July 26, 2010 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 12, 2007

Legislature pushes for freshman-year tuition freeze By VERONICA GONZALEZ The Pan American Despite rising tuition rates, Texas legislators are determined to see the cost of a college education come to a standstill. Since tuition was deregulated in 2004, the rates at numerous universities have soared. At The University of TexasPan American, annual tuition for 30 hours of credit rose from $2,984 to

QEP team anticipates SACS visit By LUKE KOONG The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American is making its final preparations for the visit by the SACS on-site accreditation team next week. On the agenda: the Quality Enhancement Plan. Judy Davidson, director of the Writing Center, has been part of the QEP team since its infancy and said the university hopes students are aware of the plan and what it means for them. “Students should know that your university is doing something to help them,” she said. “They should know that the university puts the students’ needs as their top priority.” Davidson and the QEP team realize it is unlikely the entire student body will know what the QEP is about, but still hope they will know the basics. “It would be great if they knew the title. If they know anything about what we’re going to do, that’d be even better,” she said. Davidson said it is the committee’s hope that news of the QEP spreads widely throughout the campus. “That would be all we could expect. By this time next year, hopefully

$3,152 in 2004, a 5.6 percent increase. This increase was small in comparison to other universities. For example, tuition at the University of Texas-Austin rose 26 percent from $4,550 to $5,735 for 30 hours of credit that same year. Currently, UTPA’s yearly tuition rate is $4,598, according to collegefortexans.com. As a result of the across the board increases, several proposals have been

submitted in an effort to regain control over cost. Two of the various Senate bills proposed during this year’s legislative session have come close to being approved, according to Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa. Hinojosa, along with Sen. Florence Shapiro of Plano, has co-written Senate Bill 100, which aims to prevent the rise of college tuition. The proposed bill would freeze the tuition rate a college freshman

entered with for a maximum of four years. In essence, it would ensure students don’t fall victim to rapidly rising rates. “We’re trying to help students get more focused and lock down tuition on whatever they paid freshman year so that they will not pay a higher tuition rate than that,” Hinojosa said. “But they have to graduate within four years.” Hinojosa said tuition has risen too

Did you know? Q

Following deregulation of tuition in 2004, rates rose 5.6 percent at UTPA, 17.3 percent at UT-Brownsville, 23.1 percent at UTSA and 26 percent at UT-Austin in one year.

See TUITION page 11

- www.collegefortexans.com

Student assaulted on campus Police search for man who could have more info By SANDRA GONZALEZ The Pan American Police at The University of TexasPan American are hoping the man depicted in their computer-generated sketch will help lead them to the suspect accused of assaulting a student late in the evening April 4. This “person of interest” was seen in the area by the victim shortly before the crime was committed, according to James Loya, assistant chief of police for UTPA Police Department. “At this time we just want to identify this person and see if he has any information,” Loya said. Around 9:15 p.m., the victim, whose name was not released, was reportedly walking from the library to her car in the small parking lot H, located on the 1000 Block of West Van Week Street, when she was approached from behind by a man who proceeded to assault her with an unknown object. The girl screamed and managed to fight off her attacker. She sustained only a few minor injuries and torn clothes,

Crime on campus

See SACS page 11

according to Loya, who added she was not taken to the hospital. The suspect was described to police as a Hispanic male in his early 20s who is approximately 6 feet tall and 200 pounds. He was wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and dark baggy pants, according to Loya, and spoke in a heavy Spanish accent Loya admits that while the description matches several people in the area and at the university, it is the police department’s hope that someone will come forward. “Technically, it does fit the description of several individuals, but we hope it will trigger the memory of somebody,” he said. “We’re hoping that information will get to the right person.” Loya added that the photo of the person of interest has generated interest. They received about 10 to 12 leads as a result of the rendering, and he assures they are following up on each one. This is the first time since 2003 that an aggravated assault has been reported to campus police. The most commonly

Aggravated assaults

See ASSAULT page 11

Motor vehicle thefts

UTPA Police Department SEARCHING - Police released this computer-generated rendering of a man they say was seen in the vicinity of an aggravated assault April 3.

Simple assaults

Burglaries

73 Thefts

* Numbers from 2005 according to the 2006-2007 Campus Safety and Security Report

News

A&E

Sports

Rodent feces causes stir among cafeteria diners, officials take action

IMAS hosts special exhibit to celebrate its 40th year

NCAA ranks university athletic teams academically, mixed results

See Page 3

See Page 7

See Page 14

PAGE 2

R EADER FORUM

April 12, 2007 THE

PAN AMERICAN

Social commentary By: Sandra Gonzalez

1201 West University, CAS 170 Edinburg, Texas 78539 (956) 381-2541 Fax: (956) 316-7122 http://www.panam.edu/dept/panamerican 56th Year – No. 26

Take me back to the good old days

Metrosexual takeover threatens game of attraction A

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 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.

dam Levine, front man for Maroon 5, was once my cat’s meow. A slightly nasal, girly voice, yes. But boy, oh boy, was he utterly doable. That was until, while sitting pleasantly in my tranquil boudoir, I came upon a sight my poor eyes will never forget. The newest Maroon 5 video featured my lovely Levine in a female-cut, European-style suit. Now, I’m a forgiving person. Not really. But when it comes to good looking people, I am. I could forgive the purple strobe lights that flashed behind him, but at no time while on this earth, will I ever forgive a hot guy in a girl’s two-piece suit. I will never, ever forgive the stylist who sent Adam onto the set of his newest video looking like he raided Annie Lennox’s closet. Metrosexuality is nothing new. Ryan Seacrest is responsible for making frosted tips socially acceptable, even though we all know the gay Nsyncer paved the way. But I fear that in today’s society, females much like myself are losing a battle that threatens all that used to be good about picking up men. There once was a day when upon opening up the forbidden pages of Cosmo magazine as a young girl, my eyes would be met with the bulging muscles of the male physique.

Each arm and ligament had its own share of well-earned hills and valleys. I am in no way too attracted to the Muscle and Fitness, no-neck types. But I can appreciate a nice body. There is something Chippendale’s about the old days of men that is missing from today’s selection of “hot men.” I really can’t imagine sticking my George Washingtons into Ashton Kutcher’s half-filled Speedo as it loosely clings to his pasty, underweight frame. Sure, today’s hottest male celebs have muscle tone, but there is something too I-pay-my-trainer-goodmoney-for-this-six-pack about their bodies. What happened to the guys who sport the I-spend-so-much-timechopping-fire-wood-that-I-can’t-getmy-shirt-to-close-over-my-enormousmuscles look? Moreover, back in the good days of men, females wouldn’t have to worry about those muscles being covered in a pink shirt. I’m all for equality in color pallets, but there is a line. A very clear line. There is such a thing as too much pink. We all know that. Wearing pink might be something cute that guys think will get them attention. Hell, it may even work. But when you start liking it, when you start looking for it, there’s a serious problem. Molly

Ringwald was pretty in pink. Did you ever see Ducky pick it up and ask if it went with his skin tone? I kid you not, I heard that at the mall. In fact, in light of my mall horror, I’ve begun taking up a collection to fund the filming of my Public Service Announcement. This is a rough piece of the script, I’d like some feedback: “Men, males and influential, straight teenage boys: testicular cancer kills hundreds, sometimes thousands of men every year. Even more of those are losing berries every day. Love who you are and what you have. Don’t go metrosexual.” It’s a work in progress, but I think it’s promising. I say what I say today out of love and concern for every male, except those who are ugly and have no hope. I love a clean man, but clean can be achieved using Ivory soap and a little scrubbing. You don’t need facials, manicures or pedicures. If you want to relax, sit in a Lay-

Z-Boy and drink an ice cold one. Don’t get a massage. If you need new underwear, I hear Target has them on sale for $6.99 per Hanes package. You get six pairs. You don’t need Calvin Klein’s name around your waist. If you see a little extra flub hanging over those jeans, don’t join a gym. Don’t hire a trainer. Go clean the gutters. Go wash a car. Or just run, damn you, run! Or if you’re a real guy, you’ll just let it go. As our society develops, I understand there will be changes in the structure of things, people included. But I don’t look forward to the day when married women argue with their husbands over hogging the mirror more than about leaving the toilet seat up. Frankly, by that time, men will have lost themselves so much we’ll all just be sitting down to pee, won’t we? I fear the day and you should too. Have a day. Not a good one. Not a bad one. Just have (a non-metrosexual) one.

Like the column? Want a shout out? Want to defend your beloved metrosexuality? Send all letters to: Sandra_panamerican@yahoo.com

Chess puzzle answers for April 5 KEY - P - Pawn; N - Knight; B Bishop; R - Rook; Q - Queen; K King; x - capture; + - check; ++ double check; # - checkmate

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.

Checkmate in three moves for white to win: 1. Nf4+ Kd2 2. Nxc4 Kc2 3. Kf7#

Checkmate in one moves for black to win: 1. ...Ne7# Checkmate in one moves for black to win: 1. ...Rd7# or 1. ...Rg5#

White can win in 6 moves just by moving the king: 1. Kc3 Kd5 6. Kd5# 2. Kb3 Kc5 3. Ka4 Kd5 4. Kb5 Ke5 5. Kc6 Kf6

Correction: Rep. Luis Gutierrez of Illinois is a Democrat, not a Republican as reported in “Immigration bill proposed, experts doubt resolution” (April 5).

IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF

THE PAN AMERICAN

Available April 19

Best technique?

Meet the author

- Learn what educators are saying about bilingual education following criticism of the method

- Find out what Don Miles has to say about his newest book, “Cinco de Mayo,” during a book-signing

N EWS

News in brief: Tony Matamoros (left) and Tony Villarreal were elected Student Government Association president and vice president, respectively.

Substance abuse most prevalent in off-campus housing By BRENDA RODRIGUEZ The Pan American Substance abuse by college students is growing among students living in Greek housing and off campus, according to The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University. The study claims the number of

students who binge-drink frequently has increased. These students are drinking excessive amounts, taking five drinks or more per sitting, three or more times in two weeks. Not only are students binge drinking but they are abusing prescription drugs such as Ritalin, Adderall and OxyContin. However, Chad Martin, director of residence life, is not concerned about

substances spilling over to on-campus housing at The University of Texas-Pan American. “I think the people who choose to live on campus are probably more academic-centered than maybe the majority of those who may not live on campus,” he said. Martin pointed out that those students who live on campus have higher

New book warns of casual-sex dangers

ing to the survey. On-campus housing has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs or even drug paraphernalia. Martin said that students caught with illegal substances are asked to move out immediately. “The university takes a hard look at the situation as well. Certainly a suspension of some kind, certainly probation as

See SUBSTANCE page 12

Health officials respond after rodent feces found in cafeteria

By ANNA FLORES The Pan American While casual sexual encounters are not a rarity among college-age people, author Laura Sessions Stepp says such rendezvous could have long-term consequences. In her book “Unhooked,” Stepp says women can endanger their love future by having too many “hook-ups,” defined as any form of informal sexual encounter with no strings attached. Prior to writing the book, Stepp, a reporter for the Washington Post, interviewed dozens of young women and fol- By MANUEL TISCARENO lowed up on their lives, witnessing their The Pan American promiscuous behavior as they danced Reported sightings of rat feces in atop tables at night clubs and made out with random men in dark corners. Her the cafeteria have prompted health offianalysis suggests that while casual sex cials at The University of Texas-Pan and other activities may have become American to enact proactive measures. The Department of Environmental normal, the dangers are nonetheless See BOOK page 12 Health and Safety, in conjunction with the Physical Plant, has worked over the past month to prevent infestation. Though the type of rodent remains uncertain to officials, Matt Stephens, a senior history major, said he has seen

GPAs, graduate faster and are more likely to graduate, period, than people who live off campus. “I’m not sure if that’s related to it, but the students who do live on campus seem to be really focused on their academic studies,” he said. Still, about 23 percent of college students meet the medical criteria for substance abuse or dependence, accord-

them running along the walls more than once. “I saw it twice,” he said. “I’m [not sure if it] was a rat. I guess you could say it was a mouse, maybe about four inches,” said the Rio Hondo native, adding he first saw rodent activity one month ago and once again last week. Cafeteria Manager Elson Rivera said that as soon as he found out about the rodents, he called Physical Plant, which has been working on patching up possible entrances for the past month. In addition, cafeteria policy

requires mandatory monthly fumigations. While some feel that perhaps more fumigation is necessary, Rivera said he will do what the policy calls for. Furthermore, under Rivera’s supervision the cafeteria has taken drastic steps in the past to ensure food safety. Rivera ordered all plates removed and washed after Houston Gomez, a junior nursing major, complained about rodent droppings on top of the plates three weeks ago. Gomez, of Pharr, said he is still leery about the sanitation in the cafeteria

and said he saw the droppings Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of last week, adding that he snapped photographs. Richard Costello, director of DHES, said he thinks the sightings are being exaggerated and that Sodexho, the cafeteria’s food provider, is working to end the problem. “The solution at this point is a combination of exclusion, trapping, and more recently the use of a rodenticide to address the issue,” he said. “It is also my understanding that Sodexho has also taken

See RODENTS page 12

Speaker: few aware of human trafficking dangers By KRISTEN VILLEGAS The Pan American

www.tantor.com CONTROVERSY - Stepp’s book claims “hook-ups” inhibit future love.

In an effort to raise awareness about sexual assault, local activist Noemi Martinez spoke to about 25 students April 3 in the Health Science and Human Services building about issues dealing with human trafficking.

Martinez, who works for Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid, Inc. in Edinburg, thought human trafficking would be a good topic to broach, to inform students and professors about a different type of sexual assault. Known as “modern-day slavery,” trafficking is the second largest criminal industry in the world and the fastest grow-

ing. Approximately 600,000–800,000 people are trafficked per year worldwide, 80 percent being women and young girls, according to Martinez. “It can happen to anyone, undocumented immigrants, legal permanent residents and we as U.S. citizens,” Martinez said. Crystal Stewart, a registered nurse

who works with the Student Health Center at The University of Texas-Pan American, said this month exposes an issue that impacts countless lives, but so many are unwilling to talk about it. “There is a great deal of secrecy, shame and guilt that surrounds sexual assault and violence,” said Stewart, who

See DANGERS page 12

Page 4

NEWS

April 12, 2007

NEWS

April 12, 2007

Page 5

Daniel Flores/The Pan American BELIEF - At Yerberia Mistica, candles which are thought to have powerful effects, are sold for $12.50. Some believe they can help solve problems ranging from illness to a tendency to use foul language.

Old magic, new trend Faith healers revive ancient art at local herb shops By MANUEL TISCARENO Translated By JUAN PINTOR The Pan American Envy is a common affliction among people. However, sufferers need not worry because the candle “del Retiro,” ready and lit in the shape of a triangle, will scare away the dark angels. At least, that’s what a group of curanderas, or faith healers, in the Rio Grande Valley would tell you. With the number of hierberías (herb shops) increasing radically in McAllen’s Downtown area, a culture of curanderas is establishing itself. In 2002, there were only four herb shops in McAllen. Five years later, this number has grown to 12, most of which are located close to each other along South 17th Street. Curanderismo was influenced by the Spanish, during the colonization of Mexico. This several-hundred-year-old tradition combines both Catholicism and folk medicine remedies of Latin American natives. Upon stepping foot into any of the shops, incense and candles of different colors can be found lining the shelves. At Yerberia Mistica, located at 17th Street and Dallas, a statue of a female La Santísima Muerte is on a pedestal, dressed in a hand-woven dress. Liliam Castro, the shop’s owner, said there is a well known legend behind the statue. “The santísima muerte is an angel that The Lord sent to raise the useless bodies that are left without life,” Castro said. “Without her, the bodies would be walking while falling apart, like the old people, but the bodies would be alive.” Castro reads Tarot cards, prepares

spells, and tells customers how to do a good spiritual cleansing. According to Castro, the talent runs in her family. Specifically, she believes she acquired the talent from her Spanish grandmother. Tarot cards have been part of Castro’s life for as long as she can remember. When she was a little girl, she didn’t play with toys or dolls; instead she played with the cards, which she said were her major distraction. However, while the traditions inherent at hierberias are normal for Castro and other curanderas, some in the downtown area are uneasy about the influx of new hierberias and their practices. “They do resort to the use of evil. They use it because they have used it on me. They have paid the other herb shops so that I cannot be here [in downtown],” said Juanita Briones, who has worked at Nelly’s Used Clothes on 17th Street for six years. According to Briones, she found out that somebody was casting spells on her after a friend gossiped about the news. Her friend, Maria Gonzalez, owner of McAllen Flower Shop, agrees with Briones. “My mother, may she rest in peace, used to say, ‘Those things are pacts with the enemy,’” Gonzalez said. But for Castro, this is a tradition passed down from ancestors, who also healed with herbs. Castro believes magic can be understood by observing the energies and auras that each person possesses. She says that when the aura or “rainbow” breaks, it allows bad energies to penetrate. According to Castro, symptoms of a punctured aura include weariness, lack of appetite and bad temper.

Spiritual cleansings are not the only solution for the illness; you can also choose between magic powders, candles, natural products and aromatic oils. For $12.50 you can take home the ready-to-use candles, including the Tapa Bocas, or Mouth Cover, to prevent foul language. Light it in the shape of a triangle and forget about your problem. The Chupa Rosa for love also sells very well, according to Castro, as does the del Control candle, which is meant to make someone be your puppet. Others include the del Corte Y Juzgado candle.

MYSTICAL - Using herb remedies and owning La Muerte statues is typical among people who believe in faith healing. Daniel Flores/The Pan American

EN ESPAÑOL

Noticias en breve: Tony Matamoros y Tony Villarreal fueron elegidos como presidente y vice presidente, repectivamente, del Gobierno Estudiantil (SGA).

Hechizos, folklore: Herencia mística en el Valle Por MANUEL TISCARENO The Pan American Con el número de hierberías creciendo radicalmente en el centro de McAllen, una cultura de curanderos y hechizeras se establece en el Valle. En el año 2002, se encontraban solamente cuatro hierberías. Cinco años después, el número aumentó a doce tiendas, las cuales, raramente, se encuentran por la calle Sur 17 casi pegadas las unas a otras. No es difícil entender este crecimiento, pues las hierberías son una mezcla de viejas culturas y experiencias nuevas. Entrando en las tiendas se ve un mundo de figuras, inciensos y veladoras de diferentes colores. Una figura en particular, La Santísima Muerte (de sexo femenino), se encuentra en un pedestal, arropada con un vestido bordado a mano. Liliam Castro, la dueña de la Hierberia Mistica entre la calle 17 y Dallas, explica un poco sobre la cultura religio-mágica.

“La santísima muerte es un ángel que El Señor mandó para levantar a los cuerpos inservibles que se quedan sin vida. Si no estuviera ella, los cuerpos anduvieran cayéndose en pedazos [como] los viejitos, pero andarían con vida,” dice Castro. Castro lee el Tarot, prepara trabajos (hechizos) y les dice a sus clientes como hacer una buena limpia espiritual. Adquirió su don de su abuelita española, y afirma que puede echar las cartas del Tarot boca abajo. De niña, Liliam no jugaba con juguetes ni muñecas, pues su mayor distracción eran las cartas. Otros en el centro se sienten atemorizados por estas tiendas. Juanita Briones lleva seis años trabajando en Nelly’s Ropa Usada, ubicada en la Calle 17. “Sí usan la maldad. Sí la usan porque la han usado en en mí. Han pagado a las demás hierberías para que yo no pueda estar aquí [en el centro],” cuenta Briones. Briones se enteró que alguien la estaba embrujando después de que su

amiga le contó el chisme. La comadre de Briones, Maria Gonzalez, dueña de McAllen Flower Shop, también se unió a la conversación. “Mi mamá que en paz descanse, decía, ‘Esas cosas son pactos con el enemigo,’” dice Gonzalez. Pero Liliam Castro afirma que nuestros ancestros curaban con hierbas y que la magia puede ser entendida por medio de las energías y auras que cada uno poseemos. Nos dice que el aura o el ‘arcoiris’ se rompe, y deja entrar malas energías. Síntomas del aura perforada incluyen, cansancio, falta de apetito y mal humor. Pero las limpias no son el único remedio para los males; también puede escoger entre polvos mágicos, veladoras, productos naturistas y aceites aromáticos. Por $12.50 usted se puede llevar las velas preparadas, incluyendo La Tapa Bocas, para evitar las groserías. La Chupa Rosa para el amor es muy bien vendida. También para tenerlos como marionetas, La veladora del Control es muy acudida.

Las tiendas místicas, aunque puedan causar muchas dudas, son una realidad cultural en el Valle. Con una mezcla de religión Católica y costumbres indígenas y afro-cubanas, muchos

les designan nombres como “charlatanerías.” Pero la realidad es que esta rama de la magia es una herencia cultural que enlaza el amor hacia la tierra, sus energías y los personajes Católicos.

Daniel Flores/The Pan American VIEJA CULTURA - Yerberia Mistica es una de varias hierberias en McAllen donde se esta practicando las viejas costumbres de la cultura religio-magica.

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

Editor’s Pick: Must-See Movie “Perfect Stranger,” the new thriller starring Halle Berry and Bruce Willis, will open Friday.

‘Leaves and Folds’ brings Peruvian flora to RGV

By FRANK CALVILLO The Pan American The International Museum of Arts and Sciences is celebrating 40 years of art, science and fun, and as a result, various exhibits have been made available to the public, including Cora Diaz’s newest work, “Series: Leaves and Folds,” which will be on display through Aug. 19. Diaz is a Peruvian-born artist living in Mexico. She received her master’s degree in visual arts from Institut Superieur des Arts Visuelles de la Cambre, Brussels, Belgium, and has shared her artistic life between Europe, Mexico and Peru. Marketing Director Lucila Lagace is very pleased about having Diaz’s work as part of the museum’s exhibit. “The work that Cora has done with this new series is wonderful,” Lagace said. “She is a very busy artist. She takes part in 28 personal exhibits a year and participates in 50 collective exhibits as well.”

Sidney Meadows/The Pan American ICONIC ART - Peruvian artist Cora Diaz’s exhibiit at IMAS depicts the orchids native to her homeland.

She added that Diaz has been awarded different prizes honoring her work, and she has shown her art all over the world including Mexico, the United States, South America and Europe. According to Lagace, Diaz is trying to represent her home not by painting the land or trying to portray the people, but by painting one of the country’s representative icons.

For “Series: Leaves and Folds,” Diaz created images inspired by the exotic orchid family, since her native country, Peru, is known as the land of orchids. As many as 3,500 species of this particular flower are native to the Mayo Bamba area in northern Peru. The exhibit is made up of 99 works that include paintings, lithographs and book-making. Diaz’s lithographs are also

open books where she illustrates the duality of life and death. Rio Grande Valley resident Joel Damian, 45, visited the museum and liked Diaz’s exhibit. “I really liked how she played with the colors and the way she placed them against each other,” Damian said. “The result of her work is wonderful; looking at it just gives you a feeling of harmony.”

The beginning of the exhibit shows paintings of whole orchids with simple folds. The folds, as Lagace explained, are both physically and metaphorically done and refer to the preliminary drawings, bringing the paintings into the Modernist genre. As the exhibit progresses, the flowers break down and become imaginary gardens through repetition of petals, stems and leaves. Ultimately, the folds become more ingenious and the space becomes more important than the flower. “It is a beautiful collection,” Lagace said. “Art lovers would absolutely enjoy this exhibit. It is very different from any others we have shown at the museum.” The pieces do not have an individual name; instead they all share the exhibit’s title, “Series: Leaves and Folds.” The museum is located at 1900 Nolana in McAllen. For more information about the exhibits, contact the museum at www.imasonline.org or at (956) 682-1564.

Music department awaits accreditation committee By LUKE KOONG The Pan American Next week, The University of Texas-Pan American will play host to representatives from the National Association of Schools of Music. William O’Neil, interim chair of the music department, expects the accreditation agency to tell the university something it already knows. “The downside of rapid growth is that we don’t have room to do things,” O’Neil said. “It’s a struggle to keep up.” O’Neil, who has been with the university for 15 years, said UTPA’s music department has almost doubled in enrollment and faculty members. As a result, three practice rooms had to be converted into faculty offices, leaving 270 students to share six rooms. Carlos de Leon, a senior music education major, said students like himself struggle to find practice times. “We don’t get to practice until 8 p.m. because the band hall is used from 7 a.m. to 8-9 p.m. By the time we can practice, there’s no time because the cops come in and close it up by 10 p.m.,” de Leon said. Luckily, the state Legislature has

approved the construction of a new Fine Arts Complex to help solve those problems. “We’re excited with the growth in student enrollment but it has created some problems, which thankfully, the State of Texas has seen and has awarded us a very substantial amount of money to build a new music building,” O’Neil said. The university hopes to begin construction within the next few months and have a functional facility by the 20092010 school year. GETTING THE BEST Even with the current limitations of facilities, UTPA is still actively looking to attract the best talent. “We have to go after the kids. We have to be in the schools, recruiting,” O’Neil said. In order for prospective students to be enticed, the university would need money for more scholarships. Additionally, UTPA would need to change how local musicians perceive the university. “We are trying very hard to get away from the perception that UTPA is where you go if you can’t go somewhere

else,” O’Neil said. “We’d like to be an appealing place for kids who have won All-State honors, the best kids from the Valley.” Pedro Martinez, a professor of music, said one of the university’s best assets to students is one-on-one instruction. “The main thing that a smaller school can offer that a larger school does not is the opportunity to work with the principal instructor,” Martinez said. O’Neil said the number of faculty specialists should also help entice prospective students. “When a student is looking at where to go for college, they’re going to look for somebody who can do what their instrument calls for,” he said. MONEY MATTERS The largest problem facing the department is money. For students already in the program, the shortage of funding has caused inconvenience in terms of practice time. Jesus Pena, a senior music major, is one of 14 students sharing two marimbas. “We can share, and we learn how to share with each other, but the amount of time we spend on the marimba is very little,” Pena said. “As a musician, we

Luke Koong/The Pan American MUSICAL STYLINGS - Director Dean Canty led the UTPA Concert Band at their March 27 performance in the Fine Arts Auditorium.

have to practice over five hours just to be a good performer. By sharing, we only average about two hours.” Money has also limited the number of students who can attend the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC). While students struggle for a place to practice or instruments to use, Pena said students still receive a good educa-

tion. “Despite all the adversity here, we’re still willing to move on forward,” he said. The quality of musical education was evident at the concert band’s Spring performance March 27 in the Fine Arts Auditorium. The program included selections by John Philip Sousa and Giuseppe Verdi, among others.

Page 8

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

April 12, 2007

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Jazz legend to visit RGV ine El Rey is popularly known for its independent films and musical performances. Thursday the historic downtown McAllen theater will open its doors to a different kind of entertainment – the musical jazz stylings and performances of “the coolest cat working in Hollywood,” Toledo Diamond. Toledo Diamond is a lot of things. He’s a soul singer, jazz man, poet, dancer, choreographer and a highly dramatic performer. He’s been dancing since he was 15 years old. Some would say he does it all. The Los Angeles native has worked with artists such as Janet Jackson, Sammy Davis Jr., Paula Abdul, Diana Ross and the Pointer Sisters in choreography. His vocal sounds have been compared to those of Marvin Gaye and Barry White. His music is best described as “acid jazz,” “funked-up spoken word,” and “smoky-storyteller.” Diamond will be performing at Cine El Rey April 12 at 8 p.m. and at Espana Restaurant April 13 and 14. Ticket prices range from $40 to $125. The jazz singer started off his musical career as an underground poet, but eventually his words became melodies that women or “Dames” would later accompany. The Toledo Show combines burlesque, intense poetry and the drug addictions of his past. It is the longest running and most talked about show running in Los Angeles, having been in existence for 10 years. According to his “Dames,” the show is unlike anything else. “There is nothing quite like being a Dame. I’ve toured the dance worlds of tap, modern, jazz, Polynesian, belly dancing and West Africa. But my home is the dark school of The Toledo Show: one part Bob Fosse, one part Alvin Ailey, exclusively Toledo,” said Vanessa Carlisle on the official Toledo Web site. University of Texas-Austin freshman Alex Mendez, a 19-yearold from Weslaco loves the idea of

performers like Diamond gracing the Valley with their presence. “Jazz keeps it real. Unlike most popular music today, pure musical talent is the measurement of whether jazz is good or not. Not many genres can boast the skill a good jazz musician has to offer,” said the jazz major, who has been playing in jazz ensembles for about eight years now. “I like that they keep it about the music, minus some exceptions. Jazz has changed my life.” University of Texas-Pan American music professor and jazz band director Dean Canty believes jazz is the foundation for really getting to understand music in general. “It’s important because it is the only native music to this country. It is part of our American heritage. It is the individual performance of an idea and is much more involved musically than any other style,” Canty said. “I like the technical aspects of being able to create spontaneous improvisational solos, the colors and sound and how they go together. I especially like the challenge of playing jazz.” Although Diamond’s show has been a huge success in other areas, the Valley has yet to show much interest in the genre. “Other than the people that make the music itself, I have not seen a large following of jazz in the valley. There are no significantly prevalent jazz radio stations or clubs,” Mendez said. “Unfortunately, I would say the problem is cultural. There hasn’t been much exposure to the older generations, and therefore the kids have to find it themselves.” Canty couldn’t agree more. “It’s been very slow to make a mass impact because mostly there are no outlets for it,” he said. “People love it when they hear it but it’s just not often when they get that chance. A lot of people don’t listen to jazz because they are unfamiliar with it and don’t understand it. It takes some understanding.” But Canty said there is always room for growth. “Even if you don’t know anything about it, try it,” he explained. “You might like it and just experiment from there. It’s a wonderful performance and great to listen to. And it’s always wise to expose our-

selves to a lot of these things.” The Toledo Show is bound to open doors to new possibilities. “It’s not made for everybody, and that is definitely one of the qualities that distinguishes it, but exposing the people to the origins of half of today’s popular music isn’t a bad thing,” Mendez said. “It might just remind people that music isn’t all Escalades and lyrics about your girlfriend dumping you. It’s something more complex, but less tangible, and it’s unique for everybody.”

Page 9

Diamond will be performing at Cine El Rey April 12 at 8 p.m. and at Espana restaurant April 13 and 14. Ticket prices range from $40 to $125. For more information, call (956)490-7454.

Page 8

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

April 12, 2007

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Page 9

Diamond will be performing at Cine El Rey April 12 at 8 p.m. and at Espana restaurant April 13 and 14. Ticket prices range from $40 to $125. For more information, call (956)490-7454.

A&E

Page 10

April 12, 2007

Visiting Latinas urge students to seize opportunities Many noteworthy figures have come to speak to students at The University of Texas-Pan American. In the past, the university has welcomed former presidents, news anchors and Nobel Prize winners, among others. Recently the university welcomed noted poet and author Ana Castillo as well as actress Dalia Hernandez. As two prime examples of successful Hispanic women, both speakers shared their insights into various aspects of life. But most importantly, the two showed the many doors Hispanic women can walk through.

: o l l i t s a C Ana ‘Xicanista’ brings poetry to UTPA By ANGELA SALAZAR The Pan American Writing is something personal. For some it is a way to get out the emotions that have been hidden or a way of making a statement to tell the world that things need to change. For Ana Castillo, all of the above apply to her writing. Castillo’s reading of her poetry and novels kicked off this year’s Pan American Days last week. This however, was not Castillo’s first time to UTPA. “In 1993 I was brought out here as part of the Living Author Series,” she said. “I was the first Chicano woman of color to read a work at UTPA.” She also said she was happy and quick to say yes when offered the chance to speak at Pan American Days. At the reading, Castillo talked about her life and the influences that inspired her to write. One of her poems, “El Chicle,” is about her son and the times she has had

with him while being a single mother. She joked that at every one of her presentations he has sat front row. “I wrote this poem when he was about ten or eleven years old,” Castillo said. During her son Marcel’s high school years, the poem was picked up by an organization and posted on the trains of Chicago. Laughing, she remembered how embarrassed he was that a poem dedicated to him was all over the city. According to Castillo, she never took classes to become a writer. She started writing at the age of nine and from there taught herself to write poetry to convey her feelings. “I’m self motivated. Otherwise, let me tell you, writing is hard work,” she said. “And especially two things - when you are not sure of yourself as a writer, which I’m never sure of myself as a writer, and when you are saying things you know are not popular.” She uses her writing to express ideas that come from her heart, but also

: z e d n a n r Dalia He Catapulted to stardom by Gibson flick By ANGELA SALAZAR The Pan American For two days before she spoke at UTPA, Dalia Hernandez walked around campus, anonymous among the students. Little did anyone know that she is the star of “Apocalypto.” “Nobody knows me, so I could walk around,” she said. At the young age of 21, Hernandez has already put a Hollywood blockbuster under her belt, not to mention having worked with one of the most revered and controversial directors in Tinseltown today – Mel Gibson. Born in Vera Cruz, Mexico, she knew right away that her life would be devoted to dancing.

“My teacher saw I had a talent for dancing and asked my mother to enroll me in ballet classes,” Hernandez said. Her love of dance is only enhanced by the feeling she has before a performance. Just like every performer, Hernandez tends to get butterflies and that adrenaline rush before a performance. Although, her focus until now has been classical dance, her dream is to one day compete in a world competition in ballroom dancing. She is a student at the University of Veracruz. When she was studying dance at the university, one of her professors said there was going to be a casting call for dancers and acrobats for a Mel Gibson movie.

Sidney Meadows/The Pan American

POETESS - Chicana poet Ana Castillo signs copies of her book, “I Ask the Impossible,” during Pan American Days. to help what she calls her activist or “xicanista” side be expressed and leave an imprint on the world. Castillo has been an activist since high school. She created the word “xicanista” which she describes as a combination of Chicano and feminist. A poem she wrote about a nun by the name of Diana Ortiz started as a poem and transformed itself into a play about the

trials and triumphs of her life. After becoming a nun and wanting to teach children, Ortiz was sent to Guatemala to learn Spanish. However, while there she was thrown in the midst of a war. After being tortured and raped she survived and now has an organization to help children and families that have survived similar travails.

It is from these kinds of people and events that Castillo gains her inspiration. “When I talk about someone like this nun Diana Ortiz and she survived what she survived…that motivates me,” Castillo said. “If she can do that, if she can survive that…of course I can do that.” Her last piece of advice is to write and read everything. To gain knowledge and leave an imprint on the world.

“I went to casting and they took my picture and my information,” she said. “They told me that the following day I had to present a phrase in Maya.” Hernandez said she frantically tried to find someone who could help her and after searching for a while realized her neighbor spoke the ancient language. She practiced the entire night and the next day she went back to the casting and spoke the phrase. After she gave her line in Maya, observers looked upon her from head to toe to see if she resembled a Mayan. After the usual, “We’ll call you,” she left for a vacation in Cuba without even thinking twice about the audition. “When I returned I had an e-mail that said, ‘Dalia you’re so lucky. We’ve been looking for you. You have a callback tomorrow,’” she said. Thinking it was just another callback, she prepared herself to speak more lines in Maya and possibly dance, but she got another surprise. “When I showed up the first person I saw was Mel Gibson. I was

very excited and they started to ask me questions. How old am I? How many brothers and sisters do I have? Etcetera,” she said. After questioning her, they asked her what her favorite dance was and she said salsa. They asked her to dance and she chose the screen writer as a partner. Soon after the rest became history and she got the lead role in the movie. For Hernandez, working on the film was an amazing experience. According to her, the passion Gibson has for his work is contagious. “He is very dynamic and he gives so much,” she said. Still, the one thing she says she learned from him is to just breathe. Hernandez said she would get so excited that Gibson would tell her to breathe to get her to retain focus and stay calm. Students were excited and surprised to see her on campus. Pan American Days comes around every year, but it seems to slip students minds at times. But, having speakers like her can draw attention.

“I regret the fact that as a senior I never got to take advantage of these unique opportunities,” said Juan Resendez, a senior business management major. Since the movie is known worldwide, many were excited to have an actress from the movie come to campus. “I thought it was a powerful movie,” Resendez said. “I especially like the ending. After hours of fighting between fellow tribes, Mel Gibson foreshadows the future to come.” Even though the movie had some controversial issues pertaining to historical accuracy of some portrayals, that had no effect on the opinion of some students. “I loved it,” said Yvette Garcia, a junior social studies major. “Although you know you can never get it exact, it’s nice to see someone’s idea of it.” Having an actress and dancer from a Hollywood blockbuster showed how seizing opportunities as they come up can lead to the big break of a lifetime. And how it can happen to anyone.

NEWS

April 12, 2007

Page 11

SACS continued from page 1 everyone on campus is talking about it,” Davidson said. There’s more to it than just wanting students to be informed. As part of its visit, the on-site accreditation team might conduct brief interviews with students that they pass by. Davidson said encountering a student with limited knowledge of the QEP wouldn’t reflect negatively on UTPA, but would indicate to the SACS team that the university needs to better inform the students about their plans. Members of the UTPA faculty will make presentations to the visiting committee, addressing various aspects of the QEP. Some will discuss the learning

style of Hispanic students, components of the plan, and how those components will be implemented. Davidson is confident UTPA is ready to present their ideas. “We’re going to be prepared to tell them what we’re doing,” she said. “There’s always the unknown and they could conceivably flesh out some more areas or make some changes. But we’ll be ready to listen and do what we need to do because we want this to be good for our students.” STUDENT INPUT Osiris Alday, a graduate of UTPA

TUITION continued from page 1 much within the past three years and he is convinced that it has become a “backdoor tax” on students and their families, which is why he also proposed Senate Bill 85. This could keep tuition at a standstill for the next three years for all students, not just freshmen. It would also place a five percent limit on the rate at which tuition can increase. According to Dennis McMillan, associate vice president of enrollment and student services, any proposed legislation to freeze tuition would have an effect on the university, probably a bad one. “If we were to freeze tuition, it would make it difficult to continue to grow and make it a challenge to hire faculty and provide services for students,” he said. The university is doing its best to keep tuition at a reasonable level, according to McMillan, but he claims there is not much more room to keep cutting back on the cost of college if students, faculty and staff want to see more growth. Rebecca Sepulveda, a work-study financial aid assistant, said tuition will have to rise if UTPA wants to one day be at the level of other universities. “The University of Texas-Austin has this huge recreational center, but look at the fees that their students pay,” Sepulveda said. “As we get closer to that, we’ll be able to get the stuff that other big universities have.” McMillan and Sepulveda do want to see relief come to students, but aren’t sure as to how bills to alleviate the tuition rise would affect the university’s ability to keep up with the demands of a growing student body. McMillan would prefer to see the

and one of three students who served on one of the committees for the QEP, said identifying a problem area was a task that took the longest period of time. The answer ended up being math. “The wealth of the subjects we covered was tremendous,” he said. “It came up one day that it was one of the university’s greatest weaknesses. The professors in the math department came forward and elaborated on the difficulties that they and the students were facing in the classroom.” Alday personally wanted the QEP to focus on writing, but agrees math is as well important.

“Too many students are not overcoming that one class and it’s causing a tremendous drop-out rate at this university. It’s holding students behind,” he said. “Writing, you can gradually improve upon. Not one single writing course will hinder a student as much as a math course.” The plan, then, focuses on enabling students to be able to pass basic math classes offered in the core at a higher rate than in the past. DO YOU KNOW? The Pan American conducted a brief survey and asked 54 students from

various colleges if they knew what the QEP was. Four surveyed answered ‘yes.’ Additionally, 14 students said they knew the university was undergoing accreditation. While the numbers are not high, Davidson said it is still encouraging to know students from around the campus know about the plan. “While there are still students on campus who are unaware of this future endeavor, it remains a very exciting, forward-looking project to enhance student learning with the three beginning math courses at UTPA,” she said.

ASSAULT continued from page 1

state provide enough support for universities in order to keep students from paying so much, but realizes that there is only so much money to go around. “People in legislation will have to decide where the money will go,” he said. “They’re going to have to ask themselves ‘Where do we want our resources?’” Hinojosa argued that the state has enough to support the higher education system, and should have no reason for not doing it. He said because of tax reserves, the state is at a $9 billion-$12 billion surplus. The Legislature hopes to appropriate the necessary money to support universities without having to depend on students to pay the bulk of it. “I don’t think there’s any downside to having the state pay more money to fund higher education,” Hinojosa said. “There’s no reason why we shouldn’t fund higher education adequately.” According to him the votes to pass the bills are there. The last hurdle is the approval of votes by the chair committee. Hinojosa said the majority of senators support the action as well as the majority of house representatives, and he hopes the governor will not choose to veto the bills if they are passed. “It is the responsibility of the Legislature to appropriate the necessary money to run the universities,” he said. “This is a big investment on our part, but an investment that returns ten-fold by having an educated workforce and educated citizens.” If passed, the tuition bill would come into effect Sept. 1. However, anyone enrolled before fall 2007 would not be able to qualify.

reported offenses are property crimes, such as burglaries, according to Loya. Aggravated assaults are characterized by more serious injury to the victim than that received from a normal assault and/or by the use of a weapon during the crime. Though they have yet to determine what object was used to threaten the victim at this time, Loya said they were all taken aback by the news. An arrest was made just 12 days after the last reported aggravated assault back in 2003, according to Loya. He is hoping for the same luck in this case. “We’re hoping that the information we’re sending will generate interest and information from the public,” Loya said.“We’re following up on everything that’s given to us through Crimeline and seeing where it leads to.”

TAKING PRECAUTIONS Just hours after the aggravated assault, the UTPA community was notified of the incident via the Timely Warning System. In response to the warning, University Relations advised students to use the utmost caution. “University police and administrators have notified the UTPA community - students, staff and faculty - and are encouraging them to be aware of their surroundings as they walk to their vehicles, particularly in the evening,” read the statement. Loya suggested that students take advantage of the PD’s escort service should they feel unsafe walking to their car at any time, day or night. Should students choose not to use the service, Loya said the second best thing is to travel with a friend to all vehicles, especially in

the evening. “Some people also plug the police department’s phone number (316-7151) into their phone,” Loya added. In addition, Loya said it is imperative that students remain aware of their surroundings at all times and park in well-lighted areas. “These days a lot of people are talking on cell phones or listening to their iPods, so they’re not really cautious of what is going on around them,” he said. Loya said the victim was approached as she came up to her vehicle, adding that she stressed the whole incident happened “from one moment to the next.” “Any time you proceed into an area, make sure the area is clear and no one is following you,” he said.

Current annual tuition rates at Texas universities University

Resident

Non-Resident

UT-Pan American

$4,314

$12,564

UT-Brownsville

$4,598

$11,398

UT-San Antonio

$6,666

$14,916

UT-Austin

$7,986

* Based on 30 credit hours

$16,710 www.collegeforTexans.com

Sidney Meadows/The Pan American EXTRA, EXTRA - M. Olaf Frandsen (right), publisher of The Monitor and regional vice president for Freedom Communications Inc., is welcomed by (from left) Salma Ghanem, chair of the communication department, Sandra Quintanilla, director of University Relations, and Peter Dabrowski, associate professor of music and assistant dean of the College of Arts and Humanities. Frandsen spoke Tuesday to a Writing for Mass Media class about his career in journalism.

NEWS

Page 12

April 12, 2007

SUBSTANCE continued from page 3 well, will happen as well to a student status,” he said. On-campus housing does allow alcohol, but students must be 21 and must obey the policy regarding what type of alcohol, the quantity allowed, and the number of people allowed in the room. “If there’s a person under 21 then that apartment is considered to be a dry room, meaning no alcohol is allowed,” Martin said. PROBLEMS TO COME? In Edinburg, it is against city ordinance for Greeks to own a house. Martin knows that some organizations may get together at houses, but the city doesn’t allow them to be a legitimate Greek house. UTPA will have on-campus housing for Greeks and other organizations in the fall. The clubs will be sectioned off in designated pods at Troxel Hall. Although Greeks will be living in the same area along with other organizations, Martin is not worried that substance abuse will be a problem at this new housing project as there will still be

a live-in coordinator and residential assistants onsite. “Judicial issues that arise will be handled through the university,” Martin said. “So, all the things that apply to student residents on campus now will apply to that group too.” Martin points out that some Greeks on campus are on probation for certain actions done off campus, but adds that maybe with some guidance these organizations will stay away from trouble. “The actions that they take, whether they’re off campus or on campus, catch up to them,” he said. SAFETY OFF CAMPUS Dora Guerra, manager at the Oak Tree Apartments, is aware that substance abuse is a student problem. However, she said Oak Tree, located just two blocks from campus, keeps a close eye on college residents, who account for 70 percent of tenants. Guerra said they have never really had a problem with substance abuse, adding the only problem that they face is with alcohol. She said that during the

fours years she’s been working at the apartment there’s only been one occasion where a wild party ensued. “We’re just really strict and don’t allow for these type of things to happen,” she said. Guerra points out that they can’t catch everything that goes on in the apartments, but try their best to make sure residents are following the rules. If residents break them, action will be taken. “We do bring it to their attention, give them warnings and on the third warning they get evicted,” Guerra said. If drugs or alcohol are found in a resident’s room, their parents are called and informed of the situation. “A lot of these students are 17, 18 years old; they’re not even of age,” Guerra said. “And their parents are the ones paying for their education and apartment.” She said that Oak Tree employees try to give these students several chances because she knows they’re young kids who just need some guidance. Brittany Salazar, a sophomore history major from Weslaco is one of those

“young kids” living on her own off campus at Oak Tree Apartments. Salazar admits that she’s never binged drank. However, she has witnessed other people doing it at parties. She had a friend who developed such a problem. “I had a friend who had developed a substance problem and he ended up committing suicide,” Salazar said. She thinks college students are prone to substance abuse because students might feel like nothing can happen to them. “They think that because they are young, they will be fine,” she said. UTPA currently has a program called The Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program (ADAP) for students who may have a substance abuse issue or who may be dealing with a related concern. The program is available for class presentations, residential students and they maintain a library of books, videos and literature available to staff and students. ADAP, under the Office of Student Life and Transitional Affairs, is located in the University Center, Room 305.

CREDIBILITY ISSUES While the book has gotten much press for its controversial subject matter, Jennifer Mata, assistant professor of history and women’s studies at The University of Texas-Pan American, said people who read the book should do so with caution. “Anyone who is going to read the book has to be very careful and determine whether the author has the credentials and enough evidence for credibility,” Mata said. “By publishing the book, we don’t know if the author was only looking into what’s popular or if she was really trying to prove something.” Even though Stepp had in-depth interviews with a group of females and followed them around for an academic year, Mata added that the sample does not nearly represent the population. “Of course you can make the type of conclusions like the ones mentioned in the book if you only focus on the group of women that was interviewed,” Mata said. “But the truth of the matter is that there are so many different types of women that you just cannot think they’re all a certain way.”

In addition, Stepp links the hookup culture to the fact that more women delay marriage plans. Mata refutes this, saying one of the reasons why it is more common for women marry in their late 20s and early 30s is because of their rising level of educational attainment. Now women want to be more open to choices instead of settling for the first man that crosses her path. “Today’s women are becoming more educated and with more education comes a career-driven mindset,” Mata commented. “This brings a sense of independence.” Edith Saenz, a senior psychology major from Hidalgo, believes long-term relationships and marriage have no connection with past actions. Instead, she says people should subscribe to the wellknown recipe for a healthy relationship. “Even if you have a lot of flings when you’re in college, you can still have a long-lasting marriage,” she said. “No matter what type of person you are, in order to have a lasting relationship with someone, there must be respect, commitment, intimacy and above all, communication.”

is also a sexual assault nurse examiner. Statistics have shown that one in five women will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime and that college women are at a bigger risk Stewart stated that in a survey conducted this spring, up to 20 percent of students reported being sexually assaulted in some form in their lifetime. The same survey showed that 13 percent of students reported being in a relationship that was sexually, emotionally or physically abusive. In the United States the government estimates 15,000-18,000 people are trafficked each year. Once in the country the slavery takes place in isolated areas like concealed factories, farms and suburban homes, according to a report done by Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid, Inc. Usually victims are brought into the United States from countries in Eastern Europe, Central and South America and Asia. Some cases have also shown victims native to the United States. “It’s not considered smuggling. People are held against their will through force, fraud or coercion,” Martinez said. The profits made by trafficking are known to fuel other criminal activities and generate an estimated $9.5 billion in annual revenue. MARTINEZ And as in other cases of international crime, the border area is a ripe place for the problem. “This region is the gateway for traffickers because we are right along the border,” Martinez said. Martinez, who is a human trafficking outreach coordinator, feels everyone could help bring about the abolition of human trafficking by getting the word out. Stewart agrees. “Awareness is the key to begin to bring about the change necessary to stop the violence,” she said. At UTPA, there are services available that help victims deal with any type of sexual assault or violence and counseling services as well. For more information contact Crystal Stewart at Student Health Services by calling (956) 381-2511 or at cfstewart@utpa.edu.

weather-related.” Moreover, Costello said illness only occurs after long-term incubation in an unclean space. Routine cleaning of the cafeteria, noted Costello, prevents viruses from becoming potential health hazards.

It is also unclear how many students are aware of rodent feces in the cafeteria or how many have filed complaints. Monica Medrano, a social studies major, said she was unaware of the conditions, but now has some doubts.

“If it’s like that [in the eating area], then I wonder how it is in the back,” Medrano said. Stephens, who continues to dine in the cafeteria, said he feels obligated because of his meal plan with the university.

BOOK continued from page 3 present. But despite Stepp’s findings, Samantha Rios, a junior business major, believes casual sexual relationships are a normal part of single life and do not interfere with the prospect of future long-term relationships. “Just because a woman isn’t interested in having a serious relationship… doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll have less of a chance of having a successful marriage,” said Rios, of Mission. “There’s nothing wrong with being single and waiting to commit until you feel ready.” “Unhooked” has caused controversy since it was published. Even one of Stepp’s colleagues from the Washington Post suggested that the book tries to introduce sexual shame in women. Stepp defends her book, adding that it’s simply a warning to young women of the long-term consequences of their behavior. “If current trends hold, women will be in their late twenties or early thirties before they marry, and most will continue to work at least part-time,” she said. Rios, who has been in a relationship

for about four years, said Stepp could be overstating the effects of hook ups. “I've never read the book, but I think it exaggerates the whole hookup subject,” Rios said. GENERATION GAP Darren Dudley, a sophomore criminal justice major, said hook-ups are part of university life for some, not all. “I think most people, both men and women, go through the college phase where you just want to have fun and not be in any type of commitment,” Dudley said. “We are a new generation, but everyone is different and I don’t think the book speaks for everyone.” However, Erika Vega, a senior criminal justice major, said today’s youth are becoming increasingly complacent when it comes to simply hooking up. “People don’t take marriage as seriously as past generations,” she said. “I think that if you have a lot of hook-ups when you’re young, it’s going to be hard for you to want to settle down and get married.”

DANGERS continued from page 3

RODENTS continued from page 3 some extra steps to store food and waste in a manner that won’t attract the rats.” Costello also added that the degree of the rodent situation is nothing drastic, adding he finds it interesting how the problem has not been reported in past years.

“First we need to find why after several years of no sightings, all of a sudden there is the influx,” he said. “It is my understanding that we are not unique. Apparently some other organizations in the local area are experiencing the same problem. It appears to be

SPORTS

April 12, 2007 Enlightened by Lucas

TRACK AND FIELD

Huzzah for a new soccer season! Major L e a g u e Soccer’s 2007 season began Saturday with the Colorado R a p i d s defeating the D.C. United, By LUKE KOONG 2-1 at Dick’s The Pan American Sporting Goods Park (that is by far the worst name for a sporting venue I have ever heard). It was a bit of a shocker as D.C. United had already been in action for the past month or so, taking part in the CONCACAF Champions Cup tournament. They were edged out in the semifinals by Chivas Guadalajara, 3-2 on aggregate. With the beginning of a new season of futbol (aka soccer) come the dreams of the invigoration of a sport that gets little fanfare in the United States. The most notable change this season will be the addition of Toronto FC, the first Canadian team in MLS. Unfortunately for them, Chivas USA (owned by the same guy who owns Chivas Guadalajara) spoiled their home debut as they went down, 2-nil. I don’t know about you, but I can

Page 13

feel the energy already. I’m still trying to find a way to get some Houston Dynamo tickets, to see the winners of last year’s MLS Cup. They also lost in the Champions Cup (5-4 on aggregate to Pachuca). There’s a lot of new international talent. D.C. United has two Brazilians, Luciano Emilio (he’s scored some pretty nice goals for his new club) and Fred (I wish everyone knew me just by my first name). Mexican national Cuauhtemoc Blanco will make his MLS debut July 1 as a member of the Chicago Fire. I heard from a friend that her friends might actually watch U.S. soccer now because of him. And there’s also this British guy transferring from Real Madrid. His name eludes me, but I hear he’s pretty good. We won’t have some U.S. players though, as they have flown the coop for European soil. DaMarcus Beasley (Manchester City), Carlos Bocanegra, Clint Dempsey and Brian McBride (all Fulham FC) are experiencing the beautiful game in the English Premier League. Despite those losses, 2007 promises to be a fulfilling season. So, cheers. I need to go find me some orange now. Please send all comments, questions and Rice Krispy Treats to lkoong2004@yahoo.com

Athletes ready for Saturday’s David Noble Relays The ASU/David Nobel Relay is been there once, but it so peaceful. Last Broncs ready known among athletes as a competition year the weather was fresh, which made where improvements and personal it easier to run.” to approach records are possible. Cavazo’s latest performance was at “It is a good track,” said jumper the Texas Relays with a distance of 39new records Claudia Lopez, a senior kinesiology 1.75. By SAVANNAH MARTINEZ The Pan American

Saturday, Angelo State University will host the ASU/David Noble Relays. Many of the southern Texas universities and colleges will attend such as The University of Texas-San Antonio, Texas State, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi and The University of Texas-Pan American. To get to the meet, the Broncs will have to endure a seven-hour trip but this has not in any way dampened their spirits or desire to compete. “The Noble Relays is actually a real good competition and San Angelo is a good place to compete. The facilities are great in the way that they are set up,” said pole-vaulter Kate Shannon, a sophomore kinesiology major. “I’m hoping to do really well. I really want to go out and try to break the record again.” Shannon’s best performance so far was on March 17 at the Tom Tellez Invitational with a height of 10-6.

major. “Last year we all set personal records and we are expecting to see that again this year.” San Angelo’s weather during last year’s event was optimum for UTPA. The good outlook and the meet’s reputation as a record-setting one have added to the appeal of competing again. “San Angelo is a great place to hit your personal records and that is something we know for sure,” triple jumper and junior kinesiology major Liliana Cavazos said. “The altitude of San Angelo is so different. We have only

Teammate Lopez agrees with Cavazos about both the atmosphere and competition in West Central Texas. “The atmosphere in San Angelo is awesome. Last year we had good weather and we are just hoping for that to happen again,” she commented. With so much excitement about setting records and competing in their events, many of the Broncs hope their accomplishments at this meet will help them qualify for regional’s. “I am excited and we are pumped,” Cavazos said.

Results from Texas Relays Men 100-meter dash: Women Triple Jump:

Ruben Cantu

Time: 11.25

Failed to qualify

Claudia Lopez Liliana Cavazos

Scratched Distance: 39-1.75

Failed to qualify Placed 8th

Next Meet ASU/David Noble Relays Date: Saturday, April 14

Host - Angelo State University Location: San Angelo

Time: All Day

SPORTS

Page 14

April 12, 2007

BASEBALL

Hitting books, baseballs at same time

NCAA stats guide, warn programs on minimum rate By PATRICK B. KENNEDY The Pan American There are only three weeks of classes left here at The University of Texas-Pan American, and there is no doubt that final exams and the semester grades that accompany them are on the minds of every single student. Although many students have to worry about studying and writing term papers, student-athletes, like members of the Bronc baseball team, have to worry about the same things in addition to late practices and playing in games in 14 degree temperatures like the one at Northern Colorado last weekend. UTPA’s student-athletes attend regular classes on campus, just like everyone else, but are required to meet certain academic requirements to both graduate and keep themselves on the team roster. An article in USA Today by Andy

Gardiner March 27 states that college baseball players, on average, perform much lower, academically speaking, than players in other sports. In fact, according to Gardiner’s article, “The board was so alarmed by baseball’s academic profile last year it considered immediately cutting the length of the season.” The NCAA has been using the relatively new Academic Progress Rate (APR) to determine academic success of Division I schools. The NCAA Division I baseball national average APR is 931, above the national average of Division I football (929) and the national average for Division I basketball (927). Baseball players have a higher dropout and transfer rate, however, and NCAA officials have become quite concerned. Still, there are several ways to analyze the numbers. “The perception is incorrect because a lot of players sign professional contracts before they graduate,” said UTPA head baseball coach Willie Gawlik. “When a student signs a pro contract, the NCAA counts it against the schools.” HOW APR IS MEASURED Enacted two years ago by the NCAA, the APR measures academic progress for the 5,270 Division I teams

in over a dozen sports. The NCAA established a national average of 925 for all Division I programs to meet, or else face the loss of athletic scholarships. Every athlete on a program roster that is on scholarship can score two points toward the program’s APR. One point is earned for maintaining a certain GPA, and another by simply returning to school for another semester. To calculate the APR, one would have to add up the total points earned by a team, divide those points by the total points possible and then multiply that sum by 1,000. The NCAA considers an APR of 1,000 to be the perfect score. The national average of 925 is considered to represent a 50 percent graduation rate. On Feb. 27, 2006, the NCAA issued a “Division I 2004-2005 Academic Progress Rate Public Report” for each school. UTPA’s baseball program stacked up with an APR of 890, which placed it in the 10th and 20th percentile for the sport. Still, the report is based on figures that are three years old, and the university has done much to bolster the academic progress of its baseball players and other student-athletes since. Gawlik said that his players study hard to not only earn the required GPA, but to also obtain their degree. “We have an excellent academic support system,” he said.

Besides showing up to class, baseball players are required to put in a certain number of hours in study hall. Freshmen and transfers from junior colleges are required to put in a minimum of 10 hours of study hall a week. Players must also meet with the academic center at least once a week and must also present progress reports to their academic counselors every four weeks. Gawlik believes that with such high accountability measures and the mandatory study time, players find the help they need in order to be successful academically. He also pointed out that the university has increasingly stepped up to help its athletes academically. Most players are self-motivated, often participating in study halls when they are on the road. Gawlik also says that credit has to be given to the professors at UTPA. “We really appreciate everything that the professors do. Everybody works together,” Gawlik said. When he took over the baseball program in 2002, only one player on the entire baseball roster was a member of the Bronc 3.0 Club. Now, 50 percent of the players on the baseball team boast 3.0 GPAs, and membership in the club. “They know that they need that degree,” says Gawlik. “The more they learn in class, the more dividends will come down the road.”

BASEBALL Box Scores UTPA @ Texas State April 10 in San Marcos Texas State 5, UTPA 3 TX St UTPA

100 021 10X 5 10 1 000 003 000 3 5 3

W-Baca (4-2) L-Shepherd (1-4) S-Weaver (4) E-Garcia, Johnson, Guzman; Gembler DP-UTPA 2 LOB-UTPA 7; Texas State 10 2B-Garcia; Field 2, Lieber SB-Gonzalez; Field Records UTPA (13-26), Texas State (24-11) UTPA @ N. Colo. April 7 in Greeley, Colo. N. Colo. 8, UTPA 7 N. Colo. UTPA

200 120 102 8 15 0 000 310 300 1 17 3

W-Pearson (1-4) L-Silva (1-1) S-None E-Autrey 2, Wymer DP-UTPA 2; N. Colo. 1 LOB-UTPA 10; N. Colo. 8 2B-Flores, Dugas; Sandberg, Ray 3B-Gorman SB-Bourn; Brockman Records UTPA (13-25), N. Colo. (9-17) UTPA @ N. Colo. April 6 in Greeley, Colo. N. Colo. 14, UTPA 5 N. Colo. UTPA

521 200 04X 14 13 3 003 000 200 5 9 3

W-Kazell (1-1) L-Shepherd (1-3) S-None E-Garcia 2, Bourn; Symons, Horn 2 DP-N. Colo. 2 LOB-UTPA 9; N. Colo. 10 2B-Garcia; Morales 2, Ray 2 3B-Sandberg HR-Morales, Symons SB-Morales, Brockman Records UTPA (13-24), N. Colo. (8-17)

UPCOMING SCHEDULE Saturday UTPA vs. Prairie View A&M

3:30 p.m.

Sunday UTPA vs. Prairie View A&M

Noon

Tuesday UTPA at Texas-San Antonio

6 p.m.

Wednesday UTPA at Texas-San Antonio

3 p.m.

SPORTS

April 12, 2007

Page 15

SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT

‘Blades of Glory’ skates to top of charts Ice skating flick notches $23 million at box office

os phot DB : IM from ken es ta Imag

RAZOR EDGE - In “Blades of Glory,” two rival ice skaters get themselves banned from male singles skating, but with a loophole are able to make a comeback and win the gold.

By FRANK CALVILLO The Pan American By now there isn’t a person alive who isn’t familiar with Will Ferrell’s trademark brand of humor. It is a humor that has served him well and endeared him to movie audiences in such comedies as “Elf” and the inexplicably popular “Anchorman.” Now Ferrell has returned along with upand-coming actor Jon Heder in the new ice-skating comedy “Blades of Glory.” The film tells the story of two rival male figure skaters (Ferrell and Heder) who are both at the top of their game. However when a fight ensues between the two after a competition, they find themselves banned from the sport. The former athletes then decide in order to continue their skating careers they must join together and compete as a duo in couples figure skating. On their way to restoring their skating names, the two must battle the reigning champions (Amy Phoeler and Will Arnett) as well as each other. “Blades of Glory” will not likely win either of its leading men any new fans, but for those who enjoy them and what they do, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Ferrell, who has the flashier role of the two, is always dependable for some solid laughs and never shies away from playing the fool. Heder, on the other hand, plays the straight man, a part for which he is well-cast. Although there are some trite and tired scenes in “Blades of Glory,” a lot of the movie’s jokes work quite well. For example, a scene where Ferrell and Arnett are racing toward an ice skating rink in their skates, crossing traffic and crowded streets, is quite literally sidesplitting. While ice skating is a popular

Blades of Glory Starring: Will Ferrell and Jon Heder Rating: PG-13 Running Time: 93 min Total Gross: $23 Million

form of entertainment in many parts of the country, here in South Texas, it is rarely seen. Carlos Davila and Heather Guzman, McAllen natives, enjoyed “Blades of Glory,” but have to admit they have no experience on the ice themselves. “I’ve always wanted to try it,”

Davila said. “But this is the Valley and stuff like that happens in Michigan or Wisconsin. Not here.” Guzman has at least tried once. “My parents took me once when I was little,” Guzman said. “We were visiting relatives up north and we went ice skating. But I don’t really remember it.” HELP ON THE WAY Luckily for Davila and Guzman, the ice skating scene is slowly but surely making its way to deep South Texas thanks to the RGV Ice Center. Located in McAllen, the center is home to a state-of-the-art ice skating rink, an equipment shop, and even offers lessons for those who are inexperienced on ice. It might not be the Olympics, but for some, like Edinburg resident Gilbert Flores, it’s a welcome change from other typical activities. “My girlfriend and I love coming here because it’s something that you can’t get anywhere else,” he said. “Even if you’ve never been on the ice in your life, you can still come and have a good time.” So while it may not be possible to be as accomplished at skating like Ferrell or Heder, trying to be is definitely just as fun.

UTPA ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

Athletic director gets second book published

Scott Street writes book that addresses student-athlete life skills By KRISTYNA MANCIAS The Pan American University of Texas-Pan American director of athletics Scott Street is making strides in helping college students improve their life in both athletics and academics. His second book, published by McGraw-Hill, is titled “Life Skills for the Student-Athlete,” and is designed to support the development of a studentathlete in all aspects of life, from academic and athletic achievements to personal development, career development and community involvement. “‘Life Skills for the StudentAthlete’ is a book on helping studentathletes and any college student make informed decisions,” said Street, who

is finishing up his second year as director. “The five big areas of the book that we discuss are academics, athletics participation, personal growth, career development and volunteerism.” The book took Street five years to complete, which may seem like a long time; the AD mentioned that he found it hard to fully give 100 percent to his book with so many other commitments going on at the time. “To be honest, it took me longer than it should have to finish. Five years is a long time to write a book,” said Street. “They wanted it a lot sooner, but with my job I didn’t have a lot of time to commit to it.” When writing a book there are several things that one must first look into before getting started. Street explained the process that he followed. “The first part in writing a book is thinking of a concept. The next part is convincing someone that your idea is worthy enough to be published,” Street said. “I’m fortunate that McGraw-Hill believed that both of these books were good books to pursue.” In 1999, Street released his first

book, “Athletic Protective Equipment” also from McGraw-Hill. It was a compilation of various experts’ knowledge in their particular field of athletic protective wear, and included views of athletic training education programs. Street’s textbook will be offered to students who are taking classes in life skills and life management at universities. Street hopes that it will become a helping hand for student-athletes as well as everyday college students. The AD is extremely excited about his new academic venture.

When asked if we might see another book released in the future, Street sim-

ply replied, “I don’t know, we’ll just have to see.” Street previously served as the senior associate athletic director for administration at The University of Texas-San Antonio before coming to UTPA. In 1984, he graduated from the University of Iowa and received a master’s degree from Mankato State two years later. He received his MBA from Wake Forest University in 1995.

Luke Koong/The Pan American PUBLISHED - Athletic director Scott Streets displays his book, “Life Skills for the Student-Athlete.” The book, which took him five years to write, was recently published by McGraw-Hill.

SPORTS

Editor’s Pick: Game to Watch When: Sunday Time: 2:30 p.m. Where: Dallas Will be aired on ABC Dallas

Newly weds more than pair on court By ERICK QUINTERO The Pan American In competitive sports and in matters of the heart, rarely do opportunities come around a second time. So when University of Texas-Pan American head tennis coach Rob Hubbard was reunited with current volunteer assistant Robin Hoipkemier for the first time in over 25 years, he was determined to make it work. It was the winter of 1976 when Hubbard, then a 20-year-old UTPA junior tennis phenom on a nationally ranked Bronc squad, was coming back to Edinburg for the spring semester. Along the way he stopped in Dallas to play in the Cotton Bowl, an annual tennis tournament held every December, where his former coach promised to provide housing arrangements if Hubbard played mixed doubles at the tournament. He agreed. Originally he was to stay with a family, whose daughter would play alongside Hubbard. When the daughter backed out of the match, Hoipkemier, then 17, decided to step in. Together they blazed their way through the competition. It was then the sparks were ignited. “We made the finals and we were hooked. That was the beginning of that,” Hubbard said. “I had just turned 17. I was very young. We met on Christmas Day 1976, and I’ll never forget it because in walked

this really good looking guy,” she said. “From the moment I saw him I was in love with him and we both had such a passion for tennis. We were just swept off each others feet from that moment on.” Within a year the couple quickly peaked on the court, ranking first in open mixed doubles statewide. They took care of competition 10 years older than them. However things quickly soured when a series of unfortunate events unfolded upon a young Hubbard, who was a clear lock to turn pro. Things fell apart, both personally and professionally speaking. During his senior campaign UTPA was ranked as high as 8th in the nation and on target for a Nationals invite to Athens, Geo. “It was my fault. I went home after school. I was pretty banged up after my senior year here. I had a lot of injuries,” Hubbard recalled. “Our team was 8th in the country that year and we got held out of the NCAA Championships. It was very political. I went home to Baltimore and re-injured my foot and then reinjured my back.” The Baltimore native played with stress fractures in the fourth and fifth lumbar. “I wasn’t going anywhere for six months. I was in Baltimore, she was in Dallas and we were very young. We didn’t have the Internet so we couldn’t converse. Long distance calls were very expensive,” Hubbard said. With his professional career and

sponsorship on hiatus due to injury, time and distance ate away at their relationship; it wasn’t long before depression set in for Hubbard. Eventually he locked everyone he loved out of his life, including Robin. “I was actually living at my parents’ house, but not talking to them, not talking to anybody, just kind of existing in the house,” he said. “I couldn’t do a lot for myself for a while.” Hoipkemier eventually landed a full scholarship to the North Texas State University (now UNT), where she ended her career as one of the Mean Green’s finest. Hubbard played three years professionally before moving to Dallas to give it another try, but things didn’t quite work out so he returned to Baltimore while Hoipkemier married and had three daughters, Morgan (18), Jordan (16) and Erin (14). She divorced after 20 years. ANOTHER CHANCE But as fate would have it, the two re-united last spring when Hubbard’s assistant received film from a possible recruit via a coach, Hoipkemier, who worked in a club Hubbard also used to work for. Later in April, when UTPA traveled for a match against Sam Houston State, Hubbard’s assistant arranged for the squad to practice at Hoipkemier’s club. This time Hubbard would not let her get away. They started dating again and in August of last year Hoipkemier moved to Edinburg to join

the Bronc staff as a volunteer assistant. THE REST IS HISTORY After guiding the Lady Broncs to a season finale 6-0 win over Central Arkansas the happy couple exchanged wedding vows last Saturday at 6 p.m. at the UTPA Chapel among friends, family and tennis players, giving the already close tennis squads a greater sense of family and cohesiveness. “I think it will give both teams a greater sense of harmony,” Jessica Nanez, a sophomore political science major on the squad, said. “I think they are made for each other. They make a great couple as coaches and now as husband and wife. We see them as mom and dad. We can talk to them as if they were our parents.” The once-and-future couple has picked up where it left off so long ago. And the team is right there with them. “We are like one big family. Our players call us at all times of the hour,” the new Mrs. Hubbard said. “We haven’t missed a beat. We’re still real goofy but we just have a few more wrinkles.” The bride was accompanied down the aisle by her two oldest daughters while her youngest served as the flower girl. The matron of honor was Kim Fougere while Hubbard’s brother, Don, was the best man; his god-daughter and nephew were the ring bearers for the happy affair that gives new meaning to the tennis term, “doubles.”

San Antonio

Stats, Stats, Stat! Stat! 2

The number of pro basketball teams that the Valley will have this season.

890

The APR score for The University of Texas-Pan American baseball program. The national average is 925.

Men’s Tennis Short By ERICK QUINTERO The Pan American The University of Texas-Pan American men’s tennis squad will face The University of Texas-San Antonio at Orville Cox Tennis Center on Saturday morning. The men are currently in a four-game losing skid and are reeling from a 6-1 road loss to the University of Texas at Arlington, where senior leader Gary Bianco came out on top over Daniel Omana 6-2, 6-3. Time is running out for the senior as Saturday’s match will be the last before the squad heads into the Southland Conference Tournament on April 20 and 21. The squad clinched a berth into the tournament early in the season but has been flat as of late. “The guys have done well. We’ve had some good wins and we clinched a spot into the conference tournament,” said head coach Rob Hubbard. “Our team is much better this year, our schedule is much stronger. Even though our schedule is much stronger we have more wins this year than last year.”

UPCOMING SCHEDULE Saturday Track & Field @ Noble Relays All Day M. Tennis vs. UTSA TBA PARTNERS - Head tennis coach Rob Hubbard and assistant volunteer coach Robin Hoipkemier united in holy matrimony Sunday.

Onydia Garza/The Pan American