January 16, 2007 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

Edinburg recycles X-mas trees

Chinese delegation visits RGV, UTPA By SANDRA GONZALEZ The Pan American

By CLAUDETTE GONZALEZ The Pan American After carefully removing delicate ornaments and other decorations from their Christmas trees, many are left unsure of what to do with the now-bare pine in their living room. Some prefer to bypass the issue by using fake trees that can be stored and reused year after year. Other families, like that of biology major Rony Skaria, opt to toss their trees in the trash along with the crumpled wrapping paper and gift bags that once held the gifts under the tree. What Edinburg residents may not know is that they have another option. According to Janey Chapa, recycling coordinator for Edinburg’s department of solid waste management, the city collects Christmas trees left by the curb from Jan. 8-26. “Every year, we ask the residents to place their Christmas trees by the curb but separate from their brush,” Chapa said. “We send out a special crew to pick up the pine trees.” The trees are then taken to the landfill where a tub grinder breaks the trees up into small pieces to form mulch, which will be available to Edinburg residents for free. According to Chapa, the mulch is most often used in gardens and around plants, with an additional benefit of helping to conserve water. “The mulch keeps the soil humid,” she said. “Once you put the mulch around your plants, you’re not going to have to water your plants as much.” While not all Edinburg residents are aware of the program, interest is growing. “We’ve gotten a tremendous response from the residents,” Chapa

January 16, 2007

The University of Texas-Pan American was one of many stops for a delegation from Wenling, China, that was in the Rio Grande Valley exploring the possibly of opening up a Chinese Product Trade Center in McAllen’s Foreign Trade Zone. This is not the

first time the Valley has met face to face with the Chinese delegation of about 30 representatives, made up of both private businessmen and government officials. In April 2006, a group of commerce leaders from Texas and the Valley, including McAllen Mayor Richard Cortez, visited China to recruit businesses to the Valley. According to Chen Hui, a consultant for the people’s government on

See DELEGATION page 11

Sidney Meadows/The Pan American PARTNERSHIP - McAllen mayor Richard Cortez and Chen Hui, a consultant for the People’s Government on Wenling City, shake hands Jan. 10 in McAllen.

Confederate statues cause rift on UT-Austin campus By LUKE KOONG The Pan American Gen. Robert E. Lee died 187 years ago but is still rallying people to battle. Bronze likenesses of the general and three other Confederate leaders have sparked a new conflict at The University of TexasAustin that has caused the university’s president, William Powers Jr., to appoint a committee to decide their fate. Some students and faculty have asked for the removal of the statues, which have been on the campus since the 1930s, claiming they represent slavery. Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederacy, Albert Johnston, a Confederate general, and John H. Reagan, Confederate postmaster general, are the other leaders whose statues are part of the ongoing controversy. Johnston and Reagan also have h i g h Celsio Gonzalez/The Pan American

See TREES page 11

schools in Austin named after them. Mario Jorge, a former University of Texas-Pan American student, said he thinks the controversy has been placed out of context. “Look at George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. They had slaves, but it doesn’t take away from the other accomplishments they achieved,” said Jorge, a sophomore English major at UTAustin. Jorge said the statues represent the accomplishments and strides the state has been through in its history. “As I pass by, I see it as a testament to Texas,” he explained. Jorge also said that he does not feel the statues hinder anyone who walks by them, adding that in his view, everyone is entitled to feel what they want. “Everything is going to remind someone of something,” he said. This is not the first time the Confederate figures have stirred up controversy on the campus. Back in 2001, a similar protest was made. Individuals from the Sons of Confederate Veterans, an organization of people who had

ancestors in the Confederacy, said they did not share the same beliefs as their family members but wanted to keep the figures as memorials to their heritage. Jerry Polinard, chair of UTPA’s political science department, said the root of the issue is not necessarily about the statues’ presence. “I think the general issue is a question of what the statues represent. Are they in any way an endorsement of a period of history that Texas found itself on the wrong side of?” Polinard said. “Or are they a historical recognition of this stage of development in the state’s history?” Polinard, who was once a visiting professor at UT-Austin, said he never paid much attention to the statues, and doesn’t recall anything offensive about them. However, he said he does support the rights of the students and faculty protesting them on campus. “Higher education is the institution most entrusted with the function of criticism, of trying to reexamine values, challenging accepted wisdom, and

See STATUES page 11

News

A&E

Sports

Popular drinking game could pose unlikely health risks

Faire takes visitors back to the days of sword fights, dragons

Stallions win national championship over break

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R EADER FORUM

Januar y 16, 2007 THE

PAN AMERICAN 1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 http://www.panam.edu/dept/panamerican 56th Year – No. 15

Depends. If you’re the photographyloving type (be it artsy photos of people or stalkerazzi photos of your favorite celebs) several hours. If not, then you probably have a life.

Hours of entertainment:

Sports Editor Luke Koong

sandra_ panamerican@ yahoo.com

hennero@ msn.com

lkoong2004 @yahoo.com

Website Review y:

n dra G o nza

Design Editor

Sidney Meadows

Roy Bazan

outintherain@ aol.com

crazy_restless@ yahoo.com

Designers Gregorio Garza

Rick Gamez

the_nataku@ yahoo.com

rikgamez@ gmail.com

Reporters and Photographers Edward Elguezabal Jeanette Perez Leslie Estrada

Rafael Roux

Onydia Garza

Angela Salazar

Patrick Kennedy

Erick Quintero

elcome back to a new semester and not a moment too soon, personally. After nearly giving myself bedsores, about a week before this was due, I decided to become momentarily productive and scour the Web for a new site to showcase for you. You may have heard of it, maybe not. Nonetheless, here’s what I think (which of course we know is the most important thing of all).

Kristyna Mancias

Up for review: www.Flickr.com

Adviser Dr. Greg Selber

RATING

Secretary Anita Casares Ad Manager Lillian Villarreal

A&E Editor Frank Calvillo

News Editor Sandra Gonzalez

Photo Editor

Have you ever seen a 2006 Jaguar covered in post-it notes from headlights to bumper? If you’re nodding your head up and down smugly, you’re a smartass. That aside, you probably saw it on ABC’s World News Tonight or NBC’s Today show late last year. What you may not know, is that the photo started off as a practical joke between a group of friends (Very rich and bored ones, I imagine.) that one person decided to document in pictures and post on Flickr. Flickr is the place an average person can turn into a “photographer.” Some of the most popular users on Flickr are simply people who decided to take pictures of the world in which they live and share with others. Many of the novices have more talent in a single click of their lens than the entire cast of the O.C. (may it rest in melodramatic, spray-tanned peace). As people come across them, a single click of the “add this user to favorites” button, and they get an e-mail every time that user is updated. And voila, an amateur photographer has a following. Think of it as YouTube in still frame, except you get to keep your dignity. But if you’re not a photo-taking type, that’s ok. I like to use my account to post the latest pictures of a certain blue-eyed, brooding hunk within hours of their release. This small act of public service has actually gotten a couple of fellow stalkerettes to favorite me. I can proudly say my account has a little over 8,000 views thanks to dozens of shirtless Wentworth pictures. I wonder if “Flickr fan favorite” counts as a qualification on a resume? The “groups” section of Flickr has turned out to be one of the best wastes of time I have ever found online. This is where users get a chance to create groups like “What’s on your desk?” where others post pictures of what is on their desk. While they seem pointless at first glance, I know where I’m going next time I’m bored in between sexcapades. Online notoriety aside, Flickr has some features that make the digital picture-sharing experience a for-your-eyes-only thing – if that is what you want for more...ehem...private photos. I can appreciate this feature because (true-story alert:) I once searched Google images for a picture from the old Nickelodeon show Double Dare and it turned up a picture of two gentlemen showing off their personal bits (well in this case they were little bits). There’s also an option to make your photos viewable to just family and friends. Now, I apologize for the Kentucky-esqe transition there. I was not in any way suggesting anyone send their assless chaps photos to grandma. I just thought the family feature was cool and thought I’d mention it. That’s all.

Content:

Editor Claudette Gonzalez ThePanAmerican@gmail.com

Asst. Ad Manager Samantha Quintana

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.

For as long as I can remember (which these days isn’t much), I’ve always had a natural curiosity. As a child, curiosity is thought of as endearing. However, as an adult, it’s turns into a bad thing. “Nosy,” they say. And when the cops find you in a tree outside Wentworth Miller’s Dallas apartment building at 4 a.m., it’s all of a sudden “illegal.” Nonetheless, when curious about a person, place or thing, I want to see it from all perspectives and in all forms. (Now, don’t start thinking dirty yet, that’s my job.) In the limits of a realistic world, we can’t always see and go everywhere we wish we could. However, if you have a few spare minutes (or a whole lonely, drunken night) and high-speed connection, www.Flickr.com will do what it can. As a digital photo hosting site, Flickr gives users a space to call their own while, at the same time, providing small services and unique features that make it easier and more enjoyable to use than a number of other similar sites. Like other photo hosts, Flickr is largely used by the masses, but it’s the use of Flickr by America’s photographers, both well-known and undiscovered, that makes it a browser’s best friend.

Web site overview:

Graphics/Photos:

It’s a photo site. Hit or miss. You like it or you don’t. Pretty cut and dry. Excuse me, I have to pee.

That’s all for now folks. If I chip my fingernail polish any more in the process of typing this, I’m going to have to gain 40 lbs., mysteriously misplace every pair of my underwear and change my name to Britney Spears. Got a suggestion for my next review? You know what to do. I have to spell it out? Really? Ok. E-mail me at this address: Sandra_panamerican@yahoo.com. And I’ve changed my policy since last semester: porn ok as long as it’s Wentworth Miller in assless chaps. Have a day. Not a good one. Not a bad one. Just have one.

Sidenote:

IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF

THE PAN AMERICAN

Available Jan. 25

Passport perils

Return of film noir

-Learn the latest on the new passport rules going into effect Jan. 23

-Learn more about the classic film genre making a comeback

N EWS

News in brief: Viva Bronc Vegas will take place Jan. 24 from 6 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. on the Quad. The event, sponsored by UPB, will feature free food, prizes and games.

Programs to make college funding easier

UTPAdvantage covers all tuition, fees Scholarships benefit staff By SANDRA GONZALEZ The Pan American A choice was before him: his job or an education. He needed his job to afford the necessities of life, but wanted a degree for the future. Doing both was not an option. He made too much at his job to qualify for financial aid, but not enough to pay his way through school. His was just one of the many difficult cases that employees in The University of Texas-Pan American’s financial aid office see on a daily basis. “It’s hard to just sit there and watch people decide what to do,” said Rebekah

Sepulveda, a former employee at financial aid, who remembered this particular young man’s plight from her time there. Despite the sadness of seeing person after person choose a job over a career, it was something the junior communication major had gotten use to. However, that may soon change. Recently the university announced a free tuition initiative that will cover all tuition and fees starting in fall 2007, for students whose family income is below $25,000 a year. In addition, to qualify for the program, a student must be enrolled for 15 hours or more, be a Texas resident and fill out a Free Application for Federal

Student Aid form before March 1. “We have set this program in place to get the message out to the students, parents, faculty and the teachers that poverty and meager resources are not impediments to a higher education,” said Blandina Cardenas, UTPA president, at the Dec. 20 press conference announcing the UTPAdvantage program. “We at UTPA, through this advantage mentality, will do everything it takes to make sure that every student who is prepared and eligible has the means to apply for a higher education.” The program comes as a result of

See ADVANTAGE page 12

By CLAUDETTE GONZALEZ The Pan American Sylvia Alafa’s three-year-old son is her “little miracle” and the inspiration for continuing her education almost two decades after she first took some classes at The University of Texas-Pan American. Her first time around, Alafa, a secretary for the alternative certification program in the College of Education, said she “dropped out before I flunked out.” However, with the support of supervisors and the help of two scholarships aimed directly at UTPA staff such

as herself, Alafa has come back determined to carve out a better life for her son by getting a bachelor’s degree in public relations. “It was a big step for me to come back,” the La Blanca resident said. “But, I’m a single parent and there isn’t going to be anyone to help me financially to give my son the things that he needs.” Alafa has been employed at UTPA since 1995 but it took several years and the birth of her child to make her realize that she wanted to be a part of UTPA in a different capacity – as a student. “It took me six years to finally

See STAFF page 12

Health risks may mar popular drinking game Closed club By BRENDA RODRIGUEZ The Pan American Like a scene taken straight from a movie like “Beerfest,” college is infamous for crazy house parties that involve excessive amounts of alcohol and students partaking in a variety of drinking games. However, while engaging in a game of beer pong, these students may think they’re chugging down a glass of their favorite brew, but they may not realize how much potentially harmful bacteria is being washed down too. In the game of beer pong, two teams attempt to throw ping-pong balls into cups filled with alcohol, most commonly beer. If a ball is successfully thrown into a cup, members of the opposing team choose one member to drink the contents. Two students at George Wa s h i n g t o n University in Wa s h i n g t o n D.C. decided to find o u t

what else was getting passed around during the game. After a night of playing, the two tested the ping pong ball and cups and found pong bacteria such as E. coli, pneumonia and salmonella were present on all. E. coli is the same bacteria that recently made many students, like Vanessa Chavez, a junior journalism major, steer clear of spinach and abandon Taco Bell. “I eat a lot of salads so I did avoid spinach [during the outbreak of E. coli]. I kind of

avoided eating salads in general,” Chavez, a Weslaco resident, said. Now, in light of the beer pong contamination findings, Chavez said she is thinking twice about playing the popular game. “Clean everything and only play with people you trust,” she added. “It’s funny to think that something as carefree as drinking games could have such consequences.” According to Christopher Little, an assistant professor in the biology

department at UTPA, bacteria have been found on the ping-pong ball, paddle, table and the plastic cups used for beer. Little added that as those items are used game after game without cleansing, the risks increase.

“It’s funny to think that something as carefree as drinking games could have such consequences.” - Vanessa Chavez junior journalism major “Beer, in itself, is free of pathogenic bacteria,” he noted. “If the items used to play the game are old and have been

See BACTERIA page 12

plans for rebirth

By EDWARD ELGUEZABAL The Pan American When Mint, a popular night club located on Nolana in McAllen, closed in late 2006 after a court ruling, Carlos Garcia was dismayed. “It is very unfortunate to see a club like Mint close. It was good place to enjoy the weekend,” said Garcia, a senior biology major at The University of Texas-Pan American. Alberto Gonzalez, owner of what is now Mint 2, said that the ruling came because of a series of complaints placed by residents of the neighborhood just behind this popular night spot. While Garcia says Mint was the best place to enjoy international music on a Friday or Saturday night, he said he could empathize with the plight of the residents. “I can understand, though, why the people that live behind the club would complain because I would park back there too and some people were indeed very disrespectful to the property,” Garcia said. This lack of respect, according to an article in the Monitor released Dec. 31, included a significant number of beer bottles, used condoms and other paraphernalia left on landowner lawns. In addition, after a woman was stabbed by

See CLUB page 12

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NEWS

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NEWS

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NEWS

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RTS A EN T& E RTA I N M E N T

Editor’s Pick: Must-see event “Late Bloomers,” a comedy by Eric Wiley will be playing at 2 p.m. Sunday at Cine El Rey.

UPB plans diverse events for spring

By LESLIE ESTRADA The Pan American As a new semester begins, the University Program Board has prepared a series of events that are both educational and entertaining for students at The University of Texas-Pan American. The lineup includes movie showings, visits from comedians, and student road trips. According to Marisela Gonzalez, student development coordinator, UPB is also involved in putting on Homecoming Week, which takes place in late January. “This brings more campus life for students to enjoy,” she said of the yearly spring event. Comedian Kyle Cease, who has been featured on Comedy Central and has done specials for HBO, will be performing at the Student Union Theater during Homecoming Week. Another comedian that will be presented is Bernie McGrenahan, who will be talking about alcoholism through comedy. “Bernie used to be an alcoholic and he approaches this problem and how it affected him in a funny way,” said Gonzalez. “We will be presenting him

right before Spring Break so that students can really think about the consequences of drinking during the break.” Alejandra Tamayo, a sophomore business major at UTPA, thinks that presenting McGrenahan is a smart idea. “Having someone talk about alcoholism right before the break is great,” said Tamayo. “Hopefully this will

inspire students on our campus to drink responsibly.” UPB has also scheduled movie nights twice a month. “The Prestige” will kick off this semester’s movie showings Jan. 18. Members hope students will get more involved. “We are emphasizing having

more publications and advertisements,” said Gonzalez. “We want students to have more knowledge of what is going on.” Gonzalez said that the events are fun for students. “They should be aware that a percentage of their fees go into these types of events,” said Gonzalez.

She also stated that UPB is planning a road trip either to Sea World or to a Spurs game in San Antonio. “Students only have to pay a minimal amount for this trip,” Gonzalez said. “This payment includes transportation, entrance ticket and a meal ticket.” Diego Leon, a junior computer science major, has traveled on UPB road trips in past semesters and has really enjoyed it. “It was a fun trip,” said Leon. “It was a great way to spend time with my friends and I would definitely recommend other students to take part in it if they are able to. They will definitely never regret it.” UPB will present cultural events such as Black History Month, which will include a lecture on racism called “House of Blues.” UPB wants to encourage students to attend to as many events as they can. “Students should come and see what’s out there,” Gonzalez said. “There is so much going on at this campus and students should take part in it.” For more information on these and other UPB events, visit them at www.utpa.edu/orgs/upb.

Spirit of Renaissance surfaces in local area By JEANETTE PEREZ The Pan American The year 1539 isn’t something many people tend to remember or live by. Ask somebody what happened that year or why it’s an important part of history and many would probably shrug – unless, of course, they’re Dorel Ward or part of her Renaissance crew. Ward, a Harlingen native, is no stranger to the Renaissance spirit. She and her family have been involved in Renaissance festivals for about five years, both as participants and performers. In fact, she knows and loves so much about 1539 that she’s decided to make something out of it – the Dragon Valley Renaissance Faire. Hosted by Border Realm Entertainment Inc. and the Alamo Chamber of Commerce, DVRF recently made its home in the city of Alamo. In its first year, DVRF, held every weekend from Dec. 30 through Jan. 21, is

Ward’s way of taking something she loves into unknown territory. Ward, executive director of the faire, said she and her family grew tired of having to travel all the way to Houston or Dallas to a Renaissance event, and decided it was about time someone down here started one. But it was more than just traveling that sparked interest in her mind. “Really, it was because of the educational value and it’s a ton and a half of fun,” Ward said. “We thought it would be something different for the Valley.” However, with every great idea come hardships. “One of the difficulties we’ve been having is educating the public as to what a Renaissance faire is.” Wait. What is a Renaissance faire? “Well, you dress up in period clothing and pretend like you live in that time period,” explained Ward. What makes a faire so fair? “You can’t just say, ‘Oh I wanna be

in a Renaissance faire!’ In order to participate in the cast you have to build a persona,” she continued. “In doing that you need to pretty much study the history of what existed and what did not in that time frame and apply that to your character. You have to think about what makes you, you. It’s intense and takes a great level of commitment.” Indeed, the cast and crew showed a strong level of commitment; many never take breaks from their character in speaking with patrons. Many of the people involved are longtime veterans of such faires. Gerard Wolfgang Patano, originally from the P-SJ-A area, has been actively involved in them for quite some time. “It’s very small, but it’s well done,” he said. “This one is more physically accurate than the bigger ones. Here I get to sell merchandise and I get to fight. Usually I’m restricted to one or the other.”

The DVRF includes 20 booths and three stages, featuring everything from Highland Celtic games such as knife throwing, tomato throwing and archery, to the enchanting aromas of Crystal Mountain fragrance oils and the Pastie Bakery’s turkey legs. The faire could not be complete without its own fire breather, Ben Cartilage, who fires it up every evening, belly dancers, sword fighting at noon, and a character known as Pickle Man. But what a faire really comes down to is its public. Trey Howell, 20, of La Feria, is an avid medieval/renaissance type of guy. “It’s a little smaller than I expected, but I will definitely come back and visit. The DVRF will be held until January 21, next to the Alamo Boys and Girls Club. Gates and cannons open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $6 for general admission, $5 for students under 17 and seniors over 55.

Sidney Meadows/The Pan American RENAISSANCE LIFE - Bruce Norris performs the part of the blacksmith at the Dragon Valley Renaissance Faire.

For more information, please call (956) 230-0983.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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FOs, crop circles, Big Foot…those are just a few examples of unexplained paranormal activity. With shows like “The X-Files” or movies such as “Signs,” it’s hard not to believe that these kinds of theories actually exist. The question is not why they exist, but who pursues these ideas and actually contemplates the situations. Is it all strictly imagination? Or has one part imagination mixed with a sprinkling of truth and a hearty helping of conspiracy theory blended together to create a dish known as paranormal? There is no one way to explain it, but one magazine in the Valley is out there trying and adding a dash of humor. Weird Magazine is a monthly publication dealing with all things, well, weird. Weird began five years ago in Austin where it was originally known as the Austin Para Times, before changing its name and expanding to the Valley. Its unique take on all things alternative brings a new view to the area. The magazine is headed by Russell Dowden, publisher and editor, not to mention conspirator. “A portal opened in the sky and the Zeta Riticulans took over my body,” said Dowden jokingly about the creation of the magazine. “Weird Magazine actually became our Brand A magazine after we were publishing the Brand B magazine, The Austin Para Times, for 18 months.”

Since the magazine originated in Austin, operators wanted to incorporate the “Keep Austin Weird” theme that was popular in South Austin. “So we wanted to really tie in the Austin culture to our already trippy/hippy/conspiracy theme,” Dowden said. Weird Magazine moved down to the Valley two years ago, but the question was, could a magazine with such a liberal, offbeat take on things be able to find an audience in the Valley? “I think most people say that they wouldn’t believe in those things,” said Josh Salinas, a senior mechanical engineering major. “I think people around here tend to be more conservative.” Although Salinas has not read the magazine he finds the subject matter fascinating. “Yeah, I’m sure there are things that happen that people can’t explain. I think it’s interesting and I believe in all that stuff,” he said. While the concept may be a little farfetched for some, the response from local readers has been positive since the magazine made its RGV debut. “People really dig the magazine because it’s colorful and offers some pretty interesting articles. Publishing is all too often mundane and geared towards selling ad space,” Dowden said. “Weird Magazine is like the shot of tequila in the local publishing arena that’s full of lite beer mediocrity.” However, paranormal activity is not the only topic Weird Magazine dabbles in. They also cover

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t h e growing Va l l e y music scene, featuri n g interviews with big names such as comedian Dave Attel. “We are always covering cutting edge topics with riveting articles from PrisonPlanet.com and INFOWARS.com as part of our Conspiracy Corner section,” Dowden said. “The local music makes up a good deal of magazine as well. We are supportive of the local bands.” The staff of the magazine is small, but tight. They are mostly family and all came down from a South Austin trailer park called “CASA del Guerro.” Usually with any type of publication, serious contemplation and planning are involved. Since this magazine deals with ideas that are far outside the box, their method of daily strategies, including

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researching and writing, may be different. “Well, we start off with a little crack by 10 a.m.,” said Dowden jokingly. “And then lighten up with a Xanax after noon, then top off the afternoon with a bottle of Jager and a doobie!” With such a work schedule it makes one wonder what kind of process it takes to become familiar with their topics and stories. What kind of mindset must one be in to get to know about all the odd stuff that goes on? Dowden says his staff is well acquainted with weirdness and the reason why is as unique as the magazine. “They have to spend a whole night alone in Rancho Viejo, armed only with a camera in search of UFOs, crop circles or the chupacabra,” Dowden said. “If they make it through the night and can produce lots of fluffy white clouds. Then a n d o n l y then

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

will they be allowed to be a member of our staff!” Weird Magazine also gets ideas from readers. Through a site on MySpace.com the magazine’s friends can comment on stories or pitch ideas of paranormal activity or theories of their own. This helps the staff keep in touch with what the readers are thinking, With a readership well over 35,000 and 476 locations for distribution it is no wonder that the once-small publication has grown by leaps and bounds over the years. “It’s fantastic,” says Tom Wesdurp, a manager from Flamingo Bowl, one of many places the magazine can be found. “I think it’s the most complete magazine that offers all sorts of entertainment.” Wesdurp also sees how much the magazine has grown, including sponsors and advertisers. He notices his customers and staff picking it up and reading. With readership growing by the day, Weird Magazine is finding an audience with its

promotion of local talents, paranormal stories and conspiracy-filled looks at the world. Just like the Web site says, Weird Magazine truly is a break from the norm in the publishing business. For more information visit www.weirdmagazine.com or www.myspace.com/weirdmagazine.

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A&E

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‘Alpha’ shows dark portrait of reality By FRANK CALVILLO The Pan American

Luke Koong/The Pan American HISTORICAL DINING - The patio bar at McAllen restaurant 1904 features an inviting atmosphere in which guests can enjoy a leisurely drink with friends.

McAllen eatery gives patrons taste of city’s rich history By TREY SERNA

The Pan American The McAllen area is filled with franchised restaurants. However, the history of the city has returned in the form of a one-of-a-kind restaurant 1 9 0 4 Restaurant and Patio Bar allows customers to experience the history of McAllen, all while enjoying a distinctive dining experience with a touch of sophistication. The restaurant is located at 2005 Nolana, in a light brown/tan stucco plaza building. John McAllen’s founding of the city in the 1850s is the inspiration behind the 1904 restaurant theme. The back of the menu provides a brief history of the city’s founding and how it’s grown to where it is today. The year 1904 is representative of the time McAllen was officially incorporated. Owners Rogelio Troyo and Eduardo Villagordoa went through a lot of thinking when coming up with a name and theme for their restaurant. “The idea for the name was mine,” said Troyo. “We were brainstorming ideas and I looked up McAllen’s history online and then found out when it was founded and I decided it was going to be that.” Upon walking in there’s a wall with a huge, blown-up picture of old-school Main Street McAllen. To the right is the patio bar which has lawn chairs and small tables. Toward the back of the patio is a bar where customers can mingle and enjoy a drink. Areas of the patio are covered while other areas allow the

fresh breeze to come in. On the left side of the entrance is a wall featuring pictures of McAllen’s former mayors, from 1911 until 2005. The indoor seating area is roomy and filled with small wooden tables and wood flooring. The lighting remains dim throughout the day and night, while light jazzy music plays throughout the restaurant, creating a relaxing ambience. On many of the walls of 1904 are pictures representing time frames of McAllen’s past. While to some it may seem that compiling such detailed information on McAllen’s history would be time consuming and difficult, Troyo says otherwise. “It was actually pretty easy and fun,” said Troyo. “I found a lot of the history and pictures online.” 1904 had its grand opening April 12 and like any new business in the Valley, has experienced its growing pains. But it has also been embraced by many. “The local people have been pleased,” said Troyo. “It’s attracted a variety of people. We get a big lunch crowd, the business professionals, families and couples.” One problem the business faces is getting well-known around the Valley. Troyo says they do little advertising and prefers for news of the restaurant to get around by word-of-mouth. “It creates a lot of loyalty,” said Troyo “We have a lot of regulars now.” Some are getting to know 1904 because they’re familiar with the area, since it’s the former location of Mesquite Bar and Grill.

“This is my first time here. I’m meeting my mom,” said Connie Villarreal, a La Joya resident who works in McAllen. “My mom is the one who knew about this place and we used to come here when it was Mesquite.” 1904 offers a variety of food, including soups, salads, pastas, seafood and steaks. Prices are reasonable, with sandwich plates ranging from $7 to $9 and pasta plates from $12 to $15. There’s also live music Wednesday through Saturday. Amadita Arrendondo, hostess and a musical performer there, says on select nights, the patio area gets packed with people. “There’s usually a good number of people on Friday and Saturday nights,” she noted. Many enjoy dinner indoors and step outside on the patio to enjoy musical entertainment while having a few drinks. “As the drinks go down and the nights get older, the music gets more festive,” said Troyo. He describes 1904 as “McAllen’s best kept secret” and hopes that more people will learn about it and start coming out. One of Troyo’s future projects is a small fast food joint located directly in front of 1904, practically in the parking lot. “I bought that building and re-modeled it to look like the first McAllen train station,” said Troyo. “It’s going to be called ‘La Estacion” and will serve food completely different from 1904’s menu, like breakfast tacos; complete fast food stuff.”

Based on actual events that took place in 2000 with famed drug dealer Jesse James Hollywood, “Alpha Dog,” which opened nationwide last weekend, tells the story of Johnny Truelove (Emile Hirsch). Truelove, accompanied by his gang of merry thugs, including an unrecognizable Justin Timberlake, controls a large part of the drug world among Tinseltown’s younger set. When Jake Mazursky (Ben Foster), one of Truelove’s clients, is unable to pay his debt, the junior drug lord decides to kidnap Mazursky’s younger brother and hold him for ransom until the money is paid. From there things go awry as phone calls, threats, weapons and money are all exchanged. All the while, a bunch of young California kids whittle away the time carelessly by drinking lots of alcohol and smoking large amounts of marijuana. When things begin to get too heavy, Truelove has the kidnapped boy killed in order to keep him quiet, and eventually flees the country leaving his friends to contend with the mess he made. When this film went into production in the winter of 2004, Hollywood’s whereabouts were still a mystery to authorities. By this time he had earned the honor of being the youngest person ever to turn up on the FBI’s Top 10 Most Wanted list. Originally scheduled for release last year, the film was withheld from viewing until Hollywood was captured in Brazil in the spring of 2005. Currently, the accused murderer is awaiting trial and has brought forth a lawsuit against Universal, the film studio distributing “Alpha Dog.” Hollywood believed that the film’s portrayal of him is inaccurate and would impede his receiving a fair trial. His case was ultimately dismissed by a federal judge. “Alpha Dog” boasts documentary-

like production values and a razor-sharp script, both of which echo the true horror of the story at hand, letting the audience know that this isn’t a Hollywood film, but in fact, real life. Powerhouse acting is everywhere in “Alpha Dog” as every member of the young cast, especially Foster, shows what it’s like to be young and privileged in California’s dark underworld. Equally impressive are the parents in the film. Bruce Willis, who plays Truelove’s father, and Sharon Stone (the kidnapped boy’s mother) succeed in abandoning their movie-star images and in turn give off emotionally raw performances. However the film’s main goal, other than bringing to light a horrific and tragic story for its audience, is to illustrate the corruptness as well as the danger of today’s privileged youth. Here is a film with a large ensemble cast, 90 percent of whom happen to be no older than 24. And nearly every single character is an unlikable degenerate in one way, shape or form. With grown-up role models exhibiting just as many bad habits as their kids, no one in the film is truly innocent. For example, when it is revealed that the young boy has indeed been kidnapped, no one even cares; in fact, the young characters revel in the sheer lunacy of it all, then resume their pot-smoking duties. Other than the victim’s parents, only Susan (Dominique Swain), a fellow drug user and party girl, realizes how wrong and insane the whole mess is. When it is apparent that no one agrees with her, she stands up and screams: “What is wrong with you people!” Not only is the character speaking for herself, but for the audience as well who wants to scream the same thing at every character in the film. However, the tagline for “Alpha Dog” says it best when it poses the question: “How did a crime with so many witnesses go so far?”

Universal Pictures CALIFORNIA NIGHTMARES - Justin Timberlake (left) and Emile Hirsch (right) star in the gritty true-crime drama “Alpha Dog.”

NEWS

January 16, 2007

DELEGATION continued from page 1 Wenling City, the purpose of the delegation’s visit to the Valley was to learn more about the area. “We are trying to find out about the facilities and labor markets that would help our businessmen succeed,” he said. Cortez said the goal for the threeday visit was to show them some of the region’s best assets. “What we’re trying to do is convince them that it would be best to come and open up their market here in McAllen because we’re located, geographically, in the center of North America and South America,” he said. “More importantly, we have a foreign trade zone where they can bring their products over here tax-free and distribute them throughout this area.” Cortez added that should the agreement - which is still indefinite - occur, the Chinese might relocate some of their manufacturing plants. Should that happen, many families from China would move to the area. “Obviously, some families would move over here so their access to education is going to be very important to them,” he said. “UTPA is an important and integral part of what we need to have here [should Chinese families have to relocate].” With that in mind, Blandina Cardenas, president of UTPA, outlined

some of the university’s accomplishments and highlighted expected growth. “The State of Texas suggests that we will grow more than any other university in the state,” she said. “We are a small university in a big nation. We are not the wealthiest university but our students move forward and win at the national level over and over again.” Kai Koong, a professor of computer information systems and new director of the master’s of business administration program, has acted as a translator for the project after being contacted by the McAllen Economic Development Corp. in 2004. Koong said that any time companies from a foreign country root themselves in a community, several things must be present to make the transition smooth. “They need labor and they need cultural integration, especially language,” he said. “They also need an opportunity to advance education. Some of the guys come with a bachelor’s and they need to do a MBA. The university has an MBA in international business and a Ph.D. All this lets them apply the knowledge of Chinese business to do business in the United States.” While nothing is definite, Cortez said entities on both sides are approach-

ing the matter with great thought. “The Chinese companies are very methodical. It’s always a partnership between private industry and the government. Before any private company can move, they have to get approval [from the government],” he said. According to Wong Chiu Yuk, general manager for Nigbo/McAllen Investment Corp., the government has made vast changes since he first thought of the idea for the partnership between the two cities 19 years ago. “Now, the government of China has a policy and if anyone goes to set up a factory outside of China, the government supervises half of the investment,” said Yuk. Hui said at a press conference announcing the negotiations Jan. 10 at McAllen City Hall that Wenling businessmen are “extremely interested in this opportunity.” “With better and mutual understanding, we can work together to move forward,” Hui said. Yuk said he is looking forward to seeing the projected followed through with. “I feel like I’m getting old,” he said, laughing. “I hope everything works out.” The delegation is expected to visit the Valley again in March, according to Koong.

Page 11

STATUES continued from page 1 in order for us to do that, we have to have the free exchange of ideas,” he said. While the time period in which the four statues were erected was considerably different from today, Polinard thinks a general memorial would cause less controversy. Currently, some of the proposals to please parties on both sides of the debate include relocation of the statues - moving Lee and Davis to a museum or the addition of plaques explaining what the statues stand for and represent. Powers said the committee would address the issue and make a decision based on the concerns raised, taking into consideration that the statues have been part of the campus landscape for decades. Polinard said the onset of this issue, however heated, is healthy for the progress of the Austin campus and university system. “I think both of those groups have the right to express their ideas. The university shouldn’t be put in a position where they endorse one or the other or limiting one or the other,” he said. “As long as they can form normal restrictions, that won’t interfere with the general function of the university.”

TREES continued from page 1 said. “It seems that every year it’s increasing, that they really want to do their part for recycling.” While Christmas trees are picked up curbside, other recyclables such as paper, cardboard, aluminum cans and plastics must be brought in to the recycling center on Closner, just south of Canton in Edinburg. “It’s a drop-off location, which means you would have to collect the items at your house and bring them over to the recycling center,” Chapa said. However, this may not be the case for much longer. The recycling center will be conducting a study beginning in February to determine the public’s reaction to a curbside recycling program. In Chapa’s opinion, recycling is the key to keeping a healthy environment. “Recycling is important because it helps our environment, it saves natural resources and it also saves landfill space,” she said. “I think people need to be aware that the City of Edinburg does have a recycling center and they do have other options than to throw everything in their garbage can.” Students, such as Skaria, agreed, saying they wish they knew more about the center’s programs. Skaria added that

See RECYCLE page 12

NEWS

Page 12

BACTERIA continued from page 3 handled by many individuals, then the chances of being exposed to potentially harmful bacteria increase.” Little said if ball handlers have not washed their hands after coming in contact with contaminated surfaces, foods or feces, it adds to the danger. “College students often live in communal environments which can further increase risk of unintentionally transmitting harmful bacteria,” he said. Maxine Rodriguez, a licensed vocational nurse of over 20 years, said students who are frequent beer pong players should look out for symptoms of E. coli such as diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Rodriguez said students should try to keep their station clean and to never play beer pong outdoors for fear of the ball contracting any further types of bacteria or diseases if it were to fall on the ground. “If someone wakes up the next day feeling sick to their stomach or experiencing diarrhea they should visit the doctor just to make certain they didn’t get any type of diseases,” said Rodriguez. Little added that some diseases, such as meningitis, have been transmitted on university campuses in the past and can could easily spread. Kayleigh Garcia, a junior computer information system major, agrees with Little and says you never know what other people may have. “People could be sick if you don’t really know them very well,” Garcia, an Edinburg resident, said. “They could have any kind of diseases, like mono.” Little advices students to keep hands and surfaces clean. “In addition, foods and beverages should be stored at proper temperatures to prevent contamination,” he said. “It is also important to avoid combining heavily handled ping pong balls so as to avoid unintentional contamination of the beer.”

RECYCLE continued from page 11 knowledge would have made him choose to recycle instead of discarding his family’s Christmas tree. In order to get that message out to the community, the recycling center hosts events such as Texas Recycles Day and Trash Bash. In addition, the center conducts programs at local schools in order to educate students about recycling. “Our programs need volunteers constantly,” Chapa said. For information about recycling or volunteering for the recycling center, contact Chapa at (956) 292-2133 or (956) 607-5025. To drop off recyclables, stop by the Edinburg Recycling and Educational Center at 3102 S. Hwy 281.

January 16, 2007

ADVANTAGE continued from page 3 many hours of planning by the financial aid office, according to John Edwards, vice president of enrollment and student services. According to Edwards, while UTPA has kept tuition low for Valley students “for as long as we possibly could,” rising rates in the UT System came to the attention of Chancellor Mark Yudof who, after noting the possible adverse outcome on students, asked universities to find ways to help. Many universities began taking measures such as loan counseling and increasing work-study funding. However, UTPA could not look to other universities for ideas to help their students since they already had similar programs in place.

“We had already increased our work-study funding by over a half-million dollars several years ago,” Edwards explained. “Work-study students...tend to be more successful because they are more involved in college and university policies.” As a consequence, Edwards said, UTPA had to think innovatively. “So the steps that other universities were taking to answer the chancellor’s call, we had already taken several years previous to better serve our students,” he said. “We have long recognized that a large portion of our students…make us different from upstate universities. Our student’s needs are different and greater.” In fact, Elaine L. Rivera, director of financial aid, said that the Valley’s

great needs are evident in the numbers. One-third of Valley families fall below the poverty line, according to Rivera. However, since approximately 50 percent of current UTPA students qualify financially for the program, she said, there is hope for those currently in need. “We have a lot of work that needs to be done, but one thing I see is tremendous potential,” she said. Rivera added that this program could help the RGV’s current college degree attainment rate of 11 percent, which is below Texas’ rate of 20 percent and the nation’s 24 percent. Sepulveda, who currently pays about $400 out of her pocket every semester, said she has every intention of being part of the change for the Valley.

This program will make attaining that goal a little easier as she can now exchange her 40-hour work schedule in favor of a more comfortable spot in the work-study program. “Some people have asked about grants like this in the past, but it wasn’t there,” she said. “Now, my friend who works at financial aid said people have called asking ‘Is this program true?’” Cardenas assures it is. “This is a program for the parents of the seventh-grader who think that college is out of the reach of their children because they go work in the migrant labor fields,” Cardenas said. “This is about communicating to them that it can be done as long as they put some work into it.”

Scholarship has been offered for years, there is also a new one available. The Educational Benefit Program, offered through the Office of Human Resources, made its debut this spring semester. Although it is also aimed at staff, the requirements are slightly different. Instead of requiring two years of employment at UTPA, the Educational Benefit Program requires only one. Also, instead of being a reimbursement program like the Staff Assistance Scholarship, the EBP is a waiver that is applied for in advance. Each person can receive a waiver for up to three credit hours per semester, for a total of no more than six per year. Alafa was fortunate this semester to receive both, and these scholarships mean more to her than just the money to pay for her education. “You feel that you have the support of the people that you work for,” Alafa said. “I think if you work anywhere other than an educational institution, the support may be there but not really

because your job comes first. I don’t think I ever would have done it if I hadn’t been here.” With only a year and a half left until her projected graduation day, Alafa is proud of the progress she has made. She is pleased with her high GPA and she has moved up from taking just one class per semester her first year to taking four classes this semester. Alafa hopes to get another job on campus after receiving her degree. She’d like to put her public relations skills to use in the university’s visitors’ center, public relations office, or admissions department.

STAFF continued from page 3 decide, you know what, I can do this,” Alafa said. “And it couldn’t be easy. I had to wait until I had a child.” When she returned in 2004, however, she took it slowly. Not only was she afraid of not doing well in classes, there was also the matter of financing. “The first year that I had to pay out of my own pocket, that was tough,” Alafa said. “I didn’t know anything about the scholarships at the time. So, I took only one class each semester for a year.” Alafa’s story is not unique. Across campus, many staff members would like to continue their education but are unsure of how they can fit it into their budgets. Fortunately, help is available. Among the many scholarships available to UTPA students, a few are reserved for full-time staff. Among these is the UTPA Staff Assistance Scholarship offered through the Staff Senate. This scholarship reimburses staff members for 50 percent of the cost of one three-hour course. While that may not sound like much, it is much

appreciated by those who receive it. “It provides them assistance to be able to pay for their books, any extra supplies that they need, tuition or any emergency loans,” said Katrina Luna, Staff Senate chair. To date, all qualified applicants have received the reimbursement. In order to be eligible, applicants must be staff members pursuing their first bachelor’s degree at UTPA, and have been working at UTPA for at least two continuous years. In addition, staff members must have met expectations on at least two performance evaluations, and show satisfactory academic progress. According to Luna, the scholarship has been awarded to an average of five to eight students per semester. She sees each of those students as having taken a step toward improving themselves. “I think the scholarship is important because it encourages staff to go back to school, to become educated, to pursue higher education,” Luna said. While the Staff Assistance

For more information on the Staff Assistance Scholarship, contact Luna at (956)318-5232. For more information on the Employee Educational Benefit Program, call the Office of Human Resources at (956) 381-2516. Or, visit www.utpa.edu/scholarships to download applications for both.

CLUB continued from page 3 another at the night club in June 2006, safety became another issue of concern. Alicia Barron, a graduate student in the educational psychology department, said there is a great deal of scholarly research showing that many DUI arrests, violent attacks, vandalism and drunkdriving accidents happen after collegeage students leave a nightclub or bar under the influence of alcohol. “Many college students like to go dance and drink to relieve all the stress they go through during the week. When they do so, many of them are tempted to drink,” Barron explained. “Research by William Smith showed that most college students that drink do so solely to get drunk.” The closing brought peace to the

residents of the community behind it. Now their concern is renewed with the inauguration of Mint 2, a non-alcoholic club that opened its doors to teenagers Jan. 6. For Gonzalez, this is the best way he can make use of the building he owns and work with residents nearby. It will all be worth it, he said, because younger students will have a place to have a good, safe time. “The Valley is one of the best places to start a business and there are a lot of ideas that we’re trying to work with,” Gonzalez said. “But wherever we start a new club, college students can be sure that we will make this a fun place with enough security so they will not have to be afraid to go out.”

Alcohol’s other effects noted A study, “Alcohol, Nightclubs: A Lethal Cocktail,” showed that people who get intoxicated are more likely to go to places where other intoxicated individuals are and – because they are cognitively impaired – are more prone to engage in violent and irresponsible activities. Jessica Gomez, a bilingual education major from Pharr, said that she is aware of all the dangers she is vulnerable to and she is always careful of what she drinks, who she goes with and where she goes to. “Drinking a lot is only part of the dangers that we are susceptible to,”

Gomez, a junior, said. “Who is to tell us that some predator will not put something in out drink and come to a college student in a friendly manner just to take advantage of someone?” Any present risk, is amplified due to the close proximity of the U.S./Mexico border, said Carlos Garcia. “The level of drinking pretty much doubled when you consider all those people that party in Mexico because many clubs don’t even ask for an ID and anyone can just go to a corner store to buy a bottle of liquor,” Garcia, a senior biology major, said.

SPORTS

January 16, 2007

Page 13 Men’s Basketball Mon. Jan. 15

TAMU-International at Texas-Pan American (Edinburg) TAMU-International (8-8) Player FG-FGA Taylor, K. 1-3 Ochoa, N. 1-2 Encinas, A. 8-16 Swan, C. 4-10 Sexton, S. 0-0 Jacob, L. 1-3 Garcia, I. 0-1 Lewis, M. 3-6 Johnson, T. 2-7 Totals 20-48

Broncs experience setbacks over Christmas Break Cagers go 3-7 against stiff opposition On Dec. 1, 2006 the Green and Orange competed in the Hawkeye Classic Tournament and dropped a 62-46 decision against host University of Iowa. In their second game of the classic UTPA then lost a nail-biter to Atlantic 10 conference rival LaSalle on a last second three-point shot, 64-63. Dec. 6 saw UTPA face then ranked no. 23 Air Force; the Broncs gave the Falcons a battle until Air Force rallied behind a 13-3 run in the last three and a half minutes for a 7058 final tally. Burrell knotted 21 points in the contest. Three days later the team traveled to San Marcos for a rematch of their previous 7764 victory over Texas State. State proved to be too much for UTPA the second time around as they came out on top, 84-74. UTPA compiled a 3-7 record over the break. The squad returned to Sam Williams Court on Dec. 18 and eked out a two-point victory over Stephen F. Austin, 46-44. Two days later UTPA followed the win with a sweep of in-state rival UTSA at the Field House, 69-64. The 40-point victory over Permian Basin snapped a three-game road losing streak dating back to Dec. 30 when the Broncs dropped an 88-62 decision to host University of Central Florida during the UCF Holiday Classic championship game. UTPA handed James Madison University a 70-57 setback en route to the title game. The other two losses also came against Conference USA foes on Jan. 4 at Southern Methodist University, 84-71 and against Tulsa University in Oklahoma, 72-64 on Jan. 6. The Holiday Classic witnessed UTPA’s Burrell score 25.0 ppg and pull down nine rebounds per outing. His performance guaranteed him a spot on the Classic’s AllTournament team as well as Independent Player of the Week. Bronc point man Paul Stoll was selected as the Independent Newcomer of the Week for the second time this year for his efforts in the UCF Holiday Classic. Stoll compiled solid all-around stats; 8.5 ppg, 6.5 assists, 3.5 steals, and 3 boards. The Pan American

Tennis Jan./Feb. Schedule

Men’s Jan. 23 Jan. 24 Feb. 3 Feb. 9

vs. Texas Southern, Fort Worth TBA at Texas Christian University, Fort Worth 2:00 p.m. at Texas A&M, College Station TBA at Abilene Christian, Abilene, TBA vs. Oklahoma Christian, Abilene TBA Feb. 10 vs. Lamar, Abilene TBA Feb. 17 at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi TBA Feb. 23 vs. Nicholls State, Orville Cox Tennis Center TBA Feb. 25 vs. Southeastern Louisiana, Orville Cox Tennis Center TBA

Women’s Jan. 26 at Texas-El Paso, El Paso 2:00 p.m. Jan. 27 vs. North Florida, El Paso 10:00 a.m. Jan. 28 vs. Lamar, El Paso 10:00 a.m. Feb. 2 at Abilene Christian, Abilene TBA vs. Central Arkansas, Abilene TBA Feb. 3 vs. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, Abilene TBA Feb. 9 at Texas State, San Marcos 2:00 p.m. Feb. 10 at Texas-San Antonio, San Antonio TBA Feb. 17 at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi, TBA Feb. 24 vs. Nicholls State, Orville Cox Tennis Center 10:00 a.m.

3FG-3FGA 0-0 0-0 4-8 0-5 0-0 0-1 0-1 0-0 0-0 4-15

Texas-Pan American (10-8) Player FG-FGA 3FG-3FGA Shankle, D. 3-5 2-4 Allgood, J. 3-4 1-1 Stoll, P. 1-2 1-2 Burrell, B. 4-10 2-7 Lien, C. 7-9 0-0 Puente, D. 1-3 1-1 Robinson, A. 2-4 0-1 Chatman, J. 4-6 4-6 Smith, B. 1-3 1-3 Trader, Z. 2-4 0-0 Buck, R. 1-1 0-0 Edwards, C. 1-2 0-0 Totals 30-53 12-25

FT-FTA 1-3 0-0 2-2 1-1 0-0 0-0 6-8 0-0 3-8 13-22

TP 3 2 22 9 0 2 6 6 7 57

A 0 0 5 2 0 0 1 0 1 9

S 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 3

B 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1

REB 2 3 3 6 0 1 3 2 3 26

FT-FTA 2-2 0-0 0-0 0-0 3-3 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 2-2 0-1 6-6 13-14

TP 10 7 3 10 17 3 4 12 3 6 2 8 85

A 0 0 9 4 1 8 0 3 0 0 1 0 26

S 2 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 7

B 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

REB 3 4 3 2 6 2 1 1 0 3 1 1 31

Tues. Jan. 9 Texas-Permian Basin at Texas-Pan American (Edinburg) Texas-Permian Basin (3-10) Manchester 1-4 1-2 3, Landry 1-5 0-0 2, Dastrup 2-5 1-1 5, McKenzie 0-0 0-0 0, Zaney 2-7 5-5 9, Davis 1-4 1-1 3, Simmons 1-5 3-4 5, Settles 0-2 0-1 0, Trejo 3-4 2-2 9, Pride 4-8 0-0 8, Morgan 2-4 2-2 7, Brittain 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 17-48 15-17 51. Texas-Pan American (9-8) Stoll 1-2 0-0 3, Burrell 7-12 0-1 16, Shankle 4-8 0-0 10, Lien 4-7 1-1 9, Allgood 3-4 0-2 6, Puente 3-6 0-0 7, Edwards 3-7 0-0 6, Chatman 5-8 0-0 12, Sheppard 3-3 0-0 6, Robinson 3-5 0-0 6, Smith 0-3 0-0 0, Trader 2-3 0-0 4, Buck 3-5 0-0 6. Totals 41-73 1-4 91.

Women’s Basketball Mon. Jan. 15 Texas-Pan American at TAMU-Corpus Christi (American Bank Center in Corpus Christi) Texas-Pan American (8-11) Player FG-FGA 3FG-3FGA Wilson, T. 0-0 0-0 Jones, R. 3-4 0-0 Gray, L. 7-11 3-7 Daniel, M. 3-3 0-0 Freeman, H. 0-0 0-0 Vaughn, T. 3-12 1-6 Kostacky, D. 0-0 0-0 Winfrey, T. 0-2 0-1 Garrett, R. 1-2 0-0 Jean, R. 3-4 0-0 Woodard, L. 0-0 0-0 Schneider, T. 0-0 0-0 Ramirez, C. 1-3 0-1 Coulson, W. 0-0 0-0 Grisby, A. 1-7 0-1 Totals 22-48 4-16

FT-FTA 0-0 1-2 1-2 1-3 0-0 0-1 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-1 0-0 0-0 1-2 0-0 1-1 5-12

TP 0 7 18 7 0 7 0 0 2 6 0 0 3 0 3 53

A 0 1 1 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 13

S 0 0 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 8

B 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 5

REB 0 2 7 6 0 7 0 2 0 4 0 0 3 0 1 39

TAMU-Corpus Christi (8-8) Player FG-FGA 3FG-3FGA Fowler, B. 0-0 0-0 Robinson, T. 0-0 0-0 Lewis, K. 7-20 2-10 Montgomery, S. 1-4 1-4 Duncan, N. 0-6 0-3 Green, D. 0-0 0-0 Torres, D. 0-2 0-0 Bills, F. 0-0 0-0 Duffey, J. 0-6 0-3 Davidson, S. 0-0 0-0 Beagle, E. 3-8 0-0 Massey, B. 0-0 0-0 Shaw, J. 3-11 0-0 Totals 14-57 3-20

FT-FTA 0-0 0-0 2-5 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 2-2 0-0 3-3 0-0 10-12 17-22

TP 0 0 18 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 9 0 16 48

A 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 6

S 0 0 6 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 10

B 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 2

REB 0 0 2 1 1 0 3 0 8 0 9 0 8 37

Sat. Jan. 13 New Jersey Institute of Technology at Texas- Pan American (Edinburg) New Jersey Institute of Technology (3-12) O’Dwyer 2-2 0-0 4, Piekielski 1-8 1-1 3, Crowe 1-4 0-0 2, Dickinson 1-5 4-5 7, Baumlin 0-0 0-0 0, Miller 0-0 0-0 0, Hendricks 2-7 0-0 5, Vogel 2-3 1-1 7, Oyelola T. 1-4 8-8 10, Oyelola K. 1-2 4-5 6. Totals 11-39 18-20 44. Texas-Pan American (7-11) Gray 2-12 3-4 9, Daniel 4-8 1-2 9, Garrett 1-2 1-2 3, Ramirez 1-3 1-2 3, Grigsby 5-7 2-5 13, Wilson 0-0 0-0 0, Jones 0-1 0-0 0, Kostacky 0-0 0-0 0, Winfrey 1-4 0-0 2, Jean 6-13, 4-6 16. Totals 20-50 12-21 55.

SPORTS

Page 14

January 16, 2007

Bronc tennis looking forward to new season Athletes prepared for chance at conference title By PATRICK KENNEDY The Pan American

Onydia Garza/The Pan American ON THE BALL - Enrique Montemayor, a sophomore history major, is joined by three new players for UTPA’s men’s tennis team. The men will make their debut next Jan. 23 against Texas Southern University.

After a break filled with hard work and conditioning, the men and women’s tennis teams of The University of TexasPan American are ready to explode for the spring season. The Orville Cox Tennis Courts are being lit up brighter than a roman candle, thanks to the teams’ two-aday practices. Watched over by head coach Rob Hubbard, volunteer assistant coach Robin Warren and graduate assistant Oliver Steil, members of the men and women’s tennis teams are stepping up their practices and getting ready for their 2007 debut. The men will kick off the new season Jan. 23 against Texas Southern University and the women will follow Jan. 26 against The University of Texas-El Paso. “Awesome,” is the word used by Warren to describe how the teams are practicing so far. “They are out to prove themselves,” she said. The two-a-day practices are allowing the coaching staff more time to work on fundamentals with the team, as well as more time to allow for

match practices. Besides a reinvigorated quest for success, the new year has also brought three new players on board with the men’s tennis team: freshmen Carlos Carrera from Ecuador, Nirvick Mohinta of India and Shashank Vij from Finland. The men’s team came out to a slow start in the fall but grew stronger the more they played, showing off their true colors with success at the Ragin’ Cajun Classic Nov. 4 in Lafayette, La. The stakes are higher this season as the men begin conference play in the Southland Conference. For the women’s team, spring 2007 is the time to solidify UTPA’s emergence as a force to be reckoned with in the world of women’s tennis. “For years, the women’s tennis teams here have been considered a doormat but the girls are changing all of that,” Hubbard said. Indeed, this year’s women’s team is being called potentially the best to ever play for the university. But besides saying hasta la vista to a poor historical record, the girls of the women’s team are also playing for the chance to earn an invitational to conference play. The tennis coaching staff believes that if the girls continue their successful performances, they can earn the honor.

Last fall, the women’s team executed huge upsets in head-to-head competition against top-seeded Texas State University and The University of TexasEl Paso Oct. 26 at The University of Texas-San Antonio Invitational. The team also won two out of three finals matches in the Stephen F. Austin Invitational. Hubbard has already taken time to outline goals for this upcoming season. “One of my goals was to come in here and immediately make the teams competitive,” he said. “My second goal is to win a conference title.” This second goal captures the imagination of most UTPA tennis fans. The university’s tennis team hasn’t won a conference championship since 1965; UTPA won four consecutive National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics titles from 1961-1965. What will give this team the ability to win championships? The amount of talent on the team and the depth Hubbard has added to the rosters. “Both teams are coming in with a lot of depth. We are ready to play with anyone in the conference.” Hubbard said.

Onydia Garza/The Pan American DOWN THE LINE - Sheila Mabulac, a sophomore finance major, returns with the rest of the Lady Bronc tennis team. The Lady Broncs will play their first game of the spring season against The University of Texas-El Paso Jan. 26.

Hickey to attend Baseball Scholarship Golf Tournament By SAVANNAH MARTINEZ The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American Bronc baseball team’s 4th annual Baseball Scholarship Golf Tournament will be held at the Monte Cristo Golf Course and Country Club on Saturday. Making another appearance this year will be former Bronc and current Tampa Bay Devil Rays pitching coach Jim Hickey. “I go every chance I get out of respect for the program and the time that I spent at UTPA,” Hickey said. “My experience at UTPA, it has allowed me to do what I do for a living now.” The proceeds from the golf tournament will aid in funding the UTPA baseball scholarship program, which will help as the baseball schedule continues to include high-profile NCAA Division I opponents like Texas A&M and Oklahoma.

Hickey said UTPA’s program was vital in his success and hopes the tournament will be instrumental in aiding future baseball players.

at 7:30 a.m. followed by a breakfast buffet starting at 8 a.m. Then a shotgun start beginning at 8:30 a.m. Later in the day, a lunch buffet, live auction of sports memorabilia, closest to the pin and longest drive competitions and a host of other activities.

“I certainly hope this program helps everyone as much as it helped me. Because of this program it has given me every opportunity I’ve had in baseball.”

Hickey “I certainly hope this program helps everyone as much as it helped me,” said Hickey. “Because of this program it has given me every opportunity I’ve had in baseball.” Registration is scheduled to begin

- Former Bronc Jim Hickey Per NCAA rule, baseball scholarships are awarded on an annual basis. As a result, the tournament was created to supplement monetary needs.

“The event began four years ago because we were not fully funded,” said Bronc baseball coach Willie Gawlik. “Fully funded means the university puts up about eight and half to nine baseball scholarships and the NCAA maximum rule is 11.7.” All extra revenue generated from the tournament helps the university remain as competitive as other institutions around the nation. There will be three different classes during the tournament for individuals to compete in. Class A include players 9 years old and under, Class B ages 10-18 years old and Class C 19 years old and up. Additionally, contributors can play under one of five sponsorship levels. Player lists be submitted no later than noon on Friday. No substitutions on the day of the tournament will be allowed. For more information feel free to contact Gawlik at (956) 381- 2235.

Platinum Sponsorship costs $1,750, includes an invitation to a Friday night reception, hole sign, box of golf balls, two golf shirts, two baseball caps, two three-man teams and three spots per game at all home games on the video board with business logo. Gold Sponsorship is priced at $1,000 and includes an invitation to the reception, a hole sign, golf shirt, box of golf balls, baseball cap, two three-man teams and six baseball season tickets. Silver Sponsorship is priced at $500 and includes a hole sign, baseball cap, three-man team and four baseball season tickets. Bronze Sponsorship is priced at $250 and includes a hole sign, baseball cap and two baseball season tickets. The Individual Sponsorship is priced at $200, includes one player, green fee and two meals.

SPORTS

January 16, 2007

Page 15

Broncs remain strong for end of season By ERICK QUINTERO The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American men’s basketball team got off to a slow start in their 91-51 home victory against The University of TexasPermian Basin on Jan. 9 but took off to improve to 7-0 at home. It was unusually quiet inside the UTPA Field House during the first three and a half minutes of play as both teams struggled to feed the scoreboard. The Green and Orange (9-8) continued to work their motion offense until they found senior leader Colin Lien on the low block. The 6-foot-11 Iowa native muscled his way to a three-point play after being fouled on a bank shot. The Bronc’s pivot man finished with nine points, six boards, two blocks and one steal in 14 minutes of play.

UTPA’s offense, tops among Independents, soon let loose and shot 56.2 percent (41-for-73) from the field. “Eventually we knew we were going to score the ball. If we continued to get the ball inside, the outside game would come through eventually. There are not too many games that go 0-0 in the first half,” said Brian Burrell, UTPA’s leading scorer. Three Bronc players reached double figures in scoring and Burrell led with 16 points in 20 minutes of work. Jonathan Chatman added 12 and Dexter Shankle chipped in 10, but more importantly the trio combined for a 4-1 assistto-turnover ratio. Senior point man Larry Sheppard showed a solid all-around game and looked confident at the helm for the Green and Orange. Sheppard made 3-3 from the field, handed out five assists

Onydia Garza/The Pan American HOT AT HOME - Junior forward Julius Algood (45) is challenged by Anwar Morgan (23) during UTPA’s 91-51 blowout win against Texas-Permian Basin Tuesday.

and picked up three steals. UTPA turned to an aggressive 1-21-1 press and used a combination of big men to shadow the UTPB inbounder. Kano Edwards, Julius Allgood and Alex Robinson disrupted the Falcons inbound man for the better part of the game. During his usual post game interview on ESPN radio 1240 AM, UTPA head coach Tom Schuberth said his fullcourt press was a variation of a 1-2-2 press designed to disrupt the Falcon’s tempo, and praised his team’s strong half court defense. “It’s a fullcourt pressure; you get on the basketball and you try to cause havoc,” Schuberth said. “I have a philosophy. I think you have to be really good at a half court defense before you can ever be a pressing team. I love to press, particularly when we play at home because I think the crowd gets behind us. Our guys love to do it.” The strategy kickstarted a 20-2 run capped off when Lien rebounded his miss and drilled an easy two at pointblank range that made the score 34-15 with 3:33 left to play in the half. The Bronc squad went into the half up 42-23 and did not let up as they out pointed the Falcons 49-28 in the second half. Midway through the second half UTPA capped off a 28-7 run when Chatman stole the ball from his man at the top of the key, raced downcourt and gave a no-look pass over his head to a trailing Robinson who slammed the ball to give UTPA a cushy 72-37 lead with a little over nine minutes to play.

With a commanding lead and the game in hand, Schuberth decided to get his bench involved. Former McAllen Memorial standout Danny Puente alongside seldom-used Harlingen native Ryan Buck came in and answered the call. Puente put the finishing touches on the game as he hooked up with Buck on a fancy behind-the back pass for an easy two with 41 ticks remaining. They finished the game with seven and six points, respectively. STILL TO COME With more than half of the season under their belt and sporting a competitive 9-8 record the men’s squad enters the final 12 games of their season. After entertaining Texas A&M International on Jan. 15 the Broncs get 10 days of preparation before embarking on what could be considered the meat of their schedule as they set out to face their similar Independent rival North Dakota State (now 9-6) on Jan. 25. State pulled one of the bigger upsets of the season Dec. 2 when they traveled to, and defeated then no. 9 Marquette. On Jan. 27 the Broncs will take to the hardwood against South Dakota State. The two-game road trip will come to a conclusion when UTPA suits up against Indiana Purdue-Fort Wayne Feb. 1, followed by four home games against Independents; New Jersey Institute of Technology Feb. 3, Utah Valley State Feb. 10, South Dakota State Feb. 15, and N.D. State Feb. 17.

Midway through season, UTPA achieves 8-11 By KRISTYNA MANCIAS The Pan American The Lady Broncs of The University of Texas-Pan American are more than halfway through the season, and at the start of a new year, are looking to improve on their current 711 overall record. One of the biggest obstacles has been winning on the road, where the team has lost eight of 10 games. Home is less of a problem. The Lady Broncs are coming off a high note as they picked up their seventh win and first in the United Basketball League, defeating the New Jersey Institute of Technology Saturday at the UTPA Field House, 55-44. In the opening minutes of the first half both teams started off slow but UTPA took the lead 23-21 heading into the locker room. The Lady

Broncs started the second half fired up and went on a 17-11 run, sparked by freshman Rose Esther Jean, who finished with a game-high 15 points on 6-of-13 shooting from the field. She was four for six from the charity stripe while picking up four steals and two blocks in 30 minutes. Turnovers seemed to be the highlight of the night as the Broncs forced 40 from the Highlanders. UTPA stole the ball 21 times in the contest. Freshman Aleeya Grigsby was the other player in double figures with 13 points on 5-of-7 shooting while grabbing five rebounds. The home win followed a successful tourney showing at the Field House. During the holidays, UTPA hosted the second annual Battle at the Border Basketball Tournament at the Field House. The three team tournament included South Texas rival

Texas A&M Corpus Christi and Texas State. On the first night of tournament action the Lady Broncs squared off against the Lady Bobcats of Texas State. UTPA had lost its two previous meetings with them Nov. 24 and Dec. 10 but the third time was the charm. The Lady Broncs posted a hardfought win over Texas State 61-51. They were in control throughout the first half but only led 29-28 at the intermission. In the opening minutes of the second half there were six turnovers exchanged by both teams but junior Tamara Vaughn would put the home team on top 31-28 at the 17:26 mark. Aleeya Grigsby went on to score nine of her game-high 16 points in the final five minutes of play, including seven from the foul line as the Lady Bobcats resorted to fouling down the stretch. Vaughn

scored 15 points on six of nine from the field, including three of three from behind the arc while grabbing five rebounds, in 32 minutes of play. The second day of the Battle at the Border tournament was a meeting with Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. UTPA lost a heartbreaker 51-49. A jumper in the paint by Jillianne Duffey with 19 seconds remaining gave Corpus the two-point advantage. The Lady Broncs shot 40.4 percent on the night while the Islanders shot 38.2 percent. UTPA out-rebounded Texas A&M-CC, 41-32, but the Lady Islanders were able to connect on 66.7 percent of their free throws compared to the Lady Broncs’ 16.7 percent. Notes: The Lady Broncs upset the Lady Islanders on their turf when they played Corpus Christi on Monday, winning 53-48, marking their third road win of the season.

SPORTS S T A L L I O N S

Editor’s Pick: Game to Watch When: Jan. 21 Time: 2:00 pm Where: Soldier Field Saints

Game will be aired on FOX

Chicago

Flag football team wins NIRSA Championship, 27-20 By LUKE KOONG The Pan American On a day when all eyes were glued to television sets in anticipation of Dallas’ NFC wild-card game with Seattle, the Stallions of The University of Texas-Pan American were celebrating a national championship. While UTPA still does not have a Division I football team, it has the Stallions, the 17th ranked flag football team in the nation. At this year’s National Intramural-Recreation Sports Association National Flag Football Championship, the Stallions rolled through three teams in pool play and defeated two more in the playoffs enroute to their matchup with The University of North CarolinaCharlotte team, Pure Playaz. In a tight game for the ultimate prize, UTPA upset the top-seeded Pure Playaz, 27-20 to return home with the crown. The game ended on a UNC desperation heave into the end zone that fell incomplete. “The referee was on the sideline and hadn’t blown the whistle yet, so it

took us a while to realize the game was over. As soon as it happened, everyone was just smiles,” said senior pre-med biology major Daniel Flores. For the Stallions, long a local power, it was a great ending to what might be the final game for many of the players. “We had wanted this for a while,” said Flores, the quarterback. “We were running out on the field and there were a couple of guys teary-eyed, but I won’t say who.” This year marked the second stint in the national tournament. Ranked 11th last year, the Stallions fought all the way to the quarterfinal round only to be turned away. Playing against the top-seeded Pure Playaz was of little concern for the Stallions. “We had seen them play earlier and it was nothing we hadn’t seen before,” Flores explained. “We knew we could beat them. It was just a matter of not making a lot of mistakes.” Flores said the competition should not have looked down on them. “We were underestimated,” he

noted. “A lot of the teams ranked higher than us, we’ve beaten before. For the most part, nobody really knows who we are, but the teams we’ve played know we can play.” Four members of the squad walked away with awards at the end of the tournament. Freshman kinesiology major Rick Salinas was the MVP, while senior English major Rey Salinas, graduate student Juan Aldape and junior kinesiology major Jacob Santa Maria won All Tournament awards. UTPA has a unique style. For one thing, all changes are made at the line of scrimmage and in Spanish. During pre-game warm-ups, the team uses a soccer ball and listens to Mexican music to get ready for the game, eliciting odd looks from their opponents. “We get a lot of the ‘Are you guys a soccer team?’ instead,” Flores remarked. The team has been very successful over the past few years. The Stallions have been the perennial winners of the annual Valley Bowl, a tournament open to all teams in the

Rio Grande Valley. During last semester, they went undefeated in intramural play. Flores attributed their achievements to the team’s cohesiveness. Their unity gives them the spark on the field and helps them overcome any team weaknesses like being usually undersized against larger opponents. Flores said that surprising people who look down on them is one the team’s specialties. “That’s part of the fun: to get the bigger schools out there. They see us out there and we hear the little whispers,” he said. “It’s totally different out on the field.” As the senior members of the team prepare to leave, they hope that the torch and their accomplishments will be passed on to the next generation. The last two minutes of the championship game are located online at YouTube.com. For those interested in watching, visit and search for NIRSA. The spring season for flag football begins Feb. 3. Layout by: Rick Gamez

Results

COMPLETE - Junior kinesiology major John Lopez receives the ball during the Stallions’ semifinal clash with Illinois State in the NIRSA Flag Football Championship on Jan. 6. UTPA shut out the Sig Ep Dynasty 34-0 and went on to meet the Pure Playaz of The University of North Carolina-Charlotte.

Jan. 6 UTPA vs. UNC-Charlotte 27 - 20 Jan. 6 UTPA vs. Illinois State 34 - 0 Jan. 6 UTPA vs. University of Georgia 27 - 22 Jan. 5 UTPA vs. SE Louisiana 35 - 26 Jan. 5 UTPA vs. Texas A&M 41 - 6 Jan. 4 UTPA vs. Arkansas-Little Rock 48 - 0 Charlie Caceres/UTPA Intramural Rec. Sports