April 5, 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

April 5, 2007

Immigration bill proposed, experts doubt resolution By KRISTEN VILLEGAS The Pan American Following months of debate over illegal immigration, yet another bill was introduced March 22 to try to address comprehensive immigration reform once and for all, with special emphasis on improving border security and employment verification. H. R. 1645, cited as the Security

Through Regularized Immigration and a Vibrant Economy Act of 2007, would create policy regarding common immigration issues like law enforcement, border security, workforce needs and the large population of undocumented immigrants. Dubbed the STRIVE Act, the bill, introduced by Republicans Luis Gutierrez and Jeff Flake, calls for illegal aliens to remain in the United States, but

would require undocumented workers to pay fines, be subjected to penalties, undergo background checks and learn English. In addition, there would be a “touch-back provision” that would require illegal aliens to return home before applying for citizenship. It would create a new system for employers to verify immigrant status for new hires and increase the number of fami-

ly- and employment-based visas, according to Valley Congressman Ruben Hinojosa. A similar bill died in Congress because the House and the Senate failed to reach an agreement on how to deal HINOJOSA with the estimated 12 million undocumented immigrants in

Days to remember

UTPA hosts numerous events as part of Pan American Days

an American Days’ focus on the Latin American culture took shape in a variety of performances and exhibits. International films such as Argentina’s “La Cienega” (see pages 8, 9) graced campus screens. Tropical music, such as the Brazilian group led by Maria Guerrero and George Amorim, of the modern languages and literature and music departments, respectively, wafted from outdoor stages. But in lecture halls across campus, quieter events catered to students’ intellectual sensibilities. Two of the many prominent lecturers who visited campus are featured below.

Ad agency president shares Professor presents research on his journey to top of industry Hispanics’ attitudes about sex The Pan American As president of Bromley Communications, one of the largest Hispanic advertising agencies in the country, Ernest Bromley knows a thing

or two about bringing together creativity and multiculturalism. The San Antonio business, whose clients include Circuit City, Payless, General Mills and Burger King, is know for its cutting-edge, innovative ad

See BROMLEY page 5

See IMMIGRATION page 11

Elections under way for SGA By SANDRA GONZALEZ The Pan American

Moses Garcia/The Pan American ACTRESS - Dalia Hernandez, lead actress in Mel Gibson’s “Apocalypto,” speaks in the Student Union Theater Tuesday night as part of Pan American Days.

By CLAUDETTE GONZALEZ

this country illegally, according to Hinojosa. Hinojosa supports this bill and said he recognizes that the current immigration system is broken. He believes it is critical that legislation offers a sensible solution. “We must bring our immigration policy into the 21st century,” he said. Hinojosa added he is hopeful that

By CLAUDETTE GONZALEZ The Pan American In the Social and Behavioral Sciences Building Monday, Russell Eisenman, a professor in the department of psychology and anthropology, spoke

openly about sex with a group of college students. Although sex is often on college students’ minds, it’s not often that a professor willingly agrees to broach the often-taboo subject. In particular, Eisenman’s talk

Friday is the last day for University of Texas-Pan American students to vote in the 2007-2008 Student Government Association elections. Students have been able vote for a variety of SGA positions, including college senators and president, since April 1 online via an e-mail that was sent to their preferred address. If an e-mail has not been received, students can approach one of the voting booths - located in the Student Union, cafeteria and library and ask for a ballot to be sent to them. While the process for voting can be perplexing, one thing that stands clear is the executive candidates’ top priority. At a debate held March 29, presidential candidates Tony Matamoros, a junior political science/history major, and David Zamora, a senior economics/political science major, both expressed interest in lowering the cost of textbooks in the coming year.

See SGA page 11 Q For more on the candidates’ top issues see “Executive ticket See EISENMAN page 5 platforms” page 11.

News

A&E

Sports

Activists hold march as tribute to Cesar Chavez

Concert tours colleges for a cause

Big Leagues lure UTPA baseball players

See Page 3

See Page 7

See Page 14

PAGE 2

R EADER FORUM

April 5, 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. 25 Editor Claudette Gonzalez ThePanAmerican@gmail.com News Editor

A&E Editor

Sports Editor

Sandra Gonzalez

Frank Calvillo

Luke Koong

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lkoong2004 @yahoo.com Design Editor

Photo Editor Sidney Meadows

Roy Bazan

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Designers Gregorio Garza

Rick Gamez

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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 Ad Manager Lillian Villarreal

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.

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

Community calendar Upcoming Pan American Days events Today MAZATL: Aztec Dancers Noon, Library Auditorium Latin American Film Series: “Little Injustices” 3 p.m, Library room 310

The Pan American is the official student

Thurs., continued: 4:30 p.m, COAS 310 Moderator: Ethan Sharp, department of modern languages and literature

“Economic Development and Demographic Change in Latin America: New Trends” Film: “Granito de Arena” Arturo Vasquez, department of management, 4 p.m, Library auditorium marketing and international business Moderator: Pete Farruggio, department of curricu- 7:10 p.m., BUSA 118 lum and instruction

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

“Migrating Faiths or Transgeneic Danger?: Pentecostalism in Indigenous Mexico” Daniel Ramirez, Arizona State University

Friday,

Latin American Film Series: “Machuca” 3 p.m, Library room 310

IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF

THE PAN AMERICAN

Available April 12

Possible tuition relief?

Successful females

- Learn about the proposed bill that could keep future college tuition down

- Learn about some of today’s most accomplished Latin American women

N EWS

News in brief: Scott Ritter, former U.N. chief weapons inspector, will speak today at 7:30 p.m. in the Student Union Theater.

Local group honors birth of Hispanic activist Chavez By VERONICA GONZALEZ The Pan American A local minority advocacy organization came together with community members and students from The University of Texas-Pan American March 31 to commemorate the birth of Mexican-American activist Cesar Chavez, holding festivities in his honor.

La Union del Pueblo Entero joined other groups throughout the United States in celebrating Chavez’ birthday by holding a series of rallies in the Rio Grande Valley. This year, about 500 to 700 people met at Arturo Guajardo Park and marched two miles down I Road and Business 83 in San Juan, despite rainy weather. A group of students from South

Texas College, along with members from LUPE, held one of the rallies March 30. This is the fourth year LUPE has been involved in providing a voice for minority workers of the Valley. LUPE works closely with colonias (unincorporated neighborhoods), providing public works for those in desperate need. As a branch of United Farm Workers - which

“As an organization, we want to celebrate, commemorate, remember and recognize all Chavez did.” - Olga Cardoso community organizer La Union del Pueblo Entero

See CHAVEZ page 12

Running for a cause

Pre-Law Society holds race to benefit Make-a-Wish foundation By MICHAEL GARCIA The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American Pre-Law Society hosted its first “Run For Reason” Saturday at the university track. The run benefited both the UTPA Pre-Law Society and Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants wishes to terminally ill children. As a result of the run, nearly $2,000 was raised for the children’s charity group. After 30 years as an organization, the Society decided it was time for a change in usual fundraising methods, and its committee searched for something the community could participate in for a good cause, according to Ellen Fagala, treasurer. “Pan Am has always been great at getting people in general, as a community, to come out and get involved in things that make a difference,” Fagala said. The race consisted of 35 registered runners who completed a 5K run each, which is about 3.2 miles. Fagala said students may have run into members of the Society once or twice on campus, finding them hosting

pizza and bake sales every other week, but the Pre-Law group felt it was time to experiment with something new. “In all these years since the PreLaw Society was formed 30 years ago, this happens to be the first major event we have hosted,” Fagala said. “It feels like we have broken new ground with the money we raised, and hopefully events in the near future will be even more successful.” Fagala added that many ideas were bounced around during meetings, such as a golf tournament or a barbeque, but ultimately a run sounded like the best way to go. James Thompson, a senior political science and history double major and member of the Society, felt this was a great way for them to work as a team and develop certain social skills, which would be needed later on. “We get the necessary experience out of it, plus we learn to work as team to raise the needed money for not only us, but the Make a Wish Foundation, which happens to be a very personal organization to me,” Thompson said. “It’s so wonderful how they have helped so

many people in need, and it’s a great experience for me to have been a part of.” Some members of the Pre-Law Society had previously worked with

McDonald’s defends its business practices By SANDRA GONZALEZ The Pan American

Q “It feels like we have broken new ground with the money we raised, and hopefully events in the near future will be even more successful.” - Ellen Fagala Pre-Law Society treasurer The Make-A-Wish Foundation and Fagala said they were all happy to raise funds for it. “Our members all as a whole accomplished what we in fact had set out to do,” Fagala said. “The community seemed very much involved in our event and hopefully the experience continues to grow and grow when it comes to their involvement.” Fagala added that because the run was a success, the Society hopes to at least have one major fundraiser each year, maybe even two per semester.

was founded by Chavez - LUPE strives to provide the same support he did to what they see as underprivileged, underpaid migrant workers. “A lot of the work we do allows us to follow in his footsteps. As an organization, we want to celebrate, commemorate, remember and recognize all Chavez did,” said Olga Cardoso, com-

ON THE MOVE - Saul Bernabe participates in the Pre-Law Society’s “Run for Reason,” held Saturday. Sidney Meadows/The Pan American

A group of activists and students took to the streets Sunday to protest McDonald’s restaurant, alleging the chain is purchasing produce farmed by underpaid workers. However, officials at the corporation are vehemently denying all the charges and have evidence to prove it. Fred Del Barrio, a local McDonald’s owner/operator, defends McDonald’s practices and says the company does all it can to ensure its suppliers have fair business practice and has a “long-standing commitment to social accountability.” “Our suppliers share the McDonald’s commitment to responsible and accountable conduct toward their workers,” he said in a statement. “Recently, one of the areas that we have been collaborating with our suppliers to address is working conditions for tomato farm workers.” Recently, fliers have appeared

See MCDONALD’S page 12

Automated payroll process unfolding for campus employees By MANUEL TISCARENO The Pan American Student employees from The University of Texas-Pan American gathered in the Student Union Theater March 28 to voice concerns and questions regarding the initiation of Web Time Entry, the university’s new method

of submitting time cards. The program, which integrates with the university’s payroll department, is a Web-based time entry system that, as of March 1, allows the approximately 1,500 hourly UTPA employees to fill out their time cards on-line rather than on a Scantron. Hourly employees’ supervisors

will be able to approve submitted time cards on-line as well. The program was tested with a pilot group of 267 employees from across campus in November 2006. Participants gave the offices of Information Technology and Payroll feedback on their experiences. Now, university officials feel that

the test run helped to make the transition as easy as possible. “It’s always helpful to do a test run,” said Leticia Lizarraga, director of payroll. “We’ve basically been doing our testing much longer than since November. We had already tested it but then we asked other people to use the

See PAYROLL page 12

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Page 4

NEWS

April 5, 2007

NEWS

April 5, 2007

BROMLEY continued from page 1 campaigns focusing on the Hispanic population. In a humorous presentation to a group of mostly marketing and advertising students at UTPA Tuesday afternoon, Bromley described his long journey to the top of the advertising world. He also spoke to a large assembly of BROMLEY students as part of Pan American Days earlier in the day. While he was always interested in a bilingual, bicultural career, Bromley wasn’t always interested in advertising. Originally a pollster for political campaigns, his focus was on research and analysis, on picking out the strengths and weaknesses of a particular candidate or issue in order to improve the message. “I’m really into results. I really like doing things and making sure, knowing that what I did works or doesn’t work,” Bromley said. “In political campaigns, you know whether you win or you don’t. And when you don’t, why didn’t you? You analyze that and you learn from it. Life is a continuous learning experience.” But in the ‘70s with his liberal Democratic viewpoint and the scene of Texas politics starting to shift to a more

conservative Republican one, Bromley soon found himself without a job. At that crossroads in his life, Bromley turned to a professor, who advised him to get a business degree and change careers. “I moved from one goal that was rooted in this whole notion of biculturalism, and moved it over here to marketing,” said Bromley, who has Puerto Rican roots. “I didn’t see it as a big change. I mean, marketing of people and marketing of products are pretty similar.” Bromley stressed the importance of interpersonal relations, both in getting his first job at an advertising agency, and in the everyday business of pitching ideas to clients. “It’s a people business – people working with people,” the executive said. “We do everything we can to get the audience that we’re after, because at the end of the day, you can have the best idea on earth but if they don’t like you, you’re not getting hired.” And for Bromley, that’s the best part of the job - dealing with different types of people. “It’s been one heck of a ride, a tremendous rollercoaster ride. We’ve certainly had our peaks and valleys, our ups and downs, but for the most it’s been really great and the reason is the people. I like the people,” he said.

Page 5

EISENMAN continued from page 1 focused on research he and criminal justice professor Mark Dantzker have done at The University of Texas-Pan American on the attitudes of Hispanic students toward sex, including controversial topics such as masturbation, pornography and contraceptives. “Sex is certainly an important part of life so it makes a lot of sense to do research on it,” Eisenman said. “It’s important to understand human sexuality just like it’s important to understand any other important behavior.” According to Eisenman, the duo’s research focuses more on students’ attitudes, rather than actual behaviors. “As far as sex questionnaires go, it’s one of the most tame, non-intrusive questionnaires I’ve ever seen because we ask mostly about attitudes,” he said. “We don’t ask people about what they’ve done, although there’d be nothing wrong with that, but we’ve been asking people what they think about things.” Through the research, Eisenman has come to the conclusion that there are minor differences in attitudes between Hispanics and non-Hispanics. “Hispanics in general were more conservative than the non-Hispanics. In other words, the Hispanics were more

prohibitive or condemning of certain sexual behaviors,” Eisenman said. “You might say Hispanic culture is more conservative regarding sex. And, Hispanics are probably more likely to be religious than non-Hispanics, and religion teaches inhibited attitudes about sex – sexual restraint.” However, the variation is not as pronounced as might be expected. “The differences between males and females, and also between Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites were not very strong. Even when there were statistically significant differences, they were not big differences,” Eisenman said. While the professor said he would have chosen to do research on the topic just for the cultural perspective, there is an added reason to study sexual attitudes in Hispanics. “It turns out that Hispanics tend to engage in more risky sexual behavior and actually more risky drug behavior than non-Hispanic whites,” Eisenman said. “In fact, the two groups that are very high in HIV and AIDS in the United States are Hispanics and blacks, with blacks having it at an even higher rate. So it’s particularly important to study sex among Hispanics and blacks to look at what risky behaviors are

Q “Sex is certainly an important part of life so it makes a lot of sense to do research on it. It’s important to understand human sexuality...” - Russell Eisenman associate professor psychology/anthropology going on.” But Eisenman qualifies the results, noting that there is an inherent “trickiness” to conducting psychological research, particularly about sex. “Even though we get all these attitude results that may not indicate the behavior. Attitudes do not always directly predict behavior,” Eisenman said. In addition, he pointed out other areas that merit further research. “The word ‘Hispanic’ is misleading because it lumps together a whole group of people – there’s people from Mexican background, Puerto Rican background, Cuban background,” Eisenman said. “There could be regional differences and differences between the different Hispanic or Latino groups. All those things are worth studying.”

EN ESPAĂ&#x2018;OL

Noticias en breve: Las elecciones para posiciones en el Gobierno EstudiantĂl (SGA) terminarĂĄn el viernes. Vote usando el sitio Web que se le ha enviado a su correo electrĂłnico preferido.

Nueva propuesta de ley plantea reforma migratoria Por KRISTEN VILLEGAS Traducido Por JUAN PINTOR The Pan American DespuĂŠs de meses de debates acerca de la inmigraciĂłn ilegal, otra propuesta de ley fue presentada en Marzo 22 para intentar cubrir reformas migratorias extensivas, con un ĂŠnfasis especial en mejorar la seguridad de la frontera y en la verificaciĂłn de empleos. H. R. 1645, citada como el â&#x20AC;&#x153;Acta de Seguridad a travĂŠs de la InmigraciĂłn Regularizada y una EconomĂa Vibrante en 2007,â&#x20AC;? crearĂa polĂticas respecto a problemas comunes de inmigraciĂłn, como el cumplimiento de la ley, seguridad de la frontera, necesidades de la fuerza laboral y la grande poblaciĂłn de inmigrantes indocumentados. Denominada el Acta STRIVE, la propuesta, presentada por los Republicanos Luis Gutierrez y Jeff Flake, convoca para que los extranjeros ilegales se queden en los Estados Unidos,

pero requerirĂa que los trabajadores indocumentados pagaran multas, fueran sujetos a castigos, que se sometan a chequeos de antecedentes y que aprendan InglĂŠs. AdemĂĄs de eso, habrĂa una â&#x20AC;&#x153;ProvisiĂłn de Regresoâ&#x20AC;? que requerirĂa que los extranjeros ilegales regresaran a sus paĂses antes de aplicar para la ciudadanĂa. Eso crearĂa un nuevo sistema para que los patrones verificaran el estado migratorio de los nuevos contratos e incrementarĂa el numero de visas familiares y de trabajo, segĂşn el Congresista Ruben Hinojosa. Una propuesta similar fue eliminada en el Congreso porque la Casa y el Senado fracasaron en alcanzar un acuerdo en cĂłmo lidiar con los 12 millones de inmigrantes indocumentados en este paĂs, segĂşn Hinojosa. Hinojosa apoya esta propuesta y dice que ĂŠl reconoce que el actual sistema de inmigraciĂłn esta deshecho. El cree que es crĂtico que la legislaciĂłn

ofrezca una soluciĂłn razonable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Debemos traer nuestra polĂtica de inmigraciĂłn al siglo 21,â&#x20AC;? dijo Hinojosa. Hinojosa dijo que ĂŠl tiene optimismo en que haya una soluciĂłn al debate migratorio en el horizonte y que pronto tendremos una reforma migratoria extensiva.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Debemos traer nuestra polĂtica de inmigraciĂłn al siglo 21.â&#x20AC;? - Ruben Hinojosa congresista Sin embargo, Jerry Polinard, profesor de ciencias polĂticas, dijo que las polĂticas de la propuesta hacen dĂficil que sea aprobada. AdemĂĄs, ĂŠl se opone a cualquier propuesta de ley que se enfoque en el aspecto de seguridad y la criminalizaciĂłn de la inmigraciĂłn. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mi punto de vista es que es un problema muy pretencioso, y dudo que vaya a haber una reforma en el futuro

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inmediato,â&#x20AC;? Polinard dijo. â&#x20AC;&#x153;El hecho que los migrantes indocumentados vengan aquĂ ilegalmente, yo pienso, no los hace criminales.â&#x20AC;? La propuesta tambiĂŠn incluye el Acta de Desarrollo, Ayuda y EducaciĂłn para Menores Extranjeros (DREAM), que intenta proveer una manera para que los estudiantes indocumentados que crecieron en este paĂs y que piensan ir a la universidad tengan acceso a ayuda financiera y becas y tambiĂŠn puedan ganar la residencia legal permanente. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sin esta legislaciĂłn, demasiados de los estudiantes inmigrantes talentosos de nuestra naciĂłn serĂĄn forzados a dejar su bĂşsqueda de una educaciĂłn universitaria,â&#x20AC;? Hinojosa dijo. PERSPECTIVA LOCAL Robert Wrinkle, profesor de ciencias polĂticas en la Universidad de TexasPan American, estĂĄ realizando una investigaciĂłn en â&#x20AC;&#x153;Actitudes hacia la InmigraciĂłn.â&#x20AC;? En su estudio, ĂŠl estĂĄ vien-

do a los cambios en los predictores de las actitudes de inmigraciĂłn entre varias razas ĂŠtnicas. En este momento, ĂŠl estĂĄ estudiando la actitud de los Latinos hacia la inmigraciĂłn y si ĂŠsta ha cambiado con el tiempo. Wrinkle dice que su investigaciĂłn estĂĄ basada en tres hipĂłtesis bĂĄsicas: competencia en el mercado laboral, polĂticas simbĂłlicas, donde la gente teme que la inmigraciĂłn vaya a cambiar a los Estados Unidos, y afinidad cultural. â&#x20AC;&#x153;La mayorĂa de las personas y los polĂticos intentan simplificar un problema muy extenso, por ejemplo, construyendo una muralla o algo asi, lo cual no va a funcionar,â&#x20AC;? dijo Wrinkle. El dijo que el objetivo de esta propuesta es para juntar fuerzas opuestas, pero ĂŠl cree que la inmigraciĂłn va a seguir siendo un problema constante. â&#x20AC;&#x153;La manera en que nosotros lidiamos con eso puede que cambie, pero la inmigraciĂłn [ilegal] no va a desaparecer,â&#x20AC;? dijo Wrinkle.

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

Editor’s Pick: Must-See Movie “Reign Over Me” is the new emotional drama starring Adam Sandler and Don Cheadle.

High-profile concert to shed light on genocide By FRANK CALVILLO The Pan American

It might be pretty safe to say that The Shins are one of the most listened to and sought after rock groups in today’s music world. With critical acclaim, hit records and a firmly established fan base, the group pretty much has its pick of playing any stadium. However on April 22 the group’s venue of choice will not be Madison Square Garden, but rather Austin’s “Backyard,” where they, along with The Academy Is…, The Rapture, Shiny Toy Guns and Ronnie Day, will perform for college students as part of mtvU’s “Campus Invasion Music Festival ‘07.” The 10-year-old concert series has proven successful with college audiences in the past and has also been instrumental in helping to launch the careers of many performers including Moby, Wyclef Jean and Hoobastank. According to Stephen Friedman, head of mtvU, the artists who perform are selected through specific criteria. “We have to ask ourselves, ‘Do they have a credible connection to this audience?’” he said. “We really have to figure out what the artist’s fan base is and whether or not they have credibility

with the audience we’re targeting.” Although exposure to perhaps the biggest part of the music-buying population is reason enough for any band to want to perform at Campus Invasion, there is a greater motivation drawing artists in. For the past three years, mtvU has been working hard with Amnesty International to raise money to end the genocide in Darfur, Sudan, where hundreds of thousands have died. This year mtvU has joined forces with the Save Darfur Coalition, a chari-

ty organization composed of nearly 200 groups all fighting to bring awareness to the situation in Africa. In an effort to provide aid and help to end the continuing suffering, all ticket sales of the festival will go to benefit the Save Darfur Coalition. “College students have known about this and have wanted to stop it,” Friedman said. “What better way to call attention to it than through a festival?” In a statement, David Rubenstein, executive director of the Save Darfur Coalition, stressed the amount of influ-

ence the college community has had on this major issue. “Many of the earliest and most active members of the Save Darfur Coalition have been college students,” he said. “We’re proud to join with mtvU – an important megaphone for college students’ efforts to save Darfur – and continue mobilizing support for an end to the humanitarian crisis in Darfur that threatens the lives of more than 2.5 million people.” Besides Austin, the Campus Invasion festival will also be making

stops in Atlanta and Philadelphia, featuring performances from artists such as Fabolous, Rick Ross, Dashboard Confessional and Kidz in the Hall. “The lineup this year is just phenomenal,” said Friedman, who singled out Austin as a major highlight on the tour. “Of the three, Austin is by far the most eclectic. It’s the one I’m going to attend myself.” For anyone unable to make the live show, exclusive clips will become available on the music channel’s Web site beginning April 30. But for music aficionados like McAllen resident Severo Ochoa, a longtime fan of The Shins, making the trip is well worth it. “I love their music because it’s so easy to jam out to,” he said. “I didn’t even know about this concert, but I’m definitely going to go.” Student-discounted tickets for the April 22 event are now available. For more information, including ticket purchasing, please visit http://www.mtvu.com/uconnect/campus_invasion_tour/ or http://www.thebackyard.net/. For more information on the Save Darfur Coalition, please visit http://www.SaveDarfur.org.

Artist celebrates Europe, Valley in new exhibit By JEANETTE PEREZ The Pan American Colorful scenes of Paris, San Antonio and McAllen adorned the walls of Toni Livingston Collection Gallery in McAllen Thursday evening, in an exhibit that is the first of its kind. The exhibit opened with a reception for Texas artist Rod McGehee’s appropriately titled, “From Europe to McAllen.” The collection, which covers a variety of landscape scenery from McGehee’s world travels, was an array of color, form and shape. McGehee, an expressionist painter, captures everyday places in a different perspective. “When me and my friends go outdoors to paint, we drive around and they all want to find that perfect scene,” said the Kerrville native. “I’m like, ‘Hey, there’s a junkyard, let’s paint that.’ I paint stuff that’s not necessarily pretty, to make it somewhat beautiful.”

Toni Livingston, gallery owner, embraces McGehee’s inspiration. “Rod is a talented artist. What he does is vibrant. The color is what sets him apart from anyone else,” said the interior decorator, who owns three of McGehee’s pieces. “He has a commitment to local and historical buildings that are being preserved and the beautification of downtown McAllen.” Although McGehee has found passion in art since the age of eight, expressionism is a long stretch from his previous endeavors. After art school he found himself working in journalism. “My dad told me, ‘You better have something else to fall back on because you’ll never make it as an artist.’ So I went into newspapers right out of college. I worked there for 10 years and later went into radio and television, and ad agencies,” said the former marketing director for Fox. “Then I lost my job and didn’t know what to do so I started painting. With art as his focus, McGehee still

had changes to undergo. “What makes it art is the way you see it and how you interpret it. It wasn’t until I went to Europe and saw Matisse and Van Gogh’s work that I decided I wanted to change the way I painted – to simplify, explore color and form line. It was life-changing.” Out of all the places he’s been to, McGehee admits that the Valley stands out from the rest. “I see stuff here that I don’t see anywhere else in the world. There’s a painting I did of downtown McAllen called, “Tony Burger,” this little burrito stand that’s real funky and it’s got a tall skyscraper leaning above it. I can’t see that anywhere else,” he said. For eight years he’s found comfort in the odd and overlooked, regardless of where it gets him. “I went to Progreso and I painted stuff other people probably wouldn’t paint. Whether it’ll sell or not, who knows,” McGehee said. “There’s a dif-

Sidney Meadows/The Pan American GLOBAL ART - Kerrville native Rod McGehee’s new exhibit features work that’s inspired by his wide-ranging travels including McAllen and Europe.

ference between a painter and an artist. A painter will paint for people to buy, but the artist says, ‘I’m going to paint what I want. I hope you like it. If you don’t, sorry, I’m going to paint it anyway.” Marisol Rivera of Pharr sees McGehee’s work as an eye-opener. “It’s going to open a lot of new doors for the Valley. A lot of people are going to be interested in this because it

shows it in a different way,” said the receptionist. Regardless of the effect he has on people, McGehee’s journey is not yet complete. “I’m trying to get to a point where I can paint fearlessly without worrying what people think,” McGehee said. “When I get there I’ll know I really made it as an artist.”

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

April 5, 2007

Story By: Leslie Estrada Design By: Roy Bazan

or the seventh year in a row, the Office of International Programs in cooperation with the department of modern languages and literature has put on a series of films focusing on different cultures. “We really thought it was a very attractive venue for students,” said Marilu Salazar, director of the Office of International Programs. “People love movies, and having students learn about other cultures through them is way more attractive than having them go to an oral presentation.” This semester, the International Film Series has focused on showing movies from Latin America in honor of the large Spanish-speaking population in the region, and increasingly nationwide. “We wanted to focus on Latin films to celebrate our location along the border and the different cultures that come together here,” Salazar said. This week, the film series has merged with Pan American Days to show one film per day. The films include “La Cienega” from Argentina, the documentary “Rosita” from Nicaragua, “Guantanamera” from Cuba and “Little Injustices” from Mexico. “We usually show one movie per week,” Salazar said. “But, we are celebrating Pan American Days from April 2-6. During these days, we’ll be showing one every day.” Salazar said the movies that are shown under this program are films that reflect each country’s culture, language and way of living. Senior education major Lucia Alvarez believes it is a great way to learn more about other countries.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

“They have discussions that go on for students to have a better understanding of what they are going to watch,” she said. “This is very good because that way we can be aware of the situations that people from different countries go through.” According to Salazar, the movies are chosen by a committee made up of facul-

many. This semester, the series kicked off with “Diarios de Motocicleta” (The Motorcycle Diaries). This recent film tells the story of a journey by motorcycle across South America in 1952 by young Ernesto “Fuser” Guevara and his friend, Alberto Granado. Guevara later became the famous Marxist revolutionary better known as

April 2 - Santo Luzbel April 9 - La Ley de Herodes April 16 - La Ultima Cena April 23 - Azucar Amarga April 30 - Antes que Anochezca ty from several departments on campus. “We get together and give suggestions on which movies to show. The basis is always cultural and intellectual,” she said. “We always choose movies that have a meaning and leave a message.” She added that the movies are not violent; on the contrary, they are positive regarding typical stories in the different countries. They cover a wide range of topics that are being dealt with, such as politics, economic situations and relationships. Since January, the department has shown movies that are of interest to

Che Guevara, and the film depicts the gradual development of his political outlook. This film is based on true events, and is mostly biographical. Alejandra Tamayo, a sophomore international business major, had the chance to attend the showing of this film. “I really liked the movie. It depicted the beliefs and life of Che Guevara,” she said. “It is a great idea for the university to have these types of showings available for students.” Another movie showcased was “Maria, Llena Eres de Gracia” (Maria, Full of Grace). This Latin movie is a film

Page 9

in co-production between Colombia and the United States that depicts the drama lived by drug trafficking “mules,” or transporters. This movie depicts the life of Colombian Maria Alvarez who, after many conflicts in her life and a desperate search for a better life, accepts the job of taking a supply of drugs from Colombia to the United States. In doing so, she exposes herself to the ruthless, harrowing world of international drug trafficking. With powerful movies such as those, it is no wonder that Salazar says attendance has improved dramatically each semester. “We have seen more interest among faculty members who bring their students to the showings,” she said. “We always have a big group of people show up, and they really seem to enjoy it.” She stated that it is important for people to take advantage of this since it is good to know other cultures. “We are not the only ones in this world. It is good to find out more about other people,” Salazar said. “It is good to know the similarities and differences between our culture and others around the world.” The staff at the Office of International Programs would like to encourage everyone to go and see these movies that are not shown by commercial theaters around the Rio Grande Valley. The movies that are part of the International Film Series are available Mondays at 4 p.m. at HSHW 1.406. For more information about the film series, drop by the Office of International Programs located at CAS 125, visit them at www.panam.edu/dept/internationalprograms or call (956) 381-3673.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

April 5, 2007

Story By: Leslie Estrada Design By: Roy Bazan

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Page 9

A&E

Page 10

April 5, 2007

Modest Mouse’s latest proves experimental By JOSUE PORTALES The Pan American

ESTEBAN ORTEGA BROWN, M.D. 110 E. SAVANNAH BLDG, B • SUITE 103 • MCALLEN

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REPRODUCTIVE INSTITUTE

The expression “There is more than one way to skin a cat” is a horrible one, but it certainly is applicable to making pop music. Modest Mouse’s fifth LP, “We Were Dead before the Ship Even Sank,” is a quintessential oddball-pop record, demonstrating yet another way to “skin the cat,” or make pop music. On their 2004 release, “Good News for People Who Love Bad News,” there were many hints that they would make an album like this. That album featured the single “Float On,” an upbeat song that gained them a Grammy nomination, critical acclaim and covers by indie artists such as Ben Lee, Goldspot and a children’s choir for Kidz Bop Album. With their latest record, instead of rehashing a bunch of “Float Ons,” they took their newfound fame and recognition and challenged their audiences with depressing, almost pessimistic, lyrics against an unexpected backdrop of fast-paced music. The album opens with “March Into

the Sea,” which at first sounds like the beginning of a French film but then explodes with a lyrical attack by lead singer, Isaac Brock, followed by maniacal laugh after every verse: “Why treat me like the sea/so salty and mean/ haahahHAHAHA!” The lyrics are backed by apocalyptic post-rock noise that sounds like full-on gunfire attacking, ceasing and then attacking again. The second track, also the album’s first single, most clearly demonstrates the band’s progression and exploration into new musical territory, incorporating a pulsating bass drum, bouncy rhythm guitars and an awesome string section over dismal lyrics such as, “It would have been/could have been/worse than you would ever know.” It’s an interesting juxtaposition for a fast-paced song to have lyrics about someone surviving a car crash and realizing how much worse it could have been. A new addition to the group is exSmiths guitarist Johnny Marr. His transition into the band has proven successful and his input is apparent on songs such as “We Missed the Boat,” “We’ve Got Everything,” and “Dashboard.” These songs showcase Marr’s variation of styles on acoustic

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RETURN OF THE MOUSE - Modest Mouse’s newest release finds the rock quintet exploring with different sounds and producers, as well as new band members. and electric guitar, and make the sighs of relief audible from ex-Smiths fans everywhere who are overjoyed to find Marr back on stage after a self-imposed time-out from the music industry.

“We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank” shows the progression of a band catering to neither stoners, elitists or critics, but one proving itself as a collective morphing into something else

while keeping things authentic and real. The new Modest Mouse album is most definitely not as unappealing as skinning a cat, even if your local death metal band states otherwise.

NEWS

April 5, 2007

IMMIGRATION continued from page 1 there is a solution to the immigration debate on the horizon. However, Jerry Polinard, professor of political science at The University of Texas-Pan American, said that the politics of the policy makes it unlikely the bill will be passed. In addition, he opposes any bill that focuses on the security aspect and criminalization of immigrants. “My standpoint is it’s a very overblown issue and I doubt there’s going to be a reform in the immediate future,” Polinard said. “The fact that undocumented immigrants come here illegally, in my mind, does not make them criminals.” The bill also includes the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act, which attempts to provide a way for undocumented students who grew up in this country to attend college, have access to financial aid and grants and earn legal permanent residency. “Without this legislation, too many of our nation’s talented immigrant students will be forced to forego their pursuit of a higher education,” Hinojosa said. LOCAL PERSPECTIVE Robert Wrinkle, professor of political science at UTPA, is conducting research on attitudes toward immigra-

tion. In his study, he is looking at changes in the predictors of attitudes within various ethnicities. At the moment he is studying Latinos’ attitudes toward immigration and whether they have changed over time. Wrinkle says his research is based on three basic elements: labor market competition, symbolic politics (where people fear that immigration will change the United States), and cultural affinity.

“My standpoint is it’s a very overblown issue and I doubt there’s going to be a reform in the immediate future.” - Jerry Polinard professor of political science

“Most people and politicians try to simplify a very broad problem, like building a wall or something like that, none of which is going to work,” Wrinkle said. He says the goal of this bill is to bring together opposing forces, but he believes immigration will continue to be a recurring issue. “How we deal with it might change, but [illegal] immigration is not going away,” Wrinkle said.

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SGA continued from page 1 MOVING ON Back in February, SGA president Argelia Barrera, a senior political science major, was accused by a group of senators, including Matamoros and Villarreal, of having excessive absences from SGA meetings, alleged failure to issue president’s reports, and not appointing replacement senators to vacant positions in a timely manner. Though the senators initially called for Barrera’s removal, that effort was curtailed due to a procedural error. Barrera and the senators later reached an agreement and she retained her office. As SGA begins its switch to a new administration, Zamora said his experience interning with the FBI for the last year would help him communicate effectively with senators in order to prevent similar problems from arising. “I’ve come to understand the importance of teamwork. In the FBI, there’s not just one individual who does everything. Everyone works as a team,” he said. “That’s the kind of experience, dedication and understanding that I’m going to bring if elected to SGA.” Matamoros said if chosen he will remain committed to a list of internal goals he has for the organization. “The allegations that were brought up were largely a result of the president not communicating with us or providing

David Zamora

remove sales tax from textbooks.”

(Running mate: Star Smith, junior mechanical engineering and math double major)

* Extend library hours “We would like to extend library hours. Sunday through Friday we want it to be open 24 hours and for it to be open a limited time on Saturday.”

* Textbook cost reduction “If elected, we will send a UTPA delegation to the state capitol and coordinate textbook cost reduction with other UT schools. Through my connections with people who work in the state Legislature… I’m sure we can hold a hearing where we can advocate to

Tony Matamoros (Running mate: Tony Villarreal, junior biology major) * Textbook cost reduction As founder and chairman of the SGA Senate’s Textbook Cost Reduction Committee, Matamoros would like to re-establish a textbook rental program.

lots to build new facilities. We want a task force where students can come in and participate and tell them that the administrators need to look to the future.”

* Address the lack of adequate parking We’ve talked to administrators and they plan to get rid of more parking

information on what she’d been doing,” he said. “What we want to do is foster an environment of cooperation and an environment of communication,” he said

Last year, 859 votes were cast in the SGA elections. While it was an improvement from 2005’s 459 votes, it was still only about four percent of the UTPA population.

NEWS

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April 5, 2007

CHAVEZ continued from page 3

MCDONALD’S continued from page 3 around The University of Texas-Pan American claiming McDonald’s is purchasing tomatoes from third parties in Florida who are underpaying their farm workers. However, Del Barrio, a former student of UTPA, said McDonald’s is making “ongoing, industry-leading improvements” to ensure the safety of farm workers in Florida. “While McDonald’s purchases only 1.5 percent of the tomatoes grown in Florida, ensuring a decent standard of living for Florida’s tomato workers is an important cause that we and our suppliers wholeheartedly support,” he said. One of those measures was the for-

mation of the Socially Accountable Farm Employers organization in 2005 by the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association. “It evolved out of discussions McDonald’s had with several organizations about ways to improve the lives of tomato workers,” Del Barrio, who owns multiple McDonald’s restaurant in the Rio Grande Valley, said. “Today, SAFE ensures that farm workers know their rights and legal protections. It also mandates verification and certification of grower practices.” Since the 1990s, McDonald’s has required that its suppliers fully comply with a rigorous Code of Conduct for Suppliers. This code focuses on protect-

Sidney Meadows/ The Pan American DEBATE - Cecilia Hernandez, a sophomore undeclared major, protests at McDonald’s Saturday evening. Protesters claim the chain buys produce from third parties who under pay their farm workers, an allegation officials vehemently deny.

ing the health, safety and legal rights of the suppliers’ employees, according to Del Barrio. He added that McDonald’s has worked with their third-party companies to develop some of the strictest grower standards in the industry. For example, all of their suppliers are required to hire employees, not day laborers, help farm workers access employment benefits, health care, worker protection measures and, where available, safe and affordable housing. Regular monitoring of McDonald’s practices also occurs via various third-parties, such as the Center for Reflection, Education and Action and the University of Miami. In fact, in April 2006 CREA issued a report reflecting the results of its detailed study of worker conditions at operations of one of the growers McDonald’s works with. The study found that the workers’ wages exceeded the penny-per-pound standard proposed by the Coalition of Immokalee Workers as well as the Florida minimum wage. “The beginnings of positive systemic change is taking place in the agricultural supply chain system, starting with the supply chain within which tomato growing and harvesting is situated,” said Ruth Rosenbaum, executive director of CREA. CREA also found that the increased purchasing power workers gained as a result of housing and transportation benefits provided by the grower increased the differential over the penny-per-pound standard. However, CREA did recommend steps to strengthen both the SAFE program and the program for implementing McDonald’s Growers Standards. “Together with our produce suppli-

ers and the grower studied, we are reviewing the recommendations and will continue to work with CREA and other

“Our suppliers share the McDonald’s commitment to responsible and accountable conduct toward their workers.” - Fred Del Barrio, local McDonald’s owner/operator industry experts on this important issue,” Del Barrio said. McDonald’s suppliers guarantee Florida’s tomato farm workers will have an economic package that meets or exceeds the penny-per-pound demand by the Coalition for Immokalee Workers, according to Del Barrio. “If CREA’s economic study reveals that the McDonald’s grower standards fall below the value of the ‘penny a pound’ proposal, McDonald’s suppliers have established a guaranteed fund that will be given to employees who have worked the 2005-2006 harvest,” he said. Juan C. Zapata, chairman of the Florida Hispanic Legislative Caucus, praised McDonald’s for its efforts. “On behalf of the Florida Hispanic Legislative Caucus, we commend the companies and growers, the SAFE program, McDonald’s and all involved in these needed employment reforms and encourage all in Florida’s agricultural industry to follow suit,” Zapata said. McDonald’s stores in the Valley are all owned by five independent franchisee organizations and together they employ over 3,500 Valley residents.

PAYROLL continued from page 3 product and help us get the kinks out.” According to Lizarraga, there have been a few glitches, but nothing major. “Everything has gone smoothly,” she said. The next phase, which will include all salaried employees, is scheduled to go into effect in the coming months, but the exact date is still to be determined. According to Michael Outhabong, Information Technology project manager, the Web Time Entry is much more convenient than the old system. “With the time entry program, users are able to access their time cards from any PC with an Internet connection,” Outhabong said. Moreover, Lizarraga said a big benefit for employees is the increased control over the monthly process. “They have control of where their

“They don’t have to worry about bubbling in paper form and carrying it across campus and subjecting to getting it lost.” - Leticia Lizarraga director of payroll time entry is. They know whether they submitted it and they are able to check online for the status,” Lizarraga said. “They don’t have to worry about bubbling in paper form and carrying it across campus and subjecting it to getting lost.” Although many feel the change is a smart initiative, Amanda Casas, a workstudy for Career Services, feels the old system was fine.

“I’m not too computer literate, so when they said it was going to be online I thought: ‘Oh, no,’” Casas, a sophomore health science major, said. Casas said she wishes the system would have stayed the same, and predicted she’ll have a challenge in getting used to the new process. She is also unsure how safe her personal information, such as social security number, will be with the automated routine. However, Outhabong affirms Web Time Entry is a safe system. “It is a secure environment which has gone through an audit, and has repeatedly passed the audit,” he said. Among the minor glitches that have turned up, Hugo Lopez, a trainer for Physical Plant employees, recalled two circumstances in which a student was entering hours online and caused the inputted monthly hours to be delet-

ed. “We just had training sessions with the employees at Physical Plant and on one of the first days [an employee] was processing information and didn’t know what he was typing on the screen when the whole thing got deleted,” Lopez said. But Celina Gilpatrick, an IT secretary, said that there had never been a case like that during system testing and that it is not likely to happen. “They have done a lot of testing and they have never encountered a problem where a time card ever got deleted. It’s never been an issue for us, so we don’t anticipate that happening,” she said. Even if it did occur, Outhabong said that Web Time Entry is equipped with a recovery feature that allows the information to be retrieved.

munity organizer for LUPE. Chavez, a Mexican-American farm worker, founded The National Farm Workers Association, which is now known as United Farm Workers of America, in 1962. He became a leading civil rights activist fighting for better pay and safety for migrant workers. He was active at various times in this area, helping local workers organize and fight for their rights. Chavez, who died in April 1993, actively advocated for migrant workers’ rights, to improve the subpar conditions workers found themselves in. Toxic pesticides were found on the crops picked by workers, and activists said they were the source of many diseases suffered by workers and their families.

Did you know? Q In 1968, Cesar Chavez led a march from San Juan to Austin. In 1983, Chavez led another march from Brownsville to San Juan. - Vaughn Cox program development director La Union del Pueblo Entero This year, the organizations involved with the parade opted to have a more active role in raising awareness among the youth component of the community of past and current migrant worker situations. According to Cristina Villarreal, a member of Texas Folklife Resources, when members of that group presented in schools only two or three students out of 40 would know who Chavez was. The presentations consist of his biography and an account of migrant workers’ lives in the fields. “There is an obvious need to preserve his legacy. Right now the new generation focuses on their own needs and not the community’s,” she said. “All his life he (Chavez) fought for others.” Villarreal and Cardoso hope exposing the younger generation to leaders like Chavez will help them succeed in creating more advocates for minorities. “Some still think we belong as servants… That’s the image of Mexicans that they have,” Villarreal said. “That’s why we need to expose our leaders.” Advocates hope the march will encourage those sympathetic to the migrant worker plight to get involved. A number of youth organizations, including JROTC of McAllen Memorial High School, Upward Bound and Student Farm Workers Alliance of UTPA, participated in the event. To find out more information on LUPE and current migrant worker issues visit lupenet.org.

SPORTS

April 5, 2007

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ENLIGHTENED BY LUCAS

College basketball greatness: Coach Schuberth, the athletic gods choose you!

By LUKE KOONG The Pan American

Tuesday night, I made it home in time to catch the Women’s N C A A Division I Final between Rutgers and Tennessee. As I finished my

grilled chicken sandwich and “freedom” fries from What-A-Burger, I tried to follow the game. After watching the game for about five minutes, I changed the channel. The Lady Vols were beating up on the No. 4 seed and it wasn’t holding my attention. It got me to thinking though. Domination. You have to hand it to a team that can continually reign at the top of their sport year in and year out.

Considering the fact that athletes come and go like flies and mosquitoes, having a collegiate dynasty is no easy matter. That’s why you have to give props to University of Tennessee Coach Pat Summitt (913-177 in 32 years of coaching) and Duke Coach Mike Krzyzewski’s (753-250 in 31 years of coaching). While Coach Tom Schuberth has only been at UTPA one season, I think the Broncs could be on the way to a

future dynasty. Considering that our men’s squad went 19-40 in two years under Robert Davenport, this year was a huge turnaround. While we missed a winning season by one game (14-15), I believe next year has a lot of promise. If God smiles down again upon our campus next season, we’ll return two of the best Independent players in the nation with seniors-to-be Brian Burrell and Paul Stoll. While the loss of Colin Lien will

hurt, the recruiting staff should be able to adequately replace him. If they can find talent like Burrell and Stoll, you can expect the Field House to slowly fill up to capacity in fall. Naturally I’d answer the call, but I make for a better fan than basketball player. Please send all questions, comments and pomegranates to lkoong2004@yahoo.com.

UTPA ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT

Norris to help promote UTPA sports New marketing and promotions director brings experience from Houston venue By KRISTYNA MANCIAS The Pan American

A new player has been added to the Athletic Department at The University of Texas-Pan American. As of March 20, 24-year-old Misty Norris was announced as the director of athletic marketing and promotions. Norris comes to the Rio Grande Valley after serving as the guest services coordinator with the Houston Rockets, Houston Comets, Clutch City Sports and Entertainment along with the Toyota Center. In her role as the coordinator, Norris was responsible for event preparation, arena set-up, staffing operations and scheduling events (over 200 events a year) for the Toyota Center. “I worked at the Toyota Center, which houses the Houston Rockets, the Houston Comets and the Arrows, which is a minor league hockey team, and we also had big concerts such as The Rolling Stones and Paul McCartney,” Norris said. “It was a great learning experience. You see all different kinds of things like how a basketball game is set up into a concert. It was a great learning experience.” Norris was involved in the hiring, training and development of all guest services event staff members during her time with the Toyota Center. She was responsible for maintaining communication with all building departments in order to troubleshoot potential problems. She also oversaw the Toyota Center Tour Program, including the hiring and training of tour guides as well as the scheduling of events. The new hire has her work cut out. One of the biggest problems that UTPA has is a lack of attendance at sporting events; promoting games to students and the community is a priority. This is something Norris is determined to find a solu-

NORRIS

tion for the upcoming year. She will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive marketing plans to increase attendance at all UTPA home events, soliciting and maintaining corporate sponsorships, coordinating and managing game-day event operations, coordinating special events and managing community relations programs designed to involve the Rio Grande Valley community with university sports. “I think it’s really important especially to let the students know when games are and I would like to bring in special promotions, whether it is free items or giveaways,” Norris explained. “It’s also important to involve the community.” One of the first things that Norris wants to do is to get the community more involved at UTPA. “I want to bring more group nights, such as have kids come and for them to support the school,” she said. “When you get the community involved you’re going to have more support and when those kids come to our games they will want to come to UTPA.” The newly named director has also been learning how the budget system works in addition to her other duties. “The budget is a good starting point. We do need to get more sponsors and more community funding,” Norris stressed. “So that’s something that we’re really going to hit hard this summer. Get more people to buy signage and ads.” Norris, a 2004 graduate of Baylor University, will utilize the knowledge that she obtained at school and on past jobs to implement those ideas into the university’s athletic program.

SPORTS

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April 5, 2007

BASEBALL

Going Pro: By PATRICK B. KENNEDY The Pan American A typical glance around the stands at a University of Texas-Pan American baseball game would take in a smattering of loyal fans cheering on the Broncs. What would grab your attention, though, are the guys sitting behind home plate with radar guns. They aren’t bored cops who happen to like baseball. They are scouts. The dream of going pro is one that has tantalized every college athlete at some point or other. The harsh reality, though, is that approximately only one percent of college baseball players will ever make it to the pros, and of that number, less than .01 percent will make it to the big leagues. “Everybody has to go through adversity to get to the top,” says head baseball coach Willie Gawlik. “Getting into professional athletics can be very rewarding,

Why some collegiate baseball players move on to bigger, greener diamonds

but can be very difficult.” Although making it into a sport where the average shelf life of a player runs between three and four years, players here at the university have managed to find their way in large numbers. In fact, over the baseball program’s history, 62 players have signed with Major League Baseball organizations, 17 with Mexican professional baseball teams and 32 with independent leagues. Last year produced several players who went to the pros, including Dane Mason, Tim Haines, Bobby Gomez, and the pair of Kelly Casares and Aaron Guerra, who played for the independent Edinburg Coyotes last summer. So, UTPA is no stranger to the world of professional baseball scouts. “In order to get

noticed, you have to play a competitive schedule,” says Gawlik, who also mentioned that this year the Broncs are playing nine games against Big XII opponents. “When you play competition like that, it will improve the player’s baseball ability.” The more players improve upon their baseball ability, the more likely it will be that they will get noticed by scouts looking for talent to take back to their teams. Every fall, UTPA’s baseball program hosts Scout Day, where scouts from across the nation come to the university to test the skills and abilities of every single Bronc player, in a sort of combine. The scouts, after testing the players, take the information they gather and use it during scouting trips during the spring season to look for draft prospects. MAKING THE GRADE There are four ways in which a player may be drafted into a professional team. The first is that players can be drafted once turning

the age of 18 or upon high school graduation. Once a player signs, the player goes to the minor leagues, but with a few catches. The first is that a player drafted right out of high school is permanently banned from playing baseball in college, and the second is that by bypassing collegiate level play, the chances are increased that the player will receive a smaller signing bonus than a player who has been seasoned through college ball. The second way in which a player could be drafted is when a player decides to play at the collegiate level. Then, a college player can only be drafted during their junior or senior year, or until the player turns 21 years old. The third way that a player could enter the draft is by getting consideration each year

following their senior year. The fourth way a player could be drafted provides an exception to the normal draft process. If a player enters a junior college, then the player can be drafted each year until the player either signs a professional contract or begins play in a four-year college or university. Some of UTPA’s baseball standouts have been the Tyrone brothers of the 70s, James and Wayne Tyrone, Danny Firova and George Williams of the early ‘90s. All eventually saw some action in the big time. Former Bronc baseball players Jim Hickey and Perry Hill have since become not just players, but coaches as well. As a coach, Hill helped guide the Florida Marlins to their 2003 World Series Championship over the New York Yankees. Hickey, who now coaches for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, spent a 14-year tenure with the Houston Astros, and coached the legendary Roger Clemens.

SPORTS

April 5, 2007

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TRACK & FIELD

UTPA taking part in competition held in Texas capital Spring ‘07 sees annual participation for Broncs By SAVANNAH MARTINEZ The Pan American

During early April, Austin hosts the Texas Relays, one of the most celebrated track and field meets in the nation. Major universities from all over the United States - and selected high schools - send their most talented athletes to compete in the highly acclaimed event in Mike Meyers Stadium in the Capital City. “The Texas Relays is the first big meet of the year,” Coach Ricky Vaughn said. “... We have four meets under us and we are in a good rhythm.” The event has proven to be exciting for spectators and participants alike. “The Texas Relays is an unbelievable environment,” senior general studies major and high jumper Will Littleton said. Some of the athletes are ecstatic and a little nervous to perform in such a

grand meet. “You get to compete against the best and because there is so much competition, it makes you want to improve,” said Liliana Cavazos, a junior kinesiology major and long/triple jumper from Weslaco. Junior kinesiology major and hammer thrower Amanda Ferris, who has been on a roll lately with four first-place finishes, is also anxious to go up against the best. “I have not had that much of competition. I have been winning every meet and now in the Texas Relay, I am going to see the big girls,” Ferris said. This will be the first and last opportunity to take part in the Texas Relays for jumper Claudia Lopez. “Every talented athlete wants to go to the Texas Relays and compete,” said the senior kinesiology major. “So I am sure all of the Texas schools, as well as other universities, are going to send their best of the best.” OLD AND NEW MEMORIES This is not the first trip to the prestigious event for Littleton; he even went as a high schooler in Cuero and his experiences in the Texas Relays have been quite exhilarating. “In high school when I competed in the Texas Relays, I jumped decent. One

year in college, I got second in the B division. The one time I competed in the A division, I did not jump well,” Littleton said. “Maurice Greene was running though and at that time he was the ‘World’s Fastest Man.’ We were warming up and he was three feet away from us. We were just a bunch of 17, 18year-old kids, and there was the ‘World’s Fastest Man’ three feet away from you.” In order to reach perfection the team has been practicing for several weeks. According to Cavasos, proper technique has been a point of emphasis. Many are feeling the payoff of their strenuous routine and yet are still striving a little more to get everything down to the tee. “I am pretty much in the best condition I can be in,” said Littleton, who holds the UTPA record in the high jump. “Right now it is just about maintaining it, staying healthy and tweaking a couple of things.” Vaughn is pleased with the progress made and expects good results at the end of the meet. “With each meet we just hope to continue to improve a little bit,” he said. “I always tell the athletes that it is like climbing up a ladder. You have to take it one step at a time until you get to the top.”

Onydia Garza/The Pan American TEXAS-SIZE EVENT - Universities, colleges and high schools from around the nation are in Austin this week to participate in the 80th annual Texas Relays. Senior high jumper Will Littleton has competed in the event before.

GOLF

Golfers preparing for final tournament of season Men, women look ahead to May tourney in Florida By RAMIRO PAEZ The Pan American

Sidney Meadows/The Pan American STEADY HANDS - Freshman Armen Kirakossian (above) and the rest of the men’s team must practice putting and other skills to defend their title at the National Minority College Golf Championship May 11-13.

The University of Texas-Pan American men’s and women’s golf teams were in Missouri on Monday and Tuesday competing in their respective tournaments. The men’s team finished seventh overall in the Branson Creek Invitational held at Branson and hosted by Missouri State University. The women’s team finished 10th overall in the MSU/Payne Stewart Memorial Golf Tournament held at Springfield, hosted by Missouri State University. The Broncs finished with a threeround score of 908, finishing seventh, and were only six shots away from finishing in the top five. UTPA senior Colin

Norris was the Broncs top performer at the tournament. Norris posted a 52-hole tally of 222, finishing 10th overall, and posted a 71, the Broncs’ season low of the year, in the final round. Among other top performers at the Invitational were freshman Armen Kirakossian and junior Kyle Tudi. Kirakossian finished 21st overall and posted a three-round score of 227, while his teammate finished right behind him at 228. Sophomore Shane Pearce finished tied for 30th with a score of 237 and freshman High Wongchindawest finished 56th with a score of 264. In Springfield, the Lady Broncs finished with a two-round score of 667. Junior Elizabeth Rodriguez led the way for the Lady Broncs, finishing 14th overall and posting a score with the 36hole tally of 160. It was the best finish for the Lady Broncs this spring. Finishing one stroke behind her teammate was sophomore Mariale Camey who finished tied for 16th at 161. Sophomore Bronwyn Sandberg finished 37th overall with a score of 166. Rounding out the Lady Broncs were

Valley native Rebecca De Leon, who finished 65th and had a score of 180, and junior Jennifer Marks, who finished 71st and had a score of 182. “We had our highs and lows,” said Barb Odale, head coach of the Lady Broncs. “Even though we were prepared, we didn’t play well and our girls were rushed.” Both the men’s and women’s golf teams will be back in action May 11-13 when they compete in the National Minority College Golf Championship held in Port St. Lucie, Fla. It will be their final tournament of the year. The Minority Championship will be a big one for both outfits. “It’s very important to us,” Odale said. “We look forward to this tournament all year and competing at the national level. We are competing against schools with similar challenges, so it is a big deal.” The men’s team will try to defend the title it captured last year for the first time since 2002. They will also try to keep improving their collegiate rankings, which have steadily been moving

up, according to Golfweek.com. They were ranked 158th in the nation before entering the Branson Creek Invitational. The young women’s team will have the same amount of pressure on them to perform well at this event, since they have captured the title three times in the past four years under Odale but have lost three key seniors. “The girls put a lot of internal pressure on them,” Odale said. “They try to capture their emotions and play steady. We graduated three seniors, so we took a big hit, but they are a young team trying to capture another title and trying to build on that for next year, since most of the girls will be returning. The National Minority College Golf Championship is in its 21st season and is operated by the Professional Golfer’s Association of America. It was created to focus national attention on minority college golf, to stimulate the development of golf programs at the intercollegiate level and to create a 36hole national championship for America’s finest minority college golfers.

SPORTS By ERICK QUINTERO The Pan American While some were avoiding the pesky Saturday morning drizzle, others like junior computer science major Isamin Armendariz were enjoying the muddy pit created by the heavy rain in the middle of Edinburg’s city reservoir, located on the corner of Sugar road and Chapin. The Reynosa native fired her paintball gun alongside her Association for Computer Machinery teammates as they participated in the one-day paintball 1

tournament sponsored by The University of Texas-Pan American’s National Hispanic Professional Organization. “It’s my first time playing. I didn’t go to Reynosa this weekend, so I wanted to do something. It’s fun, we won three out of four matches and reached the semifinals,” Armendariz said. She was one of the more daring players, charging ahead continuously despite her small frame. “They fire and I attack, and also since I’m smaller, well that helps,” she said. According to NHPO vice chairman Felix Garcia, the field event was a major

Editor’s Pick: Game to Watch When: Thursday Time: 9:30 p.m. Where: San Antonio Will be aired on TNT Phoenix

attempt to allow the student body to network with the business professional community. There were six organizations on hand represented by eight-member teams, in a last-team-standing, double-elimination bracket. “We came to find out a lot of the students were interested in playing paintball so we organized it in order to have fun,” Garcia said. “We did have to get permission from the city to use this landfill. We bought the paintballs but most of the equipment, facemasks and paintball guns were borrowed from the on-campus ROTC program.” The junior accounting major organized the event in less than a week and added that McAllen Paintball helped by donating carbon dioxide tanks. A four-man crew was in charge of officiating and enforcing safety measures, while some competitors brought their own body armor, abdominal coverings, knee and elbow pads, as well as fatigues. Players hunkered down for cover on the makeshift bunkers made out of beat-up pallets. As the rain continued to pour, on-lookers sought cover under a tent set up by NHPO, enjoying free Red Bulls provided by Red Bull, a co-sponsor. “We’re going to try to make this an annual thing. There’s a lot of interest from young individuals that like to play this game and we expect

TARGET PAINTED - (1) Junior computer science major Isamin Armendariz sneaks up on Joe De La O, a senior math major, and a member of the Hispanic Business Student Association. (2) Marco Guerra (right), a UTPA graduate from Hidalgo, crouches behind a barricade.

more participation next time around. Hopefully next time around it will be bigger and better,” Garcia said. “We had a real nice tent that provided cover, but the rain definitely made playing the game more difficult. It gave the game a twist, it made it more fun and people were sliding everywhere.” The International Business Association team relied on an experienced squad to capture this year’s trophy. “Some of our members do play often, but not all of them,” said Gilbert Salinas, a senior international business major and president of IBA. “Right now out of our team of eight, four of us play regularly, and it was the first time for the other four members. They just wanted to play. We invited our members to one of our meetings and four of them showed up so we made a team.” According to Salinas he and the three other members usually play at McAllen Paintball or in a field behind the Miller International Airport, but focused on having fun as their main strategy to take the top prize in the tournament. “Not a strategy per se, just to come out and have fun. That was the whole idea of inviting our members over,” he noted. “Just to combine a social with a sporting event, it was great. I had a lot of fun and all of our members had fun.”

San Antonio

The record for home runs set in 1981-83 by Mitchell Moran. Senior Patrick Brooks leads the team with five this season.

286

The single-round record set by the men’s golf team at last year’s National Minority College Golf Championships.

The number of times the Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays has been held. Both Bronc squads are competing at the meet this week. Do you have a statistic about the Broncs? Want to suggest a story? Have a comment or concern? If so, submit them to the Sports Editor at lkoong2004@yahoo.com.

UPCOMING SCHEDULE

Luke Koong/The Pan American Designed By: Rick Gamez

Today Baseball @ N. Colorado M. Tennis @ Texas-Arlington W. Track @ Texas Relays M. Track @ Texas Relays W. Tennis @ Texas-Arlington

2 p.m. 11 a.m. All Day All Day TBA

Friday Baseball @ N. Colorado W. Track @ Texas Relays M. Track @ Texas Relays

2 p.m. All Day All Day

Saturday Baseball @ N. Colorado W. Tennis vs Central Arkansas M. Track @ Texas Relays W. Track @ Texas Relays

2 p.m. 10 a.m. All Day All Day