and Resource Team ofﬁcer, said the department will be hosting Cops and Doughnuts, a question-and-answer session in the LBJ Student Center in late September or October to better educate students on the subject. “We aren’t going to say ‘you know you shouldn’t be drinking.’ It’s a very honest peerto-peer question-and-answer session where students can ask any questions,” Glenewinkel said. “We know they are going to drink and we are going to tell them how to do it safely and responsibly.” Ofﬁcer Ron Dorsey is aware of students’ actions on campus but doesn’t want the event to be

Jennifer Williams/Star photo MINOR MISHAP: Minor in possession citations are fairly common around the Texas State campus and surrounding neighborhoods. An upcoming ‘Cops and Doughnuts’ question-and-answer session will attempt to educate students on how to stay safe when drinking.

misinterpreted. “We aren’t advocating breaking the law,” Dorsey said. “We know people are going to go

and drink but if we see them drinking or smell alcohol on their breath we are going to give them a citation.”

FAFSA: Revoking students’ aid PLAN B: Proof of age perpetuates cycle of drug use required for sale of drug CONTINUED from page 1

students to go to college, become part of an educated citizenry and engage in the political process of society, so they don’t feel like they have to involve themselves in harmful activities anymore.” SSDP agrees that schooling creates a healthier, more productive society. “People are much less likely to commit crimes or rely on costly public assistant programs if they have a college degree,” Angell said. However, certain people and programs may care about students but still instruct them to leave campus in the wake of a drug conviction. Associate Dean of Students Vincent Morton has been at Texas State for 17 years and oversees the department of student justice. Though not directly affiliated with financial aid, his department may dictate whether a student is suspended or even expelled for drug-related charges. The decision must regard the university as a whole, Morton said. “Not everybody is going to be happy with what we decide, but we have to make sure this environment is conducive to learning for everybody,” he said. “You have to ask yourself if you want to be in classes or living in a dorm with people who are obviously getting high.” However, Morton said the students he sees are ultimately responsible. “They work with you well; what you see, whether it’s drugs or anything else, is people owning up to what they’ve done,” he said. Morton said the call to actually emancipate a student from campus is never easy, as it affects students’ lives and families and a commitment to Texas State. “It’s difficult making these decisions, especially when there

CONTINUED from page 1

has to be a separation from campus. That’s someone’s kid — and more so, that’s one of our students. We want to help them, want to work with them, but we can’t be afraid to tell them to leave sometimes,” he said. Morton also supports the provision’s less-strict amendment, as it no longer equals automatic dismissal for everyone. “That’s the good thing about the change in the ﬁnancial aid policy and policy overall; it used to be just ‘send them home,’” he said. “Now we can look at it on a case-by-case basis.” But some claim the law is counterproductive, amended or not. “I haven’t seen or heard of

drug use being curtailed since the policy has gone into effect and have yet to see people stop smoking because of it,” said Keith Vanorstrand, fashion merchandising senior, pointing out that lack of money actually promotes use and sale of illegal substances. “It’s the underground market for most colleges — the first thing people think of to make quick cash.” And it generally affects dedicated students. Good academic standing is a requirement of financial aid and Angell said true drug abuse often nixes people on its own. “Because there is a minimum GPA requirement to receive financial aid, any student using drugs, not going to class and not doing their homework and studying is going to lose their financial aid anyway,” Angell said. “It hurts the very people it claims to help and the policy actually causes more drug abuse by blocking education.”

time women are currently receiving. “Women are anxious; how likely are they to read and understand the information?” Carranco said the center is currently looking to gather information to help form a new system that will encourage women to seek counseling without feeling it is an obstacle to receiving the medication. Kerry Craig, fashion merchandising freshman, said she is aware the pills will soon be available without a prescription. “I am kind of iffy on the decision. I think maybe people should still have to go to the doctor,” she said. Craig worries women will resort to using the pill more often if it is easily accessible and will begin to use it for the wrong reason, such as a form of birth control. Craig said she would take advantage of Plan B, which she considers closer to birth control than abortion, if she was in a position where she felt she needed it. Craig said that one of her friends has used the emergency contraceptive in the past. “She didn’t have any other option, she needed it,” Craig said. “I think it was emotionally hard for her, but it would be for any human being.” Craig said she is glad the medication will not be available to those younger than 18 without a prescription. “Sometimes it is best that they talk to someone ﬁrst,” she said. Robert Elkins, history senior, was not aware the pill would soon be available over the counter, but said he is glad it is going to be more accessible. “I am on the side of ‘let kids be kids,’” he said. “They shouldn’t be made parents before their time.” Elkins, a father of three, said he would not mind if the medication was available without a prescription to his daughter or two sons, all who are under the age of 18. “I would want to be there

for my daughter if she was in that situation, but I would also want the option (Plan B) to be available for her if she did not feel comfortable coming to me first,” Elkins said of his youngest child, who is 13. His sons are 17 and 15 and Elkins said he would also want them to have the option if they were put in the same position with their girlfriends. John Meyer, H-E-B pharmacist, said he can remember working in the 60s when they began selling birth control for $1.35. “We felt like we were doing a terrific service because we were stopping unwanted pregnancies,” Meyer said. With Plan B, even more unwanted pregnancies can be prevented, Meyer said. However, a problem he has experienced with the emergency contraceptive pill is some women put their bodies at risk by using it as a form of birth control. Although the pill is safe if used infrequently, taking it regularly may have negative effects, such as damage to the uterus lining, he said. Meyer said he knows women are already using the pill in place of other contraceptive devices. Although it is a one-time-use medication, Meyer said he has seen women come in to purchase Plan B with refills available on their prescription. “The first time I saw that a doctor had written the prescription with refills I said ‘What? Wait a minute. This doesn’t make sense.’ Why would she need a refill?” Meyer said. Meyer called the doctor to ask why he had made the prescription for a one-time-use medication with refills instead of prescribing her birth control. The doctor responded that the issue was between him and his patient. Although there is the possibility that those 18 years or older may be tempted to purchase the pills for those under the legal age, Meyer said this is again not a new concept. “Let’s say there is a responsible 23-year-old who has a good record with her doctor. If her

“W

e have to be careful not to seem like we are promoting it, but as physicians we know it is an important option.” — Dr. Emilio Carranco, Jr. director, Texas State Student Health Center

younger sister needs (Plan B), she can call her doctor and say she slipped up. She can then get it from the prescription from her doctor and give it to her sister,” Meyer said. Pharmacies will be required to keep the pills behind the counter and ask for proof of age, but Meyer said once the person leaves with the medication, it is up to the costumers to use it responsibly. Although there is the possibility that the pills will be abused, Meyer said he feels they are a good alternative to an unwanted pregnancy. He said although he does not support abortion, he does feel the opportunity to stop the fertilized ovum from entering the development stage should be available. A date has not been set for the move to over-the-counter sales to occur, but Carranco said he was told it would happen over the next few months. He said after recently talking to sales representatives, he feels Plan B will likely be available without a prescription as early as October. Carranco said he is not sure how public the health center will make the new change when it goes into effect. “We have to be careful not to seem like we are promoting it, but as physicians we know it is an important option.”

Got dirt?

Send your news tips to us at starnews@txstate.edu

TRENDS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

onlineconnection KTSW 89.9 FM, Texas State’s student-run radio station, will host its ﬁrst Lunchbox of the year today. For a full story, visit www.UniversityStar.com.

Thursday, September 7, 2006 - Page 5

Trends Contact — Maira Garcia, starentertainment@txstate.edu

Pizer: Claims of accuracy Da Vinci Code’s major fault Lecturer ‘searches for truth’ in Dan Brown best-seller By Maira Garcia The University Star Truths in Dan Brown’s best-selling novel, The Da Vinci Code, may be more difﬁcult to ﬁnd, especially with a misleading preface according to Alan Pizer. Pizer, a lecturer in the art and design department, gave a lecture titled “An Art Historian Searches for Truth” at the San Marcos Activity Center last night to an audience of about 70 people. In his lecture, Pizer examined the connections between early Christian art and paganism and how they were related in Brown’s book. “That’s part of the paganism issue — where there’s this hidden ‘sinister’ about paganism,” Pizer said. “But hopefully I communicated that this was the prime vehicle for which Christianity could be communicated visually.” Pizer noted what he considered to be inaccuracies in the book concerning Christianity and its development. “Christianity did absorb a vocabulary of images that spoke to an audience, which initially, (the Roman Empire) dearly wanted to convert,” Pizer said in his lecture. An inaccuracy that Pizer emphasized concerned Constantine, the emperor who made Christianity legal in the Roman Empire in 313 AD. Pizer said that Brown essentially used Constantine as a “whipping boy” for wiping out the sacred feminine, which is at the center of Brown’s book. “There were multiple main points and that’s why I did the quotations, because I recognized I had to break it up,” Pizer said. Pizer felt that Brown’s preface, which states that all descriptions of artwork,

Austin Byrd/Star photo

didn’t “I get a sense that I

DA VINCI DECODED: Truth is in the eye of the beholder. Alan Pizer, a senior lecturer in the department of art and design at Texas State breaks down the ﬁction and nonﬁction of The Da Vinci Code Wednesday night at the San Marcos Activity Center.

really tread over anyone’s beliefs, but those that disagreed with me – some of whom disagreed strongly – were very respectful and recognized that there was more than one way to see the equation.”

–Alan Pizer art history lecturer

architecture, documents and secret rituals in the novel were accurate, was the major fault in the book. Although the book is labeled as ﬁction, Pizer said that the preface is what is troublesome because there are many inaccuracies, despite what it says. “Part of it was recognizing the power of images and the danger of making bland or generic associations that you don’t substantiate,” Pizer said. Studio art senior Shelly Nottingham felt that the disproving of facts in the book was informative. “I like when he came right out and

said…that the Priory of Zion did not exist, because I didn’t know that before,” Nottingham said. “I think what was really good was how Dan Brown tried to accuse Constantine and Christians of hijacking the sacred feminine. (Pizer) pointed out the historical facts.” However, some such as Shelby Stewart, an anthropology sophomore, felt Pizer should have stressed the art more. “I thought he spent too much (time) on the book,” Stewart said. “He should have highlighted the art. I felt he kind

of stuck with…disproving the book, but it was still very informative.” The event was sponsored by the San Marcos Unitarian Universalist Church, which wanted to provide a dialogue for discovering truth. CC Liedecke, the director of religious education for the Unitarian Universalists, said the organization believes in having a basis or starting point for such discussions. “We have seven principles and one of the principles is that we believe in the reasonable search for truth and meaning in our lives,” Liedecke said. “And that’s where this comes in. (The

Culture side dish at Mama’s Kitchen By Jessica Sinn The University Star Who said there’s no such thing as a free lunch? At Mama’s Kitchen, hungry students will be treated to free home-style cooking from around the globe. This Friday, take a break from the same old lunchtime routine by sampling tantalizing ethnic cuisine. The annual Mama’s Kitchen Welcome Back Social will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m. Friday at the LBJ Student Center Ballroom. “Foods from Around the World” is the theme for this special event. Mama’s Kitchen isn’t just about free egg rolls and fajitas; it’s about discovering different cultures and meeting new people. This back-to-school kick-off gives students the opportunity to add some diversity to their social circles. Anyone with a healthy appetite can visit Mama’s Kitchen the ﬁrst Friday of every month.

This will be the ﬁrst time Mama’s Kitchen will be hosting a welcome-back social event. The Multicultural Student Affairs and Underrepresented Student Advisory Council, or USAC, will host the luncheon. Graduate research assistant, Johanna Krienke, works for MSA and helps organize Mama’s Kitchen. “Mama’s Kitchen helps promote diversity. People can see others they identify with and also meet new people from different cultures.” Krienke said. “Students will know that everyone has a place here at Texas State.” Stella Silva, associate director of MSA, encourages all students to explore the university’s various multicultural organizations while tasting delicious homemade food. “We want students to experience a home-style type of environment – like what they would have at home, or what their moms or grandmas would cook,” Silva said.

Pad Thai, fried chicken, tacos, taquitos, sandwich trays and pizza are some delectable dishes that will be presented by various student organizations. Faculty and staff contribute to the generous spread by bringing in their own homemade dishes. Local restaurants also supply this back-to-school feast. “Tables will be set up with organization information and the food is in conjunction with each culture they represent,” Krienke said. As usual, when lunchtime rolls around, the Student Center is swarming with famished students. Dr. Silva advises lunchgoers to get to Mama’s Kitchen early to avoid the long line. “The food is free and unlimited. Over 200 students are

expected to show up. There’s usually a long line before the doors open at noon. It’s first come, first served. When the food’s gone, it’s gone,” Silva said. USAC members will be handing out more than just food to anyone who is interested in joining a multicultural organization. Informative brochures will be handed out at each designated food station. USAC provides funding and programming for over 20 multicultural organizations. “The USAC student organizations are all organizations of interest,” Silva said. “You don’t have to be from a specific ethnic or racial group to be a part of any of these organizations. They’re all very diverse.”

lecture) plays off that principle where we want others to be able to search for truth and meaning in their lives.” While some people in the audience may have shared different views from those expressed by Pizer, he felt that the dialogue was constructive. “I thought they were very congenial,” Pizer said. “I didn’t get a sense that I really tread over anyone’s beliefs, but those that disagreed with me – some of whom disagreed strongly – were very respectful and recognized that there was more than one way to see the equation.”

TRENDS/DIVERSIONS

Page 6 - The University Star

RIX’S

TECHNOLOGY FIXES

Gamers are gamers, without ‘prefix, suffix or apology’

that these It’s amazing how outsort of embarrassing of-touch game compaideas are harbored by nies and the media are people my age and by in regards to women. It’s those who get published mind-blowing to see that online or elsewhere. some media outlets still It’s not just the media, BILL RIX carry stories like “Pink but the game publishers PlayStation2 (sic) is So- Star Columnist too. Why on earth do ny’s offering to girl gamyou think Sony just aners” (Pocket-lint.co.uk, Aug. 21) nounced a pink PSP and PS2? and “Forget violent male gam- That’s some irony for you. Hey ers, little girls are the psycho- — let’s totally alienate the group paths” (TG Daily, Aug. 20). Bear we made this console for in the in mind that while both of these first place. I can’t imagine what Web sites are news and technol- they were thinking. Girls love ogy review sites first, they are pink, right guys? hard-hitting social commentary Drawing attention to the Web sites second, so it’s to be problem isn’t a big deal; it’s imtaken with a grain of salt. Then portant to acknowledge things again, Google “girl gamers” and like this — but the methods by see what comes up. which everyone goes about it is Both articles use the phrase just insane. I’m a fan of allitera“girl gamers.” The TG article tion, but the term “girl gamers” goes as far as using the phrase has got to go. It’s a pejorative “cute little girls” and “little cute term — plain and simple. Civigirls” to describe certain gam- lized people don’t call women ers under 18 who play The Sims; who drive automobiles “girl drivhowever, it is a column — talk ers,” and you’ll definitely never about a step in the wrong direc- hear the term “girl student” or tion. I’m ashamed to have read “girl clerk.” Are we in the 1950s the whole article and to know here? I know one of the basic te-

nets of respect is calling people what they want to be called and some women want be called “girl gamers,” but I just can’t see the advantage of singling yourself out or falling in line with some crooked vision of what a gamer is or isn’t. I’m aware that this whole “grrl gamer” thing could very well be a feminist thing, which I admittedly don’t understand or know much about. I think that if you want to be accepted into something, ignore naysayers and excel to the height of whatever it is. Become a model, but never accept any sort of second-fiddle role. Gamers are gamers — regardless of chromosome. It’s true that women sometimes catch hell — try to use a microphone over a Halo game on Xbox Live, and you’ll see what I mean — but when things are more anonymous, you’d never know the difference. Ex-Speaker of the House Sam Rayburn once said, “I am a Democrat without prefix, suffix or apology.” Let’s extend this to video games.

✯Star Comics

Thursday, September 7, 2006

Gandhi ﬁlm ‘elephant in the room’ By Laura Jamison Special to the Star A huge elephant is in the room. Or at least that is how history lecturer Peter Siegenthaler, who will be moderating the event, explained why the Common Experience plans to show the movie Gandhi on Sept. 11. The elephant metaphor stems from the historical coincidence that Gandhi launched his peace movement on Sept. 11, 1906, which is the same day that the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, occurred. “I hope students will come away with an understanding of who Gandhi was, what he represents and what the ideas are that he promoted and embodied,” Siegenthaler said. According to Siegenthaler, this 100-year anniversary of peace occurs on a horriﬁc day in recent history and thus, like a large elephant in a small room, it demands recognition. The Common Experience is a university-sponsored debate about the 2006-07 theme of protest and dissent. The movie will be presented at 6:30 p.m. Monday in the Alkek Teaching Theater. “This is a way to see another culture and country that we don’t hear a lot about. Thoughtful students may see connections to the war in Iraq and the question is what are they,” said Diann McCabe, the assistant director of the Mitte Honors Program. The idea to show the movie originated from the New Yorkers for a Department of Peace and the M.K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence. In a joint effort, these national organizations

Poster courtesy of www.impawards.com Common Experience will be showing the 1982 Best Picture winner Gandhi in the Alkek teaching theatre Monday at 6:30. Sept. 11 marks the 100th anniversary of the launch of Mahatma Gandhi’s infamous campaign for Indian independence from British colonial rule through non-violence.

seek to promote the worldwide viewing of Gandhi on Sept. 11 in order to honor the victims of the attacks. According to the Department of Peace Web site, Sony Entertainment is re-releasing the movie nationwide, including the Regal Cinema in New York City — which is near to the World Trade Center site. This Academy Award-winning movie summarizes the life of Gandhi from the time he was a young Indian lawyer in South Africa being thrown off the train for refusing to ride second class to when he peacefully lead India from British rule. The department of history, the Mitte Honors Program and University Seminar will sponsor the event. Adelia Cantu, a pre-psychology junior, said she hopes to learn more about Gandhi. “I have heard about Gandhi and he seems like a good and peaceful man. Hopefully, the

SU DO KU Complete the grid so that every row, column, and 3-by-3 box contains every digit from one through nine inclusively.

FOR RELEASE SEPTEMBER 7, 2006

THE Daily Crossword ACROSS 1 Emcee 5 Dreaded mosquito 10 Ewes' guys 14 Hawkeye's state 15 Carroll critter 16 Send out 17 Start of Evan Esar quip 19 DNA unit 20 9-digit ID org. 21 Long, narrow inlets 22 Simple weapon 23 Ankle bones 25 Arranged 27 Part 2 of quip 30 Rutger of "Blade Runner" 31 Fling 32 Faux __ (social blunder) 35 Buyer-beware phrase 36 Part 3 of quip 38 Unconscious state 39 Addams Family cousin 40 Weaver's frame 41 Greek physician 42 Part 4 of quip 45 Renewable energy source 48 Narrow coastal opening 49 Go with the flow 50 Latin being 51 $ promise 54 Tableland 55 End of quip 58 Security cash 59 Separated 60 Charge per unit 61 "Casablanca" role 62 Cold-cut palaces 63 Hunk of dirt DOWN 1 Successful punches 2 Cries of delight 3 Workout attire 4 File marker

5 Italian pilgrimage site 6 Necessitate 7 Eurasian crows 8 Time period 9 Wild blue yonder 10 Look at 11 Make changes to 12 Chop into small pieces 13 Guide 18 Miscue 22 Novelist Anita 24 Mimics 25 Frankenstein's helper 26 Meddlesome 27 Bangkok cuisine 28 Tobacco kiln 29 Tiny particles 32 Type of party 33 Prayer ender 34 Caroled 36 Audible weeping 37 Santa's sackful 38 Soap bar

Edited by Wayne Robert Williams

Yesterday’s Solution

40 Would-be atty.'s hurdle 41 Treble sign 42 Chevy model 43 Hebrew month 44 Maps in maps 45 Felix Salten's fawn 46 Perfect

Go to wwww.UniversityStar.com for today’s answers.

47 Desert greenery 50 Etc.'s cousin 52 Italian eight 53 Second-hand 55 Small boy 56 Cockney aspiration 57 Circle part

Yesterday’s Solution

movie will give a little more insight into who he was,” Cantu said. However, some students believe some of the ironies surrounding Gandhi should be considered. “I think we should go into the sociopolitical context and see his subjugation of women ... He was not completely a patron of equality,” said Marvin Hager, a graduate student in literature. Siegenthaler said the elephant metaphor brings about possibility and that change will ultimately be the student’s decision. “There is no easy answer to it, but life is not full of easy answers; life is full of hard answers,” Siegenthaler said. Students can express their ideas for change and reactions to the movie at the follow-up discussion, which will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 19 in the Philosophy Dialogue Room.

OPINIONS FAFSA’S THE UNIVERSITY STAR

onlineconnection

What do you think about the approval to offer Plan B emergency contraception over the counter to those 18 years and older without a prescription? Go to www.UniversityStar.com to vote in our online poll. Results will be published in next Thursday’s issue of The University Star.

Thursday, September 7, 2006 - Page 7

*This is not a scientiﬁc poll

Opinions Contact — Emily Messer, staropinion@txstate.edu

Letters to the Editor

THE MAIN POINT

f you’re charged with possession of any illegal substance and you’re a college student, kiss your ﬁnancial aid goodbye. But if you’re convicted of an alcohol-related offense, you’re in the clear. Amid all the ﬁnancial inquiries on the FAFSA application, why is there a question about drugs?

The fact that the federal government asks you about drug convictions rather than any other convictions is absurd. As of 1998, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid has outlined that students who are convicted for possession or selling illegal drugs during the time they are enrolled and receiving federal student aid cannot qualify for the grants, loans and/or work-study. Convictions that are removed from your record and convictions that occurred before you turned 18, unless you were tried as an adult, do not count. Those who check “yes” to illegal drug convictions on their FAFSA application are required to fill out a separate worksheet to determine if the conviction affects their financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA question is a result of a provision of the Higher Education Act. Since 2000, more than 175,000 students have been ineligible for federal loans, grants and work-study because of the provision, according to the Students for Sensible Drug Policy Web site. What’s absurd is that the federal government asks college students about drug convictions but not DUIs, DWIS or any other offenses. One particular misdemeanor conviction should not pull more weight than felony convictions. Drunk drivers kill more innocent victims than pot smokers by far, but there’s no question about drunken driving on your FAFSA application. Why doesn’t the federal government also revoke the rights of murders or other violent criminals? And if the law is an attempt to penalize drug users, it’s a paltry effort. It only punishes students convicted of drug-related charges who need financial assistance. Students who can afford their tuition, fees and other expenses on their own are unaffected. It’s unfair to target people who rely on federal aid. Organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union are asking for the federal government to repeal its decision. The organization is urging people to tell their state representative to bring reform to the High Education Act. On the “Take Action” portion of the organization’s Web site, there is a form that can be filled out and sent directly to your elected official. If you think this is unfair, voice your opinion. Drug convictions shouldn’t mark the end of someone’s college career just because they can’t rely on financial assistance. The Main Point is the opinion of the newspaper’s editorial board. Columns are the opinions of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the full staff, Texas State University-San Marcos Student Media, the School of Journalism and Mass Communication or Texas State UniversitySan Marcos.

FOILS Smoke a joint, lose your financial aid; drink and drive, who cares?

Fans aren’t ‘lame’ After reading the op-ed concerning fan enthusiasm, or the lack thereof, at last Saturday’s season opener against Tarleton State, I am curious to know: Were any of you guys actually at that game? Because I was and a lot of my friends were and we didn’t see any kind of the apathy y’all apparently experienced. We were heard cheering from as far away as the Theatre Building and Aquarena Center. I think you have insulted Texas State fans and our school. Furthermore, there were two inaccuracies in your article I would like cleared up. First, the point is not to cheer when the offense comes on the field. The point is to cheer when the defense comes on the field. This is done to disrupt the opposing offensive planning and snap count. The way it was written in The Star, it seemed like you were advocating making noise when our offense is on the field. We don’t need you telling the freshmen the exact wrong way to cheer. And second, whooping is not acceptable. About the only thing you got right in this editorial was the nasty behavior of some of our fans toward Tarleton fans. This was immature. However, had there been more security on hand, problems like that could have been dealt with quickly. William Chad Brown anthropology senior

Online Poll Results Personal Safety

o you feel safe in San Marcos?

Yes, this is a pretty sleepy town

61% No, recent events have made me more cautious

24% Not sure/I don’t know

15%

Results compiled from The University Star Web site online poll. This is not a scientiﬁc survey.

Mike Wood/Star illustration

Bus fees, other costs matter of ‘simple mathematics’ With the cost of livdeal. The estimated aning and gas prices on nual cost of living for a the rise, it is ridiculous commuter not living at to believe that expenshome is $16,412, accordes at Texas State would ing to CollegeBoard. not see an increase of com. The Bureau of Laprice in tuition, books bor Statistics estimates and bus fees. No one is that a single person’s getting rich off of bus STEPHANIE SILVAS average annual expenStar Columnist fees or book prices. diture is $30,085. That’s You don’t see our professors nearly twice as much as you’re wearing Armani suits cruispaying to live in a university ing around town in Ferrari environment and receive a colconvertibles. There is no conlege education. Students should spiracy theory here, just simple look at these expenses as an mathematics. investment in their futures. Between the 2004-05 and the Textbook prices have been 2005-06 school years, students a big issue in the past couple experienced an 8.7 percent of weeks, but according to the increase in public university National Association of College fees, according to a CNN.com Stores, textbook prices have report. Yet, when you compare not risen as much as tuition the cost of living at Texas State and other costs for higher eduto that in the “real world,” you cation. Textbook prices have ﬁnd that you’re getting quite a risen in the past few years, yet

inﬂation has risen as well as the cost for shipping, which is dependent on gas prices. Students don’t seem to realize that the price of gas affects nearly every aspect of their lives. Paul Hamilton, Auxiliary Services senior grant specialist, said Cognisa spends more than $400,000 annually for gas alone. “This cost makes up over 13 percent of the total operating cost and will continue to challenge, if not constrain, the amount of service we can provide over the term of our current operating contract should those fuel costs continue to escalate as they have in recent years.” Hamilton said. Students need to realize that Cognisa is a contractor. They receive a certain amount of money from Texas State and as

long as gas prices are increasing, services will decline. Students should also understand that the bus services are currently in a transitional period and are making alterations to better serve them. During the peak time of day, 28 buses are being used and until Spring 2007, when the new contract is in full effect, 28 buses is full capacity, Hamilton said. The buses have serviced 17,000 students daily as of October 2005 and this number has signiﬁcantly increased since the last time bus fees increased in 2004, according to ﬁgures provided by Auxiliary Services. In the previous school year, 14,500 students traveled the bus system daily. The number of students being transported daily has undoubtedly increased since

October 2005, Hamilton said. That’s a large amount of students to cram onto buses. With this pattern continuing, students will continue to be late to class and only they will have the power to change that. You can keep in mind that you need to arrive to bus stops early, or stretch your legs a little and ride your bicycle to school. There are options. When you think about it, there isn’t much else the Texas State Tram can do. These things take time and until then, go to bus stops earlier. It’s that simple. If you’re complaining about the Bobcat Village route, ask anyone living on the Clarewood route and you’ll see how fortunate you really are. No other apartment complex gets its own route and neither should you.

We all pay the same amount in fees, yet Bobcat Village is seeing more buses more frequently than any other stop. Consider yourself privileged. The most important factor in this issue is that students are taking notice to where their money is going. Students must continue to do so in November when it’s time to vote in the general election. Make some noise about all of your money that is being misused at the federal, state and local levels of government. Vote against politicians that enable the oil industry to gouge you at the pump. Take action on something bigger than the cost of books, bus fees and waiting times at bus stops. Stephanie Silvas is a mass communication senior

Letters policy: E-mail letters to starletters@txstate.edu. Letters must be no longer than 300 words. No anonymous letters will be printed. We reserve the right to edit for grammar, spelling, space and libel. We reserve the right to refuse obscene, irrelevant and malicious letters. All e-mails must include the name and phone number of the letter writer. Students should also include their classiﬁcations and majors.

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

Editor In Chief...................................Jason Buch, stareditor@txstate.edu Managing Editor.........................Emily Messer, staropinion@txstate.edu News Editor..............................David Saleh Rauf, starnews@txstate.edu Trends Editor....................Maira Garcia, starentertainment@txstate.edu Photo Editor...................................Monty Marion, starphoto@txstate.edu Sports Editor..................................Chris Boehm, starsports@txstate.edu

Copy Desk Chief................................Bill Rix, starcopychief@txstate.edu Design Editor..........................Michael E. Perez, stardesign@txstate.edu Systems Administrator.............Chris Jeane, starsysadmin@txstate.edu Webmaster...........................Ryan Johnson, starwebadmin@txstate.edu Advertising Coordinator......................Jodie Claes, starad1@txstate.edu Advertising Sales Manager....................Lindsey Lee, atlas@txstate.edu

Account Executive...........................Jackie Pardue, jp1271@txstate.edu Publications Coordinator..Linda Allen, starbusinessoffice@txstate.edu Publications Director..............Bob Bajackson, stardirector@txstate.edu Visit The Star at www.UniversityStar.com

The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University-San Marcos published Tuesday through Thursday during the fall and spring semesters. It is distributed on campus and throughout San Marcos at 8 a.m. every other Wednesday of Summer I and II with a distribution of 6,000. Printing and distribution is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung. Copyright September 7, 2006. All copy, photographs and graphics appearing in The University Star are the exclusive property of The University Star and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the editor in chief.

The University Star - Page 8

Thursday, September 7, 2006

C �LASSIFIEDS �� THE ��UNIVERSITY ��STAR ��

�� ad policiesand costs

Thursday, September 7, 2006 - Page 9 Wednesday, August 24, 2005 - Page 33 ANNOUNCEMENTS

SIGMA ALPHA LAMBDA, A NAT’L HONORS & LEADERSHIP ORG.WITH OVER 60 CHAPTERS IS SEEKING MOTIVATED STUDENTS TO SERVE AS FOUNDING OFFICERS/MEMBERS TO BEGIN A CAMPUS CHAPTER at TEXAS STATE. CONTACT: RMINER@SALHONORS.ORG

AUTO $500 REPOS! SEIZURES! POLICE includes, all makes and models from $500. Call for listings (800) 561-2627 ext.1102.

FOR RENT LANGTRY APARTMENT SUB-LEASE, 2BD/2BA. Move in ASAP, no deposit, flexible rent $640. Call Mason at (979) 245-9593 or email masonfields@hotmail.com URGENT!!!!!! Looking for someone to sublease a 1BD/1BA, 670 sq. ft. apartment by the end of September. Rent is $420. Located at the Veranda Apts. off of I-35N. (830) 422-1513. 239 CRADDOCK. 2BD/1BA with W/D included. $565 per month. On shuttle route. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy Real Estate, (512) 665-0350. 811 BRACEWOOD. 2BD/1BA with w/d included for $525 per month. Great deck with a view. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy Real Estate, (512) 665-0350. 1/1.5 LOFT. 700 sq. ft. 2BD/1.5BA, has backyards, includes W/D. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. $0 DEP., $345, MOST BILLS PAID. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. BIG 2 BEDROOM 900 SQ. FT. $585! Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. BIG DOGS OK! 1/1 - $450 & 2/2 $450, pay partial water, free cable. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. $199 TOTAL MOVE-IN! 1 bedroom, $460. 2 bedroom, $525. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. CALL THE ROOMMATES! 3 master suites, plus 1/2 bath. All appliances, including microwave and W/D. Rent $1,025. 916 or 918 Sagewood Trail. (512) 342-9567 or (512) 826-6208 (Austin). Prime Properties. APTS. OR HOUSE next to campus, roommate matching, wooden floors, good condition, free internet and cable, $250-$350 per person. Call (512) 757-1943. 707 BRACEWOOD has 2/1’s beginning at $475 per month. W/D connections. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy Real Estate, (512) 665-0350. 1108 A COLUMBIA AVE. 2/1 with large backyard. Newly remodeled. $775 + $500 deposit. Pets OK. (512) 799-4738. TOWNHOME 4-2.5, All bills paid, W/D included. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. 0 DEPOSIT, 0 APP. FEE. 1 month FREE! Cable, internet, water, trash paid. W/D included. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. DUPLEXES FOR RENT. First month free with this ad. (512) 422-0903. SINGLE ROOM LEASES IN 3/3 1/2/2 DUPLEX. $300/mo. First month rent free. Pets OK. (512) 587-2660 or (210) 324-0285. $1-1 $375. 500 sq. ft.! Some bills paid. Cheapest in town. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123. $149 TOTAL MOVE IN! 1 bedroom, $420. 2 bedroom, $525. On TXState shuttle. Apartment Experts, (512) 805-0123.

FOR RENT-APTS $785, 2BD/2BA WINDMILL APARTMENTS. 3 blocks from TxState. Move-in today! Free HBO, Road Runner, full-size W/D. www.windmilltownhomes.com for ﬂoor plans & prices. (512) 396-4181.

FOR RENT-APTS

FREE RENT. Take over my individual lease at The Ridge. First and last months rent free. No deposit, $390/mo. Includes cable, phone, and internet. Call (512) 644-3398.

FOR RENT-DUPLEX 2 UNITS AT 903 & 905 HILYER ST. Each unit has 3BD/2BA, fireplace, dishwasher, microwave, W/D & refgr. Nice wooded setting with large backyard. $1,030 per mo., discounted to $990 with long term lease. Call (559) 568-1015, or (559) 723-1676 ask for Teri or Don. 500 CREST CIRCLE. Country living. 2BD/2BAwith w/d connections. 1 car garage and fenced yard. REDUCED to $800 per month. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy, (512) 665-3321. 612 MILL STREET. 2BD/2BA available in October. W/D included. On the shuttle. $700 per month. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy Real Estate, (512) 665-3321. TWO STORY DUPLEX, 3BD/2.5BA, 2 car garage. Near university area in Hughson Heights. Freshly painted and ready for tenant, $895/mo. 1/2 month free. Call (512) 829-2015 for quick move-in. $765, 2BD/2BA WINDMILL DUPLEX. 3 blocks from TxState. Movein today! Free HBO, Road Runner, full-size W/D. www.windmilltownhomes.com for floor plans & prices. (512) 396-4181. DUPLEX. 2BD/1BA. Fenced yard. $585/mo. Contact Carmen at (512) 878-2995. DUPLEXES FOR LEASE OFF OF SAGEWOOD! 3BD/3.5BA; two-car garage/Internet access. Call today! (512) 913-8028. 900 HAZELTON. 3BD/2BA/1 carport for a REDUCED $925. W/D connections. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy, (512) 665-3321. 1BD/1BA, ceiling fans , hardwood floors, W/D, pets OK, $600/mo 557-0961. NICE 2BD/1BA, fireplace, fenced yard, pets OK. $650/mo. (512) 392-2443.

FOR RENT-HOUSES 2 ROOMMATES NEEDED. 2,600 sq. ft. house, 1 mile from university. $450+ utilities. Call (210) 422-0577. 2010 NEVADA. 4BD/2BA. Newly painted. $950 per month. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy Real Estate, (512) 558-2651. BRAND NEW 3BD/3BA HOUSE ON 2 ACRES, large deck and shade trees, $1,500/mo. Call (512) 557-1831. 118 QUAIL RUN, 3BD/2BA, 2 car garage, ﬁreplace, CH/CA, ceiling fans, patio, $950/mo. (512) 353-2684. HOUSE FOR RENT. 3BD/2BA, 1 car garage. Rent $900 plus utilities. All appliances. Deposit $300. (830) 481-4048. 2904 PHILO FOR LEASE. 3/2/2 for $1,250 per month. Visit legacyrealestate.biz and call Legacy Real Estate, (512) 665-3321.

GARAGE SALE GARAGE SALE!! 1110 Girard St. by the Old Crockett Elementary School. College clothing (like new), baskets, playstation 2, dishes (kitchen ware), and lots more. Friday, 9/8; Saturday, 9/9; Sunday, 9/10. Starting at 10 am.

HELP WANTED TEACHERS NEEDED : Quality child-development center in Kyle needs teachers for our preschool & afterschool programs. Hiring young men and women. Must be fun & energetic. Must be able to work M–F, 2:30–6:30. www.rockinghorseacademy.com; (512) 405-3700 or fax( 512) 405-3701. ATHLETIC MALE MODELS WANTED for physique photography in Austin. $200-$1000 per session. Call Wu at (512) 927-2448.

All classified ads are charged 20¢ per word. Ads may be emailed to starclassifieds@txstate.edu. Check your classified ad for accuracy. Any changes must be made by the second day of publication. The deadline for all classified ads is noon two business days prior to publication. Classified ads must be paid in advance unless credit has been established. Refunds will only be given when a classified ad has been paid by credit card. The Star reserves the right to refuse, edit, and discontinue any classified ad at any time without prior notification. Classified ads will be edited for style purposes. Classified ads that do not note heading, will be put under the appropriate heading. All classified ads are published free, on-line at www.universitystar.com. Since this is a free service, posting is not guaranteed. While The University Star attempts to screen ads for misleading claims or illegal content, it is not possible for us to investigate every ad and advertiser. Please use caution when answering ads, especially any which require you to send money in advance.

E-mail eds at starclassifieds@txstate.edu Email Classifi Classifieds starclassifieds@txstate.edu

HELP WANTED

CHILDCARE NEEDED FOR TWO SCHOOL AGED CHILDREN (Kindergarten and 3rd). Fall and Spring Semesters, Mon.-Fri., 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Education or Early Childhood Development major preferred. Call (512) 353-3707. TEKA MARKETING INC. is now expanding and looking to fill several FT/PT positions, very flexible hours and casual work environment. For more information call (512) 805-0020. ATTENTION STUDENTS! POSITIONS AVAILABLE •$13 Base Appointment •Flexible Schedules •Customer Sales/Service •No Experience Needed, will train •All Ages 17+ •Conditions Apply Call today (512) 392-7377 www.workforstudents.com RAILROAD SEAFOOD STATION. Now hiring top bartenders, servers, managers. (210) 361-3944, ask for Alex. ATHLETIC, OUTGOING MEN for calendars, greeting cards, etc. $75-200/ hr. No exp. needed, (512) 684-8296. POSITIONS AVAILABLE-chef, cooks, prep cooks, and waitstaff, both shifts. Apply in person. Juan Henry’s Restaurant, 500 River Road, Wimberley. EQUESTRIAN AND PHOTO MODELING OPPORTUNITIES. Apply on-line @ www.texasarabianhorses.com SPANISH 1420 TUTOR NEEDED for a correspondence class. Must know the grammar well. Will pay good! (512) 350-4192. U.B. SKI IS LOOKING FOR SALES REPS to post College Ski Week Flyers. Earn free trips and extra cash. Call 1-800-SKI-WILD. OUTGOING STUDENT NEEDED TO DISTRIBUTE FLIERS on Sept. 18-19; flexible hours; $10 per hour. (800) 927-9194. BABY SITTER NEEDED. MON. AND WED. 10am-5pm. Please contact (830) 203-0144 or (512)757-8740. BOBCATSNEEDJOBS.COM. We need Paid Survey Takers in San Marcos. 100% FREE to join. Click on Surveys. ENJOY WORKING WITH CHILDREN? J&R Gymnastics is looking for energetic gymnastics, tumbling and cheerleading instructors. Schedule: 4-30 hrs. per week. Pay commensurate with experience. Experience preferred. Call (830) 606-0375. COTTON EYED JOE’S part-time position available. Must be able to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends and holidays. Apply in person. 1680 Hunter Rd., Historic Gruene District. ATTENTION BUSINESS MAJORS, store manager needed immediately in Buda, P/T, flexible hours, phone skills, people person. E-mail resume as a Word document to betrulock@onr.com or mail to Barbara Botkin, 150 Paintbrush Path, New Braunfels, TX, 78132, (512) 415-7433. GRUENE ANTIQUE COMPANY part-time positions available. Must be able to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends and holidays. Apply in person. 1608 Hunter Rd., Historic Gruene District. !BARTENDING! Up to $300/day. No experience necessary. Training Provided. Age 18+ OK. (800) 965-6520 x 157.

HELP WANTED

TECHNICAL SUPPORT REPRESENTATIVE - teleNetwork is currently seeking TSRs to provide technical support for dialup and DSL customers. Full or Part Time positions available with ﬂexible scheduling at our Austin and San Marcos call center locations. More information and online application available at http://www.telenetwork.com/careers POOL AND SPA COMPANY NOW HIRING. PT, no experience necessary, (512) 754-0662. BAR STAFF/ENTERTAINERS! Sugar’s is seeking staff with a fun loving attitude who enjoy working in a party atmosphere. AM/PM, PT/FT, FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES. Great $$$! Great back to School Job! Apply Sugar’s, 404 Highland Mall Blvd. E., Austin (near Highland Mall). (512) 451-1711. LOCAL DELIVERY DRIVER AND WAREHOUSE. $7.40/hr. plus 45¢/mi., must have pick-up. Flexible hrs. between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. J-Co Supply, (512) 392-7765. NANNY/BABYSITTER NEEDED. Afternoons only, will pay well to pick up 3 daughters from school and take home, (512) 757-3833. Evenings(512) 353-5912. PETE’S DUELING PIANO BAR is seeking friendly, outgoing cocktail waitresses with big smiles and hardworking doorman. We are open and accepting applications Tue.-Sat. 6:30-8:30 at 421 E. 6th St., Austin, Texas. NEED SOMEONE WHO LIKES TO CLEAN. 2 days, 4 hours per day (days & time ﬂexible). Home 5 miles off Aquarena Springs. (512) 393-2159. WANTED: VOLUNTEER COACHES FOR SAN MARCOS YOUTH SOCCER. Training available. Fun community service opportunity for soccer players. Contact Michael Colca, colca@io.com, (512) 847-5238. COLLOQUIUM BOOKSTORE. Accepting applications for a FT shipping & receiving clerk. Visit bobcatbooks.com for more details.

MISCELLANEOUS

THE UNIVERSITY STAR IS LOOKING FOR DELIVERY DRIVERS! On-campus delivery person needed from 2pm-5pm, Tuesday-Friday; Off-campus delivery needed 9am-noon, Tuesday-Friday. Excellent pay!!! Must have your own vehicle and good driving and parking history. Pick up an application at the Trinity Building, or download one at www.universitystar.com. TEST ANXIETY? (512) 658-3063.

NOTICES

THE ONE PROPHESIED BY THE MAJOR WORLD RELIGIONS WILL SOON BE SEEN BY EVERYONE! He won’t endorse any particular religion over any other, nor will he send anyone to “hell”. He will inspire mankind to see itself as one huge family and to rebuild the world based upon the principles of sharing, justice, brotherhood, and love. Read all about it! www.Share-International.org. Free literature (800) 870-610.

PERSONALS WANT TO JOIN A POOL LEAGUE? (512) 754-7665.

ROOMMATES ROOMMATE NEEDED, Christian, non-smoker, female, $450/mo. plus cable and electric bill. Call (830) 377-7508. ROOMMATE WANTED: MALE STUDENT TO BE A CARETAKER FOR A DISABLED MALE. Free housing possible, 20 miles from San Marcos in Luling. Ideal for someone wanting to cut routine drive from San Antonio or Austin. Would take care of yard and some housework in nice home. CALL BILL AT (830) 875-6933. NEED FEMALE ROMMATE to share 2BD/2.5BA townhome, 2 blocks from campus, w/d, includes cable and internet, $395/mo. Call (214) 726-6998. FEMALE ROOMMATE NEEDED, 2BD/2.5BA townhome, $392 per mo., plus 1/2 water and electric, close walk to campus. (281) 793-3083

SUBLEASE LOOKING FOR FEMALE, TO TAKE OVER LEASE. 4BD/4BA townhome at University Club. Includes,master suite and master bath, internet,cable, and phone. ONLY $345/ mo. plus 1/4 of utilities. If interested, please call (979) 421-3171.

WANTED HEALTH CLUB-OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK. Part-time positions, front desk, must be working on a related degree, $5.50 per hour. Ideally suited for kiniesology/physiology major looking to develop into a full time professional ﬁtness trainer upon graduation. E-mail resume to ﬁtnessdoctors@AOL.com and call (512) 560-6761.

WANTED

USED CARS, TRUCKS, VANS. Any condition, running or not. If you have something to sell please call Willis Mitchell. (512) 353-4511. COME WORK FOR THE STAR! Employment at The Star provides you with an opportunity to work with motivated students who are interested in journalism and newspapers. This is a must for anyone who in a career in journalism, and it is an excellent opportunity for students who want to get involved with the university and learn about the world around them. The Star is currently hiring for the following positions: •News reporters Must be able to gather information, conduct interviews and come into the newsroom to have stories edited. •Entertainment writers Must be able to report on arts and entertainment events on campus and in Central Texas, conduct interviews and come into newsroom to have stories edited. •Entertainment columnist Must be able to write intelligent and interesting columns about arts and entertainment on campus and in Central Texas. •Opinions columnists Must be able to write well-organized and thought-provoking columns about on-campus and local happenings. •Comic artists Must be able to create a comic strip three days a week. •Illustrators Must be able to work with the editorial staff to create editorial cartoons and story illustrations as well as bring original ideas to the table. •Account executive Create revenue by selling display ads and classiﬁed line ads. Includes servicing and renewing existing accounts as well as prospecting new accounts, work with customers to design ads, complete paperwork to insert ads and collect payments. •Delivery drivers On-campus delivery person needed from 2pm-5pm, Tuesday-Friday; Offcampus delivery needed 9am-noon, Tuesday-Friday. Excellent pay!!! Must have your own vehicle and good driving and parking history. Pick up an application at the Trinity Building, or download one at www. universitystar.com. BIKINI MODELS WANTED. (512) 754-7665.

SPORTS THE UNIVERSITY STAR

Thursday, September 7, 2006 - Page 10

RoadWarriors Volleyball and soccer both hit the road this weekend, leaving cross country as the only game in town. The volleyball team will try to break a two-game skid in Denver’s Pioneer Classic, with matches against No. 3-ranked UCLA, Denver and Georgia.

Soccer travels to El Paso for the Border Classic, playing Western Carolina and Texas–El Paso Friday and Sunday, respectively. The Bobcats have split their last two contests with the Miners.

Sports Contact — Chris Boehm, starsports@txstate.edu

The Wreckin’ Crew ‘up for challenge’ of new season Flag football team leaves ‘dorm league,’ aims for overall championship By Robert Best The University Star Fans can breath a sigh of relief because football season is back. All the unanswered off-season questions will now be revealed. It’s time to find out how the Bobcats will fare without Nealy and how the Longhorns will do without Vince. Can Roethlisberger stay out of the hospital long enough to complete a pass? Will The Wreckin’ Crew make it two straight after leaving the dorm leagues? Hundreds of people have already signed up for the upcoming season, which starts Sept. 11. Flag football games may not draw Rose Bowl-size crowds, but a lot more people are involved with flag football than one might think. Last season, The Wreckin’ Crew won in the Residence Hall division with an 8-2 record overall. Named after Texas A&M’s hard-nosed style of defense in previous years, The Wreckin’ Crew admits defense played a big role in winning last season’s league championship. “Last year, we had a more defensive-minded style of play but we are working equally hard this year on offense,” said John Becak, defensive coordinator for The Wreckin’ Crew. The team has already been practicing for nine weeks in order to better prepare for the move to the Men’s B league. “Playing off-campus competition is something we haven’t really experienced and it’s going to be tough,” said Noble Smith, captain of the team. “We’re definitely ready for the challenge, though.” Smith has captained the team for three years now and has come up just short of the overall championship the last two years. He blames too much partying for the team’s earlier struggles. “It’s all about having a good time but we had a little too much fun two years ago,” Smith said.

Monty Marion/Star photo TOUGH ENOUGH: Sophomore John Becak, senior Michael (“Big Mike”) Alegbeleye and sophomore Noble Smith of last year’s Residence Hall division champions The Wreckin’ Crew have been practicing for nine weeks in order to prepare for their move to the Men’s B league.

“Last year we won the league championship and moved a step forward but didn’t get it done in the ﬁnals.” The players seem to genuinely enjoy playing on the team. When asked to describe the team, the ﬁrst word almost everyone said was ‘determined.’ They are proud to play for The Wreckin’ Crew and their attitude is not unlike that of Muhammad Ali. It’s not necessarily cockiness if the team can back up its talk. With the mass improvement in just two years, it’s hard to pick against them this season. Smith said that the team isn’t superstitious and that they don’t have any pre-game rituals. Instead, they have a “post-game” ritual of celebrating wins

Football travels to Bluegrass State to take on Wildcats By Gordon Taylor The University Star The Texas State Bobcats hit the road Saturday to face the University of Kentucky at 6 p.m. The Wildcats are Texas State’s stiffest competition on the schedule this year, but Coach David Bailiff isn’t concerned. “We’re excited to go up there,” Bailiff said. “We want to go up there, play hard and aggressive and have fun.” Many of the Texas State players share Bailiff’s enthusiasm. “This is going to be a huge test. They’re the biggest, fastest, strongest and most athletic team we’re going to see all year,” said junior quarterback Chase Wasson. “We’re going into a hostile environment and are looking forward to getting a chance to knock off a Division I school.” Senior defensive back Gary Shepard said the team is looking for more than improvement after last week’s narrow win in the season opener. “This game is going to give us an opportunity to compete, an opportunity to improve and an opportunity to show our team chemistry,” Shepard said. “But we’re not going out to just improve. We’re going out to win. We’re on a mission to win.”

Cotton Miller/Star photo HOLDING ON: Freshman wide receiver Jamell Snell ﬁghts for control of the ball during football practice Wednesday at Bobcat Stadium. The Bobcats hit the road this weekend for a Saturday game against the Kentucky Wildcats.

The Bobcats are coming off a hard-fought 27-23 victory over Tarleton State at home, while the Wildcats were handed a 59-28 shellacking in Sunday’s Governor’s Bowl, at the hands of the No. 13 ranked Louisville Cardinals. Both teams, according to Bailiff, are looking to prepare for their conference schedules. “They (Kentucky) have to get

ready for SEC games and we have to prepare for Southland Conference games,” Bailiff said. The Bobcats are looking to use this week’s game to help improve in all phases of the game. “As efficient as we were in last week’s game, we need some big plays from some of our guys. We need to turn a five-yard pass into a sixty-yard touchdown,” Bailiff said. “And on defense, we have to stop the big plays. The big plays we gave up last week were mistakes from new faces we have out there, not from lack of hustle. The good thing about those sorts of mistakes is that they’re fixable.” Defensively, the Bobcats gave up over 350 yards to the Texans last week, which is something Shepard hopes does not happen again in this weekend’s game. “We have a chance to go out there and revamp what we do best, to polish up and to get back to the basics,” Shepard said. The Bobcats are also looking to refine their offense this weekend, an offense that coach Bailiff described as efficient. “We’re hoping to open up the playbook for this game,” Wasson said. “But we’re not going to run anything special for them. We’re going to play our game and take what they give us.”

after games. Team Rec, out of the Men’s A division, took the All University title and Smith said he’ll do everything in his power to make sure that changes. “For winning the division, we got a ‘Division Champs’ T-shirt,” Smith said. “It was a nice shirt but it just brings back memories of not winning it all.” Although Smith said his team is well-prepared, he admits there are some challenges along the way. “We can’t always practice on everyone’s schedule so we go with what we’ve got,” Smith said. “Even if just three people show up, we’ll spend a couple of hours practicing.”

David Tannreuther, a receiver, said the team was laid back but that the practices were pretty serious. “We go over a bunch of routes for the offense to run and audibles that the defense can call to switch up our formation,” Tannreuther said. “The reason we won our division was because of our work ethic and preparation.” Being a member of The Wreckin’ Crew takes hard work and this year the team had to have a tryout when more people than expected showed up to play. “We had to cut 18 people to make our current 12-man roster,” Becak said. “We have a solid depth chart to work with, though.” Becak said the team lost some players to graduation. He also had to cut some members who he and Smith said were slowing the team down. They both admit it’s nothing personal and just want what’s best for the team. Becak said team chemistry and knowing how to properly read the other team’s offense is what sets his team apart. “We’ve all played together for three years and get along great,” Becak said. “It’s all about having a good time.” Still, Smith admits he’d be upset if his team didn’t win the title. “We’re going out there to win it all and we are more than prepared to do so,” Smith said. “Getting anything less than the title would be falling short of our goal.” Flag football consists of two halves, each lasting 20 minutes. With seven men on offense and defense, mistakes can be crucial and the opportunities are endless. There are six different leagues for men, women and fraternities. Playoffs start with the best two teams in each league and end with one ﬁnal champion. Today is the last day to register for a ﬂag football team. Call the Student Recreation Center for more information. Track your favorite teams and players all season in The University Star’s Flag Football overview, available once a week during the season.

Gary Job Corps, cross country to host invitational By Gabriel Mendoza The University Star Bobcat cross country will host the Texas State Invitational Saturday, its first and only collegiate meet this season at the Gary Job Corps. The event kicks off at 8 a.m. with the collegiate races and will be followed by high school and junior high events. The event, a co-op with the Gary Job Corps, is now in its fourth year at this location and has grown exponentially since it first moved from the Texas State golf course in 2003. Last year’s event drew over 1,500 participants to San Marcos. The fast, enclosed, all-grass area boasts a five-mile men’s collegiate course and threemile course for women. The track itself is in good shape even after recent rain. The invitational is greatly beneficial to both the university athletic program as well as the Gary Job Corps. Track and field Assistant Coach Adam Hudson has been busy this week with preparations. “This event is the single biggest fund-raiser of the year for cross country and track and field,” Hudson said. “It also

helps and brings money to the job corps.” The Bobcats are coming off their first competition of the year last weekend in Nacogdoches at the Lumberjack Opener, where four men’s and eight women’s runners finished. Andrew McCartin and Chris Vidrine brought in Texas State men’s top finish. On the women’s side, the duo of Whitney Perkins and Samantha Evola finished in the top ten. Saturday’s event will include some tougher competition, including Texas women who dominated last year’s event, not only winning the overall team competition but taking first through seventh places individually as well. Other schools competing include Texas A&M International, Texas A&M-Kingsville, Angelo State and conference rival Texas-San Antonio. The competition brings opportunities for the Bobcats, particularly to familiarize themselves with the Roadrunners. “It’s good to go head-tohead with a conference rival, particularly so early in the season,” Hudson said. “It gives us a chance to see who’s better, us or them, going towards the

conference tournament.” This week’s event will be a good test for the squad to see how they stack up against quality teams. The Bobcat roster holds some great runners of its own, as McCartin and Vidrine are joined by Frankie Flores and Roel Elizalde, among others on the men’s team. The women have the likes of Brittany Rosen, April Murphy, Tenley Determan and Marina Andruzzi to join Perkins and Evola towards the top. Although individual pairings are placed, the first five runners for each squad to cross the finish line will be tabbed to calculate the team’s overall finish. Following the Texas State Invitational, the Bobcats will travel to College Station to run in the Texas A&M Invitational on Sept. 16, followed by the UTSA Invitational and the Cowboy Jamboree in Stillwater, Okla. the following two weeks. The university will host one other meet this season, the Texas State Classic. However, it will feature high school and junior high divisions only. The event also takes place at the Gary Job Corps.