Empowerment Tip #12: Empower yourself PHYSICALLY by taking a time out from stress this winter break.

Another semester has came and gone and I’m sure your getting anxious for your highly anticipated Christmas break.

As a college student dealing with deadlines and constant testing, it’s easy to forget how to relax.

So this winter break, make a conscious effort to free yourself of worry and stress. Take a night walk to go look at Christmas lights with your family, or a power run in the morning. Drink hot chocolate. Do things you once enjoyed as a child.

Look at the break is a rejuvenation period so you can come back to school refreshed and ready to go.

Campus Recreation hours over the break are as follows:

December 19: noon- 8 p.m.

December 20-23:6 a.m.- 8 p.m.

December 24-31: closed

January 1-2: noon- 5 p.m.

January 3-7: noon- 8 p.m.

January 10-13: noon- 8 p.m.

January 14: noon- 10 p.m.

The HPE will be closed throughout the duration of the break. Group exercise classes and normal hours will continue until Friday, December 18.

If you plan to be in town, check out the campus jogging trails located in the front kiosk of the Rec and in the handbill racks located in the lounge and by the locker rooms.

Remember, you’ve worked hard this semester and deserve to tend to yourself.

Have a wonderful holiday everyone. Talk to you next year!

YOUR inside to Campus Rec- Steph

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

It’s finally staying cold outside and as usual the SFA campus is decorated beautifully for the holidays. The outside air is crisp and fresh and I don’t know if it’s just the pine trees for sale on every corner, but it almost smells like Christmas.

I have been here for three school years now and I don’t think I have seen as many giving hearts around the holidays as I have this year.

Walking around between classes I have noticed many student led organizations with huge stockpiles of toys that have been collected for children in need. It warms my heart knowing that young people feel motivated to make a difference. College students may not have a lot of finances, but we can afford to give a little and I think it’s great.

If you have missed deadlines for some of these toy drives but still want to help it’s not too late.

Campus Rec has partnered with the Nacogdoches County Humane Society, the children’s units of the Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital and the Nacogdoches Medical Center to create a month long donation drive known as the Angel Tree. All proceeds benefit Nacogdoches children and animals in need.

If you have passed through the Rec lately you have probably seen the Angel Tree located in the lobby. If you take a closer look you will find hanging candy canes with attached messages. Each candy cane contains a special assignment. Patrons are invited to take a candy cane and purchase the corresponding item and then bring it back to the Rec and place it in one of the boxes under the tree. This way, there will be more variety and the gifts will be more personalized based on the needs of the sponsoring organizations.

The Angel Tree has only been out for about a week now but has already proven to be a great success.

So, if you have a break between all the tests and projects that are most likely consuming your mind as the semester comes to an end, stop by the Rec and see if one of the gifts on the Angel Tree inspires you. And don’t forget about making a de-stress appointment with Campus Rec’s professional massage therapist, Therese Hosteller (936-468-3507 M-F). Less than two weeks left everyone! We can do it!

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Empowerment Tip #11: Empower Yourself EMOTIONALLY by booking a massage appointment at Campus Rec.

Finals are coming up and I don't know about ya'll but I am stressed out. Taking physical breaks aren't enough. I need to let my mind rest.

Are you hitting the books hard and ready to relax? Take a study break and Empower Yourself EMOTIONALLY by visiting Campus Rec’s very own massage therapist, Therese Hosteller.

Hosteller is a massage expert with 18 years of experience who offers special prices to Campus Rec members that you simply can’t find anywhere else.

Check it out:

Chair Massage

15 minutes: $12 • 30 minutes: $25

Reflexology

15 minutes: $12 • 30 minutes: $25

Table

15 minutes: $12 • 30 minutes: $25

45 minutes: $40 • 60 minutes: $50

Swedish

30 minutes: $25 • 60 minutes: $50

Sport

30 minutes: $25 • 60 minutes: $50

Trigger Point

30 minutes: $25 • 60 minutes: $50

Deep Tissue

30 minutes: $25 • 60 minutes: $50

With finals coming up, this is Hostellers busiest time of year. So don’t wait! Call Campus Rec at (936) 468-3507 to make an appointment. Or, stop by the Admin Office when you’re through working out. Here are the office hours: Monday- Thursday 8 a.m.- 7 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.

You’ll be glad you did.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Wellness Fair!

This has to be the BEST DAY EVER at Campus Rec. It’s the annual Wellness Fair!

In order to promote a healthy lifestyle, all kinds of organizations are here visiting from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

This fair is all about empowering yourself physically, spiritually, emotionally, environmentally, financially and socially.

There are games, prizes and all kinds of free stuff designed to show YOU how to take charge of your life! So far, I’ve collected a t-shirt from CBTx Commercial Bank of Texas, a toothbrush and toothpaste goodie bag from nacogdoches dental, energy vitamins from SFA’s new licensed dietitian, Caroline Sullivan, and I’ve entered myself in a free raffle with Campus Rec Fitness and Wellness. And that’s not the half of it!

If you can't tell, I'm a little excited.

I’ve met all kinds of people and may not even need lunch anymore thanks to Varsity Bookstore and their wonderful cheese plate!

Aside from outside organizations and companies, Campus Rec program areas are here in full force. You can find out your BMI or even get a free massage! Or both-there’s nothing stopping you. Outdoor Pursuits is here talking about how to get involved in their upcoming trips, and of course about sustainability!

So, if you haven’t already passed through the Rec today make sure you take a second to stop by for this spectacular event. It will make your day.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Job Fair = great success!

As usual, Tuesday’s Job Fair was a great success. SFA students flocked the Rec Center Lobby ready to fill out applications.

Lots of great applicants applied for jobs with Sport Clubs, Facilities, Intramural Sports, Promotions, Outdoor Pursuits and Fitness and Wellness.

The Job Fair application allowed students to rank which program areas they would most like to work for. After filling one out, participants were asked to wait in a designated area for a preliminary interview with a representative from their top program choice. If the applicant seems to fill the needs of the vacant position they applied for, they will be called back for a second interview with the head of the program area.

It’s great that so many of you want to work at Campus Rec!

If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, come out to the Rugby Field next to the Intramural Fields on Saturday at 2 p.m. SFA Rugby Sport Club is playing North Texas and it should be an exciting match.

Also, Outdoor Pursuits is hosting the 4^th annual Jacks on Belay climbing competition Saturday. If you’re wondering why the rock wall has been closed this week it’s so the staff can prepare for the competition. Participants can register up until the rules meeting at 12:45 p.m. and it will be $30. This year’s theme is Stach Bash so sport your mustache! If you don’t have one OP will have plenty to go around. I’ve even seen a staff member whose name I will not mention growing a mustache of his own just for this event!

Have a great rest of the week and try not to get too stressed out over school- Thanksgiving break is just around the corner Jacks!

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Empowerment Tip #10: Empower yourself FINANCIALLY by attending the Campus Rec Job Fair Tuesday.

Need a job?

Empower yourself financially by applying for a job with Campus Rec. Campus Rec employment offers flexible hours and a positive work environment within walking distance from residence halls and classes. A wide array of available jobs, like Outdoor Pursuits Trip Leader, Intramural Sports Official and Group Exercise Instructor, gives students an opportunity to work in an atmosphere they enjoy while gaining experience in their field of interest. Who knows…you may discover that you want to make a career out of the field you found at Campus Rec!

Just show up to the Campus Rec Lobby Tuesday, November 16 from 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Bring a resume and dress in professional attire.

You’ll be asked to fill out an application and then wait for a preliminary interview right there on the spot!

A variety of program areas are hiring so come see where you fit in best.

Applications will be provided at the Job Fair, but if you want to get a head start, they are also available at www.sfasu.edu/campusrec and at the Campus Rec Admin Office.

See you there!

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec-Steph

Ab-tastic!

On Sunday when I was planning out my week, I decided my exercise plan needed a little more discipline.

Some of my days are so hectic that I literally have something scheduled for every hour. I just can’t seem to get into a solid workout routine. It has proven difficult for me to follow through with a scheduled personal workout so I thought I’d try enlisting the help of others.

I looked at the Campus Rec Group Exercise schedule in hopes of finding a class that fits my needs. Sure enough, Abs for Lunch from 12:15-12:45 MWF works perfectly.

I wrote the class in my planner as a scheduled part of my day so I couldn’t pretend like I hadn’t thought about going to it.

It may have been a bit of mental trickery, but hey, it worked! I made it to the class.

The result? Abs for Lunch has a new fan. Loud techno music and a knowledgeable instructor got me in the zone.

30 straight minutes of abs is probably more than I have done in my whole life, but I got through it. Plus, some of the exercises we did worked out more than just the tummy.

There was leg, arm and cardio work mixed in too.

The instructor was really nice and walked around the room giving everyone tips. I found that helpful because I know it is easy to hurt your neck or back attempting ab exercises.

After the class I felt great for the rest of the day. So what if I have to have someone make me do it—a workout is a workout!

For a full list of Group Exercise classes, go to www.sfasu.edu/campusrec and click on “Group X Session II Schedule” on the right hand side of the homepage. Or of course you can pick up a paper copy inside the Rec.

Have a great day!

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

SFA Bass Club going to nationals!

Hello there, I hope everyone had a great Homecoming and Halloween weekend!

After the football game Saturday I headed straight out to the Ag Pond for the final weigh-in of the FLW College Fishing Texas Regional Championship.

With three days of intense fishing competition behind them, SFA anglers Ryan Watkins and Blaze Platt placed fifth out of 20 teams qualifying them to compete in the national championships in Kentucky this April.

The team is proud of their efforts and is looking forward to getting out on the water again.

“The tournament’s going to be huge. Watkins said. “It’s a bigger stage for us to represent the SFA Bass team. It’s impossible to hang your head when there were so many people that always wanted to be in your position. We’re happy where we’re at. I always want to win, but it’s just the way it worked out.”

The Watkins/ Platt team was the only from SFA to qualify for regional’s. In fact they qualified twice.

Congratulations boys! Way to represent for the Lumberjacks.

On another note, if you’re driving on Star or Wilson Streets this weekend and notice a lot of extra activity on the Intramural Fields it’s because for the third year in a row SFA is hosting the NIRSA Region IV Flag Football tournament.

NIRSA is the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association, so this is a big deal for SFA.

As of right now there are 42 Men’s, 10 Women’s and 16 Co-Rec teams competing for the Region IV title.

The games start Friday November 5, at 2:30 p.m. and the championships will be held Sunday November 7.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Empowerment Tip #9: Empower yourself PHYSICALLY by having a safe Homecoming and Halloween weekend.

I’m going get straight to the point here. I know it’s an exiting weekend- I’m excited too! There’s a lot going on at SFA. There’s the bonfire, Homecoming Parade, Lumberjack Fun Run, FLW Fishing Festival and Tournament and of course the Football game against Texas State!

It’s easy to get wrapped up in the excitement and forget to think about your physical safety. Not thinking about safety first is an easily formed bad habit. So I wanted to remind you that life can change in an instant. If you’re going to be drinking, make sure you have a designated driver or call Driving Jacks at (936) 652-6600. It’s a small decision that can make a huge difference in your life and the lives of others.

If you’re looking for an alternative way to celebrate the holiday, Campus Rec is here to help.

Campus Rec’s Outdoor Pursuits program is hosting a Halloween event that will allow you to properly celebrate the holiday while getting your physical exercise in at the same time! It’s called Midnight Fright, and this year will be OP's third straight year to host it.

On Sunday, October 31, from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. OP invites you to wear your costume on the rock wall. The lights will be turned off and you will have only glow sticks to guide you. There will also be games, scary movies, food and costume contests!

I know you probably hear stuff like this all the time from your parents or other superiors. “Don’t drink and drive!” or something along those lines. But it’s time to stop tuning everyone out and get smart. It’s your life. Only you can control your own destiny. I don’t know about you, but I’d like to be around for a while!

Happy Homecoming and Halloween Lumberjacks! Be smart this weekend!

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Come out to the FLW College Fishing Festival and Texas Regional Championship!

Thursday, October 28, through Saturday, October 30, SFA will host the FLW College Fishing Festival and Texas Regional Championship. SFA Bass Club members Blaze Platt and Ryan Watkins will join 19 other qualifying collegiate teams competing for the regional champion title, including teams from Texas A&M, Baylor, the University of Oklahoma and North Texas.

In order to qualify for the regional tournament, a team had to place in the top five in one of four events last spring. Platt and Watkins qualified twice.

Thursday and Friday at 7:30 a.m. the first and second rounds of fishing will begin at Lake Sam Rayburn aka “Big Sam.” The festival will begin at 2 p.m. at the Ag Pond when the boys bring back their fish for the weigh-in. Each partner can enter three fish, the bigger the better. A live recording of the weigh-in will be broadcast on flwlive.com. The competition will then switch gears to a celebration at Lumberjack Alley with games and prizes. Attendance for both the weigh-in and festival are free to the public.

Saturday will mark the final round of fishing with the top five teams left in the competition. While the teams are still fishing, the festival will continue at Lumberjack Ally before the SFA Homecoming football game against Texas State. From 11 a.m. to 2 pm. there will be free t-shirts, tailgate games, Sports Zone Contests, the National Guard Warrior Challenge and live music from the Darby Ledbetter band. At 5 p.m. will be the final weigh-in at the Ag Pond and there will be free pizza for spectators.

First place will advance to nationals as well as win a new boat and scholarship money.

Watkins feels confident rather than nervous going into Thursday’s competition at his home lake. “The way I look at it I’ll either be the zero or the hero. It’s like how in baseball you can either swing for a base hit or a home run. The techniques and equipment we’re going to be using are primarily to catch big fish,” he said.

Watkins explained how he would rather take a chance on catching less fish, and in doing so hopefully catch a few big ones that will get him the win. For him, it’s all about quality over quantity.

“It’s more than luck,” said Bass Club Treasure, Zach Brown. “It’s all about consistency and knowing where to fish and when to fish.”

The fishermen were allowed to start scoping out the lake Wednesday, October 27 (one day prior to competition). This will help the competitors locate fish and help them predict where the fish might move pending weather changes.

Watkins says he will definitely take advantage of the water being open before competition.

SFA Bass Club began in 1994, and nationally ranked in the top ten for the past four years.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Empowerment Tip #8: Empower your SPIRIT by bleeding purple this week.

If your Lumberjack pride is lacking, this is the week to make it up. After the highly anticipated Battle of the Piney Woods at Reliant Stadium this Saturday, SFA has a fun-filled homecoming week in store for you.

In honor of homecoming, Campus Rec is hosting a tie-dye event intended to re-color your sprit. Just show up Wednesday, October 27 from 3- p.m. in the Rec Center Courtyard and receive a FREE t-shirt to tie dye purple and red.

The Rec, partnered with the SFA Alumni Association is hosting the first ever Lumberjack Homecoming 5k run and walk. The run will take place Saturday, October 30. Runners will start at 8 a.m. and walkers will start at 8: 10 a.m. (so you’ll still have plenty of time to tailgate before the football game at 2 p.m. against Texas State). All proceeds from the event will benefit the Dr. Raymond Lee Washman Scholarship Fund.

Pre-Register (before October 25)
Students: $10
Faculty/Staff/Alumni Member: $20
Community: $25 Cost

On-Site Register
Students: $10
Faculty/Staff/Alumni Member: $25
Community: $30

Registration forms are available at the Rec, or online at www.sfasu.edu/campusrec.

If you can’t make it out to the SFA Football game this weekend, come out to the intramural fields on Saturday, October 23 to watch Rugby Sport Club take on the University of Dallas at 2 p.m. and Men’s Club Soccer take on Angelo State University at 3 p.m.

Come early, be loud, stay late…bleed purple!

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

NCAAW week 2010

This week is National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week (NCAAW) and Campus Rec is proud to join over 1,000 colleges in America in spreading the word.

The idea behind NCAAW is to inform college students of the dangers of drinking behavior.

Information available during the week covers health, financial, legal and emotional consequences of alcohol.

Yesterday, Campus Rec Wellness, members of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity and Jack 2 Jack set up information tables in the Rec Center.

In 2007, TKE lost pledge member Nikolas Gallegos in an alcohol related accident. Instead of hiding from the incident, the fraternity now takes a stand for alcohol awareness, appearing at campus events in remembrance of Gallegos.

Jack 2 Jack, is a recently re-activated organization whose goal is to prevent wasted dreams through peer education. Although alcohol isn’t the only thing on their agenda, it does rank high on their priority list because of how many college students are affected by it.

This year SFA Homecoming is the same weekend as Halloween and both are considered high-risk times for college drinking. Patrons entering the Rec were asked to sign either a pledge to have a designated driver or a pledge to be one. “Drunk goggles” were available for patrons to put on and gain a better understanding of what their vision is really like when they are under the influence of alcohol.

I watched several people put on the goggles and stumble so badly that they ran into walls. They were all shocked at how impaired their vision was. After putting on the goggles, they seemed eager to sign a pledge.

Both Campus Rec Wellness and University Police provided brochures for people to take with them and read the harsh realities on their own time.

One fact that particularly shocked me was that drunk driving kills about 15,000 people a year. Alcohol use is involved in half of murders, accidental deaths and suicides.

If any of this information interests you, it will be available again tomorrow, October 21, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Rec Center Lobby.

If you are interested in Jack 2 Jack, their next meeting is Thursday, October 28 at 5:30 p.m. in Rusk 333. For more information, you can also e-mail them at jack2jacksfasu@yahoo.com.

Awareness is the first step to prevention.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Empowerment Tip #7: Empower youself EMOTIONALLY by taking "me" time.

Yesterday when I was working out, something hit me.

I entered the Rec and walked over to an elliptical in my usual spot upstairs facing the pool. I had three things in my hand: water bottle, ipod and cell phone. As I was running on the elliptical I did not refrain from answering text messages. In fact, I almost never do. When I had three different conversations going I thought to myself, “Steph, this is ridiculous!”

I came to the Rec to work out and spend some time on myself. Even though I didn’t come with anyone and was physically alone, my mind was still on other people and my text message conversations. Defeats the purpose, right?

When I was done on the elliptical, I decided to put my phone in my backpack and run a few laps. The sense of freedom I felt in 10 minutes on the track without my cell phone was unbelievable.

I continued the rest of my workout with out it.

Look, I don’t want to be thought of as a technophobic who would rather write letters and hates the internet. I love technology. I live a fast-paced life and I love any advances that make things easier.

All I’m saying is, if you never take your mind off of everything around you, when is there time for you? Maybe people need to start making personal limits on the amount of time a day they will be available via text, e-mail, facebook etc. What’s so scary about taking an hour to ourselves a day?

When I left the Rec I felt refreshed physically from my workout and emotionally because I had time COMPLETLEY to myself. I hardly even touched my phone the rest of the night.

Just something to think about.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Nac Bash 2010!

Saturday, SFA Skateboarding Club hosted Nac Bash 2010, “a milestone for collegiate skateboarding,” said Communications and Marketing skateboarding officer, Michael Wilson.

The race was the largest ever in Texas and the first race in the state to include an organized women’s division.

Besides a women’s division, there was also a beginner and expert class. A total of 74 racers competed, which is one less than the IGSA North American Championships last year.

The 74 skaters were made up of Texas A&M's Avante Guard, SLAB, Houston Garage Riders, Team Impact, Carve, Bombsquad, C-ment and independent riders from as far away as Tulsa, Oklahoma!

The event was so huge it even attracted Redbull, who set up tables, umbrellas and coolers. The Redbull girls, a.k.a. the "Wings Team" also showed up for the fun.

Here were the final results:

Expert Winners

1. Brian "Chubs" Cortright (Houston Garage Riders) - $400

2. Dylan Greenbacker (Texas Baked) - $300

3. Dustin Dixon (Bombsquad Longboarding) - $200

SFA’s Skateboarding Club President, Clifton Ellis, took 7^th!

Women’s:

1. Courtney Dixon (Bombsquad Longboarding) - $100

2. Ingrid Vanderholt

3. Sarah (C-Ment)

4. Katherine Timeaus (SFASU)

Beginners:

1. Grant Freeman (Zang) - Brand New Arbor Deck

“Our team was ecstatic to host a monumental race that could facilitate competitive riding amongst some of the most talented speed boarders in Texas. Our goal from the start was to encourage growth on the Texas longboard scene, and I can undoubtedly say we more than surpassed the goals we set for ourselves,” said Ellis.

Team Impact from Conroe, Texas put together a video of the event! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuLNynybGgc

SFA is currently working on its own video and will have it up very soon.

For more information on SFA Skateboarding refer to my August blog, “Ride with SFA.”

For more information on SFA Sport Clubs in general, visit the Campus Rec Sport Club webpage at http://www.sfasu.edu/campusrec/sport-clubs/index.asp.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Empowerment Tip #6: Empower yourself SPIRTUALLY by participating in the Lumberjack Fun Run.

Now that the Step it Out Challenge has come to an end, I feel like I have made some solid changes in my habits. I am consciously taking more steps a day, and am aware of how much exercise I am getting. I know that if I cannot find time to work out in the Rec Center, that walking more is a good alternative.

Why not take this walking challenge one step further and do something that will benefit myself AND others?

The Lumberjack Homecoming Fun Run is a first for Campus Recreation. We have teamed up with the SFA Alumni Association to create a 5k event that’s proceeds will benefit the Dr. Raymond Lee Worsham scholarship fund.

Here is some information on the race:

Saturday, October 30, 2010
Runners: 8 a.m.
Walkers: 8:10 a.m.

Cost
Pre-Register (before October 25)
Students: $10
Faculty/Staff/Alumni Member: $20
Community: $25 Cost

On-Site Register
Students: $10
Faculty/Staff/Alumni Member: $25
Community: $30

There are even prizes!

1st and 2nd place: Men's (Associates of SFA)
1st and 2nd place: Women's (Associates of SFA)

1st and 2nd place: Men's (Non-associates of SFA)
1st and 2nd place: Women's (Non-associates of SFA)

1st and 2nd overall: Guess your best time
1st and 2nd overall: Largest group participation
1st and 2nd overall: Best homecoming-themed outfit (theme: Hollywood)

For a registration form visit the Administration Office at the Rec, or download a registration form at www.sfasu.edu/campusrec.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

October is here!

October is here, and Campus Rec refuses to cool down like the weather.

Rugby won their first home game against the University of Houston 23-3. Having dropped a non-division game to Sam Houston, the ruggers are now 1-1 overall. The team will take the home stage again Saturday at 2 p.m. for their traditional alumni game. Trust me, these old ruggers still have it in ‘em so it won’t be anything short of a great game. Hope to see you out there!

SAA and Campus Recreation are at it again for a sand volleyball tournament you won’t want to miss. It’s four on four and will take place on the outdoor volleyball courts at the Rec Center. If you haven’t gotten a team together do it ASAP because registration closes tomorrow! Register in the SAA office in the student center (BPSC 3.305). If you don’t end up on a team, you should still come out and show your friends support. The weather should be a phenomenal 83 degrees, this means it’s a great day to chill outside.

SFA Skateboarding Club will be hosting Nac Bash for 2010, “a milestone for collegiate skateboarding,” said Communications and Marketing officer, Micheal Wilson. Nac Bash is a longboarding race with approximately 50 riders competing from across the state of Texas including schools like A&M, UTSA, and Baylor. There will also be Regional Teams like Bombsquad from Dallas, SLAB from San Antonio, HGR (Houston Garage Riders), and individual entries. Nac Bash is one of the largest longboarding events in Texas, and there will be three classes: women’s, beginner, and expert. Registration starts at 9 a.m. at Nacogdoches High School, and there will be a shuttle bus to race site at 11 a.m. Go SFA Skate!

Women’s Club Soccer (3-2) is off to a promising start with wins against San Antonio, UTA and Lamar. Men’s Club Soccer is struggling a bit but has faced tough teams such as Texas Tech, A&M and SMU. Their next home game will be October 23 at 3 p.m. against Angelo State University.

If you haven’t been able to get over here much this semester, now is a great time! The rest of October is cram packed with events, whether it’s Sport Clubs, Fitness and Wellness, Intramural Sports, or Outdoor Pursuits. So get in here and have some fun!

As always, for more information, visit our website at www.sfasu.edu/campus rec, or call the Admin Office at 936-468-3507.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Empowerment Tip #5: empower yourself FINANCIALLY by managing your money.

Credit cards are a college student’s bear trap. My advice is to prevent forming the habit all together. Try to look at it as negative money rather than free money. If you start adding up the amount of negative money you will have in your head, than maybe you will resist the urge. Also, I don’t disagree with filling out an application so you can get free food, but just make sure you cut up the card when you get it in the mail! And never sign anything you don’t understand.

Try writing down how much you are spending. Look at budgeting as a reward system rather than punishment. If you avoid impulse buys you will end up with only the things you actually want and need rather than something that you’ll end up regretting. If you need to make a big purchase, try saving money instead of spending what you don’t have. That way, when you do make the purchase you will feel accomplished instead of worrying about the money you spent.

Make lists and weed out the things you don’t need urgently. If I don’t have a list when I walk into Wal-Mart, it is never good for my bank account. I end up throwing things in the cart that I don’t need at all. On the other hand, when I am prepared, I make my purchases and still have money left over. This may result in more trips to the store, but that’s just a fact you’re going to have to face until you get settled into a career with steady money!

That’s another thing. I know my current financial situation isn’t forever, and that’s what keeps me going sometimes. Remind yourself that you’re in college. You’re suppose to be struggling. Think about some of the things you have started to accept as balanced meals. Ramen noodles? Cereal? It’s actually pretty funny. And knowing that you will be able to have nicer things some day should put a smile on your face. At the end of the day, the reason you are here is to better yourself for the future.

If you build good habits now, the chances you will have financial success in the later in life will be much greater.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Go see the Rec for a free nutrition assesment!

Greetings! I hope you all have had a strong, successful start to the semester. I on the other hand have had some complications, but I’m getting back on track. One thing that’s been slacking is my diet. It seems that in my world only two food groups exist, namely, carbohydrates, and caffeine. I need the carbs to fill me up, and the coffee to keep me going! Ok that was a joke. I can’t possibly justify poor eating habits while working at a Rec Center!

The Step it Out Challenge got me thinking. If I’m going to walk 10,000 steps a day, I may as well tweak my eating habits to match.

But with a track record of food choices as bad as mine, I knew I needed to seek professional help. That’s when I met SFA Human Sciences Intern, Timothy Coleman. Part of Coleman’s internship is to work for Campus Rec Wellness as a nutritionist.

I filled out a basic assessment form and waited anxiously as Coleman calculated the results. He informed me that in order to to maintain my current weight, I need around 2,400 calories a day. I told him I have no idea how many calories I typically intake, and he smiled and handed me a piece of paper. On one side it’s a form for me to write down what I eat throughout the day, and on the other it’s a food fact sheet. And just like that, with one double-sided sheet of paper in hand, I was out of excuses!

“I compare it to managing money,” Coleman said. “If there’s something you are having a hard time managing, writing it down will help.”

I hate to say it, but he’s right. If I make an imaginary to-do list, some stuff on it may get done. If I make a real life list, everything will get done. Simple as that. I guess we as human beings like to cross things out. It’s sort of a small sense of achievement.

Coleman then opened the floor for questions. I was born curious, so he was lucky I had somewhere to be shortly after our appointment. He explained to me that it’s worth spending time on the weekends planning meals, and that I should start by making small changes. For example, I hate fruit. It just doesn’t strike my fancy. And I don’t like smoothies because if I don’t want to eat fruit, do you really think I want to drink it? Coleman’s solution was to add some 100% fruit juice to my diet. I like juice.

Coleman is available Tuesday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. for appointments. I haven’t even told you the best part yet. The first assessment is FREE! If you like his nutritional guidance as much as I did you can continue to see him for more personalized nutrition counseling sessions. He will even help you build a customized diet, and talk with you about finding solutions to specific nutritional problems.

To make an appointment, call the Rec Center at 936-468-3507 or stop by the Admin Office.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Empowerment Tip #4: Empower yourself INTELLECTUALLY by practicing good time management.

OK, I know this can be difficult. You want to enjoy your time in college, and do as much as you can but still make good grades, right? It can be done.

The first step is eliminating procrastination. I know you’ve heard this 1,000 times, but it really works! Make a list and number things according to priority.

SFA’s library offers a tutoring program located on the first floor called the AARC. At the beginning of each semester, you can sign up for a one on one tutor in a class you anticipate you will need help with. Even when those spots fill up, it’s not too late. The AARC is sectioned off into subject areas with several tutors for each. No appointment necessary. The walk-in hours are as follows:

Accounting (provided by the SFA Business Honor Society)	Tuesday, Wednesday 1:00 - 3:00pm
Chemistry	Sunday - Thursday 5:00 - 8:00pm
Computer Science	CSC 101,102 McGee Computer Lab Monday - Thursday 5:30 - 8:00pm
French	Monday, Wednesday 4:00 - 5:00pm
German	Language Lab Monday - Thursday 5:00 - 6:00pm
Math	Monday - Thursday 1:00 - 8:00pm Sunday 4:00 - 8:00pm
Spanish	Tuesday - Wednesday 4:00 - 5:00pm
Physics	Monday - Thursday 6:00 - 8:00pm
Writing & English	Monday - Thursday 1:00 - 8:00pm Sunday 4:00 - 8:00pm
American Sign Language	Monday, Wednesday 3:00 - 5:00pm Tuesday 4:00 - 5:00pm

Visit there website at http://libweb.sfasu.edu/proser/aarc/ for more information.

Also, if your class offers an SI group, GO TO IT! The biggest mistake you can make when learning to manage your time and limit stress is to be OK with not understanding something. Actively seek answers to your questions. Don’t be afraid to sit in the front of the class and show the professor that you care. Remember, this is college, and smart is cool now.

As always don’t forget to get exercise at Campus Rec. I know you probably have so much to do that even thinking about going to the gym seems out of the question, but physical activity will reduce your stress level! Try a study break with a friend and take a group exercise class. The two of you will laugh while working out (both of which build endorphins) and come out of the class feeling rejuvenated and ready to hit the books again. The group exercise schedule is on our website at www.sfasu.edu/campusrec.

I have never felt worse than when I let things pile up, so I hope you will consider taking my advice!

Also, due to scheduling issues, I will now post on WEDNESDAYS and FRIDAYS instead of Tuesdays and Thursdays.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Parents Weekend at SFA!

This weekend is Parents Weekend at SFA!

Parents Weekend gives you an opportunity to show family and friends your new life here at SFA. Even if you have been here for a while, it’s always nice to see the rents. For me, it’s a comfort and reminder of a simpler time.

When I was a freshman my mom came up to see me. Truthfully, I was just getting to know the place and had no idea what to show her. BUT it was an especially exciting Parents Weekend that year because the Rec Center was to be unveiled for the first time. I still remember everyone’s eyes (myself included) getting wider as they began to take in how nice our facility is.

This year, football is hosting Lamar at 6 p.m. for a special Purple Out game. SAA will be distributing 3,000 FREE t-shirts, first come first serve. The goal is to have the entire stadium decked out in purple!

Hopefully, Campus Rec has become a part of your life like it has mine, and you will want to show it off to the people closest to you. Even if you’ve never stepped into the Rec before, this weekend is a great time to start.

Women’s Soccer Sport Club is hosting a match, and would love spectators! Sport Clubs are also always open to new members, so coming to the games would be a great opportunity for you to talk to them.

The following weakened Ruby, Men’s Soccer AND Women’s Soccer have home games.

Schedule of events:

Saturday September, 25:

Women’s Soccer vs San Antonio College 3 p.m.

Saturday October, 2:

Women’s Soccer vs Lamar 1 p.m.

Rugby vs University of Houston 2 p.m.

Men’s Soccer vs Texas Tech 5 p.m.

Sunday October, 3:

Women’s Soccer vs UTA 1 p.m.

Men’s Soccer vs. A&M 3:00 p.m.

STEP IT OUT CHALLENGE UPDATE: Well, considering my car needs a new transmission I have given a new meaning to stepping it out this week. Just walking from home to campus is a little over a mile, so by the end of a car less day I finally have the recommended amount of steps! Yay for me, sad for my car.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Empowerment tip #3: empower yourself ENVIRONMENTALLY by practicing sustainability.

While we’re on the topic of Outdoor Pursuits this week, it seems appropriate for a tip that helps the environment.

Recycling seems like such a hassle, but lately I can’t stand the amount of paper I throw away.

I talked to Michael Maningas of Campus Rec Outdoor Pursuits, and asked him what he thought.

“You have to believe that you as an individual can make a difference. It’s the collective one persons that can make an impact,” said Maningas.

What he said made a lot of sense. If everyone has the attitude that they can’t make a difference, than no one ever will.

He recently put a recycle box in the OP office, and is working on getting them other places in the Rec.

Nacogdoches discontinued its recycling program about a year ago, because only around 20 percent of the people participated. It was curbside pick up, but now people actually have to drive to the landfill off Stallings Road if they want to recycle. Imagine if more people had participated!

As stated on the website (www.keepnacbeautiful.org) Nacogdoches does offer alternative ways to recycle since the Blue Bag program was discontinued. Listed on the home page are recyclable materials and what to do to properly dispose of them. It’s clear from the website that Nacogdoches is not ignoring this issue.

Maningas makes an individual commitment to drive to the landfill with his family every week.

Besides recycling Outdoor Pursuits also promotes these tips:

• Turn off lights when leaving for more than five minutes

• Use a travel mug instead of disposable cups

• Use e-mail instead of paper

• Turn computer off at night

So make a personal effort to empower yourself environmentally. Little things go a long way.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Let Outdoor Pursuits bring out the adventure in you!

Campus Rec’s Outdoor Pursuits program area wants you to have some adventure in your life and they have some events coming up, I think, you should know about.

Tomorrow from 5 p.m.- 7 p.m. at the Outdoor Center Rear Entrance, staff members will teach you how to slack line FOR FREE!

According to OP Assistant Director, Michael Maningas, it’s like tight rope walking. A one-inch flat tubular webbing will be used (not the thin rope you may be thinking of). Slack lines can hold well over 1,000 pounds.

Slack lining started as a way for rock climbers to improve their balance, but now people do it just for fun! As long as there are trees, you can set up a slack line just about anywhere.

OP promises to start you off slow, but as you get better there are always ways to make it more challenging, such as adding arm movements.

So check it out! It’s fun, free and adventurous!

If slack is not your favorite kind of line, how about zip?

From September 24- 26, OP will host Zip Lines and Waterfalls- a trip to Krause Springs outside of Austin.

Zip-lining sounds like an unbelievable experience. It allows you to have a bird’s eye view of the forest. Especially in this place, check out the picture I found online.

Originally developed as a form of scientific research on flora and fauna, zip-lining has come a long way. Just like with slack lining, people now zip line as a form of leisure activity.

“It’s a good way to relax the first couple of weeks into class,” said Maningas.

The trip costs $90, but that will take care of your expenses for all three days. The registration deadline is September 20, so hurry!

Also, OP has a program that allows non-Campus Rec members come along with active members on trips! So if you have a relative or friend from another school that wants to come, talk to OP staff about signing them up!

STEP IT OUT CHALLENGE UPDATE: As of today, my highest step count was last Friday. I racked in 7,897 steps! Big improvement, and much closer to the recommended 10,000. Kati’s highest came it at 11,007 after she played a soccer game on Sunday. Liz has gotten over 12,000 twice now. Way to go guys! I found out 2,000 steps equal a mile. That means when I get up to the recommended amount, I will be walking five miles a day! I also found out walking can have the same health benefits as running. For more information on the recommended 10,000 steps a day I found a helpful website: www.shapeup.org

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Empowerment tip #2: empower yourself PHYSICALLY by stepping it out!

Yesterday, my boss, Liz Ross, and I were talking about this week’s empowerment tip. We decided it would be great if we could challenge ourselves, as well as you, to something that would help us empower ourselves physically. So, we decided to make a month of this tip. We’re calling it the September Step It Out Challenge. The goal of the challenge is to wear pedometers that count our steps while making a conscious effort to increase the number we take. We will do this by parking in the farthest parking spots, taking stairs instead of elevators, etc. We also got Promotions Graduate Assistant, Kati Van Dunk, in on the challenge.

We get that you’re busy and that is precisely why you should take this challenge with us. All it requires is a few minor tweaks in your daily routine. Pedometers can be purchased at Wal-Mart for about $20. It’s fun wearing one and seeing the results!

Yesterday, I took 4,879 steps. My goal is to challenge myself to increase the number of steps I take each day. Experts say a person should average 10,000 steps a day. Ten thousand! This might be tougher than we thought…but hey, Promotions is game.

During the month, I hope to form habits that I will continue even when the challenge is over. That way, when I can’t find time in my crazy schedule to workout, I can count on my steps to keep me healthy. Physical health is not something I should keep putting off to the side when I get stressed.

This morning I was pleased to see Liz and Kati’s lonely cars parked at the very end of Rec Center staff parking. We are stepping it out and so should you! Throughout the month I will let you know how we are doing. If you see us around feel free to ask us how it’s going, or let us know how you are doing!

Watch this short video of Kati, Liz, and I after we decided to step it out yesterday.

Have a great weekend and remember to step it out!

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph

Summer Lovin' starts school off right!

Last week SAA and Campus Rec teamed up for an event that made me happy to be a Lumberjack.

Outside in the Campus Rec Courtyard Wednesday there was music, body art, a cartoon artist, games, and most notably food! I know what you’re thinking. How much did it cost? Everything was free! See why I’m happy to be a Lumberjack?

There was a lot going on, but the most popular thing to do was the three C’s: consume,chat and chill. Let me explain. After grabbing a burger or hotdog (or both in my case), people lined up to have their picture drawn by a cartoon

artist. The artist was seated under a shady tent crafting funny portraits with exaggerated features. People loved it!

Those who were looking for something a little less humorous walked over to the body art tablewhere they could pick from hundreds of tattoos. Rumor has it they will last for about two weeks. Kind of like henna, but more colorful!

There were also snow cones, popsicles, washers, and bounce houses.

The highlight of the day was the hula-hoop contest that more people participated in than the first impromptu Campus Rec hula-hoop contest back in

July. What’s up with that? Anyway, it

was great fun and the winner received a

huge bag of candy! And I do mean HUGE. I sure wish I had some of that right now.

Summer Lovin’ was a great way to unwind after struggling to get back into the routine of school. Thank you SAA and Campus Rec. I didn’t even have to cook or spend money that night.

Bummed you missed out? Don’t be! October 27 from 3 p.m.- 5 p.m. Campus Rec will yet again brighten your world with free stuff and a fun time. In the sprit of SFA homecoming come to the Courtyard and tie die a FREE shirt purple and red. Never tie died? We’ll show you how.

YOUR inside connection to Campus Rec- Steph