Fall 2013 Initiation Brunch

Initiation Brunch is always a much anticipated event for Texas Spirits. It is held at Iron Cactus and there is a buffet that is all kinds of wonderful and Spirits come ready to feast. But more importantly, Initiation Brunch is when the Weenies get their scarves and officially become JIs. The scarfing ceremony is an exciting time for both the Weenies and their Ghoulfriends, who have the honor of placing the scarf on the Weenie. After getting their scarves, the new JIs can visit with their Ghoulfamilies and it is customary to shower the JIs with gifts.

Every other semester, an additional ceremony takes place: the scarfing of the new Ghost Council. This occurs at the Initiation Brunch during the fall and signifies the transition between Ghost Councils. 

Lastly, at Initiation Brunch, several awards are given out to Spirits and Weenies who go above and beyond and really shine as young ladies. Some of those awards include Best Spirit Active, Best All Around Weenie, Best Service, and Best Love. Initiation Brunch is always a lovely time where the whole organization can come together and celebrate what it means to be a Texas Spirit.

Thanksgiving Win for the Longhorns

Texas Spirits have always been eager to support our Texas Longhorns, but a few Spirits went above and beyond and dedicated to spend the Thanksgiving holiday in Austin instead of home. These Spirits showed their enthusiasm and support for the Texas Longhorns by being some of the few students to actually attend the whole football game. Although the weather was less than ideal, the girls attending the game stayed to the whole time to see the Horns win against the Texas Tech Red Raiders 41-16. I asked the Spirits who went to the game a few questions about their experience.

What was your favorite part about the Thanksgiving game?
The win of course! Since it was the last home game this year, it was great to see the Horns win for our last game as college students.

What about Thanksgiving dinner?
We had a Friendsgiving! It was sort of like a potluck; everyone brought a dish and we ate as a big friend group. We were stuffed!

Congratulations to the Horns on a great win!

Sweenior Love

I didn't think that being a Weenie could be any more wonderful, until I met my senior mentors. Unlike the other Weenies, I was lucky enough to get three mentors...how I got that lucky I don't know. But I do know that these girls have been such a blessing this semester. I look up to them as women and as Active Spirits. On our (winning) Active Adventure, instead of taking the easy way out in the baking arena, we decided to make some difficult baked goods... There was no peal and stick or pour and mix action going on in our kitchen. For the first time, I got to make my favorite dessert, apple pie, from scratch. We pealed apples. We made the delicious filling and soaked the apples. We laid the dough in the perfect crisscrossing manner. All the while, we never stopped laughing and I got to hear some hilarious Spirit stories of the past. These three beautiful, funny, brilliant women are now my friends, and I will strive to be just as spirited, loving, and giving as they are to each other and the organization that we call home.

Spirit of the Week: Quynh Pham

Name: Quynh Pham

Hometown: Spring, TX

Major: Human Development and Family Sciences/Pre-Med

Weenie Class: Spring 2012

What does being a Texas Spirit mean to you?

Texas Spirits means a family away from home and indescribable love for UT. I am so blessed to be a part of this organization. Texas Spirits has given me the opportunity to form unique bonds with so many talented diverse women! Some of these unique bonds have grown into friendships that I can truly cherish for a lifetime. And even though we are all so diverse, I think it's awesome that we all share a unified love for the best school in Texas, UT.

Tell us about your favorite memory as a Texas Spirit.

My favorite memory as a Texas Spirit is when my Spring 2012 class got a group to do Spring Break together. We road tripped to Panama City, FL, and then spent a week there! The whole trip was an on point definition of fun in the sun.

Tell us about what else you're involved in on campus and/or some cool experiences you've had here at UT.

I am involved in a pre-medical honor society. I work at the Health Professions Office. And I have been on a trip to Nicaragua with Global Medical Brigades. My trip to Nicaragua has definitely been one of the most memorable experiences I have had with a UT organization. However, I think game day at UT is one of the greatest things that happen in the fall. It's such an awesome experience to be able to tailgate with your favorite people and then go cheer on your favorite team on a beautiful Saturday evening.

Favorite Disney princess?

Jasmine. She has a boy that can show her the world and a pet tiger. Enough said.

Congratulations, Quynh! CIWY

Operation Turkey

Operation Turkey is an organization that feeds Austin's homeless and those who otherwise could not afford a Thanksgiving meal. The operation starts at 8:00 a.m. on Thanksgiving, and the line of volunteers wraps around the block with helpers of all ages, with kids eager to help decorating to-go boxed. Most of the cooking takes place the day before, and the volunteers on Thanksgiving finish the cooking, package up meals, and sort donations.

Texas Spirits volunteered at the downtown Austin location, at which over one hundred volunteers showed up and where the Operation packaged 2,500 meals. In total across all locations, Operation Turkey served an estimated 12,000 meals. We are so thankful that so many people were able to have a hot, turkey dinner on Thanksgiving!

Weenie of the Week: Bridget McLaughlin

Name: Bridget McLaughling

Hometown: Boston, MA

Major: Public Relations

What does being a Texas Spirit mean to you?

Being a Texas Spirit Weenie changed my whole experience at UT for the better because I've met so many girls in such a short amount of time that I've become really close to, which makes a huge difference when everyone you know is far away.

What's your favorite Weenie memory as we approach the end of the semester?

My favorite Weenie memory is getting our bigs and ghoulfams at Weenie Beanie!!

What are you most excited about this holiday season?

I'm really excited to go home, be able to sleep in my bed, and cook in my kitchen, and possibly see snow.

Tell us about what else you're involved in on campus and/or some cool experiences you've had here at UT.

I'm involved with the Triathlon Club which is really fun and different than any other sport I"ve played.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, and money wasn't an issue, where would you go and why?

I want to backpack Europe one summer and go mostly around the Mediterranean.

Congratulations, Bridget! CIWY

Spirit of the Week: Joanne Chien

Name: Joanne Chien

Hometown: Baton Rouge, LA

Major: HDF/Pre-Pharmacy

Weenie Class: Spring 2012

What does being a Texas Spirit mean to you?

Texas Spirits has completely changed my life. I never thought that I would meet people from such diverse backgrounds that share such common interests and a desire to serve the community and university. I'm so grateful that I've found my family in an unfamiliar place!

What's your favorite Weenie memory as we approach the end of the semester?

My favorite Weenie memory was coming back from the Senior-Weenie night at Emily Rigby's house. A few of us were walking from north camp back to our dorms on campus so it was quite a long and arduous journey. We proceeded to entertain ourselves by only speaking in a British accent using only titles of Adele songs. I don't think I laughed harder that entire semester!

What are you most excited about this holiday season?

I'm so excited to return to Louisiana to eat beignets and my mom's stuffing!

Tell us about what else you're involved in on campus and/or some cool experiences you've had here at UT.

UT has provided many new and different opportunities. I love that I can be involved in a variety of clubs that are academic or service-related, as well as fun and social. Coming from a magnet high school, we never had Friday night games (much less a football team). Since coming to college, I have loved going to UT football games. They've provided a whole new experience for me. If I squint hard enough, I can see a national championship on the horizon!

If you could travel anywhere in the world, and money wasn't an issue, where would you go and why?

If I could travel anywhere, I would go to Taiwan, first. I never get to see my family there often enough. Then, I would hit up India for the food and culture...or Greece...or Italy...this is hard.

Congratulations, Joanne! CIWY

Congratulations to Ghost Council 2014!

Congratulations to the newly elected Ghost Council 2014!

Chief Haunt

Isabella Pereira

Vice Haunt

Erin Crandall

Banker Haunt

Katelynn Fabre

Contact Haunt

Julianne Perry

Spirit Haunts

Marnie Lemonik & Kelsey Ni

Special Projects Haunt

Ashley Embry & Carly Colville

Hook 'Em Haunt

Savannah Hampton

Royal Spirit Haunt

Laurel Lunsford

Philanthropy Haunt

Alexa Gould

Service Haunt

Halleh Ghaemi

Traditions Haunt

Skyla Sale

Texas 4000 Spotlight: Willa Altman-Kaough

Name: Willa Altman-Kaough

Hometown: Spring, TX

Major: International Relations and Global Studies

Weenie Class: Spring 2012

Why are you riding for cancer?

I applied to Texas 4000 because I have seen many people who I love lose moms, dads, children, siblings, and friends to cancer. I am lucky that I haven't experienced that intimate of a loss myself, but I have seen the devastation cancer can bring into a family's home and the ways in which the lives of those affected are changed forever. Beyond my personal bone to pick with cancer, I was attracted to Texas 4000 because it presents one of the true opportunities to make a significant impact and to be a part of something bigger, better, and beyond yourself.

What aspect of this experience are you the most excited about?

I think Texas 4000 is incredibly special because the riders, for the year before the ride and during the ride, have the opportunity to connect with people throughout Austin, the state, and the country who have been touched by cancer one way or another. It is humbling to learn how many people have been affected and one of Texas 4000's goals is to assure all of these people that they aren't alone in their fight. The prospect of meeting people at UT and around the state and nation who I would probably never meet otherwise is exciting to me, and I look forward to all of the cool places, personal expansion, and intertwining of lives that this adventure will bring.

Congratulations, Willa! CIWY

Texas 4000 Spotlight: Quynh Pham

Name: Quynh Pham

Hometown: Spring, TX

Major: Human Development and Family Sciences/Pre-Med

Weenie Class: Spring 2012

Why are you riding for cancer?

During these college years, I have really been in the pursuit of a meaningful life. I believe that Texas 4000 is a great start to this pursuit. It gives me the opportunity to be a part of something that's so much bigger than me. Cancer is the one enemy that the whole world is fighting against. Getting to opportunity to ride for cancer is like getting the opportunity to fight for my loved ones that have been affected by cancer. But also, it's an opportunity to fight for those that are currently suffering from the battle. Living a meaningful life is living a life of service. Riding for cancer will be my first huge step in committing my life to a life of service.

This journey will not be easy. What will keep you going when things get tough or tiring?

I just need to keep reminding myself that this journey I have been chosen to be a part of is a privilege. I will rely on my teammates for motivation. I will rely on my family and friends for comfort. Most importantly, I will remind myself of the loved ones I am riding for.

What aspect of this experience are you the most excited about?

I am really excited to get to know the cancer community better. I think getting the opportunity to get to know why my teammates are riding for cancer will be awesome. Also, while on our route, I am excited to experience the different communities of people that have been affected by cancer.

What are some places/things you are excited to see on your voyage?

Everything. I can't even imagine the places/things I will get to see when biking 4500 miles across the country. The scenic views and constant fresh air are going to be absolutely breathtaking.

What are your expectations going into this experience?

No expectations really. I just want to raise money for cancer research, raise awareness about the fight against cancer, and ride my bike to Alaska with a group of passionate people that share the same sentiments. Going into an experience like this with expectations is going to make it hard. I just want to cruise along the journey and enjoy this once in a lifetime ride.

Congratulations, Quynh! CIWY

Texas 4000 Spotlight: Olivia Arena

Name: Olivia Arena

Hometown: Houston, TX

Major: Plan II Honors

Weenie Class: Fall 2013

Texas 4000 Spotlight: Anjali Sethi

Name: Anjali Sethi

Hometown: Allen, TX

Major: Honors Human Development and Family Science/Pre-Med

Weenie Class: Spring 2012

Why are you riding for cancer?

Too many times in my life, I've witnessed a medical condition completely out of one's control take control over their lives and ultimately take them away. Enough is enough. I ride to put an end to loss of control over one's life at the hands of cancer. God has blessed me in countless ways, one of which was saving my grandpa, my Nanaji. My Nanaji is a prostate cancer survivor. My family is everything, and I couldn't even begin to think about the possibility of loosing him. My family was blessed and I want to put those blessings to use. I am healthy and I want to use my health to help others. I ride for all those who've been affected by cancer. I ride for the little kids I worked with in the hospital who had cancer steal their childhood. I ride for the families who had cancer steal their loved ones. I ride to bring back all the hope that cancer stole. I ride for those whose future cancer stole. I ride to stop cancer from stealing anything more. I'm a firm believer that nothing in this world is impossible. I ride to make an exception to that rule. I ride in the effort to make the possibility of having cancer be the one thing in this world that is impossible. I want to help others. I want to bring back hope to those who've lost it. Dumbledore said it best when he said, "Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light." I want to be that light and bring back happiness and life to those who had cancer take it away.

This journey will not be easy. What will keep you going when things get tough or tiring?

While I know this journey will be challenging at times, I know that anything I endure during my ride won't even compare to what an individual with cancer goes through every second. Knowing that I'm fighting for them so they don't have to anymore is what is going to keep me going.

What aspect of this experience are you the most excited about?

I'm so incredibly excited for all the people I will meet along this journey and to become a part of their life story and have them become a part of mine. I can't wait to be surrounded by my teammates, my new family, who are all so passionate about fighting cancer, and who I know will inspire me in countless ways and help shape me into the best version of myself. I'm honestly so excited about having the opportunity to be that hope for someone who's forgotten what that even is. i'm going to actively be helping others... I'm living my dream!

Congratulations, Anjali! CIWY

Texas 4000 Spotlight: Abz Zeitler

Name: Abz Zeitler

Hometown: Indiana, IL

Major: Public Relations

Weenie Class: Fal 2013

Why are you riding for cancer?

I hold the cause dear to my heart. Family members, friends, and various people that have impacted my life have been affected by cancer, and I want to fight back.

This journey will not be easy. What will keep you going when things get tough or tiring?

The people I am riding for everyday and my teammates will get me to Alaska :)

What aspect of this experience are you the most excited about?

I am most excited about the whole entire journey. I cannot wait to be involved in such a life changing experience that will make such a difference in people's lives.

What are some places/things you are excited to see on your voyage?

I do not know yet what I will exactly get to see until I get my ride assignment. We do get the opportunity to tour MD Anderson, which I cannot wait to do! I want to see exactly where our fundraising goes and what it does. Most of the time you do not get to see where your money goes when donating, so Texas 4000 is special in the way it allows us to see the impact we have firsthand.

What are your expectations going into this experience?

My expectation is that this will be a challenge. It is not going to be easy, and I don't want it to be easy! Nothing worth doing is easy. I am excited for the feeling I will get when I finally get to Alaska knowing that we have accomplished so much over the past year and a half.

Congratulations, Abz! CIWY

Texas Spirits Love Texas 4000

The highly anticipated cool weather brought along some very exciting news for five Texas Spirits. Abz Zeitler, Anjali Sethi, Olivia Area, Quynh Pham, and Willa Altman-Kaough have been selected to ride from Austin, Texas, to Anchorage, Alaska, during summer 2015 with Texas 4000, in efforts to raise money to help wage the war against cancer.

Texas 4000, founded in 2003, is the longest annual charity bike ride in the world. The journey from Austin to Anchorage is more than 4000 miles long and takes perseverance, determination, dedication, and support. It will take 70 days to complete and each team member will set a goal of raising a sum of money to benefit cancer research. Over the past nine years, Texas 4000 has raised more than $3.5 million for the fight against cancer.

Each girl was asked to share a little bit of her excitement and motivation.

Weenie of the Week: Olivia Arena

Name: Olivia Arena

Hometown: Houston, TX

Major: Plan II Urban Studies and International Studies

What are your favorite thing about Texas Spirits?

My favorite thing about Texas Spirits so far is having the opportunity to get involved in a uniquely Texas way. I never thought I would become so invested in Texas traditions. From painting the Drag to sitting next to the band at football games, Spirits has afforded me the ability to get involved in the culture of a large state school. At the alumni tailgate I was flipping through albums of Spirits from the 90s, and I recognized that same black Weenie shirt. There is something exciting about being a part of a living tradition, and it makes me feel connected to my Weenies, the Actives, and all the Spirits who have passed through Texas.

Why are you excited to receive your scarf?

I am most excited about the ability to be a recognizable part of the organization. The scarf is a representation of complete Spirit-ness, so I am just excited to be able to enjoy all the traditions of the Texas Spirits before me.

Congratulations, Olivia! CIWY

Spirit of the Week: Lauren Means

Name: Lauren Means

Hometown: Allen, TX

Major: Radio/Television/Film

Weenie Class: Fall 2010

What does Texas Spirits mean to you?

Texas Spirits means to me service, friendship, loyalty, and a bond of unity. But really, Spirits is my family. Every single girl is unique and I'm constantly in awe. I always have someone to lean on, a shoulder to cry on, or a person to share a good laugh with and a bottle of wine. I'm an only child but somehow I've ended up with 150 sisters.

What's the coolest experience you've had at UT?

I've had way too many cool experiences during my time at UT. I've flown on a plane, been on the roof of Jester, frolicked in many fountains, found out my passions, learned from the smartest people in the world, enjoyed concerts, had too much fun on 6th, grew up, met incredible people, the list goes on. I have to say almost every one of those memories were shared with a Spirit.

What are you going to miss most about Texas Spirits after you graduate?

What I'm going to miss most about Texas Spirits is constantly being surrounded by the most brilliant people doing the most badass things. Spirits constantly makes me strive to be a better person. I'll have to settle for stalking everyone on Facebook...

Congratulations, Lauren! CIWY

Texas Spirits As Third Top Fundraising Team At Austin Multiple Sclerosis Walk

Last month Texas Spirits spent a beautiful morning participating for their second time in the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Austin Walk. Many members of Texas Spirits have loved ones affected by this chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system and this walk is the perfect event to rally for such an important cause. As a team, Texas Spirits were able to fundraise over $5,500 to go towards research for a much needed cure, as well as amazing programs and services for those living with MS in Central Texas We were the number 3 team in all of Austin and team captain and fall ’10 weenie, Angela Avera, was the second highest fundraiser of the entire event! Other Spirits who made a great difference with fundraising: Dionne Dias, Skyla Sale and Lauren Means – great job ladies! Can’t wait for next year.  Together we can put a stop to Multiple Sclerosis! Every step counts.

Study Abroad Spotlight: Mayte Salazar

Name: Mayte Salazar

Hometown: Ciudad Juárez, Mexico

Major: History, Anthropology, and Latin American Studies

Weenie Class: Spring 2011

What are you studying and as part of what program?

I'm currently at Sciences Politiques in Paris France, as part of an exchange program UT has with this university. Though this is primarily a political science university, as the name suggests, I'm taking several different classes in a variety of disciplines, including philosophy, art history, and history.

What has been the most exciting experience you've had so far?

I hate speaking in superlatives or limiting responses to one single thing especially when absolutely everything is fascinating and exciting about going to a new country and attempting to immerse yourself in the culture. As I think of my day to day life here, I think what gets me going is the thought of meeting new people and seeing new places. But in meeting new people and seeing new places, what commits these experiences to memory are the connections and memories I make with these new people in these new places.

So, how's the food?

The food is absolutely incredible. I'm blessed with the fact I have a host mom who is a French and Italian descendent. She cooks dinner for me every night and I'd say this has been, by far, the most "cultural" experience I've had here. I've gotten to try some traditional, French, home-cooked meals and have learned so many recipes that I'm excited to bring back with me. Food and its preparation encompasses an entirely different way of living here. Sunday mornings are dedicated to going to the local market and picking up your vegetables and meats for the week; every afternoon, you take time out of your day to go to your local bakery to pick up a baguette; and every evening, of course, you cook whatever it is that is in your fridge. I have the luck of having a host mother who rarely eats frozen food or at least prefers to buy things "fresh" for the taste. And well, I've grown pretty accustomed to this pampered way of living. I'm wondering how it'll affect my own cooking back home. Speaking of which, I don't know how I'll live without French cheese in the United States. French cheese and wine are underrated!!! But I'm nonetheless excited to go back to large breakfasts and tortillas. While I love my croissants and pan-au-chocolat in the morning, breakfast tacos are definitely more my lifestyle.

Have you travelled a lot or have you mostly stayed in the place where you are studying?

I've traveled some and actually have just finished booking some of the last bit of traveling I'd do before coming back to the States. I'd say I've had a good balance of both. I've been to Italy, Ireland, and the south of France thus far, and have a trip to England, Spain, and Italy planned for December. Italy has definitely been my favorite place thus far.

What challenges, if any, have you faced in this new country?

I'd heard a lot of things about French bureaucracy and the different style of friendship-making before I came here, and the frustration that comes from being foiled time and time again and not receiving immediate gratification definitely took some getting used to. The first month and a half or so I was also incredibly homesick. I'd already been away all sumer and adding a few several thousand miles of sea in between me and my loved ones has been really tough. I'm absolutely in love with my life here and I don't want the experience to end, but I am incredibly excited to come back and share the beauty I've seen with the people I love.

What advice could you give current or prospective members who want to go abroad?

DO IT! I'm a senior graduating in May. I'm in a long-term relationship. And studying abroad didn't fit with my major... All these things notwithstanding, I'm here, having the time of my life. Don't let anything stand in the way of your living in the moment and taking advantage of the opportunity to live abroad with the support of an institution back home. Don't sever ties with the world, but know that the people who love you will be there when you come back. You have an institution willing to support your sojourn abroad, willing to provide funding through scholarships, and you should take advantage of that!

Have fun, Mayte! CIWY

Weenie of the Week: Raveena Saini

Meet Raveena Saini, a member of our Fall 2013 class and Weenie of the Week! She is a freshman majoring in Public Health/Pre-Med from Round Rock, Texas. She currently has twenty-two hours of service so far this semester, the second highest in Spirits, and the Weenie service project hasn't even occurred yet! Apart from being very involved in the service community, she loves exploring Austin, and among her favorite activities are paddle boarding, going to Blues on the Green, and scouting out the best coffee shops. The best part of being a Weenie so far? Her Weenie sisters.

Congratulations, Raveena! CIWY

Spirit of the Week: Ashley Cubley

Meet Ashley Cubley, a Fall 2012 Weenie and the mastermind behind our Band Jam website. She has been putting in many hours of hard work and has enjoyed watching all of the ticket orders roll in (and so have we!). She is a junior pre-pharmacy and psychology major. Apart from being a digital guru, she has also traveled to four of seven continents, with Australia being her favorite. She loves Spirits because it has given her friends and memories that will be with her always, and even if cliche, she wouldn't trade the girls in this organization for anything.

Congratulations, Ashley! CIWY

Weenie of the Week: Gracie Lemley

Name: Gracie Lemley

Hometown: Orange, TX

Major: Sociology

What does being a Texas Spirit mean to you?

Texas Spirits means family to me, a true bond that will last forever.

There's only three weeks left of your Weenie semester! Tell us about your favorite memory you've made thus far, and what you're looking forward to most as we wrap things up.

My favorite memory would have to be the first sleepover! We had so much fun telling stories. I'm really looking forward to ghoul friend breakfast...it'll be too much fun.

If you were a season, which one would you be and why?

I would be spring because all of the blooming flowers make the world more beautiful.

Tell us what else you're involved in on campus and/or some cool experiences you've had here at UT.

The football games are so much fun. Every day I'm at UT I feel like the luckiest person on the Earth.

Favorite Disney princess. Go.

Ariel duh!

Congratulations, Gracie! CIWY

Making Monster Masks at Longhorn Halloween

What's better than the Frank Erwin Center filled with costume-covered families, buckets of candy, and the good 'ole Halloween Spirit? Not much, I'd say. On Sunday, October 28, the University of Texas hosted Longhorn Halloween, an event put on to give children a safe place to trick-or-treat and have some Halloween fun. Texas Spirits set up shop and hosted a booth where children could come make monster masks. The Spirits that showed up to volunteer helped children use glitter glue, markers, and foam stickers on their masks. The masks ranged from incredibly cute to pretty scary. Much fun was had by all, and the smiles on the children as they made their very own mask were glowing. Longhorn Halloween continues to be an annual event and Spirits is definitely glad to have been a part of it this year!

Weenie of the Week: Kira Hamilton

Name: Kira Hamilton

Hometown: Austin, TX

Major: Education

What does being a Texas Spirit mean to you?

To me being a Texas Spirit means being part of something bigger than myself. I love the fact that this is the oldest organization at UT and has so many traditions that have been passed down over the years. The sisterhood and family aspect of this organization too is just so strong because of the long running traditions. I am so proud to be part of this organization and can't wait to do more in it!

What's your favorite thing about being a Weenie?

My favorite thing about being a Weenie is meeting so many amazing people. I love all my Fall 2013 Weenies so much and am so happy to have a second family at UT. I also love meeting the other girls in Spirits! This is such a diverse group of women who have had so many different experiences and I love getting to talk with them about random things.

What's your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is Christmas. I love the cold weather, the hot chocolate, the music, the decorations, the time off, and of course the amazing Christmas sweaters. Basically, I'm all about the Christmas season!

Tell us about what else you're involved in on campus and/or some cool experiences you've had here at UT.

I am in two other clubs on campus: Headliners and Teachers of Tomorrow. In Headliners, we bring entertainers to campus. For Forty Acres Fest last year we brought Chiddy Bang which was super cool and we were able to run the whole show. For a music nerd like me, it was awesome to do the behind the scenes of a show. It's great because I'm obsessed with music and this is a super laid back club where we talk about music every week for an hour and work the shows of the entertainers from top to bottom. I am an officer in Teachers of Tomorrow too. This club allows education majors to hear from current teachers, learn more about the education program at UT, and help with elementary schools near UT.

ACL, Fun Fun Fun Fest, or SXSW?

ACL for me. I love being outside and seeing how many people come to the festival all in one place. Also I love that I can walk on the grass at Zilker instead of the streets of downtown. I have never fully done Fun Fun Fun Fest or SXSW (mainly just free or cheap shows) but I would love to at some point.

Congratulations, Kira! CIWY

Spirit of the Week: Hannah Roberts

Name: Hannah Roberts

Hometown: Sugarland, TX

Major: Public Relations

Weenie Class: Spring 2012

What does being a Texas Spirit mean to you?

Great way to become involved at UT. I love the traditions and the fact it has been around for 72 years. Also I love how many different aspects there is to it - being able to work with Make-A-Wish and St. Louise House, attend all these different sporting events, play IM sports, go to all the events on campus, you get to do everything from being apart of just one organization.

What was your most memorable moment during your Weenie semester?

I went to a Weenie delirious with a funny story and told everyone what happened and people died laughing. They could not believe what had happened to me. It was an interesting meeting.

What's your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas because I love that it brings the family together, especially now that my brother and I are getting older and live in different cities.

Tell us what else you're involved in on campus and/or some cool experiences you've had here at UT.

My coolest experience would be my first college football game. I transferred here during the spring of my sophomore year and I thought it was crazy how excited everyone was but now I understand. Game days here at UT are like nothing I have ever experienced.

ACL, Fun Fun Fun Fest, or SXSW?

I've never been to any but would love to go to ACL one year.

Congratulations, Hannah! CIWY

Weenie of the Week: Abz Zeitler

Name: Abz Zeitler

Hometown: Valparaiso, IN

Major: Public Relations

What's your favorite place in Austin and why?

It's a tie between South Congress (because of Hopdoddy) and the bridge at Town Lake (because of the gorgeous view).

What are you most looking forward to during your Weenie semester?

The special bond that our Weenie class is going to have by the end of the semester. I feel like we're already a family.

What are you going to dress up as for Halloween?

Corn... #Indiana

What's the coolest trip you've ever been on?

Spain! I watched them win the Eurocup two summers ago!

Congratulations, Abz! CIWY

Spirit of the Week: Emily Poston

Name: Emily Poston

Hometown: Austin, TX

Major: Civil Engineering

Weenie Class: Fall 2011

What's your favorite place in Austin and why?

My favorite place in Austin is definitely Trudy's. If you've eaten there, you know why I love it. Shout out to my Ghoulfam that supports my love of Trudy's and always lets us go there for all of our hang outs.

What's your favorite memory of being a Texas Spirit?

My favorite memory of being a Texas Spirit is more like a collection of memories. I cherish all the time that I've gotten to spend with my amazing Ghoulfamily and wonderful Weenie sisters. If I had to choose though, I guess I would say that my favorite memory is from PJ Rama my Weenie semester. It was such a fun night getting to know the girls in my pledge class, plus some really funny things happened that I don't think I can repeat.

What are you going to dress up as for Halloween?

I haven't decided on my Halloween costume yet, but Severus Snape is always a good back up.

What's the coolest trip you've ever been on?

Last summer I went with my best friends to London. It was the most fun I've ever had in my life.

What advice do you have for the new Weenies?

My advice to the new Weenies would be to take advantage of all the cool things Spirits has going on. It goes by so fast and I wish I could go back to my Weenie semester and do absolutely everything.

Congratulations, Emily! CIWY

Annual Torchlight Parade and Rally

The Torchlight Parade and Rally has been a Texas tradition since 1916. It is an event held every year before the Texas vs. OU game. On October 9, 2013, Texas Spirits joined in with many of the other spirit organizations to carry torchlights through a parade down Guadalupe Street led by the Longhorn Band. The parade ran from the communication school all the way to the front of the Tower where the fans, cheerleaders, and band helped pump up the football team. Tons of Spirits and Weenies joined in the fun. Mac Brown and the football players were all excited for the upcoming rivalry game. The Torchlight Parade and Rally continues to be a fun tradition full of spirit.

Weenie of the Week: Morgan Neustein

Name: Morgan Neustein

Hometown: San Diego, CA

Major: Pre-Med

What's your favorite thing about being a Weenie so far?

My favorite thing is definitely getting to know my Weenie sisters. It's only been a couple weeks but I am already smitten :)

If you had to pick between having someone narrate your life or having a soundtrack to your life, which would you choose and why?

I would probably pick the soundtrack... It would definitely include lots of Jack Johnson, John Mayer, and Vampire Weekend!

What's the #1 thing on your Austin Bucket List?

I honestly don't know about that many Austin-y things, but on my world wide bucket list is to run a marathon, visit the Ben & Jerry's factory, make it through a real winter, and create the world's greatest chocolate chip cookie.

Tell us about some cool things you've done on campus. What other organizations are you involved in?

I just transferred from Communications to Natural Sciences. I was pretty involved in communication clubs like Comm Council, but am starting to join clubs that are more relevant to my major and career aspirations. 

What are you most looking forward to this semester?

I am really looking forward to Weenie Beanie! And Thanksgiving - seeing the fam and eating good food - what's not to love?

Congratulations, Morgan! CIWY

Spirit of the Week: Laurel Lunsford

Name: Laurel Lunsford

Hometown: Lake Jackson, TX

Major: Studio Art & Advertising

Weenie Class: Spring 2013

What's your favorite Texas Spirit memory?

Weenie Roast. Getting to be completely ratchet and share feelings/eat everything with great Weenie sisters was amazing. The spontaneous fire was a great touch as well haha.

What's your favorite place in Austin?

Probably South Congress, before the food trucks moved. I love just walking up and down that area, looking in the cute little shops, the puppies, and Hopdoddy. Just can't go wrong.

Describe yourself in three words.

Quality awkward faces

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I want to do the World Race, which is a mission trip to 11 countries in 11 months, sometime after I graduate. So either doing that or potentially working in an ad agency somewhere exciting.

What advice would you give to the new Weenies?

Any opportunity you have to hang out with your sisters or other Spirits, take it! These are some of the most incredible people I've ever met, and they're some of my best friends! I feel so privileged just to be associated with them! Definitely take the time to get to know as many as possible and really bond.

Weenie of the Week: Audrey Nguyen

Name: Audrey Nguyen

Hometown: Houston, TX

Major: Philosophy and Plant Biology

Tell us about the cool things you've done while at UT.

I'm currently a fundraising and event planning intern with the UT Micro Farm. I've been DJing with KVRX since January 2013. I have a specialty show where I select a new piece of art each week, spanning across all mediums, and create a playlist based off of it, giving musicality to different themes, interpretations, etc. of the work! Tune in Monday nights and Tuesday mornings from midnight to 1am to hear me surfin' FM waves on 91.7 KVRX Austin!

How does it feel being a Weenie? I know it's only been a week, but tell us about your experience ever since Tap In!

I already love everyone I've met so much! I had a blast at PJRama. My Weenie sisters have golden souls. I'm so excited to get to know them, and the JIs and Actives better! Weenie O'ahu was a blast. I can't wait to start volunteering with Spirits and to participate in more drag paints!

What are you most looking forward to this semester? (Spirits related, school related, personal goal related, etc.)

ACL and Fun Fun Fun Fest, getting on that yoga grind (I'm talking about 6:00 a.m. yoga at least twice a week), being a Texas Spirit Weenie, and working on achieving the trifecta - good grades, enough sleep, and a bumpin' social life.

You're stranded on an island for the rest of your life. Name five things you would have to have with you.

Yoga mat, my Moleskin and Pilot G2 07S (not 05S or 09S!), iPod, all of my philosophy books, and a telescope.

Congratulations, Audrey! CIWY

Spirit of the Week: Sami Griffel

Name: Sami Griffel

Hometown: Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

Major: Marketing, Textiles and Apparel minor

Weenie Class: Fall 2011

What is your favorite Spirits memory, so far?

Looking back on it, I most appreciate all the love and support I got from the organization (especially my Weenie class) when I was studying abroad in France! I was going through a really transitional time in my life and it felt so amazing to be getting so much Spirits love even though I was thousands of miles away. It definitely helped me feel more confident to step out of my comfort zone knowing that I had so much support back home! I love you guys!

If you could invite  five people to a dinner, who would they be?

Charles Bukowski to bring the booze, Mitch Hedberg to bring the laughs, John Darnielle (of The Mountain Goats) to play music, Alexander McQueen to design my dress, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt to be my date.

What is your favorite place in Austin and why?

Honestly, my bed. My spirit animal is a sloth so I'm all about the lazy days at home taking afternoon naps and refreshing the Reddit homepage a million times. But when I have the unusual urge to actually do something, I love to go to see live music at the venues on Red River (RIP Emo's).

What are three words that describe you?

So zany lol

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Living the glamorous life in New York City, i.e. working crazy hours for slave wages in the fashion industry but keeping myself in denial about it with a bottle of white wine.

What advice do you have for the new Weenie class?

Always, ALWAYS, do your Weenie dance when it comes on in da club. Even when none of your Weenie sisters are around. There is no excuse.

Congratulations, Sami! CIWY

Weenie O'ahu

Bust out the leis and hula skirts: it's Weenie O'ahu time. Our 26 beautiful new Weenies arrived at the Tejas house Saturday night for our semesterly celebration to nothing but cheers and love. The house was packed, music was blaring, and the dance floor was hoppin', making this a party a rainstorm couldn't even stop. Makeshift slip and slides entertained as everyone eagerly awaited the Fall 2013 Weenie dance. Coordinated by our Spirit Haunts, Maggie and Marilyn, the traditional dance was to "Gas Pedal" by Sage the Gemini, and everyone counted down the minutes to that anticipated moment. Finally, the clock struck midnight. The Weenies descended upon their stage on the Tejas porch, while the rest of us cheered from the lawn, forgetting about the pouring rain. The music began, and we all saw dance moves that channeled Beyoncé and Shakira. You had to be there to see it, but take it from us - the Weenies' dance was on point!

"I thought it was an amazing way to welcome the new Weenies into the organization and shower us with love," said Fall 2013 Weenie Kiki Nicholas. "It was also a good way for people from other organizations to meet us! I also loved that we could invite our friends who were not in the organization so they could see the amazing group of girls I'm so lucky to call my sisters and new family."

From there on, they hit the dance floor with their fellow Weenie sisters, Actives, and friends, both new and old. Weenie O'ahu topped off a busy and unforgettable first weekend for our 26 newest faces, and marked the beginning of an incredible Weenie semester.

Welcome to the tradition, Weenies!
C I hope Fall 2013 danced the night away W Y

Also, special thanks to The Tejas Club for hosting another great Weenie O'ahu and to our Special Projects Haunts, Ashley and Sierra, for helping to make this a fabulous time as usual.

Introducing...Fall 2013 Weenies!

After weeks of recruitment events, Texas Spirits proudly presents our 26 newest Weenies!

Abz Zeitler

Alex Lawrence

Ashley Sereno

Audrey Nguyen

Avery Fazende

Brenna Pollock

Brianna Habala

Bridget McLaughlin

Colleen O'Neill

Gracie Lemley

Holly Cook

Kelsey Roberts

Kiki Nicholas

Kira Hamilton

Kruti Mehta

Mallory Dobias

Maria Hernandez

Morgan Neustein

Nisha George

Noor Mili

Nora Bismar

Olivia Arena

Paulina Dosal

Raveena Saini

Sarah Littlejohn

Sonia Montejano

WELCOME TO THE TRADITION! CIWY