June 15, 2006 by UTRGV Student Media

AMERICAN

THE

PAN

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

June 15, 2006

Conference addresses plight of uninsured population By LUKE KOONG The Pan American For many people without health insurance, a simple ailment like the flu could spell death. At best, weeks of distress. The plight of the uninsured in the nation is being felt, especially by the Hispanic population. Of the 45.8 million individuals without health coverage, nearly 14 million are Hispanic.

Last month, experts who have long researched the uninsured congregated at The University of Texas-Pan American to host the National Uninsured Latinos Conference and address the growing need for healthcare reform. “It’s time we’re no longer, in this country, silent about the millions of Americans who are suffering because of uninsurance,” Roland Arriola, vice president of External Affairs, said at the conference. “We’re not going to acquiesce

anymore to the apathy that we see around us on this issue,” he added. MORE EQUALS LESS Close to 18,000 people are dying each day due to a lack of health coverage. In the United States, more money is spent on healthcare on a per capita basis than any other country in the world. However, spending all that money has not yet produced equivalent

See UNINSURED page 4

Luke Koong/The Pan American THINK TANK - Raul Yzaguirre (left) leads a panel which included Dr. John Lumpkin (center) and U.S. Rep. Silvestre Reyes (right) at UTPA May 22.

National organization hopes for local branch By CAROLINA SANCHEZ The Pan American

www.utm.edu/staf/leeb/Vietnam/wall.htm HONORING - The Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall arrives to the Valley at the end of this month for public viewing. The wall is a smaller version of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

By SANDRA GONZALEZ The Pan American Jorge Gonzalez remembers the names of all his friends who lost their lives in the Vietnam War. When the Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall opens for public viewing on June 30, he does not know how he will react to seeing those names again. “I can not tell you that I’m looking forward to seeing their names, but in a way I’m looking forward to seeing their names,” Gonzalez, volunteer coordinator for the event, said. “I’m

apprehensive about how I’m going to react.” However, Gonzalez said he knows he is not the only Veteran feeling anxious about the event, but insists it will be a good experience. “They are going to benefit from this. The entire community will benefit from this,” he said. “We need something like this to happen to us here in the Valley.” Getting the wall to the Valley has been no easy feat. The process started about two years ago, when Dignity Memorial, a company who owns 1400

funeral homes and cemeteries across the U.S., first submitted an application on behalf of the Valley. According to Charlie Minjares, Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall venue leader, though they were accepted the first time, certain events caused them to cancel the stop in the Valley. However, they applied again last year and were once again accepted. “It had never been done here before so I figured what better way to pay tribute than to post one here,” Minjares, who managed the wall when

See WALL page 4

Cherie Hodges believes in the power of focusing attention on children, thinking that when given the right amount of attention and care, children have no limits to what they can accomplish. That is why the self described “community liaison” is trying to bring the organization Big Brothers/Big Sisters, which pairs a needy child with a “big brother” or “big sister” as a mentor, down to the Rio Grande Valley. “There is an extreme need here in the Valley. We have the highest rate of teen pregnancy, drugs and alcohol abuse and this is one of the poorest areas in the country,” Hodges, a McAllen resident, said. “By helping this organization and building it in the area, it is a way of giving back to the community” Hodges came to the Valley from Midland where she saw the success of the mentoring group. After wondering why the Valley didn’t have a local branch, she realized that if she wanted something to be done, she had to do it herself. “When I came here, I found out that there was not an organization,” she said. “I’m trying to bring it here because I know it would help to improve the area.” Big Brothers/Big Sisters has been working for more than 100 years. It is one of the Top 10 charities according to

Forbes magazine. The program is for kids 18 and under who are in families with a single parent, come from a low socialeconomic status, or need more focused attention. There are two formats to the program. One is school-based where the big brother or sister visits the child’s school for an hour a week. The other is community-based. “I personally prefer the community-based, because you have more opportunities with your child and maybe have more fun,” Hodges said. “It is not necessary to spend a lot of money. Just time to have fun.” MOVING FORWARD A local organization has to receive a lot of support from contributors. The largest concern is funding, and a financial goal of $150,000 has been established to get this project started. Hodges and her border director have met on several occasions to discuss such issues. During the summer, they will hold “Jean Day,” where employees of participating health systems are allowed to wear jeans on a designated day as long as they contribute $2 to a chosen charity like Big Brothers/Big Sisters. She believes that there are a lot of resources out there to contribute to this

See BRANCH page 3

News

A&E

Sports

UTPA receives $46 million for construction, expansion of facilities

Dodge Arena prepares for Rob Thomas, Jewel June 25

Complete coverage of 2006 World Cup in Germany

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See page 8

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June 15 2006 THE

PAN AMERICAN 1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 http://www.panam.edu/dept/panamerican 55th Year – No. 29

News Editor Sandra Gonzalez sandra_panamerican @yahoo.com A & E Editor Meredith LaGrone meredith_lagrone @hotmail.com Sports Editor Daryl Gonzales daryl_gonzales2002 @yahoo.com Graphics Editor Franco Caballero Franco.Caballero @gmail.com Photography Editor Onydia Garza Designers Roy Bazan crazy_restless @yahoo.com Laura C. Gomez lm.gomez@yahoo.com Advertising Mgr. Rafael Villarreal spubs@panam.edu Reporters Frank Calvillo Javier Cavazos Roderick Dorsey Adriana Garza Luke Koong Krystina Mancias Fernando Martinez Pechs

Carolina Sanchez Trey Serna Photographer Joey Cortez Adviser Dr. Greg Selber

SUMMER

R EADER F ORUM

Students, faculty and staff: Summertime is here and The Pan American wants to know what you are doing all summer. Whether you’ve traveled to far-off destinations or stayed at home drawing, we want to know all about it. Please e-mail any poem, short story, travel photos, art work, or cartoon to Summer.PanAmerican@gmail.com. Your submission could end up in the next summer edition of the paper. -The Pan American summer staff

The PAN AMERICAN is

Javeria Farooqi,

the official student newspaper of The University of Texas-Pan American. Views presented are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the university.

junior advertising major Destination: San Franscico Statues grace the columns outside of the Exploratorium, a science, art and human perceptions museum located close to the Golden Gate Bridge and within the Palace of Fine Arts. The museum was opened by Dr. Frank Oppenheimer in 1969.

Letters policy The Pan American gladly accepts letters from students, staff and faculty regarding newspaper content or current issues. The Pan American reserves the right to edit submissions for grammar and length. Please limit submission length to 300 words. The Pan American cannot publish anonymous letters, or submissions containing hate speech or gratuitous personal attacks. Letters are printed at the discretion of the editor and must include the writer’s name, class/title and phone number.

Located to the right is a view from the Japanese Tea Garden located in Golden Gate Park. It was first developed in 1894 as part of the California Midwinter International Exposition and is the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States.

Cartoon

Secretary Anita Casares Delivery William Watts Thursday at Noon

IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF

THE PAN AMERICAN

Available June 29

Who will it be?

Celebrity authors

Read coverage of the visits from candidates for provost/vice president for academic affairs and comments from the campus community.

Find out why big-name stars have tried their hand at writing literary works and why results have been surprising.

NEWS T

News in brief:

Candidates for provost/vice president for academic affairs will be speaking June 19-23 for a series of open forums from 1:30p.m.3p.m in the Library Media Theater.

UTPA granted funds for new construction

By JAVIER CAVAZOS The Pan American For many music majors at The University of Texas-Pan American the hardest part of completing their homework is trying to find a place to practice. Students in the music department often have to search for any secluded area to hone their skills because of a severe lack of facilities on campus. “We have students practicing outside, battling heat and bugs or in the lobby of the Fine Arts Auditorium because there is such a shortage of practice rooms here on campus,” said Dahlia Guerra, chair of the department. However, finding a place to rehearse may not be a problem for much longer. With the university receiving $46 million for a new fine arts complex on the main campus, and the expansion of UTPA’s Starr County campus, the lack of space will be addressed. The projects are part of nearly $2 billion secured for state universities and colleges with Tuition Revenue Bonds or TRBs. “We are really excited about the new facilities we’ll be getting and what it means for the campus and the community too,” Guerra said. Legislation passed by the Texas Senate in May will give the university a fine arts center able to seat anywhere from 4,500 to 7,000 people for a variety of events from athletic competitions to concerts and guest speakers. Importantly, the new complex will also contain practice rooms and classrooms for the growing campus. “We really felt the need to push for these funds

because the university is growing, and this space is needed to encourage growth as well as benefit the community by attracting cultural events,” state Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, a member of the Senate finance committee, said. The science and business colleges had also requested funding but were not included in the legislation. According to Hinojosa, he had a difficult time picking which requests were most vital to lobby for. “Since I was given the opportunity to make sure UTPA would receive these funds - which we’ve been wanting for years - I decided it was best to secure the funding for the largest portion which was for the events center,” explained Hinojosa. Now that the money has been secured, Hinojosa said the university will benefit from the effort. “If we want to compete with other first-class universities in the state and nation and put UTPA on the map, we need more facilities like this. Education is the great equalizer and necessary for the success of the region,” he said. The senator added that while some legislators feel TRBs are a bad idea because they borrow money on state credit, they really are a misnomer since the money isn’t repaid directly from tuition. Tuition is simply used as security for repayment of the loan. “The idea of borrowing on credit is never ideal, but these TRBs don’t raise tuition rates,” state Rep. Veronica Gonzales said. “Anything that lessens the burden on college students or encour-

ages new students to attend college is definitely important and worthy of borrowing money for support.” Along with funding UTPA’s fine arts complex, the project will also benefit the Starr County campus expansion with $6 million going toward the construction of classrooms at the Rio Grande City site. “Sen. Judith Zaffirini, who is in charge of the TRB committee, was very committed to getting the money for the Starr county campus,” Hinojosa said. “The multi-purpose events center was the costliest project at UTPA, so it was better to secure those funds first. The other monies can be appropriated during following sessions.” Gonzales added that the expansion in Starr County is critical in encouraging new students to attend college since it provides facilities nearer to those who would otherwise have to commute or find housing closer to campus. “Sen. Hinojosa did a great job on the finance committee securing these funds and I believe the TRBs are a good idea and would support future projects for any monetary needs at UTPA,” said Gonzales. The nearly $40 million for the complex has generated plenty of excitement throughout the College of Arts and Humanities. “We’ve needed these funds and the center for a long time and are really glad to finally be receiving them,” Wallace Tucker, interim dean of the college, said. “This expansion will benefit UTPA and the city of Edinburg.” The multi-purpose events center could be used

Onydia Garza/The Pan American PLACE TO BELONG - Isabel Martinez, a sophomore music major, plays her saxaphone outside the practice rooms due to lack of space.

to house not only university-sponsored events, but private events like touring companies for dance and theatre, and concerts as well. Over time the center may even be able to attract big-name artists much like the Dodge Arena in nearby Hidalgo. The University of Texas-Brownsville campus is also getting a piece of the funding $33.8 million for a 136,000-square-foot Science and Technology Learning Center classroom building.

Summer mini-term closes amid mixed reviews BRANCH continued from page 1 By ADRIANA GARZA The Pan American When Javier Rolando Garza first heard about the mini-term being offered at The University of Texas-Pan American, he saw an opportunity. ”I think it’s pretty good because, of course, because of the hours; because you get that quick hour,” said Garza, who took College Algebra during the mini-term. “It’s not too bad if you take one class. You just have to dedicate yourself to that one class versus a few classes during the semester.” Garza, a sophomore currently enrolled in the cooperative pharmacy program, plans to attend the University of Texas-Austin said that if he were still here, he wouldn’t mind taking another mini-term course to get ahead. The UTPA mini-term, in existence for three years, took place from May 15-June 2. Though it unfolds in a condensed time, Dennis McMillan, associate vice president for enrollment and student services, said these classes are no shortcut. “It’s the same amount of instruction that you receive in a fall semester and a spring semester, but it’s all condensed down to 2 1/2 to 3 weeks,” McMillan said. “It’s pretty

intense so it takes a student that’s willing to put in a marketing and international business, said he has lot of work in a short period of time some ways to compensate for the loss of time without in order to earn credit for one class.” compromising his lesson. The courses are so rigorous, in fact, that students Firat, who taught Principles of Marketing during are only allowed to take one per term. the mini-term, said that you have to choose projects While the last enrollment report, taken on May that are doable in the short time available. 17, stated that 472 students were enrolled in the mini“It’s very difficult to do, but you want them to term, this number is a bit less than what was expect- have the same learning experience that they would in ed. This year, the mini-term originally offered 28 a regular semester,” he said. classes but eight were cancelled due to low enrollGuo believes the mini-term is an interesting ment. concept and provides students with a chance to get McMillan pointed out that the mini-term classes ahead. were initiated to give students a unique See MINI-TERM page 4 opportunity. With UTPA students graduating on averMini-term Enrollment Figures age within five to seven years, he and other adminis2004 - 2006 trators want to improve these rates and help students graduate more efficiently with the help of initiatives 1077 like the mini-term. “We wanted our students to have another oppor808 tunity to earn credit and make progress toward their degree,” McMillan said. However, mini-terms present a unique challenge to professors who teach them. In regular length 472 semesters, teachers use weeks as timelines for the next subject. In the mini-term, they’re forced to use days. However, Fuat Firat, a professor of management Source: Office of Institutional Research & Effectiveness

kind of cause, but she needs help to find and obtain them. “It is very important to get help from all the people we can,” she said. “I am looking for influential people who want to participate with us, so they can guide other people to help.” Hodges would like to target The University of Texas-Pan American to help get the program started. “After we have enough money and we are ready to go, I will start recruiting students and faculty that would like to help,” Hodges said. She is optimistic that this project will become a reality. “I’m very confident that we are going to bring this organization to the Valley. People in the Valley have big hearts and are always willing to help and serve,” Hodges said. “It is just a matter of informing them about this program so they can get involved.” Anyone 19 years or older who has been a Hidalgo County resident for more than a year can help out. However, volunteers must undergo a strict application process that includes a physical and psychological test, criminal background check, and a series of interviews, to ensure the safety of children. Interested individuals can reach Hodges at (956) 227-5929.

NEWS

Page 4

UNINSURED continued from page 1 results. According to Raul Yzaguirre, former CEO and president of the National Council of La Raza, turning in profits may be a major reason health insurance still isn’t universal. “There’s more incentive to let something turn into a disease rather than prevent it,” Yzaguirre said to conference attendees. “It’s not only the efficiency of it, but the justice of the system that bothers us.” Yzaguirre pointed out that assistance programs like Medicaid do little to ease the burden. “For singles and childless couples, in 42 states, you literally can be penniless and you are ineligible for public health coverage,” said Ron Pollock, executive director of Families USA and one of the conference’s speakers. HARD WORK DOESN’T PAY A common misconception is that individuals lacking health coverage are often illegal aliens or unemployed. However, almost 82 percent of the uninsured come from working families. “It’s very clear, we’re talking about people working everyday, working hard for a living,

working for their part of the American Dream, but living sicker and dying younger,” Dr. John Lumpkin, senior vice president and director of the Health Care Group for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, said during his address at the conference. According to Pollock the uninsured population will see no end to their struggle unless politically speaking, things change. He pointed out that interest groups play a major factor in the impending issue, noting that 16 percent of the nation’s economy is dedicated to healthcare and should reform threaten them, lobbyists are pressed into immediate action. Pharmaceutical companies alone have 600 lobbyists working in Washington, D.C. In addition, they want their own proposals to take center stage. If that doesn’t happen, they either walk away or oppose others. In the end, no one wins. John Edwards, former North Carolina senator and vice presidential candidate, urged attendees of the conference to take a stand against wrongdoings in health care and to take an active role in reform. “All of us have the responsibility to do something about this,” Edwards said.

MINI-TERM continued from page 3 However, Ana Maria Rodriguez, interim provost/vice president for Academic Affairs said that along with a drop in mini-term enrollment, there are many factors as to why the university is considering not having another mini-term next year. Rodriguez said budgetary constraints in higher education may be making mini-terms cost ineffective. “In addition to paying for salaries of instructors,

we also pay for utilities and maintenance,” she said. Despite the issues currently facing the miniterm’s fate, Rodriguez said she feels they are well worth it. “I believe the mini-term is a good idea. There are, however, many variables that need to be taken into consideration in order to make it successful,” she concluded.

June 15, 2006

WALL continued from page 1 it made a stop in El Paso three years ago, said. “The opportunities are limited as far as these types of attractions coming down here.” The only problem once accepted is getting the manpower needed to handle an event of this proportion. According to Minjares, it takes about 200 volunteers to make the 24-hour event happen. Though they have secured approximately 60 volunteers, they are still far below what they will need. Gonzalez said he hopes community members will find it in their hearts to help by donating time or money to the local Veterans of Foreign Wars care of the Dignity Memorial Wall. “I would really impress upon the community to help out with it. It’s costing approximately $30,000 to bring the wall down here,” he said. While Gonzalez said the Rio Grande Valley has been very supportive of wars and veterans, few people other than the men and women who have fought know the realities of war. “The parents and friends and relatives of those men and women who have volunteered need to realize that there is a lot of danger in fighting these wars. We as a society are very sheltered,” he said. Gonzalez is all too familiar with the dangers of war. Along with being a Vietnam veteran himself, Gonzalez’s son Jorge J. Gonzalez, a 2005 graduate of The University of Texas-Pan American, will be shipping out for another tour in Iraq around the same time the wall comes to the Valley. However, Gonzalez said he has confidence in his son. “I won’t think so much about it. He’s in very good hands,” Gonzalez said. Gonzalez added that he taught his son love of country early on, but is not so sure every child has

that value instilled in them early on. He hopes the wall will be a learning experience for them. One experience Gonzalez hopes to on day have is visiting the original Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C., but added that the Dignity

www.mclib.org/vietnammemorial TRACING THE PAST - For the duration of the wall’s visit, paper and pencils will be available so visitors can trace the names of loved ones.

Memorial Wall is pretty close. However, he said he will have to make sure his job doesn’t get in the way of him truly appreciating the experience. “Somewhere during the four days I’m going to have to give myself some time and reflect on the names on that wall,” he said. Just as the names of the fallen are etched into stone on the moving memorial forever, Gonzalez said he hopes all visitors to wall eternally remember this experience. “We probably have a large number in the Valley who will never be able to go to Washington to see the real wall,” he said. “It is something that you will never get any other place.” Anyone interested in volunteering for the event is asked to call Gonzalez at (956) 585-8160.

ARTS

E N T& E RTA I N M E N T T

Editor’s Pick: Must-see movie

“The Lake House” starring Sandra Bullock & Keanu Reeves Opening Friday, June 16

Music superstars visit Valley Rob Thomas and Jewel scheduled to appear at Hidalgo’s Dodge Arena

By TREY SERNA The Pan American The late 1990s music scene was a post-grunge era that began giving birth to major music forces. This summer, the Rio Grande Valley will welcome two of the biggest artists of that decade who have managed to sustain careers. Rob Thomas and Jewel, both currently promoting new albums, will perform at the Dodge Arena on June 25, making a perfect combination for some. “I’ve been a fan of Jewel since I was in 5th grade and Rob Thomas since 6th grade,” said Heather Cox, a junior English major at Texas State University, a longtime fan of both artists. In 2005, Thomas released “...Something To Be.” The album’s sound strayed a bit from what he had previously created with Matchbox Twenty, but his new sound and image pleased many. His first single “Lonely No More,” reached the top 10 on the pop singles chart, and his album debuted at no. one. However, at the height of Thomas’ career, he was already somewhat of a music veteran. Thomas gained success as the lead singer and principal songwriter for the band Matchbox Twenty, whose debut album, “Yourself Or Someone Like You” was certified 12X platinum in the United States. In a bit of foreshadowing of Thomas’ solo effort, the singer co-wrote a song with Carlos Santana in 1999 entitled “Smooth,” which made Thomas a star in his own right and gave a boost to Matchbox Twenty sales.

The band followed Thomas’ success in 2000 with the album “Mad Season,” and in 2002 with “More Than You Think You Are.” Despite a well-established fan base, the band’s third album didn’t do as well as the previous two. After much touring and promotion, the group decided to take a break, giving Thomas the opportunity to record his first solo project. Thomas’ appeal to fans like Cox is both obvious

and personal. “I can relate to his personal background. He’s a real person,” Cox said. “He has catchy melodies and his voice is the sexiest male voice I’ve ever heard.” Thomas and Jewel are just two in a series of big names which have come to the Valley in recent months. Dodge Arena Publicist Yahira Flores feels the assortment of recent acts is one to be proud of. “We’re actually considered small to mid-size but

we have an amazing market. We’re competing with markets from NY and LA and still bringing down great shows,” she said. Caren Casas, a senior advertising/public relations major from The University of Texas-Pan American, received news of the show as a birthday surprise. “I was really excited about getting the tickets,” said Casas, a Jewel fan. “I’m more of a fan of her old stuff, but I still do enjoy her very much.” While Thomas was first introduced to success with his band, his opening act, Jewel, is no stranger to the solo scene. She became a hit with her unique folkpop sound and vocal range. Her debut album, “Pieces of You,” was released in 1995. While the album didn’t see much success at first, it eventually spawned the hit singles “You Were Meant For Me” and “Foolish Games.” This year, Jewel has made a return with the album “Goodbye Alice in Wonderland,” a collection of songs that returns to her earlier sound. Cox strongly respects Jewel’s career, her ability to create great music and her undeniable raw talent. “Her skills are amazing. She completely avoids cliche,” Cox said. Thomas and Jewel will be here June 25 at the Dodge Arena, located at 2600 N. 10th St. Tickets range from $29.50-$79.50 plus convenience fees and parking. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.dodgearena.com.

Student photos highlighted at UTPA galleries By FRANK CALVILLO The Pan American The old adage that proclaims “a picture is worth a thousand words” rings true this summer as The University of Texas-Pan American’s art students showcase their unique and diverse talents through an exhibition of work from last semester. The works, which will be on view throughout the summer, are currently on display at various locations throughout campus including the Library Annex, the Charles and Dorothy Clark Gallery (located inside the fine arts complex) and the University Gallery. However, this year’s exhibition proves different as it is the first time that works of undergraduate photography students will be put on display. Karen Sanders, an assistant professor at UTPA, is responsible for putting the show together. In a recent statement, Sanders explained the goals she wanted her young students to achieve. “It is important to me that students attain a level of proficiency, vocabulary and conceptual understanding of photography through traditional and digital photographic imaging processes,” she said. Sanders, who holds a master’s degree in fine arts

from the University print or other of Michigan, teachmedia,” he said. es both Digital The work that Photography and Perez is exhibiting Photography as an is indicative of the Art Form at UTPA. hectic semester the According to UTPA junior had her, the exhibition and, consequently, will feature both has a feeling of significant tradispontaneity to it. tional photography “My work is a and current cuttingsilver print for the edge digital photoPhotography as an graphic projects. Frank Calvillo/The Pan American Art Form class with “ S t u d e n t s DRIP DRIP - Even objects as simple as outside water spouts Karen Sanders,” he learn to engage can become art in the realm of photography. This picture was said. “I didn’t feel with a wide range taken by UTPA art student Roland Simon Arriola II. inspired at all durof issues that influence conventional and contempo- ing the semester because of the stress of getting it rary visual discourses,” Sanders said in her statement. right. I guess that’s what most of my peers felt like.” Hector Perez, a graphic design major, opted to Perez, who has been into photography since eleuse digital photography for his work as it relates close- mentary school, can still recall his initial interest in the ly to his major. art form. “Digital photography will be an important part “Sometime in elementary school, for one of my of my life as a graphic designer because it will help me birthdays, I begged my parents for a point-and-shoot be straightforward as I try to communicate through camera as a present and I got it. It finally stopped

working last year,” he said. While some may be hesitant to consider photography a true art form, Perez believes otherwise. “Just like a painting, a picture can have many different interpretations or none at all,” he said. However, Perez feels that unlike traditional art, photographs have the ability to go much deeper. “I like the sentiment of capturing a moment in time that you’ll never get back again. It makes the object that is captured somehow more appealing,” he said. Richard Hyslin, chair of UTPA’s Art Department, describes the exhibit as an excellent way to further expanding the area of photography. “With the photography exhibit we are trying to promote and develop the photography area so it goes beyond a single course,” he said. “This is a way for us to get more people interested.” The works of UTPA’s photography students will be on display throughout campus and are free and open to the public during scheduled hours. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. while the UTPA Library Annex is open during regular library hours of operation. The works will be on display for the rest of June and the month of July.

A&E

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June 15, 2006

The blues fly south for summer

Harlingen spices up McKelvey Park with jazz series By MEREDITH LAGRONE The Pan American A scenic outdoor location, authentic blues musicians and great concessions come together for the ultimate summer family event at Harlingen’s annual Blues on the Hill series, held at McKelvey Park. The series, sponsored by the Harlingen Parks and Recreation Department, has been a hit for six years and will continue this summer with three performances. While the purpose is to expose Valley residents to a different style of music than they may be used to, there is an underlying cause driving the event. “All the proceeds go to Harlingen Parks and Recreation Athletic program that takes the kids to track and field competitions,” said Mike Jaramillo, recreation superintendent for the city of Harlingen. “It gives kids the opportunity to compete; they’re exposed to competition and taught skills from the early age of five.” Jaramillo, a 1987 Pan American University kinesiology graduate, noted the department would like to take in some

college interns to help with the program. “It’s such a positive thing for the kids,” he said. Leslie Ross, secretary of the

“That’s one of my main reasons for getting involved in this: to expose people to the blues.” -Chris Maley, KHID-FM program director Harlingen Volunteer Involvement Council, sets up VIP tents for the musicians at the event. She said the money raised is allocated very carefully. “Part of the money that we have left over, after putting on all three shows for the season, goes back to start the next season. However, what we do is use the majority of it to send kids from the Harlingen area to a track competition that takes place during the summer,” Ross said. “They have to qualify locally, and then they go on to state competition. We pay for their transportation, hotel, meals and everything necessary for them to go to the competi-

tion.” In keeping with the kid-friendly cause, the event has proven itself to be family-oriented. Chris Maley, program director for KHID-FM, public radio 88.1, said one of the main reasons they hold the event at McKelvey Park is to allow parents to have a blues experience. “We try to make it family-friendly,” said Maley. “Parents with kids don’t always get the opportunity to see blues musicians in their regular venues, such as bars, when they have kids to take care of.” Maley added that one of his motivators for keeping the event going is to expose kids and adults alike in this region to a different cultural element. “It’s a perfect opportunity if you’re into the roots type of music, blues or jazz and want something totally different from the norm of country or Tejano,” he said. “Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but there’s more out there. Plus, if you have young children, they get exposed to a totally different culture. That’s one of my biggest reasons for getting involved in this: to

PLAYING HARD Dallas-based guitarist Tutu Jones will headline Saturday’s installment of Blues on the Hill. Seen at right, Jones plays at the Ecaussinnes, Belgium “Spring Blues Festival.”

Blues on the Hill Information June 17 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Featuring the music of Tutu Jones

August 19 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Featuring the music of Jimmy Thackery expose people to the blues genre.” There are three shows every year for Blues on the Hill: one the weekend of Mother’s Day, one the weekend of Father’s Day and one in August. However, Maley said he hopes there will be a fourth added in upcoming years. “There’s a possibility of maybe adding a date some time toward the fall, but that’s something in the works,” he said. “So many people would like to attend as we approach winter.” The second event for the series will be Saturday from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. and will feature headliner Tutu Jones, the son of Dallas-based R&B guitarist John Jones. Jones grew up among some of the frontrunners in the blues world and has been exposed to the genre throughout his life. His solo

debut album, “I’m for Real,” was released in 1994, and he has followed it up with two more albums: “Blue Texas Soul” and “Staying Power.” For more information on the Blues on the Hill series, visit Harlingen.com or call Harlingen Parks and Recreation at (956) 216-5950. There is no cost for the concerts; the Parks and Recreation Department simply asks attendees not to bring in any outside food or drinks, as all the money raised comes from concession stands. Ross reiterated that the event is great summer fun for the whole family. “Even though it’s summer, we always seem to have a great breeze coming from the hill,” she said. “The main thing is that it’s a really great family event and free to the public. There’s nothing excluding anyone from being there.”

David Baerst

SPORTS

June 15, 2006

Page 7

Men’s basketball coach eager to host camp for RGV youth By RODERICK DORSEY The Pan American The hiring of University of Texas-Pan American head men’s basketball coach Tom Schuberth was an attempt to improve a program lacking much recent achievement. Fortunately for UTPA, Schuberth plans on planting his seeds of success months before the season starts. The former assistant head coach at the University of Central Florida will be hosting two summer basketball camps in June at the UTPA Field House. The fee for each camp is $95 per participant, with a $50 deposit required up front. The first camp, titled Mini Bronc Camp, will be held June 19-22 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Boys and girls ranging from ages five to nine years old will be eligible to join the festivities. “It’s our first camp here at UTPA,” said Schuberth. “It’s more for the younger kids, involving basketball skills, games, and the little things that they really enjoy getting into.” The second event, the Future Bronc Camp, will be exclusively for boys ages 8-17, June 26-29 at the same time frame as the first camp (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.). Schuberth explained that this particular

camp will be more skill-oriented, “focusing on developing their individual skills as well as team concepts.” Schuberth, who spent 24 years as an assistant coach at various collegiate programs, became the 13th head coach in men’s basketball history at UTPA on April 21. One of his long-term goals is to turn around a program that finished 7-24 last season. But according to the coach, he wants to begin his quest for success on a good note not only with the university, but also with the fans and community as well. “It’s my first year here, and I want to get off to a good start by providing it (the camp) for the community,” he proclaimed. “I’m hoping we get a good response. Right now it’s been a little slow with the new staff jelled in place.” Schuberth and his staff have made strides to inform the public about the upcoming summer camps, including sending out brochures and contacting area middle and high schools. But Schuberth insists that getting off to a late start advertising the camp might hinder the number of participants in this year’s summer sessions. “Next summer, with the privilege of having more time to work with, we’re really going to

Comienza la fiesta del futbol Mundial Los ojos del mundo en Alemania 2006 Por FERNANDO MARTINEZ PECHS The Pan American El fútbol no es un simple juego de 22 jugadores, dos porterías y un balón. El fútbol por difícil que parezca, puede cambiar el entorno de todo un país. El deporte mas popular del mundo puede enlazar países, detener guerras, destruir fronteras, unir pobres y ricos, el fútbol puede cambiar todo. En años anteriores el fútbol ha demostrado ser un extraordinario enlace de paz y unión entre países con historial de guerra y conflicto. En la copa del mundo de Francia 1998 los Estados Unidos disputo un partido de primera fase ante Irán y el mundo nunca olvidara el intercambio de regalos y buena vibra entre las dos naciones que hasta ahora siguen en conflicto por culpa de sus mandatarios desubicados. Otro encuentro entre países hermanos en copas del mundo que desarrollo gran expectación fue el partido de Alemania del Este en contra de Alemania del Oeste en el mundial de 1974. Este partido fue uno de los detonantes para la unión definitiva del pueblo Alemán, quince años después se vendría abajo el muro de Berlín. Este simple deporte puede cambiarlo todo. La décimo octava edición de la copa del mundo Alemania 2006 comenzó el nueve de Julio con una gran ceremonia de apertura, seguida del debut del equipo anfitrión. La Alemania de Jurgen Klinsman jugando con mucha actitud venció a Costa Rica con marcador de 4-2 con dos tantos de Miroslav Klose, uno de Lahm, y una espectacular anotación del medio de contención Frings. Por el equipo “Tico,” Wanchope se destapo con dos anotaciones. El pasado 11 de Julio, el equipo tricolor comandado por Ricardo Antonio Lavolpe sumo su primera victoria del torneo al vencer por 3-1 al mejor equipo asiático Irán. En la primera mitad del encuentro el equipo Azteca salio al campo con mucha presión. El equipo titubeaba por momentos y el juego colectivo no

generaba jugadas de peligro. El primer gol Mexicano se dio en un tiro de esquina por medio de Omar Bravo (Chivas). Para el segundo tiempo, Lavolpe le dio al equipo mas variantes y llegada con la entrada de Antonio Naelson “Zinha” (Toluca) y de Luis Perez (Rayados de Monterrey). En el minuto 76 del encuentro una gran pifia de la zaga Iraní produjo el segundo gol de México, cuando Naelson filtro un pase a Bravo en el borde del área. Tres minutos después, en jugada individual “Zinha” gambeteo y mando un servicio por derecha que Mario Méndez centro para que nuevamente “Zinha” remata de cabeza espectacularmente para firmar la victoria Mexicana en la ciudad Alemana de Nuremberg. El próximo partido del equipo Mexicano será el próximo Viernes en Hannover ante su similar de Angola. El equipo de Bruce Arena, no tuvo una gran actuación como se esperaba. La Republica Checa le dio a los Estados Unidos una gran lección de fútbol y juego colectivo. Con anotaciones de Jan Koller y de Tomas Rosicky el equipo de Europa del Este se impuso por 30. El próximo encuentro de los Estados Unidos será el siguiente Sábado ante la temida Italia de Francesco Totti y Alessandro del Piero. En la universidad de Texas-Pan American hay una gran expectación por el mundial de fútbol y la mayoría de los estudiantes no dejan de asistir a clases por los partidos. Gran parte de los estudiantes y profesores han podido ver muchos de los encuentros de este emocionante torneo en las televisiones que se encuentran en el edificio popularmente conocido como “Student Union.” Por otra parte, fiestas entre amigos se realizan día con día para ver los 96 cotejos de la primera ronda de la Copa del Mundial. Un grupo de estudiantes Chilenos que realizan sus masters en administración invitan a todos los estudiantes de la universidad que quieran ver los partidos. José y Jaime González esperan a los interesados en Bronc Village departamento 1119.

promote the summer camps and try to get a great turnout,” he added. Schuberth is certainly no stranger to summer camp involvement. He has been either a host or participant of them for over 30 years. “I attended camps in grade school, while being an active facilitator during my coaching years,” he replied. He went on to express how the summer programs received a great response from the Orlando community during his coaching tenure at Central Florida. “Orlando is a metropolitan area where we had a lot of eager young people to choose from,” Schuberth explained. He continued to elaborate on the impact camps will have on youth, explaining how young people have the opportunity to not only learn basketball, but ultimately develop lifetime friendships. “I still stay in touch with people that I met through the camp circuits that I’ve known for over 25 years,” Schuberth boasted. Recruiting for the future is another underlying purpose of the camps, according to the Bronc basketball coach. “We hope to bring young people in here that would have such a positive

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experience, that they would consider attending UTPA,” he said. “I think that’s one of the goals (of the camp), not just making the kids better basketball players and having a fun time for the 3-4 days they’re here, but maybe this will influence their college decision reflecting long-term goals far beyond just a fouryear plan; more like a 40-50 year decision.” He added that the camp’s goal is focused on portraying value in the basketball program and, more importantly, the university as a whole. Current men’s basketball players will take part in the camps, but according to Schuberth, “there will only be a couple of guys involved, probably two or three of them to be exact, because they are the only ones who attend summer school.” Schuberth believes that involving the studentathletes is essential because of the positive influence they can instill into youth. “The most important aspect of the program is the players,” he continued. “They are the ones who make up the livelihood of the camp. I want the young people to get to know the student-athletes and interact with them. It develops good camaraderie between them, and it shows a sense of responsibility among the student-athletes.”

E-mail The Pan American ThePanAmerican@gmail.com

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Editor’s Pick - Game to watch

Marquez

Mexico vs. Angola Friday at 2 p.m. Can be viewed on ESPN

Atwa

FIFA World Cup living up to expectations Mexico gets off to great start while the U.S. struggles to find first win of the tournament By FERNANDO MARTINEZ PECHS The Pan American Soccer is not just a sport that consists of 22 players, two goals and one ball. It is the most popular sport in the world, one that can bring countries together, stop wars, destroy borders and join the poor and rich. Its power is endless. In past years, soccer was an extraordinary banner of peace and union between countries with war and conflicting histories. In the 1998 World Cup the United States participated with Iran in a first-round match, after two decades of trouble. The world will never forget the exchange of gifts and fine ambiance that these two conflicting nations showed one another before their match-up as they set their differences aside. Another match between brotherly nations that brought great expectation in 1974 was the encounter of East and West Germany. This match was one the first steps in bringing unity to the German people. Fifteen years later, the Berlin Wall came down and Germany was one nation once again. The 18th edition of the FIFA World Cup began last Friday with an amazing opening ceremony followed by the debut of the host

nation. The Germans of head coach Jurgen K l i n s m a n competed with a lot of determination in defeating Costa Rica by a score of 4-2. Klose, Lahm and Frings scored for Germany, w h i l e Wanchope representing the C e n t r a l A m e r i c a n nation scored twice. T h e M e x i c a n national team under the guidance of R i c a r d o A n t o n i o Lavolpe gained its first victory in Germany, over Iran last Sunday. Mexico

defeated the Persians by a score of 3-1. Antonio Naelson “Zinha” (of Toluca) and Luis Perez (Rayados de Monterrey) gave the Aztec squad better possession of the ball, and attacking ability. In the 76th minute of play, after a dreadful error by the I r a n i a n defenders, Naelson was able to filter a pass to Omar Bravo that led to Mexico’s second goal. Three minutes after Bravo’s goal, Naelson gave another electrifying pass to Mario Mendez, who crossed again to Naelson, who

headed it back in the net for the third goal for Mexico. Mexico’s next match will be tomorrow against Angola. The United States on the other hand did not fare so well in its World Cup debut. The Czech Republic gave the stars and stripes team an amazing lecture of first-class soccer and collective play. Jan Koller and Tomas Rosicky were important factors in the 3-0 victory for the Eastern Europe nation. The next United States encounter will take place Saturday against dominant Italy of Francesco Totti and Alessandro del Piero. Local Interest There has been enormous expectation for the event at The University of Texas-Pan American. Many students and faculty gathered at the Student Union to watch the thrilling action of the FIFA World Cup. Others gather with groups of friends on a daily basis watching the first round’s 96 matches. A group of Chileans graduate students working on their administration master’s degrees invite all students of the university who want to see the games. Jose and Jaime Gonzalez await all interested parties in their Bronc Village apartment 1119.

Inaugural season off to amazing start for the Coyotes By KRYSTINA MANCIAS The Pan American A newly formed baseball team has arrived to the Rio Grande Valley, and after court controversy and newspaper headlines is playing ball this summer. For five seasons, Edinburg Baseball Stadium was home to the Central League’s Edinburg Roadrunners but after months of legal battles the Roadrunners were forced out overe the winter and the Edinburg Coyotes of the United League Baseball moved in. The Coyote season kicked off against Valley rival Rio Grande Valley Whitewings on May 17 and were able to pick up their first win of the season, 6-2 in front of 3,500 fans. Former Roadrunners field manager Vince Moore signed on with the Coyotes and was determined to make the best of the situation. “It’s been a change because I’ve been part of the Roadrunner family since 2001 and now that the family has moved on its kind of hard to swallow, but I knew I had to think about my career," said Moore, who was a successful player for the team before becoming manager. "It was difficult but it turned out good in the end." The Coyotes are 21-4 on the season. On June 5 the Coyotes dropped their first game of the season to the San Angelo Colts, ending a 17-game winning streak. In the Coyotes inaugural season the streak came

as a surprise to all, including Moore. "To be honest with you yes, I was shocked,” he said. “That’s something real tough to do in baseball. Baseball is a strange game, it’s a game of inches and to have 17 games where all those inches are in your favor is hard, its tough. It was real strange to be in that situation." The ULB has six teams, including the Coyotes. A 17-game winning streak can only mean two things, that the Coyotes are extremely good or that the other teams in the ULB are not that good. "Well we started off hot. We have a great pitching staff, which helps us a lot. We’ve played some teams that have good hitting but are lacking in pitching," said Moore. "I feel that we have the whole package and maybe some of the other teams have some work to do as far as pitching, but the potential is there for all the teams." After the first loss the Coyotes seemed to be back on track with two wins but the Alexandria Aces had different plans as they pulled out a 9-2 victory over the Coyotes on June 8. If some Coyotes look familiar that’s because several are former Roadrunners, like outfielder Eric Gonzalez of La Feria and pitchers Julio Ruiz and Eric Montoya. This has been a huge factor in the success to ball club this season. "Having these former players is definitely

beneficial because I managed them last year and I got a chance to know what type of guys I was dealing with,” Moore said. “And I just put a few other guys around and they knew what it took for me as a manager and I knew what they were going to give me every night on the baseball field." The Coyotes are currently on a six-game road

that started Tuesday at Alexandria for a three-game series. So far the Coyotes have proved successful despite the problems that surrounded them early in the season. With a little more than two months remaining in the 90-game inaugural season there’s sure to be much for excitement from the Coyotes.

Onydia Garza/The Pan American TURNING TWO - Edinburg Coyote shortstop Jermy Acey in process of turning a double play against the Alexandria Aces last week at the Edinburg Baseball Field.