Vol. 96 Issue 11 TheSt. Mary’s University Rattler Student Newspaper 04.29.09

SGA

Securing Campus Recent disturbances have Behind Closed Doors students asking for cameras Page 6 SGA presidential candidates cause controversy with election violations Page 3

Cramming for Finals Students offer tips on how to survive finals week Page 16

Chevelle Backstage Pass An exclusive interview with drummer Sam Loeffler Page 22 2 The Rattler News 04.29.09 Police Blotter

4/16/09 Sick/injured person at the AT&T Center. EMS was refused and person released on own.

4/17/09 Minor in possession and disorderly conduct in Adele Hall. County citations issued and referred to Judicial Affairs.

4/19/09 Burglary of motor vehicle in Lot B.

4/22/09 Sick/injured person at the AACC. Lacerations to the face from a fall, Student Health Center provided treatment and student released

4/24/09 Disturbance in Financial Aid Office. Disruptive student escorted from facility. Referred to HR and Judicial Affairs Michelle Myers, a member of the San Antonio Gender Association and part of the Human Rights Campaign, speaks on her experience as a part of Breaking the Silence on Tuesday, April 14. The event focuses on maintaining rights for members of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Damaged property in the Pecan community. Photo by Analicia Perez Grove. Truck backed over a light pole. 4/25/09 Pecan Grove Review’s Damaged property in Lot R. Tires News in Brief Final blessing ceremony slashed. release pushed back for seniors next Friday

Disturbance in Lot H, uncooperative New staff appointed for The 2009 issue of the university literary Friday, May 8, 7:00 p.m. student. magazine, The Pecan Grove Review, has been AACC Bill Greehey Arena the coming school year delayed and will not be published until fall. 4/27/09 The university has hired new staff for a vari- Technical problems with the printer have The final blessings will be given to the gradu- Sick/injured person in Dougherty ety of positions. forced a delay of the publication. ating seniors in the Bill Greehey Arena. Bac- Hall. Student cut and bleeding. EMS calaureate Mass is a part of the long-standing was refused, transported to Student Tanuja Singh, Ph.D., has been appointed Graduating seniors who were to be published traditions of the Catholic church, but all faiths Health Center for further medical as dean of the Business School; Winston Er- are asked to e-mail Professor Diane Bertrand are welcome for the prayers and blessings. treatment. evelles, Ph.D., was chosen to be dean of the with a permanent mailing address so the is- School of Engineering, Mathematics and Sci- sues can be mailed after publication. Ring blessings for seniors will also be avail- ence and Rev. Rudy Vela, S.M., is now vice able that day at 6 p.m. in Treadaway’s president for Mission and Identity. Submissions of poetry, short fiction and non- Guadalupe Chapel. fiction for the 2010 issue can be submitted to Professor Bertrand at her office CT 412. For Index submission policies, please e-mail her at dber- News 2-6 [email protected]. Commentary 7-11 Students planting trees in New strain of the flu virus Early voting began for Features 12-18 Entertainment 19-23 honor of soldiers found in San Antonio Mayor and City Council Sports 24-28 University of Incarnate Word students that Two teenagers in the San Antonio area were Early voting by personal appearance for San are members of the Student Veterans Asso- found to have swine flu, a new virus that is a Antonio Mayor and City Council members ciation will be participating in tree planting combination of the bird, human and pig strains started on April 27 and will continue until Contact Us: ceremonies with the Peace Tree Project of of flu. The infection they had matches to the May 5. 210-436-3401 (office) South Texas. infection found in Mexico that has led to sev- 210-431-3407 (fax) eral deaths. The number of confirmed cases in The last day for a mail ballot application is [email protected] The tree plantings will be in honor of fallen the United States have risen to 20. The United May 1. Election day is May 9 and results will soldiers in Iraq and Kuwait. States declared a public health emergency on be shared May 14. Sunday, April 26. Cover design by Jaime Perez Source: Mysanantonio.com Source: Associated Press Source: Mysanantonio.com 04.29.09 News The Rattler 3 SGA election results causes student dissension By Melody Mejia Hernandez and James Eades filed had nothing to do with the affida- Friday morning to add to a petition opponents and SGA, from over- Senior Staff Writer that charge and others in a 21- vit. Election authorities eliminated supporting the election of Osuna. spending on campaign materials, page affidavit against Ramirez, the Osuna as vice president because Claudia Charbel, a junior ma- to violating other sections of the New student body officers may top vice presidential vote winner she twice appeared in the Univer- joring in English-communications election code. Though the com- have been inaugurated earlier this Amanda Osuna, candidate Vincent sity Center atrium, the site of vot- arts, said Osuna supporters intend plaint has been dismissed, whether week, but the widely-contested Astudillo and the SGA. ing, in violation of the campaign to force a re-vote “so that those the affidavit has any merit remains campaigns that produced them code. Osuna maintains that she who voted for Amanda can then unclear, partly because student have ended with students chal- “I feel Tanya and I didn’t do had permission from student elec- again vote for Amanda and show elections officials and the student lenging the results. Recalling the tion officials both times to enter the their support and not just have six body president James Escamia, re- failed Bush v. Gore presidential anything wrong.” atrium, but the student elections people [the student elections court] fused to discuss them. election of 2000 the student elec- panel held otherwise. Election offi- decide what 60 percent of the stu- Escamia said it’s up to the stu- – tions officials so far without pub- - Amanda Osuna, junior cials who made that determination dent body already decided.” dent elections committee to decide lic comment–disqualified the lead- Criminal justice major and could not be reached for comment, Charbel derided the student whether to discuss their findings ing vice presidential candidate af- but Osuna said the decision con- elections committee for effectively publicly, and “as of now, there VP candidate ter she won more than 60 percent fused her. declaring Eades to be vice presi- hasn’t been a consensus for that.” of the vote. “Out of the [three years] I’ve dent, with no public discussion On the other hand, Escamia In the meantime, opponents to Hernandez and Eades cited been here, I have never seen any- until the 5 p.m. Thursday e-mailed acknowledged that the elections presidential winner Tania Ramirez an array of violations of the elec- one be disqualified for these rea- declaration. That declaration, and code and the SGA constitution claimed she had overspent election tions code which they said harmed sons,” she said. “That’s what the failure to articulate its reasons, need revision, apparently because code finance limits by producing their campaign. The irony is that kills me about this whole thing, forced challengers onto Facebook, of issues arising from the election. campaign t-shirts at lower costs elections officials Thursday then I feel Tanya and I didn’t do she said. The declaration of Eades’s “I certainly do feel that the in- across the border in Mexico, by- effectively eliminated both Her- anything wrong.” win without mention of Osuna’s formation in our constitution has passing Student Government As- nandez and Osuna from their By Friday morning, April 24, a election victory amounted to “a left loopholes that determined the sociation (SGA) spending ceilings. election bids, then declared Eades challenge sprang up literally over- slap in the face,” said Charbel. election code needs to be revisited Ramirez denied the claim, saying vice president-elect, after he polled night from Osuna supporters on “This is our first step,” she for next semester,” said Escamia. she was hardly the first to do so, only 38 percent of the vote. They Facebook. They lashed out at SGA said. “Getting a petition and going At the same time, Villareal said and her position was effectively did so without public comment. authorities for failing to discuss about from that. That’s all we can that the elimination of Osuna was upheld by the elections committee, Osuna said Sunday night that the matter publicly, and urged Fa- do for right now. I have everyone I decided by student election judges which declared her the winner late Interim Dean of Students and SGA cebook users to express their dis- know trying.” for reasons other than those cited Thursday, April 23. advisor James Villareal told her appointment to interim dean of Hernandez and Eades had al- in the affidavit, reasons which Vil- But that declaration came only she had been disqualified for three student James Villareal and to join legedly reported an array of im- lareal, too, would not disclose. a week after candidates Gabriel violations of the election code that a protest they staged in the quad proprieties on the part of their Student lands job on Wall Street despite recession By Allison Hernandez him want to work harder. I started having doubts myself,” said Diaz. of 92 interns, 33 were subsequently offered Staff Writer “SEO finds talent where the banks don’t “But all that changed when I felt that I could a job, including two of the three SEO- As the economy sags and many stay in look for talent,” said Diaz. “So if I would’ve really work hard and succeed in this field.” sponsored interns. school to avoid job-hunting in a recession, lost my chance with SEO, then I would have A week after his eight-week internship Diaz could have waited to go into the one student survived the demise of former lost my chance because these firms don’t was up, Diaz was offered a position with Le- field as an inexperienced college graduate, investment house Lehman Brothers to land look for people in smaller schools.” hman Brothers. But when the company went but he said that applying for the internship a job in financial services, thanks partly to a Diaz said because his prior work experi- bankrupt on Sept. 15, the job went, too. and having that extra experience made him group that supports students of color. ence had been only doing physical labor and “I felt like I was on top of my game when more confident in this unstable economy. Senior Ricky Diaz, who majors in corpo- working in retail, SEO provided him with I got the offer, but when Lehman Brothers Diaz said the SEO internship program rate finance and risk management/finan- intensive training before he began his in- went bankrupt, I was scared for a couple of opened doors and afforded him opportuni- cial services, scored a prime internship this ternship. Diaz was given 72 hours of train- weeks–I was on cloud nine for a while, then ties to advance in banking. past summer. From early June to late July ing online and then Lehman Brothers flew I was back to reality.” “People from Texas don’t always think of 2008, Diaz worked at Lehman Brothers, him to New York. He worked in Manhattan Then, Barclays Capital reviewed Lehman they can make it on Wall Street, but I try and the now defunct major Wall Street com- at Lehman Brothers’ headquarters in Times Brothers’ original 33 interns, narrowed them recruit and let people know that there is an pany. The internship led to a job offer that Square, where he received another week of down more and then offered jobs to a select opportunity out there,” said Diaz. “Since he received before even walking the stage more extensive training. few. Diaz starts work by the end of June as SEO opened the door for me, I want to con- for commencement. That week of training ranged from the ba- a capital markets first-year trading analyst tinue to open doors for others.” The organization that played a large role sics to more complicated finance, Diaz said. and will then rotate around different trad- Diaz is enjoying his last month of college in Diaz’s internship is Sponsors for Educa- When training ended, because he was not ing desks until he finds a fit. He said he will life before he flies to London on June 28 to tional Opportunity (SEO), a nonprofit -or licensed to trade, he gained experience by begin with a yearly salary of $70,000 with a train at Barclays Capital headquarters for a ganization that recruits and trains minor- listening in on trade executions and learned $15,000 relocation bonus and the potential month. He will then go back to Wall Street ity college students for summer internships about everyday transactions between sellers for a year-end bonus. to begin work in the trading world. that can result in full-time jobs in large firms and buyers. Even as Diaz saw his own hard work pay Pleased about his future, Diaz feels he specializing in banking and corporate law. Despite the training he received, Diaz off, he recalls seeing the hard work of other has found the secrets to his success. Diaz served his internship at Leh- still experienced a sense of excitement when interns go unnoticed or overlooked, and he “All it really takes to succeed is to have man Brothers with fellow interns from Ivy he officially began. realizes how fortunate he is to have had an great personal skills and to be willing to League schools such as Princeton, Harvard “When I first witnessed the high-pressure internship opportunity that led to a job. learn and help yourself,” he said. “I never and Yale- competition which Diaz said made environment with Lehman Brothers and my Out of 92 interns at Lehman Brothers, thought I’d be living in the Big Apple, but I own co-workers losing millions of dollars, three were SEO-sponsored. From that group love the city.” 4 The Rattler News 04.29.09 Make-A-Wish helps student meet Holy Father By Lauren Sanchez was for everyone else,” she said. “He didn’t Staff Writer care about himself. He would do everything for the children and the poor. He would do a The end of the semester signals the com- lot for the youth because he always said the ing of summer fun for most students, but youth was the future.” for one student, it will be a chance to meet Because John Paul II died on April 2, the pope. 2005, Trevino will now meet Pope Benedict Alyssa Trevino, a freshman biology ma- XVI, who was elected April 19, 2005 by the jor from Harlingen, will visit the pope next papal conclave. Trevino is both excited and month to fulfill a four-year-old wish she nervous about her meeting. made at age 15 to the Make-A-Wish Foun- “I think I’ll probably be really scared and dation. On June 7, Trevino will leave for I might cry, because it’s like meeting a celeb- Rome with her family to meet Pope Benedict rity,” she said. XVI and to see first-hand some of the sites Trevino said her experience with her ill- of Rome, such as the Colosseum and the ness also moved her to major in biology. Trevi Fountain. While she lived with heart disease as a child, Her audience with the pope, with a group she noticed that people treated her different- of six other Make-A-Wishers, will come ly because they didn’t understand the illness June 10. or what she was going through. Trevino’s trip to see the pope is a mile- “Usually, I wouldn’t tell people,” she stone in a longer journey that at one point said, “because I want people to know me for threatened her life. At birth, she was diag- who I am.” nosed with heart disease. She said she hopes to use her biology Her introduction to the Make-A-Wish major toward becoming a pediatric car- Foundation came through Sarah Clunie, a diologist, so that she may help similarly- nurse at Texas Children’s Hospital in Hous- situated kids through the things she went Freshman biology major Alyssa Trevino will get the opportunity to meet Pope Benedict XVI ton, whom she has known for the past nine through herself. this summer. Courtsey Wikimedia Commons years, as a result of her treatment. “I think it’ll be easier for a child to go Make-A-Wish Foundation grants wishes through, once they’ve learned [their doctor to children with life-threatening medical has gone through the same thing],” she said. conditions who have reached the age of two “Also I feel like that’s my purpose, because and a half but are under the age of 18, ac- I really want to do it so bad…ever since I cording to its Web site. The organization was little.” says it has funded some 177,756 wishes, Trevino will meet the pope at the Vatican from traveling to exotic parts of the world, June 10 along with her family, who continue meeting a favorite celebrity, experiencing to stand with her through thick and thin. exciting career fields or receiving the gift of “It’s cool because I can be able to say a shopping spree. they’ve gone through the same stuff I’ve “At first, I was really scared [to make a gone through because they’ve always been wish],” said Trevino. there,” she said. That may have been a holdover from a Someone else who has always been there, moment two years earlier when, at 13, her she said, is her best friend since the age of illness took a serious turn. seven, Esther Leal, a freshman music major. “It got to a point when it was open heart Leal recounts when she first met Trevino. surgery or transplant list,” she said. “She started taking classes at my mom’s With the support of her parents and studio and I’d steal her from the back. We’d younger brother, she underwent open heart always play and run around the whole surgery, which proved to be successful. place–so she doesn’t really know how to When Make-a-Wish later raised the possibil- play piano,” Leal added jokingly. ity of granting a wish of her own, Trevino When Leal learned that Trevino was go- realized this was her chance to do something ing to see the pope she replied, “I was, like, she might not otherwise achieve. that’s awesome. I know that’s been her That’s when Trevino wished to go to dream since forever.” Rome to meet the pope, at the time John Paul II, whom she admired. “He was so special and everything he did 04.29.09 News The Rattler 5 European study abroad program London, England Innsbruck, Austria locations

N Alcalá de Henares (Madrid), Spain

Students have been able to study anywhere in the world, but these locations are the ones offered by St. Mary’s, and now fewer students signing up to study abroad since the economic down turn. Graphic illustration by Amanda Rodriguez Economic crisis affects study abroad programs By erica Leal only seven are going so far.” gain a great amount of confidence. junior English major, said her time just too expensive for my family Staff Writer “It might be because financial If students have the opportunity, in the program was exceptional. and me right now. It’s just a shame aid does not apply to this program they should take the chance now. “The semester I chose to study that not all students have the op- Study abroad programs at the as it does in the fall and spring pro- It might not be available for them abroad in London was the single portunity due to financial issues.” university seem to be feeling the grams,” said Parzinger. the next time.” most worthwhile decision I have Duchouquette urges students effects of the recession this year, While only 20 students showed According to Associate profes- made since I came to St. Mary’s,” who may be hesitating to apply. with the number of applicants interest last summer, the program sor Camille Langston, director of Duchouquette said. “I had the op- “The best advice I can offer to for one program dropping almost signed up 10–again, almost half as the London program, the main rea- portunity to travel the world, meet students thinking about, or plan- by half. many as are going this year. son students are not applying may new people, strengthen friend- ning on, studying abroad is that it’s According to Minita Santizo, The study abroad programs be the state of the economy. ships and intern at a fostering and a once in a lifetime opportunity,” director of international programs, range over a variety of choices. The “Many students are waiting to adoption charity. I have no regrets Duchouquette said. “London and the campus’ London study abroad main programs are London in the apply till 2010,” she said, while about the sticker price of the trip, most of Europe is student-friendly, program has taken a particularly fall, Spain in the spring and Inns- orientations are already underway nor the amount of money I spent meaning many European cities hard hit. bruck in the summer. Students can for the fall program. while in London and traveling offer discounts on food, enter- “We usually have 30 to 40 ap- also choose to study independent- Valeria Escobedo, a junior Eng- throughout Europe.” tainment and accommodation to plicants every year and end up ly nearly anywhere in the world. lish major and past London study According to Santizo, the cost of students. Although the cost of the taking 20 students for the London The London program costs abroad student, agrees that the the program depends on the num- program makes many shy away program,” she said. “This year, we $24,735; the Spain program, economic crisis plays a big role in ber of students that are willing from it, there is no better time to go had 20 applicants and have 12 stu- $22,000; and the Innsbruck pro- fewer applicants as well, but she, to participate. than now.” dents going so far.” gram $8,840. The prices include too, is emphatic about the pro- “The cost is figured on the At this point, all three pro- The Spain program usually most expenses: lodging, transpor- grams’ importance. amount of students,” Santizo said. grams–London, Spain, and Inns- draws 30 to 40 applicants as well, tation, insurance and other ben- “I would assume that many “If the ideal number of students bruck–are going despite the vari- she said. This year, there were only efits. Though such study programs students would get very discour- isn’t met, it is up to the university able numbers, Santizo said. 20. The good news, she said, is that can be expensive, the benefits al- aged in trying to pursue looking administration to decide whether “The more students that attend, 14 students have already signed most always outweigh the costs, for money when everyone is strug- to keep the program still going. We the cheaper we can get the rates up to go to Spain next spring (in- advisers say. gling to make ends meet,” she said. have had only one incident when for the cost of the whole trip,” cluding one from the University of “[What students] need to real- “Despite the struggle, this will be a study abroad program was not she said. “St. Mary’s students are Dayton), which is about the same ize is that studying abroad is an one of the greatest highlights of able to go and that was the year complimented every year abroad. number as there are this year. investment and will benefit them their college career, and definitely 9/11 happened.” We never have problems, and it is “Luckily the Spain program in the long run,” said Santizo. worth every drop of sweat.” Linda Gonzalez, a sophomore important we give this rewarding can pick up [more] applicants Professor Richard Pressman, a To encourage students to sign international relations major, ap- opportunity to our students.” in the fall,” said Santizo. “So former Spain program director, is up, past London program stu- plied to the London program for Students interested in the pro- we have more time to promote even more emphatic about such dents are helping in recruiting the fall semester, but could not be- grams may contact the Office of that program.” programs’ importance. efforts. Others have shown their cause money was short. International Education Programs Numbers are also down for “Personally, I think studying work at London program infor- “It was a tough decision for me for more information. the Innsbruck, Austria, program. abroad should be a requirement mation meetings and at the recent to turn it down, but neither my According to Associate professor for everyone,” Pressman said. “It University Research exhibition, parents nor I had the funds to par- Monica Parzinger, the program is a life-changing experience, and I Langston said. ticipate,” Gonzalez said. “Maybe I “had 40 people show interest, but have watched students grow and Christine Duchouquette, a can apply again, but it was really 6 The Rattler News 04.29.09 Security cameras possibility for next school year By Denice Hernandez car had been keyed from the front meeting in April and says she’ll Copy Editor to back panel. Friends of hers had get administrators to conduct a belongings stolen from their vehi- safety walk early in June instead of A series of car break-ins on cam- cles and tires slashed, she said. waiting until the fall. She also told pus left some students upset, the McCoy, chair of the SGA stu- SGA that once Founder’s Hall is Student Government Association dent development committee, complete there will be new efforts (SGA) asking for security cameras was among those who have asked to assure the safety of students and and administrators making efforts administrators to consider install- their vehicles. to address the issue. ing security cameras for residence Sisoian said the completion Some 17 car break-ins occurred parking lots as a way to improve of the new residence hall should on campus last semester, with sev- campus safety. bring better lighting and, if need- en of them all occurring on Nov. 19, The proposal came after SGA ed, more will be considered. according to the annual University research showed that about 60 per- Rebeckah Day, vice president Police incident report. Most of the cent of students surveyed thought for administration and finance, said break-ins, including two cases of there was adequate lighting on she is making sure that the campus property damage to vehicles, were campus which made them feel safety committee determines what located in the Outback parking lot safe walking at night. But half of needs improvement after evaluat- O, with others along the northwest all students also have vehicles on ing police incident reports and the and northeast side of campus in campus and when it comes to the amounts and types of claims made Students hope there will be more signs and cameras, such as the one lo- lots F, D, G and T. break-ins, some are concerned. to insurance companies. cated by the bookstore, on campus next year. Photo by Robin Johnson Although only seven break-ins “We decided to come together It’s often difficult, Day added, were reported this spring– five because we recognized there was to have an open campus that’s en- Installation of security cameras cameras would improve parking of them occurring in the month a problem that students were un- tirely safe. The safety committee is would serve more as a means to lots safety.” of February alone– it is double happy with,” said McCoy. “[We] suggesting that students make sure track down suspects more easily SGA President James Escamia the number of break-ins from last would like to see better lighting in to lock their vehicles and refrain and conclude at what times break- said he is satisfied with the admin- year’s spring semester. Updates the Outback, more security on the from keeping personal belongings ins and vehicle damage are more istration’s response. in the incident report show that Culebra side of the Outback and inside to prevent any temptation likely to happen, according to Day, “I do feel that progress is be- there have been no attempts of hopefully some cameras for the for burglary. but might not ultimately prevent ing made,” said Escamia. “Stu- vehicle break-ins since the middle Outback and freshman halls.” At the safety committee meet- these things from happening. dents need to feel safe at all times of April. Student Development Vice Pres- ing to be held April 30, Day Nevertheless, “Safety is one on campus, especially when we Among the semester’s victims ident Kathy Sisoian brought SGA’s said she’ll suggest a parking lot of our prominent concerns,” said are focusing on the progress of of vehicle crime was SGA member concerns to a Board of Trustees lighting evaluation. Day. “And we are in the pro- our education.” Alexandra McCoy, who said her cess of evaluating if additional End of year awards given By Ari Rivera News Editor The final awards for this school Presidential Awards year have been given to a group of hardworking individuals. On Wednesday, April 15, the Congratulations to the winners campus hosted Distinguished Leaders Night to celebrate of the Presidential Award for the students and staff that have 2008-2009 school year. worked hard and have been model leaders in their roles in Anna Alejos Peter Houhoulis the community. Awards given included Greek Jon Erik “AJ“ Arjanen Daniel McCarthy Man and Woman of the Year, RA of the Year and STARS of the Amanda Benavides Laura Salas Year. Other awards were given to the leaders in campus recreation, Megan Freasier Veronica Sosa New Student Orientation, Uni- versity Ministry and volunteers Frank Gonzalez Ariel Vinas in the phonathon. The most prestigious and Lance Gossen Braxton Watson competitive honor was the Presi- dential Award. Every year gradu- Berta Gubi Sarah Weynand ating seniors apply to receive this honor and in the end only 14 are selected from the applicants. Source: www.stmarytx.edu/student_recognition/ Ari Rivera / The Rattler 04.29.09 Commentary The Rattler 7 Take steps, remember footprints Staff Editorial first year as an entry level professional. painted over and each hour they spent Mappa The Rattler They will remember every single com- doing community service and will re- plaint they made about the university member to never forget those who are Mundi and will hopefully realize that there will waiting to be helped. Invisible With graduation around the corner, always be little annoyances in life. They will remember every month they many undergraduates will soon be “set They will remember the small classes scrambled money together to buy lunch BY ALFONSO DE LA TORRE free” into reality, whatever that may be they had and will think of all the stupid or to pay rent and will remember to be for them. Hopefully these students will and wise things they heard their class- frugal even if they become insanely rich. Many of us have seen the poverty and vio- take a few memories with them to hold mates say and will remember to appreci- They will think about the years they lence in Africa, a continent ravaged also by not only as memories of their years at St. ate other’s ideas, no matter how wacky spent getting their degree and will hope- AIDS, political corruption and authoritarian- Mary’s, but also as valuable reminders of they may be. fully feel well rounded and ambitious, ism. Yet, few are aware of the children in North- lessons learned that can be applied for They will remember each event, fund- rather than just prepared to jump into ern Uganda, a nation that was successful in years to come. raiser or game they helped create and a career. controlling the AIDS epidemic but has never- Hopefully, when they think of all will remember to put their two cents in Most importantly, they will picture theless been taken hostage by the brutality of of the people they have met, they will while working as a team. some of their best professors, and some the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), a Christian remember how beautiful diversity is They will remember the journey of of their worst, and hopefully be inspired terrorist organization. and say hello to the stranger walking friendship with those who they thought to use their knowledge to help others, Indeed, while pictures of starving children in by them. they would never be friends with and rather than just focusing on their own Mali are circulating around the Internet and vid- They will remember pulling all-night- will remember to make time and sacri- lives forever. eos of the genocide in Rwanda can be easily found ers in their room with a couple of Red fices for a buddy or two. Good luck in your future, gradu- on YouTube, few know about the tragedy involv- Bulls and a blank screen on their comput- They will remember each tree they ates. Continue to grow and hold your ing the children abducted by the LRA- children er and will be able to persevere through a planted, every piece of graffiti they memories dear. who are younger than any of our undergraduate students and are forced to kill dozens of people. The conflict in Uganda has been taking place since the beginning of 1987, with the LRA displac- ing more than a million people from their homes. what they said Concretely, the LRA seeks to establish a government “based on the ten commandments” and claims in- spiration from the Holy Spirit as the justification for its existence. Just last December, after attempts to reach “We have gone through peace talks with the Ugandan government failed, the LRA attacked a Catholic Church in North- a difficult period... it is ern Congo and killed 45 people, chopping them now time to put it all into pieces and spreading them throughout the church. This attack, which took place on Dec. 28 behind us. of last year, was part of the denominated ‘Christ- mas massacres,’ which included the killing of Jacob Zuma almost 500 people, most of them Catholic, on leader of the ANC party in South Africa after Christmas day. winning the general election. April 15. The conflict in Uganda has gotten media at- tention since 2004 when it was revealed that the children in Northern Uganda were being abducted The US seeks a new and used as soldiers, trained and forced to kill in order to avoid being killed themselves. beginning with Cuba. The brutality with which some of these children can act is truly astonishing and, at the same time, President Barack Obama heart-breaking. Yet, these children are invisible speaking at the summit of the Americas about for many reasons. They are invisible because their the US-Cuban relations. own army denies its existence. They are invisible because there are no statistics or records of their existence. But more importantly, they are invisible because most of us have chosen not to see, closing our eyes to their tragedy. We are very, very For a Western world greatly concerned with concerned. radical Islam, we seem to forget that fundamen- talism can be as strong and vicious in practically Thomas Abraham any faith tradition. We will find ourselves twisting World Health Organization spokesperson, the message and virtues founded from faith into explaining the seriousness of a mutation of something that impoverishes any sense a moral swine flue that has killed 68 people in Mexico. responsibility. The story of the LRA and its coward Eleven cases have been reported in the United use of children, a story largely neglected by those States, two of them in San Antonio. whose eyes are only fixated on the Middle East, is a tragic example of this principle. ” Illustration/ Jaymee Baxley 8 The Rattler Commentary 04.29.09 The Rattler Letters to the Editor Editor-in-Chief Sarah Mills Student presents new facts to Benita harmed others, as Mr. de la Torre asserted, ICE oppose President Obama’s tolerance of abor- Veliz article, suggests different approach does consider illegal immigration to be a major tion. However, in the process he equates “re- Managing Editor Christine Le crime, especially in our post-9/11 world. spect for the dignity of human life” with the The fact is, Ms. Veliz is in violation of immi- abortion question alone—something that the Layout/Design Manager I read Alfonso de la Torre’s commentary Amanda Rodriguez printed on April 8 regarding the potential de- gration law and therefore liable for the associ- Catholic Church itself does not do. portation of Benita Veliz. As a student of world ated penalties, including deportation. If one supports the prosecution of adventur- Copy Editor I am not a monster. I understand that Ms. ous wars, continues to use the death penalty Denice Hernandez political and legal affairs, I would like to pres- ent additional facts regarding this matter. Veliz is in a tough position. No person wants to (more than any other industrial society), and News Editor be forcibly removed from the community he/ refuses to provide universal health care (there- Ari Rivera Mr. de la Torre made a very passionate ar- gument on behalf of Ms. Veliz, who came to she calls home, and I certainly do not wish that by allowing thousands to die), but opposes Commentary Editor on anyone. However, Mr. de la Torre’s emotion- abortion alone, does that make one a respecter Lorna Cruz the United States with her family when she was eight years old. According to the com- based plea will not change things. What our of human life? Features Editor law says today is that Ms. Veliz has committed The PPC is guided by the teachings of the Jaime Perez mentary, Ms. Veliz has never been classified as a legal resident and now faces deportation. a crime and must leave the U.S. Catholic Church and is required to have at Entertainment Editor We cannot ethically pick and choose when least one representative from University Min- Stephanie Sanders However, there were many factual inaccuracies in Mr. de la Torre’s argument that are worth to enforce our laws and when to look the other istry on its staff. In fact, it presently has two. Sports Editor bringing to light. way. But we can try to change these laws if we Like the Catholic Church, the PPC is concerned Chris Filoteo all Mr. de la Torre suggested that Ms. Veliz “in- disagree with them. about facets of the dignity of human life, not Photo Editor herited status as an undocumented citizen,” The laws of today do not have to be the laws just one. Robin Johnson and that her choice to believe in the spirit of of tomorrow. Ms. Veliz can investigate her op- Richard S. Pressman, Ph.D. Assistant Photo Editor the U.S. Constitution classifies her as an “un- tions to secure legal American residency in the Analicia Perez President’s Peace Commission documented citizen” rather than an illegal future. The rest of us can take action, too. I urge everyone to become informed, vote, write to Advertising Manager alien. Though Ms. Veliz was moved to America Kimberly Vela by her family as a child, she has no inherent your elected officials, get involved in associa- tions and political movements and empower Not enough ‘life’ issues present at the Presi- Assistant Ad Manager rights to citizenship or legal residency, nor is dent’s Peace Commission, Chaplain agrees Katie O’Donnell “undocumented citizen” a real status. U.S. Im- yourselves to create change. migrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) al- Writing Coach Christopher Stevenson Kimberly Vela lows only three categories of residential status: Congratulations to Sean Stilson for the cou- International relations graduate student U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident, and il- rageous and well-written article in the April 8 Faculty Adviser issue of The Rattler concerning the lack of life Brother Dennis Bautista, S.M., Ph.D. legal alien. Ms. Veliz falls under the final cat- issues in the President’s Peace Commission egory, despite her longstanding history in the President’s Peace Commission looks into all as- community and her contributions to society. presentations this semester. I, too, am very dis- Standards pects of human dignity, not just abortion According to the U.S. Code, Title 8, Subsec- appointed that such important issues basic to The Rattler upholds the Mission Statements Catholic Christian identity were not presented of St. Mary’s University. The publication follows tion 1302 (8 USC 1302), immigrants aged 14 or The Rattler the Canons of Responsible Journalism, the older who have not been registered under the I am happy to see that , in the in a university that claims to have a Catholic/ Associated Press Stylebook and the Student Alien Registration Act and who will remain in person of Sean Stilson (4/08/09), is paying Marianist identity. Surely, they should have Publication Policy. such close attention to what the President’s a place in any peace and justice discussion. I The Rattler is a member of the Associate the U.S. for 30 days or longer must apply for Collegiate Press, the Columbia Scholastic registration (e.g. become documented). Peace Commission does. We need more peo- hope that more of these types of articles will be Rattler Press Association, the Society of Professional Since the age of 14, Ms. Veliz has actually ple like him to take seriously the sessions of published in future editions. Journalists and the Texas Intercollegiate Press been in violation of American immigration the most-attended non-sports programs of Association. Bro. Paul Metzger, Ph.D. laws and is therefore seen as a person break- St. Mary’s University. Chaplain, Greehey School of Business Contact Us ing federal law. Though she may not have Mr. Stilson expresses a concern that the The Rattler PPC is not Catholic enough because it does not St. Mary’s University One Camino Santa Maria Box 83 San Antonio, TX 78228 210-436-3401 / 210-431-4307 (fax) [email protected] Skin color and nationality, two different aspects “Race: White, opinion, be kept separate: skin col- skinned person and found out that where people are from Latino, Letters to the Editor Policy Latino/Hispan- or and nationality. they were from Italy? If not, let Pacific Islander or Asian back- The Rattler welcomes letters to the ic, Pacific Island- When filling out these sorts of me tell you it happens quite often. grounds defeats the purpose of editor. Letters should not exceed er, Black, Asian forms, I would like to bubble in This is because, again, the fact that having these classification sys- 500 words and must include writer’s or Other.” both “white” and “Latino/His- you were born somewhere does tems. Many of the options overlap. name, classification, major and We have all panic” because I am, in fact, of not mean that you are of certain By having them all together, there telephone number. had to fill out white skin color and was born in physical characteristics. is not a true picture reflected by Editors reserve the right to edit Lorna forms like these, Honduras. One’s nationality and Take Latin America as an ex- the statistics. submissions for length, grammar, Cruz maybe even one’s skin color usually do not ample–we have both the Spanish Call me rebellious, but I have spelling and content. Letters may be delivered to Room with more op- have much of a significant corre- influence and the earlier indig- always been tempted to mark 258 in the University Center, faxed to tions available, lation, especially in such a global- enous tribes that merged together, “Other” and write “Human” as (210) 431-4307, mailed to The Rattler, such as “Caucasian” or “Euro- izing world, where there are so which is why you can find short, my race. Maybe next time I will. St. Mary’s University, One Camino pean.” This has always bothered many cross-cultural marriages. darker-skinned Bolivians or tall, After all, they are not classifying Santa Maria, Box 83, San Antonio, TX me profoundly. Instead of mak- Have you ever met a tall, fair- green-eyed Cubans. The same me appropriately anyway. 78228, or e-mailed to rattlernews@ ing these different classifications skinned, green-eyed individual goes with dark-skinned French or stmarytx.edu. clearer, they only confuse people and later found out that they were light-skinned South Africans. For more information, call the even further and merge two forms from a place in South America? This is why mixing classifica- newsroom at (210) 436-3401. of classification that should, in my Or a short, dark-haired, darker- tions of skin color (white or black) 04.29.09 Commentary The Rattler 9 Procrastination lowers grades, not Facebook I’m going on your future by using Facebook. The fact that Facebook is an to take you on It looks so innocent and fun. What outlet for procrastination does not a journey. a terrible trap we’ve wandered change the fact it is my procras- This is a jour- into, woe is me, and so on and tination that is causing the real ney to a world of so forth. problem. I certainly do not need fantastic reports, What strikes me most about this Facebook to practice my procrasti- sensational stud- study is the media reaction. Ignor- nation skills, as there is any number Kenneth ies and astound- ing the old adage that correlation of things I can do to avoid work. Howell ing conclusions. does not imply causation, this I firmly believe that Facebook This is a world study exploded onto every internet is an excellent tool to develop net- that exists in the news site I wandered onto, badger- working skills. Though you might headlines of news stories you see ing me with headlines about how use your Facebook now to send every day. This is a world that my use of Facebook is connected to your friend some “flair” or -com produced one particular headline statistically lower grades. I would ment on a picture, these are social attached to one particular study click away in shame and horror skills that are best taught by per- that has broad implications for a only to find myself looking at an- sonally going through the process very important part of your day– other headline wagging its long of, obviously, socialization. Sites visiting Facebook. finger at me and clicking its tongue like Facebook and MySpace are Yes, Facebook–did you check in a “tut, tut, tut” noise. termed “social networking” sites yours today? Get a friend request? If we can escape our mutual for a reason. They are informal Maybe you were assaulted by doz- shame for a moment, let’s look tools for individuals to connect ens of quiz results you really have at this correlation closely. First and interact with one another. no interest in? Good times, good and most obviously I must repeat The study, though interesting, times. You might not be aware of that correlation does not imply should not have been used by me- a recent study of 219 Ohio State causation. The statistical attach- dia outlets so concretely to broadly University students that found Fa- ment of Facebook use to a gen- implicate Facebook users. The ac- cebook users have lower GPAs by eral impact on grades is not in- tions of a person are largely driven A recent study showed that Facebook users have lower GPAs. 0.5 points and spend 10 less hours dicative of a particular fault on the by personality traits that are not studying than their astute and part of Facebook. For example, I necessarily attached to the exis- Facebook that might not be so brothers and sisters. productive non-Facebook using think something you and I might tence of Facebook. obvious, even to someone who is Well, do some work too if you friends. I bet you had no idea the share is a finely honed capability Additionally, positive traits using Facebook. Now, with that have to. amount of pain you were inflicting to procrastinate. exist in the day-to-day use of in mind, go Facebook in peace my

Senior Commentary

It’s over. My last press out of my room in Treadaway Hall in a towel, a story or igniting a story idea can be expe- without intimidation. weekend of my undergrad- no RA in sight. Where did I have to be? The rienced only through journalism. The en- Staff are not the only people who benefit uate career is coming to an Rattler. The only time I’ve ever been called tire process is fulfilling: crafting the idea, from the paper. Readers often clip out stories end. Over 30 of my valu- a nasty five-letter word to my face? When I following leads, interviewing community about their organization and express grati- able weekends have been worked at The Rattler. With all the stress I’ve members and piecing together a developed tude to see their quotes and photos in black- devoted to this campus’ endured for this rag, I’m surprised I don’t story. Each step allows a new way to zero- and-white. student newspaper. I know, have any ulcers. in on the emotions, intentions, plans and For the past four years, I have contem- Kimberly I have no life. The truth is, Why, then, have I stayed on staff thoughts of people. plated what I would write in my senior col- Vela though, I don’t know what so long? Our student newspaper also allows for umn. At the moment, I can’t think of any elo- else I would have done I am a journalism junkie, and I am not the growth of individuals and of the com- quent words of wisdom to share. All I can on those days. ashamed. While most people will tell you munity. We publish stories and photos from say is this: whatever your passion may be, Looking around, I realize I am the last they joined the newspaper either because of new and seasoned writers and photogra- pursue it because even at its worst, it will be one standing. I am the last member of the its social or résumé benefits, my reasons ex- phers; we enable previously unheard stu- what gets you through the day. editorial board who fondly remembers the pand well beyond these realms. Friends have dents to have a voice on campus. Thank you, The Rattler newspaper; you Francisco Era; the last member to remember come and gone from the staff, yet I remain. The Rattler will always need students, have done more for me than even I under- when the newspaper looked antiquated in- And as far as a résumé, I’m not even pursu- but the reality is, students need The Rattler. stand. To all the staffers and editors past and stead of hip. ing a career in communication. Awesome. I’ve seen students transform before my eyes present, thank you for enriching my life; to The Rattler and I have been through some The philosophy, the battle cry, of jour- as they developed voices for themselves everyone I ever interviewed, thank you for tough times. In my short career, I’ve seen nalists around the world is what has me through writing. Words cannot describe the taking the time to let me learn about you. over 20 people occupying the Macintosh hooked. What other field acts as a -watch pride that emanates from students who ex- For every past deadline, misattributed computers around me; three of them quit dog and a platform for the people? Jour- perience seeing their own words in print. byline, scrutinized pica, crashed server, dis- unexpectedly, three of them I politely let go, nalists are able to inform the masses, con- Through the newspaper, students learn how gruntled letter and exhausted late night, I and one of them disappeared suspiciously. gratulate leaders, spotlight individuals and to break out of their shells, how to communi- have learned something. What more could The Rattler frames every story I tell from critique institutions. cate through words and photos and how to I have asked for? my undergraduate years. Once, I was locked On a personal level, the thrill of pursuing interact with our administrators and faculty 10 The Rattler Commentary 04.29.09 Auto companies abide by government impositions Our central and preferred stockholders when Moody’s, a financial ratings government in GM goes into bankruptcy? Will the firm, recently downgraded the Washington is no government bend the rule of law credit ratings for all U.S. munici- longer just spout- and go to the front of the line? palities. This means that the ability ing populist rheto- Chrysler, another recipient of of cities to service their debt pay- ric. Rather, they government control money, has ments is in question. Barney Frank have taken their also been informed by our cen- (D-MA), chairman of the House Fi- Max intimidation tac- tral planners that it must merge nancial Services Committee, in an Sokoloff tics to the next lev- with Italian auto maker Fiat. I am effort to prop up reckless spend- el in a despicable sure that the career bureaucrats in ing at the municipal level, recently show of power. Washington have plenty of expe- called for legislation to encourage General Motors CEO Rick Wag- rience with mergers and acquisi- this bad behavior. Chairman Frank oner, after 31 years of service with tions. It is unprecedented for our proposed the creation of an Feder- the company, has been forced to government to mandate a merger al Deposit Insurance Corporation- relinquish control of the firm by between two United States firms, type institution to insure the debt President Barack Obama’s admin- much less one with a foreign firm. of these mismanaged cities. istration. In addition to demand- Washington is now setting I was recently reading through ing his removal, the central plan- industrial policy and is rely- the historical New York Times and ners have also mandated that GM ing on the U.S. taxpayer to prop was struck by the similarities be- has 60 days to magically become up this dangerous experiment. tween the early 1930s and today. solvent, or declare bankruptcy. This type of government behav- The articles I came across one after However, I am a little confused ior is something we should all be another were of the government on this. The administration said apprehensive of. trying different solutions to “fix” that in order to receive more bail- In addition to interference by the economy or legislation being out money, Wagoner had to go. the central government in the free rushed through Congress in an But if GM files for bankruptcy, markets, the state bureaucracies effort to “stop the bleeding.” The should it not need any more bail- are getting involved as well. The articles covered issues about tax- General Motor’s CEO was forced to step back from his position. Source: out money? Peoples State of New York just re- es being raised, companies being WikiMedia Commons So where does all of this leave cently announced a new “million- propped up, massive government the common stockholders of GM? aires” tax. Brilliantly named, this spending and different people ob- Last time I checked, it is the share- tax is aimed at individuals making jecting. Even then, those who were us? Given the events of the past but government meddling has holders who decide who will be on $300,000 or more. And I thought objecting were given only one line few weeks, I fear that we are exacerbated the problem to the the board of directors. What is go- that raising taxes in a recession or so in the column. heading toward a very precarious point where, sooner or later, it will ing to happen to the bondholders was mortal error. So, where does all of this leave ledge. Perhaps the initial prob- affect everyone. lem was in the financial sector,

Diane Cibrian, one of the two current councilwomen in “Sunrise” residence by city workers, while neighbors were River City the race, is hated by many in the city, including anti-toll left to paint over the graffiti on their fences at their own road activists who state that she has flipped and flopped expense. I do not consider her to be a serious candidate. her position on the issue of toll roads. They dislike her so The two remaining candidates, former councilman Update much that they have begun a campaign to recall her from Julian Castro and businesswoman Trish DeBerry-Mejia A look at mayoral candidates her city council seat and highlighted a free trip to Cancun seem to be the only two in the race without ethics issues. she accepted from a developer. Of course, she dismisses Both have very informative Web sites that clearly ex- BY CHRIS CHILDREE all these charges and states that she will run the mayor’s plain their positions on the issues and include blogs that office like Hardberger. reflect information about the campaign. However, the Upon visiting her campaign Web site, an annoying ad- race between the two seems to be a partisan battle in a No one in San Antonio can say that they will be proud vertisement floated across the screen. Once I eliminated non-partisan election. to move on to a new mayor when the glorious four years this aggravation, I saw two articles upfront that blatantly While both candidates want to increase jobs, revitalize of the Phil Hardberger administration comes to an end. attacked her opponent Trish DeBerry-Mejia rather than infrastructure and bolster the police and fire departments, Hardberger may, in fact, go down as the greatest mayor state her own plans for the city, which can be found after a big difference between the two is the question of unions: this city has ever had. another link is clicked. Once I clicked this link, that annoy- DeBerry-Mejia tends to oppose organized workers while With elections every two years, limiting this mayor’s ef- ing advertisement floater returned. It did not stop me. I Castro generally supports it. It’s a difference that has been fective policies makes no sense. We should be able to keep read the issues and ideas laid out and they were as sim- a point of disagreement between liberals and conservatives him, or any other effective leader, in office until they begin plistic as possible. It seemed as though little time and effort for over a hundred years. These labels affixed to either to lose their effectiveness. Following this election, it will be was put into this main source for information about the may insert partisanship into the mayoralty and judging by permissible. It’s just too bad that arguably our best mayor campaign. If she is elected, I hope that is not the way she federal and state government, this is not a good thing. will be the last to face the two-term limit. will run the city. I’ll leave it up to the voters to decide, I won’t make an The main four begging for your vote on Election Day Sheila McNeal, the other councilwoman, appears to be endorsement. If you vote, please make an informed choice. will try to make you believe they can do an even better a joke candidate. She literally entered the race in the last While our next mayor will probably be a downgrade from job than our current mayor. I don’t believe it. All of these hour and her campaign “priorities” are listed on her Web Hardberger, we deserve the best of the available especially candidates are the opposite of Hardberger: polarizing fig- site as three measly sentences devoid of substance. Like since this individual will face a tough road in regard to the ures whose ability to get the job done will be hindered by Cibrian, she is also involved in misdeeds. At the taxpay- financial crisis. their detractors. er’s expense she had graffiti removed from her fence in her 04.29.09 Commentary The Rattler 11 President shamefully “looks forward” letters from the From the very begin- the agents’ responsibility in the problem. What kind of moral authority or le- lip-side ning, I supported Presi- Truth be told, the defense these advocates gitimacy can exist if the government cov- F of reason dent Barack Obama as make is very “third-world-like.” ers up these crimes? Two weeks ago the a foreign observer of These excuses are the same excuses Peruvian judiciary–a third-world, still- Comfort Zones the electoral process. from some people in South Ameri- weak system–showed a great deal of in- Among other aspects of can countries, like Peru or Chile, who dependence, institutional operation and BY CRISTINA GONZALEZ change, I wanted him to disregard human rights abuses, argu- respect for the rule of law condemning Alvaro take another route with ing that “there always were orders former president Alberto Kenya Fujimori Zapatel the government’s poli- from above.” for crimes against human rights. I am a girl in a wheelchair, not so much fash- cies towards Guantana- I am neither a lawyer nor a soldier, but As the head of the chain of command, ion-conscious as fashion-sensible. As a general mo and its prisoners. there is always a limit to actions. It is true Fujimori ordered the creation of a death rule, short skirts and I do not get along at all. The president-elect, at that time, con- that there is a chain of command in the squad that was allowed to torture, kid- There’s just too much public embarrassment at fidently said he would close the prison. military and that a soldier must follow nap and kill any “suspect” in the war risk for me! A feeling of vindication invaded me. the orders from their superiors. Yet, a sol- against terror in that country. Hence, Recently, however, I began to wonder After all, we all are humans and de- dier is not a zombie. A soldier has critical there will always be people accountable if maybe my reluctance towards wearing serve a humane treatment despite our thinking and knows the limits between for these abuses. skirts that sit a bit above the knee was really actions, right? what is legitimate and what is not. In- If Eric Holder, attorney general of the as bad as I thought. Summing up the cour- Yet, I was not right. Last week, the deed, torture is not a legitimate method United States, says that it would be un- age, I pulled on the shortest denim skirts I CIA declassified important documents for a legal war–if there is such a term. fair to judge the CIA agents, what about owned and paired it with a set of tights and a regarding the tortures that several agents Obama said that “at a time of great those who were the intellectual authors favorite shirt. committed to “soften” the prisoners’ en- challenges and disturbing disunity, noth- of these tortures? There must be a respect The results of this little experiment were durance. Stressful situations like imped- ing will be gained by spending our time for human rights, above all. mixed. I looked and felt ridiculous, but the ex- ing the prisoners to sleep for 11 days and and energy laying blame for the past.” If this basic premise is not followed, perience didn’t kill me. I was even able to ig- exposing them to insects or other phobias Certainly, that is a shameful comment. we will be exposed to a system that is ca- nore my self-consciousness for a few moments were some of the “scientific methods” the How can a democrat–in the pure sense pable of doing whatever it takes to pre- at a time. agents used. of the word, not the partisan affiliation– serve “freedom” and “democracy.” Mr. It has been a long and tired cliché that life is President Obama addressed the is- say that? If he wants to know what we can Obama, I don’t think that anything would short, but the truth is exactly that. Life is short sue with a nice euphemism, saying that gain, I can tell him that we can gain a lot: be gained if someone from your family and fast-paced; making the most of it requires a this was a time “of reflection, not retribu- the reinforcement of our human rights, suffered from those treatments and de- little effort. Opportunity might knock, but you tion.” In other words, he wanted to “look the ratification of the idea that “not- ev manded compensation. At least dignity also have to be willing to go outside and look forward, and forget past problems.” erything goes on the war against terror,” would be gained and that is enough for for it. You have to put yourself in the world if Where is Obama’s coherence? The advo- the respect towards the rule of law and anyone here in the United States, Iraq or you want to make a difference in it. Oftentimes, cates of these actions argue that there is a the recognition of U.S. legitimacy world- any other part of the world. Democracy that means stepping well outside of your per- judicial justification–which is a clever use wide. In actuality, there is a lot to win and and freedom start there and, as a demo- sonal comfort zone. of words and terminologies–and dismiss it is not a waste of time. crat, you should know that. I will be the one of the first to admit that this is far easier said than done. We create and keep comfort zones to feel safe and secure in the world. They help us keep equilibrium when things around us seem terribly out of place. They are good things, comfort zones, but if you prevent yourself from ever leaving it, who Baha’i faith experiences persecution knows how many rewarding experiences you By Peggah Hemmat might miss? How many of us would have a Staff writer “Because they cannot receive national identity fulfilling relationship or career if we constantly cards, Bahai’is are unable to receive regular refused to take that chance of stepping out and citizenship rights such as education or healthcare.” presenting ourselves as we completely are to Baha’u’llah in Persia founded the Baha’i faith in the mid- the world? nineteenth century. The faith grew out of Iran with the exile of - Peggah Hemmat My friends, in this final piece before we part Baha’u’llah to various places in the Ottoman Empire including for summer, I offer up a challenge: take a huge Baghdad, Constantinople, and finally Akka in modern day Is- step outside of your comfort zone. Keep no res- rael. Baha’is have since spread all across the world and the faith state: Judaism, Christianity, or Islam. Because they cannot re- ervations, save those for restaurants and hotel is now the second-most widespread religion on Earth. ceive national identity cards, Baha’is are unable to receive regu- rooms. Try something new. Go out for that job Baha’is view Baha’u’llah as the most recent in a line of lar citizenship rights such as education or healthcare. you’ve always wanted or finally ask your crush Prophets, or manifestations of God stretching through time, Recently a reporter claimed that a Baha’i is an apostate and out on a date if they’re single. that include Jesus Christ, Muhammad, Buddha, Krishna, and should be killed. This has raised a heightened hate towards the Even if the experience doesn’t go the way Moses. Baha’u’llah taught the unity of God, of religion and of Baha’is and has forced them to flee their homes, which they you like, your crush says no, if you don’t get mankind and is the religious teacher for the modern age. were ordered not to return to by the police. People are acting the job, or even if you find you look ridiculous Within Islam, Muhammad is viewed as the Seal of the Proph- in such behavior because they don’t truly understand what the in a new outfit; don’t give up or run straight ets. For many Muslims this means that any person claiming to Baha’i faith really is. back to the comfort zone. I promise you will be a prophet is heresy. In many Islamic countries Baha’is are It is frustrating that countries would do this to a peaceful learn something from the experience and about persecuted for their beliefs, especially in Iran, the country of the religion, but in the Baha’i writings we are told that this is part yourself–and that, above all else, is a reward in faith’s birth. of God’s plan. As world citizens we need to fight for the rights itself. The Egyptian Court ruled that Baha’is are not allowed to of the Baha’i members that are not as lucky as we are to have have a national identity card. These cards require one to sign such religious freedom. their religion as one of the three officially recognized by the 12 The Rattler Features 04.29.09

Accessories that will make your room too cool for school Retro-inspired multi-headed bedroom lamp

For only $25, this chic lamp from Linens n’ Things will not only bring light to your room, it will add mood and a relaxing ambiance to your work space. It is great for eve- nings focused on read- ing and homework, or just chilling out to some groovy music.

Handcrafted artwork

For a bit of individual- ity, invest in a piece of abstract art. Though this piece was bought in Tokyo for $60, you can purchase your own funky art at lo- cal dealer shops in your Cooling off in comfort, style neighborhood. By Jaime Perez To make his room a relaxing space to beat the heat, Features Editor Ancona has tried to infuse his room with neutral Flat screen colors. From the art piece he purchased from Tokyo, Japan, to the posters of his favorite bands and televi- television As the summer heat slowly approaches, students sions shows, he has tried to make his space both calm are looking for new ways to stay cool. What better and inviting. What’s a dorm room with- way to do so then starting with your own room? “I needed a place to hang out, and how fun is it out a TV? Many flat screens Freshman biochemistry major Vince Ancona, a to see white walls every day?” Ancona said. “I like can run up to $1000, but Dougherty Hall resident has transformed his own the different colors coming together that don’t really this Visio Plasma Television sanctuary with a few simple accessories and said overpower a person with how flashy it is.” was purchased for only that no matter what time of the year it is, a com- However, according to Ancona, the greatest advice $400. The purchase price fortable and organized room is always important. he can give other students who want to have a room is worth it for a couple of “It looks exactly like my room back home. I just to “chill in” is to stay organized and clean. need a place where I can spread my books on the floor “It’s really an easy way to have your room looking hours out of the sun. or invite people over without having them step over nice. I use bins to keep organized, but I also try to pick Photos by Robin Johnson my clothes,” Ancona said. up after myself every day.” CULTURE CALENDAR

Identifying Genes San Antonio Conception/ The Dinosaur Musical A German Evening April 30 - May 13 Calligraphy Guild Realization: James April 28 - May 30 May 1 - May 2 Witte Museum Exhibit Hetherington Recent The Magik Theatre Majestic Theatre April 5 - May 26 Works Discover what it takes to be a world Los Patios April 17 - May 16 Travel back in time to the Cretaceous Conductor Sebastian Lang- changing geneticist as you locate Bihl Haus Arts period, the time of the dinosaurs as Lessing and the San Antonio and identify genes from human The San Antonio Calligraphy Guild the herbivores and carnivores work Symphony invites San Antonio for bodies for a night of fascinating invites the community to display and Explore James Hetherington’s use together to fight extinction in this a night of European culture with scientific knowledge with John sell their own calligraphic art to the of steel and aluminum in his two- pre-historic musical comedy fit for an enchanting night of Germanic Blangero, Ph.D. surrounding public. dimensional works. audiences of all ages. masterworks. 04.29.09 Features The Rattler 13

The St. Mary’s University Marian Guard simulates an urban operations mission to provide valuable experience in preparation for a future in the the army. Photo by Analica Perez Simulation trains soldiers By Christine Le Levy, who helped in the development of Managing Editor the program and the simulation, which took place last Friday evening, emphasized the importance for him and his peers to receive Armed with M-16 A2s and a mission the first-hand experience of dealing with ur- to conduct a cordon and search of an in- ban operations. dustrial building in order to capture high- “It sets you apart from those who partici- value targets, the ROTC cadets carried out pate in the regular ROTC curriculum,” ex- a simulation in an attempt to obtain valu- plained Levy, who is expected to take on the able experience working in a contemporary role of commanding officer of the Marian operating environment. Guard next semester. “The goal is to get the At 1900 hours on April 24, the St. cadets better prepared for their training for Mary’s University Marian Guard conduct- the Leadership Development Assessment ed the simulated urban operation on the Course as well as for when they actually en- campus grounds. ter the army.” The Marian Guard, a special unit and For freshman physics and math major extension of the ROTC’s basic curriculum, John Korban, an MS1 in the army ROTC and is a means for students participating in the member of the Marian Guard, he recognizes ROTC program to learn ranger-type tactics how he is “getting an immense amount of in order to better develop themselves as preparation being a part of this program,” combat officers. which is something he knows he can learn “We follow in the tradition of fostering from and use to his advantage. the education and training of our cadets,” Commenting on the efforts displayed by said Capt. Michael Martinez, assistant pro- the Marian Guard, Martinez is “proud to be fessor of military science and Marian Guard working with these men and women who advisor. “Marian Guard is an outlet for will be serving this country” and believes these students to practice their infantry tac- his contribution to their training is well- tics and leadership abilities which, in turn, worth the time spent as their advisor. shapes them into more desirable candidates “I hope that they get a lot of value from in their pursuit to obtain commission.” this experience,” said Martinez. “It’s an Marian Guard first sergeant and junior honor to be working with them.” international relations major Kristopher o[

14 The Rattler 04.29.09

Students embrace Earth Day “This is what college is about, presenting students Group educates about world issues, with information and making them aware so that they can gives volunteers opportunity to spend then be active and do something about it,” said graduate night in cardboard box student Jennifer Butler, president of the International Rela- tions Society. By Lorna Cruz In the evening, Box City, Earth Day’s second event was Commentary Editor held in Chaminade Field. At 7 p.m., dozens of donated card- board boxes were unloaded and students began building The International Relations Society held two big events their own cardboard box houses. The one policy that the in celebration of Earth Day on April 22: the Human Rights organizers asked attendees to respect was not to bring any Bazaar and Box City. The idea behind both events was to cell phones, laptops or other items that were considered raise awareness about various issues that the world is fac- “luxuries” or “commodities.” ing, from global issues to those in San Antonio. Graduate student Philippe Nassif, a member of the In- With help from the Congress of International Students ternational Relations Society and one of the organizers and other advocacy organizations, the bazaar was held in behind Box City, said that they had estimated an hour for the Quad with each organization focusing on an issue or building the houses, but that it actually took more than human right that they wanted to create awareness about. two hours to build them, partially because the wind kept The organizations, which included Black Student Union, blowing them away. Amnesty International and Phi Beta Delta, each had a table After night classes and evening jobs, more and more set up with information and flyers on their issue of choice people joined the event for story sharing and bonding. for people to read. “It was quite the experience, finding out what it’s like to Some of the organizations had petitions available to not have a ceiling over your head,” said Nassif. sign, visual displays of statistics associated with their issue, There were a total of about 15 to 20 people toward crafty magnets, bookmarks and other items with messages the end of the night and they slept, each in their own card- of peace in order to raise funds for the organizations. board house, until about 6:30 a.m. The rights and issues addressed ranged from the world food crisis to state-less refugees and the rights of indig- enous people. Freshman engineering management major Sofie Hepburn said that she enjoyed the Human Rights Ba- zaar. Top Left: Freshman marketing major Patricia Ter- “The bigger and better-publicized it can get, the more razas, sophomore political science and speech com- students would attend and join the munications major Denise Barrera and sophomore causes,” she said. sociology and undecided business major Fernando As the day progressed, the Armendariz get comfortable in their new home. displays received a lot of in- Bottom Right: An exhibit at the Human Rights Bazaar terested students and fac- discusses the importance of creating safe living en- ulty who left with a little vironments in countries that have failed to remove more awareness. dangers such as land mines remaining from wars past. o[

04.29.09 The Rattler 15

Top Left: Senior biochemis- try major Gabriel Hernan- dez goes retro by adding a Students embrace Earth Day disco ball to his make-shift home for the night. Top Right: Students learn about the effects of the eco- nomic crises on food prices worldwide at the Human Rights Bazaar. Bottom: Gathering the fi- nal scraps of cardboard, the newest residents of Box City work together to create their new home.

Photos by Analicia Perez Graphic Illustration by Amanda Rodriguez 16 The Rattler Features 04.29.09 The Group shares culture with food, music lighter By Jaime Perez side of... Features Editor

The Mexican Student Association (MSA) has Newspaper Memories extended its hands and welcomed its community through song, games and food. These customs were part of an event held in order BY JAIME PEREZ to promote and celebrate the group’s heritage with the rest of the campus. According to Vice President As the end of the year of MSA and sophomore marketing major Erika Barro, steadily approaches, it is the group was primarily interested in sharing their time for the sappy rambles values and traditions. of a sad newspaper dude. “We wanted to get back to the roots and values that Usually, for those who shape every unique person here. We are in this room have experienced this right now to learn and celebrate the variety of our cul- strange journey of deadlines ture,” said Barro. and press weekends, we The event resembled a Quermes, or a carnival that reminisce at all the times we features mariachi singers, Loteria (a game similar to laughed, cried and fought in Bingo) and a wide variety of food and beverages like this small room. enchiladas and Aqua Frescas (a fruit-based drink). Ac- It was no different for cording to freshman English-communication arts ma- me. For hours on end, I jor Diana Garcia, the diverse culture was a welcomed have pulled my hair and change living in San Antonio. complained non-stop, much “It is really awesome to be heard and do some- to the annoyance of my best thing different on a Tuesday night,” said Garcia. “I On April 14 the Mexican Student Association held a Quermes, featuring traditional Mariachi newspaper pals and section love the food. It is so Mexican; it’s not the fake Tex- performers. Photo by Jaime Perez editors, about articles turned Mex food.” in late. I have goofed off, much to the anger of the best newspaper editor in the world, and have been badly Going Green bruised by plastic Easter eggs SGA expands environment efforts pelted toward my direction. Easy advice to make I have, occasionally, By Michelle Tello stayed on task and impressed your life greener Staff Writer myself with the ingenuity of my newspaper page designs– Lower the thermostat– Not only to feel embarrassed later In celebration of Earth Day, the only will you see less dollars for thinking they were any Student Government Association on your electric bill you will good in the first place. (SGA) held the first tree and grass also lower your energy con- I have stayed late, many planting event in five years as part sumption. times until two in the of their “Go Green Week,” on April morning, finishing articles or 21 and 22. Twenty volunteers lent a Reuse your water bottle– having my face two inches hand to Physical Plant by helping Many times the water in your from the screen, trying to plant trees and grass in the Out- water bottle comes from the figure out if the picture is back parking lot. same source as tap water. Re- exactly one pica away from a “We’ll have more grass on the using bottles will help cut the story or article. parking lot and more student in- On April 22, sophomore political science major Bernice Duke, junior use of petroleum production. I have participated in volvement,” junior political sci- criminal justice major Alyssa Austin and Amanda Osuna helped clear a team of students, all ence major and vice president of debris at the Outback parking lot. Photo by Robin Johnson Ride a bike– If you use a car deceptively different in SGA Tania Ramirez said. for any travel need then you Sophomore international rela- can save hundreds of dollars appearance, yet remarkably campus next semester. will be serviced, but SGA president tions major, Karla Bayona thought by just investing in a environ- alike in craziness, in order to The new bins differ greatly from James Escamia hopes the new ef- accomplish a single goal. the event would benefit the cam- mentally friendly bike. pus by beautifying it. the current recycling centers SGA forts will satisfy student demand. I have heard the criticism put around campus in January. Escamia also hopes their expan- “At the same time it sets an ex- Buy green Purchase prod- and the praises of a paper New bins are optioned to be 18 gal- sion plans will be funded through – ample to the community around us ucts that use recyclable ma- that has been the result of lon Sterlite storage totes which SGA grants rather than being added on to help save our planet,” she said. terials. Less pastic bottles or sweat and tears. Yet, despite hopes will be placed in the offices to student tuition. Recently, SGA’s Recycling Task allumnim being made will re- all this, we still go and and departments all over campus. The next Recycling Task Force continue to watch ourselves Force has made plans to expand duce your carbon footprint. their efforts to be environmen- The task force is still making de- meeting is open to all students and do it all over again. cisions in regards to what can be falculty and will be held April 30 in tally friendly by approving to put Source: www.divinecaroline.com additional recycling bins around recycled in the bins and how they the Physical Plant conference room. 04.29.09 Features The Rattler 17 Student sees success in more than just numbers Student gives update on Health Center, I have been able to show. I changed during the com- gain more in confidence and grow mercials and right when it ended, his weight loss battle as a person. I was out the door. Before After Some methods that helped me Find a good time for you and By Joshua Dunn in my diet are trying not to think of stick with it. I found mine and I Staff Writer it as a “diet.” Instead, I have seen it will continue to try and get healthy as just eating a healthy amount of knowing that it is going to be hard. The semester has passed and I food for my age and height. Being aware of support of friends would like to inform you all that These days, we easily binge on and family will help you reach my current weight is 290 pounds food without even thinking about your goal weight. and that I have a body mass index it because of its availability. When The thing that should matter of 39. I catch myself overeating, I stop above all else is your happiness. While I have not reached my and remind myself that I am eat- I know I can finally say that I am specific weight goal, I have none- ing an excessive amount of food happy, which is something I have theless recognized weight loss and should stop. not been able to say for quite some throughout this experience. With Another important fact is ex- time. that said, I am still not ready to ercise. Do what you find fun and I feel that St. Mary’s is my home give up; I will continue to try and exciting. For me, that’s going for and the students, faculty and the get healthy. a brisk walk. I put on my head- services they provide here are Up to this point, it has been a phones and escape into my own my support on my life’s journey. constant struggle. I realize it would little world. I hope you all can or do feel the not have been worth doing if it was Make sure you also actually set same knowing that you have all easy. I am currently fighting 18 aside a certain time to exercise. I types of resources at your finger- years of bad eating habits and low know I was more likely to go walk- tips. You only need to reach out for self-esteem. Thanks to my counsel- ing if I told myself that I will go at the help. Photo by Robin Johnson ing and assistance at the Student 8 p.m., after my favorite television

Outside the classroom You have been involved in the past with geophysical You are currently completing your second semester at St. surveys that assess the amount of water in underground Mary’s University as a professor of environmental geology, A spotlight on faculty caves, what are you trying to determine and who does this what do you enjoy most about your job? research affect? “What I love most about teaching this subject is the fact that Evelyn Mitchell, Ph.D. “My specific area of interest is hydrogeology and cave science. a lot of students are really interested in the environment. It is I think that part of the reason I like these areas is because a very topical in the news right now and many of the students lot of people have the out-of-sight, out-of-mind attitude as far come up to me outside of class to ask questions that I don’t as what goes on underground; if they can’t see it then they always even expect but are very valid points of views to discuss don’t have to think about it. What I study is the activities we these days. I enjoy teaching because a lot of the students are do above ground like the way we dump and construct things, interested and want to learn and that makes it fun. We have a and how that affects the hydrology, cave systems and the lot of issues that need to be resolved, so the more they know, wildlife in those areas. It ultimately affects us in the end too the better decisions they can make.” because the hydrology reaches the surface in the city as we pump water from the ground.” As an environmental geology professor, you have unique vantage point into the “green” movement. What do you How would your research and collaborations with your believe to be the best way to conserve and protect our the students and peers benefit the various communities? environment? “This last spring I went to Jalisco, Mexico and did geophysics “Recycle! I have a wonderful blue bin that the city of San surveys where I was looking in the ground with different Antonio provided, and not only do I recycle but I have also equipment trying to find how much water was in the soil trained my husband to recycle, even though he was resistant. I in a rural area in Mexico where they have very little water always try to make informed decisions about everything I buy supply. We were working to try and determine how much because one thing that is becoming more obvious as we have groundwater they had, the quality of the water, and if it was more consumers in the world is that when we are buying, we possible to supply water to the village that way. I am also are voting for what products we want. And if you are voting for starting a study and working this summer with Lisa Duran, green products by buying green products then you are going who is a student here, in trying to quantify how much carbon to be encouraging that market to produce more of those green dioxide comes into the atmosphere from caves because caves products. I want to burn as little fossil fuels as possible and actually put out carbon dioxide and its part of the process of encourage that form of technology development because the how the rocks degrade. What we are going to do is try and more we are buying energy efficient technologies, the more measure the San Antonio area and see how much is coming we will have that developed.” out of those caves into the air. Photo by Denice Hernandez Compiled by Denice Hernadez 18 The Rattler Features 04.29.09 Pass finals with “A-plus” tips By Allison Hernandez to pick a place where you can study – just you,” Staff Writer said Uribe. “It can be at Starbucks, a restaurant, your room, the library or somewhere where it Coffee? Check. Flash cards? Check. Late is peaceful and quiet.” nights spent stressing out? Double check. Finals Sophomore marketing and entrepreneurial are just around the corner and, like an old cam- major Aaron Cantu has found that the quieter pus tradition, many students will find themselves study surroundings have been what work best spending many late nights during study week and for him, but he doesn’t rule out having study finals week doing some last minute cramming for partners either. their exams. “I think studying in a quiet atmosphere is While some students do work best under pres- always best,” said Cantu. “If people are run- sure, others take the stress-free route and set aside ning in and out of the room it’s kind of hard, extra time to study. Some students even have tips but groups are always good, too.” to help get them through finals. There are students who find it helpful to “Review your old tests. See how much content have some music, as well as a little boost of en- is from the book, the professor’s notes or from the ergy, to get them through finals. “Personally, lecture,” advised junior entrepreneurial studies I like listening to light classical music, and if major Rebecca Uribe. “From there, decide to dedi- I have enough time, I re-write the notes I’m cate at least two full nights– three to five hours of studying,” said sophomore marketing ma- studying before the test.” jor Mike Segura. “Other than that, those Just as easy as it is to open a book, students of- five-hour energy shots work well for all- ten find it just as easy to take a break from study- nighters.” ing to log onto Facebook, YouTube or other favor- Of course, what is a finals week with- ite Web sites. While surfing the Internet, a helpful out a trip to the local coffee shop? It hint is to visit some other sites that will actually seems that during exam time, one is help with studying material. just as likely to run into their friends “I Google things that the book doesn’t make at the Starbucks in the Medical Cen- clear and watch YouTube videos over certain con- ter as they are to bump into them cepts–you’d be surprised how much good infor- at the mall or the local weekend mation is on the Web,” said junior biology major hangout. Senior English-commu- Damiana Pena. nication arts major Carla Rodri- Along with searching for useful information guez likes to take advantage of online, Pena has another method that has pulled the coffee shops around town her through many hard tests. “I make up acro- during exam time. nyms to help remember lists and I always go over “I love coffee shops. I make all the practice tests and answers,” she said. “After sure not to spend way too much reading a section, close the book and try to recite time studying and take lots what you read like you are teaching it to someone of breaks,” said Rodriguez. else who doesn’t understand and always use the Whatever your study ritu- CD-ROM that comes with your book.” als may be, make sure to Now the dilemma of where to study surfaces. try out some of these use- Some students find it easier to study with a group ful tips, get some rest, of friends surrounding them, while others find take a deep breath and that groups can be a little distracting and prefer a go ace those end-of- the- nice quiet place. semester exams. “Depending on your personality, I would say Photo by Robin Johnson

Martin Peña Diego Fernadez Kyle Seymour Peanut Political Science, Biology, English, Gallery Junior Freshman Sophomore “I read everything “If I have exams or “I have to stay away from any As final exams approach, stu- 10 times and I lock finals, I try not to dents are looking for new tips myself in the room. procrastinate. I usu- of my friends, so to study effectively, so The I also drink a lot ally try to study in I won’t get dis- Rattler wants to know, of coffee to stay my room or in the tracted from my awake. If I don’t library where I could work. I also take How do you study for stay in my room, I get help from a tutor advantage of the final exams? usually go to Star- if I don’t understand library because I bucks because my something. It’s also can be by myself in girlfriend likes to important that its one of those study study there.” really quiet.” rooms.” 04.29.09 Entertainment The Rattler 19 Jazzin’ up the show, San Antonio Fiesta goes out in style By Christine Le alto saxophonist of the St. Mary’s Managing Editor Jazz Combo. “It gives both the cam- pus and the community a chance to witness the performances of great composers.” Fiesta-goers returned to the univer- Goodwin, this year’s Fiesta Jazz sity for something quite different than Artist for the 47th Annual Fiesta World Oyster Bake after the Pecan Grove Class Jazz Concert, has worked with- opened to the public Friday, April 24. in the television and film industry The air was cool as children played his cinematic scoring and orchestra- Frisbee in the grass underneath the tion craft can be heard on such films shade of the pecan trees. No one had as The Incredibles, Gone in 60 Seconds, to stand uncomfortably in the heat Enemy of the State, Remember the Titans shoulder-to-shoulder. There wasn’t and Armageddon. any spilled beer and bottles littering “It was amazing being directed the ground. under him,” said Baiza. “He gave the In fact, the only sounds to be ensemble advice on rehearsing and heard weren’t from musicians per- performing–something that I would forming country and rock music or have never been able to experience if I vendors selling turkey legs. Rather, were going to any other university.” people came to relax and enjoy the Having built a larger-than-life performances made by young mu- reputation for his composing, ar- sicians from around San Antonio, ranging and music instrumentation not to mention Grammy-winning skills, Goodwin made a consider- saxophonist, composer and arranger able contribution to the success of Gordon Goodwin. the event as the concert enjoyed a Among those participating in the great turnout. concert was the St. Mary’s Jazz Com- “To work with one of the greatest bo, the University of the Incarnate musicians in the world was a great Word Jazz Ensemble, the San Antonio opportunity,” said Adam Casiano, College Jazz Ensemble and the U.S. senior music education major and Army Medical Command Band Mojo. principle French horn. “It allowed The event, sponsored by the Music students, professors and the commu- Department at St. Mary’s University nity to witness the performance of a and the San Antonio Fiesta Commis- fine musician and be brought back to sion, is one of the oldest jazz festivals the roots of jazz.” and is dedicated to presenting the fin- After a week of busy Fiesta fes- est jazz music to the public. tivities that filled the streets of down- “Jazz Festival is a way for St. town San Antonio and the grounds Mary’s University to bring world- of St. Mary’s University, the Jazz renowned jazz artists to perform for Band Festival brought the Alamo San Antonio,” said Bobby Baiza, se- city’s celebrations to a calming, Gordon Goodwin rocked the house with his smooth style and saxophone skill, adding to the success of the nior music education major and lead memorable close. 2009 Jazz Festival. Photo by Analicia Perez entertain yourself

MOVIE RELEASE CD RELEASE ST. MARY’S UNIVERSITY SAN ANTONIO CONCERT

X-Men Origins: Outer South Desserts for Discover Cibolo Jack’s Mannequin Wolverine Conor Oberst Study Break 2009 Matt Nathanson, Hugh Jackman, Liev MAY 5 University Ministry Discovery Challenge Erin McCarley Schreiber, Ryan APRIL 27 - MAY 1 Ropes Course MAY 10, 6 p.m. His fifth solo album and second Reynolds, Taylor Kitsch record released on Merge Re- Center for Life MAY 9, 9 a.m. Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, MAY 1 cords, Outer South provides the Directions Discovery Church, Austin, TX talented 29-year-old with more Cibolo, TX Flashback to Wolverine’s myste- reason to hit the road this June. As Finals Week quickly approach- Before embarking on a major rious life journey, the steps that What makes this record even es, UMin eases the stress of stu- This flea market and chili-cook summer tour with the Fray, Jack’s would unknowingly lead to his more special though is the major dents with a variety of treats dur- off is bound to keep you busy all Mannequin makes a quick return initiation into the league of mu- writing and vocals contributed ing these last days of Study Week. day with car shows, live bands to the music capitol after playing tants known as X-Men. from the solo artist’s bandmates. Take a break and enjoy! and crafty booths. here only six months ago. 20 The Rattler Entertainment 04.29.09 Drew’s lively performance highlights Grey Gardens Grey Gardens to the picture and, in the case of HHHHH Little Eddie, a sad portrait of a Dir. by Michael Sucsy middle-aged woman who has not Starring Drew Barrymore come to terms with her age. and Jessica Lange Drew Barrymore gives the most surprisingly versatile and dra- Jaime Perez By matic performance of her career Features Editor so far. She successfully conveys the reckless youth of Little Eddie’s The HBO feature “Grey Gar- heyday while also effectively pre- dens,” which is based on a 1975 senting a dejected woman with documentary of the same name, aspirations to be a star. Her perfor- serves as both an example of and mance is both sad and touching as exception to acting for cable net- we sympathize and even root for work movies. Little Eddie’s character, despite The film is a dark portrayal of her eccentricities. the lives of Edith Bouvier Beale Jessica Lange gives an equally and her daughter Edith “Little shocking performance as Big Eddie, Eddie” Bouvier Beale, aunt and especially in old age. Her make-up cousin, respectively, to Jacqueline and prosthetics combined with her Kennedy Onassis. enormous acting ability makes for Set in 1974, when the Beales a convincing elderly woman in her lived in their dilapidated 28-bed- 70s that seems no different than the room estate, they are approached average grandma. to film a documentary about the Little Eddie (Barrymore) and Older Eddie (Lange) look out the window of their 28-bedroom estate as the Unlike the two main characters, lives of the Kennedy’s relatives. health inspector declares their home ‘inhabitable.’ Source imdb.com the film had little flaws. What the film crew discovers is a It effortlessly presented the bitter mother and daughter’s fall gives viewers an opportunity to excessive nightlife in their youth direction of costumes and scen- heartbreaking tale and made the from the social elite. see the two ladies in their prime to their later years living in a dirty, ery in the 40s and 70s. Both de- actresses out to be exactly what For those who were fans of the and their descent into squalor. The cat-infested house. cades are represented accurately both Eddies always wanted to documentary, the film adaptation scenes are beautifully cut together The stark differences are made and attractively. be: stars. follows closely to the original and and transition smoothly from their even more painful with the artistic They provide a sense of realism

Soloist catches wind of lighthearted audiences Soloist about the intriguing past of Ay- 90,000 homeless people living on HHHHH ers who was a student at Julliard the streets of Los Angeles. It is Dir. by Joe Wright for two years until he developed also filled with unique and quirky Starring Robert Downey, Jr. schizophrenia and then ran away characters that you cannot help but and Jamie Foxx to live on the streets. want to reach out to. His passion for music is un- The Soloist warms the heart and By Denice Hernandez like anything Lopez has ever captivates the soul. It is a story Copy Editor seen or felt, and his talent is even of the human spirit and the un- more remarkable. dying passion for the things we The Soloist is based on the true A genuine bond develops be- love in life. Everyone will enjoy story of the Los Angeles Times col- tween the two and Ayers is no lon- this movie as it captures the ex- umnist Steve Lopez who was in- ger just an idea for a story. Lopez is traordinary power of music and spired to write a column about determined to get Ayers the medi- the even more endearing power Nathaniel Anthony Ayers when cal attention he needs but in doing of friendship. he encountered him playing a so, he compromises their friend- This film reminds us that our two string violin on the streets of ship. As Lopez is trying to change lives can be changed by the most Los Angeles. the life of this troubled musician, unlikely of people in the most un- Lopez, played by Robert he finds himself being the one who expected ways. Downey, Jr., is working hard to is transformed. Anyone can access Lopez’s col- keep his flow of writing alive Although there are very emo- umn on the Los Angeles Times’ Web for the biggest newspaper in tionally intense moments, there is site. Lopez has also published a California until he befriends a good share of light hearted hu- book about his experience with Ay- the homeless musician, played mor throughout the entire film. ers titled The Soloist: A Lost Dream, by Jamie Foxx, and is immedi- Even at the verge of tears you will an Unexpected Friendship, and the Former child prodigy Nathaniel Anthony Ayers (Jamie Foxx) touches the ately drawn into his lovable and be able to muster a chuckle or two. Redemptive Power of Music. soul of reporter Steve Lopez (Robert Downey, Jr.), causing him to take a sincere character. The movie is very eye opening as glimpse at his own life. Source rottentomatoes.com He then begins to learn more it depicts what life is like for the 04.29.09 Entertainment The Rattler 21 The Tour Guide Band strikes like tidal wave

BY STEPHANIE SANDERS

Amber Pacific, an emotionally-melodic band who at one time held a spot among the top 100 artists on the Billboard charts only to slip away out of the scene, makes their San An- tonio comeback Sunday, May 10 for a $12 show at Rock Bottom Tattoo Bar. Being out of the picture for so long and undergoing serious band reformation, these Washington-state pop/rockers are fighting for their right to put the Amber Pacific name on the map. The seven-year-old troupe rides the long road accompanied by Houston Calls of Drive- Thru Records, the one-year-old Fight Fair of Triple Crown Records and Farewell of Epitaph Records. Amber Pacific, recently released from Hope- less Records due to a completion of their con- tract, are leading the way after catching a bit of bad luck after their fourth stint on the Vans Warped Tour in 2007. The quintet experienced some uneasiness in the winter of 2007 while traveling with Haw- thorne Heights. A mere week before the band toured through Texas, Hawthorne Heights’ guitarist Casey Calvert passed away after an accidental combined drug intoxication. Without a doubt, Amber Pacific and the rest of the lineup agreed it was best to cancel the tour out of respect to Hawthorne Heights. Shortly after playing a show in May of the following year, lead singer Matt Young left the band when he had a change in heart regarding career goals. Young is currently in pursuit of a Juggling the lives of recording artists, traveling musicians and philanthropists, Death Cab for Cutie is true to its audiences and career as a school principal. show no fear in career pursuits. Source Google images As far as touring is concerned (a big con- cern of mine), it was not long before Amber Pacific was ready to return to the public eye. Their only form of contact was through their MySpace blog. Death Cab successful in risk-taking “We have been strangers to the road for By Denice Hernandez and daring collection among all their their tour throughout July by logging far too long, in fact, this has been the lon- Copy Editor other albums. on to their Twitter page. Their last two gest we’ve been home in four years and we Their lyrics continue to grow deeper shows will be in Washington, their are damn near crazy. One can only play so Death Cab for Cutie has just released and more honest with songs like “You hometown state. much Halo before realizing their lives con- their new EP album Open Doors in stores Can Do Better Than Me” and one of their While on tour, vocalist Ben Gibbard sist of music and the road,“ said a post on the this month with four unreleased tracks, EP tracks “My Mirror Speaks.” and tour mate Nathan Willett from Cold blog nearly a month after Young’s departure each with the same recognizable instru- Death Cab began their 2009 tour in War Kids are teaming up to record how in 2008. mentals and mix of somber, yet delight- February with several shows in Japan, many miles they cover and are encourag- A year later, Amber Pacific fights the good ful tones as their sixth album released in but their show in Philadelphia in April ing fans to donate $1 for each one. The fight and are prepared for any challenges down May of last year titled Narrow Stairs. kicked off their spring U.S. tour. profits made will go to Water Wells for the road. Their fresh attitudes, new vocals and Death Cab continues to show their They will only be making one visit to Africa, a non-profit organization that col- long-awaited third full-length album should fans that they aren’t afraid to take cre- Texas at the Austin Music Hall on May lects funds to install working water wells allow the band to reconnect with audiences, ative risks. Every song recorded to these 1, and will be performing with opening and pay for drinking water in impover- new and old. albums are directly from their studio, acts Ra Ra Riot and Matt Costa. You can ished villages in Africa that are in serious making these tracks the most intimate stay updated with them as they continue drought conditions. 22 The Rattler Entertainment 04.29.09

Chevelle’s Pete Loeffler (left) and Dean Bernardini (right) end with a roarof chants and screams after a lengthy setlist of fan-favorites. Photo by Robin Johnson Chevelle steals stage at Fiesta Oyster Bake By Stephanie Sanders Entertainment Editor What are your thoughts about being the headlining band for an event that kicks off Fiesta for all of San Antonio? Chevelle drummer Sam Loeffler anticipat- “It’s funny...now I remember going to Oys- ed what turned out to be without a doubt a ter Bake before! I’ve been twice. It’s really successful performance at the annual Oys- good to be a part of any party.” ter Bake. Overdosed on adrenaline, fans reached out for Chevelle’s raw energy and How does Chevelle want San Antonio to hard music. It was San Antonio’s way of remember them as? saying, “You rock!” “We are a straight up rock band. Texas is probably the biggest state for rock, and we How did Chevelle obtain this opportunity? just love being in Texas. I hope people are “It was a big coincidence that we were go- fans of the band, and hopefully we can in- ing out on tour. We missed a few opportu- troduce other people to our music.” nities in the past due to writing. I’m glad it worked out in time.” Is there anything that fans might not know about you or the band that you want them Was there ever a time that you felt you did to know or would like to share with them? not want to play music? “We’ve always tried to keep our pri- “I started playing drums at age 14; Pete vate life private without giving away too was 12. I don’t think there has ever been much. Politics and religion are kept out. a time.” Our band is whatever they get out of the music, whatever they read into. The mys- Who has influenced your musical tery is kind of a good thing.” aspirations? “Back when we were kids, we were into Where do you see yourselves in 10 years? punk. Pete was specifically influenced “It would be ideal if I enjoyed doing what by Depeche Mode, The Cure and Alice in I’m doing right now. I literally have done Chains, all bands with really strong sing- hundreds of thousands of miles of touring. ers. We are a lot of little parts from a lot I don’t even know the number of shows. of hard rock songs. That’s what we find I don’t know if I can imagine doing an- Lead singer Pete Loeffler sang songs such as “Vitamin R,” “The Red” and “Panic Prone” as well interesting; we wear our influences on our other 10 years, but I can’t imagine doing as songs from their upcoming album. Photo by Robin Johnson sleeve. If you’re fans of rock music, you’ll anything else.” be able to relate.” 04.29.09 Entertainment The Rattler 23 Low Oyster Bake attendance, Fiesta off to rainy start By Stephen Guzman Staff Writer

Rain showers before Fiesta Oyster Bake 2009 may have re- duced attendance, but the two-day event ended in success. The morning of April 17 began with scattered rain show- ers and heavy winds. As a 60 percent chance of precipitation grew to 100 percent, housekeeping, maintenance and alumni volunteers worked against the hindering weather conditions, struggling to keep stages and equipment dry. “The rain made it a lot tougher for us and [volunteers] try- ing to set up,” said Juan Ojeda, lead electrician for the event. “It really worried me.” Heavy rainfall concerned housekeeping crew leader Nor- ma Valle as well, who thought the Alumni Association “would stop everything and cancel the event.” Steve Rosenauer, Executive Director of the Fiesta Oyster Bake and Associate Director of Alumni Relations, also worked through the rain. “When I was on the grounds standing in about two inches of water, I thought, ‘Oh no!’” Nevertheless with a “rain or shine policy,” Fiesta Oyster Bake workers and volunteers remained focused that the event would continue. “The real credit goes to our volunteers as well as our physi- cal plant staff,” said Rosenauer. “Everybody kept working through the rain and stayed focused and, fortunately, the sun came out and the rain stopped.” According to Rosenauer, the Fiesta Oyster Bake attendance on Friday was down “a few thousand people” due to the rain. Rosenauer approximated that the attendance on Friday was about 7,500 to 10,000 as opposed to the usual 12,000 to 15,000. Senior Political Science major Erika Lopez, attendee of Fi- esta Oyster Bake since her freshman year, chose to attend an- other event Friday due to the rain. “It was gross!” said Lopez. “I didn’t want to walk around in my heels.” Early morning showers and a mirrored forecast of 60 per- cent chance of rain promised for yet another disappointing at- tendance on Saturday. “We were thinking, ‘oh boy,’” said Rosenauer. “But the sun came out again by 10 in the morning.” Still, Lopez, who attended Saturday afternoon, said there were a lot less people. According to Lopez, “by 3 p.m., it’s usu- ally shoulder to shoulder.” With a reduced attendance at Fiesta Oyster Bake 2009, students are concerned about scholarship funds raised from the event. “The turnout really worries me,” said Danielle Oviedo, sophomore undecided major. “The funding for Oyster Bake goes toward [student] scholarships, and I figured that we would lose out on a ton of money.” Rosenauer assured otherwise. According to Rosenauer, ev- ery year money is put into the Alumni Association Endowment Fund. Rosenauer stated that with this endowment fund, which began in the mid-seventies, the Alumni Association hoped to “build up a legacy so that it’s able to generate money every year.” Currently, Rosenauer said the fund totals more than $6 million, which means that even if attendance is down, there’s still money available that generates for scholarships. Rosenauer remains confident that Fiesta Oyster Bake 2009 was a great event and “very successful considering all the [bad] weather we had.” Fiesta-goers attend Oyster Bake despite rain pre- Attendance and profit statistics will be fully calculated dictions for both Friday and Saturday. It is estimat- by mid-summer and will be available to students in the ed that up to 5,000 less people attended the event. fall semester. Photos by Analicia Perez 24 The Rattler Sports 04.29.09

The Outdoor Team’s future uncertain after defeat Corner Series By Chris Childree Senior Staff Writer By Chris Filoteo Sports Editor Coach Pop’s new playoff “strategies” have put his team in good standing while leaving his opponents sitting in a hole. With summer upon us, Texas is one The coach prominently displayed his of the best states to cast a line. While keys to victory during the Mavericks versus temperatures increase, so does the Spurs first-round playoff series. opportunity to hook different types These included playing Matt Bonner, of fish. the Mavericks’ sixth man (the trophy was Home to numerous top-rated lakes, obviously given to Jason Terry too early), Texas has several ideal fishing locations for extended periods of game time and within 50 miles of San Antonio. My designating him as a clutch shooter at the favorite neighboring lake is Calaveras end of game four. Lake, which is 20 miles south His play was previously lauded during in Elmendorf. game one when his insertion into the contest The cost to get into the park is prevented a win by a Spurs team poised for inexpensive and you can fish all day long. victory; coming off an amazing overtime With abundant fish in the area, you can win on the last night of the regular season. spot largemouth black bass, red drum, Bonner is disastrous for his team on the hybrid striped bass (stripers), channel court by missing easy shots, putting no and blue catfish at Calaveras. effort into grabbing boards and constantly Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPW) committing inexcusable fouls. introduced the red drum to the lake This is why the Mavericks can’t help but from saltwater and bred them to live in laugh when he steps on the court and why freshwater to increase the population they will ultimately hang Bonner’s jersey of fish. high into their rafters upon his retirement. This process has been extremely Coach Pop also did a good job of limiting successful and fishermen/women around Spurs star rookie George Hill’s effectiveness the area have noticed. at the most critical point of the season, by I caught my personal best red drum, forcing him to remain on the bench during which was 42 inches long and weighed most of the first three games of the series. 22 pounds, several years ago. He was allowed to play during game That moment was one of the best I four, but luckily for Pop his performance have ever experienced because it took me was limited to only two three pointers. more than 30 minutes to reel it in. The Mavericks’ leading defensive Red drums are known for their stopper Bruce Bowen was allowed to strength and are inclined to break fishing start in game four at the expense of Roger lines often; therefore, it is necessary to Mason, Drew Gooden and Ime Udoka, who use heavier lines and rods in order to all remained on the bench for long periods land bigger fish. of time, causing low offensive output from The peak fishing period for all of the the trio (a combined three points). fish ranges from March through August. It’s a shame for Pop that Tony Parker Similar to all lakes, Calaveras has several was allowed to score 43 points during game hot spots to fish from a boat. four, increasing his scoring average to 24 The “crappie wall” is a structure in the points per game for the series. middle of the lake that serves as a barrier Parker was supposed to remain on the for a funnel which flows toward the hot Matt Bonner and Roger Mason, Jr. need to step up their performance off the bench if the court laying on his back since Eric Dampier water discharge area of the power plant Spurs want to advance far into the playoffs. Photo by Robin Johnson threatened him before game four, but Parker on site. and Duncan alone were just not enough to This wall is no more than a couple feet compete with the Mavericks. and the Spurs were still able to win the the summer, but Spurs fans will always wide and 80 yards long, but is the best It’s been a few years since we’ve seen Southwest Division and grab the number remember the good he brought to the team; place to find red drum. However, you can Coach Popovich coach a series as effectively three seed. even though he destroyed the season in be just as successful fishing from the bank as he did during this season’s first round. Without a doubt, Pop’s performance 2009 with help from a squad owned by a if you don’t have access to a boat. The last time was probably back in made the biggest impact on the blithering numbskull, Mark Cuban. Using bait such as tilapia and perch 2007, when he was still coaching the Spurs team’s play. It’s a shame that Popovich may not be is the best method to catching red drum and when he utilized his roster to the They were simply outcoached and able to coach in the next round, since he is from the shore, but you can still hook maximum, knowing the difference between outnumbered and those are usually the not officially the coach of the Mavericks. many different fish, particularly catfish. a benchwarmer and a starter. ingredients for defeat; the same result the It may be best if he resigns from his With summer right around the corner, Some may say it was easier for Pop Spurs experienced in 2000, which was current job title. Spurs fans may be more I know how I will be spending my this time because superstar guard Manu the last time they were eliminated in the optimistic with someone like Avery Johnson vacation. Remember, a bad day of fishing Ginobili missed the entire series. first round. on the sidelines with a fresh roster rather is much better than a good day at work. But Ginobili also missed 38 of the Spurs Sadly, Pop may have coached his final than a coach and two players seemingly 82 regular season games, almost 50 percent, game and might be without a job after helping their supposed opponents. 04.29.09 Sports The Rattler 25 David Beckham will play his last season in U.S. By chris Filoteo According to newsvine.com, United States. Sports Editor Beckham will meet his obligation Despite all the hype Beckham with the Galaxy and play the 2009 brought with him, he still didn’t After playing an eventful spring season, but after that he’ll exercise accomplish what he set out while on loan with AC Milan, the option to buy himself out and to do. David Beckham is moving back sign for AC Milan in January 2010. Other than making a lot of to Los Angeles to play for the LA Beckham tried to revamp the money, he failed miserably in his Galaxy soccer team. soccer scene in the states, which attempt to revitalize U.S. soccer. While many fans were hesitant was his goal when he first signed How will his teammates about his move to Italy because with the Galaxy. embrace him after trying to stay in they weren’t sure whether he However, Beckham has proven AC Milan? would return to the United States, to be just one of many famous Midfielder Landon Donovan Beckham was actually trying to players to travel to the states and gave Beckham the team stay in Italy and didn’t plan on not be successful. captain’s position when first returning to the U.S. The time he spent with the arrived in 2007, but now the The Galaxy, which signed Galaxy was mediocre due to captain role will be relinquished Beckham in 2007 for a record five- many injuries and exhaustion once he comes back to play for year deal worth $32 million, had from playing on different teams: the Galaxy. every intention of having him England National Team, L.A. Although Beckham was finish his contract in the states. Galaxy and AC Milan. named to the Major League However, that was two years Wanting to concentrate for the Soccer (MLS) All-Star game last ago; a time when Beckham thought 2010 World Cup, Beckham believes season, I believe that was just for he could make a difference in a playing in Italy will better his attendance purposes. country not known for its soccer. chances than playing in the states. Everywhere Beckham plays, Beckham will remain on AC At 33, Beckham has one more he draws a massive crowd, but Milan’s roster until May 31, when chance to show soccer fans he is is that enough when signing his loan extension expires. capable of playing at his highest someone to a record multi- The Galaxy and AC Milan spent level in a World Cup. million dollar contract? most of the spring trying to sign Unlike his play for club teams, Beckham enjoys playing in Beckham, but he decided to honor he has struggled in World Cups front of large audiences, but his contract with the Galaxy. and it seemed the only thing seems to hardly deliver on Beckham’s first game back in Beckham was able to accomplish his performance. the United States will be July 16 was bringing fans to watch He has scored almost as many against the New York Red Bulls the games. goals while on loan for AC Milan due to the international transfer The Galaxy’s average the past few months than he has window opening July 14. home attendance in 2008 rose the entire time he played for Because of his lengthy loan to about 25 percent since 2006 the Galaxy. Italy, Beckham will only play in according to insidesocal.com, Apparently, the Galaxy only 13 of the team’s 31 total games but that was the only success cares about the crowds he can Superstar David Beckham signs autographs at Wellington Airport before a in 2009. Beckham experienced in the draw and nothing more. game for the Los Angeles Galaxy . Photo from wikimediacommons

European soccer heads into final stages of tournament

By ivonne Aguilar Currently, Real Madrid, from Spain, leads When they face off against Chelsea champions, and Arsenal will play for a Senior Staff Writer with nine total wins followed by AC Milan FC, Barcelona’s offensive style can be a chance at the final match. Arsenal’s starting from Italy with seven, and Liverpool from threat to Chelsea with their forward trio striker, Robin Van Persie will not be able to Soccer fans worldwide will watch the England has five. of stars: Leonel Messi, Thierry Henry and play due to an injury. best players in the world compete for This year the four clubs remaining in the Samuel Eto’o. With all the speculations by the media of the Champions League Championship semi-finals are FC Barcelona, Chelsea FC, As for Chelsea, the runner up of 2008 who will be crowned the UEFA champions, for the best team in Europe on May 24 in Manchester United and Arsenal: Manchester Champions League also looks likely to make Chris Echavarria, freshman, criminal justice Roma, Italy. United and Chelsea FC played in last years the final. major commented on his prediction, “Man The Union of European Football championship match. The squad will not count on Ricardo U because they’re stacked. They have good Associations (UEFA) Champions League is Each team will play two games, one Carvalho, Portuguese central defender communication and they are all around the epitome for European football clubs. home and one away. The highest aggregate for the first leg of the semis due toa the best.” Each year, football clubs from European score advances to the final; aggregate hamstring injury. The Champions League final will be countries such as England, Spain, Italy, scoring is the total amount of goals scored in “I like Manchester, but I think Chelsea is played on May 27 in Italy. Germany and Holland play in competitive both games. going to win,” said Julian Nunez, freshman qualifying rounds until the final match FC Barcelona heads into the semi-finals criminal justice major. in June. as leaders in their own league, La Liga. Manchester United, the defending 26 The Rattler Sports 04.29.09 Boxing star retires after legendary career in ring By brissa Renteria born to do,” continued De La Hoya. a difficult time giving up something Senior Staff Writer “When I can’t do it anymore, when I they are passionate about, while can’t compete at the highest level, it’s not performing at their best in Ten world titles, boxing’s most not fair. It’s not fair to me, it’s not fair to the end. popular fighter and a Latin legend. the fans, and it’s not fair to nobody.” He reminisces about this often and, All of this history came to an end The crowd empathized with his like many athletes has said as well, in an announcement made by Oscar remarks, which gave him a large “things are just not the same anymore De La Hoya outside the Staples Center amount of gratitude as they applauded and we cannot do anything about it.” next to his Golden Boy statue. him at the Staples Center. Although many knew he was not “I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s De La Hoya took his career and the doing well in the latter part of his over,” the East Los Angeles native said life of boxing to a whole new level that career, numerous fans in the box offices before hundreds of fans on ABC news. had not been seen before. were still buying tickets for his fights. “It’s over inside the ring for me.” As he continued to win early in He was mostly famous on HBO, His retirement came months after his career, boxing became not just which broadcasted 32 of his fights, his defeat by Manny Pacquiao, his another sport, but a way of life for the more than any other boxer, and had fourth loss in the last seven fights. Latino community. generated millions in profits for the The last formidable opponent His decision saddened many, but cable network. he defeated was Fernando Vargas De La Hoya continued his speech with In my opinion, De La Hoya’s name in 2002. a smile for all and credited his wife will never cease to be heard from the As he ages and his skills slowly Millie Corretjer and business partner mouths of fans and sports figures. diminish, De La Hoya’s losses Richard Schaefer for helping him Thousands will continue to talk increased throughout the years from realize what “life is all about.” about him because he could be one of opponents such as Felix Trinidad This was not to say he was letting boxing’s icons of the century. and Sugar Shane Mosley, to Bernard his fans down, but simply how he He may say this is the end, but it Hopkins and Floyd Mayweather, Jr. was going to resume his life with is just the beginning of a new edition De La Hoya finished with a record different priorities. for boxers. of 39-6 and 30 knockouts when he won He, however, has definitely felt the Someone else must now do all Oscar De La Hoya answers questions before his historic loss his last title in 2006. hardship he took on with his career. that he has accomplished, and that against Manny Pacquiao in December 2008. Photo from “This is the love of my life, boxing De La Hoya also says he is something we will have to wait wikimedia commons.com is my passion, boxing is what I was understands why athletes have such patiently for. Sports in Brief

The Valero Texas Open changes dates, men’s golf team wins Heartland Conference Championship After an incredibly successful run in the fall, the Valero Texas Open, one of the most historic tournaments on the PGA TOUR, is proud to announce a shift in schedule, placing the PGA tour’s top tournament in charity giving in a much-coveted spring date as part of the FedExCup competition. Beginning in 2009, the Valero Texas Open will be played May 14-17. The 2008 Valero Texas Open was held again this year at the award-winning Westin La Cantera Resort during the week of Oct. 6-12. The 2008 Valero Texas Open champion, Zach Johnson, won the tournament. With tremendous support from Valero’s business partners, the 2008 Valero Texas Open was the most successful in the tournament’s 87-year history. Together with the Valero Texas Open Benefit for Children Golf Classic, the Valero Texas Open contributed a record total of $8.5 million to charity–this fundraising total keeps the Valero Texas Open among the most charitable tournaments on the PGA TOUR.

Jeff Rein fired a two-under par 70 to take medalist honors and helped St. Mary’s University overcome a 12-stroke deficit after the first round and win the Heartland Conference men’s golf championship by six strokes at the Slick Rock Golf Club Tuesday. Rein became the sixth Rattler to win the Heartland Conference Tournament Championship with a three- round total of 204. He finished the tournament with a two-under par 70 in the final round after opening the tournament with rounds of 66 and 68. The tournament victory was his first as a Rattler in his first season on the team. The Rattlers will return to action on May 4-6 at the NCAA South Central Region, which will be played in Allendale, Mich.

Source: www.valero.com and Derek Smolik

Chris Filoteo / The Rattler 04.29.09 Sports The Rattler 27 Football draft make, break current college stars Draft day is crucial for him out. linebacker Bobby Carpenter a couple Smith has had four different offensive seasons ago. teams looking to improve. coordinators in the past four years, so It’s hard to predict which of the first Top draft “busts” maybe this year will be different. round picks this year will not work out, As for America’s team, the Dallas but as of now it seems to be running The Rattler’s top five all-time draft By paul Saldana Cowboys do not have a first-round pick back Knowson Moreno (RB), from Staff Writer because of a trade last season to the Georgia, and RB from Ohio State Chris busts of the past 10 seasons: Detroit Lions for wide receiver (WR) Roy “Beanie” Wells. After the first-ever 0–16 season, the Williams in return. It will be hard for these players Paul Saldana: Chris Filoteo: Detroit Lions hope the April NFL draft With the recent release of star WR to make the transition to the NFL can help get the franchise headed into a Terrell Owens, strong safety (SS) Roy because as of now they don’t appear to winning direction. Williams and the trade of corner back fully understand how defenses in the 1. Tim Couch 1. Akili Smith I think the picks from 1–3 are locks. (CB) Antony Henry the Cowboys need NFL work. Browns 1999 Bengals 1999 Quarterback (QB) for the University help in the secondary and receiver spot-- As for Stafford, he should have a of Southern California Mark Sanchez’s two, vital skill positions. long career, but the only way I see him draft stock has been rising all spring, so The Cowboys have the No. 51 pick becoming a bad choice is if the Lions 2. Akili Smith 2. Charles Rogers Denver should trade up to get him. with this pick and I hope they trade up in don’t handle the situation properly. Bengals 1999 Lions 2003 Denver needs this pick because of order to make an impact next season. The Lions are known for making poor their recent trade of former first-round If they don’t then they can possibly choices on players and trades when it pick, QB Jay Cutler, to the Bears. land Ohio State’s Brian Robiskie at comes to draft day. 3. Courtney Brown 3. Ron Dayne Brian Orakpo, defensive end number fifty-one. Many other teams rush to try and Browns 2000 Giants 2000 from the University of Texas and B.J. Hopefully, the Cowboys will make draft the next superstar, but only few of Raji defensive lineman from Boston a smart decision to replace veterans the players ever pan out. 4. David Carr 4. Mike Williams College should make the most impact Owens, Williams and Henry with some The Lions are notorious for not with picks in the latter part of the young rookies in the secondary and handling their picks correctly, but Texans 2002 Lions 2005 top ten. receiver positions. perhaps they have learned from their In order to give former No. 1 pick The Cowboys have 10 picks on the mistakes and are ready to move towards 5. Joey Harrington 5. Tim Couch Alex Smith, QB, one more year to prove second day, which should be plenty a winning direction. himself as a starter, I think San Francisco to fill necessary spots. The Cowboys Lions 2002 Browns 1999 will draft an offensive tackle to help aren’t looking for another draft bust, like Chris Filoteo / The Rattler

“When I started working with Kim, I learned what it was like to work with someone who had a high standard of professionalism and integrity.” Robin Johnson

“My freshman year would have been impossible without you, you have the kindest heart I have known.” Sarah Mills

“It was upperclassmen like her that kept me passionate about journalism. A great friend and editor, she helped teach me the importance of leadership and commitment.” Christine Le

“The Rattler won’t be the same without your smile, your laughter and your random outburst of boy bands song. I love you Kimbalina! You’ll be missed.” Katie O’Donnell

“Kim, you were an exceptional boss, co-worker, confidant, and conspirator. Moreover, you will always be one of my most valued friends. Here’s to the future- may it be full of beards, owls, pies and fun!” Nicci Vargas 28 The Rattler Sports 04.29.09

Outfielder leads

THE HOT division in home runs, nears record

SEAT Arlynda Flores, senior exercise sports and science major, has 23 homeruns this season, one more than Sandy James of Angelo State University. Flores has at least seven more games to try to break the NCAA Division II national record of most homeruns in a single season set by Carmen Paez of Florida Gulf Coast in 2007 with 28 homeruns. Photo by Analicia Perez She is also just one homerun Featuring: away from tying the St. Mary’s school record. Kelly Baker Flores a junior from Uvalde is Softball Catcher quite the student-athlete. Classification: Sophomore She’s scoring big off the field Major: Exercise and as well as an Honor Roll student sports science with a 3.67 GPA.

What kind of music do you enjoy The Rattlers practice in hopes of winning the Heartland Conference tournament on Thursday April 30. Photo Source: Lucha Ramey, rattlerathletics.com listening to? “I like all kinds of by Patricia Terrazas music, but I enjoy hip-hop and country the most. My favorite artist is Stoney LaRue.”

Describe your experience on becoming the first female to Softball team is second in conference play tackle on your high school By michelle Tello the players in improving their game. especially with their “pitch calling.” football team? “It was really Staff Writer By having this open-door approach, the “In the beginning we had a tough time with fun and I will never forget that players get to express their concerns and ideas losing, but we overcame it,” said senior exercise experience. I started playing Working hard from the beginning, the to their coaches. sports and science major Nikki Flores, who is football in the fourth grade all women’s team stepped out onto the softball field The team has 14 returning players this an outfielder for the team. the way through my senior year to reach the point where they currently stand. season, which is an advantage to have Province believes that the team “can go all in high school, so it wasn’t such The team’s record in the Heartland Conference when trying to win the first-place spot in the the way” if they stay consistent. a big deal for me.” is 18-5 and their overall record is 28-28. Heartland Conference. The team has been fortunate to not have any They are currently in second place in the Kling and sophomore exercise and sports major injuries, but some players feel they have What are your goals after Heartland Conference behind St. Edwards science major, Lea Province, right-fielder, to work on their communication and correcting you graduate? “I am going University. “To make it to regionals we have believe the team’s biggest competitor is St. small errors on the field in order to reach their to graduate school to get my to win all of our games from here on out,” Edwards University, since they currently have full potential. master’s in physical therapy. said sophomore general business major the number one spot. Game after game, the team learns more about After that, I want to become Lauren Miller. The team had a rocky start at the beginning themselves. Flores believes the teams strengths a physical therapist for With practices consisting of mostly hitting of the season after losing some of their seniors are their charisma and their strong bond. a university.” and defensive drills, the team has a good due to injury, but Head Coach Donna Fields “Coach Fields believes in us and pushes us What is the most important idea chance at winning the Heartland Conference and Kling still had a lot of talent to work with. because she knows our potential,” said Miller. you have learned from Coach tournament. Kling felt as though the hardest part at the Coach Kling hopes the team continues to The team, along with their coaches, have time was putting all the talent together, making gain confidence when going into the Heartland Donna Fields? “To have a really an open-door policy according to assistant adjustments and rotating players around. Conference tournament on April 30. good work ethic. She pushes us coach, James Kling, which improves the team’s The team, with the help of their coaches, hard and wants us to be the best communication and allows the coaches to assist has made a lot of improvements this season, we can be.” Who is your favorite professional Recent game results football player? “Jason Whiten because he plays for the WOMEN’S TENNIS: Softball: MEN’S GOLF: BASEBALL: Cowboys and he is a great Apr 20: at Heartland Apr 25: * at Incarnate Word (Game 2) Apr 20: at Heartland Apr 25: * Incarnate Word tight end.” Conference Championships WIN score: 9-0 [30-30] Conference Championship WIN score: 10-8 (10 Inn.) [32-15] results: 2nd-7 Apr 25: * at Incarnate Word (Game 1) WIN results: 1st-8 Apr 24: * Incarnate Word (Game 2)

Apr 6: at Grand Canyon Invitational WIN score: 9-0 [29-30] Apr 6: at UCO/Kickingbird Classic LOSS score: 0-1 [31-15] results: t9th-18 results: 3rd-18 Apr 24: * Incarnate Word (Game 1)

Compiled by Chris Filoteo WIN score: 3-2 (10 Inn.) [31-14]