March 1, 2007

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

March 1, 2007

UTPA extends recruitment efforts beyond RGV

By VERONICA GONZALEZ The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American is looking beyond the Rio Grande Valley, after signing a three-year contract with the popular student Web site College Board to help attract prospective students from outside the area.

To this end, the university has begun purchasing names from the College

Convention center to host grad ceremony

By SANDRA GONZALEZ The Pan American It’s official: the McAllen Convention Center, slated to open later this month, will host The University of Texas-Pan American’s May commencement ceremony, various sources have confirmed.

The decision comes after months of deliberation among the Commencement Committee, students and administrators as to moving the ceremony from its usual location in the Field House.

As a result of the move, students will be allotted 12 tickets, as opposed to six, and there will be three ceremonies held, as opposed to four as there had been in the past. They will take place at 9 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Ana Maria Rodriguez, who served on the Commencement Committee, said it was ultimately the access to more available seating and the new condition of the facility that were responsible for the decision.

“We’re going to try it for the first time. No one else has tried it before,”

See GRADUATION page 11

Board, ACT and The National Research Center for College University Admissions. This year, UTPA spent a total of $11,000 on student information from these organizations, at 29 cents per name.

According to Magdalena Williams, dean of admissions and enrollment services, the decision to start a more intense and wide-ranging recruitment program came as a result of an increasing responsibility for boosting admissions.

While the recruitment department is not new, campus administrators have realized the need for increased diversity and enrollment, according to Debbie Gilchrist, director for New Student and Visitor Services.

In addition, with the opening of new housing and construction on the Wellness and Recreational Center nearing completion, UTPA needs to make sure the facilities are put to good use.

“Any time you have new housing, you have to meet those needs to fill them,” Williams said.

PICKING, CHOOSING With so much information, UTPA has invested in a student marketing system to sort and hold it all.

“Before we purchase, we evaluate,” Williams said. “For example, we ask questions like: did we see an interest from

students in this area? Was it worth it?”

Williams says the university wants to make sure they’re targeting areas whose students will be encouraged to move to the Valley and find it comfortable. Of the nearly 18,000 students, over 90 percent are from this area.

Focusing on students whose parents have gone to college and those who live in families with income that can

See RECRUITMENT page 11

‘Designer babies’ center of debate

By MANUEL TISCARENO The Pan American Some scientists and the public are voicing their concerns after Britain announced last week it could become the first nation to allow the genetic alteration of human embryos, a step some claim could pave the way for the creation of “designer babies.”

Embryo screening, which allows parents to select the sex of their baby, check for disability or select a particular genetic makeup, has been under attack from popular opinion since the birth of the field.

In fact, on Sunday, Pope Benedict XVI condemned genetic engineering and other scientific practices that allow people to select attributes of unborn children by screening them for defects.

One of the concerns surrounding the debate over genetically modified embryos is that some disabled families have voiced their preference for selecting embryos with genetic make-ups coding for the same disabilities as they have.

“That is absolutely repulsive, absolutely immoral,” said psychology professor Jerwen Jou of The University of Texas-Pan American.

Some parents with disabilities, via

embryo screening, are demanding reassurance that their child be born with a particular limitation. In one example, a person with dwarfism could choose to screen embryos to assure that his or her offspring will be born with a shared trait.

Sandra Hansmann, an assistant professor for the department of rehabilitation at UTPA, said genetic screening should be accessible to everybody, even if the process is used by some in a way others might not agree with.

“If we accept that parents use genetic screening to eliminate disability, then we should accept parents who wish to use genetic screening to select disability,” she said.

Scott Gunn, a biology professor and health professions adviser, said parental rights also play a role when considering a middle ground for the issue.

“I assume if they know themselves and they know their own feelings, they may feel more comfortable with a

See GENETICS page 11

News

A&E

Sports

Student tells of her trip to Africa as missionary

New version of a classic tale comes to UTPA

Brazilians bring flair to the tennis court

See Page 5

See Page 7

See Page 16

PAGE 2

R EADER FORUM

March 1, 2007 THE

PAN AMERICAN

Puzzle

1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 http://www.panam.edu/dept/panamerican 56th Year – No. 21 Editor Claudette Gonzalez ThePanAmerican@gmail.com News Editor

A&E Editor

Sports Editor

Sandra Gonzalez

Frank Calvillo

Luke Koong

sandra_ panamerican@ yahoo.com

hennero@ msn.com

lkoong2004 @yahoo.com Design Editor

Photo 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 Leslie Estrada Jeanette Perez Onydia Garza

Rafael Roux

Patrick Kennedy

Angela Salazar

Kristyna Mancias Erick Quintero Savannah Martinez Adviser Dr. Greg Selber Secretary Anita Casares 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.

Stumped? Look for the answers on page two of next week’s edition of The Pan American.

Announcement WORTHY INFORMATION - Kevin Jetton, 2002 national president of the Association of Information Technology, speaks to members of the organization’s UTPA chapter Feb. 26 in the ITT building. Cynthia Castilla, UTPA AITP president, expressed her gratitude to the speakers.

“AITP would like to thank Kevin Jetton and Ronald Taylor for coming down and making this one of our most momentous occasions. Our academic chapter is proud to have accomplished so much in a short amount of time,” she said.

Do you have an announcement you’d like to make?

If your organization took part in an event you’d like everyone to hear about, send a photo and an explanation (300 words or less) to ThePanAmerican@gmail.com or Sandra_panamerican@yahoo.com

Moses Garcia/The Pan American

Ad Manager Lillian Villarreal

IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF

THE PAN AMERICAN

Available March 8

Feline freedom

Borderfest Overview

- Find out what one group is doing to help the cats on campus

- Learn what one of the Valley’s most anticipated events had to offer

N EWS

News in brief: Today is the priority deadline to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form.

Visit www.fafsa.ed.gov for more information.

UTPAdvantage signs partners from across Valley

By KRISTEN VILLEGAS The Pan American City, media and school district representatives from across the Rio Grande Valley came to The University of TexasPan American Feb. 22 to officially sign on as a partners of the UTPAdvantage program.

As part of their signature on the official list, the 29 cities, 24 school districts and 20 media partners pledged their dedication to spreading the word about the new tuition assistance program.

The program, which was first announced in December, offers lowerincome residents who are not able to afford a college education the opportunity to have all tuition and fees paid for by gift aid, federal, state, institutional and private forms of grants and scholarships.

Jessie Vela, mayor of Alamo, said he’s committed to promoting the program because he believes it is a worthy cause.

“It is a good opportunity to improve quality of life,” Vela said. “I want more students to have the opportunity that I had to come to college.”

Vela, a UTPA alum, thinks the pro-

Seminar helps couples

By ANNA FLORES The Pan American An e-mail from The University of Texas-Pan American caught the attention of graduate student Heidy Castillo.

It read “Couples Counseling: Activities to help strengthen relationships.”

Interested in learning more about the subject, she decided to attend along with her partner, 28-year-old Tricia Garza.

Nina Enriquez, an intern for Counseling and Psychological Services and social work major, launched “Heart Connection,” a program designed to help couples with relationship problems or concerns.

The first three of the four sessions

were held Feb. 14, 21 and 28. The last one will take place on March 7 from noon to 1 p.m. at the Student Union.

“Everyone wants a fairytale romance but unfortunately, it’s not always like that,” said Enriquez, a graduate student. “There are certain things about a perfect romance though, that a couple can actually experience.”

Heart Connection consists of a total of four workshops run by Enriquez, which are free to any currently enrolled UTPA student.

What drew Castillo to Heart Connection was the idea of receiving advice from someone other than her friends and family, whom she usually

See COUPLES page 12

Prof’s book examines life along the border

By MANUEL TISCARENO The Pan American One professor is trying to negate the common misconception that the Rio Grande Valley lacks culture in his new book. ‘On The Edge of the Law: Culture, Labor and Deviance on the South Texas Border.”

The book, which is written by Chad Richardson, professor of sociology at The University of Texas-PanAmerican, seeks to showcase the Valley’s unique way of life, which is a mix of Mexican-American culture with established Anglo customs.

It comes as a result of research done as part of The Border Life Project, established by Richardson in 1979.

TOPICS TO NOTE Under the project, which promotes cultural research, a variety of topics have been studied such as migrant farm workers and retired police officers in Mexico.

In this book, various paradoxes about the RGV are addressed. For example, it explains how the Valley, especially Hidalgo County, is among the poorest regions of the nation, while at the same time one of the most booming real estate markets.

Richardson believed the Valley is an area of special interest in comparison to the rest of the country because its proximity to the border makes for a rare cultural and social situation.

“The Valley is a very unique place

See BOOK page 12

gram is a great investment for the community. He hopes that, upon completion of their college education, students will give back to the community in a positive way with their skills, knowledge and quality of work.

As official partners, members will promote the UTPAdvantage opportunity in an effort to ensure word about the program reaches as many members of the target audience as possible. Danny Martinez, assistant news director for Spanish-language television network Telemundo, said the relationship they have with the university is for growth

and prosperity in education.

In addition to having Valley outlets promoting UTPAdvantage, university President Blandina Cardenas said word has been spreading fast across the country via newspapers like USA Today and cable TV networks like CNN. Cardenas attended the ceremony last week to show her support and gratitude to partners who are helping with the program. She said it should help the university gain more students and continue to promote higher education in the Valley.

“I’m hoping that students who believe in the dream of a college educa-

tion will know that it is within their reach,” Cardenas said.

She added said that the demand for education has been the cause of higher tuition costs. Therefore, UTPAdvantage wants to keep knowledge acquisition attainable for people who may not be able to afford it.

“We went after every penny we could find,” Cardenas said. “Educate them all, that’s the passion that drives us here at UTPA.” John Edwards, UTPA vice president for enrollment and student services,

See PARTNERS page 12

Festivities planned to honor retiring theater professor

By SANDRA GONZALEZ The Pan American Just like the red chair carefully placed beside her desk, Marian Monta saw the potential in the small university in a town with “no McDonalds” a little over 35 years ago.

Both the chair and the university were a little worse for wear when she’d found them. In a way, both had been disregarded and would have stayed so without a little work and investment of time and money.

As the long time theater professor prepares to leave The University of Texas-Pan American at the end of this semester, a group of former students, professors and some people who are both will be hosting a Roast and Toast scholarship fundraiser for the retiring theater legend this Saturday in the Student Union at noon.

For Monta, preparing to leave the university and a department she helped build has been easier than she thought it would, but not completely painless.

“Once Upon A Mattress,” based on the classic, “Princess and the Pea.” Now, several decades later, the same show will become one of her last.

The show, being performed this week, has presented a new challenge for Monta as she has had to learn to do something that has not always come easy: stepping aside.

“I don’t want to leave and have them come to the next show and say, ‘Well, I don’t know.

Monta used to do that,’” she said.

For now, she handles small responsibilities for the comedic musical, “promotional tasks and so forth,”

See MONTA page 12

LETTING GO In 1974, back when UTPA was Pan American University, one of the first musicals of which Monta was a part was Brenda Ladd’s student photography workshop END OF AN ERA - Marian Monta will retire at the end of the spring semester after 35 years at UTPA.

Page 4

NEWS

March 1, 2007

NEWS

March 1, 2007

Page 5

Missionary gains job experience in Africa

By BRENDA RODRIGUEZ The Pan American While many students were celebrating the holidays, Erika Garcia waved her friends and family goodbye and took part in a two-month missionary trip to Niger in Africa.

Garcia, a senior pre-med student and member of the Baptist Student Ministry on campus, was looking to gain some experience in the medical field through a mission. Once informed about the trip via BSM, she couldn’t resist.

A nurse and mid-wife who had lived in Africa for six years accompanied Garcia on the trip, which took place Nov. 13 to Jan. 10.

PLAYING DOCTOR For two months, the two lived in a small African village called Dantiandou, where they helped women who had difficulty in labor.

“Niger actually has the highest (infant) mortality rate in the world and it’s just due to the fact that people won’t do the really simple things that will stop hemorrhaging,” said Garcia, a McAllen native.

She worked in tough situations with no electricity or running water and had to physically examine women to see which ones looked like they may have difficult labor. The women practice silent births, according to Garcia.

“One thing that’s most important in their culture is just to be patient and so

for them to scream or yell is a sign of weakness,” she said.

As an undergraduate with no medical experience, Garcia knew that people would be hesitant toward her. But, she learned basic skills such as how to give a shot, check blood pressure and maintain equipment safety.

Garcia participated in a few deliveries, plus a campaign to spread awareness to other nearby villages. She said the village she lived in was very remote and seeing people struggling just to get there was hard for her to deal with.

“These people are traveling so far to get access to stuff that’s so basic to us, like re-hydration packets,” she said.

“They come with their kids who are dehydrated or they would bring their kids who have malaria. And malaria is totally treatable, but they would have to travel so far just to get the medicine.”

CULTURE Despite the turmoil of the situation, Garcia said the Fulani people of Niger were eventually very welcoming to her, adopting her as one of their own.

“Everyone wanted me to go in and see their houses and introduce their family to me, and their goats, chickens and cows,” she said.

COMING BACK HOME After two months with no modern technology Garcia returned to the Valley.

She said that she brought back many lit-

Erika Garcia HELPING HAND - Erika Garcia, a senior biology major, spent two months in Africa as a missionary where she and her midwife travel partner helped deliver babies.

tle traits with her, including the language that many Africans still speak after European colonization.

“I’m taking a French class now and I’m having a heck of a time,” said Garcia. “Every time I don’t know something I want to respond ‘mi anda,’ which means I don’t know,” she said.

Aside from French slang, Garcia said the trip has taught her to be more aware of the needs of others in different geographic regions.

“It gives you a greater sense of compassion for people and develops a more humane outlook in every aspect of life,” said Garcia.

Grad students take life-changing trip to India

By CLAUDETTE GONZALEZ The Pan American Erica Garate had never traveled far from her Edcouch-Elsa home. She had never been on a plane, much less flown all the way to India. But that’s exactly what she and her classmate Missy Quiroz did in early January.

The two University of Texas-Pan American guidance and counseling graduate students had prepared a presentation on the Kleinian approach to counseling for their counseling theories class with Sachin Jain, a professor in the education department. Whereas Freudian theory suggests that psychological development occurs solely after birth, the Kleinian approach proposes that psychological development starts in the prenatal state during pregnancy.

After their class presentation early in the fall semester, Jain told the girls that he was going to India for a conference and asked them to join him. This was the beginning of what would turn into a twoweek trip to a country neither had ever dreamed of visiting.

Garate, 27, and Quiroz, 34, accompanied Jain and Yvonne Castillo, also a

professor in the education department, to Jaunpur, where Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University was holding the National Conference on Career Opportunities in Psychology: Potential Areas. The UTPA group was the only foreign one to present to the group of 30 to 45 psychology students.

“There was no one else coming in, so we were the main attraction,” Garate said. “We didn’t realize how excited they were to have us there until we spent that first evening there.”

On the day of their presentation, the girls had to make due without certain conveniences that they had taken for granted in the States such as electricity. Even so, the presentation was a success. Garate and Quiroz were amazed at the interest and attentiveness displayed by the students they encountered on their trip.

“Indian people are very smart. If you were to see their facilities, they have nothing and yet they’re so eager to learn,” Quiroz said. “We have so much more than they do, yet here in America it’s not enough. It seems like the more resources we get for our students, the more spoiled they get and the more they don’t want to learn.”

After leaving the conference in Jaunpur, Garate and Quiroz visited several temples in Varanasi, then moved on to Agra, where they visited the Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal.

Although Garate and Quiroz originally planned to stay only a few days, an invitation to the wedding of another of Jain’s brother-in-laws in Ahmadabad, an arranged marriage, changed their mind.

“Over there, their weddings last several days. There were so many ceremonies and customs that they do before the wedding,” Garate said. “We didn’t know what they meant, but we tried to ask as many questions as we could. Everything means something. It’s just so neat.”

The wedding was only one of the aspects of Indian culture that Garate and Quiroz were exposed to. They observed the differences between local customs and what they’re used to at home. One thing that stuck out in their minds was the now illegal but still present caste system.

“In America, if you’re poor, if you’re somebody or if you’re not somebody, you have the opportunity for advancement,” Quiroz said. “But there, if you’re born in this caste, you’re staying there for the rest of your life.”

For both, the lessons learned were profound.

“I think you find out a lot about yourself, the value and respect for other cultures,” Garate said.

Jain believes that the trip will also have an effect on their professional lives.

“I think it opens lots of research avenues for them, just to see that what is applicable in the U.S. may not be applicable in other countries,” Jain said.

Both Garate and Quiroz are currently teachers. Garate is a kindergarten instructor at JRG Early Childhood School in Edcouch-Elsa and Quiroz is an Edcouch-Elsa High School Business Computer Information Systems teacher.

Each plans to share what they learned with their students.

According to Jain, trips like the one that Garate and Quiroz took are essential to reaching the university’s goal of becoming a more research-oriented university.

“We cannot be research-centered unless the university promotes such activities,” Jain said. “The more we can involve students in such activities, the more they will be inclined toward research and then the university can fulfill its goal.”

EN ESPAÑOL

Noticias en breve: Hoy es la fecha de prioridad para someter la Solicitud Gratuita de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes (FAFSA).

Visite www.fafsa.ed.gov para mas informacion.

Libro examina las condiciones sociales del Valle Por MANUEL TISCARENO Traducido Por JAIME NAVARRO The Pan American Un profesor niega que el Valle del Rio Grande caresca de cultura, esto mediante su nuevo libro “On The Edge of the Law: Culture, Labor and Deviance on the South Texas Border” (al borde de la ley: cultura, trabajo y desvianza en la frontera del sur de Texas”).

El libro fue escrito por Chad Richardson, profesor de sociología en la Universidad de Texas-Pan American, y busca demostrar la manera tan única de la vida del Valle, que describe como una mezcla de la cultura Mexico-Americana con costumbres Anglo-Americanas. Esto viene como resultado de la investigación hecha como parte de “The Border Life Project” (proyecto de la vida de la frontera), establecido por Richardson en 1979.

PUNTOS DE INTERES Bajo este proyecto que impulsa la investigacion de la cultura, denotan una variedad de temas que han sido estudiados tales como granjeros migrantes y policias retirados en Mexico.

Este libro remarca diversas paradojas acerca de el Valle. Por ejemplo, explica que el Valle, particularmente el condado de Hidalgo, se encuentra entre las regiones mas pobres del pais, pero tambien se encuentra entre las de mayor crecimiento en bienes raíces.

Richardson piensa que el Valle es una área muy interesante en comparación al resto del pais pues por su proximidad con la frontera crea una mezcla rara de situaciones sociales y cultura.

“El Valle es un lugar único por que a diferencia de otras partes del país, en el Valle existen muy distintas poblaciones.

Ademas el fenomeno de interacción e intercambio entre las fronteras hacen del Valle un lugar muy interesante para estudiar y vivir”, dice Richardson.

“On the Edge of the Law” es el segundo libro publicado por “The Border Life Project”. El primer libro fue “Batos, Bollios, Pochos and Pelados” el cual salió en 1999.

Su último libro publicado por la Imprenta de la Universidad de Texas fue lanzado en Diciembre de 2006 después de cuatro años de preparación. Este salió en co-autoría con Cristina DeJuana, quien era asistente estudiantil de Richardson. Desde entonces ella es maestra en el departamento de historia de la Universidad de Texas-Pan American.

INFORMACION CONFIABLE El trabajo de investigacion no ha sido tarea de uno, de acuerdo a Richardson más de 300 estudiantes de la Univerisad de Texas-Pan American realizaron investigación y recolectaron historias de habitantes del Valle, todo bajo su dirección. Richardson siente que el método en el que se recolecta infor-

mación es muy eficiente “Los estudiantes aquí son mejores investigadores que si pagáramos a investigadores profesionales para venir aqui y hacerlo porque los estudiantes tienen acceso a la gente”, Richardson dijo. “La gente confía en ellos. Y ellos conocen acerca del área, asi que no van a hacer que alguien les invente las historias. Yo creo que contar historias es un arte que aún existe entre muchas familias en el Valle.

Eso es realmente lo que es el proyecto,

Q “El fenomeno de interacción e intercambio entre las fronteras hacen del Valle un lugar muy interesante para estudiar y vivir”.

- Chad Richardson Autor y profesor de sociología

obtener esas historias de la gente.”

DeJuana es un ejemplo de cuán fuertemente el libro fue influido por la recolección de datos de los estudiantes.

Como un resultado de su trabajo en el libro, ella se ganó su camino para volverse co-autora.

DeJuana comentó que ya que la población Hispana esta creciendo rápidamente en todo el país, se han creado problemas sociales.

“El Valle siempre ha sido de esta manera, bicultural, por siglos. En otras áreas, ellos no lo saben”, dice DeJuana.

“Yo creo que estamos intentando puntualizar que lo que pasa aquí son el tipo de las expectativas para el resto del país”.

Una tercera publicación de las series del “Border Life” está ahora mismo en el proceso de recopilación.

Hablará sobre la economía underground - o no-oficial - del Valle y se espera que provea una gran cantidad de visión a este fenómeno social y económico altamente ignorado y complejo del Valle.

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

Editor’s Pick: Must-Buy CD “Infinity on High,” the new album from multi-platinum music sensation Fallout Boy, features the new single “This Ain’t a Scene.”

Beloved children’s tale comes to UTPA

By LESLIE ESTRADA The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American’s theater department has been up and running since the beginning of the semester preparing for its latest production “Once Upon a Mattress.”

This children’s musical, based on the fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea,” is about a kingdom that has been ruled by a tyrannical queen who won’t allow the people from the kingdom to get married until her son does so. This changes when Princess Winifred appears and shakes things up. In the end the prince falls in love with her and they all live happily ever after.

Brian Warren, who directs the play, said that he chose this particular musical to honor Marian Monta, a professor in the communication department who is retiring this semester after over 30 years of service.

“We chose this play to honor the retirement of one of our senior faculty members,” said Warren. “This was the first big musical that Dr. Monta worked on for the school theatre.”

According to Warren, the play is full of fun and excitement and has a great cast that makes this musical a must-see.

“We have a big cast for this production,” Warren said. “People that have never seen a live musical should

Tom Grabowski A BEDTIME TEST - Mark Cerda (left) and Donaciano Garcia (right) are among the cast of many who star in Brian Warren’s re-telling of the classic play “Once Upon a Mattress.”

definitely come out to watch it.”

He also added that a big plus that makes this musical so exciting is that the public will get to watch Monta per-

form.

“People will get to see an appearance by Dr. Monta,” Warren said. “She plays the Queen Mother and comes out

in the end.”

Karla Rios, a sophomore biology major, will play the leading role of Princess Winifred.

“It is such an honor for me to be part of this,” said Rios. “I could not believe it when I was notified that I was Winifred. I love my character and I love this musical.”

The cast has been rehearsing nonstop since before school started.

“We have been here since Jan. 8,” Rios said. “We practice for more than 20 hours a week sometimes, but it will all be worth it once the audience gets to see what we have been working so hard on.”

Aside from the gorgeous two-level set that Tom Grabowski, associate professor in the communication department, has constructed, another great reason to come watch this musical are the costumes that designer and UTPA lecturer Stephanie Hawks has prepared.

“I started designing in early December and I have been working on the costumes ever since,” Hawks said.

“I am really happy with the final products that, with the help of some students, I have accomplished.”

The cast would like to encourage students as well as the public to attend one of the shows.

“People should come and watch it,” Rios said. “It’s something different than just sitting down and watching television.

“Once Upon a Mattress” will be Feb. 26-March 3 at 8 p.m. and on March 4 at 2 p.m. Ticket prices range from $15 to $20.

Finger-lickin’ good time had at BBQ cookoff

By JEANETTE PEREZ The Pan American The sun was bright, the heat almost unbearable. But this didn’t stop people from filling up the Mercedes Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show grounds last Saturday.

This weekend marked the fourth annual “Smokin’ on the Rio” Texas State Championship BBQ Cook-Off. The event, established in 2004, allowed participants to enter a category of their choice, i.e. carne guisada, pan de campo, fajitas, ribs, beans, chicken or brisket. They also went for the winning prize of “People’s Choice,” with first and second place netting cash rewards.

Winners qualified for the “International Barbeque Cookers

Association Cook-Off” and “The American Royal.” Starting off with 17 teams in its first year, the event has grown a lot since then. This year 91 teams lit up their grills.

The event kicked off with a dance and special concert by country band Two Tons of Steel Friday night. The following day people from all over Texas and even some from out of state joined in on the competition and celebration.

Barbecue wasn’t the only thing to sink your teeth into. Food stands sold good old American favorites like funnel cakes, corn dogs and curly fries. Prefer Mexican instead? Tacos, fajitas, roasted corn, gorditas, tostadas and even enchiladas satisfied the palates of others. Ice cream cones and ice cold sodas soothed dry mouths and quenched thirsts.

And of course, the aroma of barbecue lingering through the hot, South Texas air could not get past anyone’s nose. With six categories of food to choose from, the pits were fired up all day and the crowd eager to taste.

Many traveled far and wide to get a piece of the action.

Russell and Cecilia Coleman of team BCB, drove 323 miles from Houston to Mercedes to join in on the grilling fun for a second year in a row.

There was more to it than just wanting to cook.

“Really, we just wanted to go someplace different. If I take home money that’s good. If I don’t, we have a good time,” said Russell Coleman, an IBM employee.

With five years experience cooking

in cities like Houston, Dallas and San Antonio, the Colemans have learned not to mess with a good thing.

“Last year we didn’t get anything because I changed the way I cook. When you come south you cook more for the Spanish people who like it hotter. This year I didn’t change anything,” he said.

What they were sure of was how much closer they’ve grown with their neighboring competitors.

“The best part is all the friends we make,” smiled the IBM employee, cutting into some brisket.

Kevin Collier of team Smashed Potatoes, agreed, saying the friends are also what he appreciates most.

“The camaraderie. All the people that we’ve met over the state. We’re all friends,” said the McAllen native.

The teams spent all morning and afternoon cooking and awaiting the moment of the awards ceremony.

Although it came an hour later than anticipated, everyone gathered under the pavilion at 6:30 p.m., anxious to hear the results.

Though not everyone went home a winner, the true significance of the event was not forgotten.

“We spend our money to benefit all the agricultural programs of the Valley,” said organizer Sellman. “In three short years, we’ve spent $100,000 on the kids and we hope to spend another $40,000 this year.”

Hats off to the cooks indeed.

For more information, please visit http://www.smokinonthe rio.com.

Page 8

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

March 1, 2007

March 1, 2007

The College of Communications, Arts and Sciences will hold its first fullfledged Festival of International Books and Arts March 1-3. FESTIBA aims to help promote literacy and broaden cultural awareness through the arts, including books, poetry, drama, concerts and more.

The event is the college’s answer to HESTEC (Hispanic Engineering Science and Technology), where for five years a week of interactive and educational events encourages students to learn more about science.

“As HESTEC was developing, the idea came about to also promote the arts and humanities, not just engineering and math,” said Dahlia Guerra, dean of the college.

A smaller-scale FESTIBA actually occurred last year within the music department only. It featured guest lectures and exhibitions on music.

“This year is the first year we have all of the departments participating,” Guerra said.

“We’ve also invited the dance pro-

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

gram…and we have a very exciting addition to FESTIBA called the Texas Book Festival.”

The book festival is the largest one in Texas. Currently in its twelfth year, it not only encourages literacy, but also promotes the joy of reading and its benefits.

The Texas Book Festival is bringing its “Author, Author” program that will be not only available to students at UTPA, but also members of the community.

“This is a program to promote literacy in public schools. They are bringing three authors – Rene Saldana, Lila Guzman and David Rice,” Guerra said.

The three authors will be visiting 12 area elementary schools, to read from their own works and also donate copies of their books to the schools in order to get students excited about reading.

Another interesting event is “Drawing Anime Fashion Figure and Form.” One of the most popular and distinctive forms of animation, anime is popular on the UTPA campus, where there is a club devoted to the Asian art form. For this event, people will be wearing designer anime costumes and also get a demonstration of basic drawing of this form.

One of the more anticipated days is Community Day, fashioned after the HESTEC event of the same name. The all-day event will be held in various places around campus including the Quad, UTPA Ballroom, Student Union and fine arts complex. There will also be a book fair held for all ages during

the day.

A multi-media light and music show, “The Art of Light,” will be held in the Student Union Theatre. Not only will the presentation show off lighting that can be seen in places such as national concerts, but it will also include a discussion about advanced technology and its integration with theatrical special effects.

During Community Day there will also be the announcement of the winner of the Nuevas Voces. This was a contest for young writers between the ages of 11 and 18, who were asked to submit different forms of writing ranging from personal essays to short stories. The winning works will be published in “Nuevas Voces: The Journal of Young Adult Literary Arts” and winners will participate in a public reading of their works.

With an event of this scale, hopes are high that more people will be looking at the arts for inspiration and a new way of thinking.

“I think that this is the most important thing,” said Peter Dabrowski, assistant dean of the college. “By creating this event, UTPA, and especially the College of Arts and Humanities, is basically becoming a center in the entire Valley of arts and literature.”

According to Dabrowski, the Valley is growing in its cultural and artistic ventures. Hosting FESTIBA is a way to let people know what arts the university and region have to offer.

“It’s crucial

Page 9

for the future of education in the Valley,” Dabrowski said. “UTPA and the College of Arts and Humanities are leaders in the cultural scene throughout the Valley.”

Students are also looking forward to this event. Since many of the big events on campus focus on other areas of study, this gives them the chance to use the creative side of their minds.

“I think it’s important to promote HESTEC,” said Rose Mary Lopez, a junior bilingual education major, “but it’s important to promote other colleges as well.”

Allowing for the arts to be seen and appreciated a little more gives a chance for them to thrive. This not only helps the arts themselves thrive, but creative artistic minds as well.

“I did a lot of art and music in high school,” said Aaron Jeremy Alvarez, a pre-medical sophomore.

“They should put more emphasis on it.

Without any arts, it gets boring.”

For more information, visit www.coah.utpa.edu/Festiba/festiba.html.

Page 8

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

March 1, 2007

March 1, 2007

The College of Communications, Arts and Sciences will hold its first fullfledged Festival of International Books and Arts March 1-3. FESTIBA aims to help promote literacy and broaden cultural awareness through the arts, including books, poetry, drama, concerts and more.

The event is the college’s answer to HESTEC (Hispanic Engineering Science and Technology), where for five years a week of interactive and educational events encourages students to learn more about science.

“As HESTEC was developing, the idea came about to also promote the arts and humanities, not just engineering and math,” said Dahlia Guerra, dean of the college.

A smaller-scale FESTIBA actually occurred last year within the music department only. It featured guest lectures and exhibitions on music.

“This year is the first year we have all of the departments participating,” Guerra said.

“We’ve also invited the dance pro-

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

gram…and we have a very exciting addition to FESTIBA called the Texas Book Festival.”

The book festival is the largest one in Texas. Currently in its twelfth year, it not only encourages literacy, but also promotes the joy of reading and its benefits.

The Texas Book Festival is bringing its “Author, Author” program that will be not only available to students at UTPA, but also members of the community.

“This is a program to promote literacy in public schools. They are bringing three authors – Rene Saldana, Lila Guzman and David Rice,” Guerra said.

The three authors will be visiting 12 area elementary schools, to read from their own works and also donate copies of their books to the schools in order to get students excited about reading.

Another interesting event is “Drawing Anime Fashion Figure and Form.” One of the most popular and distinctive forms of animation, anime is popular on the UTPA campus, where there is a club devoted to the Asian art form. For this event, people will be wearing designer anime costumes and also get a demonstration of basic drawing of this form.

One of the more anticipated days is Community Day, fashioned after the HESTEC event of the same name. The all-day event will be held in various places around campus including the Quad, UTPA Ballroom, Student Union and fine arts complex. There will also be a book fair held for all ages during

the day.

A multi-media light and music show, “The Art of Light,” will be held in the Student Union Theatre. Not only will the presentation show off lighting that can be seen in places such as national concerts, but it will also include a discussion about advanced technology and its integration with theatrical special effects.

During Community Day there will also be the announcement of the winner of the Nuevas Voces. This was a contest for young writers between the ages of 11 and 18, who were asked to submit different forms of writing ranging from personal essays to short stories. The winning works will be published in “Nuevas Voces: The Journal of Young Adult Literary Arts” and winners will participate in a public reading of their works.

With an event of this scale, hopes are high that more people will be looking at the arts for inspiration and a new way of thinking.

“I think that this is the most important thing,” said Peter Dabrowski, assistant dean of the college. “By creating this event, UTPA, and especially the College of Arts and Humanities, is basically becoming a center in the entire Valley of arts and literature.”

According to Dabrowski, the Valley is growing in its cultural and artistic ventures. Hosting FESTIBA is a way to let people know what arts the university and region have to offer.

“It’s crucial

Page 9

for the future of education in the Valley,” Dabrowski said. “UTPA and the College of Arts and Humanities are leaders in the cultural scene throughout the Valley.”

Students are also looking forward to this event. Since many of the big events on campus focus on other areas of study, this gives them the chance to use the creative side of their minds.

“I think it’s important to promote HESTEC,” said Rose Mary Lopez, a junior bilingual education major, “but it’s important to promote other colleges as well.”

Allowing for the arts to be seen and appreciated a little more gives a chance for them to thrive. This not only helps the arts themselves thrive, but creative artistic minds as well.

“I did a lot of art and music in high school,” said Aaron Jeremy Alvarez, a pre-medical sophomore.

“They should put more emphasis on it.

Without any arts, it gets boring.”

For more information, visit www.coah.utpa.edu/Festiba/festiba.html.

A&E

Page 10

March 1, 2007

Time

Art

Communication

English

History/Philosophy

Other

Modern Languages

Music

9 a.m.

Multimedia Exhibit: ”The Twilight Zone: Aliens, Incubi, Demons, and the Phenomenon of Sleep Paralysis” by Dr. A. Crisafulli, Dr. R. Hamilton, all day exhibit, Library Room 310

Multimedia Light and Music Show

by Amarente Lucero (Student Union) 500 Gear Up Students

Texas Book Festival, “Author! Author!”

Authors Visit the Public Schools

Ethics Bowl Demonstration and Lectures by History and Philosophy Professor and Students, Media Theater, 9 a.m.-Noon

Texas Book Festival, Author David Rice, Readings, Ballroom, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

“Latino/a Representations in Music and Literature” Dr. José P. Villalobos (A&M),Dr. Alicia Garza, Boise State, C.A.S. 351

Mariachi Middle and High School Workshop with Jose Hernandez of Mariachi Sol de Mexico, Fine Arts Auditorium

10 a.m.

Design Show, Clark Gallery, Fine Arts Building, all day

10 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Mutimedia Light and Music Shows

by Amarente Lucero (Student Union)

Dr. Lee Hamilton “The Sister Arts: The Art & Poetry of William Blake”, CAS 255

“Historical Identity” presentation featuring UTPA theater students as important social and political figures, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Inter-acts: Experiencing Student Writing, Writing Center Lab, Library, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

”Linguistics Matter: Bilinguism in the Valley”, Dr. V. Contreras, Dr. E. Hernández and graduate and undergraduate students, C.A.S. 351

Mariachi Middle and High School Workshop cont., Fine Arts Auditorium

Dance Program, Lecture Demonstration HPE II 133

11 a.m.

“Borderlines: Drawing Border Lives”” Exhibit, CAS Gallery, all day

Face Painting by Stephanie Hawks and Combat Training ”Fighting for Fun”

by Trey Mikolasky, QUAD, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Dr. Rebekah Hamilton “Dante and Other Journeys to the Underworld”, CAS 255

Women’s Studies 2301: “Ni Una Mas” Display of Crosses, Quad,10 a.m.-2 p.m.

“Malinche’s Daughter,” a reading by Michelle Otero,Quad, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Dr. Stephanie Alvarez: “Tato Laviera y the Power of Spanglish: un diálogo poético.”, C.A.S. 351

Mariachi Middle and High School Workshop cont.

Modern Dance Masterclass, HPE II 133

Nuyorican Poet Tato Laviera, presentation and reading, Media Theater

UTPA Percussion Ensemble, Quad

“Dr. Sylvia M.Dominguez Distinguished Lecturer,” Dr. Eliana Rivero, Professor University of Arizona, Latina Literature, Media Theatre

UTPA Mariachi Show, Fine Arts Auditorium, Admission fee required.

Noon

Readings by Authors Dr. Rusty Spell and Dr. Carrie Hoffman, CAS 255

1 p.m.

“Borderlines: Drawing Border Lives” Art and Poetry, Reefka Schneider, Dr. Steven Schneider, CAS Gallery

2 p.m.

“Borderlines” Readings continue

3 p.m.

Reading and Presentation by Author Roger Wood, Media Theater

4 p.m.

Q & A with Authors: Roger Wood, Professors Jose Skinner, Rob Johnson, Emmy Perez, Media Theater, 4 p.m.

5 p.m.

6 p.m.

“Living History,”Civil Disobediance, Labor/Exploitation, Women’s Rights, UTPA theatre students, History/Philosophy professors and movie clips: analyzing important figures, SBS 101

Dr. Greg Gilson, Film and Discussion “Dirty Pretty Things”- The Plight of Immigration in Western Countries, SBS 101, 3-5 p.m.

Communication

English

History and Philosophy

9 a.m.

“Borderlines:Drawing Border Lives”” Exhibit CAS Gallery, all day

Texas Book Festival Children’s Books Readings in Tent, 9 a.m.- noon

“Uncivil Wars: Conflicts of the 19th Century” - Historical Re-enactment, Quad, 9 a.m.- noon

10 a.m.

Multimedia Exhibit: “The Twilight Zone: Aliens, Incubi, Demons, and the Phenomenon of Sleep Paralysis” by Dr. A. Crisafulli, Dr. R. Hamilton, all day exhibit, Library, Room 310

Theater Make-Up Workshop with Stephanie Hawks, CAS 107

Dr. Ed Cameron and Dr. Linda Belau “From Book to Silver Screen: The Case of Jane Austen’s,”Pride and Prejudice” Movie and Q and A session, CAS Room 255,9 a.m.-noon

Animé Models (Designer Costumes) for drawing class, FIAB Art Studio

Multimedia Light and Music Show by Amarente Lucero, Student Union

Noon

Mariachi Competition and Concert, Fine Arts Auditorium

Animé Models (Designer Costumes) for drawing class FIAB Art Studio

Inter-acts: Experiencing Student Writing at the Writing Center Lab, Library, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Modern Languages

Music

Guest Authors Writing Workshop: Minerva Margarita Villarreal and José Javier Villarreal, Media Theater, 10 a.m.-noon

Musical Performances, Quad, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

UTPA Dance Program, Lecture Demonstration; Modern Dance Masterclass, HPEII 133

Dr. Deborah Cole “Children’s Voices” activity in the Butterfly Garden, with Woodwind Ensemble

“Monta Roast” Marian Monta Retirement Party in Student Union (by invitation)

Texas Book Festival Authors Readings, Student Union

Spanish Student Drama, “Soldado Razo,” by Luis Valdés, directed by Edna Ochoa, Media Theater

Texas Book Festival Authors Readings, Student Union

Poetry and Prose Readings by Professors R. Rea, P. Browne, E. Ochoa, and graduate students, Media Theater

“Uncivil Wars: Conflicts of the 19th Century” Panel Discussion, Dr. Charles Waite, Jeremy Taylor, James Finck, Rolando Avila, SBS 101

3 p.m.

French Drama “Les Mysteres de ParisPanam,” written and directed by Dr. Stella Behar, Media Theater

Dramatic reading of play ”Mujeres de arena,” by Humberto Robles, directed by Edna Ochoa, Media Theater

4 p.m.

Nuevas Voces Journal of Young Authors awards, announcements and readings, Student Union

7 p.m.

“Once Upon a Mattress” Jeffers Theatre, Admission fee required.

www.coah.utpa.edu/Festiba/festiba.html For more information or special accomodations, call 956-381-2175

Dance

Mariachi Masterclass Fine Arts Auditorium, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

“Writing to Heal: Malinche’s Daughter” Workshop led by Michelle Otero at La Casa de la Cultura, Reynosa, 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.

Face Painting by Stephanie Hawks and Combat Training ”Fighting for Fun”

by Trey Mikolasky, QUAD

2 p.m.

8 p.m.

Mariachi Middle and High School Workshop cont., Fine Arts Auditorium

”Once Upon a Mattress” Jeffers Theater, Admission fee required.

Art

1 p.m.

Poetry Workshop with Tato Laviera, CAS 351

Dr. Sylvia M. Dominguez, “Celebration of Her Life and Distinguished Career,” Reception, ITT International Room Invitation only.

Time

11 a.m.

Folkloric Dance Masterclass, HPE II 133

Dr. Eliana Rivero cont.

Visiting Authors and Presenters Reception, Visitors Center

8 p.m.

Dance

Guest Authors: “Poesía y poética: una lectura comentada,” by Minerva Margarita Villareal and José Javier Villarreal, Media Theater

Faculty Trio Chamber Concert, Dr. Morley Grossman, Dr. Bill O’Neil, Dr. Cindy Cripps, FIAC 103

UTPA Dance Program Concert, Fine Arts Auditorium, 7 p.m.

Admission fee required.

NEWS

March 1, 2007

RECRUITMENT continued from page 1 support the students’ living cost has generated great results, she added.

“What has really helped in getting results has been being strategic in looking at the population that we feel would be a great match for living here,” Williams said.

PROMOTING THE NAME According to Gilchrist, a consultant from a private institution came to have a look at the university in order to see how many students UTPA should have in their prospective pool.

“A school our size should have at least 50,000 students,” she said of the consultant’s view.

With an expectation to approach such an increase, the recruitment process is crucial, according to Gilchrist.

That is why it’s important that UTPA’s best assets are highlighted, she added.

“We’ve changed our brochures to highlight the various majors and student life,” she said. “It’s all about focusing on the points of attraction.”

Williams added that it’s important that prospective students interested in UTPA understand that this university is serious about education.

Jose Chavez, outreach specialist for Admissions and New Student

Services, says getting the name out there is essential to the recruitment process.

He added that many students outside of the Valley have never even heard of UTPA. In addition, after visiting various high schools throughout the state, he knows the most commonly asked questions from prospective students.

“They all want to know one thing: ‘What do you have to offer me?’” he said.

“What they really care about is what ways we have for them to get involved.”

Chavez has seen tremendous interest from students in the large cities like Houston and San Antonio. According to him, many of them want to get away from big-city life and have a change of scenery.

“You don’t have to go to a big city to get what you need. UTPA provides for students as a well as any big-city university,” he said.

For the first time, UTPA will be hosting a group of 50 prospective students from Houston in March, through “Bronc Expedition.” The students will enjoy a one-night stay on campus during which they will have a chance to experience campus life with the university covering all their expenses.

“These students don’t know what’s in their own backyard,” Williams said.

“We’d like to show them what there is.”

Page 11

GRADUATION continued from page 1 she said. “We have teams of people from here who are going over to the convention center to try and work out all the details.”

Those details, according to Rodriguez, may cause some first-time hiccups.

“We know that we’re probably going to have some difficulties with people being able to see, especially the ones who are way in the back,” she said, referring to the flat seating arrangement.

One the plus side, she added, the committee has drafted solutions to help ease the burden.

The center can seat up to 6,500 people. When the committee subtracted the estimated number of graduates, they determined they had the ability to seat 6,000. However, they decided to only seat 5,500 to try and limit the number of people who have viewing problems. The Field House holds 4,500.

While some students have previously expressed objection to the proposed new venue due to the seating arrangement, Victoria Perez, a senior biology major, said students should count their blessings.

“Previous graduation ceremonies I’ve gone to are really long and the seat-

ing is crowded and uncomfortable,” she said of her attendance at graduation at The University of Texas-Brownsville which in years past has been held on the lawn behind their Student Union.

In addition, Perez predicts the flat seating will provide improved access for elderly and handicapped attendees.

However, since Perez is graduating in August, she will not receive her diploma in the new venue as it had been previously booked.

Instead, Perez and other summer graduates will be the last group at the Field House before the change, which is not a problem, according to Rodriguez, since the groups of summer graduates are typically much smaller.

“Last summer, when we had it, it was adequate. It’s our December and May graduations that are getting too huge,” she said. “We have to limit the number of people who can come.”

For now, she said students and attendees must be patient.

“We’re going to have to do everything in our power to make this graduation at the convention center a success,” she said. “We’re probably going to have a few glitches here and there, but we’re going to have to overcome them.”

GENETICS continued from page 1 child that is disabled in a similar fashion [as] they are,” he said.

Conversely, Jou said that confining a child to life with a disability is an act of selfishness which should not be accepted.

“To make a healthy baby blind or disabled is completely unacceptable, it is unthinkable and an extremely selfish act,” Jou said. “The parent is only thinking about their own conveniences without thinking about their child’s well being. They are sacrificing their child for their own needs.”

Students too, feel strongly about the topic. Jesus Barron, a senior biology major, said the happiness of the child should be the first priority. In addition, the Hargill native suggested what may make the parent happy may be the demise of the child later on.

Graduate student Bonnie Notargiacomo, who is classified as legally blind, said the situation is getting out of control.

“I think they (those choosing to genetically modify) are ‘disability radicals.’ It’s one thing to be an advocate and another to be an extremist,” she said. “It’s exploitive and using your own children to prove a point in society.”

NEWS

Page 12

COUPLES continued from page 3

BOOK continued from page 3

seeks for guidance.

“I wanted to try something fresh and new,” said the communication studies major. “Nina was very attentive and respectful. She created a friendly and positive atmosphere.”

The workshops are more like group gatherings, according to Enriquez, where attendees participate in challenging activities and games, rather than in therapy where the person could be subject to intimidation or fear.

In addition, every meeting has a different theme, such as “Keep It Up Activity,” which focused on relationship goal-setting, and “Shuffle,” in which communication and problem-solving will be the main issues.

“What I liked the most were the activities,” Garza said. “They were fun and brought up certain issues that I didn’t know I had, and that helped me be more open-minded.”

Garza, a Mission native, said that attending the Feb. 21 “All Tied Up” session helped her with problem-solving and she looks forward to attending the remaining workshops. She is interested

because unlike most other parts of the country, there are a lot different populations,” he said. “There is a great deal of back and forth interaction. It’s a very interesting place to live and to study.”

“On the Edge of the Law” is the second book published under the Border Life Project. The first, “Batos, Bollios, Pochos and Pelados,” came out in 1999.

The latest book, published by the University of Texas Press, was released in December 2006 after four years of preparation. It was co-authored by Cristina DeJuana, who was Richardson’s graduate student assistant at the time.

Since then, she has become a lecturer in the history department at UTPA.

in knowing more about how to maintain a good relationship while also being able to have her own space.

After the one-hour session, Enriquez assigns homework to the couples in order for them to apply what they learned to their everyday life, not just while they were at the session.

“I would have liked for the session to have been longer,” Castillo said. “I drove from my job in Hidalgo to UTPA just for the workshop, and even though I enjoyed it, I would’ve loved for it to have been more than an hour long because you can never get too much advice.”

Enriquez’s main goal with Heart Connection is to help couples recognize the difference between a healthy and unhealthy relationship, so that if things do not work out with that certain someone, better choices can be made in the future.

“We fall in love and become obsessed with the idea that that person is the only one we could be with, and that isn’t healthy,” Enriquez said.

For more information, contact Psychological and Counseling Services at (956) 381-2574.

RELIABLE HELP The work of researching has not been a one-man project, according to Richardson. In fact, over 300 students from UTPA conducted research and collected stories from Rio Grande Valley natives, under his direction.

Richardson feels that this method of collecting data is very efficient because natives know the region best and provide

March 1, 2007

PARTNERS a more accurate point of view.

“Students here are better researchers than if we could pay professional researchers to come in and do it because they have access to the people,” Richardson said. “The people trust them.

And they know about the area, so they are not going to have somebody make up stories.”

DeJuana, is an example of how heavily the publication is influenced by student input. As a result of her work on the book, she worked her way to becoming co-author.

DeJuana said since the Hispanic population is growing rapidly in the whole country, social issues have arisen.

“The Valley has always been this way, bicultural, for centuries. In other areas, they don’t know,” said DeJuana.

A third publication of the Border Life series is currently in the process of being put together. It will address the underground – or unofficial - economy of the Rio Grande Valley and is expected to provide a great deal of insight into this highly unstudied and complex social and economic phenomenon of the border.

continued from page 3 said the university hopes to impact students in high schools by hanging banners and keeping students and parents aware of the opportunity they have.

He also wants to encourage students who left school because of money issues to come back some day.

“We continue to make dreams become reality when we help others towards success, towards achieving the American Dream,” Edwards said.

The program is only offered to Texas residents and is available for a maximum of eight semesters.

Applicants must have a family income of $25,000 or less and be enrolled for 15 hours or more per semester as an undergraduate in a degree-seeking program.

In addition, students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form (FAFSA) by the priority deadline, March 1. Applications are available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov and at the Financial Aid Lab in the Student Services building on the first floor. For more info call (956) 380-8787.

MONTA continued from page 3 as she noted.

However, what many may not know is that lurking in the shadow of her modesty is a role added into the musical especially for her, by director Brian Warren, professor of theater. The short 30-second cameo will be toward the conclusion and will mark the end of Monta’s on-stage career, one which she says never really had a start.

AVOIDING MONOTONY In her years at Fordham University, where she completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Monta remembers gracing the stage a number of times.

Enjoyable? Yes. A life she imagined living very long? Not so much.

“It was no way to make a living. I didn’t want the life the stage actresses lived,” she said. “I knew what they went through. I was never one who wanted to

starve for her art.”

A bit too tall for character acting and too full of life for the monotony of night-to-night show days, Monta found her calling in teaching.

She could teach what she wanted.

She had all the gratification of producing a play for the art and not for commercial appeal. As a teacher, she wouldn’t have to worry what others thought or how she would pay investors back. Little did she know teaching required the biggest investment of all: students.

BIGGEST INVESTMENTS Sitting at the table of a coffee shop she has gotten to know quite well, Monta pauses for several seconds, searching the crowded files of her mind for a story about a memorable student.

A few sips of apricot iced tea later, she finds her voice, saying that generally

speaking, she formed a bond with several.

“The kids sometimes see me more than they do their families,” she said.

“We become each other’s families.”

‘CLASSIC MONTA’ While Monta has several stories about memorable students, when a former student like Warren tries to remember a story about her, they usually have a few favorites to tell.

While an English teacher at Mission Junior High, Warren remembers seeing an open auditions call for a play called “Man of LaMancha.” As luck would have it, Monta was directing.

Admittedly, Warren, who is partly responsible for organizing Saturday’s event, didn’t have plans on continuing theater after his run on the play. But he somehow found himself working in more shows. With Monta helping him

along the way, he eventually earned his master’s degree in theatre. Now he’s working on a Ph.D. “It’s not a stretch to say that without her I wouldn’t have pursued theater like I did,” he said. “It’s gratifying that I get to have a hand in honoring her because I have known her on different levels: as a student and as a colleague.”

However, Warren’s story about Monta has nothing to do with his meeting her or even their lasting friendship.

As many of her former students would say, his story is simply “classic Monta.”

Warren recalls sharing with his mentor several years ago the news of his engagement. While it should have been a happy moment, such was not the case in this situation.

“She told me ‘Brian, don’t marry her. She’s wrong for you,’” he remembers, laughing. “So I married the

woman, and five years later, I divorced her and thought, ‘Marian was right.’”

Now since remarried, Warren says all signs were a go from Monta from the beginning with this relationship.

“My current wife passes her standards, so everything is fine. She (Monta) likes her a lot,” he said.

A WORTHY FAREWELL As part of Saturday’s events, participants will enjoy a day of festivities, according to Warren, which include a lunch, play and cast party.

Alumni and former professors from across the country are scheduled to attend, including actor Valente Rodriguez from “The George Lopez Show” and newscaster Letty Garza.

Tickets are $50 and interested parties should call Elva Galvan at (956) 381-3581 for more information.

SPORTS

March 1, 2007

Page 13

ENLIGHTENED BY LUCAS

Why March is madness for me G r a b your pencils and papers and draw those brackets because today is March 1 and that means March Madness.

By LUKE KOONG Millions The Pan American of fans will be awaiting the results of the big tournament and countless dollars will be lost as upsets occur.

No, I’m not talking about the NCAA Basketball Tournament. We’re still a few weeks away from Selection Sunday.

I refer instead to America’s Hottest College Girl 2007 presented by TAG and CollegeHumor.com.

As most of you probably are unfamiliar with the competition, let me get you up to speed. 64 coeds from around the nation were selected to compete for the ultimate title of America’s Hottest College Girl. Just like the Big Dance in basketball, all of the hopefuls have been divided into four separate regions. In each region, 16 ladies face off and the winners move on to the next round.

How do they compete against each

other? Each college girl submits a short biography on to the Web site, in addition to a bevy of sensual photos.

The field started narrowing down last week, and currently is in the process of becoming 32. Eventually one girl will win $10,000.

It has been quite a difficult task to select the right female for the next round. Immediate no’s though, are those that have lousy-quality pictures. If you want to impress, bring out the big guns, please. In addition, bikini or formal wear shots are a must. Either leave nothing to the imagination or look stunning.

Personally, I prefer the latter.

The East pairing of Christine C and Adri E was rather disappointing, but the information they provided was interesting to say the least (I picked Adri by the way).

In another East showdown, Shannon M easily got my vote over Katy W (whose weak eyes did her in).

Anyway, for those of you anxious to start those office pools and compete for a chance to brag about who has better bracketology skills, login to http://www.collegehumor.com/hottestgirl/matchup to sign-up and compete.

Please send all comments, questions and lousy pickup lines to lkoong2004@yahoo.com.

Baseball Feb. 25 Texas-Pan American at Sam Houston State (Don Sanders Stadium in Huntsville) R H E Texas-Pan American 000 100 001 2 11 1 Sam Houston State 201 070 26X 18 21 1 Smolen, Mancini (5), Shepard (5), Silva (7), Davila (8) and Flores; Baker, Spaugh (6), Price (8) and Pugh. W-Baker (1-1); L-Smolen (2-1). 2B: Texas-Pan American-Bartush; SHS-Krailo (2), Pugh, Stein, Zaleski (2). HR: SHS-Sebek, Pugh, Boggs.

Sam Houston State 8-4, Texas-Pan American 5-11

Feb. 24 Texas-Pan American at Sam Houston State (Don Sanders Stadium in Huntsville) R H E Texas-Pan American 000 006 101 8 11 2 Sam Houston State 102 021 08X 14 12 2 Guajardo, Davila (6), Hutcherson (8) and Flores; Gray, Goodwin (6), Prihoda (8), Rainwater (9) and Spaugh. W-Prihoda (1-0); L-Davila (0-3). 2B: Texas-Pan American-Flores, Tognietti (2); SHS-Verbick, Sebek. 3B: SHS-Mann. HR: Texas-Pan American-Brooks.

Sam Houston State 7-4, Texas-Pan American 5-10

Feb. 24 Texas-Pan American at Sam Houston State (Don Sanders Stadium in Huntsville) R H Texas-Pan American 000 000 100 1 3 Sam Houston State 000 746 03X 20 21 Cisber, Pena (5), Janecka (6), Rodriguez (7) and Flores; Marshall, Farris (8) and Pugh. W- Marshall (2-0). LFry, Zalenski, Sebek. 3B: SHS- Verbick, Cook.

Sam Houston State 6-4, Texas-Pan American 5-9

E 1 1 Cisper (0-2). 2B: SHS-

Feb. 23 Texas-Pan American at Sam Houston State (Don Sanders Stadium in Huntsville) R H E Texas-Pan American 000 000 000 0 4 1 Sam Houston State 002 000 00X 2 5 1 Wymer and Flores; Howard, Prihoda (8) and Pugh. W- Howard (2-1). L- Wymer (2-3). S- Prihoda (3). 3B: SHS- Krailo.

Sam Houston State 5-4, Texas-Pan American 5-8

Men’s Tennis

Women’s Tennis

Feb. 25

Feb. 24

Southeastern Louisiana (1-0) Texas-Pan American (3-6)

5 2

Texas-Pan American (4-7) Nicholls State Univ. (0-1)

4 3

Singles Matthieu Leboucher, SELU, def. Ivan Avila, UTPA, 6-4, 6-2 Gary Bianco, UTPA, def. Julien Lousao, SELU, 6-1, 6-2 Ondrej Krivka, SELU, def. David Lopez-Heredia, UTPA, 6-1, 6-2 Vladimir Paunic, SELU, def. Shashank Vij, UTPA, 6-0, 6-4 Medhi Darlis, SELU, def. Nirvick Mohinta, UTPA, 4-6, 7-5, 10-8 Brett Bernstein, UTPA, def. Jakub Kwasniewicz, SELU, 6-3, 6-4

Singles Celine Stenger, NSU, def. Giana Oliveira, UTPA, 6-3, 6-2 Julia Cirne-Lima, UTPA, def. Sara Hanesch, NSU, 6-1, 6-2 Adeline Vallet, NSU, def. Stephanie Willerding, UTPA, 7-5, 6-4 Megan Bedeau, UTPA, def. Sanja Stanojcic, NSU, 6-3, 6-3 Karlijn Sissingh, NSU, def. Silke Buksik, UTPA, 7-6, 6-3 Luisa Cantu, UTPA, def. Nichole September, NSU, 6-0, 6-7, 6-2

Doubles Ondrej Krivka and Matthieu Leboucher, SELU, def. David LopezHeredia and Brett Bernstein, UTPA, 9-8 Medhi Darlis and Julien Lousao, SELU, def. Ivan Avilaand Nirvick Mohinta, UTPA, 9-8 Jakub Kwasniewicz and Vladimir Paunic, SELU, def. Gary Bianco and Shashank Vij, UTPA, 8-6

Doubles Celine Stenger and Karlijn Sissingh, NSU, def. Julia Cirne-Lima and Giana Oliveira, UTPA, 8-1 Luisa Cantu and Stephanie Willerding, UTPA, def. Adeline Vallet and Sara Hanesch, NSU, 9-7 Megan Bedeau and Silke Buksik, UTPA, def. Sanja Stanojcic and Nichole September, NSU, 8-1

Men’s Basketball Feb. 26 Texas-Pan American at New Jersey Institute of Technology (Fleisher Athletic Center in Newark N.J.) Texas-Pan American 70, NJIT 58 Texas-Pan American (14-14) Lien 4-7 6-7 14, Puente 1-1 0-0 3, Edwards 6-8 3-4 15, Burrell 2-7 4-4 10, Shankle 1-5 0-1 3, Stoll 2-5 8-8 14, Chatman 1-2 0-0 3, Trader 1-4 6-8 8, Allgood 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 18-39 27-32 70.

NJIT (5-22) Milosevic 3-5 0-0 6, Milbourne Swan 4-6 6-8 14, Engel 5-15 0-0 12, Manning 0-4 0-0 0, Peters 3-9 8-10 15, Stonkus 1-3 0-0 2, Magnus 0-0 0-0 0, Stone 1-3 0-2 2, Lewis 3-3 0-0 7. Totals 20-48 14-20 58.

Halftime - Texas-Pan American 35-24. 3-Point Goals – Texas-Pan American 7-17 (Puente 1-1, Burrell 2-6, Shankle 1-4, Stoll 2-4, Chatman 1-2) NJIT 4-13 (Engel 2-5, Manning 0-3, Peters 1-3, Stone 0-1, Lewis 1-1). Fouled Out – NJIT-Engel. Rebounds - Texas-Pan American 30 (Lien 8) NJIT 27 (Stonkus 8). Assists – Texas-Pan American 15 (Stoll 4) NJIT 10 (Peters 4). Total Fouls - Texas-Pan American 19, NJIT 24. A-300.

Women’s Basketball Feb. 27 Monterrey Tech at Texas-Pan American (Edinburg) Texas-Pan American 76, Monterrey Tech 45 Monterrey Tech (Unavailable) Pinedo 3-12 1-1 9, Arriola 4-10 1-2 9, Delgado, A 3-9 0-2 6, Tapia 0-0 0-0 0, Delgado, B 0-4 0-0 0, Moreno 1-1 2-2 4, Pardo 2-2 0-0 5, Garcia 0-0 0-0 0, Menzano 1-4 0-0 2, Segovia 1-1 0-0 2, Escobar 2-4 3-4 8. Totals 17-47 7-11 45.

Texas-Pan American (12-17) Ramirez 0-1 0-0 0, Grigsby 4-7 1-2 10, Gray 7-13 0-0 17, Daniel 6-11 1-1 13, Vaughn 1-8 2-2 5, Wilson 0-5 0-2 0, Winfrey 3-5 1-2 10, Garrett 3-3 1-2 7, Jean 2-4 3-4 7, Schneider 1-1 0-0 2, Kostacky 0-0 0-0 0, Jones 2-3 0-0 5. Totals 29-61 9-15 76.

Onydia Garza/The Pan American MAKING PLAYS - Patrick Brooks, senior third baseman, prepares to throw the ball during the game against McNeese State on Feb. 11. The Broncs will take on Sam Houston State, Stephen F. Austin and Illinois during the Al Ogletree Classic Friday through Sunday.

Halftime - Texas-Pan American 36-18. 3-Point Goals – Monterrey Tech 4-19 (Pinedo 2-10, Delgado A 0-2, Delgado B 0-4, Pardo 1-1, Escobar 1-2) Texas-Pan American 9-21 (Grigsby 1-2, Gray 3-6, Vaughn 1-3, Wilson 0-4, Winfrey 1-5, Jones 1-1). Rebounds – Monterrey Tech 27 (Arriola, Menzano 6) Texas-Pan American 42 (Daniel 10). Assists – Monterrey Tech 12 (Pinedo 3) Texas-Pan American 17 (Daniel 5). Total Fouls – Monterrey Tech 11, Texas-Pan American 14. A-Unavailable.

SPORTS

Page 14

March 1, 2007

Outdoor season begins with Border Olympics

By SAVANNAH MARTINEZ The Pan American The indoor track season came to a successful end for The University of Texas-Pan American Broncs, but there is still plenty of action remaining in the season. On Saturday, the outdoor season starts up with the Border Olympics in Laredo.

One might ask what the difference between indoor and outdoor track is.

Assistant coach Hugo Cervantes explained in great detail.

“The difference between indoor and outdoor seasons is the track itself.

The indoor track is 200 meters with six lanes and a lot more curves,” said Cervantes, a former Bronc track star now in his first season as coach.

Thus, if an athlete were running a mile, it would require four laps running outside versus eight indoors. Even breathing inside is different.

Cervantes said it was important for his runners to adjust how they perform at the upcoming meet.

“Everything is real compact in an indoor track, so you need a different strategy to run it because it is only six lanes as opposed to the outdoor track of eight lanes,” he said. “It is not just about

running fast but how to run your event.

You got to learn how to attack, because the turns are so sharp and the straight-aways are shorter.”

The Broncs enter the outdoor season with a lot of momentum on their heels. Each of the runners set new personal records during the indoor season.

Sophomore runner Rose Escovedo, who runs the 1,500 and 3,000-meter, said the team should be able to do better because they will be back in familiar territory.

“Indoor is always a struggle for us because we are outdoor type of people,” the elementary education major said.

The Border Olympics is held annually the first weekend of March and is the start of the outdoor season. UTPA will be facing off against schools like The University of Texas-San Antonio, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi and Monterrey Tech.

Cervantes said the Border Olympics used to be a very popular event in the ‘80s and ‘90s. Event organizers are trying to revive that popularity by inviting more Division I schools to the competition.

With so much to look forward to, the Broncs are pushing each other harder then ever to do better. Some are doing everything they can, including diet and

workouts, to be healthy and in shape.

“I’ve been training really hard, running long distances and doing some weights like I should. I have also been eating breakfast and taking vitamins, everything that one can do to get better and healthier,” said junior biology major Sara Rodriguez. She runs the 5,000 and 10,000-meter races.

Many of the runners have been preparing and pushing each other for improvement in their events so that the outdoor season may be a success as well.

“We try to keep up with the fastest person in the front. If you can keep up then you can pretty much do anything,” Escovedo said. “For everybody, everyday, there is always a person that pushes you. We all push each other, we give each other confidence and it helps out so that together we work as a team.”

Escovedo and her teammates hope to help senior Ashley Perez, a 5,000meter runner, regain her step. She is returning to action after twisting her ankle during the cross country season.

“I’m really just starting to get back into the motions, and my workouts are getting a little faster. I really was not able to train in December, which is when most people start to prepare for the season,” Perez said.

Onydia Garza/The Pan American ON YOUR MARK - Amy Torvik, sophomore sprinter from Los Fresnos, gets set at the line during competition in Houston last month. The track and field squad is preparing for the outdoor season, which begins Saturday at the Border Olympics.

Golfers have setback at first tournament of season

By PATRICK KENNEDY The Pan American

Melissa Uriegas/ The Pan American FORE - Freshman My Bark and the rest of the Lady Broncs finished in 15th place at the Islander Spring Classic, which took place Monday and Tuesday.

The University of Texas-Pan American Lady Bronc golf team saddled up for its first tournament of the season and traveled to the Corpus Christi Country Club to participate in the Ed Hicks Nissan/Islander Spring Classic Golf Tournament. What followed was a grueling two-day, three round battle between 12 nationally ranked teams and three unranked ones fighting to gain prominence in the world of women’s collegiate golf.

UTPA finished in 15th place by tournament’s end.

During the first day of the competition, all of the teams spent their day trying to catch up to 77th-ranked Missouri State University. UTPA toughed it out, posting a score of 334, with the leading scorer for the Lady Broncs being freshman My Bark, from Gothenburg, Sweden, who swung a 77.

Commenting on the first day of play, head coach Barb Odale said, “The girls were very nervous, but as the competition went on, they relaxed and had fun and did better.”

During the second day, Missouri

State was leading the way after a first-round score of 300 with Sam Houston State University and Texas A&M Corpus Christi right on their heels, at 301.

Indeed, for the final two rounds of competition, the women would steadily improve upon their score. At the end of the second round of play, MSU emerged number one again. The Lady Broncs managed to lower their strokes by nine, bringing their score from 334 in the first round to 325 in the second.

“The girls put a lot of pressure on themselves to do well,” said Odale.

Two girls tied for the position of leading scorer for the Broncs in the second round. Sophomore Bronwyn Sandberg, from St. Albert, Alberta, Canada, and junior Elizabeth Rodriguez, from Kingwood, both hit 79.

The third round saw heated action between the top two team positions as SHSU overcame Missouri State by just four strokes.

The Lady Broncs fought hard and posted one of their best rounds of the past several seasons, 310.

Leading the team in strokes

was junior and Central American champion Mariale Camey, from Ciudad, Guatemala, who scored a 75. Coming in close behind her at 77 was junior Jennifer Marks, from El Paso.

UTPA scored a 969, and finished at the bottom of the challenging event for the second year in a row.

“This tournament was a warmup for this team. Mentally and physically, they were much more prepared than last semester,” said Odale. “We need to work on our approach, and continue to be positive.”

Odale has the team reading the book “Golf Is Not A Game of Perfect,” by Dr. Bob Rotella, in order to help members gain deeper insight into the game of golf. Camey credited this book with helping her win the Central American Championship back in February.

The Orange and Green will next travel to Rock Hill, S.C., to participate in the Shamrock Intercollegiate Golf Tournament hosted by Winthrop University March 16.

Odale believes that the team is very close to success. “They have such great potential. It’s getting better one step at a time, “ she said.

SPORTS

March 1, 2007

Page 15

Orange and Green seek revenge versus UVS

By ERICK QUINTERO The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American men’s basketball team will travel to Orem, Utah March 3 to conclude the first season of the Tom Schuberth Era against Utah Valley State (21-8). Donning a near perfect 8-1 United Basketball League record, the Wolverines are currently the top team in conference play.

On Feb. 10 UVS managed to escape from the Field House with a narrow 81-76 victory over the Broncs. Moreover the Wolverine’s current seven-game win streak qualifies them as the perfect candidate for the type of marquee victory Schuberth has talked about all year long.

“They’re a very good basketball team. They’re a very experienced team, they play a lot of seniors, they’re well coached and they do a good job,” Schuberth said of UVS. Junior point guard Paul Stoll, who led UTPA to a near upset over State last time, doesn’t need any extra pep talks for the season finale.

“We don’t need any motivation. We try to win every game we play,” said Stoll, whose 23-point effort led the Green and Orange against UVS.

Onydia Garza/The Pan American TOUGH SHOT - Senior Colin Lien is challenged by Joe Walker from Utah Valley State during the Feb. 10 match up at the Field House.

While Utah Valley State is on a roll, the Broncs (14-14) snapped a three-game losing skid with a 70-58 victory at New Jersey Institute of Technology (5-22) Monday.

Four Broncs scored in double figures in the victory over Tech as senior pivot-man Kano Edwards led the way with 15 points and four rebounds. Colin Lien and Stoll tallied 14 points each,

while Brian Burrell chipped in 10. The regular season sweep of Tech should give the squad some momentum heading into the UVS game.

The last time these two squads met, both shot similar percentages from the field and free-throw line, but the Broncs could not muster enough defensive stops at crucial moments.

One of the keys to victory will be

neutralizing senior forward David Heck.

The lanky 6-foot-6 gunner has had UTPA’s number, averaging 16 ppg in their last three meetings, including a 23point outing on his last visit to Sam Williams court.

Burrell had the unpleasant task of bodying up Heck, but Heck adjusts well to any defensive presence. He can take smaller guards to the low block or he can step out and release lethal treys over slower forwards.

Nevertheless the Broncs have the size advantage inside with Lien always posting big numbers against UVS. He’s averaged 18 points and nine rebounds in three meetings versus UVS. Edwards has averaged 14.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in the last two games.

The two big men’s final task for the Green and Orange will include keeping forward Joe Walker, a non-scoring factor, in check. The junior center chipped in 12 easy points in the paint in their last meeting.

In terms of wins and losses the victory can keep UTPA above .500 on the season, after they won just seven of 28 last season. But as Schuberth said prior to their first meeting with UVS, “this should be an all out war.” The trip to Orem should be no different.

Daniel, Lady Broncs prepare for season finale

By KRISTYNA MANCIAS The Pan American Playing with ease is exactly what The University of Texas-Pan American Lady Broncs are doing in the final games of the season. The final bout of the season is just around the corner and it means one thing for lone senior MaHogany Daniel. That game will conclude her basketball career as a Lady Bronc. UTPA will host its final game of the season on Saturday at 2 p.m. against Utah Valley State. Daniel will be honored at center court for her outstanding

four-year career as a Lady Bronc.

“Its definitely hitting me that Saturday will be my last game,” said Daniel. “I have one game left and a couple more practices and it will be the end of my career.”

Total domination off the boards and a career-high 20 points by sophomore Teshay Winfrey snapped the Lady Broncs three-game losing skid as they defeated Indiana Purdue Fort Wayne 68-47 at the UTPA Field House on Feb. 24.

The Lady Broncs improved to 1117 thanks to solid play inside where they

Onydia Garza/The Pan American RUNNING THE FLOOR - Freshman guard Rose Esther Jean (25) and MaHogany Daniel (13) travel the length of the court against Monterrey Tech on Tuesday night.

out-rebounded the Mastodons by a 5028 margin. They also outscored IPFW 26-6 in second chance points during the game.

UTPA had an outstanding performance from Winfrey, who had a careerhigh scoring night against the Mastodons, scoring 20 points on 5 of 10 from the field and 7 of 9 from the charity stripe to seal the victory down the stretch. She also dished out four assists and notched three steals in just 21 minutes of action.

“I felt it, I was on it. I’ve been working hard because I haven’t been myself this whole season,” Winfrey said.

“So I felt this past game really helped build my confidence back up for next season. I know that it’s late in the season but better late than ever.”

Off that solid win, Tuesday night the Lady Broncs played host to the Borreruitas of Monterrey Tech in an exhibition contest. With the game having no effect on the win-loss column, UTPA rolled passed Monterrey Tech with a final score of 76-45.

With one game hanging in the balance, Winfrey explained why an exhibition game so late in the season was extremely important.

“I think it helps us to prepare for the team that is coming up next. Any game that we play is preparing us for the

next team and it makes us better,” she said. “I think it’s a good idea.”

One game is all that is left for Daniel and her team as Utah Valley State (14-13) comes to town during the weekend. The Wolverines are led by Robyn Fairbanks, who had her 10th double-double of the season with 22 points on 10-for-15 shooting and 10 rebounds, four assists, three steals and two blocks against New Jersey Institute of Technology on Feb. 24.

Daniel and her teammates will be looking to close out the 2006-2007 campaign with a win. According to her, being the veteran on the roster hasn’t been easy.

“It’s been hard being the only senior because the girls think I’m as old as Moses,” she said. “It is hard being the only person that has been in the program for four years. I love this team. They are a great bunch of kids and it has been fun.”

One thing all the Lady Broncs agree on is that Daniel, nicknamed “Mo” by her teammates, has made a huge impact throughout her four-year career at UTPA. She has over 500 points and 500 boards and is the program’s all-time leading shot blocker.

“Mo knows everything about the game,” smiled Winfrey. “I love playing with her and I’m going to miss her.”

SPORTS

Editor’s Pick: Game to Watch When: Saturday Time: 7:30 p.m.

Where: Houston San Antonio

HEATING UP THE NETS

By ERIC LOPEZ The Pan American In Portuguese, the sport is tênis. In English, it is called tennis. No matter how you say the word, the sport is the same anywhere you play it.

The University of Texas-Pan American is currently home to Julia Cirne-Lima, 21, and Giana Oliveira, 20, both talented tennis players from Brazil.

Cirne-Lima grew up in Porto Alegre, the same city soccer phenomenon Ronaldinho hails from, while Oliveira calls Santa Maria her hometown.

Living in Edinburg has been a major change for both.

“It took a while to adjust to a small city, but the people are nice. You get used to it after a while,” said Oliveira.

Cirne-Lima, a junior art major, began playing tennis at the age of seven. For her, playing ran in her family’s blood. Oliveira also started her career on the tennis court at the age of seven, following in her father’s footsteps. Whether by chance or destiny, both would meet each other when they were nine during a tennis tournament in Brazil. That meeting would not be their last, though.

For prep school, Cirne-Lima went to Colegio Nossa Senhora de Bom Conselho and became a top

player. She then attended Colegio Unifieado, where she was ranked in the top 10 nationally. As a senior, she took part in the Confederacion Sudamericana de Tenis. She excelled in several other sports, including soccer, helping her team win a state championship.

Oliveira, a junior undeclared major, also played t e n n i s throughout prep school.

At Coligio Franciscano Sant’Anna, she was one of the top 30 junior players in Brazil. In her last two years, she was the third best player in her state.

Oliveira also took part in COSAT, reaching the finals of the national tournament in both singles and doubles.

Oliveira said she never viewed her fellow Brazilian as a rival.

“We used to be friends since we were kids, so it’s cool to have her as a

SMOKING ACES - Giana Oliveira (above), teams up with Julia Cirne-Lima (right), on the tennis court as UTPA’s doubles team. The Brazilians and their teammates will compete again Saturday against Prairie View A&M.

teammate,” she said.

Both players would end up at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Fla. As doubles partners, they became the 16th best in the nation among Division II schools and were instrumental in helping Eckerd reach the semifinals of the NCAA Division II Southeast Regional Championships.

Next Opponent:

Prairie View A&M When: Saturday Location: Orville Cox Tennis Courts Time: 11 a.m.

After two great years at Eckerd, the girls were offered scholarships by UTPA to come and play for the Broncs. The girls accepted and were announced by tennis head coach Rod Hubbard as the newest additions to the tennis program on Aug. 25, 2006.

Junior Lady Bronc Silke Buksik said both players have helped to strengthen the Bronc tennis squad.

“They are a great addition to the team,” Buksik said. “They come from playing in a good college and I’m lucky to have them as my teammates and

r o o m mates.”

On the court, the duo has great chemistry.

They communicate in Portuguese during matches and are very familiar with each others playing styles.

“We have known each other for the longest time so it’s hard talking to her in English or any other language,” Oliveira said.

With all their experience though, Hubbard expects a lot from the two Brazilians.

“He’s a really good coach that is always looking for improvement,” Cirne-Lima said.

Hubbard will be looking for a winning result to follow up the Lady Broncs’ 4-3 victory over Nicholls State on Feb. 24. In the latest win. Cirne-Lima was victorious against Sara Hanesch (6-1, 62) while Oliveira fell 6-3, 6-2 against Celine Stenger. In doubles, the duo was defeated 8-1 by Stenger and Karlijn Sissingh. The South Americans and the rest of the squad will face Prairie View A&M Saturday at 11 a.m.

Designed By: Rick Gamez Onydia Garza/The Pan American

Houston