December 3, 2008 by UTRGV Student Media

Volume 65, No. 14

December 3, 2008

SINCE 1943

T CAMPUS

Low occupancy to close Troxel Hall dormitory By J.R. Ortega THE PAN AMERICAN The University of Texas-Pan American’s Troxel Hall dormitory has been in a flip-flop for the past year. The dorm has opened and closed its doors before, and at the end of the semester will close once again for a completely different reason; a shortage in residents. With the capacity to hold 190 resi-

dents, Troxel Hall currently houses only 45 students, a small enough number to have students move out and into Bronc Village, Heritage or Unity Hall. Grant Leonard, a second-year housing coordinator, said it isn’t fiscally efficient as far as utilities go to keep a building open at 25 percent capacity. “It isn’t cost effective to keep the dormitory open when we have other space available in other buildings,” he

explained. In the spring semester, the dorm was closed for furniture, painting and carpeting renovations. However, the proposal for the renovations fell through because the university could not fund enough money, according to Grant Leonard. “We want to make the transition as smooth as possible,” he explained about the moving situation. “I think we understand this isn’t the easiest

T SEEN AND CAPTURED

transition.” Though the hall is closing for residents, it will remain open for several organizations like Students with a Purpose and GEAR-UP. The hall is scheduled to close at the end of the semester; however, residents are being allowed to move out at their own pace to any of the three other housing complexes. Heritage Hall has already reached full capacity so students moving out

of Troxel will more than likely move to Unity Hall or Bronc Village. Unity Hall houses 396 residents and currently has 350 occupants. “We’re trying to accommodate their needs with the current situation we have,” Leonard stressed. Despite the housing office’s efforts to make the move easier, Troxel residents like Juan Mujica, a freshman health major, said they feel it’s a has-

SEE TROXEL || PAGE 5

T VALLEY

Border Wall may change with Obama By Brian Silva THE PAN AMERICAN

Roxy Solis/THE PAN AMERICAN

CRUNCH TIME - Jose Ramos, a sophomore pre-med major, studies Tuesday evening for his anatomy and physiology final exam Wednesday at The University of Texas-Pan American Library.

T STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

An important development occurred on Monday in the yearslong fight over the border wall in the Valley. At a news conference in Chicago President-Elect Barack Obama announced the members of his national security team. The person who bears local importance is his nominee for Secretary of Homeland Security, Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano, who will play a crucial role in determining how the border wall will proceed. In his remarks about Napolitano, Obama called for a more secure bor-

der and said her experience as a governor will aid her in the new role. One local Congressman believes that her appointment will allow new hope in the fight against the wall. Henry Cuellar (D-Laredo), whose district stretches across part of the western half of the Valley, voted “no” on the legislation that enabled the structure to be built. “The fact that she (Napolitano) understands the border… that’s a big plus,” Cuellar said. While Napolitano’s nomination may be a positive for the Valley’s fight against the wall, Cuellar cautioned that ultimately the president makes the decision on border policy.

SEE BORDER WALL || PAGE 5

T ORGANIZATIONS

Student carpool system UTPA students enjoy outdoors to help save gas, time By Ana Villaurrutia THE PAN AMERICAN

By Adriana Acosta THE PAN AMERICAN In an effort to help save money, time and help the environment, the Student Government Association at The University of Texas-Pan American will offer students, faculty and staff a free service called RIDESHARE – a free ridesharing/carpool service via AlterNetRides.

INDEX

In a commuter school such as UTPA, many students want to alleviate traffic congestion and open up some more parking spaces. The idea to bring this service to the university began in the summer when gas prices were at an all-time high. Student Union director Edna Zambrano suggested it to SGA after seeing other universities do the same

SEE CARPOOL || PAGE 5

FEATURES

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Elizabeth Kennedy and her brother Patrick are no strangers to the great outdoors. The pair has been camping since they were 3 years old and now use the activity to take the edge off their busy schedules. “It’s just a lot of work, especially now that finals are around and midterms,” said Kennedy, 20, a criminal justice major from Weslaco. “It’s just a place to get away, you can just

NEWS PG. 3

pitch your tent and sit by the fire at night and sit with nature.” Kennedy said her brother, now city commissioner of Weslaco though still a college student, created the Outdoor Expedition Club in 2006 so that students at The University of Texas-Pan American could de-stress with camping trips throughout the semester. Now two years old and more wellknown, the organization has about 30 members and club president Elizabeth Kennedy is planning a post-graduation social at South Padre Island Dec.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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13 at Beach Access 5. The club usually holds trips once a month, but due to a change in presidents during the summer, Kennedy had to rebuild the club with new members and funds. This semester the club had two trips but Kennedy said next semester they plan on going somewhere once a month. This semester’s trips included Goliad State Park near Beeville, and Lake Corpus Christi outside of

SEE OUTDOOR || PAGE 5

SPORTS

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December 3, 2008

THE PAN AMERICAN

University continues expansion into new millenium By Ana Villaurrutia THE PAN AMERICAN As the last seconds of 1999 faded away, many were curious about what the new millennium would bring. It has been a long but accomplished journey for The University of TexasPan American but it was by no means through. FINDING A NICHE From 1994 to 2000 the university had gained its first two doctoral programs in Business Administration with an emphasis in International Business and Educational Leadership, with the help of University of Texas at Austin. Though the university owed much to UT Austin, former UTPA president Miguel Nevarez said finding the university’s own “niche” was more important. “UT Austin was helping us implement those programs,” Nevarez said. “What we were trying to do within those years was basically be on our own where we could take control of those programs.” Nevarez was the longest-serving Hispanic university president in the nation; in the last four years of his reign he emphasized development in graduate programs as a way to accommodate a low-income area. “A lot of our students in South Texas are what we call home-based,” he explained. “In other words, it’s more expensive to go to Austin to go to school and pay for tuition and board.” By 2004, there were 45 master’s degrees and a new cooperative pharmacy Ph.D. with UT Austin. With the development of more master’s students came a new look for the university. The College of Education and math department would gain newer facilities in 2000, and Nevarez noted that the upgrade went hand in hand with developing UTPA’s graduate programs. “It was really nice, it was new buildings and new equipments, it was a feeling that it was about time that we started getting these programs,” he said. The College of Science and Engineering was also gaining support. In 2001 Gov. Rick Perry alerted the Texas Legislature about the state’s obligation to enter the digital age in the computer and science fields. Shortly after, the College of Science and Engineering started planning the now 7-year-old Hispanic Engineering Science and Technology Week. The week-long event, according to

CoSE Dean Edwin LeMaster, initially By August 2003, Nevarez felt his began as a side note to a conference run as president was complete because called Hispanic Engineer National the university was changing faster Achievement Awards Conference in than he was. South Padre Island, hosted in 2001 by “Universities have different UTPA. needs… sometimes if the president LeMaster said he remembered that doesn’t grow with the university… all first HESTEC in 2001 as the college of a sudden you become outdated,” orchestrated a movement of CEOs Nevarez said. from among others Shell and Boeing from the island to the campus. TRANSITION OF POWER “We had all these people come to Over the course of the next 10 this annual conference,” LeMaster months, the UT System Board of recounted. “So we said what we’ll do Regents searched for a new president. is the day before In 2004, Blandina “When I came here I wanted Cardenas the conference at was South Padre Island to make sure that we were named the first starts, we’ll have pursuing the use of technolo- female leader at them come over to gy as a medium for instruc- UTPA. our campus and tion...” Cardenas, who’d we’ll invite people previously served to our campus and as dean of the Blandina Cardenas have all these com- UTPA president College of pany presidents Education and talk to our students H u m a n and even to the community.” Development at the University of Over the years HESTEC has incor- Texas at San Antonio, said she was porated different activities including proud of installing technology inside Latinas Day, Career Day and of almost every classroom in her first Community Day and now expects 18 months. more than 80,000 attendees each year. In 2005, the university went wireEnrollment numbers on campus less and all over campus UTPA stuwere also facing a boom at the turn of dents, faulty and staff could gain the millennium. After they yo-yoed in access to the campus network. the ‘90s they increased steadily there“When I came here I wanted to after. make sure that we were pursuing the From 2000 to 2007 UTPA saw an use of technology as a medium for increase of 4,655 students. In Fall instruction, because students were 2007, about 17,435 students were going to be working in a world that is enrolled. technology driven and I wanted them However, it also meant overcrowd- to be competitive,” Cardenas said ing of the university’s parking lots and about her goals for the university. classrooms. 2001 electrical engineerIn 2007, UTPA received recogniing graduate Liliana Acosta said she tion when the Hispanic Outlook magremembered her core classes being azine named the rehabilitation proparticularly large and parking being gram at the university number one in scarce, but somehow the university graduating Hispanics. did not create overflow lots. Next semester the rehab depart“In ’96 it was full, but it wasn’t as ment is expecting to start its Ph.D. full like my core classes,” said Acosta program in rehabilitation counseling. who now works for Lockheed Martin The new doctoral degree is something in Ft. Worth. “When I started to grad- Cardenas felt was a long time coming uate, we used to park in the fitness to the university. (kinesiology building) area but then “I am not happy with the pace of we had to park on the dirt lot.” doctoral program development, I think As an electrical engineer she also we should have more,” Cardenas said. remembered the demographics chang- “But I am delighted that it looks like ing within her major. we are going to get our first premier “I think in my class I was one of doctorate in 10 years.” the few women there, but when I startThis past year has not been ed to graduate I started to see a lot uneventful for Cardenas, as first she more girls,” Acosta said. accused of plagiarism in late October Nevarez said he was pleased with and then, following the election of the amount of prestige the university President-Elect Barack Obama, had already received by 2003. Cardenas was suggested for the posi“I remember when this place was tion of U.S. Secretary of Education. called ‘Tamale Tech,’ you don’t hear In a public statement Cardenas said that anymore, so prestige has grown she would rather keep working at and it will continue to grow,” Nevarez UTPA, adding that she wants to stay said reflecting on past criticism of the as long as she can work to the best of university. her ability.

“I have no idea how long the energy will last but I hope not to stay beyond my ability,” said Cardenas, who underwent a cardiac bypass surgery Sept. 11, 2007. “Because you have to have a high level of passion, because that passion has to be as strong on the day you leave as the day you got here.” LOOKING BEYOND In 1999 the Texas Higher Coordinating Board predicted UTPA enrollment at 16,000 by 2010. As the university closes in on 2009, it has surpassed the THECB expectations, topping 17,000 this year. The future of UTPA seems to be bright with the addition of more graduate and undergraduate degrees like an environmental science bachelor, and a proposal for a civil engineering program in the works. Re-construction at the satellite campus in Starr County is also under way with an emphasis on creating environmentally efficient buildings to reduce the campus’ carbon foot-

print and follow the trend of going green. The project also signals an enhanced future beyond the main Edinburg campus. “We’re looking at a number of possibilities,” the president noted. “We’re looking at the issue of the price of gas and it really forced us to think about ways to make the university a lot more accessible in a logistical way, so we will probably see a lot more investment in distance learning.”

T DID YOU KNOW? The 2,000-pound bronze bronc statue was dedicated Nov. 2, 2002 to kick off UTPA’s 75th anniversary. Located in front of the Visitor’s Center, the statue, designed by Veryl Goodnight, represents the school mascot.

T The Pan American would like to thank Special Collections for providing information and their services throughout the UTPA Generations: The Series. Dec. 3, 2008

Vol 65, No. 14

1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 Phone: (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 EDITOR IN CHIEF J.R. Ortega / ortega.e.jr@gmail.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Abigail Muniz / abby.muniz@yahoo.com MANAGING EDITOR Brian Silva / brian.silva2@gmail.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ana Villaurrutia / parker687@hotmail.com A&E EDITOR Laura Garcia / laurad500@hotmail.com ASSISTANT A&E EDITOR Isaac Garcia / izek_el@yahoo.com SPORTS EDITORS Ramiro Paez / ramiropaez@aol.com Gregorio Garza / the_nataku@yahoo.com PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Roxy Solis / roxysolis34@yahoo.com DESIGN EDITOR Roy Bazan / rbazanzz@yahoo.com COPY EDITOR Adriana Acosta / acostaa@hotmail.com

ADVISER

Dr. Greg Selber --- selberg@utpa.edu SECRETARY

Anita Reyes --- areyes18@utpa.edu ADVERTISING MANAGER Samantha Quintana --- spubs@utpa.edu

STAFF Kristen Cabrera Abby Flores Sara Hernandez Onydia Garza Ben Briones

Issac Barrientes Marco Carbajal Andie Figueroa Pedro Perez IV

**Delivery** Thursday at noon The Pan American is the official student newspaper of The University of Texas-Pan American. Views presented are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the paper or university.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Pan American accepts letters of 300 words or less from students, staff and faculty regarding recent newspaper content, campus concerns or current events. The Pan American reserves the right to edit submissions for grammar and length. The Pan American cannot publish anonymous letters or submissions containing hate speech or gratuitous personal attacks. Please send all story ideas to thepanamerican@gmail.com. Individuals with disabilities wishing to acquire this publication in an alternative format or needing assistance to attend any event listed can contact The Pan American for more details.

Dates to Know:

December 3, 2008

Dead Days

Midnight Breakfast

Thursday and Friday

Thursday, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Student Union Page 3

THE PAN AMERICAN

T COMMUNITY

Professor/director receives Top Scientist award By Adriana Acosta THE PAN AMERICAN John Lloyd, research professor of engineering and director of the Rapid Response Manufacturing Center at The University of Texas-Pan American, was awarded as Top Scientist at the 3rd International Conference on Heat and Mass Transfer and Hydrodynamics in Swirling Flows in late October.

Lloyd attended the weeklong conference at the Moscow Power Engineering Institute in Russia and was the keynote speaker, giving a lecture titled, “Ad-Intro Molecular Dynamic Study of Nano-Scale Thermal Energy Transfer Across a Material Interface.” “It was an honor to be given that award,” he said. “I was given a certificate and a gold pin.” The MPEI, established in 1930, is

one of the largest university and scientific centers in the country, serving fields of power and electrical engineering, electronics, and computers science. Lloyd was also made an honorary member of the Department of Thermo Physics of MPEI Power Engineering Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences. In 2000, Lloyd had earned an honorary doctorate from the Russian Academy of Sciences.

The RRMC, which was completed at UTPA earlier this year, works with several types of systems and technologies used to improve the speed at which newly engineered products are marketed, created and given to customers. The Michigan native, who has been with the university since 2000, was chosen to be keynote speaker by several friends at the Russian Academy of Sciences.

“They were interested in a presentation I had made back in 2005, at the Leontiev School for Young Scientists and Engineers which took place in Kaluga, Russia,” he explained. “They wanted to know if I would give a presentation on the current state of the art on that topic.” The lecture was on how electrons from metals transfer thermal energy to a non-metal material. Lloyd said

SEE TEACHER || PAGE 6

T CULTURE

Monster Carwash popular, booming By Kristen Cabrera THE PAN AMERICAN Monster Carwash on University Drive is packed every weekend with people from almost every age group. At night, when the carwash closes and the bar opens, students and others go to enjoy live music, food and drinks. With business thriving, Monster Carwash is one of the local hot spots, and maybe it can can become competitive with the area’s national chains. Brandon Martin, the manager of Monster Icehouse, the bar inside Monster Carwash, said he could attest to the large crowds. “We have a big diverse crowd,” he said. “We have lawyers, teachers, students, we don’t have just one demographic, we have many clientele I think that’s what makes this place so great.” The Monster Icehouse features live music and cover bands, with original music on Sundays. The atmosphere almost becomes relaxed as the musi-

cians take requests from the crowd. Solicited songs range from numbers by Alice in Chains to those of the Cure. Kathryn Dubal, an 18-year-old freshman business major and server at Monster Carwash, said her favorite aspect is the friendly and familiar atmosphere of the people there. “It’s not just a bar where we serve you and that’s it,” she said. “We get to know you and everything is like a little community.” Of course the combination of carwash, restaurant and bar is an unusual concept but Monster Carwash pulls it off. Locally owned and operated by Cesar Barvin, this monster idea for a bar in the back was the brainchild of Martin. After seven years in the bar management business, Martin convinced Barvin to start one. The bar officially opened earlier this year as an amalgam of several bars Martin visited throughout the country.

SEE CARWASH || PAGE 6

Ben Briones/THE PAN AMERICAN

MONSTER MEAL - City of McAllen construction workers talk and take a lunch break at Monster Carwash located on University Drive right near the university.

T ACADEMIC

Education majors prep for profession as school teachers By Abigail Muniz THE PAN AMERICAN Blanca Gonzalez remembers family get-togethers as a child. While the adults in her family ate and chatted inside her home, Gonzalez and four of her cousins played school in the yard. “I would always be the teacher,” Gonzalez, a Palmview resident said. “I was a geek. I would even make report cards for my cousins.” Gonzalez who went to PSJA North High School would later join more than 300 education majors from The

University of Texas-Pan American’s a professor in the department of curCollege of Education annually. In riculum and instruction. 2007 the college One of those awarded 349 “I’ve learned that it’s impor- c h a l l e n g e s b a c h e l o r ’ s tant to have a very good stu- includes adminisdegrees. dent and teacher bond trators demanding But becoming teachers teach pria teacher is only because if we give them marily to prepare students for the half the struggle. respect, they give us respect.” Students are first state examination, the Texas required to Blanca Gonzalez acquire certifica- Education major Assessment of tion before Knowledge and becoming teachers. But once they are Skills, which is taken by all Texas stuout in the field, new challenges are dents from grades 3 through 12. faced according to Maria Elena Reyes, “Many teachers are being pres-

sured to teach to the test,” Reyes said. “When you narrow [the curriculum] to teach only what is on the test, you’re ignoring all this other stuff that’s very valuable for students to know.” A 24-year-old senior, Gonzalez is completing her last semester as an undergraduate working on required student teaching, at Ramirez Elementary in Pharr. She has gotten to experience first-hand the preparation that students face when it comes to the TAKS. “Teachers have to focus on it a lot because they have percentages they have to meet,” Gonzalez said. “If (teachers) don’t meet them, the whole

school is at risk of not getting grants.” Reyes says that among other obstacles, new teachers face a lack of preparation to teach in their content area or the subject they’ll teach in. “A good teacher is one who can teach their content area,” Reyes said. “Students need a teacher. The best thing for student-teachers to do is to prepare themselves well to know that content area as well as possible… to teach to students effectively.” Gonzalez recognized that her strong suit was bilingual classes, so she’s decided she wants to teach a

SEE EDUCATION || PAGE 6

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December 3, 2008

NEWS

December 3, 2008

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BORDER WALL continued from Page 1

CARPOOL continued from Page 1

“We must remember that Barack Obama voted for it (border wall legislation),” Cuellar said. Cuellar, who’s a member of the House subcommittee on homeland security, said it’s better to secure the border without a border wall. “There’s no reason to have a fence,” he said. “We have a natural boundary: the Rio Grande.” Although he believes the Rio Grande is a physical boundary that doesn’t need to be supplemented by another physical entity, the congressman added there are other places, like Arizona, that don’t have natural barriers.

thing. Other universities with the service include Texas A&M-Kingsville, The University of Texas-San Antonio, Texas State University, The University of Texas at Austin and The University of Texas at El Paso. Marco Silva, SGA president, said the organization brought the free service so students could be aware there is another option available for them to get to school. The program will also be implemented by the SGA. “All we are doing is pairing up students,” he said about the service. “We are letting students decide and communicate on their own.” Though SGA is implementing the service, students need to meet and form plans with the carpoolers on their own terms. Silva estimates students will save about $20 a week on gas if they sign up for the service. Actually, it is welcome news to all that fuel costs have been halved in the past two months, but that figure is very volatile. “We were prepared for gas prices to change, but we believe students will save money,” he said. To sign up for the service Alternetrides.com, with a valid e-mail address. They will be able to input information like how often they would like to carpool with someone, and dates and times a student would like to ride together. Students have the option to select a one-time trip or multiple ones. Students have all ready signed up to for the service, according to Silva.

Even though there is no natural boundary, “We have to find another way… we have to be creative,” Cuellar said. “Let’s secure our border in a smart, effective way.” Cuellar stressed that leaders need to be conscious of how they secure the nearly 2,000-mile stretch. He believes that a high-tech fence with more Border Patrol and U.S. customs personnel would be a better option. The wall costs about $7 million per mile, while a high-tech fence would be about $1 million for the same distancde, according to Cuellar, who also said that according to Homeland Security, both options will provide

equal effectiveness. “It costs less with a tech fence without a doubt,” Cuellar said. “We can also cover more area with a tech fence.” Even though Obama has said immigration and securing the border will be issues duringh his administration, Cuellar believes that the Democrat-controlled Congress won’t repeal the legislation establishing the border wall. He said, though, there’s still hope for progress beneficial to the Valley. “We’d rather build bridges over the Rio Grande, than build fences on our border with Mexico.”

TROXEL continued from Page 1 sle to keep moving back and forth. also a freshman, said she has had to “The moving isn’t that big of a move wings too. deal,” he said. “It’s just like they made “It’s very frustrating,” the psycholus move once and ogy major said. then they’re making “We feel there will be a liv- “I’ve also had to us move again.” twice ing and learning environ- move According to ment if they are in a full already, from like a Mujica, some resibuilding so we can better third floor to a first dents had to move floor. They wanted close to the first suit their needs.” everyone to move floor at the beginout of Troxel and ning of the semester they didn’t have Grant Leonard so that students any more room in were closer together Housing coordinator Heritage so they in one wing. just moved us Residents were told to move closer down.” together so that residents weren’t scatBoth Mujica and Lozano said they tered throughout the building. were told about the possibility of movMujica’s friend, Lissette Lozano, ing yet another time at a mandatory

meeting earlier in the semester. “I was really mad; it’s not that easy to move,” Lozano said. “Moving from home to over here (dorms) and then moving three stories down…we’re not supposed to be dealing with this.” Grant said it is too soon to tell when Troxel Hall may re-open. “We feel there will be a living and learning environment if they are in a full building so we can better suit their needs.”

DID YOU KNOW? The first male dormitory is now the ROTC office and the first female dorm was the historic Emilia Schunior Hall

However some students feel though it may be a good idea, not knowing the person you are carpooling with is worrisome. Sophomore America Cervantes, a social work major at UTPA, said she would only feel secure if she knew the person she was riding with. “I don’t know their driving habits, or if their car is in working condition,” she explained. “I don’t think the service will work, because we have different activities, class schedules and people have to work.” On the other hand, Celina Gonzalez, a junior public relations major, said the program is a good idea because it will help save gas and the environment. She also believes it is a bad idea because of timing and lack of it. “I think this would have been better in the summer when gas was so high. My car used to fill up with $60, and now it fills with only 20,” she said. Music major Dante Garcia of McAllen said he is surprised this service did no emerge sooner. But he believes this is a good option for students to have, especially since the economy has been fluctuating. “Right now, students are trying to save money. This service will be very resourceful to use,” he said. “Especially for people that have to drive long distances to get home. If the program is well organized, I believe it might work. Once students realize this option exists and the option and resources are there, they will take advantage of it.”

OUTDOOR continued from Page 1 Mathis, in October. The club also goes nity to bring his 11-year-old brother to Garner State Park in the summer in camping at the Goliad trip. Rivas said Leakey for a week. the trip also taught his younger broth“It’s not that hard, you don’t have er important lessons on responsibility to be knowledgeand self-reliance. able to go camping “I’ve always wanted to but I “He had a blast with us,” Kennedy don’t have time or people to you know, an 11said. “We have year-old hanging go with.” people in the club out with the guys, that will teach you, he was gung ho,” we’re not shy about Myra Chavana on camping the 23-year-old telling you what to Psychology major rehabilitation major do.” from Edinburg said. Trips are usually held on weekends “He matured a little bit, when he saw and activities vary depending where people doing their jobs when we were campers go and what they want to do. setting up tents, he picked up some Past activities included kayaking, mannerisms about being productive fishing, swimming, hiking and even and responsible.” ghost hunting at Goliad Park. Myra Chavana, a 20-year-old psyKennedy said trips tend to unify chology and sociology major, the group because campers are told describes herself as an adventurer, wander alone and most cell-phone saying she misses the wooded area she services tend to cut off in the woods. used to live around in Sullivan City. “You don’t get Sprint out there “I would love to go, I love explorusually,” Kennedy said. “You really ing and being around the woods,” she can’t get away from anybody out said. “I’ve always wanted to but I there.” don’t have time or people to go with.” The organization also encourages Kennedy hopes to some day plan members to bring their family. Club trips outside of Texas as most prior member Victor Rivas took an opportu- ones have not gone past San Antonio. One voyage in mind is a summer trip to Estes Park in Colorado, but plan VISIT ning and funding are still far off. Club meetings start again next The Outdoor Expedition Club semester at the College of Arts and at www.myspace.com/outdoorSciences building on Thursdays from expeditionclub noon to 1 p.m.

NEWS

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Decmber 3, 2008

CARWASH continued from Page 3 “I go to Las Vegas a lot to scout Martin. other bars,” Martin said. “I know “That’s the hardest thing,” he every bar owner in the Valley, I’ve explained. “As much as Monster been doing this a Carwash is everylong time, every “It’s not just a bar where we thing that we’re aspect of it we’ve serve you and that’s it. We about, that’s the taken. I’ve highIcehouse get to know you and every- Monster lighted the best in the back. And to bands, the bands I thing is like a little commu- a lot of people, it know that perform nity.” comes off weird to the best every night. them. There’s not a thing Because realisabout it that we Kathyrn Dubal tically who wants haven’t put a lot of Business major, freshman to hear on Friday time and effort night: ‘Hey, let’s into.” go to Monster Carwash.’? I mean, Even with the design and attitude why do we want to go to a carwash? of the bar, Monster Icehouse is still Opening up any other bar would be underestimated as a bar because of the easy if it was just a bar, maybe even a ‘Carwash’ reputation, according to bar and grill, but a carwash and bar? It

took 110 percent to get that going…it coming back and bringing in new peotook everything.” ple. Martin understands this and Dubal said he agrees that people enforces these values of the bar. are quick to misjudge Monster “On top of all that its like your at Icehouse. But then home,” Martin their opinions are “We have lawyers, teachers, said. “ You can go turned around. students, we don’t have just to a bar and it’s a “People underesbar, you can go to a timate it when they one demographic, we have club and it’s a club. come here,” Dubal many clientele I think that’s But to everybody said. “And then the what makes this place so back there its like a next night they great.” house party, its so bring their friends casual. and they bring their You can come friends and that’s Brandon Martin watch the game or how we’ve grown. Monster Icehouse, manager NFL ticket or UFC People have a good or just see the band time and they like it here.” but there’s no age restriction. If you The causal quality and atmosphere want come in a tie or shorts its fine.” are a big reason why customers keep Monster Icehouse averages about

200 people on Fridays and 150 on Saturdays night and is growing according to Martin. The actual carwash is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and every night there are drink specials and Happy Hour from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., the longest happy hour in the Valley.

MONSTER CARWASH The restaurant hosts different bands each night Thursday through Sunday. Sunday is all original music from the invited guest bands.

TEACHER EDUCATION continued from Page 3

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scientists are just beginning to understand energy transport at the most fundamental, sub-molecular level. For the past three years, Lloyd has been working with the Russian Academy of Sciences on a hydrogen storage study, in a worldwide program through the U.S. Dept. of Energy. There will be a hydrogen storage conference in Russia in 2009.He has also been invited to give a lecture in Siberia next year.

class that will allow her to expose children to both English and Spanish. “I’m in a class that has a dual language program now and every other day we change languages,” Gonzalez said. “I know it’s hard for some of them, but it’s important they acquire both languages.” Through her experiences with the children she interacts with on a daily basis, Gonzalez has recognized what the role of a teacher is, and feels the dynamics and relationship between a student and a teacher should be mutual. “I’ve learned that it’s important to

have a very good student and teacher bond because if we give them respect, they give us respect,” she said. “It’s important to also motivate them so they feel important… they then do the best they can.” JOB GROWTH According to the U.S. Department of Labor, in 2006, teachers held about 4 million jobs nationwide. Over the next 10 years, the job pool is expected to grow by 12 percent, accounting for more than 479,000 additional positions. “Teaching is a sacred profession

really, that’s why you have many people who really want to become teachers because they have so much to give,” Reyes said. “It’s important that we get the right individuals into the profession.” Reyes said the department has started offering pre-block courses in the elementary program since the summer, which she said allows students the chance to learn about the teaching profession and perhaps help them decide if teaching is what they want to do. “Those courses are very popular and

I think we need to expand the offerings,” Reyes noted, adding that she would like pre-block classes to be implemented into the secondary level. These classes can be taken before a student is admitted into the teacher education program where, if admitted they will be required to take certain classes in a certain order, referred to as blocks. “There’s a lot of interest in education. It’s a very attractive profession for many reasons. For sure you’ll never lack a job if you have a teaching license,” Reyes said.

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THE PAN AMERICAN

December 3, 2008

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‘Twilight’ film finds success among fans By Russen Vela THE PAN AMERICAN

When the teaser trailer for the film “Twilight” premiered many were skeptical whether the film would succeed. There were mixed emotions about the characters, with consensus having Edward as the most annoying of the bunch. Millions of teenage girls and their mothers were upset and confused, because to them their Edward was the embodiment of perfection, and instead they got the boy who got killed in the fourth Harry Potter movie. However, they were proven wrong. The film adaptation of Stephenie Meyer’s vampire-romance saga scored a cool $7 million from early screenings on Thursday night. On opening day Friday, Nov. 21, the film went to the bank with $30 million. Overall the film has grossed an outstanding $70.6 million, an impressive number for the gothic romance genre. Already the sequel, “New Moon,” is in the works. Directed by McAllen High graduate Catherine Hardwicke, the film tells the story of 17-year-old Isabella “Bella”

Swan, played by the feisty yet beautiful Kristen Stewart (“The Messengers”). Bella leaves her home in Phoenix and moves to live with her father, in a small town called Forks, Wash. There, she finds herself drawn to a mysterious classmate, Edward Cullen, played perfectly and emotionally by Robert Pattinson (“Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire”). While the movie slides along at an exciting and intimidating pace, Bella finds out that the mysterious classmate whom she begins to realize she has got the hots for is a 108-year-old vampire, but physically the same age as her, 17. Although Edward discourages the romance at first, they soon fall deeply in love, and Bella’s life is put in danger while Edward and his family risk their immortal lives to save her mortal one. It was easy at first to dismiss the casting choices for the leads, but once viewers see the movie their minds will be changed. Even when delivering the most cheesiest of lines Stewart makes them seem geniune and real. Her awkwardness in the beginning of the film transforms to courageous and adventurous toward the

end, and one can’t help but root for her and Edward. Pattinson, who was crucified by millions upon millions of teenager girl bloggers as being too “ugly” and nothing like they pictured Edward to be, surley silenced them with his performance. Sure it’s nothing Oscar worthy, but his conflicted role of being an immortal and curbing his appetitie for Bella’s blood only makes him more human, and more misunderstood. Expect great things from this guy. The film was mostly shot in Portland, Ore., and Hardwicke opted to do the film in a handheld-camera style to make it more realisitc and approachable. Hardwicke, who seems to be the up-andcoming next Sofia Coppola (“Lost in Translation,” “Marie Antoinette”) of her generation of directors, does somewhat compare to the Oscar-winning screenwriter. Like Coppola, she likes to direct films that show people, mostly teenagers in angst. They both love to use music to provide the mood and tone. Stephenie Meyer, who was a consultant for the soundtrack, professed that the film should include music by Muse and Linkin Park, because she suggested to the

Fall Entertainment Weekly magazine that those were the bands she listened to, while writing her novels. Like the book, “Twilight” bit an aorta vein with teenage girls and women. Some women and teenage girls confessed on ET Tonight that they saw the film multiple times, which drove up box office sales. Summit, the studio which produced the film, was esctastic with the revenues, and 75 percent of the audiences were females, whom most of them under the age of 25. Plenty of adults saw the film as well, with 45 percent of all viewers being 25 years or older. One could say that “Twilight” is a phenomenon similar to the 1997 epic “Titanic,” the love story, of course that became the highest grossing film of all time, and winner of a record 11 Academy Awards. Whether “Twilight” will replicate that success, of course, remains to be seen, but overall the film was not made to win awards (of course the MTV Movie Awards are probably going to eat this up). It was made to have a fun, grab-ahold-of-your-seat blockbuster, which is always a plus during the holidays.

Students react to ‘Twilight’

Layout By: Rick Gamez

www.firstshowing.net

“I really liked the film, especially the baseball scene, ‘cause of all the drama.”

“It’s like Harry Potter; of course the books are better. I liked the introduction with the music.”

“It was the vampire version of ‘High School Musical 3’”

Lessly Garcia, 18 Freshman Nursing

Jesse Garza, 18 Freshman Occupational therapy

Charlie Brenner, 26 Graduate Theatre

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THE PAN AMERICAN

December 3, 2008

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THE PAN AMERICAN

www.examiner.com

‘Twilight’ film finds success among fans By Russen Vela THE PAN AMERICAN

Students react to ‘Twilight’

Layout By: Rick Gamez

www.firstshowing.net

“I really liked the film, especially the baseball scene, ‘cause of all the drama.”

“It’s like Harry Potter; of course the books are better. I liked the introduction with the music.”

“It was the vampire version of ‘High School Musical 3’”

Lessly Garcia, 18 Freshman Nursing

Jesse Garza, 18 Freshman Occupational therapy

Charlie Brenner, 26 Graduate Theatre

Page 10

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Dates to Know:

December 3, 2008

Eros Music and Art Festival

The December Drive

Wednesday, 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Quad

Dec. 20, 7 p.m. Cine El Rey Page 11

THE PAN AMERICAN

T LOCAL BUSINESS

Coffee shop uniquely entertains customers By Marco Carbajal THE PAN AMERICAN There is but one place in the entire Valley where one can whet the appetite for delicious, high quality coffee, sinful pastries and grilled to order sandwiches and get lost in the glamour of old Hollywood. Starstruck Coffee, located at 1653 W. University Drive, officially opened its doors for business Nov. 6. Literally only a few doors down from the university, Starstruck has all the makings of a home away from class. Alberto Garza, a financial adviser from Edinburg and owner of Starstruck, says he and his wife were inspired to open the place because they wanted to augment the typical coffee house feel with the more social aspects of a bar setting. The menu offers up a variety of high quality coffee, cappuccino, espresso, chai tea, hot tea, and pastries. Sandwiches include peanut butter and jelly, hoagies and the hugely popular Gladiator, a grilled fajita sandwich smothered with bell peppers and cheese. Warm mango and burnt orange walls are littered with movie memorabilia and photos of the likes of Sean Connery, Lucille Ball, Marilyn Monroe in the men’s loo and even a four-foot John Wayne. A filmstrip façade above the

serving area, two flat-screen televisions, and a large screen projector for pay-perview events, concerts and movies all push the entertainment theme. Decor isn’t the only thing that sets Starstruck apart from the typical coffee house, however. Garza says with some help from UTPA’s Career Services department, they lined up auditions for potential baristas. Upon passing a singing audition in front of an eight-person panel of judges, the best of the best were invited back to interview for available positions. “Our baristas actually sing when they’re not serving somebody,” Garza said, beaming proudly. “They’ll throw out a song here or there, sometimes if things are slow, they might even come up to your table and serenade you.” John Michael Renteria, a mechanical engineering major from Edinburg, is one such baritone barista. When it comes to his singing prowess, Renteria is quite modest. After being told that his boss only hires the best of the best crooners, he slowly conceded. “Well, I haven’t taken any classes but I taught myself to sing, and I lead worship and play guitar at my church, Kingdom Faith in Elsa,” said Renteria. Renteria applied for the position after finding out about the place through his cousin, and says he says he enjoys the

Ben Briones/THE PAN AMERICAN

RED EYE - Starstruck Coffee, located on the corner of University Drive and Sugar Road, invites students to take a coffee break. atmosphere and contact with patrons. “We greet everyone and welcome interaction,” he said. “When I’m having a good day and someone is having a bad day it only makes it that much better when a person reaches out and tries to brighten their day.”

Garza also mentioned the rigorous world-class training baristas went through in order to be able to offer the best experience possible for themselves and ultimately, the customers. “We hired the best barista training school in the United States,” said Garza

proudly. “It was started by Alex Fisenko, who introduced Americans to espresso in the 1960’s. His wife Oksana and his son Michael came down and gave our baristas three days of intensive training.” Valerie Ortiz, an English major from McAllen, says she loves Starstruck’s proximity to campus. “It‘s really convenient to have a place so close where you can eat, drink or study if you have a long break,” Ortiz said. “It beats driving home and since it’s within walking distance, you don’t have to lose your parking spot.” In addition to the mouth-watering menu and numerous TV options, Starstruck Coffee also boasts free Wi-Fi and a karaoke machine with over 5,000 songs, welcoming anyone to belt out their favorite song, no matter how obscure, at any given time. Garza says he is also considering operating special hours, such as being open 24/7 during Dead Days and Finals Week, but wants to see support from the UTPA community before making any final decisions. With its cool amenities and proximity to campus, surely it is only a matter of time before students and faculty come out in droves. “Saved by The Bell” had The Max. The kids on “90210” had The Peach Pit. Now, UTPA has their own hangout: Starstruck Coffee.

T DIGITAL AGE

iCHOOZ.tv reaches global audience from home By Russen Vela THE PAN AMERICAN It’s funny isn’t it, when you see people trying out for such talent television shows like “American Idol,” or the popular “America’s Got Talent?” Whenever we see the contestants preparing for an audition, we, the audience, can almost paraphrase Heidi Klum’s infamous “Project Runway” words: “One day you’re in, and the next day your out.” A question that arises is: What if the contestants don’t need to suffer from nerves and blow an audition when meeting the famous judges? What if they can just upload their audition from their home or apartment and simply submit it to the famous judges online? With iCHOOZ.tv, contestants from all over the world are given a platform from which to reach a global audience, without the barriers of television networks and record labels. It is the first global online talent contest ever. Online flyers, as well as radio shout

outs have been the main source of getting the word out to young aspiring singers. John H. Mulder, chief operating officer for iCHOOZ.tv, explained that creating the concept for iCHOOZ.tv was easy, but there were some difficulties in the process. “The concept started about two years ago,” Mulder said. “But the technology to allow us to combine a global mobile experience with social media didn’t become practical for us until this year.” For those who are still in a daze as to what iCHOOZ.tv actually means or what its purpose is, here is the rundown. iCHOOZ.tv literally means that the online Web site is empowering the general public to “choose” what they want to hear, who they want to be entertained by and when. The idea is to leave the choice in the public’s hand opposed to what a corporation decides. The unique spelling of CHOOZ helps to establish the brand. Finally, the creators decided to use .tv instead of .com because the

iCHOOZ.tv experience is all about bringing the best of reality television to the web. iCHOOZ.tv is entirely based on its own. The Web site is not partnered with MySpace or Facebook. Artists from all over the world can upload content and have it reviewed by expert judges, including 6-time Grammy Award winners Tim Kelley and Bob Robinson, who give direct feedback on submissions. Fans in 38 countries then vote for their favorites via SMS text. Each monthly winner will be flown out to Hollywood in April 2009 to compete for prizes which will enable them to take their career to the next level. These prizes include major label A&R, known as Artists and Repertoire, meetings, studio recording sessions with Grammywinning producers, premier talent and management representation, major motion picture appearances, and the shot at a professional music video. Christina Tongco Garcica, CEO, chimed in on when iCHOOZ.tv started and where it stands right now.

“We officially launched the iCHOOZ.tv BETA in August ‘08 with the first monthly competition starting in September ‘08,” Garcica said. “Basically, we created iCHOOZ.tv out of our frustration of dealing with ‘the entertainment establishment’ in Hollywood. There was a need for a better way to access the industry by performers of all types.” By entertainment establishment, Garcica, a Philippines native means the barriers of TV networks and record labels. “Anyone in the world can participate,” Garcica said. “It is an open social platform with online, and in November, full Mobile-Web access to the iCHOOZ.tv experience. At the moment, however, we only have the site localized for English-speaking members, but we do get a fair share of French, Spanish, Malaysian, Filipino members.” iCHOOZ.tv is for everyone anywhere in the world. At the end of the day, the Web site is for both artists and the general public who want to be

entertained. Right now the age limit is 14 or older, but Garcica and Mulder are developing a version for kids/teens to be released in Season 2 (late Summer 2009). Cynthia Suarez, a sophomore biology major offered her opinion about the Web site. “I am really excited about it,” the Mercedes native said. “It is great that whoever wants to audition for it, they can just do it in the privacy of their own home, they don’t have to be embarrassed and meet face to face with the judges.” Suarez suggested she might try out, but prefers to keep her singing talents elsewhere. “My singing is only done in the shower,” Suarez said laughing. “In my shower, I am a 10 time Grammy award winner for best R&B album, but it would be fun to audition online and see where it goes from there.” “We will accept all genres of music, but for this first season of competitions we’re only hosting Pop, HipHop/Rnb, and Rock,” Mulder said. Garcica laughed and compared iCHOOZ.tv to “American Idol.”

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December 3, 2008

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

T THEATER

T T.V.

‘Alice’ takes new direction Blood in the Bayou not just the standard white knight or the pot-smoking caterpillar,” he said. “We need to have a different feel of what’s In the age of boy wizards, romantic out there.” vampires, and ring-bearing hobbits, it The author, according to Vela, tried is refreshing to look back and admire a to teach how to handle situations with classic story of a young girl falling into people you might not like or that might an unknown world down a rabbit hole. not be nice to you. “Carroll wanted If the rendition of “Alice in Alice to represent a real person” he Wonderland” showing in the Albert L. said. Cassandra Dean, a 20-year-old Jeffers Theatre this week is not reminis- theatre-TV/film major, is bringing cent of the 1951 Disney version most Alice to life and warns that Vela’s take are familiar with, that is because director is darker and crazier. Freddy Vela is telling “It’s a more modthe original Lewis “She’s more modern ern Alice, more Carroll story written because of the world she present-day,” said in 1865. the sophomore. “The story has comes from and the world “She’s more modern been told many she creates. This is the 21st because of the world times since Carroll century.” she comes from and wrote it,” said Vela, the world she crea senior theaterates. This is Alice TV/film major. “It’s Cassandra Dean from the 21st centubeen revised and Theatre-TV/film major ry.” The audience edited and made into would expect to see a happy story about a girl and her the big blue dress, Dean said, but adventures.” should expect to be surprised and see a He noted Carroll’s original inten- whole different costume. “It’s not the tion was to portray the world as an same story. It’s not a children’s play,” unhappy place where people are out she said. “It’s more of a wonderland. there to hurt you. In his production, It’s crazy.” Vela incorporated a drag queen and a Marcy Garza, a senior theater design rapping egg because he said it is some- major, designed the entire wardrobe for thing that the audience would face now the show. Over a period of two weeks, in the world. she built 11 full costumes with a crew of “Everyone should be represented and about five students. Her design was

By Victor Ituarte THE PAN AMERICAN

influenced by comedia dell’arte (Italian for “the comedy of artists”), a form of improvisational theater from the Renaissance period. Garza said in the era people wore masks, bright colors, tights, and patterns. “The costumes have a classical, renaissance, and a bit of a ‘60s psychedelic feel to it,” the 23-year-old said. “The director told me he wanted stripes and checkers and shapes.” For the first time in the University Theatre, Vela said, a light show will accompany a production. The technical director for the theater was once a student in a special digital lighting class, and later decided to include it in the story.

‘Alice in Wonderland’ Dec. 4 - 6 @ 8 p.m. & Dec. 7 @ 2 p.m. Tickets will be $5. No one under 13 will be permitted due to adult references and material.

By Pedro Perez IV THE PAN AMERICAN When it comes to entertainment, HBO is no stranger to award- winning series. Even though no awards have been won yet, “True Blood” took a bite out of its viewers and showed them an adventure that involves not only the obvious, vampires, but mind readers, shape shifters and the ever popular serial killer. Award-winning writer and director Alan Ball, who wrote “American Beauty” and was responsible for HBO’s Emmy Award-winning “Six Feet Under,” takes Sookie Stackhouse, the character in Charlaine Harris’ “The Southern Vampire Mysteries” series, on which the show is based, and puts her in the midst of all the drama that comes with being a mind reader in a small Louisiana bayou town. Anna Paquin (“X-Men,” “25th Hour”) brings her lovable mind-reading persona as a ray of sunshine in a dark setting. But as the first season revealed, she may be desired by most of the men in Bon Temps, a fictional town, but she wants to be called upon by Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer from “88 minutes”), the 173-year-old vampire who lives up the road and first became a vampire shortly after the Civil War. The feud between Sam Merlotte (played by Sam Trammel, a New York stage actor) and Compton is a classic

duel to see who will be the victor for the heart of the mind reader. Things heat up as Compton, whose thoughts cannot be read by Sookie, finally is allowed to call upon Sookie and he ends up taking the bite that everyone wants. Merlotte holds his ground in the battle that seems to be draining him as he goes from animal to human from time to time; he helps track down a serial killer who has been murdering women who have had any type of relationship with vampires, but and has been making it look like Sookie’s brother, Jason Stackhouse (played by Ryan Kwanten of “Flicka”), is the genius behind the murders. To go along with the mind reader, shape shifter, vampires and of course the ever-loving serial killer, there is a collection of supporting roles that not only have fangs but display the characteristics of most small towns in America. There is the small café waitress who is in everyone’s business, a local drug dealer who sells V, the LSD/Mushroom/Ecstasy all-in-one drug that comes from vampire blood, the small town sheriff who knows everybody, and the lovable grandmother who makes pie for every occasion. Luckily for Bon Temps, the serial killer was discovered, but things should heat up for next season scheduled to air in summer 2009. Hopefully Compton can stay out of the sun until then and Sookie can maintain her desire for that special bite by that special someone.

December 3, 2008

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Dates to Know:

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Men’s Basketball

Women’s Basketball

vs. Drake University Friday, 7 p.m. Des Moines, IA

Air Force Classic Friday, 7:30 p.m. US Air Force Academy, CO December 3, 2008

THE PAN AMERICAN

T MEN’S BASKETBALL

Broncs slow out of gate to start season, drop to 1-5 By Pedro Perez IV THE PAN AMERICAN Ask anybody who makes their living touring the road and they will probably tell you that it can be stressful. But in an athletic atmosphere, sticking together is what makes the tough times not only manageable, but well worth it. It’s no different for the University of Texas Pan American men’s basketball team as they played in two tournaments in a week, going from Colorado Springs to Edinburg to Las Vegas, trying to make the best of being an Independent team. “Any time you go on the road you try to keep a family atmosphere,” thirdyear head coach Tom Schuberth said. “You realize that guys are away from their own bed, so you try to take that into consideration. But at the same time you’re there for a challenge to win a basketball game.” WOFFORD COLLEGE The Broncs began their tourney run in Colorado Springs where they participated in the Reggie Minton Air Force Classic Nov. 22 and Nov. 23 at Clune Arena. In their first match the Broncs lost to Wofford College 75-70, after shooting 46 percent from the field, while the Terriers upped them by one, at 47 percent. Junior forward Nathan Hawkins scored 22 points with eight rebounds and senior forward Emmanuel Jones finished his run with 20 points and

two rebounds. After a 33-27 halftime lead in favor of the Terriers, the Broncs eventually closed the margin to four points with a layup by sophomore guard Nick Weiermiller to make the score 63-59. However, Wofford kept its momentum going with jump shots and free throws, getting its second win of the season, 75-70. UC-COLORADO SPRINGS To close out the Air Force Tournament, the Broncs edged UCCS 87-78 to give UTPA its first win of the season. Weiermiller finished with 19 points and eight assists and Jones racked up 16 points and eight rebounds. With 6:52 left in the game, a couple of free throws by Jones broke the ninth tie of the game and gave the Broncs enough momentum to run away with the game. The team shot 44 percent for the game. “We had a tough trip coming from UNLV and going to California and coming to the altitude in Colorado and playing Wofford. We just didn’t have as much energy as I thought we would,” Schuberth said. “Fortunately we were able to bounce back and win the second game but there was no reason why we couldn’t have won two games.” NORTH CAROLINA A&T On Black Friday, the men traveled to Sin City for the two-day Las Vegas Tournament. They opened up against NCA&T, taking an 8-6 lead on a Jones

jumper, and maintained the lead until NCA&T’s Nicholas Wilson tied the score at 17 with seven minutes left in the half. Jones, leading the squad in scoring and rebounding this season, finished with 27 points and nine rebounds, while Weiermiller recorded 17 points and five assists. NCA&T, who shot 45 percent for the match, continued its 28-24 halftime lead and increased it to as many as 15 points. But the Broncs did not fold as they battled back to within seven at 5851 with 1:28 left in regulation. In the end, fouls committed by UTPA proved costly as they fell short 67-60. WESTERN ILLINOIS In its finale, all it took was a simple layup by Quenton Kirby to tie the game at 56 with 3:30 left to play, as the Leathernecks went on to defeat the Broncs, 62-60. Jones recorded a double-double (22 points, 15 rebounds) and Hawkins finished with 13 points and five rebounds. The Broncs controlled most of the second half and even held a 10-point lead, its largest of the game, with 9:48 left to play. But WIU clawed its way back with two minutes left, disrupting UTPA’s offense and grabbing the momentum. In its third 2008 tournament, starting Friday, the Broncs will try to get going at the Drake Tournament, against host Drake University (5-2) in the first round at 7 p.m.

Onydia Garza/THE PAN AMERICAN

KEY CONTRIBUTOR - Junior guard Nick Weiermiller was one of the essential players during the team’s tournament road swing. He scored a season-high 19 points against Colorado Springs Nov. 23.

T LOCAL SPORTS

Vipers, UTPA ready to take first step toward connection By Adriana Acosta THE PAN AMERICAN The Rio Grande Valley Vipers of the NBA Development League will host the first University of Texas-Pan American College Night at Dodge Arena tomorrow at 7 p.m., when they face the Dakota Wizards. The night is aimed toward UTPA organizations, students, staff and friends and family, so that all can support the Valley’s professional basketball team, currently in its second season and off to a 2-0 start. Ginna Mares, group sales manager and game operations coordinator for the Vipers, said the idea was suggested, to have an event to get the university and the community involved. “One of our main focuses this year was to be all about the community,” she said. “We want to be a household name. We want to collaborate with everything

in the community. What better way than liever is a good idea,” said Solis, a gento join forces with UTPA and bring the eral studies major from La Villa. “Finals are a very hectic week for community together.” The event falls during Dead Days at everyone. Being a sports fan, I would go to such an event.” the university, a time Students are enfor students to fend off the books and relax be- UTPA College Night couraged to arrive early and enjoy tailgatfore finals get started Dec. 4, 7 p.m. ing events before the next week. Dodge Arena game. Lone Star Na“It will be a time to tional Bank, the main get their minds off of sponsor of the event, the hustle and bustle of will have games and latenight studying,” contests for students to Mares said. “We don’t enjoy before tipoff. want to take away VS. One activity will be the from that, but we’re tri-cycle event where just hoping for a great RGV Vipers Dakota Wizards two students will each turnout.” For UTPA junior Stephanie Solis, a get in a mini bike and will go through night of fun and relaxation is what she an obstacle course. Other events inhas hoped for near the end of a long se- clude 3-point contests and a food conmester filled with long lectures, exams test on who can make a better burger. Students will also be able to enjoy and term papers. “Anything that serves as a stress re- music performed by local band

24Seven which plays a variety of music, from rock to jazz. Along with supporting D-League hoops, the UTPA community is encouraged to show its Bronc pride as well. “We want students to wear their organization shirts with logo on them and bring signs, banners, and noise makers to represent the organization,” Mares explained. University organizations attending the event will be judged on their spirit, creativity and the size of their group, with the opportunity to participate in on-court competitions during the game and halftime. Mares said Valley involvement is important for the Vipers and that one part of her job is to reach out to the community and make sure the university is a part of the program. She added it is important for the community to know that a local team is here for their entertainment.

Gabriel Quintanilla, a marketing intern at the UTPA Wellness and Recreational Sports Complex, said when professional groups like the Vipers establish relationships with the university, it shows they want to be involved and create awareness. “It comes down to marketing,” said the Edinburg native. “It is a way to sell tickets, but it also gives an opportunity for the university to get their name out there.” Quintanilla, who interned for the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees for a season, said it is like a domino effect whereby the Valley people gradually come to know that both the university and the Vipers are involved with the community. Admission to the event will be $10 for all UTPA students, organizations, staff and family. Fang, the mascot, and the Snake Charmers dance team will make an appearance at the event.

December 3, 2008

Page 15

SPORTS

T BASEBALL

Broncs get competitive for Steak World Series exhibition By Kevin Stich THE PAN AMERICAN The yells of the umpire and pop of a leather-stitched ball hitting the catcher’s mitt filled Edinburg Baseball Stadium, as The University of TexasPan American baseball team played the final game of its three-game intrasquad Steak World Series. Perhaps the only thing missing on the cool morning of Nov. 22 was the traditional peanuts and Cracker Jacks. The Broncs were divided into Green and White units and found themselves competing for a hefty steak dinner from Willie B’s Barbecue in Edinburg. The twist was that the losing squad has to serve their victorious counterparts, and with a little more than just steaks on the line, neither team wanted to come in second. “It’s a lot of fun because everyone on our team is competitive; we both want to win,” pitcher Mike Langford said. “No matter who wins, at the end of the game we’re still teammates and we still joke around with each other. It kind of gives us more of a competitive edge to play against your own team.” The Green took the first game in a dominating performance, winning 9-2 and taking the early lead in the series. The White responded with an equally dominating performance, taking retribution by defeating the Green 10-2 and tying the series at one apiece. With the first two games being won in commanding fashion, it was only appropriate that the last game was as close as anyone could have predicted. The teams were tied 1-1, until the bottom of the third inning, when third

Onydia Garza/THE PAN AMERICAN

A NEW ERA - New head coach Manny Mantrana (center) brings his rich winning tradition to the Bronc baseball program for the 2009 season. With that tradition, he brought over the Steak World Series, his version of the Green and White game, in hopes to better prepare the Broncs. baseman Ryan Vest hit an RBI triple, followed by first baseman Billy Donaho, who drove in Vest on a single to give the Green a 3-1 lead. The White responded in the fourth inning with three runs of their own, one of which came off an infield error, to tie the game up at 3-3. After scoring one run in the top of the fifth inning, the White went on a scoring binge in the sixth when center fielder Bonham Hough hit a double that brought in two runners to give the White a 6-3 lead, which was eventually extended to 8-3

with two more scores. The bottom of the seventh brought the Green within three when Mark Martinez, pitcher for the White, walked two batters with the bases loaded and put the score at 8-5. Then in the eighth inning, the Green squad lit up the scoreboard, producing four runs to go up 9-8, sealing the deal and a steak dinner. New head coach Manny Mantrana has been doing the Steak World Series for his teams for the past 12 years, and doing so at his new stop gives him a

T VOLLEYBALL

chance to see how his players perform; he can now make adjustments accordingly. The team looks to improve on last season’s 21-35 record under former coach Willie Gawlik, and Mantrana, who has a friendly demeanor and modest confidence about him, said that he is optimistic about their 2009 campaign. “Rome wasn’t built in a day. I have got to be patient; my coaching staff has to be patient,” Mantrana said. “Are we going to be better than last year? Absolutely. I came here to win. I didn’t

just come out here to have a winning season. My goal and my vision for the program is to one day play in Omaha for a national championship.” Even though the Steak World Series is played in good nature, the players’ focus is on winning, and the squad wants to take that attitude over to the spring, when the season kicks off Feb. 20 against Texas Tech. For now, the Green team can bask in their win — at least until next year, when the White team will look to even the score.

T WELLNESS CENTER

Positive ending for a tough season WRSC hosts biannual

By Sara Hernandez THE PAN AMERICAN The University of Texas-Pan American’s volleyball team wrapped up the season with two wins and two losses en route to a third-place finish at the 2008 National Independent Tournament in Orem, Utah. The Lady Broncs recorded eight wins in 18 games, compared to last year’s 15-18 record. “It was a very difficult season in a lot of areas,” head coach Angela Hubbard said. “We thought it was going to be a better season and it just wasn’t.” Hubbard explained that the arrangement of games this season was not very favorable and was a lot more demanding than last year’s slate, leading to contrasting results between Hubbard’s first two seasons as head coach. “We are definitely better this year individually,” she said. “We played a much tougher schedule, so our record wasn’t able to really show how much we improved.” Cassandra Trevino, a sophomore from Edinburg, mentioned that although the season was hard, the team benefited

with a new understanding of the game. “It gave me a lot of experience and knowledge of the game,” she said. “I had to face different, new situations.” Seniors Deanna Schneyer, Chelsea Blakely, and Kellie Phillips closed the season averaging .318, .203 and .153 points per game while sophomores Danielle Reed and Marci Logan contributed with an average of .210 and .154 points per game respectively. Although the season was not as successful as expected, Hubbard stressed that the Lady Broncs remained devoted to the program. “The girls did work hard, there was a lot of improvement made,” she said. “When you’re losing, it’s hard to see that and it’s hard to come back from that, but they tried their best to keep the spirits high and they kept working hard.” The Lady Broncs ended the season with a good impression at the National Independent Tournament, losing their first two games (against Cal StateBakersfield and Utah Valley University by counts of 3-0) but closing with two wins. UTPA defeated Providence College

3-1 and went into five sets for the first time in the season against NJIT 3-2, holding on for the victory. “We have no regrets,” Trevino said. “We gave it all out in the court.” The Lady Broncs closed the 2008 season learning from difficulty and strengthening the commitment of playing to their full potential next year. “There’s a lot of room for improvement,” Trevino said. “We tried hard and we will continue working together next season.” Despite the setbacks, returning players and the coaching staff are now looking to reinforce the team to achieve a hopeful 2009 season. “I’ve already signed three people and I’m looking to bringing about six more,” Hubbard said. “Hopefully we’ll be able to get the rest of the personnel we need to be successful.” The first official recruit announced is Ijanae Holman, from Niceville, Fla. Holman was recognized with an AllStar tournament MVP, All-Conference at the Jean King tournament, and First Team All-Area during her last year at Niceville High School.

rock-climbing competition

By Sara Hernandez THE PAN AMERICAN

“It’s like a chessboard; you have to look at it, focus on it, and figure it out,” said Charlie Casares, coordinaThe Wellness and Recreational tor of campus activities. “The boulderSports Center’s biannual climbing-wall ing is a lot more finesse.” In the child category, which includcompetition took place Nov. 22 and 23. Twenty University of Texas-Pan ed kids from 9 to 13 years old, Aaron American students and WRSC mem- Regalado took the gold and UTPA stubers were divided into four different dents Monica Bomban and Emmanuel categories – child, single beginner, Martinez were the beginner and intermediate winners single intermediate and individual “It’s like a chessboard; you respectively. Izak Ramirez advanced. Three have to look at it, focus on it, conquered two couples participated and figure it out.” events and paired in the team category up with Star Smith and two advanced to win the team climbers were part Charlie Casares of the bouldering Coordinator of campus competition. Casares comcompetition. activities mented that events The task was to get to the top of the 33-foot wall as like this are intended to inspire the fast as possible following routes with UTPA community to get involved varying difficulty depending on the with the WRSC. “We would love to have people category of participant. Bouldering consists on climbing come out here and look at the wall, across the wall instead of up and touch it, climb it, play with it.” he said. “Show them what we’ve got.” down it.

THE PAN AMERICAN

Page 16

T WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

December 3, 2008

Sports Commentary

Computers are taking over the BCS By Ramiro Paez THE PAN AMERICAN

open the second period that cut the 23-point deficit to 10 points. The Lady Broncs found themselves in a similar situation their opponiversity of Texas-Pan American nent had experienced in the opening half, batwomen’s basketball head coach tling the shot clock to get a decent look. But DeAnn Craft didn’t hide her emo- the significant first-half lead held up, as key tions at the end of her team’s consecutive home baskets down the stretch saved the day. victories Nov. 20 and Nov. 26. In fact, the “Coach talked to us in the locker room and sixth-year coach’s grin from ear to ear said it told us if we just come out good then we have all about her satisfaction with the Lady Bronc no worries for the second half,” Winfrey said. performance. “So we came out and everyone did their roles “It’s a huge win for us to be able to beat Air for the team.” Force, a Mountain West school,” Craft said of Iceland native Maria Ben Erlingsdottir UTPA’s 53-41 win over the Lady Falcons. matched Winfrey in total points with 17 on 5“That’s a superior conference. This is a state- of-11 shooting, including 4 of 8 from behind ment game for our program and the fact that the arc. we played so well in the first half, it’s almost Freshman newcomer Brittany Demery, who too much too soon.” scored eight points in the win versus Air Force, Indeed in the first half against Air Force the was coming off a 20-point game against Texas day before Thanksgiving, the Lady Broncs Lutheran Nov. 20; in that game she grabbed looked nearly unstoppable. The women eight rebounds as the team won easily, 97-66. jumped out to a 15-0 lead, an advantage they It was more of the same story against Texas never relinquished, on senior guard Teshay Lutheran. UTPA’s defense clamped down on Winfrey’s basket from behind the arc at the the opponent’s offense, holding the Lady 11:40 mark. Bulldogs to 25 points on 22.2 percent shooting Winfrey’s solid guard play has molded the in the first half. Lady Broncs into a consistent offensive threat It was apparent on the court that the Lady so far in the 2008 campaign. Her athleticism Broncs were quicker to the ball, more aggresand leadership have moved her into the star- sive and outhustled the visitors on almost ring role alongside a every possession. By the 12dependable supporting cast. “It’s a huge win for us to be minute mark of the second Winfrey churned out a half, two Texas Lutheran double-double performance able to beat Air Force, a players had already fouled against Air Force, tallying Mountain West school. out, one of which was 17 points and snatching 14 That’s a superior conference. McAllen High ex Rebecca rebounds in 38 minutes of This is a statement game for Valdez. The Lady Bulldogs action. She added four our program and the fact that had four players foul out by assists and three steals verthe final buzzer, as UTPA sus the Lady Falcons, who we played so well in the first owned the boards with a didn’t score until the 9:55 half, it’s almost too much too season-high in rebounds. mark when Raimee Beck soon.” “Sixty-four rebounds to connected on a 3-pointer. me showed a pursuit to the But the basket quickly faded basketball,” Craft said. “To DeAnn Craft as UTPA had built a 35-12 Women’s basketball head me (it) showed that they lead by halftime. understand if you control the The Lady Bronc defense coach backboard, you can control a smothered Air Force’s game. I can’t say enough offense throughout the first half, forcing the about Brittany Demery. I thought she was visitors into several possessions with desper- absolutely a beast on the board. She plays with ation shots with the shot-clock winding such a level of maturity for being a new player down. During timeouts, Air Force head coach in our program.” Ardie McInelly was livid about her team’s NOTES: After the two home wins, the performance. Her piercing expressions of, women moved to 4-2 for the season with a 57“What are you doing!” and “Box out!” could 52 win over Rider Monday, as freshman be heard throughout the Field House and did- Epiphany Smith nailed a late three-pointer to n’t have to be made any clearer to her team. close it out. Winfrey paced the charge again UTPA collected 19 first-half rebounds, with 13 points as the Lady Broncs led by 14 at including seven on the offensive side, and one point before holding on for the victory. seized seven steals. They compete in the Air Force Classic in But in the second half, the tables turned. Colorado Springs starting Friday, beginning The Lady Falcons soared to an 18-5 run to the tourney against Miami, Ohio.

Onydia Garza/THE PAN AMERICAN

FRESHMAN SENSATION - Newcomer Brittany Demery has become an efficient player at the guard position for the Lady Broncs in her first season. Against Texas Lutheran, Demery led UTPA to a 9766 victory, scoring 20 points.

By Pedro Perez IV THE PAN AMERICAN Last weekend the Big XII conference championship game was finally decided. Despite losing to Texas 45-35 earlier in the season, Oklahoma, by way of performance at the end of the season, as calculated by MVP computers the Bowl Championship Series drafted in the first round of the draft, now gets to play for the conference title in Kansas City on Saturday. There’s an explanation to a surprising result, which came about after a rare threeway tie in the Big XII South. This is how it unraveled. Texas, Oklahoma and Texas Tech all finished at 7-1. The rule states that in the event that more than two teams are in a tie, the final BCS standings acts as the tiebreaker. At the end of Rivalry Week in college football, Oklahoma finished second in the BCS standings, ahead of UT so the Sooners advance to play Missouri. Here is where the plot gets thick. The ‘Horns beat OU in October. Sure, if Oklahoma were to play Texas right now, maybe it would be a different story seeing how OU has defeated its last four opponents, which included No. 2 Texas Tech and No. 12 OSU, by a combined score of 254-118, and Texas’ only notable wins in the last two weeks has been against Kansas and state rival A&M. But, and this but is one of the biggest buts, that has probably never been used. Texas beat OU at the beginning of the season so why shouldn’t they get to play in the conference championship? Now no one can deny that Tech beat Texas, but it was in the final minute. Nonetheless a win is a win which is exactly why All-American computer shouldn’t be the final decision-maker for any type of championship, no matter what sport. This mess called the BCS is not over by any means, it’s just getting started for the teams that are eligible for the crystal football in January. So if OU losses to Missouri on Saturday, what happens to Texas? It’s obvious that either Florida or Alabama is going to win the SEC title and is going to go to the title game, but what then happens to the loser of that game? The good news is this week the mystery will finally be solved, the bad news is that only two teams will remain for the BCS title game and the rest will have to settle for whatever bowl game is left. It’s ironic that Austin is the home base to Dell, one of the world’s most successful computer companies, because it was a computer that kept the home team out, for now, of the national title game.