October 10, 2002

PAGE 16

NBA

MING READY FOR ACTION:

The Houston Rockets and number one draft pick Yao Ming have reached an agreement according to Houston television station KRIV. The 7-foot-5 center signed a three-year contract worth $18 million . The deal is expected to include an option for a fourth season to total the $18 million Ming expects to receive. Under the NBA rookie salary guidelines, a player can only make up to $12,442,680 dollars in his first three years in the league. Ming’s agent and cousin Erick Zhang said that the China Basketball Association may hold off providing clearance until the Asian Games are done Oct. 14. Ming could be in uniform by Oct. 20 if everything goes according to plan.

MLB

TIGERS HIRE TRAMMELL:

The Detroit Tigers will bring a familiar face to their organization.

Former shortstop Alan Trammell was hired to be their new manger on Wednesday.

Trammell was the San Diego Padres firstbase coach this season and got permission from the organization to interview for the manager job.

Trammell played for the Tigers from 197796 and was a six-time All-Star who won four Gold Gloves and a World Series in 1984, where he was named Most Valuable Player.

S PORTS

■ Pena Feature. . . . . . . . 15 ■ Golf Definitions. . . . . . .14 ■ Staff’s swami picks . . . 13

VOICE

Alumnae return for annual game

Do you think it’s important to participate in Spirit Week?

Back to the Future: Current Lady Broncs make preparations for heated battle against former players, alumnae

POLITICS

By MIKE GONZALEZ The Pan American Friday night, the Lady Broncs will have a chance to show they welcome former UTPA volleyball players. who will compete in an exhibition game at the Fieldhouse.

For some it will be a fun, entertaining and friendly match, but for head coach Dave Thorn, this is a game he desperately wants to win.

“We’re going to approach it like a normal game,” Thorn said.

“We’re going to try and come out here and kick the alumni’s butt.

We’re not going to change anything up or send anybody or mix the line up.”

Thorn has faced UTPA alumni four times and has won every meeting.

Although he admits how important a win will be for him, he is also looking forward to reconnecting with some of his former players when the match starts at 7 p.m.

“I’m just looking at it as a great way to keep in touch with our alumni and see our old friends again,” Thorn said.

Not only is this exhibition game important to Thorn, but the contest also has meaning for senior Cynthia Kasper, who will welcome back some of her ex-teammates.

“I definitely want to win,” Kasper said. “I’m a senior, so a lot of the girls that are coming back I played with the last three years.”

Kasper believes the alumni will

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be confident coming into the match.

She feels the alumni will bring experience that could give the Lady Broncs a challenge.

“They know they’re the older ones and we’re the young ones playing right now,” Kasper said.

“They may think ‘we have more experience than you,’ so they think they have a chance, but we have youth.”

An exhibition game couldn’t have come at a better time for the Lady Broncs, who have gone through a rough schedule this season. Senior Jessica Lawson believes her team has come a long way since the beginning of the year.

“We had a couple of rough tournaments to start the season,” Lawson said.

Unlike Kasper, Lawson will take a different approach in tomorrow night’s contest.

“Mentally, we prepare for it as if it was a real game,” Lawson said.

“Once we get out here, it’s more of a relaxed environment because they’re [alumni] looking out here to have some fun.”

UTPA continued on a recent win streak on Tuesday night when it faced rival Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. The Lady Broncs won their second game in a row and five of their last seven by slamming the Islanders 26-30, 31-29, 30-22 and 30-26, and improving to 6-12 on the year.

Junior outside hitter Winker Cruz led the way for UTPA with 19 kills

See VOLLEYBALL page 14

Mike Gonzalez/The Pan American GOOD SERVICE: Jacylin Olvera prepares to serve during volleyball practice this week. The Lady Broncs face a team of former UTPA volleyball players Friday.

UTPA readies for ‘Midnight Madness’ Intramural hoops, dunk contest, dancing on tap for event

By CELESTE Y. TELLO The Pan American Midnight Madness, a basketball tradition that sweeps across the nation’s collegiate campuses on the second Saturday of every October, is due to hit UTPA this week among a number of festivities.

Craig Pintens, coordinator of athletic marketing, said that a

midnight practice attended by enthused students has become a well-known event in college towns.

“Midnight Madness is the traditional kickoff to the college basketball season, it’s every year in October,” he said.

Before Midnight Madness became a major event at universities, it was simply a practice held at midnight at the University of Maryland over 30 years ago. Coach Lefty Driesell simply got his team out on the court at midnight.

“His college basketball team began practice at exactly midnight,”

Pintens said. “At the first Midnight Madness there wasn’t all the hoopla that surrounds it today.”

The midnight practice caught on at Maryland and began to draw in spectators. Eventually, it evolved into the major event that it is today.

“He just wanted to start practice at midnight and it kind of caught on at Maryland and people started showing up to watch the practice and from there it became what it is today, which is a major event in college athletics,” Pintens said.

Pintens said that Midnight Madness is important at the start of

the basketball season because it draws support from the fans.

“People are fanatical about college basketball, particularly in March when the tournament is going on,” he said. “This is the beginning of that and everybody has hope at the beginning of the season that their team will do well.”

At UTPA, Midnight Madness is equally important and preceded by Spirit Week. Spirit Week provides an opportunity for students to participate in a number of activities leading up to the midnight practice.

See EVENT page 15

THURSDAY

Campus

Gubernatorial candidates Tony Sanchez and Rick Perry squared off Wednesday night in their first debate of the campaign, which was broadcast statewide. The two disagreed on how to solve the increasing homeowners insurance problems. While Sanchez accused Perry of avoiding a special session and favoring the industry for campaign donations, Perry fired back at Sanchez, citing that as governor he called on lawmakers to investigate insurance companies.

Throughout the debate, Perry lauded his experience, as lieutenant governor and state agriculture commissioner.

Sanchez defended the claim that he profits from an insurance agency subsidary saying that his business sees little, if any, profit from the policies.

Perry and Sanchez have spent a combined record of $72 million so far on the race for governor.

With less than a month left until election day, Perry leads Sanchez with a ninepoint advantage according to a poll conducted for the Houston Chronicle in a contentious campaign for the future of Texas.

The next debate is slated for Oct. 24 in Dallas.

Other gubernatorial candidates are Libertarian nominee Jeff Daiell and Green Party nominee Rahul Mahajan, who were not invited to Wednesday’s debate, but will square off Friday at the University of Texas.

Wednesday’s debate was broadcast locally by radio station KURV-AM 710 in Edinburg.

October 10, 2002

An Inside Look: News ............................................2 A & E............................................7 ■ Sports ........................................16 ■ ■

T h e S t u d e n t N e w s p a p e r o f T h e U n i v e r s i t y o f Te x a s - P a n A m e r i c a n

Appeals only mouse click away

By NIKKI RAMIREZ The Pan American Anyone who has had a parking ticket on campus knows it can be a hassle waiting in line to appeal a citation.

The University Police Department has now made it easier for students to plead ther case without actually having to go into the police department. The new service, which began last June, allows students to appeal their citations online.

According to parking manager Eddie Morin, about 100 students have used the service so far and a full 70 percent of all appeals are done online.

“I think it has worked great and it gives students the opportunity to appeal citations without having to come in person,” Morin said.

The service was implemented for the benefit of the the police department as well as the students.

“The service is definitely more convenient for the students and police department,” Morin said.

The free service offers students a chance to appeal their citations from anywhere and helps students avoid excess fees.

“In the past, many students have complained that they don’t have time to go through the appeals process, so this gives students the option to appeal their citation from school, home or work at any time,” Morin said.

Morin said in order for students to appeal online they must go to the Web site at assist.panam.edu and log on with their pin number. The student must select “citation appeal,” and enter their information including citation number and home address.

The student then must decide whether they would like to receive their response via e-mail, U.S. mail, or both. After entering an explanation, they can submit their appeal.

“I’ve never used the service but I think it’s a great idea and it makes the process easier for people who want to appeal their citations,” freshman Ruben Rodriguez said. “This is my first year here and I’ve noticed you have to wait in line for everything.”

Although the service is currently only offered to students the police department will extend the service to faculty and staff later this year.

Morin added that the police department is looking into upgrading its software to allow for online permit sales and citation payments as well.

The new service would not only allow students to pay tickets on time but it would help avoid excess late fees that are often incurred by lazy students who want to avoid the hassle of going to the police station.

“I have gotten several parking tickets and I’ve ended up paying more than I should have because I was too lazy to go to the station,” said international business major A.J. Ulloa.

Arianna Vazquez/The Pan American

WE’VE GOT SPIRIT— Green and orange can be seen across the parking lots as Bronc pride is displayed on many cars in accordance with Spirit Week. The free car decorating took place Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon and helped promote school spirit among students. Spirit Week was held to help kickoff Bronc basketball season and included several activities including an office decorating contest.

Pre-law society does preps

By ARIANNA VAZQUEZ The Pan American Nearing its 30th year on campus, the University of TexasPan American Pre-Law Society has high expectations for the upcoming year.

The Pre-Law Society has been an active organization in UTPA for over 27 years. Dr. Jerry Polinard, adviser and political science department chair, stated that the society has provided guidance and answered questions to eager students who want to pursue a career in law. Other advisers for the society are Dr. James Wenzel, political science, and Dr. Nigel Cohen, criminal justice.

"The general purpose of the society is to introduce our students who are interested in legal careers through the various aspects that

involves those careers," Polinard said . "It provides students with different information on how to go to law school and the kind of requirements the schools are looking for."

Students of all majors can join the society. Maciej Z. Ruszczak, co-president of the organization, said that students sometimes assume that in order to attend law school, one must have a major in political science or criminal science is required.

"It is for all students interested in a career in law or considering anything law related," said Ruszczak. "We are available for everybody, we have a lot of people from psychology, business, engineering, and medicine [because] it is open to anybody on campus that is interested."

Co-president Ted Lopez stated that the society does not only help

answer questions about law school admissions, but it also guides students on what classes and teachers they should take in order to be well prepared for law school.

"The Pre-Law Society is my ticket to go into law school," Lopez said.

The society also invites lawyers to speak to the student body, and to groups of students interested in going to law school. At these events, students are able to ask questions on law school applications, required standardized tests, finding jobs, and other topics.

"We want them to familiarize themselves on how it is going to be when they get there," Polinard commented . "That is why we have lawyers come in and talk about their own experiences in law school [and] introduce them

See PRE-LAW page 3

October 10 2002

Celebrating 50 years 1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 http://www.panam.edu/dept/panamerican 51th Year – No. 7

Editor Matt Lynch mlynch@panam.edu

News Editor Cristina Reyna creyna826@aol.com

A & E Editor Ashley Brooks Magrew2@hotmail.com

Sports Editor Mike Gonzalez mgonzalez40@panam.edu

Graphics Editor Gabriel O. Hernandez gabo296@hotmail.com

Copy Editors Sunayna Mahtani and Belinda Reyes Layout Designers Ashley Brooks Mike Gonzalez Gabriel Hernandez Reporters Veronica Barrera Clarissa Martinez Elizabeth Martinez Nikki Ramirez Cesar Trevino Celeste Y. Tello Arianna Vazquez Advertising Dagoberto Perez Circulation Jesus M. Gonzalez Advertising Coordinator Juanita Sanchez Adviser Dr. Greg Selber

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 university.

Letters policy The Pan American gladly accepts letters from students, staff and faculty regarding newspaper content or current issues.

The Pan American reserves the right to edit submissions for grammar and length. Please limit submission length to 300 words. The Pan American cannot publish anonymous letters, or submissions containing hate speech or gratuitous personal attacks.

Letters are printed at the discretion of the editor and must include the writer’s name, class/title and phone number.

Readers with disabilities may request an alternative format of this publication at The Pan American business office.

For special assistance to attend any event listed in this publication, contact the coordinator of the event at least one week prior to the advertised date.

OPINION

To the Editor: I noticed that the responders in the “Campus Voice” column about parking (Oct. 3) unanimously called for the University to create more parking spaces. I agree that the current parking situation is more than problematic, but I wonder if in the bigger picture we might look for more sustainable long-term solutions. With a growing Valley population, the University is bound to keep expanding, and whatever new lots are created may fill up almost as quickly as we

letters

build them. In the meantime, parking lots are just about the most ugly and inefficient use of university land that can be imagined.

Do we really want asphalt to cover over our future playing fields and music centers?

In moving to the Valley from Austin, and before that Boston, the total lack of public transportation here came as a shock to me.

Obviously the university alone could never bring a public transportation system to the Valley, but it could be a major force in pushing for one.

NEWS

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editorials

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cartoons

I commute here for work from Rio Grande City. I would gladly ditch my car at home and spend an hour reading the newspaper on a train or bus headed for Edinburg. Maybe if there are others like me, public transportation would lessen the demand for parking. Then we could save University land for purposes that really make our community better.

Adam Rosenblatt Arts and Culture Coordinator Division of External Affairs

■ Dance Corp . .. . . . 3 ■ News Survey . . . . 5 ■ Campus Calendar . . 12

Fellowship of faith pursued

By CLARISSA MARTINEZ The Pan American The Baptist Student Ministry (BSM) is an organization focused on promoting Christian growth of fellowship among students and providing a place where individuals can strengthen their relationships in faith.

Despite its Christian basis, however, the 35member group on the university campus is open to students of all religions.

According to David Chan, director of the BSM, there are various activities people can participate in and get benefit from while serving the community. Last Saturday members of the group visited the Evins Center for troubled youths and spent the afternoon there.

“It was good for the young guys to see and interact with our students, and at the same time we benefited from interacting with them,” Chan said. “We were able to just spend the day with those kids and share with them our beliefs and try to help them to walk the straight path and get out of their situations.”

Junior Esther Prado, a pre-physician’s assistant studies major, was one of the students who went to the center and interacted.

“There are a lot of people who need to be guided and we are willing to show them there’s an alternative to a negative type of lifestyle,” Prado said. “We want to help them know who Jesus is, and kind of encourage them to see what they can benefit from if they follow a positive life.”

Severino Rodriguez, junior English major, said he felt that he had a connection with the kids at the detention center.

“I could relate to these troubled youth at Evins,” Rodriguez said. “I know where they come from, and I wanted to share with them the fact that there is more to life than what they think.”

“I’m really hoping that we will be able to share, not only with the Rio Grande Valley, but with the people across the world everything that we believe in and do,” Rodriguez said.

Last summer, six students did this when they visited China for nearly three weeks. The goals of the trip were to expose them to the Chinese culture, develop friendships, and enable the travelers to share their faith with the Chinese people.

Chan said since that sort of missionary work is illegal in China, the students could not initiate conversations of faith among Chinese citizens.

But they could answer questions the citizens asked them about religion.

“On our students’ side, it really opened our

sports

October 10, 2002

Page 15

Valley native adds local flavor to tennis team Former Rowe standout finds roster spot with Lady Broncs

By ARIANNA VAZQUEZ The Pan American It’s not very often that someone attending their local university is considered very unique among their peers. But for Valley native Ana Pena, a sophomore from McAllen, this is the case in regard to the tennis team roster.

Members of the latest Lady Bronc tennis team are from all sorts of places, including Spain, Switzerland, Canada, Iowa, and New Mexico.

The difference between Pena and her fellow teammates is that she hails from five minutes away. As a commuter student, she does not live in the dorms, she still has a great relationship with the team.

Pena graduated from McAllen’s Nikki Rowe High School, and although a number of different universities recruited her, she chose to stay near home.

“I love the culture and I did not want to leave [the Valley],” Pena said. “I

to the team and it was very impressive,” know I would have been homesick.”

Chapman said.

Tennis coach Todd Chapman said Pena said it has been a really good Pena has grown and matured as a tennis experience and the hard work is worth player. it. She has been playing tennis since she “I am glad I have Ana because it was 12 years old. shows we have great tennis players in Pena expects more in her second year, this area,” Chapman said. “She gained and has paid particular attention to experience playing college tennis last improving her backhand and deepyear and I look forward for her to hitting skills. As far as the team is continue improving.” concerned, Pena Chapman added believes that the he could not say team is stronger in one bad thing 2002. about Pena even if I am glad I have According to he tried, because Chapman, it is she is the type of Ana because it tough to get a good player every coach shows we have Valley player to would like to have. participate at She has a great great tennis UTPA because they attitude and is usually want to always ready to players in this leave the area to practice, he said. area play for other And after a year of universities. Pena coaching her, he’s - Todd Chapman, tennis coach is a good role never seen her model for staying have a bad day in at UTPA because practice. she can show that if other Valley players Pena’s singles record last year was stay, they can also be successful.

18-13, which was the pacesetter for “In a way, it’s an honor, I am wins. representing the Valley,” Pena said.

“As a freshman she really contributed

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Celeste Y. Tello /The Pan American

LOCAL TALENT: Sophomore Ana Pena provides the Lady Broncs tennis team with home-grown talent.

Cross country teams to face unfamiliar EVENT opponents at Texas A&M Invitational CC teams to compete against Aggies, Longhorns, among others

By CELESTE Y. TELLO The Pan American

Special to The Pan American

OVERSEAS VOYAGE—Members of the Baptist Student Ministry on their recent trip to China. BSM has 35 members and is a campus organization dedicated to bolstering faith for UTPA students.

eyes to a whole new world,” Chan said. “We were able to gain perspective about how these people think, live and survive. I think the citizens we spoke to were able to receive some knowledge about faith that they never had a chance to be exposed to, but were curious about.”

Apart from learning China’s different cultures and religious beliefs, the students also had the chance to spend a week teaching English to Chinese high school students in a remote North Easter town. In doing so, they became the first Americans to visit the region.

The BSM meets every other Tuesday and offers free lunch to those who want to stop by.

Along with guest speakers, the members try to have regular interactions with each other by mixing social events with spirituality.

Every Friday a worship service is held for students to praise and interact with other individuals who share their beliefs. Afterward the members participate in activities such as volleyball, and initiate a coffeehouse setting where they can talk with each other.

Other activities include prayer meetings held Mondays at 5:30 and Thursday nights, BSM

holds cell group meetings at 6:30 with dinner and a worship service afterward.

This semester marks Chan’s third year as director of the BSM and in this role he administers and ministers to the students.

“My job is to make sure the students have everything they need and that everything runs smoothly,” Chan said. “At the moment we have a president of BSM and other officers, but now instead of having individuals to do all the work; we assign groups of people to work on different activities, such as forming a Bible club."

Chan believes that the BSM benefits from team-based leadership, where everyone has a job to do instead of only a few individuals doing all the work.

Freshman music major Steven Chamblin is currently the group president. He hopes to see more service ministries arise that will cruise around campus talking to people about school and life.

“I would love to see BMS grow, but not only in the number of students involved, but the depth of it as well,” Chamblin said. “I think we can really make a positive impact on campus if we just put our mind to it.”

After winning the Division I Championship at the UTSA Whataburger Meet last weekend, the men’s cross country team is ready to compete at Texas A&M in College Station on Oct. 12.

Cross country coach Doug Molnar said that he hopes the results of the UTSA meet will be an indication of how the rest of the season will go.

“Overall, we had a good solid meet [UTSA]. It was a nice progression from our last meet,” he said. “We’re looking at this as a springboard for the rest of the season.”

Westly Keating was the overall champion at the meet. The rest of the men’s team also did well.

“Everyone, except for one, had a personal best,” Molnar said. “That’s real exciting when you have a number of runners running their personal best. It shows that we’re making progress in the right direction.”

All runners on the women’s team ran their personal best at the UTSA as well.

Patty Villarreal was the leading scorer in fourth place. She was followed by Claudia Rosas in 10th place and Erica Hernandez in 12th.

Molnar attributed the strong performances to an increase in aggressiveness during the race.

“We’re definitely much more aggressive, we went out and got up into the race,” he said. “We really raced well.”

More opportunities will surface for the teams to race better, including this

weekend’s meet at College Station.

The A&M Invitational will provide the chance for UTPA to match up against some tough teams for the first time this season. Among those teams are Texas A&M, Sam Houston St. and Stephen F. Austin.

Molnar believes this will be an opportunity for UTPA to gauge its progress so far in the season.

“This will really give us a chance to Celeste Y. Tello /The Pan American see how well we can do within the regional JOGGIN’: Claudia Rosas (left) and Patty Villarreal hit the track. meet because a will face tough opponents and run 6,000 [majority] of the region will be there,” meters (3.75 miles) for the first time in a Molnar said. “That will give us a real race. good indication of where we’re at.”

“Another good thing about this After Keating’s performance at the weekend is that this is the first [time] our UTSA meet, Molnar said that Keating will women will actually run 6,000 meters,” likely be among the leaders in his race Molnar said. “Which is the same distance and have a chance to run against his as the regional meet.” former teammates who beat him in a He said that the longer distance should previous meet. be beneficial to the Lady Broncs based on “Westly will definitely be among the the training they have been doing this favorites in this race,” Molnar said. season.

“Texas is going to be there again and he’ll Previously, the distance of each race have a chance to run against the two guys was dependent on the idiosyncratic lay of that beat him at the Southwest meet, he each individual course. This time, the full should definitely be among the top distance is in effect. finishers there.”

“We’ve been training all year to run On the women’s side, Texas and Texas 6,000 meters and I think, for our team, the A&M are the likely favorites and will longer the race the better off we’re going give the UTPA women’s team a challenge. to be because of how we trained,” Molnar The Lady Broncs’ training this year has said. “I’m excited about watching the been in preparation for this meet where it ladies run 6,000 meters.”

continued from page 16

So far this week, students have worn their Bronc colors, decorated their cars and an office decorating contest was held.

At noon on Thursday, students can attend a spirit rally at the Student Union. There will also be live music provided by KBFM 104 radio station and beads will be given to individuals who have their face painted at the Student Union.

Friday will also be full of activities for students to participate in before the actual midnight practice.

The intramural threeon-three basketball tourney will begin at 6 p.m., the deadline for entry will be an hour before the start of the tournament. Semifinals and championship games will played in the fieldhouse at 10 p.m.

Spirit Week will culminate on Friday with a number of contests with cash prizes and dance events.

“Friday is going to be the big day, it’s going to be a real party atmosphere in the parking lot before we even get into the field house,” Pintens said.

Midnight Madness has traditions particular to each campus, at UTPA there is the burning of the letters.

“The traditional burning of the UTPA letters is going to be something special out there,” Pintens said.

“They’re going to set huge UTPA letters on fire and you’ll be able to see it from far away.”

Midnight Madness will be highlighted with a $10,000 Buzzer Beater Contest.

Everyone will fill out an entry form when they come to Midnight Madnesss. The contestant that’s chosen will have 24 seconds to make a lay-up, free throw, three-point and half-court shot. If all shots are made, the conestant will win $10,000.

With a number of activities for students to participate in, attendance is expected to be exceptional at Midnight Madness.

Pintens stressed that student participation is a key factor in success for the athletic department.

He said that student attendance at this event is equally important.

“Student attendance, from what I understand, has been great,” Pintens said. “The majority of the people at Midnight Madness are students.”

Students can expect the night’s events to begin at 10 p.m. on Friday night before Midnight Madness.

sports

October 10, 2002

Coaches help take question marks out of misunderstood sport

the course. In college tournaments, five players from each team can play and the four lowest scores of each round count to the team’s total.

According to UTPA women’s golf coach Barbara Odale, the system

By BRIAN CARR doesn’t allow for that much leeway.

The Pan American “If two of the players on my team are having a bad day, something has For many people, watching golf is to change,” Odale said. “Both of boring, a grueling spectator sport to them just can’t give up. One of them be subjected to. To the, it is a slowhas to turn their game around.” paced, one-sided game pitting Although tournaments at the players against obstacles of the college level have some differences course rather then the defensive in scoring, the basic premise of the prowess of their opponents. Truly, game is still the same. A round of golf is an acquired taste. golf consists of 18 holes; the player But others who are more familiar with the fewest strokes wins and with the game regard the sport each player is allowed to play with favorably, with with great 14 clubs. appreciation for the skill needed to The selection of clubs differs from play it. Others who have played the player to player, but according to game with some frequency or who Odale, there are some basic spend many of their weekends similarities to which clubs most endeavoring to surpass past scores players carry. see the game as a cursed and “Generally most players take a 4, addictive device in which they are 5, 6, 7 and 9 iron, some kind of forced to compete against their own wedge, a few mental and woods and one reflexive driver,” Odale inadequacies said.

– following Woods are their poorly Probably the named such hit golf balls most frustrating because they with a bag of traditionally clubs slung thing about golf is have heads made across their of wood. Irons backs cursing that it’s you have heads made at themselves against the course of iron and for enjoying wedges are the game. typically According specialty clubs to UTPA - Mark Gaynor, men’s golf coach used in most men’s golf bunker head coach situations, which Mark call for precision chipping or Gaynor, the game of golf is itself punching of the ball. The lower the filled with irony. number of the club, the greater the “Golf is the hardest, easiest game distance that can be achieved on the you’ll ever play,” Gaynor said. stroke. Woods are used in situations “Everything counts, no matter if you which require long distance, irons hit the ball 3 inches or 300 yards.” are used more often when trying to In theory, golf should be easy. A achieve accuracy. single player uses a club to strike a “Better players decide which clubs ball toward a hole in the ground. The player who takes the least amount of they will use depending on the course they are playing at,” Gaynor shots to get the ball into the hole said. “They’ll take 15 to 20 clubs wins. and carry the 14 they think they In actuality, the game is one of need the most.” precision and placement; accuracy The scoring system and vernacular not only in one’s swing, but also in the knowledge of one’s clubs and the are also the same at the college level. Each hole is rated on a system ability to read the course and adjust referred to as “par,” or the amount of accordingly. shots it is expected to take to It also takes the ability to remain complete the hole. A birdie is one unphased by poor swings and poor stroke under par, an eagle is two results, and to maintain composure strokes under par, and a bogey is one and sight of the goal, even in the or more strokes over par. Thus, a face of frustration. player scoring an eagle on a hole has “Probably the most frustrating performed two strokes better than thing about golf is that it’s you the average golfer. against the course,” Gaynor said.

But not every one agrees with the “Your teammates can help the team current system of scoring. According by doing well for themselves, but to Gaynor, par is the worst thing that doesn’t really do anything to that has happened to the game of help the way you’re playing.” golf.

At the college level, tournaments “Par limits your view of what can are played as a team effort, and in be the lowest score,” Gaynor said. some circumstances the team format “And it drastically affects your game alleviates the pressure an individual by adding extra pressure.” player may feel after a bad day on

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SPORTS CLIPBOARD Lady Broncs finish sixth at Huskie The Lady Broncs golf team competed at the Huskie Classic and came in sixth place out of 10 teams Monday. UTPA moved up one place after shooting a final round score of 333 improving from their score of 351 on Sunday. Leading the way for the Lady Broncs was freshman Daniela Cortes who shot a final score of 164 and finished in 10th place. Other contributing were freshman Nikki Boychuk who finished with a final score of 172 and was tied for 31st. Freshman Stefanie Maynard shot a final score of 175 while junior Crystal Frazier was just one stroke behind with 176. Sophomore Christine Treanor wasn’t too far behind with a final score of 180 which put her 42nd in the tournament.

Men’s golf team ready for action Head coach Mark Gaynor and his troops will travel to Lufkin and compete in the 2002 Crown Classic Monday and Tuesday. The Broncs will attempt to improve from their 11th place finish at the Carolina First Intercollegiate on Sept.

VOLLEYBALL

24. Leading the way for the Broncs is junior Rudy Celedon who finished tied for 14th, and junior Paul Mangonilla tied for 31st in Carolina.

Roadrunners exercise options on players The Edinburg Roadrunners have exercised the options for 15 players on the roster including starting pitchers Brandon Mozley, Jonathan Krysa, Ryan Harris and Clint Smith. Position players Troy Norrell (catcher), Ismael Garcia (second base), Keko Guerrero (shortstop), Will Roland (shortstop), Juan Querecuto (first base) and outfielders Vince Moore, Greg Strickland, Jeremy Murch and Eddie Lang also got their contract optioned for the 2003 season.

Volleyball deadlines for recreational sports Entries for six-on-six volleyball are due by 5 p.m. Monday Oct. 14. Games are scheduled to begin Tuesday Oct. 22, with the competition taking place every Tuesday and Thursday from noon to 1 p.m.

continued from page 16

record of 5-2. and 12 digs. Not far behind was Jaclyn Thorn sensed his young team’s confidence Muszynski, junior outside hitter, who added 18 level would rise once the Lady Broncs would kills and is having an outstanding year for the win a few games.

Lady Broncs.

“That’s the way it As a team, UTPA hit .234 works,” Thorn said. “When compared to the Islanders’ you’re winning you’re .188 and outblocked Corpus happy, and when you play Christi 11-9. hard you win and we’re UTPA has struggled on excited.” the road this season, and But Thorn is not Thorn knows Tuesday satisfied just yet. He feels night’s victory at Corpus his team can still improve was a huge boost for his before this season ends. squad.

“It’s a step-by-step “We really needed to step [procedure], we still need up and we did,” Thorn said. to work on the same things “We were able to silence and get better execution,” their crowd.”

- Dave Thorn, head volleyball coach Thorn said. “You can Despite what the record never get to a point where might indicate, the Lady you can’t improve Broncs have improved since anymore. You’re always working to get better the beginning of the season. They started the season 1-10, but since then UTPA has recorded a and stronger.”

“

We’re going to try and come out here and kick the alumni’s butt

“

Golf for Dummies: sport made simple

Page 14

THE PAN AMERICAN

October 10, 2002

Page 3

Major’s struggle portrayed in dance

By HILDA BARRIENTES The Pan American With their grace and artistic style, a team of 14 dancers have practiced intensely for the most anxiously awaited event; the 2002 Fall Spring Concert.

The University of Texas-Pan American Dance Ensemble Company will perform the concert in the Jefferson Theatre; October 17-19 at 7:30 p.m. and each performance over three days will display a wide range of dance movements.

“Some of the pieces will have a jazzy feel and others will be much more serious,” said Melinda Bloomquist, artistic director for the concert. “This will be the first time the

PRE-LAW

company will perform in the Jefferson Theatre.”

Bloomquist said it will be a unique experience because the audience will be all around the dancers. The third-year director said the dancers have committed themselves to a strict schedule of practicing on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m.

“They have been preparing since June for the concert,” said Bloomquist. “If they need any extra time they will practice on Fridays and Saturdays.”

This is Linda Lopez’ first year as a dancer in the company, though she has been dancing for 10 years. She said the preparations have been rigorous.

“Though the practices were challenging, they

were rewarding,” said Lopez. “I need to work on my technique; but I am determined to get better.”

Yvonne Barker, a UTPA dance major, has been with the company for 13 years and said dancing is a part of her life. She has waited 13 years for UTPA to offer the dance major and two years ago it was approved.

“There are higher standards now and everyone is attending,” Barker said. This is the second year we are performing with the dance major being offered.”

The concert is important to Barker in another way. She said that it represents the major’s coming of age coincidental with with the school’s 75th Anniversary. The concert’s performance represents the past and the present,

and illustrates the decadelong struggle to legitimate dance as a major at the university level. It is a celebration of sorts.

“Former artistic directors have choreographed seven of the dance routines, which represent when the dance proposal was being fought,” Barker said. “Mrs. Bloomquist has choreographed four of the dance routines which represent the dance proposal being approved.”

About 500 to 800 students attended the event in past years. Now that the dance major was approved, the audience numbers are improving, Barker explained.

“It is great to hear feedback from the audience,” said Barker. “I know I have done my job when I see tears in the audience’s eyes.”

continued from page 1

to what the practice of law is like and that is why we bring lawyers to talk about it."

Members such as Irma Lopez, a senior majoring in political science, said that she is hoping to be a lawyer and that is why she joined.

"It is interesting to hear the lawyers talk about their experiences," she said.

Previous guests of the society have included Cindy Polinard, Jaime Adalpe, and Kirby Hopkins, all attorneys in the 13th Court of Appeals. They provided insights and different views of what they experienced.

"We had three attorneys from three different backgrounds. What is useful about those three is that they represented different ages groups, male and female, Latino, Anglo and [they offered] a good of insight," Jerry Polinard said.

Pablo Almaguer, an attorney in the Texas Rural Legal Aid, will be the guest speaker for the next meeting, Oct. 15. A 1994 UTPA grad and a past president of the society, Almaguer has worked in the Valley since 1997, and has given students advice on many matters since then.

"I give students a perspective of the challenges of going to law school," Almaguer said. "I remember when I was in Pan Am [and] the questions I had about schools, the LSAT, and how to pay back loans."

Almaguer plans to assist and advise students using the experience he’s gained in five years as an attorney.

Another guest speaker who will be making a campus appearance is Dr. Jose Garza also from the Texas Rural Aid. He will be here today at 1:10 p.m. in SBSC 109. Garza is a leading state attorney on Mexican-American voting issues.

The Pre-Law Society plans to bring in many other speakers during the year, so that students can get ready for the journey ahead of them.

"In the future we will certainly have attorneys

that are in private practice or that operate with larger private firms. In addition there will be law school admissions people coming down," Jerry Polinard said.

The society is part of a wider effort to grow future attorneys. The university is developing an academic program to train Valley hopefuls, and is also pursuing a $15 million state grant to start a bona fide law school at UTPA. Jerry Polinard said he is very excited that the pre-law program at the university has evolved over the years and it is fairly well known within Texas and even outside the state. The school also offers the Law School Preparation Institute (LSPI) for pre-law students.

According to Ruszczak, the institute takes place in the second summer session and giving a feel of what it is going to take to get to law school, with LSAT preparations, and the study of legal documents.

The institute was the second of its kind in the nation, said Jerry Polinard. To be eligible, students must be enrolled full-time with a minimum of 45 hours complete, with at least a 2.8 GPA. "One hundred percent of LSPI students that applied to law school last year were accepted," he stated.

As Polinard mentioned, without the help of Dr. Miguel Nevarez, president of UTPA, and Dr. Rodolfo Arevallo, provost, the institute would not be here. He said Homer Garcia, dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences has been very supportive in enhancing the Pre-Law program reputation, as well.

"The institute is exciting because it has such a strong focus on law school admission, but it is an expensive program and President Nevarez is the person that took charge and said we are going to do this and he is the person that deserves the credit for getting it under way," Polinard said.

VOLLEYBALL SCHEDULE DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION

TIME

Oct. 11

Alumni

UTPA Fieldhouse

7 p.m.

Oct. 18

Texas A&M International

UTPA Fieldhouse

7 p.m.

and Prairie View A&M Oct. 22

Texas A&M-Kingsville

Kingsville

7 p.m.

Oct. 25

Texas Southern

Houston

7 p.m.

Cristina Reyna/The Pan American

AND THE WINNER IS The University Police Department took first place place in the office decorating contest held Monday afternoon, with its display of Bronc athletic uniforms arranged along the walls. The event was held as part of Spirit Week and first place won the department a pizza party. Offices were judged by university administrators, and were based on categories including originality, attention to detail, and the theme ‘Bronc spirit.’ Second place went to Student Financial Services and Student Health Services came in third.

“

THE PAN AMERICAN

October 10, 2002

Campus VO I C E

Page 4

Sports

October 10, 2002

Page 13

Do you think it’s important to participate in Spirit Week?

Staff Swami Records

Mike Gonzalez

Rita Ponce Communication Junior Yes. This is the week where the majority of students should get behind the university and support it. Being the student body we should back our school.

Sports Editor

Mike Gonzalez: 42-32, .568 Greg Selber: 39-35,.527

Celeste Y. Tello: 3935, .527 Matt Lynch: 4331, .581

I think it is important because it supports what the university stands for including sports and campus activities.

Atlanta at N.Y. Giants The Giants got a huge win in Dallas, but they must stay consistent if they want to make the playoffs.

Giants by 7

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Giants

Giants

Giants

Amy Vasquez English Graduate Yes. Definitely. Especially the young kids. More participation brings about more comraderie amongst the students that may develop into more permanent friendships.

Everyone in the league is regretting not going after Drew Bledsoe in the offseason. What a steal for the Buffalo Bills.

Bills by 6

Matt Bills

Celeste Bills

The Browns made too many mistakes and it cost them the game against the Ravens. They cannot afford to do the same this week.

Bucs by 10 Bucs

Celeste

Greg

Bucs

Bucs

Green Bay at New England This is a rematch of Super Bowl XXXI. Although the faces have changed, the loss is still fresh in the Patriots organization.

Patriots by 10

Matt

Packers

Celeste Packers

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Steelers

Steelers

Steelers

Kansas City at San Diego The Chargers defense is not the same without Junior Seau. You better believe Mary Schottenheimer wants this win.

Chargers by 7

Matt

Roman Ochoa Drama Freshman Yeah. Kids should go out there and show pride in the school. It shows our sense of unity.

Chargers

Celeste Chiefs

Adviser

Matt Cowboys

Greg

ESPN is happy to finally have a game that viewers will watch. The ratings will be hard though because of the baseball playoffs.

Broncos by 7

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Dolphins

Dolphins

Broncos

Carolina at Dallas Emmitt Smith is closing in on the NFL rushing

Panthers

Greg Cowboys

Gee, I wonder how Randy Moss is doing these days. I think the Vikings bye came at a good time.

Vikings by 7

Matt

Celeste

Vikings

Lions

Greg Vikings

New Orleans at Washington I think the Redskins found their future quarterback in Patrick Ramsey. The Saints will watch the film and make adjustments.

Saints by 10

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Saints

Redskins

Saints

Jacksonville at Tennessee The Jaguars got everyone’s attention in the AFC now. If they don’t watch it, they will soon have the best record in the conference.

Jaguars by 10

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Jaguars

Jaguars

Titans

Oakland at St. Louis The Rams have gone from greatest show on turf to the laughingstock of the league. The Raiders are the highest scoring offense.

Raiders by 13

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Raiders

Raiders

Raiders

San Francisco at Seattle The Seahawks fans will be psyched up for this game Monday night. I’ll be the first to admit the Seahawks are not as bad as anticipated. I’ll go with the Seattle this time.

Seahawks by 6

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Niners

Niners

Niners

Baltimore at Indianapolis

Chargers

Miami at Denver

Celeste Detroit at Minnesota

Greg

I wish I could pick the Bengals at least once, but they must first win a game. Until then, Steelers all the way.

Steelers by 14

Yes. It increases campus involvement and peer interaction.

Dr. Greg Selber

Reporter

Patriots

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati

Maylin Gerardo Physician Assistant Studies Junior

Celeste Tello

Editor

Greg Bills

Cleveland at Tampa Bay

Matt

Matt Lynch

record. It will be tough to run against the Panthers defense.

Cowboys by 3

Buffalo at Houston

Nereida Maricio Art Freshman

Staff Swamis

I think the Ravens finally woke up and have looked impressive the last few weeks. It’s Payton Manning versus Ray Lewis.

Colts by 7

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Colts

Colts

Colts

Open Dates: Arizona, Chicago, N.Y. Jets and Philadelphia

THE PAN AMERICAN

October 10, 2002

Page 12

Campus Calendar October

Thursday, October 10 Screening for depression, manic-depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress will take place at the UTPA counseling center in the Student Services building, room 504 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A women’s wellness clinic will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will include a physical with pap smear and breast exam for $23, vaginal wet mount for $5, gonorrhea and chlamydia screening for $20, or a free urinalysis. Call 3812511 for an appointment.

The Department of Educational Leadership will hold its alumni reunion starting at 6 p.m. in the University Ballroom. Contact the department at 381-3436 for more information.

An advisement meeting for those interested in graduate school in psychology or anthropology will take place in SBS 119 at noon.

Friday, October 11 The Intramural Rec-Sports Office will hold its Midnight Madness three-on-

three basketball tournament at 6 p.m. in the HPE II with finals in the Fieldhouse. Entry forms are due no later than 5 p.m. Friday and are available at the Intramural Office at Bronc Village Apartments #2101. For information, call the office at 292-0839.

Tuesday, October 16 The UTPA choir will hold a concert in the Fine Arts Auditorium at 8 p.m. General admission is $3, UTPA students with an ID pay $2 and senior citizens are free.

The event is open to the public.

Thursday, October 17 A study abroad orientation will be held at the College of Business in room 110 from noon to 1 p.m.

Friday, October 18 The University Program Board Media Moguls Committee presents “The Bourne Identity” in the Student Union Theater at 3 and 7 p.m. Admission is free and refreshments will be available.

Saturday, October 26 UTPA women’s athletics will hold a masquerade ball from 7 p.m. to midnight at the Shary Mansion. at the UTPA counseling center in the Student Services building, room 504.

Ongoing UTPA spirit shirts will be on sale from 1 to 5 p.m. at the University Center in room 207. The shirts cost $4-5.50.

The University Theatre presents “Time Flies” through Sunday at the Albert Jeffers Theatre.

Show times are 8 p.m. weeknights and a 2 p.m.

Sunday matinee. Tickets are $10 for reserved, $5 general admission, and free to all UTPA faculty, staff and students. Students and faculty at other schools pay $3 with ID. The music department will present “Zarzuela” through Saturday at 7 p.m. in the Fine Arts Auditorium. Call 381-3471 for more information. The event is open to the public.

October 10, 2002

THE PAN AMERICAN

Reader survey gives feedback

By SUNAYNA MAHTANI The Pan American Approximately 100 students were surveyed over a two-month span at the University of Texas-Pan American to see what they think of the Pan American, the weekly campus newspaper. The survey was administed to give students a chance to offer feedback on their newspaper, which you are reading right now.

The most prominent findings from the 10-question survey showed that 81.4 percent find the paper to be informative, with 61.9 percent stating that the overall accuracy, spelling,and grammar is good. Over 70 percent of the student body reads the paper for campus news, though 56.7 percent would like to see more local/community stories.

One question asked whether the students wanted to see more than one issue a week; however, 54.6 percent of those surveyed are happy with just one issue per week.

Prior to 2001, the paper was printed twice a week for several years, with mixed success.

Other information gathered from the surveys showed that two of the favorite sections in the paper are the news and entertainment sections.

Another 38.1percent of the students would like to see a cartoon section in the paper. This feedback was taken to heart in the Oct. 3 issue with an editorial cartoon, and more cartoons, both editorial and humorous, are planned for the future.

Student opinions on the quality of the paper was also surveyed. Findings show that 53.6 find the quality of the printing to be good and 62.9 percent find the quality of the photographs to be good.

The editors of the newspaper plan a similar survey of faculty and staff later in the semester, and welcome comments, criticism, and praise from all comers. Results from the later survey will be published in the paper when they become available.

“We want to keep listening to our audience, to see what they want,” said one editor.

“It’s always good to get feedback, and we have already had some good ideas for improvements by reading the data.”

Page 5

THE PAN AMERICAN

Page 6

WINDOW ART The Student Union Building is decorated Wednesday with graffiti in honor of Spirit Week.

Different student organizations claimed each window as their spirit space, and some of them took part in a competition to see who has the most Bronc Spirit.

Spirit Week will last throughout the week, and will culminate with Midnight Madness Friday night in the Fieldhouse.

Arts & Entertainment

October 10, 2002

ANIME

de facto starter anime. If you watch it, try and get the Pioneer edition, as the earlier Streamline Pictures dub left much to be desired.

CULTURE CLUB What students like to read, listen to and surf.

■ “Grave of the Fireflies”: This very good, very sad movie is about the starvation deaths of two children in the aftermath of the WWII fire bombing of Japan. It has been called Japan's “Schindler's List.”

■ “My Neighbor Totoro”: This is the only children's movie on the list. Hayao Miyazaki directs this film in which a family moves near a forest that they discover is inhabited by rather whimsical spirits. Miyazaki is widely considered to be Japan's greatest living animator, and his style shines in this film.

■ “Ghost in the Shell”: This movie examines the role of technology and the nature of human consciousness. “It's also a great action movie,” Vinson said.

Gabriel O. Hernandez/The Pan American

ART

The popular “Dragonball Z” Anime, shown on The Cartoon Network, is a favorite of the club.

“

We are open to college and selftaught artists, both come to learn and display their works.

- Monica Maria Ramirez, gallery owner

Ramirez added that when she first came to the Rio Grande Valley, there was no place where people can have poetry nights or perform their music.

The gallery houses work by students from UTPA, and also from instructors/professors from UTPA and South Texas Community College. There are eight to 10 events a month, including open stage poetry night. Events emerge from a diverse group of artists, musicians, photographers, painters, sculptors, dancers, writers, actors, and poets.

“We are open to college and self-taught artists, both come to learn and display their works,” Ramirez said.

Art Awakenings is currently located on 1516 Beech Ave. in McAllen, and plans to soon relocate to a larger area. Details are still under construction on where the exact location will be.

For more details, contact Ramirez at (956) 668-1366.

Fritzie Into Freshman Biology CD: “Let Go” by Avril Lavigne Movie: “Snatch” Website: art.com

continued from page 10

providing this venue for this area,” Rizalado said.

The art displayed not only comes from the Mexican genre, but also from different cultures. Dancers have performed African and Hindu dances. Poetry is read both in Spanish and English, as music is employed. There are even art exhibits for children artists.

Page 11

The

continued from page 7

“

October 10, 2002

EVENTS Oct. 12 - “Expresando la Raza,” an exhibit featuring Angela Gonzalez, Terry Grover, Blanca Garza, Silvio Guturini, among others.

Oct. 18 - “The Life and Times of Juanito Gonzalez,” by Pedro Garcia, a one-man, one-act children’s play.

Oct. 19 - Tato Enriquez will perform live and feature his CD “Perro que Ladra No Muerde.”

Oct. 24 - Spanish rock band :Prexto :Petunia and a special guest will perform from their CD “To poke you.”

Dina Campos Sophomore Psychology CD: “The Promise” by Plus 1 Movie: “Rush Hour 2’ Website: msn.com

Oct. 26 - Marloe Mosley will perform “A Celebration of African Dance,” along with special guests from UTPA.

Department prepares for opera production The University of TexasPan American Music Department presents “Luisa Fernanda,” a zarzuela, in three acts, Oct. 10-12 in the Fine Arts Auditorium.

Set during the Spanish Revolution of 1868, the opera tells stories of love won and lost, honor and ambition.

Joining the cast of singers

and actors are guest tenor Rafael Davila, who sang the lead role in the department’s 2001 production, baritone Luis Ledesma, and the Sol y Luna International Dance Company, which has previously worked with the department. Dr. Peter Dabrowski, musical conductor and director of the Valley Symphony Orchestra,

will conduct the performances.

The production is produced and directed by Dr. Richard Davis, music professor and chorale director, and Ruth Crews, vocal professor.

The Sol y Luna choreography was created by Mario Arrendondo.

- Cesar Trevino

Sarah Villarreal Freshman Pre law CD: “Stonesour” by Stonesour Movie: “Red Dragon” Book: “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley

October 10, 2002

Arts & Entertainment

Page 10

‘Awakening’ local creativity McAllen art gallery provides showcase for talented local artists, musicians, poets States inspired to create an area where artists from all walks of life could display and perform their work.

Monica Maria Ramirez, a self-taught artist Art Awakenings, which Ramirez opened a from Vera Cruz, Mexico, came to the United little over a year ago, is a McAllen gallery and cultural center offering art classes for kids and adults, plus opportunities for all types of artists to portray their art and music for the Valley community.

“The idea of Art awakenings is to promote the arts in the Valley. There is space for all artists in all mediums, from poets to painters and musicians to dancers,” Ramirez said. The [reason for the idea] is to help the community of artists or aspiring artists.”

Ramirez teaches there, along with art teachers both from the high school and university levels. Some days are specifically designated for kids and other days they are for kids and adults.

Ramirez’s inspiration comes from her heritage a Mexican.

“I started painting when I was six and exhibiting when I was 13. My mother is an artist and she was my first teacher. Painting and teaching art is my passion,” Ramirez said. “I love my culture and I believe in all my paintings. You can see my culture Celeste Tello/The Pan American through them.”

Ramirez poses with a painting by UTPA Claire Rizalado, a junior English major at

Around Town

By BELINDA REYES The Pan American

graduate student Benjamin Barela.

Celeste Tello/The Pan American Art Awakenings also serves as a classroom for both adult and children’s art classes.

UTPA, works part-time at the gallery to help Ramirez with art classes. The classes are offered Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for kids ages six through 17, she said. Kids ages 6-11 take classes from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., while the older group meets from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Rizalado feels the importance of the center reflects the Mexican heritage through exhibitors’ works and the events that take place at Art Awakenings.

“I think it is great because this place is what [Valley] people need. She [Ramirez] is

‘Dragon’ protects its gold leave a bad taste in the Another serving of But absolutely no Hannibal the Cannibal stomach.

Pepto-Bismol is needed to stomach this wonderfully goes down well violent tribute to our favorite man-eater.

Once again audiences will

By DÄGOBERTO PÉREZ The Pan American see Sir Anthony Hopkins transform into his definitive role as Hannibal Lecter, and With yet another helping of the sweet dessert that is “Red Hannibal the Cannibal, one Dragon” will leave them would think that all the invigorated and hungry for murder, gore, and extra more. servings of “farva beans and “Red Dragon” is the Chianti” would begin to prequel to the Oscar-winning “Silence of the Lambs” and takes us into the deliciously Starring: Anthony Hopkins, wicked mind of Edward Norton, Ralph Hannibal Lecter once Fiennes, Harvey Keitel, Mary more. Within the movie lies two plots, Louise Parker which eventually Director: Brett Ratner intertwine to form a MPAA rating: R, for web of malice and violence, grisly images, murder that rivals its language, some nudity and predecessors. sexuality.

One plot centers Running time: 122 minutes around the capture of Hannibal lecter by Will Graham (Edward Reviewer’s Rating: Norton). Before his capture, Hannibal worked as a criminal out of 5 stars profiler but was a criminal himself,

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 7

killing several people, including a flute player who Hannibal believed brought “bad sound” to an orchestra.

The other centers around the movie’s antagonist, the mentally disturbed Francis Dolarhyde (Ralph Fiennes) who kills people in the hopes of becoming the “Red Dragon.”

FBI agents are stumped, and Will asks for Hannibal’s help in catching the killer.

Hannibal agrees to help Will and the two manage to unravel the horrifying pathology of the Red Dragon (Fiennes). But the insanity that is Hannibal Lecter cannot be easily contained.

Even within his prison cell he makes contact with the Red Dragon and leads him toward the very man that locked him in prison, Will.

This movie’s finale is one that will have the audience gasping for air as each scene unfolds.

One major drawback of the movie, however, is listening to Ellen Bernstein as Dolarhyde’s grandmother scream and taunt him in a 'Psycho’esqe manner. Her shrills didn’t work in “The

Exorcist” and they don’t work here, either.

“Red Dragon” had a lot to live up to. Would it be as disturbingly delicious as “Lambs,” or as monumentally macabre as “Hannibal”? The answer is clearly “yes.”

“Red Dragon” is a tour-deforce in psychological horror and is definitely worth watching. Aside from very few drawbacks, the movie is pure gold. The “Red Dragon” has truly protected its treasures.

See ART page 11

BOX OFFICE STATS for Oct. 5-6 (in millions)

1. “Red Dragon” $36.5 2. “Sweet Home Alabama” - $21.3 3. “The Tuxedo” $10.0 4. “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” - $8.2 5. “Barbershop” $6.6 6. “Jonah: A VeggieTales...” - $6.2 7. “The Banger Sisters” - $3.5 8. “The Four Feathers” - $2.1 9. “Moonlight Mile” $1.9 10. “One Hour Photo” - $1.7

Fall Storyteller Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. to noon Place: Lark Community Center, 2106 Lark St., McAllen, TX Event: The Junior League of McAllen presents “The Fall Storyteller,” featuring various performers, in both English and Spanish.

Phone: (956) 682-0071 Belly Dancers Every Friday in October from 10 to 11:30 p.m.

Place: Arte Cafe & Gallery Event: Arte Cafe & Gallery, in conjunction with Pointe & Plie School of Dance, presents belly dancing shows by Sonia Chapa.

Latin Jazz Festival Oct. 17-19 Place: Brownsville Event: The Brownsville Society of Performing Arts presents the 6th Annual Latin Jazz Festival. The festival will include performances by Chuchito Valdez and his Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz Ensemble, in addition to 20 other performances.

Phone: (956) 639-3448 Kool and the Gang concert Oct. 23 at 9 p.m.

Place: McAllen Civic Center Features: A ‘Pre-Party on the Patio’ runs from 7 to 9 p.m. with special guest Bongo Dogs Price: $35 for reserved seats. Tickets are available at Joyce’s International Boutique, 120 S. Broadway in McAllen, or by calling (956) 638-5231.

■ Artist feature . . . . . 8-9 ■ Movie review. . . . . . 10 ■ Culture Club . . . . . . 10

Campus Anime Club draws membership Boasting 25 members, the UTPA Anime club proves the Japanese-style animation can withstand cultural differences

By CESAR TREVINO The Pan American

Joining student organizations is a way for students at the University of Texas-Pan American to feel welcome, giving them the opportunity to find an interesting group with similar interests. Finding such a group may initially pose a bit of a problem, there is something out there for everyone who is willing to look around. One such diverse group is the Anime club, and it caters to those students who have a fascination for modern Japanese animation.

“We're a film club, a cultural club, and an entertainment club,” said Bob Vinson, a sophomore journalism major and Anime Club secretary. “We've been around since 1993, and have around 25 members.”

For those not familiar with the art form, Anime (pronounced anna-may) is a French term for Japanese animation, and it has made its way into pop culture.

This distinctive form of animation is distinguished by its unique style of

representation; for example, characters often have enlarged eyes, childlike features, and pointed hair. But unlike most American animation, not all Anime is made for children. The subject matter in Anime can be quite risque and can be both precious and perverse. It has quite a following in Internet pornography circles.

It’s interesting to note that many Americas were first introduced to Anime with the “Speed Racer” cartoons in the 1960s. Then in the ’80s, “Voltron” and “Robotech” became popular in the United States, and Americans have more recently been exposed to cartoons such as “Dragonball Z,” and “Sailor Moon.” You can also see Anime’s influence on Hollywood in movies like “Spawn” and “The Matrix.”

The goal of UTPA’s Anime Club is simple. According to Vinson it is “to acquaint students with a particular facet of Japanese pop culture, and to entertain students.”

Over its nine years of life here at UTPA, the club has found support from both the university and the community.

“We've never really expected a massive amount of support from anyone. We have received support from students, faculty and staff over the years and are very grateful,” said Vinson.

One goal of the group is to bring students who have an interest in Anime together, and allow them to share their own Anime artwork as well as enjoy the work already out there .

“We have a library [of Anime videos] that is

2002 Texas Show Tour The Video Association of Dallas will bring the Texas Show Tour to the University of Texas-Pan American on Friday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Student Union. The show is a mix of films, produced either in Texas, or by Texas artists. Shows include:

■ “Blood & Oil” by Sai

Selvarajan, an experimental piece that combines poetry and images.

■ “Good dog!” by James

Russell, an advertising parody.

Anime cartoons

by Dulce Landares, club treasurer

■ “Plato’s Republic” by Richard Jernigan, a look at 1950s educational films.

■ “Badheaded Girlie Boy” by Robert Hannant, an experimental narrative.

■ “No Flamingos” by Carol Wagner and Teresa Davidson, a documentary on Austin yard art.

open for our members and we do have members who [create] their own art,” said Vinson. The organization meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays at noon in HSHW 1.404.

This year the club has also been busy at work selling pizza and raising money. The group is trying to raise fund for for a club trip to “A-kon,” an Anime convention.

“We go to ‘Project A-kon’ in Dallas every year. It's one of the largest anime conventions in the world. Last year they booked the entire D-FW Hyatt Regency and three overflow hotels,” Vinson said.

Those who attend the convention will watch Anime movies, television shows, read manga (comics), or play games.

Most people who go to A-Kon also have the chance to meet the creators of their favorite anime shows, shop in the dealers’ room, and attend workshops.

Vinson and the other members have compiled a list of some of the best Anime films available, and includes a brief explanation of each.

■ “Perfect Blue”: This is an excellent suspense thriller about a pop-idol singer turned actress who is plagued by a stalker.

■ “Akira”: This movie is pretty much required viewing. It's “the”

See ANIME page 11

■ “Stall” by Nick Gibbons, a narrative.

■ “Coming of Age” by

Christine Shank, a progression into feminine consciousness.

■ “Beezlebub’s Bathtub” by Andre Silva, an animation.

■ “Waitin’ on JFK” by Randy Clower, an experimental animation.

■ “Where you live” by Jonathan Phy and Amir Noorani, a music video.

■ “Bin & Jerry’s Fundamental Principles” by Bart Weiss, an experimental compilation of Jerry Falwell, Osama bin Laden and various images.

■ “Adopted” by Linda Stogner, an experimental documentary, originally produced for the PBS series “Life 360.”

■ “The Crab Boy” by Aaron Thedford, a claymation film.

■ “Carl & Phil: MonkeyNinjas” by Devadas George, an animation.

Keith Alcorn and Nick Gibbons, the brains behind “Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius” will present an assortment of animated cartoons all rolled into one.

October 10, 2002

Arts & Entertainment

Page 8

Arts & Entertainment

October 10, 2002

Page 9

“She’s the One” by Tom Wheeler, was made from aluminum, copper, brass and semi-precious stones.

Photos by Gabe Hernandez

“

By JENNIFER TAPIA Special to The Pan American

V

alley native Kirk Clark has continued the legacy of art his parents began decades ago.

Clark currently has an exhibit at the University of Texas-Pan American titled “The Clark Legacy,” which features new works from his family’s permanent collection.

- Michele Sparks, marketing “Most people really [enjoy] the direcor at Clark Chevrolet exhibit,” said Dindy Reich, director for the Charles and Dorothy Clark gallery.

“We don’t always, in the Valley, get to see artwork from the finished constructivist or surrealist artists, there are a lot of different styles in the gallery,” Reich said.

This is the second time Clark has sponsored an exhibit at UTPA. Reich said Clark’s sponsorship helps frame much of the artwork that is now displayed at the university.

“Last year, the symphony was dedicated to my parents,” Clark said. “That’s where they named it the Charles and Dorothy Clark Gallery.”

Clark himself creates art. His work includes painting, jewelry, and poetry, most of which is written in an ancient Chinese language “My art draws on the nuclear nature of the universe for called Bagua and inspiration and explores the light qualities of not only Christ’s consists of eight soul, but also each of our souls. Those who have described near lines with five death experiences speak of being drawn toward God’s words per line. light...God’s love...God’s son. As Christ faced death on the Michele Sparks, marketing director cross, we all face death and must choose between Light and at Clark Chevrolet, Darkness. My crosses illustrate Christ’s journey and our who has known journey.”

Clark for five years, added the - Kirk Clark’s artist statement on his ceramic crosses, shown at left. poetry has evolved

“

They gave artwork to 30 universities.

It’s really amazing.

as has much of his other artwork. traveling the world as a youth, Some of it also on display at South seeing different exhibits.

Texas Community College.

When he was 15, Clark recalls a “The Universe Below’ series visit to Paris with $150. consists of mythological creatures He said his father handed him the that may appear to look like coral money because he wanted him to reefs or objects from outer space. visit 200 galleries and purchase According Robert Smith, who some art. oversees the gallery at STCC, an “With the $150, I was determined estimated 1,000 people viewed the to go to all the galleries,” Clark exhibit in a three-hour period. said. “I came back and handed him Clark’s inspiration for art came $30 in change and three works of from his parents, who collected and art.” researched art for 33 years.

In the future, Clark will hold “I remember they added on to the another exhibit at UTPA, featuring house and that’s where they studied more of his works, as well as their artwork,” Clark said. “They’d displays from his daughter, Anne. spend three hours a night, five The exhibit will run in May 2003. nights a week from 1952 through 1985 [doing that].”

Clark said his parents met as many artists as they could in order to understand the field.

Most of the artwork his parents collected were donated to many universities across the country, with the most extensive of collections going to UTPA. “They gave artwork to 30 universities,” said Sparks. “It’s really incredible.”

Clark said his parents donated the work because they wanted to share their knowledge and insight of art with other people. He’s grateful to have parents who showed him not to hold on to things, but rather to share them with other people.

“Limp watch and rider” by Salvador Dali, a hand-colored etching.

He said he remembers

“

We don’t always, in the Valley, get to see artwork from the finished constructivist or surrealist artists, there are a lot of different styles in the gallery.

- Dindy Reich, director for the Charles and Dorothy Clark Gallery

“

‘The Clark Legacy,’ on display in the Charles and Dorothy Clark gallery, showcases numerous pieces of art the couple collected from 1952 to 1985. Included in the exhibit are works from Salvador Dali, Roy Lichtenstein and Tom Wheeler

“The Hand” by James B. Clover. The piece is constructed from aluminum and bronze.

October 10, 2002

Arts & Entertainment

Page 8

Arts & Entertainment

October 10, 2002

Page 9

“She’s the One” by Tom Wheeler, was made from aluminum, copper, brass and semi-precious stones.

Photos by Gabe Hernandez

“

By JENNIFER TAPIA Special to The Pan American

V

alley native Kirk Clark has continued the legacy of art his parents began decades ago.

Clark currently has an exhibit at the University of Texas-Pan American titled “The Clark Legacy,” which features new works from his family’s permanent collection.

- Michele Sparks, marketing “Most people really [enjoy] the direcor at Clark Chevrolet exhibit,” said Dindy Reich, director for the Charles and Dorothy Clark gallery.

“We don’t always, in the Valley, get to see artwork from the finished constructivist or surrealist artists, there are a lot of different styles in the gallery,” Reich said.

This is the second time Clark has sponsored an exhibit at UTPA. Reich said Clark’s sponsorship helps frame much of the artwork that is now displayed at the university.

“Last year, the symphony was dedicated to my parents,” Clark said. “That’s where they named it the Charles and Dorothy Clark Gallery.”

Clark himself creates art. His work includes painting, jewelry, and poetry, most of which is written in an ancient Chinese language “My art draws on the nuclear nature of the universe for called Bagua and inspiration and explores the light qualities of not only Christ’s consists of eight soul, but also each of our souls. Those who have described near lines with five death experiences speak of being drawn toward God’s words per line. light...God’s love...God’s son. As Christ faced death on the Michele Sparks, marketing director cross, we all face death and must choose between Light and at Clark Chevrolet, Darkness. My crosses illustrate Christ’s journey and our who has known journey.”

Clark for five years, added the - Kirk Clark’s artist statement on his ceramic crosses, shown at left. poetry has evolved

“

They gave artwork to 30 universities.

It’s really amazing.

as has much of his other artwork. traveling the world as a youth, Some of it also on display at South seeing different exhibits.

Texas Community College.

When he was 15, Clark recalls a “The Universe Below’ series visit to Paris with $150. consists of mythological creatures He said his father handed him the that may appear to look like coral money because he wanted him to reefs or objects from outer space. visit 200 galleries and purchase According Robert Smith, who some art. oversees the gallery at STCC, an “With the $150, I was determined estimated 1,000 people viewed the to go to all the galleries,” Clark exhibit in a three-hour period. said. “I came back and handed him Clark’s inspiration for art came $30 in change and three works of from his parents, who collected and art.” researched art for 33 years.

In the future, Clark will hold “I remember they added on to the another exhibit at UTPA, featuring house and that’s where they studied more of his works, as well as their artwork,” Clark said. “They’d displays from his daughter, Anne. spend three hours a night, five The exhibit will run in May 2003. nights a week from 1952 through 1985 [doing that].”

Clark said his parents met as many artists as they could in order to understand the field.

Most of the artwork his parents collected were donated to many universities across the country, with the most extensive of collections going to UTPA. “They gave artwork to 30 universities,” said Sparks. “It’s really incredible.”

Clark said his parents donated the work because they wanted to share their knowledge and insight of art with other people. He’s grateful to have parents who showed him not to hold on to things, but rather to share them with other people.

“Limp watch and rider” by Salvador Dali, a hand-colored etching.

He said he remembers

“

We don’t always, in the Valley, get to see artwork from the finished constructivist or surrealist artists, there are a lot of different styles in the gallery.

- Dindy Reich, director for the Charles and Dorothy Clark Gallery

“

‘The Clark Legacy,’ on display in the Charles and Dorothy Clark gallery, showcases numerous pieces of art the couple collected from 1952 to 1985. Included in the exhibit are works from Salvador Dali, Roy Lichtenstein and Tom Wheeler

“The Hand” by James B. Clover. The piece is constructed from aluminum and bronze.

October 10, 2002

Arts & Entertainment

Page 10

‘Awakening’ local creativity McAllen art gallery provides showcase for talented local artists, musicians, poets States inspired to create an area where artists from all walks of life could display and perform their work.

Monica Maria Ramirez, a self-taught artist Art Awakenings, which Ramirez opened a from Vera Cruz, Mexico, came to the United little over a year ago, is a McAllen gallery and cultural center offering art classes for kids and adults, plus opportunities for all types of artists to portray their art and music for the Valley community.

“The idea of Art awakenings is to promote the arts in the Valley. There is space for all artists in all mediums, from poets to painters and musicians to dancers,” Ramirez said. The [reason for the idea] is to help the community of artists or aspiring artists.”

Ramirez teaches there, along with art teachers both from the high school and university levels. Some days are specifically designated for kids and other days they are for kids and adults.

Ramirez’s inspiration comes from her heritage a Mexican.

“I started painting when I was six and exhibiting when I was 13. My mother is an artist and she was my first teacher. Painting and teaching art is my passion,” Ramirez said. “I love my culture and I believe in all my paintings. You can see my culture Celeste Tello/The Pan American through them.”

Ramirez poses with a painting by UTPA Claire Rizalado, a junior English major at

Around Town

By BELINDA REYES The Pan American

graduate student Benjamin Barela.

Celeste Tello/The Pan American Art Awakenings also serves as a classroom for both adult and children’s art classes.

UTPA, works part-time at the gallery to help Ramirez with art classes. The classes are offered Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for kids ages six through 17, she said. Kids ages 6-11 take classes from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., while the older group meets from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Rizalado feels the importance of the center reflects the Mexican heritage through exhibitors’ works and the events that take place at Art Awakenings.

“I think it is great because this place is what [Valley] people need. She [Ramirez] is

‘Dragon’ protects its gold leave a bad taste in the Another serving of But absolutely no Hannibal the Cannibal stomach.

Pepto-Bismol is needed to stomach this wonderfully goes down well violent tribute to our favorite man-eater.

Once again audiences will

By DÄGOBERTO PÉREZ The Pan American see Sir Anthony Hopkins transform into his definitive role as Hannibal Lecter, and With yet another helping of the sweet dessert that is “Red Hannibal the Cannibal, one Dragon” will leave them would think that all the invigorated and hungry for murder, gore, and extra more. servings of “farva beans and “Red Dragon” is the Chianti” would begin to prequel to the Oscar-winning “Silence of the Lambs” and takes us into the deliciously Starring: Anthony Hopkins, wicked mind of Edward Norton, Ralph Hannibal Lecter once Fiennes, Harvey Keitel, Mary more. Within the movie lies two plots, Louise Parker which eventually Director: Brett Ratner intertwine to form a MPAA rating: R, for web of malice and violence, grisly images, murder that rivals its language, some nudity and predecessors. sexuality.

One plot centers Running time: 122 minutes around the capture of Hannibal lecter by Will Graham (Edward Reviewer’s Rating: Norton). Before his capture, Hannibal worked as a criminal out of 5 stars profiler but was a criminal himself,

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 7

killing several people, including a flute player who Hannibal believed brought “bad sound” to an orchestra.

The other centers around the movie’s antagonist, the mentally disturbed Francis Dolarhyde (Ralph Fiennes) who kills people in the hopes of becoming the “Red Dragon.”

FBI agents are stumped, and Will asks for Hannibal’s help in catching the killer.

Hannibal agrees to help Will and the two manage to unravel the horrifying pathology of the Red Dragon (Fiennes). But the insanity that is Hannibal Lecter cannot be easily contained.

Even within his prison cell he makes contact with the Red Dragon and leads him toward the very man that locked him in prison, Will.

This movie’s finale is one that will have the audience gasping for air as each scene unfolds.

One major drawback of the movie, however, is listening to Ellen Bernstein as Dolarhyde’s grandmother scream and taunt him in a 'Psycho’esqe manner. Her shrills didn’t work in “The

Exorcist” and they don’t work here, either.

“Red Dragon” had a lot to live up to. Would it be as disturbingly delicious as “Lambs,” or as monumentally macabre as “Hannibal”? The answer is clearly “yes.”

“Red Dragon” is a tour-deforce in psychological horror and is definitely worth watching. Aside from very few drawbacks, the movie is pure gold. The “Red Dragon” has truly protected its treasures.

See ART page 11

BOX OFFICE STATS for Oct. 5-6 (in millions)

1. “Red Dragon” $36.5 2. “Sweet Home Alabama” - $21.3 3. “The Tuxedo” $10.0 4. “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” - $8.2 5. “Barbershop” $6.6 6. “Jonah: A VeggieTales...” - $6.2 7. “The Banger Sisters” - $3.5 8. “The Four Feathers” - $2.1 9. “Moonlight Mile” $1.9 10. “One Hour Photo” - $1.7

Fall Storyteller Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. to noon Place: Lark Community Center, 2106 Lark St., McAllen, TX Event: The Junior League of McAllen presents “The Fall Storyteller,” featuring various performers, in both English and Spanish.

Phone: (956) 682-0071 Belly Dancers Every Friday in October from 10 to 11:30 p.m.

Place: Arte Cafe & Gallery Event: Arte Cafe & Gallery, in conjunction with Pointe & Plie School of Dance, presents belly dancing shows by Sonia Chapa.

Latin Jazz Festival Oct. 17-19 Place: Brownsville Event: The Brownsville Society of Performing Arts presents the 6th Annual Latin Jazz Festival. The festival will include performances by Chuchito Valdez and his Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz Ensemble, in addition to 20 other performances.

Phone: (956) 639-3448 Kool and the Gang concert Oct. 23 at 9 p.m.

Place: McAllen Civic Center Features: A ‘Pre-Party on the Patio’ runs from 7 to 9 p.m. with special guest Bongo Dogs Price: $35 for reserved seats. Tickets are available at Joyce’s International Boutique, 120 S. Broadway in McAllen, or by calling (956) 638-5231.

■ Artist feature . . . . . 8-9 ■ Movie review. . . . . . 10 ■ Culture Club . . . . . . 10

Campus Anime Club draws membership Boasting 25 members, the UTPA Anime club proves the Japanese-style animation can withstand cultural differences

By CESAR TREVINO The Pan American

Joining student organizations is a way for students at the University of Texas-Pan American to feel welcome, giving them the opportunity to find an interesting group with similar interests. Finding such a group may initially pose a bit of a problem, there is something out there for everyone who is willing to look around. One such diverse group is the Anime club, and it caters to those students who have a fascination for modern Japanese animation.

“We're a film club, a cultural club, and an entertainment club,” said Bob Vinson, a sophomore journalism major and Anime Club secretary. “We've been around since 1993, and have around 25 members.”

For those not familiar with the art form, Anime (pronounced anna-may) is a French term for Japanese animation, and it has made its way into pop culture.

This distinctive form of animation is distinguished by its unique style of

representation; for example, characters often have enlarged eyes, childlike features, and pointed hair. But unlike most American animation, not all Anime is made for children. The subject matter in Anime can be quite risque and can be both precious and perverse. It has quite a following in Internet pornography circles.

It’s interesting to note that many Americas were first introduced to Anime with the “Speed Racer” cartoons in the 1960s. Then in the ’80s, “Voltron” and “Robotech” became popular in the United States, and Americans have more recently been exposed to cartoons such as “Dragonball Z,” and “Sailor Moon.” You can also see Anime’s influence on Hollywood in movies like “Spawn” and “The Matrix.”

The goal of UTPA’s Anime Club is simple. According to Vinson it is “to acquaint students with a particular facet of Japanese pop culture, and to entertain students.”

Over its nine years of life here at UTPA, the club has found support from both the university and the community.

“We've never really expected a massive amount of support from anyone. We have received support from students, faculty and staff over the years and are very grateful,” said Vinson.

One goal of the group is to bring students who have an interest in Anime together, and allow them to share their own Anime artwork as well as enjoy the work already out there .

“We have a library [of Anime videos] that is

2002 Texas Show Tour The Video Association of Dallas will bring the Texas Show Tour to the University of Texas-Pan American on Friday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Student Union. The show is a mix of films, produced either in Texas, or by Texas artists. Shows include:

■ “Blood & Oil” by Sai

Selvarajan, an experimental piece that combines poetry and images.

■ “Good dog!” by James

Russell, an advertising parody.

Anime cartoons

by Dulce Landares, club treasurer

■ “Plato’s Republic” by Richard Jernigan, a look at 1950s educational films.

■ “Badheaded Girlie Boy” by Robert Hannant, an experimental narrative.

■ “No Flamingos” by Carol Wagner and Teresa Davidson, a documentary on Austin yard art.

open for our members and we do have members who [create] their own art,” said Vinson. The organization meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays at noon in HSHW 1.404.

This year the club has also been busy at work selling pizza and raising money. The group is trying to raise fund for for a club trip to “A-kon,” an Anime convention.

“We go to ‘Project A-kon’ in Dallas every year. It's one of the largest anime conventions in the world. Last year they booked the entire D-FW Hyatt Regency and three overflow hotels,” Vinson said.

Those who attend the convention will watch Anime movies, television shows, read manga (comics), or play games.

Most people who go to A-Kon also have the chance to meet the creators of their favorite anime shows, shop in the dealers’ room, and attend workshops.

Vinson and the other members have compiled a list of some of the best Anime films available, and includes a brief explanation of each.

■ “Perfect Blue”: This is an excellent suspense thriller about a pop-idol singer turned actress who is plagued by a stalker.

■ “Akira”: This movie is pretty much required viewing. It's “the”

See ANIME page 11

■ “Stall” by Nick Gibbons, a narrative.

■ “Coming of Age” by

Christine Shank, a progression into feminine consciousness.

■ “Beezlebub’s Bathtub” by Andre Silva, an animation.

■ “Waitin’ on JFK” by Randy Clower, an experimental animation.

■ “Where you live” by Jonathan Phy and Amir Noorani, a music video.

■ “Bin & Jerry’s Fundamental Principles” by Bart Weiss, an experimental compilation of Jerry Falwell, Osama bin Laden and various images.

■ “Adopted” by Linda Stogner, an experimental documentary, originally produced for the PBS series “Life 360.”

■ “The Crab Boy” by Aaron Thedford, a claymation film.

■ “Carl & Phil: MonkeyNinjas” by Devadas George, an animation.

Keith Alcorn and Nick Gibbons, the brains behind “Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius” will present an assortment of animated cartoons all rolled into one.

THE PAN AMERICAN

Page 6

WINDOW ART The Student Union Building is decorated Wednesday with graffiti in honor of Spirit Week.

Different student organizations claimed each window as their spirit space, and some of them took part in a competition to see who has the most Bronc Spirit.

Spirit Week will last throughout the week, and will culminate with Midnight Madness Friday night in the Fieldhouse.

Arts & Entertainment

October 10, 2002

ANIME

de facto starter anime. If you watch it, try and get the Pioneer edition, as the earlier Streamline Pictures dub left much to be desired.

CULTURE CLUB What students like to read, listen to and surf.

■ “Grave of the Fireflies”: This very good, very sad movie is about the starvation deaths of two children in the aftermath of the WWII fire bombing of Japan. It has been called Japan's “Schindler's List.”

■ “My Neighbor Totoro”: This is the only children's movie on the list. Hayao Miyazaki directs this film in which a family moves near a forest that they discover is inhabited by rather whimsical spirits. Miyazaki is widely considered to be Japan's greatest living animator, and his style shines in this film.

■ “Ghost in the Shell”: This movie examines the role of technology and the nature of human consciousness. “It's also a great action movie,” Vinson said.

Gabriel O. Hernandez/The Pan American

ART

The popular “Dragonball Z” Anime, shown on The Cartoon Network, is a favorite of the club.

“

We are open to college and selftaught artists, both come to learn and display their works.

- Monica Maria Ramirez, gallery owner

Ramirez added that when she first came to the Rio Grande Valley, there was no place where people can have poetry nights or perform their music.

The gallery houses work by students from UTPA, and also from instructors/professors from UTPA and South Texas Community College. There are eight to 10 events a month, including open stage poetry night. Events emerge from a diverse group of artists, musicians, photographers, painters, sculptors, dancers, writers, actors, and poets.

“We are open to college and self-taught artists, both come to learn and display their works,” Ramirez said.

Art Awakenings is currently located on 1516 Beech Ave. in McAllen, and plans to soon relocate to a larger area. Details are still under construction on where the exact location will be.

For more details, contact Ramirez at (956) 668-1366.

Fritzie Into Freshman Biology CD: “Let Go” by Avril Lavigne Movie: “Snatch” Website: art.com

continued from page 10

providing this venue for this area,” Rizalado said.

The art displayed not only comes from the Mexican genre, but also from different cultures. Dancers have performed African and Hindu dances. Poetry is read both in Spanish and English, as music is employed. There are even art exhibits for children artists.

Page 11

The

continued from page 7

“

October 10, 2002

EVENTS Oct. 12 - “Expresando la Raza,” an exhibit featuring Angela Gonzalez, Terry Grover, Blanca Garza, Silvio Guturini, among others.

Oct. 18 - “The Life and Times of Juanito Gonzalez,” by Pedro Garcia, a one-man, one-act children’s play.

Oct. 19 - Tato Enriquez will perform live and feature his CD “Perro que Ladra No Muerde.”

Oct. 24 - Spanish rock band :Prexto :Petunia and a special guest will perform from their CD “To poke you.”

Dina Campos Sophomore Psychology CD: “The Promise” by Plus 1 Movie: “Rush Hour 2’ Website: msn.com

Oct. 26 - Marloe Mosley will perform “A Celebration of African Dance,” along with special guests from UTPA.

Department prepares for opera production The University of TexasPan American Music Department presents “Luisa Fernanda,” a zarzuela, in three acts, Oct. 10-12 in the Fine Arts Auditorium.

Set during the Spanish Revolution of 1868, the opera tells stories of love won and lost, honor and ambition.

Joining the cast of singers

and actors are guest tenor Rafael Davila, who sang the lead role in the department’s 2001 production, baritone Luis Ledesma, and the Sol y Luna International Dance Company, which has previously worked with the department. Dr. Peter Dabrowski, musical conductor and director of the Valley Symphony Orchestra,

will conduct the performances.

The production is produced and directed by Dr. Richard Davis, music professor and chorale director, and Ruth Crews, vocal professor.

The Sol y Luna choreography was created by Mario Arrendondo.

- Cesar Trevino

Sarah Villarreal Freshman Pre law CD: “Stonesour” by Stonesour Movie: “Red Dragon” Book: “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley

THE PAN AMERICAN

October 10, 2002

Page 12

Campus Calendar October

Thursday, October 10 Screening for depression, manic-depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress will take place at the UTPA counseling center in the Student Services building, room 504 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A women’s wellness clinic will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will include a physical with pap smear and breast exam for $23, vaginal wet mount for $5, gonorrhea and chlamydia screening for $20, or a free urinalysis. Call 3812511 for an appointment.

The Department of Educational Leadership will hold its alumni reunion starting at 6 p.m. in the University Ballroom. Contact the department at 381-3436 for more information.

An advisement meeting for those interested in graduate school in psychology or anthropology will take place in SBS 119 at noon.

Friday, October 11 The Intramural Rec-Sports Office will hold its Midnight Madness three-on-

three basketball tournament at 6 p.m. in the HPE II with finals in the Fieldhouse. Entry forms are due no later than 5 p.m. Friday and are available at the Intramural Office at Bronc Village Apartments #2101. For information, call the office at 292-0839.

Tuesday, October 16 The UTPA choir will hold a concert in the Fine Arts Auditorium at 8 p.m. General admission is $3, UTPA students with an ID pay $2 and senior citizens are free.

The event is open to the public.

Thursday, October 17 A study abroad orientation will be held at the College of Business in room 110 from noon to 1 p.m.

Friday, October 18 The University Program Board Media Moguls Committee presents “The Bourne Identity” in the Student Union Theater at 3 and 7 p.m. Admission is free and refreshments will be available.

Saturday, October 26 UTPA women’s athletics will hold a masquerade ball from 7 p.m. to midnight at the Shary Mansion. at the UTPA counseling center in the Student Services building, room 504.

Ongoing UTPA spirit shirts will be on sale from 1 to 5 p.m. at the University Center in room 207. The shirts cost $4-5.50.

The University Theatre presents “Time Flies” through Sunday at the Albert Jeffers Theatre.

Show times are 8 p.m. weeknights and a 2 p.m.

Sunday matinee. Tickets are $10 for reserved, $5 general admission, and free to all UTPA faculty, staff and students. Students and faculty at other schools pay $3 with ID. The music department will present “Zarzuela” through Saturday at 7 p.m. in the Fine Arts Auditorium. Call 381-3471 for more information. The event is open to the public.

October 10, 2002

THE PAN AMERICAN

Reader survey gives feedback

By SUNAYNA MAHTANI The Pan American Approximately 100 students were surveyed over a two-month span at the University of Texas-Pan American to see what they think of the Pan American, the weekly campus newspaper. The survey was administed to give students a chance to offer feedback on their newspaper, which you are reading right now.

The most prominent findings from the 10-question survey showed that 81.4 percent find the paper to be informative, with 61.9 percent stating that the overall accuracy, spelling,and grammar is good. Over 70 percent of the student body reads the paper for campus news, though 56.7 percent would like to see more local/community stories.

One question asked whether the students wanted to see more than one issue a week; however, 54.6 percent of those surveyed are happy with just one issue per week.

Prior to 2001, the paper was printed twice a week for several years, with mixed success.

Other information gathered from the surveys showed that two of the favorite sections in the paper are the news and entertainment sections.

Another 38.1percent of the students would like to see a cartoon section in the paper. This feedback was taken to heart in the Oct. 3 issue with an editorial cartoon, and more cartoons, both editorial and humorous, are planned for the future.

Student opinions on the quality of the paper was also surveyed. Findings show that 53.6 find the quality of the printing to be good and 62.9 percent find the quality of the photographs to be good.

The editors of the newspaper plan a similar survey of faculty and staff later in the semester, and welcome comments, criticism, and praise from all comers. Results from the later survey will be published in the paper when they become available.

“We want to keep listening to our audience, to see what they want,” said one editor.

“It’s always good to get feedback, and we have already had some good ideas for improvements by reading the data.”

Page 5

THE PAN AMERICAN

October 10, 2002

Campus VO I C E

Page 4

Sports

October 10, 2002

Page 13

Do you think it’s important to participate in Spirit Week?

Staff Swami Records

Mike Gonzalez

Rita Ponce Communication Junior Yes. This is the week where the majority of students should get behind the university and support it. Being the student body we should back our school.

Sports Editor

Mike Gonzalez: 42-32, .568 Greg Selber: 39-35,.527

Celeste Y. Tello: 3935, .527 Matt Lynch: 4331, .581

I think it is important because it supports what the university stands for including sports and campus activities.

Atlanta at N.Y. Giants The Giants got a huge win in Dallas, but they must stay consistent if they want to make the playoffs.

Giants by 7

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Giants

Giants

Giants

Amy Vasquez English Graduate Yes. Definitely. Especially the young kids. More participation brings about more comraderie amongst the students that may develop into more permanent friendships.

Everyone in the league is regretting not going after Drew Bledsoe in the offseason. What a steal for the Buffalo Bills.

Bills by 6

Matt Bills

Celeste Bills

The Browns made too many mistakes and it cost them the game against the Ravens. They cannot afford to do the same this week.

Bucs by 10 Bucs

Celeste

Greg

Bucs

Bucs

Green Bay at New England This is a rematch of Super Bowl XXXI. Although the faces have changed, the loss is still fresh in the Patriots organization.

Patriots by 10

Matt

Packers

Celeste Packers

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Steelers

Steelers

Steelers

Kansas City at San Diego The Chargers defense is not the same without Junior Seau. You better believe Mary Schottenheimer wants this win.

Chargers by 7

Matt

Roman Ochoa Drama Freshman Yeah. Kids should go out there and show pride in the school. It shows our sense of unity.

Chargers

Celeste Chiefs

Adviser

Matt Cowboys

Greg

ESPN is happy to finally have a game that viewers will watch. The ratings will be hard though because of the baseball playoffs.

Broncos by 7

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Dolphins

Dolphins

Broncos

Carolina at Dallas Emmitt Smith is closing in on the NFL rushing

Panthers

Greg Cowboys

Gee, I wonder how Randy Moss is doing these days. I think the Vikings bye came at a good time.

Vikings by 7

Matt

Celeste

Vikings

Lions

Greg Vikings

New Orleans at Washington I think the Redskins found their future quarterback in Patrick Ramsey. The Saints will watch the film and make adjustments.

Saints by 10

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Saints

Redskins

Saints

Jacksonville at Tennessee The Jaguars got everyone’s attention in the AFC now. If they don’t watch it, they will soon have the best record in the conference.

Jaguars by 10

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Jaguars

Jaguars

Titans

Oakland at St. Louis The Rams have gone from greatest show on turf to the laughingstock of the league. The Raiders are the highest scoring offense.

Raiders by 13

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Raiders

Raiders

Raiders

San Francisco at Seattle The Seahawks fans will be psyched up for this game Monday night. I’ll be the first to admit the Seahawks are not as bad as anticipated. I’ll go with the Seattle this time.

Seahawks by 6

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Niners

Niners

Niners

Baltimore at Indianapolis

Chargers

Miami at Denver

Celeste Detroit at Minnesota

Greg

I wish I could pick the Bengals at least once, but they must first win a game. Until then, Steelers all the way.

Steelers by 14

Yes. It increases campus involvement and peer interaction.

Dr. Greg Selber

Reporter

Patriots

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati

Maylin Gerardo Physician Assistant Studies Junior

Celeste Tello

Editor

Greg Bills

Cleveland at Tampa Bay

Matt

Matt Lynch

record. It will be tough to run against the Panthers defense.

Cowboys by 3

Buffalo at Houston

Nereida Maricio Art Freshman

Staff Swamis

I think the Ravens finally woke up and have looked impressive the last few weeks. It’s Payton Manning versus Ray Lewis.

Colts by 7

Matt

Celeste

Greg

Colts

Colts

Colts

Open Dates: Arizona, Chicago, N.Y. Jets and Philadelphia

sports

October 10, 2002

Coaches help take question marks out of misunderstood sport

the course. In college tournaments, five players from each team can play and the four lowest scores of each round count to the team’s total.

According to UTPA women’s golf coach Barbara Odale, the system

By BRIAN CARR doesn’t allow for that much leeway.

The Pan American “If two of the players on my team are having a bad day, something has For many people, watching golf is to change,” Odale said. “Both of boring, a grueling spectator sport to them just can’t give up. One of them be subjected to. To the, it is a slowhas to turn their game around.” paced, one-sided game pitting Although tournaments at the players against obstacles of the college level have some differences course rather then the defensive in scoring, the basic premise of the prowess of their opponents. Truly, game is still the same. A round of golf is an acquired taste. golf consists of 18 holes; the player But others who are more familiar with the fewest strokes wins and with the game regard the sport each player is allowed to play with favorably, with with great 14 clubs. appreciation for the skill needed to The selection of clubs differs from play it. Others who have played the player to player, but according to game with some frequency or who Odale, there are some basic spend many of their weekends similarities to which clubs most endeavoring to surpass past scores players carry. see the game as a cursed and “Generally most players take a 4, addictive device in which they are 5, 6, 7 and 9 iron, some kind of forced to compete against their own wedge, a few mental and woods and one reflexive driver,” Odale inadequacies said.

– following Woods are their poorly Probably the named such hit golf balls most frustrating because they with a bag of traditionally clubs slung thing about golf is have heads made across their of wood. Irons backs cursing that it’s you have heads made at themselves against the course of iron and for enjoying wedges are the game. typically According specialty clubs to UTPA - Mark Gaynor, men’s golf coach used in most men’s golf bunker head coach situations, which Mark call for precision chipping or Gaynor, the game of golf is itself punching of the ball. The lower the filled with irony. number of the club, the greater the “Golf is the hardest, easiest game distance that can be achieved on the you’ll ever play,” Gaynor said. stroke. Woods are used in situations “Everything counts, no matter if you which require long distance, irons hit the ball 3 inches or 300 yards.” are used more often when trying to In theory, golf should be easy. A achieve accuracy. single player uses a club to strike a “Better players decide which clubs ball toward a hole in the ground. The player who takes the least amount of they will use depending on the course they are playing at,” Gaynor shots to get the ball into the hole said. “They’ll take 15 to 20 clubs wins. and carry the 14 they think they In actuality, the game is one of need the most.” precision and placement; accuracy The scoring system and vernacular not only in one’s swing, but also in the knowledge of one’s clubs and the are also the same at the college level. Each hole is rated on a system ability to read the course and adjust referred to as “par,” or the amount of accordingly. shots it is expected to take to It also takes the ability to remain complete the hole. A birdie is one unphased by poor swings and poor stroke under par, an eagle is two results, and to maintain composure strokes under par, and a bogey is one and sight of the goal, even in the or more strokes over par. Thus, a face of frustration. player scoring an eagle on a hole has “Probably the most frustrating performed two strokes better than thing about golf is that it’s you the average golfer. against the course,” Gaynor said.

But not every one agrees with the “Your teammates can help the team current system of scoring. According by doing well for themselves, but to Gaynor, par is the worst thing that doesn’t really do anything to that has happened to the game of help the way you’re playing.” golf.

At the college level, tournaments “Par limits your view of what can are played as a team effort, and in be the lowest score,” Gaynor said. some circumstances the team format “And it drastically affects your game alleviates the pressure an individual by adding extra pressure.” player may feel after a bad day on

“

SPORTS CLIPBOARD Lady Broncs finish sixth at Huskie The Lady Broncs golf team competed at the Huskie Classic and came in sixth place out of 10 teams Monday. UTPA moved up one place after shooting a final round score of 333 improving from their score of 351 on Sunday. Leading the way for the Lady Broncs was freshman Daniela Cortes who shot a final score of 164 and finished in 10th place. Other contributing were freshman Nikki Boychuk who finished with a final score of 172 and was tied for 31st. Freshman Stefanie Maynard shot a final score of 175 while junior Crystal Frazier was just one stroke behind with 176. Sophomore Christine Treanor wasn’t too far behind with a final score of 180 which put her 42nd in the tournament.

Men’s golf team ready for action Head coach Mark Gaynor and his troops will travel to Lufkin and compete in the 2002 Crown Classic Monday and Tuesday. The Broncs will attempt to improve from their 11th place finish at the Carolina First Intercollegiate on Sept.

VOLLEYBALL

24. Leading the way for the Broncs is junior Rudy Celedon who finished tied for 14th, and junior Paul Mangonilla tied for 31st in Carolina.

Roadrunners exercise options on players The Edinburg Roadrunners have exercised the options for 15 players on the roster including starting pitchers Brandon Mozley, Jonathan Krysa, Ryan Harris and Clint Smith. Position players Troy Norrell (catcher), Ismael Garcia (second base), Keko Guerrero (shortstop), Will Roland (shortstop), Juan Querecuto (first base) and outfielders Vince Moore, Greg Strickland, Jeremy Murch and Eddie Lang also got their contract optioned for the 2003 season.

Volleyball deadlines for recreational sports Entries for six-on-six volleyball are due by 5 p.m. Monday Oct. 14. Games are scheduled to begin Tuesday Oct. 22, with the competition taking place every Tuesday and Thursday from noon to 1 p.m.

continued from page 16

record of 5-2. and 12 digs. Not far behind was Jaclyn Thorn sensed his young team’s confidence Muszynski, junior outside hitter, who added 18 level would rise once the Lady Broncs would kills and is having an outstanding year for the win a few games.

Lady Broncs.

“That’s the way it As a team, UTPA hit .234 works,” Thorn said. “When compared to the Islanders’ you’re winning you’re .188 and outblocked Corpus happy, and when you play Christi 11-9. hard you win and we’re UTPA has struggled on excited.” the road this season, and But Thorn is not Thorn knows Tuesday satisfied just yet. He feels night’s victory at Corpus his team can still improve was a huge boost for his before this season ends. squad.

“It’s a step-by-step “We really needed to step [procedure], we still need up and we did,” Thorn said. to work on the same things “We were able to silence and get better execution,” their crowd.”

- Dave Thorn, head volleyball coach Thorn said. “You can Despite what the record never get to a point where might indicate, the Lady you can’t improve Broncs have improved since anymore. You’re always working to get better the beginning of the season. They started the season 1-10, but since then UTPA has recorded a and stronger.”

“

We’re going to try and come out here and kick the alumni’s butt

“

Golf for Dummies: sport made simple

Page 14

THE PAN AMERICAN

October 10, 2002

Page 3

Major’s struggle portrayed in dance

By HILDA BARRIENTES The Pan American With their grace and artistic style, a team of 14 dancers have practiced intensely for the most anxiously awaited event; the 2002 Fall Spring Concert.

The University of Texas-Pan American Dance Ensemble Company will perform the concert in the Jefferson Theatre; October 17-19 at 7:30 p.m. and each performance over three days will display a wide range of dance movements.

“Some of the pieces will have a jazzy feel and others will be much more serious,” said Melinda Bloomquist, artistic director for the concert. “This will be the first time the

PRE-LAW

company will perform in the Jefferson Theatre.”

Bloomquist said it will be a unique experience because the audience will be all around the dancers. The third-year director said the dancers have committed themselves to a strict schedule of practicing on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m.

“They have been preparing since June for the concert,” said Bloomquist. “If they need any extra time they will practice on Fridays and Saturdays.”

This is Linda Lopez’ first year as a dancer in the company, though she has been dancing for 10 years. She said the preparations have been rigorous.

“Though the practices were challenging, they

were rewarding,” said Lopez. “I need to work on my technique; but I am determined to get better.”

Yvonne Barker, a UTPA dance major, has been with the company for 13 years and said dancing is a part of her life. She has waited 13 years for UTPA to offer the dance major and two years ago it was approved.

“There are higher standards now and everyone is attending,” Barker said. This is the second year we are performing with the dance major being offered.”

The concert is important to Barker in another way. She said that it represents the major’s coming of age coincidental with with the school’s 75th Anniversary. The concert’s performance represents the past and the present,

and illustrates the decadelong struggle to legitimate dance as a major at the university level. It is a celebration of sorts.

“Former artistic directors have choreographed seven of the dance routines, which represent when the dance proposal was being fought,” Barker said. “Mrs. Bloomquist has choreographed four of the dance routines which represent the dance proposal being approved.”

About 500 to 800 students attended the event in past years. Now that the dance major was approved, the audience numbers are improving, Barker explained.

“It is great to hear feedback from the audience,” said Barker. “I know I have done my job when I see tears in the audience’s eyes.”

continued from page 1

to what the practice of law is like and that is why we bring lawyers to talk about it."

Members such as Irma Lopez, a senior majoring in political science, said that she is hoping to be a lawyer and that is why she joined.

"It is interesting to hear the lawyers talk about their experiences," she said.

Previous guests of the society have included Cindy Polinard, Jaime Adalpe, and Kirby Hopkins, all attorneys in the 13th Court of Appeals. They provided insights and different views of what they experienced.

"We had three attorneys from three different backgrounds. What is useful about those three is that they represented different ages groups, male and female, Latino, Anglo and [they offered] a good of insight," Jerry Polinard said.

Pablo Almaguer, an attorney in the Texas Rural Legal Aid, will be the guest speaker for the next meeting, Oct. 15. A 1994 UTPA grad and a past president of the society, Almaguer has worked in the Valley since 1997, and has given students advice on many matters since then.

"I give students a perspective of the challenges of going to law school," Almaguer said. "I remember when I was in Pan Am [and] the questions I had about schools, the LSAT, and how to pay back loans."

Almaguer plans to assist and advise students using the experience he’s gained in five years as an attorney.

Another guest speaker who will be making a campus appearance is Dr. Jose Garza also from the Texas Rural Aid. He will be here today at 1:10 p.m. in SBSC 109. Garza is a leading state attorney on Mexican-American voting issues.

The Pre-Law Society plans to bring in many other speakers during the year, so that students can get ready for the journey ahead of them.

"In the future we will certainly have attorneys

that are in private practice or that operate with larger private firms. In addition there will be law school admissions people coming down," Jerry Polinard said.

The society is part of a wider effort to grow future attorneys. The university is developing an academic program to train Valley hopefuls, and is also pursuing a $15 million state grant to start a bona fide law school at UTPA. Jerry Polinard said he is very excited that the pre-law program at the university has evolved over the years and it is fairly well known within Texas and even outside the state. The school also offers the Law School Preparation Institute (LSPI) for pre-law students.

According to Ruszczak, the institute takes place in the second summer session and giving a feel of what it is going to take to get to law school, with LSAT preparations, and the study of legal documents.

The institute was the second of its kind in the nation, said Jerry Polinard. To be eligible, students must be enrolled full-time with a minimum of 45 hours complete, with at least a 2.8 GPA. "One hundred percent of LSPI students that applied to law school last year were accepted," he stated.

As Polinard mentioned, without the help of Dr. Miguel Nevarez, president of UTPA, and Dr. Rodolfo Arevallo, provost, the institute would not be here. He said Homer Garcia, dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences has been very supportive in enhancing the Pre-Law program reputation, as well.

"The institute is exciting because it has such a strong focus on law school admission, but it is an expensive program and President Nevarez is the person that took charge and said we are going to do this and he is the person that deserves the credit for getting it under way," Polinard said.

VOLLEYBALL SCHEDULE DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION

TIME

Oct. 11

Alumni

UTPA Fieldhouse

7 p.m.

Oct. 18

Texas A&M International

UTPA Fieldhouse

7 p.m.

and Prairie View A&M Oct. 22

Texas A&M-Kingsville

Kingsville

7 p.m.

Oct. 25

Texas Southern

Houston

7 p.m.

Cristina Reyna/The Pan American

AND THE WINNER IS The University Police Department took first place place in the office decorating contest held Monday afternoon, with its display of Bronc athletic uniforms arranged along the walls. The event was held as part of Spirit Week and first place won the department a pizza party. Offices were judged by university administrators, and were based on categories including originality, attention to detail, and the theme ‘Bronc spirit.’ Second place went to Student Financial Services and Student Health Services came in third.

“

October 10 2002

Celebrating 50 years 1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 http://www.panam.edu/dept/panamerican 51th Year – No. 7

Editor Matt Lynch mlynch@panam.edu

News Editor Cristina Reyna creyna826@aol.com

A & E Editor Ashley Brooks Magrew2@hotmail.com

Sports Editor Mike Gonzalez mgonzalez40@panam.edu

Graphics Editor Gabriel O. Hernandez gabo296@hotmail.com

Copy Editors Sunayna Mahtani and Belinda Reyes Layout Designers Ashley Brooks Mike Gonzalez Gabriel Hernandez Reporters Veronica Barrera Clarissa Martinez Elizabeth Martinez Nikki Ramirez Cesar Trevino Celeste Y. Tello Arianna Vazquez Advertising Dagoberto Perez Circulation Jesus M. Gonzalez Advertising Coordinator Juanita Sanchez Adviser Dr. Greg Selber

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 university.

Letters policy The Pan American gladly accepts letters from students, staff and faculty regarding newspaper content or current issues.

The Pan American reserves the right to edit submissions for grammar and length. Please limit submission length to 300 words. The Pan American cannot publish anonymous letters, or submissions containing hate speech or gratuitous personal attacks.

Letters are printed at the discretion of the editor and must include the writer’s name, class/title and phone number.

Readers with disabilities may request an alternative format of this publication at The Pan American business office.

For special assistance to attend any event listed in this publication, contact the coordinator of the event at least one week prior to the advertised date.

OPINION

To the Editor: I noticed that the responders in the “Campus Voice” column about parking (Oct. 3) unanimously called for the University to create more parking spaces. I agree that the current parking situation is more than problematic, but I wonder if in the bigger picture we might look for more sustainable long-term solutions. With a growing Valley population, the University is bound to keep expanding, and whatever new lots are created may fill up almost as quickly as we

letters

build them. In the meantime, parking lots are just about the most ugly and inefficient use of university land that can be imagined.

Do we really want asphalt to cover over our future playing fields and music centers?

In moving to the Valley from Austin, and before that Boston, the total lack of public transportation here came as a shock to me.

Obviously the university alone could never bring a public transportation system to the Valley, but it could be a major force in pushing for one.

NEWS

■

editorials

■

cartoons

I commute here for work from Rio Grande City. I would gladly ditch my car at home and spend an hour reading the newspaper on a train or bus headed for Edinburg. Maybe if there are others like me, public transportation would lessen the demand for parking. Then we could save University land for purposes that really make our community better.

Adam Rosenblatt Arts and Culture Coordinator Division of External Affairs

■ Dance Corp . .. . . . 3 ■ News Survey . . . . 5 ■ Campus Calendar . . 12

Fellowship of faith pursued

By CLARISSA MARTINEZ The Pan American The Baptist Student Ministry (BSM) is an organization focused on promoting Christian growth of fellowship among students and providing a place where individuals can strengthen their relationships in faith.

Despite its Christian basis, however, the 35member group on the university campus is open to students of all religions.

According to David Chan, director of the BSM, there are various activities people can participate in and get benefit from while serving the community. Last Saturday members of the group visited the Evins Center for troubled youths and spent the afternoon there.

“It was good for the young guys to see and interact with our students, and at the same time we benefited from interacting with them,” Chan said. “We were able to just spend the day with those kids and share with them our beliefs and try to help them to walk the straight path and get out of their situations.”

Junior Esther Prado, a pre-physician’s assistant studies major, was one of the students who went to the center and interacted.

“There are a lot of people who need to be guided and we are willing to show them there’s an alternative to a negative type of lifestyle,” Prado said. “We want to help them know who Jesus is, and kind of encourage them to see what they can benefit from if they follow a positive life.”

Severino Rodriguez, junior English major, said he felt that he had a connection with the kids at the detention center.

“I could relate to these troubled youth at Evins,” Rodriguez said. “I know where they come from, and I wanted to share with them the fact that there is more to life than what they think.”

“I’m really hoping that we will be able to share, not only with the Rio Grande Valley, but with the people across the world everything that we believe in and do,” Rodriguez said.

Last summer, six students did this when they visited China for nearly three weeks. The goals of the trip were to expose them to the Chinese culture, develop friendships, and enable the travelers to share their faith with the Chinese people.

Chan said since that sort of missionary work is illegal in China, the students could not initiate conversations of faith among Chinese citizens.

But they could answer questions the citizens asked them about religion.

“On our students’ side, it really opened our

sports

October 10, 2002

Page 15

Valley native adds local flavor to tennis team Former Rowe standout finds roster spot with Lady Broncs

By ARIANNA VAZQUEZ The Pan American It’s not very often that someone attending their local university is considered very unique among their peers. But for Valley native Ana Pena, a sophomore from McAllen, this is the case in regard to the tennis team roster.

Members of the latest Lady Bronc tennis team are from all sorts of places, including Spain, Switzerland, Canada, Iowa, and New Mexico.

The difference between Pena and her fellow teammates is that she hails from five minutes away. As a commuter student, she does not live in the dorms, she still has a great relationship with the team.

Pena graduated from McAllen’s Nikki Rowe High School, and although a number of different universities recruited her, she chose to stay near home.

“I love the culture and I did not want to leave [the Valley],” Pena said. “I

to the team and it was very impressive,” know I would have been homesick.”

Chapman said.

Tennis coach Todd Chapman said Pena said it has been a really good Pena has grown and matured as a tennis experience and the hard work is worth player. it. She has been playing tennis since she “I am glad I have Ana because it was 12 years old. shows we have great tennis players in Pena expects more in her second year, this area,” Chapman said. “She gained and has paid particular attention to experience playing college tennis last improving her backhand and deepyear and I look forward for her to hitting skills. As far as the team is continue improving.” concerned, Pena Chapman added believes that the he could not say team is stronger in one bad thing 2002. about Pena even if I am glad I have According to he tried, because Chapman, it is she is the type of Ana because it tough to get a good player every coach shows we have Valley player to would like to have. participate at She has a great great tennis UTPA because they attitude and is usually want to always ready to players in this leave the area to practice, he said. area play for other And after a year of universities. Pena coaching her, he’s - Todd Chapman, tennis coach is a good role never seen her model for staying have a bad day in at UTPA because practice. she can show that if other Valley players Pena’s singles record last year was stay, they can also be successful.

18-13, which was the pacesetter for “In a way, it’s an honor, I am wins. representing the Valley,” Pena said.

“As a freshman she really contributed

“

“

PAGE 2

Celeste Y. Tello /The Pan American

LOCAL TALENT: Sophomore Ana Pena provides the Lady Broncs tennis team with home-grown talent.

Cross country teams to face unfamiliar EVENT opponents at Texas A&M Invitational CC teams to compete against Aggies, Longhorns, among others

By CELESTE Y. TELLO The Pan American

Special to The Pan American

OVERSEAS VOYAGE—Members of the Baptist Student Ministry on their recent trip to China. BSM has 35 members and is a campus organization dedicated to bolstering faith for UTPA students.

eyes to a whole new world,” Chan said. “We were able to gain perspective about how these people think, live and survive. I think the citizens we spoke to were able to receive some knowledge about faith that they never had a chance to be exposed to, but were curious about.”

Apart from learning China’s different cultures and religious beliefs, the students also had the chance to spend a week teaching English to Chinese high school students in a remote North Easter town. In doing so, they became the first Americans to visit the region.

The BSM meets every other Tuesday and offers free lunch to those who want to stop by.

Along with guest speakers, the members try to have regular interactions with each other by mixing social events with spirituality.

Every Friday a worship service is held for students to praise and interact with other individuals who share their beliefs. Afterward the members participate in activities such as volleyball, and initiate a coffeehouse setting where they can talk with each other.

Other activities include prayer meetings held Mondays at 5:30 and Thursday nights, BSM

holds cell group meetings at 6:30 with dinner and a worship service afterward.

This semester marks Chan’s third year as director of the BSM and in this role he administers and ministers to the students.

“My job is to make sure the students have everything they need and that everything runs smoothly,” Chan said. “At the moment we have a president of BSM and other officers, but now instead of having individuals to do all the work; we assign groups of people to work on different activities, such as forming a Bible club."

Chan believes that the BSM benefits from team-based leadership, where everyone has a job to do instead of only a few individuals doing all the work.

Freshman music major Steven Chamblin is currently the group president. He hopes to see more service ministries arise that will cruise around campus talking to people about school and life.

“I would love to see BMS grow, but not only in the number of students involved, but the depth of it as well,” Chamblin said. “I think we can really make a positive impact on campus if we just put our mind to it.”

After winning the Division I Championship at the UTSA Whataburger Meet last weekend, the men’s cross country team is ready to compete at Texas A&M in College Station on Oct. 12.

Cross country coach Doug Molnar said that he hopes the results of the UTSA meet will be an indication of how the rest of the season will go.

“Overall, we had a good solid meet [UTSA]. It was a nice progression from our last meet,” he said. “We’re looking at this as a springboard for the rest of the season.”

Westly Keating was the overall champion at the meet. The rest of the men’s team also did well.

“Everyone, except for one, had a personal best,” Molnar said. “That’s real exciting when you have a number of runners running their personal best. It shows that we’re making progress in the right direction.”

All runners on the women’s team ran their personal best at the UTSA as well.

Patty Villarreal was the leading scorer in fourth place. She was followed by Claudia Rosas in 10th place and Erica Hernandez in 12th.

Molnar attributed the strong performances to an increase in aggressiveness during the race.

“We’re definitely much more aggressive, we went out and got up into the race,” he said. “We really raced well.”

More opportunities will surface for the teams to race better, including this

weekend’s meet at College Station.

The A&M Invitational will provide the chance for UTPA to match up against some tough teams for the first time this season. Among those teams are Texas A&M, Sam Houston St. and Stephen F. Austin.

Molnar believes this will be an opportunity for UTPA to gauge its progress so far in the season.

“This will really give us a chance to Celeste Y. Tello /The Pan American see how well we can do within the regional JOGGIN’: Claudia Rosas (left) and Patty Villarreal hit the track. meet because a will face tough opponents and run 6,000 [majority] of the region will be there,” meters (3.75 miles) for the first time in a Molnar said. “That will give us a real race. good indication of where we’re at.”

“Another good thing about this After Keating’s performance at the weekend is that this is the first [time] our UTSA meet, Molnar said that Keating will women will actually run 6,000 meters,” likely be among the leaders in his race Molnar said. “Which is the same distance and have a chance to run against his as the regional meet.” former teammates who beat him in a He said that the longer distance should previous meet. be beneficial to the Lady Broncs based on “Westly will definitely be among the the training they have been doing this favorites in this race,” Molnar said. season.

“Texas is going to be there again and he’ll Previously, the distance of each race have a chance to run against the two guys was dependent on the idiosyncratic lay of that beat him at the Southwest meet, he each individual course. This time, the full should definitely be among the top distance is in effect. finishers there.”

“We’ve been training all year to run On the women’s side, Texas and Texas 6,000 meters and I think, for our team, the A&M are the likely favorites and will longer the race the better off we’re going give the UTPA women’s team a challenge. to be because of how we trained,” Molnar The Lady Broncs’ training this year has said. “I’m excited about watching the been in preparation for this meet where it ladies run 6,000 meters.”

continued from page 16

So far this week, students have worn their Bronc colors, decorated their cars and an office decorating contest was held.

At noon on Thursday, students can attend a spirit rally at the Student Union. There will also be live music provided by KBFM 104 radio station and beads will be given to individuals who have their face painted at the Student Union.

Friday will also be full of activities for students to participate in before the actual midnight practice.

The intramural threeon-three basketball tourney will begin at 6 p.m., the deadline for entry will be an hour before the start of the tournament. Semifinals and championship games will played in the fieldhouse at 10 p.m.

Spirit Week will culminate on Friday with a number of contests with cash prizes and dance events.

“Friday is going to be the big day, it’s going to be a real party atmosphere in the parking lot before we even get into the field house,” Pintens said.

Midnight Madness has traditions particular to each campus, at UTPA there is the burning of the letters.

“The traditional burning of the UTPA letters is going to be something special out there,” Pintens said.

“They’re going to set huge UTPA letters on fire and you’ll be able to see it from far away.”

Midnight Madness will be highlighted with a $10,000 Buzzer Beater Contest.

Everyone will fill out an entry form when they come to Midnight Madnesss. The contestant that’s chosen will have 24 seconds to make a lay-up, free throw, three-point and half-court shot. If all shots are made, the conestant will win $10,000.

With a number of activities for students to participate in, attendance is expected to be exceptional at Midnight Madness.

Pintens stressed that student participation is a key factor in success for the athletic department.

He said that student attendance at this event is equally important.

“Student attendance, from what I understand, has been great,” Pintens said. “The majority of the people at Midnight Madness are students.”

Students can expect the night’s events to begin at 10 p.m. on Friday night before Midnight Madness.

PAGE 16

NBA

MING READY FOR ACTION:

The Houston Rockets and number one draft pick Yao Ming have reached an agreement according to Houston television station KRIV. The 7-foot-5 center signed a three-year contract worth $18 million . The deal is expected to include an option for a fourth season to total the $18 million Ming expects to receive. Under the NBA rookie salary guidelines, a player can only make up to $12,442,680 dollars in his first three years in the league. Ming’s agent and cousin Erick Zhang said that the China Basketball Association may hold off providing clearance until the Asian Games are done Oct. 14. Ming could be in uniform by Oct. 20 if everything goes according to plan.

MLB

TIGERS HIRE TRAMMELL:

The Detroit Tigers will bring a familiar face to their organization.

Former shortstop Alan Trammell was hired to be their new manger on Wednesday.

Trammell was the San Diego Padres firstbase coach this season and got permission from the organization to interview for the manager job.

Trammell played for the Tigers from 197796 and was a six-time All-Star who won four Gold Gloves and a World Series in 1984, where he was named Most Valuable Player.

S PORTS

■ Pena Feature. . . . . . . . 15 ■ Golf Definitions. . . . . . .14 ■ Staff’s swami picks . . . 13

VOICE

Alumnae return for annual game

Do you think it’s important to participate in Spirit Week?

Back to the Future: Current Lady Broncs make preparations for heated battle against former players, alumnae

POLITICS

By MIKE GONZALEZ The Pan American Friday night, the Lady Broncs will have a chance to show they welcome former UTPA volleyball players. who will compete in an exhibition game at the Fieldhouse.

For some it will be a fun, entertaining and friendly match, but for head coach Dave Thorn, this is a game he desperately wants to win.

“We’re going to approach it like a normal game,” Thorn said.

“We’re going to try and come out here and kick the alumni’s butt.

We’re not going to change anything up or send anybody or mix the line up.”

Thorn has faced UTPA alumni four times and has won every meeting.

Although he admits how important a win will be for him, he is also looking forward to reconnecting with some of his former players when the match starts at 7 p.m.

“I’m just looking at it as a great way to keep in touch with our alumni and see our old friends again,” Thorn said.

Not only is this exhibition game important to Thorn, but the contest also has meaning for senior Cynthia Kasper, who will welcome back some of her ex-teammates.

“I definitely want to win,” Kasper said. “I’m a senior, so a lot of the girls that are coming back I played with the last three years.”

Kasper believes the alumni will

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be confident coming into the match.

She feels the alumni will bring experience that could give the Lady Broncs a challenge.

“They know they’re the older ones and we’re the young ones playing right now,” Kasper said.

“They may think ‘we have more experience than you,’ so they think they have a chance, but we have youth.”

An exhibition game couldn’t have come at a better time for the Lady Broncs, who have gone through a rough schedule this season. Senior Jessica Lawson believes her team has come a long way since the beginning of the year.

“We had a couple of rough tournaments to start the season,” Lawson said.

Unlike Kasper, Lawson will take a different approach in tomorrow night’s contest.

“Mentally, we prepare for it as if it was a real game,” Lawson said.

“Once we get out here, it’s more of a relaxed environment because they’re [alumni] looking out here to have some fun.”

UTPA continued on a recent win streak on Tuesday night when it faced rival Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. The Lady Broncs won their second game in a row and five of their last seven by slamming the Islanders 26-30, 31-29, 30-22 and 30-26, and improving to 6-12 on the year.

Junior outside hitter Winker Cruz led the way for UTPA with 19 kills

See VOLLEYBALL page 14

Mike Gonzalez/The Pan American GOOD SERVICE: Jacylin Olvera prepares to serve during volleyball practice this week. The Lady Broncs face a team of former UTPA volleyball players Friday.

UTPA readies for ‘Midnight Madness’ Intramural hoops, dunk contest, dancing on tap for event

By CELESTE Y. TELLO The Pan American Midnight Madness, a basketball tradition that sweeps across the nation’s collegiate campuses on the second Saturday of every October, is due to hit UTPA this week among a number of festivities.

Craig Pintens, coordinator of athletic marketing, said that a

midnight practice attended by enthused students has become a well-known event in college towns.

“Midnight Madness is the traditional kickoff to the college basketball season, it’s every year in October,” he said.

Before Midnight Madness became a major event at universities, it was simply a practice held at midnight at the University of Maryland over 30 years ago. Coach Lefty Driesell simply got his team out on the court at midnight.

“His college basketball team began practice at exactly midnight,”

Pintens said. “At the first Midnight Madness there wasn’t all the hoopla that surrounds it today.”

The midnight practice caught on at Maryland and began to draw in spectators. Eventually, it evolved into the major event that it is today.

“He just wanted to start practice at midnight and it kind of caught on at Maryland and people started showing up to watch the practice and from there it became what it is today, which is a major event in college athletics,” Pintens said.

Pintens said that Midnight Madness is important at the start of

the basketball season because it draws support from the fans.

“People are fanatical about college basketball, particularly in March when the tournament is going on,” he said. “This is the beginning of that and everybody has hope at the beginning of the season that their team will do well.”

At UTPA, Midnight Madness is equally important and preceded by Spirit Week. Spirit Week provides an opportunity for students to participate in a number of activities leading up to the midnight practice.

See EVENT page 15

THURSDAY

Campus

Gubernatorial candidates Tony Sanchez and Rick Perry squared off Wednesday night in their first debate of the campaign, which was broadcast statewide. The two disagreed on how to solve the increasing homeowners insurance problems. While Sanchez accused Perry of avoiding a special session and favoring the industry for campaign donations, Perry fired back at Sanchez, citing that as governor he called on lawmakers to investigate insurance companies.

Throughout the debate, Perry lauded his experience, as lieutenant governor and state agriculture commissioner.

Sanchez defended the claim that he profits from an insurance agency subsidary saying that his business sees little, if any, profit from the policies.

Perry and Sanchez have spent a combined record of $72 million so far on the race for governor.

With less than a month left until election day, Perry leads Sanchez with a ninepoint advantage according to a poll conducted for the Houston Chronicle in a contentious campaign for the future of Texas.

The next debate is slated for Oct. 24 in Dallas.

Other gubernatorial candidates are Libertarian nominee Jeff Daiell and Green Party nominee Rahul Mahajan, who were not invited to Wednesday’s debate, but will square off Friday at the University of Texas.

Wednesday’s debate was broadcast locally by radio station KURV-AM 710 in Edinburg.

October 10, 2002

An Inside Look: News ............................................2 A & E............................................7 ■ Sports ........................................16 ■ ■

T h e S t u d e n t N e w s p a p e r o f T h e U n i v e r s i t y o f Te x a s - P a n A m e r i c a n

Appeals only mouse click away

By NIKKI RAMIREZ The Pan American Anyone who has had a parking ticket on campus knows it can be a hassle waiting in line to appeal a citation.

The University Police Department has now made it easier for students to plead ther case without actually having to go into the police department. The new service, which began last June, allows students to appeal their citations online.

According to parking manager Eddie Morin, about 100 students have used the service so far and a full 70 percent of all appeals are done online.

“I think it has worked great and it gives students the opportunity to appeal citations without having to come in person,” Morin said.

The service was implemented for the benefit of the the police department as well as the students.

“The service is definitely more convenient for the students and police department,” Morin said.

The free service offers students a chance to appeal their citations from anywhere and helps students avoid excess fees.

“In the past, many students have complained that they don’t have time to go through the appeals process, so this gives students the option to appeal their citation from school, home or work at any time,” Morin said.

Morin said in order for students to appeal online they must go to the Web site at assist.panam.edu and log on with their pin number. The student must select “citation appeal,” and enter their information including citation number and home address.

The student then must decide whether they would like to receive their response via e-mail, U.S. mail, or both. After entering an explanation, they can submit their appeal.

“I’ve never used the service but I think it’s a great idea and it makes the process easier for people who want to appeal their citations,” freshman Ruben Rodriguez said. “This is my first year here and I’ve noticed you have to wait in line for everything.”

Although the service is currently only offered to students the police department will extend the service to faculty and staff later this year.

Morin added that the police department is looking into upgrading its software to allow for online permit sales and citation payments as well.

The new service would not only allow students to pay tickets on time but it would help avoid excess late fees that are often incurred by lazy students who want to avoid the hassle of going to the police station.

“I have gotten several parking tickets and I’ve ended up paying more than I should have because I was too lazy to go to the station,” said international business major A.J. Ulloa.

Arianna Vazquez/The Pan American

WE’VE GOT SPIRIT— Green and orange can be seen across the parking lots as Bronc pride is displayed on many cars in accordance with Spirit Week. The free car decorating took place Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon and helped promote school spirit among students. Spirit Week was held to help kickoff Bronc basketball season and included several activities including an office decorating contest.

Pre-law society does preps

By ARIANNA VAZQUEZ The Pan American Nearing its 30th year on campus, the University of TexasPan American Pre-Law Society has high expectations for the upcoming year.

The Pre-Law Society has been an active organization in UTPA for over 27 years. Dr. Jerry Polinard, adviser and political science department chair, stated that the society has provided guidance and answered questions to eager students who want to pursue a career in law. Other advisers for the society are Dr. James Wenzel, political science, and Dr. Nigel Cohen, criminal justice.

"The general purpose of the society is to introduce our students who are interested in legal careers through the various aspects that

involves those careers," Polinard said . "It provides students with different information on how to go to law school and the kind of requirements the schools are looking for."

Students of all majors can join the society. Maciej Z. Ruszczak, co-president of the organization, said that students sometimes assume that in order to attend law school, one must have a major in political science or criminal science is required.

"It is for all students interested in a career in law or considering anything law related," said Ruszczak. "We are available for everybody, we have a lot of people from psychology, business, engineering, and medicine [because] it is open to anybody on campus that is interested."

Co-president Ted Lopez stated that the society does not only help

answer questions about law school admissions, but it also guides students on what classes and teachers they should take in order to be well prepared for law school.

"The Pre-Law Society is my ticket to go into law school," Lopez said.

The society also invites lawyers to speak to the student body, and to groups of students interested in going to law school. At these events, students are able to ask questions on law school applications, required standardized tests, finding jobs, and other topics.

"We want them to familiarize themselves on how it is going to be when they get there," Polinard commented . "That is why we have lawyers come in and talk about their own experiences in law school [and] introduce them

See PRE-LAW page 3