July 16, 2009 by UTRGV Student Media

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Volume 65, No. 29

THE PAN AMERICAN

July 16, 2009

Budget

University receives increase in funding By Brian Silva The Pan American The university will receive more than anticipated as appropriations figures come in from the recently concluded Texas Legislative session. A request for a two-percent increase was made through the UT System, even though administrators were pessimistic they would attain

that number. However, the university received a five-percent increase from final appropriations. Interim President Charles Sorber believes that now, with better than expected appropriations and cost-cutting measures in place, the UTPA budget will run in the black for the first time in four years. “When we went into the session we were quite concerned that there would

be inadequate funding, to the point we thought we might have to make cuts,” he said “That’s the mentality we had going in to the session.” Sorber formed several cost-cutting committees shortly after he arrived in Edinburg in February, in anticipation of reduced funding. Each committee was headed up by every vice president and composed of students, faculty and staff; the task was to find ways to re-

duce excess costs. “As it turns out, the Legislature was able to do some things that ended up putting more money into higher education than most thought was going to happen,” he said. Some of it, he said, is one-time money. He explained that money from the stimulus package that Congress passed earlier this year was given to the university, and it will go to certain

SEEN AND CAPTURED

Vaughn vies for AD post

News

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O n l i n e Evaluations pilot study hopes to land safely

By Kevin Stich The Pan American

New RIO search engine to provide easier way to fish for info

A&L •

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Home grown theater troupe c r e a t e s comedy civil war ‘Butler did it’ in UTPA theatre PASS play Tips to beat the hot hot Valley heat

INDEX

eral revenue consisting of stimulus money, then you need to worry See BUDGET || Page 

ATHLETICS

Check out our exclusive online stories:

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portions of the budget. Sorber cautioned that because some of the increase in the budget is from one-time money, it poses a problem for the university in the future. They have to be careful about how the windfall is spent. “If you have 3 percent of your gen-

Tammy Ayala/The Pan American

TAGS - Students Celestina Lujano (left) and Monica Bomban admire a dog tag made by the U.S. Army at a Student Union event on Thursday afternoon.

ADMINISTRATION

Professor removed from teaching classes By Brian Silva The Pan American Associate sociology professor Steven Leibowitz was suddenly removed from teaching his social psychology class on July 1. Leibowitz did not appear for class. Toward the beginning of the period Sociology Department Chair Chad Richardson, and several people from the Dean of Students Office, explained

OPINION PG. 2

to the students that their professor had been reassigned, according to a female student who is in the class and witnessed the event. A departmental secretary within the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences said Leibowitz is under investigation, but that he doesn’t know for what. The secretary also said Leibowitz has been locked out of his office by Provost Paul Sale and was told to stay away.

NEWS PG. 3

The independent studies class Leibowitz was teaching for Summer II has been put on hold, but the university has said it will honor all classes Leibowitz was to teach. The secretary also said that Leibowitz has been calling in and asking how his students are, and if there are any updates. The 22-year-old female student in Leibowitz’s class, who wishes to

See PROFESSOR || Page 

ARTS & LIFE PG. 10

Interim athletic director Ricky Vaughn is on a narrowing list of candidates for the position of The University of Texas-Pan American’s athletic director. Vaughn’s time as head of the athletic department has been punctuated by long pauses at controversial questions and carefully meditated political responses. In his tenure as interim director he has been in the middle of transition, seeing six coaches depart, although he was only officially responsible for two, choosing not to renew the contracts of former men’s head basketball coach Tom Schuberth and former head baseball coach Willie Gawlik. Vaughn also helped drive the $25,000 internal investigation into suspected recruiting violations by the men’s basketball program -- an investigation that wrapped up in May and is now being reviewed by the NCAA. Getting that ordeal out of the way has allowed for the resumption of the search for the new athletic director – a position that Vaughn hopes to fill permanently. But with his resume, Vaughn has gained critics, and he is aware of some negative connotations he is

See VAUGHN || Page 

SPORTS PG. 20

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THE PAN AMERICAN

Letter from the Editor

July 16, 2009

Illustrated Opinion

‘Paper’s site goes live: panamericanonline.com Brian Silva Editor in Chief

After months of preparation our updated Web site is online and active. This site will allow us to explore an unlimited source of digital journalism. This in turn will help you, our readers, see the news in a multifaceted way. This will include much more photography and different kinds of multimedia. We encourage you to participate in the site’s different features. Below each story you will see a comment form. This will allow anyone to fill out the form and display their comment on the story they wish to talk about. You should also sign-up as a user. This will enable you to receive a weekly e-mail starting in the fall semester that will give updates on what’s making news

that week. The sign-up feature will also give readers the opportunity to receive Breaking News alerts via your e-mail whenever significant news happens in the UT-Pan American community. Stories will now be able to go up much faster than before, so make sure you stop by the website regularly. There will be something new everyday. As we grow into our new Website you will see additional features emerge. To better better serve you by allowing you to have the full news experience. Send us your comments. Send us your story ideas. Our potential is unlimited, so join us in our new endeavors. After you finish reading this paper go to the site and read our online exclusives.

Vol 65, No. 29

July 16, 2009

1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 Phone: (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 EDITOR IN CHIEF Brian Silva / basilva1@utpa.edu ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ana Villaurrutia / alvillaurru@utpa.edu MANAGING EDITOR Naxiely Lopez / A&L EDITOR Isaac Garcia / izek_el@yahoo.com SPORTS EDITOR Kevin Stich/ k.stich@gmail.com PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Ben Briones / ben.briones.jr@gmail.com DESIGN EDITOR Gregorio Garza / ggarzaz26@utpa.edu SENIOR DESIGNER Roy Bazan / rbazanzz@utpa.edu ADVISER Dr. Greg Selber / selberg@utpa.edu ADMINISTRATIVE ASSOCIATE Anita Reyes / areyes18@utpa.edu ADVERTISING MANAGER Mariel Cantu/ spubs@utpa.edu WEBMASTER Jose Villarreal / josemvillarrealcs@gmail.com

**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.

Illustration by Anthony Salinas

Opinion

A posthumous surge in popularity Kevin Stich Sports Editor

It’s no secret; America has an unhealthy infatuation with celebrities. It is the era of a modern cultural obsession that has unfolded itself into almost blind idolatry, as people eat, drink and savor every drive-thru celebrity moment the media can conjure. Consumers buy celebrity clothing, scents and books in an almost religious fashion. Perhaps even more phenomenal is the public’s reaction and media’s coverage of celebrity deaths, and the circus that it has unconsciously become. Recently on June 25, the socalled “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson, died as a result of heart failure. The media was all over it, and rightfully so as he was one of the biggest stars of the century, and certainly one of the most recognizable names in pop culture. Tabloids, newspapers, Web sites and television all did their best to pay tribute to the man who many saw as the music video’s biggest ambassador. The world saw a global outpouring of fans that wanted to be a part of the final farewell to one of the biggest superstars on the planet.

Almost two weeks later, and the fires are still burning. Tuesday was Jackson’s memorial ceremony, an excessively long threehour affair that was covered live by ABC, CBS, CNN and other news networks. Myspace.com banners still shout homage, New York Times stories covering the funeral proceedings, questions about his estate and assets and the list continues -- where it ends is anyone’s guess. One can’t help but wonder: is it newsworthy? It does seem that real news being covered by a thick blanket of Jackson’s posthumous matters. In the most sympathetic manner: it’s hard to understand why we the media keep jack-hammering the ten-cent nail. He’s gone, his career was nothing short of amazing, but let it rest. People remember where they were when John F. Kennedy died, when John Lennon died, when Elvis Presley died, and maybe some of us will remember where we were when Jackson died. But this has become an almost blind profession of faith toward a human being who was talented but

also exceedingly eccentric and bizarre. What he did to enervate the music industry can be described as profound and supernatural. He had that outlandish charisma about him that inspired media and fan gravitation alike. Nevertheless, he was – for the most part -- human. Jackson was a man who had producers such as Quincy Jones and songwriters like Rod Temperton, who often times were there to put in the work while receiving minimal acclaim. The most sensational thing Jackson did was dance; he was without a doubt a hell of a dancer and he had the chops to prove it. When he let loose the iconic moonwalk to audiences around the world during Motown 25 in 1983, it was stunning to say the least. But he is not a world leader, nor a prominent humanitarian activist, nor the victim of an unjust death. He deserves respect and tribute, but let the world keep turning. Let us move on with more pertinent news, and let Jackson’s memory live on with dignity.

July 16, 2009

THE PAN AMERICAN

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SECURITY

Alerts undergo more action By Abby Flores & Brian Silva The Pan American

This summer’s blackout and water main break helped implement the Bronc Alert system’s first big test. The blackout, which took out power across the entire university, caused two emergency messages to be distributed via text, phone call and e-mail to those signed up to the

system. Quickly after the incident was over, complaints surfaced about the system being too slow, especially with phone-call alerts. The fact that phone calls were slow to arrive was actually not the fault of the system itself. According to Carol Rausch, assistant to the president, all the major telephone companies have firewalls that block large influxes

of calls. The firewall is intended to block large quantities of spam. The calls are blocked, then reviewed and verified for their authenticity. Rausch added that phone messages take even longer due to the 92 different portals they have to be wired through. “We’re definitely going to be See ALERTS || Page 8

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Tammy Ayala/ The Pan American

MEET AND GREET - New Residence Life Director Eric Booth speaks with Provost Paul Sale at a reception to welcome him.

University meets new residence life director By Kristen Cabrera The Pan American

Arnold Martinez/ The Pan American

NEXT STOP - Students exit the Bronc Express bus after arriving at their destination.

Bronc Express provides free ride By Valery Mijangos The Pan American

The University of Texas-Pan American first introduced to its students two shuttle buses called Bronc Express in the fall 2004. Since then, the university has acquired two more buses to transport students, faculty and staff from remote parking lots closer to

campus. But as UTPA’s student body increases, so has the need for more transportation or more parking spaces closer to campus. The latest enrollment figure is expected to top 18,000 in the fall. As the number of students continues to grow in the upcoming years, the need for more parking space should also increase on a campus where parking spots are scarce.

Anticipating the future needs, the university administered a study in spring 2009. According to the Director of Auxiliary Services Leticia Benavides, the assessment of existing routes and possible “loading zones” were studied. The report has not been finalized but some operational

See EXPRESS || Page 8

As an undergraduate student, Eric Booth experienced an interest and drive for an eventual career in university student housing. On July 1 Booth started a new career as director of residence life at the University of Texas-Pan American. Booth got a humble start in housing as a resident assistant at William Penn University in Iowa. He originally wanted to go into teaching but after speaking with his hall director he found that job more appealing. “I didn’t really want to go into teaching after my junior, senior year of college after realizing that it just wasn’t a great fit for me,” said Booth, who is originally from Oskaloosa, Iowa. “They kind of led me towards getting into student affairs and right after college that’s what I decided to do: find a job as a hall director. It just kind of

worked out that way.” After working with small private colleges and universities for over eight years and getting his master’s in higher education administrations in 2006 at the University of Texas at San Antonio, Booth came to the University of Texas-Pan American looking for a university that suited him. “What brought me to UTPA was I wanted the opportunity to work at a large school, a state school, which I hadn’t had yet,” he noted. “But I also want the campus to have a relativity small housing size. It kind of keeps me in a familiar zone with the housing size but an new opportunity with the overall size of the school.” UTPA has an overall enrollment of 17,500 students with only about 700 to 800 living on campus. Booth, who worked as director of residence life at Reinhart College in Waleska, Ga., before UTPA, See RESIDENCE || Page 8

ACADEMICS

New dean of students has high expectations for position By Kristen Cabrera The Pan American

As a college student Calvin Phillips imagined a career based on helping others. It was this idea that led him on a path to becoming the University of Texas-Pan American’s new associate vice president for enrollment and stu-

dent services, and the dean of students. Philip’s position as dean of students officially starts Aug. 3. He was chosen June 25 from about 20 other candidates and three finalists. “Due to my experience as a first-generation college student, I

thought it was great that we had people at the university that were willing and wanted to help me be successful,” said Phillips, who went to school as an undergraduate at Oklahoma State University “One of my advisers asked me, ‘Have you ever thought about going into student affairs?’…I never

thought about it but I know I like higher education and that kind of led me on my path,” Phillips said. Phillips has a Ph.D. in Administration in Leadership Studies from Indiana University of Pennsylvania has worked in higher education for 19 years. His previous job was with Winston Salem State

University, a historically black university, as the associate vice chancellor for student affairs. As a first-generation African-American college student Phillips said he could relate to an institution largely made up of minorities and first-generation college students. See DEAN || Page 8

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July 16, 2009

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NEWS

July 16, 2009

BUDGET continued from Page 1 about when that stimulus money goes away… which it will,” Sorber explained. “You have to spend it on one-time things. You can’t put people on payroll off that money or give people raises, because the next time around we’ll have to take it away when the money isn’t there.” Sorber said another problem area within the institution’s budget is how it has been funded. “This institution has been funding its budget over the last five years by dipping into reserves,” Sorber said. “That had to stop. We can’t do that. The revenues must meet the expenditures.” He said the stimulus situation and the budget deficit make coming

up with a balanced plan much more challenging. “We are trying our darndest to create an environment where we can afford some merit increases for both faculty and staff,” he said. “We have certain things that we have to fund like utilities and benefits, which are mandated.” At the moment no new positions are being created, according to Sorber, though he did note that all existing vacant faculty positions are being filled. He also commented that the university is currently doing very heavy recruiting for faculty. Sorber has a positive outlook as it pertains to the university’s student enrollment, which has flattened out

a bit in the past three years after incredible growth in the 1990s. “We’re hoping for a modest increase in the student body in the fall,” he said. “If that materializes we’ll be on a pretty sound fiscal basis.” He again cautioned that university must be careful as it goes forward to address budget issues. “There’s no magic wand for this,” Sorber said. “It’s hardnosed money management.” Sorber said that one reason for the budget deficits over the past several years may be because the university had an excess amount of cash in the years preceding the deficit. He said that during the first two

Ben Briones/The Pan American BUDGET CRUNCH - Interim President Charles “Chuck” Sorber reviews some documents at his desk while preparing for the day.

Tammy Ayala/The Pan American PIPE BUST - City of Edinburg workers repair a broken pipe in front of the university after it burst while crews were working near it.

years of the deficit, the university was encouraged to use some of its excess, but that mentality continued during the last two years of the shortfall. “It still created an environment where, from the Regents and System point of view, we were spending more than we were taking in,” Sorber said. “The difference has been decreasing over time, so it’s just a continuum of what was set in place a couple of years ago.”

tor, having taken over for former AD Scott Street, who left in 2007. “I think he’s doing about as good of a job as you could expect for an interim in that circumstance,” Sorber said about Vaughn. “There weren’t too many people that could have been asked to step in. He was never trained for that position and he never really had the background for it.” Sorber said he’s happy that Vaughn stepped in, given the fact someone had to do it. He added that to improve athletics it’s going TROUBLE AREAS Referencing specific budget to take an AD and some coaches problems within the university, that get out into the community and Sorber said Residence Life and boost the interest level in Bronc athletics. Athletics have had some issues. “We need to take those sports “We have a problem in Athletics,” Sorber said. “There’s a deficit that have the potential for generating revenue and public interest and that we have to them more resolve.” “There’s no magic wand for make revenue positive so He explained the situation this... it’s hardnosed money they can carry the other programs,” there is that the management.” Sorber said. department is The interim just not bringpresident also mening in enough Charles Sorber tioned that Resimoney. Money dence Life is having Interim president is generated is difficulty balancing through receipts its budget. He laid a at sportinglot of the blame on event gates, occupancy. through donations, and by win“We need to make the housing ning. sufficiently attractive that it is com“We have to get students and petitive and more students opt for the community interested in ath- housing on campus, and then you letics,” he said. don’t have a deficit,” he stressed. Sorber said one of the things the “Supposedly the price is competiuniversity is doing is searching for tive with what’s offered to students a new athletic director. in the immediate vicinity.” “We’re looking for someone Earlier this month Eric Booth that understands the business of took over as director of Residence athletics, not just coaching,” he Life. Though he said he is aware of said. the budget problems, he hasn’t been Currently Ricky Vaughn heads up on the job long enough to provide athletics as the interim athletic direc- more in-depth solutions.

Tammy Ayala/The Pan American AFRICAN MESSAGE - Former U.S. Senator and Ambassador Dr. Robert Krueger speaks about his experiences at the Student Union Theatre to a group of students on June 22.

July 16, 2009

NEWS

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PROFESSOR continued from Page 1 remain anonymous, said UTPA in-

vestigators began asking the class questions as a group about their curriculum and where they were at in their studies. However, she said questions turned to an entirely different subject when the students were interviewed individually. “They asked questions about if he was ever sexually inappropriate,” the student said. “They asked if he ever talked sexually inappropriately to me or if he ever hit on me.” The female student said Rebecca Gadson, assistant dean of students, asked her the questions regarding sexual inappropriateness. However, Gadson said she does

not recall asking those questions. “I was asked to come in and assess where the class was at the time and to better serve them in their transition,” Gadson said. According to Christine Carruthers, associate director of Student Life and Transition Services, those present for the event were herself, Richardson, Gadson, and Patricia Martin, assistant to the dean of students. Carruthers and Martin denied asking questions about sexual inappropriateness. Both said the list of questions they had covered assessment of class progress in coursework. According to all three Dean of Students officials, the reason they

were told for the removal was that he’d been reassigned to work with the office of the Dean of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Both Richardson and the dean of the college, Van Reidhead, are on vacation until July 27 and were unavailable for comment. Carruthers said she and her two colleagues got involved by special request from the office of Provost Paul Sale. When asked about what had happened with Leibowitz, Sale declined to answer and refused to answer any other questions. Director of University Relations Sandra Quintanilla also declined comment on behalf of the university. She said it’s standard

for the university to withhold comment on personnel issues. Assistant Dean Gary Montgomery said he hasn’t seen Leibowitz around the dean’s office, but also reiterated he’s been left out of the loop with what has occurred. In regard to a possible investigation, Student Government Association president Raghuveer Puttagunta said he is not aware of any specifics but expects transparency. “In these situations the administration must be as transparent as possible to diffuse misconceptions so that students are led by the truth and not rumors,” he said. Puttagunta said that if during the investigation something is re-

vealed that significantly affects students then transparency and clear communication should be provided to students. He reiterated that the rumor mill should not guide students, staff and faculty. “I’m a firm believer in innocent until proven guilty,” he said. Leibowitz has been at the university since 1975. He received his bachelors degree in history from the University of Virginia, his masters in sociology from the University of Bridgeport – Connecticut, and his doctorate in sociology from University of Missouri – Columbia. From 1990 to 1996 he served as chair of the sociology department.

VAUGHN continued from Page 1 associated with. Despite public differences with former women’s head basketball coach DeAnn Craft, and former Lady Bronc guard Epiphany Smith, Vaughn hopes he can convince the skeptics. “If I am chosen for this position, and over time, as things start to play out and we see things develop and see things move in a positive direction, then I hope I can win over my critics,” he said. Dr. John Edwards, the vice president for student and enrollment services and a man who may play an integral part in the selection, has touted Vaughn as the man for the job, saying that he trusts Vaughn’s leadership on recent issues. “We’re getting there,” Edwards said. “If you look on this year, given the fact that we’ve had an interim athletic director, we’ve had the NCAA investigation concerns, we’ve had coaches leaving and in spite of all that, if you look at our success this year, not bad.” However, the other integral man in the mix, interim university president Dr. Charles Sorber, who perhaps is even more consequential in the search for UTPA’s next athletic director, isn’t so sure. “I think he’s doing as good a job as you could expect for an interim in that circumstance,” Sorber said. “I wasn’t here and I wasn’t part of the decision to ask Ricky to do it. But I am led to believe, and I do believe that he is working hard to do the best that he can in that position. He was never trained for that position; he never really had the background for it. So, he’s still doing a pretty good job. Now, is he the kind of person we want in there? I don’t know.”

Vaughn graduated from Angelo State University with degree in physical education, and earned his master’s degree in education in 1991 from Ashland University. The interim president also said that he wasn’t sure if he is still being considered and that he himself would interview the final applicants. “Under the circumstances, I don’t think we could’ve really asked much more from him,” he said. Vaughn was notified that he was in the pool of applicants chosen for phone interviews, which were to have started Monday. He said that essentially it means the committee is getting closer to a decision, and that he is still in the thick of the race. The search committee is comprised of 16 members, headed by co-chair’s Richard Treviño, the executive director of the learning assistance center, and Dr. Dora Saavedra of the communication department. Also on the group, are Rebecca De Leon, who represents the Student Athletic Council, and Student Government Association President Raghu Puttagunta. The most notable absence from the committee is Craft, which no doubt works in Vaughn’s favor. She left the university in the spring to take the head women’s job at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire. “If they choose me as the athletic director, I’d be more than honored,” Vaughn said. “If they don’t choose me, I still have a role in the athletic department that I plan on fulfilling… I look at UTPA as a career; I don’t plan on going anywhere. I love the community, I love the university, I love the direction the university

Ben Briones/The Pan American ATHLETICS - Interim Athletic Director Ricky Vaughn sits in his office in the HPE2 building.

has for our department. ” Assuming that the interim director does not get the job, he will retake his position as assistant athletic director for academic and student services. Vaughn has been with the university for eight years, and has spent just over one year as interim athletic director. The other seven were spent six years as the head track coach and one at the position he will take back up if he does not win the position. So far, it’s been a year filled with turmoil, but when asked if there was anything in particular that he would have changed, Vaughn would not point out specifics. “Hindsight’s twenty-twenty. I mean there’s always something you’re going to handle different, but it’s easy to say that after you look back on things,” Vaughn said.

Vaughn has certainly found himself busy with controversy, but is proud of the work he has done, including keeping a surplus in the department’s budget. “I don’t think there is any one big thing that we’ve been able to get accomplished, but the things I’m most proud of is the personnel we are starting to put together,” he said. “Coach (Manny) Mantrana, coach (Ryan) Marks, coach (Dave) Hartman. I think we’re putting together a really good staff and department of very good coaches. I think they’re has been several other, smaller things that we’ve been able to accomplish and get established outside of the athletic department... The other thing I think is one of the biggest things, is that we’re going to end the year with a surplus in our budget.” Mantrana (baseball), Marks

(basketball) and Hartman (track and field) were all hired under Vaughn in the past year. But the budget is by far the most important thing that the new athletic director will inherit. “It’s the continuation of trying to increase your budget and raise funds,” Vaughn said. “I think that’s probably the most pressing issue, is trying to get out and look at other ways and sources of increasing our revenue.” Vaughn doesn’t know if he will make the top tier of applicants, but said that he respects the process and will take it as it comes. It is unclear when UTPA will see its new director, but Vaughn will most likely have a large say in hiring both a new women’s basketball coach, as well as a new tennis coach.

Editor Brian Silva contributed to this story

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NEWS

ALERTS looking into this,” Rausch said, adding that one possibility might be to discontinue the use of the phone-call feature in the alert package. As for the overall response and timeliness of the warnings, Interim President Charles Sorber said the Crisis Management Team handled the event ably. He also mentioned the team’s leader, Richard Costello, performed well. A couple of days later the Bronc Alert system was used again when a pipe burst on campus near University Drive. The system was used to students, faculty and staff know that a portion of the campus was without water. Bronc Alerts are sent to the student in the event of a natural,

July 16, 2009

continued from Page 3 man-made, health or civil emergency that may threaten students on campus. The UTPA system comes in the wake of several high-profile shootings on college campus, prominently including one at Virginia Tech two years ago. “The system is designed to notify the community of an impending emergency such as an active shooter, a tornado, or even a power outage,” said Costello, director of the Department of Environmental Health and Safety. “We have also used it to notify individual emergency response teams of emergencies that require a response.” Bronc Alert were initiated in the latter part of 2008 in response

to the Virginia Tech tragedy, basic communication among one which killed 32 people, with the another. approval of the university’s Crisis Receiving a Bronc Alert is quite M a n a g e m e n t “The system is designed to easy. Simply Team, in log on to assist. conjunction with notify the community of an panam.edu and the president and click on the vice presidents. impending emergency such as Bronc Alerts tab M o s t and input the institutions have an active shooter, a tornado, or information you implemented are asked. The mechanisms to even a power outage.” service is free to notify students, students and staff. faculty and staff “I don’t of an impending Richard Costello receive Bronc crisis or Dir. EHS Alerts, because emergency. I haven’t signed In 2006, according to textually. up for it. But now that I am aware org, 40 percent of citizens send of exactly what it is, I would like to text messages regularly for sign up for it,” said Mission native updates in the work place and for Victor Hernandez, a psychology

SEEN AND CAPTURED

major. “I think it will be very helpful to receive these messages and make us aware if anything is going on, on campus.” According to Costello, roughly 1,000 students are signed up for the bronc alerts. “The program is only as successful as the number of persons signed up. I encourage the students to take a few minutes, go to the main Web page, and sign up,” he said. Sign up for Bronc Alerts -go to assist.panam.edu -click on Bronc Alert logo -login with username and password

RESIDENCE continued from Page 3

Arnold Martinez/ The Pan American

CONSTRUCTION – University crews work on infrastructure in between the CAS and SBS buildings.

DEAN

continued from Page 3

UTPA is a minority-serving institution whose student body is almost 90 percent Hispanic. “I know your institution prominently supports first-generation college students and that has been my passion,” Phillips said. “And at the institutions where I’ve worked that’s most of the students we worked with.” Phillips said his focus, as dean of students will be encouraging students to continue their education and prepare for the future. “The bottom line is to create opportunities,” he stressed. “That we do a better job in retaining students, that we help students have a great experience outside of the classroom in terms of cocurricular that will enhance their skills and knowledge base so that they can be successful beyond UTPA.” The warm welcome he received when first visiting the university left a lasting impression. “The people who I interacted with, anywhere from the students to staff, were very friendly and very welcoming,” Phillips said. He also reiterated his somewhat

unofficial motto of successes in students. “To me that is important because students want to be… at a place they feel they are welcomed and feel that they can be successful within that environment,” said Phillips. “I felt that when I came on the campus.” Jeanette Broshears, interim dean since last year when Dean Jerry Price moved to California, is to be associate dean of students into the fall. She was on the search committee for the position, and elaborated on Phillips’ qualifications for dean of students. “He has a good philosophical background on higher ed and working in student affairs.” Broshears said. “He has a lot of experience on developing staff to serve students better and just an overall strong commitment to students, especially first-generation college students.” Initially, Student Government Association President Raghuveer Puttagunta had his doubts about it, saying that he felt Philips would spend more time with staff rather than with students.

“It seemed that he was very much into professional development,” Puttagunta said. “I didn’t know that he would really have an open-door policy when it came to meeting with students…it seemed that it was kind of just his job title, not his real mission to interact with students.” However after Philips was brought down to the university in May to complete a lengthy interview process, the SGA leader’s opinion changed. “It seem like he was very compassionate,” Puttagunta said, “and so far from my meeting with him he has a great personality, very outgoing, that will really help students with his new position. He is very capable from the administration standpoint of the position.” Phillips capability is matched with his enthusiasm. His drive to help make students successful will hopefully be a constant and meet others’ expectations as well as his own. “My expectation is to make sure that we are very open to helping students be successful at the university,” he concluded.

said that his department is concenWith this information though, trating on convincing more stu- Booth did confirm that Troxel dents to live on campus through- Hall was to remain closed for the out their college career. fall semester due to the trend of “(We’re) trying to figure out low housing applications over the what we can do to create an expe- years, Booth wanted to point out rience where more students want that it is being used for a purpose. to live on cam“From what I pus and stay on “What brought me to UTPA understand, still campus longer,” being pretty new, he elaborated. was I wanted the opportunity to it does serve a “That’ll definitepurpose for camps ly be a push. It’s work at a large school, a state and conferences. one that has been school, which I hadn’t had yet,” So its not just layvery clear, Dr. ing there not being (John) Edwards used, it is being wants students to Eric Booth utilized,” he said. live on campus, Director of Residence Life “It would be great I understand that to fill all the other because I work in buildings up and housing. get students in there, but its almost a Booth said that this fall the on disservice to only put a really small campus population hasn’t changed number of students, like 10 or 15 from last fall, but it’s still too early (in Troxel) because there not getting to tell what the population of stu- the same experience like the people dents living on campus will be. might get in Heritage or Unity.”

EXPRESS changes have been made; such as re-training the drivers to load/ unload only at designated shuttle stops and improve communication between drivers to allow for the spreading of coverage, they are looking into more traffic signs. Benavides said that she thought that replacing the older buses with new ones would be more economical and beneficial to our school and everyone who uses the Bronc Express. “Eventually yes, but we will need to evaluate the buses, and time them, and they are taken offline for repairs and costs associated with repairs,” Benavides said. “If a bus is taken off line for repairs, this results in delays for shuttle pickup of students since fewer buses are available to cover the area.” Richard Chazco, a 19-year-

continued from Page 3

old physical therapy major from McAllen, doesn’t think that the shuttles need to be replaced. “The buses seem fine, they ride pretty smoothly. I think they’re fine,” Chazco said. During the spring semester Chazco often parked behind the Wellness and Recreational Sports Complex before he went to his class in the Social Behavior and Sciences Building. “I only waited about 8 to 10 minutes at the bus stop and the ride was only 5 minutes long,” Chazco said. Even though not everyone agrees with the running of the shuttle busces. The implement ation has at least relived students of the about half mile walk in the Valley heat, and Chazco agrees. “It is too hot to walk all the way over there,” he said.

July 16, 2009

Page 9

NEWS

Summer interns share experiences at newspaper Pan American Staff The Pan American Many communication majors enter their college years with little experience except a dream, though some are lucky enough to have had a newspaper program established at their high school. It is a cardinal rule among the staff at The Pan American newspaper that it’s best to start early at a publication, to ensure the proper amount of bylines and newsroom war experience to be able to use in wading through the hiring process and actually get a job after graduation. We know that without experience in college, a reporter’s resume gets chunked in the first round of “no’s.” This rule is best demonstrated through the paper’s latest venture. For years The Pan American has done outreach events such as media conferences with high schools in the Valley. The belief was that along with helping area schools with their skills, organizing competitions and conferences was a good way to recruit the best of the best, keeping them in the area instead of complaining when they went off to UT or Texas A&M. It was after the latest such conference, last October, that the staff and adviser developed the idea for a summer internship for high school students. Instead of critiquing high school work and sending the creators off after a daylong ordeal, we figured, why not make them part of the summer newspaper effort? We invited all the high schools to send their talented kids over to campus, and as it turned out, 15 hopefuls from all

over the Valley gave up their summers to learn the ins and outs of the newspaper business. The Pan American staff took these interns and mentored them. It has been quite an experience teaching the newcomers while holding fast to deadlines, but it has been generally successful. A handful of the newbies are now firmly entrenched; some will attend the university in the fall, and others will continue to contribute to the product here while still in high school once the semester begins. The UTPA student newspaper currently has over 50 exes working in the business all over the country, though mainly in Texas. Look at any Valley newspaper from Brownsville to Harlingen and one will see bylines from former The Pan American staffers, like Eladio Jaimez at the Valley Morning Star plus Matt Lynch and Mike Gonzalez at the Mid-Valley Town Crier. This weekend several professionals from The Monitor in McAllen (former student paper editor Sandra Gonzalez among them) will be visiting the UTPA newsroom to “teach the teachers” a few tricks. Outreach works both ways, as the university continues to build on its relationship with all Valley media. We enjoy developing young minds and serving the community, not only by producing graduates but by making sure students start early and get the most out of their educational experience on campus. The summer internship program continues into August, as our high school heroes help us prepare news material for the revamped newspaper Web site, at panamericanonline.com.

By Jesi Leal Walking through the Pan American office doors I thought to my self, why did I even agree to do this? I am such a mediocre writer! To top it off, I was a nervous wreck and felt intimated by every person in that news room…what did I get myself into? Nonetheless, I was stuck in that one room and there was nowhere I could hide. As we all broke into our specific groups according to what was our best interest, I began to feel a little more at ease. The News Editor, Ana Villaurrutia, was the one in charge of issuing my story. Honestly, she seemed a little mean at first but as time went on, my thoughts quickly changed and she seemed like a really cool person. I was promptly issued the story to write about some new online faculty evaluations. Red sirens went on inside my head and I was immediately confused. After all, how is a high school intern supposed to know what type of

By Jillian Sauls Working with the Pan American newspaper staff as a student intern reporter this summer has been a positive learning experience that has allowed me to explore the field of journalism at a semi-professional level. Writing for a college publication requires a lot more effort and dedication than a comparatively simple high school newspaper, and I’m honored to have been selected out of all my peers to participate in this program. Through observing and working alongside the staff, I have come to better understand the complicated process of producing and distributing a real

evaluations go on in a college campus? I knew this was going to be tough. I scheduled my first interview with a woman named Yanci Swenson.I was ready to take on this story by storm! Little did I know, pen and paper weren’t the best supplies to use when it came down to copying everything she said within those 20 minutes of me questioning her. I copied a few quotes here and there…but it was nothing compared to how much she talked! My second interview took place just minutes after I spoke to Mrs. Swenson with the Fellow Provost Ala Qubbaj. He was kind enough to speak to me at such a short notice. Again, I was left copying a few quotes but not enough. Once I started working on my story. I began to stress out to a high degree because the quotes and information There wasn’t enough to write out the whole story to its full potential. That day I learned that you always need a recorder when going on interviews. When I was all done with the story

about the new online faculty evaluations, I sent it to Ana hoping she wouldn’t tear me to pieces for my horrible and nonnews worthy story. However, when I met Ana that next week, she didn’t even put me down one bit. I was grateful I was given a second chance to make the story important, as it should be and to actually use a recorder this time around! My interviews went better with my recorder in hand, and my story underwent a complete transformation. I was actually kind of proud of myself for the first time throughout this whole internship. Now here I am writing about my experiences with my first ever internship at the Pan American. I never got to experience something like that before since high school interviews are completely different. I learned how you could write about absolutely anything (even if you never even heard of the topic in your life) if you just ask the right questions and ask the right people.

newspaper. Journalism is a demanding profession, and I’ve gained a new level of respect for those who work in this field and whose efforts are often taken for granted. Mingling with the college-aged members of the staff has also helped me to become more outgoing in social situations. I was pleasantly surprised by the respect and encouragement I was given in spite of my relatively young age. It was interesting to speak with people who were generally more mature than the high school students I am accustomed to working with, and I won’t soon forget the unique personalities I encountered. Despite the ever-present stress of

deadlines and new assignments, this experience was, for the most part, a pleasurable one. I have greatly enjoyed writing for the Arts & Life section, which is where the majority of my interests lie. I feel that this internship has helped to prepare me for a potential career in journalism. Though I am still unsure if I plan to major in this field, my interest in journalistic writing has definitely been rekindled. The skills and experience I gained this summer will continue to influence me in both my writing and my life. I’m grateful to those who granted me this opportunity and to everyone who has helped me along the way. It has been a challenge and an honor.

Dates to Know: Kill Paradise Concert July 20, 6 p.m. Cine El Rey Page 10

THE PAN AMERICAN

“Of Mice and Men"casting Sept. 3 and 4, 7 p.m. Studio Theatre CAS 107 July 16, 2009

MUSIC

Planets align as And Venus plays first concert in RGV By Isaac Garcia The Pan American It’s a smoldering Saturday afternoon outside Trae Valdez’s home in rural Weslaco. As he waits for two of his fellow band members to arrive, a goat makes noise in the distance while guitarist Nate Garcia jokes about sacrificing the animal before their concert. An ensemble for a little more than four months, the guys in And Venus hope that their hard work pays off as they begin a journey through their musical career. “We like to think of our music as colors,” Garcia said. “Sometimes you can feel blue and sad and other times you can feel red and angry. I think all of us are continuously writing music in our heads and then bring it to the others. We usually end up with something we all really love.” There are four members, all from Weslaco: Fernando Cruz on drums, Valdez on bass, Garcia on guitar and Robert Ruelas on vocals/guitar, all 22-years-old, And Venus played their second concert at Cine el Rey in McAllen June 26, opening up for local favorites Dignan. But what makes And Venus who

they are is not what happens onstage; it’s what goes on before they reach it PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT Although people didn’t make their way into Cine el Rey until a little after 7 p.m., And Venus started a few days before that, driving down to the Valley from Austin and San Antonio. “We all relocated from Weslaco to Austin permanently about a year ago because Bob lives in San Antonio and we thought he was the best person fit to understand our style and direction,” said Garcia. After they made their way to Weslaco, the band met with family and friends, but got together a day before the show to practice their set for the concert. “We practiced yesterday at my house, outside, man was it hot. I couldn’t even concentrate on the set and to top it off I sat on fiber glass and itched all over,” Cruz said. “But today we are practicing inside.” And they did just that in Valdez’s parents’ cozy entertainment room. The guys drove in two separate vehicles, unloading their instruments and breaking a sweat in the process.

“For some reason I can’t get used to the heat even after living here for so long—San Antonio seems just a bit cooler,” Ruelas said. Used to small spaces, the band set up and made the best of the tight area as Valdez warned the rest of the guys not to set anything on top of his mother’s new couch. “In Austin we practice in a shed no larger than 10 by 10, you’d be surprised how we can manage to fit in there,” Valdez said. Once the guys set up and tuned their instruments, which took about 15 minutes, Valdez introduced the idea of opening up the show to a song by the late Michael Jackson, hacking out a bit of “Beat It” on his bass to drive home the suggestion. Eventually, the guys began playing their set all the way and being vocal about each other’s performance. Cruz was keen in pointing out Garcia’s guitar solo on the song “The Great Silence.” “Nate, that was the best you have ever played that—seriously man, that was awesome.” Agreeing to run through the set one more time before the concert, the

guys dispersed for about an hour. Although they had only played once before, Cruz insisted shaving his head was part of a ritual before playing. Garcia smoked a few cigarettes and remained socially networked, posting on Myspace and Facebook reminding everyone of the concert. Valdez set out to cook “veggie burgers” for anyone that wanted a bite to eat while Ruelas stayed practicing his vocals. “Bob, you sound amazing. Come out and play,” Cruz yelled as he climbed an oak tree in Valdez’s front yard. “Fuck I scraped my arms; I can’t play at the show tonight guys,” he joked. Before they regrouped and ran through the set one last time, Cruz reminded the band of how he singlehandedly coined the name of the band. “ I was sitting on the toilet reading People Magazine and I saw an article featuring Serena and Venus Williams,” Cruz said. “And that’s how the name came about.” However Garcia refused to believe that the name of the band came about that way, Cruz insisted it was the truth.

Once the band was ready, they packed up their instruments in the two vehicles and set off to Cine el Rey. “I remember our first show in San Antonio; on the way back to Austin we saw sparks flying and I thought it was a cigarette hitting the road,” Cruz said. “But it was our instruments falling out of the truck.” AFTER THE SHOW Content with crowd reaction And Venus settled into the crowd after packing up their instruments and seemed positive about their future as a band. “I think we all really want to do this for a living, but who knows?” Garcia said. “We're all pretty passionate about it--I guess, and I think that with passion alone we can achieve as much as we intend.” For now, And Venus plans limited concerts, instead focusing on the creation of more music. “At the moment we’re just writing and hopefully releasing an EP by the end of this year. As for shows not anytime in the next month, we're going be writing this month.”

ALMOST FAMOUS - Nate Garcia distorts sounds as his bandmates jam out in their first show at Cine El Rey.

Isaac Garcia/THE PAN AMERICAN

July 16, 2009

ARTS AND LIFE

Page 11

T RECREATION

Urban sport soars to new heights in popularity By Andrielle Figueroa The Pan American For Jehan Martinez, 19, climbing walls and jumping into trees are only part of keeping his body agile enough for the art form Parkour. Parkour is something Martinez doesn’t take lightly. Conditioning for the art form takes place on Sunday afternoons at Bill Schupp Park in McAllen as well as at the remains of Super Splash Waterpark in Edinburg. According to AmericanParkour.com, the activity is an art of movement that requires the unison of body and mind to overcome obstacles in the participant’s environment. It includes jumping, tumbling and anything that gets the person swiftly and precisely to where they are aiming to go. Parkour or Free Running as it is also known, stem from the same seed. Behind the movement is a 36-year-old man from France named David Belle. Belle learned the technique from his father, who was a part of the French military fire service. Firefighters would use these techniques to be more agile in saving victims from buildings. Belle still teaches Parkour to firefighters in France, and has also made a career as an actor and a stunt coordinator. Belle perfected the skills he learned and set Parkour into motion in the late ‘90s, though originally it was called l’art du deplacement. Hubert Kounde a fellow actor known for his role in “The Constant Gardener,” helped create a better name for Belle’s idea. In 1998, the name of the philosophy was changed to Parkour.

Parkour is practiced worldwide, in the United States there are sites dedicated to different groups in every state. There are many sites that include AmericanParkour. com, Parkour.us, and Parkour.tv that can assist in learning and watching the heights this sport can really take. Practicing Parkour means knowing limits, as proponents caution not to create a barrier by setting sights too high at first. For example, one shouldn’t attempt jumping rooftops at the first go, but rather train and build up to goals that can be attained. “If you manage to pass over the fence elegantly—that’s beautiful, rather than just passing over it without any flow or technique saying ‘I jumped the fence,’ Martinez joked, “What’s the point in that?” Martinez started out as a young boy climbing trees and jumping fences like the average kid, but now uses his youthful curiosity to feed his Parkour goals. “Our minds want to look around and see every possibility.” Martinez added, “The only difference now for me is I have a better understanding of what I am doing and why I am doing it.” Martinez’s main goals in Parkour are to increase his strength, speed, power, cardiovascular endurance, and muscular flexibility. All of these are needed when jumping off rails, benches, trees and buildings. Buildings? Though Parkour does not seem like a very safe game, the activity is legal to perform as long there is no trespassing. However, law enforcement officials may cut the activity short. “There was one time where I got caught and two police officers stopped me,” Martinez recalled. “Man, I thought

I should’ve just ‘Parkoured’ my way out of there and they’d never catch me. Martinez has since joined with friends in a Parkour group. The group of eight is looking for more participants. A newcomer to the group, Ridge Vista, a 20-year-old rehabilitation services major, explained what sparked his interest in Parkour. “I’ve actually learned about this activity from movies and watching videos online, as I saw this, it looked very interesting, which led me to read more about it,” the McAllen native explained. Movies that contain Parkour are some that Belle acted in and choreographed himself. Some of these films include “Transporter 2,” “Babylon A.D.,” and “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time,” which will be released in 2010. Parkour seems flashy and dangerous, but underneath the exterior those who practice must have a focused mind in sync with the body. Trying to clear obstacles in the environment is much like dealing with problems in real life. Another member of the group is Christopher Ponce, a 27-yearold Edinburg local who believes the problem-solving aspect is the basis of Parkour’s appeal. “In Parkour we clear obstacles all the time: walls, fences, cars, etc… In life you deal w i t h t h e

same type of obstacles either physical or mental,” he said. “Parkour helps overcome those daily problems also, and that’s what I enjoy.” The Parkour group learns from each other and they all have big goals for the future in the art form.

Martinez explains that he sees Parkour in his future: this isn’t just a fling. “It’s a lifelong journey for me,” he stressed. “But this is only the beginning and the destination will be great.”

SUPERFLY - Jehan Martinez and company practice scaling rails, steps and trees in a sport called Parkour every Sunday at Bill Schupp Park in Mcallen.

Photos by Issac Barrientas/The Pan American

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THE PAN AMERICAN

July 16, 2009

THE PAN AMERICAN

This Migrant’s Experience

For many people it’s only $1.29 per head of cabbage. I go back to my childhood, teenage, and young adult memories of my hatred of cabbage. I hear the roaring of that ’85 blue Ford pickup. I can smell the fumes… I’m choking…I can’t breathe. Baam! Baam! Baam! now it’s the window. Wake up! Time to wake up! It’s only 3:30 in the morning as I slip into clothes that will soon be wet with the morning dew. It’s dark and cold out. I can still see the fog and feel its midst on my face. I can smell the apples rotting in the orchards. It’s 5 a.m., we’re off to work. I’m 13 years old, I’m 14, I’m 16, I’m 18…that’s it! It ends here. I’m tired of the cold; I hate the snow, the silent tears. Leader

My hands and feet are frozen. I’m off to exchange my wet socks and gloves for dry ones. I am walking hand in hand with my sister; tears streaming down our face. I am uncertain if the cause is the pain we feel in our hands, feet, back or just because it’s fucking cold outside. We manage to comfort each other with a simple gesture. How we feel need not be spoken.

Get a boring haircut. Wear a power tie, blue or red. Don’t put yourself in a compromising situation that could ruin your career. If you end up in one of those situations plead the fifth. Shake hands, the

Work, work, work. Mom and dad working strong…I have to keep up (I’m younger…I shouldn’t complain).

clean ones. Kiss a few babies. Lie. Do some brown-nosing, this is

Page 13

Maybe

Destiny brings us to the calm of acceptance The sheer idea of something already written Places the brain in the necessary state to flush The Rubi Pero cada tarde la esperanza vuelve Y las preguntas comiensan Tan poco dura la escuza y comienza De nuevo el corazon a gritar Rubi Nothing stronger... something that cannot be pushed down Destiny exists in the mind of a heart Not in love yet- if it falls or not that isn’t destiny But casualty in either case the death of Rubi Una caida perfecta un derrube sin saber nada Cambio lo que tengo enfrente y cierro la puerta Mas pesada- El destino siempre gana I held your hand while we lay there floating Nothing kept time nothing but the clouds Mesmerized by your touch Held tight by your gaze

how to gain some votes, how to get some funding, this is how to reThe weekend comes. A trip to the lake. A beautiful sunset. I am the boat in the distant horizon; floating freely where earth meets sky…I’m alive again.

ceive donations, how to make friends, this is how bills will be passed. This should keep you busy. What is your religion? Don’t answer that! Say that Christianity is your religion, because you’re not as good look-

Morning comes. It’s 5 a.m.. There is more snow. I’m back at work. Yes…I picked that cabbage.

ing as J.F.K. Use good rhetoric, when it’s bad have those people who

Destiny works with time I have more than enough to spare Smile for me once again Or else I’ll say Shut up and kiss me.

write your speeches come up with something witty for you to say that Ester Gonzalez, 34, political science major

will put a positive spin on it. Make appearances at talk shows, base-

Suspendidos por la curiosidad de tantos pedasos, promesas, y detalles Acarisiar tu piel es como un sueno Anhelo sentir tu corazon igual de cerca

balls games…heck why don’t you throw out the first pitch. Do anything to improve your rating with the public. Downplay the economy. Highlight immigration problems. Improve foreign relations. Search

Rubi Sela Vasquez Esparza, 27, English major

for terrorist cells. Spend taxpayers’ money. Run for a second term. Start a war; justify it. Lie. Don’t take kickbacks. Don’t leave a paper trail. Avoid strippers. Avoid dead strippers. Drinking is okay. Avoid narcotics. Be a family man. Don’t pay too much attention to your family. On that note don’t pay too much attention to your secretary. Take advantage. Leave your mark. Alienate certain groups… you know the tree-hugging, animal rights, pro-choice, hemp-wearing, feminist, gay rights, socialist hippies that all these other tight asses are worried about. Don’t forget to brown-nose. Talk to lobbyists. Have

Patty Moreno, 24, theatre major

an embarrassing moment. One embarrassing moment per term please. Lie. The people should love you. If they don’t then they should fear you. Change bad policy. Not all policy is bad. Be prepared to address all important issues. Act like you care. Should you even care? Pretend. Have all the power in your hand. Inspire a nation. Miles Peacock

Danielle Contreras, 21

Alexandra Marie Benavidez, 22, English major

Pam Perez, 20, graphic design major

Andrew Sauceda, 21, English major

F.T.F Mora, 26

Design by Isaac Garcia

Page 12

THE PAN AMERICAN

July 16, 2009

THE PAN AMERICAN

This Migrant’s Experience

Work, work, work. Mom and dad working strong…I have to keep up (I’m younger…I shouldn’t complain).

clean ones. Kiss a few babies. Lie. Do some brown-nosing, this is

Page 13

Maybe

Morning comes. It’s 5 a.m.. There is more snow. I’m back at work. Yes…I picked that cabbage.

ing as J.F.K. Use good rhetoric, when it’s bad have those people who

Destiny works with time I have more than enough to spare Smile for me once again Or else I’ll say Shut up and kiss me.

write your speeches come up with something witty for you to say that Ester Gonzalez, 34, political science major

will put a positive spin on it. Make appearances at talk shows, base-

Suspendidos por la curiosidad de tantos pedasos, promesas, y detalles Acarisiar tu piel es como un sueno Anhelo sentir tu corazon igual de cerca

Rubi Sela Vasquez Esparza, 27, English major

Patty Moreno, 24, theatre major

Danielle Contreras, 21

Alexandra Marie Benavidez, 22, English major

Pam Perez, 20, graphic design major

Andrew Sauceda, 21, English major

F.T.F Mora, 26

Design by Isaac Garcia

Page 14

ARTS AND LIFE

July 16, 2009

T COMMUNITY

T LITERATURE

Valley vintage store returns to roots with new owner Gritty, dark novel appeals to everyone By Jillian Sauls The Pan American

Justin Segovia/The Pan American COOL THREADS - Vintage shopper Mike Dare from South Dakota shops at FlipSide, under new management after reopening in May.

Those who are tired of seeing a “closed” sign on FlipSide’s door will be pleased to know that the store, which carries only vintage and recycled garments, has been back in business since reopening in early May. Now under the management of Daniel Martinez and Cynthia Valdez, FlipSide has undergone a series of improvements from its previous incarnation, including more reasonable prices, weekly discounts, and a return to its original concept: all vintage. “We’re making an effort to change FlipSide’s reputation for being very expensive,” Martinez said. “For example, we offer our vintage T-shirts for a mere $5 on Mondays. Many of our followers consist of poor college kids, so this is a big relief to them.” Martinez, who was awarded the Golden Hanger for his collection at the McAllen Art & Film Festival, and Valdez, who has her own line of accessories, use their knowledge and love of fashion to influence FlipSide’s selection. They also offer clothing alterations for people who prefer their clothes tailored a specific way, which Martinez takes care of. “We handpick our clothing and accessories,” he said. “It isn’t ordered or mass produced like other retailers. A lot of work goes into finding the right articles. We buy, sell and trade. If anyone is interested in bringing in their old clothes, we’ll take a look at them and if we feel that it will work for our store, we’ll give the person credit or money.”

According to Martinez, the main goal of FlipSide is to educate the public about what vintage clothing entails, especially young people. In an effort to reach out to the college and high school crowd, several DIY. events and a fashion show are being planned. “Do it yourself refers to being selfreliant and making things without the aid of a manufacturer,” Martinez said. FlipSide staff recently set up shop at a concert promoted by Dontgetemo. A free “We Miss MJ” shirt was offered with a purchase of five dollars or more, which attracted a lot of attention by itself. “We get a lot of people who are disappointed to find that our clothing is ‘used’ and are oblivious to the fact that a lot of the stuff we select is relevant to the clothing that is showcased on some of the world’s largest runways,” Martinez said. “Fashion recycles itself every 30 years. Many people don’t see a lot of the possibilities that this clothing offers, and we feel it’s up to us to change that.” In a further effort to connect with their customers while staying true to the vintage nature, the FlipSide staff shows the iconic 80’s sitcom “The Golden Girls” on Wednesdays and plays music by The Smiths over store speakers every Saturday. “That particular band is known for being very influential among musicians and such,” said Martinez, in reference to The Smiths, whose heyday was in “Many of the people who wear our clothing really like music, so this is an effort to reach out to them. Music and fashion tend to influence each other.”

T ALTERNATIVE STYLE

Tattoo shop builds loyal clientele despite pricy reputation By Isaac Garcia The Pan American

Buena Suerte Tattoo has quickly gained rapport with its clients for delivering good work, a brash attitude and high prices, and it is this mix of business with the personal that shop owner Eddie Gomez hopes will bring old and new clients back for more. “Some people think that we are brutal, but we don’t cut corners and we don’t bullshit them,” the 37-year-old Pharr native said. “We have been able to weed out the more immature clientele that just want a quick tattoo—we’re here for people that are serious about getting one.” Gomez began his ink career in 1997 with an apprenticeship at Studio 13 in Edinburg “I started tattooing on a lot of the locals,” Gomez said. “I think that most artists in the area either started or worked there at one time in their career.” In 2004 Buena Suerte opened up shop on Cage Boulevard in Pharr. Gomez recruited fellow artist, Adrian Lazo, 28, to permanently base his work out of Gomez’s shop. “At the time Eddie was traveling and working out of California and he asked me if I could come in and work at the shop,” the Pharr native said. “When he got back we had a little talk and that was pretty much it.” Together Gomez and Lazo have tattooed celebrities like The Kumbia Kings and traveled to the world’s largest tattoo expo in Pomona Calif., where they met artists from all walks of life.

“Some of the celebrities come off kind of cocky. They can be a pain in the butt,” Gomez admitted. “But for the most part I enjoy meeting people from across the world and conversing with them.” After frequently attending tattoo expos, drawing and practicing all the time, Gomez has come to believe that a good tattoo takes more than just a great artist. “A good tattoo is a 50/50 thing. Sometimes clients come in and they don’t know what they want—kind of like shopping. When people like that come in we don’t push their ideas much because there is no sense in it,” Gomez explained. “But for those that are serious, they give us the idea, we help them out by telling them what looks good on certain parts of their body and what colors go well on their skin.” However, some people can be stubborn about their body art choice and exactly where it will go on the body. “Some people think tattoos are lick and stick—sort of like a stamp tattoo and that’s not how it works at all,” Gomez insisted. “Everything is supposed to compliment that part of the body and that’s where we come in.” One hurdle that clients and artists are constantly trampling over is the price of the work. “A lot people don’t understand that this isn’t a hobby. This is our career— our nine to five. We have families just like everybody else,” Gomez stressed. “People are so willing to buy and wear the best clothing and they come in wanting the cheapest price on a tattoo, but

they don’t understand that this is a piece of art that they will be wearing for the rest of their life.” Nicole Garza, a 21-year-old “tattoo virgin,” chose Buena Suerte for her first ink session. “I was a bit hesitant because it was pricier than where one of my friends got his tattoo,” the South Texas College student said. “But the quality of his tattoo wasn’t the best and word on the street is that Buena Suerte does quality

work—Adrian did my cherry tattoo and I couldn’t be happier.” The shop artists acknowledged that their good reputation is due, in part, to their constant need to better their skills. “When we’re not tattooing, we’re drawing and we keep each other motivated. We have art sessions on our days off,” Lazo said. “We’ll get together and paint and do pretty much anything to help us in our careers and making the shop more well known.”

Isaac Garcia/The Pan American VALLEY INK - Jessica De Leon, 30, has four tattoos but is getting her first ink done at Buena Suerte after seeing Lazo’s previous work.

By Jillian Sauls The Pan American Despite being labeled as “young adult fiction” due to its adolescent characters and coming-of-age themes, Francesca Lia Block’s “Psyche in a Dress” is an emotionally gripping and intellectually stirring novel that will appeal to mature readers as well as its intended audience. Narrated in free verse and sparkling with vivid imagery, “Psyche in a Dress” juxtaposes fantasy situations and gritty realism as it follows its title character through a contemporary retelling of various Greek myths. Set in Block’s native Los Angeles, this modern fairytale contains all the beauty and horror of both fantasy and real life. Though the classical allusions may confuse some readers unversed in the pantheon, those familiar with Greek mythology will appreciate the extended metaphors Block has woven around the central stories, and delight in her portrayals of the characters. Her modern interpretations of notable mythological figures—including Orpheus as a young musical prodigy, Narcissus as a self-centered actor, and Aphrodite as an aspiring starlet-turned-fashionista—are undeniably brilliant. Block occasionally interrupts Psyche’s first-person narration to provide background details on certain supporting characters, creating a seamless transition between poetry and prose to give the story a unique pace. Readers who are used to a more traditional novel structure may be put off by these shifts in style and rhythm, as well as the mature subject matter involved, but others will appreciate the unconventional beauty of Block’s distinct voice. Another often-expressed complaint about the book is its length—about 130 pages total with only a few words per page—but anyone interested in a quick read should definitely give it a chance. Like the capricious gods and goddesses that inhabit its pages, “Psyche in a Dress” is both magically transcendent and darkly realistic. Carried along by Block’s lyrical, evocative writing, readers will find themselves in both the depths of Hades and the heights of Joy along with Psyche as she searches for love and finds herself. Often raw, sometimes painful, but always beautiful—Francesca Lia Block’s “Psyche in a Dress” is a masterpiece of its genre.

July 16, 2009

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July 16, 2009

Photo By: Arnold Martinez

THE PAN AMERICAN

Students Celestina Lujano (left) and Monica Bomban admire a dog tag made by the U.S. Army at a Student Union sponsored event, Thursday.

Nearly 15 students board the shuttle bus at the stop behind the Mathematics Building Monday afternoon to escape the sweltering summer heat.

Photo By: Ben Briones

Lecturer of ceramics Chris Lenard makes some finishing touches on student artwork in preparation for the opening of the show June 12.

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THE PAN AMERICAN

Photo By: Ben Briones

Photo By: Tammy Ayala

July 16, 2009

Photo By: Tammy Ayala

Students Pablo Hernandez and Victoria Gonzalez remember Michael Jackson while watching the Michael Jackson Memorial on CNN in the Student Union Lounge on Tuesday afternoon.

Freshmen Orientation which took place June 10 in the Wellness and Recreational Center, gave the opportunity for incoming students to meet with various on school clubs and organizations.

Juan Carlos has only five balls left as he tries to win the pool tournament on Wednesday hosted at the Student Union Game Room. Photo By: Ben Briones

Nursing student Grecia Martinez and Student Union worker Praveen Jarubula (center) try their luck at a hand of poker with card dealer Joe of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Joe Roxks Entertainmentâ&#x20AC;? at the Union Tuesday.

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July 16, 2009

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July 16, 2009

BASEBALL

SPORTS

Former Bronc baseball players feel glad to be home By Sara Hernandez The Pan American Five o’clock on a hot Friday afternoon. The hitting session wraps up two hours before the encounter with the Rio Grande Valley White Wings. Ray Silva, Tim Haines, Aaron Guerra, Osiel Flores and Kelley Casares are on the field at the Edinburg Baseball Stadium once again. These five members of the Edinburg Roadrunners are familiar with this feeling more than anyone could be. Three years after Guerra and Casares finished their senior campaign in 2006, these five University of TexasPan American ex-athletes have reunited as part of one of two Rio Grande Valley professional baseball teams. “It feels good, it feels real comfortable,” Flores said of the facility and the teammates. “You already know it and you know everybody here, don’t worry about anything.” While Flores and Guerra finished their education (in education and chemistry, respectively) the remaining three combine pursuing their degrees with playing for the Roadrunners, who have a 17-17 record and hold fourth place in United League Baseball. Clearlake, Calif. native Silva, who

plans to graduate in general studies this summer, said he stayed in the Valley in order to keep his career plans going. “I had to finish up school and this was the fastest way to finish it,” said the relief pitcher. “So I ended up here, I came to the yard, went out to the trial and they said they wanted me to play, so I play.” The players note the difference between the type of treatment they got as part of a collegiate team and their responsibilities in a professional team. Supervision is one such difference. “Everybody’s gotta do what they gotta do,” said Flores, starting catcher. “We’re all grown up here in the professional level, we don’t have somebody getting after you, and you do what you have to do as long as you get it done in the field.” In between jokes, the five ex-classmates mentioned that the pressure is greater in the pros, as opposed to carefree Bronc days. Since being part of the Roadrunners is a job for pay, it imposes a responsibility to perform and give results on the field. “If you haven’t been working it’s gonna show because you get more tired,” Silva said. With the exception of Silva, all of the former Broncs are natives of

the Valley, which makes their home games special because classmates and relatives attend with the sole purpose of watching them play. “Even though some aren’t from here, a lot of people know them from when they went to Panam,” Edinburg High ex Guerra said. “People come especially to watch the guys that are from here.” For the locals, family support has been crucial throughout their career, and the latest go with the Roadrunners is not an exception; their loved ones still inspire them. “Our families are here and that motivates me and I’m sure these guys too,” said Flores, from Mission. “You gotta have pride in anything you do.” Obviously the Roadrunners play half their games at home, half on the road. As for away games, the players mentioned that when family or friends make the effort to travel to see them play, knowing they’re present or hearing them in the crowd brings up their spirit. “It’s good to have someone there for you when you’re on the road, you know, to hear somebody cheering for you,” said Haines, a Mission pitcher who leads the club in ERA so far in 2009. And then there are the other fans. Silva takes particular notice of the

BASEBALL

SU supports Edinburg Roadrunners By Astrid Villegas The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American community enjoyed a night of baseball, friends and fun supporting the Edinburg Roadrunners Thursday night courtesy of the Student Union, which acquired more than 100 tickets at Edinburg Baseball Stadium to give away to UTPA students, faculty and staff. “We try to do something every summer for students as a summer activity,” said Student Union director Edna Zambrano. “It’s also an opportunity for us to support the local sports teams in the summer.” Fidencio Tamez, UTPA coordinator of recruitment and orientation, attends a couple of Roadrunner games a month and said the difference in attendance at the Edinburg Baseball Stadium was noticeable, which could have been motivated by the Student Union’s promotion. “There are more people and more fun environment tonight than before,” he said Thursday, when the team faced off against its Valley rivals, the Rio Grande Valley WhiteWings. Chris Lozano, former baseball play-

er from UTPA, said that he’s delighted to see old teammates as Osiel Flores, Ray Silva, Tim Haines, Aaron Guerra and Kelly Casares playing for the local independent league club, adding that their success motivates current UTPA ball players to do their best. “It motivates me to see my old teammates in semi-pro baseball,” said the senior from El Paso. “It makes you want to keep on playing.” Other students, like Eli Infante, a graphic design student from Donna, were tipped to the event through Student Union advertising. “I found out about this game by all the flyers the Student Union had around campus,” Infante said. “I thought it was pretty cool to come by and enjoy some time with my girlfriend for free.” As time went by, the tension on the field grew, which motivated the crowd to cheer and enjoy the game. “Definitely, I’m enjoying the tension and environment tonight,” said political science student Janie Tamez of Edinburg. After nine innings of strain, the Roadrunners took the win, beating the Rio Grande White Wings 4-3. The

team’s schedule extends to mid-August. The event seemed to be a success, judging from the positive responses from the university community. And this did not go unnoticed by the players. Pitcher Guerra, who attended Edinburg High before pitching for the Broncs, mentioned that like Tamez, he perceived a difference in the number of fans who attended to support the Roadrunners. The Edinburg Roadrunners took the Rio Grande Valley White Wings 4-3 leaving the field with a winning night. “Tonight we have a good crowd,” said the former UTPA baller. “I wish we could have it more often,” The Student Union is not through with events this summer. The student union had a casino night Wednesday, July 8 and a giveaway of free customized dog tags July 9 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Director Zambrano suggested that the UTPA Night at the park fit in well with the organization’s master plan. “We want students to be entertained,” Zambrano said. “These events give students the opportunity to come out and do something different that they don’t always get to do.”

gasoline’ from the stands,” he said. Although they are committed to their sport, a conversation with these five former UTPA athletes feels rather casual, and the camaraderie can be sensed as they joke about their current jobs and plans for the future. “Find a job where you get paid a lot and you don’t have to do anything,” Casares said with a smile, to which everyone agreed. The truth is that each of these Roadrunners puts a lot more effort into life than it appears. While Casares, Haines and Silva strive to finish their degrees at UTPA, Flores is a manager at a local departmental store and Guerra is a chemistry teacher at Economides High School. “I actually want to go to culinary school when I’m done playing ball and when I’m done teaching,” Guerra said. Their dreams range from Flores’ desire to form a family to Haines’ Ben Briones /The Pan American longing to become a race car driver. BACK ON THE FIELD - RoadrunBut right now, it’s baseball season ner pitcher Aaron Guerra prepares and the Runners are in the thick of the for Friday night baseball at Edinburg race. The Bronc veterans are doing Baseball Stadium. what they have always loved to do. “The adrenaline that you get when comments fans make during these you’re out there…there’s nothing in games. “Some people know you on a per- my life that’s compared to that feelsonal level, so they say something to ing,” Flores said. “It’s addicting, I you like ‘don’t make me waste my can’t find it anywhere else.”

Track and field

Standout athlete turned coach By Leonila Ramos The Pan American Running is not just a form of exercise, for some people it’s a way of life. For The University of Texas-Pan American’s Wally Gonzalez, that’s the case. A senior distance runner for both the track and cross-country team, he spends his summers as a track coach for the City of Edinburg. “I applied at Parks and Recreation because I wanted to work and get paid doing something I love,” said Gonzalez, an Edinburg North graduate who played football and basketball in high school along with running track. Even though it is Gonzalez’s first year coaching summer track, it is not a new program to him. As a senior in high school, he participated in the action and enjoyed it. When the distance guru was hired as a coach, the rest came naturally. “I picked up coaching real fast because it’s not quite different than being an athlete, it’s actually a lot more rewarding,” he said. “Aside from keeping in shape, it feels good helping out kids. You share their excitement when they finish a race.” Gonzalez’s job began when school let out and will continue till the end of July.

His specialty is coaching the middle distance runners from all age groups. He runs the 800-meter for the Broncs, and last season had an exceptional season, advancing to regionals and setting a program record. He broke the 800-meter indoor record when he ran with a time 1:53 at the Texas A & M Invitational, and qualified for regionals by winning the Ohio Valley Conference meet with a time of 1:51.91. “It’s a lot of fun coaching those kids even though sometimes it does get a bit frustrating when their minds wander during practices,” he said. Practices run between three to four hours long. The summer track program, for ages four to 18, allows kids to run meets weekly and make it regionals and even state. The regional meet took place July 11-12 at the McAllen Memorial Stadium and the state meet is July 23 in San Antonio. “All together we have 14 kids going to state, but two are ones that I personally coach,” he said, “I am extremely proud and excited to see how they do at state.” A criminal justice major at UTPA, Gonzalez hasn’t entirely moved his sights away from coaching after the summer. Aside from the summer track job, he also trains a different runner every day on his own time.

July 16, 2009

SPORTS

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MEN’S BASKETBALL

Marks introduced as Men’s head basketball coach Former St. Edward’s coach looks to provide stability to limping program By Kevin Stich The Pan American A news conference was held Thursday to formally welcome newly appointed University of Texas-Pan American men’s head basketball coach Ryan Marks. Media, colleagues and other spectators gathered at the UTPA Visitors Center to greet the man who many hope will be a stable figure in the upcoming years. “The first thing is to try to gain stability and to create a culture that’s going to be conducive, obviously to competing for a conference championship and one in which student athletes are going to have great success-moving on to their degrees,” Marks said. He was officially named head coach May 27 after coaching five seasons with St. Edward’s University where he compiling a 91-54 record that included three trips to the NCAA Division-II tournament. The newcomer will be the 14th coach in UTPA program history. Marks inherited the position from former head coach Tom Schuberth, whose contract was not renewed after the 2008-2009 season. Schuberth spent three seasons with the Broncs and compiled a 42-45 record, including a 10-17 record in his final season at UTPA. But his successor has already started to create an atmosphere of

friendly familiarity with his players. “Obviously we have a good nucleus of players that are here. I’ve had a chance to visit with all of them except for one who’s not in the country right now,” Marks said. “It’s a group of guys with good character, and any time there is a coaching change, there’s always some uneasiness. But I’m RYAN MARKS very appreciative of the accepting attitudes that the guys here have had.“ The freshly selected coach is aware of instability at coaching positions at UTPA, as six coaches have departed in the past year. This includes most recently the resignation of former women’s head basketball coach DeAnn Craft, who was a member on the search committee that selected Marks. “I know that it’s caused some alarm here; certainly with some legitimate concern,” he said after the news conference. “You know, being a coach, one thing we’re knowledgeable about is that there is going to be turnover. I once heard someone say at a coaching clinic – and I think this is very true – they said, ‘if you stay in coaching long enough you will get hired to a new job, you’ll get fired, you’ll win a conference championship and you’ll finish in last place.’”

Ben Briones/The Pan American

ON THE HOT SEAT - New men’s head basketball coach Ryan Marks was introduced at the UTPA Visitors center. He was officially named head coach May 27.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Women’s basketball searching for direction after Craft’s departure By Sara Hernandez The Pan American

Rachel Hester said. “Coach Craft was a very good coach and did a lot of good things for the program.” As Ryan Marks was officially preHester, who during her junior year sented as the new men’s head basket- played 21 of 30 games and averaged 4.2 ball coach of the University of Texas- points per game, said that although it is Pan American this morning, the search hard to see the coach go, she understands for the successor for former women’s Craft’s decision. basketball coach DeAnn Craft, who re“People have to see what’s good for signed no more than a month ago, is still them, and that’s what was best for her,” in progress. she said. “It is sad to see her go but I “We’re still looking,” Interim Di- wish her the best for the future.” rector of Athletics Similarly, Rose Ricky Vaughn said. “I expect the to look for some- Esther Jean, who “It’s only been adplayed 28 games vertised for about a one that boosts our character, and had an average week.” of 6.7 points, was Vaughn men- someone that’s ready to win shocked by Craft’s tioned that the de20 or more games this season. departure. partment is look“It was very uning for a coach that Someone that’s ready to be a expected, it really would enhance the touched my heart, performance of ath- part of a family, because that’s everyone in the team letes both on the is very sad and diswhat the women’s basketbal appointed,” the secourt and off it. “We want somenior guard said. “But one who comes here team is.” I’m okay; I would be with good experia whole lot better if ence, committed to she hadn’t left but the student-athlete Rachel Hester there’s nothing I can experience and that really do.” Senior guard is trustworthy for the LaChandra Johnathletes,” he said. son, who will not be Craft, who during her six year tenure returning to the program this season for with UTPA obtained a 70-120 record, re- reasons that she called “confidential,” signed a year before her contract expired did not play during her freshman camand was announced as head coach of paign due to a knee injury. She said that Division II St. Anselm College May 18. Craft’s departure could keep the team “I was really surprised,” senior guard from improving the way it has in the last

Ben Briones/The Pan American

OUTTA HERE - After former women’s head basketball coach DeAnn Craft resigned in May, the program is looking for a replacement to fill her shoes. year. “I don’t think the women’s basketball program is going to be as good as it would be if she would’ve stayed,” she said. “We would’ve progressed, gone to conference and made it to the conference games, but I hope the new coach is a

good coach.” As for the new coach, Hester mentioned that she would like the athletic department to hire someone who would inspire a positive attitude in the team and who is ready to take on the goals previously set by the Lady Broncs.

“I expect them to look for someone that boosts our character; someone that’s ready to win 20 or more games this season,” she said. “Someone that’s ready to be part of a family, because that’s what the women’s basketball team is.”

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July 16, 2009

SPORTS

ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT

UTPA welcome Everrett Gathron to its ranks

Gathron accepts position as Director of Strength and Conditioning By Astrid Villegas The Pan American After a semester of uncertainty, the University of Texas-Pan American welcomed the new director of strength and conditioning. Everrett Gathron took the job in January, and ever since athletes and coaches have relied on the experience that the new weight training coach has brought to the department. Born in Oklahoma, Gathron later moved to Ohio, and he started his athletic career as a sports lover, joining every club he could be part of including the chess club and as a variety of sports teams. “Gosh, in high school I did every sport that you could ever imagine,” Gathron said. “From football, basketball, soccer, and I even tried tennis.” He mentioned that the opportunity high school gives students to be part of a large community is one of the aspects that he misses the most about that period of his life. “High school, the one thing I miss about it is the close relationships that you build,” the director said. “Because once you become part of the professional world, especially in the coaching department, you travel a lot.” At Athens (Ohio) High School, he was a student who had a core group of friends with whom he talked and hung out with. He keeps in touch with several of his friends, and applies many of the things he learned from the relationships he built in high school for the everyday journey. “My teacher, Dr. Lolick, got me involved in history,” Gathron said. “The way he thought and his teaching methods make me use them in my everyday life like talking about the Civil War he related the past to today’s problems.” He later became part of his father’s construction company, carrying heavy materials.

Ben Briones/The Pan American

PULLING HIS WEIGHT - Director of Strength and Conditioning Everrett Gathron has done his part to keep athletes in peak physical condition, and has developed unique bonds along the way. “I used to carry sheetrock from my father’s van into the house we were working on at the time... If you’ve ever carried sheetrock, sheetrock was pretty heavy to handle,” he said. When he finished high school, his initial goal was to major in atmospheric science to become a storm chaser. “I wanted to study the weather; particularly, I wanted to study tornadoes,” Gathron said. “I have a curiosity about how tornadoes completely destroy one house, leave one house unscathed, and then go to the next house and destroy it.” He attended the University of Ohio because it offered his first choice of major, atmospheric science; it was also strong in athletics. However, in his initial job at Ohio he was an attendant at the Ohio University weigh room. Gathron lived on campus and by helping at his university’s weight room, he realized that atmospheric science wasn’t what he loved. “I consider myself somewhat of a teacher, but how could I combine the

love I have for the weight room and athletics?” he said. “So when I changed my initial major and prepared for coaching a few years later I became director of strength and conditioning.” Gathron decided that he wanted to help athletes to strive to become better and, with the support of the UTPA athletic department, he became part of the Broncs family as strength and conditioning coach. “The athletic program backed me, and they backed me 100 percent,” Gathron said. “I told Dr. Sue (Reinders), ‘this is what I believe and this is what I want to do’ and she totally put trust in me.’” Reinders is the associate athletic director for compliance services With a great welcome and support from the athletic department, Gathron took charge in January as director and started to implement his goals for his athletes, such as making his athletes want to get better for themselves without forcing them, and adding more weight into Olympic routines, such as power cleans.

“It makes my work more enjoyable that people trust completely in what I’m doing and it makes me what to work my athletes at their best,” he commented. In the time he’s been in the department, Gathron has already begun to build a close net with his athletes and staff department, and has set distinct goals. “I want my athletes to be intrinsically motivated,” he said. “I want my athletes to want to get better for themselves, like one of my coaches said, it is what you do when nobody is watching; how much effort and practice you put in.” He has an open-door policy and understands that being a student-athlete is hard and stressful. Because sometimes professors, parents, friends and even teammates get on you when there is only certain or partial time you have to practice or do homework. “No matter if it is a 2 a.m. call. I’d rather for my athletes to turn a negative situation into a positive rather than to turn a negative into a negative,” Gathron said. The director says there is a good

bond between the athletes and the athletic department and that people such as department secretary Isabel Saldana and Reinders have been very cordial with his needs. “The athletic department has an opendoor policy as much as I do,” Gathron said. “Every time I want to buy something real quick or if I have an issue, Dr. Sue or Isabel have been supportive.” Gathron gets joy, whether it’s from teaching weight lifting to athletes who have no idea what this means, or watching them progress from their freshmen to their senior year. “I’m a proponent of the Olympic weight-lifting philosophy, which is learning how to do power cleans, power snatches, clean pulls... strategies to make an athlete more explosive,” Gathron said. UTPA baseball player David De Leon has started a work relationship with Gathron, but said he feels like he has know him for years and that he (Gathron) is able to communicate with all his athletes at the same level. “He keeps a positive energy inside the weight room,” the junior from Corpus Christi said. “It’s that positive energy that he brings into the weight room to work harder.” In the six months that Gathron has aided UTPA athletes, he seems to have made a positive splash. “He is very good coach and he keeps me in a good shape,” said sophomore Karla Garza, a track and field runner in 100 and 400-meter hurdles. “He is always in the room watching us and persuading us to do better by giving inspirational words.” Senior baseball player Abraham Garcia of McAllen agrees that it would be really hard not to like Gathron because he is constantly teaching and is always full of energy. “You could tell he loves his job and puts a lot of effort towards it,” Garcia said. “He is never down; he is not a negative person.” The man from Oklahoma has become a constructive part of UTPA athletics, as he not only improves Bronc athletes physical prowess, but serves as a friendly face that many have come to rely on.

FEATURE

Student union pool shark runs tables; preps for nationals By Benny Salinas The Pan American Unsuspecting. It’s one of the first words that come to mind upon first meeting Juan Carlos. The 24-year-old mechanical engineering major speaks softly, slowly, and doesn’t carry himself like the kind of person who’s so good at his sport. There lies the impressiveness. He looks around the pool hall a bit distractedly as he starts up a game of nine-ball quietly. His game is just as unsuspecting as his personality. His shots are subtle, seemingly unimpressive, yet calculated and effective. Two and a half minutes later the pool table is empty and he is leaving his circle of close, very impressed friends to continue the game without them. His subtle game has been responsible for his wins in a series of tournaments that have led him to a national competition being held in West Virginia between July 21 and 24. The tournaments, organized by stu-

dent unions all over the country, featured college students exclusively. Carlos came in seventh out of 79 players at a state event held in Corpus Christi to qualify for the national event. This series of tournaments, however, is not Carlos’ first. Last year in August, after joining an eight-player team in the Amateur Pool Association and winning a Valley tournament, he played in Las Vegas. There he got to play Kelly Fisher, ranked No.1 in World Women’s pool. After three 20 dollar attempts (the fee per match), he was able to beat Fisher and qualified for a drawing to win a QuickFire Jump/Break cue valued at over a thousand dollars. Carlos won that drawing. Carlos was first introduced to the game around the age of five by his grandfather in Ojo de Agua, a town near Mexico City where Carlos was raised until the age of 12. “We’d have get-togethers and my grandfather would give me and my three

brothers four or five dollars each. We’d play against each other and whoever would win the pot would play against my grandfather, double or nothing” Carlos said. In the States Carlos’ father would take him to Fast Eddie’s to play a game called “Carambolas,” a version of pool with only three balls where the player accumulates points by hitting any of those three balls after banking the cue ball of three rails. This is where Carlos began to take the game seriously and started entering matches. This is also where a true love for the game began to develop. “I can play for three to ten hours sometimes” Carlos said. “It’s a way to relieve pressures, you know?” Carlos’ future with the game remains uncertain. “I might go pro, I don’t know. Life has its ups and downs and you can’t really tell what’s gonna happen. If I get a chance I will,” Carlos said. “I’m just gonna enjoy it while I’m here.”

Arnold Martinez/The Pan American

CALLING THE POCKET - Juan Carlos practices at the Student Union. He will compete in a national competition in West Virgina July 24.

July 16, 2009

SPORTS

TENNIS

Page 23

FEATURE

Program looks to maintain Turning silver into magic on the court Former Spurs Silver lead in coaching search dancer brings By Kevin Stich The Pan American At the end of the 2008-2009-tennis season the University of Texas-Pan American men’s and women’s tennis teams looked like they might have found some stability. The women gained a runner-up finish at the National Independent Tournament, while the men earned the second seed in the Southland Conference Tournament, eventually losing to Nicholls State University. Interim coach Chris Gill seemed poised to be the man to officially take over the head coach position and continue building a respectable program. That was, until he was told he would not be given the job but would have to reapply, ultimately resulting in his exit from the program. Since then, the search for a new leader has been ongoing. Interim athletic Ricky Vaughn has been reviewing applications for some time now, and has recently begun to assemble a committee to begin winnowing down to a group of finalists. “Right now we are still accepting some applications, so we’re getting close to start bringing in finalists in to interview,” Vaughn said. “Hopefully, that’s going to be within the next couple of weeks; we can get them in here and have them on campus sometime in August. We want to bring in a person who’s going to get us to that next level of winning a conference championship.” The interim director explained that the reason it has taken so long to hire a coach is because certain sports take precedence over others. Recruiting windows are only open so long before the seasons start. Thus, hiring men’s and women’s basketball coaches has been the department’s main concern, as their seasons start in Mid-October, officially.

When asked who the heavy favorites were, Vaughn artfully stated, “We have some good candidates, but that’s all I’ll say right now.” Vaughn also confirmed that graduate assistant coach Oliver Steil is one of the applicants, but the latter was unable to be reached for comment. As a former Bronc standout player (2002-2006), he came back to the program as graduate assistant under former coach Rob Hubbard. Senior Megan Bedeau said that the team is rooting for “Ollie” with the aim of keeping familiarity in the program. “Losing a coach is never fun, because it’s like starting all over again,” she said. “For a few of us, we’re seniors, so this our last year and we obviously want to go out with a bang and have a good season. Having to possibly deal with a new coach could have an effect on that. We’ve already had ‘Ollie’ for a few years. Since I’ve been a freshman here, he’s been around, so it would be nice to have him there to help us out.” Bedeau said that the team needs a coach who is dedicated and ambitious, after there have been two coaches in the past three years. She also said that it’s important to have a mentor who can help the players off the court as much as on it. “I want a coach who is able to push us,” Bedeau said. “I also would like a coach who’s someone you can go and talk to off the court about other things -- like a friend off the court, but a coach on the court.” Vaughn agreed that Steil would be considered for the head coach spot, and added that the university is looking to keep him onboard even if he does not get the job. “If he wants to stay in that position, we’d be more than happy to keep him,” he said. “He is one of the candidates for the head coaching position, so that will be as time goes. We’ll see how things develop.”

SPORTS COMMENTARY

Le Tour de Lance is back By Sara Hernandez The Pan American

Professional athletes are more than individuals who just happened to live the average person’s dream and become role models by whom these people shape their actions and ideas. But seeing figures as Real Madrid’s new number nine, Christiano Ronaldo, becoming the most expensive acquisition in the history of soccer (94 million euros) and seeing Terrell Owen broadcasting his arrival to the Buffalo Bills in a reality show…it makes me wonder if the essence of real sportsmanship is still present. Then I turn and see the man who made the entire world fall in love with biking, and who, in fact, crossed that barrier and made everyone understand that adversity is part of everyday life. And this is not intended to praise how great Lance Armstrong may or may not be. But the fact is, as if overcoming testicular cancer or any type of cancer is not enough heroism for a regular person, he came back and ruled the Tour de France for seven consecutive years. He then retired and became committed to the Livestrong Foundation, and had us all wearing yellow wristbands as if that rubber object made us strong. But

who cares, he made us believe so. On January, three years after his retirement, he came back and stumbled for a few months falling and breaking his collarbone in Spain and finished 53rd at the Giro d’Italia on May. Today, he’s back in contest at the Tour de France, where he got third place after Sunday’s ninth stage. He declared that this may not be his last Tour de France, which amazes me. Not because I’m hopeful that he’ll make the great comeback, take over the Tour and win it as he used to, but because this only more proof that the man does what he wants, and does it right. Although I’m sure that the reason behind many of his decisions, as that of coming back to professional biking, brings him great remunerations, I want to believe he is the kind of athlete the field is lacking. I still have faith that it’s possible to be a professional athlete for the sake of doing what he or she likes and for what some call “love for the game.” That’s what I think Armstrong brings to the equation. I really couldn’t care less if he wins it, what matters the most to me is for people to have the chance to look up to this unique blend of everyday person and extraordinary athlete who just keeps doing what he can’t live without.

experience to UTPA By Sara Hernandez The Pan American Some people believe that life is about taking chances. Vanessa Castaneda proved them right when she decided to take a step to make her dream come true. After being a Raiderette at PSJA North High School for four years, Castaneda was part of the Rio Grande Valley Dorados Dance Team for two years before auditioning for the San Antonio Spurs Silver Dancers in 2005. “My first year I went in there just to get the experience, so I was very open-minded because I had never auditioned for anything,” said the public relations student at the University of Texas-Pan American. “I wasn’t nervous at all and I was making the cut and going further in the process.” As most of the approximately 300 participants were being eliminated, Castaneda saw that the vision of becoming a professional dancer for her favorite NBA team was getting closer as she started succeeding through stages of the audition. “It didn’t hit me until the day before the final audition where they were going to announce if I had made it or not and that’s when I was like ‘I’m right here, I’m in the finals…I want it now so bad,’” said the Pharr native. “I’ve danced pretty much all my life and that was a shortterm goal of mine to become a professional dancer. I’m a huge Spurs fan so that was the ultimate dream for me.” After competing with the 30 remaining participants, Castaneda, who had never been studio taught before, was selected as one of the 16 Silver Dancers. She's is now a three-year veteran after facing two auditions before the beginning of each season. Veterans are still required to try out to reassure their place in the team. “My second year was probably a little tougher because since I had already experienced one year it was like I was going in there wanting my spot,” said the 24-year-old. “I had a different mentality and there was a lot more pressure because I saw things differently.” Although this selection process requires applicants to be highly skilled in dancing, its purpose is also to choose the girls who reflect the example that the Spurs organization wants to instill in society. “Silver Dancers has an identity of being the role model, being the girls next door, they have an identity that you have to follow and you just kind of become that,” Castaneda said. “You have to upkeep the image and it’s good because it teaches you a lot about yourself.” She explained that by being part of the Spurs Organization, the Silver Dancer adopts the lifestyle of a model for people, since the symbol and the uniform of the Spurs have the power to change people’s perspectives. “If you saw the logo of the Silver Dancer around, people know what it is, people know we’re part of the Spurs,” she said. “In that team you have to follow that image of going out to the community, going to charity events, being polite, loving, and caring, not because we pretend to be those things but because we really want to make a difference.”

In April, the Silver Dancers supAfter being part of the Silver Dancported Eva Longoria’s foundation Eva’s ers for three years, and having visited Heroes in the Dance Clinic 2009, where places as Mexico City, Miami and takCastaneda and her teammates taught chil- ing a two-week tour around Asia as part dren with Down syndrome how to dance. of the organization, and as the 2009-10 Longoria is married to Spurs' guard Tony auditions come near, the senior sees her Parker. future with the team as uncertain as the “It’s so touching date of her graduabecause they’re the “In practice you’re one girl of tion approaches. She ones who don’t take needs to postpone 16 members and you still have school while the Silanything for granted, they are accepting of to work hard to prove to your ver Dancers are on others, they are less duty. judgmental, and they choreographer, your director, “I’m still undeare the ones that are cided because I have most appreciating,” the Spurs organization that a year left to finish she said. “It touched school,” said Casme and made me you are worthy of being in the taneda, who strives want to forget my to eventually work team.” problems because with the NBA as a these kids really apchoreographer dipreciated us and just rector. “But it’s so wanted to be able to Vanessa Castaneda addicting just dancget the experience to Former Silver Dancer ing for them, and I be next to you, and think if anyone were learn something from you; it really does in my shoes it would be hard to leave bechange you because you get to make an cause it’s very rewarding.” impact.” According to Castaneda, being able However, as the direct goal of the to play a role in the success of the Spurs Silver Dancers is to support the Spurs, is one of the biggest satisfactions of bethe dancers commit to devoted training ing part of the organization, as in the to keep up with the social and athletic 2007 championship game against the schedule demanded from them. Cleveland Cavaliers. “In practice you’re one girl of 16 “Even though the game was away it members and you still have to work hard was still a normal game for us, the arena to prove to yourself and to prove to your was full of fans watching the game on choreographer, your director, the Spurs the Jumbotron. We were the entertainorganization that your worthy of be- ment, and a couple of seconds left to the ing in the team,” Castaneda said. “Even game the Spurs were up,” she said with if we’re sore, we still have to pretend delight. “And the Spurs won the champithat nothing hurts, no making faces, no onship; it was the most amazing feeling showing that you’re tired because you in the world.” want to be there.”

Vanessa Castaneda/The Pan American

PICTURE PERFECT - Vanessa Castaneda has danced for the San Antonio Spurs Silver Dancers for the last three years.

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SPORTS

July 16, 2009

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Photo Illustration by Gregorio Garza/The Pan American

Photos by Ben Briones/The Pan American

By Kevin Stich The Pan American To say there has been turnover in the University of Texas-Pan American Athletic Department is a bold understatement. There have been six coaching departures since last June, including most recently the resignation of head women’s basketball coach DeAnn Craft. But coaching positions aren’t the only ones experiencing loss. That dilemma is only part of the growing issues that plague UTPA athletics, which includes an internal investigation that recently concluded for suspected recruiting violations in the men’s basketball program. More currently, Epiphany Smith, former standout guard for the Lady Broncs and the team’s second leading scorer last season, was approved for transfer June 4 after spending one season at UTPA. In what became a public controversy, Smith openly admitted that the process was far from smooth. “After talking to them about coach Craft leaving, I just didn’t feel like it was right for me to be here by the way they disrespected me and what not. I didn’t want to be there, I didn’t feel like I could trust the administration,” she

said. “They kept telling me they were going to release me, and then they told me to go to the schools I wanted to go to and get a (transfer) tracer. I did that, they then said they would not release me to those schools, and then they said they would if I gave the names of them. “They released me to three of the four schools, but they would not release me to the one coach Craft went to. So, it was kind of like a personal thing that they did not want me to go an support coach Craft.” According to Smith, she wasn’t the only one who wanted out. “There’s at least – I know of for sure – more than half the team that’s trying to leave Pan Am right now,” she said. “Just because we don’t feel like we’re being treated right, we feel like we’re being lied to. It’s just this really big ordeal that’s going on within the whole administration. I think everyone is just sick of it and tired of the crap. They just want to get out.” Although interim athletic director Ricky Vaughn confirmed that other student athletes who desired transfer had approached him, he said that no one (aside from Smith) has been granted one, and would not provide names of the transfer applicants.

“We take each one case by case. It had gotten to the point with Epiphany and her family, that it was just in our best interest to go ahead and release her,” Vaughn said. “Some of the players have approached us, but they are not transferring. They are all set and ready to go for this next year.” In Smith’s case, she claimed that it took over a month to get her transfer approved, and that she was subjected to rude attitudes from some members of the staff. “Dr. Sue (Reinders), she hung up in my face one time,” she said. “I called one time to asked why she had denied me, and she hung the phone up in my face. It was just things like that, I just knew I couldn’t be there.” Reinders was quoted in The Monitor as saying that Smith’s family attacked her personally by sending threatening e-mails, but Vaughn’s official position remains that they will not comment on the exchanges. The interim director is aware that the turnover of players and coaches has been vocal and at times volatile. “I just think that it’s unfortunate that some of them want to air their dirty laundry,” Vaughn said. “I will not make any comments towards that because I don’t think it’s appropriate.”

UTPA vice president for student and enrollment services, John Edwards has been more involved in the Athletic Department as of the past two years, and said that he has faith that the right personnel are in place to keep the program moving forward. “I trust Mr. Vaughn’s leadership,” he said. “I expect that there are folks that are whipping up the agitation for not very good reasons. I don’t think it’s anything unnatural, except for the fact that we had an athletic director (Scott Street) that was here, that left after a couple of years. He had brought some of the coaches in, so when he left a lot of times you find that coaches who have come in after one athletic director are not as comfortable under another athletic director. Right now I’m not alarmed at that fact The secret is, in management and administration, is getting the right people in to place, and then supporting them and letting them do their work.” Senior guard Rose Esther Jean expressed her views on the Smith drama, and offered insight on her experiences with the athletic department. “The whole situation came to me as very unexpected. I talked to Epiphany Smith as a teammate, a friend and as a sister; I feel that she made the best deci-

sion for her,” she said. “I’’m not mad at her, I’m not disappointed in her, I think that what she’s doing for herself is probably better for her.” The senior is among those who have considered the transfer option. “I can only speak for myself. I’ve been thinking about it, but I haven’t made a decision yet. I’m a senior, and the hardest thing for me to do would be to leave and start over,” she said “In the athletic department, the only people I’ve gotten help from was my coaches, and I can honestly say Marcelo (Schmidt)… To be honest, I don’t know what the truth is (in regard to the Craft/Smith issue). I don’t know anything; I can’t say because I hear something different from everybody. I just kind of don’t believe anybody.” With change imminent, the department looks to move forward in the right direction, but whether progress will be made is yet to be seen. Edwards hopes that the NCAA’s findings on the men’s basketball program will come out in UTPA’s favor, and expects that announcement sometime at the end of 2009. Edwards said the athletic director search was briefly put on hold during the investigations, but has now resumed. Vaughn confirmed that he will apply for the job.