Accent , April 6 Issue

35th birthday fun and games, pg. 8

Karrissa Rodriguez • Staff Photographer

April 6, 2009

ACC proposes a broad prohibition of smoking Adam Oliphant

Staff Writer

Smoking a quick cigarette before class might become more difficult for students if ACC’s administration decides to change smoking policies. The Administrative Service Council (ASC) is scheduled to vote on this issue at their next meeting on April 23 at the ACC Service Center. The ASC will consider adding language to the policy, which would end all on-campus smoking by Aug. 31, 2011. The ACC Student Government Association is conducting a student survey to gauge opinions on this matter. The survey ends April 3, and the results will be submitted to the ASC. “It makes me mad,” said David Dunkin, Phi Theta Kappa president. “How can the administration say it is a goal of the college to ban smoking when they haven’t even seen if designated smoking area’s work on most campuses?” Some campuses, including the South Austin Campus, do have designated smoking areas. “I think that designated smoking areas work very well. Occasionally people smoke in non-designated areas, but that’s usually because they usually don’t know they exist,” said SAC Campus Manager Betsy Erwin. “I would say that 95 percent of smokers follow the rules and do not cause any problems.” The feasibility of having a full smoking ban is also being called into question. “It will cause class interruptions,” Dunkin said. “Ten minutes is not enough time for someone to walk off campus, smoke a cigarette, and get to their next class, and students will continue to smoke between classes.” The proposed ban could also be difficult to enforce. “When ACC District Police Officers observe smoking in prohibited areas, the smokers

are requested to comply with the rule,” said Chief Frankie Waller. However, ACC police to do not have the authority to write tickets to persons who continue to smoke because there is no state statute that prohibits smoking outside college campuses. “Students who continue to smoke in prohibited areas will be referred to the dean of students for appropriate administrative action according to the internal disciplinary policies of ACC,” Waller said. The Full-time Faculty Senate is in support of the smoking ban with 64.4 percent in favor of the ban. The Classified Employee Association, which is made up mostly of the non-teaching employees at ACC were largely in favor of allowing smoking in designated areas. “Students smoking at ACC only affect me when I walk between the Annex and the Main building at Rio Grande. I only avoid walking on the corridor because the cigarette smoke triggers my asthma,” computer science major Nicole Smith said. “This is a suggested date that would give the ACC community time to transition to a smoke-free environment, giving groups like Human Resources, Student Life, and SGA time to promote the changes and also offer assistance like cessation workshops,” Brette Lea, executive director of public information and college marketing, said. The ASC is still gathering information and debating the issue. Executive Vice President of Business Services Ben Ferrell said that “Designated areas seem to be a reasonable compromise reached through much discussion. There seems to be general consensus that this is the way to go, and if followed responsibly (designated smoking areas) will continue in the future.”

www.theAccent.org

Volume 2, Issue 4

Presidential photos create controversy

Christopher Smith • Staff Photographer

Obama posters decorate the floor of Frank Taylor’s office before administration reversed their decision. The posters were removed on Feb. 26 and ACC formally reversed their decision on March 26.

While formal policy is being debated, original decision to remove posters has been reversed Christopher A. Smith Staff Writer

The decision to have posters of President Obama and Michelle Obama removed from the walls of administrative offices on the Riverside Campus and other ACC offices was formally reversed Thursday, March 26. Until a new policy is crafted, the posters of President Obama will be allowed on the walls of the administrative offices. “After we received numerous calls from employees expressing concern about their inability to show pictures of our new President, the president (of ACC) decided to revisit the issue,” said Gerry Tucker, vp of human resources for ACC, at a meeting of concerned citizens at Carver Library. The four posters, enlarged copies of Ebony magazine covers with pictures of the president alone and with Michelle Obama, were taken down after an anonymous letter questioning whether it was legal or ethical to have posters of President Obama on ACC property was sent to the administration on Feb. 24. Based on the recommendations of the administration’s legal counsel, the posters were removed on Feb. 26. “Unfortunately we followed that advice,” said Tucker, “we are trying to reverse that and do the right thing.” Frank Taylor, campus manager for Riverside Campus, hung the posters on the walls of his administrative office at Riverside on Feb. 1.

Taylor said he believed the posters promoted “hope and gave motivation to a community of students that I feel need that type of motivation and inspiration.” Because February was Black History Month, he assumed it was appropriate to hang posters of the first black president. Since the posters were enlargements of Ebony magazine covers and did not mention politics, Taylor said he did not believe they promoted or supported any particular party or political ideology. “I never anticipated that we would be asked to take them down,” said Taylor. Taylor received the anonymous letter questioning the legality of the posters on Feb. 24 along with Dr. Stephen Kinslow president of ACC, and the members of the board of trustees. The letter asked the administration to consider whether the posters violated Subsection 556.0004c of the Texas Government Code and stated that “ACC facilities never displayed a poster … glowingly supporting George Bush’s election.’ After meeting with ACC’s legal counsel, the administration decided that the posters should be removed. On Feb. 26 Taylor complied with the administration’s decision and took the posters down. The speed with which administration reacted to the anonymous letter and the idea that pictures of the president of the United States could not be displayed on campus caused Continued From pg. 1

ȩȩ Obama continued on page 3

Despite federal law, ACC not reporting timely crime info Crime logs are not completed, not compliant Sarah Neve

Editor in Chief

Trevor Goodchild• Staff Photographer

Debra Stewart pre-pharmacy major smokes a cigarette in front of ACC.

Former ACC student Rita Pena was stabbed in 2006 by ACC student Reginald Cooper, whom she did not know. She was trying to get in her car, parked at a meter just off ACC Rio Grande Campus. She was leaving her ACC math class. ACC Officer Joanna Weaver found Pena on the ground while patrolling near the campus. According to ACC Police Chief Frankie Waller this was not an ACC crime.

This is one example of several ways that the ACC campus police are potentially out of compliance with federal guidelines set up to keep college campuses safe. In an arguable violation of the federal Clery Act, the college police department did not report this crime to the Department of Education in the required annual report. In a clear violation, the reports filed about this and other crimes are not readily accessible to students. Last semester, after prompting from The Accent, the college’s police department launched a website to start reporting daily crimes. This website was an attempt to satisfy requirements for the Clery Act. Under the Act, daily crime

logs are supposed to be a running account of crimes as they are reported. This is the biggest violation of the Act that ACC is committing. The law specifies that crimes have to be reported within two business days. The running crime log has to be available to students immediately for the 60 days prior, and any log from before those 60 days needs to be furnished within two business days of the request. As of March 31 that information was not available to the public. Currently ACC crime logs indicate that no crime has occurred since early November of last year. This is not because there hasn’t been a crime reported, but because the college police department

Photo Courtesy • Rita Pena

Former student Rita Pena. was stabbed near Rio Grande in 2006

has decided that they will only update the crime logs quarterly, according to Chief Waller. This means that the last 60 days of crime logs are not available to students. “Crimes have to be reported ȩȩ Clery continued on page 3

Forum

page 2

Accent • April 6, 2009

w w w.the Accent.org

R edress of Grievances

Vote no on smoking ban

Scholarships Jamie Carpenter Campus Editor

It’s almost the end of the school year and although a lot of students are starting to feel relief that all their hard work has started to pay off, still one very important issue remains: paying for the next school year. Here in Austin there are several popular ways to get your money for nothing and your cheques for free or at least help you gain an education. There’s the ACC tuition installment plan, which has recently been given a face lift to now include the option of four payments (the previous plan had only three payments and required a larger initial deposit). This is definitely an option that can help make the cost of tuition and books more manageable. There is also the old reliable FAFSA form which you can fill out online or in person which can help you gain access to various loans, grants and a shiny new ACC One Card. I have found the Financial Aid Department to be helpful with my numerous questions and concerns. Then of course, there is one last method of paying for college that has proven successful and is yet under utilized, and no it’s not pan-handling on I-35 (although that seems to work for some people). It seems as if the last resort among students searching for ways to afford college is to apply for scholarships. Unfortunately, I don’t think students take full advantage of scholarships here. Speaking from personal experience, I have noticed that there is a large tendency for people

to overlook the scholarship option. I have been hesitant myself to file for scholarships. Usually this is because I think I would never win them and I am unsure of what exactly to write that would be suitable, but mainly because I never really took the time to educate myself on what scholarships were made available. I was pretty surprised to see how available ACC is trying to make access to scholarships. ACC has prepared a small booklet of available scholarships and applications for the over 200 scholarships for the 2009-2010 school year that can be found in the financial aid office. This information can also be found online. The Austin Community College Foundation, which was founded in 1991, can be credited with helping to increase the amount of funding made available to students. It would behoove students to take advantage of these resources instead of moaning about their lack of money. According to Ann Schubert, ACC Foundation Operation Coordinator, ACC has scholarships available to different majors, single mothers, women who are returning to school, honor programs, and many general scholarships that are available to everyone. It would be beneficial for students to apply. The deadline for most of these scholarships is June 1, so before you begin to relax and unwind from the school year you should probably go ahead and fill out an application. Barton Springs and the Alamo Draft house will still be there.

Sexting Karissa Rodriguez Columnist

If you own a cell phone with a camera and text messaging capabilities, congratulations you are capable of participating in the latest trend for teens and young adults. Sexting is a disturbing trend in which one person electronically sends sexually explicit photos to another person. This is a dangerous practice that has serious repercussions that students and the general public need to be made more aware of. The media has focused a lot of attention on how dangerous sexting is for teens to participate in, but there has been significantly less attention given to college students who participate in sexting. It may seem like its okay for college students to participate in sexting because owning nude pictures of someone over the age of 18 is not illegal, but there are still several repercussions college students can face if they do participate. Students who “sext” face public embarrassment or even having a difficult time finding a job. Obviously, once a picture is out there it can be shared or forwarded to others without

the owner’s permission and even posted online. This can lead to several embarrassing situations. If you do decide to “sext,” do you really want your fellow classmates to know what you look like in the bedroom? You will always be known as “that guy/girl” and the chances of being taken seriously significantly diminish. College administrators won’t take you seriously either. If they find out you have “sexted” in the past, they may decide to pull that scholarship you worked so hard to earn. As technology improves, so does the process of choosing who

Our View

Karen Kuhn • Staff Artist

Staff Editorial

Sarah Neve Editor-in-Chief • David Rodriguez Assistant Editor Jamie Carpenter Campus Editor • Alma Hernandez Photo/Web Editor Jana Lelek Layout Editor • Chris Scott Layout Intern

Designated smoking areas a better solution than full collegewide ban on smoking The newest punishment for Austin smokers is geared toward ACC students. The Administrative Service Council (ASC) is scheduled to vote on whether or not to completely ban smoking on ACC campuses. If they vote yes, it would be a complete overreaction to a minor issue that could easily be fixed with less extreme measures. Cigarette prices have jumped up to over $7.00 a pack, and smokers can’t have a cigarette with their drink in bars in Austin, and in the past they just grumbled and quietly shuffled 15 feet away from the door without much protest. It’s not unreasonable to give the students here, who would like to spend their 10 minute break between classes smoking a cigarette, a spot somewhere on campus to indulge. All they need is one picnic table, one small section of a courtyard, far away from other students. Even one stairwell

General safe sexting tips provided by The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy

on each campus that students could go to smoke. Best of all, other students could avoid that area if they wanted. A ban, besides being a ridiculous pain, causes problems for students who dart around through traffic to go off campus and grab a smoke, and are subsequently late to class. There have been arguments that nonsmokers shouldn’t have to walk through a cloud of smoke to get where they are going. They don’t. They could walk around, go a different direction, hold their breath for a second, look a different way when they pass, or realize that they’re outside and get over it. Another problem with a full ban is that it would be hard to enforce. ACC police, who are already understaffed, shouldn’t have to spend their time asking people to put out their cigarettes. And asking students to put them out is about all they can do. Campus police can’t issue

should be admitted as a student or even hired as an employee. Administrators and hiring managers across the country are turning to the Internet to make sure they choose quality students or employees to represent their school or company. If they find any sexually explicit photos of you, you have a slim chance of being admitted of hired. I personally do not think sexting is something a student should do if they want to be considered a smart, responsible adult, but it is not illegal in every case. If you do decide to “sext” at least be smart and think twice before you hit the send button.

ADVERTISING 512.223.3166

tickets because it’s not actually illegal to smoke outside in the City of Austin. Yet. Designated smoking areas would be a much more effective way to separate smoking students from students who don’t want to be around smoke. It would be a true compromise. The added bonus to corralling all the smokers in one place is that the cigarette butts left behind by less courteous smokers would be localized in one area, making them more manageable. The ASC should vote to create designated smoking areas on campuses that don’t have them, and politely ask those in favor of banning smoking to get over it. It’s time to focus on more important overreactions to policy issues, like whether or not ACC should ban pictures of the president of the United States on school grounds.

EDITORIAL 512.223.3171

FAX

512.223.3086

OFFICE OF STUDENT LIFE RGC, 1212 Rio Grande St., Room 101.1 Austin TX 78701

Editor-in-Chief.........................................................................................................Sarah Neve Assistant Editor............................................................................................... David Rodriguez Photo/Web Editor...........................................................................................Alma Hernandez Layout Editor..............................................................................................................Jana Lelek Layout Intern............................................................................................................Chris Scott Campus Editor................................................................................................. Jamie Carpenter Copy Editor............................................................................................... Julie Gorkowski-Day Accent Adviser............................................................................................. Matthew Connolly Accent Coordinator................................................................................................Lori Blewett Student Life Director......................................................................................... Cheryl Richard Writers Sarah Vasquez, Shawn Hinojosa, Adam Oliphant, Karissa Rodriguez, Shane Yount, Lindsay Preston,Devon Tincknell, Scott Richardson, Anne Boyd, Janessa Hernandez, Christopher Smith, Matt Thompson, Tovah Olmo Photographers Teodora Erbes, Hanlly Sam, Sheli Harris, Karen Kuhn, Shawn Hinojosa, Karissa Rodriguez, Trevor Goodchild, Sarah Vasquez, Christopher Smith, Jonathan Sack Artists Karen Kuhn, Anny Ibarra ACC President Dr. Steve Kinslow Board of Trustees Ms. Nan McRaven– Chair; Ms. Veronica Rivera—Vice Chair; Dr. James McGuffee—Secretary, Dr. Barbara P. Mink, Allen Kaplan, Mr. Jeffrey Richard, John-Michael Cortez, Tim Mahoney, Raul Alvarez All rights reserved. All content is the property of Accent and may not be reproduced, published or retransmitted in any form without written permission from the Office of Student Life. Accent is the student newspaper of Austin Community College and is printed by the Texas Student Publications. Accent is published biweekly. ACC students may submit articles for publication in Accent to RGC’s Office of Student Life Room 101.1; e-mail articles to [email protected] or fax submissions to 223‑3086. ACC does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, political affiliation or disability. Accent offers ACC’s faculty, staff, students and surrounding community a complete source of information about student life. Accent welcomes your input, as well as information about errors. If you notice any information that warrants a correction please e-mail [email protected]. Individual views, columns, letters to the editor and other opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the views of Accent.

News

April 6, 2009 • Accent

To Be Brief

Rio Review celebrates creativity

The Spring 2009 Rio Review Release Party, sponsored by the Creative Writing department, will be held on Thursday, April 30 at 7 p.m. inside the Rio Grande Campus’s Gallery Theater. The Rio Review is a literary journal that features poetry, short fiction, non-fiction, photography, screenplays and interviews with poets that were all selected by student editors. The event is open to the public and will include readings of selected works from the journal by the writers. For more information, please visit the Creative Writing department’s webpage at www.austincc.edu/crw/.

Le’Bistrette reopens for spring Le’Bistrette, sponsored by the Culinary Arts Department class on American Cuisine Restaurants, reopened April 1 and will be running through May 6 and serving lunch from 11: 30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Eastview Campus Building 3000. The restaurant is run by students as chefs, waitstaff and a maitres d’ along with the supervision by program faculty members of the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Department. Menus are available by going to the Hospitality Management website at http://www. austincc.edu/hospmgmt/. Reservations are encouraged at least 24 hours in advance. Because as it is a class, there is a limited amount of production.

Asian Festival returns to ACC The Asian Spring Festival 2008, sponsored by the Foreign Language Department, Student Life, and the Society of East Asian Cultures, will take place at Riverside Campus Circle on Thursday, April 16 at 5 p.m . The event will feature food, Asian themed vendors, games, a Kung Fu demo, and Japanese, Korean, and Chinese dances. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Student Life.

ACC students invited to lecture ACC students have been invited to attend the University Meet and Greet at Texas State University. They will have the opportunity to hear President Lyndon B. Johnson’s daughters speak on his achievements and legacy on April 14. The event, which is coordinated by ACC’s The Center for Public Policy & Political Studies, has 70 spots for ACC students. Students will be leaving from Highland Business Center on April 14 at 2:30 p.m. and will return at 7:00 p.m. The event is free to students, but reservations are needed. R.S.V.P’s for the event are due by April 9. To RSVP, contact Carla L. Jackson, Associate Director of the CPPPS, at [email protected] by the deadline.

Meet ‘09-’10 SGA candidates The Meet the Candidates Event, sponsored by the Student Government Association, will be held on April 10 at Eastview Campus in the Multi-Purpose room from 1 to 3 p.m. The three candidates for president; students Joshua Bacak, Jonathan Sack, and Christine Sattler will be participating in a presidential debate moderated by Peck Young, Director of the ACC Center for Public Policy and Political Studies.

Postponed pay raises stirs up controversy Anne Boyd Staff Writer

Faculty and staff pay raises for the coming school year may be delayed or eliminated as one of several hedges against possible revenue shortfalls resulting from the current economic downturn. The announcement came after 19 of the college’s 43 administrators received pay raises to bring them up to market compensation levels. While the administrator increases may seem incongruent with the goal of strengthening the college’s financial position, these raises were part of an ongoing effort that began in 1999. The endeavor, board policy F10, called for a market review of compensation for all employee classes, the goal being to ensure that compensation was at a level that could attract and retain top talent. Since that time, faculty and staff have been brought up to market rates. The last group to receive the market adjustment was the administrators. Their salaries were increased prior to the start of this school year and before the current economic downturn. According to a memo issued earlier this year by President Steven Kinslow, the college is attempting to position itself for what could be “several difficult budget years.” Although the institution has experienced increased revenues recently, anticipated reductions in state contributions from property taxes make it difficult to know how

the college will fare over the next few years. Added to this uncertainty are the impacts of the stimulus package, enrollment changes, and the legislature. Rather than wait, and perhaps be forced to make hasty cuts later, the memo continues, the college will identify possible areas for belt tightening now. As the economy was diagnosed as being in a recession, unemployment rose and so did the number of people attending community colleges. Spring enrollment is up 13 percent said executive director Brette Lea. The additional 4,200 students bring in more revenue, but require resources and staff. Lea says the primary objective is to serve the students and cuts will be made only where it does not impact the college’s ability to do so. Some other budget items being reviewed include maintenance, new staff and technology allocation. During the coming year, the administrators will monitor the budget and the needs of the college closely including making appropriate spending decisions. None of the proposed budget freezes, delays, or cuts are definite, as the financial planning process is ongoing. If economic conditions improve, expenditures may stay at previously planned levels. These measures have been taken not only to ensure the institution remains fiscally responsible, but also to keep in-district tuition at its current rate.

page 3

w w w.the Accent.org

Obama drama continues as posters go back up ȨȨ continued from page 1

confusion and anger among much of the staff and faculty. “I am overwhelmed with sadness,” said Cheryl Richard, Student Life director, of the administration’s original decision to take down the poster. Richard said that many other staff members felt the same way. “Maybe the effect this decision would have on this institution hasn’t been thought through,” said Richard. On March 13, Kinslow sent out a memo to the ACC faculty and staff in which he attempted to explain the administration’s decision by stating that, “The College is expected to present a non-partisan face to our students and all our constituents.” “It strikes me as a little bit formalistic to rush to take down all these posters,” said University of Texas Law Professor Daniel Rodriguez when asked to comment on the situation at ACC, “It seems to be that best reading of the Texas Government Code is not to render every effort at political expression as violative of the government code.” A number of faculty members voiced their complaints to the administration. Ann Palmer, a Developmental Writing Professor, sent a letter and spoke to the board of trustees urging them to reconsider the decision to remove the posters. She argued that President Obama is a role model to students and more pictures of role models are needed, not less. “There’s never been an intent to violate anyone’s freedom of expression or intend any disrespect to the sitting

Christopher Smith • Staff Photographer

Frank Taylor, Campus Manager at Riverside poses with Obama photo, “I appreciate the decision to reverse it and I think that was the only right thing to do,” Frank comments on the administrations reversal decision.

President or to not acknowledge the historic nature of the first African American president,” said Kinslow at an informal meeting open to faculty, staff, and students on March 26. Kinslow expressed his desire for employees to use ACC’s shared governance process to discuss the issue and to help craft a policy regarding what should and should not be posted on public spaces

around campus. On the same day Gerry Tucker sent out a memo with the time and place of three different forums where employees will be able to discuss and make policy suggestions. Two of the forums are April 3, one at Northridge Campus at 10:00 a.m., and the next at Riverside Campus at 2:00 p.m.. “We are delighted to reverse the decision in favor of the employees and give the shared

governance a chance to work,” said Tucker. The posters are once more on the walls of the administrative office on Riverside Campus, and Taylor believes the administration did the right thing in reversing its decision. “Its great to still know that in our society and in a democracy, the voice of the people does have an impact on things,” said Taylor.

Clery Act not followed, crime logs incomplete ȨȨ continued from page 1 Continued From pg. 1

and made available in two business days. The law is explicit here. Where did he get the idea that it could be reported quarterly?” asked S. Daniel Carter, director of public policy for Security on Campus. Security on Campus is a non-profit organization founded by the parents of Jeanne Clery, a 19-year old Lehigh University student who was raped and murdered in her dormitory in 1986. After Clery’s death, her parents Connie and Howard Clery, found out that students at the university had not been told of 38 violent crimes that occurred on the campus in the three years prior to Clery’s murder. Along with other victims, they persuaded Congress to pass the law, originally the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990, now known as the Jeanne Clery Act. ACC police are also having problems reporting everything that is required to be reported on the daily crime logs. The missing information in the annual reports, and on the daily logs, means that students and the police themselves can not draw accurate conclusions about important security information like campus crime rates. While looking ate the crime statistics, Carter said “There are a lot of things here that don’t seem to be compliant; they need to break it down geographically by more than just campus for one thing.” The crime logs are located under the Clery section of the campus police website. Because the intent of the Clery Act is that campus police report crimes that would reasonably effect students, not just on-campus crime has to be reported. “Legally if it took place on public property [around the

campus] it absolutely needs to be reported. It’s not on campus, that doesn’t matter,” Carter said. The Clery act also states that a good faith effort has to be made to contact city police in order to better report crimes that affect students’ safety. “It’s difficult to distinguish which crimes in the city of Austin are ACC related,” said Waller “We don’t know about them until we read about it in the paper.” Reportable public property areas are defined as beginning at the sidewalk on the side of campus property and continuing to the end of the sidewalk across the street from campus. In the case of Pena’s attack, she was off campus by less then 100 feet, but she was well within ACC police patrol jurisdiction, and the Act also requires off campus crimes that occur on public property near the campus to be reported on the daily log. “Personally I have no patience with people saying that it’s not in their jurisdiction if it’s on their patrol route, but it could be arguable depending on where it happened,” Carter said. Pena was stabbed multiple times while trying to get into her car, including in her throat. Due to nerve damage, she doesn’t have full use of her left hand. She spent nine days in the hospital, and took two years off from school to recover. Now 26, she is hoping to graduate next year from Texas State University with a degree in Communications. She has not been on any ACC campus since the attack. “I’m not surprised,” said Pena, when asked about the fact that her and other crimes are not reported. “Anyone that wants to go to any school should have access to this kind of information, so that they can take it into consideration.”

ACC and the Clery Act How campus police department is not following federal law What the law says Incidents are to be included [on the daily log] within two business days… The log must be publicly available during normal business hours. This means that in addition to students and employees the general public such as parents or members of the local press may access it. Logs remain open for 60 days and subsequently must be available within two business days of a request.

What ACC is doing The crime log is not up to date with the last 60 days of information. The plan is to update it quarterly which is not in compliance with the Clery Act and doesn’t provide students with timely information. Daily logs are not available when requested. As of the time this was written, Apr. 2, 2009, a new crime has not been added for 148 days.

What the law says Schools that maintain a police or security department are required to disclose in the public crime log “any crime that occurred on campus…or within the patrol jurisdiction of the campus police or the campus security department and is reported to the campus police or security department.”

What ACC is doing ACC does not include crimes that are not immediately on campus, even if they are in the patrol jurisdiction.

What the law says The statistics (should be) broken down geographically into “on campus, residential facilities for students on campus, non-campus buildings, or on public property,” such as streets and sidewalks. Schools can use a map to denote these areas.

What ACC is doing ACC only provides date, time, and campus name. There are no descriptions of where on campus these crimes occurred, making it less effective in alerting students to safety risks. Clery Act information from www.SecurityOnCampus.org

News w w w.the Accent.org

Vote for SGA representatives Voting will begin Monday, April 13 at 9 a.m. and will run through April 17 until 5 p.m. Students can vote by accessing the website

www3.austincc.edu/it/sga/

Any questions should be addressed to SGA Adviser, Jose Aaron Hinojosa.

Joshua Bacak

Today community college students face many daunting tasks such as transportation, tuition costs, and finding support services. I know that I am the person best suited to solve these problems as your Student Government President. While serving five years in the Marine Corps I worked hard to gain the rank of Corporal. As a Marine, I learned that through hard work and tenacity, any problem can be solved and any task accomplished. I have displayed leadership in student government by serving in the office of South Austin Campus Senator and subsequently rising to the rank of Senate Co-Chair after having been in Student Government just over one semester. Because of these experiences, I know I have the ability to lead Student Government as its President. I have had many opportunities to serve the student body of ACC. Over the past six months, I lobbied in Washington, D.C. on behalf of ACC during the National Community College Legislative Summit and the American Student Government Conference. I am also currently a student representative on the Student Services Council where I voted for expanding student registration deadlines to help ease the time constraints placed on students. One of my most noticeable achievements was Black Out; an event that I created, planned, and help implemented which over one hundred and fifty students attended. So remember on April 13 – April 17 to vote for the candidate with both the leadership and proven record of helping students. Vote for Josh Bacak for SGA President.

Jonathan Sack

My name is Jonathan Sack, and I am currently serving in SGA as one of two Northridge Campus Senators. I am very pleased to have had the privilege of representing the students of ACC, and I hope to bring my experience along with me to The President’s office. I want to continue to represent you; the students of ACC and work hard to bring about the changes you want to see. I promise to bring strong leadership to the office of The President so that ACC can continue to grow as an institution that we can all be proud of. One of my favorite tasks to take on as a representative of the students has been working with administrators. Although administrators at ACC are generally willing to act based on student recommendations, the administration needs to continue to hear the voice of the SGA loud and clear in order to be able to address issues that have an effect on students. Because SGA is meant to represent the students, it is essential that students be kept aware of how the student representation system works. Unfortunately, many students are unaware of SGA. I will work to increase SGA visibility on campuses, and work with the various Senators to be available to meet with their constituents frequently on campus. Through increased interaction, and better communication, we can ensure your concerns are addressed, your needs are fulfilled, and your future at ACC is filled with all the opportunities that our college can provide.

Christine Sattler

When I joined SGA, it was weak, had little credibility and there were about fifteen members involved. SGA has catapulted from 15 people to over 35. In the past few semesters, SGA has accomplished more than it has in its entire history. As a result of being a veteran in SGA, starting as a senator of North Ridge, then elected to the secretary position, I have a strong understanding of what SGA’s purpose is and why it is important. SGA bridges the space between students, the community and administration. How are students to communicate with authority if they have no access to voice to their concerns? How are the Board of Trustees supposed to know what is best for students and the community if there is no one the students can talk to? SGA mends that gap creating positive influence for improvement. I care for the problems of my fellow students seeing that I am one. In the time I have spent in SGA I have formed relationships with administrators of ACC. They are responsive to all that I have brought forth to them directly from the opinions of my constituents. Seeing SGA grow, I know change does not come from an individual; it is a collaboration of individuals who want something great. I know I cannot inflict change without support and help from my constituents and from the members of SGA. I am willing to listen and work for the betterment of all ACC students. All candidate platform essays printed unedited as submitted to SGA.

Q & A with Sam Osemene Adam Oliphant

Adjunct government professor Sam Osemene is running for place six of Austin’s City Council. He Staff Writer and other city council candidates will participate What impact does the city council have on Austin as in a debate on April 29 at the Dell Jewish coma whole? munity campus.

City Council policies have a big impact on taxation and bringing business to the area. Supporting local businesses is imperative to our city’s economy. I strongly believed the City Council can help in promoting local businesses by keeping taxes, fees and utility rates low while at the same time promoting and maintaining effective reliable basic services. It is important we target our tax incentives and economic subsidies to local businesses. I was not in support of the Domain subsidies and was active in the effort to get them reversed. It does not make sense to give Simon’s (the owner of the malls in the local area) $65 million dollars. By the Austin City Council supporting the Domain mall, they harm local businesses by making it harder for them to compete with the national chains.

Hanlly Sam • Staff Photographer

What would you tell ACC students who haven’t had a previous interest in city politics to change them to vote in the city council election on May 9th? Students have to understand that city council policy affects them directly.For example, the Austin Police Department are now forcing people to give blood samples if they refuse a breathalyzer or sobriety test. I think this is wrong. The police target students, minorities, and the poor because they are not likely to have the funds to hire a good lawyer to defend them. Instituting this program to reduce DWI does give the police the ability to infringe on our constitutional rights. We live in America, not the

old Soviet Union. What would you do to represent ACC students? Currently, no one on the city council represents ACC students. ACC does not employ powerful lobbyist, so it does not get represented The new condos downtown and student apartments are not affordable to many students. So students live in the East Riverside area where the rent is cheaper but there is much more crime. The reason for much of the crime is the large number of halfway housed in the Riverside and Montopolis area. Recently released convicts have a hard time getting a job and many steal to support a drug habit. As a city council member, I would work to move those halfway houses areas with a less dense population. Another issue affecting students is transportation. It takes over two hours to go from Slaughter and Manchaca to the Northridge Campus. I would work with ACC and Capitol Metro to improve bus service to students and add additional routes that serve ACC campuses.

House Bill, local project fight death penalty Trevor Goodchild Staff Writer

For the first time in 30 years, a bill to abolish the death penalty has reached the Texas House Criminal Jurisprudence subcommittee. HB 682 is sponsored by Texas House Representative Jessica Farrar, and depending on what happens in the subcommittee, could be referred to the Senate. In this year alone, Texas was responsible for 12 of the 18 executions nationwide. In 2008 Texas accounted for 18 out of the nation’s 37 executions according to the Death Penalty Information Center website. “I became concerned about state governments in the current economic crisis because the cost of pursuing the death penalty is three times more than life imprisonment without parole costs,” said Farrar. March 18 of this year New Mexico abolished the death penalty. This makes it the second state, the first being New Jersey, to do away with the death penalty since the U.S. Supreme Court ruled it reinstated in 1976. If HB 682 doesn’t become a law in this legislative session in Texas, Farrar plans on bringing it up in the next one. The bill is likely to be met with opposition in the subcommittee and the Senate, if it makes it there. “We’ve done everything in our power to ensure the criminal justice system is fair and impartial and someone that is going to receive the death penalty has been given every opportunity to prove their innocence,” said Rep. Berman. Sebastian Garcia, an ACC drama major participated in

Trevor Goodchild • Staff Photographer

Documentary photographer Alan Pogue displays a photo of now executed deathrow inmate Odell Barnes at Amnesty International’s Eye and Tooth Project at the Off Center on Sunday March 15. Pogue takes photos of who he sees as underdogs to humanize them the public.

the event created by Amnesty International, called the Eye and Tooth Project. The project is a forum theater intended to start community conversation on alternatives to the death penalty, and encourage citizens to write their legislators on the issue. The event took place at the Off Center on March 15. “It was a creative form of protest, a way to gather people and move them towards agreeing the death penalty was wrong,” said Garcia. At the Eye and Tooth Project, the Texas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty

(TCADP) president Bob Van Steenburg spoke at length about the importance of Austinites contacting their legislators to influence the outcome of HB 682. Steenburg was accompanied by other speakers such as jazz musician Alex Coke who features pictures of people on death row on his albums. Coke said, “I put these pictures on my album because I think a certain sense of humanity is lacking between us and these inmates. I think to be a better world, it is our duty to confront this issue.”

News

April 6, 2009 • Accent

page 5

w w w.the Accent.org

Students help those in need

New blog to cover 80th Leg. for ACC students

Accent staff reporter Christopher Smith’s new blog will cover bills that effect ACC students. Look for it at www.theaccent.org ACC administration is urging Central Texas State Representatives to support a number of bills in the 81st Legislative Session. For more on these and other bills check out the blog, and look for upcoming coverge in the Accent. HB 3518 would remove community colleges from the six-drop rule. HB 2691, which enables external communities to more easily join junior college districts.

Name • Photographer

Chelsea Stein, ACC student and Phi Theta Kappa member for four years, poses with Habitat for Humanity sign.

Phi Theta Kappa partners with Habitat for Humanity Kaitlin Neve

HB 2080 and SB 41 deal with state money for employee health care and the Proportionality issue. HB 3754 would allow college trustees the option of being included in health benefits at the group rate, and at their own expense. SB 857 is related to purchasing and contracting practices.

Staff Writer

Phi Theta Kappa and Habitat For Humanity teamed up to help out those in need on March 14. The two organizations will meet once more on April 4 to work on the Chestnut Project, named after the street where the house they will be working on is located. Members will make repairs and renovate the home. “Sometimes its labor intensive. On the construction day we had in March, we re-roofed an entire house for an elderly woman. Other days we landscaped, painted, and even put up framework,” Phi Theta Kappa member and event Chair Liz Spinhirne said. Sheli Harris • Staff Photographer “I contacted [Habitat for Humanity] and let them know what Above: Kacie Hanslik, ACC student and Phi Theta Kappa VP, pulls nails we wanted to do. Then I contacted all Phi Theta Kappa members out to prep for new siding. Members of Phi Theta Kappa volunteered involved,” Spinhirne said. with Habitat for Humanity on March 14. Habitat is dedicated to proApril 4 is the last Habitat project on the books for Phi Theta viding decent, affordable homes to people in need. Kappa, but not the last project, according to Spinhirne. “Kappa is really busy this semester,” said Spinhirne.

Left: Daniel Lopez, Habitat for Humanity project general manager, instructs ACC Phi Theta Kappa member Kyle on how to cut the roof boards.

Sheli Harris • Staff Photographer

Left: Kerri Daughety and Sandra Stearns, both ACC students and Phi Theta Kappa members, watches the progress being made on the roof.

Sheli Harris • Staff Photographer

Above: Chelsea Stein, ACC student and Phi Theta Kappa member for four years, cuts roof boards. Below: ACC students and Phi Theta Kappa members (clockwise from left to right) Jackson Pritchett, Chelsea Stein, Sandra Stearns and Kerri Daughety measure roof boards.

Sheli Harris • Staff Photgrapher

Sheli Harris • Staff Photographer

New installment plan promises flexibility, possible late fees Aubrey A. Hovey Staff Writer

This semester was the first in which college administration was given the freedom – via a recently amended House Bill – to choose due dates for each tuition payment, and it was also the first semester in which the installment plan’s $10 startup fee was eliminated. Elimination of the $10 setup fee is meant to benefit students, but the added payment in the installment plan would benefit the college’s budget, because it would “create the opportunity for more people to be late with that additional payment,” Neil Vickers, the college’s associate vice president of finance and budget said. Students are assessed a $20 late fee each time they fail to pay an installment on time. In a memo presented to the board of trustees in September of 2008, the college’s Vice President of Business Services Ben Ferrell wrote, “Elimination of $10 setup fee will result in a loss of revenue of about $80,000, but this likely will be mostly offset by an increase in late payment fees generated by the addition of one payment to the installment plan. Net budget impact will be minimal.” The college’s tuition installment plan is set up so that students don’t have to pay their entire tuition up front prior to attending classes. Rather, it allows a student’s tuition bill to be split up into payments throughout the semester. Before the amendment of House Bill 2974, students were required to pay one-half of their tuition on or before the semester’s first day. The second payment was to be made in the amount of onequarter of a student’s total bill and was required to be paid prior to the start of the sixth class week. The section also required that the last one-quarter payment be made

before the beginning of the eleventh class week. However, the Bill was amended in the 80th Legislature, providing Administrators with more freedom as to how much of a student’s tuition was due, and the dates each payment would be due. “Prior to this last semester, the state decided the dates,” said Vickers. With the added freedom, Vickers said, the administration chose to eliminate the installment plan’s initial $10 set-up fee and to split the payments into four equal payments instead of the plan’s previous three. As of now, payments are due on Fridays, just before the 15th of the month by 5 p.m. at the cashier’s office. Payments can not be made online. “In previous semesters, about 1,000 to 1,500 students’ paid late fees,” said Vickers. resulting in revenue for the college of $30,000 to $40,000 per semester. “We’re hopeful that people aren’t late, but the fact of the matter is, people are late,” he said. When asked how Administrators chose the due dates, which are just days before most students’ get their bi-monthly paychecks, Vickers said administrators decided the dates according to the academic calendar. “It’s not a tactic,” Vickers said. “We broke them into onemonth payments.” He added that the administration has not seen an increase in late-fee revenue with the new due dates. “They haven’t gone up,” he said. “So far, we haven’t seen that more people are being later than usual.” Cypress Creek Interpreting Major Renee Oakley-Smith said she didn’t even notice that installment plan policies were different this semester. “I just paid everything when it was due.”

Accent Bloggers’ SXSW Live Music

Highlights

ChooChoo

Horse Feathers ChooChoo Words and photos by Shawn Hinojosa Loney Dear

Casxio

A lot of little indie pop gems have come stateside from Sweden over the past couple of years, and Loney Dear are one of them. Their melodic charm resonated with me after witnessing them for the first time in mid-February opening for Andrew Bird. Backed by a new female keyboardist, singer Emil Svanangen, playfully harmonized with her haunting vocals creating a stripped folk feel as opposed to their orchestral-synth pop exhibited on their latest release. Their new album, “Dear John,” was released in late January and the standout tracks are “Airport Surroundings” and “I Was Only Going Out.”

Horse Feathers

Horse Feathers are one of my favorite discoveries of 2008. Their songs are enriched layers of violin, cello, mandolin, saw, acoustic guitar, and sparse drums emphasizing the beautiful hush-folk coming from singer Justin Ringle’s mouth. The Portland quintet’s 2008 release “House With No Home” could capture its listeners instantaneously, and the live recreations of songs like “Curs In The Weeds” and “Helen” were even more beautiful and less restrained than on the record.

d r a H TLehsesons

Thao with The Get Down Stay Down

The perky and playful Thao Nguyen has been writing simple pop melodies ever since she was a teenager. The Virginia-bred, but Portlandbased songwriter debuted with a subdued 2005 solo album “Like the Linen,” but returned in 2008 with a backing band and introspectively exuberant lyrics on tracks such as “We Brave Bee Stings And All.” Songs like “Swimming Pools” speak of ice cream cones and cannonballs, and she slyly incorporates beat-boxing on the brilliant track “Bag of Hammers.” Live, she’s precocious and has a self-deprecating sense of humor which is bound to make anyone smile. Thao is performing at the Parish on Aug. 24.

The Hard Lessons

Detroit’s the Hard Lessons are a sexy three-piece garage rock band who mix twangy vocals with an alluring stage show. Co-lead singer Korin Louise Visocchi matches the bluesy sass of Neko Case, and intertwined with the rough and raw vocals of Agostine Visocchi they create an entertaining and endearing duo. Both have different strengths and play off of each other well, but it’s Agostine’s unpredictable stage antics that make them a fabulous live band.

Crystal Stilts

El Guapos

The past two years have seen the replacement of the word “The” in every band with the word “Crystal,” but musically, Stilts are less like Crystal Castles and more like Joy Division. With a haunting deep baritone, Brooklyn’s Brad Hargett soothes the crowd with his dazing and reclusive monotone voice, infused perfectly with simple 60’s-style garage pop.

Handsome Furs

“Face Control” is one of the standout albums of 2009 thus far. From Wolf Parade, Dan Boeckner, fronts this synthetic-punk duo alongside wife Alexei Perry and their nuanced compatibility is evident on both their album and live. Boeckner is a rock star through and through, but he’s kept at bay with Perry’s perfect timing and elaborate sound effects. The songwriting is great, the delivery is stellar, and the two make simple music anyone can find themselves dancing to. The opener “Legal Tender” off “Face Control” suggests dancing, that any listener will find hard to dispute.

Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears

From the Mohawk to Emo’s to the Continental Club, Black Joe Lewis and his group the Honeybears have quickly made a name for themselves locally and nationwide. After touring with Okkervil River and performing at many major music festivals, this Austin nine-piece garage funk band blends the soulful blues of yesteryear with a gritty spontaneity. The aggressively wailing Lewis permeates their longawaited, just released debut album, “Tell ‘Em What Your Name Is”, with attitude and vision, and they’re even better live.

Val Emmi ch

Folio

Samantha Crain & the Midnight Shivers

She might be a tiny little thing, but Oklahoma crooner Samantha Crain has a rich, soulful voice that is punctuated by her witty and elaborate storytelling. Rhythmically, Crain’s folky pop sounds a lot more upbeat than it really is. On her debut five-song EP “The Confiscation,” the songs are well-written and incredibly sad. One, in particular, is called “Traipsing Through The Aisles” and is probably one of my favorite songs heard recently. In the ending bridge Crain repeats that she “did something wrong,” and you can’t help but relate to it.

Fireants

Words and photos by Sarah Vasquez El Guapos

Performing at Momo’s for the Underage Showcase, The El Guapos urged the crowd before their short 15-20 minute set to prepare themselves for a show full of high energy. The gussied-up band danced along with the audience to their folksy indie pop tunes. Meanwhile, the vocalists/guitarists Aaron Miller and Cory Dennis ran with the wardrobe idea and wore brightly colored-coordinated suits.

Val Emmich

His face may look familiar to those who tune in to the tv show Ugly Betty. Val Emmich played one of the title character’s love interests, “Jesse.” His day performance of his melancholy indie pop music was a welcoming change from the high-energy in-your-face shows witnessed earlier in the day. He played songs from his May 2008 album “Little Daggers” such as “Get On With It” and included a newer track, “Absolutely Still,” which he co-wrote with Better than Ezra who is releasing the song as a single in the future.

Folio

This band from Hollywood, California had everyone in Treasure Island dancing to their electronic dance music, including moms and grandmothers. They were very entertaining to watch.

Choo Choo

Not only was this the first year this Switzerland band participated in SXSW, it was also their first trip to Austin. Taking advantage of their trip to our state, they performed nine shows during their week stay in Austin and other surrounding cities such as San Antonio and Dallas. Witnessing their power pop songs live was worth the three attempts to see these guys and gal live.

Fireants

Fireants’ country rock is well written and vocalist Ian Stewart has a great front man presence motivating the crowd to clap their hands and chant out phrases to accentuate their songs. There was no weak link as the entire band was super talented which is impressive for these youngin’s being the ages of 16, 17 and 18 years old. Luckily for us, they are from Austin and there will be opportunities to catch one of their upcoming live shows.

Casxio

Casxio’s show at Barcelona had a late start but it was definitely worth the wait. They performed an amazing set. The crowd was dancing to their funky soul pop, and the sound mix featured each instrument equally allowing no musician to be overshadowed by another. One of the highlights of the show was when Casxio played a cover of Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean,” adding a modern twist to this 80’s classic.

t e G e h T h t i w o a h T n Stay Down Dow

Campus News

page 8

Accent • April 6, 2009

w w w.the Accent.org

ACC’s 35th birthday celebrates education, progress Jamie Carpenter Campus Editor

After 35 years of providing educational opportunities to Austin’s residents, ACC celebrated with ALL ACCESS: An Education Celebration and ACC’s 35th Birthday Bash with Hip Hop Into College on Saturday, March 28, at the Eastview Campus. The event was open to the public and every participant received a VIP Pass with information on the various events at the celebration. The climax of the event was the noon “HAPPY BIRTHDAY ACC!”ceremony on the Birthday Stage. Sims Elementary Silvertones provided entertainment as a prelude to the ceremony singing renditions of popular songs including “Lean on Me.” Dr. Barbara Mink, a board of trustees member, described the differences between the first year ACC opened and today. In 1973, ACC had one rented campus with 1, 700 students and about 30 programs. Currently, an eighth campus is being built and the student population is about 36,000 with about 200 programs to choose from. “[ACC is] an open door college with programs for everybody,” Mink said. Wilhelmina Delco, the first black official elected to public office in Austin, described how in 1972 there were no community colleges within 30 miles of the area, although there were five universities. “Community Colleges provide access. [They do this by] providing GED’s, vocational certificates, coursework that can be transferred to a baccalaureate degree and busy work for bored housewives. Take advantage of [ACC]. It’s here for you, and we are proud to make it possible.” Brad Burnett, Student Government President, spoke of how ACC has helped him achieve his goals. A former high school dropout, he now plans to graduate from ACC this semester with honors and aspires to go to law school. “Student Life has taught me how to be a leader. I have had four internships since I have been going to ACC, one with Congressman Lloyd Doggett. ACC is truly a place where dreams come true. I speak from experience,” Burnett said. “We need to meet basic needs. We need to meet workforce needs. We need to meet the needs of graduating high school students.” Raul Alvarez, board of trustee member , said. Congressman Lloyd Doggett, President of ACC Stephen Kinslow and D.J. Bobby Bones rounded up the speakers.

Karissa Rodriguez · Staff Photographer

Wilhemina Delco along with President Steven Kinslow and others cheer the lighting of the 35th birthday cake adorned with sparklers in place of candles.

Starting or reentering higher education was made available through ACC organizations like Continuing Education, Early College Start, Distance Learning, Adult Education and ACC’s Youth Program. “ACC is trying to create a college-going atmosphere for a younger audience and we also have parenting workshops for the parents of the students in our program. We want to show that college is accessible and is not just a four year degree,” Katharine Bennett, Youth Programs Coordinator for the Student Recruitment Office said. Refreshments, activities, and vendors were at the event as well. Activities included face painting, I AM ACC photos, chair massages, mock surgeries, Pet CPR, robot demonstrations and photos with cutouts of The Rock, Barack Obama, and Beyonce. Various Radio Stations including KAZI 88.7, KOOP 91.7 and KXXS 104.9 were there along with several other non-ACC vendors like GOARMY.COM, Longhorn Landing, and Padee’s Fine Gifts. Information on different ACC programs and majors were available for those who were interested in pursing or learning about specific careers; like mechanics, firefighting or

Sarah Vasquez • Staff Photographer Karissa Rodriguez · Staff Photographer

All Access is ACC’s largest event of the year, bringing ACC faculty and visitors together to enjoy live performances, fun demonstrations, short classes, and games for all ages.

Real Estate. An education in real estate can prove to be helpful, especially in light of the recent housing crisis, and lack of knowledge that leads many home-owners to get in over their heads. “The More real estate knowledge you have, the more you go into the transaction informed, this is usually the biggest investment people go into, and to go into blind would obviously not be as beneficial as going into with a foundation about the industry,” Phylis Molina, Professor of Real Estate said. ACC students also played an active role in the event

through Student Life, the nursing program, and the supplemental life program. Supplemental life is designed for students who have experience and excel in a subject to be able to offer guidance to other students who may be struggling in that particular subject as well. “[I choose] to get involved with supplemental instruction because of the fact that I am involved with other students, and I did it for the money. It helps you interact with other students. It stimulates confidence and interaction with students.” Jared Atkins, Engineering Major said.

Members of Rio Grande’s counseling services give away free cotton candy at ACC’s 35th Birthday Bash. Staff, Faculty, and community memebers celebrated the growth of the College from a single rented building in 1973 to seven campuses with over 35,000 students today.

Sarah Vasquez • Staff Photographer

A member of Early College Start paints the ACC symbol to match the one she has on her face. Face painting was part of the festivities at All Access. Staff, Faculty, and community memebers celebrated the growth of the College from a single rented building in 1973 to seven campuses with over 35,000 students today.

Sports program wraps third year of intramural competition with tournaments Kaitlin Neve Staff Writer

Hanlly Sam • Staff Photographer

With a final score of 15-12, Serves Up beat Who’s Dat at Parque Zaragoza on Monday, March 30.

Student athletes in the ACC intramural program have a busy month ahead of them. With tournaments for soccer finishing April 6, volleyball taking place April 6 through 13, and basketball playing a single elimination tournament on April 18 with regularly scheduled games beginning on April 21 and 22. The gaming season began March 2. “I’ve been with the [Student Life] program for four years now, and the [intramural sports] program started three years ago. The idea was proposed to me, and I wanted to see if student interest would pick up. We started with six students and the word spread ... today we have over 200 students,” Jennifer Flowers, Student Life’s intramural

coordinator, said. The program has grown. There are six leagues participating at this time, up from the original two. “I thought it was a good way to get involved and have something to do,” Danial Pringle, a member of the men’s basketball league, said. “All the teams are from different campuses ... my team is called Dumamis [Greek for strength and power]. Most of my team is out of the Cyprus Creek Campus ... for practice we run five miles two to three times a week and practice playing every other night ... the team is pumped. They are on fire,” Pringle said. The tournaments and all games will be played at Parque Zaragoza recreation center for updates or more information contact Jennifer Flowers at 512-223-9172.

Team Showtim (red jerseys) beat team Los Frijoles (black jerseys)57-42. The teams played Wednesday, March 25 at Parke Zaragoza.

Teodora Erbes • Staff Photographer

April 6, 2009 • Accent

page 9

campus News w w w.the Accent.org

Campus Life

Riverside re to: e h W

Eat?

China Express

1913 E. Riverside Drive One of the better hole-in-the-wall Chinese buffets I’ve come across is China Express, a small, family-owned business that has a modestly priced lunch buffet for under $6. The selection isn’t huge, but their General Tso’s chicken is mouth-watering over their incredible fried rice. The sweet-and-sour is a little bland, but I usually go for Tso’s and delicious egg-rolls. It’s a serve-yourself type of dive, which translates to a personalized, homely atmosphere. Their dinner menu is a lot more elaborate, and their Orange Chicken or Sesame Chicken (hot or mild) are both to die for and under $10. If you need somewhere to go during lunch, get to their buffet early, because this place packs up and for good reason!

Shawn Hinojosa Staff Writer

Hang?

Rack Daddy’s 4410 E. Riverside Dr., Ste. 100

Neighborhood pool halls are not always good news, but Rack Daddy’s, which is situated comfortably on the intersection of Riverside and Pleasant Valley, is one of the better ones I’ve been to. The bar could be bigger, and they could have more than one foosball table, but their many pool tables are high quality and are at a reasonably low $7 an hour. The interior is well-decorated and spacious, and the people and employees are incredibly friendly. There are plenty of television screens to keep you and your friends occupied if pool isn’t your thing, and don’t forget that Friday and Sunday nights are karaoke nights!

Shop?

The Bazaar 1609 E. Riverside Dr.

Devilish or demure? Do you have an artistic edge? An interest in costume and makeup? The Bazaar is one of the premiere costume shops in Austin, and is located in one of the most diverse areas of the city. The staff are knowledgable and friendly, offering one-onone service to their customers. Their variety of costumes and wigs lead towards professional quality, and the best part of the store is that you can have a great time without even buying anything. Girls, play dress-up in head to toe with everything from tiaras to fishnet. Boys, carry their purses while they do!

NEXT ISSUE:

Carnival ah! transforms RGC Right: Richard Cutter (far left) leads faculty and students in Tai Chi as part of the Carnival Ah! festivities on Thursday April 2 in front of the Rio Grande Campus.

Below: Jayme Lee Ramsay performs a piece entitled “Fire” by creative writing student Kathy Judge in Carnival Ah’s production of In 2 The West. featuring student writing and are performed by students and professional actors.

e g d i r North Girls Beyond Bars Devon Tincknell Staff Writer

All photos by Teodora Erbes, Accent Staff Photographer

Below: Jane Adolph performes a piece entitled “Happy Dancer” by creative writing student Mandy Davidson as part of In 2 The West. In 2 The West is composed of original monologue portraits of people in the West inspired by Richard Avedon’s photographic essay entitled “In The American West.”

Most Girl Scouts are about two things; cookies and life skills. For the Girl Scouts of Troop 1500, these life skills are an urgent necessity. The girls of Troop 1500 are all united by a common bond that goes beyond badges and sashes. They are the daughters of women who are serving time in prison. Enterprising Girl Scouts Beyond Bars, the program behind Troop 1500, is a joint venture of Girls Scouts of America, the YWCA, and the Crime Prevention Institute. Started in 1998, Austin’s chapter was modeled after the initial Girl Scouts Beyond Bars, but designed to provide more counseling and support, or what is known in the social work world as “wrap around care.” “The girls, it’s a regular Girl Scout troop for them. They do regular Girl Scout stuff, they sell cookies and go on trips. Once a month they all go see their moms,” Diana Peyton, an instructor in Child Development at ACC East View and Round Rock Campuses, said. For the last four years, Peyton has worked for the YWCA as a counselor to the incarcerated women participating in the program. She meets twice a month with the women and also helps facilitate their monthly interactions with the troop made up of their daughters. Most of the women are single mothers and many struggle with addiction. “Probably 70% of the women in prison are there for drug charges,” Peyton said. “Men tend to be more violent; women tend to be more self destructive.” Addiction is often rooted in early childhood abuse Peyton explained, and the first step to stopping it is to heal that abuse. For the women in the program, “it gives them something they’ve never had: emotional support.” Enterprising Girl Scouts Beyond Bars recognizes that a prison sentence effects more lives than just the person behind bars. Children growing up with a parent in prison are six times as likely to end

up there at some point in their own lives. “The whole idea is to keep [the girls] out of prison and give them the resources that their moms didn’t have,” said Peyton. In addition to the lessons in conflict resolution, basic hygiene, and domestic duties aimed at the younger members, the troop continues to provide support and assistance as the girls grow older and enter the difficult high school years. Peyton stated, “The girls are in forever, it doesn’t matter if their mom’s get out....What they do with the older girls is things like, ‘Ok, how do you apply to college?’ They did a road trip recently and saw different colleges all around this area.” For almost all of the girls in Troop 1500, the program has been a success. A total of about 40 girls have participated. Except for one incident, all of the girls have avoided the legal troubles that their mothers did not. For the mothers, the results are more mixed. Diana Peyton works with women who have deep emotional scars, and upon their release it is all too easy to fall back into old routines and bad habits. As their counselor Peyton works intimately with the women, making every victory is a personal one. Asked about the recidivism rate of the adult women, Peyton hazards a guess that it is probably about 50/50. Still, there are many success stories and Peyton is quick to point one out. “She was hard edge when I first met her. And over the months, she was in for a couple of years in the program, she just gradually, gradually softened, and one day she actually cried. That just blew me away. She’s one of the moms that got out, got a job, and just hasn’t gotten in any trouble.”

Life&Arts

page 10

Accent • April 6, 2009

w w w.the Accent.org

m u s i c rev i e w s

m ov i e rev i e w

4Life, an end to a legacy Real gangsters, real life David Rodriguez Assistant Editor

The Underground Kingz hailing from Port Arthur, Texas have been a ubiquitous presence in Texas rap music since their debut album “Too Hard To Swallow” was released in 1992, when group members Pimp C (Chad Butler) and Bun B (Bernard Freeman) were just teenagers. Unfortunately, with the unexpected death of Butler in December of 2007 Bun B decided to release “UGK 4 Life” (officially released on March 31, 2009) as the conclusion to UGK’s prolific and influential tenure in the rap world. Even though UGK has released eight full length albums under Jive’s banner and one album independently, it feels like just a couple of years ago I was flipping over their debut L.P. in my Walkman and the plastic wrapping from that first album,“Too Hard To Swallow,” is still sitting in my mother’s waste basket in Houston. Classic soul godfather Ronald Isley, Dungeon Family crooner Sleepy Brown, and Hyphy movement founder and Bay Area institution E-40 are just a few of the guest artists appearing on the album. With the sudden and untimely death of Butler, the album feels like a eulogy, but by no means a downer. The candid country rap and patented blues influenced production that fans of Pimp C have come to covet is definitely present on the handful of tracks that Pimp C was able to produce before

he left us. The intelligent word play and succinct delivery of Bun B has become a science at this point in his career, and the content he chooses has aggrandized intelligently. Albeit,the absence of Pimp C’s production on almost three quarters of the album is definitely felt, Corey Mo and Steve Below did a great job trying to mimic the gritty soulful beats that Butler has consistently been putting out since “Too Hard To Swallow’s” release, a innovative style that placed UGK on a different tier above most southern rap groups. UGK created a new breed of country rap infused with blues and soul that influenced every gangster rap outfit in the south since the mid nineties. UGK made Port Arthur the new Delta, and neighboring Houston was akin to Chicago, the catalyst to allow their unique sound to reach a broader audience. Pimp C’s production on the two interludes, tracks seven and 13, are classic. Thick beats and raw words of wisdom are delivered by Butler on track seven and Freeman on track 13, over the same soporific blues riff. Track 15, “Da Game Been Good To Me,” is a glimpse of

Lindsay Preston Staff Writer

Photo Courtesy of Jive Zomba Recordings

what Butler had in store for UGK fans. It still has the same driving drum beats and adds an acoustic guitar, blended with an electrified Dick Dale style riff over a solid hook that has come to epitomize UGK’s sound. If you are unfamiliar with UGK’s music, this is a great album to pick up and work your way backwards. UGK is an institution. Many people grew up with their music, and it’s hard to see them end on such a tragic note. All in all, “UGK 4 Life” does their legacy justice as Bun B wouldn’t have it any other way, and I highly recommend fans of rap music to cop it. Bun B wraps up the album in classic UGK fashion; “… we are the Underground Kingz, in case you aint know. I’ll see you on the slab baby. Chunk a deuce. Holla at your boys.”

What is it? It’s The Script simple, but enough to get the body moving. The album’s eleven Is it hip-hop? Is it tracks are similar rock? Is it pop? Is it enough that they could R&B? be played to sound All these questions like one continuous come up when you song, but within each hear The Script’s self song there are subtle titled debut album changes that make released on March 17 them distinguishable in the U.S. from one another. Each song conFans will either tains elements from a really love, or really variety of genres that hate The Script. attract the listeners’ Pop sensibility can different musical make or break a band, tastes, whether it is and for the music the melodic piano, snobs this album may the poignant bass contain too much Photo Courtesy of Sony Music Entertainment lines, or the emotive delivery radio friendliness that may of the hopeful lyrics. The best be unappealing, but with a part is that the three piece O’Donaghue’s delivery of his variety of poetic themes and from Dublin, Ireland adds just words, whether spoken or a sampler of simplistic genre enough of each diverse elesung, is conveyed in a hauntstyles The Script will draw in ment to avoid sounding like a ingly soothing voice that will fans of eclectic music. complete mess. stay in your head days after Vocalist Danny you hear him. The beats are

Sarah Vasquez Staff Writer

Directed by Matteo Garrone, Gomorrah offers an incredibly stark and honest portrayal of how organized crime operates in, and around Naples, Italy. Gomorrah is based on the international best-seller “Camorra” (inviting the pun), published in October, 2007, Roberto Saviano’s journalistic expose of the infamous Camorra crime family. The book’s success resulted in numerous threats against Saviano, who has required police protection since its publication. Unlike any other mob epic, Gomorrah avoids romanticizing its characters or the risks and rewards of organized crime. Instead, it presents a gritty and bleak picture of life within Naples’ decrepit tenement housing, where most inhabitants are either in service of, or exploited by, the Comorra mafia. Gomorrah is filmed like a documentary, predominantly shot with hand-held cameras and using only ambient sound in place of a musical soundtrack. This creates a more intimate and believable cinematic experience as we witness five stories interweave and unfold. The characters are all too human: the innocence of a young boy haphazardly initiated into gang life; two teenagers quipping Scarface and posturing as crime lords; a middle-aged long time employee who oversees the finances and payoffs of the Camorra; a tailor involved in the production of haute couture knockoffs; and, of course, the greed and tyrannical indifference of the thugs at the top

Photo Courtesy of RAI Cinema

of the food chain. Through these characters, the viewer is exposed to the varied underground interests and assets the Comorra uses to fund their seedy empire. One would expect the drug trade and arms dealing, as well as “protection” dues to be investments employed by the mob. However, one of the most interesting narratives Gomorrah follows is that of an apprentice to a Comorra employee tasked to sell illegal dumping grounds around Italy for industrial and/or toxic waste. These areas inevitably result in higher cancer rates for its surrounding inhabitants. The young man struggles with his conscience as his mentor

perversely rationalizes the purpose of their work. The violence portrayed through Gomorrah is graphic, but not indulgent, simply necessary and matter-of-fact. Rather, it is the looming and relentless threat of impending violence threaded through the lives of those we witness that makes the film, as well as the reality, so horrifying. Gomorrah is a brutally engaging, raw, and exceedingly well-crafted piece of filmmaking. I would encourage any with a curiosity of organized crime, stripped of its glory and mystique, to please find time to see this amazing film.

No Strings Attached in May

Jonathan Sack • Staff Photographer

Co-Owner of No Strings Attached Media, Nicholas Ro, works to edit a radio talk show from a small apartment following a recorded interview. NSA Media frequently travels to cover live events or record interviews.

Jonathan Sack Staff Writer

No Strings Attached Media Group co-founded by Austin Community College students Colin Moore and Nick Ro is a local media outlet that plans to begin broadcasting Internet radio on May 10 at nsaradio. com. The network will feature talk radio, political commentary, live music events, and local music for free. NSA is currently staffed by two volunteers, in addition to the two co-founders. Other volunteers will create talk shows, music and news content for the network. “We like to promote and encourage the creative process, foster and promote it without our biases or influence,” said Ro who also hosts the program ‘The Peripheral.’ “We call it No Strings

Attached Media because we do not intend to attach our strings to our show hosts,” said Moore. “We also don’t want to tell our listeners what to think. We just let the hosts tell the truth, and allow the listeners to think for themselves,” Moore also stated. The entrepreneurs plan to expand from Internet based radio to an F.M. station within one year. Their plans also include a television show, and a quarterly Internet journal. “We want to build each one independently, and let each one stand on its own,” Moore said regarding the three media mediums. Moore has stated that the radio content would “only advertise local businesses.” When the website launches in May, Moore and Ro expect to have 10 programs on the air. Programming will be available 24 hours a day on the website

and most of the shows will update once per week with new content. Currently, NSA has one daily program, yet Moore and Ro expect to increase the number of programs with daily showings. As a part of operating the media network, Moore and Ro take an active role in the political process by lobbying to the Texas Legislature, and by attending rallies and protests. “We feel we need to have an active presence in activism” said Moore, “in order to help other people make the transition into activism.” Moore explained that “We have to set the example for our audience. We can’t just do everything by ourselves …” And Ro concluded that “step one is realizing that there is a need to change something. Step two is researching and trying to get involved.”

Life& Arts

April 6, 2009 • Accent

enterta i n m ent

page 11

rev i e w s

w w w.theaccent. o rg

SXSW Film festival standouts, must sees for 2009 Lindsay Preston

David Rodriguez

Staff Writer

Assistant Editor

In a documentary film world saturated with infomercials, indiscreet agendas and irrelevance, Blood Trail was a true breath of fresh air. No hidden agendas or subliminal political philosophies are contained in this epic documentary that follows war photo-journalist Robert King for 15 years through his sucesses and lack there of. The film begins in Sarajevo and concludes with King’s frustrating embed in Iraq. Director Richard Parry lost half of his team during the making of this film and from the raw footage that is presented in a candid and, at times, unforgiving manner, the audience is able to vicariously experience the savagery of modern warfare. What these two gentlemen have offered with Blood Trail is a pertinent study of war and its effects on both the people who document its ubiquitous presence and the bystanders that are rattled by its never ending aftershocks. Blood Trail is a work in progress and after 15 years of filming how do you lay down the lens and call the project complete. Following its SXSW premiere King and Parry were traveling to the Texas/Mexico border to document the infighting between the cartels, and their war with numerous Mexican and U.S. law enforcement agencies. I anticipate some really emotive footage will be added to the odyssey that is Blood Trail. There is no official release date for this film. Sam Rockwell is what initially perked my interest to Moon, but everything about the film was well done, intelligent and cool looking. The style of the film was old sci-fi, and they accomplished the nostalgia in spades. Instead of recreating from older films, they allowed their access to modern filmmaking techniques and all around great cinematography, sets, and makeup to deliver a smart sci-fi mystery with political undertones. Director Duncan Jones is a very successful commercial director in the U.K. and his subliminal prowess was definitely evident within all of Moon, which will enable the film to transcend all film catagories and genres. There really can’t be enough said about the cleverness of Moon and the way Rockwell dominated at least 95 percent of the screen time, playing more than one character, without boring the audience or displaying some type of narcissistic love affair with himself. Moon is in the tradition of Midnight Cowboy, Alien, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and Sybil. Moon is to be released June 12 during blockbuster season.

The incredible documentary 45365, about the city of Sidney, Ohio, won the SXSW Grand Jury award, although I felt it deserved best documentary. The two filmmakers who brought us 45365, Bill and Turner Ross, grew up in Sidney and are both extremely talented. I would expect to see more exceptional projects from these two in the future. Know Your Mushrooms, directed by Ron Mann, was a very enjoyable documentary feature, especially for a film about mushrooms. Ron Mann has a particular gift for creating documentaries that are playful, insightful, and bursting with life. The Korean narrative feature, Daytime Drinking, should not be missed. Daytime Drinking is a sad, hilarious, and well-balanced tale of a young man nursing (and sousing) his broken heart. Furthermore, it was impressively created on a shoestring budget by debut filmmaker, Noh Young-eok, who wrote, directed, edited, and produced the film. St. Nick was an excellent narrative feature. Texas filmmaker, David Lowry, has crafted an exceedingly beautiful, austere, and haunting film about two young siblings who have run away from home. Be on the lookout for St. Nick, and any future projects by Lowry.

Drop your 9 to 5, head to the bar Rusty Tolliver Staff Writer

During spring break this year, I put my 9 to 5 sale’s job on hold and took to the bars to work the SXSW music festival. I love being an Austinite during spring break. The college students leave for the warm beaches, and the out-oftowners invade the streets by the thousands for SXSW. I just have to say that it was my first time working the festival, but will not be my last. I got on at Buffalo Billiards, located at Sixth and Brazos, to do security. Since I frequent the bar, it was fairly easy to get on to work there. All I had to do was talk to the head of security, Big John, and that was that. He went on to tell me that most places have to hire out extra help during SXSW, which they hate to do, so getting locals who know the layout of the given bar or restaurant is a relief for them. They stationed me upstairs by the stage to watch the door that led to the green room. My duties consisted of letting only authorized people in to the green room (bands,

media, roadies) and to keep all the normals out. It was a great change from my day job, but I managed to make the transition just fine. I mean, I got paid to watch and hang out with bands from all over the world. What’s better than that? The highlight of the time spent working security at Buffalo came when I ran in to one of my favorite musicians. The band Riverboat Gamblers had just put on an amazing and energetic set and were headed to the green room to catch a breath. Following shortly behind them was none other than Goldfinger’s drummer, Darrin Pfeiffer. Wow, I got a chance to talk to the same man who places a twinkie in a certain part of his body during live shows and gets a lucky fan to eat it out. During our chat we talked about some past gigs Goldfinger has had in Austin, and the tour that they had just finished in Australia, which featured The Riverboat Gamblers. It was great to meet such a musician, and it’s just one more thing that makes this

festival so great for me year after year. There’s just such a positive vibe that seems to float in on the wings of SXSW, that is if SXSW had wings. The friends that you make during the festival, the celebrities and musicians that you run in to on a regular basis, and the good times that you experience will never leave you. If you have any plans for next spring break and you want to work the festival, I recommend asking around your favorite bars and restaurants if they might need an extra hand. The festival is a great experience for all music fans, or for any one who is looking for a change from their lousy desk job. Another tip, make it easy on yourself and take the bus downtown, it’s fun, safe, and you don’t have to worry about the dreadful parking, or lack there of. So do your self a favor and take off spring break next year and let SXSW flow through your veins ever so freely.

Notable, new and live in Austin, Tx David Rodriguez Assistant Editor

Right Of The Dial; The Rise Of Clear Channel And The Fall Of Commercial Radio is a non-fiction account of Clear Channel’s meteoric rise from a local radio station to one of the largest media conglomerates in the country. Written by Alec Foege and published by Faber and Faber, Right Of The Dial will be available on April 14. We Who Are Alive and Remain is an addition to HBO’s Band of Brothers series. Author Marcus Brotherton tells untold stories about Easy Company’s fallen brothers including a story containing a victory toast in Hitler’s hideout and other biographical and autobiographical vignettes of war. To be released May 5 by Penguin. Self described “browngrass pillbilly from Akron, Ohio” The Misery Jackals will be performing April 7 @ The Hole In The Wall (doors open at 8 p.m.). Journeyman and Merle Haggard’s former guitarist Redd Volkaert will be playing April 9 @ Threadgill’s South in the Beer Garden ($10, 9 p.m.). Legendary vulgar poet and pioneering pimp rap superstar Blowfly will be playing @ Emo’s inside on April 10 ($12 advance tix., doors open at 9 p.m.). Southern rockers Dertybird will be playing @ the Saxon Pub on April 14 ($5, 12:30 a.m.). Accidental cool kid phenomenon Crystal Castles will be performing April 13 @ La Zona Rosa. ($22 advance tix & $24 at the door. Doors open at 8 p.m.) The Old Settlers Music Festival will be kicking off on April 16 @ The Salt Lick Pavilion and Camp Ben McCullouch. The 3 day extravaganza will feature the likes of Ray Wylie Hubbard, The Fireants, and Robert Earl Keen (tix range from $20-$425, it’s a camping festival). Legendary pianist and former member of the Muddy Waters Band, this guy is a real deal veteran of the Delta, Pinetop Perkins will be performing with Gary Louris and Mark Olson April 18 @ Antone’s ($18-20 advance tix., doors open at 8 p.m.). The long awaited White Rhino debut c.d. is out now and they are having a release party/show April 19 @ Emo’s inside (doors open at 8 p.m.). SXSW red carpet premiere film Observe and Report will be opening April 10 @ select theatres. Writer and director Jody Hill is the same funny man that brought us the HBO miniseries Eastbound and Down and instant comedy cult classic The Foot Fist Way. Set to be an uber-thriller/action film with an all-star cast, State of Play will be opening April 17 @ select theatres. Screenwriter Tony Gilroy wrote the screenplays for the Bourne series and wrote political thriller Michael Clayton.