Tomorrow night the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees (0-1-0) will be facing off against the defending Central Hockey League (CHL) champion Laredo Bucks (2-1-0). It will be the Bees’ first regular season home game, as well as the initial meeting between division rivals since last March’s playoff game. Killer Bees Head Coach Tracy Egeland believes the team has a good attitude and is prepared for Friday’s game. “We’re ready to go,” said Egeland. “We’re having good practices all week.” Egeland also thinks team chemistry is coming together well for the Killer Bees. The second-year RGV head coach feels the returning players from last season will benefit the team. “It’s going pretty good,” said Egeland. “We’ve got a lot of guys back from last year. (I think) we’re farther ahead of some of the other teams with our returning players.” RGV will be facing divisional opponents in three of their first four home games. Afterward they will head out on the road to play four games in five days. “It is the best division in the whole league. There is tough competition,” said Egeland. The coach recognizes that RGV needs to win early on in the season to stay competitive. “We have to win our early games,” said
■ Cross country. . . . .15
the Lethbridge, Alberta native. “We have to win our home games, or we could find ourselves out of a playoff race rather quickly.” On Saturday the Killer Bees will entertain the Austin Ice bats, who beat RGV 5-2 one week earlier. The following Saturday, Nov. 6, they will be at home to face the Corpus Christi Rayz. On Tuesday, Nov. 9, RGV will host the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs for the team’s second annual Kids Day game. Last season over 4,000 elementary school students packed the Dodge Arena during the first annual matinee contest. The result was the Killer Bees beating the San Angelo Saints in an overtime sudden death shootout. Even though the crowd will be roaring a little louder than usual, Egeland and the Bees plan to approach the game the same way they do other games. “The only difference is that it is in the morning, but we treat it as any other twopoint game,” said the 34-year-old coach. “Every game is very important.” Before the start of the regular season the Killer Bees had to trim their roster down to 18 players. Last week, forward Matt Donskov, defenseman Coel Doty, and goaltender Terry Dunbar were released by the team. Also last week, the Killer Bees completed a three-team trade that sent Topeka Tarantulas’ forward Joe Guenther to RGV and Fort Worth Brahmas’ Justin Williams to Topeka, with Fort Worth receiving future considerations from RGV. “(Guenther) is big and strong, and is
another goal scorer in our lineup,” said Egeland, who is also planning to allow goaltender Jacque Vezina to see more playing time this season. Vezina played in 20 games last year. “(The idea is to) keep both (goaltenders) fresh,” said Egeland.
Also, this week Killer Bee center Anthony Donskov announced his retirement and has been placed on waivers. Donskov was inactive for last Saturday’s loss to Austin as he was recovering from an injury he suffered during the Oct. 15 exhibition game against the Mexico National team.
Basketball isn’t supposed to be a contact sport but senior Alvaidas Gedminas seems amused by the physical nature of American basketball. “Everyone was beating each other up,” said the seven-foot UTPA center, about his first impression of basketball upon arriving in the states. Now, after several years of playing American hoops, the Lithuanian-born Gedminas says that international differences are reflected in the way the game is approached. “American basketball is more physical (and) there’s more contact,” second-year veteran Gedminas said. “European basketball is more (about) protecting and shooting.” At center, Gedminas’ job requires an ability to score while absorbing large amounts of physical contact at arguably, the most punishing of all five positions on the floor. “Here two people will come after you when you make a drive or try to shoot,” the former European post said. “In Europe
you’re (shooting) by yourself.” Gedminas and the Broncs begin the season with an exhibition game against Monterrey Tech on Nov. 6 at the UTPA Fieldhouse. The Broncs begin the regular season at home on Nov. 23 against Texas A&M – International. Gedminas was recruited by then assistantcoach Robert Davenport, after the former completed his final season with Kirtland Community College in Roscommon, MI where he was highly ranked in rebounding among all National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division 1 players in 2002-03. “We were attracted to his size and the fact that he was 5th in rebounding,” head coach Robert Davenport said Last season he averaged 3.4 points and 2.6 rebounds per game for UTPA, shooting 54.3 percent from the floor and 63.6 percent from the line. He returns to a Bronc team that went 14-14 last season under departed Coach Bob Hoffman, who took an assistant job at Oklahoma over the summer. The 7footer hopes to pad his stats this season. “He’s doing great, physically he’s doing real well,” Davenport said. “ (He’s) going to
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PAN AMERICAN
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
An American Duty Valley residents partake in early voting
-Teresa Navarro,
since people can avoid long lines, and one can take their time when doing so. “On Election Day [alone] we will hit 55,000 to 60,000 voters,” Navarro said. “That means the lines will be long. I say take advantage of early voting, there is plenty of locations and plenty of time to vote.” Besides avoiding long lines, citizens can also take advantage of 22 stations that are distributed across the Hidalgo County. “The difference between voting now and voting on Election Day is that you get an opportunity to go to any sub-station in the county. We have 22 sub-stations meaning we have 22 locations [where] you can go out and vote,” Navarro said. According to Navarro, if a student in Edinburg lives in Weslaco, they can simply go to the Edinburg Elections Office to vote. On Election Day voters must go to the precinct they are registered in. The early voting turnout for Hidalgo County has been greater for this election than for the 2000 election. “We have already surpassed all of the numbers from the past elections as far as early voting turnouts,” she said. Navarro also noticed some interesting patterns of young voters such as couples going in to vote for their next leader. “There is no doubt that we have more student participation in this election than any other elections,” she said. “They are coming in, in pairs meaning boyfriend and girlfriend are coming in holding hands, and I think that is so interesting because I’ve never seen it before so they are coming in together from
Hidalgo Co. elections administrator
See EARLY VOTING page 11
By ANGELA I. CANALES The Pan American With Election Day less than a week away, citizens have already begun casting their votes for the next president. Early voting began on Oct. 18 and will continue through Friday for people that want to cast their votes before the Nov. 2 election. Early action on campus takes place at the Library. According to the Texas Secretary of State, 41.3 percent of votes from Hidalgo County in the 2000 election were cast early. This election is seeing the same outcomes. “Right now I estimate that we will probably hit about 25,000 to 50,000 early voters,” said Teresa Navarro, Hidalgo County elections administrator. Navarro said voting early is convenient
“On Election Day [alone] Joey Hinojosa/The Pan American
DONE - Anthony Donskov (10), the 2003 CHL Man of the Year for the Lubbock Cotton Kings, chose to retire this week after playing two exhibition games with the Killer Bees.
7-footer continues to improve in Bronc center role By JOEY GOMEZ The Pan American
See Page 2
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Bees start stand with defending league champ By JOEY HINOJOSA The Pan American
Supreme Court news alters elections
be a bigger contributor, he worked hard in the offseason.” Davenport added that Gedminas’ improvement in combined speed and agility worked well for the veteran center. “This year I’m in better shape and better running shape,” Gedminas said. As this season finds the Broncs under the leadership of Davenport, Gedminas described working for both of them. “Bob (Hoffman) was tactical, exes and zeros,” Gedminas said. “Davenport is a ‘whatever it takes’ kind of guy.” This season Gedminas said that the Broncs have been working hard to get ready for the season and that he’s enjoyed the overall atmosphere surrounding his teammates in recent practices. “Hopefully we’re going to do better than last year…hopefully we’re going to have a winning season,” Gedminas said. “ (and) Hopefully we’re going to have a lot of fans come in and watch us.” The computer information systems major Delisa Guadarrama/The Pan American said he’s looking ahead to a future playing basketball here or overseas. “An internship is my second option,” he MAIN COG? - Alvaidas Gedminas is expected to be a force in the middle for this year’s UTPA men’s basketadded. ball team. The second year Bronc is from Lithuania.
we will hit 55,000 to 60,000 voters. That means the lines will be long. I say take advantage of early voting, there is plenty of locations and plenty of time to vote.”
October 28, 2004 _____________ Criminal Justice junior Eddie Castillo fulfills his obligation by voting Monday at the Library.
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Joel De La Rosa/The Pan American
SPORTS
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UTPA reexamines goals during reaccreditation By EDWINA P. GARZA The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American is starting its twoyear process in order to become reaccredited with Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). A group of faculty and students are now working to meet the Sept. 10, 2006 deadline to keep UTPA an accredited institution. SACS, based out of Georgia, is the regional body for higher education accreditation for states such as Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Georgia, and Texas, among others. According to the organization’s Web site, an accredited institution, “maintains clearly specified education objectives that are consistent with its mission and appropriate to the degrees it offers, and that it is successful in achieving its stated objective.” The last time UTPA was up for reaccreditation was in 1996, as the process repeats itself every decade. Involved in that process was political science professor William Turk.
In 1996, Turk was on the assessment committee, and said he’s seen the process change. “They changed it significantly from what it was 10 years ago,” Turk said. One of SACS’ major changes is the presentation of the institution report. In 1996, UTPA submitted a 1,000-page report; now everything is done electronically through the Internet. Ten years later, Turk volunteered to be the coordinator and liaison of the project. He explained what the process will be like
for UTPA. “[The process involves] two main pieces,” Turk said. “One team does an audit of the university, they answer almost 80 questions on what the university has been doing, the graduation rate, what the core requirements are, a financial and student audit, and all of those kinds of core questions have to be answered.” He also said they are answered in a one- or two-page singlespaced narrative and provide info over the Internet. Requirements are one side; the Quality Enhancement Plan is the second main part. Turk said that every university that goes through the process must navigate a five-year quality enhancement plan. “It’s specifically aimed at enhancing student learning, and it can be something ongoing, or something we want to build on, or it can be something brand new,” Turk explained. Captain of the Quality Enhancement Plan is the director of the Writing Center, Judy Davidson. The main job of the captain,
See ACCREDITATION page 11
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OPINION
October 28, 2004
letters
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cartoons
SPORTS
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Edinburg bragging rights on the line Friday Unbeaten Bobcats and Jaguars to break up tie at top of District 31-5A
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By JACOB ALEGRIA The Pan American
PAN AMERICAN 1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 http://www.panam.edu/dept/panamerican 53rd Year – No. 10
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Supreme Court appointment might follow election A new development arose this past weekend with the hospitalization of Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist, adding to one of the most controversial and divided presidential elections of our time. Rehnquist was hospitalized after being diagnosed with thyroid cancer. The Supreme Court released a two-paragraph statement of the news and also interrupted this week’s work, Arianna Vazquez which will resume next Monday with Rehnquist heading it. The chief justice, who turned 80 earlier this month, is one of the most conservative justices in the court and the second oldest chief justice to preside. Although he said that he does not plan to retire, his current health status brings new dimensions to the election. Whoever wins the presidential election has the chance to appoint a Supreme Court Justice, who stays on the court for life or until he or she decides to retire. Rehnquist was appointed to the court by President Richard Nixon in 1972 and was named chief justice by President Ronald Reagan in 1986. According to textbooks, when a president has the opportunity to assign a justice to the court, their platforms and ideas are still seen and acted upon even after death. In the case of Nixon’s, appointee is still serving and to this day has voted on important issues, such as limiting abortion and preserving the death penalty, according to the AP News Web site. However, Rehnquist’s spot may not be the only one to become available. Three or four more spots are also being discussed. Most of the justices serving in the court are in their late 70s and early 80s and those most likely to retire are the three oldest members: conservative Rehnquist, John Paul Stevens, 84, who usually votes with the court’s four-member liberal wing, and Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, 74. At a time like this, when the presidential election is as close as it seems and every vote will count, the presidential candidates have been bombarded with questions concerning the possibility of being able to assign a justice to the court. If this happens, whoever wins can and will have the ultimate power over the rulings for controversial issues, such as abortion and gay marriages. Like Nan Aron of Alliance for Justice, a liberal group that monitors judicial nominations, stated in a USA Today Web site, “The next president will set the direction of the Supreme Court not for just four
years, but for four decades.” Most liberals are aware of the new possibilities and know if President George W. Bush is re-elected he would have the chance to change the usual 5-4 decisions seen in Supreme Court rulings, having the opportunity to reverse Roe v. Wade, which gave women the right to an abortion. And he also has the option to end possibility of having gay marriages legalized. However, as stated in the News Day Web site, in the recent debates, President Bush has often said that his challenger Sen. John Kerry, has an abortion-rights litmus test. A litmus test can be defined as one that uses a single indicator to prompt a decision, according to the Webster’s Dictionary Web site. Bush states that Kerry uses the litmus test for federal judicial selections and that he himself does not have one. Bush has also noted that he will pick judges who will interpret the U.S. Constitution, but will not use a litmus test. But Bush has also been quoted as saying he wants strict constructionists as judges and justices because they will follow the philosophy that rules should be based on the literal words stated in the Constitution. However, strict constructionists believe that the right to an abortion is not found in the Constitution. Kerry on the other hand, is pro-choice and has stated that he wants judges to uphold the constitutional laws and the justices’ decisions. According to the News Day Web site, Kerry said, “I’m not going to appoint a judge to the court who’s going to undo a constitutional right. I believe that the right of choice is a constitutional right.” The right to a gay marriage should also be a constitutional right and one given to the American people. However, in one of the debates, Bush said that homosexuality was a choice. He stills defines marriage as a basic institution between a man and a woman. Kerry agreed with Bush on the aspect of marriage being a union between a man and a woman, but stated that same-sex marriages should be left up to the states. The bottom line is that the states are going to go to the Supreme Court justices for guidance and it will be up to the nine justices to make same-sex marriages legal or not. If the vacancies, do in fact, become available it will be up to the president-elect for 2004 to place a justice in the seat to interpret the Constitution the way most of the Americans prefer to view it as, as the right of choice concerning gay marriages or the right for abortions. Most prefer the liberal way, but it all comes down to Nov. 2 when either a liberal or a conservative will take the seat and rule society by their beliefs.
Bobcat pride seems to be running high once again in the city of Edinburg; however the only difference is this year there’s a young cat with a new tradition of its own. The Edinburg Economedes High School Jaguars are trying to make themselves the new “big cat” in town and look to steal the town for the first time. Although, the Bobcats are the traditional team of the town, this year the favorite appears to be the Jaguars. Still, Edinburg enters the match for city pride on a five-game winning streak after starting the season with three straight losses. Every year the Bobcats find a way to make a late push and this year hasn’t been any different, as they have won their share of big games this season. Leadership has been a key to success. There is a great deal at stake for both teams even though the Bobcats have already clinched a playoff spot with their win last week over P-SJ-A. District title hopes are on the line, not to mention the city championship and bragging rights. Last week, the Bobcats defeated the wounded but feisty Bears, 28-26 hardfought victory. Although the Bears were without star running back Marcos Hernandez, they came to play but came up short against a relentless Edinburg team. The win is one that can be attributed to leadership on the team, said Bobcat Coach Robert Vela. “Our seniors have been great leaders and everyone has come together, their all playing for each other,” Vela said. The Bobcats will need all the leadership and playmaking ability they have in order to slow down an explosive and potentially high-powered Jag offense, led by record-breaking and heartbreaking running back Ryan Richardson, one of the Valley’s best
running backs. Richardson leads the Valley in rushing yards with 1,633 and is coming off a Valley all-time best 398-yard rushing performance last week against the Weslaco Panthers. He also tied the Valley record for touchdowns in a game with six and now has 24 on the season.
CITY CHAMPIONSHIP DISTRICT 31-5A EDINBURG HIGH (4-0, 5-3) vs. ECONOMEDES (4-0, 4-3) 7:30 p.m. Friday at Cats Stadium Richardson’s ability is something that coach Vela is well aware of. “Ryan Richardson is probably the best running back to come out of Edinburg, we know he’s going to get his yards,” said Vela. However, the Jaguars have other weapons, like fullback Derek Garcia, which makes for a great one-two punch. “Ryan can lullaby you, but they have other weapons like Derek Garcia, but we have to make plays,” said Vela. The Jaguars will also have their hands full, because the Bobcats have their own weapons including senior quarterback and leader Anthony De la Vina, manning the offense along with running back Jesse Galvan who is improving every week. The
weapons also include the twin powers of Glen and Kevin Cowan, brothers who play defensive tackle and defensive end, respectively. De la Vina came through in a big way last week against the Bears on a gutsy fourth-down call; he lined up as the punter and went straight up the middle for a 36-yard gain. It was a crucial point in the game and set up a 15-yard touchdown run three plays later allowing Edinburg to retake the lead and the eventual win. Galvan also came through with a stellar performance of his own and finished the night with 146 yards on 14 carries and two touchdowns. He had a big 71-yard touchdown run that helped to excite the team and fans. The Cowan brothers are simply a big presence on the defensive side of the ball; both stand at well over six feet tall and weigh just a shade over 210 pounds. Edinburg started the season with a tough schedule facing San Benito, Harlingen and Corpus Christi Calallen, and the road to the end of the season doesn’t get any easier this week: Economedes and next week perennial powerhouse Donna. However, first comes the Jaguars and it figures to be no easy task. Both teams have weapons on both sides of the ball, and this should be another great one on the Valley high school football schedule. The game features two teams that have the ability to score from almost anywhere on the field. This is something that coach Vela knows all too well. “This game could turn into a shootout, but we have to execute,” he noted. In the end, however this game may come down to the final possession. “We want to slow them down, but it might come down to whoever has the ball last,” said Vela. “It’s going to come down to whoever makes the least amount of mistakes and let the best team win.”
Cross country teams looking to keep running By DARYL GONZALES The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American cross country season is nearing the end with the Independent Championships Saturday in Corpus Christi. The men’s and women’s teams are both young but that hasn’t been a problem this season. The men’s team is heading into this weekend’s meet with confidence from a solid season. They have finished all five meets in good standing. Junior transfer Hector Gandara (Mission, TX/Pratt Community College) has been a sure standout, as he has recorded the best time for the Broncs in three meets. At his last meet Gandara placed 13th out of 185 at the Auburn Invitational, and was named that same week the Independent Runner of the week. “I think we have good shot at winning,” Gandara said. “And then we have regionals after that.” He and the rest of the squad are steadily anticipating this meet to see where they stand among Independents. They are already familiar with the terrain, as they competed in the Islander Splash and placed fourth out of six teams earlier in the fall. “I think that it might throw a couple of teams off, because they haven’t raced there,” Gandara said. “I feel pretty confident.” Gandara says that his team is “progressing steadily,” and hopes that it will carry over to the meet this weekend. He also said that his success is thanks to the rest of his team and his coaches who help him out physically and mentally. “Some of my teammates help me out on the long intervals,” Gandara said. “We should be able to run fast.” Assistant cross country coach Peter Hess says that the men’s team has ran hard all season and it shows. He expects Hector Gandara to be the front-runner who also
has a great group of guys behind him that have been working hard all year long. “Our main goal was to stay healthy and run well, and I think we’re doing that well,” assistant cross country coach Peter Hess said. “With a young team we’ve really put together a season to really prepare us for the end of the year.” Whoever said that experience is everything didn’t tell freshman Bertha Castillo (Mission, TX/Mission H.S.) who has been having a remarkable rookie season. This young standout has been showing the rest of the competition that she isn’t one to be taken for granted. She has helped her team come up with pretty good finishes during this season with her eighth, fifth, and 21st place finishes against tough competition. She was also named Independent Runner of the week Oct. 12 for her success that week. The women’s team will also be competing at the Independent Championships in Corpus Christi where members hope to show the rest that youth can be a good thing. They too have a bit of an advantage on the rest of the field since they have some knowledge of the course. “We definitely have a great advantage,” Hess commented. “I think we can be competitive.” Also helping with her experience is junior Dannely Flores (Brownsville, TX/Hanna H.S.) who has been steadily performing well through the season. She has been one of the Lady Broncs top runners, finishing as the second best runner in three out of the four meets. The team can probably expect another great finish this Saturday from Flores. “Bertha has been out number one runner every time she’s raced,” Hess said. “Carla Hernandez and Dannely Flores work to run very strong.” The teams look to make it to the NCAA Regional Championships in Waco in two weeks, if they do well enough in Corpus.
Delisa Guadarrama/The Pan American
LEADER - Hector Gandara will be the men’s cross country team’s main hope as the Independent Championships are run Oct. 30 in Corpus Christi.
SPORTS
October 28, 2004
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Fall season wrapping up soon for tennis Broncs By ROY RAMIREZ The Pan American
With regionals in the books for the men and the final days of regional competition coming up this weekend for the women, Coach Paul Soliz is already looking forward to the spring semester. “We need to do a lot of work to prepare if we are going to be successful in the spring,” said the UTPA tennis coach. The men’s squad looked strong in action at the University of TexasAustin for the ITA regional tournament Oct. 22-23. Sophomore standout Gary Bianco, from Annecy, France, blazed through the singles consolation bracket with three straight victories before dropping a straight-set decision (7-6, 7-5) to Shaun Ellingson of Louisiana State in the semifinals. Senior Jeremy Salvo also recorded an early round victory before giving up straight sets (6-1, 6-4) to nationally ranked (16th) Travis Helgeson of Texas. All three men’s
doubles teams were eliminated after first round advancement. Soliz expressed disappointment over the women’s 1-6 record in competition Oct. 15-16. Freshman Silke Buksik recorded the only victory for the Broncs, over Christine Majchrowcz of Centenary College, while Buksik and fellow freshman Katherine Barto fell out of doubles competition after losing two straight matches. Looking ahead, Soliz is looking for the women to bounce back for final regional tournament competition Oct. 29-30 at Texas A&M in College Station. Men’s competition has wrapped for the fall. He said that, overall, this has been a solid semester for his teams. “It’s been a good fall and I feel like I know the players now. We hope to do better in the spring.” Broncs tennis action resumes in the spring with the men in Conference Action versus Nicholls State Feb. 12 Delisa Guadarrama/The Pan American and the women resuming Feb. 4 at FINALE The men are finished for the year. Here, Gary Bianco hits the ball in a recent practice. The women Abilene Christian. have one meet remaining, Oct. 29-30 at UT-San Antonio.
Akers comes home Friday By JACOB ALEGRIA The Pan American Fred Akers came to town in 1962, where he became the Edinburg High School head football coach. Now, over 40 years later, Akers and his coaching staff will be honored as Fred Akers and Staff Day is proclaimed. Edinburg City officials and Edinburg School Board members will hold the proclamation ceremony on Oct. 29. The coach and staff will be honored Oct. 30 at 7 p.m. in the Edinburg City Auditorium, located on West McIntyre Adjacent to the old university buildings. Akers was able to re-establish the winning tradition in Edinburg and at the University of Texas. He demanded discipline, valued determination and emphasized the basics. Fundamentals were another aspect he believed essential to success, and that same mentality was carried over to his assistants. Akers was considered to be a great motivator and his attitude for success spread to his teams. There was an attitude and he never let anyone on his team quit. The players were taught that in order to be successful they needed to stick to fun-
Fred Akers early ‘60s
Courtesy of Robert Vela
damentals, even when the odds were against them. That same attitude helped to inspire each one of his teams, and many of his players went on to receive All District and All Valley honors. Akers also stressed good academic work during his coaching career, telling his athletes that graduation was one of the most important things they could accomplish. Although he left Edinburg High in 1965, his time with the Bobcats brought back not only tradition but success both on and the field. Akers and his assistants helped to inspire students to become prominent and successful people in their community. After leaving Edinburg Akers accepted a position as an assistant for legendary coach Darrell K. Royal at the University of Texas. He served as an assistant under Royal for nine years and finally earned an opportunity to become the head coach of the Texas Longhorns. Akers brought many honors to the university and earned many honors himself. Among the honors were National Coach of the Year in 1977, Southwest Conference Coach of the Year four times and Regional Coach of the Year four times as well. He also led the Longhorns to the national title game twice, in 1977 and 1983. Other accomplishments included leading the Longhorns to a No. 1 national ranking four times, and to nine bowl games. Akers has the second-best winning percentage of any coach in Southwest Conference history and is one of only two coaches to have ever coached a Heisman, Lombardi and Outland Trophy winners at the same school. Although Akers earned the respect, honor and admiration from people all across America, he never forgot about his time in Edinburg. He has shared many fond memories with his former players, which have become known as the “Fred Akers Boys,” by his colleagues. His first coaching job at Edinburg and the friends he helped to inspire form a lasting legacy. For more information contact Ramiro Perez at 624-6805 or Robert Vela at 316-7309.
Writers, photographers wanted for the sports section. Ideas for stories are also welcome. E-mail Joey Gomez at dedhead489@yahoo.com
NEWS Women assaulted by jogger
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Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) NIHL is preventable. All individuals should understand the hazards of noise and how to practice good health in everyday life. ■ Know which noises can cause damage (those above 90 decibels). ■ Wear earplugs or other hearing protective devices when involved in a loud activity (special earplugs and earmuffs are available at hardware stores and sporting good stores). ■ Be alert to hazardous noise in the environment. ■ Protect children who are too young to protect themselves.
By EMMA CLARK The Pan American
■ Make family, friends, and colleagues aware of the hazards of noise.
Three female students were assaulted on the University of Texas-Pan American campus late on Wednesday October 20th. An 18-year-old male was later identified by campus police and given three separate citations for each attack. He was also issued with a criminal trespass warrant, since the suspect was not a student. The suspect was jogging through the campus when he attacked the first victim outside the College of Science and Engineering shortly after 10 p.m. She contacted University Police and gave them a description, which was then distributed among patrolling officers. Sgt. Brian Miller identified the suspect outside the Academic Services Building. The second victim, who was still close by, alleged he had attacked her in the same way, by groping her breasts. All three attacks happened between 10 and 10:30 p.m. University Police are investigating an assault claim from another female student reported the week before these most recent attacks. The suspect will have to attend Edinburg Municipal Court within the 10day citation period, according to Sgt. James Loya of the University Police Department. “Based on the information, it constitutes assault by contact, which is what we call, a bookable offense,” Loya said. Edinburg Police Chief Quirino Muñoz explained that this is a class C misdemeanor. “Had there been bodily injury, or pain and discomfort then it would be a class A misdemeanor,” Muñoz said. He also said if the victims had been under 17 years old, the charge would have been a felony. The suspect faces up to a $500 fine, or what amount the judge sees fit, according to Loya. Should he fail to pay that fine, or approach the university campus again, he will face jail time. Sophomore Darryl Scott feels that lack of police on campus is to blame for these occurrences. “They should add at least half more of what they have. They seemed to have cut down,” Scott said. Loya disputes this claim.
See ASSAULT page 12
■ Have a medical examination by an otolaryngologist, a physician who specializes in diseases of the ears, nose, throat, head, and neck, and a hearing test by an audiologist, a health professional trained to identify and measure hearing loss and to rehabilitate persons with hearing impairments. Source: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
Can you hear me now? High cell phone volume can damage hearing By LYLONY CAZARES The Pan American
Like many students, Cynthia Vasquez has reached a point where she cannot go through a day without her cell phone. She uses over 2,500 minutes monthly to keep in touch with friends and family, as well as substituting her cell for a house phone. Yet Vasquez said she never thought using her cell phone could cause damage to her hearing until noticing how loud her device is at some moments; the noise often hurts her ear. “There are times when I have to turn the volume level up on my phone to be able to hear the other person talking,” Vasquez said. “Then someone else calls me who talks louder and I forget to lower the volume. Afterward I notice a sharp pain in my ear after the conversation.” Hugo Jurado, general manager at Express Communication in Weslaco, notices how a cell phone’s volume could be a likely problem to a person’s hearing. Yet has not faced the problem. “I am always on my cell phone, and as a long-term cellphone user, I have not seen a great impact in my hearing due to the volume of my phone,” Jurado said. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders Web site explained hearing involves a series of events where the ear converts sound waves into electrical signals that are sent to the brain and interpreted as sound. The ear has three main parts: the outer, middle and inner ear. Sound waves enter through the outer ear and reach the middle
ear where they cause the eardrum to vibrate. But when an individual is exposed to harmful sounds such as those too loud that are over 90-decibels (dB), over exposure to them can cause the sensitive inner ear structure irreversible damage. Thus, the damage causes Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). Nola Radford, communication disorders professor at University of Texas-Pan American, mentioned how cell phones could possibly cause NIHL due to repeated exposure. “The particular sound is not the culprit, alone; the loudness of the sound is the culprit,” Radford explained. “At the same time, some sources of sound are naturally louder than others.” She also mentioned how loudness is measured in units called decibels and conversational speech occurs at a loudness of about 50 to 60 dB. “Exposure to very loud and extremely loud sounds should be avoided,” Radford said. “An intensity of 90 to 110 dB is considered very loud to extremely loud, while lawnmowers, shop tools, truck traffic, bass drum rolls and personal headsets with adjustable volumes set at the extreme are examples of very loud to extremely loud sounds.” According to Radford sounds which occur at levels of 120 dB and above are extremely painful. This would include jet plane take-offs, amplified music and car stereos. “It (loud car stereos) may seem like fun now, but regular and lengthy periods of sound exposure can accelerate loss of
hearing over and above the gradual decrease in hearing that sometimes occurs naturally with age,” Radford said. “If the inner ear is damaged at a young age as a result of noise exposure, hearing loss may be accelerated to the point of profound hearing loss or deafness.” According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, the symptoms of NIHL increase gradually over a period of continuous exposure. Sounds may become distorted or muffled and making it difficult for the person to understand speech. The individual may also not be aware of the loss, but it can be detected with a hearing test. In order to protect ears from NIHL, Radford suggests using hearing protection like ear plugs to reduce the intensity of noise when using noisy equipment; lowering the volume on stereos; and trying to keep a good distance between yourself and the sound source at concerts. “It would help to not use a loud cell phone in a noisy environment,” Radford said. “Go to a quieter area and don't adjust the volume up.” However, Jurado believes cell phones do not cause a major health risk or hearing loss to users. “In my opinion, I don't believe people should worry, people should be familiar with their volume settings and know when to adjust the volume of the handset to lessen the risk of damage to their hearing,” Jurado said. “Also, using a leather case as an additional protection and comfort for your ears would help.”
NEWS
October 28, 2004
Page 4
Staff profile: Mike Metzger
SPORTS CLIPBOARD
The man behind the wheel Lone shuttle driver known for being very conversational By J. DENISSE CANTU Special to the The Pan American Riding the shuttle for most students at The University of Texas-Pan American is nothing more than a daily routine, but for the man behind the wheel, each round is a whole new experience. Mike Metzger, 61, UTPA’s first and only shuttle driver, said he takes great pride in his job. He drives the shuttle through the campus route, an average of 25 times per day Monday through Friday. Although he drives in endless circles all day, he said he enjoys his job because he gets to meet different people every time. “This job is more fun than a barrel of monkeys,” Metzger said. A simple thumbs-up or a friendly wave will get any student a ride on the shuttle. Following his warm enthusiastic greeting, Metzger speaks his mind. He captivates the attention of passengers with his stories. “I’ll talk about life, about history, about anything. If there are no girls on the shuttle we’ll talk about them,” Metzger said. “Mr. Metzger is very outgoing, very talkative, has a
good sense of humor and is very responsible,” said Robert Cantu, assistant director of Auxiliary Services and University Bookstore manager. Cantu has known Metzger for almost five years. He said all he hears are favorable comments about Metzger from students and staff. “I’m also trying to teach a little chivalry here,” Metzger said. When the shuttle gets full all he says is “men you know what to do” and the men on the shuttle stand up and give their seats to the women. Many times Metzger will also initiate debates on different social issues. Even if it’s the first group of students in the morning, Metzger’s enthusiasm brings many students on the shuttle to hop into the debate. “I’ve talked to two different students who told me how Mike gets all the students on the shuttle to engage in debates. The students enjoy that very much,” Cantu said. “I just love discussions. Ask my wife,” said Metzger. “She calls it arguing, but I call it discussing.” Metzger has been happily married for 38 years to Vicky Metzger, who he met through a blind date. He and his -Mike Metzger, wife are the proud of two sons and UTPA shuttle driver parents have four grandchildren. Born in San Antonio, but a resident of McAllen since the age of 4, Metzger spent most of his life around construction with his father. Driving the shuttle has now become Metzger’s full-time job; however, he has been employed with UTPA since Sept. 1994. He began by working part-time checking the
“This job is more fun than a barrel of monkeys,”
Carving contest winners
1
FIRST PLACETelisa Peña was awarded for $40 carving a scary castle. SECOND PLACEPedro Polumin received 2nd place, and $30 for depicting a dragon on his pumpkin.
2
3
THIRD PLACEJerome Warner won $20 for creating a scary face. The awards were given in the form of Bronc Bucks, which can be redeemed at the Studet Union or cafeteria.
Students carve for Bronc Bucks By GINMARIE MABRY The Pan American Eleven students spent their lunch break Wednesday carving monsters, dragons and even a martini glass with toothpick included, to win money for food. The pumpkin-carving contest hosted by the Student Union gave participants a two-hour limit for a chance to win $20-40 in Bronc Bucks. “The money can be spent at the cafeteria or at the Student Union’s convenience store and food court,” said Edna Guajardo, Union assistant director. Students were judged on their freestyle creativity and appearance of the work; stencils were prohibited. The contest was free of charge and open to all students. “Halloween is my favorite time of the year,” said Pedro Polumin, 19, mechanical engineering major who participated while taking a break between classes. “I’m going to sketch a dragon and cut it out slowly.” His “Rising demon pumpkin” won him 2nd place and $30 of Bronc Bucks. Others students intended just to have fun and get the
See PUMPKIN page 12
SPORTS
October 28, 2004
Curse of Bambino put to rest The Boston Red Sox seem to be the most shocking team in the postseason. They came back from a three-game deficit to win the American League Championship Series in seven. As the Sox entered the Major League World Series, they were coming off a four-game winning streak that never stopped. They found themselves up three games to none against the St. Louis Cardinals. On Wednesday night the Sox pushed that mark to eight straight wins and captured their sixth World Series title with a 3-0 Game Four win. The last one was in 1918. They swept the Cardinals ending the so-called Curse of the Bambino.
FOR THE RECORD NFL WEEK 7
MEN’S GOLF
Sunday, Oct. 24
Kansas City 56, Atlanta10
The Nelson Invitational Stanford G.C. Stanford, CA Oct. 22-24 3 round par 69 6444 yards
Jacksonville 27, Indianapolis 24
1 New Mexico Univ. 277 269 284 830 +2
Miami 31, St. Louis 14 Detroit 28, N.Y. Giants 13 Baltimore 20, Buffalo 6
Tampa Bay 19, Chicago 7
2 UNLV
279 268 288 835 +7
San Diego 17, Carolina 6
3 Georgia State
275 279 283 837 +9
SHUTTLE BUS - Mike Metzger opens the shuttle bus door Wednesday at the Edinburg Baseball Stadium. He is the first and only driver pulling the door of the university’s shuttle service. fire extinguishers around campus, and he also worked as a teacher’s aide at the Evan Regional Juvenile Center prior to working for UTPA. Because of his immense knowledge and experience in bricklaying, Metzger obtained his teacher’s certification and taught bricklaying at McAllen High School for 14 years. He taught a vocational class that would teach students how to become bricklayers and learn the basis of construction. Despite his knowledge of construction, Metzger never finished college. Right out of high school, he went to Tarleton University in Stephenville, Texas, where he attempted to study business administration, but only attended for one semester. “My grades were so low that if I’d leave, they’d burn my records,” Metzger said. Then Metzger went to Del Mar College in Corpus Christi to take courses in restaurant management, but was there for only one year. “I just wasn’t college material,” Metzger said. He said facing his father and trying to explain to him that he didn’t want to go to college was very difficult. When it comes to math, Metzger said he is completely lost. However, hand him the blue prints of any building, and he can tell you exactly how many bricks it will take to build it. “College just wasn’t for me, but I do support education,” Metzger said. Although college didn’t work out for him, he still encourages students to pursue an education and to try to go beyond receiving a bachelor’s. He said that the more education a student gets, the better job he or she will get. “The world today has changed a lot. Everyone should get a college degree,” said Metzger. “If you want a college education, I’ll be willing to fight for you to make sure you get it.”
The University of Texas-Pan American women’s golf team came up big with a first-place finish at the Ellington Invitational hosted by Sam Houston State University Oct. 26. At the end of the third round the Lady Broncs had a 12-stroke lead over runners-up Lamar and McNeese State. Leading the way for the Lady Broncs was senior Crystal Frazier, who placed fifth individually and finished the three rounds with a career-low score of 229. Elizabeth Rodriguez placed ninth, one stroke behind was Stefanie Maynard in tenth place with three-round total of 232. The team will compete again when it hosts the Lady Broncs Classic Nov. 8-9.
22; blocks, Winker Cruz 1, Danielle Holthe 1; aces, Stephanie Redd 2 record: 8-11 UTEP: Kills, Kary Stacy 16; assists, Katie Smith 41; digs, Jaymie Swift 19;
284 275 285 844 +16
blocks,Ashley Ripple 7; aces, Heather
285 279 280 844 +16
Brisnahan2, Jaymie Swift 2
New England 13, N.Y. Jets 7
6 Kansas
287 278 282 847 +19
record: (8-10)
7 Kansas State
292 271 286 849 +21
8 Colorado
291 280 282 853 +25
9 Notre Dame
279 288 287 854 +26
Green Bay 41, Dallas 20 Arizona 25, Seattle 17 New Orleans 31, Oakland 26 open; Pittsburgh, Washington, San Francisco, Houston
Monday, Oct 25
Week 8 Sunday, Oct. 31
10 UC Davis
295 286 278 859 +31
11 West Florida
292 287 292 871 + 43
12 Idaho
293 289 293 875 +47
T-13 N. Colorado
286 287 303 876 +48
15 Florida Southern 291 296 296 883 +55 16 UTPA
304 301 297 902 +74
Detroit at Dallas, Noon
UTPA VOLLEYBALL
Jacksonville at Houston, Noon
Wednesday, Oct. 27
Indianapolis at Kansas City, Noon
UTPA FIELDHOUSE
N.Y. Giants at Minnesota, Noon Cincinnati at Tennessee, Noon
UTSA DEF. UTPA 30-23, 18-30, 30-18, 30-32, 15-4
Green Bay at Washington, Noon
UTPA: Kills, Cathi Netemeyer 17;
Baltimore at Philadelplia, Noon
assists, Karen Lyons 42; digs, Carol
Atlanta at Denver, 3:05 p.m.
Marcengo 42; blocks,Cathi Netemeyer
Carolina at Seattle, 3:05 p.m.
4; aces, Heather Bravo 2
New England at Pittsburgh, 3:15 p.m. Oakland at San Diego, 3:15 p.m. San Francisco at Chicago, 7:30 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 1 Miami at N.Y. Jets, 8 p.m. Note: all times central standard time
Baseball World Series Game 1 Boston 11, St. Louis 9 Game 2 Boston 6, St. Louis 2 Game 3 Boston 4, St. Louis 1
Wednesday, Oct. 27 Game 4 Boston 3, St. Louis 0
UTPA SPORTS WOMEN’S GOLF Ellingson Fall Classic Waterwood National Livingston, TX Oct. 25-26 3 round par 72 5983 yards 1 Texas Pan-Am 307 307 306 920 +56 T-2 Lamar Univ.
313 310 309 932 +68
T-2 McNeese State 323 311 298 932 +68 4 North Texas
314 306 318 938 +74
5 Jackson State
321 322 314 957 +93
6 Nicholls State 318 322 324 964 +100 T-7 New Orleans 328 318 323 969 +105
T-7 A&M Corpus
328 318 323 969 +105 328 318 323 969 +105
10 Sam Houston 325 328 323 976 +112
Nov. 8
Lady Bronc Classic
Nov. 9
Lady Bronc Classic
RGV FOOTBALL Week 8 Thursday, Oct. 21 District 31-5A Edinburg Economedes 63, Weslaco 17 . District 32-4A PSJA Memorial 28, Browns. Lopez 7
T-13 Colorado State 289 288 299 876 +48
Arizona at Buffalo, Noon
T-7 Texas State
Editors note: The Oct. 21 issue of The Pan American incorrectly attributed a photo of Terry Dunbar. The photo was taken by The Pan American reporter Joey Hinojosa.
Karen Lyons 33; digs, Carol Marcengo
T-4 Stanford
UTPA bids farewell to Weidner with reception
Lady Broncs score big
30-24, 30-23, 30-16 UTPA:Kills, Heather Bravo 14; assists,
T-4 Missouri
Major League
The university will be throwing Bill Weidner a reception to thank him for all his contributions to the school, before he takes his new post as director of athletics at Weber State University on November 1. Weidner arrived at UTPA in 1998 encountering an athletic program that had been struggling with probation through the 1990s. He has since cleared the school’s bad record, and the athletic department has since received full certification from the NCAA. The reception is to be held tonight at the ITT International room from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MEMORIAL GYM UTEP DEF. UTPA
Minnesota 20, Tennessee 3
Redskins predict next president of the United States
Franco Caballero/The Pan American
Thursday, Oct. 21
Philadelphia 34, Cleveland 31 OT
Cincinnati 23, Denver 10
It is proven that the Washington Redskins football games have been able to correctly predict the winner of the presidential elections dating back to 1936. In 1936, the Washington Redskins, then called the Boston Braves, beat the Staten Island Stapletons, 19-6, securing Franklin D. Roosevelt’s reelection to his second term. This is how it works; in the past 15 presidential elections the Washington Redskins have successfully predicted the next president of the United States by either winning or losing their last home game prior to the election. They can determine whether the incumbent party will win the election. On Oct. 30, 2000, the Washington Redskins lost to the Tennessee Titans 27-21. There was no real incumbent candidate, because former President Bill Clinton served his presidential term, as the constitution permits, but Al Gore was vice president during the time, and lost. Well there you go, guess you can blame the Washington Redskins for George W. Bush being elected, or not. This year the Washington Redskins host the Green Bay Packers Sunday, Oct. 31. So let’s see if this tradition stays alive.
Page 13
record: (8-15) UTSA: Kills, Connie Picard 18; assists Deedee Strickland 48; digs, Brittany
Friday, Oct. 22 District 30-5A La Joya 41, McAllen Rowe 13 McAllen Memorial 42, McAllen High 35 Rio Grande City 17, Sharyland 6 District 31-5A Edinburg High 28, PSJA 26 PSJA North 21, Edinburg North 13 District 32-5A Brownsville Pace 27, Harlingen South 20 Harlingen High 45, Brownsville Porter 10 San Benito 42, Los Fresnos 20 District 32-4A Edcouch Elsa 42, Weslaco East 0 MissionHigh 26, Mercedes 14 Mission Veterans 28, Roma 9 District 32-3A Hidalgo 41, Progreso 14 Port Isabel 15, La Feria 10 Lyford 20, Rio Hondo 14 District 32-2A Premont 47, La Villa 12 Riviera 27, Santa Rosa 12
Hildebrand 15; blocks, Jennifer Emelogu 4; aces Deedee Strickland 2, Erin Mcmillan 2, Katy Barnett 2 record (13-11)
Monday, Oct. 25 STRAHAN COLISEUM TEXAS STATE DEF. UTPA
30-27, 30-20, 30-28 UTPA:Kills, Stephanie Redd 12; assists, Jen Dameworth 18; digs, Cathi Netemeyer 13; blocks, Stephanie Redd 4; aces, Cathi Netemeyer 3, Carol Marcengo 3 record: (8-14) TX State: Kills, Stephani Torregrosa 12 ; assists, Jessica Grisham 22; digs, Kristy Jones 16; blocks, Brandy Francis 3, Kacee Rogers 3; aces, Stephani Torregrosa 1, Jessica Grisham 1 record: (19-4)
Thursday, Oct. 22
Saturday, Oct. 23 District 32-5A Browns. Rivera 43, Browns. Hanna 0
Week 8 Friday, Oct 29 District 30-5A McAllen High at Rio Grande City La Joya at Sharyland McAllen Rowe at McAllen Memorial District 31-5A Weslaco at Donna PSJA North at PSJA High Edinburg High at Edinburg Economedes District 32-5A Harlingen High at San Benito Los Fresnos at Harlingen South Brownsville Porter at Brownsville Hanna District 32-4A Weslaco East at Roma PSJA Memorialat Mission High Mission Veterans at Mercedes Brownsville Lopez at Edcouch-Elsa
PAN AMERICAN CENTER NEW MEXICO STATE DEF. UTPA
30-18, 30-16, 30-25 UTPA:Kills, Stephanie Redd 12; assists, Karen Lyons 26; digs, Carol Marcengo 15; blocks, Danielle Holthe 2; aces, Stephanie Redd 1, Heather Bravo 1, Winker Cruz 1, Carol Marcengo 1 record: (8-13)
District 32-3A Rio Hondo at Port Isabel Raymondville at Hidalgo Lyford at La Feria District 32-2A Santa Rosa at Bishop Hebbronville at La Villa TAPPS District 4-5A SA Holy Cross at St. Joseph
NMSU: Kills, Sarah Silagy 11; Jackie Choi 39; digs, Brianna Akrie 20;blocks, Alice Borden 2, Tanya Allen 2, Kristin Hendricks 2; aces, Jordan Bostic 3 record: (19-2)
Saturday, Oct. 30 District 32-5A Brownsville Pace at Brownsville Rivera open: Edinburg North, Progreso
NEWS
October 28, 2004
PUMPKIN
Page 12
New face brings new ideas
continued from page 4
President speaks with international committee By EDWINA P. GARZA The Pan American
Melissa Martinez/The Pan American
CARVIN’ - Carla Reyna from Contributing to Overcome Cultural Oppression and Ongoing Negativity (C.O.C.O.O.N) participated Wednesday at the pumpkin-carving contest to support her sorority.
Halloween festivities started. It was the first carving experience for Telisa Peña, 19, who started out with the idea of carving a scary face, but instead made a scary castle, winning 1st place and $40 Bronc Bucks. “I’m here to get into the Halloween spirit, and because of the prize,” said Peña, an English major. Not everybody won, but for some, participating was just as important. Carla Reyna, 20, communication disorders major, came out to support her student organization called Contributing to Overcome Cultural Oppression and Ongoing Negativity (C.O.C.O.O.N). “We are trying to expand our multicultural group,” Reyna said.“To get people interested and involved.” Reyna’s pumpkin started out as Sen.
ASSAULT
John Kerry’s face, but had to end up as “Queen of Halloween,” with the pumpkin innards laid on top, as hair with a bow. When time was up judges walked over pumpkin seeds around tables, pointing and noting the students’ creative work. Becky Sanchez, a campus Resource 25 scheduler, was contemplating her decision. “I’m looking for something creative and unique,” she said. “It’s interesting, I’m glad they called me to judge.” Drama major Jerome Warner won third place and $20 Bronc Bucks, but hopes to do better next year. “I did it for the free pumpkin,” said Warner. “I get hungry a lot, I will spend that money.” Pumpkins will be displayed at the Union through Friday.
Little by little, the new university president is getting around on the listening tour she promised would consume the first semester of her reign. Dr. Blanca Cárdenas told the University of Texas-Pan American community as the fall convocation in August that her first few months in office would be long on research and short on action, and that she would be listening as various university organizations and departments briefed her on their agenda and plans for the future. The Advisory Committee in International Studies recently met Cárdenas to introduce the committee goals, as well as its function on campus. The committee, made up of UTPA faculty, advises the office of International Programs by suggesting ideas and giving recommendations for possible international programs that would help departments and colleges in fostering international education programs of teaching and research. The committee also works to promote UTPA and develop a working relationship with universities overseas. “It isn’t a policy-making committee, it’s just an advising body,” Marilu Salazar, director of International Programs said. Salazar explained what the group discussed with Cárdenas. “We presented the office and its duties which is aimed at academic exchange for faculty and students experiences abroad through the study abroad program,” Salazar said. “The committee is like a forum for discussions where we talk about ideas how we can improve the program or how we can develop more.” The committee’s first brief meeting with Cárdenas was met with a positive response, according to Salazar. “[Cárdenas] said to continue what we’re doing because we’re going with the right direction,”
Salazar said. Salazar mentioned that Cárdenas expressed her interest in the importance of maintaining international programs for the educational needs of UTPA students. The international programs allow students to get to know other countries and cultures including neighboring Mexico, where several UTPA students haven’t explored, Salazar said. “She’s very supportive of students and faculty,” Salazar added. Last year, about 40 faculty were involved in exchange or study abroad programs while almost 400 students participated in the summer study abroad programs, Salazar said. “For students, they are more valuable in the future for their careers because the world is becoming smaller and it’s an asset to have international experiences in one’s resume,” said Salazar. The Advisory Committee in International Studies also mentioned their latest project to Cárdenas, which is their annual International Week. Held on Nov. 15-19, the committee along with the office of International Programs will present a series of cultural presentations and lectures including the consul of Japan, African dancers as well as photo exhibits from India and Tuscany. “The goal is just to make the students and faculty, the university, as well as the community to make them aware of other cultures and international issues in order to bring awareness,” said Salazar. International Week takes place on university campuses across the United States for International Celebration Week. Having the yearly event helps students, faculty, and community members experience and understand cultures if they aren’t able to travel abroad. “It’s the easiest way to bring international knowledge because other students don’t have the opportunity to study abroad,” Salazar concluded.
October 28, 2004
NEWS
WAC committee aims to improve writing skills By JENILEE HERNANDEZ The Pan American
Through her experience with horses, assistant professor of English, Danika Brown knows that when riding a horse, if too much pressure is applied, the horse will get mixed signals and the ride can become disastrous. But for the inexperienced rider, common sense tells them to hold on for dear life, therefore applying pressure. The same thing happens in classrooms. Professors may assume that critical thinking is common sense for students, but it certainly is not. Brown said that critical thinking is a specific application of knowledge gained from experience. The Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) committee held a faculty workshop last week on how to write assignments incorporating critical thinking. The WAC was instituted by the Provost in Jan. 2003 to bring professors from all disciplinary fields together to discuss ways to improve their teaching skills and better ensure an unforgettable lesson. University Writing Center Director Judy Davidson believes that this mission is being accomplished. "What I believe we are doing - and I think any project like this is gradual - is raising the awareness of the importance of writing in all disciplinaries," Davidson said. "The interest has grown and we feel very pleased." Currently about 30 faculty members are involved in the committee. Davidson added that there has been a positive feedback from the participants. "The sharing and exchanging of ideas about teaching has been helpful. Even new faculty can learn from the more experienced," Davidson said. Rose Marie Penzerro, professor of social work, agreed that the WAC has allowed her to share and exchange ideas and develop relationships with other professors that may have never occurred. "The WAC committee allows me to have
interdisciplinary interaction,” Penzerro said. “We [professors] don't see each other all that much. Students have the interdisciplinary experience.” In this particular workshop, Penzerro coordinated the event by introducing the workshop and faculty members who spoke. Brown briefly explained what critical thinking was and its importance. She then passed the attention to Delilah Dotremon, professor of criminal justice. Dotremon shared her ideas of incorporating critical thinking in her classes. She said that being able to think this way is extremely important in her area because criminal justice requires a person to stay on their toes. The person must also write well because reports written will be on permanent record and should be error free. Therefore, Dotremon gives her students informal writing assignments. "I do pressure them (students) by giving them informal writing assignments to be done on the spot in the classroom, [in] a very short time frame," Dotremon said. Dotremon explained that this is an effort to get students’ creativity and ideas flowing, but added that cooperative learning plays a crucial role in critical thinking. Cooperative learning is bringing students together in small groups so they can work and help each other expand their knowledge. "In over 600 studies, we have learned the benefits of cooperative learning,” Dotremon said. “Students love to talk, they love to interact, they love to blow off some steam. So we put them in small groups. They get to talk.” By using this method, Dotremon believes students can learn more about learning to think. "What they retain lasts for a longer period of time," Dotremon said. Senior Claudia Elizondo is a criminal justice major who has adapted to Dotremon’s teaching methods. Elizondo believes that what she learns will be beneficial for her future.
continued from page 3
“We do have officers on bikes, on foot, and answering calls,” Loya said. “They are patrolling. We certainly have adequate officers in the evening. We are a growing campus.” Jennifer Williams, an English sophomore thinks the whole ordeal is frightening, especially since she herself is a jogger. “I am not surprised that people like that are out there, but I am surprised that it happened on campus.” Williams said. Williams also tries to jog with someone. Both the chief and Loya agree this is the best thing anyone can do to stay safe. “UTPA has an escort service, use it,” Muñoz said. “Stick to main travel areas and
avoid brush and the bushy areas.” Although he was not aware of this particular incident, Muñoz remains firm that University Police and the Edinburg Police Department have and will continue to work together fighting crime on and off campus. Muñoz’ UTPA counterpart offered still more advice. “Always be aware of your surroundings, and be prepared,” Loya said, adding that students should have their car keys ready, and if there is a lock on the car pop it to avoid fumbling around. “Use the emergency phones on campus if you need to.”
Melissa Martinez/The Pan American
BRAIN BOWL - Members of the Asian American Association and Sigma Lambda Beta square off at Wednesday’s Brain Bowl II competition. The Asian American Association won the match.
Page 5
Melissa Martinez/The Pan American
JAMMIN’ - Lead singer Johnny from Vinyl Dharma rocks the Quad Tuesday during Rockers Eve. They were joined by another Valley band, the December Drive, bringing students another night of rock tunes.
“I think, in the sense of being more confident in my opinions, it will help me. You use your brain,” Elizondo said. John Sargent, management marketing and international business professor, also shared his ideas on how he gets his students to think more critically. He said his students pick a country that they would like to learn more about. Students then have to read a newspaper that relates to that one country. For the final report, they need to write 16 chapters or summaries that coincide with the textbook. In essence, students write about any events taking place in the chosen country, such as politics and law in business. Sargent said he feels that this Internet report pushes students to achieve needed skills which will enable them to succeed in their career and life. “I really wanted my students to get excited about something and really develop some specific expertise in something they were interested,” Sargent said. Not only did this workshop inform faculty of critical thinking, but it also raised awareness of the importance of critical reading in their teachings. Davidson and others feel the response has been positive due to feedback. After each meeting, faculty members fill out an evaluation form to see what can be improved for next workshop. Sonia Alianak, professor of political science, enjoys the workshops because they have been beneficial for her. She attended a previous workshop which focused on time effective grading on essay assignments. "They have been helpful for me to grade faster," Alianak said. Three other workshops will be held in the spring with different topics. The next WAC workshop will be held Nov. 17 from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. in the Schilling Room located at the Library. It will discuss how to write assignments preventing plagiarism. Faculty members from all disciplines are invited.
October 28, 2004
NEWS
Page 6
Biking at school: A new trend Students choose alternative transportation on campus
“I tried crossing the street on my bike when the sign read ‘walk’ and a jerk in some car turned just as I got to the other side and almost hit me,” said Arnanda Smith, 20, Riding a bicycle to school may seem to have its a sophomore. According to the League of American Bicyclists, advantages, but it can also lead to a number of problems. Traffic seems to freeze as bicyclists easily zoom by, motorists are exclusively at fault in 60 percent of car-bike collisions, versus 17 percent leaving frustrated for cyclists. Texas also ranks students honking 14th in the number of cyclist furiously at other fatalities per capita. motorists. Students UTPA Campus Police Sgt. on bikes get sunlight, James Loya states breeze through traffic that it is safer when and don’t have to pay cyclists use the bike for parking since lanes provided. there are a variety of “We don’t have an bicycles chained up exact number of to the racks outside students that ride to the buildings at The school, but estimate University of Texasthat several hundred Pan American. use bikes, and they Unfortunately, all should use lanes of these semiprovided,” Loya said. glamorous benefits “However, if you are going to come with a price. Melissa Martinez/The Pan American ride on the street you must With the campus ROLLIN’ - English department lecturer Debbie Cole bikes off as she abide by the same traffic laws surrounded by traffic, makes her way through the residence halls yesterday afternoon. as the motorists.” moving through it Bicycles are becoming popular transportation for students and faculty. The only obvious bike lanes cannot be easily accomplished unless you dodge careless drivers with agile provided are those in front of the school on University tricks used by Olympic competitors or those in the X Drive. Statistics show that streets with bike lanes have significantly lower crash rates than either major or Games championship. By MURPHY JEFFRIES Special to The Pan American
residential streets without any bicycle lanes. Loya also mentioned that riding under the covered walkways is prohibited, and that signs around campus are placed to make all students aware of the rule. Although there haven’t been any cycling accidents reported this semester to the campus police, unreported incidents do occur. Sophomore Rich Garcia, 21, described his latest injury caused by a student riding under the covered walkways. “This guy came out of nowhere from behind me.,” Garza said. “I heard the clicking of his bike chain getting louder and before I looked back he nailed me in the calf, he kept going and yelled, ‘“Sorry dude.’” Cyclists seem to have it made when it comes to parking, except - Sgt. James Loya, UTPA Police they face the possibility of having their bike stolen. Loya suggests using a strong, thick wire-design lock as one of the best ways to ensure a bicycle will be there after class. “We have seen several thefts on campus because of thin chains securing the bikes. The thieves use bolt cutters to cut the lock,” Loya said. Another safety tip from Loya is to avoid using U-locks, because recent reports have proved these locks are easily pried by using a ballpoint pen. Students who live close by may benefit from cycling with good health, no parking fees or gas cost, preferred parking, and less traffic. However, riding and watching out for your life, and for others, can be a chore. Student bikers deal with the stress of wondering if their bike is secure, and have to abide by traffic laws; the pros of cycling might not outweigh the benefits of driving.
“However, if you are going to ride on the street you must abide by the same traffic laws as the motorists.”
UTPA students take initiative for Breast Cancer Awareness Month By ANA LEY The Pan American It is predicted that in 2004, over 40,000 women and 470 men will die from breast cancer in the United States. However, 97 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer can also survive more than five years. The National Cancer Society states that National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) is dedicated to “increasing awareness about the importance of the early detection of breast cancer through a nationwide campaign.” It began in 1985 as a weeklong campaign with two founding members. Today, the organization comprises millions of men and women across the country, yet the message it attempts to deliver to the American public remains consistent: know the facts and take precautions. At The University of Texas-Pan American, organizations are working to deliver this message on campus. Kappa Delta Chi and Sigma Lambda Gamma are promoting the campaign by distributing pink ribbons to students to endorse the idea that prevention is important for young women. “We created our own three-ad campaign,” said Sandra Alcocer, member of Sigma Lambda Gamma. “The ads offer facts about things that affect men and women regarding breast cancer.” Alcocer says that The American Cancer Society Institution of McAllen donated 100 packets of information on breast cancer awareness to the sorority. The members then distributed the packets, as well as 800 pink ribbons, to students on campus at a pep-rally during Spirit Week. They also participated in a breastcancer awareness presentation on Oct. 5. The tag line for the sorority’s campaign is: “Know the facts, support the cause.” The sorority members designated one day out of each week during October to wear T-shirts displaying this catchphrase. Alcocer said that next year the sorority plans on finding a sponsor to fund a larger amount of T-shirts, so that they can
distribute them to students. Cynthia Venedas, who was in charge of promoting the breast cancer awareness campaign for Sigma Lambda Gamma, says that the sorority hosted a seminar with Winona Wilson, a radiologist from Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen. The purpose of the event was to inform students on how to check themselves for cancer, how to prevent the disease, and what to do in case symptoms are detected. This is the third year the sorority has created a National Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign.
Volunteers Needed Those interested in writing, or working on design should email gareyjup@aol.com, or call 381-2541. Volunteer positions are available, and can lead to paid positions within a semester.
NEWS
October 28, 2004
EARLY VOTING
continued from page 1
school and they are voting so that is great.” James Wenzel, assistant professor of political science, prefers to follow tradition and vote on Election Day opposed to participating in early voting. “My preference is to vote on Election Day and the reason is that I like the tradition of going to the polls, standing in line, casting the vote and being part of that process,” Wenzel said. “It is a formal process that is one I think is worth doing.” Wenzel jokingly said that voting early would be good to prevent from not being counted as a voter in the election. “Early voting is good,” Wenzel said. “For example, if I get hit by a truck going home this afternoon from work my vote will never be counted and so if I had voted already then that would remove that obstacle to my having an impact on things.” When voting in this election, Wenzel will consider many issues before voting for the country’s next president. “On the foreign policy front the current administration has succeeded in making the United States a pariah worldwide and if that’s not stopped we are in for serious trouble globally for decades to come,” Wenzel said. “On the domestic front whoever is elected in November is going to wind up appointing at least three perhaps four supreme court justices and they will have a profound effect on American law for generations.” Terence M. Garrett, assistant professor of the master of public administration program, has already cast his vote but does not see a difference in voting early or on the actual Election Day. “I don’t think it makes a difference,” Garrett said. “I think what matters is that the person votes. They should, as a citizen, exercise their responsibility as a Democracy to participate. Unfortunately most people don’t even [vote] in the presidential election.” When it comes to elections, Garrett thinks all of them are important, but this particular election has many important issues to consider.
“They [elections] are all important, but I think this one’s got so many big issues, especially at the presidential level,” he said. “With the war in Iraq, the economy and the budget I think all of these [issues] are very, very important, people need to think about those when they go vote.” According to an article in The Monitor, Armando Garza, executive director of the Hidalgo County Democratic Party was expecting a record turnout from early voting and was not surprised by the 37,000 votes cast on Monday. However, the surprise came with who was participating in the early voting. “The college age students are getting, involved, and that always bodes well for the Democratic Party.” Students such as Daniel Moreno, sophomore history major, said that it is important to consider the changes going on in the world when casting a vote. “The changes going on around the world, a lot of people want to see change right now,” Moreno said. “It is important to vote because if you are a person that is outspoken and wants to see those changes because it matters to you that much, you should vote.” Feeling safe played a big role in Moreno’s in deciding to vote for President George W. Bush as the commander-in-chief. “It all depends on who you feel safe with as your commander-in-chief and from my opinion I feel safer with Bush so I voted for Bush,” Moreno said. “I don’t think in times like these we should change our commander-in-chief. You can’t change who your leader is at a time like this.” Moreno said that he plans to continue voting as long as he is eligible, but considers this to be one if not the most important elections of his lifetime due to controversies over the war in Iraq and plans the candidates have for improving the economy. “This is probably one of the most important elections since the Vietnam election,” Moreno said.
Page 11
ACCREDITATION
continued from page 1
Davidson said, is to facilitate the development of the issue that will be the focus of the group. “Ultimately, the captain of this group will assist with developing the QEP topic, institutionalizing it, financing it, and assessing it in preparation for the SACS committee review,” Davidson said. Over the next few months, Davidson said the enhancement committee will be researching possible topics and discussing issues related to UTPA programs. “After the topic has been determined, the team will devote its time to determining goals and strategies related to institutionalizing the plan,” Davidson said. “Moving through the process, they will need to find resources to fund the plan and ways to assess it." As UTPA finishes its report, SACS will reply with questions, concerns and comments, according to Turk. “They will basically give us a grade,” he explained. Following review of the report, SACS will be sending representatives to UTPA in March 2007. The team will do an on-site visit. “They’ll have a firsthand look at what we’ve written down,” Turk said. “Once that team goes back to SACS and gives us another grade, we’ll then find out if we’ve been granted accreditation.” The process of reaccreditation will also include getting help from UTPA students. According to Turk, the students chosen will be voters on committees. The Compliance Certification plan has one student voter, student body President Nathan Shwartz, and the QEP has both a male and female student to help with the operation. A graduate student and an alumnus round out the four students involved. Turk said that while he anticipates a lot of work on the two-year process, he doesn’t necessarily foresee it being all that strenuous. “I don’t think it’s going to be difficult because I believe we are doing everything that SACS wants us to do,” Turk said. “It’s a matter of pulling together those things under those specific questions and showing them the documentation that we’re doing, whatever it is they’re asking for.” Davidson concurred and mentioned that the reaccreditation process is also a time to allow positive things to occur. “It is an opportunity for an institution to look at itself and determine what it is doing well, and also to analyze the areas that need improvement,” Davidson said. “The QEP is an opportunity to guide the university into areas and directions that will enhance student learning for the next decade. It is a time to build upon our assets and produce students who are prepared to be citizens in a global world.”
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
October 28, 2004
Not another zombie movie
appreciate it because the comedy does not dominate the film, but compliments it. The usual drama, suspense, and bloody gore that go into horror flicks is what the filmmakWith the recent flood of zombie movies like ers intended for this film. Also, like most dramatic movies, the beloved hero “Resident Evil,” “Resident Evil: Apocalypse” and “Dawn of the Dead” who can stand another film in this genre. has to face his own insecurities and make heart-wrenching “Shaun of the Dead” may sound like the others, but it is decisions regarding the fate of his loved ones. Shaun, played by Simon Pegg from the popular British television very different. The main character, Shaun has enough problems series “Spaced,” has to take control of his life and realize dealing with a mediocre job, a frustrated girlfriend who is his potential, all the while battling zombies that are out to eat him. ready for change, and a best friend Shaun, who has always been close whose laziness always seems to get him to his mother, feels threatened by his in trouble. So it is understandable that stern step-father, played by Bill Nighy Shaun is oblivious to the plague that is (“Underworld,” “Love Actually”), but gripping the London streets and turning eventually must come to grips with the everyone into flesh-eating zombies. truth of his severe parenting and In this horror, comedy, romance, impending change into a zombie. drama, “Shaun of the Dead” puts a Shaun’s mother, Barbara, played by whole new spin on the classic zombie Penelope Wilton (“Calendar Girls,” movie. “Iris”) has always fought to bring the At 29 years old, Shaun is an ambitwo closer together, but it is before his tion-less underachiever who would transformation that the truth comes out. rather play video games with his best This particular scene and a few friend Ed than make a name for himself. others throughout the movie provided Unfortunately for him, this poses a the dramatic element that brings the problem for his girlfriend Liz and with audience into the movie and make it persuasion from her friends Dianne and seem real. The actors prove to be very David, she breaks up with Shaun after versatile, switching from comedy to he fails to make plans for their anniverReviewers Rating: Adrama with much ease. sary. Source: www.imdb.com Nick Frost (“Spaced”), who played Meanwhile, the world around him is in chaos after zombies begin to take over the city. Shaun, Ed, and the actor who played Shaun had perfect comedic who trudges throughout his day much like a zombie, fails timing and gave the film its hilarity. Kate Ashfield to notice the television news reports, the panic in the (“Beyond Borders”), who played Liz, did not seem to streets and the blood-stained store he visits daily. When have much chemistry with Pegg, but nonetheless was they finally take notice of the man-eating zombies, Shaun good. Each actor ended up fitting into their role quite niceand Ed, armed with a shovel and a cricket bat, race to save ly and made the movie work. Although not a spoof from “Dawn of the Dead,” this Liz and Shaun’s mother. People who are not big fans of horror movies will movie has classic zombie-movie rudiments that gave it enjoy “Shaun of the Dead” because of the comedic ele- horror movie appeal, but “Shaun of the Dead” also works ment present throughout the film. True horror fans can for anyone who wants a good laugh, cry or scare. By CHRISTINA HARRIS The Pan American
TROLL
Page 10
A&E
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Halloween events. . . . . . . 8 & 9 ‘Shaun of the Dead’ . . . . . . 10
Latest trend: Pampering pint-size puppies By MARIANA CADENA The Pan American
Pedicures, spa treatments, massages, exclusive restaurants and expensive clothes. That sounds like the life of a very high maintenance person, right? But it’s also the tale of a pampered dog, a story becoming more common today as people treat their dogs like spoiled children. It seems the Hollywood trend of having a cute puppy in expensive designer duds and an expensive carry bags has caught on with non-celebrities. Marysol Mireles, a 20-year-old student at The University of Texas-Pan American, has three puppies: two miniature Schnauzers, Dory and Chavela, and a toy Chihuahua, Napoleon. Mireles said taking care of a dog is not as glamorous as Hollywood makes it look. “They are like my children, this is a 24-hour job, from potty training to feeding them,” Mireles said. “You [must] have a certain amount of devotion to be a good pet owner.” According to a recent article in Us Weekly magazine, celebrities have acquired a newfound accessory with four paws. Pop icons like Jessica Simpson with her Maltese Poodle, Daisy; Nicole Richie with her Shitzu, Honey; and Paris Hilton with her Chihuahua, Tinkerbell, all use their pooches as a new prop for the red carpet. These superstar canines get extra-special treatment including hair extensions, diamond-encrusted collars and personal chefs. Has Hollywood influenced people in the United States to become dog owners? Cesar Cepeda, owner of Petland in McAllen, said he has noticed that people come in sometimes looking for a particular kind of dog they have seen in magazines or on television.
“I have noticed that the demand for small dogs has increased in the last year,” Cepeda said. “Especially teacup Chihuahuas, Poodles, Schnauzers and the Maltese toy are in higher demand,” he said. As the rule of economics dictate, when demand goes up, price goes up. These pretty little companions can cost from $800 to $3,000. “Dog prices are crazy, sometimes the dog can be one price, then another. It all depends on demand,” Cepeda said. Designers have taken advantage of the dog-clothing trend, releasing name-brand dog clothes, according to Us Weekly. Companies like Gucci, Prada and Burberry have released their own line for these often-furry pets. Clothes can also be found on Web sites like www.pet5thavenue.com, ranging for $50 to $4,000. Kayla Martin, a 45-year-old realtor, is in love with her 2year-old Yorkie, Mitzy. “She looks nicer in pink than I do, she goes everywhere with me, so I figure she has to look her best,” Martin said. Martin adds that she does not mind spending money on Mitzy because she is her faithful companion. “It’s funny how many looks I get when I walk in somewhere with Mitzy in my purse, it just attracts people,” she said. Mireles is thinking about dressing her dogs up for Halloween. “It’s fun to dress them up like dolls with their cute sweaters, I think I want to dress Napoleon like a bee and buy him wings this year,” she said. For many people dogs are not just simple pets, but part of the family. Paris Hilton’s dog, Tinkerbell Hilton, even shares the family’s last name. According to the Barnes and Noble Web site, Tinkerbell will be releasing a book soon, “The Tinkerbell Hilton Diaries: My Life Tailing Paris Hilton.”
So it turns out that nowadays pooches not only travel in expensive bags and wear expensive clothes, but they are also writers.
Eduardo Martinez/The Pan American
University Theatre brings a new fairy tale to life continued from page 7
into ugly paper dolls. One day the troll finds a pretty little girl he would like to play with. However, the witch is planning to kidnap her because her grandfather, played by sophomore theater major Edgar Ituarte, owns a magic rose that the witch desperately wants. The rose basically does good for good people and destroys those who are evil, so the witch wants to get rid of it to protect herself. Warren said that he chose this play because it is fun and has a lot of potential for a young audience to get into the story and enjoy the performance. The cast includes seven children from ages seven to 12, primarily from McAllen and Edinburg. The children went through the same audition process as the adults. Guerra said he enjoys rehearsing and performing with the children. "It's a really cute show and the kids are cool to work with," said Guerra, who directed the children’s show “A Salamander Story” last spring. As Halloween approaches, the play’s set has taken to the holiday theme with the witch's apartment and fairy tale costumes by costume designer, Fabian Cuellar, a senior at UTPA. UTPA theater Professor Kate Ellis said that, the witch in this play is a fairy tale witch from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarves,” but the design for the costume is from the University Theatre’s 2001 production of “Into the Woods.” The bulk of the other costumes were purchased, but the costume crew added finishing touches to store-bought pieces to make them look distressed. Cuellar used a wire brush to make the troll’s sweatpants look cut-off and ragged. As with all fairy tales, the story of the little troll lends itself to be entertaining and visually interesting, but children can also take away a message from watching this show. "Troll” has a great lesson behind it, and is a good learning experience for both children and adults," Warren concluded.
By AMANDA GARCIA The Pan American
Franco Caballero/ The Pan American DOLLIES - (from left) Ariella Olivarez and Gracye Ramos play dollies who are in the hands of the villanous troll, played by Mark Guerra, who is turning his back to a rag doll played by Audrie Vela.
CACKLE - The witch, played by Megan Hofsetter, devises an evil plan to destroy the magic rose before it destroys her.
The stories of “Little Red Riding Hood” and “The Three Little Pigs” may sound familiar, but coming to The University of Texas-Pan American’s University Theatre is a new fairy tale of sorts, “Little Troll Without A Soul.” The one-act play, directed by Brian Warren, a communication lecturer at UTPA, and written by Herman Ammann, tells the tale of a troll who realizes the timeless moral lesson that he can't judge a book by its cover. “Troll” will open today at the Student Union Theater and will run through Oct. 31. Show times are today and tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. The play revolves around a little troll, played by Mark Guerra, a senior at UTPA. The troll lives with a witch, played by Megan Hofsetter, a freshman, which turns pretty children
See TROLL page 10
AROUND TOWN Music Oct. 30 and 31 at 2 p.m. Place: UTPA Fine Arts Auditorium Event: The UTPA Mariachi will perform traditional Mexican folk music. Price: Tickets are $5 when purchased at the door. Phone: (956) 381-3471
Art Nov. 5 deadline Place: UTPA Clark Gallery Event: Art students and local artists can submit art for the Global Peace exhibit. The Best of Show artists will be invited to participate in “Milestones for Peace.” Phone: (956) 381-2655
Poetry Nov. 6 at 2 p.m. Place: Barnes & Noble bookstore in McAllen Event: Seattle author J. Andrew Rodriguez will read from his book “Robins Facing South: Poems.” Price: Free
Dance Nov. 11-13 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 14 at 2 p.m. Place: UTPA Fine Arts Auditorium Event: Modern Dance Ensemble performs fall concert. Price: Tickets are $8 or $10 for adults, $5 for children and free for students.
October 28, 2004
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Page 8
‘Something wicked this way comes’
Concerts, haunted houses and costume contests, oh my! The Valley provides several Halloween entertainment options.
f
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
October 28, 2004
For art student Jackie Guerra, Halloween is the merriest time of the year. Every October, Guerra plans an elab-
he is, I think the turnout will be great,” Manager Henry
631-FLIP.
Najera said. “We’re expecting a lot more people. Since
According to Daniel Martinez, employee of the FlipSide, the abandoned hotel is worth the buck.
With last weekend’s Carnival of the Great Pumpkin at
“It’s pretty insane,” Martinez said. “There’s a lot of
The University of Texas-Pan American and yesterday’s
strobe lights, but its still very dark. It’s also very long, 10
Halloween-themed concert, All Rocker’s Eve, featuring
to 15 minutes of walking in darkness can be pretty
bands December Drive and Vinyl Dharma that kicked off
intense.”
the Halloween weekend, Guerra and other students have an array of campus and local events to choose from. Guerra has already planned her costume and her
we’re having our party on Saturday, and because its daylight-saving times, we’re going to get to party a whole extra hour.” Najera suggests getting there early because he expects a large crowd. Stilettos in Pharr is currently holding reservations for
Martinez, who helped put together the haunted house
the Champagne Red Room and the Ultra VIP Room. On
admits that even though he knows it like the back of his
Oct. 29, the club’s alternative location in Brownsville will
hand, it’s still scary.
also be holding a similar event, also hosted by Jeremy.
weekend. She will dress as Jem, her favorite 1980s car-
Brenda Hernandez, who runs the door, said that The
toon character from “Jem!” and on Friday, she will attend
Scream Faktor is not your average “kiddy” haunted house
her church’s young singles ball. On Saturday she’ll wear
because the haunted hotel features scare tactics that are on
her costume to a party, and on Sunday, Guerra will do the
a different level than similar events. She also suggests
traditional trick-or-treat candy hunt.
buying tickets in advance.
FAMILY EVENTS Also in Brownsville, and a little less risqué, the Gladys Porter Zoo will be hosting its annual Boo at the Zoo for families and children. The zoo will host this event
For everyone else looking to fill their weekend with
NIGHTLIFE
activities, this Friday the University Program Board will
on Oct. 30 and 31. This event features the usual zoo activities along with
show its Halloween spirit by playing the bloody shock horror film, “Dawn of the Dead.” The feature will be
For those who just want to dance, Valley nightlife fea-
Halloween-themed booths and haunted houses on the
showing in the Student Union Theatre at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
tures a variety of Halloween events to satisfy scary holi-
show grounds. This annual event will feature several
After that, it is up to the streets of the Valley to accommo-
day needs. According to Manager Isaac Garcia, the Light
activities more suitable for children. Admission prices are
date fans of this dark holiday.
Lounge in McAllen will be having the best Halloween
$3.50 at the door.
party in the Valley tonight.
VALLEY EVENTS
Light Lounge will feature DJ Javi and hold male and female costume contests. Each contest will have a first
The Scream Faktor Haunted House is one of the many
If you’re looking for a more culturally traditional Halloween festivity, the Mexican culture celebrates with a holiday called Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.
place cash prize of $250.
A Day of the Dead celebration called El Color de la
events in the Valley, located at 1706 Chicago St. between
Garcia said that Light Lounge will also feature drink
Muerte, The Color of Death, will take place Oct. 30 in Port
Bicentennial and 17th Street. It has been running every
specials that include $1.50 longneck beers, but advises
Isabel. The Treasures of the Gulf Museum will host this
weekend since Oct. 8 and will continue through Oct. 31.
everyone to drink safely. Doors open at 9 p.m. and the
celebration that features a day of ancient traditions, art,
cover charge is $5.
history, dance and storytelling honoring this Mexican cus-
According to the Web site, www.screamfaktor.com,
Story by Aaron Lozano
also available at the door. For more information call (956)
orate routine that includes attending local festivities, costumes, ghosts, ghouls and hunting for candy.
Page 9
The Scream Faktor features a haunted hotel that was aban-
On Oct. 30, Stilettos Cabaret in Pharr will feature Ron
doned 10 years ago for unknown reasons. Spectators have
Jeremy, star of VH1’s reality TV show “The Surreal Life,”
Admission for this event is free and will even feature
been checking into the Rio Hotel for a haunting tour every
hosting the second annual Erotic Ball. No minors will be
a special tour of the Port Isabel Historic Cemetery at 4
weekend, and will be able to until this Halloween week-
allowed into this celebrity-hosted Halloween event, com-
p.m. For additional information, contact the Treasures of
end. The scare house will be open from 8:30 p.m.-12 a.m.
plete with a $1,500 grand prize Halloween costume con-
the Gulf Museum in Port Isabel at (956) 943-7602.
tonight and tomorrow, from 7 p.m.-1 a.m. on Saturday and
test. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the Web site suggests you
UTPA Librarians George and Virginia Gause will
5 p.m. to whenever on Sunday.
wear your most erotic costume. Jeremy also hosted last
head the Day of the Dead on campus with presentations,
year’s Erotic Ball.
slide shows and tours.
Tickets are available at Flip-Side a vintage clothing store located on 1414 Pecan Blvd. in McAllen. Single
“He hosted last year. Everyone had a good time and
tickets are $10 or two adult tickets for $15. Tickets are
enjoyed him at the club. Being as big as a celebrity that
Aaron's Top Ten 1. “Halloween” Halloween Films The Original Halloween Movie ____________
2. “The Shining”
Thinking of staying The All-Work-No-Play Halloween Movie in this Halloween 3. “The Exorcist” night? Here are a The Scary-Little-Girl Movie few good rental 4. “Psycho” suggestions. The Scary-Shower-Scene Halloween Movie
tom of "celebrating death through life."
For additional Halloween events, contact your local church organization, school, or chamber of commerce.
5. “The Blair Witch Project”
9. “Little Shop of Horrors”
The Is-It-Real? Halloween Movie
The Song-and-Dance Halloween Movie
6. “Nightmare on Elm Street” 10. “Poltergeist” The Never-Go-To-Sleep Halloween Movie
7. “Scream” The Dont-Pick-Up-The-Phone Halloween Movie
8. “Child's Play” The Original-Chucky Halloween Movie
The Beware-of-the-TV Halloween Movie
For more information on scary movies, go to
www.imdb.com
October 28, 2004
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Page 8
‘Something wicked this way comes’
Concerts, haunted houses and costume contests, oh my! The Valley provides several Halloween entertainment options.
f
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
October 28, 2004
For art student Jackie Guerra, Halloween is the merriest time of the year. Every October, Guerra plans an elab-
he is, I think the turnout will be great,” Manager Henry
631-FLIP.
Najera said. “We’re expecting a lot more people. Since
According to Daniel Martinez, employee of the FlipSide, the abandoned hotel is worth the buck.
With last weekend’s Carnival of the Great Pumpkin at
“It’s pretty insane,” Martinez said. “There’s a lot of
The University of Texas-Pan American and yesterday’s
strobe lights, but its still very dark. It’s also very long, 10
Halloween-themed concert, All Rocker’s Eve, featuring
to 15 minutes of walking in darkness can be pretty
bands December Drive and Vinyl Dharma that kicked off
intense.”
the Halloween weekend, Guerra and other students have an array of campus and local events to choose from. Guerra has already planned her costume and her
we’re having our party on Saturday, and because its daylight-saving times, we’re going to get to party a whole extra hour.” Najera suggests getting there early because he expects a large crowd. Stilettos in Pharr is currently holding reservations for
Martinez, who helped put together the haunted house
the Champagne Red Room and the Ultra VIP Room. On
admits that even though he knows it like the back of his
Oct. 29, the club’s alternative location in Brownsville will
hand, it’s still scary.
also be holding a similar event, also hosted by Jeremy.
weekend. She will dress as Jem, her favorite 1980s car-
Brenda Hernandez, who runs the door, said that The
toon character from “Jem!” and on Friday, she will attend
Scream Faktor is not your average “kiddy” haunted house
her church’s young singles ball. On Saturday she’ll wear
because the haunted hotel features scare tactics that are on
her costume to a party, and on Sunday, Guerra will do the
a different level than similar events. She also suggests
traditional trick-or-treat candy hunt.
buying tickets in advance.
FAMILY EVENTS Also in Brownsville, and a little less risqué, the Gladys Porter Zoo will be hosting its annual Boo at the Zoo for families and children. The zoo will host this event
For everyone else looking to fill their weekend with
NIGHTLIFE
activities, this Friday the University Program Board will
on Oct. 30 and 31. This event features the usual zoo activities along with
show its Halloween spirit by playing the bloody shock horror film, “Dawn of the Dead.” The feature will be
For those who just want to dance, Valley nightlife fea-
Halloween-themed booths and haunted houses on the
showing in the Student Union Theatre at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
tures a variety of Halloween events to satisfy scary holi-
show grounds. This annual event will feature several
After that, it is up to the streets of the Valley to accommo-
day needs. According to Manager Isaac Garcia, the Light
activities more suitable for children. Admission prices are
date fans of this dark holiday.
Lounge in McAllen will be having the best Halloween
$3.50 at the door.
party in the Valley tonight.
VALLEY EVENTS
Light Lounge will feature DJ Javi and hold male and female costume contests. Each contest will have a first
The Scream Faktor Haunted House is one of the many
If you’re looking for a more culturally traditional Halloween festivity, the Mexican culture celebrates with a holiday called Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.
place cash prize of $250.
A Day of the Dead celebration called El Color de la
events in the Valley, located at 1706 Chicago St. between
Garcia said that Light Lounge will also feature drink
Muerte, The Color of Death, will take place Oct. 30 in Port
Bicentennial and 17th Street. It has been running every
specials that include $1.50 longneck beers, but advises
Isabel. The Treasures of the Gulf Museum will host this
weekend since Oct. 8 and will continue through Oct. 31.
everyone to drink safely. Doors open at 9 p.m. and the
celebration that features a day of ancient traditions, art,
cover charge is $5.
history, dance and storytelling honoring this Mexican cus-
According to the Web site, www.screamfaktor.com,
Story by Aaron Lozano
also available at the door. For more information call (956)
orate routine that includes attending local festivities, costumes, ghosts, ghouls and hunting for candy.
Page 9
The Scream Faktor features a haunted hotel that was aban-
On Oct. 30, Stilettos Cabaret in Pharr will feature Ron
doned 10 years ago for unknown reasons. Spectators have
Jeremy, star of VH1’s reality TV show “The Surreal Life,”
Admission for this event is free and will even feature
been checking into the Rio Hotel for a haunting tour every
hosting the second annual Erotic Ball. No minors will be
a special tour of the Port Isabel Historic Cemetery at 4
weekend, and will be able to until this Halloween week-
allowed into this celebrity-hosted Halloween event, com-
p.m. For additional information, contact the Treasures of
end. The scare house will be open from 8:30 p.m.-12 a.m.
plete with a $1,500 grand prize Halloween costume con-
the Gulf Museum in Port Isabel at (956) 943-7602.
tonight and tomorrow, from 7 p.m.-1 a.m. on Saturday and
test. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the Web site suggests you
UTPA Librarians George and Virginia Gause will
5 p.m. to whenever on Sunday.
wear your most erotic costume. Jeremy also hosted last
head the Day of the Dead on campus with presentations,
year’s Erotic Ball.
slide shows and tours.
Tickets are available at Flip-Side a vintage clothing store located on 1414 Pecan Blvd. in McAllen. Single
“He hosted last year. Everyone had a good time and
tickets are $10 or two adult tickets for $15. Tickets are
enjoyed him at the club. Being as big as a celebrity that
Aaron's Top Ten 1. “Halloween” Halloween Films The Original Halloween Movie ____________
2. “The Shining”
Thinking of staying The All-Work-No-Play Halloween Movie in this Halloween 3. “The Exorcist” night? Here are a The Scary-Little-Girl Movie few good rental 4. “Psycho” suggestions. The Scary-Shower-Scene Halloween Movie
tom of "celebrating death through life."
For additional Halloween events, contact your local church organization, school, or chamber of commerce.
5. “The Blair Witch Project”
9. “Little Shop of Horrors”
The Is-It-Real? Halloween Movie
The Song-and-Dance Halloween Movie
6. “Nightmare on Elm Street” 10. “Poltergeist” The Never-Go-To-Sleep Halloween Movie
7. “Scream” The Dont-Pick-Up-The-Phone Halloween Movie
8. “Child's Play” The Original-Chucky Halloween Movie
The Beware-of-the-TV Halloween Movie
For more information on scary movies, go to
www.imdb.com
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
October 28, 2004
Not another zombie movie
appreciate it because the comedy does not dominate the film, but compliments it. The usual drama, suspense, and bloody gore that go into horror flicks is what the filmmakWith the recent flood of zombie movies like ers intended for this film. Also, like most dramatic movies, the beloved hero “Resident Evil,” “Resident Evil: Apocalypse” and “Dawn of the Dead” who can stand another film in this genre. has to face his own insecurities and make heart-wrenching “Shaun of the Dead” may sound like the others, but it is decisions regarding the fate of his loved ones. Shaun, played by Simon Pegg from the popular British television very different. The main character, Shaun has enough problems series “Spaced,” has to take control of his life and realize dealing with a mediocre job, a frustrated girlfriend who is his potential, all the while battling zombies that are out to eat him. ready for change, and a best friend Shaun, who has always been close whose laziness always seems to get him to his mother, feels threatened by his in trouble. So it is understandable that stern step-father, played by Bill Nighy Shaun is oblivious to the plague that is (“Underworld,” “Love Actually”), but gripping the London streets and turning eventually must come to grips with the everyone into flesh-eating zombies. truth of his severe parenting and In this horror, comedy, romance, impending change into a zombie. drama, “Shaun of the Dead” puts a Shaun’s mother, Barbara, played by whole new spin on the classic zombie Penelope Wilton (“Calendar Girls,” movie. “Iris”) has always fought to bring the At 29 years old, Shaun is an ambitwo closer together, but it is before his tion-less underachiever who would transformation that the truth comes out. rather play video games with his best This particular scene and a few friend Ed than make a name for himself. others throughout the movie provided Unfortunately for him, this poses a the dramatic element that brings the problem for his girlfriend Liz and with audience into the movie and make it persuasion from her friends Dianne and seem real. The actors prove to be very David, she breaks up with Shaun after versatile, switching from comedy to he fails to make plans for their anniverReviewers Rating: Adrama with much ease. sary. Source: www.imdb.com Nick Frost (“Spaced”), who played Meanwhile, the world around him is in chaos after zombies begin to take over the city. Shaun, Ed, and the actor who played Shaun had perfect comedic who trudges throughout his day much like a zombie, fails timing and gave the film its hilarity. Kate Ashfield to notice the television news reports, the panic in the (“Beyond Borders”), who played Liz, did not seem to streets and the blood-stained store he visits daily. When have much chemistry with Pegg, but nonetheless was they finally take notice of the man-eating zombies, Shaun good. Each actor ended up fitting into their role quite niceand Ed, armed with a shovel and a cricket bat, race to save ly and made the movie work. Although not a spoof from “Dawn of the Dead,” this Liz and Shaun’s mother. People who are not big fans of horror movies will movie has classic zombie-movie rudiments that gave it enjoy “Shaun of the Dead” because of the comedic ele- horror movie appeal, but “Shaun of the Dead” also works ment present throughout the film. True horror fans can for anyone who wants a good laugh, cry or scare. By CHRISTINA HARRIS The Pan American
TROLL
Page 10
A&E
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Halloween events. . . . . . . 8 & 9 ‘Shaun of the Dead’ . . . . . . 10
Latest trend: Pampering pint-size puppies By MARIANA CADENA The Pan American
Pedicures, spa treatments, massages, exclusive restaurants and expensive clothes. That sounds like the life of a very high maintenance person, right? But it’s also the tale of a pampered dog, a story becoming more common today as people treat their dogs like spoiled children. It seems the Hollywood trend of having a cute puppy in expensive designer duds and an expensive carry bags has caught on with non-celebrities. Marysol Mireles, a 20-year-old student at The University of Texas-Pan American, has three puppies: two miniature Schnauzers, Dory and Chavela, and a toy Chihuahua, Napoleon. Mireles said taking care of a dog is not as glamorous as Hollywood makes it look. “They are like my children, this is a 24-hour job, from potty training to feeding them,” Mireles said. “You [must] have a certain amount of devotion to be a good pet owner.” According to a recent article in Us Weekly magazine, celebrities have acquired a newfound accessory with four paws. Pop icons like Jessica Simpson with her Maltese Poodle, Daisy; Nicole Richie with her Shitzu, Honey; and Paris Hilton with her Chihuahua, Tinkerbell, all use their pooches as a new prop for the red carpet. These superstar canines get extra-special treatment including hair extensions, diamond-encrusted collars and personal chefs. Has Hollywood influenced people in the United States to become dog owners? Cesar Cepeda, owner of Petland in McAllen, said he has noticed that people come in sometimes looking for a particular kind of dog they have seen in magazines or on television.
“I have noticed that the demand for small dogs has increased in the last year,” Cepeda said. “Especially teacup Chihuahuas, Poodles, Schnauzers and the Maltese toy are in higher demand,” he said. As the rule of economics dictate, when demand goes up, price goes up. These pretty little companions can cost from $800 to $3,000. “Dog prices are crazy, sometimes the dog can be one price, then another. It all depends on demand,” Cepeda said. Designers have taken advantage of the dog-clothing trend, releasing name-brand dog clothes, according to Us Weekly. Companies like Gucci, Prada and Burberry have released their own line for these often-furry pets. Clothes can also be found on Web sites like www.pet5thavenue.com, ranging for $50 to $4,000. Kayla Martin, a 45-year-old realtor, is in love with her 2year-old Yorkie, Mitzy. “She looks nicer in pink than I do, she goes everywhere with me, so I figure she has to look her best,” Martin said. Martin adds that she does not mind spending money on Mitzy because she is her faithful companion. “It’s funny how many looks I get when I walk in somewhere with Mitzy in my purse, it just attracts people,” she said. Mireles is thinking about dressing her dogs up for Halloween. “It’s fun to dress them up like dolls with their cute sweaters, I think I want to dress Napoleon like a bee and buy him wings this year,” she said. For many people dogs are not just simple pets, but part of the family. Paris Hilton’s dog, Tinkerbell Hilton, even shares the family’s last name. According to the Barnes and Noble Web site, Tinkerbell will be releasing a book soon, “The Tinkerbell Hilton Diaries: My Life Tailing Paris Hilton.”
So it turns out that nowadays pooches not only travel in expensive bags and wear expensive clothes, but they are also writers.
Eduardo Martinez/The Pan American
University Theatre brings a new fairy tale to life continued from page 7
into ugly paper dolls. One day the troll finds a pretty little girl he would like to play with. However, the witch is planning to kidnap her because her grandfather, played by sophomore theater major Edgar Ituarte, owns a magic rose that the witch desperately wants. The rose basically does good for good people and destroys those who are evil, so the witch wants to get rid of it to protect herself. Warren said that he chose this play because it is fun and has a lot of potential for a young audience to get into the story and enjoy the performance. The cast includes seven children from ages seven to 12, primarily from McAllen and Edinburg. The children went through the same audition process as the adults. Guerra said he enjoys rehearsing and performing with the children. "It's a really cute show and the kids are cool to work with," said Guerra, who directed the children’s show “A Salamander Story” last spring. As Halloween approaches, the play’s set has taken to the holiday theme with the witch's apartment and fairy tale costumes by costume designer, Fabian Cuellar, a senior at UTPA. UTPA theater Professor Kate Ellis said that, the witch in this play is a fairy tale witch from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarves,” but the design for the costume is from the University Theatre’s 2001 production of “Into the Woods.” The bulk of the other costumes were purchased, but the costume crew added finishing touches to store-bought pieces to make them look distressed. Cuellar used a wire brush to make the troll’s sweatpants look cut-off and ragged. As with all fairy tales, the story of the little troll lends itself to be entertaining and visually interesting, but children can also take away a message from watching this show. "Troll” has a great lesson behind it, and is a good learning experience for both children and adults," Warren concluded.
By AMANDA GARCIA The Pan American
Franco Caballero/ The Pan American DOLLIES - (from left) Ariella Olivarez and Gracye Ramos play dollies who are in the hands of the villanous troll, played by Mark Guerra, who is turning his back to a rag doll played by Audrie Vela.
CACKLE - The witch, played by Megan Hofsetter, devises an evil plan to destroy the magic rose before it destroys her.
The stories of “Little Red Riding Hood” and “The Three Little Pigs” may sound familiar, but coming to The University of Texas-Pan American’s University Theatre is a new fairy tale of sorts, “Little Troll Without A Soul.” The one-act play, directed by Brian Warren, a communication lecturer at UTPA, and written by Herman Ammann, tells the tale of a troll who realizes the timeless moral lesson that he can't judge a book by its cover. “Troll” will open today at the Student Union Theater and will run through Oct. 31. Show times are today and tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. The play revolves around a little troll, played by Mark Guerra, a senior at UTPA. The troll lives with a witch, played by Megan Hofsetter, a freshman, which turns pretty children
See TROLL page 10
AROUND TOWN Music Oct. 30 and 31 at 2 p.m. Place: UTPA Fine Arts Auditorium Event: The UTPA Mariachi will perform traditional Mexican folk music. Price: Tickets are $5 when purchased at the door. Phone: (956) 381-3471
Art Nov. 5 deadline Place: UTPA Clark Gallery Event: Art students and local artists can submit art for the Global Peace exhibit. The Best of Show artists will be invited to participate in “Milestones for Peace.” Phone: (956) 381-2655
Poetry Nov. 6 at 2 p.m. Place: Barnes & Noble bookstore in McAllen Event: Seattle author J. Andrew Rodriguez will read from his book “Robins Facing South: Poems.” Price: Free
Dance Nov. 11-13 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 14 at 2 p.m. Place: UTPA Fine Arts Auditorium Event: Modern Dance Ensemble performs fall concert. Price: Tickets are $8 or $10 for adults, $5 for children and free for students.
October 28, 2004
NEWS
Page 6
Biking at school: A new trend Students choose alternative transportation on campus
“I tried crossing the street on my bike when the sign read ‘walk’ and a jerk in some car turned just as I got to the other side and almost hit me,” said Arnanda Smith, 20, Riding a bicycle to school may seem to have its a sophomore. According to the League of American Bicyclists, advantages, but it can also lead to a number of problems. Traffic seems to freeze as bicyclists easily zoom by, motorists are exclusively at fault in 60 percent of car-bike collisions, versus 17 percent leaving frustrated for cyclists. Texas also ranks students honking 14th in the number of cyclist furiously at other fatalities per capita. motorists. Students UTPA Campus Police Sgt. on bikes get sunlight, James Loya states breeze through traffic that it is safer when and don’t have to pay cyclists use the bike for parking since lanes provided. there are a variety of “We don’t have an bicycles chained up exact number of to the racks outside students that ride to the buildings at The school, but estimate University of Texasthat several hundred Pan American. use bikes, and they Unfortunately, all should use lanes of these semiprovided,” Loya said. glamorous benefits “However, if you are going to come with a price. Melissa Martinez/The Pan American ride on the street you must With the campus ROLLIN’ - English department lecturer Debbie Cole bikes off as she abide by the same traffic laws surrounded by traffic, makes her way through the residence halls yesterday afternoon. as the motorists.” moving through it Bicycles are becoming popular transportation for students and faculty. The only obvious bike lanes cannot be easily accomplished unless you dodge careless drivers with agile provided are those in front of the school on University tricks used by Olympic competitors or those in the X Drive. Statistics show that streets with bike lanes have significantly lower crash rates than either major or Games championship. By MURPHY JEFFRIES Special to The Pan American
residential streets without any bicycle lanes. Loya also mentioned that riding under the covered walkways is prohibited, and that signs around campus are placed to make all students aware of the rule. Although there haven’t been any cycling accidents reported this semester to the campus police, unreported incidents do occur. Sophomore Rich Garcia, 21, described his latest injury caused by a student riding under the covered walkways. “This guy came out of nowhere from behind me.,” Garza said. “I heard the clicking of his bike chain getting louder and before I looked back he nailed me in the calf, he kept going and yelled, ‘“Sorry dude.’” Cyclists seem to have it made when it comes to parking, except - Sgt. James Loya, UTPA Police they face the possibility of having their bike stolen. Loya suggests using a strong, thick wire-design lock as one of the best ways to ensure a bicycle will be there after class. “We have seen several thefts on campus because of thin chains securing the bikes. The thieves use bolt cutters to cut the lock,” Loya said. Another safety tip from Loya is to avoid using U-locks, because recent reports have proved these locks are easily pried by using a ballpoint pen. Students who live close by may benefit from cycling with good health, no parking fees or gas cost, preferred parking, and less traffic. However, riding and watching out for your life, and for others, can be a chore. Student bikers deal with the stress of wondering if their bike is secure, and have to abide by traffic laws; the pros of cycling might not outweigh the benefits of driving.
“However, if you are going to ride on the street you must abide by the same traffic laws as the motorists.”
UTPA students take initiative for Breast Cancer Awareness Month By ANA LEY The Pan American It is predicted that in 2004, over 40,000 women and 470 men will die from breast cancer in the United States. However, 97 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer can also survive more than five years. The National Cancer Society states that National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) is dedicated to “increasing awareness about the importance of the early detection of breast cancer through a nationwide campaign.” It began in 1985 as a weeklong campaign with two founding members. Today, the organization comprises millions of men and women across the country, yet the message it attempts to deliver to the American public remains consistent: know the facts and take precautions. At The University of Texas-Pan American, organizations are working to deliver this message on campus. Kappa Delta Chi and Sigma Lambda Gamma are promoting the campaign by distributing pink ribbons to students to endorse the idea that prevention is important for young women. “We created our own three-ad campaign,” said Sandra Alcocer, member of Sigma Lambda Gamma. “The ads offer facts about things that affect men and women regarding breast cancer.” Alcocer says that The American Cancer Society Institution of McAllen donated 100 packets of information on breast cancer awareness to the sorority. The members then distributed the packets, as well as 800 pink ribbons, to students on campus at a pep-rally during Spirit Week. They also participated in a breastcancer awareness presentation on Oct. 5. The tag line for the sorority’s campaign is: “Know the facts, support the cause.” The sorority members designated one day out of each week during October to wear T-shirts displaying this catchphrase. Alcocer said that next year the sorority plans on finding a sponsor to fund a larger amount of T-shirts, so that they can
distribute them to students. Cynthia Venedas, who was in charge of promoting the breast cancer awareness campaign for Sigma Lambda Gamma, says that the sorority hosted a seminar with Winona Wilson, a radiologist from Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen. The purpose of the event was to inform students on how to check themselves for cancer, how to prevent the disease, and what to do in case symptoms are detected. This is the third year the sorority has created a National Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign.
Volunteers Needed Those interested in writing, or working on design should email gareyjup@aol.com, or call 381-2541. Volunteer positions are available, and can lead to paid positions within a semester.
NEWS
October 28, 2004
EARLY VOTING
continued from page 1
school and they are voting so that is great.” James Wenzel, assistant professor of political science, prefers to follow tradition and vote on Election Day opposed to participating in early voting. “My preference is to vote on Election Day and the reason is that I like the tradition of going to the polls, standing in line, casting the vote and being part of that process,” Wenzel said. “It is a formal process that is one I think is worth doing.” Wenzel jokingly said that voting early would be good to prevent from not being counted as a voter in the election. “Early voting is good,” Wenzel said. “For example, if I get hit by a truck going home this afternoon from work my vote will never be counted and so if I had voted already then that would remove that obstacle to my having an impact on things.” When voting in this election, Wenzel will consider many issues before voting for the country’s next president. “On the foreign policy front the current administration has succeeded in making the United States a pariah worldwide and if that’s not stopped we are in for serious trouble globally for decades to come,” Wenzel said. “On the domestic front whoever is elected in November is going to wind up appointing at least three perhaps four supreme court justices and they will have a profound effect on American law for generations.” Terence M. Garrett, assistant professor of the master of public administration program, has already cast his vote but does not see a difference in voting early or on the actual Election Day. “I don’t think it makes a difference,” Garrett said. “I think what matters is that the person votes. They should, as a citizen, exercise their responsibility as a Democracy to participate. Unfortunately most people don’t even [vote] in the presidential election.” When it comes to elections, Garrett thinks all of them are important, but this particular election has many important issues to consider.
“They [elections] are all important, but I think this one’s got so many big issues, especially at the presidential level,” he said. “With the war in Iraq, the economy and the budget I think all of these [issues] are very, very important, people need to think about those when they go vote.” According to an article in The Monitor, Armando Garza, executive director of the Hidalgo County Democratic Party was expecting a record turnout from early voting and was not surprised by the 37,000 votes cast on Monday. However, the surprise came with who was participating in the early voting. “The college age students are getting, involved, and that always bodes well for the Democratic Party.” Students such as Daniel Moreno, sophomore history major, said that it is important to consider the changes going on in the world when casting a vote. “The changes going on around the world, a lot of people want to see change right now,” Moreno said. “It is important to vote because if you are a person that is outspoken and wants to see those changes because it matters to you that much, you should vote.” Feeling safe played a big role in Moreno’s in deciding to vote for President George W. Bush as the commander-in-chief. “It all depends on who you feel safe with as your commander-in-chief and from my opinion I feel safer with Bush so I voted for Bush,” Moreno said. “I don’t think in times like these we should change our commander-in-chief. You can’t change who your leader is at a time like this.” Moreno said that he plans to continue voting as long as he is eligible, but considers this to be one if not the most important elections of his lifetime due to controversies over the war in Iraq and plans the candidates have for improving the economy. “This is probably one of the most important elections since the Vietnam election,” Moreno said.
Page 11
ACCREDITATION
continued from page 1
Davidson said, is to facilitate the development of the issue that will be the focus of the group. “Ultimately, the captain of this group will assist with developing the QEP topic, institutionalizing it, financing it, and assessing it in preparation for the SACS committee review,” Davidson said. Over the next few months, Davidson said the enhancement committee will be researching possible topics and discussing issues related to UTPA programs. “After the topic has been determined, the team will devote its time to determining goals and strategies related to institutionalizing the plan,” Davidson said. “Moving through the process, they will need to find resources to fund the plan and ways to assess it." As UTPA finishes its report, SACS will reply with questions, concerns and comments, according to Turk. “They will basically give us a grade,” he explained. Following review of the report, SACS will be sending representatives to UTPA in March 2007. The team will do an on-site visit. “They’ll have a firsthand look at what we’ve written down,” Turk said. “Once that team goes back to SACS and gives us another grade, we’ll then find out if we’ve been granted accreditation.” The process of reaccreditation will also include getting help from UTPA students. According to Turk, the students chosen will be voters on committees. The Compliance Certification plan has one student voter, student body President Nathan Shwartz, and the QEP has both a male and female student to help with the operation. A graduate student and an alumnus round out the four students involved. Turk said that while he anticipates a lot of work on the two-year process, he doesn’t necessarily foresee it being all that strenuous. “I don’t think it’s going to be difficult because I believe we are doing everything that SACS wants us to do,” Turk said. “It’s a matter of pulling together those things under those specific questions and showing them the documentation that we’re doing, whatever it is they’re asking for.” Davidson concurred and mentioned that the reaccreditation process is also a time to allow positive things to occur. “It is an opportunity for an institution to look at itself and determine what it is doing well, and also to analyze the areas that need improvement,” Davidson said. “The QEP is an opportunity to guide the university into areas and directions that will enhance student learning for the next decade. It is a time to build upon our assets and produce students who are prepared to be citizens in a global world.”
NEWS
October 28, 2004
PUMPKIN
Page 12
New face brings new ideas
continued from page 4
President speaks with international committee By EDWINA P. GARZA The Pan American
Melissa Martinez/The Pan American
CARVIN’ - Carla Reyna from Contributing to Overcome Cultural Oppression and Ongoing Negativity (C.O.C.O.O.N) participated Wednesday at the pumpkin-carving contest to support her sorority.
Halloween festivities started. It was the first carving experience for Telisa Peña, 19, who started out with the idea of carving a scary face, but instead made a scary castle, winning 1st place and $40 Bronc Bucks. “I’m here to get into the Halloween spirit, and because of the prize,” said Peña, an English major. Not everybody won, but for some, participating was just as important. Carla Reyna, 20, communication disorders major, came out to support her student organization called Contributing to Overcome Cultural Oppression and Ongoing Negativity (C.O.C.O.O.N). “We are trying to expand our multicultural group,” Reyna said.“To get people interested and involved.” Reyna’s pumpkin started out as Sen.
ASSAULT
John Kerry’s face, but had to end up as “Queen of Halloween,” with the pumpkin innards laid on top, as hair with a bow. When time was up judges walked over pumpkin seeds around tables, pointing and noting the students’ creative work. Becky Sanchez, a campus Resource 25 scheduler, was contemplating her decision. “I’m looking for something creative and unique,” she said. “It’s interesting, I’m glad they called me to judge.” Drama major Jerome Warner won third place and $20 Bronc Bucks, but hopes to do better next year. “I did it for the free pumpkin,” said Warner. “I get hungry a lot, I will spend that money.” Pumpkins will be displayed at the Union through Friday.
Little by little, the new university president is getting around on the listening tour she promised would consume the first semester of her reign. Dr. Blanca Cárdenas told the University of Texas-Pan American community as the fall convocation in August that her first few months in office would be long on research and short on action, and that she would be listening as various university organizations and departments briefed her on their agenda and plans for the future. The Advisory Committee in International Studies recently met Cárdenas to introduce the committee goals, as well as its function on campus. The committee, made up of UTPA faculty, advises the office of International Programs by suggesting ideas and giving recommendations for possible international programs that would help departments and colleges in fostering international education programs of teaching and research. The committee also works to promote UTPA and develop a working relationship with universities overseas. “It isn’t a policy-making committee, it’s just an advising body,” Marilu Salazar, director of International Programs said. Salazar explained what the group discussed with Cárdenas. “We presented the office and its duties which is aimed at academic exchange for faculty and students experiences abroad through the study abroad program,” Salazar said. “The committee is like a forum for discussions where we talk about ideas how we can improve the program or how we can develop more.” The committee’s first brief meeting with Cárdenas was met with a positive response, according to Salazar. “[Cárdenas] said to continue what we’re doing because we’re going with the right direction,”
Salazar said. Salazar mentioned that Cárdenas expressed her interest in the importance of maintaining international programs for the educational needs of UTPA students. The international programs allow students to get to know other countries and cultures including neighboring Mexico, where several UTPA students haven’t explored, Salazar said. “She’s very supportive of students and faculty,” Salazar added. Last year, about 40 faculty were involved in exchange or study abroad programs while almost 400 students participated in the summer study abroad programs, Salazar said. “For students, they are more valuable in the future for their careers because the world is becoming smaller and it’s an asset to have international experiences in one’s resume,” said Salazar. The Advisory Committee in International Studies also mentioned their latest project to Cárdenas, which is their annual International Week. Held on Nov. 15-19, the committee along with the office of International Programs will present a series of cultural presentations and lectures including the consul of Japan, African dancers as well as photo exhibits from India and Tuscany. “The goal is just to make the students and faculty, the university, as well as the community to make them aware of other cultures and international issues in order to bring awareness,” said Salazar. International Week takes place on university campuses across the United States for International Celebration Week. Having the yearly event helps students, faculty, and community members experience and understand cultures if they aren’t able to travel abroad. “It’s the easiest way to bring international knowledge because other students don’t have the opportunity to study abroad,” Salazar concluded.
October 28, 2004
NEWS
WAC committee aims to improve writing skills By JENILEE HERNANDEZ The Pan American
Through her experience with horses, assistant professor of English, Danika Brown knows that when riding a horse, if too much pressure is applied, the horse will get mixed signals and the ride can become disastrous. But for the inexperienced rider, common sense tells them to hold on for dear life, therefore applying pressure. The same thing happens in classrooms. Professors may assume that critical thinking is common sense for students, but it certainly is not. Brown said that critical thinking is a specific application of knowledge gained from experience. The Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) committee held a faculty workshop last week on how to write assignments incorporating critical thinking. The WAC was instituted by the Provost in Jan. 2003 to bring professors from all disciplinary fields together to discuss ways to improve their teaching skills and better ensure an unforgettable lesson. University Writing Center Director Judy Davidson believes that this mission is being accomplished. "What I believe we are doing - and I think any project like this is gradual - is raising the awareness of the importance of writing in all disciplinaries," Davidson said. "The interest has grown and we feel very pleased." Currently about 30 faculty members are involved in the committee. Davidson added that there has been a positive feedback from the participants. "The sharing and exchanging of ideas about teaching has been helpful. Even new faculty can learn from the more experienced," Davidson said. Rose Marie Penzerro, professor of social work, agreed that the WAC has allowed her to share and exchange ideas and develop relationships with other professors that may have never occurred. "The WAC committee allows me to have
interdisciplinary interaction,” Penzerro said. “We [professors] don't see each other all that much. Students have the interdisciplinary experience.” In this particular workshop, Penzerro coordinated the event by introducing the workshop and faculty members who spoke. Brown briefly explained what critical thinking was and its importance. She then passed the attention to Delilah Dotremon, professor of criminal justice. Dotremon shared her ideas of incorporating critical thinking in her classes. She said that being able to think this way is extremely important in her area because criminal justice requires a person to stay on their toes. The person must also write well because reports written will be on permanent record and should be error free. Therefore, Dotremon gives her students informal writing assignments. "I do pressure them (students) by giving them informal writing assignments to be done on the spot in the classroom, [in] a very short time frame," Dotremon said. Dotremon explained that this is an effort to get students’ creativity and ideas flowing, but added that cooperative learning plays a crucial role in critical thinking. Cooperative learning is bringing students together in small groups so they can work and help each other expand their knowledge. "In over 600 studies, we have learned the benefits of cooperative learning,” Dotremon said. “Students love to talk, they love to interact, they love to blow off some steam. So we put them in small groups. They get to talk.” By using this method, Dotremon believes students can learn more about learning to think. "What they retain lasts for a longer period of time," Dotremon said. Senior Claudia Elizondo is a criminal justice major who has adapted to Dotremon’s teaching methods. Elizondo believes that what she learns will be beneficial for her future.
continued from page 3
“We do have officers on bikes, on foot, and answering calls,” Loya said. “They are patrolling. We certainly have adequate officers in the evening. We are a growing campus.” Jennifer Williams, an English sophomore thinks the whole ordeal is frightening, especially since she herself is a jogger. “I am not surprised that people like that are out there, but I am surprised that it happened on campus.” Williams said. Williams also tries to jog with someone. Both the chief and Loya agree this is the best thing anyone can do to stay safe. “UTPA has an escort service, use it,” Muñoz said. “Stick to main travel areas and
avoid brush and the bushy areas.” Although he was not aware of this particular incident, Muñoz remains firm that University Police and the Edinburg Police Department have and will continue to work together fighting crime on and off campus. Muñoz’ UTPA counterpart offered still more advice. “Always be aware of your surroundings, and be prepared,” Loya said, adding that students should have their car keys ready, and if there is a lock on the car pop it to avoid fumbling around. “Use the emergency phones on campus if you need to.”
Melissa Martinez/The Pan American
BRAIN BOWL - Members of the Asian American Association and Sigma Lambda Beta square off at Wednesday’s Brain Bowl II competition. The Asian American Association won the match.
Page 5
Melissa Martinez/The Pan American
JAMMIN’ - Lead singer Johnny from Vinyl Dharma rocks the Quad Tuesday during Rockers Eve. They were joined by another Valley band, the December Drive, bringing students another night of rock tunes.
“I think, in the sense of being more confident in my opinions, it will help me. You use your brain,” Elizondo said. John Sargent, management marketing and international business professor, also shared his ideas on how he gets his students to think more critically. He said his students pick a country that they would like to learn more about. Students then have to read a newspaper that relates to that one country. For the final report, they need to write 16 chapters or summaries that coincide with the textbook. In essence, students write about any events taking place in the chosen country, such as politics and law in business. Sargent said he feels that this Internet report pushes students to achieve needed skills which will enable them to succeed in their career and life. “I really wanted my students to get excited about something and really develop some specific expertise in something they were interested,” Sargent said. Not only did this workshop inform faculty of critical thinking, but it also raised awareness of the importance of critical reading in their teachings. Davidson and others feel the response has been positive due to feedback. After each meeting, faculty members fill out an evaluation form to see what can be improved for next workshop. Sonia Alianak, professor of political science, enjoys the workshops because they have been beneficial for her. She attended a previous workshop which focused on time effective grading on essay assignments. "They have been helpful for me to grade faster," Alianak said. Three other workshops will be held in the spring with different topics. The next WAC workshop will be held Nov. 17 from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. in the Schilling Room located at the Library. It will discuss how to write assignments preventing plagiarism. Faculty members from all disciplines are invited.
NEWS
October 28, 2004
Page 4
Staff profile: Mike Metzger
SPORTS CLIPBOARD
The man behind the wheel Lone shuttle driver known for being very conversational By J. DENISSE CANTU Special to the The Pan American Riding the shuttle for most students at The University of Texas-Pan American is nothing more than a daily routine, but for the man behind the wheel, each round is a whole new experience. Mike Metzger, 61, UTPA’s first and only shuttle driver, said he takes great pride in his job. He drives the shuttle through the campus route, an average of 25 times per day Monday through Friday. Although he drives in endless circles all day, he said he enjoys his job because he gets to meet different people every time. “This job is more fun than a barrel of monkeys,” Metzger said. A simple thumbs-up or a friendly wave will get any student a ride on the shuttle. Following his warm enthusiastic greeting, Metzger speaks his mind. He captivates the attention of passengers with his stories. “I’ll talk about life, about history, about anything. If there are no girls on the shuttle we’ll talk about them,” Metzger said. “Mr. Metzger is very outgoing, very talkative, has a
good sense of humor and is very responsible,” said Robert Cantu, assistant director of Auxiliary Services and University Bookstore manager. Cantu has known Metzger for almost five years. He said all he hears are favorable comments about Metzger from students and staff. “I’m also trying to teach a little chivalry here,” Metzger said. When the shuttle gets full all he says is “men you know what to do” and the men on the shuttle stand up and give their seats to the women. Many times Metzger will also initiate debates on different social issues. Even if it’s the first group of students in the morning, Metzger’s enthusiasm brings many students on the shuttle to hop into the debate. “I’ve talked to two different students who told me how Mike gets all the students on the shuttle to engage in debates. The students enjoy that very much,” Cantu said. “I just love discussions. Ask my wife,” said Metzger. “She calls it arguing, but I call it discussing.” Metzger has been happily married for 38 years to Vicky Metzger, who he met through a blind date. He and his -Mike Metzger, wife are the proud of two sons and UTPA shuttle driver parents have four grandchildren. Born in San Antonio, but a resident of McAllen since the age of 4, Metzger spent most of his life around construction with his father. Driving the shuttle has now become Metzger’s full-time job; however, he has been employed with UTPA since Sept. 1994. He began by working part-time checking the
“This job is more fun than a barrel of monkeys,”
Carving contest winners
1
FIRST PLACETelisa Peña was awarded for $40 carving a scary castle. SECOND PLACEPedro Polumin received 2nd place, and $30 for depicting a dragon on his pumpkin.
2
3
THIRD PLACEJerome Warner won $20 for creating a scary face. The awards were given in the form of Bronc Bucks, which can be redeemed at the Studet Union or cafeteria.
Students carve for Bronc Bucks By GINMARIE MABRY The Pan American Eleven students spent their lunch break Wednesday carving monsters, dragons and even a martini glass with toothpick included, to win money for food. The pumpkin-carving contest hosted by the Student Union gave participants a two-hour limit for a chance to win $20-40 in Bronc Bucks. “The money can be spent at the cafeteria or at the Student Union’s convenience store and food court,” said Edna Guajardo, Union assistant director. Students were judged on their freestyle creativity and appearance of the work; stencils were prohibited. The contest was free of charge and open to all students. “Halloween is my favorite time of the year,” said Pedro Polumin, 19, mechanical engineering major who participated while taking a break between classes. “I’m going to sketch a dragon and cut it out slowly.” His “Rising demon pumpkin” won him 2nd place and $30 of Bronc Bucks. Others students intended just to have fun and get the
See PUMPKIN page 12
SPORTS
October 28, 2004
Curse of Bambino put to rest The Boston Red Sox seem to be the most shocking team in the postseason. They came back from a three-game deficit to win the American League Championship Series in seven. As the Sox entered the Major League World Series, they were coming off a four-game winning streak that never stopped. They found themselves up three games to none against the St. Louis Cardinals. On Wednesday night the Sox pushed that mark to eight straight wins and captured their sixth World Series title with a 3-0 Game Four win. The last one was in 1918. They swept the Cardinals ending the so-called Curse of the Bambino.
FOR THE RECORD NFL WEEK 7
MEN’S GOLF
Sunday, Oct. 24
Kansas City 56, Atlanta10
The Nelson Invitational Stanford G.C. Stanford, CA Oct. 22-24 3 round par 69 6444 yards
Jacksonville 27, Indianapolis 24
1 New Mexico Univ. 277 269 284 830 +2
Miami 31, St. Louis 14 Detroit 28, N.Y. Giants 13 Baltimore 20, Buffalo 6
Tampa Bay 19, Chicago 7
2 UNLV
279 268 288 835 +7
San Diego 17, Carolina 6
3 Georgia State
275 279 283 837 +9
SHUTTLE BUS - Mike Metzger opens the shuttle bus door Wednesday at the Edinburg Baseball Stadium. He is the first and only driver pulling the door of the university’s shuttle service. fire extinguishers around campus, and he also worked as a teacher’s aide at the Evan Regional Juvenile Center prior to working for UTPA. Because of his immense knowledge and experience in bricklaying, Metzger obtained his teacher’s certification and taught bricklaying at McAllen High School for 14 years. He taught a vocational class that would teach students how to become bricklayers and learn the basis of construction. Despite his knowledge of construction, Metzger never finished college. Right out of high school, he went to Tarleton University in Stephenville, Texas, where he attempted to study business administration, but only attended for one semester. “My grades were so low that if I’d leave, they’d burn my records,” Metzger said. Then Metzger went to Del Mar College in Corpus Christi to take courses in restaurant management, but was there for only one year. “I just wasn’t college material,” Metzger said. He said facing his father and trying to explain to him that he didn’t want to go to college was very difficult. When it comes to math, Metzger said he is completely lost. However, hand him the blue prints of any building, and he can tell you exactly how many bricks it will take to build it. “College just wasn’t for me, but I do support education,” Metzger said. Although college didn’t work out for him, he still encourages students to pursue an education and to try to go beyond receiving a bachelor’s. He said that the more education a student gets, the better job he or she will get. “The world today has changed a lot. Everyone should get a college degree,” said Metzger. “If you want a college education, I’ll be willing to fight for you to make sure you get it.”
The University of Texas-Pan American women’s golf team came up big with a first-place finish at the Ellington Invitational hosted by Sam Houston State University Oct. 26. At the end of the third round the Lady Broncs had a 12-stroke lead over runners-up Lamar and McNeese State. Leading the way for the Lady Broncs was senior Crystal Frazier, who placed fifth individually and finished the three rounds with a career-low score of 229. Elizabeth Rodriguez placed ninth, one stroke behind was Stefanie Maynard in tenth place with three-round total of 232. The team will compete again when it hosts the Lady Broncs Classic Nov. 8-9.
22; blocks, Winker Cruz 1, Danielle Holthe 1; aces, Stephanie Redd 2 record: 8-11 UTEP: Kills, Kary Stacy 16; assists, Katie Smith 41; digs, Jaymie Swift 19;
284 275 285 844 +16
blocks,Ashley Ripple 7; aces, Heather
285 279 280 844 +16
Brisnahan2, Jaymie Swift 2
New England 13, N.Y. Jets 7
6 Kansas
287 278 282 847 +19
record: (8-10)
7 Kansas State
292 271 286 849 +21
8 Colorado
291 280 282 853 +25
9 Notre Dame
279 288 287 854 +26
Green Bay 41, Dallas 20 Arizona 25, Seattle 17 New Orleans 31, Oakland 26 open; Pittsburgh, Washington, San Francisco, Houston
Monday, Oct 25
Week 8 Sunday, Oct. 31
10 UC Davis
295 286 278 859 +31
11 West Florida
292 287 292 871 + 43
12 Idaho
293 289 293 875 +47
T-13 N. Colorado
286 287 303 876 +48
15 Florida Southern 291 296 296 883 +55 16 UTPA
304 301 297 902 +74
Detroit at Dallas, Noon
UTPA VOLLEYBALL
Jacksonville at Houston, Noon
Wednesday, Oct. 27
Indianapolis at Kansas City, Noon
UTPA FIELDHOUSE
N.Y. Giants at Minnesota, Noon Cincinnati at Tennessee, Noon
UTSA DEF. UTPA 30-23, 18-30, 30-18, 30-32, 15-4
Green Bay at Washington, Noon
UTPA: Kills, Cathi Netemeyer 17;
Baltimore at Philadelplia, Noon
assists, Karen Lyons 42; digs, Carol
Atlanta at Denver, 3:05 p.m.
Marcengo 42; blocks,Cathi Netemeyer
Carolina at Seattle, 3:05 p.m.
4; aces, Heather Bravo 2
New England at Pittsburgh, 3:15 p.m. Oakland at San Diego, 3:15 p.m. San Francisco at Chicago, 7:30 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 1 Miami at N.Y. Jets, 8 p.m. Note: all times central standard time
Baseball World Series Game 1 Boston 11, St. Louis 9 Game 2 Boston 6, St. Louis 2 Game 3 Boston 4, St. Louis 1
Wednesday, Oct. 27 Game 4 Boston 3, St. Louis 0
UTPA SPORTS WOMEN’S GOLF Ellingson Fall Classic Waterwood National Livingston, TX Oct. 25-26 3 round par 72 5983 yards 1 Texas Pan-Am 307 307 306 920 +56 T-2 Lamar Univ.
313 310 309 932 +68
T-2 McNeese State 323 311 298 932 +68 4 North Texas
314 306 318 938 +74
5 Jackson State
321 322 314 957 +93
6 Nicholls State 318 322 324 964 +100 T-7 New Orleans 328 318 323 969 +105
T-7 A&M Corpus
328 318 323 969 +105 328 318 323 969 +105
10 Sam Houston 325 328 323 976 +112
Nov. 8
Lady Bronc Classic
Nov. 9
Lady Bronc Classic
RGV FOOTBALL Week 8 Thursday, Oct. 21 District 31-5A Edinburg Economedes 63, Weslaco 17 . District 32-4A PSJA Memorial 28, Browns. Lopez 7
T-13 Colorado State 289 288 299 876 +48
Arizona at Buffalo, Noon
T-7 Texas State
Editors note: The Oct. 21 issue of The Pan American incorrectly attributed a photo of Terry Dunbar. The photo was taken by The Pan American reporter Joey Hinojosa.
Karen Lyons 33; digs, Carol Marcengo
T-4 Stanford
UTPA bids farewell to Weidner with reception
Lady Broncs score big
30-24, 30-23, 30-16 UTPA:Kills, Heather Bravo 14; assists,
T-4 Missouri
Major League
The university will be throwing Bill Weidner a reception to thank him for all his contributions to the school, before he takes his new post as director of athletics at Weber State University on November 1. Weidner arrived at UTPA in 1998 encountering an athletic program that had been struggling with probation through the 1990s. He has since cleared the school’s bad record, and the athletic department has since received full certification from the NCAA. The reception is to be held tonight at the ITT International room from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MEMORIAL GYM UTEP DEF. UTPA
Minnesota 20, Tennessee 3
Redskins predict next president of the United States
Franco Caballero/The Pan American
Thursday, Oct. 21
Philadelphia 34, Cleveland 31 OT
Cincinnati 23, Denver 10
It is proven that the Washington Redskins football games have been able to correctly predict the winner of the presidential elections dating back to 1936. In 1936, the Washington Redskins, then called the Boston Braves, beat the Staten Island Stapletons, 19-6, securing Franklin D. Roosevelt’s reelection to his second term. This is how it works; in the past 15 presidential elections the Washington Redskins have successfully predicted the next president of the United States by either winning or losing their last home game prior to the election. They can determine whether the incumbent party will win the election. On Oct. 30, 2000, the Washington Redskins lost to the Tennessee Titans 27-21. There was no real incumbent candidate, because former President Bill Clinton served his presidential term, as the constitution permits, but Al Gore was vice president during the time, and lost. Well there you go, guess you can blame the Washington Redskins for George W. Bush being elected, or not. This year the Washington Redskins host the Green Bay Packers Sunday, Oct. 31. So let’s see if this tradition stays alive.
Page 13
record: (8-15) UTSA: Kills, Connie Picard 18; assists Deedee Strickland 48; digs, Brittany
Friday, Oct. 22 District 30-5A La Joya 41, McAllen Rowe 13 McAllen Memorial 42, McAllen High 35 Rio Grande City 17, Sharyland 6 District 31-5A Edinburg High 28, PSJA 26 PSJA North 21, Edinburg North 13 District 32-5A Brownsville Pace 27, Harlingen South 20 Harlingen High 45, Brownsville Porter 10 San Benito 42, Los Fresnos 20 District 32-4A Edcouch Elsa 42, Weslaco East 0 MissionHigh 26, Mercedes 14 Mission Veterans 28, Roma 9 District 32-3A Hidalgo 41, Progreso 14 Port Isabel 15, La Feria 10 Lyford 20, Rio Hondo 14 District 32-2A Premont 47, La Villa 12 Riviera 27, Santa Rosa 12
Hildebrand 15; blocks, Jennifer Emelogu 4; aces Deedee Strickland 2, Erin Mcmillan 2, Katy Barnett 2 record (13-11)
Monday, Oct. 25 STRAHAN COLISEUM TEXAS STATE DEF. UTPA
30-27, 30-20, 30-28 UTPA:Kills, Stephanie Redd 12; assists, Jen Dameworth 18; digs, Cathi Netemeyer 13; blocks, Stephanie Redd 4; aces, Cathi Netemeyer 3, Carol Marcengo 3 record: (8-14) TX State: Kills, Stephani Torregrosa 12 ; assists, Jessica Grisham 22; digs, Kristy Jones 16; blocks, Brandy Francis 3, Kacee Rogers 3; aces, Stephani Torregrosa 1, Jessica Grisham 1 record: (19-4)
Thursday, Oct. 22
Saturday, Oct. 23 District 32-5A Browns. Rivera 43, Browns. Hanna 0
Week 8 Friday, Oct 29 District 30-5A McAllen High at Rio Grande City La Joya at Sharyland McAllen Rowe at McAllen Memorial District 31-5A Weslaco at Donna PSJA North at PSJA High Edinburg High at Edinburg Economedes District 32-5A Harlingen High at San Benito Los Fresnos at Harlingen South Brownsville Porter at Brownsville Hanna District 32-4A Weslaco East at Roma PSJA Memorialat Mission High Mission Veterans at Mercedes Brownsville Lopez at Edcouch-Elsa
PAN AMERICAN CENTER NEW MEXICO STATE DEF. UTPA
30-18, 30-16, 30-25 UTPA:Kills, Stephanie Redd 12; assists, Karen Lyons 26; digs, Carol Marcengo 15; blocks, Danielle Holthe 2; aces, Stephanie Redd 1, Heather Bravo 1, Winker Cruz 1, Carol Marcengo 1 record: (8-13)
District 32-3A Rio Hondo at Port Isabel Raymondville at Hidalgo Lyford at La Feria District 32-2A Santa Rosa at Bishop Hebbronville at La Villa TAPPS District 4-5A SA Holy Cross at St. Joseph
NMSU: Kills, Sarah Silagy 11; Jackie Choi 39; digs, Brianna Akrie 20;blocks, Alice Borden 2, Tanya Allen 2, Kristin Hendricks 2; aces, Jordan Bostic 3 record: (19-2)
Saturday, Oct. 30 District 32-5A Brownsville Pace at Brownsville Rivera open: Edinburg North, Progreso
SPORTS
October 28, 2004
Page 14
Fall season wrapping up soon for tennis Broncs By ROY RAMIREZ The Pan American
With regionals in the books for the men and the final days of regional competition coming up this weekend for the women, Coach Paul Soliz is already looking forward to the spring semester. “We need to do a lot of work to prepare if we are going to be successful in the spring,” said the UTPA tennis coach. The men’s squad looked strong in action at the University of TexasAustin for the ITA regional tournament Oct. 22-23. Sophomore standout Gary Bianco, from Annecy, France, blazed through the singles consolation bracket with three straight victories before dropping a straight-set decision (7-6, 7-5) to Shaun Ellingson of Louisiana State in the semifinals. Senior Jeremy Salvo also recorded an early round victory before giving up straight sets (6-1, 6-4) to nationally ranked (16th) Travis Helgeson of Texas. All three men’s
doubles teams were eliminated after first round advancement. Soliz expressed disappointment over the women’s 1-6 record in competition Oct. 15-16. Freshman Silke Buksik recorded the only victory for the Broncs, over Christine Majchrowcz of Centenary College, while Buksik and fellow freshman Katherine Barto fell out of doubles competition after losing two straight matches. Looking ahead, Soliz is looking for the women to bounce back for final regional tournament competition Oct. 29-30 at Texas A&M in College Station. Men’s competition has wrapped for the fall. He said that, overall, this has been a solid semester for his teams. “It’s been a good fall and I feel like I know the players now. We hope to do better in the spring.” Broncs tennis action resumes in the spring with the men in Conference Action versus Nicholls State Feb. 12 Delisa Guadarrama/The Pan American and the women resuming Feb. 4 at FINALE The men are finished for the year. Here, Gary Bianco hits the ball in a recent practice. The women Abilene Christian. have one meet remaining, Oct. 29-30 at UT-San Antonio.
Akers comes home Friday By JACOB ALEGRIA The Pan American Fred Akers came to town in 1962, where he became the Edinburg High School head football coach. Now, over 40 years later, Akers and his coaching staff will be honored as Fred Akers and Staff Day is proclaimed. Edinburg City officials and Edinburg School Board members will hold the proclamation ceremony on Oct. 29. The coach and staff will be honored Oct. 30 at 7 p.m. in the Edinburg City Auditorium, located on West McIntyre Adjacent to the old university buildings. Akers was able to re-establish the winning tradition in Edinburg and at the University of Texas. He demanded discipline, valued determination and emphasized the basics. Fundamentals were another aspect he believed essential to success, and that same mentality was carried over to his assistants. Akers was considered to be a great motivator and his attitude for success spread to his teams. There was an attitude and he never let anyone on his team quit. The players were taught that in order to be successful they needed to stick to fun-
Fred Akers early ‘60s
Courtesy of Robert Vela
damentals, even when the odds were against them. That same attitude helped to inspire each one of his teams, and many of his players went on to receive All District and All Valley honors. Akers also stressed good academic work during his coaching career, telling his athletes that graduation was one of the most important things they could accomplish. Although he left Edinburg High in 1965, his time with the Bobcats brought back not only tradition but success both on and the field. Akers and his assistants helped to inspire students to become prominent and successful people in their community. After leaving Edinburg Akers accepted a position as an assistant for legendary coach Darrell K. Royal at the University of Texas. He served as an assistant under Royal for nine years and finally earned an opportunity to become the head coach of the Texas Longhorns. Akers brought many honors to the university and earned many honors himself. Among the honors were National Coach of the Year in 1977, Southwest Conference Coach of the Year four times and Regional Coach of the Year four times as well. He also led the Longhorns to the national title game twice, in 1977 and 1983. Other accomplishments included leading the Longhorns to a No. 1 national ranking four times, and to nine bowl games. Akers has the second-best winning percentage of any coach in Southwest Conference history and is one of only two coaches to have ever coached a Heisman, Lombardi and Outland Trophy winners at the same school. Although Akers earned the respect, honor and admiration from people all across America, he never forgot about his time in Edinburg. He has shared many fond memories with his former players, which have become known as the “Fred Akers Boys,” by his colleagues. His first coaching job at Edinburg and the friends he helped to inspire form a lasting legacy. For more information contact Ramiro Perez at 624-6805 or Robert Vela at 316-7309.
Writers, photographers wanted for the sports section. Ideas for stories are also welcome. E-mail Joey Gomez at dedhead489@yahoo.com
NEWS Women assaulted by jogger
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Staff profile. . . . . . . . . . . . 4
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WAC committee. . . . . . . . . . . 5
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Campus bikers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) NIHL is preventable. All individuals should understand the hazards of noise and how to practice good health in everyday life. ■ Know which noises can cause damage (those above 90 decibels). ■ Wear earplugs or other hearing protective devices when involved in a loud activity (special earplugs and earmuffs are available at hardware stores and sporting good stores). ■ Be alert to hazardous noise in the environment. ■ Protect children who are too young to protect themselves.
By EMMA CLARK The Pan American
■ Make family, friends, and colleagues aware of the hazards of noise.
Three female students were assaulted on the University of Texas-Pan American campus late on Wednesday October 20th. An 18-year-old male was later identified by campus police and given three separate citations for each attack. He was also issued with a criminal trespass warrant, since the suspect was not a student. The suspect was jogging through the campus when he attacked the first victim outside the College of Science and Engineering shortly after 10 p.m. She contacted University Police and gave them a description, which was then distributed among patrolling officers. Sgt. Brian Miller identified the suspect outside the Academic Services Building. The second victim, who was still close by, alleged he had attacked her in the same way, by groping her breasts. All three attacks happened between 10 and 10:30 p.m. University Police are investigating an assault claim from another female student reported the week before these most recent attacks. The suspect will have to attend Edinburg Municipal Court within the 10day citation period, according to Sgt. James Loya of the University Police Department. “Based on the information, it constitutes assault by contact, which is what we call, a bookable offense,” Loya said. Edinburg Police Chief Quirino Muñoz explained that this is a class C misdemeanor. “Had there been bodily injury, or pain and discomfort then it would be a class A misdemeanor,” Muñoz said. He also said if the victims had been under 17 years old, the charge would have been a felony. The suspect faces up to a $500 fine, or what amount the judge sees fit, according to Loya. Should he fail to pay that fine, or approach the university campus again, he will face jail time. Sophomore Darryl Scott feels that lack of police on campus is to blame for these occurrences. “They should add at least half more of what they have. They seemed to have cut down,” Scott said. Loya disputes this claim.
See ASSAULT page 12
■ Have a medical examination by an otolaryngologist, a physician who specializes in diseases of the ears, nose, throat, head, and neck, and a hearing test by an audiologist, a health professional trained to identify and measure hearing loss and to rehabilitate persons with hearing impairments. Source: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
Can you hear me now? High cell phone volume can damage hearing By LYLONY CAZARES The Pan American
Like many students, Cynthia Vasquez has reached a point where she cannot go through a day without her cell phone. She uses over 2,500 minutes monthly to keep in touch with friends and family, as well as substituting her cell for a house phone. Yet Vasquez said she never thought using her cell phone could cause damage to her hearing until noticing how loud her device is at some moments; the noise often hurts her ear. “There are times when I have to turn the volume level up on my phone to be able to hear the other person talking,” Vasquez said. “Then someone else calls me who talks louder and I forget to lower the volume. Afterward I notice a sharp pain in my ear after the conversation.” Hugo Jurado, general manager at Express Communication in Weslaco, notices how a cell phone’s volume could be a likely problem to a person’s hearing. Yet has not faced the problem. “I am always on my cell phone, and as a long-term cellphone user, I have not seen a great impact in my hearing due to the volume of my phone,” Jurado said. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders Web site explained hearing involves a series of events where the ear converts sound waves into electrical signals that are sent to the brain and interpreted as sound. The ear has three main parts: the outer, middle and inner ear. Sound waves enter through the outer ear and reach the middle
ear where they cause the eardrum to vibrate. But when an individual is exposed to harmful sounds such as those too loud that are over 90-decibels (dB), over exposure to them can cause the sensitive inner ear structure irreversible damage. Thus, the damage causes Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). Nola Radford, communication disorders professor at University of Texas-Pan American, mentioned how cell phones could possibly cause NIHL due to repeated exposure. “The particular sound is not the culprit, alone; the loudness of the sound is the culprit,” Radford explained. “At the same time, some sources of sound are naturally louder than others.” She also mentioned how loudness is measured in units called decibels and conversational speech occurs at a loudness of about 50 to 60 dB. “Exposure to very loud and extremely loud sounds should be avoided,” Radford said. “An intensity of 90 to 110 dB is considered very loud to extremely loud, while lawnmowers, shop tools, truck traffic, bass drum rolls and personal headsets with adjustable volumes set at the extreme are examples of very loud to extremely loud sounds.” According to Radford sounds which occur at levels of 120 dB and above are extremely painful. This would include jet plane take-offs, amplified music and car stereos. “It (loud car stereos) may seem like fun now, but regular and lengthy periods of sound exposure can accelerate loss of
hearing over and above the gradual decrease in hearing that sometimes occurs naturally with age,” Radford said. “If the inner ear is damaged at a young age as a result of noise exposure, hearing loss may be accelerated to the point of profound hearing loss or deafness.” According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, the symptoms of NIHL increase gradually over a period of continuous exposure. Sounds may become distorted or muffled and making it difficult for the person to understand speech. The individual may also not be aware of the loss, but it can be detected with a hearing test. In order to protect ears from NIHL, Radford suggests using hearing protection like ear plugs to reduce the intensity of noise when using noisy equipment; lowering the volume on stereos; and trying to keep a good distance between yourself and the sound source at concerts. “It would help to not use a loud cell phone in a noisy environment,” Radford said. “Go to a quieter area and don't adjust the volume up.” However, Jurado believes cell phones do not cause a major health risk or hearing loss to users. “In my opinion, I don't believe people should worry, people should be familiar with their volume settings and know when to adjust the volume of the handset to lessen the risk of damage to their hearing,” Jurado said. “Also, using a leather case as an additional protection and comfort for your ears would help.”
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OPINION
October 28, 2004
letters
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editorials
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cartoons
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Edinburg bragging rights on the line Friday Unbeaten Bobcats and Jaguars to break up tie at top of District 31-5A
THE
By JACOB ALEGRIA The Pan American
PAN AMERICAN 1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 http://www.panam.edu/dept/panamerican 53rd Year – No. 10
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Supreme Court appointment might follow election A new development arose this past weekend with the hospitalization of Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist, adding to one of the most controversial and divided presidential elections of our time. Rehnquist was hospitalized after being diagnosed with thyroid cancer. The Supreme Court released a two-paragraph statement of the news and also interrupted this week’s work, Arianna Vazquez which will resume next Monday with Rehnquist heading it. The chief justice, who turned 80 earlier this month, is one of the most conservative justices in the court and the second oldest chief justice to preside. Although he said that he does not plan to retire, his current health status brings new dimensions to the election. Whoever wins the presidential election has the chance to appoint a Supreme Court Justice, who stays on the court for life or until he or she decides to retire. Rehnquist was appointed to the court by President Richard Nixon in 1972 and was named chief justice by President Ronald Reagan in 1986. According to textbooks, when a president has the opportunity to assign a justice to the court, their platforms and ideas are still seen and acted upon even after death. In the case of Nixon’s, appointee is still serving and to this day has voted on important issues, such as limiting abortion and preserving the death penalty, according to the AP News Web site. However, Rehnquist’s spot may not be the only one to become available. Three or four more spots are also being discussed. Most of the justices serving in the court are in their late 70s and early 80s and those most likely to retire are the three oldest members: conservative Rehnquist, John Paul Stevens, 84, who usually votes with the court’s four-member liberal wing, and Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, 74. At a time like this, when the presidential election is as close as it seems and every vote will count, the presidential candidates have been bombarded with questions concerning the possibility of being able to assign a justice to the court. If this happens, whoever wins can and will have the ultimate power over the rulings for controversial issues, such as abortion and gay marriages. Like Nan Aron of Alliance for Justice, a liberal group that monitors judicial nominations, stated in a USA Today Web site, “The next president will set the direction of the Supreme Court not for just four
years, but for four decades.” Most liberals are aware of the new possibilities and know if President George W. Bush is re-elected he would have the chance to change the usual 5-4 decisions seen in Supreme Court rulings, having the opportunity to reverse Roe v. Wade, which gave women the right to an abortion. And he also has the option to end possibility of having gay marriages legalized. However, as stated in the News Day Web site, in the recent debates, President Bush has often said that his challenger Sen. John Kerry, has an abortion-rights litmus test. A litmus test can be defined as one that uses a single indicator to prompt a decision, according to the Webster’s Dictionary Web site. Bush states that Kerry uses the litmus test for federal judicial selections and that he himself does not have one. Bush has also noted that he will pick judges who will interpret the U.S. Constitution, but will not use a litmus test. But Bush has also been quoted as saying he wants strict constructionists as judges and justices because they will follow the philosophy that rules should be based on the literal words stated in the Constitution. However, strict constructionists believe that the right to an abortion is not found in the Constitution. Kerry on the other hand, is pro-choice and has stated that he wants judges to uphold the constitutional laws and the justices’ decisions. According to the News Day Web site, Kerry said, “I’m not going to appoint a judge to the court who’s going to undo a constitutional right. I believe that the right of choice is a constitutional right.” The right to a gay marriage should also be a constitutional right and one given to the American people. However, in one of the debates, Bush said that homosexuality was a choice. He stills defines marriage as a basic institution between a man and a woman. Kerry agreed with Bush on the aspect of marriage being a union between a man and a woman, but stated that same-sex marriages should be left up to the states. The bottom line is that the states are going to go to the Supreme Court justices for guidance and it will be up to the nine justices to make same-sex marriages legal or not. If the vacancies, do in fact, become available it will be up to the president-elect for 2004 to place a justice in the seat to interpret the Constitution the way most of the Americans prefer to view it as, as the right of choice concerning gay marriages or the right for abortions. Most prefer the liberal way, but it all comes down to Nov. 2 when either a liberal or a conservative will take the seat and rule society by their beliefs.
Bobcat pride seems to be running high once again in the city of Edinburg; however the only difference is this year there’s a young cat with a new tradition of its own. The Edinburg Economedes High School Jaguars are trying to make themselves the new “big cat” in town and look to steal the town for the first time. Although, the Bobcats are the traditional team of the town, this year the favorite appears to be the Jaguars. Still, Edinburg enters the match for city pride on a five-game winning streak after starting the season with three straight losses. Every year the Bobcats find a way to make a late push and this year hasn’t been any different, as they have won their share of big games this season. Leadership has been a key to success. There is a great deal at stake for both teams even though the Bobcats have already clinched a playoff spot with their win last week over P-SJ-A. District title hopes are on the line, not to mention the city championship and bragging rights. Last week, the Bobcats defeated the wounded but feisty Bears, 28-26 hardfought victory. Although the Bears were without star running back Marcos Hernandez, they came to play but came up short against a relentless Edinburg team. The win is one that can be attributed to leadership on the team, said Bobcat Coach Robert Vela. “Our seniors have been great leaders and everyone has come together, their all playing for each other,” Vela said. The Bobcats will need all the leadership and playmaking ability they have in order to slow down an explosive and potentially high-powered Jag offense, led by record-breaking and heartbreaking running back Ryan Richardson, one of the Valley’s best
running backs. Richardson leads the Valley in rushing yards with 1,633 and is coming off a Valley all-time best 398-yard rushing performance last week against the Weslaco Panthers. He also tied the Valley record for touchdowns in a game with six and now has 24 on the season.
CITY CHAMPIONSHIP DISTRICT 31-5A EDINBURG HIGH (4-0, 5-3) vs. ECONOMEDES (4-0, 4-3) 7:30 p.m. Friday at Cats Stadium Richardson’s ability is something that coach Vela is well aware of. “Ryan Richardson is probably the best running back to come out of Edinburg, we know he’s going to get his yards,” said Vela. However, the Jaguars have other weapons, like fullback Derek Garcia, which makes for a great one-two punch. “Ryan can lullaby you, but they have other weapons like Derek Garcia, but we have to make plays,” said Vela. The Jaguars will also have their hands full, because the Bobcats have their own weapons including senior quarterback and leader Anthony De la Vina, manning the offense along with running back Jesse Galvan who is improving every week. The
weapons also include the twin powers of Glen and Kevin Cowan, brothers who play defensive tackle and defensive end, respectively. De la Vina came through in a big way last week against the Bears on a gutsy fourth-down call; he lined up as the punter and went straight up the middle for a 36-yard gain. It was a crucial point in the game and set up a 15-yard touchdown run three plays later allowing Edinburg to retake the lead and the eventual win. Galvan also came through with a stellar performance of his own and finished the night with 146 yards on 14 carries and two touchdowns. He had a big 71-yard touchdown run that helped to excite the team and fans. The Cowan brothers are simply a big presence on the defensive side of the ball; both stand at well over six feet tall and weigh just a shade over 210 pounds. Edinburg started the season with a tough schedule facing San Benito, Harlingen and Corpus Christi Calallen, and the road to the end of the season doesn’t get any easier this week: Economedes and next week perennial powerhouse Donna. However, first comes the Jaguars and it figures to be no easy task. Both teams have weapons on both sides of the ball, and this should be another great one on the Valley high school football schedule. The game features two teams that have the ability to score from almost anywhere on the field. This is something that coach Vela knows all too well. “This game could turn into a shootout, but we have to execute,” he noted. In the end, however this game may come down to the final possession. “We want to slow them down, but it might come down to whoever has the ball last,” said Vela. “It’s going to come down to whoever makes the least amount of mistakes and let the best team win.”
Cross country teams looking to keep running By DARYL GONZALES The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American cross country season is nearing the end with the Independent Championships Saturday in Corpus Christi. The men’s and women’s teams are both young but that hasn’t been a problem this season. The men’s team is heading into this weekend’s meet with confidence from a solid season. They have finished all five meets in good standing. Junior transfer Hector Gandara (Mission, TX/Pratt Community College) has been a sure standout, as he has recorded the best time for the Broncs in three meets. At his last meet Gandara placed 13th out of 185 at the Auburn Invitational, and was named that same week the Independent Runner of the week. “I think we have good shot at winning,” Gandara said. “And then we have regionals after that.” He and the rest of the squad are steadily anticipating this meet to see where they stand among Independents. They are already familiar with the terrain, as they competed in the Islander Splash and placed fourth out of six teams earlier in the fall. “I think that it might throw a couple of teams off, because they haven’t raced there,” Gandara said. “I feel pretty confident.” Gandara says that his team is “progressing steadily,” and hopes that it will carry over to the meet this weekend. He also said that his success is thanks to the rest of his team and his coaches who help him out physically and mentally. “Some of my teammates help me out on the long intervals,” Gandara said. “We should be able to run fast.” Assistant cross country coach Peter Hess says that the men’s team has ran hard all season and it shows. He expects Hector Gandara to be the front-runner who also
has a great group of guys behind him that have been working hard all year long. “Our main goal was to stay healthy and run well, and I think we’re doing that well,” assistant cross country coach Peter Hess said. “With a young team we’ve really put together a season to really prepare us for the end of the year.” Whoever said that experience is everything didn’t tell freshman Bertha Castillo (Mission, TX/Mission H.S.) who has been having a remarkable rookie season. This young standout has been showing the rest of the competition that she isn’t one to be taken for granted. She has helped her team come up with pretty good finishes during this season with her eighth, fifth, and 21st place finishes against tough competition. She was also named Independent Runner of the week Oct. 12 for her success that week. The women’s team will also be competing at the Independent Championships in Corpus Christi where members hope to show the rest that youth can be a good thing. They too have a bit of an advantage on the rest of the field since they have some knowledge of the course. “We definitely have a great advantage,” Hess commented. “I think we can be competitive.” Also helping with her experience is junior Dannely Flores (Brownsville, TX/Hanna H.S.) who has been steadily performing well through the season. She has been one of the Lady Broncs top runners, finishing as the second best runner in three out of the four meets. The team can probably expect another great finish this Saturday from Flores. “Bertha has been out number one runner every time she’s raced,” Hess said. “Carla Hernandez and Dannely Flores work to run very strong.” The teams look to make it to the NCAA Regional Championships in Waco in two weeks, if they do well enough in Corpus.
Delisa Guadarrama/The Pan American
LEADER - Hector Gandara will be the men’s cross country team’s main hope as the Independent Championships are run Oct. 30 in Corpus Christi.
Tomorrow night the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees (0-1-0) will be facing off against the defending Central Hockey League (CHL) champion Laredo Bucks (2-1-0). It will be the Bees’ first regular season home game, as well as the initial meeting between division rivals since last March’s playoff game. Killer Bees Head Coach Tracy Egeland believes the team has a good attitude and is prepared for Friday’s game. “We’re ready to go,” said Egeland. “We’re having good practices all week.” Egeland also thinks team chemistry is coming together well for the Killer Bees. The second-year RGV head coach feels the returning players from last season will benefit the team. “It’s going pretty good,” said Egeland. “We’ve got a lot of guys back from last year. (I think) we’re farther ahead of some of the other teams with our returning players.” RGV will be facing divisional opponents in three of their first four home games. Afterward they will head out on the road to play four games in five days. “It is the best division in the whole league. There is tough competition,” said Egeland. The coach recognizes that RGV needs to win early on in the season to stay competitive. “We have to win our early games,” said
■ Cross country. . . . .15
the Lethbridge, Alberta native. “We have to win our home games, or we could find ourselves out of a playoff race rather quickly.” On Saturday the Killer Bees will entertain the Austin Ice bats, who beat RGV 5-2 one week earlier. The following Saturday, Nov. 6, they will be at home to face the Corpus Christi Rayz. On Tuesday, Nov. 9, RGV will host the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs for the team’s second annual Kids Day game. Last season over 4,000 elementary school students packed the Dodge Arena during the first annual matinee contest. The result was the Killer Bees beating the San Angelo Saints in an overtime sudden death shootout. Even though the crowd will be roaring a little louder than usual, Egeland and the Bees plan to approach the game the same way they do other games. “The only difference is that it is in the morning, but we treat it as any other twopoint game,” said the 34-year-old coach. “Every game is very important.” Before the start of the regular season the Killer Bees had to trim their roster down to 18 players. Last week, forward Matt Donskov, defenseman Coel Doty, and goaltender Terry Dunbar were released by the team. Also last week, the Killer Bees completed a three-team trade that sent Topeka Tarantulas’ forward Joe Guenther to RGV and Fort Worth Brahmas’ Justin Williams to Topeka, with Fort Worth receiving future considerations from RGV. “(Guenther) is big and strong, and is
another goal scorer in our lineup,” said Egeland, who is also planning to allow goaltender Jacque Vezina to see more playing time this season. Vezina played in 20 games last year. “(The idea is to) keep both (goaltenders) fresh,” said Egeland.
Also, this week Killer Bee center Anthony Donskov announced his retirement and has been placed on waivers. Donskov was inactive for last Saturday’s loss to Austin as he was recovering from an injury he suffered during the Oct. 15 exhibition game against the Mexico National team.
Basketball isn’t supposed to be a contact sport but senior Alvaidas Gedminas seems amused by the physical nature of American basketball. “Everyone was beating each other up,” said the seven-foot UTPA center, about his first impression of basketball upon arriving in the states. Now, after several years of playing American hoops, the Lithuanian-born Gedminas says that international differences are reflected in the way the game is approached. “American basketball is more physical (and) there’s more contact,” second-year veteran Gedminas said. “European basketball is more (about) protecting and shooting.” At center, Gedminas’ job requires an ability to score while absorbing large amounts of physical contact at arguably, the most punishing of all five positions on the floor. “Here two people will come after you when you make a drive or try to shoot,” the former European post said. “In Europe
you’re (shooting) by yourself.” Gedminas and the Broncs begin the season with an exhibition game against Monterrey Tech on Nov. 6 at the UTPA Fieldhouse. The Broncs begin the regular season at home on Nov. 23 against Texas A&M – International. Gedminas was recruited by then assistantcoach Robert Davenport, after the former completed his final season with Kirtland Community College in Roscommon, MI where he was highly ranked in rebounding among all National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division 1 players in 2002-03. “We were attracted to his size and the fact that he was 5th in rebounding,” head coach Robert Davenport said Last season he averaged 3.4 points and 2.6 rebounds per game for UTPA, shooting 54.3 percent from the floor and 63.6 percent from the line. He returns to a Bronc team that went 14-14 last season under departed Coach Bob Hoffman, who took an assistant job at Oklahoma over the summer. The 7footer hopes to pad his stats this season. “He’s doing great, physically he’s doing real well,” Davenport said. “ (He’s) going to
THE
PAN AMERICAN
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
An American Duty Valley residents partake in early voting
-Teresa Navarro,
since people can avoid long lines, and one can take their time when doing so. “On Election Day [alone] we will hit 55,000 to 60,000 voters,” Navarro said. “That means the lines will be long. I say take advantage of early voting, there is plenty of locations and plenty of time to vote.” Besides avoiding long lines, citizens can also take advantage of 22 stations that are distributed across the Hidalgo County. “The difference between voting now and voting on Election Day is that you get an opportunity to go to any sub-station in the county. We have 22 sub-stations meaning we have 22 locations [where] you can go out and vote,” Navarro said. According to Navarro, if a student in Edinburg lives in Weslaco, they can simply go to the Edinburg Elections Office to vote. On Election Day voters must go to the precinct they are registered in. The early voting turnout for Hidalgo County has been greater for this election than for the 2000 election. “We have already surpassed all of the numbers from the past elections as far as early voting turnouts,” she said. Navarro also noticed some interesting patterns of young voters such as couples going in to vote for their next leader. “There is no doubt that we have more student participation in this election than any other elections,” she said. “They are coming in, in pairs meaning boyfriend and girlfriend are coming in holding hands, and I think that is so interesting because I’ve never seen it before so they are coming in together from
Hidalgo Co. elections administrator
See EARLY VOTING page 11
By ANGELA I. CANALES The Pan American With Election Day less than a week away, citizens have already begun casting their votes for the next president. Early voting began on Oct. 18 and will continue through Friday for people that want to cast their votes before the Nov. 2 election. Early action on campus takes place at the Library. According to the Texas Secretary of State, 41.3 percent of votes from Hidalgo County in the 2000 election were cast early. This election is seeing the same outcomes. “Right now I estimate that we will probably hit about 25,000 to 50,000 early voters,” said Teresa Navarro, Hidalgo County elections administrator. Navarro said voting early is convenient
“On Election Day [alone] Joey Hinojosa/The Pan American
DONE - Anthony Donskov (10), the 2003 CHL Man of the Year for the Lubbock Cotton Kings, chose to retire this week after playing two exhibition games with the Killer Bees.
7-footer continues to improve in Bronc center role By JOEY GOMEZ The Pan American
See Page 2
■ Tennis . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Bees start stand with defending league champ By JOEY HINOJOSA The Pan American
Supreme Court news alters elections
be a bigger contributor, he worked hard in the offseason.” Davenport added that Gedminas’ improvement in combined speed and agility worked well for the veteran center. “This year I’m in better shape and better running shape,” Gedminas said. As this season finds the Broncs under the leadership of Davenport, Gedminas described working for both of them. “Bob (Hoffman) was tactical, exes and zeros,” Gedminas said. “Davenport is a ‘whatever it takes’ kind of guy.” This season Gedminas said that the Broncs have been working hard to get ready for the season and that he’s enjoyed the overall atmosphere surrounding his teammates in recent practices. “Hopefully we’re going to do better than last year…hopefully we’re going to have a winning season,” Gedminas said. “ (and) Hopefully we’re going to have a lot of fans come in and watch us.” The computer information systems major Delisa Guadarrama/The Pan American said he’s looking ahead to a future playing basketball here or overseas. “An internship is my second option,” he MAIN COG? - Alvaidas Gedminas is expected to be a force in the middle for this year’s UTPA men’s basketadded. ball team. The second year Bronc is from Lithuania.
we will hit 55,000 to 60,000 voters. That means the lines will be long. I say take advantage of early voting, there is plenty of locations and plenty of time to vote.”
October 28, 2004 _____________ Criminal Justice junior Eddie Castillo fulfills his obligation by voting Monday at the Library.
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Joel De La Rosa/The Pan American
SPORTS
■ Sports Clipboard . . . . . 13
UTPA reexamines goals during reaccreditation By EDWINA P. GARZA The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American is starting its twoyear process in order to become reaccredited with Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). A group of faculty and students are now working to meet the Sept. 10, 2006 deadline to keep UTPA an accredited institution. SACS, based out of Georgia, is the regional body for higher education accreditation for states such as Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Georgia, and Texas, among others. According to the organization’s Web site, an accredited institution, “maintains clearly specified education objectives that are consistent with its mission and appropriate to the degrees it offers, and that it is successful in achieving its stated objective.” The last time UTPA was up for reaccreditation was in 1996, as the process repeats itself every decade. Involved in that process was political science professor William Turk.
In 1996, Turk was on the assessment committee, and said he’s seen the process change. “They changed it significantly from what it was 10 years ago,” Turk said. One of SACS’ major changes is the presentation of the institution report. In 1996, UTPA submitted a 1,000-page report; now everything is done electronically through the Internet. Ten years later, Turk volunteered to be the coordinator and liaison of the project. He explained what the process will be like
for UTPA. “[The process involves] two main pieces,” Turk said. “One team does an audit of the university, they answer almost 80 questions on what the university has been doing, the graduation rate, what the core requirements are, a financial and student audit, and all of those kinds of core questions have to be answered.” He also said they are answered in a one- or two-page singlespaced narrative and provide info over the Internet. Requirements are one side; the Quality Enhancement Plan is the second main part. Turk said that every university that goes through the process must navigate a five-year quality enhancement plan. “It’s specifically aimed at enhancing student learning, and it can be something ongoing, or something we want to build on, or it can be something brand new,” Turk explained. Captain of the Quality Enhancement Plan is the director of the Writing Center, Judy Davidson. The main job of the captain,
See ACCREDITATION page 11