Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio
03.29.2011 Vol. 45 Issue 10
The
Paisano
Shaken by Japanese
EARTHQUAKE P6: Spotlight: Club baseball
Associated Press
P8: New Fandemic app
P10: Making hoops history
A 9.0 magnitude earthquake leads to Tsunami and over $300 billion of damage.
Drunk driving still a problem in San Antonio Sergio Rios
paisanonews@sbcglobal.net The issue of drunk driving in Texas has been reignited with the death of 27-year-old Stephanie Brown. Brown, a San Antonio police officer, was killed in a head-on collision by a 31-year-old, alleged drunk driver who reportedly was driving the wrong way on I-35 when he struck Brown’s patrol unit around 2 a.m. According to SAPD data, last year alone, 55 fatalities were attributed to alcohol-related collisions in Bexar County. This was in addition to 5,769 drunk driving arrests . In an effort to reduce the alcohol-related offenses in San Antonio, the “no refusal” holiday weekend law was recently extended to every weekend in 2011. The “no refusal” law requires motorists suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol to undergo blood draws if they reject a field sobriety/ breathalyzer test. And it doesn’t stop there. Bexar County is also seeking to make the weekend-only “no refusal” law an everyday tool against drivers suspected of being under the influence. See, DRUNK DRIVING Page 2
Matt Dargan
paisanonews@sbcglobal.net On Thursday, March 24, Xavier Johnson and Victor Hinojosa were elected student government president and vice president. With a four percent voter turnout for the election for presidency, a key theme in the SGA’s plans centers around total participation, which they hope will yield high efficiency in the future. “What we’re really trying to achieve is total fluid sustainability for UTSA, and an exchange of active contribution from students, staff and community,” said current SGA Vice President Victor Hinojosa. “The more we offer environments where students can get used to communicating ideas with different people, the more they will feel empowered to be involved.” “It’s been a historic year,” said former SGA President Derek Trimm. “With student involvement on the rise, the goal is to continue to see an increased interchange between the student body and the community.” “Our administration was the central guiding force behind the Green Fund movement at UTSA, speaking to over 40 student organizations during the campaign season about the vote, which would take place the following month,” Trimm said.
Nevada senate approves handguns on campus
paisanonews@sbcglobal.net Japan was struck by the most powerful earthquake in its recorded history on March 11, triggering a tsunami that devastated its northeastern coastal region. The death toll is estimated to be over 10,000, with over 14,000 people still missing and as many as 19,000 living in shelters. Viewers around the world watched in shock as broadcast news stations aired video footage of the quake and subsequent tsunami, which Japanese international student Mao Yamada describes as “what looked like part of a movie.” Most of Yamada’s family and friends live near Tokyo and she has confirmed with them that they are all safe. In spite of this, she says the images in her mind of her homeland being overpowered by such a powerful natural disaster left her with an uneasy feeling. “I had a hard time falling asleep during spring break because aftershocks were continuously hitting Japan, so I was worried about my family so much,” Yamada said. Yamada explains that not everyone was fortunate enough to escape the wrath of the disaster. “One of my friends is from Sendai and her family lived there,” said Yamada. “The girl was in Tokyo, and I heard that she still hasn’t made contact with her parents. She actually drove to Sendai to find her family, but I don’t think she found them.” Sherrie Voss Matthews, media and marketing coordinator for the Office of International Programs (OIP), confirmed that UTSA had two students studying in southern Japan who have returned to the U.S. OIP has also reached out to more than 20 students from
Joseph Tidline/ The Paisano
New SGA officers elected
Angela Marin
Japanese club members Nana Ali, Nao Atsumi, and Associate Director Mimi Yu solicit donations on campus. Japan and sent them information on available counseling services. “Our thoughts and sympathies are with those who are affected by the events in Japan,” Matthews said. “Having had the opportunity to call Hiroshima my home for three years, I saw first-hand how this city, once demolished by the atomic bomb, has rebuilt itself and how its people are full of life,” Japanese instructor Keri Toma said. “I am sure that eastern Japan will follow suit.” Toma says the “gambari” or “do your best; keep fighting” spirit is a large part of the Japanese culture, and she has no doubt that the resilience of the Japanese will give them the strength and courage to rebuild and restore their country and people. Aside from widespread structural devastation, flooding and impaired telecommunication and electricity systems, Japan is now battling a nuclear crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant and threats of radiation contamination in sur-
rounding areas. Several explosions have been reported at the plant since the earthquake and tsunami struck the area. Plant workers continue their efforts to cool reactors in hopes of controlling radiation levels. “Japan now faces many challenges, including the environmental threat and health issues stemming from the possible meltdown of the nuclear plants,” said Mimi Yu, associate director of the UTSA East Asia Institute. “We will undoubtedly observe the regional business impact around the Sendai area as well as domestic and international business impacts related to Japan in the years to come.” The events that transpired in Japan have evoked significant support from nations around the globe. Yamada explains that seeing people come to Japan’s aid in this time of vulnerability is humbling. “I feel like we have to work together to make sure everything works out now,” Yamada said.
See SGA, Page 3
paisano-online.com
See JAPAN, Page 2
Associated Press A fight over concealed weapons on Nevada college campuses is about to hit the Senate floor after winning committee approval Friday. SB231 would allow people who are licensed to carry concealed weapons to bring their guns onto Nevada colleges and universities. Concealed weapons are currently allowed at universities and colleges with the campus president’s approval. Debate over the bill began last week with emotional support from witnesses such as Amanda Collins, who was raped in the parking garage at the University of Nevada, Reno. Collins, who is licensed to carry a concealed weapon, said if she had been allowed to be armed, she could have stopped serial rapist James Biela. Biela, a former Marine and pipefitter, was convicted last year and sentenced to death for the January 2008 killing and sexual assault of 19-yearold Brianna Denison. He was also sentenced to four life terms for raping Collins and another woman in late 2007. In her public testimony, Collins told the Senate Committee on Government Affairs that subsequent measures to make the area where she was attacked more safe are worthless. See HANDGUN, Page 3
P2
The Paisano
March 29, 2011
DRUNK DRIVING: One in every 12 drivers admit to having driven while drunk Graphic: Robert Calcagno
JAPAN: club helps with relief efforts From page 1 “Also I’m very thankful to people all over the world. So many people support Japan now, and many Japanese people are moved about it. I think this was a good chance for Japanese people to notice how many people are caring about us.” The Office of International Programs encourages those interested in donating to the Red Cross to visit the organization’s website or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation to help those affected by the Japan earthquake and Pacific tsunami. UTSA’s Japanese Club is holding a fund-raiser to benefit Japan earthquake/tsunami
Japanese devastations mostly affect the eastern shore line. relief efforts. To date, they have raised over $2,500. They will be accepting donations on March 29 and March 30. The downtown campus events will be in the FS breezeway from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The main campus events will be on the side of the McKinney Humanities Building (previously HSS) facing the JPL from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
From page 1 While these stricter laws seek to curb San Antonio’s drinking and driving offenses, many remain undeterred, particularly college-age drivers. “I just got a DWI,” said Shane Hinz, a UTSA freshman, “but it wasn’t really my fault; it was my friend’s fault.” “I’ve been drinking for a long time; every weekend; all the time,” Hinz continued candidly. “I can get really drunk, but I’ll never get to the point where I’m throwing up or anything; I can still function.” Aamir Drasalaa, a UTSA Senior Business Management student also tells of an unpleasant alcohol-related experience, although his response is a sharp contrast to Hinz’s cavalier attitude. “I don’t drink much anymore; I just ended up in the hospital with alcohol poisoning,” said Drasalaa. Although alcohol-related deaths and offenses have steadily declined since the 1980s,
alcohol-related incidents are especially common in a college environment. In fact, a recent survey by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that one in every 12 drivers admitted to driving while intoxicated at least once in the past year. Furthermore, the same study also declares that one in every five drivers confessed to driving within two hours of consuming an alcoholic beverage in the past year. When presented with this statistic, a recent UTSA graduate, who chose to remain anonymous, stated that she, and most of her college friends, have never truly used the designated driver system. “When we first turned 21, we used to try the designated driver thing, but we would always end up drinking because we got bored,” the unnamed student continued. “Then, no one really wanted to be the designated driver, so now it’s the least drunk one of us that drives.”
Historically, there is a spike in DUIs and DWIs in the summer months due, in part, to the warmer weather that lends itself to outdoor drinking activities like pool parties and river-rafting. However, San Antonio police say that the DWI task force will be reinforced and stealthily monitoring local hot spots for aggressive motorists. After all, according to Hinz “no one is really a good drunk-driver, even if you think you’re better at it than your friends.”
nomic development. “Dream it. Map it. Do it.” has become the slogan behind the campaign. What started as only ideas is now a strategic plan that has been mapped out in a portfolio for public viewing. It all began with three surveys distributed to San Antonio residents, targeting issues that were viewed as the most important to change or preserve. In one survey about the satisfaction of residents
with the quality of life in the city, only 4,271 people participated. An estimated 1,000 responded “very satisfied” while the majority felt “somewhat satisfied” or “not very satisfied.” In a Spanish version of the same survey distributed among residents, 94 people participated and 32 answered “muy satisfecho.” The last estimated population was taken in January of 2011 where nearly 1.5 million
residents were calculated in the San Antonio area, almost 300 times more than the number of participants in the survey. As a result of these surveys, Mayor Castro designated a few task forces to aid in different areas of interest to improve the quality of life, which will be funded by a $596 million bond for city investments.
COLFA EXPO What can I do with my major? 3/30/2011 10:00am-1:00pm
Check us out paisano-online.com City leaders propose vision for the future of San Antonio Pamela Maldonado
paisanonews@sbcglobal.net On March 19, 2011, San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro joined other city leaders at the UTSA downtown campus to reveal the strategic plan for SA2020. Castro, the leading force behind this effort, along with various community leaders such as Graham Weston, chairman of Rackspace Hosting; Darryl Byrd, managing
director of Pearl Brewery; and Sonia Rodriguez, attorney and chairwoman of the Mayor’s Commission on the Status of Women. SA2020, which began last September, has progressively become more than just a vision. It is a community-wide initiative that asks, “What do we want San Antonio to look like in the year 2020?” The most talked-about topics were education, downtown development, transportation, and eco-
See SA2020, Page 4
POOL PALOOZA MARCH 26, 11�5PM
fr ee fo od , m us ic & g re a t pr iz es
en te r to w in gr ea t pr iz es 42 ” LC D HD TV, an iP ad or X BO X 36 0 w ith Ki ne ct
apply online today
THEOUTPOSTSANANTONIO.COM
great location to campus. resort-style amenities. private bedrooms. free tanning. individual leases. 210.694.4777 | 6802 UTSA BOULEVARD SEE OFFICE FOR DETAILS | LIMITED TIME ONLY
FACEBOOK.COM/THEOUTPOSTSA
The Paisano
March 29, 2011
The U.S. calls air strikes on Libya Allison Tinn paisanonews@sbcglobal.net
While a lot of students were taking a break from the everyday hustle and bustle major events were changing the world. The devastating events in Japan was one, but another significant event is the United States taking military action to stop the attacks on civilians in Libya. President Obama issued a no-fly zone over Libya, the greatest gamble of his presidency. The no-fly zone was put in place stop the brutal airstrikes Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi had been executing on Libyan cities. Qaddafi, who had been in power for 40 years, had lost power of the eastern side of the country in February. At the beginning of March, Qaddafi forces began trying to take back some eastern oil cities and the United Nations stepped in and authorized the use of force to protect civilians. On March 19, America and European countries began to send out airstrikes against the Qaddafi government. Opinions have been split as to whether Obama should have involved the United States with military actions, and these past events have even been compared to those of the Iraq war in 2001. On Friday, March 25, NATO agreed to take command of the no-fly zone and the campaign to protect Libyan civilians.
SGA: New cabinet looks to improve quality of campus life
Lindsey Sumrall/ The Paisano
Hot Off The Press
From page 1 “We are hosting a UTSA Sustainability Forum during Earth Week this semester in which campus experts on sustainable practices will be speaking. “These efforts, along with the student support for the Green Fund, are beginning to change the administrative and student culture at UTSA, cementing our campus as one of the leaders on sustainability in Texas.”
NEWS
Advisor John Montoya announces results of 2011 SGA elections. From left: secretary elect Karina Kirlew, senator Austin Christensen, president elect Xavier Johnson, senator Autumn Lansford, senator Roger Cardenas. “Xavier Johnson, after having served as an executive in Trimm’s administration and having knowl-
edge of all of the current projects, will be able to pick up and run with it,” said SGA Academic
P3
Affairs Chairman Chris Weldon. “This will result in a swift and seamless transition to his administration and is a huge benefit to the students in that current projects will be able to continue being productive and be seen through to the end result. “I believe Johnson’s administration will be executed more effectively and the student body will get a broader view of the projects their student government acts on in their interest.” Johnson’s had this to say about his goals. “A large focus will be reaching out to students,” said Xavier Johnson. “Derek was extremely persistent, and we’re going to keep that persistence in combination with a strong and well informed student body to channel it.”
HANDGUN: Opponents of bill not buying the protection argument From Page 1 She said she would not have been able to reach the emergency call box that is there now because Biela had her pinned to the ground. Not just women support the bill. Assemblyman Scott Hammond, R-Las Vegas, told the committee last week that he sometimes feels unsafe at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he teaches. Hammond is licensed to carry a concealed weapon and told the committee he would consider bringing his firearm to campus if SB231 becomes a law. Bill sponsor Sen. John Lee, D-Las Vegas, called Nevada’s unarmed campuses “defenseless victim zones,” which he said some refer to as “criminal empowerment zones.”
Opponents, however, are not buying the personal protection argument. Nor are they swayed by arguments that bills like SB231 could prevent shootings such as those at Virginia Tech or Columbine High School in Colorado. Jim Richardson, a professor at UNR and a representative for the Nevada Faculty Alliance, called the proposition “ridiculous” and “crazy.” “It’s a tragedy waiting to happen,” he told The Associated Press in a phone interview. Richardson said the solution is to identify where unsafe areas are on campus and implement better lighting and foot patrols. “I just don’t buy the idea that more guns make campuses safer,” he said, adding that the Virginia Tech shooter, who killed 32 people in 2007, had a permit. The Nevada permitting
process is no better and is “full of holes,” Richardson said. “You can get a gun if you are mentally deficient,” he said. At Friday’s hearing, Lee said the Board of Regents had not contacted him to voice dissent. Later in the day, Dan Klaich, chancellor of the Nevada System of Higher Education, said that lack of contact should not be taken as an endorsement of the bill. “I do not support the bill,” Klaich said, adding that he, along with college and university presidents, “stood behind our chiefs of police who testified at the initial hearing and testified against the legislation.” UNR Police Chief Adam Garcia spoke against the bill during a March 18 hearing and reiterated his opposition Friday. “I am very disappointed it has made it as far as it has,”
he said. Friday’s dissenting vote on the committee came from Sen. Michael Schneider, D-Las Vegas. “I think this bill is something that we should not process. I’ve talked to several professors who live in my district. They are appalled that we’re even discussing this” Schneider said. He noted police testimony that crime is down. Right before the vote, Schneider told his colleagues, “This puts a scarlet letter on all our colleges to make a statement like this to the nation, and I will fight this bill.” “I’ll fight it on the floor if it makes it to the floor. I’ll fight it in the Assembly if it makes it to the floor,” he said.
Win an iPad! Complete your online course evaluations and get a chance to
WIN AN iPAD!
The more evals you complete, the better your chances to win!
Check your e-mail starting April 4 for messages from “UTSA Course Evaluations.” Or log on to ASAP.
NEWS
From page 2 One task forces to aid in different areas of interest to improve the quality of life. These improvements will be funded by a $596 million bond for city investments. One task force of high priority, the education task force, will be led by Charles Butt, President of HEB grocery. The education task force sets out to reduce the high school dropout rate in San Antonio which is approximately 40 percent. The goal is to reduce this rate by nearly half and to have more students enroll in a 2-year, 4-year or technical college. Another goal is to increase downtown housing and downtown employment. Currently downtown offers 3,383 housing units; the goal would be to in-
Mayor Julian Castro and city manager Sheryl Sculley reveal plans at UTSA downtown campus. crease to 5,000 units including more student housing. In 2000, 9.5 percent of 55,100 San Antonio employees were working in the downtown area. The vision for SA2020 is to increase the number to 25 percent or roughly 13,000 additional employees. Mayor Castro also envisions having San Antonio as a leading “green city.” His hope is to increase the number of green jobs from the current estimate of 12,000 to almost twice that by 2020 with a majority of that growth in high-tech green innovation. Although the mayor targets key points for improvement, he gave few specifics about how these improvements would be made.
Write for news! Meetings are every Thursday at 5:30 For more information please email: paisanonews@sbcglobal.net
March 29, 2011
As graduation closes in students prepare for graduate school Jose Camacho
paisanonews@sbcglobal.net According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a 2009 study titled “Education Pays” showed that median weekly earnings increased nearly 23 percent for a person with a master’s degree and 49 percent for one with a doctoral degree when compared to an average salary of $1,025 earned by someone with a bachelor’s degree. Similarly, workers with a bachelor’s degree are twice as likely to be unemployed when compared to those with a doctoral degree. The expectations from graduate students cover a broad scope ranging from the fulfillment of personal goals to a desire of having a higher earning position. In some instances, it’s a combination. “[A graduate degree] sets you apart from other applications while providing significant networking opportunities with professionals and potential employers,” Daniel Perales, MBA student with a concentration in Project Management, said. “Those who are graduating from college are not only competing against other graduates from some of the top schools in the nation, they are also competing against a lot of professionals that got laid out a couple of years ago,” Relaes said. “These professionals might
Katy Schmader \ The Paisano
SA2020: A dream for the future
The Paisano Courtesy of UTSA
P4
Graduate schools promote programs at the graduate fair in the McKinney Humanities building. have 10 to 20 years of experience and those are the ones who are probably going to get hired over someone who just received their undergraduate degree.” Audrey J. Magnuson, assistant director from the career center, encourages students to have some “experience under their belt,” which they can acquire through leadership positions in student organizations. “The employers I work with have a preference for students with experience,” Magnuson said. Contemporary standards are
higher and employers are looking not only for those with a strong work ethic, but also for students with a solid background and hands-on experience. Director of Graduate Recruitment and Retention Lisa M. Palacios said, “Under the strategic plan for the university, one of the main goals is to increase graduate population to 15 percent of the overall population compared to undergrad.” “The future looks promising for UTSA because this goal was established for 2016 and “right now we’re at about 14 percent,” Palacios said.” We’re hoping we will meet it ahead of time.” According to Palacios, UTSA’s new enrollment for graduate school increased almost 19 percent from 2009 to 2010. Master’s enrollment showed an increase of more than 22 percent, and doctoral degrees had a boost of more than 31 percent that the same period. The enrollment trend comes primarily from non-traditional students, part-time adult students who return to college for a graduate degree, who account for nearly 60 percent of the total graduate population. “President Romo has been very supportive in the expansion of UTSA’s graduate school” Palacios said. “In addition to new programs in the graduate school, grants have increased over the recent years.”
Write a letter to the editor! First three printable letters receive TWO FREE MOVIE TICKETS!!! Send letters to: paisanoeditor@sbcglobal.net
March 29, 2011
The Paisano
Editor-in-Chief: Joseph Tidline
Managing Editor: Vanessa Elizarraras
News Editor: Allison Tinn
Assistant News Editor: Ramsey Rodriguez
Features Editor: Joey Alabbassi
Arts Editor: Ruben Mercado
Assistant Arts Editor: Graham Norwood
Sports Editor: Stephen Whitaker
Photo Editor: Burk Frey
Graphics Editor: Robert Calcagno
Ads Manager: Kevyn Kirven
Editorial
The Paisano
OPINION
The loss of libraries means the loss of knowledge The proposed Texas budget will eliminate state funding for libraries, cutting key programs at academic libraries, public schools and public libraries. The budget’s first draft calls for a complete withdrawal of state funds for the TexShare program, which provides college students with access to thousands of online journals, reference and research materials. Another library program facing dramatic cuts is the Loan Star Libraries Grants, which delivers direct state aid to almost all of Texas’ more than 500 local public libraries. Texas has eliminated all funding for this critical program, which is used to help libraries stay open longer, upgrade equipment and pro-
vide support services for students, distance learners and job-seekers. According to the Library Journal, over 400 of the affected libraries in the state serve rural communities. These small-town libraries don’t have the kind of local funding needed to run efficiently without state aid. Why should the student body care about these institutions when we have our own library that provides sufficient service? UTSA students will be the next generation of community leaders and the sooner students start actively fulfilling their civic duties to the community the better. Libraries serve the city of San Antonio, and as students of the university, it is important that we stay
involved in the conflicts and controversies in the San Antonio community. These cuts won’t be the last. If the Texas education budget passes, our tuition may increase by $1,023. Why focus on libraries, though? This issue should be a call to action to those unaware of the major issues affecting education. It should not take the closing down of a community college, spikes in tuition or the increasing lack of financial aid to invigorate students to get involved. We should take control of our educational system by organizing our communities and exercising our right to vote for officials who care more about education than about the bottom line.
Corporate tax loopholes undermine our economy
Interim Web Editor:
Much has happened in the last few weeks since the most recent Paisano; the tsunami in Japan, spring break and the Libya conflict. However, the story that stuck out to me the most had to do with the United States Treasury losing an estimated 60 billion dollars in revenue (Kimberly Clausing – Reed College) to offshore tax havens by some of the brightest corporation stars of American progress. Here’s the kicker - all of this wonderful and irresponsible activity by US companies is perfectly legal (GASP!). I know what you’re thinking. “But, Cliff, I thought companies always consider the best interest of the American people when they make business decisions. Why would they want to avoid paying tax dollars?” I’m glad you asked that question, reader, because the answer for these companies’ actions can be summed up in one word: greed. Most people are aware that businesses are always trying to maximize profits and minimize costs. Decision making for many of the businesses is driven by the fact that the U.S. has the highest corporate
Dan Rossiter
Interns:
Dyan Lofton, Angela Marin, Ramsey Rodriguez, Sergio Rios
Staff: Eric Becerra, Samantha Burns, Dylan Crice, Brianna Cristiano, Graham Cull, Kristoffer Hellesmark, Victor H. Hernandez, Kayla Larsen, Megan Lovelady, Dana Messer, Cliff Perez, Katy Schmader
Contributing Staff:
Kristen Acosta, Maritza Avelar, Robyn Bramwell, Paty Castro, Matt Dargan, Micheal Gardiner, Nina Hernandez, Charles Horvilleur, Mark Muniz, HeeSun Park, Lindsey Sumrall
Advisor: Diane Abdo
Advisory Board: Steven Kellman, Mansour El Kikhia, Jack Himelblau, Sandy Norman, Matt Stern The Paisano is published by the Paisano Educational Trust, a nonprofit, tax exempt, educational organization. The Paisano is operated by members of the Student Newspaper Association, a registered student organization. The Paisano is NOT sponsored, financed or endorsed by UTSA. New issues are published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters, excluding holidays and exam periods. All revenues are generated through advertising and donations. Advertising inquiries and donations should be directed towards:
© The Paisano 14545 Roadrunner Way San Antonio, TX 78249 Phone: (210)690-9301 Fax: (210)690-3423 E-mail: paisanoeditor@sbcglobal.net
Send letters to:
paisanoeditor@sbcglobal.net Letters must be less than 400 words and include the writer’s name, classification or title and telephone number. The
Paisano reserves the right to edit all submissions.
Photo Poll What did you think of UTSA basketball’s involvement in the NCAA tournament?
Alex Vela Senior / art
“I didn’t know they had made it this year.”
Commentary
Business Manager: Jenelle Duff
P5
tax rate in the world (35 percent). Companies like Google, Facebook, and Pfizer move their intellectual property like computer code, patents, pill formulas, and logos to other countries that have lower tax rates (according CBS News). According to Jesse Drucker (Bloomberg) Google has cut its taxes by $3.1 billion in the last three years and reduced it’s oversees tax rate to 2.4 percent. This is especially harsh for Americans because taxpayers helped fund the startup of Google (ouch). Americans, through the U.S. National Science Foundation, funded the research in the mid 1990s at Stanford University that led to Google’s creation (Drucker). This harsh reality is especially tough as Texas is facing a budget shortfall of $27 billion. There is no magic bullet when it comes to curing the shortcomings of the U.S. and Texas budget deficits. President Obama has proposed that the corporate tax rate be lowered, while also trying to eliminate loopholes in the tax code. This sounds like an easy solution, but big businesses have a large lobbying presence in Washington. The truth of the matter is that many of these large companies that are holding back the change of our tax code are the
same people who helped tank our economy in the first place. I’d like to tell you a little story about U.S 26th President Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt. Roosevelt knew that corporations had too much power in the U.S. at the beginning of the 20th century. He believed that businesses had to be heavily regulated and watched if they were going to operate in the best interest of the American people. Roosevelt said “to destroy this invisible government, to dissolve the holy alliance between corrupt business and corrupt politics is the first task of the statesmanship of the day. This country belongs to the people. Its resources, its business, its laws, its institutions, should be utilized, maintained, or altered in whatever manner will best promote the general interest.” Wouldn’t it be a crazy idea if big businesses and the congress acted like they actually cared more about you and me than about appeasing themselves and fattening their wallets? Maybe then we could find ways to keep from cutting school budgets. I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of being kicked in the groin.
Aliya Readymoney Junior / business
“I’m not a big basketball fan, but when I heard UTSA was in, I had to watch.”
Marco Gorena Senior / art “I thought our team held their own in the first half against Ohio State.”
Cliff Perez Staff writer
Letter to the Editor
When history strikes don’t make today’s news tomorrow’s I doubt this will ever be published by The Paisano, but if it does then good on the Paisano. I’m writing this after 10 p.m. on March 16 to give you some perspective. Tonight the front page of the Paisano Online reads “BREAKING NEWS: UTSA trumps McNeese State in Southland Final, 75-72”. Seriously, UTSA Basketball had its first NCAA Tournament win today and the front page of the Paisano has a March 12 game as breaking news?
Also, the 2011 UTSA Student Government election ended last Wednesday, March 9 and the election results are nowhere to be found in the Paisano Online. For the Roadrunners to make school history and the biggest school election that happens once a year to not be found in the Paisano Online is pretty sad to me. I suppose we can be generous and give them 24 hours to publish the first school win at the Big Dance, but to not have any information at
all about the Student Government election a week after results were made public is simply ridiculous. I just hope the Paisano leadership finds the time to publish our biggest win in school history before we lose to the first seeded Ohio State on Friday, and also throws a bone to the students who actually do care about their student government and the future of UTSA.
Henrick Close Senior / biology “The NCAA win and Ohio State game were historic moments for UTSA basketball.”
Damon Garcia UTSA Alumnus
The Paisano encourages new comic submissions!
Mica Williams
Freshman / undeclared “I thought it was harsh that we had to play #1 Ohio State.”
Send to paisanoeditor@sbcglobal.net
The first three letters to the editor will win free movie tickets! Send letters to:
paisanoeditor@ sbcglobal.net
Nate Lopez Junior / business “I think the national exposure playing Ohio State was really beneficial to the university.”
The Bird Seed by Megan Lovelady
Photo Poll by Katy Schmader
FEATURES
P6
The Paisano
March 29, 2011
Spotlight: Club Baseball In its fourth year, club baseball holds largest membership in club history
Here’s How-to: How-to: Save on gas Joey Alabbassi
paisanofeatures@sbcglobal.net
Scott Reiner
paisanofeatures@sbcglobal.net
Courtesy of Scott Reiner
C
lint Fry steps out of his car in his bleach white baseball pants, navy blue jersey and crisp Roadrunners baseball cap. He strolls over to the dugout in Roadrunner field, sits down on the bench, and looks out on the field. He has to fill out the lineup card for the day. Fry remembers a time not too long ago when he was seeing his name on the card rather than writing in others’ names. He is a recent UTSA graduate who holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology (exercise science). However, when the club held its inaugural season just three years ago, he was the starting third baseman as well as team captain. “Coaching is a lot different,” Fry said. “The will to be in the game and be able to help my players first hand is still so strong.” Although Fry captained the team in its first year, he did not create it. Royce Alvarez, a senior civil engineering major, recognized the absence of baseball at UTSA outside its NCAA team and sought to remedy the situation. As he talked to more and more guys on campus, it became clear that the demand was strong enough to warrant the creation of UTSA Club Baseball. “The first year was rough,” Royce said. “We didn’t know a lot of teams so our schedule basically came down to the other teams already in our conference.” Royce steered the club through its turbulent infancy and developed a determination to improve it further as he was tapped to serve as presi-
UTSA Club Baseball plays at Roadrunner Field. From left-to-right: Ryan Hancock, Senior (left bucket), Doug Orta, freshman (right bucket), Eric Van Praag - freshman, Ryan Howard, junior (president), Ryan Vogler - sophomore, Josh Weber - freshman dent again in the second year. “We networked a lot in the summer between its first year and second year,” Royce explained. “We talked to JuCo teams and NAIA teams, and our schedule went from 12 games that first year to 33 games the second year.” The club’s third year in existence served as an important milestone in the history. While the club competed its first two years in Division II of The National Club Baseball Association, the NCBA awarded UTSA Club Baseball with a spot in the Division I Gulf Coast South Conference in just its third year of VFRV. In its first year competing in Division I, UTSA Club Baseball fell just short of capturing the conference
championship. Now in its fourth year, UTSA Club Baseball continues its ascension in the club sports program. It not only boasts the largest membership in club history, but also its largest schedule. Ryan Howard, the current club president, predicts even bigger things for the future of UTSA Club Baseball. “We’re gonna be one of the top teams for sure,” Howard said. “People knowing about us as we continue to grow will only increase our talent, and we’ll soon be competing for regional champs every year.” Howard, a junior business management major, has been a member of the club since its second year and has been impressed with the prog-
ress. However, just the club’s third president, is feeling some of the growing pains. “When the schedule works out, we’re able to play games on Roadrunner Field. But we’re not always lucky, and that means finding and financing a field. Practice facilities pose a similar problem,” Howard said. UTSA Club Baseball is currently leading the Gulf Coast South conference after wins over Lone Star College – Kingwood. The Roadrunners continue their quest for a championship when they take on Sam Houston State at Roadrunner Field on April 9 and 10.
This won’t be a how-to on how to save gas. Instead, these are some “tips” that turned out to be myths and don’t actually work. 1) Turn off the AC. Auto testing at Consumer Reports proves that running the AC uses such an insignificant amount more in gas, you may as well turn on the AC and be comfortable on a hot day. 2) Filling up when it’s cold outside. Get your gas in the evening or early morning when the fuel is cold. Gas is stored in cool underground tanks, so you can barely register a temperature difference. Get gas whenever. 3) Increasing tire pressure. If your tires are underinflated you will spend 3.75 percent more in fuel. Overinflated tires are just dangerous they reduce your grip on the road and can cause accidents. 4) Keeping the engine running. Wrong. Today’s fuel-injected cars are sufficient and don’t waste gas when you start them up. 5) Adding additives. Truth is additives are a complete waste of money according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Shocked? Instead of trying to find ways to improve fuel economy, try looking at the way you drive. If you avoid speeding, zipping between lanes, riding someone’s you-know-what and accelerating your engine so you quickly get up to speed you can improve your fuel efficiency by 33 percent! Driving sixty miles an hour on the highway will save you 25 percent in fuel efficiency.
We are a San Antonio Software Company that needs vehicles for a research project. We are using a no touch scanner to capture a 360 degree image of selected vehicles.
CALL (210) 576-2419 TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
QUALIFYING VEHICLES MUST:
Have no visible dents Not be dark in color (such as: black, darkest blue or darkest green) Make Acura Acura Acura Audi Audi Buick Buick Buick Buick Buick Cadillac Cadillac Cadillac Cadillac Cadillac Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chevrolet Chrysler Chrysler Chrysler Chrysler Chrysler Dodge Dodge Dodge Dodge Dodge Dodge Dodge Dodge Dodge Ford Ford
Model
Yr Range Body Type CL 1997 - 1999 coupe CL 2001 - 2003 coupe MDX 2007 - 2009 suv A4 2002 - 2005 sedan A4 quattro 2009 - 2011 sedan Century 1997 - 2005 sedan Enclave 2007 - 2011 suv Lesabre 2000 - 2005 sedan Lucerne 2006 - 2011 sedan Park Avenue 1997 - 2005 sedan CTS 2008 - 2011 sedan Deville 2000 - 2005 sedan DTS 2006 - 2011 sedan Seville 1998 - 2004 sedan SRX 2004 - 2009 sedan Cavalier 2003 - 2005 sedan Equinox 2010 - 2011 suv Express 1999 - 2002 van Malibu 2008 - 2011 sedan Malibu Maxx 2004 - 2007 wagon Monte Carlo 1995 - 1999 coupe Monte Carlo 2006 - 2007 coupe Prizm 1998 - 2002 sedan Suburban 2007 - 2011 suv Tahoe 2000 - 2001 suv Tahoe 2002 - 2003 suv Tracker 1999 - 2004 suv Venture 1997 - 2005 van Aspen 2007 - 2009 suv Concorde 1998 - 2001 sedan Sebring 1999 - 2000 sedan Sebring 2004 - 2006 sedan Town and Cntry 2008 - 2010 van Caravan 2001 - 2004 van Caravan 2005 - 2007 van Dakota 1997 - 2004 truck Dakota 2005 - 2010 truck Dakota 2005 - 2010 truck Grand Caravan 2008 - 2010 van Journey 2008 - 2011 suv Ram 2500 1994 - 2002 truck Stratus 2003 - 2006 sedan 500 2005 - 2007 sedan E series 1992 - 2008 van
Make Ford Ford Ford Ford Ford Ford Ford Ford Ford Ford GMC GMC GMC GMC GMC Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda Honda Hyundai Hyundai Hyundai Hyundai Infiniti Infiniti Infiniti Jeep Jeep Jeep Jeep Jeep Kia Kia Kia Kia Kia Kia Land Rover
SEE THE LIST OF VEHICLES NEEDED BELOW
Model Excursion Explorer F150 F150 F150 F150 F350 F350 Freestar Freestyle Acadia Envoy XL Yukon Yukon Yukon XL Accord Accord Civic CRV CRV Fit Fit Odessey Pilot Accent Santa Fe Tucson XG300 G37 I30 M35 Cherokee Cherokee Compass Patriot Wrangler Optima Optima Rio Rondo Sorento Spectra Discovery
Yr Range Body Type 2000 - 2005 suv 2006 - 2010 suv 1997 - 2004 reg 1997 - 2004 truck 2004 - 2008 truck 2009 - 2011 truck 1997 - 2004 truck 2005 - 2008 truck 2004 - 2007 van 2005-2006 suv 2007 - 2008 suv 2002 - 2006 suv 1992 - 1999 suv 2007 - 2010 suv 1998 - 2009 suv 1994 - 1995 sedan 2001 - 2002 sedan 2008 - 2011 sedan 2001 - 2004 suv 2010 - 2011 suv 2006 - 2008 suv 2009 - 2011 sedan 2008 - 2010 van 2006 - 2008 suv 2000 - 2004 sedan 2007 - 2011 suv 2004 - 2009 suv 1998 - 2005 suv 2008 - 2010 sedan 2000 - 2004 sedan 2006 - 2007 sedan 1997 - 1999 suv 2000 - 2001 suv 2007 - 2011 suv 2007 - 2011 suv 2004 - 2006 suv 2000 - 2005 sedan 2006 - 2010 sedan 2003 - 2005 sedan 2007 - 2010 suv 2000 - 2004 sedan 2004 - 2006 sedan 2000 - 2004 suv
Make Lexus Lexus Lexus Lexus Lexus Lincoln Lincoln Lincoln Lincoln Mazda Mazda Mazda Mazda Mazda Mazda Mazda Mazda Mazda Mazda Mercedes Mercedes Mercedes Mercedes Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury Mercury Mitsubishi Mitsubishi Mitsubishi Mitsubishi Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan
Model ES 350 ES300/330 GS 300 GX470 RX350 MKX MKZ Navigator Town Car 3 5 6 626 CX-9 CX-9 CX-9 Protégé Tribute Tribute C class CLK class CLK class E class Grand Marquis Grand Marquis Mariner Mountaineer Mountaineer Endeavor Galant Lancer Eclipse 350Z Altima Altima Frontier Frontier Maxima Maxima Maxima Rogue Sentra Titan
Yr Range Body Type 2007 - 2011 sedan 2002 - 2006 sedan 2006 - 2009 sedan 2003 - 2009 suv 2010 - 2011 suv 2007 - 2010 sedan 2007 - 2010 sedan 2000 - 2002 suv 2003 - 2010 sedan 2010 - 2011 sedan 2005 - 2010 sedan 2009 - 2010 sedan 2000 - 2002 sedan 2001 - 2003 suv 2004 - 2006 suv 2007 - 2011 suv 2001 - 2002 sedan 2001 - 2003 suv 2004 - 2008 suv 1993 - 2000 sedan 1996 - 2002 sedan 2003 - 2005 sedan 2003 - 2004 sedan 1995 - 1997 sedan 2006 - 2011 sedan 2005 - 2007 suv 2002 - 2003 suv 2002 - 2005 suv 2004 - 2006 suv 2008 - 2011 sedan 2004 - 2006 sedan 2000 - 2004 coupe 2004 - 2006 coupe 2005 - 2006 sedan 2010 - 2011 sedan 2005 - 2011 truck 2005 - 2011 truck 2002 - 2003 sedan 2004 - 2006 sedan 2009 - 2010 sedan 2008 - 2010 suv 1997 - 1999 sedan 2004 - 2007 pickup
paisano-online.com
Time involved is 1.5 hours Will pay $50.00 per vehicle scan Scans are conducted 7 days a week 8am – 4:30pm Actual scanning done at 2 locations - close to campus and close to airport Make Nissan Nissan Pontiac Pontiac Pontiac Saturn Saturn Saturn Saturn Scion Subaru Subaru Subaru Subaru Subaru Subaru Suzuki Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Toyota Volvo Volvo Volvo VW VW VW
Model Titan Xterra Grand Prix Torrent Vibe L series Ion SL VUE xD Forester Forester Forester Impreza Legacy Outback Forenza 4Runner Avalon Corolla Echo FJ Cruiser Highlander Highlander Matrix Prius RAV4 RAV4 Sequoia Sequoia Sienna Solara Tacoma Tacoma Tundra Tundra Venza Yaris S60 S60 S70 Passat Passat Rabbit
Yr Range Body Type 2008 - 2011 truck 2005 - 2010 suv 2001 - 2002 sedan 2006 - 2009 suv 2003 - 2008 sedan 2000 - 2005 sedan 2003 - 2007 sedan 1996 - 1997 sedan 2008 - 2010 suv 2007 - 2010 hatch 2003 - 2005 wagon 2006 - 2008 wagon 2008 - 2010 wagon 2008 - 2011 sedan 2004 - 2009 sedan 1998 - 2004 wagon 2002 - 2008 sedan 2003 - 2005 suv 1997 - 1999 sedan 1993 - 1997 sedan 1998 - 2005 suv 2007 - 2009 suv 2001 - 2007 suv 2008 - 2010 suv 2009 - 2011 hatch 2009 - 2010 sedan 2001 - 2003 suv 2004 - 2005 suv 2003 - 2004 suv 2005 - 2007 suv 2001 - 2003 van 2004 - 2009 coupe 1998 - 2002 reg 2008 - 2011 truck 2000 - 2004 truck 2007 - 2009 truck 2009 - 2011 suv 2008 - 2010 hatch 2001 - 2002 sedan 2003 - 2005 sedan 1998 - 2000 sedan 2001 - 2005 sedan 2006 - 2010 sedan 2006 - 2009 sedan
The Paisano The Paisano
29, 2011 2March
FEATURES
P7
August 26, 2008
Internships will save your future Julianne Rodriguez
Courtesy of expresspros.com
paisanofeatures@sbcglobal.net What does the word internship mean to you? You may feel it has no impact on your future, however, the benefits of internships are often overlooked. In any career, having knowledge of specific techniques and job tasks is imperative, but experience in your career field can be the key to ultimate success. The advantages that come with an internship, are outstanding enough to say one would be foolish to pass an internship opportunity. Christian Corrales, Internship Coordinator at the UTSA University Career Services, feels that “exposure to the work environment, the chance to learn from current professionals, establishing networking and professional communication skills, and a strong resume builder,” all qualify as
important byproduct of internships. Along with the greater probability of “an internship leading to a full time job.” Along with many other universities, UTSA offers many helpful resources including the UTSA University Career Services. The Career Services provides a multitude of services that aid students in progressing towards a successful professional career. “Unfortunately,“ Corrales said, “I feel the Career Services center is an under-utilized service amongst the UTSA students, including the internship opportunities. “Many students have other obligations than just school and work. Sometimes those responsibilities make it difficult to set aside time for an internship.” However, an internship, short term or long term, goes miles in rewards. Ultimately, both a student and a
business benefit in the internship process. An internship allows a student to transition from college to work, classroom to practical setting, and as an intern to career. Corrales explains an internship “bridges the gap, enhances academic research,” and supplies the intern with constructive knowledge. Even though the business is benefiting from an intern, the intern is benefiting from the practical experience. In some situations interns are paid. Corrales believes “students should not be undervalued,” but at the same time all internship opportunities should be taken advantage of. “As a university, we encourage employers to compensate their interns because sometimes it all comes down to competition among other companies and whether an internship is appealing or not.”
Kendra Jefferson, senior sociology major, is a paid intern at Avalon Place apartments, just across from UTSA located on UTSA Boulevard. “Our mission at Avalon Place and also as an intern, is to build a better student living environment,” Jefferson said. She is very happy with her internship and fells she is significantly advancing in her career goals. “This internship is very beneficial for me because I would like to obtain my real estate license after I graduate. I receive hands-on experience, and I am getting a good idea of how real estate works,” Jefferson says. What does Jefferson think is the most important aspect of internships? “It is the ultimate step above the inexperience,” Jefferson said.h
Make test-taking easy as 1, 2, 3 Dyan Lofton
paisanofeatures@sbcglobal.net What do you do when Red Bull won’t help you stay awake? What is the secret to acing a test? Three simple steps will get you on the right track: prepare, take the test review. According to Study Guides and Strategies, analyze how you did on a similar test in the past, arrive early, be comfortable but stay alert and remain relaxed and confident. These tips can be helpful when preparing for tests. “I sit in my room and go over my notes until I feel like I know it all,” junior psychology major Vanessa
Usparriz said. In order to stimulate her mind for taking tests, she eats chocolate during the day. “Study with flashcards and highlight everything that is important in your notes,” suggests senior public relations major Charity Evans. She also drinks a Dr. Pepper, a Monster, or a Vanilla Frappuccino from Starbucks. “I always have snacks,” Evans said. “When I’m eating, I can’t fall asleep.” Senior early childhood development major Ernestine Jackson has some studying methods such as using flashcards and writing the question and answer over and over again.
Some of Jackson’s more unconventional methods is to make the test material into a rap. Most importantly, make sure you have a sufficient amount of rest before taking a test. If you are tired, you will be unable to think as clearly as you’d like and mistakes may happen. Also, eat breakfast when you wake up. According to WebMD.com “adults need to eat breakfast each day to perform their best. By recharging your brain and body, you’ll be more efficient in just about everything you do.” The day of the test, consider reading the entire test before answering any questions. Next, Study Guides
You’ll find it in Aldine! Starting Salary without experience
$45,014 Up to $4,000 critical needs available
Potential Positions: School Administrators All areas Teachers Elementary School All subjects Middle School All Subjects Secondary Math, Science, English / In Aldine ISD, you’ll find... Language Arts, Spanish, CATE t ( NYLH[ ^VYR LU]PYVUTLU[ Special t ( :[H[L 9LJVNUPaLK 4LU[VYZOPW 7YVNYHT Education t 6UL VM [OL OPNOLZ[ ZHSHYPLZ PU ;L_HZ All areas, t ( KP]LYZL Z[\KLU[ HUK [LHJOLY WVW\SH[PVU Diagnostician t 5H[PVUHS YLJVNUP[PVU MVY OPNO WLYMVYTHUJL All Grades t ( ]PIYHU[ TL[YVWVSP[HU JVTT\UP[` Q\Z[ TPU\[LZ Bilingual, MYVT [OL VJLHU ESL / TSOL, Speech Pathologist To schedule an interview or apply for a position, please visit our 0329.INSDS.4.5x5.SAUTP:Layout 1 3/24/11 PM Page 1 Other web-site at www.aldine.k12.tx.us or call us at1:59 281-985-6306. Aldine Independent School District
15010 Aldine Westfield Road · Houston, Texas 77032 Phone: 281-985-6306 · Internet: www.aldine.k12.tx.us
and Strategies says answering the easier questions first will build your confidence, help get points and mentally orient yourself on the vocabulary, concepts and studies. Then, proceed to the more difficult questions. Study Guides and Strategies also says when answering the more difficult questions to first eliminate the answers that you know are wrong or likely to be wrong. With essay questions, be sure to outline your answers. After you feel you have answered everything to the best of your ability, be sure to review your test. As Study Guide and Strategies says, “Resist the urge to leave as soon as you have completed all the
items.” Review the test and be sure to answer all the questions ensuring that no mistakes have been made. Also, proofread spelling, grammar and punctuation when answering essay questions. When you leave the room, relax. What’s done is done. Reflecting on answers will not change your grade, especially if you feel you did poorly. Instead, wait to receive your grade and if it’s not the grade you wanted, try harder next time. Don’t be too hard on yourself. If you follow these tips, you may do better on the following test.
FREE g n i k Chec ! s y a P t a h T ee fr l il st is t n u o c c a g in k ec h Our c k c a b sh a c ¢ 0 1 s er b em m s and pay ! on every debit card purchase
“THE SCARIEST MOVIE IN DECADES!” -Ed -Ed Douglas, Douglas, COMINGSOON.net COMINGSOON.net
I-‐10 @ UTSA Branch 14410 I-‐10 W. (Next to Costco)
IN THEATERS EVERYWHERE APRIL 1 FOLLOW US ON
4.5" x 5"
AND
CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES
www.insidious-movie.com
SAN ANTONIO - UT THE PAISANO
Artist:
(circle one:)
AE:
(circle one:)
UTSA students and employees are eligible for membership.
paisano-online.com TUES 3/29
ART APPROVED
Join online – rbfcu.org 210-‐945-‐3300 | 1-‐800-‐580-‐3300 Federally insured by the NCUA
ARTS
P8
The Paisano
March 29, 2011
There’s a brand new Graham Norwood
paisanoarts@sbcglobal.net UTSA senior Joseph Zambrano is the brain behind the groundbreaking new app called “Fandemic,” a feature for music lovers that will be available in two weeks. In addition to promoting the app at South by Southwest this year, Zambrano and his team held an upscale kick-off party at Endless Music on March 24, a celebration that included appearances by several local musicians. The app, a music-lover’s dream, is a database designed to let its user access information about live music in their area. The user can type in anything—the name of a band, a date, a location—and be given upcoming show times. Fandemic’s purpose is to keep its user in the know about all the live music in the area: information about the artist or band, about the venue— even directions! It comes as no surprise that Zambrano loves all music genres. The whole concept of Fandemic originated when Zambrano left his apartment one evening in search of live
music and wished he had some sort of instant guide as to what was playing and where. Zambrano, a business management major, put his skills to work for a cause that he thought was very important. “Music,” he explains, “is a big factor in everybody’s life.” “Everybody should have access to it.” But Zambrano created Fandemic for more than just music listeners. Fandemic’s website is designed as a kind of marketplace for local bands, making it easier for them to spread their names. He says the website will be even more interactive than the app because it will feature postings, recent videos and marketing tools for small bands. In short, Fandemic’s website will be a social network specifically for independent artists. “We wanted a way for local bands to communicate with their fans,” Rochelle Gonzalez, Zambrano’s main assistant, said. According to Zambrano, “music’s heading back to the local scene.” As South By Southwest demonstrated this year, the indie music world is rapidly growing in popularity. Fandemic seeks to assist and capital-
ize on that popularity. It’s hard to generate an iTunes app from just an idea. After all, how does one make an app? Zambrano, who admitted he had no background in computer science, quickly assembled a team of about six or seven equally dedicated music enthusiasts who knew their way around software programming. After all the paperwork, the app really just needed information. Gonzalez said most of their information comes from iTunes’ database. A good amount of the information, however, will come from users once the app is put on the market. Like the name implies, Fandemic, a fan-driven pandemic of local music enthusiasm, will spread by electronic word of mouth. Zambrano speculates that, in a year “this app will be the most comprehensive guide to local music in the country.” And he’s already on his way there. San Antonio is just the birthplace. In a few months, another opening party will take place, this time in Los Angeles. By then, Fandemic may spread like a real pandemic.
Katy Schmader/The Paisano
Fandemic
From left: Jose Salmon, Rochelle Gonzalez, Joseph Zambranno, Amy Hermes, Dominique Arvizu, and Abigail Curry celebrate the release of Fandemic at the official release party.
Next week in the Paisano
• Coverage of the Strawberry Fesitval • Cool concert places in San Antonio
• A look at bands starting up right here at UTSA • Information on the Santiko’s scholarships given to UTSA
Online this week
• An extended look at the Alamo Drafthouse theatre chain and what makes it tick. • A review of the play “Darkside of the Rainbow”
To check out The Paisano’s story on the Drafthouse, read it online at paisano-online.com
Photo courtesy of Rochelle Gonzalez
Alamo Drafthouse, which has locations in San Antonio, was recently named by Entertainment Weekly as one of the top ten theaters in the country.
ARTS
The Paisano
March 29, 2011
R e v iew: Sucker Pu nch p acks vis u a l punch, no t mu ch e l s e
P9 UTSA advisor by day, rocker by night
Dylan Crice
paisanoarts@sbcglobal.net
Pamela Maldonado
Director Zack Snyder’s (“300�/ “Watchmen�) “Sucker Punch,� an incoherent mess of a film, suffers from a cluttered narrative and overly ambitious thematic material. The film is set in two different realities. In one reality, the film’s central character Baby Doll (Emily Browning/ “The Uninvited�) is framed for the death of her sister and must escape from a psychiatric asylum (which she conceptualizes as a brothel) before being lobotomized in five days. Throughout her stay at the asylum, Baby Doll and an assortment of other scantily clad inmates must entertain guests with a hypnotic “dance� that somehow transports them to dream worlds, where the inmates must collect five items that will aid them in their escape. These dream worlds combine a mismatch of fantasy genres, where the samurai sword-wielding femme fatales must battle Nazi zombies, fire breathing dragons, and mechanical cyborgs. While the film’s stunning visuals and epic battle sequences may cause audiences to geek out, the film’s confusing storytelling and disjointed execution are a major disappointment. The film’s protagonists are bland and do little to differentiate themselves from one another. Browning is competent as the heroine Baby Doll, despite the lack of depth to her character. The film’s other cast members include the tough sisters Sweet Pea (Abbie Cornish) and Rocket (Jena Malone/ “Saved�), a brunette named Blondie (Vanessa Hudgens, “High School Musical�), and the mech-suit piloting Asian
Doing what you like is freedom; liking what you do is happiness. A motto everyone aspires to achieve, but only a few accomplish. Charlie Fraga, UTSA College of Business Academic Advisor, is one man who is true to this concept of ‘doing what you love.’ Fraga is student ally by day and rhythm guitar connoisseur by night. Daily, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fraga is winning the interests of many students with his personality and likeability. Little do they know, that after the clock ticks out at 5 p.m., he transforms into a musical talent few know about. Him, Her and the Room was created by lead guitarist, Steven Jasik who then recruited Holly Petty as vocalist. After writing all original tunes and practicing some covers, Jasik then recruited The Room, otherwise known as Charlie Fraga as rhythm guitarist, Eric Macias as a drummer and UTSA alum Chris Weinman on bass. In just one year the band has gone from a single member to full fledge performers. With an indie, folk-rock sound, the band gains inspiration from some of the greats such as Radiohead, Johnny Cash and Ryan Adams. Fraga, as a guitarist, gets his inspiration from the likes of Chuck Berry, Buddy Guy and Johnny Mathis who brought effortless creativity to rock when the genre was not only just emerging but thought reckless and raw. Fraga and the other members of the band may not be touring performing all over the world but they are all an example of what it means to do what you love. The members are able to create music and inspire each other with their sounds that translate musical notes into emotion. As a group, they not only fulfill their desires to just play for themselves, they are now also playing for others. With more than a few original songs under their belt, they also have covers in their lineup from Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,� to Damien Rice’s “9 Crimes.� After just one year as a group, they have already performed at local venues, The Quarry and The Cove, but are also now in the process of releasing a professionally mastered EP titled “No Way Out.� Only a few hundred copies will be made for distribution so make sure to catch them at their next gig Saturday, Apr. 16 at Hot Tin Roof. You can also check out their band site at www.himherandtheroom.com or visit their facebook page for more performance dates. To see Charlie Fraga perform an acoustic solo gig, visit www. fralos.com for a show date in May.
Photo courtesy of Warner Brothers
paisanoarts@sbcglobal.net
The style over substance mentality of the film Sucker Punch is reflected in the poster advertising the film.
Amber (Jamie Chung, “Real World: San Diego�). Cornish, as Sweet Pea, is one of the more well-developed characters, although her conflicting interactions with her sister Rocket could have been fleshed out more. Carla Gugino (“Sin City�/ “Watchmen�) is forgettable as the Russian dance instructor that teaches the girls how to enter the dreamscapes, and actor Oscar Issac does his best with the material that he’s been given as the film’s smarmy pimp villain Blue Jones. Everything in “Sucker Punch� demonstrates an exercise in style over substance. The film’s eye popping digital visuals in the dream
scenes are truly imaginative but don’t offer any continuity within the grand scheme of the story. The girls usually shoot and slash their way through hundreds of enemies in pursuit of the objects of their quests. The fight scenes are well-choreographed, featuring world shattering samurai duels, spectacular mech-suit battles with Nazi planes and plenty of mayhem to satisfy the average action junkie. The settings of these unrelated dream worlds shift among ice-encrusted Japanese temples, the trenches of World War II, medieval castles and a futuristic bullet train. When the film is not indulging in
senseless action set pieces, it is usually devolving into a series of melodramatic music video-like sequences that try to convey the overall story. With the exception of the well-made intro sequence, these scenes take away from the overall film. “Sucker Punch� had the potential to be a good movie, but it stumbles to incorporate all of its ideas into the architecture of its story. The film could have also benefited from better editing and directing from its visionary director Zack Snyder. The film is lacking in its muddled storytelling. Paisano Rating Score: D+
Entrepreneurship Fair at UTSA
A
Entrepreneurship Fair
Students at UTSA from the College of Business Entrepreneurship program and students from across campus invite you to come see for yourselves what kind of ventures they created. There are items to buy, freebies, and fun - all from student owned businesses.
March 31 from 10:00 5:00 p.m.
Business Building, 2nd floor hallway (from one end to the other) Interested in writing
Allison Linahan,
for arts? Our meetings
President CEO
are Thursday at 5:30
210-414-3610
Email: utsaceo@gmail.com
CEO-Legacy
p.m. Come on by!
458-2505
P10
SPORTS
Time out with the coaches: Aaron Fox
The Paisano
March 29, 2011
CHAMPIONS!
File Photo
Editor’s Note: This is the fifth in a series of stories on UTSA coaches.
Aaron Fox
Sergio Rios
paisanosports@att.net UTSA’s Director of Track & Field/ Cross Country Aaron Fox will be needing a larger office and storage unit in the near future. After earning a sixth consecutive Southland Conference Indoor Coach of the Year award and the South Central Region Coach of the Year for the second time in four years, Fox - and his hardware - seem to have outgrown their portable-building office space. The Torrence, California, native grew up outside of Flagstaff, Arizona, where he excelled in track and field during high school. His college career was cut short after a series of knee injuries at UT Austin. Fox recently sat down with The Paisano to discuss life in the winning lane. How did you start in coaching? After I graduated [from UT, in 1999], I came to San Antonio and was doing some odds and ends - still trying to figure out what I was go-
ing to do - and I said to myself, ‘Ok, I want to get back in the sport’. So I came over to UTSA and asked the coaches if they needed any help. Que McMaster, the [track and field] head coach at the time, said to me, ‘Ya, I’d love to have you, but I can’t pay you.’ So I volunteered my time for a year, and I guess I did a good enough job for them because the next year I was hired on as an assistant coach. Eventually, Que moved on and they put me in charge of the men’s team. Then, Coach [James] Blackwood retired, and they combined the programs under me. What is the best part of being a coach at UTSA? The transformation that has happened in the 10 years that I’ve been here is amazing. Being part of this place, seeing it grow, setting the legacy, starting the tradition, I’ve really enjoyed that. It’s been a fun ride here at UTSA. I enjoy it here and, you know, I can see myself staying here for my entire coaching career. If you weren’t coaching, what would you be doing? Well, I really haven’t thought about doing anything else besides coaching [laughs]. In college, though, I did some DJ’ing on the side. I’ve actually dealt with producing music, so maybe I would have pursued musical-type stuff a little bit more. Who has been your biggest influence? Bubba Thornton, my head coach at the University of Texas; he’s someone I still call on a weekly basis. He’s accomplished everything in the sport. He has been a great mentor. Next Week: golf coaches John Knauer and Carrie Parnaby
Burk Frey/ The Paisano
Track coach rises from unpaid Volunteer to head coach at UTSA
The Roadrunners were unbeaten in March until a 75-46 loss to Ohio State in the NCAA Tournament.
Roadrunners grab Southland crown, first victory in NCAA Tournament Stephen Whitaker paisanosports@att.net
From March 2 to March 18, The Roadrunners went on a wild ride. Beginning with the final home game against Central Arkansas and ending in Cleveland, Ohio, in the NCAA tournament; the Roadrunners went 6-1. In that time, the Roadrunners won must-win game after must-win game, including a victory over Alabama State in the first round of the NCAA tournament. Before the Roadrunners got to Dayton to face Alabama State, they had to run a gauntlet beginning on the second day of March. As the woeful Central Arkansas Bears came to town on March 2, the stakes were simple for UTSA: win the last two regular season games and keep playing or lose one and a trip to Katy would be lost. The win over the Bears meant that it was win or go home in Arlington on March 5.
Down 10 at the half, The Roadrunners dug deep and came back to win 68-63. The Roadrunners would become the seven seed in the Southland tournament in Katy. Their first opponent would be the Northwestern State Demons, the two seed in the tournament. Again, the Roadrunners faced a double-digit deficit in the second half, this time 14 points with 7:40 left. Devin Gibson did what he had to do to guide the Roadrunners to the victory, recording a triple-double as the Roadrunners won 97-96. The next day, the Roadrunners would face a Sam Houston squad that had won the previous two meetings this year. The Roadrunners carried the momentum from the day before and knocked the defending conference champions out, 79-70. March 13 marked the conference championship game. Only McNeese stood between Devin Gibson and a
ticket to the big dance. In a tight back-and-forth battle the Roadrunners pulled out a 75-72 victory and a berth in the NCAA tournament. By winning the Southland title, the Roadrunners earned an automatic bid as a 16 seed. Their first opponent would be a fellow 16 seed, the Alabama State Hornets. The final win of the season would come on March 16 when the Roadrunners topped the Hornets, 70-61 in the first round of the NCAA tournament in Dayton, Ohio. Melvin Johnson III scored 29 and the Roadrunners led by as much as 28. By virtue of defeating the Hornets, the Roadrunners hopped on a bus and drove to Cleveland, Ohio, for a second round matchup with the number one overall seed Ohio State. The Roadrunners (20-14) took an early lead, but the Buckeyes were too big, too fast and too deep for UTSA.
FRIDAY, APRIL 1
High School Day Keith Bowden & OLLU Choir 10 -11:15 a.m. • Thiry Auditorium
Carmen Tafolla
12 -12:45 p.m. • UWAC Gym
Sandra Cisneros
1 - 2:30 p.m. • Thiry Auditorium
FRIDAY- SUNDAY, APRIL 1-3 & 8-10
Burk Frey/ The Paisano
Crimes of the Heart
UTSA Director of Athletics Lynn Hickey presents the trophy to VCU. The Rams won the Southwest Region and advanced to the final four.
UTSA hosts NCAA Sweet 16 regional Stephen Whitaker paisanosports@att.net
For four days this weekend, UTSA played host to the Southwest Region of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship. In an event popularly known as the Sweet 16, four teams came to San Antonio, all with one goal in mind: to win the Southwest Regional title and hop on I-10 to Houston for the Final Four. The competitors in the Southwest Region were the number one seed Kansas Jayhawks, the number 10 seed Florida State Seminoles, the number 11 seed Virginia Commonwealth (VCU) Rams and the number 12 seed Richmond Spiders. There was excitement all around the building as the Rams and Spiders both hailed from Richmond, Virginia. In the first semifinal, the number one seed Jayhawks took on the Spiders in a game that had all the excitment of a pre-school nap. The Jayhawks ended any hope of an all-Richmond city championship and ran off with the win, though those in attendance were serenaded
with the famous “Rock Chalk KU” chant as the clock wound down. Although the first semifinal fell short in excitement, the second semifinal between VCU and Florida State more than made up for it as the Rams and Seminoles played a nail-biter that came down to the wire. Twice, Florida State had a chance to win the game, but a missed shot at the end of regulation forced overtime, and a missed shot in the overtime allowed the Rams to advance to their first-ever Elite-Eight appearance. Sunday’s Regional Final saw Goliath (Kansas) facing off against David (VCU). Like David, VCU slew its Goliath in a game that was close only a few times. Kansas jumped out and looked ready to book a spot in Houston, but VCU took the lumps and came back with a vengance. Playing for Richmond and underdog lovers everywhere, VCU jumped on Kansas and went into the halftime break up 14 points. Kansas would try to mount comebacks in the second half, but each time VCU would do enough to hold off the Jayhawks.
OLLU Drama Dept. production 24th Street Theatre Friday - Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 2:30 p.m. Ticket prices: $7 general admission; $3 students, faculty, staff with ID
MONDAY, APRIL 4
Favorite Poem Project Sponsor: Sigma Tau Delta 4 p.m. • Providence Hall, West Social Room
Open Mic Performance
7 p.m. • Providence Hall, West Social Room Sponsor: English Department graduate students
TUESDAY, APRIL 5
Faculty Reading
12:15 p.m. • Providence Hall, West Social Room Antoinette Winstead, Nan Cuba, Yvette Benavides, Michael Lueker
Gabriela Garcia Medina
7 p.m. • Thiry Auditorium Sponsor: University Programming Council
FEATURED WRITERS
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6
Andrew Porter and Grace Dane Mazur
7 p.m. • Thiry Auditorium
THURSDAY, APRIL 7
Mujeres Writing Group
SANDRA cisneros
3 - 4 p.m. • Library Community Room
Chitra Divakaruni
7 p.m. • Thiry Auditorium
CHITRA
divakaruni
GRACE DANE mazur
GABRIELA ANDREW porter GARCIA medina
For more information, please visit www.ollusa.edu/LitFest The Literary Festival is Sponsored by The Richard and Joyce Harris Sapience Foundation Our Lady of the Lake University • San Antonio, TX, 78207 • 210-434-6711 • www.ollusa.edu
paisano-online.com
Work in Progress Are We
paisanosports@att.net
paisanosports@att.net
The hardwood heroes are Southland champions. Blowout against Ohio State aside, We were 1-1 in the NCAA tournament. That win against Alabama State was the first win for any UTSA team in an NCAA tournament. But all this popularity has led to a problem: The national media still calls us Texas-San Antonio, even though we are officially UTSA. It even says in our weekly basketball press release to call us UTSA, yet throughout both the Alabama State game and the Ohio State game the announcers rarely called us UTSA. Even the scoreline on the bottom of the screen read TX-SA. Now some of that might have been because we were in the dance for the first time since 2004. But it might also have to do with the announcers failing to turn to page seven of our weekly press release which says in big letters: “WE ARE UTSA�. If we are going to be “the next great Texas university�, we must drive home the point that we are UTSA. Look at UTEP and UCLA, everyone knows who they are. They do not have the same problem we do. If we are going to make frequent appearances on national TV, we must put “WE ARE UTSA� front and center on press releases for all sports. We can at least make sure that they see our name and when we make it on national TV again they will call us what we are: UTSA.
To use a baseball term, the Roadrunners are in a slump. In March the Roadrunners have gone 3-13. In other words, they have a .230 average. Not bad for a hitter but not the type of winning percentage a team would want. With just one game left in March, the month will go down as one to forget and perhaps one that ended the Roadrunners’ season before it could begin. They have lost games in extra innings, including a loss at number five ranked Texas in 11 innings and a loss at home to Notre Dame in 10 innings.
The Roadrunners have been shut out by Southeastern Louisiana at home. They have been on the wrong end of high scoring affairs where pitching staffs are pushed to their limits. When the Roadrunners have been on the winning end, the final score has been close. The Roadrunners defeated Houston 7-6 on March 1, New Mexico 3-1, March 5 and UTArlington 4-1 on March 19. In their extra innings loss at Texas on March 8, the Roadrunners showed signs of promise by scoring five runs in their half of the eighth to force extra innings against the Longhorns and in the process put a little doubt in the minds of the Longhorn faithful. Then the Roadrunners gave
up a three-run walk off home run in the 11th and lost 8-5. A week later on March 15, the Roadrunners had a one-run lead in the seventh only to watch as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish rallied to win in 10 innings, 5-4. That loss to the Irish was one of seven in a row that the Roadrunners lost from March 6-18. The streak was snapped with the 4-1 win at the UT-Arlington Mavericks. Before the Roadrunners could start a winning streak, they lost to the Mavericks the next day in 11 innings, 2-1. In the last weekend they were swept out of three games in Huntsville by the Sam Houston Bearkats. The upcoming schedule has Baylor in Waco, March 29, a home series
with A&M-Corpus Christi, April 1-3, and a neutral site double-header against Texas Tech in San Angelo, April 5.
Your Name
paisanosports@att.net The semester is winding down. Summer is on the way. Get involved with something. Write for Paisano. Take Photos for Paisano. Copy-Edit for Paisano. Draw for Paisano. Be a part of Paisano. Copy-editing Sundays and Mondays. Free Food on Mondays Only a few weeks left in the semester; be a part of greatness.
Musician. Marketing Major. Mathematician. Come As You Are.
210-699-0066
East of I-10 on DeZavala Joseph Tidline/ The Paisano
Stephen Whitaker
P11
Baseball finding few wins in the month of March Stephen Whitaker
UTSA?
SPORTS
The Paisano
March 29, 2011
Matthew James waits to bat against Notre Dame on March 15. The Roadrunners fell to the Irish in extra Innings, 5-4.
Fresh
Fun TEAM FUNDRAISING
FREE WiFi
Noisy
$2 STUDENT & FACULTY DISCOUNT W/ UTSA ID with purchase of drink & entree
K C O C B A B VILLAS AT
SCAN & LEARN
FOR FALL 2011
LIVE AT THE OUTPOST THIS FALL & GET PRIORITY PLACEMENT @ VILLAS AT BABCOCK FOR FALL 2012
SAVE $280 @ THE OUTPOST
FACEBOOK.COM/VILLASATBABCOCK
210.697.8200 | 14333 BABCOCK ROAD
LIMITED TIME ONLY | SEE OFFICE FOR DETAILS
paisano-online.com
P12
The Paisano
paisano-online.com
March 29, 2011