February 9, 2012 by UTRGV Student Media

Off to the Races

the

Get to know the new SGA presidential candidates Pages 6-7

Volume 68, No. 17

February 9, 2012

One Thousand and counting

Campus Death Local womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s suicide unsettles UTPA

Page 4

Fast Forward Colin Christian opens exhibit at IMAS

Page 8

Police Beat

Dirty words, deportations and destruction

Page 5

Check out our new website

Video: New routes for Valley Metro Buses

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panamericanonline.com

Jared Maree joins the 1,000-point club Ranks 20th on all-time scoring list Leads the team in scoring this season Page 10

editorial

February 9, 2012

Editorial

the

Comments show cruel face of online community

Reactions during times of crisis are often a thermometer measuring the true nature of individuals, and social media has proven to be a powerful tool for collecting responses. The once total anonymity of the Internet is gone. The casual and easyto-access nature of Facebook and Twitter have all but ensured that people will continue to speak without thinking, despite the fact that their name and photo are attached to everything they say. It is interesting to see how a community reacts to a shocking event. This week, the student body of this university was presented with an unusual, sad scenario that unsettled everyone. We had an opportunity to be thoughtful, introspective and kind. Instead, some of us found time to be selfish and cruel. A young woman was found dead in a stairwell

of the Science Building Monday morning. The area was evacuated, the situation was assessed by University administration, and the investigation to find the reason behind the death began. According to University police, there wasn’t an immediate threat to the rest of the student population. While administrators and law enforcement converged on the scene, the world beyond the barriers of yellow police tape went on as it should have. However, before everyone could check their Bronc Alert text message, the rumor mill began to churn out stories a crimeseries author would be proud of. Students began to feel unsafe. Maybe there was a killer walking around campus. The lack of lighting and security were blamed. Female students feared they could become the prime

Utpa pd??? Shouldn’t it be CSI the valley....? 9:13 AM

“Someone died.” “...are classes cancelled?” ...really? 17 9:14 AM Let me know if classes are cancelled, I don’t want a take a 40min trip to find out classes are canceled, thanks. 8 9:21 AM

Someone was obviously upset about the Giants winning... 9:21 AM

& then they say STC is guetto... 9:34 AM

Stc is still guetto 9:38 AM

lock upr ur daughters, lock up ur wives, and your children too...cuz they killing everyone here! 9:21 AM

target for the unknown danger. The day quickly went from being about a woman whose life had ended to showcasing people’s fears. The most disturbing examples of knee-jerk and callous reactions are displayed on UTPA’s Facebook page. While some people showed genuine concern for the woman, others seemed to think the death was the perfect excuse for a day off. The first comment came only a minute after the University made the announcement on their Facebook. Within ten minutes, comments speculating about the nature of the death surfaced. Thirteen minutes later, a CSI joke. Five minutes after that, the conjecture of a suicide. People turn to these websites to express themselves, mark important days in their lives and

complain about First World problems. Issues and problems in 140 characters or less. Occasionally, a group will use social media to rally a community together and expose injustices. While it’s only natural to search for information and make sure loved ones are accounted for during an emergency, the UTPA social media world dissolved into a circus of tasteless jokes and comment wars. Being sensitive is not about being politically correct. It’s about having compassion for the suffering of others without regard to who gets the first punch-line in during the conversation. Everyone has the right to an opinion. Almost everyone has the ability to express those opinions instantaneously. By no stretch of the imagination does that mean they should be broadcast to a worldwide audience for posterity.

cartoon

Letters from readers

Trip tabulation Funding student travel at UTPA has long been a complicated process requiring students and their professors to go hat in hand to a number of funding sources, including the SGA. Fortunately, supportive Chairs, Deans and other administrators have generally come through with the money to help out students traveling to present their scholarly and creative work. A small number of students who are research assistants also have access to designated travel funds. The one constant source of funding for all students, though, was the SGA, and that money will be missed. I hope therefore that the administration will see this as a moment to address the issue of funding for student travel. We need a one-stop office that deals with such funding and a fair, streamlined application process. In the meantime, student fundraisers, I’ll keep buying your barbecue plates and hot Cheetos with cheese. Dr. Rob Johnson Professor of English

Vol. 68, No. 17

The Pan American

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Quite sad what happened at UTPA... I wonder what the story behind it is.

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Co-Editors-in-Chief:

Another day of stress at #UTPA

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News Editor:

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Photography Editors: Mac Peña

- @ThePanAmerican

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Letters to the Editor

Multimedia 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. We reserve the right to edit submissions for grammar and length. We cannot publish anonymous letters or submissions containing hate speech or gratuitous personal attacks. Please send all story ideas to thepanamerican@gmail.com.

Erick Gonzalez Pamela Morales Francisco Rodriguez /The Pan American

tion

uc d o Pr otes N week 5

Dear Readers, Here’s what you need to know about the Brenda Dominguez story on Page 4. First, we scrambled to provide you with the most accurate

and up-to-date information about the situation. What we know to be true, we got out as quickly as possible. Second, in the past three days, a slew of ethical and tactical decisions had to be made as to what to publish when and where people needed to be to cover the story. A subsequent slew of people deserve credit for their work this week. Editors provided their reporters with the resources they need to produce amazing content, and accordingly, Co-Editors-in-Chief

Nadia Tamez-Robledo and Rey Leal exemplified leadership and insight at a time when everything was a gray area. They were the ones updating the website and social media as I called in from the Science Building. Props to all the visual people. Photo editors Faith Aguilar and Mac Pena made sure the photographers were where they needed to be. Adrian Castillo was one of the first on the scene and took amazing photos. Multimedia Editor Pam Morales hustled with her reporter, Dimitra

Hernandez, on shooting, editing and uploading videos under immense pressure. Lastly, thanks to our adviser, Dr. Selber, for making sure we were covering what was needed, in the most responsible fashion. In conclusion, a Monday morning tragedy is bad news for a Thursday morning paper, but we pulled together to present the facts, as available, about this week’s events. Karen Antonacci News editor

Adviser:

Dr. Greg Selber

Administrative Associate:

Anita Reyes

Advertising Manager:

Mariel Cantu

Webmasters:

Jose Villarreal Selvino Padilla

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.

Delivery:

Thursday at noon

February 9, 2012

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Tuesday:

Monday:

CoMeTry Feb 14, 2012 12:00pm - 1:00pm S.U. Cafe 7:00pm - 8:oopm S.U. Theater

ThinkFast GamesShow Feb 13, 2012 7:00pm -8:00pm Student Union Cafe

Wednesday: Sailesh Feb 15, 2012 8:00pm -9:00pm Student Union Cafe

Friday:

Coronation Ball Feb 17, 2012 8:00pm -12:00am Ballroom “Formal Attire”

Earn $95 this week Donate your plasma to help save the lives worldwide. If you qualify as a new donor, you can earn up to $95 this week. TPR_1010_A_1001

500 S. Bicentiennial Blvd. Ste. 200 McAllen, TX (651) 501-0800 Monday: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Tuesday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. -3:00 p.m. www.talecrisplasma.com In addition to meeting the donation criteria, you must provide a valid photo I.D., proof of your current address and your Social Security or immigration card to donate.

Thursday:

Tradition

Welcomes

Tomorrow

For more information or special accommodations call (956) 665-7991

Bronc Olympics Feb 16, 2012 4:00pm - 7:00pm South Quad

Saturday:

Tailgate & Battle of the Bands Feb 18, 2012 4:00pm -8:00pm Parking Lot F

news

February 9, 2012

newsbriefs The Testing Services Center has moved from the UTPA Annex to the UTPA Haggar Building because the Art Department is currently being moved to the Annex. The center provides college, high school and international students a variety of exams and services like the CLEP, ACCUPLACER and the LSAT to help students jump start their college plans in various subjects. The Sixth Annual New Teacher Conference will take place Feb. 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Education Building. Workshops will focus on dealing with bullies, working with special needs children and preventing burnout, among other subjects. Teachers will receive five Continuing Professional Education (CPE) units for attending. For more information, contact Janine Schall at 956-665-5227 or ntc@ utpa.edu. College Goal Sunday will be held Feb. 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Visitor’s Center and Express Lab. The event, sponsored by College Access and Support Programs Community Outreach, is an opportunity for students to get help from trained financial aid professionals in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students should bring their and their parents’ latest tax and pay stub information, if applicable. For more information, contact Associate Director of Special Programs Barbara Garza at (956) 665-7562. The new version of Blackboard, which will start going into effect in fall of next year, will be on display at the Innovations in Online Learning Luncheon Feb. 16. A noon session will take place in room 1.104 of the Academic Services Building and a 2:30 p.m. session will take place in room 2.226 of the Education Complex. Lunch will only be served at the first session. Seating is limited and those planning on attending must register at training. utpa.edu by Feb. 10.

High school student dies at UTPA By Karen Antonacci The Pan American Two bouquets lay at the bottom of the Science Building’s east stairwell Wednesday. The note attached to the red roses was three lines long, and punctuated with a heart. It read: “To Brenda From all the Broncs to you… May you rest in peace.” Two construction workers discovered Brenda Dominguez’s body Monday shortly before 8 a.m. She was found in the small space beneath the first of the east stairwell’s spiraling steps. About 10 feet away, on the sidewalk beneath the balcony, a dark bloodstain was visible. Preliminary autopsy reports ruled the 18-year-old Edinburg North High School student’s death a suicide, but the case is still under investigation. University police were contacted, the scene was roped off and the inhabitants of the Science Building evacuated to the Library. Edinburg police, the Texas Rangers, and a majority of the University’s administration were on the scene, including President Robert Nelsen. Officials iterated to the campus community they were not at risk and classes in the building were cancelled for all of Monday and Tuesday. At the scene, detectives examined both the bottom of the stairwell and the thirdfloor balcony. They were seen dusting the balcony handrail for fingerprints and taking photos of evidence inside the stairwell. On the sidewalk, yellow numbered placards denoted splotches of blood. With the first Bronc Alerts and social-media posts, students began commenting and tweeting about Dominguez’s death. Among the mourning and grieving posts are some that said there should be more lights and security cameras in the area. Commenters also criticized the University for not closing the entire campus, and many were skeptical of the

University’s assertion that the campus at large was not in any danger. Vice President of Student Affairs Martha Cantu said the President’s Cabinet met Wednesday and discussed whether the administration could have done anything differently. She said the administration felt it handled the situation very well and valued the feedback received through Facebook comments. “We read every single one,” she said. Among the things discussed at the meeting were extra security around the area for the time being, an assessment of lighting, and a door being installed eventually, she added. BRENDA DOMINGUEZ During an interview with The Pan American, friends and confidants she light on Dominguez’s character and past. Dominguez lived with her grandmother within a minute’s walking distance from the University, according to sources close to her who wished to remain anonymous. She was originally from the Valley but moved to Iowa with her parents about five years ago. She was sent back to Edinburg for reasons that are not yet clear. Dominguez enrolled at Edinburg North in August of last year, according to Gilbert Tagle, ECISD public information officer. According to those who knew her well, Dominguez told those around her that she was dealing with personal problems, often cut her arms and spoke of suicide. “She would say she wanted to kill herself all the time,” said a friend who met her in middle school. “I think she wanted others to feel what she was feeling.” “It was her way of expressing herself,” another friend added. Despite this, Dominguez did not have a short temper and quickly recovered after becoming upset, according to a friend that went to school

Adrian Castillo/The Pan American

mobilized - UTPA PD’S Incident Command Vehicle is stationed outside the Science Building Monday.

Adrian Castillo/The Pan American

convening - Assist. Police Chief James Loya, left, talks to UTPA President Robert Nelsen, Director of University Relations Sandra Quintanilla and Associate Vice President for University Marketing and Communications Kimberly Selber as police investigate the discovery of a female body at the Science Building Monday morning. with her. “I never heard her yell or get mad,” she said. “You could look and see the sorrow in her eyes, but I would give her a hug, and she would smile and be OK.” Dominguez was known for helping stray animals she found on the street and buying kids in her neighborhood snacks at the corner store unprompted from others. “Once, Brenda found a little dog from the street and brought it home and fed it all the ham in the fridge,” said a close friend, in Spanish. “There was a lot of good in her,” another acquaintance added. The preliminary ruling of suicide does not sit well with some members in the University community as well as some of Dominguez’s friends. Chief among the concerns of those that knew her well is Dominguez’s fear of heights. “They say she was on the third floor,” said a friend. “But I can’t even picture her up there. We would hang out (at UTPA) but she would never, never go up there… She couldn’t even get up to the second floor.” Some of these friends were with Dominguez on Saturday, the day before her death. They said that they came to UTPA and hung out around the Science Building as usual. Dominguez made a comment that it would be a good place to die, but her friends did not consider it a serious threat. “She said that, but I think it was more of an expression,” said one of the friends. “She said that sort of thing all the time. We just told her not to say those things and that God loves her and we left.”

EFFECTS ON UTPA Although Dominguez did not attend the University, the campus community was left unsettled after Monday’s events. UTPA student Katie Molina organized a candlelight vigil in her honor Wednesday night. Nelsen spoke at the event, offering condolences to the University community as well asto some of Dominguez’ friends. There will be a debriefing and discussion with a panel of mental health professionals

relating to Monday’s events. It will be lead by Assistant Professor Ivan Barrera Feb. 9 at noon in HSHE 1.114. Counseling and Psychological Services representatives positioned themselves in the Library Monday to talk to students and professors. They are taking walk-in appointments for students and staff that need to talk about the incident. CAPS, located at UC 109, will be open until 7 p.m. Thursday. After Thursday, the office will close at 5 p.m.

Adrian Castillo/The Pan American

investigating - A forensic investigator inspects the Science Building stairwell where the body of 18-year-old Brenda Dominguez was found Monday morning.

news

February 9, 2012

The Pan American

Police Beat

Classroom communication hindered by accents, some students say By Daniella Diaz The Pan American Pre-med student Bryony Castillo sits in her upper level math class three times a week but it’s not necessarily the formulas she can’t understand. According to Castillo, her professor’s heavy accent makes it difficult to be engaged in class and grasp new concepts. “Students have to ask him to repeat and explain over and over again the examples,” she said. According to the 2010 UTPA Factbook, 9.4 percent of professors are non-residents. Ala Qubbaj, vice provost for faculty affairs, said the University also has international professors who are residents and others who have undergone the naturalization process to become U.S. citizens. He said that the idea of the communication barrier between professors and students has

come up but the University has thought of a way to tackle it. “Indeed, one question on the evaluation specifically asks students to assess the ‘clarity of communication in the classroom,’” he explained. “Also, in the comments section, students are asked to share any issues and challenges they encountered during the course. According to Qubbaj, the University has never fired a professor for having a known communication barrier in the classroom. Senior Ariel Davila agreed with Castillo that hard-tounderstand teachers make class a little more complicated. “I have had two professors (with strong accents). I have had one for my computer information systems class and one for my college algebra class,” she said. “So, it was very difficult for me to understand exactly

what they were trying to tell (the students). I didn’t drop, but I got through them.” If a student were to drop a class before the evaluation date, however, they would never have the opportunity to assess their professor. According to Qubbaj, the University does have a policy (HOP Policy 6.5.13) which states that faculty members whose primary language is not English are required to demonstrate proficiency in English through the Test of Spoken English exam or equivalent score on the Speaking Proficiency English Assessment Kit. “Communication is an essential element of successful teaching, but we also look at other elements like accessibility, organization, preparedness and assessment,” Qubbaj said. “All of these factors are taken into consideration during annual faculty evaluations, tenure

and promotion decisions, and post-tenure reviews, as well as contract renewals for lecturers and adjunct faculty.” Mexico City native Esmeralda Zuniga feels differently from other students about this issue. She doesn’t think an accent in the classroom is an issue. “I don’t complain about the accents of other professors because I, myself, have an accent as well,” Zuniga said. However, marketing major Miguel Medina believes that a language barrier in the classroom discourages a student’s motivation to work hard for the course they are taking. “It’s frustrating for me to have to put extra work into a class that normally wouldn’t require it, just because the professor’s limited English is throwing up extra barriers,” Medina said. “Most days, I only

showed up to class for quizzes and tests.” As Castillo contemplated her math classroom experience, she suggested her own idea of how professor communication should be assessed. “The University could go about handling this problem easily by requiring future professors to teach a mock class and take a poll from the students that would ask if (the students) were able to clearly understand the professor,” she suggested. Patricia Martin is assistant to the dean of students and wants students to know that there is a place they can visit for aid with any University-related issue, including the language barrier. “So if (students) at any time feel frustrated or need assistance, we encourage them to come here so that we can give them guidance and point them in the

Candlelight vigil UTPA Students joined friends of Brenda Domingez for a candlelight vigil Wednesday night at the Student Union. As a part of the memorial, community members shared comforting words, and and read scripture. Faith Aguilar /The Pan American

Wednesday, Feb. 1 UT Police responded to Unity Hall in reference to suspicious activity. Two female students said that on Jan. 29 they arrived to their dorm to find a plush penguin cut open and stuffed with red marshmallows in the stomach, one toe, and beak hanging outside their door. They reported it because they did not believe that it was a prank. Thursday, Feb. 2 Officers made contact with 2 female students at Sugar Road in reference to an autocollision with a pedestrian. The pedestrian said that she was hit by a car while riding her bike across the walkway. The female that hit her was still on location and called 9-1-1 but no injuries were reported. Officers made contact with a reporting male Resident Assistant in the cafeteria in reference to a verbal assault. During dinner, he stopped by a table with two students to say hello when one of the students made vulgar comments about a female staff member. The RA is filing criminal charges because he was offended by the raw and vulgar language used. Friday, Feb. 3 UT Police made contact with a female in reference to a traffic stop on University Dr. Officers saw her car had expired registration tags. The female failed to identify herself and was arrested. Border Patrol/ ICE was contacted because of her immigration status and was later taken to the Edinburg Police Department. Monday, Feb. 6 UT Police responded to a reported damaged vending machine at Emilia Hall. A male student shattered the vending machine glass while shaking it for a female student whose chips were stuck. UT Police responded to a property damage call at the Student Union where an unknown male student accidentally ran into the eastside window. The student walked off and officers saw the window was cracked and took photos of it.

Your next SGA president

Page 6

THE PAN AMERICAN

February 9, 2012

By Ayesha Zahid The Pan American As the Republican primary races heat up and the country prepares for the Presidential election in November, UTPA is preparing for its own presidential election happening in a little less than a month. The Student Government Association 2011-2012 term is coming to a close, and presidential candidates for a new term are lining up ideas and visions. Which candidate has the potential and ability to commit to a year of driving the University forward? It’s up to the student body to judge. Being president of the SGA isn’t a title someone can slap onto their resume and easily get away with. It takes dedication (along with organizational and time management skills) to represent over 19,000 students to the University administration as well as the entire UT system. Alejandro Rodriguez, SGA president for the 2010-2011 term, left behind a student-centered legacy for future presidents to match up against. Rodriguez’s administration was built upon direct student involvement and feedback. According to him, a president should be available and accessible to students, senators, advisers, administrators, professors and staff without forgetting his or her own classes and commitments in the process. Rodriguez also added that a president should know about the University’s history. “It might be a lot of information since

1927,” he said, “but we should be aware that the basics are covered.” While the “legal” duties of the SGA president are outlined in the constitution (signing legislation passed by the senate, approving senatorial appointments, giving weekly reports, etc.), situations may arise over time which are not talked about in the constitution. In those cases, it is up to the president to make the best decision, keeping in mind the interests of the student body. The president also serves on committees, which include student-life committees (the Library Committee, the Student Union Advisory Board, Academic Calendar Committee, etc.) as well as the Student Government Association Advisory Council. The number of committees the president is involved with does add weight to the duties, but what he or she contributes to the committee is equally, if not more, important. Required of the president is time, commitment, dedication, and a constant presence at the University. There is usually a stack of responsibilities (quite literally so) on the table of the president every week, but as Rodriguez said, “It is never impossible to turn something difficult into something enjoyable when you love what you do.” It definitely sounds like it. May the best candidate win.

THE PAN AMERICAN

February 9, 2012

Page 7

Matthew Garcia’s Notable SGA Activities Introduced two bills: 1. Makes senate participation mandatory for certain events

Matthew Garcia

Pedro Salazar

Evan Brough

Running Mate: Yadira Mejia Age: 20 Hometown: McAllen Major: Biology (Pre-Med)

Running Mate: Erika Lopez Age: 20 Hometown: McAllen Major: Nursing

Running Mate: Michael Kent Age: 19 Hometown: McAllen Major: Computer Information Systems

Activities: • SGA • UTPA Ambassador • Presidential Ambassador • Bronc Retention Initiatives Dedicated to Growth and Excellence • Student Leadership Program • Facilitated Admission For South Texas Scholars

Activities: • SGA - Public Relations chair • Residence Housing Association • Student Association for Medical Spanish • SHAAG • SAM Protege • SGA First-Year

Activities: • SGA - Senator • College of Business Administration • UTPA Ambassadors, • University Program Board Media Moguls Chair • Advanced Student Leadership Academy • Association of Information Technology Professionals • Candidate for Homecoming King

Platform: They are running on a platform of unity, which means more than simply building school spirit. It’s also increasing the cohesiveness within campus, between clubs and organizations and among students and faculty. They plan to create departmental clubs for the leaders of all the related student organizations so that the organizations can share ideas and work together more easily.

Platform: They are running on a platform of DARE to Succeed. DARE is an acronym that stands for to Dream, to Act, to Rise above average and to Experience college life to the fullest. They plan to continue in current President Stephanie Corte and Vice President George Galindo’s footsteps to increase University spirit, especially through encouraging attendance at Bronc Sporting events.

Internship program mentor

Platform: Brough and Kent are running on a platform of student involvement, school spirit and helping organizations do more for students. Brough said he wanted SGA to connect more with the average student and have a more prevalent impact on students’ daily lives.

2. Requires senators to sign up for and complete their office hours. Also introduced a resolution stating that the senate fully supports the First-Year Intern program.

Pedro Salazar’s Notable SGA Activities Introduced a resolution to the senate supporting 24-hour visitation rights for resident hall students. It would allow residents to visit among all the resident halls.

Evan Brough’s Notable SGA Activities Recently authored two bills: 1. Proposing designated smoking areas on campus. 2. Proposing a streetlight on West McIntire and N. Sugar Road.

Cast your vote:

What you don’t know:

Garcia called himself an “avid purveyor of entertainment,” including books, movies and games.

Salazar said he used to be in choir in high school and still has a love for the arts, especially theater.

Brough discovered crocheting at a Student Union event and now practices the hobby in his spare time.

“I like to promote the better side of video games. People still see it as a lesser form of entertainment, below books or movies. Some underestimate the power of interactive media.”

“I look forward to the summer for Joel Garza’s Spring Awakening. I look forward to auditioning and being a part of the show.”

“I went with my friend...to check out the event. I tried knitting, but it’s incredibly hard. I liked the idea so I decided to look up crocheting. I’ve crocheted a scarf and a four-foot blanket. I like crocheting. It’s a very stressrelieving activity.”

Candidates will debate Feb. 23 in the SU theater at noon.

Voting for SGA president will take place from March 5 to March 9. Check Bronc Notes for instructions on how to vote.

Your next SGA president

Page 6

THE PAN AMERICAN

February 9, 2012

THE PAN AMERICAN

February 9, 2012

Page 7

Matthew Garcia’s Notable SGA Activities Introduced two bills: 1. Makes senate participation mandatory for certain events

Matthew Garcia

Pedro Salazar

Evan Brough

Running Mate: Yadira Mejia Age: 20 Hometown: McAllen Major: Biology (Pre-Med)

Running Mate: Erika Lopez Age: 20 Hometown: McAllen Major: Nursing

Running Mate: Michael Kent Age: 19 Hometown: McAllen Major: Computer Information Systems

Activities: • SGA - Public Relations chair • Residence Housing Association • Student Association for Medical Spanish • SHAAG • SAM Protege • SGA First-Year

Internship program mentor

2. Requires senators to sign up for and complete their office hours. Also introduced a resolution stating that the senate fully supports the First-Year Intern program.

Evan Brough’s Notable SGA Activities Recently authored two bills: 1. Proposing designated smoking areas on campus. 2. Proposing a streetlight on West McIntire and N. Sugar Road.

Cast your vote:

What you don’t know:

Garcia called himself an “avid purveyor of entertainment,” including books, movies and games.

Salazar said he used to be in choir in high school and still has a love for the arts, especially theater.

Brough discovered crocheting at a Student Union event and now practices the hobby in his spare time.

“I like to promote the better side of video games. People still see it as a lesser form of entertainment, below books or movies. Some underestimate the power of interactive media.”

“I look forward to the summer for Joel Garza’s Spring Awakening. I look forward to auditioning and being a part of the show.”

Candidates will debate Feb. 23 in the SU theater at noon.

Voting for SGA president will take place from March 5 to March 9. Check Bronc Notes for instructions on how to vote.

arts & life

February 9, 2012

a look into the future British sculptor shows his art in McAllen “lowbrow art/pop surrealism.” This movement, declared by the magazine Juxtapoz, was fostered by elements of pop culture. “I could see that the artists were speaking the language that I’m of - TV, movies and fashion,” Christian said. “Before, I’d only ever seen classical art, and it didn’t speak to me the way this art did.” His childhood interests combined with new finds in American culture such as Latino low-rider art and Japanese animation. These became the inspirations for his work. “It was kind of a mishmash,” Christian said. “And all the science fiction and Star Trek stuff from when I was a kid kind of all came together, and I started producing these figures.” His current show, “Fast Forward,” also displays his influence in ancient culture and technology. The exhibit can be viewed at the International Museum of Art and Science until May 13. These fiberglass figures depict the artist’s vision of the future and what will come about with advances in technology. At the same time, he uses architectural lines like those of the ancient Egyptians and Southeast Asians. “[It’s] the idea eventually that we will meld with machines,” Christian explained. “The ideas of artificial intelligence and the consequences of such things. One of the pieces, titled “The Butterfly Effect,” is a representative of two possible futures for the human race depending on the path that is taken. “It’s based on the scientific principle of chaos,” Christian said. “It’s also based on the idea that in an infinite universe anything you can think of has

Natalia Rocafuerte/The Pan American

“Champion” - A patron studies “Champion,” a sculpture Colin Christian created from his observations of American life. Christian said the piece represents the epitome of American pop culture for him.

and will happen an infinite number of times. They’re both extremes and perhaps we lie somewhere in the middle. I want people to think about it and think about where we really want to go.” With his modernized pieces using popular components, Christian’s goal is to be able to speak to people through art. “It’s done in a language that I’m hoping everybody will recognize,” he explained. “The elements where, ‘Oh, I understand that. I’ve seen that. I know where that comes from.’ That’s really what’s it’s about.” Christian admits that when he came to the Valley he expected a “Tex-Mex” kind of place, but was pleasantly surprised with the people and the environment. Although Christian has never been to the Valley before, he has high hopes for his work among the natives and plans to return in the future. “It’s a slightly different approach for this area, but I think it’s so important,” Christian said. “This area is expanding, it’s got a very youth orientated culture. I want them to own this work.”

ONLINE

By Lea Victoria Juarez The Pan American Two women in body suits stand back-to-back, one in white, one in red and they both represent patriotism on different levels. The woman in white has a classic ‘60s style and stands on greenery and flowers. Her hands are open and a picture of the world on her back symbolizes unity throughout the world. Her face is uncovered and her eyes gaze up. The woman in red stands on garbage and filth with her mouth covered in a metal mask. Oil drips down her body. In one hand she holds a gun while the other remains balled in a tight fist. Born in London, sculptor Colin Christian always had a fascination with science fiction and comic books. As an introverted and self-proclaimed “geeky” boy, it wasn’t until the age of 15 that he discovered a creative calling. “I saw the movie Alien and I was like, ‘I don’t know what this is that I’ve just seen, but this is what I want to do,” Christian said, recalling the 1979 classic film. Christian explained that although he liked his English culture, life as an artist was frowned upon there. He never considered art as a career until he and his wife moved to Florida in 1992. “American culture has very much a ‘can-do’ attitude,” Christian explained. “And English, they really prefer you not to try. I found it very stifling and frustrating.” Once he moved to the United States, he began to develop artistic style through everyday experiences and was inspired by an art movement that occurred in the mid 1990s called

panamericanonline.com For exclusive video and interviews with the artist.

Natalia Rocafuerte/The Pan American

“Eclipse” - The sculpture “Eclipse” features ancient Egyptian traits with a futuristic twist. The piece and the rest of the “Fast Forward” exhibition will be on display at the IMAS until May 13.

arts & life

9 This little piggy goes to school February 9, 2012

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Stories You Haven’t Heard

The Pan American’s search for UTPA’s most eligible bachelor and bachelorette started by asking students all over campus to nominate someone they know. From what people wrote in the nominations, finalists were chosen, asked to come in for an interview and fill out a questionnaire. To make it as fair and objective as possible, students weren’t allowed to vote for the competition, out of our fear that it would turn into a popularity contest and rule out certain students. Through these screening processes the winners were chosen.

Bachelorette

Bachelor

Dana Castillo Mike McCarthy

Age: 21 Major: Chemistry/ Pre-pharmacy Hometown: Chicago, Ill. In three words, she’s: outgoing, spunky, passionate

Age: 22 Major: English Hometown: Wallingford, Conn. In three words, he’s: nice, spontaneous, ambitious

Great first date: I’m a very chill person, so a simple dinner and a movie, but the conversation and connection makes the date.

Great first date: Cooking, going ice skating, South Padre for dinner, walking on the beach and maybe catch a movie or just make a day completely random and just have fun.

Dating deal-breaker: If he cannot hold a conversation or is very picky. Dating tip: First impressions are very important. Be yourself, but one wrong actions or word said can alter the entire date. She can’t live without: My phone, everything I haveschedules, contacts, lists- are on there and chapstick. In her downtime, catch her: I’m very busy so whenever I can spare some time for myself, I can be found reading romantic novels or listening to jazz music. Catch her eye by: Smiling and introducing yourself well. Boyfriend must-have: A sense of humor, love laughing and a lot of confidence, but at the same time humble. Guilty pleasure: I can never say no to French fries. Would she date someone her friends don’t like? Probably not, they know me and look out for me.

Dating deal-breaker: Being rude to other people (ex. Being rude to waiter.)

By Justin O’Donnell The Pan American Not many people at UTPA know that Kevin Bacon often walks the campus, exploring, seeing the sights and making friends with people and animals. Bacon is a fairly new resident to the Rio Grande Valley, living with his new roommate, Edinburg native and sophomore Rick Lopez, across the street from the campus. Also he is a pig, literally. Kevin Bacon, named after one of Lopez’s favorite actors, not only has the name of a celebrity, but the attitude also. “He’s loved by all. He’s very outgoing and very photogenic,” according to Lopez. Often times Bacon can be seen at campus events at UTPA’s quad in front of the Student Union, basking in the attention of students. Also like a celebrity, sometimes the attention gets to his head. “He’s very needy. Definitely a lot harder to take care of then a dog. He needs attention a lot,” Lopez said, further remarking that Bacon was a prima dona. “He sleeps with me every night, you know. He’s with me almost 24/7,” said Lopez, fondly recalling their nights in the Pana Vista apartments next to Bronc Village. Kevin moved eight months ago from a Crockett, Texas farm that sells miniature pigs for people to keep as pets. Before then, he had no human contact so that he would bond strongly with his new owner. Lopez recalled picking up Bacon at the airport, saying it felt like going to

pick up one’s baby. Despite the vast change in Bacon’s environment from the quaint Crockett farm to the relatively bustling Valley, he is adapting. “He loves it here. He loves the weather, he loves the heat,” Lopez explained. Not only has Bacon become adjusted to the climate, but also the people. “He struts his stuff,” Lopez said with a laugh. “He knows he gets a lot of attention, and he knows that people like him so he just walks around like he’s all that.” For the most part Kevin Bacon gets along with the animals in Edinburg as well. His best friend (aside from Lopez) is Ren, a 7-month-old Miniature Pinscher belonging to Lopez and Bacon’s roommate, John Peña. The two were practically raised together and do almost everything with each other, from running to playing around campus. Ren has even been known to comfort Bacon when he’s scared, by embracing and caressing him. However, not all animals find Bacon so endearing. On one occasion a Husky “picked him up like he was a chew-toy and ran off with him.” “He screamed. He squealed,” recalled Lopez who rescued him. Lopez affirms that Bacon can be summarized: “Kevin Bacon’s motto is PIG. P stands for persistence. I stands for integrity. G stands for guts.” People can find Kevin Bacon on Facebook at www. facebook.com/pages/The-KevinBacon/287221471302508

Dating tip: Be nice and gentleman like. He can’t live without: My iPod, baseball and cherry limeades! In his downtime, catch him: Hanging out with friends, working out, watching movies and cooking. Catch his eye by: Being nice and having a nice smile. Girlfriend must-have: A good heart and good manners. Guilty Pleasure: 10 Things I Hate About You - Top 3 favorite movie of all time. Would he date someone his friends don’t like? No, because they’re looking out for me and sometimes you get confused on what you want so they steer you the right way.

Norma Gonzalez/The Pan American

That’ll do, Pig - Local celebrity porker Kevin Bacon smiles and poses happily for his close-up. Sophomore Rick Lopez tries to bring Bacon on campus as often as possible.

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sports

1,0 0

and counting

By Michael Saenz The Pan American

Jared Maree scored his first points in a Bronc uniform with 9:05 left in the first half against Sul Ross State on Nov. 15, 2008. On Thursday - three years and 79 days later - he scored his 1,000th point on a free throw completing a three-point play with 17:45 left in the second half against Utah State Feb. 2. “I didn’t know that I had gotten it, until it was announced and the crowd started clapping for me,” Maree said. “I really didn’t even know I was that close. I thought I was like 20 points away or something.” The senior guard entered the game 14 points away and scored a season-high 23 to surpass the mark. His point total entering this season was 693, but he had no idea he was going to get an opportunity to achieve a career milestone that only 20 other Broncs had reached. “One of my teammates told me two games ago that I was close to getting this mark,” he admitted. “Without my teammates and coaches, I would be nowhere near this moment.” After being a steady starter for four seasons, part of this accomplishment shows consistency that is difficult to obtain for a college athlete. As a freshman, he showed that attribute and developed it along the way. Hard work along with help from a strong support system ultimately helped the Houston native reach this admirable goal. “It’s a great accomplishment and I want to thank God, my teammates, my coaches and family,” Maree said about hitting the milestone. “And going into this season and every year I don’t even focus on getting a specific accomplishments like that. I just go out there and try to play

hard for my team, my coaches and my school.” Maree came to UTPA out of Cesar Chavez High School in Houston where he received MVP honors and made the All-District team. He also recorded a 40-point game at one point during his precollegiate career, guiding his club to a 28-7 record and winning accolades as an honor student. There was a point when he didn’t know if he was going to get any opportunities to play college ball, but two weeks before the 2008 fall semester started, then-Bronc coach Tom Schuberth

Without my teammates and coaches, I would be nowhere near this moment. -Jared Maree Senior guard

gave him his chance. During his first year on campus the 6-3 Maree played for Schuberth, who coached the Broncs to a 42-45 record in three years. His only current teammate from that 2008-09 squad is senior guard Nick Weiermiller. The next year Ryan Marks was given the reins of the program and has seen Maree climb his way towards success.. “I was really elated for him,” Marks said. “The biggest thing is that he’s such an invaluable part of the team because he plays hard, he’s incredibly unselfish and he does all the intangible things. He’s a guy you can’t keep off the court, and when a player is that good he’s inevitably going to get 1,000 points.” Maree had been recruited to play guard for the Broncs, but during his time with UTPA he has been effective at multiple positions. He’s been asked to play point guard, shooting guard, small forward and even power forward but the veteran

has learned from each experience rather than stressing out over it. “I’ve played a lot of different positions since I’ve been here,” Maree said. “And I’ve learned how to use my body and size against opposing defenses on the offensive end. I think that has helped me some, whatever goals that come from that are a bonus to helping out my team.” As a freshman for the Broncs Maree average 5.5 points per game, starting 16 of 27 games. During his second year he saw a nearly five-point boost in scoring and led the team in that category with 9.9 per game, starting 29 of 32 contests. He also was second in rebounds per game (3.7) during the 2009-10 campaign. In his junior year he averaged 8.3 points and 3.0 rebounds per game and started 18 of 27 nights. Now as one of three seniors on the team (Kieondre Arkwright and Weiermiller are the others) Maree continues to be that constant player that every team needs, and he is shouldering a huge load for the Broncs, who are now 3-2 in conference play heading into a Feb. 16 game against NJIT. He’s second on the team in minutes played (683), first in field goal accuracy (48 percent), third in three-point shooting (37 percent), second in free throw success (73 percent), second in rebounds (4.0), third in assists (42), and tops in scoring (13.2). He continues to build off the team-first attitude that has helped him reach the 1,000-point mark, and now sits at No. 20, 18 points ahead of Steve Heard (1,019 from 1957-61, the first Pan Am player to reach the century mark). Though this will be a memorable moment in his career, he understands how to keep things into perspective. “Any time you get an accomplishment like this you enjoy the moment,” Maree said. “But right now my focus is on getting into the Great West Conference Tournament and hopefully winning that and going further.”

Freshman Points 5.5 Rebounds 2.4 Assists 1.3 FG% .397 3 pt. % .213

Sophomore Points 9.9 Rebounds 3.7 Assists 1.3 FG% .427 3 pt. % .365

Men's basketball all-time scoring list 1,880 - Otto Moore (1964-68)

1,423 - Mitchell Edwards (1962-65)

1,813 - Luke Jackson (1961-64) 1,738 - Brian Merriweather (1998-01) 1,721 - Fred Taylor (1967-70)

1,309 - Anthony Eatmon (1963-67) 1,306 - Melvin Thomas (1987-90)

1,507 - Marshall Rogers (1974-76)

1,282 - Mire Chatman (2000-02) 1,281 - Jim McGurk (1960-64)

1,037 - Jared Maree (2008-Present)

Junior Points 8.3 Rebounds 3.0 Assists 1.1 FG% .417 3 pt. % .315

sports

February 9, 2012

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Houston Astros CAREavan brings baseball to local children

Alma E. Hernandez/The Pan American

warming up - Men’s long-distance runners practice during the annual Green and White meet at the Track and Field Complex earlier this year. The Broncs will next compete at the GWC Indoor Championships Feb. 24 in Chicago.

Broncs take two in latest meet Reynaldo Leal/The Pan American

giving back - Astros third baseman Jimmy Paredes sits with Boys and Girls Club participants during the Houston Astros CAREavan at Edinburg Baseball Stadium. By Veronique Medrano The Pan American The sound of laughter and joyous screams filled the Edinburg Baseball Stadium as children from the McAllen and Edinburg Boys and Girls Club participated in the Houston Astros CAREavan Thursday. This event allowed children from the club’s softball and baseball teams to have a one-on-one fundamentals clinic with four Major League Baseball players and the Broncs baseball team. “Watching the pure joy on these kids faces and seeing them do these basic routines with love shows how much fun this sport is for them,” said Astros third baseman Jimmy Paredes. Astros second baseman Jose Altuve, relief pitcher Fernando

Briefs

Rodriguez, and Spanish language radio color commentator and former Astros catcher Alex Treviño rounded out the four MLBers to participate in the event. Parents and advisers watched from the sidelines as children ran to different stations across the field. Each station was designated to teach basic techniques such as catching a fly ball, using the “alligator” technique to field a grounder and swinging a baseball bat. “The most fun thing I did was hit the bat,” said Vianey Alvarez, a student at Lyndon B. Johnson Elementary in Edinburg. “I really like baseball, and want to play it when I get home.” As the sun set over the stadium, children filed back into their respective buses with smiles on their tired but happy

faces. Manny Mantrana, Broncs head coach, was proud of the interaction between the young children and the players teaching them. Mantrana hopes to keep the love of the sport alive with these young children by working on more events and clinics for the kids involved in the Boys and Girls Club. But the children weren’t the only ones star-struck and excited by the Astros players’ arrival. Adrian De La Rosa, UTPA senior outfielder, was happy about the time spent with the major leaguers. “Ever since I was a little kid I dreamed of being in the big leagues,” he said. “And whenever you get to meet a big leaguer it’s sort of a dream come true. It’s pretty fun when you get that opportunity.”

By Michael Saenz The Pan American Two weeks removed from the opening action of the indoor season, Track and Field Coach Xavier Richardson wanted to see how his squad would respond in the second meet of the compressed indoor schedule. He was pleasantly surprised. Andrew Lopez won the 800-meter run (1:56.85) and Mathew Kotut (8:31.13) took the 3,000-meter run Feb. 3 at the Jeff Davis/McNeese II Indoor Invitational. Finishing behind Lopez were teammates Martin Casse (2:00.38) in second and Ryan McNutt (2:02.32) in fourth, with Roland Cantu (2:02.32, sixth) rounding out the Broncs’ top-10 finishes in the 800. “We were really just testing the waters in the first meet,” Richardson said. “We had two weeks of practice, and we believe our team really performed well in

this meet. We were great in the mile. It was a hard fought race and we were pleased how they responded.” The men’s team also took the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh spots in the mile run. Lopez ran in 4:22.76 for fourth, followed by Casse (4:23.71), Colton Bosler (4:30.08), and Sebastien Benavides (4:31.70). On the women’s side, Judith Chumba finished second in the race with a time of 5:12.30. The women’s team also advanced one runner to the 55-meter dash finals in Jasmine Webb, who came fourth with a time of 7.31. “We feel great about where we are. We are exactly where we wanted to be by this time,” said Richardson, who took over for Dave Hartman early this year. “And that’s really without a great deal of work. The indoor season is compressed and shorter, you jump right into competition. It’s a lot different than the outdoor season.”

Even though there is not much meet preparation into the indoor season in comparison to the outdoor version, there are no excuses. That’s why the coaching staff sometimes decides to skip scheduled meets such as the Tyson Invitational that was originally a Feb. 10 date. “We evaluate our team after each competition and decide whether to compete in the next meet,” Richardson said. “It’s great to have those options, but right now we would rather practice than go out and compete again.” The team will now prepare for the GWC indoor Championships that will conclude the indoor season Feb. 24 in Chicago, and set the stage for the outdoor season to begin March 3 in Laredo. “We feel good right now,” he said. “We have three weeks to prepare for the championships, and historically we are a program that performs well in those meets.”

Conference Standings

Men’s

Men’s Tennis After canceling last weekend’s scheduled tennis tournament against Laredo Community College, the Broncs will play three team matches in three days beginning with Prairie View A&M University today at 2 p.m. The Broncs will then continue their twoday trip in Prairie View tomorrow against Bethany College at 10 a.m. On Saturday, the men’s tennis team will conclude its three matches in three days against St. Mary’s University in San Antonio at 2 p.m. Last year the Broncs beat St. Mary’s 7-0 at the Orville Cox Tennis Center.

overall

Beau Bernstein

Women’s Tennis The women’s tennis team will officially open its inaugural spring season under firstyear coach Stephanie Vallejos tomorrow at 2 p.m. against the University of Texas at San Antonio. The Broncs will begin their season with six straight matches away from the Orville Cox Tennis Center. The next five events, after the match against UTSA, will take place in California and Louisiana. The Broncs dropped their lone match against the Roadrunners a year ago 6-1 in San Antonio. Bianca Izaguirre

UND

NJIT

UTPA

UND

Women’s

gwc

overall

gwc

UND

UVU

CSU

UTPA

CSU

NJIT

HBU