In a world where sharing the most intimate details of one’s life via tweet or Facebook status up-date has become conventional human behavior, many do not realize the potential dangers that can arise from sharing too much information.

Privacy settings might be able to keep some information hidden, but that does not always ensure safety. Something as simple as posting status updates or photos about newly purchased items can invite theft, said Armando Abney, associate professor and chair of the criminology department.

“You are basically advertising what you have,” he said. “Crimi-nals take note and are looking for easy targets.”

Criminals are always looking for ways to take advantage of new technologies, said Abney, and stu-dents should never “broadcast” their personal information on so-cial networking sites.

Most Smartphones also embed the GPS coordinates of where a photo was taken into the actual photo, said Louisa Martin, execu-tive director for technology re-source management and planning. In other words, people should be cautious and disable geo-locations to avoid revealing their location.

Facebook applications like “Places,” which allows users to let others know their exact location at

any given time, could also give criminals, or stalkers, another re-source to find a target.

Martin said too many personal or easily identifiable details can make someone a target for iden-tity theft, harassment or property crime.

“I think that there are people out there who may look at this feature and think that it is nice to use so that people know where you are, but at the same time, they know where you are not,” said junior history major Kari Gords. “To me, it is like an invita-tion for someone to go rob your house while they know you are at the library or the store.”

The average Facebook user has more than 100 friends, and with more than 500 million users, it is more than just friends brows-ing through social sites wanting to learn more, according to face-book.com/press .

“You never know who is out there watching; you can monitor your privacy and what you share but there are people out there who can hack around it and read every-thing,” Gords said. “Many people have friends on Facebook that they either barely know or do not know at all. You never know who could be stalking your page or monitor-ing what you say.”

The main thing, though, is controlling what you put out there, said Katherine Lehman-Meyer, director of the Academic Media Center.

“Your information is very vul-

nerable,” Lehman-Meyer said. “You do not realize it because it is part of your everyday life and you are used to telling everyone what you are up to, but it is all about how you approach it.”

Freshman psychology major Lucuro Alvarez said she posts about two Facebook statuses and four tweets a day, but she only likes to share things about her day, not about personal matters.

“Vague information would be

appropriate to post,” she said. “Personal information about their lives, or concerning other people, would seem inappropriate.”

The less information, the better, seems to be the best approach.

“There are a lot of other social norms that we know can also get us into trouble if we aren’t careful,” Lehman-Meyer said. “Drinking is an example, and it is the same thing with social media. There are some things we just do not do; we

have to use common sense.”After all, using sites like Face-

book can be an amazing tool when used sensibly, according to Lehm-an-Meyer.

“There is much to be learned about social media, there are not any clear cut rules yet, but there certainly are guidelines,” she said. “If you are conservative, you can-not go wrong.”

A St. Mary’s Student Publication since 1925 • Vol. 98 Issue 2 • September 29, 2010 • STMURATTLERNEWS.COM

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insideNEWS FEATURES ENTERTAINMENT SPORTS

facebookOversharing personal information through social websites

can lure in unwanted attention.

how SAFE is it?By Denice HernandezManaging Editor

Facebook users from left to right: David Clark, Katie Beth, John Villalobos, Hector Mars, Andrea Riojas, Maria Smit, Marco Bass and Michael Rodriguez. Photos by Analicia Perez

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Staff CartoonistOscar Maguregui Faculty AdviserBrother Dennis, S.M., Ph.D.

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NEWS IN BRIEF

POLICE BLOTTER

>>

9.12.10Criminal Trespass at St. Joseph’s Home. Suspect arrested and transported to Municipal Detention.

9.13.10Incident at Service Road. Student caught loading handgun magazine with orange tipped bullets. Handgun was a dummy; no real handgun found. Referred to Judicial Affairs

9.15.10Welfare check at Lot D. Student found living in vehicle. Referred to Judicial Affairs. 9.17.10Assault at Founder’s Hall. Student touched inappropriately by non-student visitor. Director on duty contacted. Criminal trespass warning issued. Visitor escorted off campus.

9.22.10Student Handbook Violation at Marian Hall. Alcohol and visitation violations occurred. Citations issued. Referred to Judicial Affairs.

9.24.10Assault at Quad. Two female students assaulted by a male student. Director on duty contacted. Pending investigation.

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Students socialize at UPC’s Fall Fest at the Bill Greehey Arena on Sept. 23. Activites and food ranged from ice cream to bull-riding. From left to right: Kyle Seymour, Rachel Alcocer, Kimberly Villapando and Robert Ramirez. Photo by Dana Robledo

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President Barack Obama calls Iranian President Ahmedenejad’s speech ‘hateful’ President Mahmoud Ahmedenejad of Iran presented a controversial speech that rattled Thursday’s United Nations meeting in New York. He blamed the Sept. 11 attacks on the U.S. government. Obama said his speech, “was inexcusable...for him to make that statement in Manhattan, just a little north of Ground Zero.” Source: CNN.com

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Man tracks lost iPad across the U.S. using app Curtis Cogdill of Sacramento, CA misplaced his iPad when leaving Portland International Airport. He used his MobileMe application to track his iPad as it flew to Orlando. He called a Southwest Airlines supervisor as the iPad was tracked to an employee’s home. The supervisor went to the house with the police and sent the iPad back to Cogdill. Source: CBS13.com

Café College opens to help both high school and college students Café College on 131 El Paso St. intends to assist students as they make major decisions after their high school careers. Col-lege counselors are on staff to give free assistance to both students and college drop-outs who are interested in furthering their education. The 5,500 square foot building is equipped with computer labs, classrooms, and lounges with free Wi-Fi. The café cost $1.3 million in city and private funding. Further expansion could cost $1.5 million. Source: MySanAntonio.com

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Senior chemistry and biology major, Anna M. Plote reads the Prayers of the Faithful at the Sunday morning liturgy in the Assumption Chapel on Sept. 26. Photo by Analicia Perez

By Ari RiveraSenior Staff Writer

A petition is making its way through campus to persuade the uni-versity to create a Sunday Mass in Spanish, in addition to services cur-rently offered.

While church-goers can attend Sunday Mass at 11 a.m. in the As-sumption Chapel and at 9 p.m. in the Guadalupe Chapel, these services are provided only in English. Bilingual students who wish to hear sermons given in Spanish must go to Sunday Mass at 8 p.m. at Holy Rosary, located next to the university at 159 Camino Santa Maria, or must find another lo-cal church with Spanish masses.

“A petition has begun on campus with the intent of raising interest in having Mass given in Spanish,” said Maria A. Smith, the university’s min-ister for liturgy and music. “First and foremost, we would need to know how many of our St. Mary’s students would in fact attend mass given in Spanish if it were to be offered here.”

Smith said that she was enlight-ened two years ago when several students involved in the University’s Chapel Choir inquired about a Span-ish service.

“Many of those [Chapel Choir] members are accustomed to pray-ing in Spanish because they did so in their home parishes,” she said.

Smith also said a Spanish Mass would bring cultural richness to the community.

Marcela Camarena, senior in-ternational relations major, agrees with Smith.

“Especially now that things are so hard in México, many of us long for that feeling of peace we used to have at home,” Camarena said. “I believe some members of the community would attend, and many would at least appreciate the option.”

The students who started the peti-tion are still looking for support for the Spanish language Mass. Although not all students are Spanish speakers, they would be welcome to attend.

Junior theology major Luis Jose Barajas said that while he is not flu-ent in Spanish, he would regularly attend a Spanish-speaking Mass if it was offered.

“Spanish Mass would nourish the faith of the many Hispanic Catholics on campus. When we pray, we pray in the language that we know best, and that is closest to our hearts,” Barajas said. “A Spanish Mass would most definitely address the spiritual needs of a large number of students at St. Mary’s.”

Students that would like to sign the petition can find a copy at Uni-versity Ministry or are welcome to contact Maria Camarena to offer their signature as support.

UMin petitions for Spanish Sunday Mass

After three years of being a dor-mant chapter of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, the Lambda Psi chap-ter on campus hopes to make its return as a Registered Student Organization.

Since the chapter was put on pro-bation in November 2007, San Anto-nio Kappa Sigma alumni have been working with the university ad-ministration and the Kappa Sigma fraternity headquarters to bring the organization back on campus.

“The new dean, Dean [Timothy] Bessler, has been very helpful,” said Chris Olivares, a 2001 St. Mary’s and Kappa Sigma alumnus.

Bessler has been working with Olivares and the other brothers of Kappa Sigma since the beginning of the semester, he said.

“I have been in conversation personally with the national office, and we are excited about the possi-bility of Kappa Sigma coming back as an active chapter at St. Mary’s,”

Bessler said. Olivares said he has spent hours

on the phone and meeting with fraternity headquarter represen-tatives, as well as university rep-resentatives. He was able to get their previous probationary pe-riod reduced to one year from the original two-year sentence given in 2007. As a result of administra-tion changes in the university, the timing was never right for the men to return to campus, according to Olivares.

This fall, however, the work seems to be paying off. Kappa Sigma members senior electrical en-gineering major Richard Ledesma, senior English-communication ma-jor Mike Cortez and senior corpo-rate finance major Ramon Gallegos were motivated to create an inter-est group for those men who would like to help the Lambda Psi chapter become a RSO.

Currently, the group is only al-lowed to notify potential new mem-bers through word of mouth. Once the group becomes a registered

student organization, it will be-gin hosting events. The group has turned in the paperwork necessary to begin the process, according to Gallegos.

“We are trying to come back to the St. Mary’s community in the right way; first as a RSO, then as a colony in the spring,” Gallegos said. “We are going to try to hold com-munity service events to get Kappa Sigma’s name back out there.”

The group has tentatively set the spring semester as its first recruiting semester, but that depends on com-munication between Olivares, uni-versity officials, the RSO’s office, the Interfraternity Council and Kappa Sigma headquarters.

“This process is new to us, re-col-onizing a fraternity,” said Olivares.

“We are hoping to create a pro-cess at St. Mary’s so that this would be easier if it ever happens to anoth-er Greek organization.”

For now, the alumni and the three initiated men on campus are looking forward to seeing their let-ters back in the Quad.

NewsThe Rattler4 September 29, 2010

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Kappa Sigma works to regain organization status By Mary Neal Staff Writer

Kappa Sigma was once a RSO. This photo from Fall 2007 shows (from left to right): Jonathan Martinez, Mike Cortez, Gabriel Hernandez, Ben Avila, Ravi Raj and Rene Muñoz. Photo courtesy of Mike Cortez.

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College should be the experience of a lifetime, and a chance to broaden one’s mind. It is meant to give students a chance to sample the real world, learn what is out there and let them decide for themselves what they want to be. It is an opportunity for students to shape themselves as

individuals and solidify views and ideals by opening up to a variety of ideas. However, some alumni of the University of Wyoming seem to disagree, and are criticizing their alma mater for inviting “controversial” speakers to host forums for the student body.

Among speakers recently hosted on the Wyoming campus was former vice-president Dick Cheney and left-wing radical opponent of the Vietnam War, Bill Ayers. While it is understandable that people might disagree with the views of Cheney and Ayers, no one can disagree that they were and continue to be influential figures in our country’s history. The University of Wyoming was within its rights in fulfilling its duties to its students while hosting these two speakers.

College students do not need to be sheltered from the reality of the outside world. Rather, they need to be prepared for it. What better way is there to serve students than by hosting speakers who have world experience, and who have been in the spotlight of admiration and disdain?

But in retaliation for hosting these speakers, university donors threatened to cut off monetary funds. Ayers is a controversial figure in the eyes of many, but the university can host a speaker without condoning or supporting his radical and controversial past. Cheney, if anything, should be respected for being elected into such a major role in our government.

It is unclear exactly how much money the university lost as a result of allowing these men to speak on campus, but prime donor John Martin considered pulling out from supporting a project for the university’s Wildcatter Stadium, according to the Star-Tribune. Overall, this would cost the university approximately $4 million in funding.

While this might be extremely detrimental to the university, I believe the university should stand by their notion of neutrality. Universities should present as many speakers to their students and faculty as long as they remain balanced in their variety.

“In God we trust,” is a phrase our nation has adopted, but does e v e r y o n e believe it? There has been much d e b a t e

recently about religious diversity in America, most commonly toward Muslims and Christians. But now, the attention is on those who choose to believe in nothing at all.

Discussion has shifted from Islamic community centers being built by Ground Zero to pro-atheism billboards in Oklahoma City. The debate is focused on a local atheist group that recently erected a billboard that read, “Don’t believe in God? Join the club.” The billboard has caused quite a stir.

The Oklahoma Coalition of Reason, the group responsible for the billboard, said that their goal is to increase the acceptance of secular Americans. That seems pretty reasonable to me.

In straight-laced Oklahoma, however, it appears that tolerance of dissimilarities may be an overly ambitious goal. This is, after all, a deeply red state where John McCain won nearly two-thirds of the electorate in the last presidential election and popular political leaders have been known to publicly castigate minority groups. “Diversity” seems to be little more than a word that appears in that

seldom-used dictionary. And the cohesiveness of

Oklahomans extends beyond their race, politics and love of Sooner football. Nearly eight out of every 10 Oklahomans self-identifies as Christian, making this state one of the most God-fearing in the nation, according to a report by the Associated Press.

So what makes this debate so interesting? This group has the right to use the billboard, but the question remains, in a state so pious, should they?

Many citizens in the area do not believe the group should have erected this billboard. Religious leaders a n d regular Joes alike h a v e loudly voiced their disdain. Recent news reports on local TV stations have featured interviews with residents offering their opinions.

One of the reports aired on Oklahoma City’s Fox affiliate, KOKH, included a gentleman who said, “If you have your own beliefs, keep ‘em to yourself.” Undoubtedly any atheist living in the Bible belt would share that sentiment.

The debate is not about censorship, but rather just about acceptance. Our nation prides itself on its religious freedom. But do we embrace that diversity, or is this all simply empty rhetoric?

It is time to stop talking about embracing differences and time to start actually accepting them — even in commonplace Oklahoma, a state that is well-versed in the infinite love of God.

An atheist group called the Coalition of Reason has shaken the religious foundat ion of Oklahoma City where about 85 percent of

people living there identify themselves as Christian, according to an analysis conducted by the Pew Research Center. Billboards have been erected along the highway that read, “Don’t believe in God? Join the club.”

The city has also seen the formation of a Satanist group

called the Church of the IV Majesties. James Hale, a

founding member of this group has assisted in renting out a room in the Oklahoma City Civic Center for meetings and bizarre events

such as “blasphemy rituals,” according to a report by Fox news.

While one group denies the existence of God and the other group relishes the “fallen angel,” it is confusing as to what the groups hope to accomplish. Demographically they are not in an area receptive to their beliefs, and should consider taking their activities elsewhere, for the good of the city and the good of the people.

As much as political advocates may argue that these groups have a right to worship (or lack thereof), they are simply posing a threat to the status quo of the region. Nick Singer, founding

member of the Coalition of Reason, and Hale have stated that they hope to find like-minded people. In a state where powerful majorities have a religious and spiritual identity, Singer and Hale are absolutely missing their mark. One does not look for silver in a gold mine.

Additionally, the groups must consider their own safety when conducting their activities. Because Oklahoma is a Christian state, the potential for the groups to stir up sentiments of bitterness toward them is significant. When emotions enter any equation, people have the tendency to commit acts of violence, and this should be avoided.

If the groups can peacefully coexist with everyone outside their beliefs then perhaps this would not be an issue. In the case of the Coalition of Reason, however, they are making it loud and clear what they are about, even to those just passing by on the highway. This is now a public issue and they will have to be willing to take any criticism they may receive without feeling ostracized.

While the groups hope to spread awareness of their messages, they may experience difficulty as a legitimate organization amidst a religious community. If violence escalates because of this, actions will need to be taken.

For the benefit of children in and around Oklahoma City, we should not encourage such religious freedom to undermine their religious education.

The Rattler6 September 29, 2010

www.stmurattlernews.com

Commentary

Alex Meyer

Alex Salinas

Briana Perez

Religious tolerance should be practiced and would shift nation in postive direction.

Groups will disturb religious majority; they should not be in Oklahoma.

Controversial speakers can be beneficial

POINT

POINTCOUNTER-

Non-Christian groups cause stirCartoon by Oscar Maguregui

“College students do not need to be sheltered from the reality of the world. Rather, they need to be prepared for it.”

- Briana Perez

Last academic year, nearly half of the Student Government Association’s veteran members graduated, including most of the executive branch. This left the current executive branch with a challenge: finding new members committed to dedicating their time to SGA.

Although vacancies were advertised, elections were held without a full slate in Spring 2010. At the beginning of this school year, I appointed 13 new members in the legislative branch alone. In addition, three freshmen senators have been added. This means that roughly half of our SGA members are new to the organization. However, this has turned out to be a fresh start for us.

Just as our new members are learning about what it means to be in SGA, I am learning about what it means to be a president. After planning the following events, I have learned quite a few lessons.

SGA continued our annual event, Burgers with the Brothers, on the first day of school. The event was a success, despite the untimely rain. Fortunately, I think the rain was partially responsible for the success

of the event, as all the students took shelter in Casa Maria, where the brothers welcomed all the students with open arms.

Lesson learned: plan an alternate location for outdoor events.

Our other major event, Pub Night, took place Sept. 16. The turnout for this event was pleasantly surprising. I contribute the success of this event to the surplus of advertising and the DJs who created an energetic, appealing ambiance for the students. I ran into a couple of challenges, including a lack of the advertised food and beverage specials. I assumed the specials would automatically be provided. I was wrong.

Lesson learned: double check that everything advertised will actually be at the event.

SGA planned a “Constitution Day” event with the Service Learning Center. This small, but important event takes place annually in Pecan Grove. I learned the importance of communicating with those around me, especially my executive team. Delegating duties is particularly important for having a successful organization.

Lesson learned: delegate duties and communicate well with your team at all times.

After a ban on burqas, a face-covering garment worn publicly by some Muslim women, was overwhelming passed with a 335 to one vote in July from

France’s lower parliament, a wave of criticism arose from human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International. The groups argued that the ban hindered the religious practices of Muslims, and desperately hoped that the French Senate would not approve it.

However, the ban was again overwhelmingly passed by a

246 to one vote by the French Senate two weeks ago. Presi-dent Nicolas Sarkozy, who described burqas as a “sign of enslavement and debasement,” full-heartedly supports the measure along with 82 percent of the French public according to CNN. Significant majorities in Germany, Great Britain and Spain also support the ban, while only one third of Ameri-cans are in favor of it.

What the opponents of this measure fail to see are the two main reasons why a ban on burqas is good policy, and why nations such as Belgium and Spain are proposing similar legislation.

First, the ban prevents the possibility of citizens covering

their face to avoid public scru-tiny if they are involved in committing a crime. The gov-ernment, as well as a victim-ized citizen of a crime, has a legitimate necessity to be able to note facial features of the perpetrator for identification and safety purposes.

Second, the ban eliminates a public display of the subju-gation of women. The mea-sure aims to target the Muslim men who force their wives to hide themselves to the public because of their “ownership” of the women, whose faces may only be viewed by their own eyes. This behavior should be unacceptable in modern so-ciety, and it should not be con-doned publicly.

The Rattler 7September 29, 2010www.stmurattlernews.com

Commentary

Chris Childree

M a n y violent video games have c r e a t e d controversy t h ro u g h o u t the years. Games such as “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2”

have had their 15 seconds in the spotlight. Now, “Medal of Honor” (to be released in October) is at the forefront.

Forty-nine GameStop locations on military bases are banning the sale of “Medal of Honor” because gamers can play as Taliban forces in the multiplayer segment of the game. I strongly support the

military’s decision on the ban.To play as the Taliban,

this allows players to see the American military as enemies, which is disrespectful. Although this is merely a game, those who have access to the military bases should not have to be reminded of what has happened or what could happen to their loved ones.

The timing of the game’s release is not tasteful either. It may have been less repercussive if the game’s release were to be postponed for the time being. It is insensitive of the game’s developers to release the game when many have lost their beloved in the battlefield, or to those still out there.

If the developers were to

rename the Taliban opposition under a fictional name, there would likely be less debate. For example, “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2” features the Navy SEALS team against a team called “OpFor” (Opposing Forces). MW2 is set in about the same time period as MoH, and has been sold on military bases.

American players able to kill depictions of American soldiers as the Taliban is outrageous. Games like this can also cause people to incorrectly depict the entire Muslim population as dangerous and as a target for violence.

While the First Amendment protects the game, one should not have to pass by this product while on a military base.

Steven Garcia

Church donations should not decline despite recession

Burqa ban in France exemplifies improvements in modern society

“Medal of Honor” videogame disrespects United States military

STAFF EDITORIAL

As our economic recession unfolds, the importance of maintaining a budget and saving money has topped our list of priorities. When considering an economic model that relies heavily on consumerism, businesses are rethinking how to sell their products. But unlike businesses, religious congregations have limited monetary resources — although it is easy to mistakenly believe that the church runs on faith alone. However, recent examples have shown that this is

not the case.Beyond the pedagogy and rules

of procession lays a basic concept: many churches need an operating budget.

Ontologically, when the pockets of members suffer, the church suffers as well. The National Cathedral in Washington D.C., has experienced the crunch of the recession and has laid off many employees since 2008, according to the New York Times. This scenario has been replicated throughout the country.

Offerings and donations given by church members are traditionally responsible for a huge percentage of a church’s livelihood. A direct need for contribution has had some churches experience increases in donations, but in other cases, the situation has become so severe that people are beginning to fear that if they do not donate, their place of worship may disappear.

Another contributing factor to the decrease in congregational donations is the prominence of electronic banking and the rise in

debit card usage. According to a 2002 report by the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, 60 percent of Americans wrote checks that year. Eight years later, we can speculate that the percentage has decreased as technology has improved. But since cash and checks are what are accepted during times of worship, there has been a decrease in donations.

Generational differences can also explain the decrease in donations. Statistically, baby boomers have donated less

money to a place of worship in their middle and senior years than the previous generation did, according to a report in the Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion. The trend may continue with the coming of age of the current generation.

Although it seems that the cost of living is greater than the cost of giving, one should keep in mind that it is important to pay for the services that one receives, and that faith sometimes can only go so far, no matter how unfortunate.

Student Government Association President Alex McCoy closes out her day by working on flyers on Sept. 24. Photo by Analicia Perez

Behind the scenes of SGA By Alex McCoy Contributing Writer

As if paying tuition and rent wasn’t enough, college students have to spend cash on things that really matter — partying every possible minute, taking out the cutest girl, late-night na-cho runs, and, of course, having a closet that makes models jealous. After a few weeks of re-peating the cycle, one can be left with an empty wallet. Don’t become the one friend that can never go out because he/she is always dead broke. Instead, take some tips from us and start saving some money while still having fun.

Graphic / Illustration by Jasmine GarciaCompiled by Sarah Mills, Denice Hernandez

and Azhmir Acosta

Hilary Kristynik, freshman Sociology major, purchases dinner from the Diamondback Café on Sept. 25. Even though you can pay for food using a meal plan, budgeting is important to prevent running out of money by the end of the semester. Photo by Analicia Perez

COLLEGE LIFE ON A BUDGET

$Java City Cappuccino, Grande, $2.99If you grab a cappuccino four times a week, it comes out to more than $10 a week. Sure, you may be paying for it with

your meal plan, but you don’t want to end up without a balance during the last few weeks of the semester. Opt for a regu-lar coffee instead, which is cheaper, or just cut down on your intake.

Function Water: Distilled with Electrolytes, $3.09As if buying bottled water wasn’t wasteful enough, this fancy bottle will cost you. Choose a regular bottle of Aquafina

for $1.49 if you MUST drink bottled water. Better yet, buy yourself a refillable water container you can always carry with you and refill when you need to. Don’t buy bottled water for a week and use that money saved to buy that reusable water bottle!

Single-serving size cereal, $1.29OK, we are not saying to go without eating breakfast, but if you buy an individual pack of cereal a day, you could spend

up to $9 a week. Save some money and head to the grocery store to buy a full-size box; it will be cheaper and will surely last longer

Prices from Diamondback Café and Java City

GIVE THIS UP, GAIN A BUCK (OR TWO)

Peter Piper Pizza 4811 E Commerce St. 10% discount

Taco Cabana 4723 Commerce St. 20% discount

Lisa’s Mexican Restaurant 815 Bandera Rd. 10% discount Exclusively for St. Mary’s Porky’s Burgers and More 2426 Culebra Rd. 10% discount

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema 614 NW Loop 410 $2 off all tickets

The Apple Store Northstar Mall Up to 10% off

T-Mobile 950 Bandera Rd. Up to 12% off on plans

Banana Republic Northstar Mall 15% off

J Crew Northstar Mall 15% off regular priced items

Regal Theatres 2828 Cinema Ridge Sunday-Thursday $8.50 at night Morning Showings Everyday $7.50

Sea World & Six Flags Tickets Available for reduced price in St. Mary’s Bookstore

the POWER ofthe Rattler card

Keep your student ID in your wallet, it can save you money at certain places. Take a look at which companies participate in student discounts.

Want to go to Hawaii for a hundred bucks? We do, too. When you find out how, write us a letter and share your se-cret plan. In the meantime, get a group of friends together and plan to spend a day together at a nearby small town. It may not be the most glamorous mini-vacation, but with some creativity it can be fun. Pack sandwiches and journey to Fredericksburg where your crew can climb Enchanted Rock and enjoy lunch with a spectacular view, then browse the kitschy boutiques on Main Street. Or head over to Gruene mid-afternoon to relax under the shade by the river, and then grab dinner at Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar while enjoy-ing some live music. Carpool and split gas costs to soften the biggest cash blow.

GROUP GETAWAY

$Get to know San Antonio a little better and take advan-tage of the events going on around the city. Pile up in a car, and take a trip downtown, it is only 10 minutes away! Walk through the streets of downtown San Antonio, see the Ala-mo and the Missions. Take cameras to see who can take the best photos. Stroll along the River Walk, which was recently extended. There you will find hidden waterfalls, interesting shops, public art installments and music. If music is what you seek, the Main Plaza has musicians and concerts avail-able, free of cost, to everyone on the weekends. A few blocks from the River Walk, you can head to Market Square, to watch working artists paint, blow glass or work with metals.

TOUR SAN ANTONIO

Take your lover to a poetry slam for some fresh entertainment. Poetry slams are not just hippies strumming guitars and reading sappy poems. They are often funny and exploding with emotion. Check out Puroslam’s poetry night at On the Half Shell Oyster Bar, 202 Navarro St., at 10 p.m. every Tuesday. Admission is $5 for mi-nors, and free for those 21 and up. For music and words, check out the Jazz Poets Society at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays at the High Wire Art Gallery, located at 326 W. Josephine St. Music ends at 9 p.m.

Take your date to University Bowl and enjoy student discounts almost daily. From 9 p.m. to midnight from Sunday to Thursday, students who take their college ID can bowl for $1.79 a game and can rent shoes for $2.25. In the mood for a little competition? Make it a double date and couples can play against each other. Losers have to treat everyone to ice cream. Don’t worry; the snack bar also has great deals.

CHEAP DATE IDEAS

COLLEGE LIFE ON A BUDGETa guide to saving money

Buy some movie tickets at the Rattler Bookstore for $7 to $7.50 each (yes, you can use your bookstore account) and plan a night at the movies. Catch an indie flick or docu-mentary at the Santikos Bijou theatre for movies that aren’t screened anywhere else. Afterward, head over to Starbucks or an ice cream shop to discuss the movie, or just to catch up with friends. The good thing with going to the movies with friends is that you can still experience all the fun without pressure to pay for your date.

Arrange a “Madden” or “FIFA” video game tournament with a group of friends. Ask everyone to bring munchies (some can be bought at the café) so that the costs of food can be split. If your crew needs something a little bit more filling, pitch in to order pizza or Chinese. Don’t forget to ask for specials or student discounts.

FUN WITH FRIENDS

September 29, 2010Features10 The Rattlerwww.stmurattlernews.com

Amnesty members raise human rights awareness

Although Amnesty International, a student organization that focuses on raising awareness about human rights issues, has been on campus for less than five years, it has been experiencing a steadily growing membership.

There were 60 students at the first Amnesty International meeting in the University Center, but only five male students were in attendance at the meeting.

Ryan Mchutchion, a sophomore political science and philosophy major, heard about the meeting through friends and decided to attend because of his interest in social justice.

“I guess it is not a ‘macho’ thing for guys to come in and stand up for human rights,” he said.

Although Amnesty International appears to draw the attention of many students, the group’s president, senior international relations and political science major Kristin

Sepulveda said that there are many misconceptions about the organization’s diversity.

“There is this perception that if you are in Amnesty International, people think that you are a Democrat — that you lean toward the left,” Sepulveda said. “The members all have different majors and interests. Some members are religious; some are not. Some are very conservative. It is a huge variety of people.”

This fall, the group hopes to raise awareness on four issues through different campaigns. The campaigns are titled “Counter Terror with Justice,” an effort to end torturing suspects; “Demand Dignity,” which aims to raise awareness about maternal mortality and corporate accountability; “Individuals at Risk,” which focuses on bringing justice to individual prisoners with unique cases; and “Death Penalty,” which calls for an end of capital punishment.

“At the meeting, we just spread the word and told them what Amnesty does, so we can

get people inspired to do good things,” said Sepulveda. “The demand dignity campaign is full right now.”

Amnesty International has several events planned for the academic school year, according to the events coordinator, Amira Kalifa, a senior marketing and entrepreneurship major.

“We are going to have a global write-a-thon on Dec. 10, which is Human Rights Day, and it addresses the Individuals at Risk campaign,” said Kalifa. “The global write-a-thon campaign is the largest letter writing event in the nation.”

Other events are scheduled for the spring semester. The “Counter Terror with Justice” campaign will have a poetry and music event. The death penalty campaign will have a demonstration in the spring as well.

Finally, in April, the university chapter of Amnesty International plans to go to San Francisco to attend a national conference for all the Amnesty International chapters.

By Austin W. NewtonNews Editor

Kyle Seymour and Bikalpa Raj Timilsina listen to event coordinator of Amnesty International Amira Kalifa speak about the Individuals at Risk Campaign. Photo by Robin Johnson

STUDENT ORGANIZATION FEATURE

Features 11www.stmurattlernews.com

The RattlerSeptember 29, 2010

It is not an unusual sight to see a cat sleeping in the library or one stretched out on a picnic table in the Quad. However, many students do not know that these cats, along with 10 others on campus, are part of the university’s For Paws program, which provides care management for stray cats found on campus as an alternative to euthanasia.

In 2003, before the program, more than 30 cats roamed on campus. Cats were captured by the physical plant department and sent to animal shelters, where most were euthanized. Because of this, a group of students and faculty members came forward with the idea of creating a system for caring for the cats and limiting reproduction rates.

“It is important that we set an example by spaying and neutering the cats because this is such a big issue in the city,” said Caroline Byrd, co-director of the For Paws program and library associate director. “San Antonio shelters have such a high kill rate.”

Through the program, cats that are found on campus are sterilized, vaccinated and released. Cats that stay on campus are also fed and given special names, while the “friendly” ones wear personalized collars. A clipped ear can distinguish cats that have been through the For Paws program.

Freshman exercise and sports science major Waylen Baumgartener said he was shocked when he saw Spice, a campus cat, in the library. However, this changed his

perception about cats, he said."I like him because he is a nice cat, not a

stuck up cat that just goes where he wants and expects people not to pet him," said Baumgartener.

For Paws reaches out beyond campus grounds, too.

This summer, the For Paws program helped capture and sterilize 155 cats in the surrounding community after the San Antonio Area Foundation awarded the program more than $9,000 in grant money.

“We not only give service to the campus, but we are also helping with a problem our neighbors have,” said Byrd.

Byrd said program members walked through the Neighborhood Association area around campus in search for cat owners that could not afford to have their felines spayed or neutered.

With funding from the grant, and help from local anmal clinics, the For Paws program was able to capture cats and take them to receive these services at no cost to the cat owners.

"The people were so thankful," she said.Also this summer, a litter of kittens was

born on campus. One kitten was adopted by a student while three remain in foster care awaiting a new home. The mother went to PetSmart.

Graduate student Stephanie Hopkins adopted her cat Flaco, later renamed Jasper, a year ago after she joined the For Paws mailing list.

“I received an e-mail from Caroline about a kitten they found behind the library that

needed a home,” Hopkins said. “He was just too cute to pass up.”

Trinity University has a similar program to For Paws. Dogs, however, are not part of programs like this because city laws do not allow dogs to roam loose without leashes.

For Paws is entirely funded by donations, so even a bag of cat food helps makes a difference, said Byrd.

“Or pet a friendly cat on your way to class, that is a good thing too,” Byrd said.

Style StalkerFlaunt your florals this fall!

Top RIght: Freshmen Liliana Gutier-rez makes her summer floral dress work by adding fall boots and a long layering vest.Bottom Left: Sophomore Rachel Vallejo tops her floral blouse with a cute cardigan and matching floral heels. Photos by Felix Arroyo

For Paws helps cats on campus and in neighborhood

Freshman exercise and sports science major Waylen Baugartener stops by to keep Spice company during his afternoon nap. Photo by Denice Hernandez

By Denice HernandezManaging Editor

Fabian4everFarewell Summer 2010. I had a memorable one. Thanks fam and friends for the memories.

Looking forward to Fall memories. . .

tkorte20Listening to mixed cd's that I made within the past 10 years.Always brings back fond memories ..

JuanitoElizondoDoing work in a McDonald's. Aren't I classy

NatashareneeFinally going to sleep to the sounds of BBC news in my ear .... mmmm englishy

DAOliver20Idk who raised these St Marys kids but i was taught if something doesnt belong to you, donttouch it. Meaning KEEP YOUR HANDS OFF MY LAUNDRY

Follow us @STMURattlerNews to appear on our tweet beats!

beatstweet

Tips to making your summer clothes work this fall1. Make summer shorts work this season by pairing leggings underneath them. Leggings come in lace, funky neon colors or even denim, and they are sold at almost every department store.

2. Summer shorts can also be worn with some classic 80’s style leg warmers over your tights during cooler temperatures. Leg warmers are sold at many department stores including Tar-get, Kmart and American Apparel.

3. Tank tops, tube tops and spaghetti strap shirts can be topped with a light cardigan or vest. Cardigans can be found in clothing stores like Forever 21, The Gap and Pacsun.

4. Wear a spring dress paired with cowboy boots and a light sweater. Nothing says ‘fash-ionista’ like a pair of boots and a dress.

5. Gentlemen, it is never too late to pick up a scarf to add to that favorite v-neck or t-shirt. Men’s scarves can be found at many depart-ment stores like The Gap, Nieman Marcus and Target.

6. Add some style to your shorts and t-shirt on a chilly, fall day with a beanie or newsboy cap. Beanies and newsboy caps can be found at Tar-get, The Gap and Forever 21Men.

Compiled by Pamela Avarado

EntertainmentThe Rattler12

www.stmurattlernews.com

Coming Soon

ALBUMS

SHOWS

“Dr. ‘S’ Battles the Sex Crazed Reefer Zombies”at Overtime Theater

10/8-11/6

MOVIES

Source: chacha.com

“Daniel Tosh: Twenty Ten Tour”at The Majestic

10/3

Source: roberthood.net

“Beauty and the Beast”at The Majestic

10/12-10/17

Source: disneydreaming.com

Ciara“Bubblegum”10/5

Taylor Swift“Speak Now”

10/26

Sugarland“The Incredible Machine”

10/19

Bruno Mars“Doo-wops & Hooligans ”

10/5

Kid Cudi“Man On The Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager ”10/26

Kings of Leon “Come Around Sundown”

10/19

Sources: thatgrapejuice.net, tumblr.com, musicreviewsforidiots.com, wikimedia.org, hypebeast.com, adventoutpost.com

“Red” 10/15

Sources: rottentomatoes.comPhoto Courtesy of: thegeekcouch.com, zmemusic.comGraphic / Illustration by Jasmine Garcia

Whether you are new to town or have lived in Texas all your life (but have been living under a rock), the Austin City Limits festival is the perfect getaway to an original music experience. ACL is a three-day event at Zilker Park in Austin. The event attracts over 65,000 people per day and brings 130 bands to eight stages, according to aclfestival.com. Genres include rock, indie, country, hip-hop, reggae and everything in between, so you will find a suitable sound for every personality. Unfortunately, tickets from the official website are completely sold out, but you can dish out the high bills for VIP tickets. For the rest of us average broke college students, amazing deals for tickets can be found on Craigslist (be careful though). The festival runs from Oct. 8 to Oct. 10, so try to find tickets fast.

Thus, a perfect day at ACL would be:

FRIDAYThere is no rush to get to

ACL early on the first day. The first set starts at 2:45 p.m., so you have some time to get breakfast or go shopping around the city. Miike Snow will get the party started, and then The Black Keys will

hit the stage at 4 p.m. Beach House will follow at 5 p.m. All three performances are located at different stages, so get moving quick to catch different acts.

Getting hungry? Grab dinner, but return by 7 p.m. to catch Vampire Weekend. While you are rocking out, ask yourself, “Would you rather see The Strokes or Phish?” Both bands start their performances at 8 p.m. These two American bands are great, but if you want more of a jam scene, you better go with Phish.SATURDAY

This day is going to be wild. You will have to make decisions, decisions and more decisions. Two Door Cinema will be your opener at 2:20 p.m., followed by Manchester Orchestra at 3:30 p.m. Then, it gets tricky and some running might be involved as you have to choose between the indie band Broken Bells or the alternative shoegaze Silversun Pickups at 4:30 p.m. Regardless of what you choose, you will have to leave early if you want to see The Local Natives at 4:45 p.m. These guys are the epitome of indie rock and are a definite must see.

Your next choice will be between catching The Temper Trap or The

xx, which both start at 5:30 p.m. Go with The Temper Trap for an Australian-esque indie rock feel, or The xx for a new London sound. Whomever you decide on, they end at 6:30 p.m., so you can stay the entire performance and get to see the Monsters of Folk who will perform from 6 to 8 p.m. Make an early exit if you want to see Matt & Kim at 7:30 p.m. Your last pick of the day should be between M.I.A. or Muse, both at 8 p.m. Muse’s performance will last longer than M.I.A. by half an hour so you can catch all of M.I.A. and 30 minutes of Muse, but that’s just a suggestion. SUNDAY

Don’t party too much Saturday night, because Sunday is one busy day starting bright and early at 12:30 p.m. with Ted Leo and the Pharmacists. At 1:15 p.m., Foals will reach your ears before Portugal The Man at 2 p.m. The Morning Benders at 3 p.m. would be a top choice, followed by Yeasayer at 4 p.m. Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros will play at 5 p.m. and then you must call the shots between which you prefer more: psychedelic, Cali rock or indie. The Flaming Lips, Switchfoot and Band of Horses all start at 6 p.m. After you get through that conundrum, you’ll be thrown

into another tough choice of either The National, Cage the Elephant or Norah Jones, all playing at 7 p.m. End the day chilling out with The Eagles —no competition on that choice.

September 29, 2010

“Paranormal Activity 2” 10/22

“Jackass 3D” 10/15 “The Social Network” 10/1

By Jessica VallesStaff Writer

For more information visit: www.aclfestival.com

•The Eagles•Muse•Phish•The Strokes•M.I.A.•The Flaming Lips•Vampire Weekend•Norah Jones•Band of Horses•Monsters of Folk•The Black Keys•Broken Bells•The xx•Silversun Pickups•Beach House•The Temper Trap•Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros•Miike Snow•Local Natives•Manchester Orchestra•Foals•Switchfoot•Cage the Elephant•The Morning Benders•Ted Leo and the Pharmacists

Top 25 bands to see at ACL

The crazy world of college cheerleading has been brought to the TV screen with the new comedy drama series “Hellcats.”

The cast, starring former Disney Channel actress-es Alyson Michalka and Ashley Tisdale, bring a fun, edgy twist to the show. The plot, which will inevi-tably be compared to the memorable cheerleading “Bring It On” films, has its own unique twists and turns. This new addition to the CW lineup promises all the cattiness, romance and drama one expects from a TV show centered around cheerleaders.

Based on the book “Cheer: Inside the Secret World of College Cheerleaders,” the television pilot episode opened up an interesting storyline between Marti Perkins (Michalka) and the head captain Sa-vannah (Tisdale) who is the stereotypical preppy cheerleader. Marti is an aspiring law student at Lancer University who resorts to becoming a “foot-ball groupie” by accepting a cheerleading scholar-ship to salvage her education. Tension between Marti and Savannah is amplified as Marti proves that she has what it takes to be a Hellcat and help

the squad win the cheerleading championship. The drama intensifies with her move into Cheertown, which is a co-ed dorm reserved exclusively to the Hellcat cheerleaders.

Despite her repulsion of the sport, Marti discov-ers that she is a natural performer as she earns the coveted spot on the squad and the scholarship that will keep her in school.

“Hellcats” may be a little predictable, but it de-livers what was promised — a satisfying amount of drama and scandal. The relationships between the characters promises to bring more tension and leave viewers hooked on what is going to happen in upcoming episodes.

Fotoseptiembre, an international photog-raphy festival held every September, is soon coming to an end. To celebrate the festival before all the photography fun ends, visit the Blue Star Contemporary Art Center, which is displaying exhibits that feature both emo-tionally charged and absurdly fun pieces.

The first exhibit, “You Appear to Me to Be Someone Whose Life is Meaningless,” pays homage to women who have experienced domestic abuse. The title was inspired by the words spoken by a judge to the photogra-pher, Kathy Coiner, in front of her son. Using this sign of disrespect as inspiration, Coiner set out to take portraits of women who had endured and survived domestic violence.

A poem on a papier-mâché heart in the exhibit speaks about the abuse women en-dure from the men they love until they are strong enough to move on without them.

“It takes courage to let go of the past and walk through the pain into a new future,” reads another quote above portraits of wom-en from different ethnicities.

Their eyes say, “I survived.”

The portraits of the women show all their beauty, including their tattoos and bold make-up, while the bravest ones wear their scars from domestic abuse proudly.

These portraits establish a connection to the viewer and bind them to the same ex-perience, no matter their culture or gender, which is exactly what the photographer was trying to accomplish.

The final quote on the last wall of por-traits proves to be the most suitable. It reads, “We can get so beat down that we think we are not anybody anymore. Look at me. I am someone.”

The next exhibit strays away from a deep emotional experience and provides the viewer with a more playful experience.

The name itself, “This is Not a Photo Show” sparks curiosity and ironic humor. The collection pays homage to photogra-pher Rene Magritte and is a collaboration of seven different artists. Its purpose is to make the viewer rethink the tradition of art and go beyond those limits with different media including photography, video, painting and sculpture.

Some of the photographs feature up-close shots of multicolored acrylic nails that clash

with the abstract and dreamlike human por-traits of another artist (who also doubles as a DJ).

A small room in the corner of the gallery projects a 15-minute high definition video, “Pop Up!” on a bare white wall. The video features images of people flashing in repeti-tive shots while upbeat techno music plays, sending the viewer on an energy trip. In the center of the room stands a road barrier cov-ered in mirrored glass, properly named the “Disco Barrier.” A picture of an ordinary of-ficer standing behind the Disco Barrier not only provides a few giggles, but also shows the artist’s goal in taking mediocre every day objects and pairing them with glamor-ous materials. Think Andy Warhol’s mental-ity minus the celebrities or colorful print job.

Although the exhibits offer two com-pletely different sets of emotions for the viewer, each do an excellent job in making a profound point. Whether you feel like com-memorating the strength of abused women or deciphering through funky works of art and their meaning, the photo exhibits at the Blue Star Contemporary Art Gallery are worth a visit, so stop by — the exhibits are on display until Nov. 6.

Entertainment The Rattler 13September 29, 2010www.stmurattlernews.com

Blue Star Art Center exhibits provide two emotional trips

The city is not in short supply of Mexican eateries, but the La Gloria Ice House is a refreshing and au-thentic twist on an all too familiar cuisine.

Located in the heart of the city, La Gloria takes its midtown loca-tion to heart, providing a vibrant atmosphere without overwhelm-ing its guests. Diners can choose from indoor and outdoor patio seating, and with authentic décor, guests can feel as though they have been transported to a taquería on a cozy side street of Mexico City.

Owner and chef Johnny Her-nandez, a native San Antonian, is the man who wanted to bring a taste of authentic street foods found in central Mexico to the River city. Uniquely, this Mexican restaurant strays from the usual complimentary chips and salsa and other Tex-Mex trademarks, and instead offers a menu that is straightforward. Those with an ap-petite can find everything from ta-cos to tlayudas, a traditional Mexi-can dish served on a large crispy tortilla.

The ordering process is slightly complicated though. Diners are ex-pected to order at the front of the restaurant upon entry and then find seating on their own.

Most diners might also want to order two or three plates since dishes are served in small propor-tions to stay true to street food roots.

The food at La Gloria is crisp and light, owing to Hernandez’s commitment to keeping ingredi-ents fresh and local. The main staples, the tacos and quesadillas, vary in flavor because of many dif-ferent options.

Still, the best part about La Glo-ria is the prices. On a college stu-dent’s budget, this restaurant has affordable price ranges. La Glo-ria is the perfect place for a quick, fun and authentic Mexican meal that offers a little something for everyone.

La Gloria Ice House gives Mexican food a fresh twist

By Dania PulidoEntertainment Editor

By Alex MeyerStaff Writer

La Gloria Ice House

Location: 100 E. Grayson St. Cuisine: MexicanHours: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.; Closed on Tuesdays Price Range: $3-$10Extras: Take-out; Outdoor Seat-ingServing: Lunch and Dinner

Hellcats

Starring: Aly Michalka, Ashley TisdaleGenre: Comedy-dramaLength: 1 hourShowing on: The CW Time: Wednesdays at 9/8c

‘Hellcats’: another predictable drama ‘Hellcats’ brings the drama and scandal of college cheerleading. Photo courtesy of disnology.com

By Anissa BravoStaff Writer

One of the many abstract art works dis-played in the “This is Not A Photo Show” exhibit. Photo by Felix Arroyo

September 29, 2010

www.stmurattlernews.com

CalendarMen’s soccer10/1 University of Texas 3:30 p.m. Permian Basin10/3 Midwestern State Univ. 1 p.m.10/8 TexasA&MInternational 8p.m. University10/15 WestTexasA&MUniversity 7p.m.10/17 EasternNewMexicoUniv. 11:30a.m.10/22 Univ.ofTexasPermianBasin 2p.m.

Women’s soccer9/29 Texas A&M International 3 p.m. University10/1 University of Texas 1 p.m. Permian Basin10/7 Dallas Baptist University 3 p.m.10/9 Newman University 1 p.m.10/14 St.Edward’sUniversity 4p.m.10/16 UniversityofTexas 2p.m. PermianBasin10/22 TexasA&MInternational 8p.m. University

Women’s volleyball9/29 Texas A&M International 7 p.m. University10/1 SoutheasternOklahoma 7p.m. StateUniversity10/2 OklahomaBaptistUniversity11a.m.10/7 St. Edward’s University 7 p.m.10/9 Dallas Baptist University 12 p.m.10/12 University of the Incarnate 7 p.m. Word10/14 University of Texas 7 p.m. Permian Basin 10/16 Oklahoma Panhandle 12 p.m. State

Home games in bold

Sports Around the World

NFLBrett Favre swears this is his final season in theNFL. His performance so far includes four picks,two losses, one touchdown and zero victories.Favrehassaidmanytimesinthepastthathewillnotbecomingback,yetheisstillseenonthefieldeveryweekend.

Source:sports.yahoo.com

NBAOne of the final significant hurdles for ablockbuster four-team trade that would sendCarmelo AnthonytotheNewJerseyNetshingeson the All-Star forward’s willingness to agree toa contract extension with the Nets. Under theproposal,leaguesourcessaidtheNetswouldalsosend point guard Devin Harris to the CharlotteBobcats,whowouldmoveforwardBoris Diawtothe Utah Jazz, who would send forward Andrei Kirilenko to the Denver Nuggets to completewhatonefront-officesourcedescribedasa“verycomplicated”deal.

Source: sports.yahoo.com

MLBTampaBayAll-StarthirdbasemanEvan Longoria will miss a three-game weekend series againstSeattle because of a left quadriceps strain. Sean Rodriguez replaced Longoria, making his firststartoftheyearatthirdbase.

Source:espn.go.com

Highlight Reel

The men’s rugby footballclub will play Sul RossState University on Oct. 9oncampus.

Women’s volleyball Men’s soccer Women’s soccer

Game Results

Sept.23:UniversityofTexas-PermianBasin.WIN,score3-1.

Sept.25:OklahomaPanhandleStateUniver-sity.LOSTscore2-3.

Sept.19:NortheasternStateUniversity.LOST,score1-2.

Sept.24:St.Edward’sUniversity.WIN,score1-0.

Sept.19:EastCentralUniversity.WIN,score2-0.

Sept.24:LubbockChristianUniversity.WIN,score2-1

SportsThe Rattler14

Marczewski defeats ranked opponents

After recently winning Top Flight honors in men’s singles at Trinity University’s Tennis Quad Tournament, junior engineering and marketing major Marcin Marczewski is focused on team cohesion for the tennis season looming ahead.

In a recent interview, Marcin said that he has high hopes for the upcoming season. He also emphasized the importance of team unity and how the team is expected to play well by the coaches.

During the tournament, Marcin, who is from Poland, faced nationally-ranked players. In the semi-final Marcin defeated Trinity’s Max Frey. This victory led him to face another skilled player, Rafael Coutinho from Laredo Community College.

I had a chance to sit down with Marcin to reflect on his performance and his outlook for the season.

What skill will you work on to better prepare yourself for the Intercollegiate Tennis Association regionals later this year?“To stay focused throughout practices and to prepare myself, from warm-ups to the end of practices. I also want to work on

closing points and closing sets no matter if it is the first serve or match point.”

Is there anything you would change about your match in the final against Laredo’s Rafael Coutinho?“Overall, I was happy with my result,

although I did not know what to expect from him. During the second set, he broke me early due to stupid mistakes on my part. I needed to remain focused because if I did not bounce back, he could have won his serve and the set would have been over.”

How much have you developed in skill since your freshman year?“I hope I have improved a little bit. I have gotten a little bigger since we have early workouts during the week. I am conditioned more and I feel better about having collegiate experience.”

Which competition are you the most worried about this season?“Since Incarnate Word has left the conference, it is going to be St. Edward’s. They have a strong team and they have always performed well. They have a lot of experience and a lot of tradition in tennis. St. Edward’s is a good school, but I think we can take them this year even though they beat us last season.”

How did you feel after beating a couple of nationally ranked players?“I felt good because I accomplished my goal. Before the tournament I did not know what to expect. I am excited to be part of the team and I am looking forward for the upcoming season.”

By Chris FiloteoSenior Staff Writer

Students choose the ideal fantasy football team

Though the football season is still fresh, several unexpected turns have already occurred. Because of this, you may have heard die-hard fans screaming, “I should have known better than to have picked him for my team,” or “My fantasy football team is going to dominate!”

Fantasy football is a game in which participants, aptly named “owners” are arranged into a competitive league. They then construct fantasy football teams, which, earn owners points based on the actual player’s statistics. Owners pick their players through an online draft available on various web sites like espn.com and yahoo.com.

Fantasy football has risen in popularity over the years and has become a hot topic on campus for numerous students.

An informal survey was taken of 30 student owners to determine what they thought would be an ideal 2010 fantasy football team.

These are just a few of the positionsthat make up a fantasy football team. Therankings listed will not remain consistent,as players’ statistics change throughouttheseason.

Thereisnosuchthingasaperfectfantasyfootballteam,butthefunisintryingtomakeoneandsucceeding.

By Brissa Renteria

Staff Writer

Junior engineering and marketing major Marcin Marczewski is excited for the up-coming tennis season and hopes for more team cohesion. PhotobyRobinJohnson

Students pick their top fantasy team (as of Sept.25)

Quaterback PicksMatt Schaub oftheHoustonTexansFantasypoints:31.08Aaron RogersoftheGreenBayPackersFantasypoints:26.20Jay CutleroftheChicagoBearsFantasypoints:23.83

Wide Receiver PicksAndre JohnsonoftheHoustonTexansFantasypoints:21.80Kevin WalteroftheHoustonTexansFantasypoints:20.40

Running Back PicksJahvid BestoftheDetroitLionsFantasypoints:41.20Jason SnellingoftheAtlantaFalconsFantasypoints:36.60LeSean McCoyofthePhiladelphiaEaglesFantasypoints:30.80

Tight End PicksAntonio GatesoftheSanDiegoChargersFantasypoints:17.70Dustin KelleroftheNewYorkJetsFantasypoints:17.50

Kicker PicksMike Nugent oftheCincinnatiBengalsFantasypoints:16.00Neil RackersoftheHoustonTexansFantasypoints:14.00

The Rattler 15September 29, 2010

www.stmurattlernews.com

Sports

Volleyball team welcomes four new players, two coaches

Volleyball season is in full swing, and the Rattlers have been spiking and serving to their opponents while adjusting to a new team.

This year, the volleyball team has a different look, with four new freshmen and only three returning seniors. Fans will notice that there are two new faces cheering on the team as well.

Jenny Warmack-Chipman, a Texas native and former Longhorn volleyball player, is the new volleyball head coach. Coach Warmack–Chipman works alongside new assistant coach Gary Payne, who after 14 years

of coaching various levels of play, finds himself bringing a fresh aspect to the team.

“They bring new energy,” junior outside hitter and middle blocker Stephanie Proske said.

The 2010 team is made up of 14 student athletes, and they are filling up the stat sheets with multiple honors.

On Sept. 9, Stephanie Flores was named to the all-tournament team after leading the stat sheets with 77 digs over 17 games in the tournament that weekend. Along with Flores, Kori McCarver, senior setter, was also named the Heartland Conference’s Hitter of the Week on Sept. 18

As of Sept. 25, the current record for the volleyball team

is 5-8-0, with wins against Southwestern Oklahoma State University, Maryville University-St. Louis, Cameron University and the University of Arkansas- Fort Smith.

The team said practices are focused on various drills from previous years. However, the mentality and goals are the same.

“We hope to be able to advance in the conference tournament and come out on top,” said Murray.

Although the University of the Incarnate Word is no longer in the Heartland Conference, the team said the Cardinals are more of a rival than St. Edwards.

“St. Edwards will never replace Incarnate Word as the school’s rival,” said Murray.

By Danielle TorresSenior Staff Writer

The women’s volleyball team currently holds a record of 5-8-0 as of Sept. 25. PhotobyBrittanyHorack.

Students Chris Rivas, Joseph Chavez and Gabriel Aaron Gonzalez compete in the Tri-Sigma Spikefest Sand Volleyball Tournament on Sept. 24 at Fatso’s Sports Garden. PhotobyDionicioPerez.

September 29, 2010

www.stmurattlernews.com

Sports The Rattler 16TH

EHOTSEAT

Photo by Mary Neal

Featuring:NicoleCanalesClassification: JuniorPosition: Setter,rightsideMajor: English, with teachercertification

What are your plans after graduation?“To become a literature teacher, aprofessor for a college and maybecoachvolleyball,too.”

After a successful season last year at Hill College, what are your goals for playing your first season at St. Mary’s?“To go far in the tournaments andwin a championship. I want toconnect with my hitters becauseI have big shoes to fill. This is KoriMcCarver’slastyearandshehassetagreatexampleofbeingagreatall-aroundplayer.”

How long have you been playing volleyball?“For 10 years. My high schoolcoach made me choose betweenbasketballandvolleyball,soIchosevolleyballbecauseIwasbetterat itthanbasketball.”

What have you learned from Coach Jenny Warmack-Chitman thus far?“Howtobeabettersetterbyplayingbetterdefenseandcommunicatingwith the hitters, and to work onfundamentals how to be an all-aroundgoodsetter.”

If you could play any sport in any country, which sport would it be and where would you play?“Volleyball,inItaly,becauseitisthemost beautiful place I have everbeentoinmylife.”

CompiledbyChrisFiloteo

Nicole Canales, junior, setter/right side. First team all Confer-ence in 2009 at Hill College.

Kristen Chapman, junior, middle blocker. Averaged 2.2 kills and 0.63 blocks

Melissa Dahle, freshman, defen-sive specialist. MVP of Seguin Tournament in high school.

Kelsey Davis, freshman, outside hitter/middle blocker. Earned all-district honors in high school.

Stephanie Flores, junior, libero/defensive specialist. Named libero of the week on Sept. 13.

Julie Kells,freshman, right side. MVP her se-nior year of high school.

Kate Kershner, senior, outside hitter / defensive specialist. Aver-aged 2.43 digs per set last season.

Adrianna Keys, junior, out-side hitter. Averaged 1.18 kills and 0.45 blocks last season.

Kori McCarver, senior, setter/right side. Averaged 1.71 kills and 1.10 digs per set last season.

Mallory Moeller, junior, middle blocker. Averaged 1.53 kills and 0.87 blocks per set last season.

Allie Murray, sophomore, setter. Averaged 2.14 digs and 4.64 assists per set last season.

Karlie Ortega, freshman, hitter/defensive specialist. Was an MVP her junior year of high school.

Stephanie Proske, junior, middle blocker. Had a to-tal of 51 kills last season.

Luisa Rodrigues, senior, outside hitter. Averaged 1.79 kills and 2.21 digs per game last season.

Gary Payne, Assistant Coach Jenny Warmack-Chip-man, Head Coach

Rattler 2010 Volleyball Team Roster

PhotosCourtosyof:St.Mary’sSportsInformationOffice