Texas Spirits... It's more than an organization, it's a lifestyle.

Tri-Mixer Bartab

2012-02-26T17:02:00.002-08:00

Special Projects Haunts decided to triple the fun this week with a tri-mixer with Absolute Texxas and Iron Spikes. The three organizations came together Thursday night downtown at Roial Austin. Spirits got to mix and mingle with the two organizations, while enjoying the nice weather and view of downtown Austin on the rooftop of Roial. Thanks to Absolute Texxas, Iron Spikes, and our lovely Special Projects Haunts for an amazing event!

Spring 2012 Tap-In

2012-02-25T20:22:00.001-08:00

Spring 2012 Tap-In was a success! Weenie momsAly Kasberg and Dionne Dias introduced 25 beautiful ladies into Texas SpiritsWeeniehood at the Scottish Rite Dormitory.

Give a big yee-haw to…

Alexa Gould

Allison Amman

Aly Starling

Anjali Sethi

Carmen Collins

Danielle Gibbons

Doha Hussein

Hannah Roberts

Hannah Sabella

Heather Dai

Isabella Pereira

Jac Mizeur

Jessie Neuendorff

Joanne Chien

Jordan Kohler

Kayla Kotara

Kaytelynn Fabre

Mary Slater

Maya Brown

Michelle Nguyen

Molly Farrell

Morgan Bruton

Olivia Tibiletti

Quynh Pham

Willa Altman

Welcome to the Tradition Spring 2012 Weenies!

Spirit of the Week: Maggie Widodo

2012-02-25T20:05:00.001-08:00

Meet this week's Spirit of the Week: Maggie Widodo

Meet Maggie, a Fall ’11 weenie and education major here atUT Austin. Her favorite Texas Spirits tradition is face painting because sheenjoys talking with the kids and seeing them smile; it just “tickles her pink!”Her nicknames include Maggles and Magpie but she goes by anything. Many peoplemight not know her hidden talent: touching her tongue to her nose. If she couldpick any song that would describe her, “it would have to be “Dirty Pop” byN’SYNC.” If four words could describe her, they would be “Girl can dance,mmmhhmmm!” Maggie has been an enthusiastic and sweet addition to the Spirits familyand we are so proud to recognize her as Spirit of the Week!

UT Mens Basketball vs. Baylor

2012-02-24T19:42:00.003-08:00

With the final score at 77-72, it was an upsetting loss against Baylor this past Monday. At the end the first half, we were leading the game. But as Baylor took the lead, the Spirits section continued to cheer our Longhorns on with our new additional members! It was the first game day for the spring ’12 weenies!

There will be many more games for us to cheer on the basketball team in our burnt orange. We did not lose without a fight thanks to J’Covan Brown for playing a phenomenal game, tying his record high with six three-point goals, totaling 18 points. Go Horns!

Tap-Out Spotlight: Jessica Cox

2012-02-24T19:41:00.002-08:00

Our next tap-outspotlight is the first tap-out from the Fall 10 weenie class, Jessica Cox! Weare all very proud that Jessica has been able to finish up all of her creditsso quickly and prepare for graduation ahead of her intended schedule. Jessicais a Public Relations major and when asked about her plans after graduation shesays: “Stay tuned! I'm not quite sure whatcontinent I'm going to be on yet! I'm going to interview in New York in April,I'll be in Spain in July and I don't have a ticket home yet, I'm consideringhanging out in South America and floating the Amazon-- anything could happen!!Life is an adventure and I plan to try to do as much as I possibly can!”

Herfavorite memory with her weenie class is Initiation. Jessica told me “it was sospecial becoming an official spirit and really bonding with Fall '10. We'd eachgrown so much, learned so much about each other and had truly become bestfriends--it was so wonderful to celebrate the evening together.”

Herfavorite Spirits event is Alumni Reunion. She finds it “important to honor ourhistory because it is such a vital part of our organization. We're very uniqueto have such a rich heritage (from Margaret Berry to Susan Claggett, RachelGreene to Caitlin Cash, and everyone in between) and Alumni Reunion is a greatopportunity for old and new members to come together and share their favoritespirit memories.” Jessica says she can't wait to keep coming back to continuemaking new memories with her weenie class.

WhenI asked Jessica what she will be taking from Spirits as she graduates she said,“I will take my man! I am eternally grateful that such a special guy wasbrought into my life at a Spirit’s event, who woulda thought (special thanks toKenzie Neel and Gaby DeLeon)?!” Jessica offers the advice, “hang in thereladies – yours is out there! Keep hitting up Band Jam, next year one could beyours!” She also wanted to add that “in Spirit’s terms, I will take endlessgiggles along with me. Fall ’10 has some of THE funniest girls that I’ve met inmy entire life. I will forever treasure their friendship and their humor!”

And what advice does Jessica leave for current Spirits? “Live together!That is the one thing I most regret not doing! I am so bummed out that I willnot have the chance to live with Becca, Ghada and Tori as we’d planned, but Iknow they are going to have an amazing year. I’ll always wonder what it wouldhave been like to get ready for mixers together.”

Weare so proud of Jessica, and we will have to soak up this last semester withher as much as possible! She has been such an asset to this organization andeveryone who has had a chance to get to know her and experience that contagioussmile knows how special this Texas Spirit truly is.

Men's Basketball Game vs. Tech

2012-02-20T21:55:00.000-08:00

There’s no better way to start off the semester than a TexasSpirits + prospectives + UT Basketball combo. It was a great opportunity forsome of the prospectives to see what it means to be a Texas Spirit and to seehow much fun we have.

On Saturday, February 4^th the Spirits got to puton their best white blouse and tie on the orange scarves to cheer on the Men’sBasketball Team. The Longhorns went for the victory and beat Texas Tech 74-57. Hook Em!

Valentine's Day Special

2012-02-11T17:52:00.000-08:00

Need some fun Valentine's Day ideas to do with your weenie sisters or a boyfriend? Fall 2009 Weenie Amaris Chang gives Texas Spirits the scoop:

Get inspired to get a little pink and give a little lovethis Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re single and ready to mingle or you have asignificant other to spend this holiday with, here are some heart-y ideas tofill your day with.

Get a group of your girlfriends together to have the epitomeof a girly night. Let loose with some Valentine’s Day Treats and make sure toget some of the girliest movies Netflix or RedBox has to offer.

Treat Wise:

Get in to the spirit of the holiday by whipping up some heart-shapedtreats. Don’t be afraid to get others involved in the food department, makeyour party a pot luck so everyone can share some love.

For the Heart,

-1/4 cup butter

- 4 cups miniature marshmallows

- 5 cups crisp ripe cereal

1. Melt margarine in a large sauce pan. Add marshmallows and stir until melted and well-blended. Cook 2 minutes longer, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

2. Add cereal and stir until well coated

3.Using buttered spatula or waxed paper, press mixture evenly and firmly in a buttered 13x9 inch pan. Cut into 2x2 inch squares when cool.

For the soul:

o1 12oz can frozen Lemonade concentrate (I used Minute Maid)

o1 pint fresh or frozen raspberries

o1 750 milliliter bottle Sparkling Water

Combine lemonade and raspberries in anice-filled pitcher. Stir in sparkling water. Makes about 6 cups.

Make it a movie night by selecting a few movies for thegroup to choose from. Some fun indie films could include “Paris, J’taime” or“New York, I Love You”. You could always go classic with “You’ve Got Mail” or“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”. Ifyou are feeling a bit more sappy, by all means check out “Love and Other Drugs”or “Like Crazy”.

Feeling extra fun? Throw in some MadLibs or go old schoolwith a quick game of MASH.

Want to get craft? Try some fun nails at your girl’s nightin.

On this Hallmark Holiday, it is a known fact that the boytakes care of the details. But everyone knows it wouldn’t hurt to give back alittle. To make the deal a bit sweeter, make a special treat or put together acute present to celebrate the true meaning of Valentine’s Day.

A Sweet Tooth,

Make this classic from scratch,

Put a little love into a snack,

Make a meal to say “thank you”

Breakfast for Champs,

Lunch for “thanks a bunch”

Hopefully this will get you into the SPIRIT of this lovingholiday!

C-I, not-so-secretly, love Hallmark and Chocolates – W – Y.

- Amaris Chang

Girls Night Out!

2012-02-11T17:37:00.000-08:00

After a long day filled with stress, textbooks, and classes, a girls' night out with your Spirit sisters definitely sounds ideal! On Thursday, January 26th, Spirits gathered at "The Local" to enjoy some 90's music, grab a bite, and catch up after the winter break. First-round applications for the Spring 2012 class had just been distributed a day prior, which meant the semester was well underway! All of the wonderful ladies in the recruitment process were invited to take a break from their applications and spend some time with our organization.

Service Haunts, Jocelyn Matyas & Mayte Salazar, were the hosts of the night. They set up multiple games so that prospectives and actives could mingle in a pressure-free environment and get to know each other. Games included "Find Your Pair," which allowed prospectives to meet multiple actives until finding her match, and "What Am I?" which encouraged girls to get creative with their questions and attempts to guess the person or character taped on their back. Aliyah McRoberts, a Fall 2011 Weenie and one of our newest JI's, found the environment to be much more casual and relaxing than the usual, hectic Meet & Greets. "I was able to talk to more girls for longer periods of time," proving beneficial for all actives getting to know the many prospectives! Alysse Fisher, Spring 2012 Weenie, found GNO to be a great opportunity for Spirits and prospectives to let loose, hang out, and have fun.

As Jocelyn and Mayte recount the success of the night, they proudly said, "Overall, we think the event went really well!" This was the first Spirits event organized by our newest Service Haunts and it went wonderfully! Girls Night Out is the newest addition to the recruitment process and it was thoroughly enjoyed by all. We hope that it becomes a regular event each semester!

To add the icing on the cake, a percentage of the night's sales went directly to Texas Spirits' Texas THON goal! (More blogs on THON to come!) Great work, Ladies!

Wranglers Bull-Riding Bartab

2012-02-08T13:14:00.000-08:00

The 2012 Special Projects Haunts kicked off the new semester by wrangling us up a bartab with Wranglers complete with a bull! Actives got dolled up for downtown and headed to Spill, where they mingled and mixed with Wranglers. Everyone tested their skills to see how long they could last on the bucking bull. All in all it was a great and memorable way to start the semester! Thanks to Ari, Cynthia, and the Texas Wranglers for such an awesome event!

Tap-Out Spotlight: Megan McKinney

2012-02-06T18:42:00.000-08:00

Asthe light filtered from street lamp to windshield, I commented on the crystalornament dangling from her rearview mirror. A Parisian gift from a best friendat OU, Megan spoke with a kind of gentleness that made me feel like I was asprecious to her as the crystal. I was one of 24 of her Weenie class, but aconversation with Megan makes you feel special because she is special… Thefirst time we’d really bonded, who knew that trips to Bennu for late-nightaccounting study sessions would carry so much gravity?

Megan, a Spring ’10 Weenie, knowsthe power of a Weenie class. When asked about her favorite memory, Spring ’10as a whole, takes the cake. “I cant pick one favorite memory, so I am going to be cheesyand say Spring 10 is my favorite memory, because the majority of the memories Ilove, Spring 10 is involved. From our EPIC spring break trip to just hangingout on a Tuesday, these girls have become everything to me.”

Despite the changes of name, Spirits arestill pretty “Spook”y. With traditions dating back to the 1940s, it’s notsurprising that this aspect of Spirits is a favorite among members. When askedto pick a favorite among so many, Megan’s “favorite tradition is"CIWY" because its cute and creepy all at the same time and it meanssomething special to every Spirit. And its feels pretty tight when people askyou what it means and you respond, ‘Well, I could tell you, but then I wouldhave to kill you.’ Just kidding, I don’t really say that, but it is awesomewhen you tell people you can’t tell them what it means.”

Megan holds a distinct role inTexas Spirits. Spirit Haunt 2011, she was the motherly figure that ensured thatthe Weenies understood the magnitude of their position on the UT campus. Theywere to be Spirits, they had a standard to uphold; this message was made clear.Whether providing occasional, but much needed, comical commentary in classes,making notoriously funny faces or demonstrating her drop splits before youcould say “I dare you,” Megan is the kind of friend that is able to make anysituation a positive one. Luckily,as much as Spirits has become better because of Megan, she insists that thefeelings are mutual:

“It was anabsolute honor to be selected back in February of 2010. Spirits has changed mylife, has shown me so much love, and will always be in my heart.”

Prospective Service Project: Waller Creek Clean-Up

2012-02-06T13:04:00.000-08:00

Dozens of Spirits and prospectives made their way todowntown Austin on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The fifty-five degreeweather made for a perfect day to clean up Waller Creek. Dressed in work glovesand rain boots, actives and prospective worked together to beautify the creekwhile getting to know one another. ServiceHaunts, Jocelyn Matyas and Mayté Salazar organized the event to show theprospectives just what spirits means to them.

“Notonly did we get down and dirty doing some real work picking up trash, but we alsohad an environment where it was easy for girls to talk and get to know eachother. At the same time, we wanted to do it somewhere special, and so, wethought of Waller Creek,” Mayté Salazar, Spring ’11 weenie, said.

Spiritsand prospectives were not afraid to get their hands dirty in the creek. Ladiestrekked through the mud and shallow water along a mile and a half stretch ofthe creek picking up trash and even deaf fish. The city of Austin has begunwork on developing Waller Creek of the next twenty years to make it moreresident friendly, so Spirits was proud to help with their efforts.
In addition to cleaning up Waller Creek, ladies at the event could take pictures and write notes and jokes for Spirits’ own Maysie Ocera’s sister Emma, who was recently diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor called an ependymoma. Over the winter break, Maysie sought out Spirits to submit pictures with hats on, jokes and notes of love and encouragement to a Facebook page titled, “Hats On For Emma.” Lots of silly pictures were taken for a scrapbook that Spirits plans to make for Emma along with plenty of jokes, which are Emma’s favorite.

Mayté added, “What better way to show prospectives what service means to us than to do service for one of our own?”

Our 66 prospectives enjoyed working along side the actives and could definitely see the love and friendship present among us.

“Volunteering with a group of people who enjoy each other and are all excited to be serving the community really took it to the next level! It was great being around people who truly care,” Jordan Kohler, spring ’12 prospective, said.

The prospective service project in Waller Creek was a definite success, both in reaching out to the Austin community and getting to know their potential weenies.

Meet Ghost Council 2012!

2012-02-05T13:20:00.000-08:00

And now announcing…GC 2012!

It didn’t take long to realize that the Ghost Council of2012 led Texas Spirits effortlessly. Although only holding office for 2 monthsnow, these 17 beautiful ladies lead this organization through their love,friendship, service, and above all spirit. 2012 onlylooks promising due to the spectacular leaders that were elected to representTexas Spirits this year.

Chief Haunt: Christine Laramy

Vice Haunt: Sharilyn Stone

Scribe Student: Dannye Osburn

Banker Haunt: Sarah Smith

Spirit Haunt: Aly Kasberg

Spirit Haunt: Dionne Dias

Service Haunt: Jocelyn Matyas

Service Haunt: Mayté Salazar

Special Projects Haunt: Cynthia Velasco

Special Projects Haunt: Ari Rios

Hook Em Haunt: Bridget Dunn

Hook Em Haunt: Caroline Suter

Singing Haunt: Becca Alexander

Royal Spirit Haunt: Miranda Rudy

Public Relations Haunt: Ghada Soufan

Traditions Haunt: Julia Bunch

Contact Haunt: Alexa Pawlowski

Spirit of the Week: Jacqui Bontke

2012-02-05T12:53:00.000-08:00

Name: Jacqui Bontke
Major: Advertising pursing Texas Creative, Business Foundations Global Track and a minor in Spanish

Weenie class: Fall 2011
Weirdest Habit: I really don't like painting my finger nails because I think it makes my fingers feel heavy...
Favorite Spirits memory: So far I think the coolest memory was walking into DKR to set up flashcards with Tejas for the first time. The stadium is completely empty but you know in just a few hours a 100,000 strong will be there for some Texas Longhorn Football!
What would the title of your future memoir be? This Is A New York Times Best Seller

Jacqui is a sophomore advertising major and a Fall '11 weenie! Since being tapped-in last Fall, Jacqui has remained fired up about Texas Spirits and is always willing to lend a helping hand. Currently, Jacqui has raised the most money for Spirits' THON team, with her donations totaling to $152 alone! For Jacqui, THON is just as much about raising money as it is about keeping up a Texas Tradition; "raising the money for Texas Thon was a really cool experience because I learned one of my family friends did Thon (formerly Dance Marathon) when her and her husband were at Texas in the 70's." When asked to comment on why she is excited for THON, she responded "I am proud to be participating in such a large university event with such an amazing group of young women. I hope we can make Dell Children's proud." With the help of participants like Jacqui and the rest of the Spirits THON team, I'm sure they will!

Tap-Out Spotlight: Liana Putrino

2012-02-05T12:45:00.000-08:00

2012-01-17T19:13:00.000-08:00

Want to be a Texas Spirit? Here is our Spring 2012 recruitment schedule!

1. Plucker’s Meet & Greet
- Tuesday, January 24 (5 p.m. – 8 p.m.)
- 2222 Rio Grande
- Meet some lovely Spirits before the application process begins!
2. Texas Spirits 1st Reception
- Wednesday, January 25 (4 p.m. – 5 p.m.)
- Black Box Theatre (SAC 2.304)
- Don’t worry if you have class - the application will be posted on our website after 1st Reception!
3. Informal Starbucks Social
- Wednesday, January 25 (following 1st Reception – 7 p.m.)
- Starbucks locations on 24th and in the SAC
- Come by and get an application or learn more about being a Texas Spirit!
4. “Girls Night Out” Fundraising Event
- Thursday, January 26 (10 p.m. – 2 a.m.)
- The Local, 2610 Guadalupe
- This profit share will help raise money for our philanthropy, The Make-A-Wish Foundation!
Texas Spirits will be tabling in West Mall from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. beginning Wednesday, January 18! Good luck everyone!

Band Jam 2011

2011-11-28T15:47:00.001-08:00

After months of planning and fundraising, all of the hard work by Texas Spirits actives was paid off as Band Jam 2011 was a complete success! It was a beautiful night on the rooftop of the Blind Pig on 6th Street where the event showcased some great musical acts.

With a packed house, the night started off with our very own, Texas Spirit Break Leal, who put on a fabulous show. Attendees then got to get up out of their seats for dancing to the wild beats from Neiliyo, followed by a great set from the Ben Baxter Band. The night was then capped off with a talented performance by The Casey Hubble band.

While still completing additional fundraising efforts, overall as an organization we were able to proudly raise over $16,000 for the Make-A-Wish foundation. A big thank you to all who participated and donated to this wonderful cause, especially our generous sponsors. Also, great thanks to our Service Haunts Ana Hernandez and Nicole Dietze for all their hard work in making this a spectacular night.

Even though this year’s Band Jam is over, we are excited to see what the next year’s brings.

Tap-Out Spotlights!

2011-11-20T17:12:00.001-08:00

Our latest Tap-Out Spotlight isLauren Scroggs. She was a Spring 2009 Weenie and Public Relations Haunt in2010. Lauren will be graduating in May 2012, and either plans on applying tolaw school or finding a job with the help of McCombs recruiting.

Her favorite Spirits tradition is the special ceremony ofTap-in. She has several favorite memories from her time in Spirits including, “playing catch phrase, telling scary stories,and (of course) peeing in the forest at Weenie Roast!”

Her advice to younger Spirits isto “Stay involved! Once you startdrifting away from Spirits it’s hard to get back into the swing of things. Stayclose with your pledge class and all the other Spirits you get to know andlove!”

We will miss you dearly, Lauren!Thank you for all that you have given to Texas Spirits, and best of luck to youin all your future endeavors!

Our next Tap Out Spotlight is Amanda Chavira, a Spring 2009Weenie and Special Projects Haunt in 2010. She plans to move wherever she findsa job when she graduates, but would love to stay in Austin (or Texas ingeneral) if she has the chance.

Amanda’s favorite Spirits tradition is Initiation Brunch. Forher “it's a great time to look back onthe past semester and is especially funny to attend when you are on GC.”

One of her favorite Spirits memories was Spring ‘09s Weenie Roast. Amanda told us that “it was areally interesting night; tents, games, and bubbles were all involved.”

As for her advice for younger Spirits, Amanda says to “live it up, girls! These are some of thebest times of your life. School is so important, but try not to miss out on allthe fun Spirit events that you can never get back. Go to the mixers, go to allthe events, don't wind up in your senior year wishing that you had done more.It will make your college experience that much sweeter.”

We will miss you, Amanda! Thank you for all the love that youhave shown to Texas Spirits over the past years, and good luck to you in all ofyour future endeavors!

AmaliaAnwar is our next Tap Out Spotlight. She was a Fall 2008 Weenie, which makesher one of the oldest members currently active in Spirits.

Aftergraduation, Amalia plans to get a job in public relations, either at an agencyor in-house. She would like to either stay in Austin or move to Dallas.

Herfavorite Spirits tradition is Ghoulfamilies. Here is what she had to say aboutthis tradition. “I seriously have thebest family ever, and Weenie Beanie is one of my favorite events everysemester. We had 9 generations of our family at the Alumnae Reunion this year! Ilove that my family has gotten so close over the past few years, and I knowI’ll stay in touch with them after I graduate.”

Amalia’s favoritememory from Spirits was her Weenie semester. She shared how it was one of herfavorite semesters in college. “I lovedhow exciting everything was and how close I got with my pledge class. It'scrazy to look at all of us then and now!”

As for her advicefor younger Spirits, Amalia said to “Getinvolved in as many things as possible! Being on committees gives you thechance to get to know girls outside of your Weenie class and ghoulfamily. Andof course, cherish your years in Spirits! It's cheesy, but you'll be graduatingbefore you know it.”

It’s sad to see you leave, Amalia, but we know you have manywonderful days ahead of you. Good luck in your future endeavors, and thank youfor all that you have given to Texas Spirits.

WOW

2011-11-20T17:06:00.001-08:00

This week's Weenie of the Week is Lily Patterson!

Name: Lily Patterson
Major: Studio Art
Weirdest Habit: I take making wishes at 11:11 and 12:34 very seriously haha 11/11/11 was a big day for me
Four words to describe yourself: Adventurous, open-minded, artsy, realist
One word to describe your weenie semester so far: Exhilaration
Theme song of your life: "Tonight, tonight" by Smashing Pumpkins
Next time you see me ask me about: Lucid dreaming... I've been successful lately!

Lily is a sophomore Studio Art major at UT and a Fall 2011 Weenie! She has been a wonderful addition to this Weenie class. At the alumnae reunion she hung out at our tailgate for the whole game - and she even brought her own folding chair! Thanks so much for all of your hard work, Lily! Initiation is right around the corner ;)

Intramural Sports

2011-11-13T18:54:00.001-08:00

The saying “all good things must come to an end“ holds true for the Texas Spirits' intramural soccer team this fall semester. As the semester winds down to a close, the girls can reflect on a successful semester of intramural sports. This semester Spirits participated in both coed soccer and women’s volleyball. For co-ed soccer, Spirits teamed up with the Texas Wranglers. They had an impressive season, finishing second in their bracket and advancing to the playoffs with a record of record of 4–2. On Sunday, November 6^th the team took on their opponent in the first game of playoffs. It was a close match with numerous scoring chances, but unfortunately, the team wasn’t able to capitalize on their chances and lost a close battle by a score of 2-1.

Neven Simpson Serves During an IM Game

As for volleyball, the Texas Spirits team finished 3rd in their extremely competitive pool and will play their second playoff game on Sunday, November 20th at 8:00 p.m. This will be their second playoff game in the Women's B Silver Bracket. Good luck ladies!

Gaby Deleon Takes A Pass

Tap-Out Spotlight

2011-11-13T16:28:00.001-08:00

This week's tap-out spotlight is Emily Slattery! She is a Spring 2009 Weenie and 2010 Vice Haunt. Emily majors in Mathematics and will graduate in May of 2013. She isn't too sure about her plans after graduation yet, but she says that she hopes to find a job that feeds her "math nerd" half in a place where she can really work with people and make a difference! "I'm hoping for an internship at the Make-A-Wish Foundation this Spring, and hopefully that will shed some light on where I would really like to be."

Emily's favorite Spirits tradition is Ghoulfamilies. "You would think that simply given the name of being "Ghoulfriends" or being in a "Ghoulfam" wouldn't create that family-like relationship, but it does. When I was a Weenie, our fam was 3 people and now we are 7! I love my little, Christine like my wittle baby and I felt like a proud soccer mom when she made GC and got into OJs. The love definitely trickles down. Sometimes we joke about how I don't necessarily "belong" in my sweet, innocent family but baby Em has a little wild and a lot of weird in her and I'm happy that I'll be leaving that part of the fam with her."

When asked to choose her favorite Spirits memory, Emily couldn't choose just one. If she had to pick something, she says it would probably be GC Retreat Spring 2010. "We were all so excited, and it was when our GC family really started. Ups and downs, we really supported each other no matter what."

Emily's advice to younger generations of Spirits? "BE WEIRD! But really, be yourself! Goof off, have fun, embarrass yourself, and be awkward (1st place - Shannon Funke). This is the time to do the things that you enjoy before having to become the dreaded 'grown-up.' If you don't laugh so hard you almost pee, on a regular basis, you're missing out."

Thank you for everything you have given to Spirits, Emily. We'll miss you! Good luck with all that lies ahead of you!

SOW/WOW

2011-11-13T16:22:00.001-08:00

Name: Dionne Dias
Major: Speech Language Pathology
Weirdest Habit: Dried/Peeling paint freaks me out, but i absolutely have to pick at it anyway. (ooohf, really weird, i know. #overachieving)
Four words that describe you: loud, sarcastic, sarcastic, and sarcastic
Theme Song of my life: Sleazy, Ke$ha. Hahahahah JK. More like, Little Secrets by Passion Pit.
Favorite Spirits memory: Volunteering at the Austin Marathon! Just about the only time in my life I've been inspired to run, the people who participate are nothing short of amazing and I loved learning their stories.
Describe Spirits in one word: love.
Next time you see me ask me about: Strangers. Together perhaps you and i can figure out why I have so many odd encounters with them.

Dionne is a Fall 2010 weenie and the sister of an alumni Spirit as well! From the minute she became a weenie, she has been such a joy and asset to our organization. She serves on multiple committees such as Band Jam and Alumni Reunion and helps out at many different events. On weekends, you can catch her hanging out with some chips and guacamole or adding to her blog.

Name: Sierra Welch
Major: Biology, Pre-PA
Weirdest habit: I can't touch cotton balls. I hate the feeling of them.
Four words to describe you: energetic, genuine, determined, friendly
Theme song of your life: 1-2 Step (Ciara) "The princess is here...Sierraaaaa"
One word to describe your weenie semester so far: Amazingly-fantastically-crazily-awesome (thats one word right?)
Next time you see me ask my about: MY WEENIESSS!

Sierra is a freshman Biology, Pre-PA student and Fall 2011 Weenie! She is extremely outgoing and always excited about every Texas Spirits! She has shown so much dedication and love for this organization. Thanks for all your hard work and keep it up, Sierra!

Tap-Out Spotlight: Katie Koehler

2011-11-07T21:57:00.000-08:00

This week our tap outspotlight is Chief Haunt ‘11, Katie Koehler. She is a Fall ’09 Weenie and willbe graduating in Spring 2013 with her MPA degree. After graduation she plans onworking for Ernst and Young in the Austin office and serving in public accountingfor a couple years before going off to “teach/work in a national park/start herown business.”

Katie’s favorite Spirits tradition is the night ofInitiation. Here is what she shared with us: “I can't divulge in the details, but I will say that it was freezingcold and I still get made fun of for being the only one out of my Weenie classto cry both at Initiation and PJ Rama. I'll never forget how great it was tofinally become a Spirit.”

When asked abouther favorite memory in Spirits, she couldn’t choose just one. “I could maybe narrow it down to one persemester? How about a couple of highlights? From my Weenie semester - favoritememory was the morning of initiation brunch, when literally 30 minutes beforethe festivities started, my pledge class was still running around trying tomake sure everyone was up. Fall 09 - you remember what I'm talking about!Favorite memory from JI semester - the stories from summer recruitment.Favorite memory as an active - being able to serve on Ghost Council!”

Katie’s adviceto younger Spirits is to “be yourself.Truly let go of your hesitations and expectations and know that you have founda place where you belong. The beautiful thing about Spirits is that we're allweird, quirky and awkward, just looking for a place to call home. And we'vefound it! So ENJOY the wonderful women around you. Let your hair down, put upyour feet, and relax. Laugh. Soak up the traditions, the spirit, the service,the love and the friendship. AND remember to be thankful.”

Katie, you have been an amazing Chief Haunt and such aninspiration to us all. We are going to miss you dearly. Best of luck to you inpursuing your dreams!

Great Hills Halloween Carnival

2011-11-07T21:50:00.000-08:00

Texas Spirits recently ended October off on a high note by volunteering at the Great Hills Halloween Carnival. The carnival was put on by the Great Hills Park Neighborhood Association which invited the area families to participate in some Halloween fun.

Spirits had the opportunity to paint faces, hand out Halloween candy, and play many different games and activities with the children. We saw some great costumes and had a blast interacting with many local families. It was a great way to celebrate the holiday, as well as get involved with the community.

Tap-Out Spotlight: Kayce Sebree

2011-11-07T21:46:00.000-08:00

Our next Tap Out in the spotlight is Kayce Sebree! She was aFall ’08 Weenie and Service Haunt in 2010. If you were a Weenie last spring,you might not have gotten the chance to get to know her because she wasstudying abroad in Spain. We are so glad to have her back this semester, butsad to see her tap out in December. If you run into her, make sure to ask herabout her travels…surely she’s got plenty of stories to share!

Kayce in Portugal with Rachel Greene

After she graduates, Kayce plans to “go with the flow.” Shehopes to take a year off and maybe go to Australia or South America to teachEnglish or work and hang out for a year. After that she is considering applyingto the Peace Corps, doing Teach for America, or going to grad school eitherhere or in Spain.

Her favorite Spirits tradition would probably be initiation, but she doesn't want to divulgetoo many details for the Weenies’ sake! She also loves the fun, new traditionof Senior Sweets.

One of her favorite specific memories also relatesto secret traditions at Initiation that she can’t share with the Weenies quiteyet, but she will always remember “entering San Jac dorm after initiation withfellow Weenie classmate, Michelle Sereno,” and “right after becoming Weenies,somehow finding ourselves on a night out with a bunch of GC members that turnedinto a little too much fun.” Most of her favorite Spirits memories, however,are from the experiences she’s had with all her Spirits sisters, meeting one ofher best friends by “getting to spend a semester in Spain with ex-chiefy,Rachel Greene,” and living with four other Spirits now during her Senior year.

As for her advice for younger Spirits, Kayce says “Livewith Spirits! And take the time to invest in really getting to know a fewgirls. Meet lots of girls and have fun in Spirits, but make sure you really arethere for the core group. Really get to know specific girls, their heart andaspirations, and then just be there for them!”

We will miss you so much, Kayce! Thank you for all thatyou’ve given to Spirits since fall ’08. We can’t wait to see where life takesyou!

Spirit & Weenie of the Week

2011-11-07T21:38:00.000-08:00

Name: Cynthia Velasco

Major: Marketing

Weirdest Habit: I have thestrangest sound effects for the most random moments. Hang out with me for morethan 5 minutes and you'll know exactly what I'm talking about.

Four words that describeyou: Too much to handle.

Theme song of your life:"She's like Texas" -Josh Abbott

Favorite Spirits Memory:Spring Break 2011! Fall '10 that's what's up...

Describe Texas Spirits inone word: love

Next time you see me ask meabout: MY OBSESSION WITH PUPPIES

Cynthia is a junior Businessmajor and a member of the Fall 2010 weenie class. She is always smiling,bubbly, and has remained extremely active since her Weenie semester. Besidesthe multiple committees she is on, she has done a fantastic job with helpingplan and coordinate the alumnae brunch that occurred this past Sunday (November 6^th)alongside PR Haunt Neven Simpson. She is one awesome Spirit and we are so luckyto have her! Keep up the good work Cynthia!

Name: MAGGIE WIDODO

Major: Soon to be Education (a.k.a by next week)

Weenie Semester: awkmazing

Weirdest habit: "Mmmmmmmmmm I bite my nails an am fascinated with my toes. I also hate the sound of the scratching of foam plates or anything foam."

Theme song of your life: "Everybody's Gonna Love Today" by Mika

Me: awkward, yellowness,lover, pg

Maggie is a freshman (soonto be) Early Childhood Education Major and a member of the Fall 2011 Weenieclass! She is extremely outgoing and a complete blast to hang out with. Two weekends ago she was the only Weenie to volunteer at Bastrop! She also made oneadorable Scary Spice for Halloween. Thank you for giving so much to this organizationalready, Maggie! We all can't wait to see what else you have in store for us.

Hook the Cure

2011-11-01T06:33:00.000-07:00

Fall ’10 Weenie and President of UT’s Hook the Cure, Kelly Bahng, is changing the world one step at a time. Bahng participated in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Walk for the Cure this Saturday with Texas Spirits and other members of Hook the Cure. Hook the Cure is involved in the walk every year and Bahng wanted to extend the cause to Spirits. The JDRF raises money to research a cure for Type I diabetes, which is more prevalent in children. About 10 Spirits participated in the two mile walk.

“Research in this field is urgent and necessary because unlike Type II diabetes, which can be prevented by diet and a healthy lifestyle, individuals are quite powerless to prevent Type I from happening because it's autoimmune,” Bahng said. “We are a group of passionate leaders and educators in diabetes awareness and I wanted Spirits to get involved so we could share some of that passion and provide a service opportunity as well.”

Bahng wants people to reduce their chances of getting Type II diabetes by living a healthy lifestyle and being good to their bodies. Hook the Cure is celebrating Diabetes Awareness Week by holding daily events. For more information, visit http://texashookthecure.weebly.com/officers.html.

Tap-Out Spotlight

2011-11-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

This week's featured tap-out is Madison Dayton, who belongs to the "Spring '09 Divas" Weenie class! She is a Geosystems Engineering and Hydrogeology major. She hopes to find a full-time job in the environmental engineering industry upon graduation.

Madison's favorite Spirits tradition? "Ghoulfamilies! They're easy to love when they're the prettiest ghouls around."

When asked what her favorite Spirits memory is, Madison couldn't choose just one. "The most fun trip I've ever taken with my Spirits was with GC 2010 to Gulf Shores. We somehow managed to cram over a dozen girls into our little yellow house, and I got to witness (among other things) Classic Brooke throw an entire ice cream cone on a total stranger. Now, if you want to get all sentimental, I would have to say another one of my favorite memories was very recent. I was given the opportunity to tap-in Marilyn McKee, which I was so excited to be able to do! Despite falling face-first down a flight of stairs moments before tapping her in, it still remains one of my favorite memories!"

Madison's advice to younger generations of Spirits? "Get involved with GC if you can! It was stressful at times, but we were a really tight-knit group. I got the chance to get to know girls outside of my Weenie class."

Weenie Roasted

2011-11-01T06:23:00.000-07:00

Being an Active, one of the things we miss most about Weeniehood is the voluntary event we like to call Weenie Roast. It’s an opportunity for our newest members to get to know each other on a more informal and personal level and while having some carefree fun. Every Weenie Roast is different and lends to each Spirit a different memory; but every Spirit can agree there is something special about this pledges–only retreat. This year the Fall ’11 Weenies chose to kick it campground style and rough it out in Pace Bend Park.

The Weenies got together everything they needed for a night of camping and headed out to the campgrounds. Megan McKinney, current Spirit Haunt, said that “they really came together and to coordinate how to get to the camp site. They organized their own rides, figured out who was going to rent the tent, etc. Then they got to set up the campsite together.” Megan went on to say, “they really communicated with each other well and utilized problem solving skills to set up camp, which helped them to foster greater bonds with all of their new Spirits sisters.”

McKinney believes what makes Weenie Roast so special is that the lack of tight scheduling allows for the girls to simply hang out and get to know each other in a natural, informal way.

“The jitters and stresses of first getting tapped into Spirits have gone away and Weenie Roast provides a chance for everyone to get together and learn more about their Weenie sisters. It really is one of the only times they get to all be together like that, in a setting away from the stresses of everyday school life” says McKinney.

When pressed to reveal the juicy secrets of what was shared at Weenie Roast, McKinney refused. Apparently it’s frowned upon to have a favorite Weenie and, as is tradition, what happens at Weenie Roast, stays at Weenie Roast.

Flashcards and Intramurals

2011-10-24T15:46:00.000-07:00

Intramural Soccer

Spirits paired up with Texas Wranglers this fall semester for intramural outdoor soccer! Girls participating on the team include Andrea Chao, Gabe Dobbins, Rachel Sawyers, Jessica Cox, Bridget Dunn, Bernadette Creasey, and club soccer girls Shannon Funke and Hannah Waitt. So far, our team has done awesome, winning 2 out of 3 games played! The score for the first win was 8-1, and the second win was 10-2. Hannah Waitt has currently scored over 4 of the team’s goals (female goals count for 2 points). Their toughest game yet is this upcoming week and will determine whether or not they make it to the playoffs!

Flashcards

Tejas invited the girls over for breakfast tacos before flashcards for the #24 ranked UT vs. OSU home game on October 15, 2011. Girls came over in casual uniform and then headed out to the stadium to prepare the flashcards section.

Spirits Eating Lunch at the Tejas House

This was the Weenie’s first time for flashcards, and they did an awesome job! The week's flashcard design consisted of an orange UT tower, with a white number one lit up in the middle.

Weenies at Flashcards

Stadium Jumbotron View of Flashcard Section

Horns Give: Bastrop

2011-10-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, a group of Spirits took part in Horns Give: Bastrop. This event, arranged by Student Government, allowed for UT students and organizations the opportunity to travel out to Bastrop and work on the scene of the recent wild fires. The girls had the opportunity to help homeowners remove debris and search through the rebel where their homes once stood.

Alexa Pawlowski, Spring ’11 said, “It was so great that many different UT organizations could get together and help out with the relief efforts on a tragedy that hit so close to home. Helping out was a very rewarding experience.”

Thank you to all the girls who came out to help out this great cause!

SOW/WOW

2011-10-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

Weenie Of the Week: Erin Crandall!
Name: Erin Crandall
Year: Freshman
Major: Bilingual Education
Weirdest hobby: Knitting
Four words that describe you: Chicago. Sweet. Loyal. Stubborn.
Theme song of your life: Little Miss by Lady Antebellum .
I couldn't live a day without...my teddy bear Teddy.
One word to describe your Weeniehood so far: bonding!!!

Erin is a freshman Fall '11 Weenie studying Bilingual Elementary Education. She is such an outgoing girl and an absolute blast to be around. Last week, Erin and her fellow Weenie sisters had a great night bonding around the camp fire at Weenie Roast: a memory we all cherish from our Weenie semester. Besides being a wonderful part of this new weenie class, Erin is an outstanding addition to our organization as a whole. She is one of the funniest people you will ever meet and we cannot wait to see how much she shines over the next four years. Great job, Erin!

Spirit Of the Week: Hannah Waitt!
Name: Hannah Waitt
Major: Plan II Honors/International Relations
Weirdest Habit: I do everything in rhythm: I use my car turn signal blinker in tempo with the song that's playing, I chew my gum in tempo, brush my teeth in tempo, walk, run, type, everything in tempo! A result of being a band kid in high school? Most likely.
Four words that describe you: Lively, Dexterous, Virile, and Adept (I took an online quiz, so it has to be true right?).
Theme song of your life: Of my whole life?? That's hard. I guess I would say right now it's "Stop This Train" by John Mayer.
Favorite Spirits Memory: Hmm...there are literally an infinite amount to choose from, but I would have to go with Spring Break 2011 *coughSPRING10cough*. That trip definitely brought my Weenie class a lot closer and created some hilarious memories!
Describe Texas Spirits in one word: anincredibleorganizationwithamazingwomenthatiamsoproudandhonoredtobeapartofandcantbedescribedinjustoneword. Don't worry, it's a word. I saw it in Webster's.
Next time you see me ask me about: K-Pop. Seriously, I'll tell you everything you'd ever need to know.

Hannah Waitt is a Spring 2010 Weenie that has proved to be a huge asset to Texas Spirits. Every semester, she works hard to film and put together a recruitment video, a tap out video, and coming soon an alumnae reunion video. Also being in Kappa Delta, Hannah has helped form friendships between Texas Spirits and KDs by helping plan a lunch together and a date event downtown, Dia de La Date Night. Her unique personality, sense of humor, and hard work in Texas Spirits is much appreciated. Keep up the good work Hannah!

Jr./Sr. Date Skate!

2011-10-24T11:26:00.000-07:00

Fall '09 Spirits

Girls just wanna have fun! And girls had their fun skating to 80s favorites with their dates at Date Skate!

Spring '10 Spirits

Spirits and their dates came dressed head to toe in 80s gear (with a few exceptions rocking the 70s look) to skate their night away. They did the "hokey pokey", the "cha cha slide", and even "the wobble" out on the rink. Who knew you could wobble in roller skates?

Overall, it was a fun and memorable night out for the upperclassmen Spirits to take a much needed mental break from tests, work, other organization responsibilities, and (for some) the quickly approaching day of graduation!

Band Jam Fundraising

2011-10-20T13:39:00.001-07:00

Band Jam fundraising has reached new heights this year from profit shares with local vendors. Businesses around campus, including Spicy Pickle, Cornucopia, and Pita Pit have already participated in profit shares where various amounts of proceeds from Texas Spirit’s sales go directly to Make-A-Wish. Red Mango, Austin’s Pizza and Schlotzsky’s have also agreed to partner up with us to grant some wishes. Band Jam committee member and Fall ’09 weenie Sharilyn Stone has been working hard to make this the best Band Jam yet.

“I was a little nervous when we began contacting different businesses to help our cause, but when I made my first call to Spicy Pickle, they were so awesome!” Stone said. “Everyone is so wiling to help out. Profit shares are definitely a win-win situation for everyone!”

The Texas Spirits Bake Sale in front of Gregory Gym on Monday, October 31 will have Halloween themed goodies for sale. All profits will to straight to Make-A-Wish.

Tickets for the 16th annual Band Jam go on sale this Wednesday, October 19. For more details, visit http://www.txspiritsbandjam.com/.

Keeping it Spooky, Since 1941

2011-10-20T13:37:00.000-07:00

All Hallo’s Weenie

Spooks, Ghouls, Haunts… there is no doubt that the Halloweenspirit is reflected in our 70 year-old Texas Tradition. To get into the spiritof the season, take a look at our spooky past…

Texas Spooks 1971

It’s All in the Name:

Grace Doss and Wanda Lee Turner founded Texas Spooks in1941. Why Spooks you ask?... In order to reflect the organization’s secrecy.

Shhh…It’s a secret:

The 30 member organization would secretly meet inrestaurants and sorority houses dressed in “ghostly garb” of hoods, masks andsheets.

Spooky Serenades:

The members would light red candles and sing to the footballplayers in order to “spook” away bad luck.

Drag Paint Disguise:

Drag paint would be conducted in the middle of night, inorder to keep our organization under wraps. We keep this tradition alive today with our Midnight DragWars every semester.

HalloWEENies:

We call our beloved new members, Weenies, because they used to be welcomed into the organization onHalloween. The name has stuck eversince.

This is Why We're Haunt:

In 1966, our Executive Board, tagged the name Haunt to the end of their titles, andare referred to as Ghost Council.

Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun:

In 1970, we started up our big/little sister program, andlovingly refer to our matches as Ghoulfriends.

The Symbol:

The skull and crossbones aren’t so scary when you add thecute little bow. Say hello to Casperella… Caspy , for short, our mascot.

CIWY:

For us to know, and you to never find out…

CI Happy Haunting! WY

Michelle Sereno, Fall’08

From Weenies to Roomies

2011-10-20T13:35:00.000-07:00

Weenies, roomies, bridesmaids. Since 1941, that has been the natural progression of the average Texas Spirit. However, none of us are getting married anytime soon, so for now we welcome you take a look into the sweet life of Spirit living!

Spring ’10 Weenies
Roll Call!
Alex Janecka: Paul
Caroline Suter: That Carol
Neven Simpson: Mama Nev
Andrea Chao: Dr. Dre

House Name: That 2308!

The Story/Favorite Funny Memory: Spring Break 2011. "Crawfish, crawfish!" Enough said.

Fall ’10 Weenies
Roll Call!
Hilary Elrod: The Hopeless Romantic
Ari Rios: The Mother Hen
Becki Kendall: The Spitfire
Lauren Means: The Heartbreaker
Guru: The Study Fish (not pictured)

The Story:
To be honest, we never really sat down and discussed living together. Once we met each other at Weenie O'Ahu it was love at first sight and from then on it was assumed the four of us would be roommates. We truly are perfect for each other!

Favorite Funny Memory:
Our favorite memories have to do with any time we are pulling pranks on one another! Best ones include: throwing cold water in the shower, tying the faucet so that water sprayed out (Becki), hiding items to the point of freak out, and multiple scaring in dark corners. PRANK COUNT: Ari and Lauren: 4.5 Becki and Hilary: 0.5

Fall ’10 Weenies
Roll Call!
Taylor Foreman: The Clean Freak
Becca Moore: The Mom
Sara Edwards: The Garbage Disposal.
Morgan Riley: The Wild Child

House Name: The Sahara... there's a lot of brown and tan paint and furniture. (It's also a really funny ongoing inside joke between the four of us.)

The Story: Really it was all in God's plan for us to live together... and the super cheap rent definitely helped with our decision. We're so glad that we're all roommates this year though! It seems like we've grown so much closer these past few weeks of living together.

Favorite Funny Memory: HA this one is kind of a series of unfortunate events that just turned out to be hilarious. One night we had a few people over and we were all just hanging out in the living room. Then out of nowhere, Taylor's dog Tinsley was suddenly POOPING on the rug in the MIDDLE of the living room! So of course all hell breaks loose as Taylor starts freaking out trying to get Tinsley outside and she winds up slipping in the poop. Yes, she slipped in dog poop. We all couldn't help but bust out laughing at the situation.

Fall ‘10 Weenies
Roll Call!
Taylor Francis: Mama Tay
Dannye Osburn: Baby Dan
Ghada Soufan: Grown up Ghads

House Name: The Palace

The Story: We didn't want to live far away so we all got together and decided to live in West Campus. Luck of the draw because its worked out great!

Favorite Funny Memory: Anytime Ghada tries to do anything domestic like cooking or laundry it turns into a huge roommate affair. Needless to say we've already managed to almost break our sink, mopped the walls, and have become uncomfortably close with the maintenance man.

IM Volleyball Begins

2011-10-13T13:59:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, October 11th, the Texas Spirits intramural volleyball team played the opening game of the IM season. Eager to continue their success from last fall and secure another trip to the playoffs, the girls were excited to take the court. The Spirits faced the team “Safe Sets” and defeated them in two games with scores of 25-16 and 25-22. Spirits on the team include: Neven Simpson, Amanda Chavira, Emily Slattery, Gabby Hernandez, Gaby DeLeon, Alex Janecka, Shannon Funke, Caitlin Cash, Mayte Salazar, Lindsey Mitchell, and Caroline Suter. The team has a bye week coming up, so their next game won’t be until October 25th. Be sure to come cheer them on to another victory!

The Spirit of ACL

2011-10-13T13:55:00.000-07:00

The first few weeks of the Fall 2011 semester had come and gone, and everyone was well on their way through tests, quizzes, meetings and greetings. Thankfully a break for many of us had come – the weekend-long celebration that is Austin City Limits Festival. By bus, car, bike, and roommates, Spirits arrived at Zilker Park in South Austin ready for a festival. Below are some highlights from the weekend according to myself and fellow Spirits Tori Kazmierski, Becca Moore, Jacquie Bontke, Taylor Foreman, Andrea Chao and Brooke Leal.

With such diverse headliners and bands playing throughout the day, ACL brought bands to Zilker Park to satisfy any music lover’s tastes. From country to dub-step, there was something for everyone. Which bands were you most looking forward to seeing?

Becca Moore, Fall ‘10: “I was definitely looking forward to seeing Sara Bareilles the most, and her show was absolutely amazing! It was so fun and upbeat, and she has such a funny personality. And did I mention that the girl sounds just as wonderful live as she does on her records? “

Tori Kazmierski, Fall ‘10: “I was definitely looking forward to seeing Arcade Fire the most. I can listen to their new album The Suburbs anytime, any day. They did not disappoint, blew my mind and I would see them again in a heartbeat.

Hannah Waitt's View from Back Stage

Brooke Leal, Fall ’08: “Having worked a music festival before, I knew that I wouldn’t really get to watch a lot of the shows since I was running around the whole time. But I was able to catch bits and pieces of shows. I loved the Young the Giant show – probably one of my favorites of the weekend.”

Andrea Chao, Spring ’10: “I was looking forward to see TV on the Radio the most, since I've been wanting to see them live for a very long time. They did not disappoint! They were amazing live.”

Top artist picks: Arcade Fire, Coldplay, TV On the Radio, Young the Giant, Skrillex

As this was my first time going to ACL, I realized there are several different approaches to attending a music festival. You can stick with friends with similar music tastes as you, seek out your own favorite bands, alone if you must, or explore the music and stumble upon new artists you hadn’t expected to like. As a first-timer, I did all three. But which strategy is best?

What kind of music festival-goer are you?
Becca: “I’m kind of a wanderer when it comes to ACL. I always try to hit up the bands that I know I like and then from there I’ll just roam the festival. In years past I always went to ACL with a group of friends from school but this year I went with my two older sisters. It was a really fun experience to share with them since they had never been.”

Brooke: “I like to get a little bit of everything – that’s the beauty of a music festival. When there are 130 bands playing, it’s silly to just stick to one genre.”

Andrea: “I made sure to see the bands I knew and loved the most and hadn't seen live yet. I love so many different genres of music that I would never stick to the same one! One of my favorite things is to discover new artists at festivals, and I was able to do that since we had a live feed in my trailer! Theophilus London was someone I discovered this year.” Andrea Chao

Artists to explore: Theophilus London, Alexander, Chromeo

To me, ACL was more of a singular experience than three separate days punctuated by going home to sleep and recharge. I loved that I got to enjoy a weekend full of the things I love most: music, friends and food.

Why do you love ACL? Taylor Foreman, Spring ‘10: “ACL comes second only to Christmas. I love it because it’s an opportunity for me to see all the bands I like for one price. It’s like a vacation – I don’t have to worry about school, I can spend the entire day eating local Austin food, you can go see the whole art section. And it’s not just the bands I know – I love getting the chance to see new bands, too.”

Jacquie Bontke, Fall ‘11: “I did enjoy eating all the great Austin food. It was like city wide potluck where you couldn't decide what to eat. I had Mighty Cone for the first time and I think my life is forever changed.”

Tori Kazmierski, Fall ‘10: ‘I really, really love how ACL is the epitome of Austin. From the food to the art fair to the music selection, the whole festival just feels like everything that I’ve come to love about the city.”

Best food: Mighty Cone, Bess Bistro, Farm to Trailer, P. Terry’s

Behind-the-Scene Queens: Brooke and Andrea

Hook ‘Em Haunt and Spring ’10 Weenie Andrea Chao and Fall ’08 Active Brooke Leal are both interns for C3 Presents, the production company which produces ACL Festival. No stranger to the music industry, Brooke’s second experience interning in a live music setting lends some insight to the world of production. Andrea, a McComb’s School of Business student who has always had a passion for live shows, won her internship with C3 at the beginning of the fall semester.

What was your role at ACL? Brooke: ‘I am the festival marketing intern at C3 presents and was a summer intern at Fresh and Clean Media, who handles all the PR for the festival. I worked on both teams.”

Andrea: “I am the ticketing intern at C3, and I was in charge of dealing with all of the artists' guest lists. I also helped with anything ticketing related, including all of the wristbands, backstage passes/artist credentials, etc.”

What kind of perks? Brooke: “I went to Lollapalooza in Chicago over the summer and got to go to ACL for free. It’s pretty cool getting to work with the artists and all the media outlets – you meet some pretty interesting characters, that’s for sure. Being able to flash a Producer badge is a pretty nice power trip, and getting to watch shows from on-stage wasn’t half-bad either.”

Andrea: “I got to go to ACL for free! My boss also gave me C3 Guest wristbands for my friends. Just like Brooke said, flashing my badge was real cool :) I had the ability to watch shows from backstage, but didn't actually get to since I was busy or some artists closed their backstage access. I also got to meet one of my favorite bands (TV on the Radio!)”

What was something interesting you learned/had to deal with while working the weekend? Brooke: “I learned that everyone involved in the music industry thinks they’re important. For example, I had a local newscaster tell me in all seriousness ‘It’s not easy being famous.’ You have to deal with a lot of egos. People don’t like being told no or that they don’t have access to certain areas, but you have to learn to shut them down nicely. “

Andrea: “Since I was in charge of the guest list for all artists, I also had to be the one to deny people who thought they were on a list. It sucked having to be the one to say no, and sometimes I had to deal with disgruntled people. At one point on Saturday, when the lightning was getting bad, we had to print a ton of tickets that would allow people to re-enter in case the lightning got so bad we would have to kick everyone out. It was so stressful, since I had to be at the front gate glued to my radio waiting on the word to stop allowing people to enter... Thankfully the lightning subdued and everything was fine!

By: Leah Spector, Spring '10 Weenie

Band Jam is Coming!

2011-10-11T08:47:00.000-07:00

With less than a month away, Band Jam 2011 is right around the corner! We have been extremely busy planning and fundraising for this great night which benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation. From panhandling at tailgates, to hosting many different profit shares and approaching businesses for donations we have been working hard to make this a spectacular event to help grant the wish of many children.

This year’s Band Jam will be held on November 10th at The Blind Pig Pub located on 6th Street. The lineup showcases some great bands including Courrier, Suite 709, and The Wheeler Brothers.

Texas Spirits at the 2010 Band Jam Event

Tickets are now on sale, so make sure to purchase one! You don’t want to miss out on this fabulous night of great music benefiting a wonderful cause.

Band Jam 2010

For more information on the event or to make a donation, check out our Band Jam website, and be sure to follow us on Twitter or “like” our Band Jam Facebook page!

Tap-Out Spotlight

2011-10-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

This week’s tap-out spotlight is Lyndsee Nielson, Spring 2009 weenie and 2010 Singing Haunt. Lyndsee will graduate from UT with a degree in Sociology, and she plans to travel to somewhere far away and different after graduation. “Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love Austin, but there are just a lot of other places I would like to see.” From moving to Italy to be a maid (a dream that she’s had since she visited Italy four years ago) to living with her aunt and uncle in South Africa, Lyndsee’s possibilities are endless!

Lyndsee’s favorite Spirits tradition is the scarf that we wear. “They (the scarves) have been part of what makes our organization so unique and represents all that we stand for. Even receiving the black scarf at the end is such a fantastic piece of my college career that I will keep with me and hold dear forever.” It also seems appropriate that this former Singing Haunt loves singing the Fight Song at the end of every meeting. “I know it can seem monotonous but we are part of something really phenomenal at the University of Texas, and that encompasses all of it.” Also, Lyndsee loves the weenie boards!

One of Lyndsee’s favorite Spirits memories is painting the drag as a weenie. “I always loved doing the crafty stuff and knowing that we were doing something that would be seen by and influence so many other UT students was really exciting. Plus being grouped with different Weenie sisters each Sunday was such a great bonding experience. Laughing and Googling various schools’ mascots to paint them was such a fun time.”

Lyndsee’s advice to younger generations of Spirits? “Try to go to all the different events that we have, whether planned by Spirits or the University, because they are so awesome and it is so great to be a part of a great tradition. Plus, the older you get the more caught up in other things you get and the less you can go too because of school and work stuff.”

We’ll miss you, Lyndsee! Thank you for all that you have given to Spirits, and we hope you have a wonderful time seeing the world!

Student Activities Center Renaming

2011-10-11T08:32:00.000-07:00

Students at The University of Texas typically have no problem finding a cause to support. But for many, changing the name of the Student Activity Center to the Margaret C. Berry Student Activity Center is much more than a cause. And for Texas Spirits in particular, having the SAC named after an Honorary Spook would mean giving recognition to one of the most active and well loved alumnae who has passed through our organization.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree in history in 1937, Margaret C. Berry remained active in The University of Texas by writing eight books about the school’s history, teaching and mentoring students and serving as associate dean of students. Berry retired in 1980, but still makes frequent visits to the university to be a guest lecturer or to appear at meetings.

“Education has been my life, and it has been good,” Berry, 96, said at an interview on Sept. 16 in the Alumni Center.

To honor Berry’s work as a professor, a historian and an alumna, students have started a movement called Students for the Margaret C. Berry Student Activity Center. Students involved in this cause hope to persuade The University of Texas System Board of Regents and UT President Bill Powers Jr. to approve the rename.

Of the 161 building on campus, 16 are named after someone still living and 8 are named after women. The Margaret C. Berry Student Activity Center would be the only building on campus named after someone who was both a Distinguished Alumna by Texas Exes and Austin’s Most Worthy Citizen.
When asked what Berry thought of the rename during her interview, she was at a loss for words.

“Some people think I’ve accomplished a lot. But that would be…” Berry said. “This is a great university, and don’t you forget it.”

By: Jules Bunch - Spring '11 Weenie

Spirit/Weenie of the Week

2011-10-11T07:07:00.000-07:00

Spirit of the week: Caitlin Cash!

Name: Cash MoneyMillionaire

Major: InternationalBusiness and French

Weirdest Habit: makingfun of people with big heads

Four words that describeyou: long hair, don't care

Theme song of your life:All I do is Win

Describe Texas Spiritsin one word: support

Next time you see me askme about: My new dance move

Who is your favoriteroommate at The Treehouse? Shannon Funke Pants

Caitlin Cash is a senior atUT and a Spring 2009 weenie. She has been an outstanding member of TexasSpirits for seven semesters! She is the most ridiculously fun girl you willever meet. When she isn't playing in The Treehouse or working hard at McCombs,you will find her dancing and rapping along with Lil Wayne-there is never adull moment! Her fun and positive personality is contagious and will brightenyour darkest day. Recently she booked The Blind Pig on sixth street to hostBand Jam, our annual philanthropy event supporting The Make-A-Wish foundation.She also set up "lunch buddies" for Spirits for us to branch out andget to know more girls in our organization. We are so thankful for all ofCash's hard work! Keep it up Money Girl!

Weenie of the Week: Madison Moody

Name: Madison Moody

Major: Psychology

Weirdest habit: When Ilisten to music on a stereo/radio the volume on the display has to be at acertain number. Numbers acceptable are 5, 10, 12, 15, 18, 20 and so on. Iknow... it's weird.

Four words that describeyou: Classic, spontaneous, honest, FUN!

Theme song of your life:Firework by Katy Perry

Interests: Writing,Photography, Tennis, Cooking and the Study of Law

Describe Texas Spiritsin one word: LOVE!

Favorite weenie memoryso far: Pajamarama (especially that night)

Next time you see me askme about: What I wanted my Indian Maiden name to be in Kindergarten because Ifelt it represented me to a T!

We are so happy to haveMadison Moody in the Spring 2011 Weenie Class. In addition to volunteering atthe blood drive, she has already been a stellar weenie! Keep up the good work!

Tap-Out Spotlight: Michelle Sereno

2011-10-04T06:43:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday's Spirit of the Week was Michelle Sereno!

Michelle a senior Corporate Communication and Spanish major at UT. She is a Fall 2008 weenie, and having joined in the fall of her freshman year, she's been a member of Texas Spirits for all of her semesters in college - that's right ladies this is her 7th active semester!

Michelle (left) with her Spirit roommates Kayce Sebree and Callie Coulter

Michelle served as Contact Haunt on Ghost Council 2010 and still continues to give back to our organization today. She is an exemplary role model for all Spirits. We are always impressed by her trendy fashion, awesome blog posts (you may remember her from previous fashion posts and freshman tips blogs), and incredible heart. Just last weekend she was one of the only Senior Spirits to bring breakfast to the Weenies after PJ Rama! She's also involved in the mentor program, and helps with numerous behind the scenes efforts. Thank you for everything, Michelle! You are such an important part of our organization!

Drumroll Please...

2011-10-04T06:30:00.000-07:00

September 21^st marked the beginning of a newchapter in the Texas Spirits legacy, as the entire organization welcomed ournewest pledge class to the Tradition. Tap-In gave our new members their firsttaste of Spirits Tradition; one of our best-loved traditions, the ceremonyserves as the Weenies’ true induction into our organization.

The Tap-In Ceremony also reminds each Active of thecommitment she has made to uphold the four pillars of Texas Spirits: spirit,service, love and friendship. Each semester we renew our commitment to ourorganization as we pass on this dedication to the next generation of TexasSpirits.

We are beyond excited to introduce the twenty-six members ofthe Tap-In Class of Fall 2011:

Aliyah McRoberts

Ashley McAdams

Ashley Embry

Audrey Merhl

Bailey Baker

Caitlin Pawlowski

Caitlin O'Brien

Carly Colville

Emily Lamon

Emily Poston

Jacqui Bontke

Katie Folger

Katy Wainwright

Kayla Jones

Laura Bailey

Lily Patterson

Madison Moody

Madison Russ

Maggie Widodo

Marilyn McKee

Namanda Musoke

Nicole Martinez

Sabina Anwar

Samantha Griffel

Sierra Welch

Congratulations, Fall ‘11! We’re so proud you call you ourown!

Party Like a Weenie

2011-10-04T06:03:00.000-07:00

Thursday,September 22, was a day of love, friendship and laughter, but mostly it was aday of competition. The Special Projects Haunts, Nancy Tan and Gaby DeLeon hosted theannual Weenie Active Mixer, or WAM, in the activity room of Gregory Gym. WAM isthe weenies first opportunity to get to know the actives, and each other. Whatbegan as a tame mixer with light mingling and polite girl flirting, ended inraucous laughter and fond memories.

Afterthe new weenies introduced themselves in front of the organization and sharedwith us one thing they had never done (can you believe one weenie had neverridden on an airplane?!), we proceeded to play Human bingo. The weenies were senton a scavenger hunt to find Spirits that fit the specific criteria listed on their bingo sheet.The first one to completely fill out their grid won. It was mad dash and awhirlwind of weenie enthusiasm. Pens were flying, and papers were waving as theweenies tried to find an Active that “was Paint Princess” or “had a sibling inSpirits.”

Afterthe bingo frenzy drew to an end, the Spirit Haunts divided the organizationinto five groups of weenies and actives alike, to play one more game. Once inour groups, Nancy and Gaby gave us a buzz word and the task of finding a songthat contained that word. As the game progressed around the circle, each groupbelted out in unison the lyric of a song that had the special word. The entireroom would silence itself the moment a group began to sing, waiting for an opportunityto laugh. As it turns out, Texas Spirits is very lyrically skilled; girls choseto sing everything from The Beatles to Marvin Gaye. If a group failed to comeup with a song they would be considered disqualified and the game continueduntil only one group was left standing. Then the victors claimed their spoils:candy.

Allin all WAM 2011 was one for the History Haunts' books.

Tap-Out Spotlight: Callie Coulter!

2011-09-25T07:55:00.000-07:00

This week’s Tap-Out Spotlight is Callie Coulter, a Fall 2008 Weenie and 2010 Scribe Haunt. She is an Accounting major and in the Integrated 5-year Master in Professional Accounting Program in the McComb’s School of Business. She will graduate in May of 2013 with her Masters in Accounting! After graduation, Callie hopes to work for a Big 4 Accounting Firm in Houston. In fact, she will be interning in the tax department at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Houston this upcoming spring semester. She’d like you all to know that if you need someone to do your taxes in a few years, she’s your gal!

Callie’s favorite Spirits tradition is Tap-In. At Tap-In this past week, she caught herself remembering her own Tap-In three years ago. There’s an interesting fact about Callie’s Tap-In that some of you may not know. “My pledge class was the last to get our scarves at Tap-in instead of waiting until initiation. When they told us to turn around and face our JI’s, they tied our scarves around our necks. I’ll never forget getting back to my dorm that day and realizing that in my excited rush to get back and call my mom, my scarf had blown off in the wind! I lost my beloved scarf the first day I got it, but thankfully they had an extra one for me!”

When asked what her favorite Spirits memory is, Callie had to say that becoming Scribe Haunt in 2010 was definitely one of her favorite Spirits moments. “When I was getting my new scarf at Initiation Brunch, Becky Holmes (Scribe Haunt 2009), surprised me by crowning my head with her pencil hat that she had used as part of her campaign. My entire year spent on GC was so rewarding and I became such good friends with my fellow haunts (Spring Break ’10!), but that first moment was so exciting for me.”

Callie’s advice for younger Spirits? “Go to the Alumnae Reunion! I say this mostly because I made the mistake of not going in Fall 2008. We are an organization with so much history and tradition, and you’ll be amazed at how much you can learn from hearing our alumnae speak. The bonds of this sisterhood become apparent when you see the love from all the ladies who are reuniting. Also, especially to the weenies, cherish the moments you have your entire weenie class together and really get to know them all because weenie sisters have a bond like no other. And most of all, enjoy these years of your life because they go by way too fast!”

We’ll miss you, Callie! Thank you for all that you have put in during your time in Texas Spirits!

Spirit of the Week!

2011-09-22T13:42:00.000-07:00

This week’s Spirit of the Week isAly Kasberg! This Fall 2010 Weenie is in her sophomore year at UT and is enjoyinglife as an active Texas Spirits member. Throughout the past year in Spirits,she has remained very involved through various committees and events whilealways upholding a positive attitude. This semester, she’s working on ReunionCommittee and she took on the position of Drag Paint Chair to maintain thattradition. Her hard work, big smile, and love for Spirits has made her a greatasset to our organization. Keep upthe good work!

Name: Alyne Marie Kasberg

Hometown: New Braunfels, TX

Major: Spirits. ha butreally, no clue.

Thing you can't go a daywithout: CHAPSTICK.

Favorite ice cream flavor:World class chocolate, or anything from TCBY.

Song you wish would startplaying through the walls as you enter a room: Cannibal by Ke$ha

Favorite male actor: RyanGossling. I'd be his Rachel McAdams any day.

Favorite color: turquoise!

One word to describe TexasSpirits: family

Nexttime you see me ask about: My signature dance move. Or @we_say_no on twitter.

Tap-Out Spotlight: Tiffany Yep

2011-09-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

Thisweek featured tap-out is Fall 2008 weenie, Tiffany Yep. She served as Spirit Haunt in2010 and is majoring in Corporate Communications. Last semester Tiffany was featured while she was in Orlando, Florida for the Disney College Program. Read aboutsome of those experiences here. Nowshe’s back in the Lone Star State, and we were lucky enough to get to ask hersome questions about her future plans and experiences during her time at UT andin Texas Spirits. Here are some of the fun things she shared:

What areyour plans after graduation? "I'm going to Disney World! Well maybe, but I'dreally love to work in the field of customer service with some management andmarketing aspects. Since my major (Corporate Communications) is so broad, I'mnot positive on what exactly I want to do...I just want to work with people andwake up every day excited to make a difference!"

What hasbeen your favorite Spirits tradition? "All of them! But if I have to choosea favorite tradition it would have to be the never ending bonds of sisterhood.My best friends are Spirits, and when I left for my Disney internship and cameback, my friendships seemed like I never left. I had girls texting me, callingme, and facebooking me throughout my entire program asking me how I was doing.It was simple things like that that showed me how special Texas Spirits are. Iknow some of these girls will be in my wedding and if they're not in it,they're invited to it. As much as I love the drag paints, the flashcards, thesecrecy of some of our traditions, our scarves, and our service adventures, itwouldn't be as fantastic as it is without the girls doing each and everytradition right there with you."

What isyour favorite memory from your time in Texas Spirits? "My favorite memorywould have to be the entire year I got the opportunity to be the Spirit Haunt.I had the chance to watch two weenie classes grow, learn, and find out thingsthey never knew about themselves. I loved and cherished every second of it, andnow I get to see those babies that I mentored to be the next leaders of theorganization. Freaking amazing and it makes me so proud!"

Advice foryounger generations of Spirits? "Live each day with a purpose to make theworld better. If you want to do something, do it. Don't hold back. Never regretwhat you do because you obviously learned something from it, whether it beabout yourself or about life. Laugh at yourself. Gah, I could go on forever,but really don't doubt yourself and truly take in every moment, lesson, andexperience life throws at you. You are a Texas Spirit. Out of hundreds of girls,you made it. You have something special that you, and only you, can offer theworld. This is huge, and so much bigger than any of us could ever imagine, sotake in it, soak it up, and live it! This is your time."

Micah 6

2011-09-19T20:39:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, a group of Spirits helped out at Micah 6, a local food pantry helping the homeless and impoverished in the Austin area. On many Saturdays throughout the year, you are sure to find Spirits there helping out this great cause. It is a very rewarding experience and something we all look forward to.

During our time at the pantry we have the opportunity to distribute food to the patrons, help them bag up their goods, as well as mingle with some wonderful, hardworking people.

Helping at Micah 6 is not only a great way for us to give back to the community, but a delightful way to start off our Saturday's!

Open Mic Night

2011-09-15T06:45:00.000-07:00

Service Haunts Ana Hernandez and Nicole Dietze put on another successful event on September 1st. Open Mic night was held at JAX Neighborhood Café on 29^th and Rio Grande. Local artists performed, including Zachary Caballero, AUX and Spirit’s own musical geniuses Katie Koehler, Jenna Fahle, and Gabe Dobbins, as well as a Texas Iron Spike's brother Nick Joseph.

“Open Mic Night was in full swing with great performers and great company,” Spring ’11 Weenie Kendall Connolly said. “It was so fun to see my fellow Spirits showcase their amazing talents!”

Current Spirits, perspective Spirits, UT students and Austinites came out to support a good cause. A portion of all drink sales went to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

“I loved how it just brought so many different people together for one cause,” Spring ’11 Weenie Jenny Feng said. “It was so much fun mingling and just getting to know prospective and other people from organizations!”

Open Mic Night gave us a good taste of what Band Jam will be like in the fall and got us excited for all the amazing things to expect from Ana and Nicole this semester.

Chief Haunt, Katie Koehler

“There are few things better than sitting and enjoying the night with friends while listening to talented musicians and supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation all at the same time,” Service Haunts Ana and Nicole said.

Save the Date

2011-09-13T06:48:00.000-07:00

Every fall, two words strikefear into the hearts of Texas Spirits and spread feverish panic through theirlittle black books: Date Dash. Date Dash is an opportunity for Spirits to askboys or good girl friends out for a night on the town a la Sadie Hawkins; theonly catch being no one except the Special Projects Haunts knows when Date Dashwill be, or where. This year, Gaby DeLeon and Nancy Tan wasted no time insending girls into a dateless frenzy by informing the Spirits on their thirdWednesday meeting that Date Dash would be held the following night on SixthStreet. So on September 7, 2011 the man hunt began.

All eligible bachelors werecalled/invited/harassed by individual Spirits to accompany them as dates to TheStage on Sixth Street, for the evening of September 8, 2011. Armed with emptycamera memory cards and in downtown casual attire, the Texas Spirits and theirrespective dates hit the town with The Stage as their final destination (a country-western bar with anAustin, Texas flare). Mixed drinks were served in giant boots, the bar wasablaze with neon lights and games such as washers and a mega-sized Jenga were available. The music, courtesy of Johnny T, was mostly covers ofnew songs and popular classics all sung with a country twang. The calculatedatmosphere provided Texas Spirits the perfect venue for fun, friends, and goodold fashion dancing.

Thanks to the fabulous SpecialProjects Haunts and always entertaining Sixth Street, Date Dash 2011 was agreat success for Texas Spirits, and their dates.

Tap-Out Spotlight: Lindsey Mitchell

2011-09-11T12:49:00.000-07:00

This week's featured Tap Out is Lindsey Mitchell. She is a Fall 2008 weenie who also served as a Spirit Haunt in 2010. Her major is nursing, and she hopes to find a job as a Labor and Delivery Nurse in either Austin or Dallas after graduation.

Lindsey's favorite Spirits tradition is Initiation. She feels fortunate to have experienced this tradition as both a Weenie and a Spirit Haunt and says that "it is by far one of the most rewarding traditions."

When asked to choose her favorite Spirits memory, Lindsey couldn't pick just one. From Tap-In to PJ-Rama, Lindsey's Weenie semester was full of exciting memories that she'll always remember. She also loved Initiation with her Spring 2010 and Fall 2010 weenies and seeing them "blossom like flowers" while she served as the Spirit Haunt. And last but not least, she'll never forever every single dinner night she had with "THE ghoulfamily."

Lindsey's advice for younger generations of Spirits? "Cherish your time in Spirits. It flies by, and you will be graduating before you know it! And make the most of it. Stay involved throughout all of your semesters because you really do get out what you put in. This is where you're going to make your lifelong friendships and lasting memories. Be thankful for the amazing group of girls that surround you."

Thank you for all that you have given during your time in Spirits, Lindsey! We are sad to see you go, but we're so excited for all that lies ahead of you!

Texas vs. Rice

2011-09-11T12:44:00.000-07:00

Spirits came decked out in casual uniform on Saturday, September 3^rd to begin the 2011 football season. The day began early for Spirits who met up with Tejas Club to set up the flashcard section for that night’s game. This game’s design was a big Texas “T”. Be sure to keep an eye on the south end-zone prior to the second-half kickoff each home game to see what Spirits and Tejas have in store! As the afternoon progressed, many Spirits braved the heat and were found tailgating and gearing up for kickoff.

Spirits cheered their Longhorns on to their 12^th straight season-opening win as they defeated the Rice Owls 34 - 9. The Longhorn squad featured many returners as well as some new faces, including the well-known McCoy-Shipley duo. However, this new pair is made up of the younger brothers, Case and Jaxon. Spirits are excited to see just what the team will accomplish this season!

Wrangling Up Some Good Ol' Texas Tailgating

2011-09-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

If you haven't tailgated with the Wranglers before a football game, then in the words of Josh Abbott Band, "then you ain't met my Texas yet."

Spirits kicked off the first game of the season with a tailgate mixer with the Texas Wranglers! Before the game, they enjoyed eating some good old hamburgers and hotdogs, listening to a live DJ, and being shaded from the blazing, hot sun. Of course, the best part was mixing and mingling with all of the Texas Wranglers and Mavericks.

In addition to the tailgate, some Spirits enjoyed the free Red Bull Tour Bus: Josh Abbott Band concert at the KVET tailgate. Nothing gets you ready for a game better than a band singing about Texas!

First football game of the season, tailgate mixer with Wranglers, free Josh Abbott Band concert... life as a Longhorn & Texas Spirit can't get much better! Hook 'em!

Spirit of the Week!

2011-09-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

August 24, Spirit of the Week: Maysie Ocera

Maysie Ocera is a junior at UT and a Spring 10 weenie. She is always seen smiling on campus, getting involved in so many activities, and contributing to Texas Spirits. Along with others, Maysie helped organize a skit performed by Spirits at Big Yell that not only showed the University how awesome Texas Spirits is, but landed a spot on KXAN news. She also has been very active on recruitment committee by stepping up as Speaker Circuit chair and volunteering her time to table at West Mall. Keep up the good work Maysie!

Name: Maysie Ocera
Hometown: Crosby, Texas (Grass farm capital of Texas!)
Major: Plan II/International Relations and Global Studies
Thing you can't go a day without: laughing at my own bad jokes
Favorite ice cream flavor: Strawberry
Song you wish would start playing through the walls as you enter a room: Marathon by Tennis
Favorite male actor: Gregory Peck
Favorite color: Pink and green
One word to describe Texas Spirits: Rosy
Next time you see me ask about Women for Women! I'm starting the UT Chapter of Women for Women International, which provides women survivors of war and genocide with the tools and resources necessary to move from crises and poverty to self-sufficiency. Changing the world, one woman at a time.

August 31, Spirit of the Week: Supriya Misra

Supriya is a sophomore and a Spring 2011 weenie. She is a wonderful JI and extremely excited for the upcoming Fall 2011 weenie class! Surpiya has been extremely involved and helpful throughout this recruitment period. In fact, she is currently coordinating a surprise for our second reception next week! This will be another great way for our perspectives to get a glimpse of our awesome organization. Thank you so much for all of your hard work and creativity, Supriya!

Name: Supriya Misra
Hometown: San Antonio
Major: Plan II and Accounting
Thing you can't go a day without: my planner
Song you wish would start playing through the walls as you enter a room: Moves Like Jagger - Maroon 5
Favorite male actor: Jake Gyllenhaal/Aziz Ansari
One word to describe Texas Spirits: Hope
Next time you see me ask about my: Baking!

Make A Difference Mondays

2011-08-28T17:33:00.000-07:00

Do YOU have a case of the Mondays? If so… you can stroll around campus and find Texas Spirits making a difference!

Make-A-Difference Monday was started by the 2009 Service Haunts, Allie Elko and Gloria Chan. The intention was to spread kindness to fellow UT students and hope that they would, in turn, pass it forward.

Several Mondays out of the semester, the Service Haunts will put together goodies to hand out around campus. Last semester we extended the kindness to the hard-working, lovely UT bus drivers. Spirits gave them bottles of water and granola bars, along with a big smile and a heart-felt “Thank You.” Other Make-A-Difference Mondays have included candy and school supplies.

This week, Spirits will be handing out Ice-Pops in the West Mall to beat the blazing heat!

So remember… Be Kind & Pass it on. Have a great Monday!

Signature Style: The Spirit & the Scarf

2011-08-28T09:21:00.000-07:00

From Spooks to Spirits, the ladies of this organization have always had style. In the early days, Spooks wore noted for wearing all black with a white armband branded with the organization emblem. I call it classic chic with an air of mystery. We were a secret organization after all…

Texas Spooks 1970

However, the Texas Spirits casual uniform of white, denim, and the signature burnt orange scarf has become an iconic image across the UT campus since its adoption in 1988. And to be quite honest, what first attracted me to Spirits was when I caught a glimpse of a girl in casual uniform at my first UT football game. It seems superficial, I know, but as I completed the extensive Weenie tasks leading up to my Fall’08 initiation, I learned that there is so much meaning and hard work in earning the signature Spirits scarf. When I put it on, and head out to an event, there is a sense of pride for not only the Texas Spirit Tradition, but for all things Longhorn as well. Ask any active member; the Spirits scarf is the perfect accessory.

In honor of Texas Spirits’ favorite time of year: UT Football season, I went about town to photograph some lovely actives to showcase their individual spin on the casual uniform…

Hilary Elrod, Fall’10

Top- Nordstom BP by way of Ari’s closet
Denim shorts- American Eagle Outfitters by way of Lauren’s closet
Boots- Cavenders
Jewelry- Kendra Scott Kingston Earrings in Tigers Eye
Personal Style- “Fun and comfortable, I like accessories!”
Where she shops- Strut, Forever 21, & Ann Taylor LOFT

Callie Coulter, Fall’08

Dress- Calvin Klein at Macy’s

Jewelry- Kendra Scott Jeanine Dangle Earrings in Turquoise & Jana Bracelet in Turquoise
Personal Style- “Classic, Simple, & Girly”
Where she shops- LC Lauren Conrad at Kohl’s & Buffalo Exchange

Jenny Feng, Spring ’11

Top- Nordstrom
Skirt- United Colors of Benetton
Jewelry- Kendra Scott Gwen Earrings in White Lily & Lucca Filigree Bangles in Gold
Personal Style- “Preppy, Neat, & Casual”
Where she shops - J.Crew, Saks Fifth, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, & Ralph Lauren. Can’t forget about The Domain and little Austin boutiques!

Lauren Means, Fall ’10

Dress- Forever 21

Vest- Gap by way of Hilary’s closet

Boots- Steve Madden (Birthday present from Mom!)
Wedges- Nine West
Jewelry- Kendra Scott Lizeth Rose Ring in Gold
Personal Style- “Random, girly, aided a lot by the help of my friends!”
Where she shops- Forever 21, Nordstrom, & cute downtown Austin boutiques

Special thanks to the above Spirits & Brooke Leal for all of your help!

CI Sept 3^rd just get here already WY
Michelle Sereno

Recruitment Run-Down!

2011-08-23T20:49:00.001-07:00

Final 5 Freshman Tips & Tricks

2011-08-22T09:33:00.000-07:00

5. It’s all Greek to Me… or Not: Student Organizations
Bottom Line: Join a student organization! There are so many ways to go about this:

a) Check the UT Student Activities website, it lists all the student orgs on campus.
b) During the first couple of weeks of class, parooze through the West Mall anytime from 10am-2pm and check out the student orgs tabling.
c) Attend Start Fresh: The Texas Network and/or Party on the Plaza 2011 and/or Big Yell
d) Ask an upperclassmen
e) Start your own: All you need is 3 friends and $10.

4. Thank You Mark Zuckerberg: Social Media Seriousness
Every college kid has an online presence of some kind (Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Tumblr). It’s absolutely necessary in order to be in the know! However, not to freak you out or anything, but the real world is about T-minus 4 years (ish) away. Which means, potential employers can Google you instantly. Rule of thumb: Keep your posts appropriate and profiles private.

3. Beyond the Classroom: Internships
Gaining work experience through internships has become a necessary addition to your resume. I suggest paying a visit to your college's career center and see how to get started. Also, check out Access UT and HireALonghorn, which are online database that lists internships and job postings.

2. Oh the Places You’ll Go: Study Abroad
I don’t care where you go, just GO somewhere. From a Maymester to a whole 6 month semester, traveling abroad is totally worth it. Experiencing new cultures, people, food, sights = definite highlight of your college career (that I can promise). Regardless of what major(s) you have, you can make it work if you try. Visit the study abroad office.

1. It’s Your Time: Make Things Happen
Fresh from the nest, it is your time to make things happen (insert inspirational music here). Making friends and getting involved takes time, effort, and persistence. So…Reach out! By this I mean, go say hi to cute boy in your FIG, attend the introductory meetings of student groups that you’re interested in, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. During my time here I’ve learned that what makes UT so freaking great (besides being able to walk on the grass) is that there truly is something for everyone.

What Starts Here Changes The World, seriously.

CIWY,
Michelle Sereno
Fall’ 08 Weenie

Swing Out Awards

2011-08-21T14:58:00.000-07:00

On Thursday April 21, 2011, four Ghost Council members attended the Swing Out Awards ceremony representing Texas Spirits as a finalist for the Swing Out Award in the category of Best Spirit.

The Swing Out Award application was turned in February 25th and was followed by an interview with Ghost Council members a month later. The application included ten essay questions asking background information about Texas Spirits as well as how we exemplify spirit on the University of Texas campus. Two specific questions included inquiries about the impact Texas Spirits has had on the UT Austin community and beyond, while another asked where we saw areas for organization growth for the upcoming year. A final question asked where we felt UT Austin was most lacking in spirit and as to what we have done to improve spirit on campus.

Chief Haunt Katie Koehler, History Haunt Alexa Hart, Spirit Haunt Megan McKinney, and Public Relations Haunt Neven Simpson all attended the Evening of the Stars Awards Celebration on April 21, 2011 to hear the Swing Out Award winners announced. The event featured appetizers and a number of outstanding student organizations and representatives.

The Best Spirit Organization was the last Swing Out award to be announced, so after much anticipation the representatives of Ghost Council in attendance were extremely pleased to be announced the winner of the category over the university recognized Orange Jackets. Katie Koehler gave a few words accepting the award and then was later presented with an official Best Spirit Organization Swing Out Award banner. It truly was a special and honorable night for Texas Spirits.

Congratulations to Texas Sweethearts on winning the Best Social Organization, as well as to Tejas Club for being a finalist in this category.

The Longhorn Freshman Fifteen Continued...

2011-08-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

10. Make New Friends, but Keep The Old: Don’t be a homebody

Step outside your comfort zone and make some new friends. With hundreds of organizations for your major or extracurricular interests (Anime Club anyone?), there are endless opportunities to meet someone new. It is great to keep in touch with your old high school friends, but don’t let that hinder you from exploring college life. Limit your visits back home, but make sure to call your mom regularly.

9. Live Music Capital of the World: Austin City Scene
YES, you live here. Austin City Limits and SXSW festivals are fan-freakin-tastic in their own right. But there’s so much more going on in this glorious city. Pick up The Austin Chronicle at one of the newspaper bins on campus or visit Austin360.com to see what happens beyond the bubble of the 40 Acres.

8. Thou Shall Love Thy Neighbor: Live on Campus

Location, location, location! Oh, how I miss the days of waking up at least 30 minutes before my class, grabbing a quick bite from Cypress Bend, and then heading off to the Six Pack with no delay. Most importantly, this is a great way to make friends your first year. Ask any upperclassmen. Dorm living has its pros and cons…so try to focus on the positives.

7. Professor’s Pet: Talk to your Profs
You’ll get a better grade… Ehh not entirely true, but it definitely doesn’t hurt. Like me, you may be super shy to raise your hand in class, so go visit your professor during office hours. Even if you don’t have a question, initiating a relationship with a professor works in your favor! They can be potential resume references and writers for a letter of recommendation.

6. Why You’ll Love the Fall: Texas Football

Surprised this isn’t #1? Me too. Waking up on a Saturday to sunshine, BBQ tailgates and a sea of burnt orange is the epitome of a Longhorn Christmas. Not to mention, this is the inaugural season of the Longhorn Network!

So to freshmen that haven’t purchased football season tickets, dontcha worry. At least buy a Longhorn All-Sports Package (LASP) so you can be eligible to enter the student football ticket draw.

Over the Mountains and Through the Hills....

2011-08-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

There is one day out of the year that every student looks forward to – the last day school so that summer vacation can start. Growing up summer is code for fun, playing outside, going to camp, visiting Grandma’s and doing whatever you feel like. In college, summer is code for something a little different. It means lazy days at the pool, sleeping in until noon, going downtown on a random Tuesday, visiting old friends, and maybe making some money. For two Spirits though, they geared up for something a little different then the things listed above. Fall ‘10 Weenie, Kelly Bahng, and Spring ’11 Weenie, Lane Follmar, set out on June 3^rd, 2011 as members of Texas 4000 for Cancer to ride their bikes from Austin, TX to Anchorage, AK. They are joined by 45 other UT students and make up the 8^th team to make this journey. The trip is 4,687 miles and lasts 70 days. Prior to riding, both girls had to raise at least $4,500 which goes to benefit cancer research. They also trained, spoke to audiences about the importance of early detection and prevention, and provided hope to many. As Kelly said in her blog, “Texas 4000, is a metaphor for those fighting cancer but it's also many other things. It's hope for those battling the disease; inspiration for others; and for the riders on the trip, it's also growth as a person and as a team.”

Lane and Kelly resting after riding across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, CA

Kelly and Lane’s journey started in Austin, TX and hit many other big cities on the West Coast. They rode through Lubbock, Texas; Albuquerque, New Mexico; part of the Grand Canyon, Arizona; Zion National Park, Utah; San Francisco, California; Portland, Oregon; Seattle, Washington; and Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada. Today the girls leave Canada and cross over into Northway, Alaska. They have approximately 300 miles until Anchorage and just 5 more days. We couldn’t be more proud of their journey, the lives they’ve touched, and the impact they’re making.

Keep going girls; we’re rooting for you from Texas!

The girls utilizing their drag paint skills somewhere along the coast of Oregon.

Visit Texas4000.org (or see the links below) to read Kelly and Lane’s journals or view pictures from the trip. If you wish to donate, a link is also available on the website. And stayed tuned, next summer we will have 4 more Spirits: Katie Koehler and Leah Horsh, Fall ’09 Weenies, and Diana Johnson and Taylor Foreman, Spring ’10 Weenies, making the same trip and an incredible impact.

2011 LIVESTRONG Texas 4000 Spirits

Kelly’s profile & blog: http://texas4000.org/user/profile/10332

Lane’s profile & blog: http://texas4000.org/user/profile/10338

2012 LIVESTRONG Texas4000 Spirits

Katie’s profile & blog: http://texas4000.org/user/profile/10396

Leah’s profile & blog: http://texas4000.org/user/profile/10417

Diana’s profile & blog: http://texas4000.org/user/profile/10406

Taylor’s profile & blog: http://texas4000.org/user/profile/10412

The Longhorn Freshman Fifteen

2011-08-06T21:38:00.000-07:00

Welcome Class of 2015! Don’t fret, these are the pounds (of knowledge) you want to gain as you begin your college career…

15. That Kid: Don’t Spam the Blackboard listerv
You will see what I mean soon enough. No one likes that kid.

14. Holiday in The Sun: Gregory Pool
Wait, am I at a Five Star Resort in Jamaica? Practically. If you’re living on campus, take advantage of your close proximity.

13. The Devil Wears Nike Shorts: College Clothing

Call me crazy, but comfort does extend beyond athletic wear. Good news though! You’re in college now, so nobody really cares what you wear. However…
a) Do invest in a pair of cowboy boots
b) Realize that leggings are NOT pants (guilty as charged)
c) Classy NEVER goes out of style.

12. No cruce en frente del autobús: Don’t cross in front of the bus
I feel like every UT student has a scary Austin city bus story, or maybe that’s just me? If you don’t have a car, make sure to familiarize yourself with the Austin bus system, known as Capital Metro. The Trip Planner function is awesome! And you ride for free with your UT ID.

11. Social Scene: West Campus
During your first year or two or three…you may find yourself hanging out in this area on the weekends. Like in Kindergarten, it is best to travel with a buddy and/or in groups. There is also a west campus bus! (See the CapMetro link above).

Keep checking back for the remaining tips and tricks from our special guest blogger Michelle Sereno!

Keeping Austin Gorgeous from the Inside-Out

2011-07-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

Q&A with Texas Spirit and Miss Austin 2011, Monique Evans
Congratulations are in order for our very own Texas Spirit Monique Evans! She currently holds the reigning title of Miss Austin as she competed in the Miss Texas 2011 Pageant earlier this month. This was Monique’s first pageant and she placed 8^th in the Top 10!

Who is this gorgeous girl you ask? Monique was born in Laguna Beach, California and is a Sophomore Biology/Pre-Med major. She is a Fall’10 weenie with impeccable posture, a talent for ballet, and most importantly, a gracious heart. Take a look…

Monique: The Pageant Princess

How did you get started in pageants?

This is my first year competing in pageants. I started because I saw a video of Katie Stam, Miss America 2009. She embodied such a well-rounded woman... she is beautiful, talented, smart, and personable. So I decided to give it a try so that someday I could have those qualities.

As Miss Austin, what types of things have you gotten to do?

I have been able to help raise money for the American Heart Association, I was an "Official Hugger" at the Special Olympics, and I have had the opportunity to visit the Dell Children's Hospital and spend time with the children.

What was your most memorable moment from the Miss Texas Pageant?

When I went to the Dell Children's Hospital I had a really special connection with Syese, a very special 5-year-old leukemia patient. She is amazing. At the hospital Syese was dancing and singing, she is so full of life! She was so generous to the other children too. When I got home I told my dad about her. My family thought that it would be really special if she could come to the pageant. So my parents bought tickets and hotel rooms and I got her a really really cute white dress and shoes. Then, my director talked to some people with the Miss Texas Pageant so she could have one of the Lone Star Princess Crowns (because every little girl wants to be a princess! Next, they thought it would be amazing if she was crowned on stage by Miss Texas and Miss Teen Texas as the Miracle Princess! It was the most magical moment. There was not a dry eye in the audience. Syese got her moment that she so rightfully deserved…She is very special to me and all who meet her.

As you prep for strutting on stage, what is going through your head?

Before the pageant I get both nervous and excited. I also think about what I need to do on stage. But once I am on stage all of those things disappear. I just have fun. I enjoy playing off the energy of the audience and the judges.

What awards did you win during the pageant?
-8th Place Award
-Alpha Preliminary Swimwear Award
-Alpha High Swimwear Award
-Alpha Preliminary Talent Award
-Preliminary Talent Award
-Alpha High Evening Gown Award

Monique: The Compassionate Caregiver

What is your life mantra?

Carpe Diem…Seize the Day

Who inspires you?

Audrey Hepburn, she is an amazing woman. When she was younger she wanted to be a prima ballerina but her dreams were changed after the Nazi occupation of Holland. She then started acting and was an incredible actress. However, what I admire most about Audrey is that at the top of her career she left the movie industry to work for UNICEF in Africa. She wanted to help the children that were starving, just as others had helped her when she was younger.

What are your life goals?

My life goals would be to graduate from UT and go on to medical school. After school, I want to open an alternative and preventative medical practice. Also, I would absolutely love to have a very loving and close family, like my parents.

What philanthropy did you represent during the Miss Texas Pageant?

Healthy Habits for a Stronger Heart…I am the spokeswoman for the American Heart Association and Go Red for Women in Austin. Both my father and brother are survivors of Heart Disease, so my platform is really special to me.

Monique: The Real Girl

Ultimate Austin Hotspot: The Yogurt Stop…but I am sad that it closed. I love Fro-Yo!

Dating Deal Breaker: Dishonesty

Favorite Texas Spirit Tradition: I love wearing my burnt orange scarf with all my friends

Last song playing on your iPod: Breathe (2 AM) by Anna Nalick

Best Beauty Tip: Kindness. I know that is a unique tip, but it really is true. You can have a stunningly beautiful woman before you, but if she is not beautiful inside, then it can’t show through. A smile goes a long way.

Celebrity Crush: I think Bradley Cooper is really cute, but I feel Chris O'Dowd in Bridesmaids had a really sweet personality.

If you could be any shoe, what shoe would you be? A ballet point shoe because I love to dance! I take classes from Ballet Austin about 3 times a week. I could never stop dancing... it keeps me sane.

We are so proud of you, Monique! Keeping Austin Gorgeous both inside and out!

For more updates on what Monique is up to as Miss Austin 2011, check out her blog!

CIWY,

Michelle Sereno

Enjoying Summer... Remembering Destination Unknown

2011-06-27T15:03:00.000-07:00

Spirits Explore The Unknown at DU!

On April 16, 2011, Texas Spirits and their dates boarded three buses at 10:30 a.m. and dared to go into the unknown. Destination Unknown is a yearly, all-day social event, and the details of where Spirits are going and what they’ll be doing are kept secret by the Special Project Haunts until they arrive at the destination.

Rumors were flying about a trip to the river, Lonestar Jam, or Fiesta Texas, but when Spirits arrived at Cypress Canyon Canopy Tours in Spicewood, Texas, they were all excited to find out they’d be zip lining around beautiful Paleface Ranch.

Members of Spring '10 Weenie Class

Spring ’10 Weenie Jenna Fahle and her date were ready to go when they found out what they day would consist of. “I was so excited! It was such a unique idea,” said Fahle. “I’ve been zipping before, but never through trees! Some people were more comfortable with heights than others… we all depended on each other! The activity facilitated a group setting. I was able to hang out, literally, with girls in my group I probably wouldn’t have had the chance to see otherwise.”

Spirits and their dates formed teams of eight to journey through the course together, and after they completed the course, Jalopy catered delicious fajita tacos for lunch. There were tether ball and football games going on, and many were taking advantage of the small lake with a rope swing and zip line.

After all 180 guests finished their canopy tours, they made a quick change into dinner attire and got on the bus to eat at Hickory Street Bar & Grill in downtown Austin. The private event’s buffet of chicken, salad, pasta and fish was delicious, and it gave DU-ers the chance to relax after a full day outside.

As Spirits boarded the bus for the last time after dinner, Special Project Haunts Nancy Tan and Gaby DeLeon announced the last stop would be a bar tab at Qua on 4^th and Lavaca. Everyone danced the night away as they ended a fun-filled Destination Unknown.

This is always one of the most anticipated events of the year, and Destination Unknown 2011 definitely lived up to the hype. Way to go, Special Project Haunts!

Texas Spirits Support UT Dance

2011-06-27T14:52:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, April 30th, Spirits came out to support the UT Dance Team as they performed their spring dance show to show off the dances they have mastered over the last year. A fellow Spirit, Sarah Smith, has been part of the dance team for two years; she is one of the thirteen girls that are currently on the team. The dances that were performed were a compilation of what they had learned for other competitions, as well as personal dances that they were able to choreograph themselves.

Sarah Smith (top row, second from left) and UT Dance Team

"The best part about the show and having a student-run team is that if you think to yourself 'Wow, it would be really awesome to do a dance to this song', then you have the chance to make it happen," says Sarah. Sarah had a solo in the show, which was the first one she had ever had. With the support of her best friends cheering her on from backstage, she ended up dancing beautifully and having a lot of fun. In addition, the dancers performed a variety of styles of dance--jazz, modern, hip-hop, tap, lyrical, and ballet.

Congrats to UT Dance on a great '10-'11 season, and we look forward to see what you have in store for next year!

Summer Spotlight!

2011-06-20T22:45:00.000-07:00

Spring '11 Weenie, Jules Bunch, and Spring '09 Weenie, Rachel Platis, have spent the past 30 days studying multimedia photography in Prague through a UT Maymester program. Below is the first of many recaps stolen from Jules' blog documenting her experience.

Jules (center) and Rachel (right) in front of the Lennon Wall

"Morning Glory: Starting Off Right

On my first morning in Prague, I awoke groggy and still jet lagged from the overnight flight over the Atlantic. I was sleepy enough to go back to sleep for summer hibernation, but the view from my window stopped me. An hour later, I was wondering the streets around my new apartment and stopped in a small cafe for a Czech take on American breakfast. I felt pretty guilty that my first meal in Europe claimed to be “Authentic American”, but having yet find an ATM, it was the only place I could find that would take debit. I was not disappointed with the bagel filled with sausage links. As with most Czech cuisine, meat is the center of attention. Going to the grocery store has, so far, been my favorite two hours spend in Prague. My new roommates and I took turns calling each other out from different isles voicing our amazement. “Look! They have dried mushrooms!” or “Guys! They don’t have peanut butter! They only have nutella!” While there were plenty of recognizable American brands, most of them had completely different packaging or design that what I’m used to. The oddest thing I found was prepackaged toast. It is sold similar to rice cakes and isn’t eaten hot. Off to have a nutella and jelly sandwich."

To read more about Jules' trip, and to see some beautiful photography, click here.

Rachel also documented her trip and photos via blog which can be viewed here.

Spring 2011 Newsletter

2011-06-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

The Spring 2011 Newsletter is here! You can view it by clicking here.

A big thank you to the Newsletter Committee for working so hard on this!

Midnight Drag Wars

2011-06-01T15:25:00.001-07:00

11:59 p.m. Sunday…It wasn’t your usual drag paint.

As part of Texas Spirits tradition, Midnight Drag Wars took place at 12 am on April 4^th. The drag paint followed Pseudo Haunt Jaunt this year, which ensured that the night would be full of competition. Spirits of all classes it made out to the event and all girls were divided up into five windows separated by class. Not surprisingly, all of the windows turned out great! In order to fairly declare the winner, a few architecture students were asked to judge the paintings, and they named Fall ’09 as the winner, however they decided the commented that it was close.

The upperclassmen placed second at Smoothie King, and Spring ’10 followed close behind at Potbelly. The employees of UFCU enjoyed the Weenies artist work at their window and are already looking forward to see what the Fall’11 weenies will come up with for Drag Wars next semester.

Pancakes for Parkinson’s

2011-06-01T15:13:00.000-07:00

The Texas Round Table (an organization on campus comprised of fourteen Spirit organization current and former presidents and currently headed by past Texas Spirit Chief Haunt Melanie Torre) honored Dr. James Vick, former Vice President for Student Affairs and a current Plan II Math professor, and all others who are fighting Parkinson’s disease by hosting a pancakes fundraiser on Wednesday, April 20^th, at The University of Texas at Austin in front of Gregory Gym. The pancakes were handed out free of charge, but people were encouraged to give a donation of their choosing with all raised funds sent to the Team Fox Foundation to help fund Parkinson’s disease research. Thousands of pancakes were made and an incredible amount of $56,863.11 was raised for the cause as of April 20^th.

Texas Spirits joined other volunteers from Spirit groups to talk to people, make pancakes, and clean tables. This event united the school and even brought President Powers to make an appearance. To learn more visit this link.

Support a Talented Texas Spirit!

2011-05-18T07:55:00.000-07:00

Beth Zimmerman is a senior Spirit majoring in Studio Art. She is currently entered in a contest through H&M and if she wins her painting will be mass-produced on shirts sold nationwide and her actual painting will displayed in New York City. This is an amazing opportunity for her to kick-start her art career and she would love it if you could help her out by voting.

The link to vote can be found here. Beth thanks us all very much in advance!

Weenie of the Week!

2011-05-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

Name: Katarina Schirren
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Major: International Relations and Global Studies
Thing you can't go a day without: seeing one of my lovely weenie sisters!! i start getting withdrawals...
Song you wish would start playing through the walls as you enter a room: Black Bird- The Beatles
Animal you feel you most resemble/would want to be: sloth
Favorite male actor: Ryan Gosling
One word to describe Texas Spirits: A-MAZ-ING.
Next time you see me ask about my "Friends" seasons collection (i own every single one) and then let's watch and avoid studying together :)

Ghoul Friend Kidnap!

2011-04-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

Bright and early on the morning of April 19, 2011, the Weenies successfully "kidnapped" their Ghoul Friends as well as the members of Ghost Council 2011. After weeks of planning how to navigate the ins and outs of getting into West Campus apartment complexes and on-campus dorms and deciding who was going to pick up who, the Spring 2011 Weenies were able to pick up their targets for the early morning breakfast. Unfortunately, not everyone was able to attend since some of our Texas Spirits sleep harder than others.

As tradition goes, Ghoul Friends and Ghost Council members were dressed up in a variety of outfits all in the theme of a variety of singers and music performers. Costumes included artists like the rock band Kiss, Lady Gaga, Sandy from Grease, and Lil Wayne.

After getting as dolled up as one can at 5:00 a.m., Weenies drove their Ghoul Friends and GC Members to Cafe Java for pancakes, bacon, and eggs. All in all, the event was a blast, however unexpected it may have been - what better way to start your day off than with a Spirits-filled-breakfast?! Great job Weenies, you're now another step closer to Initiation.