November 2, 2006 by UTRGV Student Media

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

November 2, 2006

‘06 governor’s race offers Texans options By ANA LEY The Pan American This year’s governor’s race has just as many candidates running for office as the 2002 election, but with two independents fiercely campaigning for the gubernatorial seat alongside Democrat and Republican candidates, the competition is way past a dual-party rivalry.

Edward Jackson, a political science professor at The University of Texas-Pan American feels that although candidates are bringing more diversity to the table, this isn’t necessarily a good thing for voters. He thinks that more candidates mean votes will be divided in a way that will misrepresent who the public really wants for governor. “All that is required to win the

gubernatorial election in Texas is a plurality, which means the candidate with the most votes wins,” he explained. “Consequently, the next governor is likely to be elected with the majority of the electorate not voting for him.” Jackson thinks the problem could be solved by holding a runoff election, since there are so many candidates to choose from. In a runoff election, the

two most popular candidates are selected for a second election to determine the winner. This method is not used in Texas, though some states do use it for their primary elections. “This will never happen, though,” Jackson said. “Unfortunately, candidates want to win the election so badly, no one is willing to compromise for the good of the state.”

But Robert Wrinkle, another political science professor at UTPA, doesn’t think more choice is such a bad thing. “Generally, having more candidates means a greater voter turnout,” he said. “A plurality-based election is not very likely to change the nature of the election’s winner,” he said, disagreeing with Jackson.

See GOVERNOR page 11

Farmers finds fewer workers By JAVIER CAVAZOS The Pan American Farmers and growers in the Rio Grande Valley are having a tougher time finding affordable and reliable labor thanks to a variety of immigration laws and the increased concern of illegal and legal immigrants being deported. “It has become much more difficult to find good workers. There are other higher-paying jobs out there and they’ve been attracting people away from farmwork to occupations like construction,” said Gunnar Stone, a Harlingen native whose family owns land and farming operations in Cameron County. The fear of deportation has many immigrants looking for jobs that require less travel as the seasons change. For many, less travel means fewer opportunities to get caught by the Border Patrol or local law enforcement, Stone added. Two recent legislations, the Secure Fence Act of 2006 and the Homeland Security Appropriations Act for the fiscal year 2007, are expected to make this search for workers even harder. The Fence Act, which has made headlines recently, is a proposed 700mile-long section of fence to be built at different points along the nation’s border with Mexico. The bill also calls for sur-

See BORDER page 11

University Relations FAMOUS - Actor Louis Gossett Jr. spoke to students Monday at the Student Union Theater.

Award-winning actor speaks on culture

By FRANK CALVILLO The Pan American In 1995 film critic Leonard Maltin called actor Louis Gossett Jr. “one of the leading black voices in American cinema.” During his speech at The University of Texas-Pan American

Monday night in the Student Union Theater, Gossett said race is still a prevalent issue in America today. “The No. 1 subject in America today is diversity,” said Gossett. “Studios, big corporations, all the people who make a difference in today’s world have diversity on their agenda.”

Gossett feels that while diversity is alive, it is up to the country’s youth to continue it. “We are living in a giant melting pot and it’s up to our young people to bring their own culture to the mix,” he said. Gossett acknowledges how prevalent a role race plays in society, but feels

that any racial battle is internal. “My race only holds me back if I let it,” said Gossett. “We are too much into self-persecution and we need to move away from that.” Gossett has never let issues such as race stop him from being a success in his

See GOSSETT page 11

News

A&E

Sports

Weekend Heart Walk at UTPA raises funds, awareness

1980s relived for one night to benefit indie filmmaking

Bronc Battalion shows fitness level at Ranger Challenge competition

See page 3

See page 7,8

See page 15

PAGE 2

R EADER FORUM

November 2, 2006 THE

PAN AMERICAN

Web site Review By: Sandra Gonzalez

1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 http://www.panam.edu/dept/panamerican 56th Year – No. 11

I watch a lot of movies (anyone with as little social life as myself does too) and to be perfectly honest, I don’t like most of them. If I could rid the world of everything I considered a bad movie, HBO and Cinemax would be fighting over who gets to air “A League of Their Own” and “Steel Magnolias.” So when my favorite (ahem…only) reader Noe Duena sent me www.the-editing-room.com, I could have jumped on two of Oprah’s couches. I found someone who doesn’t care for movies as much as I do! Except the owner of this site, writer Rod Hilton, has attempted to deal with bad cinema the only way he knows how: make fun of it.

Editor Claudette Gonzalez ThePanAmerican@gmail.com News Editor

A&E Editor

Design Editor

Sandra Gonzalez sandra_panamerican@yahoo.com

Frank Calvillo

Erika Lopez

hennero@ msn.com

lopez475@ yahoo.com

Sports Editor

Photo Editor

Luke Koong

Onydia Garza

lkoong2004 @yahoo.com

north14star @aol.com

crazy_restless @yahoo.com

Laura C. Gomez

Gregorio Garza

the_nataku@ yahoo.com

lm.gomez@ yahoo.com

Reporters and Photographers Brian Carr Javier Cavazos Leslie Estrada Patrick Kennedy Ana Ley

Kristyna Mancias Maria Mazariegos Angela Salazar Trey Serna

Adviser Dr. Greg Selber Secretary Anita Casares Ad Manager Carolina Sanchez

Asst. Ad Manager Lillian Villarreal

Advertising information spubs@panam.edu Delivery Thursday at Noon

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, classification/title and phone number.

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

It’s hard to explain exactly what Hilton does without getting too long winded. As Hilton calls them, they are “abridged movie scripts.” Basically, it is a short satirical version of popular movie scripts written to make you laugh. Hilton knows what is funny (but then again I’ve watched Mafia! more times than I care to mention. Take that for what it’s worth). Hilton’s corny humor, makes you laugh in hilarity while reading the faux movie script. For example, Hitlon takes movies and looks at the “what ifs” of the film. What if the audience could speak during the movie without having a scrawny boy with a flashlight come and harass them? What would they say during the course of the most ridiculous parts of the movie? What if a microphone was in the head of a top movie executive who agreed to make a god-awful movie? What could have been going through that stupid person’s head during the first meeting for the film concept? Were they thinking about the initial cost of production, who would play the lead roles or what he ate at lunch that gave him such bad gas? Hilton takes a shot at answering these questions and much more in his abridged scripts. It’s almost needless to say (but I’ll say it anyway): smartasses, enjoy!

Ok. Enough of the tease. I’ll just share a piece with you from Hilton’s “X-Men: The Last Stand: The Abridged Script.” FADE IN: EXT. SUBURBS - 20 YEARS AGO

The site is a visual lame horse, but who gives a crap when the web site is so damn entertaining. I was once asked why this section even exists and the truth is I think this stuff can complement a site that is lacking content wise. But when something is just a fun read, who cares what it looks like? And trust me, I’m not one of those insincere reading enthusiasts who says they’ve read more than they actually have to sound smart. The last thing I read was about Ryan Phillipe and Reese Witherspoon breaking up. I moved from the fetal position and dried my tears just long enough to look at this web site and write this review.

YOUNG FAMKE JANSSEN I am a very strong mutant. (She proves this by lifting cars in the neighborhood, which apparently is something the residents are used to.) END OF EXCERPT

Web Site Overview:

Designers Roy Bazan

Hours of Entertainment: Like movies? Love making fun of the bad ones? One hour of good reading. Two hours if you get as into it as I did. Be ready to read.

Graphics/Photos:

Many thanks to Mr. Noe for his recommendation. Thanks to him, I will have something to do to pass the time in between my many rendezvous (Ha! And my teacher said I’d never learn French) with Wentworth. Keep me entertained in between escapades by e-mailing me witty shit to pass the time. This may be your last chance for a while. Dry your eyes, I’m not getting fired. But my next review will be the last before the winter break. Take advantage while this offer’s hot. When five a.m. rolls around, the working gals rest. Sandra_panamerican@yahoo.com.

Sidenote:

Content:

YOUNG PATRICK STEWART and YOUNG IAN MCKELLEN enter the home of YOUNG FAMKE JANSSEN. YOUNG PATRICK STEWART I'm really surprised they bothered to use digital effects to make us look younger rather than just hire younger actors that look like us. YOUNG IAN MCKELLEN What's even more surprising is that they apparently did it without watching movies we were in 20 years ago. You'd think it'd be easier to make you look like Picard than it is to make you look like an alien. YOUNG PATRICK STEWART At least I don't look like a transvestite.

Ah. Doesn’t that feel better. I picked the one I considered one of the better ones. It’s hard to appreciate the script fully without reading the whole things. Once you give the site a try, you’ll agree. Or not. You may completely disagree. In which case, I refer you to my favorite line on the website: “PEOPLE WHO ARE DIFFERENT THAN ME SHOULD DIE!” Other featured/satirized movies include all the recent “Star Wars” movies (which I didn’t feature in the above snippet because I have never seen them. Yes, yes, I know. Bad nerd! *ten lashes*), all the Lord of the Rings (haha…even I’m not that nerdy) and many more. Not all the reviews are popyour-last-pair-of-clean-jeans’-button funny, but the ratings on the side help you determine which to read. That is if you trust people that much. I read all of them.

IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF

THE PAN AMERICAN

Available Nov. 9

Future of textbooks

Basketball roundup

- Find out what advances are in store for textbooks

- Broncs kick off hoops season with exhibition games

N EWS

News in brief: The Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets, located at 5001 E. Expressway 83 in Mercedes, will have a grand opening celebration today through Sunday. For more information, call (956) 565-3900.

Pow wows explore Native American heritage By CLAUDETTE GONZALEZ The Pan American

Sydney Meadows/The Pan American TRIBAL RHYTHM- Armando Lucio, of Apache descent, dances at a pow wow held Saturday at Palm View Community Center. He was named head gourd dancer.

At the South Texas “Way South” Pow Wow in McAllen, Native Americans from various tribes gathered together around “one drum, one song,” becoming one big family for the weekend. A handful of vendors lined two walls of the Palm View Community Center’s gymnasium at the event Oct. 27-28. However, the main attraction was located at the center of the floor where a flurry of colors, feathers and beads swirled around a circle of drums. Dancing in time to the beat of the drums, Native Americans from around the country celebrated their heritage and remembered their ancestors, while educating the public about their culture. “The dances and songs are important because that’s what keeps us alive, not just socially as a people, coming together to dance, but it gives us life spiritually,” said Robert Soto, a McAllen pastor of Lipan-Apache heritage. “The songs tell the people a lot of

who we are, where we came from, our children and even our people.” Soto is the spokesman for the South Texas Indian Dancers, the local group that put on the event. According to him, a total of about 100 dancers, ranging in age from five to 79, attended. One-third were local and the rest were from out of town. One of the visitors was Bob Woolery, a corrections officer from Sedalia, Missouri, who has Cherokee and Osage ancestry. “We come down and spend a week with the Soto family and they come up to our dances in Missouri,” Woolery said. Woolery and other Native Americans came down to participate in the dancing, enjoy the traditional Native American food and shop at the vendor tables. People not of Native American heritage, such as Marisa Martinez, a senior biology major from Edinburg, enjoyed the event as well, especially noting the variety of people there. “I had two questions in my mind before I went. One was, ‘was it going to be specific to just one tribe?’ Martinez

said. “But the moment I walked in I was like, ‘OK, no. Very different outfits so definitely it’s a bunch of different tribes.’ It’s just like a reunion. That’s kind of cool.” The concession stand offered traditional fry bread and twists on that original such as Indian hot dogs, which are wrapped in fry bread, and Indian tacos, which are taco fillings layered on top of fry bread. In addition, vendors sold all kinds of traditional hand-crafted items, such as wood flutes, jewelry, clothing, moccasins, tomahawks, feathers and dream catchers, which are hung above a bed or placed under a pillow. “In Native American tradition, a dream catcher is like a spider web that catches dew overnight. In the morning, when the sun hits it, the dew drops disappear,” said George Villarreal, a vendor and retired police officer from McAllen. “In the same way, your dreams are like spirits and the bad spirits get stuck on the webbing. In the morning the sun makes them disappear. The good dreams come down through

See HERITAGE page 12

Research to be presented Heart Walk raises awareness at Caribbean conference By LUKE KOONG The Pan American

By LEZETTE VILLARREAL The Pan American One of areas that The University of Texas-Pan American prides itself on is its cultural diversity spanning from South and Central America to Europe. Hector Romero, a professor of Hispanic Studies, felt a desperate need for interdisciplinary studies in that field at the university.

As a result, he and his wife Zoila began organizing a Caribbean conference for participants to present research topics in Spanish, English, and French. The work will focus on the Caribbean as the crossing point between the Americas and Europe. The conference will be held Nov. 2-5 at South Padre Island at the Holiday

See CONFERENCE page 12

Asian culture showing signs of on-campus growth By TERESA TORRES The Pan American According to the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Research, there were 15,006 Hispanic students at The University of Texas-Pan American at the beginning of fall 2006. However, the large number does not mean the campus does not embrace other cultures. One of the most recent cultures that has slowly but surely made its way onto campus and the community is that of the

Chinese. Representatives of that group and other Asian cultures total about 190 students. In addition, this is the first year that UTPA is hosting foreign exchange students from China. “It is very important to have them here because of the positive cultural influence. It is very enriching to have them here,” said Marilu Salazar, UTPA director of international programs. “The goal of the university is to international-

See ASIAN page 12

Among the participants of Saturday’s Heart Walk completing the 3mile trek around The University of Texas-Pan American campus included a Dachshund named Tina and her owner Martha Lopez from Edinburg. Lopez, an audit manager with Linebarger, Goggan, Blair & Sampson law firm, and Tina were only two of the nearly 500 individuals at the event. All the participants walked three times around under the covered walkway to raise money and awareness for heart disease research. “Some of this stuff is genetic and you don’t even think about it until it’s too late,” said Juan Fuentes, an Edinburg resident who took part in the walk. “You always think it’s somebody else, then when it starts hitting your family, you think about it.” He and his wife Ester B. Fuentes have had close experiences with heart disease. Ester’s father was recently the recipient of a pacemaker while Juan’s uncle has experienced heart problems. “I had always heard about [the

Heart Walk], but didn’t pay too much attention other than that it existed and that it was for a good cause. But now it has hit home,” Ester said. The Fuentes family came as members of Doctor’s Hospital at Renaissance. Many survivors were there as well, wearing red caps. Other walkers hailed from South Texas

Health Systems, Linebarger, Goggan, Blair & Sampson and the local community. This year is the first year UTPA has hosted the event. Eddie Quintanilla, the university’s health education coordinator, said the event was a success. In similar events previously held, participation

See HEART page 12

Eddie Quintanilla SURVIVOR - Chico Meyers, a heart disease survivor, spoke Saturday at the Heart Walk in hopes of bringing attention to the issue.

NEWS

Page 4

November 2, 2006

Hidalgo educator, UTPA alumnus honored By EDWARD ELGUEZABAL The Pan American Hidalgo ISD leader Daniel P. King says he owes all of his accomplishments not only to himself, but to several others. His most recent accomplishment is no different. On Oct 7, King, a graduate of Rio Hondo High School, The University of Texas-Pan American and The University of Texas at Austin, was designated as “Texas Superintendent of the Year.” “The best way to credit this award is by honoring all the staff from our food service to our board members for making this accomplishment a total team effort, like every other distinction we have worked for,” said King. “The experience I gained as a student from UTPA had a lot to do with the way I took part in implementing and enforcing many of the academic enrichment programs we run within the district.” King earned his bachelor’s degree in 1976 and master’s in 1977 from what was then Pan American University before beginning his career as an educator at Hidalgo and then Mission High School. He received his principal’s and

superintendent’s certification in 1985, also from then-Pan American University, and got his doctoral degree in 1996 from The University of Texas at Austin. THE SELECTION PROCESS King was first nominated by his school board, which was also honored as one of the best school boards of the year. The board then produced a portfolio, which served as a resume King used to compete along with all other nominees. In order to be considered for nomination, a superintendent needed to have been on the job for at least three school years, and exhibit leadership in areas like student performance, student management and school improvement, among many others. After making it to regionals, King was picked as the state’s best superintendent by a selection committee formed from the Texas Association of School Boards. In addition to receiving a $4,000 professional development award, King says he had the chance to prove to the nation that the district of Hidalgo overcame the fact that it is one of the poorest districts in the nation and in one

of the weakest states academically. AFTER THE VICTORY King continues to have ties with UTPA as he is working to have Hidalgo become an Early College School District, a movement that will have each high school student at Hidalgo enrolled in UTPA from their sophomore year on. This will allow them to earn up to 60 college hours by the time they graduate from high school. “The Bill Gates Foundation has funded the entire program, as a result of our continued academic performance,” King explained. “The entire district has been recognized at the state level for nine years in a row, and now we will solidify the bridge between high school and college by allowing our students to have a chance to complete half of their college education with the extra support and guidance that our teachers and counselors provide.” King added that the key to continued success is having “no excuses” and a good education. “I can honestly say that The University of Texas-Pan American really made a difference in my life,” he said.

Sydney Meadows/The Pan American INVOLVED - Daniel King (left), a UTPA graduate, was recently named “Texas Superintendent of the Year” for his work at the Hidalgo ISD.

NEWS

November 2, 2006

Page 5

Candidates for Congress debate By SANDRA GONZALEZ The Pan American A little over one week before the last day to vote in primary elections, the National Hispanic Professional Organization’s Academic Chapter hosted a debate between the candi-

dates for Congress in districts 15 and 28 in the Student Union Theater. This election comes on the heels of a June decision by the Supreme Court that ordered redistricting of five districts in Texas, after existing ones were found to be unconstitutional.

The new districts, available for detailed viewing at nationalatlas.gov, have brought several unfamiliar faces to the RGV’s political arena. David Facundo, president of NHPO Academic Chapter, said it is important students know the candi-

If any candidate in the five districts, 23, 15, 21, 25 or 28, gets over fifty percent of the votes in next week’s elections they are declared the winner. If no candidate receives the majority of votes, a run off will be held in December.

District 28

District 15 EDUCATION

dates. “They had a golden opportunity to ask the candidates questions,” Facundo, a senior accounting major, said. “Most had never been to a debate. They got down to issues that we hear about every day.”

THE BORDER

classes to go to school. Ruben Hinojosa: I am pleased to say that I was prepared to go to Congress by first serving on the local school board, by serving 10 years on the Texas State Board of Education and serving on the board as the founding chairman of South Texas College. Then, I went to Congress and served 10 years on the education committee. I have increased the funding that is given to our programs, the amount that we have for GEAR UP, the amount of money that we have brought to the community for the university. Eddie Zamora: I’ve talked to a number of teachers on the campaign trail recently and many of them complain about how many prep-TAKS tests they have to teach for. They are stressed out over it. The students are stressed out over it. I would reduce it down to one achievement test at the end of the year. Education is very important. I think the first step in any good education program is to let the child be born first before you educate them.

Avery: The plan I would vote for is one that is designed to solve seven problems: It must protect property of citizens, protect jobs of citizens, help employers who need labor, humane to Mexican economic refugees, keep unauthorized federal agents out of Texas, prevent the use of high-tech surveillance equipment from spying on citizens. Cuellar: I have co-sponsored a bill that provides comprehensive reform. Border security, not a wall, a guest worker plan and a plan to start the legalization process. While we have a guest worker program in place right now, unfortunately it doesn’t work. The guest worker program we have right now is burdensome, it takes too long and there’s too much paper work. We need to make sure we streamline that process. Enriquez: One of the things we do need is more border security, that’s for sure. But that security can be taken care of without a fence. I am opposed to the creation of this fence and the funding of this fence. I intend to pass legislation that stops the funding of this wall. It’s not going to help anyway.

IMMIGRATION

THE WAR IN IRAQ

Paul Haring: I think increasing Pell Grants for colleges and vocational schools allows for people of all

Haring: I am for a guest worker program and am for immigration. Immigration is necessary for the United States. Because of abortion and other issues we don’t have enough young people. We have to have immigration or else we will become a second-rate nation. I am totally against the wall. Hinojosa: Republicans want to build a fence instead of real immigration reform. I believe in comprehensive immigration reform that would stop the influx of people who want to enter this country. I do not support building a wall or a fence. Zamora: With immigration, the issue has nothing to do with immigration; it has to do with being illegal. We need to do anything and everything we can do to secure our borders whether it is a real wall or a real fence or a virtual wall or virtual fence or any combination of those I am for. Anybody who’s here illegally should go back. We should tell them if you leave voluntarily, we won’t hold it against you. If you are illegal and in this country and we do catch you, we will deport you and you will never be allowed in this country again.

Hinojosa

Haring

Zamora

Avery: The war was started by Bush unlawfully and a lawful government cannot be constructed on such a foundation with our effort. We need to get out of Iraq today as fast as we can. Without the proper lawful entrance strategy our congress does not have a right to ask for a reasonable, intellectual or moral exit strategy. Cuellar: The war started before I got to Congress. The votes I have cast in war-related legislation have been to support our men and women that are there. They should have the right equipment and armor. I’ve been to Iraq twice and Afghanistan to support them. The U.S. needs to bring back their troops and start letting the Iraqis take responsibility. Enriquez: We haven’t been given the full set of what is going on over there. They keep a lot of that information to themselves. I think that people nowadays do not feel safer because of what the Bush administration has done. If we’re in the middle of a civil war over there, we need to look at all the options, including the options of setting a timeline and getting out of there.

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Editor’s Pick: Must-buy CD “Awake,” the new album from multi-platinum selling artist Josh Groban

Step back in time with ‘80s-themed prom

By ANGELA SALAZAR The Pan American Flash dancing, legwarmers and of course the sounds of classics such as Depeche Mode and Blondie await those who want to go back to one of the most infamous decades ever. It’s prom time, retro-style, Nov. 10. Yes, that’s right, the ‘80s are back and soon will invade the RGV in an event at the Pharr International Convention Center. Generations always seem to want to visit the decades before theirs. This radical decade brought about some of the greatest references from pop culture known to the world. M3 Productions (Midweek Movie Matinee) is an up-and-coming production group that wants to help the arts grow in the Valley. This small group of eight individuals had the same idea of bringing together writers, producers and directors to collaborate and share ideas when it began two years back. M3 began after a writer and director started showing the group’s films by promoting the filmmakers on MySpace and showing them in their apartments. Now the grroup is hoping to help any film maker, writer or producer get their

project off the ground. “We all love doing movies, we love doing independent films, we love everything about films,” said Violet Vargas,

member of M3 Productions and coordinator of the prom. “So we decided to make a production company. Vargas came up with the idea for

the ‘80s-themed prom to raise funds for the company and to support film-making in the RGV. The dance will be held at the Pharr International Convention Center

Nov. 10 for those who are 18 and older. “Any writers, anybody who has a thing for cinema that wants to make movies and can’t afford to do it they can come to us and we can help them film their movie,” said Vargas In addition to movies, M3 Productions also works with local bands to help them shoot music videos. Students seem to also be getting into the swing of things. Trends from music to fashion seem to be coming back. Girls are wearing short jean skirts with tights underneath and of course the legwarmers are back. So a themed prom is something to look forward too. “It sounds like fun,” said Erika Marquez, a sophomore and accounting major. “It is something different and we hardly get activities like this in the Valley.” Jessica Olivarez, a student in science and engineering also agrees saying the Valley needs more concerts and events like this for the young adult crowd. For more information on M3 Productions and the ‘80s prom contact them at m3films@gmail.com. Tickets for the prom are $10 presale and $13 at the door.

UTPA Ballet Folklorico given official status By LESLIE ESTRADA The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American’s Ballet Folklorico is celebrating success after it was awarded “touring company and artist” status by the Texas Commission for the Arts. The ballet group was one of 100 artists chosen from 800 that applied. The touring status will make the ballet available for performances, workshops and demonstrations throughout the state. “It’s an honor to be recognized and be part of the touring group,” said Francisco Munoz, director of the ballet. “To know that we were one of the groups who were recognized gives us a great feeling.” Munoz isn’t the only one who feels it is a great success. Students like Rebekah Quintero, a senior dance major, agree with him. “We are very honored to even be a part of that,” Quintero said. “Aside from

learning about our culture and different regions of Mexico, we will get to spread our culture to other ethnic backgrounds.” The Ballet Folklorico consists of 12 couples and all dancers are required to take the university class in order to be a part of it. “If somebody comes in with a lot of experience, and I know they can handle it, I’ll make an exception and let them into the group,” Munoz said. “But usually they are chosen through my classes.” He added that being a part of the ballet is a great responsibility, and now even more with the recent recognition. The group rehearses about 10 hours per week and is constantly learning new dances. “We cover a large variety of different states in Mexico,” said Munoz. “What I usually do is select the music and then research which music goes with what region. After that is set, then the costumes are ordered.” Munoz said that most of the cos-

tumes are sent directly from Guadalajara, Mexico, and from a good contact he has at The University of Colima in Mexico. The group will be having its next presentation at a ribbon-cutting ceremony the university is having in the next couple of weeks. “Presentation lengths vary, but usually we perform for two hours at a time,” Munoz stated. “Everything we do at our performances is live, even the music.” He added that Mariachi Mexico Lindo has been the official mariachi for the ballet for the last seven years. “They are not necessarily hired as a mariachi,” he said. “They are hired as accompanists, and they have done a great job.” Munoz and the ballet have had the opportunity to travel not only statewide, but also internationally, having performed in Canada and France. “In Canada we were invited to perform for the Mexican embassy at a diez y seis de Septiembre celebration,” said

Onydia Garza/ The Pan American CULTURAL MOVES - From lefft to right: Priscilla Saenz, Jenna Nicole Guzman, Cristobal Riojas and Maria Leal are all members of UTPA’s Ballet Folklorico, which was recenty awarded a prestigious status.

Munoz. “In France we performed at an event called The Celebration of the Flowers, where groups from different regions of the world gather and perform. It was very exciting for us to know that we were the ones representing the United States.”

Information is available at www.utpa.edu/programs/dance, or by phone at (956) 381 2230. Information about the Texas Commission for the Arts Touring Arts Program is available at www.arts.state.tx.us.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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November 2, 2006

It’s a situation that’s happened to many in these massproduced times. You’re walking around campus and run into someone wearing the same Abercrombie and Fitch long-sleeved, open-stitched, navy blue, verticalstriped shirt as you. However, more unique, alternative clothing at an affordable price is sweeping the area.

D-SHIRTS

A needle and thread and hard work have paid off for two students who’ve started their own business. D-shirts is a T-shirt company that focuses on making original, hand-sewn and felt-designed tees for guys and girls that run about $15. The business is little more than two years old and was started by sisters Elizabeth Gonzalez, 23, and Denise Gonzalez, 20. Both are communication disorder majors at The University of Texas-Pan American and say the start of their business was almost an accident. “We were always interested in having our

Story By: Trey Serna

own business but D-shirts just sort of happened on its own,” said Elizabeth Gonzalez. “The first D-shirts we made were to fill our own closest, but it didn’t stay that way for long.” The sisters say that friends became interested and wanted some shirts of their own, which marked the beginning of D-shirts. The business has attracted both guys and girls equally. D-shirts is a branch of the sisters’ company, Redline Industry. Aside from T-shirts, they also have wristbands, “hood-e” and “und-e” sets. Friends and customers alike seem to be thrilled at the idea of such a business and value the hard work that goes into the making of each product. “Knowing that care and deliberation were put into each and every stitch, rather than using

a conventional sewing machine, shows just how passionate my friends are about their business. I love D-shirts,” said Stephanie Bermundez, a friend of the Gonzalez sisters and a D-shirt customer. The shirt-making duo are open to changes in their designs to better suit the tastes of their customers; however, they will not make a T-shirt with trademarked designs. “The rule is not to use any copywritten designs and/or texts, but, if a customer likes our design but desires to change it up a bit, we’re down for that,” said Denise Gonzalez. The two manage to successfully run their business from home while still attending to a hectic school schedule. “Well, Liz seems to handle it pretty well. I,

November 2, 2006

on the other hand, can’t seem to juggle the two as easily,” said the other sister. “At times, balancing both D-shirts and school can be stressful, but when one of us feels overwhelmed with making shirts and/or studying, the other takes over.” A positive benefit the sisters have gained through the creation of D-shirts is a stronger relationship. “It’s much easier doing business with a close family member because we’re comfortable enough to speak whatever’s on our mind and we don’t take offense easily,” said Denise Gonzalez. “We’re sisters. We love, fight and get over it.” D-shirts are sold through MySpace or at local shows by DontGetEmo, a local promotion company that focuses on booking artists, artist management and local shows. The company’s success is apparent with shirts making it all the way to Russia. A picture on their Web site shows a pleased customer who received one. “We have all sorts of customers from all over the world,” the siblings said. As for what lays ahead, the ladies hope to have an office and store set up some time in the near future. “We’d love to see D-shirts expand and eventually see our stuff available in stores throughout the country,” they explained. For more information on d-shirts, visit http://www.myspace.com/d_shirts

Layout By: Roy Bazan

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

FliP-SIDE CLOTHING

On a walk-through at La Plaza Mall in McAllen, it’s easy to come across the highly popular yet overpriced items at stores such as Pac Sun, Gap and Abercrombie and Fitch. While the clothes have a laid-back, comfortable style, the prices are nothing but uncomfortable. Some relief for wallets will be making its way to Edinburg, while still providing a vintage look. FliP-side clothing comes from a trendy, hip store aimed at teenagers and college students. The company sells stylish clothes with anything from faded, torn denim jeans to cool-looking graphic tees. It’s gained a reputation for selling inexpensive, vintage clothing. However, some are confused by the higher prices they see at the store located in the mall. According to Lauren Matthews, a sales associate at the FliP-side store in the mall, they sell more expensive, name-brand fare such as Toxic Waste and Ed Hardy. The older store, which used to be located on Pecan Boulevard, sold more vintage, low-priced clothing. However, that location has closed down and will be moving to Edinburg in November. “The new store in Edinburg will be half vintage and half name brand,” said Matthews. “It’s going to be a mix of the two stores.” Rosie Chavez, a sales associate, said that, surprisingly, the name brands have seemed to attract more males.

“I think we get more guy customers in here because of the Ed Hardy clothing,” said Chavez. The fitting of the clothes is also something that’s attracted customers. A fashion trend that seems to be taking over is more fitted clothing that clings to the body, rather than drowning it in an ocean of baggy shirts and jeans. “I do wear tighter shirts but lets just say I wear simple, fitted stuff as opposed to spending a lot of time on my outfit,” said Albert Baez, a junior anthropology/philosophy major. “I guess I wear the tighter stuff because as much as I hate to say that I’m a part of it, it’s about vanity.” Girls seem to enjoy the look on some, but admit others should stick to the looser clothes. “That style looks good on some guys. Though, some guys just can’t pull it off,” said Alyssa Roblas, a sophomore education major. “For some guys, it’s like ‘Why did you come out of your house dressed like that?’” While some guys may be into the fitted look, others like the looser, more comfortable style. “I do a lot of my shopping at Foot Locker or Foot Action. I like sports clothing because it’s really loose and comfortable,” said Rolly Diaz, a freshman business management major. Whether one is into the look or not, FliPside is almost a guaranteed hit, especially with the holidays rolling around. For more information on FliPside clothing, visit http://www.flipsideclothing.com

Photos By: Daniel Flores and Genesis Moreno

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Page 8

November 2, 2006

D-SHIRTS

Story By: Trey Serna

November 2, 2006

Layout By: Roy Bazan

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

FliP-SIDE CLOTHING

Photos By: Daniel Flores and Genesis Moreno

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A&E

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November 2, 2006

Gallery gives Valley innovative art, designs By BRIAN CARR The Pan American Since opening its doors two years ago, The Loft Gallery has established itself as the Valley’s premiere contemporary furnishing boutique. Located at 501 W. Business 83, the business is in the heart of McAllen’s furniture district. But while other independent outlets like Vida and Tierra Dulce focus on regional antiques, The Loft specializes in modern Italian pieces that showcase minimalism and couture. For owner Janie Reyes, the decision to become a contemporary interior-design retailer was simple. “My husband and I travel a lot and we see a lot of things,” she said. “We wanted something with the same feel as we see abroad.” The Loft’s pale-yellow exterior and warehouse proportions go almost unnoticed as one drives along the “old” McAllen byway. Inside, however, four sleek-white pillars climb toward the exposed ceiling, tapering as they rise from the dark-wood floor. Giant windows that run the length of the establishment’s façade allow natural light to flood the showroom, giving warmth to

the futuristic Italian selections. Ambient techno music swoons from hidden speakers, and browsing the wide-open gallery while remarking upon the imported curiosities can easily engulf vast quantities of time. “Almost everything we get is from Italy,” Reyes said. “It all has a contemporary feel.” The building, which was constructed in the 1930s, houses several pieces of slick hard-lined furniture that simultaneously capitalize on space and aesthetics. These imported selections come at a premium, however, and several of the pieces run upward of $1,000. Puppy M, a faceless dog-shaped chair that comes in several colors and is marketed for children, costs $850. Sussex Green, a modern rendition of a classic garden bench, goes for $1,200. But while all of The Loft’s furniture is imported, the majority of the artwork displayed in the showroom and on its adjacent art-gallery walls, represent the labors of locals. Krystha Ydanni Cantu, a 15-yearold prodigy who recently held her initial collection at The Loft, says the space is a perfect venue for artists.

“The walls in here love any type of art,” Cantu said. “Any style looks good in here.” This Friday will conclude The Loft’s participation in fall’s McAllen Art Walk. But the store’s rear gallery always showcases individuals’ works. The venue fills the Valley’s contemporary void, and draws attention to the revitalization of “Old” McAllen. Economic growth is easily recognizable in the northern reaches of the Valley’s most progressive city, but until recently, attention to McAllen’s historic districts was dwindling. According to Frank Pardo, the McAllen Chamber of Commerce director of business development, the hope is that historic McAllen will reemerge as a thriving business district. “It’s not going to be in short order,” Prado said. “But in the long term it’s a definite.” Bureaucratic aspirations are high for the area. “It’s not going to be quite like San Antonio,” Prado said. “But it will be the best we can offer.” If that is the case then The Loft will not only be a prophetic endeavor but also a contemporary champion of future commerce.

Moses Garcia/ The Pan American HIGH ART - The Loft Gallery, which is located in McAllen, offers unique furniture designs and artwork to residents of the Valley. In addition to selling their products, they also host art exhibits for up and coming artists, such as Krystha Cantu.

cinemacomrapadura.com JIGSAW’S RETURN - One of the most notorious villians in horror film history comes back for a third outing in the lackluster “Saw 3.”

‘Saw’ franchise gets rusty with recent installment By FRANK CALVILLO The Pan American When the original “Saw” was released two years ago to theaters, its triumph at the box office was nothing short of meteoric. This was a surprise since the small-scale slasher/mystery film had received minimal promotion prior to release A year later when the second installment was about to be released, the stakes had been raised. Accompanying “Saw 2” was a marketing campaign complete with suggestive trailers and elaborate posters as well as a newly developed fan base eagerly waiting to see if the second was as good as the first. Both films, which cost no more than $3 million apiece to make, have grossed nearly $300 million at the box office collectively. Both films saw various strangers who had taken their lives for granted, kidnapped, held prisoner in some remote location and subsequently placed in outrageous life or death situations by a mastermind named “Jigsaw.” Beyond the over-the-top death scenes, the plots of the films were full of twists, turns and hidden clues that all contributed to surprise endings that no one saw coming and left viewers in complete awe. It’s unnecessary to review the plot of “Saw 3,” which opened last Friday, because quite frankly, it hasn’t changed much. More people who have made some bad choices find themselves at the mercy of Jigsaw and must endure a series of “tests” to ensure they make it out alive. The only real change to the plot is that Jigsaw (Tobin Bell) has grown weaker thanks to a debilitating disease and has

now recruited young Amanda (Shawnee Smith) a previous victim from the first two films, as his new apprentice. The first 15 minutes of “Saw 3,” which I won’t describe, are both completely unnecessary and have very little, if any bearing to the rest of the plot. There are tests, unconventional death scenes and a final revelation at the finale, culminating in an unsatisfying ending. The tests, which were once inventive, have now become somewhat one-dimensional and show very little, if any, thought or imagination. The same can be said for the death scenes, some of which have become laughable. For example, a character is chained to the bottom of a vat while hogs are slaughtered and their liquefied remnants drown the victim unless they can break free. Scenes like this don’t evoke terror, but rather a temporary dislike for pork. Everything shown to the audience has a connection in some way. While this film is no different, the big surprise ending is anything but. Any moviegoer who can decipher an episode of “Murder, She Wrote” will see the big twist coming before the movie is halfway over. Additionally, “Saw 3” needlessly draws on the events of the past two films for no important reason other than to increase the third film’s running time and showcase some scenes that were, understandably, left on the cutting room floor Don’t misunderstand: “Saw 3” is not a bad film. There are classic moments of both suspense and terror, but it doesn’t hold a candle to the first two. As its own separate entity with no relation to the first two, it is a very well-crafted thriller. However, with all the past references, no one who hasn’t seen the past ones can truly enjoy this film. And those who have would rather watch the first two instead.

NEWS

November 2, 2006

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BORDER continued from page 1 veillance of the border through electronic means including unmanned drones, video monitoring, ground-based sensors and radar imaging. “Rep. Ruben Hinojosa voted against this bill. He felt it wasn’t a plan that truly addressed immigration in its entirety, but only one small part of the problem,” said Ciaran Clayton, Hinojosa’s press secretary. However, Clayton added that Hinojosa, D-Texas, did vote in favor of HR 5441 because the money would better prepare law enforcement and municipalities for any threat to our security. With small-scale and large-scale farming operations wanting legislation that wouldn’t limit their employees’ working ability or hinder their movement from place to place following the harvests, many members of Congress have had to

juggle private and public interests. Hinojosa recently met with some agricultural interests and the House Committee on Agriculture’s ranking minority member Rep. Collin Peterson, D-Minn., to discuss ways that growers and farm workers can receive help. Republicans have introduced a separate piece of legislation, the Agricultural Job Opportunities, Benefits and Securities Act of 2005, or AgJOBS as it is known on Capitol Hill, which offers qualifying immigrant agricultural workers, their spouses and children temporary legal status and other benefits. This legislation, listed as H.R. 884, was reintroduced and is currently awaiting consideration by the House Subcommittee on Immigration, Border Security and Claims and is also waiting for the Senate’s Judiciary Committee to

review the resolution, said Clayton. Some have criticized the Republican majority’s attempts at legislative reforms regarding immigrants and workers’ rights. “Hinojosa supports comprehensive immigration reform. The bills being introduced by Republicans are only patchwork solutions to a problem that can’t be solved with bandages alone,” said Clayton. She added that the current bills Republicans have produced are simply not enough to solve the crisis and the current amount appropriated to build a fence along the border is probably not enough to cover the entire 700-mile stretch Congress had planned on. Texas, California and other states rely heavily on agriculture for economic success.

“We have to really look at holistic ways to solve the problem, not only of securing our borders, but what to do about the millions of immigrants who are already here,” said Clayton. The debate on immigration reform and agricultural legislation will likely resonate with many Valley voters. “I think something should be done, but a fence that doesn’t even span the whole border is not really a viable solution,” said Joe Aguilar, a University of Texas-Pan American political science major from Weslaco. In addition, Aguilar said immigrants are not being considered in much of the proposed legislation. “We still have over ten million immigrants here. They should be given the same rights and respect that everyone else has,” said Aguilar.

GOVERNOR continued from page 1 Wrinkle also thinks a runoff election would be a bad representation of who the state wants for governor, since there is generally less turnout during a runoff than a general election. “More choice spices up the election, raises more issues and brings different groups to the voter box,” he said.

“People look at it in different ways, but basically, if your candidate is hurt by multiplicity, then you probably won’t like it.” Mary Moncada, a freshman business student, also appreciates the variety of this year’s election. “Maybe not as many people will

vote for the way they should, but America is based on a democracy,” said Moncada, who is a Mission resident. “We should always encourage more candidates to run for office because it gives us more choice.” Still, Bernie Zapata, a senior English major from Alamo, agrees with

Jackson and thinks that too much variety can lead to uneducated voting. “A lot of people will probably vote for someone because they just recognize their face, or because they’ve heard their name on television,” he said. “It also divides votes because it segregates people into a lot of interest groups.”

Republican incumbent James Richard “Rick” Perry assumed office in December 2000 when George W. Bush resigned to run for presidency. He was elected to a full term in 2002. Prior to his 2002 victory, he created new scholarships, including $300 million for the Texas GRANT scholarship. He has also supported grants for crime programs and vetoed a ban on the execution of mentally retarded inmates. Early in his term, he instituted the state’s Children’s Health Insurance Program, though it has faced funding problems in recent years. While in office, Perry has also signed a bill that limits late-term abortions and requires under-age girls to have parental permission to get an abortion and condemned the U.S. Supreme Court decision to annul sodomy laws. While in office, the governor has developed a reputation for his “Perry-isms,” including once calling a overagressive reporter a “mofo.” The governor was born in Paint Creek, Texas, 60 miles north of Abilene, and graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in animal science in 1972. Richard S. “Kinky” Friedman is a musician, novelist and comedian. He is one of two independent candidates in the race. If elected, he would be the first independent governor since Sam Houston in 1859 and the first Jewish governor of Texas. The candidate supports higher pay for teachers and a lower Texas high school dropout rate, one of the highest in the country. He also supports more investment in alternative fuel resources, such as wind power and biodiesel fuel. Friedman supports the decriminalization of marijuana, though he doesn’t advocate its sale and plans to end smoking bans. Critics accuse Friedman of racism back in the 1980s, after describing how sexual predators should be punished. “Thow them in a prison and throw away the key and make them listen to a Negro talking to himself,” Friedman said. He was born in Chicago and moved to Central Texas during his childhood, where he graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in psychology in 1966. Carole Stewart Keeton Strayhorn, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, is one of two independent candidates. She was elected to her current post as a Republican. Strayhorn is also the first woman elected as mayor of Austin and the first mayor to win three consecutive terms. Strayhorn says she will implement better children’s health care benefits, sexual predator protection, foster care programs and private property protection. She is known for publicly feuding with Governor Perry since he was elected in 2002, calling him a “weak-leadin’, ethics ignorin’, pointin’ the finger at everyone blamin’, special session callin’, public school slashin’, slush fund spendin’, toll-road buildin’, special session panderin’, rainy day fund raidin’, fee increasin’, no property tax cuttin’, promise breakin’, do nothin’ phony conservative.” Keeton was born in Austin. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in government. Chris Bell, a former Houston congressman, is the Democratic candidate in this year’s election. He is popular for filing an ethics complaint against House Majority Leader Tom Delay. The issues Bell, 46, primarily targets are ethics and education. Bell supports the use of National Guard troops along the U.S.-Mexico Border, “as long as we are careful not to turn the border into a militated zone.” He is also a life-long supporter of gay rights and stem cell research. He has received criticism by Perry supporters as a “tax-hiking liberal Texas can’t afford,” since Bell voted against an increase in the child tax credit in Congress. He has also received scorn from the Perry campaign because of his support for casino gambling to fund schools. He attended The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in broadcast journalism and received a law degree in 1992. James Werner, Libertarian candidate for this year’s election, is a sales consultant for an Austin-based educational software company. He previously ran for Congress in 2004 as the Libertarian nominee. The candidate also hopes to “restore lost liberties” and “oppose efforts to expand the size of government,” according to his web site. He has a master’s degree in Spanish and Latin American literature from the University of California and a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University. James Dillon (not pictured) is the only announced write-in candidate for the election. According to his Web site, Dillon is against abortion, toll roads, and the Mexican invasion. He is for the state’s privacy protection, the push for American-made products, school choice vouchers, and term limits.

He emphasized the need for many immigrants to feel secure when they travel since agricultural work is largely seasonal. “How can we expect crops to be harvested if immigrants are too scared to travel to different growing regions because they think they’ll be detained or deported?” Aguilar said. Candidates will be stressing the need for reform and change, with Republican candidates vying to stay in control of Congress and Democrats hoping for a change in leadership on Capitol Hill. “Rep. Hinojosa would be happy if Republicans stopped producing politically motivated legislation and tried passing more comprehensive reforms,” said Clayton. The final decision will rest with voters in next week’s mid-term elections.

GOSSETT continued from page 1 profession. In 1982 he became the second black performer to be awarded an Oscar for his performance as a drill sergeant in “An Officer and a Gentleman.” In 1992 he took home a Golden Globe for his work in the television biopic “The Josephine Baker Story,” and an Emmy for his part in the late-1970s mini-series “Roots.” “We didn’t know it would have such an impact,” said Gossett of “Roots.” “ABC didn’t know what to do with it so they broke it up and showed it in five parts. But it’s a great thing to be part of our history like that.” Now well-respected in his industry, Gossett feels that by doing so he’s helped other aspiring African-American actors and actresses. “I like to think I’ve made a difference, but really I’ve just held the door open just like Canada Lee, Harry Belafonte and Sidney Poitier did before me,” he said. Gossett also praises today’s crop of young African-American actors he feels have much to offer their craft. “I think Don Cheadle’s doing great work as well as Isaiah Washington and Mos Def. Jamie [Fox]’s also done very well for himself I think,” he said. A humanitarian as well, Gossett is developing a non-profit organization called The Eracism Foundation which will educate young people about racism using entertainment. Gossett’s visit to UTPA kicks off the second year of the Distinguished Speakers Series, an ongoing succession of lectures from well-known visitors. After a stellar career that spans nearly five decades, Gossett doesn’t feel fazed by any obstacles he encounters. “Half the difficulty lies in us thinking we can’t do it. But we can,” he said.

NEWS

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November 2, 2006

HEART continued from page 3

HERITAGE continued from page 3 the hanging feathers.” The pow wow featuring the South Texas Indian dancers is somewhat of a family production, although not all the participants are related. Soto’s sister, brother-in-law, nieces and nephews participate. In fact, Soto’s family started the Dancers to educate themselves

about their native heritage. “We started the group in 1970 for reasons of education and cultural preservation. It was mostly a family group,” Soto said. “About 18 or 19 years ago, we opened it up to anyone who wanted to join, Indian or not Indian. Today, if we get all of the dancers we have together,

we’re the largest intertribal group in the United States and Canada.” Soto’s group will be performing at a pow wow hosted by The University Program Board and the Multi-Cultural Center to be held on campus today from noon to 1 p.m. on the chapel lawn. “We are going to have the South

Texas Indian Dancers and explanations of the dances,” said Sonia Olivarez, program coordinator for Student Life and Transition Services. “If weather permits, they’ll be playing instruments as well.”

guage. The classes, which run from November to January, are hour-long and held Saturdays. A course for beginners will begin Nov. 4, according to Susan Li, coordinator of the classes and a local Chinese tutor. The courses, to be offered in beginner, intermediae, advanced and international levels, are especially beneficial to people of Chinese descent who have grown up in America and want to reconnect with their background. It also helps Chinese parents emphasize the importance of the heritage to their children. The university has its own Chinese course, one of several language classes offered at UTPA. The courses are helpful to people wanting to expand their knowledge about the Chinese culture. Juan Colmenero, a senior philosophy and political science major and

member of the Asian American Association, said his organization is planning on offering language courses that should begin in two weeks. The free courses will not be limited to just languages, but will also touch on Eastern Philosophy, cultures and beliefs. Colmenero hopes that the classes will not only help people learn a new language but also “put some interest out there” about different ways of life. He believes once people become more aware of different lifestyles, they will acquire a new perspective which helps them be more tolerant of others, in turn contributing to fewer cultural conflicts.

Valley,” said Legas, a McAllen resident. According to Romero, the university has never hosted a conference of this size. “There are 160 presenters that come from different countries like South Africa and Japan,” he explained.

South Padre Island instead of UTPA due to the number of participants. Romero said classes would have to be cancelled and schedules changed, making it a bit hectic to host the event on campus. The Caribbean-themed conference will present guest keynote speaker Gustavo Perez Firmat - a close friend of Romero’s who is a renowned writer and scholar - along with David Feinson, professor of humanities at Columbia University. Firmat is the author of many award-winning books, including “Life on the Hyphen,” “Next Year in Cuba,” and “Tongue Ties.” He will speak Nov. 3 between 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., dis-

For more information on today’s pow wow, call (956) 3812659.

ASIAN continued from page 3 ize the campus.” The two Chinese students will be staying for two semesters. This is the first time each has left their homeland, but UTPA has made their transition to the United States easier. “The faculty and staff are very friendly, and are always happy to help us,” Yanwei Yang, one of the exchange students, said. Yang has successfully managed to incorporate her culture into the daily routine of UTPA. Her interest in yoga has brought about classes, which are taught Tuesdays and Thursdays. Yang and Fei Yu, the other exchange student from China, admit that they are surprised that people here are so interested in their culture, but are excited to discuss it with them. “We can show them what our cul-

ture is all about,” Yu said. While the university has never hosted foreign exchange students from China, UTPA students have been studying abroad there since 2004. Students wishing to work on academics in China are sent to the Huazhong Institute of Science and Technology in Wuhan, China. So far, only four students have done so. While the Study Abroad Program is slowly growing, it not limited to just students. In fact, since September, Hugo Mejias, a professor in the modern languages and literature department, and wife Pamela Anderson-Mejias have been teaching at Ocean University, in Quingdo, China. They are slated to return from China in July 2007. Additionally, UTPA currently allows local community members to use the campus to teach the Chinese lan-

For more information, contact Li at (956) 739-7146.

averaged between 200 and 300 individuals. Quintanilla said the outcome and turnout were important not only for raising awareness, but improving the overall health of everyone involved. “It’s very important to have exercise in your daily life. What we’re trying to do with this walk is promote some activity in their life, even if it’s just to walk and raise their heartbeat to a point where it’s healthy,” he said. He and other organizers would like to see more students, faculty and staff to take part in next year’s walk. “We are going to try to get the university more involved. Dr. (Jim) Watson (director of the upcoming Wellness Center) sees a lot of potential for the students to get involved,” Quintanilla said. More than $7,500 in donations from sponsors and participants were raised from the event. All the proceeds will be designated for research in heart disease. Quintanilla hopes the Heart Walk will help the community consider the importance of living healthy. “It’s their main event for the Rio Grande Valley. It’s very important being that the Valley is one of the highest populations with diabetes, heart disease and obesity,” he said.

CONFERENCE continued from page 3 Inn Sun Spree Beach “The size of the conference is unbelievable. The different countries these people came from is amazing,” said Daniel Rangel, a senior public relations major from Pharr. “People are coming from all parts of the country. The university is beginning to get the recognition it needs.” Presenters, who will be arriving from other countries and other universities around the world, had the option of choosing their presentation topics. The conference, taking place today through Sunday, will have 40 different panels covering a many fields, including anthropology, philosophy and music.

“The conference is great because it will help bring in other resources for the Rio Grande Valley,” said Jessica Cruz, a junior English major from McAllen. “Our culture is mainly Hispanic-oriented, so bringing in different people from different countries is a good experience for everyone.” Sheenaley Legas, a junior nursing major, agreed, saying the conference could prove advantageous as many in the Valley are not exposed to events like this one very often. “Living in the Valley your whole life kind of makes you close-minded to a lot of things, but the conference helps people realize there’s more out there than just the

“People are coming from all parts of the country. The university is beginning to get the recognition it needs.” - Daniel Rangel senior public relations major The conference will be held at

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cussing “The Spell of the Hyphen” and the experience of living in two cultures. The participants and guests will also be invited to participate in an open forum where they can ask questions on different topics and to discuss the research presented. Romero said the location of the conference and the potential knowledge gained from the discussions would be great reasons to attend the event. “The discussion sessions are free and open to all students for intellectual questions and comments,” Romero said. “Also, it’s a good time for university students to have an excuse to go to the beach afterward.”

November 2, 2006

SPORTS

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Runners return from National Independent Championships Men take fourth, women sixth The University of Texas-Pan American men’s and women’s cross country teams competed at the National Independent Cross Country Championships hosted by Indiana UniversityPurdue University Fort Wayne in Fort Wayne, Ind., Oct. 26. The men earned a comfortable fourth-place finish and the women finished in sixth. The weather was wet and chilly but it didn’t stop the competitors’ legs from kicking. Luis Nava, a graduate of La Joya High School, finished 14th overall and was the top finisher for the Broncs. The sophomore ran the 8,000-meter race in 26:27.40. Among the men, Juan Davila earned his first top-20 finish as a Bronc, coming in 19th with a time of 26:59.50. Also, Alexis Moncivais finished 22nd, newcomer Omar Doria finished 24th and J.J. Hernandez rounded out the Bronc showing by ending his run in 33rd place. The University of California-Davis won the men’s team title with a total of 35 points, North Dakota followed with 38, South Dakota (106), UTPA (112), and Utah Valley State with 127 points to cap off the top five finishers. The Lady Broncs were headed by Carolina Izaguirre from Brownsville, who earned 23rd place with a time of 23:31.20 in the 6,000-meter race. Her time was the eighth fastest in Lady Bronc history. In second for the women was Sonya Rivera finishing right behind her teammate in 24th with a time of 23:38.80. Ashley Perez broke the line with a time of 23:48.00 and came in 26th. Rose Escovedo finished 34th overall and Karla Hernandez ended her run in 36th. South Dakota won the women’s National Independent Cross Country Championship with a team total of 55, IPFW scored 58, UC-Davis (64), Utah Valley State (66), North Dakota State (142), and finishing sixth were the Lady Broncs with 143 points. The Broncs and Lady Broncs will compete again at the NCAA Division I Central Regional Championships Hosted by Baylor on Nov. 11 in Waco, Texas.

Lamar University defeats UTPA in three straight matches Lady Broncs near final home game of season There were no treats on Halloween night for The University of Texas Pan-American Lady Broncs as they fell in three straight matches to Lamar University in Beaumont. UTPA (now 4-22) lost to the Lady Cardinals 30-26, 30-20, and 30-24 for a ninth straight defeat. Costly miscues were the determining factor that gave Lamar the decision. Seniors Heather Bravo and Karen Lyons led the offense and defense for their team as Bravo finished with 17 kills and eight digs and Lyons collected 19 digs. The Lady Broncs’ woes continue on the road but the squad remains hopeful and looks forward to Tuesday’s last home game match-up against Texas A&M-International at 7 p.m. Two games remain on the schedule before the National Independent Tournament in Fargo, N.D., Nov. 10-11. The Lady Broncs will travel to Orem, Utah, this weekend for a rematch against Utah Valley State at 8 p.m. The team suffered a loss on Sept. 30 to the Lady Wolverines in three straight sets. Tuesday marks the final home game of the season and the last appearance in Edinburg for seniors Bravo and Lyons, who will be recognized for their hard work and dedication throughout their careers.

Onydia Garza/The Pan American AROUND THE CORNER - Venus Martinez, a freshman business major, runs the ball against the San Angelo Wolfpack at the Island Bowl hosted by Texas A&M Corpus Christi. The 12th ranked Stallions, a team from UTPA, won the flag football tournament with a 22-0 rout Oct. 21.

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November 2, 2006

UTPA ready to dodge, duck, dip, dive By PATRICK KENNEDY The Pan American Watch your head over the next few weeks because dodgeball is coming to The University of Texas-Pan American. The Office of Wellness and Recreational Sports is ready to sponsor the first real men and women’s dodgeball league starting this Friday. For some, dodgeball is a sport introduced to them in elementary school, when coaches would provide balls to students who were more than happy to bonk a classmate in the face or other sensitive parts as long as it put the other guy out of the game and kept themselves in. For others, a smash-hit comedy starring Ben Stiller and Vince Vaughn introduced them to the wacky world of professional dodgeball. Whichever way people have learned about it, the sport is one of America’s fastest growing athletic events. “The sport is growing so fast mostly because it is a sport that anybody can play,” said Niki LaGrano, operations director for the National Dodgeball League. “The fast-paced atmosphere of the game is not only fun to play, but also fun to watch.” Dodgeball was introduced to Americans in 1922, and it was quickly adopted by American public schools as a game played during recess or athletic periods. Traditionally, teams of six square off against each other on a rectangular

court, and players dodge and throw four balls at each other. Once a player is hit, he or she is out, and the game continues until only one person is left standing. The team that he or she represents is winner. Dodgeball steadily declined in popularity until the movie “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story” was released in 2004; then it reemerged as a very popular college trend. “The average age of dodgeball players is between 18 to 25,” LaGrano said. Now, that college trend has landed firmly at UTPA, bringing 12 groups registered to play in upcoming tournaments, eight men’s teams and four women’s teams. “The last few times we tried to hold tournaments, there weren’t any takers, but this has been a good turnout,” said intramurals assistant Art Cabrera, who mentioned that some rules will be changed to ensure safety. For instance, instead of the traditional rubber ball, players will throw plastic-coated foam balls, because, as Cabrera put it, “players tend to aim for the face.” Although 12 teams have already registered, only seven have submitted names to the Office of Recreational Sports. The names of the five men’s teams are Cachacuases, Team Tiny, Phi Kaps, Time Bombs, and Dem Omega Boys. The names of the two women’s teams that have submitted their titles are S.W.E. Army and The Ball Busters.

Rosa Garcia, a senior engineering major from Mercedes, is the captain of The Ball Busters, a group of female engineering students. She said that she and her friends became interested in dodgeball because, “it seemed like a fun way to hang out after class.” Luis Silva, a senior manufacturing engineering major from McAllen and captain of the Cachacauses, also leads a group of like majors into the men’s tournament. “We have a lot of math problems and we need a way to release our stress,” Silva said jokingly. “My friends and I used to play dodgeball in elementary school. We were watching the ‘Dodgeball’ movie and we decided that it would be fun to enter our own team.” Others, such as Matthew Castillo and his Dem Omega Boys, a team made up of members from the Omega Delta Phi fraternity, are participating for another reason. Castillo, a sophomore criminal justice major from Austin, said that he and his teammates are in because they like to stay in shape. “We want to have fun, try something new, and have fun trying to hit the other guy,” Castillo said. All teams will begin play Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in HPE 2. Cabrera said that each team will get as many games as the schedule permits. LaGrano has a word of advice for all of UTPA’s dodgeball athletes. “Throw, catch, or get the heck out of the way,” he said.

UTPA Athletics hosts speaker, throws fundraiser By SAVANNAH MARTINEZ The Pan American The University of Texas Pan American Department of Intercollegiate Athletics will be hosting “An Insider’s Look: The Road to Glory” today with key speaker Nevil Shed. Shed played a large role for the 1966 Texas Western College Miners as they became the first team in NCAA history to win a national championship with five African American starters in the lineup. “The Texas Western College victory over the University of Kentucky was a big deal because The University of Kentucky was all Caucasian and Texas Western College started five AfricanAmerican players that played the entire game and won,” said Tom Schuberth, coach of UTPA’s men’s basketball team. “[The victory] was good for [breaking] the racial barrier and changing the entire landscape of college basketball.” Shed, nicknamed “Shadow,” was a standout defender who also averaged

15.0 points and 10.0 rebounds per game. In the evening, the community is invited to the Student Union Theater to watch “Glory Road,” the Disney rendition of the Texas Western College story. The movie will begin at 7 p.m. followed by a panel discussion. Shed will be joined by Tony de la Pena, who played on the Pan American University NAIA national champion team in 1963. The UTPA Alumni Association and the Bronc basketball team also announced their second annual Las Vegas Extravaganza fundraiser, which will raise money for the men’s basketball team. “Everything is to raise scholarship funds that the Alumni Association gives back to The University of Texas-Pan American,” said Debbie Grant, director of alumni relations and special events. The fundraiser entails a raffle, auction and money collected from tickets and tables. Tickets will be $500. At present, 200 tickets have been sold and 100 remain. “The proceeds go into an endowment fund, a men’s basketball scholar-

ship in the name of Sam Williams, a coach in the 1960s and early 70s,” said Jim Board, a member of the championship team. “He was the national championship coach from ‘62-‘63 when UTPA was a small college.” Ticket purchasers will have the opportunity to win several prizes, which include a Hi-Scan 36-inch television, Jaeger-leCoultre watches, a weekend at the South Padre Island Beachside Inn and Suites, and an executive chair. Ticket holders will also get free admission to the Alumni Association’s third annual President’s Alumni Ball Nov. 4, when the raffle drawing will be held. The winner of the raffle will receive a trip for eight to Las Vegas with accomadations by Bellagio Hotel and Casino. “This is a big deal for us, and we are calling it a trip of a lifetime,” Board said. The luncheon, titled “An Insider’s Look: The Road to Glory” will be at the Embassy Suites from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets are $20, but the movie and panel discussion are free and open to all.

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Cadets notch second at Camp Bullis By JORGE HINOJOSA The Pan American The Bronc’s Ranger Challenge team returned with two second-place finishes after competing at Camp Bullis in San Antonio from Oct. 13-15. The Army Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets returned as runners-up in overall physical fitness and daytime land navigation after a grueling three-day series of events. Out of 41 cadets in the UTPA ROTC program only six were selected to compete. The Broncs fielded five juniors: Jeremy Velasquez, a criminal justice major and captain of the team; Mario Rivas, a kinesiology major; Jonathan Paredez, psychology; Maria Gonzalez, communication; and Jason Randolph, psychology. Vanessa Rodriguez, a criminal justice major, was the lone sophomore. Lorenzo Ruiz said the cadets trained early in the morning to prepare. Ruiz, a senior general studies major, is the battalion commander of the corps of cadets and helped coach the team, alongside fellow cadet Cameron Anderson, a senior interdisciplinary studies major. “It takes a lot of dedication in the training process,” Ruiz said. “You’re up every day. You have to wake up at 5 a.m., and depending on where you live, sometimes 4:30 a.m.” Part of the training regiment includes “ruck marches” where cadets carry a heavily weighted bag and other equipment while traversing different terrain at a quick pace. In addition, team members have to be within 10 meters of

each other. The distance requirement simulates the Army motto of leaving no person behind. Additional drills include long-distance running, exercises to improve situps and push-ups, skill training - including throwing hand grenades for accuracy, and assembly and disassembly of M16 rifles. Ruiz said this year’s team outperformed previous ones by a wide margin. “This team is probably the best team in 10 years,” he said. “When I first started competing with this team three years ago, our team was second to last of all 21 schools. Every year we have gotten a little bit better, and this year we did really well.” UTPA competed against 33 other universities from Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma, including The University of Texas-Austin, The University of Texas-El Paso, St. Mary’s, Texas Tech and the always challenging Texas A&M. The team also participated in several other events, including a 10K team ruck run, written land navigation and tactics testing, combat medic lifesaver and extraction of injured soldier competition and night land navigation and orienteering. Cadets had to locate points on a map using a compass in the navigation competitions while the physical fitness test entailed doing as many push-ups and sit-ups as possible in two minutes. A twomile run followed. The Broncs averaged 310 on the physical fitness test, with the average being 300, while the winning team had 311.

Timothy Pedro COMPANY, HALT - Jason Randolph (foreground) and Vanessa Rodriguez stop to rest alongside fellow cadets during competition.

Timothy Pedro MOVE OUT - Jason Randolph, Jonathan Paredez, Maria Gonzalez and Vanessa Rodriguez (left to right) set up their equipment before heading out into the field.

HAZARDS BUILT IN The competition can be very tiring. Two years ago, 21 cadets collapsed in competition due to fatigue and exhaustion and all required intravenous hydration. “The hardest event is either the physical fitness test or the ruck march. It’s just so physically draining on you,” Ruiz said. “For the physical fitness test, you push yourself all the way until muscle failure. You’re just pushing your body as fast as it can run. Then on the ruck march, once again you’ve got

the 40-pound bag. …It just takes a toll on your body physically.” In the combat medic lifesaver and extraction of injured soldier competition, the cadets had to negotiate obstacles, get to a dummy, assess the dummy, treat its injuries and create a litter (stretcher) to carry the dummy out of the danger zone, all while being timed. Throughout all the events the Broncs remained strong and completed their course. The weather was good and no one collapsed.

Bringing back a trophy was secondary to the experience the cadets gained. While bringing home a piece of hardware was a goal, Major Andre Dean, a military science professor, said the camaraderie and experiences the cadets brought back with them were more beneficial to their development. “They are learning the art of perseverance when it’s hurting and they keep on going,” Dean said. “That’s the teamwork that your building and it just makes it really good.”

Timothy Pedro ARMY OF ONE - Mario Rivas, Maria Gonzalez, Vanessa Rodriguez, Jason Randolph and Jonathan Paredez (from left to right) take a knee and examine their surroundings as they compete in the Ranger Challenge.

SPORTS By ERICK QUINTERO The Pan American In the game of basketball exhibition games are held for a variety of reasons including entertainment and the fine-tuning of a team. When The University of Texas-Pan American men’s basketball team plays host to Monterrey Tech on Monday at 7 p.m., the Broncs will play for the latter. Head Coach Tom Schuberth said the game will allow him to focus on the progress of his team and assess player progress. “I want us to get prepared for our first regular season game which is Nov. 10. I’m trying to get a look at as many guys as I can to see who’s really ready when we open up the year,” Schuberth said. Schuberth said the game against the Borregos would serve as a warm-up game for their Nov. 10 season opening

By KRISTYNA MANCIAS The Pan American A dress rehearsal is what head women’s basketball coach DeAnn Craft is calling Monday’s exhibition game against Texas A&M-Kingsville. The University of Texas-Pan American Lady Broncs tip off the season at 5 p.m. at the Field House. A win or loss on Monday night may not affect the team’s overall record, but it’s a chance for coach Craft’s squad to get a feel for the fast pace of Division I college basketball before their Nov. 11 showdown with Centenary.

Editor’s Pick: Game to Watch When: Nov. 5 Time: 7:15 p.m. Where: Gillette Stadium Patriots

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match against Incarnate Word. “That’s the game that we are really focusing on, against Incarnate Word, a Division II team out of San Antonio,” Schuberth said. In previous years Monterrey Tech has served as no more than a punching bag for the Broncs, who clobbered the Borregos by as much as 66 points during the 2003-2004 campaign. However in the previous two years the games have proven to be more competitive. In 20042005 the scoring gap was significantly narrowed as the Broncs won by 31 points, while last year’s game was determined by a 21-point margin in favor of the Broncs. Brian Burrell, a junior shooting guard for UTPA, said, “I’m not just going to blow them off like they’re nothing. They might surprise us, you never know. We don’t want to go out there and lose. We want to play good.” According to Schuberth,

Monterrey Tech will prove to be a worthy opponent as they will be season-tested; he also labeled them a well-coached team. The Borregos are currently in the middle of their full season. “They are going to be experienced. I know from talking to other coaches, they are very well coached and competitive,” he said. “Quite honestly in an exhibition game you don’t focus as much on the other team as you do your own team so I’ve tried to really focus more on UTPA than Monterrey Tech.” Home court edge as well as individual match-ups in the paint could give the Broncs a huge advantage. Schuberth believes Colin Lien, a 6-foot-11 senior center, should have a positive impact in the game for the Broncs. Lien recorded a double-double, scoring 14 points and pulling down 10 rebounds in last year’s victory over Tech. “I don’t think they have a real big

guy like Colin, so he will have the ability to dominate down there if he continues to do the things we’ve asked him to do,” Schuberth said. Kano Edwards, Zach Trader, Julius Allgood and Alex Robinson round out the rest of effective around-the-basket scorers who will look to take advantage in the paint. Larry Shepherd, senior for the Broncs, is listed as questionable. The agile guard injured his shoulder in a road exhibition game against Houston Baptist Oct. 28 in a game Schubert labeled as balanced between both squads. The teams played three 20-minute halves in a game where no official score was kept. Shepherd scored 10 points, handed out seven assists and had two steals during last year’s victory over Tech. The good news comes in the shape of a long-range shooter, Johnathan Chatman, who will be

available. The senior guard drained four three-pointers in last year’s match-up and figures to contribute nicely beyond the arc. While the injury to Shepherd is a costly one, Schuberth said the Broncs are deep at the guard spot and remained confident in his guard’s play. “Danny Puente, Johnathan Chatman, Dexter Shankle, Brian Burrell, Ben Smith, those guys can all make baskets and put pressure on the defense,” he said UTPA’s starting lineup has yet to be determined. Schubert said he will take a look at his seniors first and playing time will be determined by defensive efforts. “Only people he (Schuberth) said he was going to start is the best rebounders and the best defenders,” Burrell said The Broncs will probably run a high-post, three-two in offense and will look to smother the Borregos with an aggressive man-to-man defense.

“It gives us a chance for all our new players to get a view of Division 1 ball and what it represents,” Craft said. “It also shows them how hard you have to play and how serious it is and how pinpoint your concentration needs to be.” The Lady Broncs have been practicing since the beginning of the semester and look to start off better than last year, when they went 7-21. Craft feels this squad is unlike any other. “We’re improving every day and we really like the tempo of the team. This is probably the quickest team we

had since I’ve been the head coach at UTPA. I think we have a chance to be a very explosive rebounding team,” Craft said. “I don’t know how strong we are but if we’re quicker than people and we can get to the rim quicker we may not need to be strong, but right now probably tempo is our favorite.” With only one senior in the lineup, all eyes will be focused on the newcomers who need to produce and have a breakthrough season. A player that could see substantial playing time as a freshman is 6-foot forward Aleeya Grigsby. “I think as of right now we are

really extremely excited with one of our freshmen and we think all four freshmen are going to be able to play this season. I think Aleeya Grigsby is the most consistent inside player we’ve had and she’s just a freshman,” Craft said. “She led in rebounds the other day in an inner squad, so we think she’s got a chance if we can keep her healthy.” Along with the many newcomers, Craft has not forgotten about her returning veterans such as junior Tiona Wilson and sophomores Robin Garett and Rachel Jones. In order for the Lady Broncs to have a successful season it

will be up to the returning players to lead the way for the underclassmen. As the Lady Broncs tip off their season Monday night, Craft will gauge where her team is at early in the season. Expectations are high and an excited Craft is ready to lead her squad to a successful year. “I think in theater they called it a dress rehearsal and this is like it,” she said. “We understand the importance of anytime you get to play - you have a starting line-up and you have officials show up - it makes it serious. It gives these young kids experience and that’s why Monday’s game is real important.”